Glossy Ibis (2/2)
Plegadis falcinellus (Linnaeus, 1766) (331, 2)
RECORDS (cont.)
204). 1908 Sussex Fishbourne, twelve, four shot, early September.
(Walpole-Bond, 1938).
History Walpole-Bond (1938 (2): 324) says: 'About the beginning of September, 1908, Fishbourne again enters the limelight, this time with, roughly, a dozen of these birds. At least four ceased to exist (A. F. Griffith in litt., per W. George).'
216). 1908 Isle of Wight St Helens, immature, 6th October.
(Cohen, 1963; Cohen & Taverner, 1972).
History Cohen (1963) states that the first record for the Island was of an immature on 6th October 1908 at St Helens.
217). 1908 Cornwall Near Land's End, shot, mid-October.
(H. Welch, Field 24th Oct., 1908: 721; Eds., British Birds 2: 244; Penhallurick, 1969).
History H. Welch of Sennen (1908) in The Field of 24th Oct., Vol. CXII. p. 721, says: 'A fine specimen of the Glossy Ibis was lately shot near Land's End, and is now in my possession. I have never seen one before, though I have such birds as Buff-breasted Sandpiper, Squacco Heron, Long-tailed Duck, Black-tailed Godwit, and other rare species, all killed here.'
[A bird of this species was reported to us ten days ago as seen in Devonshire in the Estuary of the Tavy, perhaps the same bird. - Ed.]
In an Editorial (1908) in British Birds, Vol. II. p. 244, he says: 'One was "lately" shot near Land's End (H. Welch, Field, 24.x.08., p. 721).' Accepted locally (Penhallurick 1969).
218). 1909 Norfolk/Suffolk Breydon Water, seen, 1st June.
(Anon., Transactions of the Norfolk & Norwich Naturalists' Society 9: 141; Riviere, 1930; Ticehurst, 1932; Allard, 1990).
History Anon. (1909) in the Transactions of the Norfolk & Norwich Naturalists' Society, Vol. IX. p. 141, says: 'On June 1st a Glossy Ibis was seen in the company of some Curlews, but it departed during the night.'
Ticehurst (1932: 320) says: 'One was reported by the Breydon watcher on 1st June 1909 (which Gurney considered rather doubtful).'
Admitted by S. H. Long & B. B. Riviere (1914) in the Transactions of the Norfolk & Norwich Naturalists' Society, Vol. IX. p. 796, under 'Additions to Part XI (Sixth List) 1909-13'. Allard (1990) adds that it was seen by G. Jary, the Watcher.
Comment June is an unusual date but not unheard of.
219). 1909 Norfolk/Suffolk Breydon Water, two, seen, 28th August.
(J. H. Gurney, jun., Zoologist 1910: 131; Anon., Transactions of the Norfolk & Norwich Naturalists' Society 9: 141; S. H. Long & B. B. Riviere, Transactions of the Norfolk & Norwich Naturalists' Society 9: 796; J. H. Gurney, jun., British Birds 3: 338; Riviere, 1930; Ticehurst, 1932; Allard, 1990).
History J. H. Gurney, jun., of Keswick Hall, Norwich (1910) in The Zoologist, 4th series, Vol. XIV. p. 131, says: 'August 28th. No wind. Two Glossy Ibises seen by the watcher on Breydon Broad had gone the next day.'
J. H. Gurney, jun. (1910) in British Birds, Vol. III. p. 338, says: 'Two were also seen at Breydon on August 28th, 1909, by our watcher.' Ticehurst (1932: 320) says: '...and two more on 28th August.'
221). 1909 Nottinghamshire Misson, immature, shot, 4th October, now at Doncaster Museum.
(J. Whitaker, Field 20th Nov., 1909: 890; H. H. Corbett, Naturalist 35: 441; J. Whitaker, British Birds 3: 230; Mather, 1986).
History J. Whitaker of Rainworth Lodge, Notts. (1909) in The Field of 20th Nov., Vol. CXIV. p. 890, says: 'About the middle of October a Glossy Ibis was shot at Misson by a man named Frederick Smith, who sold it to a game dealer at Doncaster for a shilling. Dr. Corbett, who saw it, secured it for the Doncaster Museum. It was at Misson that the first British specimen of the American Yellowshank was killed, and a White Stork was also obtained there many years back. Misson is a typical bit of the Fenland, and lies in the north-eastern corner of the county.'
H. H. Corbett of Doncaster (1909) in the new series of The Naturalist, Vol. XXXV. p. 441, says: 'On Wednesday, October 27th , I saw a Glossy Ibis exposed for sale along with other wild fowl, in a game-dealer's shop. I learnt from the shopkeeper that it had come in that day from Misson, near Bawtry. It is a young bird, with the head and neck spotted. It is being set up for the Doncaster Museum.'
J. Whitaker (1909) in British Birds, Vol. III. p. 230, says: 'About the middle of October a Glossy Ibis was shot at Misson, in Nottinghamshire, by Fred Smith, a wild-fowl shooter, who sold it to a game-dealer at Doncaster for a shilling. Dr. Corbett, of Doncaster, saw it hanging in the shop and purchased it for the Doncaster Museum. This is the first occurrence of this species in the county.'
222). 1909 Yorkshire Hornsea Mere, seen, 15th to 16th October.
(E. Kempsey, British Birds 3: 229; Chislett, 1952; Mather, 1986).
History Ernest Kempsey (1909) in British Birds, Vol. III. p. 229, says: 'At Hornsea Mere, on the east coast of Yorkshire, I noticed a Glossy Ibis (Plegadis falcinellus) on October 15th, 1909, and again on the 16th, on which day I left the place, but my friend Mr. Holmes informs me that the bird disappeared a day or two after I left. I obtained a near view (about twenty-five yards distance) of the bird while it was wading in shallow water among the weeds along the shore of the mere. It appeared rather smaller than a Whimbrel, but much of the same shape, and its colour appeared black or nearly so, I saw a similar bird in the same place in 1902.' Accepted locally (Chislett 1952: 169; Mather 1986).
223). 1909 Yorkshire Hunmanby Gap, three, seen, one immature shot, 15th October, photo, immature male, shot, 10th November.
(E. Mitford, Field 6th Nov., 1909: 842; T. H. Nelson, Field 13th Nov., 1909: 882; T. H. Nelson, Field 27th Nov., 1909: 975; T. H. Nelson, British Birds 3: 229; E. W. Wade, Naturalist 36: 28; Eds., British Birds 3: 308; Chislett, 1952; Mather, 1986).
History Edward Mitford of Hunmanby Vicarage (1909) in The Field of 6th Nov., Vol. CXIV. p. 842, says: 'I send herewith a photograph of a Glossy Ibis which was shot near Hunmanby on Oct. 15. There were two others, one of which has since been seen again. Possibly the third was wounded. The plumage of the head and neck indicate an immature bird. The measurement between the tips of the outstretched wings is a little over 3 ft. We are about two miles from the sea, halfway between Scarborough and Bridlington.'
T. H. Nelson (1909) in The Field of 13th Nov., Vol. CXIV. p. 882, says: 'The occurrence of three Glossy Ibises near Hunmanby, as mentioned in your issue of the 6th inst. is extremely interesting, for according to the information in my possession there are, up to now, only five examples on record for this county. The companions of the specimen taken at Hunmanby are, probably, to be accounted for in the individuals reported from Whitby and Doncaster. The former, which has been purchased for the Whitby Museum, was shot on old Ruswarp Hall Farm, on Oct. 20, and is an adult in winter plumage; the other, an immature bird, was discovered, in quite fresh condition, by Dr. Corbett of Doncaster, hanging-up in a game shop, where it had been sent with other wildfowl, from the marshy land near Misson, [Notts.], on the borders of Yorkshire and Lincolnshire. All these three specimens may, therefore, be claimed as belonging to Yorkshire, thus bringing up the number of records to eight.'
T. H. Nelson (1909) in The Field of 27th Nov., Vol. CXIV. p. 975, under 'Glossy Ibis in Yorkshire', says: 'Under this heading in your issue of the 13th inst. there is an error as to locality. The Ibis which was purchased at Doncaster is stated to have been shot near Misson, on the borders of Yorkshire and Lincolnshire; and my information was to the effect that there was some uncertainty as to the exact spot where it was procured. I now learn that it was actually at Misson, which is in Nottinghamshire, though close to the borders of the two other counties named.'
T. H. Nelson (1909) in British Birds, Vol. III. pp. 229-230, says: 'Three examples of the Glossy Ibis are reported as having been seen near Hunmanby, between Scarborough and Bridlington, on October 15th, one being afterwards procured, an event which is extremely interesting in view of the fact that, hitherto, according to the information in my possession, there are only five instances of the occurrence of this species on record for the county. The companions of the specimen taken at Hunmanby are, probably, to be accounted for in the individuals shot near Whitby and Misson, as recorded below.'
E. W. Wade of Hull (1910) in the new series of The Naturalist, Vol. XXXVI. p. 28, says: 'In the shop of a birdstuffer at Hull are two Glossy Ibises, shot on the Lambwath in Holderness, one on the 19th October, unsexed, as the intestines were so much injured by shot as to make it impossible to distinguish the sex; and another on November 10th - a male. Both are in the immature plumage shown in Dresser's plate, and exactly alike so far as one can see in their present stuffed condition, but the bill of the first is half an inch longer than that of the second. Another was seen, but escaped by running into the reeds when its companion was shot, and may have been the one seen at Hornsea Mere and on the River Hull.'
In an Editorial (1910) in British Birds, Vol. III. p. 308, he says: 'Two Glossy Ibises were shot on the Lambwath in Holderness, Yorkshire, one (unsexed) on October 19th, and the other (male) on November 10th, 1909; both were immature. Another was seen but escaped. (E. W. Wade, Nat., 1910, p. 28.).'
Accepted locally (Chislett 1952: 169; Mather 1986).
Comment All individuals treated as separate.
226). 1909 Yorkshire Ulrome, killed, mid-October, now at Hull Museum.
(E. W. Wade, Naturalist 37: 116; Eds., British Birds 4: 343; G. Bolam, Naturalist 39: 59; Chislett, 1952; Mather, 1986).
History E. W. Wade of Hull (1911) in the new series of The Naturalist, Vol. XXXVII. p. 116, says: 'On December 26th last, I went to Ulrome with Mr. T. Audas, to investigate a reported occurrence of the Glossy Ibis there. Mr. G. Gibson, of Skipsea Brough, who had stuffed the bird, told us that he had two specimens sent in within week of each other, one from Atwick (reported in The Naturalist for January), and another from Ulrome, in the autumn of 1909, but was unable to give either the date or sex of either. At Ulrome we found the bird in the possession of Mr. G. Smith, of Eastgate Farm.
It was a fine specimen, taller and larger, and more brilliantly coloured than either of the birds shot on the Lambwath during October and November 1909. It shows a considerable amount of chestnut-brown colouring on the breast, but has the grey streaks on head and neck, characteristic of the winter plumage. Mr. Smith fixed the date of its occurrence as the second week in October, because thatching had begun.
Fortunately, the bird has been acquired by the Hull Museums Committee, who now possess a local specimen of their own, and to whose order the accompanying photograph was taken. The bird is familiar to Mr. J. Taylor, the Hornsea keeper, who has seen it more than once, and who reported that a solitary specimen haunted the Mere during the winter 1902-1903.'
