Annual Report 2019

Large Red Damselfly 21st June (Trevor Simmonds)

The report consists of 1) The year in Ravensroost 2) Birds 3) Lepidoptera 4) Odonata 5) Other groups

Pride of place goes to Geoff Whittle who was awarded the Lifetime Achievement Award for 2019 - congratulations Geoff:

Geoff with WWT Chair Mike Hodgkins, Country comes to the City, Salisbury 21st September 2019

1) THE YEAR IN RAVENSROOST

John Durell, Steve Medcraft, Maurice Chandler, Helen, Jane, Trevor and Steve Davies with the new fence, 20th March

The Wednesday Team

A busy year began with the team splitting into two groups - Geoff's group started laying the fourth section of the hedge along the lane while the rest finished clearing the rides of flailed material and then continued coppicing section T2. The hedge was finished in January while the coppicing continued for six weeks with chainsaws being used on two or three occasions. The second half of February saw the start of scalloping along the north east ride (section 4 of the transect). This activity continued through until March, when the laid hedge along the eastern edge of the wood beside the new bridleway pond was extended southwards. Scrub beside the meadow ponds was cut, and also, in a varied month of work, we repaired the fence leading into the wood from the car park, and the benches at the hut and the Newt Pond, while some of us scythed what was left of the transect route, and wove heathers into the newly repaired fence. On our last session we spent time just walking round the domain, before adjourning for the final team meal of the 2018/9 season!

During the first winter period there were 11 sessions (not counting the last half day) with attendance varying between 9 and 14 people, the average attendance being 11.6 people per session.

A joint scything session with staff members and volunteers from other teams along the nearest part of the main ride to the car park was done on 7th August.

The team's second "winter" period was begun on 4th September and the entire main ride from where the 7th August session left off right up to the North-east end of the wood was scythed, on both sides, during September, as well as the ride opened up in 2018 past the major Wild Service Tree. Also overhanging branches were cut along the north part of the ride. In October the bridleway was scythed, this was appreciated by Wilts Council staff! Holes were mended in the bridleway hedge and (after a Brown Hairstreak egg search here) the usual one third of the pondside vegetation was cut at the Newt Pond, despite the opposition of some angry wasps! Weed was cleared out of the pond and the scallop opposite the pond was cleared of scrub. Coppicing in section T1 was started on 23rd October. A special occasion on 6th November was the presentation to Geoff of a teashirt and portrait (by Paul Deacon) commemorating Geoff's Lifetime Achievement Award 2019. Coppicing continued with much chainsaw use, and by the end of the year our section (about 70%) of the coupe had been all but completed. A convivial Christmas lunch was had on 11th December.

During the second winter period there were 16 sessions with attendance varying between 9 and 17 people, the average attendance being 13.6 people! A superb acheivement!

I am especially grateful to joint team leaders Jacqui Cockram, Geoff Whittle and Ken Saunders, whose many and varied skills make the team the great success that it is, to first aiders Jacqui, Ken, Jane Deacon and Steve Medcraft, and to chain sawyers Trevor Simmonds and Maurice Watkins. Also to all the following who attended sessions during the year - Helen Strike, Hugh Slater, John Durell, Kevan Wind, Maurice Chandler, Steve Davies, Vanessa Goodall, Caroline and Martin Andrew, John Theobald, and new members Anita Horsell, Heather and Ewen Berry, Iain le Duc and Jon Beresford.

Future tasks: as we have all but finished our section of the coupe, after the new year we plan to continue scalloping along the north east ride, to the east of the ride this time. The fifth section of the laneside hedge will be laid, more scything is needed on the secondary rides, the pond in Q still has to be partly opened up, and the stones that once formed a stone stile at the north east end of the wood need to be moved into a more attractive position to show them off for what they once were.

Other activities in 2019 (details below): Two winter bird surveys on 27th February and 14th December, bird ringing by Simon Tucker and his team, butterfly transect and breeding bird territory survey (April-September), Swindon Wildlife Group spring event (20th April), Wiltshire Ornithological Society event (14th July), Brown Hairstreak egg searches (18th Nov.) and moth trapping (12 sessions from Feb. to Nov.).

Future plans: Late winter bird survey Sat. 29th Feb 2020; Breeding birds survey April - June; butterfly transect April - September; moth trapping Feb/Mar - Oct/Nov; Brown Hairstreak egg search Nov/Dec; early winter bird survey Nov/Dec.

Helen, Maurice Chandler, John Durell and Hugh on the new bench, 27th March

In the remaining sections sightings are by members of the Ravensroost team except where stated.

