Caspian Tern
Hydroprogne caspia (Pallas, 1770) (23, 1)
![CaspianTern[PPalmer].jpg](https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/600a63ac6068650681dd0dc9/1612361863756-8SXMREWOOVGK0DV5Z9DG/CaspianTern%5BPPalmer%5D.jpg)
Photo © Phil Palmer
STATUS
Cosmopolitan. Monotypic.
OVERVIEW
Gurney (1887) had published a corrected list of occurrences (Zool. 457-458), with a doubtful one from Birmingham, however three of those are not now acceptable, for varying reasons.
Individuals from Norfolk in 1836 Cromer and 1850 Breydon and one prior to 1845 in Kent.
RECORDS
1). 1825 Norfolk/Suffolk Breydon Water, immature, shot, 4th October.
(W. Yarrell, Loudon's Magazine of Natural History 4: 117; Hunt, 1829; Paget & Paget, 1834; Yarrell, 1845; Harting, 1872; Yarrell, 1871-85; Babington, 1884-86; J. H. Gurney, jun., Zoologist 1887: 457; Southwell, 1890; Riviere, 1930; Allard, 1990; Piotrowski, 2003).
History William Yarrell of London (1831) in Loudon's Magazine of Natural History, Vol. IV. p. 117, dated January, 1831, says: 'Two examples of this Tern, the largest of the European species, have been killed at Yarmouth; one of them is in the collection of a gentleman residing in Norwich; the second I have not been able to trace.' While Paget & Paget (1834: 12) add: 'One October, 1825.'
Admitted by Howard Saunders (1882-84 (3): 536, 4th ed.) in Yarrell's British Birds.
J. H. Gurney, jun., of Northrepps (1887) in The Zoologist, 3rd series, Vol. XI. p. 457, under 'On the Occurrence in England of the Caspian Tern', in the December 1887 issue, says: 'As some uncertainty enshrouds the few recorded examples of Sterna caspia, Pallas, which have been killed in England, I send the following corrected version of the list of Norfolk specimens which appeared in the Transactions of the Norfolk and Norwich Naturalists' Society. Some of the information has been gleaned from the correspondence of the late T. C. Heysham, brought to light by the Rev. H. A. Macpherson (vide antea, p. 386), a correspondence full of interesting matter, which has now most fortunately fallen into good hands:- One, Yarmouth, or Breydon Broad, October 4th, 1825.'
Babington (1884-86: 247) says: 'One shot at Yarmouth Oct. 1825; was an immature specimen, and was in possession of Mr. G. Thurtell of Eaton near Norwich (Lombe's MS. notes in Bewick, see also his note in Montagu's Dictionary, where he gives 1826 as the date; the same bird ?'
Accepted locally by Southwell, Editor (1890 (3): 296) in Stevenson's Birds of Norfolk and for Suffolk (Ticehurst 1932: 413).
2). 1830 Norfolk Great Yarmouth, shot, undated, now at Castle Museum, Norwich.
(W. Yarrell, Loudon's Magazine of Natural History 4: 117; Paget & Paget, 1834; Yarrell, 1845; F. Holme, Zoologist 1856: 5035; A. Newton, Transactions of the Norfolk & Norwich Naturalists' Society 2: 411, 412-413; Yarrell, 1871-85; Seebohm, 1883-85; J. H. Gurney, jun., Zoologist 1887: 457; Southwell, 1890; Riviere, 1930; Allard, 1990).
History William Yarrell of London (1831) in Loudon's Magazine of Natural History Vol. IV. p. 117, dated January, 1831, says: '...the second I have not been able to trace', while Paget & Paget (1834) p. 12, say: 'One in the Norwich Museum, which was shot here', and Yarrell (1845) 2nd ed., Vol. III. p. 494, says: 'Another was presented to the Norwich Museum, by the Rev. G. Steward, [Rector] of Caistor [sic], near which place it was shot.'
F. Holme of Fairford, Gloucs. (1856) in The Zoologist, 1st series, Vol. XIV. p. 5035, under 'Letters on Natural History. By the late Frederick Holme, Esq., to Edward Hearle Rodd, Esq., by whom they are obligingly communicated', originally dated 11th January 1834, says: 'Two specimens of the Caspian Tern, I am told by a correspondent, were shot in 1830, near Yarmouth, but whether the Yarmouth in Norfolk or that in the Isle of Wight my informant sayeth not.'
Alfred Newton (1874-79) in the Transactions of the Norfolk & Norwich Naturalists' Society, Vol. II. p. 411, quoting from a letter from Dawson Turner to P. J. Selby, dated 19th July, 1831, says: 'I am told that Mr. Steward gave the [Norwich] Museum a specimen of the Caspian Tern shot near us; and I will inquire if a drawing of it can be got.'
Further, in a footnote, Newton adds: 'No doubt that noticed by Messrs. Paget (Nat. Hist. Yarm., p. 12).'
Further, pp. 412-413, in another letter between the above, dated 13th September, 1831, it says: 'I have a great many apologies to make to you, that, having been prevented by indisposition from attending the meeting of the Committee of the Norwich Museum in August, it was but yesterday I was able to procure the drawing of the Anas stelleri. This I received as a loan; & I must therefore beg the favor [sic] of you to return it when done with....At the same time, my friend, Mr. Griffin, sent me for your acceptance drawings of the Ardea comata and Sterna caspia, both shot near Yarmouth.
All the 3 therefore I have consigned to one of the masters of our coalships, addressed to the care of Mr. Hewitson; & I shall be glad to hear of them reaching you safely.'
Admitted by Howard Saunders (1882-84 (3): 536, 4th ed.) in Yarrell's British Birds and by Seebohm (1885 (3): 268) who says: 'The earliest record of its occurrence is that of one killed at Yarmouth in October 1825, and of a second shot about the same date near Caistor [sic], in the same county (Paget and Hunt, Nat. Hist. Yarmouth, p. 12).'
J. H. Gurney, jun., of Northrepps (1887) in The Zoologist, 3rd series, Vol. XI. p. 457, under 'On the Occurrence in England of the Caspian Tern', in the December 1887 issue, says: 'As some uncertainty enshrouds the few recorded examples of Sterna caspia, Pallas, which have been killed in England, I send the following corrected version of the list of Norfolk specimens which appeared in the Transactions of the Norfolk and Norwich Naturalists' Society. Some of the information has been gleaned from the correspondence of the late T. C. Heysham, brought to light by the Rev. H. A. Macpherson (vide antea, p. 386), a correspondence full of interesting matter, which has now most fortunately fallen into good hands:- One, Yarmouth, 1830.'
Accepted locally by Southwell, Editor (1890 (3): 296) in Stevenson's Birds of Norfolk and for Suffolk (Ticehurst 1932: 413).
Comment The bird mentioned by Yarrell is presumably this record. Caister-on-Sea has always been in Norfolk.
3). Pre 1835 Suffolk Aldeburgh, shot, undated, now at Cambridge University Museum.
(Jenyns, 1835; Yarrell, 1845; Yarrell, 1871-85; Babington, 1884-86; J. H. Gurney, jun., Zoologist 1887: 458; Ticehurst, 1932).
History Jenyns (1835: 265) says: 'In England, a few specimens have occurred at Yarmouth and Aldborough [sic]. One killed at this last place is in the Museum of the Cambridge Philosophical Society.'
Howard Saunders (1882-84 (3): 536, 4th ed.) in Yarrell's British Birds, says: 'Three or four were seen at Aldborough [sic], in Suffolk, one of which was shot, and preserved in the Museum of the Philosophical Society of Cambridge, as mentioned by the Rev. L. Jenyns in his Manual of British Vertebrata (p. 265).'
J. H. Gurney, jun., of Northrepps (1887) in The Zoologist, 3rd series, Vol. XI. p. 457, under 'On the Occurrence in England of the Caspian Tern', in the December 1887 issue, says: '...In addition to the occurrences above noted for Norfolk, there are nine more in other parts of England, and one doubtful one: - One, Aldeburgh, Suffolk, prior to 1835.'
Accepted locally (Babington 1884-86: 247; Ticehurst 1932: 413).
Comment Three or four seen sounds like a misidentification, as this species has never been seen in those numbers together in Britain. They are unacceptable. Babington who tried to see all Suffolk specimens, doesn't state that he had seen it.
4). 1839 Norfolk Near Great Yarmouth, adult, 16th April, now at Castle Museum, Norwich.
(Yarrell, 1845; Yarrell, 1871-85; J. H. Gurney, jun., Zoologist 1887: 457; Southwell, 1890; Ticehurst, 1832; Allard, 1990).
History Yarrell (1845 (3): 494, 2nd ed.) says: 'Mr. Heysham sent me notice of a Caspian Tern, shot in Norfolk in 1839, and I have received other communications on this subject which might possibly refer to some of those instances already mentioned.'
Admitted by Howard Saunders (1882-84 (3): 537, 4th ed.) in Yarrell's British Birds.
J. H. Gurney, jun., of Northrepps (1887) in The Zoologist, 3rd series, Vol. XI. p. 457, under 'On the Occurrence in England of the Caspian Tern', in the December 1887 issue, says: 'As some uncertainty enshrouds the few recorded examples of Sterna caspia, Pallas, which have been killed in England, I send the following corrected version of the list of Norfolk specimens which appeared in the Transactions of the Norfolk and Norwich Naturalists' Society. Some of the information has been gleaned from the correspondence of the late T. C. Heysham, brought to light by the Rev. H. A. Macpherson (vide antea, p. 386), a correspondence full of interesting matter, which has now most fortunately fallen into good hands:- One, Yarmouth, April 16th, 1839. Received in the flesh by my father.'