In an Editorial (1911) in British Birds, Vol. IV. p. 343, they say: 'Mr. E. W. Wade records (Nat., 1911, p. 116) that a specimen of Plegadis falcinellus was obtained about the second week of October, 1909, at Ulrome. This is additional to the examples already recorded as having occurred in various parts of Yorkshire about the same time (vide Vol. III. pp. 229, 230 and 308).'
George Bolam (1913) in the new series of The Naturalist, Vol. XXXIX. p. 59, says: 'One of Captain Constable's tenants shot one near Hornsea about the same time [1909], and had it stuffed: it is now in the Hull Museum.'
Accepted locally (Chislett 1952: 169; Mather 1986).
Comment Presumably all notices refer to this record.
227). 1909 Cambridgeshire River Ouse, Holywell, near St Ives, Huntingdonshire, immature male, shot, about 20th October, now at Birmingham Museums and Art Gallery (Acc. No. 1924Z18.3992).
(W. Farren, British Birds 3: 308; Lack, 1934; Bircham, 1989; Watson, 2010).
History William Farren (1910) in British Birds, Vol. III. p. 308, says: 'On October 21st, 1909, I received a Glossy Ibis (Plegadis falcinellus) in the flesh from Holywell, on the Ouse, near St. Ives, where it was shot while flying very high a day or two before. It was a male, in good condition, and as there were a few dirty white feathers in the head and neck I presume it was immature, although it had distinctly glossy plumage, which Howard Saunders says: immature birds have not. Possibly this bird with glossy-plumage, and light feathers in head and neck, is an adult in winter-plumage.'
Accepted locally (Lack 1934: 79; Bircham 1989).
Watson (2010) in detailing the R. W. Chase collection in the Birmingham Museum lists this immature male specimen and quoting from his Notebooks adds that it was shot by Fred Metcalf.
228). 1909 Yorkshire Old Hall Farm, Ruswarp, adult, shot, 20th October, now at Whitby Museum.
(E. Hall, British Birds 3: 230; T. Stephenson, Naturalist 35: 441-442; Chislett, 1952; Mather, 1986).
History E. Hall (1909) in British Birds, Vol. III. p. 230, says: 'A remarkably fine specimen of the Glossy Ibis (Plegadis falcinellus) was shot on the Old Hall Farm, Ruswarp, near Whitby, in the North Riding of Yorkshire, on October 20th. The place where it was obtained was a quiet sheltered marshy spot, about a mile from the sea, which it had frequented for some days. It was an adult bird in winter plumage, the sex unfortunately not being ascertained. The specimen was secured by the Whitby Literary and Philosophical Society, and the skin has been preserved and mounted for the Whitby Museum.'
Thomas Stephenson of Whitby (1909) in the new series of The Naturalist, Vol. XXXV. pp. 441-442, says: 'A remarkably fine specimen of the Glossy Ibis was shot on the Old Hall Farm, Ruswarp, near Whitby, on October 20th. The place where it was shot is a quiet sheltered marshy spot (about a mile from the sea), where it had frequented for some days. It was an adult bird in winter plumage, the sex, unfortunately, not being ascertained. The specimen was secured by the Whitby Literary and Philosophical Society, and the skin has been preserved and mounted for the Whitby Museum.'
Accepted locally (Chislett 1952: 169; Mather 1986).
229). 1909 Cornwall Paul, shot, 25th October.
(Harvey, 1915; Penhallurick, 1969).
History Penhallurick (1969: 67) says: '1909, one shot at Paul on 25th October (Harvey, 1915).'
230). 1909 Devon River Taw and Torridge, shot, late October.
(Ed., Field 6th Nov., 1909: 842; Eds., British Birds 3: 230; Moore, 1969; Tyler, 2010).
History In an Editorial (1909) in The Field of 6th Nov., Vol. CXIV. p. 842, he says: 'From two different correspondents at Instow we learn that a Spoonbill and Glossy Ibis were shot last week, after an easterly gale, near the estuary of the rivers Taw and Torridge, and were obtained by different shooters within two days of each other. Naturally from their rarity they attracted admiration, and both have been sent to the birdstuffer, the fate of most rare birds.'
In an Editorial (1909) in British Birds, Vol. III. p. 230, he says: 'A Glossy Ibis is reported from near the estuary of the rivers Taw and Torridge in North Devon in the last week of October (Field, Nov. 6th, 1909, p. 842.).'
Accepted locally (Moore 1969; Tyler 2010).
231). 1909 Yorkshire Beverley, seen, 13th November.
(F. Boyes, Field 13th Nov., 1909: 882; Chislett, 1952; Mather, 1986).
History F. Boyes of Beverley (1909) in The Field of 13th Nov., Vol. CXIV. p. 882, says: 'I have reason to believe that a Glossy Ibis frequented for a few days a wet pasture field near our river. I have no doubt in my own kind that this was so from the description of a bird with a long beak, dark plumage, which when in flight carried its legs like a heron, but was smaller and dark coloured. My informant is a shooter, and knows most birds which frequent the riverside, but he had never seen a bird like this before. He is quite a reliable person.' Accepted locally (Chislett 1952: 169; Mather 1986).
232). 1909 Sussex Fishbourne, two, obtained, autumn.
(Walpole-Bond, 1938).
History Walpole-Bond (1938 (2): 324) says: 'During the autumn of 1909 - my informant, Mr. T. H. A. Denman, could never get at an exact date - the south-west corner of the county was yet again fruitful of this species, specimens being secured at...Fishbourne (two).'
234). 1909 Sussex Old Park, obtained, autumn.
(Walpole-Bond, 1938).
History Walpole-Bond (1938 (2): 324) says: 'During the autumn of 1909 - my informant, Mr. T. H. A. Denman, could never get at an exact date - the south-west corner of the county was yet again fruitful of this species, specimens being secured at...Old Park (one).'
235). 1909 Sussex Sidlesham, two, obtained, autumn.
(Walpole-Bond, 1938).
History Walpole-Bond (1938 (2): 324) says: 'During the autumn of 1909 - my informant, Mr. T. H. A. Denman, could never get at an exact date - the south-west corner of the county was yet again fruitful of this species, specimens being secured at...Sidlesham (two, if not three).'
237). 1909 Norfolk River Bure/Breydon Water area, shot, 2nd December.
(B. Dye, Zoologist 1910: 74-75; J. H. Gurney, jun., Zoologist 1910: 135; J. H. Gurney, jun., British Birds 3: 338; B. Dye, Zoologist 1914: 37; Riviere, 1930; Allard,1990).
History B. Dye (1910) in The Zoologist, 4th series Vol. XIV. pp. 74-75, says: 'On December 2nd , 1909, near the River Bure, about two miles north-west of Great Yarmouth, a strange bird was seen by a waterman. On reaching home he informed a "gunner" friend, who proceeded to the spot immediately. Meanwhile the bird had retired to the marshes, where it was found standing in a pool of water, where the gunner shot it. He showed it to the waterman, who identified it as an Ibis, or "Black Curlew". It is now in my possession. "Black Curlew" is the name given to the bird by the Breydon gunners, owing to the resemblance of the bills of these birds.'
J. H. Gurney, jun., of Keswick Hall, Norwich (1910) in The Zoologist, 4th series, Vol. XIV. p. 135, says: 'December 2nd. W.N.W., 3. A Glossy Ibis - probably the last survivor of a flock whose deaths were recorded in Yorkshire, Ireland, and elsewhere - shot between the River Bure and Breydon by a cow-keeper (B. Dye).'
J. H. Gurney, jun. (1910) in British Birds, Vol. III. p. 338, says: 'On December 2nd, 1909, wind W.N.W., force 3, a Glossy Ibis (Plegadis falcinellus) was shot between the River Bure and Breydon Broad, and has been added to the collection of Mr. Benjamin Dye, of Yarmouth.'
B. Dye of Great Yarmouth (1914) in The Zoologist, 4th series, Vol. XVIII. p. 37, says: 'The following notes relating to the past eleven years may be of interest: - Dec. 2nd, 1909, one shot on the marshes between the River Bure and Breydon.'
Comment A Norfolk record and not Suffolk.
238). 1909 Yorkshire Burton Constable, two, shot, undated.
(G. Bolam, Naturalist 39: 59; Chislett, 1952; Mather, 1986).
History George Bolam (1913) in the new series of The Naturalist, Vol. XXXIII. p. 59, says: 'In 1909 two were shot at Burton Constable.' Accepted locally (Chislett 1952: 169; Mather 1986).
240). 1910 Carmarthenshire Coed Marsh, River Towy, Ferryside, shot, 1st November, now at National Museum of Wales (Z.1912.156.001).
(Ingram & Salmon, 1954; Lovegrove, Williams & Williams, 1994).
History Ingram & Morrey Salmon (1954) say: 'One in the National Museum of Wales, Cardiff, was shot on Coed Marsh on the Towy above Ferryside on 1st November 1910.' Accepted nationally for Wales (Lovegrove, Williams & Williams 1994).
241). 1910 Outer Hebrides South Uist, shot, November.
(H. Newton, Field 10th Dec., 1910: 1094; Eds., British Birds 4: 293; L. J. Rintoul & E. V. Baxter, Annals of Scottish Natural History 1911: 140; W. R. Ogilvie-Grant, Bulletin of the British Ornithologists' Club 30: 270; Baxter & Rintoul, 1953; Cunningham, 1983).
History H. Newton of London (1910) in The Field of 10th Dec., Vol. CXVI. p. 1094, says: 'A Glossy Ibis was unfortunately shot in South Uist last month by a keeper, who thought it was a black Curlew. Saunders in his Manual states that there seem to be only six instances of its occurrence in Scotland. The bird was identified by Mr. Bishop, of Oban.' [Our correspondent is perhaps not aware that "Black Curlew" was a recognised name for the Glossy Ibis among the Norfolk gunners and fishermen till the early part of the nineteenth century. - Ed.]
In an Editorial (1911) in British Birds, Vol. IV. p. 293, they say: 'A Glossy Ibis (Plegadis falcinellus) is recorded by Mr. H. Newton (Field, 10.xii.1910, p. 1094) as having been shot in South Uist "last month" (i.e., November, 1910).'
Admitted by L. J. Rintoul & E. V. Baxter (1911) in the Annals of Scottish Natural History, Vol. XX. p. 140', under the 'Report on Scottish Ornithology in 1910.'
W. R. Ogilvie-Grant, Editor (1912) in the Bulletin of the British Ornithologists' Club, Vol. XXX. p. 270, on the unexpected occurrences for 1910, says: 'One shot in S. Uist (Outer Hebrides) in November.' Accepted locally (Cunningham 1983).
242). 1911 Dumfries & Galloway Crurie, Eskdalemuir, Dumfriesshire, four, 26th July.
(H. F. Witherby, British Birds 5: 256-257; W. R. Ogilvie-Grant, Bulletin of the British Ornithologists' Club 32: 282; H. Gladstone, Transactions of the Dumfries & Galloway Natural History & Antiquarian Society 24: 28; Baxter & Rintoul, 1953; Forrester & Andrews et al., 2007).
History H. F. Witherby (1912) in British Birds, Vol. V. pp. 256-257, in a review of 'Addenda and Corrigenda to the Birds of Dumfriesshire.' By Hugh S. Gladstone (Dumfriesshire and Galloway Nat. Hist. Soc.), says: 'A Glossy Ibis was shot from a party of four on July 26th, 1911, at Crurie.'
W. R. Ogilvie-Grant, Editor (1913) in the Bulletin of the British Ornithologists' Club, Vol. XXXII. p. 282, on the unexpected occurrences for 1911, says: 'Flock of four (one shot), Crurie, Eskdalemuir, July 26th.'