2. BIRDS

Goldcrest, 3rd Nov. (Simon Tucker)

Once again all bird records are presented together making for a better overview of the species' status at Ravensroost. Three regular surveys are carried out - a survey of estimated breeding territories (April-June) loosely based on the old BTO Common Birds Census technique, on the same route as the butterfly transect, a visit to a larger area of the wood in early winter (EWBS) and a visit to this same area in late winter (LWBS). These surveys together with Simon's ringing results and casual records from the Ravensroost team and other observers (names in brackets) produce the records in the following list.

2019 was another fairly average year for most resident species, with possible evidence of declines for a couple of species (Long-tailed Tit and Treecreeper), but most others apparently about normal, with the Great Spotted Woodpecker having its best year yet, and Stock Dove recorded for the first time. Of the migrants there was much better news for the Willow Warbler after last year's scare - no fewer than 3 pairs seemed to be in the wood this year, the best result for them for 7 years. Of the non-breeding visitors, there was a unique Peregrine sighting over the wood, a Kingfisher was a nice find in the meadow pond during the EWBS, there were some Brambling sightings, apparently the first for 8 years, and more than usual Woodcock sightings.

A= all records of the species for the year are listed, LWBS=Late Winter Bird Survey 24th February - number of individuals recorded; Number of pairs estimated during breeding season (as in breeding survey table below); EWBS=Early Winter Bird Survey 14th Dec. - number of individuals recorded.

Mallard Resident None in Breeding Bird survey this year but pairs occasionally seen on meadow pond. No evidence of breeding this year

Pheasant Resident 2 displaying males, 1 EWBS

Red Kite Resident Singles, 22nd May, 14th July. 13th Sept. A.

Sparrowhawk Resident Present in breeding season, and a juv was calling for food on 9th Sept from edge of wood.(STucker), 1 EWBS

Buzzard Resident - one pair in residence as usual

Peregrine Wanderer 3, incl. one juv., 29th Aug. A.

Hobby Summer resident 1, 23rd July A.

Kestrel Resident Present in breeding season, usually outside the wood itself - for only the second time since survey began in 2011

Woodcock Elusive winter visitor, except when reported in 2013 breeding season. 1, 10/30 Jan., 13th Feb. (MW), 1 EWBS, for the first time on this survey A.

Common Snipe Winter visitor. 1 , meadow pond, 3rd Apr. 1 at meadow pond, EWBS. A.

Wood Pigeon Resident. 2 EWBS. 4 pairs in breeding survey, the second highest estimate since 2011.

Stock Dove Resident Present in the breeding season for the first time since 2011

Tawny OwL Resident - one pair estimated as usual.

Cuckoo Summer resident - one territorial male in the wood for the 4th year running, first heard on 1st May (JC)

Kingfisher Resident. One at the flooded meadow pond, EWBS - the first for Ravensroost. A.

Green Woodpecker Resident Present in breeding season

Great Spotted Woodpecker Resident. Drumming 23rd Jan. Three territories estimated for the first time since 2011. 2 EWBS

Skylark Resident. 1 singing N. of wood 3rd Apr.

Swallow Summer visitor Sometimes seen over the wood, but more often come to drink at the ponds in the meadow, where they can be trapped. Sometimes House Martins drop in as well.

Dunnock Resident. 1 singing male LWBS. 1 breeding pair for 4th consecutive year - it was rare in the wood before 2015.

Mistle Thrush Resident. 2 singing LWBS. Single pair estimated in breeding survey.

Song Thrush Resident. 4 LWBS. 3 pairs in breeding survey.

Redwing Winter visitor. c30, 23rd Jan., c30 EWBS.

Blackbird Resident. 5 LWBS, 9 estimated pairs in breeding survey, the maximum since 2011. 9 EWBS.

Robin Resident. 7 LWBS, 10 estimated pairs in breeding survey. 2 EWBS.

Redstart Passage migrant. 1, 18th Aug., 2, 20th Aug. (both Leanne Reddock)

Common Whitethroat Summer Resident First heard in meadows 20th Apr.

Lesser Whitethroat Summer resident. First heard in meadows 17th Apr.

Blackcap Summer resident. 8 pairs estimated in breeding survey, maintaining the high numbers of the last three years.

Garden Warbler Summer resident. 4 estimated pairs in breeding survey for 6th consecutive year. First, 20th Apr.

Chiffchaff Summer resident (not recorded here in winter). 8 estimated territories again. 2-3 on 23rd Sept.

