Purple Heron

Ardea purpurea Linnaeus, 1766 (89, 19)

Photo © Matthew Naylor, Gosforth NR, Northumberland, 14th July 2023

Ex BBRC species 31/12/1982

STATUS

Palearctic, Afrotropic and Indomalaya. Polytypic.

OVERVIEW

Formerly known as the African Heron.

Since the formation of BBRC there has only been one accepted overwintering record and that was in Carmarthenshire 18th December to 17th January 1985. There are two records on single days in February: 1963 Oxfordshire and 1991 Yorkshire.

So, some of these wintering records are extremely rare and require credentials of the highest order.

This reedbed specialist spends its winter in sub-Saharan Africa. The earliest returning juvenile/first summer record is 31st March.

Overall records between 1958-2016 are from 1st March to 27th November. Of the records below 33 are undated.

---

RECORDS

1). 1722 Berkshire Ashdown Park, near Lambourn, immature, shot, undated.

(Latham, 1787; Montagu, 1802; Fleming, 1828; Selby, 1833; Yarrell, 1871-85; Glegg, 1935).

History Latham (1787: 238, 1st supp.) says: '...This species inhabits Africa, from whence a specimen has been received into the Leverian Museum.

A second specimen is likewise in the same collection, which was shot in Ashdown Park, near Lambourn, Berks, belonging to Lord Craven.'

Montagu (1802) under 'African Heron', says: 'Not more than two of this species are mentioned to have been met with in this country, one of which is stated to have been shot in Ashdown Park, near Lambourn, Berks., now in the Leverian Museum.'

Fleming (1828: 96) says: 'This species, in its immature state, is the Ardea caspica, or African Heron, of British writers. A specimen of this bird in the Leverian Museum, was stated to have been shot in Ashdown Park, near Lambourn, Berks.'

Selby (1833 (2): 15) says: 'This beautiful Heron stands in the list of our Fauna as a Rare visitant rare visitant; for it appears that, prior to the publication of Montagu's Ornithological Dictionary, only two specimens had been recorded as killed in England.'

Howard Saunders (1884-85 (4): 172-173, 4th ed.) in Yarrell's British Birds, says: 'In the present century, its occurrence was first made known by Montagu, who mentions two specimens, one of which was shot in Ashdown Park, near Lambourn, Berks, and passed into the Leverian Museum.'

Glegg (1935: 111) says: 'One was shot near London in 1722, and was added to the Leverian Museum, the collection of Sir Ashton Lever.'

Comment Montagu (1802) only knew of two records but only mentions the Ashdown record, as do any of the earlier authors. It would seem that they have misunderstood Latham whereby the first specimen in his museum was from Africa and the second from Ashdown. Neither the latest Berkshire or London county avifaunas admit this record, but it would appear to be genuine.

2). 1810 Norfolk Ormesby Broad, shot, undated, now at Natural History Museum, Tring.

(Hunt, 1815; J. Youell, Transactions of the Linnean Society 13: 617; Latham, 1821-28; Fleming, 1828; Hooker MS.; Stevenson, 1870; Yarrell, 1871-85).

History John Youell (1820) in the Transactions of the Linnean Society, Vol. XIII. pp. 616-617, in extracts from the minutes read on 21st November 1820, says: 'Read a letter from Mr. J. Youell of Yarmouth, in which he states...at Ormesby, in Norfolk, within fifty yards of the spot where the African Heron (Ardea capsica, Lath.), formerly in the possession of Montagu, and now in the British Museum, was taken about five years ago.'

Latham (1824 (9): 110) in a footnote, says: 'This was within fifty yards of the spot where the African Heron, No. 89, formerly in the possession of Col. Montagu, and now in the British Museum, was taken a few years since. - Linn. Trans., XIII. 617.'

Fleming (1828: 96) says: 'The late Mr. Montagu, in a letter dated 6th January 1814, informed me, "I have just received from a friend a fine specimen of African Heron, shot in Norfolk". It must, however, be regarded as one of our rarest stragglers.'

Stevenson (1870 (2): 146) says: 'Mr. Hunt under the name of Ardea caspia, or 'African Heron', records a specimen as shot "a few years since near Ormesby", which is no doubt the same bird which, in Sir William Hooker's MS., is described as shot at Filby in 1810.'

Howard Saunders (1884-85 (4): 173, 4th ed.) in Yarrell's British Birds, says: 'It would appear from Hunt's British Ornithology that an example was obtained near Ormesby, in Norfolk, probably, as Mr. Stevenson observes, the same bird which, in Sir William Hooker's MS. is described as shot at Filby in 1810.'

Comment Selby's reference probably refers to this record.

3). 1822 Cornwall Off Polperro, alighted on a boat about 2.5 leagues from the shore, caught alive, 3rd May.

(J. Couch, Loudon's Magazine of Natural History 3: 177; Jenyns, 1835; Yarrell, 1845; E. H. Rodd, Transactions of the Penzance Natural History Society 1: 86; Bewick, 1847; Yarrell, 1871-85; Penhallurick, 1969).

History J. Couch (1830) in Loudon's Magazine of Natural History, Vol. III. p. 177, says: 'Purple Heron. In May, 1822, this bird flew on board a fishing-boat of Polpeno [sic], and was taken.'

Yarrell (1845 (2): 515, 2nd ed.) says: 'Mr. Couch, of Polperro, Cornwall, sent Bewick a sketch of this specimen. The bird was caught on a fishing boat, two or three leagues from the shore, and brought on shore alive, but soon died.'

E. H. Rodd (1846) in the Transactions of the Penzance Natural History Society, 1st series, Vol. I. p. 86, says: 'It was first added to the Cornish fauna by Mr. Jonathan Couch, of Polperro, to whom our county is so much indebted for scientific researches in natural history generally, and in one branch especially.

Mr. Couch received the first Cornish example, it is said from a fisherman, who reported its having alighted on a boat two or three leagues from the shore, in all probability after migration from, or preparing for migration to, Africa, or some of the warmer parts of Europe or Asia, in which countries this species is found permanently resident. I am not aware in what state of plumage the bird was when caught, and the period of the year is not recorded by Mr. Yarrell, to whom Mr. Couch communicated the above fact.'

Jenyns (1835: 187) says: 'A specimen is also said to have flown on board a fishing boat off the coast of Cornwall in May, 1822, and to have been taken.'

Bewick (1847 (2): 42, 8th ed.) says: 'Mr. Couch says, "...it alighted on a fishing-boat, two or three leagues from land, May 3rd, 1822, and was taken: when brought on shore, it soon died. The bill, to the eyes, measured five inches, straight, compressed, yellow, with longitudinal nostrils: on the head, a pendent crest formed of two long slender feathers; a naked skin (lore) reaching to the eyes; the neck very long, and a singular provision is made for lengthening and contracting it; the cervical vertebrae pass for some distance in the usual manner; but, at nearly half way down the neck, seems as if broken, the vertebrae turning forward, so that the gullet and wind-pipe pass behind; which structure keeps them from being too much stretched when the neck is bent. Body very thin, legs long, yellow, except the fore part of the leg below the knee, and the toes; the first joint of the outer toes united, none of the toes serrated.

When stretched out, from the bill to the toes, three feet eleven inches; spread of the wings, four feet five inches. Top of the head black; body, a reddish brown; under the chin, white; the neck is brown; the breast, reddish brown; quill feathers of the wing, black; lesser coverts, brown; long slender feathers hanging from the upper part of the back".

It has been judged proper to figure this bird, with the abrupt bend of the neck, as it appears in Mr. Couch's drawing, which was taken while the bird was fresh and in full feather; and our figure, for this reason, has been somewhat more fully feathered than the stuffed specimen, which appeared to be much dried and shrivelled.'

Admitted by Howard Saunders (1884-85 (4): 173, 4th ed.) in Yarrell's British Birds, who adds: '...and Mr. Rodd has recorded three more examples obtained in that county, two of them in April; and one in the Scilly Islands, in September.'

It was accepted locally (Penhallurick 1969).

Comment 1846, 1850 and 1867 are the records for Cornwall, and 1878 for the Isles of Scilly.

4). 1822 Sussex Lewes, shot, undated, now at the Booth Museum, Brighton.

(Borrer, 1891; Walpole-Bond, 1938; James, 1996).

History Borrer (1891: 315) says: 'Mr. Monk, of St. Anne's, Lewes, has in his collection a Purple Heron, which was shot by old Jack Fuller, of Brightling Park (a well-known old sportsman), near Lewes, in 1822. A glass case large enough for it could not then be procured for it in England. The glass-blowers of Paris then doing larger work, one was sent for from thence. The bird went into Mr. Auckland's collection, at the dispersion of which it was purchased by Mr. Monk. It was badly stuffed, the neck having been cut in three pieces. It was re-stuffed by Mr. Swaysland, of Brighton.'

Walpole-Bond (1938 (2): 338) says: 'The first, which since 1905 has been in the Booth Museum from the Monk collection (Monk also owned a data-less Purple Heron (also in the Booth Museum), but whether it is a county specimen or not, no one can say), was shot at Lewes in 1822.' Accepted locally (James 1996).

Comment Although in the hands of Swaysland, who has been discredited (A. H. J. Harrop, British Birds 112: 89-98), I do not think there has been a fraud committed here.

5). 1826-27 Cambridgeshire Near Ely, two, obtained, winter, both now at Cambridge University Museum.

(Jenyns, 1835; Lack, 1934; Bircham, 1989).

History Jenyns (1835: 187) says: 'Has been killed in Cambridgeshire.' While, Lack (1934: 80) says: 'Two in Cambridge University Museum were obtained near Ely in the winter of 1826-27.' It has been accepted locally (Bircham 1989).

Comment A check at the museum by staff revealed that these specimens are not now known.

7). 1829 Greater London Near Harrow, Middlesex, killed, undated.

(Selby, 1833; Swann, 1893; Glegg, 1935; Self, 2014).

History Selby (1833 (2): 16) in a footnote, says: 'Since writing the above I have heard of three others specimens - two killed in Norfolk [1830] and another near London.'

Glegg (1935: 111) says: 'G. E. H. Barrett-Hamilton records that in 1829, Goshawk, taxidermist, had in the flesh one which he said was killed near Harrow. It came into the possession of Dr. Hamilton, who gave it to Mr. Edward Lowndes.'

Swann (1893: 77) says: 'Mr. G. E. H. Barrett-Hamilton (Harrow Birds, p. 31) records a specimen seen, in the flesh, in 1829, in a birdstuffer's shop at Harrow, and which was said to have been killed near Harrow. Selby mentions a bird captured "near London", but it is not known whether this refers to the above specimen or not.'

Accepted locally for Middlesex (Glegg 1935) and for the Greater London area (Self 2014) .

Comment Selby's statement would refer to the last few years which would be two in Norfolk in 1830 and this record for 1829.

8). 1830 Norfolk No locality, two (one adult male), killed, May.

(Selby, 1833; Yarrell, 1845; Stevenson, 1870; Yarrell, 1871-85).

History Selby (1833 (2): 16-17) says: 'Among others, I may mention that in the month of May 1830, a fine male of this species, that was killed in Norfolk, came into my possession, and its mate into that of Sir William Jardine....Plate 3. Represents the male, in the plumage of maturity, and about three-fourths of the size of nature. The bill (except the culmen, which is brown) is of a fine general gamboge-yellow; lores the same; irides pale yellow. The head, and occipital crest (which is formed of long acuminated feathers) are ink-black, in some lights tinged with green. A list of black also runs from the back part of the neck, for about two-thirds of its length. From the posterior angle of the mouth, a narrow list of black proceeds backwards to the nape, and another down each side of the neck. The front of the neck is spotted with black, white, and purplish-red. The plumes towards the bottom of the neck are long and acuminate, of a pale grey, or greyish-white colour, tinged with purple. The space behind the eyes, and the sides of the neck (with the exception of the black lists) are of a rich reddish-brown. The chin and throat pure white. The shoulders are adorned with feathers of a rich reddish-brown, tinged with lavender-purple. The breast purplish-red. The margins of the wings are white. The back, wing-coverts, flanks, and tail are grey, tinged with purple and green. The scapulars are long, semi-laciniated, and of a deep lavender-purple. The belly and abdomen are greyish-black. The thighs reddish-brown. The naked part of the tibia, the hinder part of the tarsus, and under parts of the toes, are yellow. The front of the tarsus, and upper parts of the toes, are brown, tinged with yellowish-green. The nails are long, semi-falcate, and black.'

Further, p. 16, in a footnote, he adds: '...since writing the above I have heard of three others specimens - two killed in Norfolk and another near London.'

Yarrell (1845 (2): 515, 2nd ed.) says: 'Mr. Selby, who published in 1833, says: "I may mention that in the month of May 1830, a fine male Purple Heron, that was killed in Norfolk, came into my possession, and its mate into that of Sir William Jardine".'

Stevenson (1870 (2): 146) quotes the same story and adds that Selby (1833) in a footnote "since writing the above I have heard of three others specimens - two killed in Norfolk and another near London".' Further, in a footnote on the same page, Stevenson adds: 'Mr. J. H. Gurney, jun., who has recently had an opportunity of inspecting the late Mr. Selby's collection at Twizell House, informs me that it contains a fine adult Purple Heron, most probably the one sent from Norfolk.'

Admitted by Howard Saunders (1884-85 (4): 173, 4th ed.) in Yarrell's British Birds, who adds: 'Mr. H. Stevenson and Mr. J. H. Gurney, jun., say it has occurred about seven times in Norfolk since that date [1830]: - once in July, twice in September, twice in October, once in November, and once in December, nearly all of them being immature birds, and five of them being obtained in the Broad district.'

Comment Selby's hearsay probably refers to the 1810 and the pre 1831 Norfolk records.

10). 1831 Norfolk Near Great Yarmouth, immature, shot, undated, now at Castle Museum, Norwich.

(Paget & Paget, 1834; Stevenson, 1870).

History Paget & Paget (1834) say: 'Has been killed either three or four times. One Col. Montagu had [1810 Norfolk record]; another was sent to the British Museum by the Rev. George Lucas.'

Stevenson (1870 (2): 146) says: 'In Sir William Hooker's MS., also, under the name of "African Heron", the immature bird in the Norwich Museum (No. 202b), procured near Yarmouth, and presented by the Rev. G. W. Steward, is stated to have been killed in 1831.'

Comment J. D. Hoy in the Magazine of Natural History, Vol. X. p. 117 also refers to 'two or three individuals to have been met with in Norfolk within a few years'. The two in 1830 and this one for 1831.

11). 1833 Suffolk Oulton Broad, adult pair, male, shot, June; female, shot, 18th September, both in Castle Museum, Norwich.

(Stevenson, 1870; Ticehurst, 1932).

History Stevenson (1870 (2): 147) says: 'A magnificent pair, in full adult plumage, forming part of the late Mr. Lombe's collection at Wymondham, were both shot (as Mrs. Clarke informs me) on Oulton Broad, near Lowestoft, in the adjoining county, the male in June, 1833, and the female on the 10th of September of the same year.'

Admitted by Howard Saunders (1884-85 (4): 173, 4th ed.) in Yarrell's British Birds.

Babington (1884-86: 159) adds: '...both are in the Norwich Museum (J. H. Gurney, jun., in litt.).'

Accepted locally (Ticehurst 1932: 311).

13). 1833 Yorkshire Near Flamborough, immature, shot, undated, now in the Yorkshire Museum, York.

(Allis, 1844; Clarke & Roebuck, 1881; Nelson, 1907; Mather, 1986).

History Clarke & Roebuck (1881: 49) say: 'Flamborough, young bird shot in 1833 (Allis).' Nelson (1907) Vol. II. p. 391, says: 'The first known Yorkshire specimen of this bird is that referred to by Thomas Allis in 1844: - "Ardea purpurea. - Purple Heron - One shot near Flamborough in 1833, by Mr. Pick of that place, mentioned in F. O. Morris's catalogue of 'Yorkshire Birds', now in the collection of A. Strickland, Esq., is a specimen in young plumage and the only one we have heard of". It is now in the York Museum.'

Accepted locally (Nelson 1907; Mather 1986).

14). 1834 Norfolk Wretham Mere, May.

(Allard, per. comms.).

History No further details. See last paragraph of 1830 record whereby Saunders was told of one in May.

Comment There is no mention of this bird in Stevenson nor in the Transactions (1869-74).

15). 1835 Suffolk River Deben, King's Fleet, immature, shot, November.

(J. D. Hoy, Charlesworth's Magazine of Natural History 1: 116-117; Yarrell, 1845; Babington, 1884-86; Ticehurst, 1932).