H. Gladstone (1945-46) in the Transactions of the Dumfries and Galloway Natural History & Antiquarian Society, 3rd series, Vol. XXIV. p. 28, says: 'On July 26th, 1911, a man employed to scare Rooks at Crurie (Eskdalemuir) shot an Ibis from a flock of four. It was seen in the flesh by Mr. A. Hay Borthwick, who had often seen the species in Egypt, and who at once informed me of the occurrence. The Ibis is but an irregular visitor north of the Alpine range of Central Europe, and only some sixteen records of its visiting Scotland have hitherto been recorded.'
Accepted nationally for Scotland (Forrester & Andrews et al. 2007).
246). 1911 Highland Glen Drynoch, Skye, Skye & Lochalsh, 1st November.
(J. A. Harvie-Brown, Scottish Naturalist 33: 68; Eds., British Birds 7: 27; Baxter & Rintoul, 1953).
History J. A. Harvie-Brown of Dunipace, Larbert (1913) in the Scottish Naturalist, Vol. XXXIII. p. 68, says: 'Mr. McLeay informs me that a Glossy Ibis occurred at Glendrynoch, Skye, on 1st November 1911.'
In an Editorial (1913) in British Birds, Vol. VII. p. 27, they say: 'Dr. J. A. Harvie-Brown reports (Scot. Nat., 1913, p. 68) that a specimen of Aegatheus f. falcinellus occurred at Glendrynoch, Skye, on November 1st, 1911.'
Accepted nationally for Scotland (Baxter & Rintoul 1953).
247). 1912 Cambridgeshire Balsham, shot, about 13th October.
("B" Country Life 26th Oct., 1912: 583; Eds., British Birds 6: 256; W. Farren, British Birds 6: 280; W. R. Ogilvie-Grant, Bulletin of the British Ornithologists' Club 34: 276; Lack, 1934; Bircham, 1989).
History "B" (1912) in Country Life, 26th Oct., Vol. XXXII. p. 583, says: 'While out partridge-driving last week in the neighbourhood of Balsham, Cambridgeshire, one of our party shot a bird which appeared on examination to be a perfect specimen of the Glossy Ibis. Can you tell me if these birds are frequent visitors to this country, and if there are many records of their having been shot. The bird in question was flushed close to a small pond.'
In an Editorial (1913) in British Birds, Vol. VI. p. 256, they say: 'A Glossy Ibis was recorded by "B" in Country Life of October 26th as having been shot "last week in the neighbourhood of Balsham, Cambridgeshire". Although no exact particulars are forthcoming and anonymous records are of little value, this may be mentioned for what it may be worth. Mr. Miller Christy has kindly pointed out this record, and informs us that Balsham is on the northern border of Essex and only some forty miles west-north-west from Walton where the other Glossy Ibises were shot.' - Eds.]
W. Farren (1913) in British Birds, Vol. VI. p. 280, says: 'Referring to the Glossy Ibis recorded in Country Life (Oct. 26th) as having been killed at Balsham, reference to which is made in the last number of British Birds (supra, p. 256), this bird came into my hands for preservation on October 15th, 1912. It was, I believe, shot in the village of Balsham. One version given me was to the effect that the man who shot it saw it coming, fetched his gun out of the house, or called to his wife to bring it, and fired at the bird as it was flying over the house. Another version was that it was shot whilst feeding with some fowls. I am inclined to place more credit on the former version, as I had it - if not first hand - at least second hand.'
W. R. Ogilvie-Grant, Editor (1914) in the Bulletin of the British Ornithologists' Club, Vol. XXXIV. p. 276, on the unexpected occurrences for 1912, says: 'One shot, Balsham (Cambridge), about 13th [October].'
Accepted locally (Lack 1934: 79; Bircham 1989).
248). 1912 Essex Walton-on-the-Naze, six, five shot, (two adults, three immatures), 14th October.
(W. B. Nichols, British Birds 6: 223; W. B. Nichols, Essex Naturalist 17: 140-141; W. R. Ogilvie-Grant, Bulletin of the British Ornithologists' Club 34: 276; Hudson & Pyman, 1968; Cox, 1984; Wood, 2007).
History Walter B. Nichols (1912) in British Birds, Vol. VI. p. 223, says: 'Five Glossy Ibises (Egatheus f. falcinellus) were shot on October 14th, 1912, at Walton-on-the-Naze, Essex, out of a party of six, by Mr. Woodruffe Eagle and his brother. The sixth was, I understand, afterwards picked up dead by somebody else. The five obtained by Mr. Eagle were two adults and three birds of the year.'
W. R. Ogilvie-Grant, Editor (1914) in the Bulletin of the British Ornithologists' Club, Vol. XXXIV. p. 276, on the unexpected occurrences for 1912, says: 'Six seen and shot, Walton-on-the-Naze (Essex), October 14th.'
Accepted locally (Cox 1984; Wood 2007).
254). 1912 Yorkshire Carlton Marsh, near Aldbrough, two, one immature female shot, 18th October.
(E. W. Wade, Naturalist 39: 115; Eds., British Birds 6: 317; W. R. Ogilvie-Grant, Bulletin of the British Ornithologists' Club 34: 276; F. Boyes, Field 18th Jan., 1913: 140; Chislett, 1952; Mather, 1986).
History E. W. Wade of Hull (1913) in the new series of The Naturalist, Vol. XXXIX. p. 115, says: 'On October 18th, 1912, a Glossy Ibis female, was shot at Carlton, near Aldborough [sic], in Holderness, by Mr. Wood, of Humbleton, who reported that he saw another bird, which he did not secure. Apparently it is a bird of the year, showing flecks of grey on the crown of the head and throat, with very little of the metallic gloss observable in adult birds.'
In an Editorial (1913) in British Birds, Vol. VI. p. 317, they say: 'Mr. E. W. Wade records (Naturalist, 1913, p. 115) that two Egatheus f. falcinellus were seen (one, a female, being shot) near Aldborough in Holderness, Yorkshire, on October 18th, 1912. This is very near the date of the Essex examples (supra, pp. 223 and 280).'
W. R. Ogilvie-Grant, Editor (1914) in the Bulletin of the British Ornithologists' Club, Vol. XXXIV. p. 276, on the unexpected occurrences for 1912, says: 'Two seen (one shot), Aldborough in Holderness (Yorkshire), [October] 18th.'
F. Boyes (1913) in The Field of 18th Jan., Vol. CXXI. p. 140, says: 'A friend informs me that on Jan. 1 a Glossy Ibis was shot in Holderness, and in the same neighbourhood where one was shot last year. My informant adds: that there were two, the other one escaping. I have no further details.'
Accepted locally (Chislett 1952: 169; Mather 1986).
Comment All notices presumed to refer to this record of two individuals.
256). 1912 Norfolk Filby Broad, seen, 1st November; same, Fleggburgh, shot, 1st November.
(J. H. Gurney, jun., British Birds 6: 256; J. H. Gurney, jun., Zoologist 1913: 177; B. Dye, Zoologist 1914, 37; W. R. Ogilvie-Grant, Bulletin of the British Ornithologists' Club 34: 276; S. H. Long & B. B. Riviere, Transactions of the Norfolk & Norwich Naturalists' Society 9: 796; Riviere, 1930; Allard, 1990).
History J. H. Gurney, jun. (1913) in British Birds, Vol. VI. p. 256, says: 'The unfortunate Glossy Ibises seem to have had a bad time of it in Essex (cf. supra, p. 223), and I am sorry to say: they fared no better in Norfolk, two having been shot, one at Fleggburgh on November 1st, and one at Burgh Castle on December 2nd, 1912. They were forwarded for preservation to Mr. E. C. Saunders, from whom I learn that one of them, a male, is a very large bird. There seems to be a great difference in size, which I noticed in the sexes of those collected by Mr. Gerard Gurney in East Africa.'
J. H. Gurney, jun., of Keswick Hall, Norwich (1913) in The Zoologist, 4th series, Vol. XVII. p. 177, says: 'November 1st. A Glossy Ibis on Filby Broad, and another, on Dec. 2nd, near Burgh Castle (E. C. Saunders). The wind on Oct. 31st was N.W., 4, but I believe one, if not both, of the Ibises had been seen before that day.'
B. Dye of Great Yarmouth (1914) in The Zoologist, 4th series, Vol. XVIII. p. 37, says: 'The following notes relating to the past eleven years may be of interest: - Nov. 2nd, 1912, one shot at Fleggburgh.'
W. R. Ogilvie-Grant, Editor (1914) in the Bulletin of the British Ornithologists' Club, Vol. XXXIV. p. 276, on the unexpected occurrences for 1912, says: 'One seen, Filby Broad, and one shot, Fleggburgh (Norfolk), possibly the same bird, November 1st.'
Admitted by S. H. Long & B. B. Riviere (1914) in the Transactions of the Norfolk & Norwich Naturalists' Society, Vol. IX. p. 796, under 'Additions to Part XI (Sixth List) 1909-13'.
257). 1912 Norfolk/Suffolk Burgh Castle Marshes, Suffolk, shot, 2nd December.
(J. H. Gurney, jun., British Birds 6: 256; J. H. Gurney, jun., Zoologist 1913: 177; B. Dye, Zoologist 1914: 37; W. R. Ogilvie-Grant, Bulletin of the British Ornithologists' Club 34: 276; Riviere, 1930; Allard, 1990).
History J. H. Gurney, jun. (1913) in British Birds, Vol. VI. p. 256, says: 'The unfortunate Glossy Ibises seem to have had a bad time of it in Essex (cf. supra, p. 223), and I am sorry to say: they fared no better in Norfolk, two having been shot, one at Fleggburgh on November 1st, and one at Burgh Castle on December 2nd, 1912. They were forwarded for preservation to Mr. E. C. Saunders, from whom I learn that one of them, a male, is a very large bird. There seems to be a great difference in size, which I noticed in the sexes of those collected by Mr. Gerard Gurney in East Africa.'
J. H. Gurney, jun., of Keswick Hall, Norwich (1913) in The Zoologist, 4th series, Vol. XVII. p. 177, says: 'November 1st....another, on Dec. 2nd, near Burgh Castle (E. C. Saunders).'
B. Dye of Great Yarmouth (1914) in The Zoologist, 4th series, Vol. XVIII. p. 37, says: 'The following notes relating to the past eleven years may be of interest: - another shot on the Burgh Marshes on Dec. 2nd in the same year [1912].'
W. R. Ogilvie-Grant, Editor (1914) in the Bulletin of the British Ornithologists' Club, Vol. XXXIV. p. 276, on the unexpected occurrences for 1912, says: 'One shot, Burgh Castle (Suffolk), December 2nd.'
Accepted locally for Norfolk (Riviere 1930) and for Suffolk (Ticehurst 1932: 320).
258). Pre 1913 Moray & Nairn Near Nairn, Nairn, obtained, undated.
(Baxter & Rintoul, 1953; Cook, 1992).
History Baxter & Rintoul (1953 (1): 335) say: 'Some years prior to 1913 one was obtained near Nairn.'
Accepted locally (Cook 1992).
259). 1913 Argyll Lismore, immature, obtained, 13th October.
(C. Kerr Harris, Scottish Naturalist 33: 284; Eds., British Birds 7: 271; Baxter & Rintoul, 1953).