Southwell, Editor (1890 (3): 296) in Stevenson's Birds of Norfolk, says: 'Mr. J. H. Gurney, jun., has at various times taken considerable trouble to investigate the reported occurrences of this fine bird in England, and from his latest communication to The Zoologist, 1887, p. 457, I copy the following list of Norfolk specimens: - 4. Yarmouth, April 16th, 1839. Received in the flesh by my father [Mr. J. H. Gurney].'
Further, p. 297, 'No. 4. This example came into Mr. Gurney's possession soon after it was killed, and was given by him to Mr. Heysham; at the dispersal of that gentleman's collection in 1850, Mr. Gurney re-purchased it, and it is now at Northrepps; it had a curious history attached to it, as I am informed by Mr. Gurney; some one went into a Yarmouth gunsmith's to buy a gun, and chose one which suited him, but before completing his purchase he asked the gunsmith to allow him to try it, and, the latter consenting, he took it just outside the town and shot the first bird which passed over him, and which proved to be this Caspian Tern....The above particulars are gleaned mainly from Mr. Stevenson's note books, and with the assistance of Mr. J. H. Gurney, jun.'
Riviere (1930: 230) says: 'On 16th April 1839 another was killed at Yarmouth. This bird was received in the flesh by J. H. Gurney sen., and presented by him to [T. C.] Heysham of Carlisle, but at the dispersal of the Heysham collection in 1850 it was repurchased by Gurney, and is now at the Castle Museum, Norwich.'
Allard (1990) adds: 'A local gunner went into a gunsmith's shop to purchase a gun at Yarmouth, but before concluding the sale asked to be allowed to try it out. The gunsmith consented, the customer took it just outside the town and shot the first bird which passed him. It turned out be this Caspian Tern.'
Accepted locally for Suffolk (Ticehurst 1932: 413), but Great Yarmouth has always been in Norfolk.
5). 1848 Dorset Radipole Lake, two, shot, autumn.
(J. H. Gurney, jun., Zoologist 1887: 458; Mansel-Pleydell, 1888; Morrison, 1997).
History Mansel-Pleydell (1873: 52) says: 'Two were shot in Weymouth-Backwater, in the autumn of 1848, by a man named Gillingham. Mr. [W.] Thompson.'
J. H. Gurney, jun., of Northrepps (1887) in The Zoologist, 3rd series, Vol. XI. p. 457, under 'On the Occurrence in England of the Caspian Tern', in the December 1887 issue, says: '...In addition to the occurrences above noted for Norfolk, there are nine more in other parts of England, and one doubtful one:- Two, Weymouth, autumn of 1848, fide W. Thompson. Mansel-Pleydell's Ornithology of Dorset (1879), p. 52. Mr. Mansel-Pleydell writes that these birds are no longer in existence, having perished with the rest of Mr. Thompson's collection, though in good condition at the time of his death.'
7). 1849 Norfolk/Suffolk Breydon Water, adult female, killed, 2nd June.
(W. D. Burton, Zoologist 1849: 2499; Harting, 1872; J. H. Gurney, jun., Zoologist 1887: 457; J. H. Gurney, jun., & T. Southwell, Transactions of the Norfolk & Norwich Naturalists' Society 4: 409; Southwell, 1890; Riviere, 1930; Ticehurst, 1932; Allard, 1990).
History W. D. Burton of Great Yarmouth (1849) in The Zoologist, 1st series, Vol. VII. p. 2499, dated 11th June, 1849, says: 'A fine specimen of the Caspian Tern was shot by Mr. Harry Barber, of this town, on Saturday morning, June 9th, on Breydon Walls, about a mile from Yarmouth. It is a remarkably fine bird, and measures from tip to tip of the wings 4 ft. 3½ inches, and, from the tip of the tail to the point of the beak 32 inches. It is a male specimen in full plumage, and is now in the hands of the stuffer. The last specimen shot near Yarmouth was, I believe in 1839.'
Admitted by Howard Saunders (1882-84 (3): 537, 4th ed.) in Yarrell's British Birds.
J. H. Gurney, jun., of Northrepps (1887) in The Zoologist, 3rd series, Vol. XI. p. 457, under 'On the Occurrence in England of the Caspian Tern', in the December 1887 issue, says: 'As some uncertainty enshrouds the few recorded examples of Sterna caspia, Pallas, which have been killed in England, I send the following corrected version of the list of Norfolk specimens which appeared in the Transactions of the Norfolk and Norwich Naturalists' Society. Some of the information has been gleaned from the correspondence of the late T. C. Heysham, brought to light by the Rev. H. A. Macpherson (vide antea, p. 386), a correspondence full of interesting matter, which has now most fortunately fallen into good hands:- One, Yarmouth, female, June 2nd, 1849. Is, or was, in the possession of Capt. Barber.'
J. H. Gurney, jun., & T. Southwell (1884-89) in the Transactions of the Norfolk & Norwich Naturalists' Society, Vol. IV. p. 409, say: '...adult female, June 1850.'
Southwell, Editor (1890 (3): 296) in Stevenson's Birds of Norfolk, says: 'Mr. J. H. Gurney, jun., has at various times taken considerable trouble to investigate the reported occurrences of this fine bird in England, and from his latest communication to The Zoologist, 1887, p. 457, I copy the following list of Norfolk specimens: - 5. Yarmouth. Female. June 2nd, 1849. Is or was in the possession of Captain Barber.
Further, p. 297, No. 5 was shot on Breydon by Mr. H. J. Barber, for whom it was preserved, and has recently passed into the possession of Mr. P. B. Bellin. (There is a note in Mr. Stevenson's MS. book as follows: "Mr. C. S. Preston says he owns this bird".) It was recorded in The Zoologist by two different correspondents (pp. 2500 and 2529) as measuring in length 22.5 inches, and from tip to tip of wings 4 feet 3.5 inches, but they differ as to the sex....The above particulars are gleaned mainly from Mr. Stevenson's note books, and with the assistance of Mr. J. H. Gurney, jun.'
Riviere (1930: 230) adds: '...shot on Breydon on 2nd June 1849. It was originally in the collection of Captain Barber and then it passed into the possession of Mr. P. B. Bellin.'
Accepted locally for Suffolk (Ticehurst 1932: 413).
Comment Some discrepancy over the date, with both dates mentioned being a Saturday.
8). 1850 Norfolk/Suffolk Breydon Water, adult, shot, 16th July.
(J. H. Gurney, Zoologist 1850: 2915; Yarrell, 1871-85; J. H. Gurney, jun., Zoologist 1887: 457; J. H. Gurney, jun., & T. Southwell, Transactions of the Norfolk & Norwich Naturalists' Society 4: 409; Southwell, 1890; Riviere, 1930; Ticehurst, 1932; Allard, 1990).
History J. H. Gurney (1850) in The Zoologist, 1st series, Vol. VIII. p. 2915, dated 29th July, 1850, says: 'An adult specimen of the Caspian Tern was shot at Breydon, near Yarmouth, on the 16th instant. I have been unable to learn the sex, which was probably not observed. It is said that one or two other specimens of the same species have lately been seen in the same locality.'
Admitted by Howard Saunders (1882-84 (3): 537, 4th ed.) in Yarrell's British Birds.
J. H. Gurney, jun., of Northrepps (1887) in The Zoologist, 3rd series, Vol. XI. p. 457, under 'On the Occurrence in England of the Caspian Tern', in the December 1887 issue, says: 'As some uncertainty enshrouds the few recorded examples of Sterna caspia, Pallas, which have been killed in England, I send the following corrected version of the list of Norfolk specimens which appeared in the Transactions of the Norfolk and Norwich Naturalists' Society. Some of the information has been gleaned from the correspondence of the late T. C. Heysham, brought to light by the Rev. H. A. Macpherson (vide antea, p. 386), a correspondence full of interesting matter, which has now most fortunately fallen into good hands:- One, Yarmouth, July 16th, 1850. My father was informed that others were seen at the same time.'
J. H. Gurney, jun., & T. Southwell (1884-89) in the Transactions of the Norfolk & Norwich Naturalists' Society, Vol. IV. p. 409, add: 'July, 1850, adult.'
Southwell, Editor (1890 (3): 296) in Stevenson's Birds of Norfolk, says: 'Mr. J. H. Gurney, jun., has at various times taken considerable trouble to investigate the reported occurrences of this fine bird in England, and from his latest communication to The Zoologist, 1887, p. 457, I copy the following list of Norfolk specimens: - 6. Yarmouth. Male. June, 1850. In Bury Museum. 7. Yarmouth. July 16th, 1850. Mr. Gurney was informed that others were seen at the same time. Further, pp. 297-298, Nos. 6 and 7.
It seems probable that these two refer to the same bird which was shot on Breydon; it was discovered by Mr. Stevenson in the Dennis collection, at Bury, marked Breydon, June, 1850; it is a male in perfect summer plumage; the sex was not noted (see Zoologist, p. 2915). It is doubtless this bird also to which the following note in Mr. Stevenson's MS. refers: - "Young Harvey, of Yarmouth, says one of Mr. Gurney's birds was shot by a Mr. Goodwin, of the North End [Yarmouth], thirty years ago [there is nothing to indicate the date of this memorandum], on Breydon Wall. It was never in Mr. Gurney's possession, although he recorded it". The above particulars are gleaned mainly from Mr. Stevenson's note books, and with the assistance of Mr. J. H. Gurney, jun.'