History J. D. Hoy of Stoke Nayland (1837) in Charlesworth's Magazine of Natural History, Vol. I. pp. 116-117, says: '...some time in the month of November of the same year, a Purple-crested Heron (Ardea purpurea) was obtained on the borders of a large water, known by the name of King's Fleet, near the mouth of the Woodbridge river. The bird rose from the thick reeds which skirt the water, and was at first supposed to have been a Bittern by the person who shot it. From the redness of the plumage, it may be easily mistaken for the Bittern when first seen; and it has much of the habits of that bird in keeping much concealed in reeds and rushy swamps. I have known two other instances of this species of heron occurring in this county; and I have also known two or three individuals to have been met with in Norfolk, within a few years. This bird was in the plumage of the first year.'

Yarrell (1845 (2): 515, 2nd ed.) says: 'Mr. Hoy, in the Magazine of Natural History for 1837, Vol. X. p. 116, says: "some time in the month of November 1835, a Purple-crested Heron was obtained on the borders of a large piece of water, known by the name of King's Fleet, near the mouth of the Woodbridge river, in Suffolk. The bird rose from the thick reeds which skirt the water, and was at first supposed to have been a Bittern by the person who shot it. This bird was in the plumage of the first year. From the redness of its colours, at this age, it may be readily mistaken for the Bittern when first seen. I have known two other instances of this species of Heron occurring in this county; I have also known two or three individuals to have been met with in Norfolk, within a few years".'

Accepted locally (Babington 1884-86: 159; Ticehurst 1932: 311).

16). 1837 Oxfordshire Otmoor, immature, killed, winter.

(A. & H. Matthews, Zoologist 1849: 2600; E. H. Rodd, Transactions of the Penzance Natural History Society 1846: 87; Aplin, 1889; Radford, 1966).

History A. & H. Matthews (1849) in The Zoologist, 1st series, Vol. VII. p. 2600, under 'The Birds of Oxfordshire', say: 'A specimen of this rare bird was killed on Otmoor, in the winter of 1837, and is at present in the collection of Mr. Rodd, of Penzance.'

E. H. Rodd (1846) in the Transactions of the Penzance Natural History Society, p. 87, says: 'The immature bird was obtained from Oxfordshire some years since, and presented to me by a friend, as one of our rarest British birds.'

Accepted locally by Aplin (1889: 185) who adds: '...passed into the collection of the late Mr. E. H. Rodd, of Penzance, and is now in the possession of Mr. W. H. Vingoe, of that town, who had it in exchange from Mr. Rodd, as it was not a Cornish specimen. It is in immature plumage (W. H. Vingoe in litt.).' It was accepted locally (Radford 1966).

17). 1838 Kent Romney Marsh, immature, obtained, September.

(F. Plomley, Zoologist 1847: 1777; Ticehurst, 1909; Harrison, 1953; http://www.kentos.org.uk/Records/PurpleHeron.htmn).

History F. Plomley of Maidstone (1847) in The Zoologist, 1st series, Vol. V. p. 1777, dated 17th April 1847, says: '...I obtained a young bird from the same locality [Lydd, in Romney Marsh], in September, 1838.'

Accepted locally by Ticehurst (1909: 309) who adds that it is in the Dover Museum, and (Kent Ornithological Society).

18). 1839 Essex Near Maldon, shot, April.

(C. Walford, Essex Literary Journal 1839: 126; Christy, 1890; Glegg, 1929; G. A. Pyman, British Birds 47: 350; Hudson & Pyman, 1968; Cox, 1984; Wood, 2007).

History Christy (1890: 185) says: 'Mr. C. Walford recorded this bird in the Essex Literary Journal (p. 126) as being shot during the second week of April, 1839, in a wood near Maldon.' He adds: 'It was very low in flesh when killed, not weighing more than two pounds six ounces.'

G. A. Pyman (1954) in British Birds, Vol. XLVII. p. 350, says: 'The species has only once previously been recorded in Essex, the year being 1839.' Accepted locally (Cox 1984; Wood 2007).

19). c. 1842 Norfolk Near Great Yarmouth, immature, killed, undated.

(Stevenson, 1870; Babington, 1884-86).

History Stevenson (1870 (2): 147) says: 'An immature bird in Mr. Spalding's collection at Westleton, was purchased by him at Yarmouth between twenty and thirty years ago.' Babington (1884-86: 159) says: 'Another was killed near the same place [Great Yarmouth] about 1842 (Lot 362 in Mr. Spalding's sale).'

20). 1846 Cornwall Killiow House, Kea, near Truro, adult, killed, 9th April.

(E. H. Rodd, Zoologist 1846: 1331; Anon., Transactions of the Penzance Natural History Society 1: 417; Harting, 1880; Penhallurick, 1969).

History E. H. Rodd of Penzance (1846) in The Zoologist, 1st series, Vol. IV. p. 1331, dated 11th April 1846, says: 'I have seen this afternoon a very perfect and adult specimen of the Purple Crested Heron (A. purpurea), which was killed two days ago in a small sedgy grove under Killiow House, the residence of William Daubuz, Esq., about two miles westward of Truro.

That gentleman has written to me announcing his having sent the bird for preservation to Mr. Vingoe of this place, and I have in consequence had a good opportunity of examining it. It is in every respect in perfect plumage, and all its plumes are uninjured. It was seen flying about the grove, where there are two large ponds, on Monday last.

In condition, the bird is extremely emaciated. Does not the appellation "purpurea" claim a "lucus non lucendo" as regards the heron? I never saw less purple about any bird. How much more apposite is Latham's term rufa.'

Anon. (1850) in the Transactions of the Penzance Natural History Society, 1st series, Vol. I. p. 417, says: 'Purple Heron. Killiow, Kea; Trevider, St. Buryan, two adult examples last few years.'

Harting, Editor (1880) in Rodd's Birds of Cornwall, says: 'In a sedgy grove, where there are two ponds on the property of Mr. William Daubaz at Killiow House, near Truro, an adult Purple Heron was shot, which I had an opportunity of examining while in the hands of Mr. Vingoe for preservation. It was in perfect plumage, but in a very emaciated condition, having probably only just arrived after a long passage.'

Accepted locally (Penhallurick 1969).

Comment "lucus non lucendo" meaning 'an illogical explanation or absurd derivation'. Thursday 9th April 1846.

21). Pre 1847 Devon Aveton Gifford, immature, shot, undated.

(Rowe, 1848; Bewick, 1885; D'Urban & Mathew, 1892; Tyler, 2010).

History Rowe (1848: 233) under 'Supplementary List' says: 'A specimen shot near Aveton Gifford, was sold at the Rev. Mr. Vaughan's sale, in March, 1847.'

Bewick (1885 (2): 40-41, Memorial Edition) says: 'Is rather less than the common Heron. Length, two feet ten inches and a half. The bill, from the tip to the brow, is about four inches and six eighths; the upper mandible dusky, edged with yellow; the under one, the bare space, or lore, to the eyes, and the irides, are also yellow; the upper part of the head is glossy black, and crested, with the two middle feathers elongated about three and a half inches beyond the rest; the chin and throat are white; neck, rusty yellow and white; the sides of the head reddish yellow, divided from the corners of the mouth by a black line which is extended to the hinder part of the head, and continued down the neck; another black line nearly joins this, on the cheeks, and falls down on the side of the neck, where it inclines forward and meets those feathers, marked with lengthened black and white spots, which occupy the front of the neck; there, joining with those very long pendent ones, striped in the middle with black, and edged with white, that cover the lower part of the neck, they fall over the breast, and, ending in long loose white filaments, reach nearly to the thighs: the breast is of a bright rich deep reddish chestnut; thighs and ridge of the wing, pale chestnut and white: from the lower part of the breast, to the vent, is a stripe of black, somewhat broken, with others of bay and white; the under tail coverts are streaked with black and white; the upper plumage is ash, of deeper and lighter shades, and somewhat tinged with brown; the scapulars are terminated with long narrow feathers of a light rufous chestnut; the secondaries are of an ash-blue, and so long as to cover the tail, which is also of the same colour; the primaries are deep blue black; the legs appear dusky before, and are yellow behind, and above the knee the same: the toes are dusky and long, the nail of the middle ones serrated.

The bird from which our figure was made was lent to this work by the Rev. Keir [sic] Vaughan, rector of Aveton Gifford, Devon: it had not any purple in its plumage, and why ornithologists have named it as above, we are at a loss to know.'

D'Urban & Mathew (1895: 183, 2nd ed.) say: 'The third was shot near Aveton Gifford, and was sold at the Rev. Kerr Vaughan's sale in March 1847, and is now in the possession of Mrs. Elliott of Tresillian House, Kingsbridge, having been purchased by her husband the late Mr. J. Elliot. This specimen was forwarded to Bewick, and figured by him (E.M., Trans. Plym. Inst., 1830; Mag. Nat. Hist., 1837; Rowe's, Peramb. Dartmoor, 1848; E.A.S.E., MS. Notes).'

Tyler (2010) states it was an immature.

Comment Although it lacks a precise date it has a description from Bewick and is considered a valid record.

22). 1847 Kent Romney Marsh, adult, shot, 29th March.

(F. Plomley, Zoologist 1847: 1777; Ticehurst, 1909; Harrison, 1953; http://www.kentos.org.uk/Records/PurpleHeron.htm).

History F. Plomley of Maidstone (1847) in The Zoologist, 1st series, Vol. V. p. 1777, dated 17th April, 1847, says: 'A splendid specimen of the African or Purple Heron in the most perfect plumage, was shot at Lydd, in Romney Marsh, March 29th, and is now in my possession; I obtained a young bird from the same locality, in September, 1838.'

Accepted locally by Ticehurst (1909: 309) who adds that it is the Dover Museum, and (Kent Ornithological Society).

23). 1847 Yorkshire Lowthorpe, shot, spring.

(F. O. Morris, Zoologist 1849: 2591; F. O. Morris, Field 24th Dec., 1858: 518; Cordeaux, 1872; Clarke & Roebuck, 1881; Nelson, 1907; Mather, 1986).

History F. O. Morris of Driffield (1849) in The Zoologist, 1st series, Vol. VII. p. 2591, dated 20th September, 1849, says: 'A remarkably fine specimen of the Purple Heron was recently shot by the stream at Lowthorpe, near here; and is now in the collection of Mr. Thompson, farmer, of Harpham, in the adjoining parish of Burton Agnes.'

F. O. Morris (1858) in The Field of 24th Dec., Vol. XII. p. 518, says: 'I have no doubt that the specimen [Eagle sp.] mentioned as having been killed at Cattleholmes, near Driffield, is one which was seen here a few weeks ago, and was noticed several times in different parts of this parish, and more than once on the glebe land near the rectory by members of my family....Mr. R. Thompson, of Harpham, seems fortunate in meeting with rare birds. Some years ago I saw at his house a specimen of the Purple Heron, which had been killed on the Lowthorpe stream, near Harpham.'

Accepted locally (Cordeaux 1872: 103; Clarke & Roebuck 1881: 49) while Nelson (1907 (2): 391) adds: 'One occurred in some old fish-ponds at Lowthorpe in the spring of 1847 (Zoologist 1849, p. 2591). Mr. St. Quentin informs me this bird is in his possession, and placed at the Lowthorpe Lodge.' Also, still accepted locally (Mather 1986).

Comment Slight difference in the date. I would have assumed "recently" to have been in the same year at least.

24). Pre 1848 Dorset Hyde, Bere Regis, shot, undated.

(Mansel-Pleydell, 1873, 1888; F. L. Blathwayt, Proceedings of the Dorset Natural History and Antiquarian Society 55: 187).

History Mansel-Pleydell (1873: 28) says: 'Mr. Radclyffe shot one at Hyde some years ago, which, passing into the possession of Mr. C. B. Henning, was deposited by him in the County Museum [Dorchester].'

Admitted locally by F. L. Blathwayt (1934) in the Proceedings of the Dorset Natural History and Antiquarian Society, Vol. LV. p. 187, under 'A Revised List of the Birds of Dorset'.

25). 1848 Sussex Worthing, shot, 28th September.

(Knox, 1849; Yarrell, 1871-85; Borrer, 1891; Walpole-Bond, 1938; James, 1996).

History Knox (1849: 222, 1st ed.) says: 'An example of this rare heron was shot on the 28th of September, 1848, at Worthing, by a gentleman the name of Paul. It was preserved by Mr. Andrews of that town, and is now in the museum of the Cambridge Philosophical Society.'

Admitted by Howard Saunders (1884-85 (4): 173, 4th ed.) in Yarrell's British Birds.

Accepted locally (Borrer 1891: 314; Walpole-Bond 1938 (2): 338; James 1996).

26). 1848 Dorset Near Dorchester, shot, undated.

(Mansel-Pleydell, 1873, 1888; F. L. Blathwayt, Proceedings of the Dorset Natural History and Antiquarian Society 55: 187; Prendergast & Boys, 1983).

History Mansel-Pleydell (1873: 28) says: 'Mr. Henning had a second specimen in his collection, purchased in the year 1848, which had been shot near Dorchester (Mr. [W]. Thompson).' Later, Mansel-Pleydell (1888: 129, 2nd ed.) says: 'Was procured in the neighbourhood of Dorchester in 1848.'

Admitted by F. L. Blathwayt (1934) in the Proceedings of the Dorset Natural History and Antiquarian Society, Vol. LV. p. 187, under 'A Revised List of the Birds of Dorset'.

27). 1850 Cornwall Trevider, St Buryan, adult male, shot, 8th April.

(E. H. Rodd, Zoologist 1850: 2800; Anon., Transactions of the Penzance Natural History Society 1850: 417; Newman, 1866; Blight, 1876; Harting, 1880; Penhallurick, 1969, 1978).

History Anon. (1850) in the Transactions of the Penzance Natural History Society, Vol. I. 1st series, p. 417, says: 'Purple Heron. Killiow, Kea; Trevider, St. Buryan, two adult examples last few years.'

E. H. Rodd of Penzance (1850) in The Zoologist, 1st series, Vol. VIII. p. 2800, dated 8th April 1850, says: 'I received this morning a bird of this species, in full adult plumage, which was shot in the parish of St. Buryan. The occipital, frontal, and dorsal plumes are in perfect development, and I cannot conceive a finer example. The length, from the tip of the bill to the end of the tail, 3 feet 1¾ inches; weight 2lbs. 14 oz. I have given the length, as it varies as much from that given by Mr. Yarrell in his description, that the difference is remarkable, showing that there must be an error in the latter's description, when he says: "whole length from the beak to the end of the tail is 29 inches".'

Harting, Editor (1880) in Rodd's Birds of Cornwall, adds: 'On the 8th April 1850, I received another adult bird of this species which was shot at Trevider, in the parish of St. Buryan, about five miles from the Land's End.

It was in beautiful plumage, the occipital and dorsal plumes being fully developed, and weighed 2 lbs. 14 oz. The length from the tip of the bill to the extremity of the tail was 3 ft. 1¾ in., which I mention here, because it differs so materially from the measurement given by Yarrell, who states that the whole length from the beak to the end of the tail is 29 inches. In this I suspect there must be some mistake.'

Penhallurick (1969: 59) adds: 'One shot at St Buryan - probably the specimen from Trewoofe Valley (Blight, 1876).'

Accepted locally by Penhallurick (1978: 412) under 'Supplement' who adds: '1850. This specimen, a fine male, was shot in April (R. Q. Couch MS.).'

28). 1850 Yorkshire Temple Thorpe, Swillington, near Leeds, male, shot, 24th May.

(B. R. Morris, Morris and Bree's Naturalist 1: 70; Clarke & Roebuck, 1881; Nelson, 1907; Wilson & Slack, 1996).

History Beverley R. Morris, Editor (1851) in Morris and Bree's edition of The Naturalist, Vol. I. p. 70, dated 27th March, 1851, says: 'I am informed by H. Denny, Esq., of Leeds, that a fine male specimen of this bird was shot on the 24th of May last, in a field at Temple Thorpe, near Leeds, by Mr. Henry Joy, the owner of the farm, who had observed it two or three times the same day in different fields. Mr. Denny saw it the same afternoon.'

Accepted locally (Clarke & Roebuck 1881: 49; Nelson 1907 (2): 391).

Comment In the 1851 census of Yorkshire there are just three Henry Joy's: a Blanket Raiser aged 34, a Mill Hand aged 26, and a Coal and Lime Agent aged 32 !!! Denny was the Curator of the Philosophical Hall and Leeds Museum.

29). c. 1850 Cumbria Near Alston, shot, undated.