History Charles Kerr Harris of Portobello (1913) in the Scottish Naturalist, Vol. XXXIII. p. 284, says: 'When spending a holiday on the island of Lismore, a boy killed a bird of this species with a stone in a ditch on some farm land on the 13th October 1913. The specimen was brought to me, and has been identified as an immature example of the Glossy Ibis. This uncommon visitor to Scotland has, I believe, occurred once before in Argyll, namely, at Islay in the autumn of 1902, a season when four of the rara aves were obtained in various parts of Scotland.'
In an Editorial (1914) in British Birds, Vol. VII. p. 271, they say: 'Mr. C. Kerr Harris records (Scot. Nat., 1913, p. 284) that a specimen of Aegatheus f. falcinellus was killed by a boy on the island of Lismore, on October 13th, 1913.'
Accepted nationally for Scotland (Baxter & Rintoul 1953).
260). 1913 Norfolk Acle Marshes, obtained, 28th October.
(B. Dye, Zoologist 1914: 37; Eds., British Birds 7: 271; S. H. Long & B. B. Riviere, Transactions of the Norfolk & Norwich Naturalists' Society 9: 796; Allard, 1990).
History B. Dye of Great Yarmouth (1914) in The Zoologist, 4th series, Vol. XVIII. p. 37, says: 'The Glossy Ibis (Plegadis falcinellus) has again been found in Norfolk, one having been shot on Oct. 28th, 1913, at Acle, nine miles west of Yarmouth. Mr. Lowne, our local taxidermist, on dissecting this bird, found it to be a male. The visits of this species to Norfolk generally occur during the autumn months.'
In an Editorial (1914) in British Birds, Vol. VII. p. 271, they say: 'Mr. B. Dye writes (Zool., 1914; p. 37) that a specimen was shot at Acle, near Yarmouth, on October 28th, 1913.'
Admitted by S. H. Long & B. B. Riviere (1914) in the Transactions of the Norfolk & Norwich Naturalists' Society, Vol. IX. p. 796, under 'Additions to Part XI (Sixth List) 1909-13'.
261). 1915 Wiltshire Burderop Park, near Swindon, two, seen, one shot, September.
(G. B. Hony, British Birds 9: 252; Buxton, 1981; Wiltshire Ornithological Society, 2007).
History G. Bathurst Hony (1916) in British Birds, Vol. IX. p. 252, says: 'A Glossy Ibis (Plegadis f. falcinellus) was shot by the keeper at Burderop (near Swindon) in September, 1915, and has been set up by Paisey of Swindon. General Calley has kindly given me the following particulars: "My keeper saw it one morning, at the beginning of September last, in a grass field near a brook, within 100 yards of his house, and promptly shot it. I severely rated him for having done so. There was another seen, about the same time, at Draycott, near the camp, but I hope and believe that that escaped the usual fate of rare birds in this country". Draycott is quite close to Burderop.'
Accepted locally by Wiltshire Ornithological Society (2007) who state that what might have been the same bird was seen at Draycot Foliat in September.
263). 1916 Kent Near Sturry, obtained, January, now at Maidstone Museum.
(Harrison, 1953; Borrer, 1960; http://www.kentos.org.uk/Records/GlossyIbis.htm).
History Harrison (1953 (1): 118) says: 'A specimen obtained in the marshes near Sturry in January 1916 is owned by Guy Mannering.' Borrer (1960) says: 'One male, Sturry, Kent, 2nd November 1920. Preserved by Mannering.'
Still acceptable (Kent Ornithological Society).
264). 1916 Oxfordshire River Thames, Sonning Eye, near Reading, immature female, shot, 11th May, now at Reading Museum.
(W. N. May, British Birds 10: 44; Radford, 1966; Brucker, Gosler & Heryet, 1992).
History W. Norman May (1916) in British Birds, Vol. X. p. 44, says: 'A female Glossy Ibis (Plegadis f. falcinellus) was obtained on May 11th, 1916, on the Oxfordshire side of the Thames and within two miles of Reading. It had been observed in the locality for about a fortnight previous to the date of its capture. Examination of the bird gives no suggestion of its being an escape from captivity, and the light feathers of the neck make it appear probable that it is in its first year plumage. The specimen is being set up and will be given to the Reading Museum.'
Accepted locally (Radford 1966; Brucker, Gosler & Heryet 1992).
265). 1917 Lancashire & North Merseyside Garstang, shot, September, now at Kendal Museum.
(H. W. Robinson, British Birds 11: 282-283; Oakes, 1953; White, McCarthy & Jones, 2008).
History H. W. Robinson (1918) in British Birds, Vol. XI. pp. 282-283, says: 'A Glossy Ibis (Plegadis falcinellus) was shot at Garstang, North Lancashire, in September 1917, and is now in the collection of Mr. F. Sessions. Mitchell in his Birds of Lancashire only mentions four records, the last being as long ago as 1859.' Oakes (1953) p. 198, says: 'After being shot at Garstang in September, 1917, it was preserved and went into the collection of F. Sessions, later passing to the Kendal Museum.' Accepted locally (White, McCarthy & Jones 2008).
266). 1917 Pembrokeshire Tenby, picked up dying, 23rd October.
(W. H. Montagu Leeds, Field 3rd Nov., 1917: 650; Eds., British Birds 11: 167; Lockley, 1949; Lovegrove, Williams & Williams, 1994).
History W. H. Montagu Leeds of Tenby (1917) in The Field of 3rd Nov., Vol. CXXX. p. 650, says: 'Whilst out shooting on Oct. 23 about four miles from Tenby, and walking a low-lying moor, I picked up a Glossy Ibis in good plumage, but in a very poor and exhausted condition. It could only flap along the ground and was easily captured. It died about half an hour afterwards. As I cannot hear of anyone ever having seen a similar bird in this neighbourhood or in the county, I shall be obliged if you can tell me whether the species is often found in the British Isles, and from whence it is likely to have migrated. Possibly the heavy storms we have experienced lately may have blown it to this country.' [...As regards Pembrokeshire, one was shot many years ago in autumn at Slebech, and another in April, 1858, at Langhorne [sic] Marsh, just over the borders of the county in Carmarthenshire. - Ed.]
In an Editorial (1917) in British Birds, Vol. XI. p. 167, they say: 'In The Field (Nov. 3 1917), Mr. W. H. Montagu Leeds, states that he picked up a Glossy Ibis, Plegadis f. falcinellus, in a dying condition, about four miles from Tenby, on October 23, 1917. This species has only once been recorded previously from Pembrokeshire, as far back as 1834.'
Accepted locally (Lockley 1949: 52) and nationally for Wales (Lovegrove, Williams & Williams 1994).
267). 1920 Herefordshire Castle-End, Lea, near Ross-on-Wye, immature, shot, 2nd September.
(H. E. Forrest, British Birds 14: 139; Gilbert & Walker, 1954; Walker & Smith, 1975).
History H. E. Forrest (1920) in British Birds, Vol. XIV. p. 139, says: 'I have seen at a Shrewsbury taxidermist's an immature Glossy Ibis which was shot on the morning of September 2nd, 1920, by Mr. Bernard Carrodus at Castle-End, Lea, near Ross-on-Wye. The species is new to the Herefordshire avifauna.' [Mr. E. Cambridge Phillips (Vict. Hist. of Hereford, I, p. 140) records one shot about the third week of December 1902, at Winforton, and a second bird is said to have been seen, in the neighbourhood. The above record is therefore the second definite occurrence. - F.C.R.J.]
Accepted locally (Walker & Smith 1975).
268). 1920 Argyll Gruinart Flats, Islay, two, seen, 6th September, three 13th September.
(W. H. Erskine, Field 25th Sep., 1920: 459; Eds., Scottish Naturalist 40: 201; E. V. Baxter & L. J. Rintoul, Scottish Naturalist 41: 108; Eds., British Birds 14: 162; Baxter & Rintoul, 1953; Elliott, 1989; Forrester & Andrews et al., 2007).
History W. H. Erskine of Islay House, Islay (1920) in The Field of 25th Sep., Vol. CXXXVI. p. 459, says: 'It will interest naturalists to know that two examples of the Glossy Ibis (Plegadis falcinellus) were seen on Sept. 6 on Gruinart Flats, Island of Islay, Argyllshire. The strange flight of these birds first attracted attention when we were shooting snipe in an old river bed on the flats. One of the birds eventually alighted on the ground, and without showing any signs of fear, permitted Mr. Hugh Morrison, M.P., and myself to approach within about fifteen yards from which distance we were able to observe it for several minutes before it flew away to join its companion. On returning home we consulted Saunders' Manual of British Birds, and there can be no doubt as to the identity of these rare visitors to our shores.'
In an Editorial (1920) in the Scottish Naturalist, Vol. XL. p. 201, under 'Current Literature', they say: 'Two Glossy Ibises were seen on the Gruinart Flats on 6th September. One of these allowed Mr. W. H. Erskine and Mr. Hugh Morrison, M.P., to approach within fifteen yards. We are glad to hear that the birds were not molested (The Field, 15th September, 1920).'
In an Editorial (1920) in British Birds, Vol. XIV. p. 162, they say: 'Mr. W. H. Erskine records two in Islay (Argyllshire) on September 6th (Field, September 25th, 1920, p. 459).'
Admitted by E. V. Baxter & L. J. Rintoul (1921) in the Scottish Naturalist, Vol. XLI. p. 108, in the annual report.
Accepted nationally for Scotland (Forrester & Andrews et al. 2007).
271). 1920 Cumbria Moorhouse, Carlisle, adult, shot, 23rd September, now at Tullie House Museum, Carlisle.
(L. E. Hope, British Birds 15: 158; L. E. Hope, Transactions of the Carlisle Natural History Society 3: 35; H. F. Witherby, British Birds 18: 175; E. Blezard, Transactions of the Carlisle Natural History Society 6: 79; Hutcheson, 1986).
History L. E. Hope (1921) in British Birds, Vol. XV. p. 158, says: 'On October 19th, 1920, a Glossy Ibis (Plegadis f. falcinellus) was shot at Moor House, near Carlisle. It is the first and only record for Cumberland.'
L. E. Hope (1923) in the Transactions of the Carlisle Natural History Society, Vol. III. p. 35, in the Appendix to 'Lakeland Ornithology' read on 1st February 1923, says: 'Mr. T. Lightfoot, of Carlisle, partridge shooting in the early morning of September 16th, 1921, flushed a strange bird from a roadside duck-pond, at Moorhouse, Carlisle. The temptation to shoot was too great and the first recorded Glossy Ibis for Cumberland was secured. It was an adult in winter dress, and eventually was presented by Mr. T. F. Marriner to the Carlisle Museum.'
H. F. Witherby (1924) in British Birds, Vol. XVIII. 176, in a Review of 'Lakeland Ornithology', 1892-1913, by Eric B. Dunlop. Appendix by L. E. Hope. Transactions of the Carlisle Natural History Society, Vol. III. 1923, pp. 1-39, says: 'The date of a Glossy Ibis shot at Moorhouse was given in British Birds (XV. p. 158) as October 19th, 1920, but Mr. L. E. Hope informs us (in litt.) that he has ascertained that the correct date is September 23rd, 1920 (not September 16th, 1921, as here printed).'
Ernest Blezard (1943) in the Transactions of the Carlisle Natural History Society, Vol. VI. p. 79, says: '...shot 25th September 1921.' Stokoe (1962: 57) is still quoting 'September 1921.'
Accepted locally (Hutcheson 1986).
Comment Finally the correct date!
272). 1920 Norfolk Barton Broad, immature, shot, about 18th September.
(J. H. Gurney, jun., British Birds 14: 162, 249; S. H. Long & B. B. Riviere, Transactions of the Norfolk & Norwich Naturalists' Society 11: 590; Riviere, 1930; Allard, 1990).
