2006 THAILAND BIRD REPORTS

Bird Conservation Society of Thailand Bulletin (BCST Bulletin)

E-mail: bcst[at]bcst.or.th

RECENT REPORTS
Late November 2006 - January 2007

A Great Crested Grebe at Nong Bong Khai (Chiang Rai) on 29 November (BK) and 10 December (DD, MD) remained into January 2007 (BK, NL) and was still present on 21 January (CK, SM, CP, et al.). A long-staying Great Cormorant was still present into January 2007 (BK, NL).

Single Oriental Darters were seen at Kaem Ling Nong Yai, Muang District (Chumphon) on 18 December and 14 January (CN); at the waterbird colony at Ban Wang Petch, Bang Rakam (Phitsanuloke) on 23 December (MT), and at a municipal park, Muang District (Sa Kaeo) on 20 December (AAA). As many as 100 birds roosted regularly at Ko Wat, Bung Boraphet (Nakhon Sawan) in early January (BBWRS), in one of the clearest indications yet that this striking waterbird is well on the way to recolonising the country. There were six Grey Herons at Lat Krabang (Bangkok) on 8 December (AM) and c. 500 on the flooded north shores of Bung Boraphet on 9 January (PE, PDR), possibly the largest single concentration recorded. 70-90 Intermediate Egrets at Ban Wang Petch on 23 December (MT) included some with 2-3 young. This is the first confirmed breeding site for Intermediate Egret in Thailand. A possible Chinese Egret was seen at Khlong Tamru (Chonburi) on 13 January (CT). There was a Black Stork at Nong Lom (Chiang Rai) on 14 December (DD, MD) with others (both juveniles) at Khao Bandai, Huai Kha Khaeng (Uthai Thani) on 10 or 11 January (PK) and at Sanambin Non-Hunting Area (Buriram) on) 14 January (AAA). A Black-headed Ibis was seen at Kaem Ling Nong Yai on 7 January (CN).

Asian Openbills were also present at the Wang Petch colony on 23 December (MT). If breeding this should be the northernmost colony known. Seven Greylag Geese on flooded paddy stubbles north of Bung Boraphet on 6-8 January (KE/BBWRS) was a first for the Central Plains, and only the third record for Thailand. The birds were not seen on 9 January (BBWRS). Two Ruddy Shelducks were seen at Fang on 25 December (AK). The Mekong River at Chiang Saen (Chiang Rai) held two on 31 December (LM, MO, UP, HV) and 11 January (RK), but 16 on 5 January (NL) and seven on 19 January (CK, SM, CP, et al.). One was also seen at Nong Lahan (Chaiyaphum) on 25 January (LM). 15 Cotton Pygmy-geese were counted at Pha Mok, 25 km from Suphanburi, on 13 January (NL) with 28 at Nong Lahan on 25 January (LMu). Five Eurasian Wigeons, c. 100 Northern Pintails, three Northern Shovelers, 150 Spot-billed Ducks, six Tufted Ducks and 15 Ferruginous Pochards were among ducks counted at Nong Bong Khai (Chiang Rai) on 31 December (LM, MO, UP, HV). Significantly, there were only 30 Garganeys counted. Nong Bong Khai on 3 January held three Baer's Pochards, two Common Pochards (BK), 33 Ferruginous Pochards (NL), two Gadwalls (NL, PP) and a female Mandarin Duck (NL, PP). The reported six Mallards on the same date (NL) were presumably the long-staying released captives. A single male Baer's Pochard and four Common Pochards were present on 21 January (CK, SM, CP, et al.) Flooded paddies along the northern shore of Bung Boraphet held 3000 Northern Pintails, 3000 Garganeys, five Eurasian Wigeons, three Northern Shovelers, one Common Teal and at least one Ferruginous Pochard on 9 January (PE, PDR). 50 Garganeys were counted on paddies near Suphanburi on 11 January (NL).

Single Ospreys were seen at Kaem Ling Nong Yai on 21 December and 7 January (CK); Mae Ngat Dam (Chiang Mai) on 1 January (NL) and Kings Park, Phuket on 9 December (IS). A Black Kite, a rare bird in the south, was present at Thai Muang Marsh (Phang-nga) on 8 December (SW). Eurasian Sparrowhawks were seen on the summit of Doi Pha Hom Pok (Chiang Mai) on 30 December (CK) and on nearby Doi Lang on 2 January (CK, TD et al.). An immature female Northern Goshawk was seen on the Mekong at Chiang Saen on 14 December (DD, MD). Records of single Chinese Sparrowhawks, at Lat Krabang on 12 December (AM) and Mae Hia on 18 December (AB) are outside the expected range of dates for this passage migrant. Three vultures, thought to be Himalayan Griffons were seen on Doi Lang on 12 December (SKr, TS), with two (one photographed) on Doi Ang Khang on 29 December (RKa, JS), and a single individual captured by villagers in Ban Yoong Ngam, Yantakhao District (Trang) on 23 January when it landed in a schoolyard and chased a puppy (per PP). A first-winter Cinereous Vulture, obtained from park rangers in Tambol Thap Sai (Chanthaburi) on 31 December, was taken into care at the Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Kasetsart University, where it was eating well and regaining strength in January (CK/TRG). It was named “Anakin Skywalker” by its many admirers, and it is hoped to release it back into the wild (CK). A Black Eagle was reported from Mae Hia on 22 December (AB). A Greater Spotted Eagle was seen at Ban Bang Jak, Muang District (Phetchaburi) on 15 January (PP). Pale morph Booted Eagles were reported at the foot of Doi Chiang Dao (Chiang Mai) on (27-29) December (NL) and from Khao Yai on 5 January (HK). Another Booted Eagle, colour morph not mentioned, was seen at Km 46 along the highway between Chiang Mai and Chom Thong on 8 January (NT). A juvenile Pied Harrier was seen at Kaem Ling Nong Yai on 21 December (CN) and a male Eastern Marsh Harrier on 7 January (CN). Five Eastern Marsh Harriers were seen at Pha Mok on 13 January (NL). 57 harriers, mostly adult male Pied Harriers, entered a roost at Pa Sak Noi, Chiang Saen, during a 20-minute period before dusk on 21 January. The Nong Lom roost held 206 harriers, both Eastern Marsh and Pied, on 10 December (DD,MD) and 192 harriers, on 20 January (CK, SM, CP, KS, CT, CW et al.). 62 harriers (Eastern Marsh and Pied) entered a roost at Nong Han Kumpawapi (Udon Thani) on 24 January (DD, MD).

Common Buzzards were reported from Doi Ang Khang (three on 2 December; AJ, KJ) and Khao Krajom (Ratchaburi) (two on the same day; CT), Mae Ngat Dam on 1 January (two: NL), the Kasetsart University Kamphaengsaen Campus, Nakhon Pathom, (one on 13 January; AAA) and Nong Bong Khai on 21 January (one: CK, SM, CP et al.). Single Grey-faced Buzzards were reported from Mae Hia (Chiang Mai) on 7 December (AB) and Kasetsart University Kamphaengsaen on 13 January (AAA). Two Rufous-winged Buzzards were seen at Mae Ngat Dam on 1 January (NL). An Oriental Hobby was reported from Khao Yai on 4 December (AM), and another at Khao Krajom on 2 December (CT). Common Kestrels were seen at Mae Hia (Chiang Mai) on 4 December (AB), Doi Inthanon on 20 December (LM, MO, UP, HV); Ban Phe (Rayong) on (9-16) January (HK) and the Chao Fa foothills, Phuket on 12 January (IS). An adult migrant race Peregrine Falcon was seen at Bung Boraphet on 9 January (PE, PDR). Another, an adult female, took a Lesser Whistling-duck in mid-air at Nong Bong Khai in mid-December (DD, MD, BK).