Willow Warbler Summer resident. After virtual absence last year, up to three pairs estimated this summer, the best numbers since 4 pairs in 2012.

Spotted Flycatcher Summer resident very much declined. Present in breeding season this year (none in season last year) - 20th Jul. (Lee Dutton), also 23rd Aug.(Bob Philpott), 9th Sept. (STucker), 2, 23rd Sept. A.

Goldcrest Resident. 1 LWBS, one territory in breeding season (not even recorded last year) also 1 on 23rd Sept., 7 trapped, 3rd Nov., of which one had been ringed on 3rd Sept on Calf of Man - the 2nd Goldcrest that has made this journey! (STucker) One in the meadows on 12th Jul. seemed to be following an adult Lesser Whitethroat with food for young!

Marsh Tit Resident, the subject of long-term colour ringing project by Simon Tucker. Singing, 23rd Jan. 5, some in song, LWBS. Again 2 territories estimated in breeding survey. 2 out of 3 on 23rd Sept. were colour ringed - one of them was at least 7 years old! Feeding on Wild Service berries 16th Oct. 1 EWBS.

Blue Tit Resident. 22(!) LWBS, 9 estimated territories in breeding survey, 6 EWBS.

Great Tit Resident. 5 LWBS. 5 estimated territories in breeding survey - the most ever since 2011. 1, EWBS.

Coal Tit Resident. 9 LWBS. 3 estimated territories in breeding survey. 1 EWBS.

Long-tailed Tit Resident. 1 LWBS. 1 estimated territory in breeding survey. 5 EWBS.

Nuthatch Resident. 2 LWBS. 3 estimated territories in breeding survey. 1 EWBS.

Treecreeper Resident, very elusive at all times. No territories estimated for the first year since 2011, though birds present.

Wren Resident. 3 LWBS, 9 territories estimated in breeding survey. 1 (only, though singing) EWBS.

Jackdaw Resident. 7 LWBS, 1 estimated territory in breeding survey. 6 EWBS.

Raven Resident. Present in breeding season. (Considered to have bred in 2015, '16 and '18)

Crow Resident. 4 LWBS, 2 estimated pairs in breeding season. 2 EWBS.

Magpie Resident. 1 LWBS, 1 estimated pair in breeding season.

Jay Resident. 2 estimated pairs in breeding survey. 3 EWBS.

Chaffinch Resident. 3 LWBS. 4 estimated territories in breeding survey. 1 EWBS.

Brambling Winter visitor. One ringed, 16th Feb (STucker), and it or another heard calling in the wood near the bird table 8 days later during the LWBS. Another, 24th Mar. (S&LD)The first records since 4th Dec. 2011. A.

Goldfinch Resident. 1 LWBS. For the second year running a pair considered to have held territory in the wood.

Bullfinch Resident.One pair estimated in breeding survey. 2 EWBS.

Siskin Winter visitor (here). 2 ringed, 16th Feb. 3 on bird table in the wood, LWBS. 1, 27th Mar. A.

Lesser Redpoll Winter visitor and rare breeding bird. 2, 23rd Jan. 2 ringed 16th Feb. 1, 20th Feb. 1, meadows 3rd April. For the third year since 2011 one was recorded during the breeding survey. A possible future breeder. 1, 27th Nov. A.

AN Other A further species was recorded on 23rd Jan., not named here for security reasons.

Breeding bird survey 2019

Green type = apparent long term increase Red type = apparent long term decrease Grey type = no long term change

Juvenile Swallow at the meadow pond, 9th Sept. (Simon Tucker)

3. LEPIDOPTERA

Oak Lutestring, 19th Sept. - the most important insect at Ravensroost? see below

AIMS OF USING MAPPING TECHNIQUES TO MONITOR AND IMPROVE SPECIES HABITAT AND NUMBERS

Jacqui Cockram

Although the heading is long and looks complicated it is a very simple system that thanks to advances in technology is now being used by the Wiltshire Wildlife Trust. Robin was approached by our Reserve Manager Ellie to see if we could collect information and GPS positions on Brown Hairstreak egg searches, which are conducted on numerous reserves during winter. We developed a method of collecting the information namely the amount of eggs found and the GPS location. We then used this information to produce a datasheet which we then forwarded to Ellie who was then able to produce a Map. The information given below was sent to us by Ellie.

“Collection of data is becoming easier with many benefits for Conservation. It is important to be able to link information on species presence and abundance with detailed knowledge of where and when the species are found. In this way we can start to answer questions such as what habitat or spatial characteristics does a species value? How are species distributed across landscapes? How well connected are populations of species? What impact is a particular activity having on a species? And how is species distribution changing over time? Mapping, using geographical information systems provides a useful aid for visual illustrations and analysis.”