History J. H. Gurney, jun., of Norwich (1920) in British Birds, Vol. XIV. p. 162, says: 'I am sorry to say: that two Glossy Ibises were killed in Norfolk, one on September 18th 1920, and the other about the same time, I believe, but the exact date is not forthcoming.'
J. H. Gurney, jun., of Norwich (1921) in British Birds, Vol. XIV. p. 249, says: 'On September 18th Mr. Gunn received an immature Ibis from the neighbourhood of Barton (antea, p. 162).'
Admitted by S. H. Long & B. B. Riviere (1924) in the Transactions of the Norfolk & Norwich Naturalists' Society, Vol. XI. p. 590, under 'Additions to Part XI (Eighth List) 1919-23'.
273). 1920 Cornwall Marazion Marsh, ten, 19th September, two, 1st October; presumed two of same, Land's End, 30th September.
(A. W. Boyd, British Birds 14: 137-138; H. J. Welch, Field 23rd Oct., 1920: 608; Eds., British Birds 14: 162; Penhallurick, 1969).
History A. W. Boyd (1920) in British Birds, Vol. XIV. pp. 137-138, says: 'A little after midday on September 19th, 1920, while sitting on St. Michael's Mount, I saw a line of ten black long-necked birds fly from the east over Marazion (about half a mile away) and drop down to the Marazion Marsh, which forms a triangle between the high road and the railway; on reaching this marsh, I saw at once that the flock consisted of ten Glossy Ibises (Plegadis f. falcinellus), a bird I had previously seen in Egypt only. On this and the following day I had excellent opportunities of watching them. The marsh has running across it several large banks and ditches, and it was possible to crawl under cover of these to within a few yards of the birds and to watch them at close quarters.
Their tameness was remarkable for birds of their size, and there were numbers of occasions when they could be observed at distances of from eight to thirty yards, long after other birds - Curlews, Herons, Ducks, etc. - had flown away.
They fed almost incessantly, usually in some wet part of the marsh in a few inches of water; on the first day they kept in a close flock, but on the second were rather more scattered. Sometimes one alone would rise and fly for a few yards in a peculiarly buoyant manner, but before all flew, one bird stood quite upright and gave a harsh grating call - "gra-a-k" - and then the flock would rise and fly off to another part of the marsh (never more than 150 to 200 yards away) giving the same call several times in succession. On one occasion I was close to a bird which gave this call quite gently; it opened its bill and called "ra-a-k", with the "r" as an aspirate, as if drawing in its breath.
They were most diligent feeders, but only once, when something white was pulled out of the water, did I see anything large eaten; the bird that pulled it out hopped clumsily out of reach of the others to the grass before eating it. In size they differed noticeably: four or five of them were distinctly larger than the rest, and the largest seemed to be the one that usually gave the alarm. In plumage they did not differ greatly, having the head and neck of ruddy brown and back and wings of iridescent green with a purplish-red tinge in places ; but the heads of two (one in particular) were much lighter than those of the others, being yellowish-mottled and quite noticeable as they all fed together. Their long decurved bills usually had a pale glistening appearance, particularly when seen from a distance. Their remarkable appearance, especially in flight, and their tameness will probably prove fatal to most of them if they stay long; but on October 1st, as I passed the marsh in a train, I saw that there were still at least two feeding there.'
Harry J. Welch of Sennen (1920) in The Field of 23rd Oct., Vol. CXXXVI. p. 608, says: 'On a moor near Land's End on Sept. 30 was seen a Glossy Ibis being mobbed by small birds. About eight years ago I notified you that one had been shot here.'
[The previous report referred to was published in The Field of Oct. 24, 1908. Several other instances of the occurrence of this bird in Cornwall and the Scilly Isles as an irregular autumn visitor are noted in Rodd's Birds of Cornwall. - Ed.]
In an Editorial (1920) in British Birds, Vol. XIV. p. 162, they say: 'Mr. H. J. Welch records two Glossy Ibises seen near Land's End (Cornwall) on Sept. 30th (Field, October 23rd, 1920, p. 608).' It was accepted locally (Penhallurick 1969).
283). 1920 Devon River Exe, seen, 23rd to 24th September; same, Topsham, shot, 27th September, now at Royal Albert Memorial Museum, Exeter.
(W. Walmesley White, British Birds 14: 138; T. P. Backhouse, British Birds 14: 138-139; Moore, 1969; Tyler, 2010).
History W. Walmesley White (1920) in British Birds, Vol. XIV. p. 138, says: 'On September 24th, 1920, I had a fine view of a Glossy Ibis (Plegadis f. falcinellus) in immature plumage on the Exe estuary near Dawlish Warren. It was first seen in the distance as a large black bird, somewhat resembling a Cormorant in flight, but on passing overhead its identity was obvious. As it approached the mud-flats the rapid wing beats stopped, and the bird planed gently down, settling, near some Black-headed Gulls (L. r. ridibundus), and starting to feed. In a moment or two the Gulls began to mob the Ibis, which at once rose, and flew to a distant mud-bank, too far away for a clear view even through binoculars. There appear to be about a dozen previous records of this bird for Devon.'
T. P. Backhouse (1920) in British Birds, Vol. XIV. pp. 138-139, says: 'On September 23rd, 1920, I had a good view of a Glossy Ibis feeding along the Exe Estuary between Topsham and Turf. On the 27th it was unfortunately shot at the former place, and has been given to the Albert Memorial Museum, Exeter.'
Accepted locally (Moore 1969; Tyler 2010).
284). 1920 Norfolk/Suffolk Breydon Marshes, late September to 3rd October when killed.
(J. H. Gurney, jun., British Birds 14: 162, 249; S. H. Long & B. B. Riviere, Transactions of the Norfolk & Norwich Naturalists' Society 11: 590; Riviere, 1930; Ticehurst, 1932; Allard, 1990).
History J. H. Gurney, jun., of Norwich (1920) in British Birds, Vol. XIV. p. 162, says: 'I am sorry to say: that two Glossy Ibises were killed in Norfolk, one on September 18th 1920, and the other about the same time, I believe, but the exact date is not forthcoming.'
J. H. Gurney, jun., of Norwich (1921) in British Birds, Vol. XIV. p. 249, says: '...on October 3rd another was shot on the marshes adjoining Breydon. These visitors seem generally to come in a flock and disperse; in 1909 Norfolk, Yorkshire and Ireland had between them about twelve, while in 1912 eleven were recorded, but 1920 was a stronger migration than either of the other two.'
Admitted by S. H. Long & B. B. Riviere (1924) in the Transactions of the Norfolk & Norwich Naturalists' Society, Vol. XI. p. 590, under 'Additions to Part XI (Eighth List) 1919-23'.
Ticehurst (1932: 320) says: 'About the end of September 1920 a Glossy Ibis was reported "on the marshes near Breydon".'
Comment Barton Broad was the other Norfolk record mentioned by Gurney.
285). 1920 North-east Scotland Near Kintore, Aberdeenshire, two, seen, late October.
(J. F. Lumsden, Scottish Naturalist 41: 10; Eds., British Birds 15: 119; E. V. Baxter & L. J. Rintoul, Scottish Naturalist 41: 108; Baxter & Rintoul, 1953).
History James F. Lumsden of Aberdeen (1921) in the Scottish Naturalist, Vol. XLI. p. 10, says: 'During the last fortnight of October 1920, I had frequent opportunities of observing two Glossy Ibises (Plegadis falcinellus) near Kintore, Aberdeenshire. I first noticed them about the middle of the month within a mile of Kintore after a heavy flood on the River Don. They did not seem to be very wild, as on one occasion I got within about 50 yards of them before they took to flight.'
In an Editorial (1921) in British Birds, Vol. XV. p. 119, they say: '...two were seen near Kintore, Aberdeenshire, during the last fortnight of October (Scot. Nat., 1921, p . 10).'
Admitted by E. V. Baxter & L. J. Rintoul (1921) in the Scottish Naturalist, Vol. XLI. p. 108, in the annual report.
287). 1920 Shetland Baltasound, Unst, adult male, shot, 4th November, now at National Museums of Scotland.
(T. E. Saxby, Scottish Naturalist 41: 10; Eds., British Birds 15: 119; E. V. Baxter & L. J. Rintoul, Scottish Naturalist 41: 108; Baxter & Rintoul, 1953; Pennington et al., 2004).
History Thomas Edmondston Saxby (1921) in the Scottish Naturalist, Vol. XLI. p. 10, says: 'On the 4th November 1920, a Glossy Ibis was shot at Balta Sound, Unst, by a man who thought it was a duck, and who to his disappointment discovered it to be a stranger - "I was that disappointed when I found it would not mak' a diet". I am forwarding the specimen, which is an adult male in fine glossy plumage, to the Royal Scottish Museum.'
In an Editorial (1921) in British Birds, Vol. XV. p. 119, they say: 'Aberdeenshire. - In addition to the numerous occurrences already noted (cf. Vol. XIV.) of Plegadis falcinellus in the autumn of 1920 one was obtained at Unst, Shetland, on November 4th...(Scot. Nat., 1921, p . 10).'
Admitted by E. V. Baxter & L. J. Rintoul (1921) in the Scottish Naturalist, Vol. XLI. p. 108, in the annual report.
Accepted locally (Pennington et al. 2004).
288). 1920 Essex Fobbing Creek, shot, November.
(Glegg, 1929; Hudson & Pyman, 1968; Cox, 1984; Wood, 2007).
History Glegg (1929) says: 'One was obtained in Fobbing Creek during November 1920 and is in the collection of Mr. C. Cockram, where I saw it on 16th October 1927.'
Accepted locally (Hudson & Pyman 1968; Cox 1984; Wood 2007).
289). 1920 Somerset Brean Down, seen, November.
(Somerset County Gazette 16th Apr., 1921; F. L. Blathwayt, Somerset Archaeological and Natural History Society Report 1921; Eds., Field 14th May 1921: 599; F. L. Blathwayt, Field 28th May 1921: 685; Palmer & Ballance, 1968; Somerset Ornithological Society, 1988; Ballance, 2006).
History In an Editorial (1921) in The Field of 14th May, Vol. CXXXVII. p. 599, they say: 'In an extract which has reached us from the Somerset County Gazette of April 16, is a report of the last meeting of the Somersetshire Archaeological Society, held at Taunton on April 7. In this report it is stated, amongst other items of ornithological interest, that "at least three pairs of Glossy Ibis, Ravens, and Peregrine Falcons still breed in Somerset". As regards the Ibis, we think there must be some slip of the pen or a printer's error; for although this bird has been recorded to have occurred as a rare visitor to the county, it has never been known to breed in any part of the British Islands, and from the nature of its haunts and habits, as not at all likely to do so. As the statement has been attributed to the Chairman, the Rev. F. L. Blathwayt, who drew up the report, it would be well if he were to correct the mistake as soon as possible.'
F. L. Blathwayt of Melbury Osmund Rectory (1921) in The Field of 28th May, Vol. CXXXVII. p. 685, under 'Glossy Ibis in Somerset', says: 'Referring to your note under this heading in The Field of May 14, what I wrote in my bird report, as President of the Ornithological Section of the Somerset Archaeological and Natural History Society, was as follows: "Interesting features of the report are the satisfactory evidence that at least three pairs of Ravens and Peregrine Falcons still breed within the limits of the county", and further on: "The Glossy Ibis turned up in some numbers on the southern coasts of England towards the end of 1920, and the specimen from South Brent is possibly the first record for Somerset since 1859".' Accepted locally (Ballance 2006).