There were two Blue-breasted Quails at Thai Muang Marsh (Phang-nga) on 8 December (SW); twenty Common Coots at Nong Bong Khai on 31 January (LM, MO, UP, HV) and c. 400 at Nong Lahan on 25 January (LMu). Ten White-browed Crakes were seen at Nong Han Kumpawapi on 24 January (DD, MD).

Most remarkably, a flock 300 of what were thought to be Common Cranes was seen in flight in Muang District, Nong Khai, on the evening of 22 January (DD, MD). The birds approached from the north before continuing westwards up the Mekong Valley.

Eight Grey-headed Lapwings were counted at Kaem Ling Nong Yai on 20 December (CN), 30 at Lat Krabang on 17 December (AM et al.), 43 on paddies south of Chiang Dao on 24 December (NL); three at Pha Mok on 13 January (NL) and two in Amphawa District (Samut Songkhram) on 15 January (PDR). Five River Lapwings and c. 800 Small Pratincoles were counted on the Mekong at Chiang Saen on 19 January (CK, SM, CP et al.) Ten Malaysian Plovers were counted at the Marine and Coastal Resources Center, Na Thung, Muang District (Chumphon) on 14 January (CN). The Long-billed Plover first seen on the Mekong at Chiang Saen in late November was still present on 29 December (DD, MD) and 21 January (SKu, SM, et al.). An albino Black-tailed Godwit was associating with others of the same species at Samut Sakhon Mangrove Research Center on 12 January (YT/SSMRC). Among birds counted during the January 2007 Asian Waterfowl Census (full results not yet available) were two Asian Dowitchers and a single Grey-tailed Tattler in the Khlong Khone area (Samut Songkhram) on 13 January (DD). A Eurasian Woodcock was seen on Doi Pha Hom Pok on 30 December (LM, MO, UP, HV). At least 1000 Great Knots and 19 Nordmann's Greenshanks were counted at Laem Phak Bia on 24 December (SN, PDR). Single Green Sandpipers were seen at KU Kamphaengsaen Campus on 13 January (AAA) and at Chiang Saen on 21 January (CK,SM, CP, et al.). 20 Dunlins were counted on the Mekong River at Chiang Saen on 31 December (LM, MO, UP, HV) and two on 21 January (SKu, SM, et al.). Two Dunlins were also present at Pak Thale on 21 February (JEM, PDR). A single Spoon-billed Sandpiper appeared at Khok Kham on 27 December after an absence of some weeks (SD), but continues to prove elusive, as it was not seen again until 15 January (SD). Another bird was found at a new site, near Tambol Bang Ya Phraek (Samut Sakhon) on 24 December (SSri); there were four at Pak Thale on 29 December (SD); eight on 6 January (PJ, RKa) and 7 January (BKh) and six on 21 January (SD). 45 Sanderlings were counted at Thai Muang on 6 January (SW). There were two Ruffs at Nong Lahan on 25 February (LMu). Three Pied Avocets were seen at Samut Sakhon Mangrove Research Center on 12 January (YT/SSRC) and another three at Laem Phak Bia on 13 January and 20 January (SN et al.). At least 400 Black-winged Stilts were present on paddies at Bung Boraphet on 9 January (PE,PDR). A single Oriental Pratincole in wing moult remained at Kaem Ling Nong Yai during 18 December to 2 January (CN). First-winter Pallas's Gull on the Mekong River at Chiang Saen on 26 December (DD, MD)There were 20 Heuglin's Gulls at Laem Phak Bia on 12 December (LM, MO, UP, HV); c. 27 Heuglin's Gulls and three first-winter Pallas's Gulls, ten Great Crested Terns and one Lesser Crested Tern at Laem Phak Bia on 20 January (SN, PDR et al.)

Eight Pin-tailed Pigeons were reported on the road to Den Ya Khat, Doi Chiang Dao (Chiang Mai) on 23 December (LM, MO, UP, HV), and a single Pompadour Pigeon from Mae Hia on 22 December (AB). Six Orange-breasted Pigeons were seen at Kaem Ling Nong Yai on 7 January (CK). Over 120 Pale-capped Pigeons were counted at Thung Kha (Chumphon) on 23 December, and over 100 on 7 January (CN). Two Pied Imperial Pigeons appeared near a gas depot at Laem Panwa (Phuket) on 13 December (IS). A Large Hawk Cuckoo was seen in the Chao Fa Foothills on 12 January (IS), and a male Asian Emerald Cuckoo at MU Salaya (Nakhon Pathom) on 22 December (SS, TS) and at least one other (sex unrecorded) near Wat Chalerm Prakiat (Nonthaburi), on the outskirts of Bangkok, during 22-24 January (Pat). At least six different Asian Emerald Cuckoos were seen in Khao Yai during 11-16 December (RKe, AJP), with a male Violet Cuckoo on the Mo-Singto Study Plot, Khao Yai on 2 January (JK). A Violet Cuckoo was also seen at Thi Nuey Thung Yai Wildlife Sanctuary (Kanchanaburi) on 6 January (AAA). A juvenile Violet Cuckoo was also photographed in a park near Wat Chalerm Prakiat during 22-24 January (SSu). A Grass Owl was seen and photographed at Nong Lom on 20 and 21 January (CK, CP, CW), providing firm evidence to add this resident owl to the Thai list. At least three White-throated Needletails were reported from Khao Krajom on 2 December (CT). A Pied Kingfisher at Kaem Ling Nong Yai on 20 December (CN) was a new record for the site. A White-crowned Hornbill was seen at Kaeng Krachan (where very scarce) on 16 December (LM, MO, UP, HV). Ten Plain-pouched Hornbills and four Wreathed Hornbills were seen at Khao Krajom on 2 December (CT). Rufous-necked Hornbill (number not stated) was reported from Thi Nuey on 3 January (AAA) and a Rufous Woodpecker was seen at Kasetsart University Kamphaengsaen Campus on 13 January (AAA). Two Blue-winged Pittas at Kaeng Krachan on 15 December (LM, MO, UP, HV) is an unusual midwinter record. Five Plain Martins were seen on the Mekong at Chiang Saen on 31 December (LM, MO, UP, HV). A male Silver Oriole in a fig-tree at Km 33, Khao Yai on 19 December (RKe) was the first record of this species received from the park for many years. The bird was still present on 5 January (KP, WS et al.) when said to be at least 3 birds present, including at least. one male and one female (AS, CS). A male and a female were again seen at the same site on 8 January (SM, KS).

More than 10 Crested Finchbills were reported from Ban Luang, Doi Ang Khang on 17 December (AAA). Two Yellow-vented Bulbuls at Ban Luang on 17 December (AAA) was a new and very surprising locality record for this inhabitant of lowland, well-watered areas.

A White-throated Rock Thrush male was apparently on a winter territory on the Mo-Singto Study Plot, Khao Yai during 28 December to 4 January (JK, WS). An Orange-headed Thrush appeared in a Bang Phlat (Bangkok) garden during 1-3 January (AN). Four Black-breasted Thrushes were seen at Ban Luang Resort (Doi Ang Khang) on the weekend of 13-14 January (AJ, per RJ). Grey-winged Blackbird was also seen on Doi Ang Khang n 26 December (LM, MO, UP, HV). A Bluethroat at Laem Phak Bia on 24 December (SN,PDR) was a first record for the project site. A male Golden Bush Robin was seen on Doi Lang on 2 January (WB, RK). There was a single Jerdon's Bushchat at Thaton (Chiang Mai) on 28 December (LM, MO, UP, HV); and two pairs of Jerdon's Bushchats about 15 km E of Mae Sai (Chiang Rai ) on 7 January (NL). Daurian Redstart n Doi Ang Khang on 27 December (LM, MO, UP, HV). A Black-backed Forktail near Malee's Guest House at the foot of Doi Chiang Dao on (27-29) December (NL) may be a new locality record. A possible Brown-streaked Flycatcher was reported from Thi Nuey on 3 January (AAA); a Mugimaki Flycatcher seen at Krung Ching (Nakhon Si Thammarat) on 4 January (AAA) and a Sapphire Flycatcher (sex not mentioned) at Den Ya Khat, Doi Chiang Dao on 24 December (LM, MO, UP, HV). An overwintering Asian Paradise-flycatcher was seen at Phutthamonthol (Nakhon Pathom) on 15 January (MK).