The Map produced from our findings shows the abundance and distribution of Brown Hairstreak Eggs across Reserves such as Clattinger, Ravensroost and Avis. We will continue collecting this data for a few years so that comparisons can be made. This information will be invaluable in assessing the impact of management actions, Identifying shifts in species abundance and distribution and appraising species' habitat preferences. This mapping system can also be applied to monitoring the Helleborines , Birds Nest Orchids and Service Trees, allowing us to gain a better knowledge of habitat preference and health of these plants and trees.

See below for comments about this year's Brown Hairstreak egg search.

Butterfly transect 2019

White-letter Hairstreak, 5th July

Transect results

IoA = Index of abundance, figures in brackets are for 2014, 2015, 2016, 2017 & 2018

++ = Overall increase + = increase over last year = = no change - = Decrease from last year -- = Overall decrease

NB. Dates are for the transect week beginning, not the actual date seen, apart from casual records.

Significant increases were noted for Large Skipper, Orange Tip and Gatekeeper, and significant decreases for Brimstone and Green-veined White, while five species also increased and nine decreased, though in the latter case it was partly due to the very large numbers counted previously rather than anything significant. For example the White Admiral decreased despite having its best count on one day since 2014 - after that it seemed to fade from the scene all too quickly - unlike at Somerford Common. Despite all being over by mid-May, the Orange Tip will be the memorable butterfly for me this year. Brown Hairstreak was easily the least obvious of the Hairstreaks despite the huge egg count last winter.

= Small Skipper Two singles on 8/7 and 12/8, IoA 2 (17,11,1,0,2) - virtually non existent in the wood since 2016

(Essex Skipper - none. Only found in 2015 - (0,1,0,0,0) - probably not overlooked either, now that Small Skipper is so scarce.)

++ Large Skipper Seen from 3/6 - 29/7, max 7, 8/7 IoA 20 (7, 12,12,11, 15) - unlike the Small Skipper obviously on the steady increase here.

-- Brimstone From 15/5 - 9/9, max. 10, 29/7 IoA 43 (65,69,100,57,61) - the lowest ever result

- Large White From 22/4 - 26/8, max. 7 IoA 26 (7,29,29,14,97) - return to normal after last year's high numbers

- Small White From 8/4 - 16/9, max. 5, 2/9 IoA 13 (0,0,25,10,43)

-- Green-veined White From 22/4 - 9/9, max. 11, 22/7 IoA 43 (174,75,58,69,122) - by a long way the poorest year

++ Orange Tip From 15/4 - 13/5, max. 13, 22/4 IoA 42 (19,24,33,39,27) - the only "white" to do well this year, its highest result so far

(Brown Hairstreak None on the transect. IoAs including this year are: 0,1,2,0,1,0. Only one adult seen - a female flying in the Ash tree visible from the new picnic table on 13/9, and no other adults have yet been reported from the reserve by anyone else. Perhaps not unexpectedly, the result of the Brown Hairstreak egg search in November was disappointing with just 40 eggs found in the meadows and 16 in the wood, although surveys at nearby Avis & Distillery Meadows and Somerford Common were much better.)

- Purple Hairstreak From 1/7 - 12/8, max. 7, 15/7 IoA 18 (1,7,2,2,6,60) - still more obvious than usual

- White-letter Hairstreak Two singles on 1/7 and 15/7 IoA 2 (0,1,0,0,5) - comment as above - Darcia Gingell saw 4 on 11/7, and 2 were seen during the WOS trip on 14th July

(Brown Argus None. Only one seen - on transect last year. IoAs: 0,0,0,0,1,0)

- Common Blue Two singles, 12/8 and 19/8 IoA 2 (4,2,0,8,9) - probably breeding in the Newt Pond Area

Common Blue,meadows, 3rd Aug. (Peter Sketch)

++ Holly Blue From 22/4 - 19/8, max. 3, 13/5 IoA 9 (2,6,4,6,7) - always few but better than any previous year. First, 28th Mar. (Andrew Griffin)

- White Admiral From 1/7 - 29/7, max. 11, 1/7 IoA 19 (54,32,15,22,23) - Despite the good start with the first double-figure count in five years, in the end it was a poor year, unlike at Somerford Common

+ Red Admiral From 29/4 - 2/9, max. 3, 2/9 IoA 11 (8,5,8,26,5)

++ Painted Lady Two on 19/8, one on 26/8 IoA 3 (0,0,1,0,0) - only 3 - but the best ever!