Riviere (1930: 231) says: 'J. H. Gurney believed this to have been obtained at Yarmouth on 16th July 1850, but Southwell was of the opinion that this record referred to the bird in the Bury Museum, which is dated June 1850.'
Comment I believe the two 1850 Norfolk records are one and the same, as the June record was not recorded until many years later, although Gurney had heard of others recently. See the rejected 1850 record from Norfolk.
9). 1851 Norfolk Great Yarmouth, adult male, 11th August.
(J. H. Gurney, Zoologist 1851: 3235; J. O. Harper, Morris and Bree's Naturalist 2: 128; Yarrell, 1871-85; J. H. Gurney, jun., Zoologist 1887: 457; Southwell, 1890; Ticehurst, 1932; Allard, 1990).
History J. H. Gurney (1851) in The Zoologist, 1st series, Vol. IX. p. 3235, dated 21st August, 1851, says: 'A fine adult male specimen of the Caspian Tern, in full summer plumage, was shot at Yarmouth about a week since.'
J. O. Harper (1852) in Morris and Bree's edition of The Naturalist, Vol. II. p. 128, says: 'Mr. Knight, Taxidermist, of this city, received, for preservation, from the above-mentioned town, on the 14th of August of this year, a fine adult male specimen of the Caspian Tern, in full summer plumage.'
Harting (1872: 167) states the date as 14th August 1851. Babington (1884-86: 247) adds: '...in Mr. J. H. Gurney's Collection.'
Admitted by Howard Saunders (1882-84 (3): 537, 4th ed.) in Yarrell's British Birds.
J. H. Gurney, jun., of Northrepps (1887) in The Zoologist, 3rd series, Vol. XI. p. 457, under 'On the Occurrence in England of the Caspian Tern', in the December 1887 issue, says: 'As some uncertainty enshrouds the few recorded examples of Sterna caspia, Pallas, which have been killed in England, I send the following corrected version of the list of Norfolk specimens which appeared in the Transactions of the Norfolk and Norwich Naturalists' Society. Some of the information has been gleaned from the correspondence of the late T. C. Heysham, brought to light by the Rev. H. A. Macpherson (vide antea, p. 386), a correspondence full of interesting matter, which has now most fortunately fallen into good hands:- One, Yarmouth, male, August 11th, 1851. Preserved at Northrepps.'
Southwell, Editor (1890 (3): 296) in Stevenson's Birds of Norfolk, says: 'Mr. J. H. Gurney, jun., has at various times taken considerable trouble to investigate the reported occurrences of this fine bird in England, and from his latest communication to The Zoologist, 1887, p. 457, I copy the following list of Norfolk specimens: - 8. Yarmouth. Male. August 11th, 1851. Preserved at Northrepps.
Further, p. 298, No. 8. An adult male in full summer plumage, is in Mr. Gurney's collection, at Northrepps. (See J. O. Harper, in Morris's Naturalist, 1852, p. 128. The above particulars are gleaned mainly from Mr. Stevenson's note books, and with the assistance of Mr. J. H. Gurney, jun.'
Accepted locally for Suffolk (Ticehurst 1932: 414).
10). 1852 Dorset Highcliff, Christchurch Bay, Hampshire, shot, early autumn, now at Horniman Museum, London (NH.83.3/212).
(Wise, 1863; J. H. Gurney, Zoologist 1869: 1512; Harting, 1872; Yarrell, 1871-85; A. P. Morres, Wiltshire Archaeological and Natural History Magazine 22: 201; J. H. Gurney, jun., Zoologist 1887: 458; Kelsall & Munn, 1905; Morrison, 1997; Hart MS.).
History Wise (1863: 317, 1st ed.) says: 'On the authority of Mr. Hart one was shot, about ten years ago, in Christchurch Harbour.'
J. H. Gurney of Darlington (1869) in The Zoologist, 2nd series, Vol. IV. p. 1512, under a 'List of the Rarer Birds obtained by Mr. Hart in the vicinity of Christchurch, Hants.', says: 'Those without dates...Caspian Tern.'
Howard Saunders (1882-84 (3): 537, 4th ed.) in Yarrell's British Birds, says: 'On the south coast one was obtained near Christchurch, Hants, some years ago (Harting, 1872); and there are probably a few other instances not enumerated.'
J. H. Gurney, jun., of Northrepps (1887) in The Zoologist, 3rd series, Vol. XI. p. 457, under 'On the Occurrence in England of the Caspian Tern', in the December 1887 issue, says: '...In addition to the occurrences above noted for Norfolk, there are nine more in other parts of England, and one doubtful one:- One, Christchurch Harbour, about 1853. Wise, New Forest, p. 317.'
Kelsall & Munn (1905: 326) say: 'In the Hart collection at Christchurch is a specimen which was shot by the Hon. Grantley F. Berkeley at Highcliff, in the early autumn of 1852, which is mentioned in Yarrell, and The Zoologist for 1869.'
Hart writing in May 1927 states that this cased adult male was shot by Hon. Grantley H. Berkeley at Highcliff, Mudeford, Christchurch Harbour.
11). 1853 Lincolnshire/Nottinghamshire Caythorpe, adult, shot, 17th May.
(W. F. Foottit, Zoologist 1853: 3946; Morris, 1863-67; Felkin, 1866; Sterland & Whitaker, 1879; Yarrell, 1871-85; J. H. Gurney, jun., Zoologist 1887: 458; F. L. Blathwayt, Zoologist 1912: 63; Smith & Cornwallis, 1955; Lorand & Atkin, 1989; Whitaker, 1907; H. F. Witherby & N. F. Ticehurst, British Birds 2: 306).
History W. F. Foottit of Newark, Notts., (1853) in The Zoologist, 1st series, Vol. XI. p. 3946, dated 4th June, 1853, says: 'A very fine specimen of the Caspian Tern, in summer plumage, was shot on the 17th May, at Caythorpe, Lincolnshire, many miles from the sea. It was in good condition, and threw up three or four fish on being shot. It was brought to Newark to be stuffed, when I had the pleasure of seeing it in the flesh.'
Morris (1863-67 (8): 20, reissue) says: 'In the county of Lincoln one was shot at Caythorpe, near Grantham, many miles from the sea, May the 17th., 1853.'
Felkin (1866: 57) says: 'The only Nottinghamshire specimen I am aware of, was shot at Caythorpe, in early summer; it was brought to Mr. Foottit fresh killed, and preserved by him.' Accepted locally for Nottinghamshire (Sterland & Whitaker 1879: 69).
Admitted by Howard Saunders (1882-84 (3): 537, 4th ed.) in Yarrell's British Birds, who says: '...an adult was shot, disgorging several fish as it fell, at Caythorpe, on the borders of Lincolnshire and Nottinghamshire.'
J. H. Gurney, jun., of Northrepps (1887) in The Zoologist, 3rd series, Vol. XI. p. 457, under 'On the Occurrence in England of the Caspian Tern', in the December 1887 issue, says: '...In addition to the occurrences above noted for Norfolk, there are nine more in other parts of England, and one doubtful one:- One, Caythorpe, Lincolnshire, May 17th, 1853. This locality is twenty miles from the sea.'
Whitaker (1907: 279) says: 'It was killed just inside the county at Caythorpe on May 17th, 1863, and was taken in the flesh to Mr. Foottit, of Newark-on-Trent.'
Admitted by H. F. Witherby & N. F. Ticehurst (1909) in British Birds, Vol. II. p. 306, under 'On the More Important Additions to our Knowledge of British Birds since 1899', who say: 'Notts. One at Caythorpe on May 17th, 1863 (J. Whitaker, B. of Notts., p. 279) does not seem to have been noted in the Manual.'
F. L. Blathwayt (1912) in The Zoologist, 4th series, Vol. XVI. p. 63, admits it to the Lincolnshire list.
Comment Much confusion over whether this was a Nottinghamshire or Lincolnshire record. Mr. Footit was the Newark, Notts., taxidermist, and Caythorpe, Nottinghamshire, is close to the Lincolnshire border, a few miles away from Newark; it has also hosted another Caspian Tern since at the gravel-pits. Caythorpe, Lincolnshire, is a place of rolling fields with no real suitable habitat. Whitaker erroneously gives the date as 1863, while Smith & Cornwallis (1955: 93) erroneously state the year as 1851.
12). 1862 Norfolk/Suffolk Breydon Water, adult male, killed, 2nd May.
(H. Stevenson, Zoologist 1862: 8093; F. Harmer, Field 17th May 1862: 444; Yarrell, 1871-85; Babington, 1884-86; J. H. Gurney, jun., Zoologist 1887: 457; Ticehurst, 1932; Allard, 1990).
History H. Stevenson of Norwich (1862) in The Zoologist, 1st series, Vol. XX. p. 8093, undated, says: 'The following birds have been killed on Breydon during the early part of this month on their spring migration....a Caspian Tern.'
Fielding Harmer of Great Yarmouth (1862) in The Field of 17th May, Vol. XIX. p. 444, says: 'I beg to send you a list of rare birds shot at this place during the spring migration since my last communication: Caspian Tern (male).'
Admitted by Howard Saunders (1882-84 (3): 537, 4th ed.) in Yarrell's British Birds.