(Gould, 1862-73; Yarrell, 1871-85; Macpherson, 1892; Hutcheson, 1986).

History John Gould (1862-73 (4): unpaged) in his Birds of Great Britain, says: 'In a note I received dated 21st November, 1870, from Mr. R. C. Musgrave, Eden Hall, Penrith, a specimen of the Purple Heron in his father's collection was shot about twenty years ago near Alston, Cumberland.'

Admitted by Howard Saunders (1884-85 (4): 173, 4th ed.) in Yarrell's British Birds.

Macpherson (1892: 225) adds: 'A full-dressed bird of the species still exists at Edenhall, and I believe this to be the identical bird to which Gould made reference.' Accepted locally (Hutcheson 1986).

30). 1851 Sussex Catsfield, immature, shot, October.

(J. B. Ellman, Zoologist 1852: 3330; Newman, 1866; Borrer, 1891; Walpole-Bond, 1938; James, 1996).

History J. B. Ellman of Lewes (1852) in The Zoologist, 1st series, Vol. X. p. 3330, dated 18th November, 1851, says: 'An immature specimen of this bird was shot at the above place [Catsfield] last month, and is now in the possession of a gentleman at Hastings.'

Borrer (1891: 314) after quoting the above, says: 'He bought it at the sale of Mr. Ellman's birds. Mr. Potter, formerly a birdstuffer at Lewes, writing to me in February 1890, says that this example was brought to him in the flesh, by a person who stated that a neighbour of his had shot it, and that he asked him to take it to him, and ascertain what he would charge for stuffing it. He did not like the price, and Mr. Potter continues, "As the pendants of the crest were not perfect, I doubted whether it was a mature bird, and offered 5s. for it, saying I would send him another 5s. if I found it was mature, which I did, to his address at Buxted, near which place he said it was shot. I have forgotten the name and address".'

Walpole-Bond (1938 (2): 338) says: 'Over the third example, procured in October, 1851, there appear to be decided discrepancies in other details. For we are first told (by Mr. J. B. Ellman) that it was an immature and killed at Catsfield, and then (by Borrer per Mr. Porter, who stuffed it) that it was an adult, with near Buxted, twelve good miles from the other place, as the scene of death. Readers must pick their own way. But I, for my part, favour Ellman's version, because he recorded the event shortly after it happened. Whereas Porter's communication was made nearly forty years later, and unless he was in the habit of keeping strict data it is more than likely that his memory after so long a lapse of time would have been of little service.' Accepted locally (James 1996).

31). Pre 1854 Cambridgeshire Near Ely, shot, undated, now at Wisbech Museum.

(Lack, 1934; Bircham, 1989).

History Lack (1934: 80) says: 'This specimen was shot near Ely, and was purchased for the Wisbech Museum in 1854.'

Accepted locally (Bircham 1989).

32). 1854 Lincolnshire Near Lincoln, immature, shot, winter.

(F. M. Burton, Morris and Bree's Naturalist 5: 216; Cordeaux, 1872; Yarrell, 1871-85; Lorand & Atkin, 1989).

History F. M. Burton of Uppingham (1855) in Morris and Bree's edition of The Naturalist, Vol. V. p. 216, dated 12th March, 1855, says: 'A young bird of this species was shot close to Lincoln, in the winter of 1854.'

Cordeaux (1872: 103) says: 'Mr. Adrian, of Lincoln, says that some years since he stuffed a Purple Heron, killed by the Rev. J. Metcalf at Hykeham on the River Witham, near Lincoln, and that it is now in the possession of Mr. Broadbent of that city.'

Admitted by Howard Saunders (1884-85 (4): 173, 4th ed.) in Yarrell's British Birds, who merely says: 'In Lincolnshire one was shot on the Witham.' It was accepted locally (Lorand & Atkin 1989).

Comment All references presumed to relate to the same specimen.

33). 1856 Derbyshire/Staffordshire River Trent, Wetmore, male, killed, 1st July.

(Mosley, 1863; McAldowie, 1893; Whitlock, 1893; Smith, 1939; Frost, 1978; Harrison et al., 1982; Harrison & Harrison, 2005).

History Edwin Brown in Mosley (1863: 53) says: 'That beautiful and rare bird, known as the Purple Heron, was shot near Burton in July 1856. I am not aware that any other specimen has been obtained in the midland counties.' Further, p. 105, he adds: 'A fine male individual of this beautiful species was shot at Wetmore on the 1st of July, 1856, and is in my possession.'

Whitlock (1893: 154) says: 'Mr. E. Brown writes: - "A fine male individual of this beautiful species was shot at Wetmore on the 1st July, 1856, and is in my possession (Natural History of Tutbury)". Mr. Chas. Hanson tells me the above example was killed by Mr. Chas. Smith, a farmer, now living. It was shot as it sat in a pollard willow on the banks of the Trent; Mr. Hanson thinks on the Derbyshire side. The date is rather remarkable.'

Accepted locally for Staffordshire (Smith 1939: 177; Harrison & Harrison 2005) and for Derbyshire (Frost 1978).

34). c. 1856 Norfolk/Suffolk Breydon Water, obtained, undated.

(A. H. Patterson, Zoologist 1900: 413-414; Allard, 1990).

History A. H. Patterson (1900) in The Zoologist, 4th series, Vol. IV. pp. 413-414, says: 'An example, "Breydon, 1856 or 1857, Connop Catalogue".' Accepted locally (Allard 1990).

35). 1857 Cornwall/Devon River Tamar, immature, obtained, late October.

(J. Gatcombe, Zoologist 1859: 6376; J. Brooking Rowe, Transactions of the Plymouth Institution 1862-63: 74; Yarrell, 1871-85; Penhallurick, 1969; Moore, 1969).

History J. Gatcombe of Plymouth (1859) in The Zoologist, 1st series, Vol. XVII. p. 6376, dated 15th January, 1859, says: 'Purple Heron - On the 30th of October, 1857, I bought an immature bird of this species at the shop of a poulterer in Stonehouse.'

J. Brooking Rowe (1862-63) in the Transactions of the Plymouth Institution, Vol. I. p. 74, says: 'Several specimens have from time to time been obtained. The last was an immature bird procured by Mr. Gatcombe, in October, 1857, from the Tamar.'

Admitted by Howard Saunders (1884-85 (4): 173, 4th ed.) in Yarrell's British Birds.

D'Urban & Matthew (1892: 183-184) say: 'Mr. Gatcombe purchased a specimen he saw hanging up in a poulterer's shop in Stonehouse, which had been shot on the Tamar, Oct. 30th, 1851 (Zool., 1859, p. 6376).'

Accepted locally for Cornwall (Penhallurick 1969) and for Devon (Moore 1969).

36). 1860 Yorkshire Ruswarp Dam, immature, shot, summer, now at Whitby Museum.

(Clarke & Roebuck, 1881; Nelson, 1907; Mather, 1986).

History Clarke & Roebuck (1881: 49) say: 'Ruswarp, near Whitby, one, mature, shot, summer of 1850, in the Whitby Museum (Stephenson, MS.).' Nelson (1907 (2): 391) says: 'Mr. Thomas Stephenson states that an immature bird was obtained in the summer of 1860, by Joshua Barry, at Ruswarp Dam, and was stuffed by J. Kitching. This specimen is now in the Whitby Museum.'

Comment Difference in the year! Thomas Stephenson (1833-1916) Solicitor, see Naturalist 1916: 171-2.

37). 1861 Berkshire Near White Waltham, immature female, shot, September.

(Clark Kennedy, 1868; Fraser & Youngman, 1976).

History Clark Kennedy (1868: 185) says: 'An immature female of this species was shot near White Waltham, not far from Windsor, early in September, 1861. It was taken by the man who killed it to Mr. Hasell, one of the Windsor birdstuffers, from whom I learnt the particulars of its capture.' Accepted locally (Fraser & Youngman 1976).

38). 1862 Norfolk Hoveton Great Broad, immature female, shot, 1st July.

("Botaurus Stellaris" Field 12th July 1862: 35-36; H. Stevenson, Zoologist 1863: 8329-30; Stevenson, 1870).

History "Botaurus Stellaris" (1862) in The Field of 12th July, Vol. XX. pp. 35-36, says: 'Within the last fortnight a Purple Heron was shot at Hoveton, in the county of Norfolk, by a Mr. Blomefield. The Purple Heron is a very nice bird, very few ever having been obtained in England. It is at present in the hands of Mr. Sazer [sic], bird and animal preserver of Norwich.'

H. Stevenson of Norwich (1863) in The Zoologist, 1st series, Vol. XXI. pp. 8329-30, undated, says: 'On the 1st of July an immature Purple Heron was shot on Hoveton Broad. This bird was extremely fat, both internally and externally, and was, I believe, a young female, there being no perceptible indications of sexual distinctions. I found the remains of two good-sized roach in the stomach, one at least five inches long.'

Stevenson (1870 (2): 147) adds: '...shot on Hoveton Broad by Lord Lilford, who, with a small party, was "flapper" shooting at the time. On rising from a reed-bush it was at first mistaken for a Bittern, but as it flew wounded round the broad, it was recognised by him, from its reddish tints, as a Purple Heron; and on cautiously approaching the spot where it was seen to slight, the bird was found nearly dead.

On dissecting this specimen, now in the possession of the Rev. T. J. Blofeld, at Hoveton....it was a young female, and presented the following appearance in its immature plumage. A slight red crest on the head, the dark lines down the front of the neck distinctly marked by young reddish feathers, just shooting, blended with black longitudinal blotches, becoming brown of the breast; cere (when dead) greenish; bill yellowish-green; quill feathers of the wings and tails perfect, of a purplish blue colour like the bloom on a plum; wing-coverts and back tawny, but the hackles, just showing, of a reddish tint; the bare portions of the tibia bright yellow all round, the tarsi dark brown in front, the posterior portions yellow, as also the under surface of the feet; the "feather-tracks" on the breast and on the lower part of the back composed of bright yellow patches of down-like floss silk.'

Comment John Sayer, taxidermist, of Norwich.

39). c. 1862 Kent Romney Marsh, immature, obtained, undated.

(Ticehurst, 1909; Harrison, 1953; http://www.kentos.org.uk/Records/PurpleHeron.htm).

History Ticehurst (1909: 310) says: 'A second immature bird, now in the collection of Mr. T. Daws, of Ewhurst, was obtained at Fairfield Brack, in Romney Marsh, about the year 1862. It was shot by one of the Wellsteads, a family of "lookers" in that district and at that time in the employ of the late W. W. Daws. When I saw this bird in 1897 I found that the case containing it had been broken and the bird had been almost completely destroyed by moth.'

Still accepted locally (Kent Ornithological Society).

40). 1863 Yorkshire Hornsea Mere, immature male, shot, July, now at Hull Museum.

(Cordeaux, 1872; Clarke & Roebuck, 1881; Nelson, 1907; G. Bolam, Naturalist 39: 59; Mather, 1986).

History Cordeaux (1872: 103) says: 'Another in good plumage, but not fully mature, as Mr. Boynton informs me, and now the property of Mr. Thos. Ellotson, of Bridlington, was killed on Hornsea Mere, by W. Welburn, gamekeeper to H. S. Constable, Esq., of Wassand, in July, 1863.'

Clarke & Roebuck (1881: 49) say: 'Hornsea Mere, one, July, 1863, in the collection of Sir H. S. Boynton (T. Boynton, MS.).'

Nelson (1907 (2): 391) says: 'A male example, taken in July, 1862, by W. Wellburn, gamekeeper, at Hornsea Mere, is in the Burton Agnes collection, formed by the late Sir Henry Boynton, where I have had an opportunity of seeing it.'

George Bolam (1913) in the new series of The Naturalist, Vol. XXXIX. p. 59, says: 'Mr. Sheppard has been good enough to draw my attention to the fact that there is a male Purple Heron in the Hull Museum, which was shot on Hornsea Mere in 1862.'

Accepted locally by Mather (1986) who states it was shot by W. Wellman the gamekeeper at Hornsea Mere.

Comment All notices probably refer to the same individual as T. Boynton lived at Hull.

41). 1865 Norfolk Ludham, immature male, shot, late October.

(H. Stevenson, Zoologist 1866: 85; T. E. Gunn, Naturalist 1866: 296; Stevenson, 1870; Patterson, 1905).

History Henry Stevenson of Norwich (1866) in The Zoologist, 2nd series, Vol. I. p. 85, dated January, 1866, says: 'On the 28th of October an immature Purple Heron, a rare visitant to this county, was purchased in our fish market, having been killed on Ludham Broad; it proved, on dissection, to be a male, a bird of the year, and weighed two pounds three ounces: the stomach contained merely a dry pellet of mouse hair.'

However, T. E. Gunn (1866) in The Naturalist, Vol. II. p. 296, says: 'An immature bird of this species was purchased in our fishmarket during the latter part of September last.'

Stevenson (1870 (2): 147) adds: 'A young bird, in my own collection, was purchased in the Norwich fish market by Mr. S. Bligh, where it was hanging up in a perfectly fresh state together with a fine Bittern.'

42). 1867 Cornwall The Lizard, immature female, obtained, about 23rd April.

(E. H. Rodd, Zoologist 1867: 829-830; Harting, 1880; Penhallurick, 1969).

History E. H. Rodd of Penzance (1867) in The Zoologist, 2nd series, Vol. II. pp. 829-830, dated 24th April, 1867, says 'I saw a female specimen today of this fine heron with Mr. Vingoe, who had just received it from the Rev. Mr. Robinson, the Rector of the parish in which the Lizard Point is situated. The ovary contained a large bunch of eggs, varying in size from swan-shot to dust-shot. The plumage of the bird is that described as the immature state, exhibiting generally brown rufous tints, especially the neck, which is bay-red. I observe the colour of the legs of this species is not given by Yarrell, Montagu, Selby, Jenyns or Morris. The naked part of the thigh (tibia) is bright-yellow, extending to and a little below the tarsal joint; from thence this colour descends all the way down on the hinder portion of the tarsus, the front being down.

I am not sufficiently acquainted with the stages of plumage of this species, nor of the actual difference in the plumage of the adult of both sexes, to say whether the female is even adorned with the plumes, crest, dorsal filaments and other characteristics which belong to the adult male, two specimens of which, in the most perfect plumage, I have received from the neighbourhood, as previously recorded in The Zoologist.

At all events, if three years are necessary to complete this perfect plumage, the state of plumage of the present example must not be regarded as that of the female bird, as a matter of course, although the ovary shows that it is not a young bird.'

Accepted locally (Penhallurick 1969).

43). 1868 Nottinghamshire Clifton, shot, undated.

(Sterland & Whitaker, 1879; Yarrell, 1871-85; Whitaker, 1907).

History Sterland & Whitaker (1879: 49) say: 'One of these fine birds has been killed in the county at Clifton, on the Trent in 1868.'

Admitted by Howard Saunders (1884-85 (4): 173, 4th ed.) in Yarrell's British Birds, who says: 'In Nottinghamshire one was killed at Clifton, on the Trent, in 1868.'

Whitaker (1907) says: 'In 1868 one of these rare stragglers was shot at Clifton, near Nottingham.'

44). 1871 Norfolk Horning, immature female, killed, 4th December.

(H. Stevenson & J. H. Gurney, jun., Zoologist 1872: 2982; H. Stevenson, Transactions of the Norfolk & Norwich Naturalists' Society 1: 65; Riviere, 1930).

History H. Stevenson & J. H. Gurney, jun. (1872) in The Zoologist, 2nd series, Vol. VII. p. 2982, say: 'A very young female Purple Heron, in good condition and in an interesting state of plumage, was shot at Horning, on, I believe, the 4th, on which day a Snowy Owl, already recorded (Zool., s.s. 2912) was shot at Southrepps. The specimen was taken to Mr. Roberts, of whom I bought it: he found in its stomach two mice.

Only two occurrences are mentioned in the Birds of Norfolk, in the last thirty-nine years, which shows how rare this species has become, like the Squacco Heron, the Night Heron, &c., which were all most plentiful fifty years ago, judging from the records which remain to us, and which are all given in the work just quoted.'

H. Stevenson (1869-74) in the Transactions of the Norfolk & Norwich Naturalists' Society, Vol. I. p. 65, says: 'Amongst the rarer birds obtained in this county during the past year may be recorded...a young Purple Heron, now in the collection of Mr. J. H. Gurney, jun., killed at Horning, on the 4th of December.'

45). 1872 North-east Scotland Near Donmouth, Aberdeenshire, immature male, shot, 28th September, now at Aberdeen University Zoology Museum (ABDUZ 25.223).