(Small Tortoiseshell None on a transect visit (as in 2016) but one seen on the transect route on 14th July by WOS members! IoAs 2,5,0,1,2,0)

+ Peacock From 8/4 - 12/8, max. 19, 29/7 IoA 52 (129,76,28,15,18) - the last two years seem to have reversed the rapid decline of the previous three. First seen, 3 on 27th Mar.

= Comma From 29/4 - 23/9, max 5, 29/7 IoA 26 (27,32,29,40,26) - pretty even results over the years. First seen, 3 on 27th Mar.

- Silver-washed Fritillary From 24/6 - 19/8, max. 32, 15/7 IoA 140 (153,126,91,127,142) - another good year. Valesina females were seen on 12th and 14th July.

- Speckled Wood From 22/4 - 23/9, max. 18, 26/8 IoA 195 (159,146,229,242,256) - a slight setback to the rise since 2016. First, 20th Apr.

= Marbled White Three singles on 24/6, 1/7 & 15/7 IoA 3 (0,3,0,3,3) - probably vagrants from the meadows

++ Gatekeeper From 8/7 -19/8, max. 31, 29/7 IoA 77 (41,43,20,32,33) - by a long way the best year here, as elsewhere.

+ Meadow Brown From 10/6 - 19/8, max. 140, 1/7 IoA 481 (342,363,239, 1055, 370) - But for the astonishing year in 2017 this would have been the best so far.

- Ringlet From 24/6 - 12/8, max. 77, 8/7 IoA 188 (86,89,72,253,200) - it looks like the increase from 2017 is here to stay.

Large Skipper, 21st June (Trevor Simmonds)

Moths 2019

Herald, 19th Sept.

Most of the moth records come from 12 trapping sessions in the wood, using usually two traps provided by myself and Jacqui, trapping for the first 2 or 3 hours after dusk, and with energetic use of nets to catch individuals reluctant to actually enter the traps. However some of the records are of individuals seen in daytime. Twenty two new species for the reserve were found this year, bringing the reserve total to 389. It was generally a disappointing year especially compared to 2018 (for instance no Devon Carpet, Orange Moth or Scalloped Hook-tip), but there were as always some highlights. Thanks to Jacqui, Jane and Helen for your help and deftness with the nets!

In June this year Geoff Whittle noticed that many of the trees, especially but not entirely Oaks, had been defoliated, in some cases almost denuded. On inspection we found that many caterpillars, especially those that roll themselves up in leaves, were eating them, and in their turn were being fed in great quantities by adult birds, especially tits, to their young. Amazingly by the middle of July the trees had re-leaved themselves and there was very little evidence that the defoliation had happened (it's called "Lammas growth"). Several of the moths in the following list, and in addition the abundant Green Oak Tortrix, were responsible for the summer's events. It was a completely normal and natural event - but pretty unique to be so marked.

Selected moth records (a small proportion of the number of species seen!) listed in the Agassiz taxonomic order.

Statistically significant national increase/decrease percentages given are from the new Atlas of Britain and Ireland's Larger Moths (2019). Interestingly the number of "macros" on the list that have declined overall (21) only slightly exceeds the number that have increased overall (17), so trends are not quite as depressing with these moths, anyway, as one might have thought. In some cases moths have increased their distribution (eg. moving north, or west, like the Silver Y) while suffering overall declines in abundance. Only statistically significant changes are given here, and there is no recent information for "micros".

Local or scarce species in bold, new species for Ravensroost underlined:

1.002 Micropterix mansuetella 1, 23rd Apr. - one of only 5 species of British lepidoptera that, in the adult stage, possess jaws and can eat solid food! Don't panic they are tiny and eat pollen, especially of sedges. This one is very local in GB, but was first found in Ravensroost in June 2015.

7.006 Green Longhorn Moth Extremely abundant day flying moth that swarms around trees and shrubs in spring. From 22nd Apr.