A Striated Warbler at Huai Thung Tao (Chiang Mai) on 3 January (AB) was an unusual (new?) site for this rather scarce and local species. Two were also seen at Lat Krabang on 26 December (AM). Two Blunt-winged Warblers were seen near Suphanburi on 11 January (NL) and a Pale-legged Leaf Warbler in Suan Luang Rama 9 Park (Bangkok) on 17 December (VP, TT).

Four Common Starlings were feeding in paddies at Fang on 25 December (AK). Two White-shouldered Starlings and ten Chestnut-tailed Starlings were present at Km 36, in the headquarters area of Khao Yai, 8 January (SM,KS). As many as 50 Chestnut-tailed Starlings (42 showing the characteristics of the race malabaricus), six Purple-backed Starlings and three Chestnut-cheeked Starlings were present at the Apakiatikorn Garden, near the Provincial Sports Stadium, Chumphon on 22 December (CN). There were five Chestnut-cheeked Starlings at the same site on 5 January, together with three first-year Rosy Starlings (CN). One each of Chestnut-cheeked and Rosy, 30 malabaricus Chestnut-tailed Starlings and five Purple-backed Starlings were still present on 7 January (CN). There were also said to be many (> 50?) Spot-winged Starlings at Thi Nuey (where flocks are recorded annually, taking nectar from flowering trees) over the New Year Period though no records were actually submitted.

A roost of 1500 Red-throated Pipits was observed at Nong Lom on 20 November and 14 December (DD, MD). A single Red-throated Pipit was reported from Kaem Ling Nong Yai on 7 January (CN). There were ten Forest Wagtails at Phutthamonthol on 9 January (AAA). Male House Sparrow at Samut Sakhon Mangrove Research Center on 28 December (YT). A single Russet Sparrow among Scaly-breasted Munia at Mae Hia on 18 December (AB) is the first record of this scarce species for some years

A Pin-tailed Parrotfinch, a female, was an addition to the species list for the Mo-Singto Study Plot on 3 January (WS) -- all the more surprising a find because there is almost no bamboo, with which this species is usually associated, on the plot. However, there was said to be a large flock in flowering bamboo around the Khao Yai National Park headquarters on 14 January (BKh). Two male Scarlet Finches were seen on Doi Lang on 17 December and 6 Bramblings and 20 Black-headed Greenfinches were still present at No Lae, Doi Ang Khang on 18 December (KS, SM) and 40 Black-headed Greenfinches on 27 December (UP, MO, LM et al.). There were said to be still four Bramblings present at the latter site up to at least 13-14 January (per RJ/LBC). Two male and one female Spot-winged Grosbeaks were seen at Den Ya Khat, Doi Chiang Dao, on 27 December (PC, BF, NL).

Breeding records: Heart-spotted Woodpecker feeding chicks, 8 January, Khao Yai (SM, KS).

Contributors: Anonymous/pseudonymous web board postings (AAA), Tony Ball (AB), Worapot Boonkhwamdee (WB), Peter Carnell (PC), Samut Sakhon Mangrove Research Center (SSMRC), Lanna Bird Club (LBC), Dawroong Damlamajak (DD), Mick Davies (MD), Douglas Downard (DD), Krairat Eiam-amphai (KE), Peter Ericsson (PE), Brian Foster (BF), Pitchaya Janhom (PJ), Ayuwat Jearwattanakanok (AJ), Kijja Jearwattanakanok (KJ), Mongkol Kaewthep (MK), Dr. Rungsrit Kanjanavanich (RK), Boonphob Kansiwiang (BK), Dr. Chaiyan Kasorndorkbua (CK), Rattapon Kaichid (RKa), Rittichai Kengsungnoen (RKe), Boonrawd Kheowyoo (BKh), Jitwadee Khoonwongsa (JK), Hannu Klemola (HK), Prasong Kraisakdawut (PK), Suphawan Kritsanawarun (SKr), Akalak Kunsorn (AK), Suporn Kusolnamsanong (SKu), Neil Lawton (NL), Lauri Maenpa (LM), Anantana Mongkolsiri (AM), Dr. Suwanna Mookachonpan (SM), Miss B. Mountfield (BM), Lester Mulford (LMu), Jonathan Murray (JEM), Dr. Apichart Nana (AN), Somchai Nimnuan (SN), Chukiat Nualsri (CN), Margus Ots (MO), Uku Paal (UP), Parinya Padungtin (PP), Chulthawat Phowattanadilok (CP), Andrew Pierce (AJP), Korakoch Pobprasert (KP), Vetida Pongpanit (VP), Philip Round (PDR), Theeraphong Saengdokmai (TS), Apakorn Saetang (AS), Wangworn Sankamethawee (WS), Chawaengwan Srimuang (CS), Bung Bopraphet Wildlife Research Station (BBWRS), Suknimit Sujira (SS), Ike Suriwong (IS), Dr. Kaset Sutasha (KS), Thitiya Summathed (TS), Dr. Sataporn Suvitvong (SSu), Johan Svensson (JS), Thiti Tanaree (TT), Yupin Tatuwan (YT), Maanode Taengtum (MT), Chirdphong Termtanan (CT), Natthapat Thanapolpaisan (NT), Heidi Vanhanen (HV), Stijn de Win (SW), Chaiwat Wongchai (CW).

Compiled by Philip D. Round and Roongroj Jukmongkol, with special assistance from Dr. Chaiyan Kasorndorkbua and the Thai Raptor Group. The collaboration of Nick Upton (Thai Birding website) is also gratefully acknowledged.

The work of BCST Records Committee is supported by Swarovski Optik KG

RECENT REPORTS
Late October to Early December 2006

A Great Crested Grebe was reported from Nong Bong Khai, Chiang Saen (Chiang Rai) on 11 December (RK), and a single Great Cormorant was also present there during November and December (many observers). A juvenile frigatebird at Bang Pu on 14 December (BS) was identified as either Christmas or Lesser (and thought on probability to be Christmas Frigatebird), while a possible Great Frigatebird was seen off Thai Muang (Phang-nga) on 26 November (per SW). A single Chinese Egret flew out of the roost at Laem Pakarang (Phang-nga) on 1 November (SW). Five more were seen on mudflats on the eastern side of Phuket Island on 14 November and 1 December (SW). A Schrenck's Bittern was reported from mangroves near Phgan-nga town on 2 December (SW), and a single Black Stork at Nong Lom (Chiang Rai) on 11 December (RK). There were 23 Painted Storks at Laem Phak Bia (Phetchaburi) on 2 December (SK, SM, PeS, KS). The Painted Storks which were building nests near Phetchaburi in October had abandoned the site by early December (JEM, OP). So far as known, abandonment had not been caused by any human disturbance. Two Glossy Ibises were photographed off the Bang Na-Trat Highway at Km 29 on 3 December (GM). There were three Black-headed Ibises at Wat Khao Takhrao (Phetchaburi) on 2 December (SK, SM, PeS, KS). A single Northern Pintail was seen at Nong Samrong (Udon Thani) on 15 November (PB); and roughly 100 Northern Pintails, 200 Spot-billed Ducks, a record count, (including a brood of 12 ducklings), a single Common Teal, 10 Ferruginous Ducks, at least one Common Pochard and 21 Tufted Ducks at Nong Bong Khai on 29 December (KB, BK, PDR). Two Baer's Pochards were also said to have been present since c. 2 November (BK). There were very few (< 10) Garganeys, however. Two Ruddy Shelducks were present on the Mekong River at Chiang Saen on 27 November (KB, DD, MD,PDR) and 20 Cotton Pygmy Geese at Ban Don (Phuket) on 1 December (SW).