(H. O. Forbes, Scottish Naturalist 2: 10; R. Gray, History of the Berwickshire Naturalists' Club 7: 464; H. M. Drummond Hay, Scottish Naturalist 8: 367; Sim, 1903; Thom, 1986; Forrester & Andrews et al., 2007).

History H. O. Forbes of Aberdeen (1873-74) in the Scottish Naturalist, Vol. II. p. 10, says: 'About the 28th of September last [1872] a specimen of this very rare bird was shot on the links at Aberdeen by an individual who was gull-shooting, and on its being brought to the Natural History Museum of the University, I had the opportunity of examining it. It is a young male, and is a very fine specimen. This is the second recorded occurrence in Scotland as far as known to me, the only other instance is recorded by Dr. MacGillivray, from Monquhitter, Aberdeenshire, on 18th June, 1847.' [Another young Purple Heron (in first year's plumage) was recently shot in Haddingtonshire. - Ed.]

Robert Gray (1873-75) in the History of the Berwickshire Naturalists' Club, Vol. VII. p. 464, says: 'An immature female bird of this species was shot near Dalkeith, on 21st October, 1872. As the Purple Heron is a bird of extreme rarity in Scotland, I may be allowed this opportunity of mentioning that five days previously, namely, on the 16th of October, one, also in immature plumage, was shot on the old links at Aberdeen, and is now in the College Museum of that city. I am indebted to Mr. George Sim for a note of the occurrence.'

H. M. Drummond Hay (1885-86) in the Scottish Naturalist, Vol. VIII. p. 367, says: 'On 28th Sep., 1872, a young male, now in Aberdeen University Museum, was shot on the Aberdeen Links (fide H. O. Forbes).'

Sim (1903: 138) says: '...one was shot near Don-mouth, October 29th [sic], 1872, and is now in Aberdeen University Museum.' Witherby et al. (1940-52) say: '...one stated obtained Aberdeen c.1872 is in Aberdeen University Museum.'

Accepted nationally as the first for Scotland (Forrester & Andrews et al. 2007).

Comment Andy Thorpe located this specimen in the Aberdeen University Museum (February, 2002).

46). 1872 Lothian Prestongrange, juvenile female, shot, 21st October, now at National Museums of Scotland (NMSZ 1925.170).

(R. Gray, History of the Berwickshire Naturalists' Club 7: 464; Saunders, 1889, 1899; Bolam, 1912; Rintoul & Baxter, 1935; Thom, 1986; Forrester & Andrews et al., 2007).

History Robert Gray (1873-75) in the History of the Berwickshire Naturalists' Club, Vol. VII. p. 464, says: 'An immature female bird of this species was shot near Dalkeith, on 21st October, 1872.'

Saunders (1899: 369, 2nd ed.) says: 'W. Evans has a young bird shot near Prestonpans, East Lothian in October 1872.'

Rintoul & Baxter (1935: 247) say: 'A young female was shot at Prestongrange, near Prestonpans, on 21st October 1872.' Accepted nationally (Witherby et al. 1940-52) and for Scotland by Forrester & Andrews et al. (2007) who add that it is now at National Museums of Scotland (NMSZ 1925.170).

Comment There seems to be nothing else written about this bird.

47). 1875 Hampshire Ashley Farm, Stockbridge, adult male, obtained, 30th June, now at Leicester Museum (L.Z252.1982.742.0).

(Kelsall & Munn, 1905; Clarke & Eyre, 1993; Clark, 2022).

History Kelsall & Munn (1905: 198) say: 'In the Hart collection at Christchurch, there is a specimen procured at Ashley Farm, near Stockbridge, June 30th, 1875.' It was accepted locally (Clarke & Eyre 1993). Clark (2022) adds that this adult male was obtained by Mr. F. Stevens and is now at Leicester Museum.

48). 1875 Norfolk Near Hingham, juvenile female, shot, about 25th September.

(F. O. Morris, Land and Water, 23rd Oct., 1875; H. Stevenson, Zoologist 1876: 4775-76; T. E. Gunn, Zoologist 1876: 4787-88; H. Stevenson, Zoologist 1876: 4843; H. Stevenson, Transactions of the Norfolk & Norwich Naturalists' Society 2: 214; Riviere, 1930).

History H. Stevenson of Norwich (1876) in The Zoologist, 2nd series, Vol. XI. pp. 4775-76, dated 28th December, 1875, says: 'October. A young bird of this species, as recorded by Lord Kimberley in Land and Water of October 23rd, was shot in a field on his estate at Hingham, near Kimberley, just prior to the 15th.'

H. Stevenson (1874-79) in the Transactions of the Norfolk & Norwich Naturalists' Society, Vol. II. p. 214, says: 'A young female in its first year's plumage was shot in a marsh near Hingham, on or about the 25th of September, and is now in Lord Kimberley's collection.'

T. E. Gunn of Norwich (1876) in The Zoologist, 2nd series, Vol. XI. pp. 4787-88, dated 8th January 1876, says: 'Purple Heron. This is a very rare species in Norfolk: two examples only have passed under my notice previous to this season. On the 25th September last, an immature specimen, and very probably a bird of the year, was shot at Hingham, by Mr. Muskett, of that town, and presented by him to the Earl of Kimberley, who brought it to me himself the following day to be preserved for his Lordship's collection.

His Lordship informed me that when first flushed by Mr. Muskett (who was Snipe-shooting at the time) it rose from a drain, and having the appearance of a rather strange looking bird to him, he marked the place where it alighted, which was on the edge of another marsh-drain, and with the assistance of a friend who was with him at the time it was again flushed, when a successful shot was made.

It is a female bird, and very fat. Its stomach contained a little brackish matter and a few hairs, apparently from the coat of a water vole. It is in precisely the same state of plumage as the other two Norfolk examples I have referred to.

The following are its principal dimension: - Total length, beak and tail included, 35 inches; wing, carpal joint to tip, 14 inches; fully extended wings, to extreme tip of each, 4 feet 4 inches; bill along ridge of upper mandible, 4½ inches; tibia, 7 inches; tarsus, 4½ inches; middle toe and claw, 4⅞ inches; inner toe and claw, 3¾ inches; outer toe and claw, 4⅛ inches; hinder toe and claw, 3 inches; tail, 4¾ inches; hind claw or curve, 1¼ inches; weight, 2lbs. The second, third and fourth primary quill-feathers are of equal length and longest in the wing; the first and fifth of equal length, but shorter than the above named.'

H. Stevenson (1876) in The Zoologist, 2nd series, Vol. XI. p. 4843, dated 21st February 1876, adds: 'In my note on the species in the last number of the Zoologist (s.s. 4778), I described the bird as "recorded by Lord Kimberley in Land and Water of October 23rd", whereas I should have said, recorded by the Rev. F. O. Morris, on the authority of Lord Kimberley.

His Lordship, in a letter to Mr. Morris, dated October 15th, announces the capture of a heron as "a few days ago", and not being aware of the exact date on which it was shot, I stated in my note it was just prior to the 15th, the date of Lord Kimberley's letter. Mr. Gunn, however, in his record of the same bird (s.s. 4787), says it was killed on the 25th of September, and brought to him the next day in the flesh, by Lord Kimberley.

I draw attention to the discrepancy in the above statements, because the date of the capture of a rare species is often important, and it seems strange that Lord Kimberley should have written on the 15th of October that the bird was killed "a few days ago", if it was procured just three weeks before.'

49). c. 1875 Suffolk North Cove, immature, shot, undated.

(Babington, 1884-86; Ticehurst, 1932).

History Babington (1884-86: 159) says: 'An immature bird is mentioned by Mr. Everitt as having been shot in 1875, probably in the neighbourhood of North Cove (Creed, in litt.).' Accepted locally (Ticehurst 1932: 311).

50). 1876 Norfolk Ranworth Broad, immature, killed, 10th November.

(H. Stevenson, Zoologist 1877: 98; H. Stevenson, Transactions of the Norfolk & Norwich Naturalists' Society 2: 317; Riviere, 1930).

History Henry Stevenson (1877) in The Zoologist, 3rd series, Vol. I. p. 98, says: 'November. Purple Heron. A young bird of the year was killed at Ranworth on the 10th. It had been previously shot at and wounded in the leg.'

51). 1876 Kent Romney Marsh, immature, obtained, undated, now at Rochester Museum.

(Ticehurst, 1909; Harrison, 1953; http://www.kentos.org.uk/Records/PurpleHeron.htm).

History Ticehurst (1909: 310) says: 'In this gentleman's [Prentis] collection, now at Rochester, there is another immature bird which was shot in Romney Marsh, near Ham Street, by Edgar Kingsnorth in 1876.'

Accepted locally (Kent Ornithological Society).

52). 1878 Isles of Scilly St Mary's, immature, shot, 30th August.

(E. H. Rodd, Zoologist 1878: 391; E. H. Rodd, Zoologist 1879: 130-131; Harting, 1880; Yarrell, 1871-85; R. W. J. Smart, Transactions of the Penzance Natural History Society 1888: 173; J. Clark & F. R. Rodd, Zoologist 1906: 301; Penhallurick, 1969).

History Edward Hearle Rodd of Penzance (1878) in The Zoologist, 3rd series, Vol. II. p. 391, says: 'On September 2nd, I received from Mr. Smith, the Lord Proprietor of the Scilly Islands, a good specimen of the Purple Crested Heron, in its rufous immature plumage, in good condition. A minute description of the plumage of the bird is unnecessary; but I may remark that the top of the head, instead of being black, was of a beautiful plum-coloured purple, very like the tone of colour seen in plums and grapes, with a powdered bloom upon it.'

Harting, Editor (1880: 129) in Rodd's Birds of Cornwall, says: 'On September 2nd, 1878, I received from the Proprietor of the Isles of Scilly a good specimen of the Purple Heron in its rufous immature plumage. A description of the plumage is unnecessary, but I may remark that the top of the head, instead of being black, was of a beautiful plum-coloured purple, very like the tone of colour seen in plums and grapes, with a powdered bloom upon it.'

Further, p. 277, under 'Annual Summaries' read to the Royal Institution of Cornwall in 1878-79, Rodd says: 'No bird of any rarity came under my notice until September last, when I received from my friend, Mr. Dorrien Smith of Trescoe Abbey, Scilly, a very acceptable present in the shape of an immature Purple Heron.'

Admitted by Howard Saunders (1884-85 (4): 173, 4th ed.) in Yarrell's British Birds.

Rev. R. W. J. Smart (1888) in the Transactions of the Penzance Natural History Society, new series, Vol. II. p. 173, adds: 'An immature specimen was shot, in September, 1878, by Mr. T. Dorrien-Smith.'

J. Clark & F. R. Rodd (1906) in The Zoologist, 4th series, Vol. X. p. 301, under 'The Birds of Scilly', say: 'A Purple Heron in rufous immature plumage, was shot by Dorrien-Smith on St Mary's Moors, Aug. 30th, 1878.'

53). 1878 Norfolk Near Great Yarmouth, immature, shot, 17th October.

(H. Stevenson, Zoologist 1879: 159; H. Stevenson, Transactions of the Norfolk & Norwich Naturalists' Society 2: 601; T. E. Gunn, Zoologist 1880: 52; Riviere, 1930; Allard, 1990).

History H. Stevenson (1879) in The Zoologist, 3rd series, Vol. III. pp. 159-160, says: 'An immature bird of this species was, I am informed, shot in the neighbourhood of Yarmouth, and brought to a game-dealer in that town between the 14th and 21st of December.'

T. E. Gunn (1880) in The Zoologist, 3rd series, Vol. IV. p. 52, says: 'The Purple Heron mentioned at page 159 of The Zoologist for 1879 as having been killed during the middle of December, 1878, was shot on the 17th of October previous, and sent up to me the following day from Yarmouth.'

54). 1880 Oxfordshire Clapper's Eyot, undated.

(Noble, 1906; Radford, 1966; Brucker, Gosler & Heryet, 1992).

History Noble (1906 (1): 155) in the Victoria County History of Berkshire, says: 'Another was shot at on the Thames in or about 1880, which fell dead on Clapper's eyot on the Oxon side (H. M. Wallis in litt.).'

Accepted locally (Radford 1966) and by Brucker, Gosler & Heryet (1992) who accept two 19th century records.

55). Pre 1881 Derbyshire Newton Solney, male, shot, undated, now at Birmingham Museums and Art Gallery (Acc. No. 1924Z18.3981).

(Garneys, 1881; McAldowie, 1893; Whitlock, 1893; Smith, 1939; Frost, 1978; Watson, 2010).

History Garneys (1881: 88, 2nd ed.) says: 'Shot at Newton Solney within last few years (1881).'

Whitlock (1893: 154) says: 'A second example is recorded by Mr. A. O. Worthington as killed at Newton Solney prior to 1881 (Wild Flowers, etc. of Repton, Second Edition).'

Smith (1939: 176) in his Birds of Staffordshire, says: 'Another was killed at Newton Solney before 1881, almost within the Staffordshire boundary (Contributions to the Flora and Fauna of Repton, 1881).' Accepted locally by Frost (1978).

Watson (2010) in detailing the R. W. Chase collection in the Birmingham Museum lists this male specimen and quoting from his Notebooks adds that this bird was sent to [E. M.] Spicer of Suffolk Street, [Birmingham] per parcel post, and as far as legible, the post-mark read Eastbourne. I examined this bird in the flesh and upon being skinned a considerable sized fish was found in the stomach. Some time ago, Sir Vauncy Crewe, informed me in litt., that he had ascertained that one of his keepers had shot a Purple Heron on his estate, and that it had been sent, unknown to him, to Spicer, and that the post-mark was probably "Melbourne" and not Eastbourne. Sir Vauncy came to Birmingham to try and elucidate the matter, asking me to visit to Calke Abbey to view a specimen (killed in Norfolk) which he wanted to exchange for the specimen in question. Unfortunately, his death has now prevented anything further being done. I have little doubt the bird was killed at Melbourne, and remains in my collection.

56). 1882 Suffolk River Waveney, Beccles, immature, shot, 21st September.

(Babington, 1884-86; Riviere, 1930; Ticehurst, 1932).

History Babington (1884-86: 159) says: 'A beautiful young bird was shot from a boat in a high wind from N.E., about 6 a.m., in Parker's Reach of the Waveney, on Sept. 21, 1882; when first seen it was sitting among sedges as if looking for fish (G. Rouse in litt., who was in the boat); it was sent by Messrs. Garrod, of Beccles, to Mr. [T.] Roberts, Norwich, for preservation (H. Stevenson in litt., who saw it.).' Accepted locally (Ticehurst 1932: 311).

57). 1882 Breconshire Near Talybont-on-Usk, three seen, one shot, undated.

(E. C. Phillips, Zoologist 1882: 217; Yarrell, 1871-85; Phillips, 1899; Massey, 1976; Green, 2002).

History E. C. Phillips (1882) in The Zoologist, 3rd series, Vol. VI. p. 217, says: 'Has once been killed in the county, near Talybont. The gentleman who shot it told me there were three together on the River Usk, near this place. This specimen, which has been preserved, I have had the pleasure of inspecting, and a beautiful specimen it is.'

Admitted by Howard Saunders (1884-85 (4): 173, 4th ed.) in Yarrell's British Birds.

Locally, Phillips (1899: 100) quotes the same as above, while Massey (1976: 18) says: 'Sometime prior to 1882 one was shot out of three seen. The specimen was seen by E. Cambridge Phillips.' Accepted locally (Peers & Shrubb 1990).

Nationally, Green (2002: 68) states that the one shot is the only acceptable part of this record; the sighting of two other birds being inadmissable.

58). 1885 Sussex Abbot's Wood, Arlington, shot, autumn, now at Worthing Museum.

(Walpole-Bond, 1938; James, 1996).

History Walpole-Bond (1938 (2): 338) says: 'In the Nicholls collection in the Worthing Museum is a Purple Heron which, in mistake for a roosting Pheasant, was shot by a poacher one evening in the autumn of 1885 in Abbot's Wood, near Arlington.' Accepted locally (James 1996).

59). 1886 Suffolk Oulton Broad, immature male, shot, 20th October.

(H. Bunn, Field 30th Oct., 1886: 633; G. Mason, Field 5th Mar., 1887: 311; W. Pycraft, Transactions of the Norfolk & Norwich Naturalists' Society 4: 451; Riviere, 1930; Ticehurst, 1932).

History H. Bunn of Lowestoft (1886) in The Field of 30th Oct., Vol. LXVIII. p. 633, says: 'A bird of this species was shot on Oulton Broad, Oct. 20, and, when preserved, will be added to the collection of Mr. G. Mason, of Mutford Bridge.'