290). 1921 Norfolk Breydon Water, shot, 16th September.
(Ticehurst, 1932; Allard, 1990; Taylor, Seago, Allard & Dorling, 1999).
History Ticehurst (1932: 320-321) says: 'Further examples occurred on Breydon in September 1921.'
Allard (1990: 33) adds: 'On 16th September 1921 one was shot by Harry Smith on the lower Bure Marshes.'
Accepted locally for Norfolk (Taylor, Seago, Allard & Dorling 1999).
291). 1921 Norfolk Cley-next-the-Sea, seen, 5th November.
(Pashley, 1925; Riviere, 1930; Allard, 1990).
History Pashley (1925) says: '1921. November 5th. Mr. Clifford Borrer saw a Glossy Ibis.'
292). 1921 Somerset Cannington, early December.
(Palmer & Ballance, 1968; Somerset Ornithological Society, 1988; Ballance, 2006).
History Palmer & Ballance (1968) say: 'Cannington, early December 1921 (Lewis Notebook).' Accepted locally by Ballance (2006).
293). 1923 Derbyshire Sawley, male, obtained, 24th January, now at Birmingham Museums and Art Gallery (Acc. No. 1962Z10.1).
(Frost, 1978; Watson, 2010).
History Frost (1978) says: 'On 24th January 1923 one was shot at Sawley.'
Watson (2010) in detailing the J. L. Auden collection in the Birmingham Museum lists a male specimen obtained at Sawley, Nottinghamshire, on 24th January 1923, adding that it was bought at Sir V. H. Crewe's sale.
294). 1923 Lincolnshire Tetney, seen, 29th September.
(Smith & Cornwallis, 1955; Lorand & Atkin, 1989).
History Smith & Cornwallis (1955) say: 'One was seen at Tetney and North Cotes in late September 1923 and recorded by Caton Haigh, although he admitted he didn't see it, he was satisfied with the description given by others.'
Accepted locally (Lorand & Atkin 1989).
295). 1926 Norfolk Holme, immature female, shot, 11th September.
(B. B. Riviere, British Birds 20: 264; Riviere, 1930; Allard, 1990).
History B. B. Riviere (1927) in British Birds, Vol. XX. p. 264, in the 1926 Norfolk Bird Report, says: 'A small party of Glossy Ibises visited Norfolk during September, an immature female being shot at Holme on September 11th (B. J. Sumpter).'
296). 1926 Norfolk Hickling Broad, seen, 14th and 16th September.
(B. B. Riviere, British Birds 20: 264; Riviere, 1930; Allard, 1990).
History B. B. Riviere (1927) in British Birds, Vol. XX. p. 264, in the 1926 Norfolk Bird Report, says: 'A small party of Glossy Ibises visited Norfolk during September...one seen at Hickling on September 14th and 16th (E. Turner).'
297). 1926 Norfolk/Suffolk Breydon Water, seen, 16th September; again, 2nd to 7th October, when killed.
(B. B. Riviere, British Birds 20: 264; Riviere, 1930; Ticehurst, 1932; Allard, 1990).
History B. B. Riviere (1927) in British Birds, Vol. XX. p. 264, in the 1926 Norfolk Bird Report, says: 'A small party of Glossy Ibises visited Norfolk during September...one on Breydon on September 16th (F. E. Gunn).'
Ticehurst (1932: 320-321) says: 'Further examples occurred on Breydon on 16th September 1926.'
Allard (1990: 33) adds: 'Another seen on 16th September 1926, reappeared on 2nd to 7th October when it was taken.'
298). 1926 Norfolk No locality, immature male, shot, 7th October.
(B. B. Riviere, British Birds 20: 264).
History B. B. Riviere (1927) in British Birds, Vol. XX. p. 264, in the 1926 Norfolk Bird Report, says: 'A small party of Glossy Ibises visited Norfolk during September…whilst another - an immature male - was killed by a gunner when duck flighting, and I believe in ignorance of its identity, on October 7th (E. C. Saunders).'
Comment E. C. Saunders was a taxidermist.
299). 1926 Argyll Islay, two, undated.
(E. V. Baxter & L. J. Rintoul, Scottish Naturalist 47: 136; H. F. Witherby, British Birds 22: 120; Baxter & Rintoul, 1953).
History E. V. Baxter & L. J. Rintoul (1927) in the Scottish Naturalist, Vol. XLVII. p. 136, in the annual report, say: 'Two Glossy Ibises occurred on Islay in 1926.'
H. F. Witherby (1928) in British Birds, Vol. XXII. p. 120, in a Review of 'Report on Scottish Ornithology in 1926, including Migration', by Evelyn V. Baxter and L. J. Rintoul, says: 'Two, Islay in 1926.'
301). 1929 Dorset Christchurch, Hampshire, shot, 26th October.
(F. W. Frohawk, Field 27th Sept., 1930: 444; Eds., British Birds 24: 168; Cohen & Taverner, 1972; Clark, 2022).
History In an Editorial (1930) in British Birds, Vol. XXIV. p. 168, they say: 'Mr. F. W. Frohawk states (Field, 27. ix. 1930, p. 444) that a specimen of Plegadis falcinellus was shot in the Christchurch marshes on October 26th, 1929. Mr. Frohawk gives a drawing of the specimen which was lent to him by Mr. D. C. Johnstone, the present owner of it.'
Accepted locally when Christchurch was in Hampshire (Cohen & Taverner 1972).
302). 1929 West Midlands Wolverhampton Sewage-farm, Staffordshire, wounded, 8th to 14th November.
(J. R. B. Masefield, British Birds 23: 341).
History John. R. B. Masefield (1930) in British Birds, Vol. XXIII. p. 341, says: 'Major C. Hatton reports to me that a Glossy Ibis (Plegadis f. falcinellus) was shot on the Wolverhampton Sewage Farm on November 8th, 1929. The bird was handed while still alive to Mr. H. L. Adams, who informs me that there can be no doubt as to its identity. He found the bird to be so slightly injured that he turned it out on some bog-land near his house, and for six days he observed it feeding on the mud. On the sixth day it could fly and had disappeared on the next day. Mr. Adams states that "on one occasion the bird being frightened took to deep water, but was evidently not at home as a swimmer and quickly came ashore and walked away".'
303). 1932 Isles of Scilly No locality, immature, obtained, October.
(G. C. Low, Bulletin of the British Ornithologists' Club 53: 78; Penhallurick, 1969; Flood, Hudson & Thomas, 2007).
History G. Carmichael Low, Editor (1932) in the Bulletin of the British Ornithologists' Club, Vol. LIII. p. 78, at the 359th Meeting of the Club held on 14th December 1932 at Pagani's Restaurant, London, says: 'An immature Glossy Ibis (Plegadis f. falcinellus) was obtained in the Isles of Scilly about the same time as this immature American Yellow-billed Cuckoo [Black-billed Cuckoo].'
Penhallurick (1969: 68) says: '1932, one on Scilly in the autumn (Parslow in litt.).'
Accepted locally (Flood, Hudson & Thomas 2007).
304). 1932 Cumbria River Irthing, Gilsland Moors, immature, shot, November.
(E. Blezard, Transactions of the Carlisle Natural History Society 1943 (6): 79; Hutcheson, 1986).
History Ernest Blezard (1943) in the Transactions of the Carlisle Natural History Society, Vol. VI. p. 79, says: 'An immature, and also a Cumberland bird, was shot in November, 1932, near the headwaters of the River Irthing, on the Gilsland moors, by J. Maughan, of Horseholm, in whose possession it remains.' Accepted locally (Hutcheson 1986).
305). 1935 Norfolk/Suffolk Breydon Water, 22nd May.
(Seago, 1977; Allard, 1990; Taylor, Seago, Allard & Dorling, 1999; Piotrowski, 2003).
History Seago (1977) says: 'One at Breydon in May 1935, could possibly be the same as shot in September of that year on the nearby Bure Marshes.' Accepted locally for Norfolk (Taylor, Seago, Allard & Dorling 1999).
306). 1935 Norfolk Bure Marshes, shot, early September.
(Seago, 1977; Allard, 1990; Taylor, Seago, Allard & Dorling, 1999).
History Seago (1977) says: 'One at Breydon in May 1935, could possibly be the same as shot in September of that year on the nearby Bure Marshes.' Allard (1990: 33) adds: 'In early September 1935 one was shot close to the estuary of the River Bure, and may possible have been the same as that seen in May of that year.'
Accepted locally for Norfolk (Taylor, Seago, Allard & Dorling 1999).
Comment Norfolk record only.
307). 1936 or 1937 Moray & Nairn Near Hatton Farm, Kinloss, Moray, three, April; same, Loch Spynie, two, April to June.
(Cook, 1992; Forrester & Andrews et al., 2007).
History Cook (1992) says: 'Three birds spent two days near Hatton Farm, Kinloss in the April of 1936 or 1937. Two of these three were later found at Loch Spynie where they stayed until June (R. Richter).'
Accepted nationally for Scotland (Forrester & Andrews et al. 2007).
310). 1938 North-east Scotland Near Warthill, Aberdeenshire, shot, 3rd May.
(W. Arbuthnot-Leslie, Field 4th June 1938: 1408; B. V. Fitzgerald, Scottish Naturalist 58: 116; Eds., British Birds 32: 53; Baxter & Rintoul, 1953; Forrester & Andrews et al., 2007).
History W. Arbuthnot-Leslie of Warthill (1938) in The Field of 4th June, Vol. CLXXI. p. 1408, says: 'My Gamekeeper had noticed a strange bird frequenting a small pond in a lonely part of my woods here. I could not identify it from his description, so he shot it one evening (Tuesday, May 3rd), and brought me in a perfect specimen of the Glossy Ibis. I shall be interested to know if any other of your readers have procured one recently. The last record I can find of one having been shot in Scotland was in 1880, on the mud flats of the Ythan, Aberdeenshire.'
Brian Vesey Fitzgerald, editor of The Field records in the Scottish Naturalist, (1938) Vol. LVIII. p. 116, that 'A Glossy Ibis was shot at Warthill, Aberdeenshire, on Tuesday, 3rd May.'
In an Editorial (1938) in British Birds, Vol. XXXII. p. 53, they say: 'Mr. W. Arbuthnot-Leslie records (Field, June 4th, 1938) the shooting of a Glossy Ibis (Plegadis f. falcinellus) near Warthill, Aberdeenshire, on May 3rd, 1938.'
Accepted nationally for Scotland (Forrester & Andrews et al. 2007).
311). 1940 Isles of Scilly Tresco, seven, seen, 18th to 31st October.
(A. A. Dorrien-Smith, British Birds 34: 181; Penhallurick, 1969; Flood, Hudson & Thomas, 2007).
History Arthur A. Dorrien-Smith (1940) in British Birds, Vol. XXXIV. p. 181, says: 'Glossy Ibis. - A flock of seven turned up on October 18th and remained for a fortnight.' Accepted locally (Flood, Hudson & Thomas 2007).
318). 1942 Devon Braunton Marsh, shot, 1st September.
(F. C. Butters, E. W. Hendy, R. W. Howell & H. G. Hurrell, Devon Bird-Watching and Preservation Society Report 1942: 16; Eds., British Birds 37: 240; Moore, 1969; Tyler, 2010).
History F. C. Butters et al. (1942) in the Devon Bird-Watching and Preservation Society Report, Vol. XV. p. 16, say: 'Braunton Marsh. September 1st. One shot; had some white about head and neck. (F.R.E.W.).'