Babington (1884-86) p. 247, says: '...another adult male killed on Breydon, May 2, 1862. (J. H. Gurney, jun., in litt).'
J. H. Gurney, jun., of Northrepps (1887) in The Zoologist, 3rd series, Vol. XI. p. 457, under 'On the Occurrence in England of the Caspian Tern', in the December 1887 issue, says: 'As some uncertainty enshrouds the few recorded examples of Sterna caspia, Pallas, which have been killed in England, I send the following corrected version of the list of Norfolk specimens which appeared in the Transactions of the Norfolk and Norwich Naturalists' Society. Some of the information has been gleaned from the correspondence of the late T. C. Heysham, brought to light by the Rev. H. A. Macpherson (vide antea, p. 386), a correspondence full of interesting matter, which has now most fortunately fallen into good hands:- One, Yarmouth, male, May 2nd, 1862.'
Southwell, Editor (1890 (3): 296, 297) in Stevenson's Birds of Norfolk, says: 'Mr. J. H. Gurney, jun., has at various times taken considerable trouble to investigate the reported occurrences of this fine bird in England, and from his latest communication to The Zoologist, 1887, p. 457, I copy the following list of Norfolk specimens: - 9. Yarmouth. Male. May 2nd, 1862. Stevenson, Zoologist, 1862, p. 8093. No. 9, and the last example known to have occurred in this county, is an adult male, now in the collection of the Rev. C. J. Lucas, of Burgh; like the earlier specimens this was also killed from the Breydon Wall. The above particulars are gleaned mainly from Mr. Stevenson's note books, and with the assistance of Mr. J. H. Gurney, jun.'
Ticehurst (1932: 414) states this to be in the Lucas collection.
13). 1872 Dorset River Frome, Wareham, killed, July.
(Mansel-Pleydell, 1873, 1888; F. L. Blathwayt, Proceedings of the Dorset Natural History and Antiquarian Society 55: 202; Morrison, 1997).
History Mansel-Pleydell (1873: 52) says: 'One was killed in the Wareham river, July, 1872, and is in the possession of Mr. Pike of that town.'
J. H. Gurney, jun., of Northrepps (1887) in The Zoologist, 3rd series, Vol. XI. p. 457, under 'On the Occurrence in England of the Caspian Tern', in the December 1887 issue, says: '...In addition to the occurrences above noted for Norfolk, there are nine more in other parts of England, and one doubtful one: - One, Wareham, Dorsetshire, July, 1872.'
Mansel-Pleydell (1888, 2nd ed.) adds: 'Mr. T. M. Pike.'
Admitted by F. L. Blathwayt (1934) in the Proceedings of the Dorset Natural History and Antiquarian Society, Vol. LV. p. 202, under 'A Revised List of the Birds of Dorset.'
14). 1880 Northumberland Farne Islands, seen, 6th June.
(J. H. Gurney, jun., Zoologist 1887: 458; G. Bolam, Annals of Scottish Natural History 1896: 84; Evans, 1911; Galloway & Meek, 1978-83; Kerr, 2001).
History J. H. Gurney, jun., of Northrepps (1887) in The Zoologist, 3rd series, Vol. XI. p. 457, under 'On the Occurrence in England of the Caspian Tern', in the December 1887 issue, says: '...In addition to the occurrences above noted for Norfolk, there are nine more in other parts of England, and one doubtful one:- One, Farne Islands, June 6th, 1880. Seen by Mr. E. Bidwell, but not obtained. The red beak of this tern is conspicuous a long way off, and in Egypt our party easily identified it by this character alone.'
George Bolam (1896) in the Annals of Scottish Natural History, Vol. V. p. 84, says: 'The only record for the district is by Mr. J. H. Gurney, in a paper giving a résumé of the occurrences of the Caspian Tern in England (Zoologist, 1887, p. 458), and is referred to as "One, Farne Islands, 6th June 1880, seen by Mr. E. Bidwell, but not obtained".'
Accepted by Evans (1911: 217-218), who adds: 'As Howard Saunders remarks (Manual of British Birds, ed. II. p. 641), some of its breeding places abroad are at no great distance from Britain, so that we may concur with him in accepting the record, although the bird itself was not obtained.'
15). 1897 Nottinghamshire River Trent, Colwick, adult, shot, 3rd August, now at Wollaton Hall Museum.
(F. B. Whitlock, Naturalist 23: 308; H. F. Witherby, Knowledge 20: 257).
History F. B. Whitlock, Nottingham (1897) in the new series of The Naturalist, Vol. XXIII. p. 308, dated 13th September, 1897, says: 'An example of this fine Tern (Sterna caspia) was shot on the Trent, early on the morning of 3rd August last, near Colwick Park. It is in fully adult plumage, having only a few white feathers amongst the black ones of the crown; apparently due to the commencement of the annual change. Unfortunately, the sex was not noted. This species has rarely been found inland, and is the first truly Notts. specimen.'
H. F. Witherby (1897) in Knowledge, Vol. XX. p. 257, under 'Caspian Tern on the Trent (The Naturalist, October, 1897, p. 308)', says: 'Mr. F. B. Whitlock reports the capture, on August 3rd, near Colwick Park, of an adult Caspian Tern.'
Comment The date is in line with current trends and is a factor of this being a genuine record.
16). 1901 Norfolk Breydon Water, seen, 21st to 22nd July.
(J. H. Gurney, jun., Zoologist 1902: 91; Patterson, 1904; Patterson, 1905, 1907; H. F. Witherby & N. F. Ticehurst, British Birds 2: 306; Witherby, 1920-24; Ticehurst, 1932; Allard, 1990).
History J. H. Gurney, jun., of Keswick Hall, Norwich (1902) in The Zoologist, 4th series, Vol. VI. p. 91, says: 'July 21st. A Caspian Tern, watched by Messrs. Patterson, Eldred, and Jary, fishing and plunging vigorously into the shallow water on a part of Breydon called "Rotten-Eye". The next day it was watched again, and was seen to capture an eel, after which, thanks to protection, it passed on. The wind at the time was W.N.W., light, with some fog, and the day before E.N.E., and the evening before that E. It is on this great tidal Broad that most of the British captures of Sterna caspia have taken place, but we have not had one to record since 1862.'
Patterson (1904: 187-188) says: '1901. July 21. - Rowing around Breydon today I fell in with three Curlew Sandpipers, two Spoonbills, a Caspian Tern, and a Sandwich Tern. The latter was resting on a floating basket; the Caspian was fishing, plunging into the water with the dash and vigour of an Osprey.' Patterson (1905) says: 'On 22nd July 1901, I rowed up very close to a bird of this species that was fishing on Breydon. Its characteristic large vermillion beak was held down at right angles to the body, suggesting to me the appearance of its being too heavy for it. With the strong leverage of its powerful wings, it threw its short-looking body upon the water with such impetuosity that spray was flung up by the impact. Its quest was young herrings, which were to be seen flashing about in the sunlight.'
Patterson (1907: 196-197) says: 'Through the courtesy of H. A. Frederick, Esq., Secretary to the Breydon Protection Society, I had the opportunity of overhauling the notebooks kept by the two Breydon watchers, viz. "Ducker" Chambers, who held the post from 1888 to 1899 inclusive, and "Newcome" Jary, who was appointed in 1899, and continues to occupy the position....1901. July 21st. A Caspian Tern here and two spoonbills. N.W.; fine.'
Admitted by H. F. Witherby & N. F. Ticehurst (1909) in British Birds, Vol. II. p. 306, under 'On the More Important Additions to our Knowledge of British Birds since 1899'.
Riviere (1930: 231) says: 'Seen by Mr. A. H. Patterson and Mr. G. Jary, the Breydon watcher.'
Accepted locally for Suffolk (Ticehurst 1932: 414) but "Rotten Eye" is on the northern side of Breydon Channel.
17). 1902 Norfolk/Suffolk Breydon Water, seen, 24th July.
(A. H. Patterson, Zoologist 1902: 391; J. H. Gurney, jun., Zoologist 1903: 132; Patterson, 1907; H. F. Witherby & N. F. Ticehurst, British Birds 2: 306; Witherby, 1920-24; Riviere, 1930; Ticehurst, 1932).
History A. H. Patterson of Ibis House, Great Yarmouth (1902) in The Zoologist, 4th series, Vol. VI. p. 391, says: 'A Caspian Tern (Sterna caspia) turned up on July 24th.'
J. H. Gurney, jun., of Keswick Hall, Norwich (1903) in The Zoologist, 4th series, Vol. VII. p. 132, says: 'July 24th. W., strong. A Caspian Tern seen on Breydon Broad by G. Jary, as already announced (Zool., 1902, p. 391). The wind the day before was N.E., day fine, and Mr. Jary remarked a number of waders about. It was almost exactly at this time last year that a Caspian Tern appeared, possibly the same individual, and that also came with a W. wind following upon N.E.'
Patterson (1907: 196, 200) says: 'Through the courtesy of H. A. Frederick, Esq., Secretary to the Breydon Protection Society, I had the opportunity of overhauling the notebooks kept by the two Breydon watchers, viz. "Ducker" Chambers, who held the post from 1888 to 1899 inclusive, and "Newcome" Jary, who was appointed in 1899, and continues to occupy the position....1902. July 24th. A Caspian tern here. W.; strong.'
Admitted by H. F. Witherby & N. F. Ticehurst (1909) in British Birds, Vol. II. p. 306, under 'On the More Important Additions to our Knowledge of British Birds since 1899'.