G. Mason of Wherry Inn, Mutford Bridge, Lowestoft (1887) in The Field of 5th Mar., Vol. LXIX. p. 311, says: 'A good specimen of the Purple Heron (Ardea purpurea), and one also of the Little Bittern (Botaurus minutus), have just been added to my collection, both birds having been shot in the neighbourhood of the Broad.'

W. Pycraft (1884-89) in the Transactions of the Norfolk & Norwich Naturalists' Society, Vol. IV. p. 461, says: 'One was shot at Oulton Broad, October 20th, 1886.' Accepted locally (Ticehurst 1932: 311).

60). 1887 Cheshire & Wirral Near Alderley Edge, adult male, killed, 7th April.

(J. Picken, Zoologist 1887: 432; Mitchell, 1892; C. Oldham, Zoologist 1892: 428; Dobie, 1893; Coward & Oldham, 1900).

History J. Picken (1887) in The Zoologist, 3rd series, Vol. XII. p. 432, says: 'An example of the Purple Heron, Ardea purperea, was killed, on the 7th April last, in the neighbourhood of Alderley Edge, about thirteen miles from Manchester. It was an adult male bird, and weighed 2 lbs. 4 oz.; width between the extended wings, 4 ft. 8½ ins.; length from tip of bill to sole of foot, 3ft. 10 inches.' Howard Saunders in Mitchell (1892) p. 145, accepts this record.

Chas. Oldham of Ashton-on-Mersey (1892) in The Zoologist, 3rd series, Vol. XVI. p. 428, says: 'An example of this species has been recorded from "Alderley Edge, Lancashire", by Mr. J. Pickin (Zool., 1887, p. 432), which record is repeated in the new edition (1892) of Mitchell's Birds of Lancashire, and in all the reviews of that book which I have seen, as the first known instance of the occurrence of the Purple Heron in Lancashire; but the addition to the county list is a spurious one, for Alderley Edge is in Cheshire, and about seven miles from the Lancashire border.'

Coward & Oldham (1900: 150) say: 'On April 7th, 1887, an adult Purple Heron was shot in the fields between Alderley Edge and Wilmslow. It was erroneously attributed to Lancashire in The Zoologist, and the mistake was repeated in the second edition of the Birds of Lancashire. The bird is now in the collection of Colonel Dixon at Astle Hall.'

61). 1887 Sussex Near Heathfield, killed, 16th May.

(Walpole-Bond, 1938; James, 1996).

History Walpole-Bond (1938 (2): 338) says: 'On May 16th, 1887, another was killed near Heathfield (B. Bates in litt.).'

Accepted locally (James 1996).

62). 1888 Yorkshire Farnley Lake, near Otley, adult male, killed, 19th April.

(W. E. Clarke, Naturalist 14: 330; Nelson, 1907; Mather, 1986).

History Wm. Eagle Clarke of Leeds (1888) in the new series of The Naturalist, Vol. XIV. p. 330, says: 'On the 20th of April last I examined, in the flesh, a fine mature male specimen of Ardea purpurea Linn., which had been obtained the previous day on the margins of Farnley Pool, near Otley. When first seen, the bird was approaching the water from the direction of Harewood. It appears to have been quite unsuspicious of danger, and allowed a keeper to approach within gun-range, and this in quite an exposed situation, where the bird was shot for a Common Heron (Ardea cinerea). This specimen makes the seventh occurrence known to me for Yorkshire of a bird which has occurred chiefly in the spring and summer in the county.

The bird is now, I believe, in the possession of the Rev. F. Fawkes, of Rothwell.'

Accepted locally (Nelson 1907 (2): 392; Mather 1986).

63). 1890 Isle of Wight Alverstone, shot, undated.

(Kelsall & Munn, 1905; Cohen & Taverner, 1972).

History Kelsall & Munn (1905: 198) say: 'In Willett's collection there was also a specimen, which was shot at Alverstone, in the Isle of Wight, in 1890. This example came into the possession of Mr. F. Smith, who now lives at Mill Hill, Cowes, but was formerly in business as a taxidermist in Newport, and from whom Mr. Willetts procured most of his collection. Smith relates that it was shot by the miller at Alverstone, who, thinking it was a variety of the Common Heron, buried it; but, on hearing it described, Smith induced the man to dig it up and bring it to him, when he found it, as he had supposed, to be a Purple Heron, and he made the best specimen possible of the bird, which had been buried several days. Mr. Wadham, who succeeded Smith, first gave us information of this very rare specimen.'

Accepted locally (Cohen & Taverner 1972: 11).

64). 1891 Dorset Fiddleford, shot, undated.

(F. L. Blathwayt, Proceedings of the Dorset Natural History and Antiquarian Society 55: 187; Boys, 1973; Prendergast & Boys, 1983).

History F. L. Blathwayt (1934) in the Proceedings of the Dorset Natural History and Antiquarian Society, Vol. LV. p. 187, under 'A Revised List of the Birds of Dorset', says: 'Mansel-Pleydell gives two old records, and also a manuscript record of one shot at Fiddleford, 1891.' Accepted locally (Prendergast & Boys 1983).

65). Pre 1894 Kent Swale Marshes, Kemsley, immature, shot, undated.

(Prentis, 1894; Ticehurst, 1909; Gillham & Homes, 1950; Harrison, 1953; http://www.kentos.org.uk/Records/PurpleHeron.htm).

History Prentis (1894: 57) says: 'An immature specimen of the Purple Heron was shot a few years ago in the vicinity of an old decoy pond where some patches of reeds grow, near the Swale river.'

Ticehurst (1909: 310) says: 'The fourth specimen was shot, as Prentis relates in 1894, "a few years ago" near the old Kemsley duck-decoy, in the Swale Marshes. This also was an immature bird.'

Accepted locally (Kent Ornithological Society).

66). 1895-99 Cambridgeshire Wicken Fen, shot, summer.

(Bircham, 1989).

History Bircham (1989) says: 'One summer between 1895 and 1900 one was shot at Wicken Fen by an unknown person who sold it to George Mason, farmer at Burwell, who owns the stuffed specimen.'

67). 1898 Isles of Scilly Tresco, immature, seen, April; same, St Mary's, shot, April.

(J. Clark & F. R. Rodd, Zoologist 1906: 301; H. F. Witherby & N. F. Ticehurst, British Birds 1: 347; Penhallurick, 1969; Flood, Hudson & Thomas, 2007).

History J. Clark & F. R. Rodd (1906) in The Zoologist, 4th series, Vol. X. p. 301, under 'The Birds of Scilly', say: 'Another, also an immature bird, was seen on Tresco, and afterwards secured at St. Mary's in April, 1898.'

Admitted by H. F. Witherby & N. F. Ticehurst (1908) in British Birds, Vol. I. p. 347, under 'On the More Important Additions to our Knowledge of British Birds since 1899' and accepted locally (Flood, Hudson & Thomas 2007).

68). 1899 Suffolk River Blythe, near Lowestoft, immature female, shot, 24th October.

(E. Roberts, Field 4th Nov., 1899: 738; J. H. Gurney, jun., Zoologist 1900: 112; H. F. Witherby & N. F. Ticehurst, British Birds 1: 347; Ticehurst, 1932).

History Evelyn Roberts (1899) in The Field of 4th Nov., Vol. XCIV. p. 738, says: 'As I believe the Purple Heron is rather rare on this coast, it may interest your readers to know that one was shot on Oct. 24, a little way up the River Blyth, near Blythburgh, by Henry John Roberts.' [In the late Dr. Churchill Babington's Catalogue of the Birds of Suffolk (1886), several instances are noted of the occurrence of this bird in that county and on the borders of Norfolk. A pair, preserved in the Ipswich Museum, were obtained on the River Orwell. - Ed.]

J. H. Gurney, jun., of Norwich (1900) in The Zoologist, 4th series, Vol. IV. p. 110, says: 'October 25. N.N.W. Mr. Lowne received an immature female Purple Heron from Blyth, near Lowestoft, where it was shot by Mr. Roberts, as notified in The Field, and may possibly have been the bird which was seen at Easton Broad on the 18th, and thought to be a Glossy Ibis (Field, Oct. 28th). The last occurrence was in 1882, and, like nearly all the others, an immature example. The wind on the 24th was N.N.E.'

Admitted by H. F. Witherby & N. F. Ticehurst (1908) in British Birds, Vol. I. p. 347, under 'On the More Important Additions to our Knowledge of British Birds since 1899' and accepted locally (Ticehurst 1932: 311).

Comment Probably River Blyth at Southwold.

69). 1902 Hertfordshire Castle Farm, near Harpenden, immature, shot, November, now at St Albans Museum.

(J. Steele-Elliott, Zoologist 1903: 107; H. F. Witherby & N. F. Ticehurst, British Birds 1: 347; Sage, 1959; Gladwin & Sage, 1986).

History J. Steele-Elliott of Dowles Manor, Shropshire (1903) in The Zoologist, 4th series, Vol. VII. p. 107, says: 'Whilst in the hands of the taxidermist, I recently examined an immature specimen of the Purple Heron (Ardea purpurea) that was shot from the watercress-beds at Castle Farm, near Harpenden, by Mr. George Adams, in November, 1902. It has since passed into the possession of Mr. C. Arnold, of Batford Mills, who has kindly confirmed these particulars.'

Admitted by H. F. Witherby & N. F. Ticehurst (1908) in British Birds, Vol. I. p. 347, under 'On the More Important Additions to our Knowledge of British Birds since 1899.'

Sage (1959) adds: '...later placed in the St. Albans Museum.' Accepted locally (Gladwin & Sage 1986).

70). 1906 Norfolk Barton Broad, immature male, shot, 8th August.

(J. H. Gurney, jun., Zoologist 1907: 133; H. F. Witherby & N. F. Ticehurst, British Birds 1: 347; Riviere, 1930; Ticehurst, 1932; Allard, 1990).

History J. H. Gurney, jun., of Keswick Hall, Norwich (1907) in The Zoologist, 4th series, Vol. XI. p. 133, says: 'August 8th. Purple Heron (immature) shot at Barton, where there is a Broad (E. C. Saunders). It proved to be a male.'

Admitted by H. F. Witherby & N. F. Ticehurst (1908) in British Birds, Vol. I. p. 347, under 'On the More Important Additions to our Knowledge of British Birds since 1899' and accepted locally (Riviere 1930).

71). 1907 Caithness Thrumster, immature male, shot, 16th September.

(J. Paterson, Annals of Scottish Natural History 1908: 199; Eds., British Birds 2: 244; Forrester & Andrews et al., 2007).

History John Paterson (1908) in the Annals of Scottish Natural History, Vol. XVII. p. 199, in the annual 'Report on Scottish Ornithology', says: 'One (male juv.) on Thrumster Estate, Caithness, on 16th September.'

In an Editorial (1908) in British Birds, Vol. II. p. 244, he says: 'A young male Ardea purpurea is reported on the Thrumster Estate on September 16th, 1907 (Ann. S.N.H., 1908, p. 199).'

Accepted nationally for Scotland (Forrester & Andrews et al. 2007).

72). 1907 Suffolk Kirkley, Lowestoft, immature, picked up, 9th October, kept alive for 6 weeks, now at Castle Museum, Norwich.

(J. H. Gurney, jun., Zoologist 1908: 130; Eds., British Birds 2: 34; Ticehurst, 1932).

History J. H. Gurney, jun., of Keswick Hall, Norwich (1908) in The Zoologist, 4th series, Vol. XII. p. 130, says: 'October 9th. S.E., 4 (rising in the evening). October was on the whole a fine month, with winds light in force except for the gale on the 9th and 10th. It must have been impelled by this wind that a young Purple Heron crossed the sea, and attracted by the lights of Lowestoft, settled in the populous suburb of Kirkley, where it was made captive by a tram-conductor, and taken to the house of Mr. Bunn, one of whose customers kept it alive for six weeks, and it was then killed and stuffed. It is in the red plumage which led to its being mistaken at first for a Bittern.'

In an Editorial (1908) in British Birds, Vol. II. p. 35, they say: 'A young bird was captured in the streets of Kirkley, a suburb of Lowestoft, by a tram conductor on October 9th.'

Accepted locally (Ticehurst 1932: 311).

73). 1917 Borders Near Duns, Berwickshire, seen, 8th April.

(T. G. Laidlaw, Scottish Naturalist 37: 214; Eds., British Birds 11: 142; Scottish Naturalist 38: 150; Forrester & Andrews et al., 2007).

History T. G. Laidlaw of Duns (1917) in the Scottish Naturalist, Vol. XXXVII. p. 214, says: 'On the 8th April last an example of the Purple Heron (Ardea purpurea), a rare casual visitant to Scotland, was observed within a short distance of the town of Duns. My attention was called to the bird by two men who had noticed it standing among some withered rushes on the bank of the lade near Duns mill, and they wished to know to what species the dark-coloured Heron belonged. As I was quite familiar with the appearance of the Purple Heron - having seen many of them in the marshes of the Camargue - I had no difficulty with the identification. By making a detour through a field we were enabled to get within twenty yards of the bird before it flew, and so obtained an excellent view of it. Although the bird was looked for on several subsequent occasions, it was not seen again.'

In an Editorial (1917) in British Birds, Vol. XI. p. 142, they say: 'Mr. T. G. Laidlaw records (Scot. Nat. 1917, p. 214) that on April 8th, 1917, he saw an example of Ardea purpurea near Duns. He managed to get within twenty yards of the bird and had no difficulty in identifying it, having frequently seen the species in the Camargue.'

Accepted nationally for Scotland (Forrester & Andrews et al. 2007).

74). 1925 Kent Romney Marsh, two, seen, 6th April.

(H. G. Alexander, British Birds 19: 27; Harrison, 1953; http://www.kentos.org.uk/Records/PurpleHeron.htm).

History H. G. Alexander (1925) in British Birds, Vol. XIX. pp. 26-27, says: 'I had a remarkable walk in Romney Marsh, Kent, on April 6th, 1925, and some of the birds seen seem to deserve a record. A steady, though not strong, wind had been blowing from between south and south-east for nearly two days, and there had been rain on and off all the previous night. It is possible that this was the cause of the arrival of some unusual visitors....A couple of hours later, after the weather had turned fine, I put up a Heron that looked unusually dull on the wings as it flew. It very kindly settled again not far from a Common Heron (Ardea cinerea), and on settling the contrast in the colour of the two birds was very marked. At a distance, with the naked eye, the one looked almost black, the other pale grey. Through binoculars the dark bird also looked a good deal smaller, its neck and sides looked very dark, the beak was a much duller colour (but this, I think, is the case with first-year Herons), and it squatted in a curious attitude with its body sloping steeply forward, and the neck at first drawn straight up, and then gradually depressed.

I have seen the Purple Heron (A. purpurea) in Central Italy, twelve years ago, but not in company with the grey species. However, I think there can be no doubt that it was a Purple Heron. While I was watching it my first Swallow for the season flew into the field of my glasses! Half a mile further on I saw what must, I think, have been a second Purple Heron (not the same again); this was also near one or two Grey Herons, one of them an exceptionally beautiful bird, in perfect pearl-grey plumage. In this case I did not think the Purple Heron looked appreciably smaller, but it was further off; its plumage and general appearance seemed just the same, and it adopted the same rather curious attitude when it settled.

Ticehurst records five occurrences of the Purple Heron in Kent, four of them from Romney Marsh (B. of Kent, pp. 309-10).' Accepted locally (Kent Ornithological Society).

76). 1928 Northamptonshire/Oxfordshire Near Aynho, immature, shot, 29th May; also seen in Cherwell Valley, Oxfordshire.

(B. W. Tucker, Report of the Oxford Ornithological Society on the Birds of Oxfordshire, Berkshire and Buckinghamshire 1928-29: 17; Eds., British Birds 24: 231; Radford, 1966).

History B. W. Tucker (1928-29) in the Report of the Oxford Ornithological Society on the Birds of Oxfordshire, Berkshire and Buckinghamshire, p. 17, say: 'One was shot at a pond near Aynho, Northamptonshire, May 29th. The spot was not much more than a quarter of a mile from the borders of Oxfordshire, out of which the bird had just flown from the Cherwell Valley. It was not in quite adult plumage, but certainly over a year old (O.V.A.).'

In an Editorial (1931) in British Birds, Vol. XXIV. p. 231, in a Review of the Report of the Oxford Ornithological Society on the Birds of Oxfordshire, Berkshire and Buckinghamshire 1928-29, they say: 'A Purple Heron was shot near Aynho, Northamptonshire, on May 29th, 1928.' Accepted locally for Oxfordshire (Radford 1966).