Single Ospreys were seen at Jet Khot Nature Centre (Saraburi) on 24 October (MA); Phu Khieo Wildlife Sanctuary (Chaiyaphum) during 5–10 November (MK); along a forest stream near Suan Phueng (Ratchaburi) on 4 December (ChK), with two near Lam Tahkhong Dam, (Nakhon Ratchasima) on 15 November (KTh). Another at Nong Lahan, Chaturat (Chaiyaphum) on 5 November was taking Nile Tilapia (PP).

Jerdon's Bazas were again recorded apparently on migration: one was photographed at Chumphon Raptor Watch site (Ban U-Taphao, Muang District) on 6 November (CN) while another was seen perched at Mae Jo University, Chumphon Campus, La Mae District (Chumphon) on the same day (CTh). A Brahminy Kite was reported from Nong Samrong on 31 October (PB). There were eight Black Kites at Suphanburi on 4-5 November (NL); a flock of 25 Black Kites at Nong Lahan, Chaturat on 16 November (MK) and a single at the Saphan Hin Recycling Centre (Phuket) on 12 December (IS). A Grey-headed Fish Eagle (but no Lessers!) was reported from the Chieo Larn Dam Area, Khao Sok (Surat Thani) on 28 November (SW). A juvenile Greater Spotted Eagle was mobbed by a Black Kite over Rama II Road, Samut Songkhram on 5 November (CC). Another Greater Spotted Eagle was seen near Suphanburi on 6 November (NL) and a juvenile, at Wat Khao Takhrao on 30 November (JWKP, RJT) and 2 December (SK, SM, PeS, KS). Three species of Aquila were seen while driving a loop between Khao Yoi and Ban Bangjak (Phetchaburi) on 26 November: juveniles of Greater Spotted, Steppe and Imperial Eagles were all photographed (SN). Also on 26 November the Thai Raptor Group found three Booted Eagles and three Greater Spotted Eagles (2 juvenile and 1 subadult) at two localities in Phetchaburi during a "Raptour & Talk" for 20 novice and experienced birders (TRG). A juvenile Greater Spotted Eagle soared above the main highway at Khuraburi (Phang-nga) on 30 November (SW), and one or two more were seen at two localities on Phuket on 1 December (SW). Two juvenile Greater Spotted, a juvenile Imperial Eagle and two dark-morph Booted Eagles were found at Khao Yoi and Bangjak ricefields, Petchaburi on 3 Dec (the same as, or different from above?; PN, PT, CK). Another dark morph Booted Eagle was seen "in the perilous vicinity of some mist-nets" at Thai Muang on 13 December (SW). There was a female Japanese Sparowhawk at Salaya on 10 November (PDR); a juvenile at the Chumphon Provincial Sports Stadium (Chumphon) on 9 December (CN) and six Japanese Sparrowhawks around the old tin-mine at the "Chao Fah Foothills site", Phuket on 15 December (IS). Single Chinese Sparrowhawks (age/sex?) were reported from Chulalongkorn University (Bangkok) on 2 November (KT); Nakhon Chaisri (Nakhon Pathom) and Rangsit, Pathumthani on 11 November (TSa). An adult Northern Goshawk was reported from Mae Wong (Nakhon Sawan) on 2 December (MT). A roadside survey along Highway 12, adjacent to Naresuan University, Phitsanulok, on the evening of 16 November produced two Chinese Sparrowhawks, two Rufous-winged Buzzards and a Peregrine Falcon (MT). Two Rufous-winged Buzzards were seen at Sap Sadao, Thap Lan (Nakhon Ratchasima) on 11 November (SM). Singles of both Rufous-winged Buzzard and Grey-faced Buzzard were seen at Mae Khao Luang, Phan (Chiang Rai) on 11 November (CW). Two Rufous-winged Buzzards and, on 7 December, a Grey-faced Buzzard, were reported at Huai Thung Tao (AB). Another Grey-faced Buzzard was seen at Ban Na,Muang District (Chumphon) on 30 November (CN).

Two Common Buzzards were reported from Mae Wong on 2 December (MT), and three more (japonicus subspecies) on Doi Ang Khang, (Chiang Mai) on 2 December (AJ). A roosting flock of eighteen harriers, both Pied and Eastern Marsh Harriers, and an Osprey was found in ricefields adjacent to an irrigation canal at Plaeng Yao District (Chachoengsao) on 5 November (NW, CS). About 120 harriers entering the Nong Lom Roost, Mae Jan (Chiang Rai) on 26 November comprised roughly equal numbers of Pied Harriers and Eastern Marsh Harriers (the latter predominating slightly), though with at least 15 adult male Pied Harriers (KB, DD, MD, et al.). By 11 December there were 212 harriers present at this same roost (RK). A juvenile Pied Harrier was seen at Cho Lae, Mae Taeng (Chiang Mai) on 1 November (AJ), with a male and a juvenile at the same site on 3 December (AJ). In Udon Thani a juvenile Pied Harrier was reported from Nong Samrong on 28 October (PB) and, from Ban Doong District (a male) on 19 November (NT). Mountain Hawk-Eagles were reported from at Khao Khieo-Khao Chomphu, (Chonburi) on 27 November (PS) and Mae Wong (two) on 2 December (MT). Two Wallace's Hawk-Eagles were reported from the Chieo Larn Dam catchment area, Khao Sok on 28 November (SW).

Common Kestrels were reported from Phu Khieo during 5-10 November (MK); Pak Thale, Phetchaburi (two) on 5 November (PN, PT, CK), with one female/juvenile there on 26 November (KS), and singles at Laem Phak Bia on 2 December (SK, SM, PeS, KS); Mae Khao Luang, Phan, on 11 November (CW), Mae Jo University, Chiang Mai on 19 November (SKo) and Cho Lae, a male, on 2 December (AJ). The tail-end of the Amur Falcon migration revealed another couple of records, with juveniles at Cho Lae on 1 November (AJ) and on roadside wires at Laem Phak Bia on 18 November (CC, CK, SM). Oriental Hobby was reported from the Chieo Larn dam area on 28 November (SW). A subadult peregrinator Peregrine Falcon was digiscoped at KU Kampaengsaen Campus (Nakhon Pathom) on 8 November (AK). Another, of a migratory subspecies, was found at Thap Lan National Park (Nakhon Ratchasima) on 15 November (AW). Two more Peregrine Falcons, subspecies unrecorded, were present at Thai Muang on 1 December (SW) and at the "Chao Fah foothills" (Phuket) on 15 December (IS). Two male Humes's Pheasants were seen near Den Ya Khat, Doi Chiang Dao, during 19-29 November (NL et al.) Watercock and 4-5 White-browed Crakes were seen at the Muang Boran fishponds (Samut Prakan) on 14 December (BS). There were nine Common Coots on Nong Samrong on 17 November (PB) and 19 on Nong Bong Khai on 29 November (KB, BK, PDR).

At least 8 Grey-headed Lapwings and five River Lapwings were observed at Thai Muang during 10-13 November (SW); 40 Grey-headed Lapwings at Thai Muang on 26 November (SW), 20 on Phuket on 1 December (SW) and 32 among paddies somewhere south of Chiang Dao, during 19-29 November (NL et al.) A Long-billed Plover was present on the Mekong River at Chiang Saen on 28 November (KB, MD, DD, PDR).