8.002 Incurvaria masculella 1, 23rd Apr. - first record of this Hawthorn feeder - interesting that 3 out of the total 5 species of this family have been found in the wood

12.016 Cork Moth 1, 28th Jun., - feeds on bracket fungi

28.022 Alabonia geoffrella 1, 28th May - a strange-looking but beautiful moth, feeds on dead shrubs.

Alabonia geoffrella, 28th May

35.011 Anacampsis populella 1, 2nd Oct. - feeds on willows, poplars and aspen from within a rolled-up leaf.

35.018 Hypatima rhomboidella 1, 19th Sept. - - a slender micro that feeds on hazel and birches.

35.04 Bryotropha terrella 2, 17th Jul., - food plants uncertain - grass, moss

39.003 Spuleria flavicaput 1, 23rd Apr. - a local species feeding on hawthorns.

45.01 Beautiful Plume 1, 29th Aug. - feeds on flowers and seeds of many plants,

45.03 White Plume 1, 29th Jun.- bindweed feeder

49.038 Clepsis consimilana 8, 28th Jun., feeds on many trees and shrubs

49.06 Aleimma loeflingiana 2, 28th Jun., - feeds on oaks, from a rolled up leaf, like the Green Oak Tortrix

49.07 Rhomboid Tortrix 1, 19th Sept., - feeds on many different trees and shrubs

49.08 Acleris hastiana 1, 23rd Apr. first record of this sallow feeder in the wood

49.363 Pammene argyrana 1, 23rd Apr. - feeds on oaks in a gall

63.031 Rusty Dot Pearl 1, 19th Sept., - immigrant from southern Europe that feeds on many plants, including Hemp Agrimony

63.115 Water Veneer 3, 28th Jun., - has aquatic larvae and feeds on pondweed

63.117 Ringed China-mark 1, 29th Aug., a local aquatic species that feeds on pondweeds, waterweeds etc. - they do wander away from water but this one was trapped by Jacqui near to the Badger Pond

65.007 Chinese Character 2, 23rd Apr., the first record of this generalist feeder since at least 2011. Nationally has decreased by 41% in numbers in 50 years.

65.008 Peach Blossom 1, 28th Jun., - a beautiful moth that feeds on bramble

65.014 Oak Lutestring 11, 29th Aug., 7, 19th Sept. - perhaps the most important moth - or even insect - at Ravensroost because there are very few known sites anywhere near, even in the county, although one was trapped last year at Somerford Common. Nationally it has decreased in numbers by 97% in 50 years. A local denizen of ancient oak woodland and feeds on oak.

65.015 Frosted Green 3, 30th March, 7, 23rd Apr. A local species of mature oakwoods, important as it has declined in numbers by 83% in 50 years nationally.

66.001 December Moth 6, 26th Nov. - feeds on most woodland trees. National decline in numbers of 68%.

69.01 Hummingbird Hawk-moth 1, 8th June & 5th Jul. on the transect, a southern migrant more often seen in gardens than the wood. Has increased in distribution by 363%, probably due to climate change.

69.016 Elephant Hawk-moth 1 larva, 4th Sept., - we have trapped no hawk-moths of any species in Ravensroost (perhaps they are late fliers?) so finding this larva was good. Another Hawk-moth that has expanded its range northwards and increased its range by 147%.

70.008 Small Dusty Wave 1, 28th Jun., - feeds on withered leaves. Distribution has increased nationally by 97% in 50 years.

70.027 Cream Wave 7, 21st May - a local species eating bedstraws, woodruff and bush vetch.

70.031 Mocha 2, 21st May, 1, 29th Jun. - the second & third records (first was last July) - a nationally scarce species feeding on Field Maple. It has declined in distribution nationally by 71% in 50 years.

Mocha, 21st May

70.036 Maiden's Blush 2, 29th Aug., a local oakwood inhabitant that feeds on oaks. National distribution increase by 275%. The sexist name says more about its inventor, and his time, than the moth!

70.081 Grey Pine Carpet 1, 24th Oct., - although still a very common moth (despite a decline in abundance by 47%), this is only the second we have caught in Ravensroost - the reason isn't difficult to see - it feeds exclusively on conifers (many species including exotic ones) of which there are relatively few in the wood and quite scattered. Naturally it's common at Somerford Common.

70.093 Barred Straw One photographed by Trevor Simmonds on 21st June was the first for the reserve. Feeds on bedstraws and cleavers. National decline in abundance by 38%.

Barred Straw, 21st June (Trevor Simmonds)

70.103 Water Carpet 1, 30th Mar., resembles the scarce Devon Carpet, which we have also found on the reserve - the difference, apart from the flight season, is in size and certain pretty subtle details of the wing pattern. Feeds on Bedstraws (3 species) and Cleavers. Has increased in abundance by 106% in the last 50 years.

Water Carpet, 30th Mar.

70.106 Winter Moth One in the daytime in the coppice 9th Jan. About 100 males gathered round the traps on 26th November but were more interested in females perched enticingly on nearby trees. Has declined in abundance by 59%.