77). 1932 Pembrokeshire Haverfordwest, adult female, seen, 20th April, found dead, 23rd, now at National Museum of Wales, Cardiff (Z.1932.198).

(G. S. Haines, Field 14th May 1932: 742; G. S. Haines, British Birds 26: 23-24; Lockley, 1949; Donovan & Rees, 1994).

History Guy S. Haines of Haverfordwest (1932) in The Field of 14th May, Vol. CLIX. p. 742, says: 'A Purple Heron was seen by my children on a small stream within a mile of Haverfordwest, Pembrokeshire, on April 20th, the bird being so exhausted that it allowed my son to pick it up, and made no effort to attack him. On the 23rd my children found the bird near the same place, but dead, and brought it home to me. It is a splendid specimen, and adult male, and has been sent to the National Museum of Wales, Cardiff.'

Guy S. Haines (1932) in British Birds, Vol. XXVI. pp. 23-24, says: 'On April 20th, 1932, a Heron in a very weak condition was seen by my children standing by a stream about a mile from Haverfordwest. On the 23rd the bird was found dead very near the same spot and was brought in to me. It proved to be a mature female Purple Heron (Ardea purpurea), and I sent it to the National Museum of Wales, Cardiff.' [We are informed that the plumage of the bird was in good condition but that it was extremely emaciated and that it had lost its right eye, which had been badly lacerated. Mr. A. Thomas, of the National Museum, informs us that the stomach contained a common shrew's skull. While being examined at the Museum a parasitic bird-fly was found in its plumage, and as this was obviously different from the British Ornithomyia avicularia L., it was sent by the Department of Zoology to Mr. J. E. Collin, a well-known authority on the Diptera. Mr. Collin identifies it as Olfersia ardece Macquart. This fly has not previously been recorded in Britain, but Mr. Collin states that it has been taken off various species of Herons from Africa, Sicily, Italy and Moravia. Except for one recorded as having been killed many years ago in Breconshire, we know of no other reported occurrence of the Purple Heron in Wales. - Eds.]

Accepted locally (Lockley 1949: 53; Donovan & Rees 1994).

78). 1936 Kent Stour Marshes, 17th to 18th May.

(R. Whitlock, South-Eastern Bird Report 1936: 42; Harrison, 1953; http://www.kentos.org.uk/Records/PurpleHeron.htm).

History R. Whitlock (1936) in the South-Eastern Bird Report, p. 42, says: 'One was flushed in the Stour marshes on May 17th, when it flew a short distance and dropped into a reed bed. It was put up from this reed-bed on the following day. In flight it appeared to be a brownish bird, and no accipital crest was noticed. (T.C.G.).'

Accepted locally (Kent Ornithological Society).

79). 1936 Norfolk Wheatfen Broad, adult, 7th June.

(J. Vincent, Transactions of the Norfolk & Norwich Naturalists' Society 14: 174; J. Vincent, Wild Bird Protection in Norfolk 1936: 9; Eds., British Birds 31: 95; Taylor, Seago, Allard & Dorling, 2007).

History J. Vincent (1936) in the Transactions of the Norfolk & Norwich Naturalists' Society, Vol. XIV. p. 174, and in Wild Bird Protection in Norfolk, p. 9, says: 'Saw an adult on Wheatfen Broad on June 7th, when in the company of Mr. Gerald Wilson and the owner. The bird rose from the edge of a pool and flew across about 35 yards away.'

In an Editorial (1937) in British Birds, Vol. XXXI. p. 95, in a Review of the Transactions of Norfolk & Norwich Naturalists' Society, for 1936, they say: 'A Purple Heron was identified on June 7th.'

Accepted locally (Taylor, Seago, Allard & Dorling 2007, 2nd ed.).

80). 1937 Norfolk Lower Bure Marshes, shot, September.

(Allard, 1990; Taylor, Seago, Allard & Dorling, 2007).

History Allard (1990) says: 'One was shot on the lower Bure marshes adjacent Six Mile House during September 1937.'

Accepted locally (Taylor, Seago, Allard & Dorling 2007, 2nd ed.).

81). 1940 Sussex Pett Level, adult female, found dead, 20th April.

(R. Whitlock, South-Eastern Bird Report 1940: 23; J. M. Harrison, British Birds 34: 18).

History R. Whitlock (1940) in the South-Eastern Bird Report, p. 23, says: 'An adult was found dead at Pett by Mr. R. Cooke on April 20th. The bird was already a little decomposed. It was preserved by Mr. George Bristow, and was received by me while still soft and pliable. The legs and feet were ochreous yellow, with the exception of the anterior scutellae of the tarsi, which were of a dark purplish tone (J.M.H.) This is only the seventh good record for the county.'

James M. Harrison (1940) in British Birds, Vol. XXXIV. p. 18, says: 'On April 20th, 1940, Mr. Reginald Cooke found a dead adult Purple Heron at Pett. The bird was already a little stale. It was taken to Mr. George Bristow on April 23rd and its sex determined as a female. The skin was received by me on May 1st. It was still quite soft and every joint in the fresh state with full and free range of movements. The colour of the soft parts also was quite fresh.'

Comment Cooke was quite unreliable regards identification having quite a number of rejected records. It would appear to be acceptable locally as there are seven Sussex records including this one to this point in time. And of course, George Bristow was at the centre of the 'Hastings Rarities' fraud!

82). 1941 Kent Near Deal, seen, 2nd May.

(Harrison, 1953; http://www.kentos.org.uk/Records/PurpleHeron.htm).

History Harrison (1953 (1): 100) says: 'Mr. Mannering informed me that one was seen on 2nd May 1941 on a coastal marsh near Deal.' Accepted locally (Kent Ornithological Society).

83). 1941 Kent Romney Marsh, male, obtained, 12th May, now at Maidstone Museum.

(Harrison, 1953; Borrer, 1960; http://www.kentos.org.uk/Records/PurpleHeron.htm).

History Harrison (1953 (1): 100) says: 'One obtained on 2nd May 1941 on Romney Marsh is now in the Maidstone Museum in the Mannering collection.'

Borrer (1960) says: 'One shot on 12th May 1941 was preserved by Guy Mannering.'

Accepted locally (Kent Ornithological Society).

84). 1944 Isles of Scilly Tresco, seen, 25th April.

(B. H. Ryves, D. Valentine & H. M. Quick, Cornwall Bird-Watching & Preservation Society Report 1944: 45; Eds., British Birds 38: 358; Penhallurick, 1969; Flood, Hudson & Thomas, 2007).

History B. H. Ryves, D. Valentine & H. M. Quick (1944) in the Cornwall Bird-Watching & Preservation Society Report, Vol. XIV. p. 45, say: 'The following records of very exceptional interest come from Major Dorrien Smith: - Purple Heron. One on April 25th.'

In an Editorial (1944-45) in British Birds, Vol. XXXVIII. p. 358, they appear to accept this record in a Review of the Annual Report. Accepted locally (Flood, Hudson & Thomas 2007).

85). 1945 Isles of Scilly Tresco, two (one first-summer), seen, 17th April.

(B. H. Ryves, D. Valentine & H. M. Quick, Cornwall Bird-Watching & Preservation Society Report 1945: 56; Eds., British Birds 39: 381; Penhallurick, 1969; Flood, Hudson & Thomas, 2007).

History B. H. Ryves, D. Valentine & H. M. Quick, Editors (1945) in the Cornwall Bird-Watching & Preservation Society Report, Vol. XV. p. 56, under 'Isles of Scilly', say: 'Some migration notes, 1945, by A. A. Dorrien Smith. April 17th. Two Purple Herons, one of them young and not quite over moult.'

In an Editorial (1946) in British Birds, Vol. XXXIX. p. 381, in a Review of the Cornwall Bird Watching and Preservation Society Report, for 1945, they say: 'Amongst other occurrences of interest we may note: two Purple Herons on Tresco on April 17th.' Accepted locally (Flood, Hudson & Thomas 2007).

87). 1945 Pembrokeshire Hubberston, Milford Haven, adult, seen, 21st April.

(J. S. Wightman, British Birds 42: 25; Lockley, 1949; Donovan & Rees, 1994).

History J. S. Wightman (1949) in British Birds 42: 25, says: 'The following observation I made during the war appears worth recording. It concerns a Purple Heron (Ardea purpurea) which I saw on April 21st, 1945, near the coast at Hubberston, Milford Haven, Pembrokeshire. I was making my way through a wet, marshy hollow, skirted by willows and gorse bushes, when a heron arose very close in front of me. It was very dark on the back and wings, and I could clearly see the tawny coloured and heavily striped neck. I got the impression that it was of slighter build than Ardea c. cinerea, and had no doubt at all that it was the species referred to.'

[There appear to be only two previous definite records for South Wales, one recorded as killed on the Usk (E. C. Phillips, Birds of Breconshire, 1899) and one near Haverfordwest, April 20th, 1932 (antea, Vol. XXVI. p. 23), but Mr. G. C. S. Ingram kindly informs us that one in the Maesllwch collection, Radnorshire, though without data, was probably secured in the neighbourhood. - Eds.]

Accepted locally (Lockley 1949: 53; Donovan & Rees 1994).

88). 1947 Cambridgeshire River Cam, near Cambridge Sewage-farm, juvenile, seen, 16th August.

(A. Dobbs, British Birds 41: 120-121; Bircham, 1989).

History A. Dobbs (1948) in British Birds, Vol. XLI. pp. 120-121, says: 'On August 16th 1947, I observed a Purple Heron (Ardea purpurea) probably a juvenile by its colouration, in the valley of the River Cam approximately two miles N.E. of Cambridge. It rose from an area of sedgy marsh when I was about 9 yards away and settled on the top of a partly barren White Willow about 150 yards away and on the opposite side of a railway. When it got up I saw that it was clearly a heron, of a general fairly dark brown colour, with the quills darker (dark brown to blackish) than the rest of the wing and the legs appearing yellow with a greenish tinge. The bill was also yellow. It remained in the tree for about 10 minutes, at first with neck outstretched at the alert and then in a humped attitude with the neck folded; it was smaller and more slender than a Common Heron. The general colour was again seen to be definitely brown, and once when the bird turned its head I was able to note that the throat was pale, but not pure white. It was observed in bright sunshine with field-glasses and a telescope (15 x). When I moved in an attempt to obtain a front view the bird unfortunately flew away on the far side of the willows and was lost to view.'

It was accepted locally (Bircham 1989).

89). 1948 Kent Gravesend, picked up exhausted, 27th March, photo, died later.

(Gillham & Homes, 1950; Harrison, 1953; http://www.kentos.org.uk/Records/PurpleHeron.htm).

History Gillham & Homes (1950: 156) say: 'A bird found exhausted near the foreshore at Gravesend on the 27th March, 1948, by Mr. E. Martin of Higham, was thought to be a Bittern. It was taken to the police at Gravesend who informed Maidstone Zoo. Sir Garrard Tyrrwhit-Drake tells us that, when he collected the bird, he found it to be a Purple Heron in a very weak condition. Being unable to take food it had to be forcibly fed but died about seven days later. During its brief spell in the police-station cell it was treated as a celebrity. For the sake of future inquirers we are completely satisfied with the validity of the record, and thanks to Mr. L. C. Batchelor of Cliffe, we have since been able to examine a photograph of the bird taken shortly after its capture.' Accepted locally (Kent Ornithological Society).

1950-57 RECORDS

90). 1950 Isles of Scilly St Martin's, exhausted, died later, 3rd April.

(B. H. Ryves, H. M. Quick & A. G. Parsons, Cornwall Bird-Watching & Preservation Society Report 1950: 35; Eds., British Birds 45: 141; Penhallurick, 1969; Flood, Hudson & Thomas, 2007).

History B. H. Ryves, H. M. Quick & A. G. Parsons (1950) in the Cornwall Bird-Watching & Preservation Society Report, Vol. XX. p. 35, say: 'April 3rd, an exhausted bird, which subsequently died, was found on St. Martin's. A. A. Dorrien-Smith.'

Accepted locally (Flood, Hudson & Thomas 2007).

91). 1951 Norfolk Cley-next-the-Sea, immature, 10th to 12th May.

(Anon., Wild Bird Protection in Norfolk 1951: 30; R. A. Richardson, British Birds 45: 243; R. A. Richardson, British Birds 45: 331; Gantlett, 1984; Taylor, Seago, Allard & Dorling, 2007).

History R. A. Richardson (1952) in British Birds, Vol. XLV. p. 331, says: 'From May 10th to 12th, 1951, an immature Purple Heron (Ardea purpurea) was seen repeatedly, by several observers, in the dense reed-beds near East Bank, Cley, Norfolk.

In size the bird was between Common Heron (Ardea cinerea) and Bittern (Botaurus stellaris) but was much more "rakish" than either. In flight, at a distance, the bird looked dull vinous-brown above with blue-black flight quills, the whole toned down with a delicate greyish "bloom". The crown looked darker and the hind-neck rufous. A double row of dark flecks ran down the whitish fore-neck. The legs with their extra long, spidery toes were backed with brilliant chrome-yellow and projected further beyond the tail in flight than those of the Common Heron. The wing-beats were faster than those of the latter species and the voice similar but higher-pitched, "kak!"

As mentioned in The Handbook the pouched effect of the folded neck of the flying bird and the consequent indentation between neck and breast were most marked. When at rest among the reeds the bird extended its incredibly long and thin neck to its extremity before lowering it and skulking away into concealment. On May 12th a Common Heron seemed to call the Purple up from the reeds and together they flew round the marsh giving a perfect opportunity for comparison before the Purple disappeared to the West.'

Accepted locally (Taylor, Seago, Allard & Dorling 2007, 2nd ed.).

92). 1951 or 1952 Greater Manchester Pennington Flash, undated.

(A. J. Smith, Birds in Greater Manchester 1993: 113-116).

History Accepted locally by A. J. Smith (1993) in Birds in Greater Manchester, p. 114, in a listing of previous occurrences as the first record of this species.

93). 1952 Lincolnshire Brocklesby, immatures, 31st July, two from 12th to 31st August, one, 1st September.

(S. A. Cox, British Birds 46: 254-255; S. A. Cox, Transactions of the Lincolnshire Naturalists' Union 13: 51; Smith & Cornwallis, 1955; Lorand & Atkin, 1989).

History S. A. Cox (1953) in British Birds, Vol. XLVI. pp. 254-255, says: 'Lincolnshire. - On July 31st, 1952, Mr. J. C. Darnell reported the presence of a strange heron at Lambert Hill fish-pond, Brocklesby, Lincolnshire, and I was able to visit the area in his company the same evening'. When first detected the bird was perching on a luxuriant growth of branched bur-reed (Sparganium ramosum) in the adjoining canal, its russet appearance immediately catching the eye.

When it rose the dark edges to its wings were very noticeable, as also was the long, slender, snaky neck. The neck and throat both appeared very pale. The legs were light yellowish-green, and the bill was yellow both inside and out (the bird frequently gaped when resting). It was obvious that the bird was a Purple Heron (Ardea purpurea). It was next seen perched on an oak, some forty feet from the ground, and its plumage appeared almost exactly the colour of dead oak-leaves. It had previously been silent, but on this occasion when it flew it called nine or ten times. To my ear the call was indistinguishable from that of the Heron (A. cinerea), though possibly a trifle weaker.

Subsequently it was frequently seen on the wing at the same time as the resident Herons, so comparisons were simplified. After a few days Mr. Darnell began to suspect that there was in the area a second bird in similar plumage and this was confirmed by Mr. R. May who watched two Purple Herons in the air together on August 12th. The two birds were afterwards seen by various ornithologists, and also by the Earl of Yarborough, the owner of the estate. Many good views were obtained, but at times they were difficult to locate, for when standing amongst aquatic vegetation or grass, with the long, snaky necks extended, they were scarcely detectable.

It appears that they roosted on an island in the lake with the Herons. The two were last seen together by my wife and myself on August 31st; on the next day, September 1st, Mr. R. May saw one only and all subsequent visits failed to locate them. There appears to be only one previous record of the Purple Heron in Lincolnshire - that which was shot on the river Witham at Hykeham, near Lincoln, sometime during the second half of the nineteenth century (although information regarding this record seems very meagre).' [We are very grateful to Reg May in whose company we saw both birds on August 23rd. They were in immature plumage, apparently first summer. - W.B.A., P.A.D.H., I.J.F.-L.]

Accepted locally (Smith & Cornwallis 1955; Lorand & Atkin 1989).

95). 1953 Essex Abberton Reservoir, 13th June.