Two Eastern Curlews were observed in a flock of 300 Eurasian Curlews at Laem Pak Bia on 2 December (SK, SM, PeS, KS). Earlier, on 5 November, 234 Eurasian Curlews were counted at Pak Thale (part of the same flock as the Laem Phak Bia birds; CK, PN,PT). There were said to be over 400 Eurasian Curlews at Laem Pak Bia on 18 November (CC, CK, SM). Totals of 294 Great Knots, one Red Knot and 34 Broad-billed Sandpipers were counted at Pak Thale on 5 November (CK, PN, PT). There were three Spoon-billed Sandpipers at Pak Thale on 14 November (CK); two on 26 November (KS); three on 3 December (CC,CK,P & PS) and eight on 7 December (SD, SBSRT), with a ninth at Laem Phak Bia on the following day (SD, SBSRT). Further single Spoon-billed Sandpipers were found at two new localities: near Wat Bang Khut (Samut Sakhon ) on 10 December (SBSRT,SD) and near Sripatum University (Khlong Tam Ru, Muang District, Chonburi) on 13 December (SD,SBSRT). In all cases, the birds were on salt pans. Approximately 1000 Red-necked Stints were also counted at the latter site on 13 December (SBSRT). There was a Dunlin at Pak Thale on 14 November (CK) and on 3 December (CC,CK,P & PS), when there was also said to be a non-breeding plumage Little Stint (CK). A Sanderling was present on salt pans at Khok Kham on 12 December (many observers). There were seven Nordmann's Greenshanks at Pak Thale on 14 November (CK); three at nearby Laem Phak Bia on 18 November (CC, CK, SM); 15 Nordmann's Greenshanks and 10 Bar-tailed Godwits at Pak Thale on 26 November (KS); and two Nordmann's Greenshanks and two Asian Dowitchers at Khok Kham on 5 December (SD). Roughly 20 Pintail Snipes were seen at the Muang Boran Fishponds on 12 December (BS). 50 Oriental Pratincoles at Thai Muang during 10-13 November (SW) was a late-ish record. Three Small Pratincoles photographed at Kaem Ling Nong Yai, Muang District (Chumphon) on 10 December (CN) is the first record for the Thai-Malay Peninsula other than Singapore. A single Black-headed Gull was present with Brown-hooded Gulls at Cha-am (Phetchaburi) on 9 November (NL). A first-year Heuglin's Gull was seen on the sea at Bang Pu (Samut Prakan) on 6 November (observer unknown). On 5 November, 12 Heuglin's Gulls, a second-winter Mongolian Gull, a first-winter Pallas's Gull, an adult Black-tailed Gull, two Caspian Terns and ca. 600 Little Terns were reported from Pak Thale (CK, PN, PT). A Pallas's Gull was seen at Laem Phak Bia on 18 November (CC, CK, SM). There were two Caspian Terns offshore daily at Cha-am during 7–10 November, along with Great Crested, Whiskered, White-winged Black, Common and Little Terns. 50 Caspian Terns were counted at Laem Phak Bia on 18 November (CC, CK, SM). Two to three Lesser Crested Terns were seen offshore at Thai Muang during 10-13 November (SW). c. 200 Little Terns were counted at Laem Pakarang together with a single Black-naped Tern on 1 November (SW). A single Roseate Tern was seen at Pak Thale in a flock of Common Terns on 3 December (P & PS). Five White-winged Terns were seen at the Saphan Hin Recycling centre (Phuket) on 12 December (IS).

There were 35 Pin-tailed Pigeons and 20 Wedge-tailed Pigeons in a flock of c. 250 green pigeons (otherwise apparently all Thick-billed) at Tham Pha Phlong, Doi Chiang Dao on 22 November (NL et al.). Around 40 Orange-breasted Pigeons were counted at Thai Muang during 10-13 November (SW) and c. 10 on 4 December (SW). There were c. 30 Pink-necked Pigeons at Bang Bo (Samut Sakhon) on 11 December (CZ). Red Collared Doves were said to be still present "at the Jungle Myna site" near Krabi Airport (SW). The species is rare and local in the peninsula.

A Large Hawk Cuckoo was reported from Suphanburi on 15 November (NL) and a Violet Cuckoo at Huai Thung Tao on 24 November (AB). A resident race, rufous morph, Oriental Scops Owl was seen in Khao Yai on 13 November, and heard calling with the distinctive four-note on the mornings of 13 and 14 November (PK). A Collared Scops Owl was present in a suburban housing estate at Nong Khaem (Bangkok) for two nights on 12 and 13 December (PDR).

A single Himalayan Swiftlet was seen at Nong Samrong on 14 November (PB). 20 Blue-throated Bee-eaters came in off the sea at Cha-am on 8 November (NL). Two Great Hornbills were reported from Tonpariwat Wildlife Sanctuary (Phang-nga) on 2 December. A Great Barbet was seen at an unexpectedly low elevation near Mae Hia (Chiang Mai) on 9 December (AB). A report of a Green Magpie along the Khlong Mon, Chieo Larn Dam catchment, Khong Saeng, on 2 November (SW) is utterly mysterious and hard to account for. This species is strictly montane in the peninsula, known only from the high mountains of Yala and absent even from well-worked montane sites such as Khao Luang in Nakhon Si Thammarat. A White-browed Fantail at Huai Thung Tao on 13 December (AB) is a record of a rarity formerly known from lowlands and foothills around Chiang Mai, but not reported in recent years.

Two males and a female Cutia were seen on a new trail between the summit and Khun Wang, Doi Inthanon on 25 November (AJ, LBG). A Chestnut-capped Babbler in reedbeds at Nong Samrong on 26 October (PB) was a new bird for the site.

A great rarity (or, at least, a skulking and under-recorded species), White-tailed Rubythroat was reported from paddies in Muang District (Phitsanuloke) on 10 November (MT), though no description was supplied. A Siberian Rubythroat close to Bangkok at Khlong Bang Kaew on 12 November (PK) was unexceptional. A Pied Bushchat (male) at Suphanburi on 4 November (NL) may be a new bird for the Central Plains. Three male Jerdon's Bushchats and a further pair were reported on Doi Lang on 6 December (PE), and a White-throated Rock Thrush from Ko Yao (Phang-nga) on 30 November (observer unknown: record from Thaibirding.com web-page). A Thick-billed Warbler was seen at Thai Muang during 10-13 November (SW); there was a Pale-legged Leaf Warbler in a garden at Suphanburi, 4 November (NL), and three Sulphur-breasted Warblers in lowland bamboo scrub, Ban Kudchumsaeng, Nong Bua Daeng, (Chaiyaphum) on 2 December (LM).

Dark-sided Flycatcher was reported from Tonpariwat Wildlife Sanctuary on 2 December (SW) and a female Ultramarine Flycatcher from the Doi Inthanon Summit to Khun Wang Trail, on a ridge at 2200 m, on 25 November (RK). A Green-backed Flycatcher was reported from Phaen Din Samur, Khao Nor Chuchi (Krabi) during 20-22 November (SW). Three Purple-backed Starlings, one Chestnut-tailed Starling and 5 White-shouldered Starlings were seen at Thai Muang during 10-13 November (SW). At the Chumphon Provincial Sports Stadium there were three nominate malabaricus among 14 Chestnut-tailed Starlings on 1 November (CN) and 25 malabaricus among 42 Chestnut-tailed Starlings on 9 December (CN). At least 30 House Sparrows were counted at a gas station, Nong Na Saeng (Chaiyaphum, 4 November (PP). 15 Red Avadavats were seen at Suphanburi on 15 November (NL); with a single juvenile at Huai Thung Tao on 8 December (AB) An adult and five juvenile Chestnut Munias were seen at Nong Samrong on 26 October (PB).

Five Bramblings (KJ) and 10 Black-headed Greenfinches (AJ, KJ) were seen at No Lae, Doi Ang Khang on 2 December, and six Bramblings on 9 and 10 December (AL, PP, TTBT, P&PS). So far as known, these are the first records of Brambling on Doi Ang Khang since the species was first found for Thailand in November 1989.