Riviere (1930) says: 'Seen by Mr. G. Jary the Breydon watcher.' Accepted locally for Suffolk (Ticehurst 1932: 414).
18). 1910 Norfolk/Suffolk Breydon Water, seen, 9th August.
(J. H. Gurney, jun., Zoologist 1911: 168; Eds., British Birds 5: 83; W. R. Ogilvie-Grant, Bulletin of the British Ornithologists' Club 30: 273; S. H. Long & B. B. Riviere, Transactions of the Norfolk & Norwich Naturalists' Society 9: 794; Witherby, 1920-24; Ticehurst, 1932; Allard, 1990).
History J. H. Gurney, jun., of Keswick Hall, Norwich (1911) in The Zoologist, 4th series, Vol. XV. p. 168, says: 'August 9th. N.E., 4. A Caspian Tern settled on Mr. Jary's punt, which was moored about fifteen yards off his houseboat in which he was, remaining half an hour, after which it caught some whitebait and flew away; he says its bill was very red. It appeared to be tired, and was not seen again on Breydon Broad. This tidal water has been known as an occasional resort of the Caspian Tern since 1825; it was visited by one in July, 1901, and again by another in July, 1902.'
In an Editorial (1911) in British Birds, Vol. V. p. 83, they say: 'On August 9th a Caspian Tern (Sterna caspia) was watched at a range of fifteen yards for half an hour by Mr, Jary on Breydon.'
W. R. Ogilvie-Grant, Editor (1912) in the Bulletin of the British Ornithologists' Club, Vol. XXX. p. 273, on the unexpected occurrences for 1910, says: 'One seen, Breydon (Norfolk), August 9th.'
Admitted by S. H. Long & B. B. Riviere (1914) in the Transactions of the Norfolk & Norwich Naturalists' Society, Vol. IX. p. 794, under 'Additions to Part XI (Sixth List) 1909-13'. Accepted locally for Suffolk (Ticehurst 1932: 414).
Comment Jary was the Watcher on Breydon Water.
19). 1918 Norfolk Near St Nicholas Light vessel, off Gorleston-on-Sea, two, seen, 17th May.
(J. H. Gurney, jun., British Birds 12: 256; Witherby, 1920-24; Riviere, 1930; Ticehurst, 1932; Allard, 1990).
History J. H. Gurney, jun., of Norwich (1919) in British Birds, Vol. XII. p. 256, says: 'On May 17th, a very still day with no wind at all, a couple of Caspian Terns - no doubt paired - flew within about forty yards of Mr. Vincent's motor-boat, when he was on duty at sea, between St. Nicholas lightship and the shore. This makes the twelfth occurrence of this fine Tern at or near Great Yarmouth, but so far it has never been identified in the Blakeney district, yet both estuaries are tidal.'
Riviere (1930: 231) says: 'On 17th May 1918, Mr. J. Vincent identified two at sea, off Great Yarmouth, between the St Nicholas Light-vessel and the shore.'
21). 1935 Kent Dungeness, immature female, hit lighthouse, 9th October, now at Maidstone Museum.
(G. Mannering, British Birds 34: 223; Borrer, 1960; Taylor, Davenport & Flegg, 1981).
History Guy Mannering (1941) in British Birds, Vol. XXXIV. p. 223, says: 'A Caspian Tern struck the Dungeness Light during a heavy south-easterly gale on the night of October 9th, 1935. The bird was sent to me and proved to be an immature female and is now preserved in my collection.'
22). 1939 Yorkshire Whitby, adult, picked up dead on tideline, August, had been ringed as a juvenile at Lake Michigan, North America on 14th July 1927.
(Auk 1940: 569; H. W. Robinson, Country Life 30th Nov., 1940: 26; H. F. Witherby, British Birds 34: 184; H. B. Booth, Naturalist 66: 1; R. Chislett, Naturalist 66: 94; Mather, 1986; M. Grantham, Birding World 17 (7): 306).
History H. W. Robinson (1940) in Country Life, 30th Nov., Vol. LXXXVIII. p. 26, says: 'Although Witherby's Practical Handbook gives the European Caspian Tern as a very rare vagrant to England, about twenty-three having been seen, there has been no record of the American race until quite recently, when a schoolboy picked one up dead at Whitby in Yorkshire in August, 1939. It also bore a ring No. 566280, put on as a chick in the largest colony in North America, in Lake Michigan, on July 14th, 1927, by the late Mr. William I. Lyon, of the Biological Survey....This record shows the value of ringing birds with properly numbered rings containing an address.'
H. F. Witherby (1940) in British Birds, Vol. XXXIV. p. 184, says: 'In The Auk for October, 1940 (p. 569), Mr. F. C. Lincoln, of the U.S. Biological Survey, makes the interesting announcement that a Caspian Tern Hydroprogne caspia ringed as a nestling. No. 566280, at the large colony on Shoe Island, in northern Lake Michigan on July 14th, 1927, was reported as found dead on the shore at Whitby, Yorks., in August, 1939.
The band was sent to the Bureau of the Biological Survey and has been verified. The Caspian Tern is a very rare vagrant to this country. Some thirty occurrences are on record and most of these have been on the east coast of England. This fact has seemed to point to Europe as their origin and probably most of them did come from the east, but the present record shows that it is possible for the bird to come from America and yet reach our east coast.
Mr. Lincoln, following the A.O.U. Check-List, calls the American bird Hydroprogne caspia imperator, but I have been unable to find any constant difference between American and Palearctic birds. The same conclusion was reached by the late Dr. E. Hartert and more recently Dr. J. C. Peters in his Check-List of the Birds of the World (Vol. II. 1934, p. 331) has pronounced against the separation of the American bird as a recognizable race.'
H. B. Booth (1941) in the new series of The Naturalist, Vol. LXVI. p. 1, says: 'Two examples of this, the largest, and one of our rarest Terns, have recently been reported from Yorkshire. In Country Life of November 30th, 1940, p. xxvi, Mr. H. W. Robinson says a bird of the American race of this species (and which he states is the first record in England for this Transatlantic form), was picked up dead by a schoolboy at Whitby, Yorks., in August, 1939. "It bore a ring No. 566280, put on as a chick in the largest colony in North America, in northern Lake Michigan, on July 14th, 1927, by the late Wm. J. Lyon, of the Biological Survey".'
Ralph Chislett (1941) in the new series of The Naturalist, Vol. LXVI. p. 94, admits it in the Annual Bird Report for 1940.
23). 1940 Yorkshire Kirby-in-Cleveland, immature, picked up dead, 2nd April, now at Yorkshire Museum, York.
(W. E. Collinge, North Western Naturalist 15: 153; H. F. Witherby, British Birds 34: 223-224; H. B. Booth, Naturalist 66: 1; F. Jefferson, Naturalist 66: 94-95; Mather, 1986).
History W. E. Collinge (1940) in the North Western Naturalist, Vol. XV. p. 153, says: 'On April 2nd Mr. Ben Foggitt of Thirsk brought me a bird which he thought might be an immature specimen of the Caspian Tern, and on careful examination this proved to be so. The specimen, which was in a very emaciated and high condition, was picked up by Mr. Harry Kitching near Kirby-in-Cleveland.'
H. F. Witherby (1940) in British Birds, Vol. XXXIV. pp. 223-224, says: 'Caspian Tern in Yorkshire. - In recording the Caspian Tern ringed in America and picked up in Yorkshire in August, 1939 (antea, p. 184), I overlooked another recent occurrence of the species in Yorkshire. This was of a dead bird in "a very emaciated and high condition", picked up near Kirby-in-Cleveland and brought on April 2nd, 1940, to Dr. W. E. Collinge, who has recorded it in the North Western Naturalist (Vol. XV. p. 135). Dr. Collinge informs me that the bird had a long bill of a light vermilion-red colour, almost black legs and feet and a wing measuring 16 inches (c. 406 mm.). The head had "a slight whitish streak down the middle", which seems to indicate that it had not quite completed its moult from winter plumage.'
H. B. Booth (1941) in the new series of The Naturalist, Vol. LXVI. p. 1, says: 'Two examples of this, the largest, and one of our rarest, Terns, have recently been reported from Yorkshire....In the North-Western Naturalist, Vol. XV. No. 3, p. 153 (dated September, but received in December, 1940), Dr. Walter E. Collinge states: - "On April 2nd Mr. Ben Foggitt, of Thirsk, brought me a bird which he thought might be an immature specimen of the Caspian Tern, and on careful examination this proved to be so. The specimen, which was in a very emaciated and high condition, was picked up by Mr. Harry Kitching near Kirby-in-Cleveland".
Although the Caspian Tern has a very wide range there is only one record for it in Nelson's Birds of Yorkshire, viz., one shot at Filey early in September, 1874.'
Ralph Chislett (1941) in the new series of The Naturalist, Vol. LXVI. pp. 94-95, in the Annual Bird Report for 1940, adds: 'Dr. Roberts reports that the second bird was an immature specimen, and was picked up dead by Mr. Hitching of Kirby-in-Cleveland on March 19th, 1940, and was identified at the York Museum (F. Jefferson).'
1950-57 RECORDS
24). 1954 Kent Mote Park, Maidstone, 3rd to 4th May.
(J. T. R. Sharrock, British Birds 47: 403-404; E. H. Gillham, Kent Bird Report 1954: 23; Taylor, Davenport & Flegg, 1981).