(G. A. Pyman, British Birds 47: 350-351; G. A. Pyman, Essex Bird Report 1953: 8; Hudson & Pyman, 1968; Cox, 1984; Wood, 2007).

History G. A. Pyman (1954) in British Birds, Vol. XLVII. pp. 350-351, says: 'On June 13th, 1953, at Abberton Reservoir, Essex, Mr. B. Winchester saw a heron fishing at the water's edge at about 15 yards' range. He realised at once that it was not a common Heron (Ardea cinerea) as it was noticeably smaller than that species and the neck was slender and decidedly snake-like. Before B.W. could note plumage details the bird flew off, but it was then that the purplish sheen of much of the upper-parts and the stripes on the side of the neck were seen to advantage and confirmed the observer's suspicions that it was a Purple Heron (A. purpurea). In the air it closely resembled a common Heron, but the wing beats were rather more rapid. The heron proved itself to be quite as agile as a Lapwing (Vanellus vanellus) which mobbed it, when it thrust its neck forward in the manner of the resident species when similarly attacked. It was not seen again. The species has only once previously been recorded in Essex, the year being 1839.'

G. A. Pyman (1953) in the Essex Bird Report, p. 8, says: 'Abberton R.: a bird of this species was identified at the reservoir by B.W. on June 13th. When first seen, it was fishing at about 15 yards range and the snake-like appearance of the neck was evident. It was noticeably smaller than the "Common" Heron. When it took wing, the rich colouration of parts of the plumage with its purple sheen was unmistakeable. Its wing beats were distinctly faster than the resident species. Only one previous county occurrence is known - that quoted in Birds of Essex (1929) of a bird shot near Maldon in 1839.'

Accepted locally (Hudson & Pyman 1968; Cox 1984; Wood 2007).

96). 1955 Essex Abberton Reservoir, immature, 22nd August to 20th September.

(M. S. J. Snoxell, British Birds 49: 279; G. A. Pyman, Essex Bird Report 1955: 7; Hudson & Pyman, 1968; Wood, 2007).

History M. S. J. Snoxell (1956) in British Birds, Vol. XLIX. p. 279, says: 'A Purple Heron (Ardea purpurea) frequented Abberton Reservoir, near Colchester, Essex, for at least a month in the late summer of 1955. It was encountered on a number of occasions between 22nd August and 20th September by Major-General C. B. Wainwright and B. Winchester, while P. J. Fenning and J. H. Sparkes saw it once.

The bird spent most of its time in the reeds fringing the western end of the reservoir where it was often found perched on broken reed stems. I had the bird under observation on nth September. It appeared to be smaller and more slender than the Heron (A. cinerea) with purplish-brown upper-parts and sandy or buff under-parts from bill to breast. No trace of black colouration was visible either on the head or neck and thus it was taken to be immature. The wings appeared purple in flight save for the darker primaries and lacked the contrast to be found in the "Common" Heron. In flight the wing beats were rather quicker than the Heron's and the neck had a more pouched appearance.

The species has now been recorded twice at the reservoir in three years (see antea, Vol. XLVII. pp. 350-351). Previously it had only been known to have occurred once in Essex.'

Accepted locally (Hudson & Pyman 1968; Wood 2007).

97). 1955 Bedfordshire Felmersham, immature, 11th to 16th September.

(H. A. S. Key, Bedfordshire Naturalist 10: 18; F. C. Gribble, Bedfordshire Naturalist 10: 29-30; Trodd & Kramer, 1991).

History H. A. S. Key (1955) in the Bedfordshire Naturalist, Vol. X. p. 18, says: 'One bird was present at Felmersham, 11th-16th Sept., and it was reported as having been in the area for a fortnight previously.'

F. C. Gribble (1955) in the Bedfordshire Naturalist, Vol. X. pp. 29-30, says: 'During late August and early September an immature Purple Heron was seen on several occasions at a gravel pit in the north of the county. Owing to the fact that a Bittern was also present in the area the bird was not identified at first, both birds being of a general brownish appearance when seen on the ground.

On the evening of 10th September, Cmdr. G. E. P. Milburn saw the bird in flight at a distance and had some doubts as to its identity. The following afternoon, accompanied by his family, he made a thorough search of the area and flushed a Bittern from a pool overgrown with reed mace and willow scrub. Whilst the bird was still in flight the Purple Heron rose from the same pool. Seeing both birds together they were able to confirm the identity of both and Miss Milburn was now certain that a bird she had seen a fortnight previously was the heron.

Accompanied by D. W. Elliot and A. J. Dymond I visited the gravel pit on 13th September in the evening and we were fortunate enough to flush the bird from the same pool. As it rose from behind a willow bush we were able to note its long snaky neck and general brown appearance. It was noticeably smaller than a Common Heron and in flight was faster and less jerky. The crown was of dark chestnut with the neck somewhat paler behind and a light buff in front with darker streakings. The back and mantle were a dark sandy brown also the wings excepting the quills which were a darker blue-grey, the contrast being most marked in flight. During the evening of 16th September we saw the bird in flight again but only for a few minutes. We did, however, notice the long toes projecting beyond the tail and the pouched effect of the neck. The bird flew towards the river and then downstream as it did on the previous occasion. We followed the river bank for some distance but were unable to find the bird. This was the last time it was seen, a thorough search of the area on the 17th and 24th September revealing no sign of it. So far as I can trace, this is the first recorded occurrence of this species in Bedfordshire.' Accepted locally (Trodd & Kramer 1991).

98). 1955 Surrey Frensham Little Pond, immature, 18th to 25th September.

(R. S. P. Bates, British Birds 49: 148; P. Bond, Surrey Bird Report 1955: 9-10; Parr, 1972; Clark, 1984).

History R. S. P. Bates (1956) in British Birds, Vol. XLIX. p. 148, says: 'On 18th September 1955 I disturbed a juvenile Purple Heron (Ardea purpurea) in a patch of rather close-growing reeds at the south end of Frensham Little Pond, six miles N.W. of Haslemere, Surrey. First seen indistinctly in the reeds, with which its general coloration blended very well, it appeared predominantly brown, definitely smaller than a Heron (A. cinerea), and more lightly built. It rose almost immediately, giving me a good view at about 40 yards as it did so. As it cleared the reeds it still appeared mainly a warm brown, but the rear half of each wing was a darker greyer-brown or slaty-brown. The bill was yellowish, with sides of the face and the throat white, the white soon merging into a warm red-brown neck; legs were brown or yellowish-brown, the feet a shade lighter. K. M. Gauntlett who was with me remarked that to him the wings appeared narrower than those of a Heron and the feet larger. I saw the bird again on 20th September, in level flight about 100 yards away. It looked then more like the adult Purple Heron, dark streaks on the neck showing up pretty well, but on the downbeat, when the upper surfaces of the wings could be seen, the coverts were plainly brown. It was also seen on this date by Miss P. M. Bond, Miss M. Hutchinson and other members of the Haslemere Natural History Society, and it was last reported on the 25th.'

Clark (1984: 19) adds: '...from 18th to 24th Sep., 1955.'

99). 1956 Norfolk Cley-next-the-Sea, 11th May.

(M. J. Seago, Norfolk Bird Report 1956: 26).

History M. J. Seago (1956) in the Norfolk Bird Report, p. 26, says: 'Cley: May 11th (R. A. Richardson).'

100). 1956 Essex/Greater London Fisher's Green Gravel-pit, Lea Valley, 12th May.

(G. A. Pyman, Essex Bird Report 1956: 8; F. H. Jones, London Bird Report 21: 9; London Natural History Society, 1964; Hudson & Pyman, 1968; Wood, 2007; Self, 2014).

History G. A. Pyman (1956) in the Essex Bird Report, p. 8, says: 'Fisher's Green gravel pit: one on May 12 (D.A.H.) and (J.L.F.P.). Extracts from notes: - seen in flight at 150+ yards' range; appeared smaller than "common" Heron (two of which appeared immediately afterwards); upper parts dark-brownish grey, except for black flight feathers, with some rufous colouring on wing panels and light bronze "highlights" in area of scapulars; some chestnut colouring about head and neck, but these parts, as well as underparts, not clearly seen. Later in the day flushed nearby when "snaky" neck obvious, head and sides of neck rufous brown and wing panels dark purplish; underparts again not seen; some rufous and black noted, but position could not be fixed. Finally disappeared to the N., gaining height.'

Accepted locally for Essex (Wood 2007) and for the Greater London area (Self 2014).

101). 1956 Norfolk Felthorpe, 30th June.

(M. J. Seago, Norfolk Bird Report 1956: 26-27).

History M. J. Seago (1956) in the Norfolk Bird Report, p. 27, says: 'One flying N.W. over the Holt-Norwich Road at Felthorpe, June 30th (R. A. Richardson).'

102). 1956 Norfolk Cley-next-the-Sea, juvenile, 6th to 8th August.

(M. J. Seago, Norfolk Bird Report 1956: 26).

History M. J. Seago (1956) in the Norfolk Bird Report, p. 26, say: 'A juvenile. August 6th-8th (D. E. Kimmins and other observers).'

103). 1956 Norfolk Cley-next-the-Sea, 21st to 22nd August.

(M. J. Seago, Norfolk Bird Report 1956: 26-27).

History M. J. Seago (1956) in the Norfolk Bird Report, pp. 26-27, says: 'One August 21st-22nd (Miss E. McEwen - who had seen the juvenile).'

104). 1956 Warwickshire Near Earlswood, immature, 31st August to 15th September.

(J. Lord, West Midland Bird Report 1956: 18; Harrison et al., 1982; Harrison & Harrison, 2005).

History J. Lord (1956) in the West Midland Bird Report, p. 18, says: 'An immature bird first identified by A.W.C., remained on the canal near Earlswood, from August 31st to September 14th (G.M.I.) and was described by several observers. Points noted were: Mantle and wing coverts predominantly tawny, flight feathers blue-black, underparts pale brown, buffish throat with white chin, dark line though eye, blackish crown and long yellow legs. (The first record for the county - Ed.).'

Harrison et al. (1982) state that from 31st August to 15th September 1956 an immature was seen along a canal near Earlswood. Accepted locally for Warwickshire (Harrison & Harrison 2005).

105). 1957 Isle of Wight St Catherine's Point, 14th April.

(E. Cohen, Papers and Proceedings of the Hampshire Field Club and Archaeological Society 20: 8; Cohen & Taverner, 1972).

History E. Cohen (1959) in the Papers and Proceedings of the Hampshire Field Club and Archaeological Society, Vol. XX. p. 8, says: 'One at St Catherine's Point on 14th April came in from far out to sea from SSW, and landed on Rocken End where it watched at ranges down to 250 yards. "At first sight it appeared small with a conspicuous bulge in the neck, and as it came closer the general rufous brown colour of the underparts were noticed. General colour of the neck and underparts was rufous brown, the crown was dark with a stripe running from the lower mandible across the cheeks, and there was noticeable amount of white on the chin and around the gape; the mantle was dark purplish grey; the bill, legs and feet were yellowish". (R. H. Dennis, J. K. Bowers).'

Accepted locally (Cohen & Taverner 1972).

106). 1957 Norfolk Cley-next-the-Sea, adult, 28th April to at least 4th May.

(M. J. Seago, Norfolk Bird Report 1957: 22).

History M. J. Seago (1957) in the Norfolk Bird Report, p. 22, says: 'An adult at Cley, April 28th and for at least 6 days after (P. J. Mountford).'

107). 1957 Norfolk Horsey, 6th May.

(M. J. Seago, Norfolk Bird Report 1957: 22).

History M. J. Seago (1957) in the Norfolk Bird Report, p. 22, says: 'One at Horsey, May 6th (G. Crees).'

108). 1957 Sussex Rother Valley, Rye Harbour, adult, 2nd November.

(D. D. Harber, Sussex Bird Report 1957: 5; James, 1996).

History D. D. Harber (1957) in the Sussex Bird Report, p. 5, says: 'On 2nd November, one, apparently an adult, flew quite low from Rye Harbour across the Rother saltings and disappeared over the sandhills. It was seen from the saltings in excellent light, the nearest range being about 200 yards. The whole of the upper parts was a dark, nearly uniform, grey. Some chestnut was observed on the neck. The under-parts appeared very dark, blackish. The build seemed slighter than that of a Heron and the protuberance of the folded neck was much more marked than in the case of that species. The impression was obtained that the legs projected further behind than in the case of a Heron, but it was not possible to be certain of this in the absence of a bird of this latter species. The wing beat seemed decidedly more rapid than that of a Heron (D.D.H.). This is the first county record for November.'

Accepted locally (James 1996).

NOT PROVEN

0). 1824 Devon River Plym, Plymouth, immature, seen, April.

(E. Moore, Transactions of the Plymouth Institution 1830: 322-323; E. Moore, Charlesworth's Magazine of Natural History 1: 320; Yarrell, 1871-85).

[Pidsley, 1891; Not in Moore, 1969].

History Edward Moore of Plymouth (1830) in the Transactions of the Plymouth Institution, Vol. I. pp. 322-323, says: 'The Ardea caspica, variegata, and africana, are, according to Temminck, the young of this bird, in which plumage it was seen on the banks of the Plym, in April, 1824, by Mr. T. E. Gosling, of Leigham.'

Edward Moore of Plymouth (1837) in Charlesworth's Magazine of Natural History, Vol. I. p. 320, dated May, 1837, says: 'Temminck says that the A. caspica, variegata, and africana, are the young of this bird; if so, a specimen was observed by T. E. Gosling Esq., on the Plym, in April, 1824.'

Pidsley (1891: 87) says: 'A rare visitant. Dr. Moore in 1837 included this species in the Devonshire list on very imperfect evidence, stating only that an immature bird was seen by Mr. Gosling on the Plym, in April 1824.'

Admitted by Howard Saunders (1884-85 (4): 173, 4th ed.) in Yarrell's British Birds.

Comment Probably misidentified due to location. Not fully identified. Not admitted in the county avifauna (Moore 1969). Not acceptable.

0). 1832 Devon Whitchurch Down, immature, exhausted, caught, January.

(Bray, 1836; D'Urban & Mathew, 1895; Tyler, 2010).

[KAN].

History D'Urban & Mathew (1895: 183, 2nd ed.) say: 'The Rev. Thomas Johnes mentions that in January 1832 a waggoner, passing over Whitchurch Down, saw a large bird rise from the roadside close to him. He struck it down with his whip, and it was presented to Mr. Johnes by Mr. C. Willesford, of Tavistock. The bird proved to belong to this species, and was evidently exhausted by fatigue and hunger (T. J. Bray's, Tamar and Tavy, Vol. I. p. 353).'

Tyler (2010) states it was an immature.

Comment Unusual date. Not known to have been seen by a competent authority. Probably misidentified. Not acceptable.

0). 1836 Devon Flete, seen, December.

(E. Moore, Charlesworth's Magazine of Natural History 1: 320; Yarrell, 1871-85).

[Pidsley, 1891].

History Edward Moore of Plymouth (1837) in Charlesworth's Magazine of Natural History, Vol. I. p. 320, dated May, 1837, says: 'Another was noticed by several persons in December, 1836, at Fleet [sic], the seat of J. Bulteel, Esk.'

Admitted by Howard Saunders (1884-85 (4): 173, 4th ed.) in Yarrell's British Birds.

Pidsley (1891: 87) says: 'A rare visitant. Dr. Moore in 1837 included this species in the Devonshire list on very imperfect evidence, stating only...and that a second was noticed by several persons at Flete, in December 1836.'

Comment Not known to have been seen by a competent authority. Unusual date. Probably misidentified. Not acceptable.

0). 1839 Devon Near Plymouth, immature, shot, February.

(Yarrell, 1845; Tyler, 2010).

[KAN].

History Yarrell (1845 (2): 515, 2nd ed.) says: 'In February 1839, Plumptre Methen, Esq., sent me word that he had obtained a specimen shot near Plymouth.' Tyler (2010) states that it was an immature.

Comment Unusual date. Probably misidentified. Not known to have been seen by a competent authority. Not acceptable.

0). Pre 1840 Caithness No locality, obtained, undated.

(The New Statistical Account of Scotland 15: 129-130; Wilson, 1842; Gray, 1871).

[Harvie-Brown & Buckley, 1887; Ed., Scottish Birds 6: 28].