In an Editorial (1944) in British Birds, Vol. XXXVII. p. 240, in a Review of the Devon Bird-Watching and Preservation Society Report, for 1942, they say: 'Rare birds recorded include a Glossy Ibis shot at Braunton Marsh.'
Accepted locally (Moore 1969; Tyler 2010).
Comment F.R. Elliston Wright of Braunton.
319). c. 1943 Essex Abberton Reservoir, undated.
(Day, 1949; Hudson & Pyman, 1968; Cox, 1984; Wood, 2007).
History Hudson & Pyman (1968) say: 'About 1943 one visited Abberton Reservoir (Day 1949: 118).'
Accepted locally (Cox 1984; Wood 2007).
320). c. 1943 Essex Bradwell-on-Sea, party, one shot, undated.
(Hudson & Pyman, 1968; Cox, 1984; Wood, 2007).
History Hudson & Pyman (1968) say: 'About 1943 a small party was seen of which one was shot at Bradwell-on-Sea (W. Linnett, jnr.).' Accepted locally (Cox 1984; Wood 2007).
321). 1943 Norfolk/Suffolk Breydon Water, two, shot, 6th October.
(Taylor, Seago, Allard & Dorling, 1999).
History Taylor, Seago, Allard & Dorling (1999) say: 'Two were shot on 6th October 1943 by Harry Smith in the Breydon area.'
323). 1943 Gloucestershire Barn Farm, Elmstone Hardwicke, near Cheltenham, seen, 23rd October.
(O. H. Wild, British Birds 37: 158; Swaine, 1982).
History Oliver H. Wild (1944) in British Birds, Vol. XXXVII. p. 158, says: 'On October 23rd, 1943 in company with my wife, I saw at a sewage farm near Cheltenham, Gloucestershire, a Glossy Ibis (Plegadis f. falcinellus), which after flying round settled on a bank of an open-air sewage channel. The bird was examined through field-glasses at a distance of less than 100 yards. It was feeding with Lesser Black-backed Gulls and Carrion Crows. It was very restless and several times flew to a great height when approached, but settled again in other sewage channels, within a quarter mile radius. This bird had been frequenting the same spot for about a fortnight previous to my visit. It seemed to be all black, but distinctly more brown in colour than crows. No white streaking was seen on the head and neck.' Accepted locally (Swaine 1982).
324). 1943 Norfolk Hickling Broad, seen, 12th November.
(J. Vincent, Wild Bird Protection in Norfolk 1943: 12; Seago, 1977; Taylor, Seago, Allard & Dorling, 1999).
History Jim Vincent (1943) in Wild Bird Protection in Norfolk, 1943, p. 12, under 'Notes from Hickling', says: 'On November 12th a bird of this species flying and gliding very low as it came off the Broad, was seen by Mr. Perrin, E. Piggin and M. Nudd.' Accepted locally (Seago 1977; Taylor, Seago, Allard & Dorling 1999).
325). 1945 Anglesey Malltraeth, adult male, shot, 2nd October.
(Lovegrove, Williams & Williams, 1994).
History Accepted nationally for Wales (Lovegrove, Williams & Williams 1994) who say: 'An adult male was shot at Malltraeth on Anglesey on 2nd October 1945.'
326). 1945 Norfolk Hickling Broad, six, seen, 25th October to 7th November, two until 26th November.
(P. R. Westall, British Birds 39: 91; E. Piggin, Wild Bird Protection in Norfolk 1945: 10; Eds., British Birds 40: 31; Seago, 1977; Taylor, Seago, Allard & Dorling, 1999).
History P. R. Westall (1946) in British Birds, Vol. XXXIX. p. 91, says: 'On October 27th, 1945, in company with two other observers, we had excellent views of a party of six Glossy Ibis Plegadis f. falcinellus, over Hickling Broad. We first saw them in good light flying at between 20 and 30 yards above us, when they appeared as large black birds of the heron type, with outstretched, only slightly bent, necks, and decurved bills, and legs protruding beyond the tail. While being mobbed by large gulls, they gave a call, rendered as "kra - ak", but this was not heard again. The wing action was slow and regular, with frequent long glides. The most constant formation was in a straight line.
We reckoned by the comparative length and curvature of bill, that the party consisted of two adults with four immature birds. Subsequently during the day, and the following day, we frequently flushed them from a small area of marsh, and occasionally when the birds were seen in front of a background of trees, noted that their general colouring was purplish-brown. Other observers confirmed the record, on the second day.'
[We are informed that these birds were also seen by E. Hosking, B. K. Montgomery, R. J. Raines, Capt. G. K. Yeates and others. - Eds.]
E. Piggin (1945) in Wild Bird Protection in Norfolk, 1945, p. 10, under 'Notes from Hickling', says: 'Glossy Ibis. Six of these rare visitors were first seen flying in at dusk on the evening of October 25th. They appeared to find abundant food on the marshes which are constantly grazed by cattle, and remained until November 7th. These birds flew in perfect formation, both line ahead and line abreast, and were a grand sight with their broad wings appearing to be almost wing-tip to wing-tip. Two Ibis were still at Hickling on November 26th.'
In an Editorial (1947) in British Birds, Vol. XL. p. 31, in a Review of the Wild Bird Protection in Norfolk, for 1945, they say: 'It may be mentioned that six Glossy Ibises at Hickling, already recorded in British Birds, were first seen on October 25th and remained till November 7th. Two were still there as late as November 26th.'
Accepted locally (Taylor, Seago, Allard & Dorling 1999).
1950-57 RECORDS
332). 1952 Norfolk Arnold's Marsh, Salthouse, 24th September.
(Anon., Wild Bird Protection in Norfolk 1952: 19; R. A. Richardson, British Birds 46: 431; Seago, 1977; Taylor, Seago, Allard & Dorling, 1999).
History Anon. (1952) in the Wild Bird Protection in Norfolk, p. 19, says: 'One on Arnold's marsh, Salthouse, 24th September (P. L. Garrett.).'
R. A. Richardson (1953) in British Birds, Vol. XLVI. p. 431, under 'Cley Bird Observatory, 1952', says 'One mobbed by Black-headed Gulls (Larus ridibundus) September 24th.'
Accepted locally (Taylor, Seago, Allard & Dorling 1999).
333). 1956 Dorset Stratton, adult male, shot, 3rd December, now at Charterhouse School Museum.
(Country Life, 7th March 1957; A. J. Bull, British Birds 51: 118; A. J. Bull et al., Proceedings of the Dorset Natural History and Antiquarian Society 78: 40; Prendergast & Boys, 1983; Green, 2004).
History A. J. Bull (1958) in British Birds, Vol. LI. p. 118, says: 'On 3rd December 1956, an adult male Glossy Ibis (Plegadis falcinellus) was shot in the water meadows of the River Frome at Stratton, near Dorchester, Dorset, by C. J. R. Pope. The bird was examined in the flesh by R. F. Dalton at the County Museum, Dorchester, but finally presented to Charterhouse School Museum, where the skin has been set up.
Full details of the plumage and measurements have been supplied by J. J. Swift, who has examined the specimen critically, and these have been submitted to the Editors of British Birds.
Mr. Pope has confirmed that as far as he can remember the date of the occurrence was 3rd December, and not 6th December as stated in his letter published in Country Life of 7th March 1957. In fairness to Mr. Pope, who has given me permission to quote his name in this note, it should be said that he shot the bird in mistake for a Cormorant (Phalacrocorax carbo) and it was with much regret that he realised his error.
The last previously recorded occurrence of this species in Dorset was of four shot in Poole Harbour in 1877.'
A. J. Bull (1956) in the Proceedings of the Dorset Natural History and Antiquarian Society, Vol. LXXVIII. p. 40, says: 'One shot, Stratton, Dec. 3rd, and taken to R.F.D. at the County Museum who checked the identification against The Handbook. Skin presented to Charterhouse School Museum and described as that of adult male in winter plumage (wing stretched flat - 295 mm.) with a lot of purple on wings. (Jeremy Swift per O.P.). Detailed critical examination still awaited. Last recorded in Pool Hbr. in 1877 (shot).'
Accepted locally (Prendergast & Boys 1983; Green 2004).
NOT PROVEN
0). c. 1697 Norfolk No locality, obtained, undated.
(Pennant, 1812; J. E. Harting, Zoologist 1897: 466).
[Dye, Fiszer & Allard, 2009].
History J. E. Harting, Editor (1897) in The Zoologist, 4th series, Vol. I. p. 466, in the obituary of Andrew Mathews, says: 'We learn from his son (Dr. J. C. S. Mathews) that he leaves a collection of British Birds containing about 450 birds, chiefly obtained by himself and his father in Oxfordshire and the New Forest. This collection also comprises the first Ibis recorded in this country, shot in Norfolk 200 years ago and noted by Pennant.'
Not accepted locally as the first record for Norfolk (Dye, Fiszer & Allard 2009).
Comment Lacks a precise date for a scientific record. Not acceptable.
0). 1787 Cornwall No locality, immature, obtained, undated.
(Latham, 1787; Montagu, 1802; Newman, 1866; Seebohm, 1883-85).
[Penhallurick, 1969; BOURC].
History Latham (1787: 291, 1st supp.) under 'Glossy Ibis (immature)', says: 'One in the Leverian Museum was shot in Cornwall.'
Montagu (1802) says: 'Dr. Latham mentions one in the Leverian Museum, which was shot in Cornwall.'
Seebohm (1884 (2): 520) says: 'The Glossy Ibis was first recorded as a British bird in 1787 by Latham, on the authority of an example then in the Leverian Museum, which had been shot in Cornwall (Gen. Syn. Suppl., I. p. 291).'
Not accepted locally (Penhallurick 1969).
0). Pre 1824 Kent No locality, adult, shot, undated.
(Latham, 1821-28).
[Latham, 1821-28].
History Latham (1824 (9): 153) under 'Bay Ibis' (adult), says: 'One of these in the Leverian Museum is said to have been shot in Kent (Lev. Mus. Catal. No. 5757).'
Comment Latham used the word "said to have been" placing no faith in the record. Not acceptable.
0). 1825 Cambridgeshire Whittlesey Mere, female, 31st May.
(Lilford, 1895).
[Lack, 1934; Bircham, 1989].
History Lord Lilford (1895 (2): 137) says: 'The late Rev. M. Berkeley in a letter to me with date of February 25, 1876, wrote: - "Falcinellus has been taken near Stilton; Mr. Vyse had a very fine specimen at Stilton, probably shot in the fens". Colonel C. I. Strong writing on 29th of same month, says: "I have in adult plumage (at Thorpe Hall) a Glossy Ibis female, procured in the neighbourhood of Whittlesea Mere, date written inside case, May 31, 1825". Colonel Strong has since informed me through a mutual friend that this bird was killed near Yaxley, which is within a very short distance of Stilton, and I am disposed to think that Mr. Berkeley's note bears reference to Colonel Strong's specimen. This is the only occurrence of this species in the near neighbourhood of our county with which I am acquainted.'
Not accepted locally (Lack 1934; Bircham 1989).
Comment Charles Isham Strong of Thorpe Hall, Peterborough owned the 1849 Cambs. Great White Egret.
0). 1832 Norfolk Near Great Yarmouth, two, killed, undated.
(Stevenson, 1870; Allard, 1990).
[A. G. Knox, British Birds 94: 61-73].