History J. T. R. Sharrock (1954) in British Birds, Vol. XLVII. pp. 403-404, says: 'On May 3rd, 1954, I saw and identified, between 4.10 and 4.30 p.m., B.S.T., a Caspian Tern (Hydroprogne caspia) in Mote Park, Maidstone, Kent. For about 10 minutes after first seeing it I thought that it was a gull and did not bother to look at it closely. When I did so through binoculars I immediately saw the huge, thick, red bill, black cap, large size - considerably larger than a Black-headed Gull (Larus ridibundus) - and forked tail. The tail was forked very slightly and had not got the long streamers that the Common Tern (Sterna hirundo) has. I noted that the under surfaces of the primaries were conspicuously dark. The wings and rump were grey, but the rest of the plumage, except for the black cap, was white.
It was catching fish from the lake in the typical tern manner - holding the bill downwards in flight with the tail depressed and then immersing completely when actually diving. Once it came up with quite a large fish but dropped it when it was about 15 feet above the surface of the lake.
The whole of the time that I observed it, it was flying up and down the lake and I did not see it settle at all. Its voice was not the chattering "kikikikik" call of the Common Tern but was a harsh "kaar", much like that of the Rook (Corvus frugilegus). I watched the bird for 10 minutes and then left to call Messrs. P. S. Redman and B. W. Ferry.
When we returned, however, 40 minutes later it was not to be seen. The next day, May 4th, Mr. J. F. Naylor, who had not at the time heard about my record of the day before, found the bird and called in Mr. P. S. Redman who also saw it, thus confirming my original observation.' [We have also received a very detailed description of this bird from Messrs. J. F. Naylor and P. S. Redman and their account clearly confirms the identification.
Additional points that they noted were that the bill was red with an orange tinge and that it was slightly decurved towards the tip; there was also a marked white stripe between the cap and the base of the bill; when fishing the bird flew at a height of 40-60 feet above the surface of the lake. Harrison in The Birds of Kent (1953, Vol. I. pp. 454-455) mentions four Caspian Terns as having occurred in the county, all of which are autumn records from coastal localities. - Eds.]
J. E. H. Gillham (1954) in the Kent Bird Report, Vol. III. p. 23, says: 'One in Mote Park, Maidstone, on May 3 and 4 was first seen by J.T.R.S., the identification being confirmed by P.S.R. and J.F.N. (cf. B. B., 47: 403).'
NOT PROVEN
0). 1836 Norfolk Cromer, undated.
(J. H. Gurney, jun., Zoologist 1887: 457)
[Harting, 1872; Southwell, 1890].
History Harting (1872) did not publish this record in his list of the species.
J. H. Gurney, jun., of Northrepps (1887) in The Zoologist, 3rd series, Vol. XI. p. 457, undated, says: 'As some uncertainty enshrouds the few recorded examples of Sterna caspia, Pallas, which have been killed in England, I send the following corrected version of the list of Norfolk specimens which appeared in the Transactions of the Norfolk and Norwich Naturalists' Society.
Some of the information has been gleaned from the correspondence of the late T. C. Heysham, brought to light by the Rev. H. A. Macpherson (vide antea, p. 386), a correspondence full of interesting matter, which has now most fortunately fallen into good hands: - One, Cromer, 1836. A letter to T. C. Heysham, dated Nov. 21st, 1836, lent by the Rev. H. A. Macpherson.'
Southwell, Editor (1890 (3): 297) in Stevenson's Birds of Norfolk, says: 'No. 3. I can discover nothing of the history of this bird, and if really a Caspian Tern it is probably not in existence.'
Riviere (1930) says: 'A third [for Norfolk] was believed by J. H. Gurney to have been killed at Cromer in 1836 (Zoologist 1887: 457), but of the history of this bird Southwell stated he could discover nothing.'
Comment Not known to have been seen by a competent authority. Lacks supporting details. Not acceptable.
0). Pre 1845 Kent Lydd, undated.
(J. H. Gurney, jun., Zoologist 1887: 458).
[H. F. Witherby & N. F. Ticehurst, British Birds 2: 306; Ticehurst, 1909].
History J. H. Gurney, jun., of Northrepps (1887) in The Zoologist, 3rd series, Vol. XI. p. 458, undated, says: '...In addition to the occurrences above noted for Norfolk, there are nine more in other parts of England, and one doubtful one: - One, Lydd, Kent, prior to 1845. E. P. Thompson, Notebook of a Naturalist, p. 265.'
H. F. Witherby & N. F. Ticehurst (1909) in British Birds, Vol. II. p. 306, under 'On the More Important Additions to our Knowledge of British Birds since 1899', say: 'Kent must for the present be struck out of the list of counties in which this bird has occurred, as Mr. J. H. Gurney's record (t. c. 1887, p. 458) from Thompson's Notebook of a Naturalist (p. 265) was based on a misreading of the name cantiaca for caspia.'
Ticehurst (1909: 494-495) placing the record in square brackets, says: 'The first record originated in Mr. J. H. Gurney's summary of the visits of this species to England (Zool., 1887, p. 457) where he mentions: "one, Lydd, Kent, prior to 1845. Reported by Mr. E. P. Thompson, Notebook of a Naturalist, p. 265". It is quite clear on referring to Thompson that Mr. Gurney made an unfortunate error and, misreading Sterna cantiaca for Sterna caspia, entered the reference in his notes under the wrong species. Thompson makes no mention of Sterna caspia at all. The statement has been repeated in his Rambles of a Naturalist (p. 232), in Mr. Harting's Handbook (Ed., II. p. 472), in Notes on the Birds of Kent (p. 425), and in the Victoria County History of Kent (p. 298). On my calling Mr. Gurney's attention to the matter he requested me to correct the mistake, which I have the privilege of doing.'
Comment Mistaken identity. Not acceptable.
0). 1850 Norfolk/Suffolk Breydon Water, male, June, now at Bury St Edmunds Museum.
(Harting, 1872; Yarrell, 1871-85; Babington, 1884-86; J. H. Gurney, jun., Zoologist 1887: 457; Riviere, 1930; Ticehurst, 1932; Allard, 1990).
[Southwell, 1890].
History Harting (1872: 167) stated it was in the same harbour as the 1849 Norfolk individual.
It was admitted by Howard Saunders (1882-84 (3): 537, 4th ed.) in Yarrell's British Birds, who says: 'One in the same neighbourhood [Great Yarmouth] in June [1850]', while Babington (1884-86: 247) who admits to having seen the specimen, adds: 'A male shot on Breydon, June, 1850 (Bury Museum, Dennis MS. note in the Museum.'
J. H. Gurney, jun., of Northrepps (1887) in The Zoologist, 3rd series, Vol. XI. p. 457, undated, says: 'As some uncertainty enshrouds the few recorded examples of Sterna caspia, Pallas, which have been killed in England, I send the following corrected version of the list of Norfolk specimens which appeared in the Transactions of the Norfolk and Norwich Naturalists' Society. Some of the information has been gleaned from the correspondence of the late T. C. Heysham, brought to light by the Rev. H. A. Macpherson (vide antea, p. 386), a correspondence full of interesting matter, which has now most fortunately fallen into good hands:- One, Yarmouth, male, June, 1850. In the Bury Museum.'
Southwell, Editor (1890 (3): 296) in Stevenson's Birds of Norfolk, says: 'Mr. J. H. Gurney, jun., has at various times taken considerable trouble to investigate the reported occurrences of this fine bird in England, and from his latest communication to The Zoologist, 1887, p. 457, I copy the following list of Norfolk specimens: - 6. Yarmouth. Male. June, 1850. In Bury Museum. 7. Yarmouth. July 16th, 1850. Mr. Gurney was informed that others were seen at the same time.
Further, pp. 297-298, Nos. 6 and 7. It seems probable that these two refer to the same bird which was shot on Breydon; it was discovered by Mr. Stevenson in the Dennis collection, at Bury, marked Breydon, June, 1850; it is a male in perfect summer plumage; the sex was not noted (see Zoologist, p. 2915). It is doubtless this bird also to which the following note in Mr. Stevenson's MS. refers: - "Young Harvey, of Yarmouth, says one of Mr. Gurney's birds was shot by a Mr. Goodwin, of the North End [Yarmouth], thirty years ago [there is nothing to indicate the date of this memorandum], on Breydon Wall. It was never in Mr. Gurney's possession, although he recorded it". The above particulars are gleaned mainly from Mr. Stevenson's note books, and with the assistance of Mr. J. H. Gurney, jun.'
Riviere (1930: 231) says: 'The sixth specimen [for Norfolk], which is in the Dennis Collection at the Bury [St Edmunds] Museum, is said to have been killed on Breydon in June 1850.'
Ticehurst (1932: 413-414) says: 'Adult male, Breydon, June 1850 (Bury Mus.). (Probably the same bird as recorded in Zool., 1850, p. 2915, as 16th July 1850). One or two others were said to have been seen about the same time.'
Comment Southwell considered it a duplicate record for the one in July. Not acceptable.
0). 1860 Kent No locality, early autumn.
(Gurney, 1876).
[Ticehurst, 1909].
History Gurney (1876: 232) in a footnote, says: 'In the Dover Museum there is a very young Caspian Tern with some down on the head. It was brought quite fresh to the Curator (still in the flesh I believe), and must have been killed not very far off. He told me that the man who brought it was a foreigner. It is possible that it came from Sylt; if on the other hand it was a British-killed one, it was very interesting in that state. It is not the example mentioned at p. 265 of The Note-Book of a Naturalist, by E. P. Thompson, who I believed started the Museum at Dover.'