Addendum:

A count of waders at the Marine and Coastal Resources Center, Nathung Sub-district, Muang, Chumphon on 4 December (CN) yielded one Greater Sand Plover, 81 Lesser Sand Plovers, 53 Kentish Plovers, three Little Ringed Plovers, three Ruddy Turnstones, 36 Red-necked Stints and four Terek Sandpipers.

Ringing recoveries and flag sightings

A Red-necked Stint sighted by SD at Khok Kham on 14 November, showing a white flag on the tibia above a yellow flag on the tarsus, was flagged at Mai Po Marshes, Hong Kong, approximate co-ordinates 22deg 29min N, 114deg 2min E, which uses the flag combination White/Yellow, since spring 2001. The resighting was a distance of approximately 1757 km, with a bearing of 238 degrees, from the marking location.

A Broad-billed Sandpiper sighted by SD at Laem Phak Bia, Phetchaburi Province, on 8 December showing a black flag on the tibia above white flag on the tarsus had been flagged at Chongming Dao, Shanghai, China, c. 31deg 27min N, 121deg 55min E, which has used the flag combination Black/White, since April 2006. The resighting was a distance of approximately 3027 km, with a bearing of 232 degrees, from the marking location.

(Details Australasian Wader Studies Group)

Contributors: Michael Allen (MA), Tony Ball (AB), Philip Bawden (PB), Klos Bunthavee (KB), Chaiwat Chinuparawat (CC), Dawroong Damlamajak (DD), Mick Davies, (MD), Pisitsak Duangyord (PD), Peter Ericsson (PE), Thai Raptor Group (TRG), Kamthorn Jansuwannason (KJ), Anutin Janteva (AJa), Ayuwat Jearwattanakanok (AJ), Kijja Jearwattanakanok, KJ), Mongkol Kaewthep (MK), Boonphob Kansiwiang (BK), Dr. Chaiyan Kasorndorkbua (CK), Montree Khamsing (MK), Chatchaphong Khemsap (ChK), Thirawat Krairiksh (TK ), Suporn Kusolnamsanong (SK), Samak Khodkaew (SKo), Apirat Kulsontipong (AK), Dr.Thanakom Laisakul (TL), Neil Lawton (NL), Amorn Liukiriyutkul (AL), Dr. Suwanna Mookachonpan (SM), Gerald Moore (GM), Lester Mulford (LM), Jonathan Murray (JEM), Wicha Narungsri (WN), Pornpat Nikamanon (PN), Sompong Nuamsawat (SN), Parinya Padungtin, (PP), Theerayuth Panmeeros (TP), John Parr (JWKP), Chulthawat Phowattanadilok (CP), Oeun-Attha Pramoolpol (OP), Praphot Rakroenroeng (PR), Chanchai Rodrang (CR), Philip Round (PDR), Natee Raungpaisanbamroong (NR), Theerapong Saengdokmai (TS ), Pinit and Piyanipa Saengkaew (P & PS), Pinit Saengkaew (PS), Tawan Saengkrajang (TSa), Apakorn Saetang (AS), Chatuporn Sawasdee (CS), Benoit Segerer (BS), Pensri Srikaew (PeS), Ike Suriwongse (IS), Dr. Kaset Sutasha (KS), Maanode Taengtum (MT), Peerasit Tandavanij (PT), Chirdpong Termtanan (CT), Natthapat Thanapolpaisan (NT), Varangkana Thaotumpitak (VT), Sombat Thongdee (ST), Chondarong Thongsong (CTh), Khanoksak Thumrongluckrat (KTh), Rob Tizzard (RJT), Khemthong Tonsakulrungroeng (KT), Tourtamoan Bird Trip (TTBT), Anurat Wattanawongsawang (AW), Stijn De Win (SW), Natthawat Wirachkul (NW), Chaiwat Wongchai (CW), Yodsaphol Wonglertwit(YW), Dr. Christoph Zöckler.

Compiled by Philip D. Round and Roongroj Jukmongkol, with special assistance from Dr. Chaiyan Kasorndorkbua and the Thai Raptor Group. Nick Upton contributed records from the Thai Birding website.

The work of BCST Records Committee is supported by Swarovski Optik KG

RECENT REPORTS:
August-early October 2006

An immature Great Cormorant appeared at Laem Phak Bia Environmental Research and Development Project (Phetchaburi) on 13 August (SN). A single Indian Cormorant was present with many Little Cormorants at Ko Wat, Bung Boraphet (Nakhon Sawan) on 15 September (WS) perhaps presaging a northward spread in this species. There were 14 Oriental Darters at Ko Wat, including one pair feeding three nestlings on 15 September (WS). 31 Spot-billed Pelicans were also present, while a wildlife officer reported that more than 100 came to roost there in the evening (WS). Two Spot-billed Pelicans were seen near Wat Khao Takhrao (Phetchaburi) on 24 September (SN,SNu) and 18 on 1 October (SSu).

Three Grey Herons appeared at Laem Phak Bia on 2 October (SN,PDR). Two Chinese Egrets in transitional plumage (with short nape plume, paler lower bill than the upper, dull bluish lore and green tibia/tarsi) were seen on mudflats adjacent to Laem Phak Bia (Phetchaburi) sandbar on 10 September (Go4Get Group, CK). Two were also seen at Chawaeng, Ko Samui (Surat Thani) on 24 September (YM).

The Indian Pond Heron was still present at Laem Phak Bia on 4 September (SN).

A Lesser Adjutant was also present at Ko Wat on 15 September where it has been since at least 29 May (WS). 149 Painted Storks were counted near Wat Khao Takhrao on 24 September (SN,SNu) and 170 on 1 October (SSu). Further, a stork photographed with the Painteds on 26 September (TS) and again on 1 October (SS), showing characters of Milky Stork was thought probably to be a hybrid between Milky Stork and Painted Stork, as it showed traces of pink feathering on the upperwing coverts and some black flecking on the underwing coverts. This is likely the same individual that was reported as a Milky Stork one or two months earlier.

There were three Black-headed Ibises at Na Thung, Chumphon, on 20 September (CN) and three at Wat Khao Takhrao on 1 October (SSu).

Ospreys were reported from Na Thung, Chumphon on 29 August (CN) and Pra Prong Reservoir, (Sa Kaeo) on 17 September (AP).

Migrating Oriental Honey-buzzards (14 birds) and two unidentified Accipiter were seen over ricefields Bang Thung Sawang, Tha Takoe (Nakhon Sawan) on 16 September (CK). Ten more Oriental Honey-buzzards, a Japanese Sparrowhawk and two other Accipiter were seen over ricefields in Manorom district, Chainat on 17 September (CK). Four Japanese Sparrowhawks roosted in Acacia plantations at Bung Boraphet Non-Hunting Area office on 14 September (WS). A male was also seen at Khlong Bang Kaew (Samut Prakan) on 23 September (PK, VP, TT). Four Rufous-winged Buzzards (two adults and 2 juveniles) were seen at Ban Thung Sawang, when one bird was seen to take a ricefield crab (CK).

At the raptor watchpoint at Ban U-Taphao, Chumphon, over 200 Japanese Sparrowhawks flew south on 16 September (CN) with 157 on 18 September (CN). There was a single Oriental Honey-buzzard on 18 September and 124 on 22 September (CN).

Fourteen harriers roosting at Nong Lom, Mae Jan (Chiang Rai) on 16 September included four male Eastern Marsh Harriers and two male Pied Harriers (CW). A further Eastern Marsh Harrier, a male, was seen at Nachuang, Chumphon on 22 September (CN).

Migrant and resident raptors observed at Khao Krajom, Ratchaburi, on 11 September included an Oriental Honey-buzzard, a Black Eagle, three Crested Goshawks (probably a family) and an Oriental Hobby, (KTh, SB). Two Black Eagles, a Peregrine and an Oriental Hobby were seen on 23 September (CP, PDR). A migratory race Peregrine Falcon was seen at Khlong Bang Kaew on 23 September (PK,VP,TT). Full details of raptors counted at the Thailand Raptor Watch Festival, Chumphon, on 30 September, will be presented in next month's Recent Reports.