History Stevenson (1870 (2): 192) says: '...in Mr. Joseph Clarke's MS. notes, it states that the two which formed part of the late Mr. Miller's Yarmouth collection were procured near that town in 1832.' Stevenson, in a footnote on the same page, adds: 'I cannot trace these birds which were sold with the rest of Mr. Miller's collection in 1853.'
Comment Stephen Miller has been proved unreliable regards the Norfolk Bufflehead (A. G. Knox, British Birds 94: 61-73) and his records are unacceptable; while I believe Joseph Clarke is very suspect as well. Not acceptable.
0). c. 1837 Surrey Fairmile Common, near Cobham, a flight seen, late September.
(Meyer, 1847; Morris, 1863-67).
[Bucknill, 1900].
History Meyer (1847 (4): 89) under 'Glossy Ibis', says: 'Some nine or ten years ago, late in September, we observed such a flight pass over Fairmile Common, near Cobham, in Surrey; the order, or line, in which they travelled, as well as their long arched beaks, drew our attention. We were not at that time aware that we were contemplating the flight of birds so rare, but took them for the more common curlew.'
Morris (1863-67 (5): 130, reissue) says: 'Meyer saw a flock of birds which he believed to be of this species, pass over Fairmile Common, about the year 1837, in September.'
Bucknill (1900: 216) says: 'Writing in 1847, Mr. Meyer, says: "Some nine or ten years ago, late in September, we observed a flight pass over Fairmile Common, near Cobham, in Surrey" (B. B., Vol. IV. p. 189). This occurrence is also mentioned by Morris (B. B., 2nd ed., Vol. IV. p. 178). It is nevertheless not a satisfactory record, as Mr. Meyer himself thought at the time that the birds were only Curlews, and, as he judged them solely by their flight, the occurrence is open to some doubt.'
Comment Not specifically identified by the observer. Not acceptable.
0) 1839 Devon No locality, obtained, undated.
(Morris, 1863-67)
[Jenks, 2004].
History Morris (1863-67 (5): 130, reissue) says: 'One was obtained in Devonshire, in 1839.'
According to Jenks (2004: 161-2) Professor Newton did not rate Morris and his History of British Birds due to the lack of authority for the records.
Comment Not known to have been seen by a competent authority. Not acceptable.
0). Pre 1842 Ayrshire No locality, obtained, undated.
(MacGillivray, 1837-52; G. Sim, Scottish Naturalist 6: 13; Paton & Pike, 1929; Baxter & Rintoul, 1953; Hogg, 1983).
[Forrester & Andrews et al., 2007].
History MacGillivray (1852 (4): 495) says: 'The Glossy Ibis, I believe, has very seldom been seen in Scotland, although I have seen skins of two individuals shot there, one being in Ayrshire.'
George Sim of Aberdeen (1881-82) in the Scottish Naturalist, Vol. VI. p. 13, says: '...So far as I can make out, this is the sixth occurrence of the species in Scotland. The first was shot in Ayrshire.'
Accepted nationally for Scotland (Baxter & Rintoul 1953) and locally (Paton & Pike 1929: 119; Hogg 1983). However, later, it was found unacceptable nationally (Forrester & Andrews et al. 2007).
0). Pre 1845 Cornwall Paul, shot, undated.
(Courtney, 1845; E. H. Rodd, Transactions of the Penzance Natural History Society 1850: 419; Penhallurick, 1969).
[E. H. Rodd, Transactions of the Penzance Natural History Society 1850: 419].
History Courtney (1845: 30) under 'Appendix' says: 'The Glossy Ibis has been shot at Paul, it was badly preserved, but in this state is now in the possession of Mr. Edmonds.'
E. H. Rodd (1850) in the Transactions of the Penzance Natural History Society, p. 419, says: 'One said to have been killed at Paul.' Penhallurick (1969: 67) says: 'pre 1845, Courtney records one shot at Paul near Penzance.'
Comment Notes on the source of this record are: A Week in the Isles of Scilly, L. H. Courtney. Five editions appeared up to 1897 which was itself based on Rev. J. W. North's book of the same name published in 1850.
In view of Rodd's statement of using "said to have been", it is probably safer to reject this record. Not acceptable.
0). c. 1850 Lancashire & North Merseyside Ormskirk, undated, now at Liverpool Museum.
(Clubb, 1914; Hardy, 1941).
[White, McCarthy & Jones, 2008].
History Clubb (1914: 57) says: 'Case 227. The specimen shown was shot at Ormskirk over 62 years ago.'
Not accepted locally (White, McCarthy & Jones 2008).
0). Pre 1852 Somerset Taunton, shot, undated.
(C. Prideaux, Zoologist 1852: 3474).
[KAN].
History Charles Prideaux of Kingsbridge (1852) in The Zoologist, 1st series, Vol. X. p. 3474, dated 24th April, 1852, says: 'I append a list of a few very rare birds which have lately occurred for the most part in this neighbourhood....The following are also among my birds: - Glossy Ibis, a brilliant bird, Taunton.'
Comment Lacks a precise date for a scientific record. Not acceptable.
0). 1855 Suffolk North Cove, seen, January.
(Babington, 1884-86).
[Tuck, 1911].
History Babington (1884-86: 153) says: 'One mentioned by Mr. Everett as having been seen Jan., 1855; probably in the neighbourhood of North Cave (Creed in litt.).'
Tuck (1911: (1): 198) in the Victoria County History of Suffolk, says: 'Only one bona-fide Suffolk specimen of this accidental visitant has been obtained, an adult female shot at Blundeston near Lowestoft in May, 1850 (Birds of Norfolk, II. 193).'
0). 1869 Devon River Dart, near Totnes, 26th October.
(Moore, 1969).
[Tyler, 2010].
History Moore (1969) says: 'In D & M there were c.15 occurrences the last of which was on 26th October 1869 on the River Dart at Totnes.'
Comment Not in D & Ms 1892 version. Not accepted locally (Tyler 2010) in the latest avifauna of Devon.
0). c. 1870 Devon Thurlestone, seen, autumn.
(D'Urban & Mathew, 1892).
[Tyler, 2010].
History D'Urban & Mathew (1892: 199) in a footnote, say: 'About 1870 one was seen in the autumn at Thurlestone Ley by a hunting party. A gun was borrowed, but proved too rusty that it refused to go off (E. A. S. Elliott).'
Not accepted locally (Tyler 2010).
0) Pre 1892 Devon Kingsbridge Estuary, obtained, undated.
(D'Urban & Mathew, 1892).
[Tyler, 2010].
History D'Urban & Mathew (1892: 199) in a footnote, say: 'A Glossy Ibis in the collection of the late Mr. J. Elliot, of Kingsbridge, was shot on the estuary there, but the date was not recorded.'
Not accepted locally (Tyler 2010).
0). 1902 Sussex Near Bexhill, two: one adult, shot, 25th October, other shot 27th October.
(N. F. Ticehurst, Zoologist 1903: 419; Field 21st Nov., 1903: 884; Walpole-Bond, 1938).
[KAN].
History N. F. Ticehurst (1903) in The Zoologist, 4th series, Vol. VII. p. 419, says: 'October 25th. A fine adult Glossy Ibis (Plegadis falcinellus) shot between Pevensey and Bexhill.'
Walpole-Bond (1938 (2): 323) says: 'As I learnt from Mr. G. Bristow five were shot [in 1902]...two between Pevensey and Bexhill on October 25th and 27th respectively.'
Comment George Bristow was heavily involved in the "Hastings Rarities" fraud (E. M. Nicholson & I. J. Ferguson-Lees, British Birds 55: 299-384). Not acceptable.
0). 1903 Devon Chelson Meadow, Plymouth, two, seen, September.
(H. P. O. Cleave, Zoologist 1906: 236).
[Tyler, 2010].
History H. P. O. Cleave of Plymouth (1906) in The Zoologist, 4th series, Vol. X. p. 236, says: 'In September, 1903, I saw a pair of Glossy Ibises (Plegadis falcinellus) in Chelson Meadow (Plymouth racecourse), a flat swampy piece of ground. I could observe them well at about a distance of one hundred yards. They had disappeared the next day.'
Not accepted locally (Tyler 2010).
0). 1908 Devon Tavy Estuary, seen, about 14th October.
(Eds., Field 24th Oct., 1908: 721).
[Tyler, 2010].
History In an Editorial (1908) in The Field of 24th Oct., Vol. CXII. p. 721, says: 'A fine specimen of the Glossy Ibis was lately shot near Land's End, and is now in my possession. I have never seen one before, though I have such birds as Buff-breasted Sandpiper, Squacco Heron, Long-tailed Duck, Black-tailed Godwit, and other rare species, all killed here.'
[A bird of this species was reported to us ten days ago as seen in Devonshire in the Estuary of the Tavy, perhaps the same bird. - Ed.]
Not accepted locally (Tyler 2010).
0). 1909 Gloucestershire Arlingham, shot, undated.
(Swaine, 1982).
[Swaine, 1982].
History Swaine (1982) says: 'One in O. H. Wild's MS. was recorded as "shot at Arlingham about 1909", but is not supported by further data.'
0). 1917 Sussex Winchelsea, adult male, obtained, 7th May.
(W. R. Butterfield, Hastings and East Sussex Naturalist 3: 78; Walpole-Bond, 1938).
[E. M. Nicholson & I. J. Ferguson-Lees, British Birds 55: 299-384 HR].
History W. Ruskin Butterfield (1918) in the Hastings and East Sussex Naturalist, Vol. III. p. 78, says: 'An adult male, shot at Winchelsea on May 7th, was presented to the Museum by Mr. W. H. Mullens.'
Accepted locally (Walpole-Bond 1938 (2): 324).
Comment Hastings rarity. Not acceptable.
0). 1921 Angus & Dundee Balunie, Angus, autumn.
(Boase MS.; Crighton, 1976).
[D. G. Andrew, Scottish Birds 3: 169]
History Crighton (1976) says: 'One seen at Balunie in the autumn of 1921 by someone (Boase) who had experience of the bird abroad.' D. G. Andrew (1964) in Scottish Birds, Vol. III. p. 169, says: 'In the absence of any substantiating evidence, this old record is unacceptable.'
0). 1922 Sussex Broomhill, immature male, 22nd November.
(W. R. Butterfield, Hastings and East Sussex Naturalist 4: 4; Walpole-Bond, 1938).
[E. M. Nicholson & I. J. Ferguson-Lees, British Birds 55: 299-384 HR].
History W. Ruskin Butterfield (1924) in the Hastings and East Sussex Naturalist, Vol. IV. p. 4, says: 'A male in first winter plumage was shot at Broomhill, Romney Marsh, on November 22nd, 1922.'
Accepted locally (Walpole-Bond 1938 (2): 324).
Comment Hastings rarity. Not acceptable.
0). Pre 1927 Cambridgeshire Whittlesey Mere, undated, now at Peterborough Museum.
(L. Bacon, M. Hawkes & J. Hughes, Cambridgeshire Bird Report 2005: 158-159).
[KAN].
History Unknown, but could be any of the counties previous records.
0). 1952 Norfolk Stiffkey, immature, 16th January.
(Anon., Wild Bird Protection in Norfolk 1952: 19).
[Taylor, Seago, Allard & Dorling, 1999].
History Anon. (1952) in the Wild Bird Protection in Norfolk, p. 19, says: 'An immature on partially inundated marsh Stiffkey, 16th January. There was no appearance of gloss and it was presumed to be a first-winter (H.H.).'
Not in the listing by Taylor, Seago, Allard & Dorling (1999) who accepted another published on the same page (Wild Bird Protection in Norfolk, 1952: 19) so presumably rejected.