70.137 Grass Rivulet 1, 21st May - the first in the wood since at least 2011 - a local species feeding on the ripening seeds of Yellow Rattle. Distribution nationally has increased by 63% in only 20 years.

70.143 Sloe Pug 1, 28th Jun., - a species only discovered in 1971! - feeds on Blackthorn flowers. May be the first record for this ten kilometre square (unless it has been recorded elsewhere in the square since 2016), but little is known about this species' true status.

70.157 Oak-tree Pug 2, 23rd Apr., - long established woodlands - the first for Ravensroost but probably only because of identification problems

70.202 Early Tooth-striped 1, 30th March - the first in Ravensroost since at least 2011 - feeds on Sallows, Birches, Honeysuckle and Alder. Has increased in abundance by 145% in 50 years.

70.203 Orange Underwing A good year, seen from 24th Mar until 22nd April, max 6 on 20th Apr. Ravensroost and other neighbouring localities such as Somerford Common are important for this day-flying species as it occurs in few other areas locally, preferring birches on heathland. A local species.

70.208 Scorched Carpet 1, 19th May, 1, 29th Jun. - local, feeding on Spindle, only the second & third records for the reserve.

70.227 Bordered Beauty 1, 19th Sept., - a pristine individual netted by Jane - near the end of its flight season.

Bordered Beauty, 19th Sept.

70.241 Scalloped Oak 1, 17th Jul., the first since at least 2011 - it has decreased in abundance by 69% in 50 years.

70.246 Small Brindled Beauty 19 were trapped on 17th Feb., a significant result as the species has declined in both distribution (-54%) and abundance (-78%) in the last 50 years, and is thinly distributed away from its main range in the south-east. Local, feeding mainly on Oaks.

70.253 Spring Usher One on 17th Feb. - another declining species - by 61% in distribution and 49% in abundance in 50 years. Feeds on Oaks.

Spring Usher, 17th Feb.

70.255 Dotted Border c6, 20th Feb., - this number seen in the daytime suggests a recent substantial hatch. Abundance nationally has declined by 46%.

70.256 Mottled Umber 2, 2nd Jan., a couple of midwinter moths seen in the daytime, one perched on the entrance gate. Abundance nationally has declined by 86%.

70.257 Waved Umber 1, 23rd Apr. - the first record of this Wild Privet feeder since at least 2011.

70.3 Blotched Emerald 5, 28th Jun., - the first record of this local moth that feeds on oak leaves in well established oakwoods since at least 2011. It has declined in abundance by 69% in 50 years, so this record is significant.

Blotched Emerald, 28th Jun.

71.016 Great Prominent 11, 23rd Apr. - another local species that doesn't occur in many localities in our area. Feeds on oaks. A record total. Has declined by 50% in distribution in 50 years.

72.001 Herald 1, 19th Sept., - a gorgeous moth, that hibernates and can be seen in very small numbers in Aug - Oct and again Mar - Jun.

72.01 Black Arches 6, 17th Jul., - feeds mainly on oaks - the female, particularly, is one of the most beautiful moths. A success story - the moth has increased by 307% in distribution and 111% in abundance in the last half-century.

Black Arches, 17th Jul.

72.029 Scarlet Tiger 2, 12th Jul., 1, 23rd Jul - perhaps fewer than usual? Has increased in distribution by 189% in 50 years.

72.036 Muslin Footman 1, 17th Jul., a local moth that feeds on lichen. Has increased by 43% in distribution in 50 years. Maybe this and the next two species have been affected by cleaner air, promoting lichen growth?

72.049 Orange Footman 2, 21st May, 1 in daytime, 22nd May - a local species feeding on lichen on trees. Has hugely increased in the last half century - by 330% in distribution, and a massive 10443% in abundance!

72.069 Beautiful Hook-tip 1, 28th Jun., - another local species that feeds on lichen. Has increased by 31% in distribution.

72.084 Mother Shipton 2, 22nd May. A day flying moth not often seen in Ravensroost Meadows, with a wing marking said to resemble the face of a notorious Yorkshire witch.

Mother Shipton, 22nd May (Dave Gilbert)

73.015 Silver Y From 15th May,- a common migrant from the Med. or even further south. Distribution nationally has increased by 48% in 50 years, while abundance over the same period has declined by 44%.

73.033 Figure of Eight 8, 24th Oct., - numbers nationally have declined by 96% in 50 years, and distribution by 70% - but seems to still be doing very well at Ravensroost. It feeds on Blackthorn, Hawthorn and all the relatives (so not a specialist!) Maybe "tidy" hedge cutting has been its downfall.