Ticehurst (1909: 495) placing the record in square brackets, says: 'There is in the Dover Museum a young bird, with down still adhering to the feathers of the head, which was obtained by Gordon, then curator of the museum, in the early autumn of 1860, and its history, such as it is, is given by Mr. Gurney in his Rambles of a Naturalist (p. 232).
It was brought quite fresh, and Mr. Gurney believes, still in the flesh, to Gordon by a foreign sailor. When all the circumstances are taken into account it may well be doubted whether this specimen has any real right to be called a Kent one. It is hardly likely that so young a bird would have wandered so far from the place where it was bred, and it is far more likely to have been shot on the other side of the North Sea.
The distance in a straight line from Sylt, the nearest known breeding station of this species to Dover, is roughly four hundred miles, and if, as Howard Saunders suggested, a few breed about the mouth of the Maas, the distance is still at least one hundred and fifty miles. An examination of the actual bird has convinced me that it could not have flown this distance.
There is really no proof that the bird was shot anywhere near the English coast or even in the Channel at all. Mr. Gurney was not sure that it was actually brought in the flesh to Dover, and the bird might easily have been still "quite fresh" after a voyage from Holland.
The sailor, being a foreigner, was quite possibly a man from one of the Dutch pilot boats that are always cruising in the Downs, and whose hands often land at Dover and Dungeness. One of these men, having shot the bird off the Dutch coast, would be very likely to try and make what he could of it when he was next on shore.'
Comment Probably imported. Not acceptable.
0). 1861 Devon Teignmouth, immature, obtained, October.
(Pidsley, 1891; D'Urban & Mathew, 1892).
[Saunders, 1899; Witherby, 1920-24].
History Pidsley (1891: 158) says: 'No Devonshire specimens are noticed in the fourth edition of Yarrell. The responsibility, therefore, for its inclusion here, rests solely with Mr. Parfitt, who states: "One, an immature bird, was killed at Teignmouth, October, 1861 (R. Cumming)".'
Comment Third-hand report. Probably misidentified. Not known to have been seen by a competent authority. Not admitted nationally (Saunders 1899; Witherby 1920-24).
0). 1869 Dorset Poole Harbour, undated.
(Mansel-Pleydell, 1888; Morrison, 1997).
[Prendergast, 1973].
History Mansel-Pleydell (1888: 103, 2nd ed.) says: 'One in Poole Harbour in 1869 (E. Hart).'
Not accepted locally (Prendergast 1973).
0). 1873 Devon Torbay, immature, shot, 26th September.
(E. P. Trass, Transactions of the Devon Association for Advancement of Science 8: 301; Pidsley, 1891; D'Urban & Mathew, 1892).
[Saunders, 1899; Witherby, 1920-24].
History Pidsley (1891: 158) says: 'No Devonshire specimens are noticed in the fourth edition of Yarrell. The responsibility, therefore, for its inclusion here, rests solely with Mr. Parfitt, who states: ...and an immature specimen was shot in Torbay, September 26th, 1873 (Birds of Devonshire, p. 301).'
Not admitted nationally (Saunders 1899, 2nd ed.; Witherby 1920-24).
Comment Probably misidentified. Not acceptable.
0). 1874 West Midlands Birmingham, Warwickshire, seen, 28th April.
(W. Taylor, Zoologist 1874: 4036-37).
[J. H. Gurney, jun., Zoologist 1887: 45].
History W. Taylor of Edgbaston (1874) in The Zoologist, 2nd series, Vol. IX. pp. 4036-37, dated 29th April, 1874, says: 'I was yesterday on our Bolton Park Reservoir, a large piece of water of about seventy acres, and which is a favourite boating pool for the young people of Birmingham, when I was surprised to see what I at first took for a Common Gull, but which, upon a closer inspection, I was assured from the flight must be a tern. As I had never seen so large a specimen of the genus Sterna, I endeavoured to get sufficiently near to examine its principal points, in order to discover what it really was. Unfortunately I could not get within two hundred and fifty yards, and I had no glass with me, but I could plainly see a slightly forked tail; and from the size of the bird and this peculiarity, I cannot but fancy it must have been the Caspian Tern, as it was altogether too large for any of the other kinds of Sterna, and the tail too slightly forked. I went to the reservoir this morning with my glass, intending to have a good look at the interesting stranger, but alas! he was nowhere to be seen; but as we have several largish pieces of water in the neighbourhood we may possibly hear more of him, and should I do so I write to you again.'
J. H. Gurney, jun., of Northrepps (1887) in The Zoologist, 3rd series, Vol. XI. p. 458, undated, says: '...In addition to the occurrences above noted for Norfolk, there are nine more in other parts of England, and one doubtful one:- One, Birmingham, April 28th, 1874. Doubtful, as it was not shot, and the observer never got within 250 yards.'
Comment No identification details for this sight record of a difficult species. Not acceptable.
0). 1874 Yorkshire Filey, shot, early September.
(R. A. Willis, Field 15th Nov., 1879: 684; Clarke & Roebuck, 1881; Yarrell, 1871-85; J. H. Gurney, jun., Zoologist 1887: 458; Nelson, 1907; Mather, 1986; Wilson & Slack, 1996).
[Seebohm, 1883-85; I. C. T. Nisbet, British Birds 54: 344-345].
History R. A. Willis of Frankland, Addlestone (1879) in The Field of 15th Nov., Vol. LIV. p. 684, says: 'As the occurrence of the Caspian Tern is somewhat rare in this country, I ought no longer to defer recording in your columns that one was shot at Filey by a friend early in September, 1874, and was sent by him to Baker, of Cambridge, to mount for me. Although I have seen the bird there, I have not yet obtained possession of it; but it was, I believe, seen by Professor Newton at Baker's, so that there can be no doubt as to its identity.'
Accepted locally (Clarke & Roebuck 1881: 80).
Howard Saunders (1882-84 (3): 537, 4th ed.) in Yarrell's British Birds, says: 'And in September, 1874, one is said to have been killed near Filey in Yorkshire, which appears to be the most northern occurrence in this country.'
Seebohm (1885 (3): 268) says: 'No one appears to have taken the trouble to verify the alleged occurrence of this bird at Filey (Clarke, Handb. Vert. Faun. Yorks., p. 80).'
J. H. Gurney, jun., of Northrepps (1887) in The Zoologist, 3rd series, Vol. XI. p. 458, undated, says: '...In addition to the occurrences above noted for Norfolk, there are nine more in other parts of England, and one doubtful one:- One, Filey, Yorks., September, 1874. Preserved by Baker, of Cambridge, and identified by Prof. Newton.'
Accepted locally (Nelson 1907 (2): 652).
I. C. T. Nisbet (1961) in British Birds, Vol. LIV. p. 345, says: 'Baker was described as "a reliable naturalist" by Lack (1934), but many other specimens with British labels which he sold to the [British] museum are highly improbable, and in the absence of independent evidence it seems best to regard them all as doubtful.'
Comment It has been proved that birds handled by Baker and sold to the British Museum were doubtfully British (I. C. T. Nisbet, British Birds 54: 345). Why wait five years to publish the record of such a rare species? Saunders used the words "said to have been", implying no faith in the record, as did Seebohm who called it "an alleged occurrence". Not acceptable.
0). 1876 Devon Torbay, two, obtained, October.
(G. F. Mathew, Field 21st Oct., 1876: 471).
[G. F. Mathew, Field 28th Oct., 1876: 499].
History Gervase F. Mathew on H.M.S. Britannia, Dartmouth (1876) in The Field of 21st October, Vol. XLVIII. p. 471, says: 'On the 17th inst., while at Torquay, I called at Shopland's, the bird-stuffer, to inquire in any uncommon species had been brought in to him lately, and was informed that he had received within the present month one Little Gull, two Caspian Terns, one Richardson's Skua, one Red-necked Grebe, and one Lesser Tern.
All these birds were obtained in Torbay, and, strange to say, the Little Gull and Caspian Terns were shot the same day by two gentlemen, who were quite unacquainted with their value or rarity, and one of the terns was ordered to be made up to adorn a lady's hat!
How often rare birds fall into the hands of people who do not appreciate them, and what numbers must be killed and thrown away unnoticed and unrecorded! I saw the Little Gull and remaining Caspian Tern, and both were in good plumage and cleanly shot, although the larger wing and tail feathers of the latter were somewhat worn. Besides these birds, I was shown a tern I could not quite make out, but believe it to be an immature Black Tern. It was killed a few days ago on the Dorset coast.'
G. F. Mathew (1876) in The Field of 28th October, Vol. XLVIII. p. 499, says: 'My notice in your last week's impression contains a serious error; for Caspian I should have written Sandwich Tern. Will you kindly correct this in your next? The former species, so far as I am aware, has not yet been obtained in the western counties.'
Comment Printing error. Not acceptable.
0). 1887 Moray & Nairn Old Bar, Findhorn, 2nd June.
(Harvie-Brown & Buckley, 1896).
[Harvie-Brown & Buckley, 1896; Cook, 1992].