Five White-browed Crakes were reported from a wetland at Chawaeng, Ko Samui on 24 September (YM). The first Grey-headed Lapwing of the autumn flew over Ban U-Taphao, Chumphon, on 22 September (CN). A pair of Malaysian Plovers was present on Thai Muang beach (Phang-nga), near the golf course, during 11–16 September (SW). 10-15 Pintail Snipes were also present on a nearby marsh (SW). Up to 12 or 15 snipes at Khlong Bang Kaew on 17 September, included only two Common: the rest were either and Pintails or Swinhoe's (they included at least one bird which, from photographs showing outer tail feathers, may have been Swinhoe's (PK)). At least five Ruffs were present at Laem Phak Bia on 17 September (SN). There were 502 Black-tailed Godwits and 526 Red-necked Stints on ponds at Laem Phak Bia, outside the project area, and 282 Marsh Sandpipers on nearby saltpans, on 4 September (SN). Among waders counted on salt pans at Laem Phak Bia on 30 September were 450 mixed sandplovers, 186 Whimbrels, 50 Bar-tailed Godwits and 193 Great Knots (SN, PDR). A single Temminck's Stint on paddyfields at Khlong Luang (Pathumthani) on 21 August (WS) is one of the earliest on record. A most remarkable sighting was of 12 Red-necked Phalaropes (both adults and first-years) on the same small pond at Nong Luang, Muang District (Tak) on 29 September (ISR).

A Eurasian Thick-knee reappeared at Laem Phak Bia on 4 September (SN) and was still present on 1 October (SSu). Four Gull-billed Terns flew over Nong Samrong (Udon Thani) on 19 September (PB).

Five Pied Imperial Pigeons flew over Ban U-Thapao, Chumphon, on 18 September (CN). There was a Chestnut-winged Cuckoo at Chong Yen, Mae Wong National Park (Nakhon Sawan) on 24 September (DP)

What appears to be Thailand's first Grass Owl was photographed at Nong Lom, Mae Jan, on 29 July (CW). This species has long been suspected to occur in the Chiang Rai lowlands on the basis of previously unconfirmed sight or aural records. The record is presently under consideration by BCST Records Committee.

A Large-tailed Nightjar present on waste ground at Nong Khaem (Bangkok) on 27 August (PDR) was not calling. Two were seen on 17 September (PDR).

10–12 swiftlets at the Sala Phrom Guardstation, Phu Khieo (Chaiyaphum) on 25–26 August (BJ, DP, WS) were thought to be Himalayan Swiftlets. Interestingly the date but is outside the usual range of dates for winterers.

Vernal Hanging Parrot was seen taking fig fruits in a garden at Lard Phrao 34 (Bangkok) on 15 September (CR). Common Kingfishers were already reported from many localities by the second half of August. A Black-backed Kingfisher at Laem Phak Bia on 10 September (SN) was a new record for the Environmental Research and Development Project Area. The earliest Black-capped Kingfisher was reported from Nong Samrong on 14 September (PB), with another at Wat Khao Takhrao on 23 September (SNu). A Stork-billed Kingfisher was seen at Khlong Bang Kaew on 27 August (PK). At least four male and one female Rufous-necked Hornbills were observed at Chong Yen, Mae Wong on 24 September (DP). Blue-throated Bee-eaters which breed locally in Phuket, move away from the breeding areas. SW, writing on 27 September, reported that none had been seen there for one month.

Migrant Black-winged Cuckooshrikes were noted at Nong Samrong on 21 September (SN) and Laem Phak Bia (4-5) on 1 October; SN). A single female Fiery Minivet (a scarce lowland forest resident) was seen in a bird wave with leafbirds and Bar-winged Flycatcher-shrike at Thaleban on 24 September (IS). Migrant Black Drongos were evident at Nong Samrong from 22 September onwards (PB). A leucogenis Ashy Drongo was seen at Laem Phak Bia on 1 October (SN,PDR). A red-vented Sooty-headed Bulbul at Thai Muang on 15 September (SW) was presumably an escape.

The first Dusky Warblers were seen at Nong Samrong on 29 September (PB) and Laem Phak Bia on 2 October (SN,PDR) and the first Yellow-browed Warbler at Laem Phak Bia on 2 October (SN,PDR). Arctic Warblers were recorded at Suan Rotfai (PN, CK) and Khlong Bang Kaew (PK) on 3 September; and Nong Samrong on 29 September (PB); Eastern Crowned Leaf Warblers from Khlong Bang Kaew on 18 September and 21 September (PK); from Nong Samrng on 26 September (PB) and Pale-legged Leaf Warblers from Nong Samrong on 24 September, 25 September (two; PB) and Laem Phak Bia on 1 October (SN, PDR, et al.). Hill Prinias heard singing at c. 1000 m on Khao Krajom on 23 September (CP, PDR) fill in a distributional gap between the highlands of the Western Forest Complex and Kaeng Krachan to the south.

The earliest Bluethroat was seen at Nong Samrong (Udon Thani) on 26 August (PB). A remarkable "fall" of Siberian Blue Robins was detected at Laem Phak Bia on 1 October, when no fewer than 41 birds were ringed (SN,PDR). A further 13 were caught and ringed n the following day (SN,PDR). Overall, more than 80% of these were first-year birds.

A single Brown-chested Flycatcher was found dead at the Taksin Maharat National Park (Tak) during 11-13 September (WS). There was a Dark-sided Flycatcher 10 km NW of Mae Jan on 15 September (JH) and another at the headquarters of Bung Boraphet Non-Hunting Area on 15 September (WS). Asian Brown Flycatchers were reported from Khlong Bang Kaew on 11 September (PK); Nong Samrong on 29 September (PB); and Laem Phak Bia on 2 October (two; SN,PDR); the first Red-throated Flycatchers from Nong Samrong on 29 September (PB) and Laem Phak Bia on 2 October (SN,PDR). Yellow-rumped Flycatchers were reported as follows: Sala Phrom Guard Station, Phu Khieo, adult male on 24 August (BJ, DP, WS); Suan Rotfai (Bangkok), two adult males and two female/immatures on 3 September (KT, PN, CK), with one of each still present on 9 September (MK); Santiraat School (Bangkok), adult male photographed on 5 September (CR); Mangrove Research Center (Samut Sakhon) female or immature photographed, 3 September (SS); Laem Phak Bia, females or immatures on 17 September (PS), 1 October and 2 October (apparently both immature males- SN, PDR, et al.); Thaleban (Satun) adult male on 24 September (IS); Nong Samrong two females or immatures on 28 September (PB).

A male Hainan Blue Flycatcher on 29 September (PB) was a new locality record. A white morph male Asian Paradise-flycatcher and a female or immature at Laem Phak Bia on 17 September (PS), and two more on 24 September (SN) were all migrant race incei. Four more incei (two males; two immatures) were ringed at Laem Phak Bia on 1 October, with a further immature, on 2 October (PDR). Another, an immature apparently of the locally-breeding race, indochinensis, flew into a building at Khlong Luang (Pathumthani) on 21 September (WS).

Other migrant dates received, to complement those in the previous month's instalment, were Brown Shrikes at Bang Phli (Samut Prakan) on 29 August (PK) and Nong Samrong on 31 August (PB), with a lucionensis race individual c. 10 km NW of Mae Jan on 16 September (JH). Tiger Shrikes were reported from between Pang Moung Guard Station and Chulaphorn Dam (Chaiyaphum) on 25 August (found dead on the road, killed by a car; BJ, DP, WS); Khlong Bang Kaew on 30 August (PW) and 3 September (PW), Suan Rotfai, Bangkok on September 9 (digiscoped; MK) and Khlong Bang Kaew (an adult, on 21 September; PK). Four more were found dead at the TV Relay Station in Taksin Maharat National Park during 11–13 September. The feathers of another were found in dog faeces (WS). Two were seen at Thaleban on 24 September (IS) and one at Laem Phak Bia on 2 October (SN,PDR). There was a Burmese Shrike at Nong Samrong on 21 September (PB).