History The occurrence of Purple Heron in Caithness is first mentioned by the Rev. Charles Thomson (The New Statistical Account of Scotland, XV, "Wick", 1841, pp. 129-130) as "rare" on the basis of a list produced by Eric Sinclair of Wick. Purple Heron is listed as "rare" in Shearer & Osborne (1862), which is based on the records of E. S. Sinclair prior to 1840.     Wilson (1842) says: '...After transacting our fishery and other business we accompanied Mr. Eric Sinclair, Surgeon, to examine his beautiful and extensive collection of birds, obtained by him exclusively in the county of Caithness. The local museums are extremely interesting, and of great value as illustrating the geographical distribution of species...As examples of the rare species, we may select the following...Purple Heron.'

Gray (1871: 276) says: 'A specimen of the Purple Heron, killed in Caithness, is mentioned by the late Mr. Wilson (J. Wilson (1842) A Voyage Round the Coasts of Scotland and the Isles, Vol. II. p. 179), as being in the collection of Mr. E. S. Sinclair, surgeon, Wick. This occurrence had previously been published by the Rev. Charles Thomson in his statistical account of that parish, dated March, 1841.'

Howard Saunders (1884-85 (4): 173, 4th ed.) in Yarrell's British Birds, says: 'As regards Scotland, Mr. R. Gray mentions one killed in Caithness prior to 1841.'

Harvie-Brown & Buckley (1887: 182) placing the record in square brackets, say: 'Has a place in the Caithness list of Dr. Sinclair; and Dr. Wilson mentions having seen it afterwards in that gentleman's collection.'

Saunders (1899, 2nd ed.) says '...said to have been recorded in Caithness...more than 40 years ago.' However, this record is not mentioned in Witherby et al. (1940-52).

Comment Lacks a precise date for a scientific record, also, location is unknown. Not acceptable.

0). 1845 Cornwall Near Penzance, adult, obtained, undated.

(Penhallurick, 1969).

[E. H. Rodd, Transactions of the Penzance Natural History Society 1850: 417].

History E. H. Rodd (1850) in the Transactions of the Penzance Natural History Society, p. 417, dated May 1850, says: '...two adult examples, obtained in the county within the last few years: - Killiow, Kea; Trevider, St Buryan.'

Comment Penhallurick has erroneously added this record; he didn't state that it was an additional new record. Rodd would have known about any record near Penzance, but didn't list this one. Not acceptable.

0). 1847 North-east Scotland Monquhitter, Aberdeenshire, shot, early March.

(J. Smith, Zoologist 1849: 2497-98; T. Edward, Zoologist 1860: 6847; Gray, 1871; H. O. Forbes, Scottish Naturalist 2: 10; Yarrell, 1871-85; H. M. Drummond Hay, Scottish Naturalist 8: 367; Sim, 1903).

[Ed., Scottish Birds 6: 28].

History James Smith (1849) in The Zoologist, 1st series, Vol. VII. pp. 2497-98, dated 15th June, 1849, says: 'I have ascertained beyond a doubt that a specimen of the Purple Heron occurred in the parish which I reside, about the beginning of March, 1847. It came from the south-east, and alighted in a marshy piece of ground near to a farm-house, where it was shot. It was a large and handsome bird, and measured five feet across from tip to tip of the expanded wings. As the individual by whom it was killed was much struck with the beauty of its plumage, and as he had never seen a heron of a similar description before, he resolved on making a present of it to me. Previously, however, to his doing so, he sent it to a neighbouring village to be stuffed: while there it excited general attention and great admiration, people coming, even from a distance, to obtain, a sight of it, and all of them declaring that it was the first of the kind which had come under their notice.

The common heron, on the contrary, is of daily occurrence in this quarter, and is in consequence familiarly known to the most careless and unobserving. The person to whom it was sent had occasion to leave his home for some considerable time, before the process of stuffing had been properly completed, and on his return he found, to his mortification, that it had been all but gnawn to pieces by rats. Its remains are now in my possession. The play, in varying lights, of purple, red and green, along its plumage, or, as it was termed, its glancing colour, gave rise to much admiration among those who saw it while fresh and uninjured.

From those books on natural history to which I have access, it would appear that the purple heron has not been hitherto recorded as having occurred in Scotland. In all probability a tempest of wind had driven it across from the opposite continent, amid the low-lying marshes of which it is said to he as abundant as its congener, the common heron (Ardea cinerea).'

Gray (1871: 276-277) says: 'Another example of this rare bird was shot in the parish of Monquhitter, Aberdeenshire, in March, 1847, as recorded in Macgillivray's British Birds, on the authority of the Rev. James Smith, who furnished Dr. Macgillivray with the full particulars of its capture.'

H. O. Forbes of Aberdeen (1873-74) in the Scottish Naturalist, Vol. II. p. 10, says: '...recorded by Dr. MacGillivray, from Monquhitter, Aberdeenshire, on 18th June [sic], 1847.' Mr. Smith compared it with a specimen loaned from MacGillivray (see MacGillivray, 1852, A History of British Birds, IV, p. 457).

Howard Saunders (1884-85 (4): 174, 4th ed.) in Yarrell's British Birds, says: 'MacGillivray has cited another [for Scotland] obtained in March 1847, in Aberdeenshire.'

H. M. Drummond Hay (1885-86) in the Scottish Naturalist, Vol. VIII. p. 367, in the Report of the East of Scotland Union, admits this record.

Harvie-Brown & Buckley (1896: 98) say: 'One is supposed to have occurred about thirteen miles from Banff, and is thus recorded by Edward (Zoologist 1860: 6847): - "My late friend Rev. Mr. Smith saw fragments of the bird some time afterwards (i.e. after it had been shot), and believed it to be of this species".'

Saunders (1899: 369, 2nd ed.) says: '...said to have been recorded in...Aberdeen more than 40 years ago.'

Sim (1903: 137) says: 'I am informed by Mr. W. McBoyle, of Peterhead, that "the bird was shot by Mr. George Clark, farmer's son, Forvie. The bird was sent to James Forsyth, policeman, Pitsligo, for preservation. He allowed it to go to decay, and Mr. Smith identified the bird from its feathers. The bird was killed in autumn. It will be seen that the foregoing differs considerably from what is said concerning the capture in Macgillivray's British Birds, Vol. IV. p. 457, wherein it is stated that the bird was killed in March 1847; but as Mr. McBoyle was acquainted with the young man who shot the bird, and knew all the circumstances at the time, and is himself a keen and accurate ornithologist, I am inclined to accept his statement as the more reliable".' It was not mentioned by Witherby et al. (1940-52).

Comment From the published sources, there is some confusion as to where and when the bird was obtained – March, June or autumn, near Turiff or at Forvie. Only included by Phillips (1997) in post-1950 literature. It was not published in the list of previous acceptable records for Scotland (Scottish Birds 6: 28) and I see no reason to change that view. Not acceptable.

0). Pre 1849 Oxfordshire Witney, killed, undated.

(A. & H. Matthews, Zoologist 1849: 2600; Aplin, 1889).

[Brucker, Gosler & Heryet, 1992].

History A. & H. Matthews (1849) in The Zoologist, 1st series, Vol. VII. p. 2600, under 'The Birds of Oxfordshire', say: 'Another was shot some years ago near Witney.' "G."

Aplin (1889: 184-185) says: 'Mr. T. Goatley informed the Messrs. Matthews of one shot some years previously, near Witney.'

Comment Second-hand report. Lacks a precise date for a scientific record. Not acceptable.

0). 1858 Isles of Scilly Tresco, shot, 5th November.

(R. W. J. Smart, Transactions of the Penzance Natural History Society 1888: 173; J. Clark & F. R. Rodd, Zoologist 1906: 301-302; Penhallurick, 1969; Flood, Hudson & Thomas, 2007).

[Harting, 1880; J. Clark, Journal of the Royal Institution of Cornwall 1902: 205].

History R. W. J. Smart (1888) in the Transactions of the Penzance Natural History Society, p. 173, says: 'A Purple Heron was seen and shot at by Mr. Fytton in November, 1858.' However, Harting, Editor (1880: 302) in Rodd's Birds of Cornwall, under 'List of the Birds Observed on the Scilly Islands', says: 'Purple Heron, once, in September 1878.'

J. Clark (1902) in the Royal Institution of Cornwall, p. 205, under 'The Birds of Cornwall', says: 'One at Scilly in 1878.'

J. Clark & F. R. Rodd (1906) in The Zoologist, 4th series, Vol. X. pp. 301-302, under 'The Birds of Scilly', say: 'A Purple Heron...Nov. 5th, 1858, a Mr. Fytton shot at a Heron on the shore Norward, and knocked out a few feathers. One of these he took back to the Abbey, and the unanimous opinion of Pechell and other sportsmen was that it belonged to this species.' Accepted locally (Flood, Hudson & Thomas 2007).

Comment As it was not acceptable to Rodd and Harting in their list, nor James Clark, and, although Penhallurick (1969) and Flood, Hudson & Thomas (2007) listed it as acceptable, the evidence is too flimsy, being based on a feather. Not acceptable.

0). c. 1860 Oxfordshire River Isis, between Eynsham and Bablock Hithe, adult, obtained, undated.

(Aplin, 1889; Radford, 1966).

[Brucker, Gosler & Heryet, 1992].

History Aplin (1889: 185) says: 'Some five-and-twenty, or thirty years ago, an adult Purple Heron, handled while in the flesh by Mr. G. Arnatt, was shot on the Isis between Eynsham Bridge and Bablock Hithe; it was preserved, but afterwards was destroyed by moth.'

Comment Lacks a precise date for a scientific record. Not acceptable.

0). c. 1875 Suffolk River Orwell, pair, obtained, winter, now at Ipswich Museum.

(Babington, 1884-86).

[Ticehurst, 1932].

History Babington (1884-86: 159) says: 'A beautiful pair taken on the Orwell were brought in the flesh to Mr. Podd, and are now in the Ipswich Museum (J. E. Taylor v. v.).' Further, p. 276, under 'Corrigenda and Addenda' he adds: '...in the winter, about 1875 (Podd v. v.).'

Ticehurst (1932: 311) placing the record in square brackets, says: 'Two adults, Orwell, about 1875, were mounted from skins (Ipswich Museum)].'

Comment Babington admits to having seen the specimens. Imported. Not acceptable.

0). Pre 1884 Surrey Frensham, killed, undated.

(Surrey Art Loan Exhibition Catalogue; Wheatley, 2007).

[KAN].

History Wheatley (2007: 218) says: 'No details and no skin available.'

Comment Not known to have been seen by a competent authority. Not acceptable.

0). 1888 Sussex Hoddern Farm, near Newhaven, immature, caught, 7th November.

(T. J. Monk, Field 17th Nov., 1888: 723; Walpole-Bond, 1938). Lilford, Field 24th Nov., 1888: 759; des Forges & Harber, 1963).

[Lilford, Field 24th Nov., 1888: 759; des Forges & Harber, 1963; A. H. J. Harrop, British Birds 112: 89-98].

History T. J. Monk (1888) in The Field of 17th Nov., Vol. LXXII. p. 723, says: 'A bird of this species was caught in an exhausted state by a shepherd on the Hoddern Farm, near Newhaven, Sussex, on Nov. 7. It proved to be a young bird, in good plumage and condition. It passed into the hands of Mr. J. Tompsett, of the Deans, Piddinghoe, who kindly presented it to me, and I have sent it to Mr. Swaysland, of Brighton, for preservation.'

Lord Lilford of Oundle (1888) in The Field of 24th Nov., Vol. LXXII. p. 759, says: 'With regard to the Purple Heron caught near Newhaven on 7th inst., as recorded in your issue of 17th, by Mr. T. J. Monk, I may mention that I turned down a young bird of this species at Lilford [Hall] about the middle of July last, and only heard of it once subsequently in that neighbourhood. Of course this proves nothing as to the identity of Mr. Monk's bird; but the late time of year of the occurrence is somewhat in favour of this heron's having lost its way - an accident more likely to happen, I think, to a bird turned down in a strange country, than to one reared in the usual summer haunts of its species, and bound for the south on the regular hereditary line of migration.' Not accepted locally (Walpole-Bond (1938) Vol. II. p. 338).

Comment Swaysland has been found to be unreliable (A. H. J. Harrop, British Birds 112: 89-98). Not acceptable.

0). 1888 Leicestershire & Rutland Burley, Rutland, killed, undated.

(Haines, 1907). Haines, 1907; Fray et al., 2009

History Haines (1907: 110) recording the record in square brackets, says: 'The Purple Heron (Ardea purpurea) is said to have been killed at Burley in 1888, but I have no further particulars.'

Comment Haines used the words "said to have been" placing no faith in the record. Not acceptable.

0). 1888 Moray & Nairn Loch na Bo, killed, undated.

(Gordon, 1889).

[Cook, 1992].

History Harvie-Brown & Buckley (1896 (2): 98) say: 'One was shot near Lochnabo in 1888 (Fauna of Moray, edition 1889, p. 56).'

Cook (1892) says: 'Gordon (1889) gave a record of one killed at Loch na Bo in 1888, but curiously did not mention the American Bittern, also supposedly got at the same place same year.'

Comment Misinterpreted. Not acceptable.

0). Pre 1890 Cambridgeshire No locality, obtained, undated, now at Saffron Walden Museum.

(Lack, 1934; Bircham, 1989).

[KAN].

History Lack (1934) says: There is a fourth [record] in the Saffron Walden Museum labelled Cambridgeshire.'

Comment Although there is a specimen it lacks a precise date and locality for a scientific record. Not acceptable.

0). 1895 County unknown No locality, shot, January.

(A. N. Simpson, Annals Scottish Natural History 1900: 198).

[Harvie-Brown, 1906].

History A. N. Simpson (1900) in the Annals Scottish Natural History, Vol. X. p. 198, says: 'One is said to be in Drumtochty Castle collection. This was shot in January 1895 (M.). Although I have seen this collection, my memory does not confirm the identification of this special bird.'

Harvie-Brown (1906: 219) placing the record in square brackets, says: 'A specimen of this rare visitor is said to be in the Castle at Drumtochty which was shot in January 1895, and is given on the authority of Mr. A. N. Simpson, quoting Mr. James Milne; but Mr. Milne, who has seen this collection, has no remembrance ("memory does not confirm the identification of this special bird"), and Mr. Milne's list does not contain any reference to it, nor do I find any other reference to it anywhere except the above by Mr. Simpson in the Annals Scot. Nat. Hist. (1900, p. 198, q.v.). I am obliged, therefore, according to rule, to retain it in square brackets.'

Comment Drumtochty Castle is in Aberdeenshire. January is an unusual date. Probably misidentified. Not acceptable.

0). Pre 1899 Lincolnshire River Witham, Hykeham, shot, undated.

(Cordeaux, 1899).

[KAN].

History Cordeaux (1899: 20) says: 'In Lincolnshire a Purple Heron was shot at Hykeham on the River Witham, many years since, by the Rev. T. Metcalfe [Adrian in litt.).'

Comment Third-hand report! Not known to have been seen by a competent authority. Not acceptable.

0). 1900 Sussex Rye, obtained, 1st May.

(Walpole-Bond, 1938; James, 1996).

[KAN].

History Walpole-Bond (1938 (2): 339) says: 'Rye gave us our next purperea - date, I/v/1900. It passed through Messrs. Gasson's and Bristow's hands before being acquired by Mr. F. Ashburnham, who apprised me of the incident.'

Comment It would appear to be acceptable locally as there are seven Sussex records prior to 1950. However, all the suspects involved in the 'Hastings Rarities' fraud are involved. Not acceptable.

0). 1901 Norfolk Great Yarmouth, seen, 12th August.

(J. H. Gurney, jun., Zoologist 1902: 91-92).

[H. F. Witherby & N. F. Ticehurst, British Birds 1: 347].

History J. H. Gurney, jun., of Norwich (1902) in The Zoologist, 4th series, Vol. VI. pp. 91-92, says: 'August 12th....while a Purple Heron was reported as having been seen at Yarmouth; doubtful!'

H. F. Witherby & N. F. Ticehurst (1908) in British Birds, Vol. I. p. 347, under 'On the More Important Additions to our Knowledge of British Birds since 1899', say: '...one (doubtful) was reported to have been seen.'

Comment Gurney called it "doubtful". Not acceptable.

0). 1909 Dumfries & Galloway Piltanton Burn, seen, January,

(Mearns & Rollie, 2016).

[SBRC].

History Mearns & Rollie (2016) state that a bird seen by the keeper in a marsh at the side of Piltanton Burn was, when showed a series of plates, picked out as of this species.

Comment Not known to have been seen by a competent authority. No acceptable.

0). 1919 Lincolnshire Kirton Marsh, shot, undated.

(Lorand & Atkin, 1989).

[Lorand & Atkin, 1989].

History Lorand & Atkin state that this was "said" shot, implying it's a second-hand account and is therefore unacceptable.