History Harvie-Brown & Buckley (1896 (2): 205) recording the record in square brackets, say: 'Referring to a Tern he saw at the Old Bar, Findhorn, on the 2nd, O. A. J. Lee says: June 12th, 1887 - "I saw the large Tern, which I think must be Caspian Tern; it had a mate this time. Greyish back, white underneath, black on the head down to a line from the beak past the eye to the back of the neck, dark green feet, scarlet bill with a black point. The other had brownish marks on the back, and a brownish bill with a black tip. This is the second time I have seen it. It sits on the stakes of the salmon nets about seventy yards out, and I saw it through the glasses quite well". Here follows a very good sketch of the bird, the size of which, Mr. Lee says (under June 2nd), is a little less than a Lesser Black-backed Gull, and from this it seems very likely that his identification is correct.'
0). Pre 1894 Kent Medway, seen, undated.
(Prentis, 1894).
[Ticehurst, 1909].
History Prentis (1894: 81) says: 'Some few years ago, before the river became so thickly studded with vessels, I had the pleasure one autumn of meeting with the Caspian Tern; it frequented a wide part of the Medway, and an adjoining wide creek for about a fortnight; happening to shoot a Common Tern from my yacht, the great bird came, hovered for a second or two over it, but from the distance the little bird had floated, I was unable to procure the Caspian Tern.'
Ticehurst (1909: 496) placing the record in square brackets, says: 'Prentis mentions (1894) Birds of Rainham a bird which he saw "some few years ago" on the Medway, a certain portion of which it frequented for a fortnight. He believed it to have been of this species.'
0). Pre 1907 Caernarfonshire Mouth of Afon Conwy, obtained, undated.
(Jones & Dare, 1976).
[Jones & Dare, 1976].
History Jones & Dare (1976) under 'Appendix' say: 'One was believed to have been obtained at the mouth of Afon Conwy some time before 1907.'
Comment "One was believed" doesn't inspire confidence. Not acceptable.
0). 1913 Sussex Rye Bay, adult male, obtained, 4th June.
(H. W. Ford-Lindsay, British Birds 7: 59; W. R. Ogilvie-Grant, Bulletin of the British Ornithologists' Club 34: 184; E. N. Bloomfield, Hastings & East Sussex Naturalist 2: 100; Walpole-Bond, 1938).
[E. M. Nicholson & I. J. Ferguson-Lees, British Birds 55: 299-384 HR].
History H. W. Ford-Lindsay (1913) in British Birds, Vol. VII. p. 59, says: 'A fine example of the Caspian Tern (Sterna tschegrava) was obtained in Rye Bay on June 4th, 1913. It was no doubt attracted into the bay by the very large shoals of mackerel which could be seen on the surface of the water. I examined it in the flesh on June 5th, and it proved to be a male in full summer-plumage. The bill was a bright coral red; legs and feet, blackish; extreme width of wings, 4 ft. 2½ in.; length from point of bill to end of tail, 1 ft. 9 in., weight, 25 ounces. It had been feeding on mackerel.'
W. R. Ogilvie-Grant, Editor (1914) in the Bulletin of the British Ornithologists' Club, Vol. XXXIV. p. 184, on the unexpected occurrences for 1913, says: 'Male shot, Rye Bay (Sussex), June 4th.'
Accepted locally (Walpole-Bond 1938 (3): 248).
Comment Hastings rarity. Not acceptable.
0). 1915 Sussex Jury's Gap, pair, shot, 4th August, adult female now at Leicester Arts & Museums (Acc. No. Z28.2006.79.4).
(H. W. Ford-Lindsay, British Birds 9: 98; W. Ruskin Butterfield, Hastings & East Sussex Naturalist 2: 202; A. H. J. Harrop, British Birds 111: 228-230).
[E. M. Nicholson & I. J. Ferguson-Lees, British Birds 55: 299-384 HR].
History H. W. Ford-Lindsay (1915) in British Birds, Vol. IX. p. 98, says: 'A fine pair of Caspian Terns (Sterna tschigrava) was shot at Jury's Gap, Kent, on August 4th, 1915. I saw them in the flesh the next day. My previous record was in 1913 for Sussex (B. B., Vol. VII. p. 59).'
[This is apparently the first definite record for Kent, as Dr. N. F. Ticehurst, in his History of the Birds of Kent, p. 494, includes it in brackets, all previous notices being erroneous or dubious. - Eds.]
Comment Locality is in Sussex (Sussex Bird Report 1953: 5). Hastings rarities. Not acceptable.
0). 1916 Sussex Rye, male, shot, 3rd June, now at the Booth Museum, Brighton.
(J. B. Nichols, British Birds 12: 118; Walpole-Bond, 1938).
[E. M. Nicholson & I. J. Ferguson-Lees, British Birds 55: 299-384 HR].
History J. B. Nichols (1918) in British Birds, Vol. XII. p. 118, says: 'A male Caspian Tern (Sterna tschegrava) was shot at Rye, Sussex, on June 3rd, 1916. It was examined in the flesh by Mr. W. Ruskin Butterfield, and also by Mr. H. W. Ford Lindsay. This species has been previously recorded from Rye Bay on one occasion, and two were killed at Jury's Gap, on the Kentish border, in 1915.' Accepted locally (Walpole-Bond 1938 (3): 248).
Comment Hastings rarity. Not acceptable.
0). 1935 Kent Near Deal, seen, 15th November.
(R. Whitlock, South-Eastern Bird Report 1935: 71; Eds., British Birds 30: 54; Taylor, Davenport & Flegg, 1981).
[KAN].
History R. Whitlock (1935) in the South-Eastern Bird Report, Vol. II. p. 71, says: 'On November 15th one was seen consorting with Common and Black-headed Gulls quite near the town of Deal. This bird may be identified by its size alone, for it looks larger than a Common Gull. Other distinguishing features are its powerful, gull-like bill, coloured scarlet or vermilion, comparatively short tail and distinctive call note. The head of this individual appeared to be streaked with blackish brown and its back and wing-coverts streaked or mottled with dark brown. It hovered overhead for a short time, looking down and moving its head from side to side in an inquisitive manner. While doing so it gave a very harsh call six or seven times which was written down as "traa-ak", the last syllable being cut short. This "traa-ak" is not unlike the alarm note of a female Wigeon (T.C.G.).'
In an Editorial (1936) in British Birds, Vol. XXX. p. 54, in a Review of the South-Eastern Bird Report, for 1935, they say: 'A record of a Caspian Tern, whose distinctive features are described, near Deal on November 15th, a remarkably late date for an occurrence of this species.'
Comment T. C. Gregory's records get even more remarkable! Whilst it was hovering you missed the diagnostic underwing blackish wedges of the primaries. Not acceptable.
0). 1948 Cleveland/Yorkshire Battery Point, Teesmouth, seen, 23rd August.
(R. Chislett, Naturalist 74: 73).
[Stead, 1964].
History Ralph Chislett (1949) in the new series of The Naturalist, Vol. LXXIV. p. 73, in the 'Annual Yorkshire Report for 1948', says: 'Caspian Tern. Near Battery Point, Teesmouth, a tern with a heavy coral-red bill was between Black-headed Gull and Herring Gull in size (J.P.U.).'
Stead (1964) under 'Doubtful records', states that on 23 Aug. 1948 one was at South Gare (Chislett, 1952) - the possibility of Royal Tern was not considered at the time.
0). 1948 Yorkshire Bridlington, undated.
(R. Chislett, Naturalist 1949: 51-75; Eds., British Birds 43: 62).
[Not in Mather, 1986].
History In an Editorial (1950) in British Birds, Vol. XLIII. p. 62, in a Review of the Naturalist, they say: 'There are a number of interesting records of more or less rare species elsewhere. Of these might be mentioned, in 1948: a Caspian Tern at Bridlington, for which, presumably by an oversight, no date is given.'
Comment Probable recording error for one at Teesmouth as there is no mention of Bridlington in the Naturalist. Not acceptable.
0). 1954 Hampshire Near Damerham, two, 17th April.
(E. Cohen, Birds in Hampshire 1954: 87).
[E. Cohen, Birds in Hampshire 1954: 87; D. D. Harber, British Birds 49: 370].
History E. Cohen (1954) in Birds in Hampshire, p. 87, recording the record in square brackets, says: 'Two very large terns flying east near Damerham at ca. 300 feet on April 17th, directly overhead. Strong ca. N.N.E. breeze blowing at time, overcast, slight haze. Following points noted: silent; appeared definitely larger than Sandwich terns, having markedly heavier build. No other birds nearby for size comparison, but impression of larger size and more robust appearance AT ONCE noticed. Definitely terns and not gulls.
Watched by my wife and me through 8 x 30 binoculars (two pairs) for about one minute as they flew steadily on. Long head and neck noticeable ("heavy-headed"), angled, broad wings, relatively short tail which was forked but not deeply. Typical tern flight but less graceful than Sandwich, i.e., "stronger, heavier, more powerful".'
0). 1954 Yorkshire Hornsea Mere, 25th August.
(R. Chislett, Naturalist 80: 83).
[R. Chislett, Naturalist 80: 83].
History R. Chislett (1955) in the new series of The Naturalist, Vol. LXXX. p. 83, recording the record in square brackets, says: 'In company with Black Terns at Hornsea Mere on August 25th was a very large tern with red bill, slightly forked tail, and black cap, which the two Ackworth School boys (R. A. J. Harrison and J. Bayes) compared for size and general plumage to a Herring Gull. N. V. Mendham (their master) supports their claim with knowledge of the boys, and H.O.B. has discussed it with R.A.J.H.'