73.048 Small Yellow Underwing 2, 15th May - unlike the other "yellow underwings" this is a day flying moth, like a diminutive Orange Underwing, local and declining, feeding in meadows on mouse-ears. Distribution down by 40% in 50 years.

Small Yellow Underwing, 15th May

73.063 Svensson's Copper Underwing 1, 29th Aug. - we opened up the noticeboard in the car park and found a dead Svensson's Copper Underwing there just as we did a couple of years ago - they are hard to tell from Copper Underwing when alive. What is the board's attraction for these two species? Distribution of this species is up by 87% nationally.

73.065 Sprawler 1, 26th Nov., - feeds on most woodland tree species. The name is from the way the caterpillar sprawls about, not the adult. Has declined in abundance by 85% and distribution by 34% in 50 years.

73.099 Vine's Rustic 1, 29th Aug., feeds on docks, plantains etc. Distribution nationally has increased by 229%.

73.109 Straw Underwing 1, 29th Aug. - grass feeder

73.181 Pink-barred Sallow 1, 9th Oct., - a lovely moth, disturbed when we were cutting scrub round the Newt Pond, feeds on catkins and herbaceous plants. Nationally has declined in abundance by 49% in 50 years, although the distribution has increased in the same period by 39%.

73.182 Sallow 1, 19th Sept., - another lovely autumn moth, the colour of fallen sallow leaves, Abundance has declined by 81% in 50 years.

73.225 Brindled Green 2, 19th Sept., - another couple of these lovely autumn moths only trapped in the wood first a year ago. Feeds on oaks and hazel. Distribution nationally has increased by 91% in 50 years.

73.231 Deep Brown Dart 3, 19th Sept., Said to frequent wide woodland rides so our ride clearing is obviously important for this species.Abundance nationally has declined by 62% and distribution by 36% in 50 years.

73.245 Small Quaker At least 30 adults found alive floating on a pond in the wood, 13th March. Seemed fine when rescued. Distribution nationally has increased by 28%.

73.246 Lead-coloured Drab - 1, 30th Mar., local, and a declining species - by 78% in its distribution in 50 years - but the first in Ravensroost since at least 2011 - feeds on Aspen and Black Poplar and maybe other poplars

Lead-coloured Drab, 30th Mar.

74.004 Least Black Arches 1, 23rd Apr., one of the (formerly) local species that is increasing (98%) and spreading (47%). Feeds on a variety of wild flowers.

4. ODONATA

Common Emerald Damselfly, 3rd Aug. (Peter Sketch)

Most of the following were seen at the Meadow Ponds, one of the best sites for odonata in Braydon Forest, but some are also seen in the woodland ponds. A second flight record of Hairy Dragonfly was noteworthy, but it was sad neither of the Red-eyed Damselfly species were seen this year. The Small Red-eyed Damselfly has only been seen here by the late Steve Covey, who is the much missed odonata recorder for the county, in 2017.

Banded Demoiselle 1, 3rd Aug. (Peter Sketch)

Common Emerald Damselfly 6 on 3rd Aug., the first for the year (Peter Sketch)

Large Red Damselfly A teneral (juvenile) on 22nd Apr., this species is always the first damselfly to be seen in the year.

Azure Damselfly From 15th May.

Azure Damselflies, 21st Jun., (Trevor Simmonds)

Blue-tailed Damselfly From 3rd Aug., (Peter Sketch)

Common Blue Damselflies More often seen in the wood than at the meadow ponds, where Azure is more common.

Hairy Dragonfly One, 15th May, the second record for this newly invasive spring species (from further south in England rather than abroad probably.)

Southern Hawker From 15th Jul,

Migrant Hawker From 2nd Sept., when 6 were seen

Brown Hawker From 29th Jun., 6 on 23rd July. Temporarily trapped in mist nets by Simon Tucker on 9th Sept.

Emperor Dragonfly From 21st June

Four-spotted Chaser From 22nd May.

Broad Bodied Chaser one in meadows, 10th May

Black-tailed Skimmer From 5th Jul.

Common Darter From 12th Jul.

Ruddy Darter From 23rd Jul. As in 2018, seemed as common, if not more so, than Common Darter - eg. 10 counted on 3rd Aug. cf. 9 Common (Peter Sketch) Previous to the last couple of years it was an exciting rarity at the Meadow Pond - now found at the Newt Pond in the wood as well. Like Brown Hawker, trapped unintentionally and temporarily in mist nets by Simon Tucker.