There were nine Chestnut-tailed Starlings at Bung Boraphet on 14 September and 12 White-shouldered Starlings on on 15 September (WS). Over 100 White-shouldered Starlings, and a small number of Purple-backed Starlings, entered a mangrove roost at Laem Phak Bia on 1 October (PDR). The first three Purple-backed Starlings of the autumn were reported from Na Thung, Chumphon, on 12 September (CN). 35 were seen at the Chumphon Provincial Sports Stadium on 22 September (CN) and over 30 at Chawaeng, Ko Samui, on 24 September (YM). There was a Forest Wagail at Suan Rotfai on 9 September (MK), though "several" were present in Phu Khieo during 24–27 August (BJ, DP, WS). Another early White Wagtail was reported from Thung Kamang, Phu Khieo on 25 August (BJ, DP, WS).

A male Asian Golden Weaver was seen at Nong Samrong on 31 August (PB) and there were six Red Avadavats there on 1 September (PB).

Late records: c. 20 Pacific Swifts, Mae Chan, 27 July (JH). c. 100 Chestnut-tailed Starlings, Mae Jan, 27 July (JH)

BREEDING RECORDS

Thai Muang (Phang-nga) Black Bittern was proved breeding: an adult was seen carrying nest material in mid-September, while another was seen regurgitating food to two recently fledged young on 27 September (SW).

Khlong Bang Kaew, Samut Prakan (PK) Common Moorhen incubating, 27 August; Two juvenile Plaintive Cuckoos sitting within a few metres of each other were both being fed by Common Tailorbirds on 27 August, with a third on 28 August.

RINGING RECORDS

Curlew Sandpiper: One at Khok Kham (Samut Sakhon), on 17 August (SD), with a yellow flag on the upper right leg, was flagged in North-West Australia, approximate co-ordinates 19 deg 0 min S, 122 deg 0 min E, , sometime since August 1992. The resighting was a distance of approximately 4323 km, with a bearing of 325 degrees, from the marking location. (Details supplied by Australasian Wader Studies Group)

Red-necked Stint: One sighted by SN at the Laem Phak Bia, Environmental Research and Development Project, Phetchaburi, on 4 September, with black above a white flag on the upper right leg, was flagged at Chongming Dao, Shanghai, China, approximate co-ordinates 31 deg 27 min N, 121 deg 55 min E, sometime since April 2006. The resighting was a distance of approximately 3027 km, with a bearing of 232 degrees, from the marking location. (Details supplied by Australasian Wader Studies Group).

Long-toed Stint: One originally ringed at Laem Phak Bia on 13 September 2003 was retrapped there on 17 Sep 2006. (SN)

Common Redshank: An adult bearing a Malaysian ring was controlled at Laem Phak Bia on 10 September (SN). Ringing details are awaited.

Contributors: Philip Bawden (PB), Sasivimol Boonserm (SB), John Hobday (JH), Bhanumas Junsuwan (BJ), Mongkol Kaewthep (MK), Dr. Chaiyan Kasorndorkbua (CK), Porntep Katsura (PK), Pornpat Nikamanon (PN), Somchai Nimnuan (SN), Sompong Nuamsawat (SNu), Chultawat Phowattanadilok (CP), Vetida Pongpanit (VP), Dome Prathumthong (DP), Charnchai Rodrang (CR), Philip D. Round (PDR), Ingkayut Sa-ar (IS), Apakorn Saetang (AS), Wachara Sanguansombat (WS), Dr.Taweewat Supindham (TS), Smith Sutibut (SSu), Sataporn Suvitvong (SS), Thiti Tanaree (TT), Varangkana Thaotumpitak (VT), Khanoksak Thumrongluckrat (KTh), Khemthong Tonsakulrungroeng (KT),Stijn de Win (SW), Paitoon Wisia (PW), Chaiwat Wongchai (CW).

Compiled by Philip D. Round and Roongroj Jukmongkol, with special assistance from Dr. Chaiyan Kasorndorkbua and the Thai Raptor Group.

RECENT REPORTS
May-July 2006

An immature Lesser Frigatebird flew over the village of Ban Bang Tieo (Krabi), some 10 km inland, on 26 June (YM,PDR). Indian Cormorants were present at nests with Little Cormorants in mangroves in the yard of the disused school at Rangjan (Samut Sakhon) on 30 June (PM, PDR, et al.). An Oriental Darter was present on a reservoir at Sap Sadao, Thap Lan National Park (Nakhon Ratchasima) on 11 July (CK). Two juvenile Black-crowned Night Herons appeared in waterside bushes at Nong Samrong (Udon Thani) on 24 June (PB). This species is little known or under-recorded in the north-east. A single immature Painted Stork flew over Rangjan on 30 June (PM, PDR, et al.). At Ban Yan Sue Ok, Ban Laem District (Phetchaburi) on 21 July, there were 9 Spot-billed Pelicans, 236 Painted Storks and, apparently, a single Milky Stork (NS, SS). 20 Glossy Ibises were observed in rice-paddies east side of Route 1 between Bangkok and Saraburi on 1 June (LM).

An immature Brahminy Kite was seen at at Nong Samrong on 28 June (PB). Though always now scarce inland, small numbers of Brahminy Kites remain scattered around water bodies in parts of the north-east. Hala Bala Wildlife Sanctuary (Narathiwat) produced Bat Hawk, Oriental Honey-buzzard, Crested Serpent Eagle and a pair of Blyth's Hawk Eagles and Black-thighed Falconet during 10-13 June (CC, PT, CK, TRG). During 10-11 July three Rufous-winged Buzzards, two adult White-rumped Falcons, and 1 adult and 1 juvenile Collared Falconets were seen in dry dipterocarp forest at Sap Sadao, Thap Lan National Park (AJ, CK, AK, TRG).

Three Malayan Bronze Cuckoos were seen in Ban Bang Tieo garden on 26 June (YM,PDR). Three Spotted Owlets and two Indian Nightjars were found at Bang Nam Paeo (Chachoengsao) on 7 July (PJ, RK).

A breeding colony of Blue-tailed Bee-eaters (probably ~100 nests) was found in a sand-pile, Pho Thong District (Ang Thong) during May (BK, JMa). Well grown young were seen in some nest-entrances in late May. The origin of the four Wreathed Hornbills that flew low over buildings on Mahidol University Salaya Campus (Nakhon Pathom) on 22 June (CK) is unknown.

A migrant Hooded Pitta was killed by a cat in a garden at Saphan Khwai (Bangkok) on 4 May (JM). A Blue-winged Pitta flew into a window at Lard Phrao (Bangkok) on 23 June (per BCST staff; observer's name not recorded). Another Blue-winged Pitta attacked its reflection in a mirror at the Anantara Resort and Spa, Chiang Saen (Chiang Rai) on 20 June, which was thought to hold two pairs of this species. At least one bird was still present on 20 July (JR). An adult Blue-winged Pitta was seen with a full-grown juvenile at Khao Cha-ngok (Nakhon Nayok) on 22 July (DD,JWKP, PDR). A male Eared Pitta was photographed in the grounds of Nai Roy School (Nakhon Nayok) on the southern fringes of Khao Yai on 14 July (PE). Meanwhile two nests of Eared Pitta on the Mo-singto Study plot, Khao Yai, on 3 July and 4 July, each with three eggs, were both predated by Pig-tailed Macaques on 14 and 15 July respectively (AJP, KP).

7-8 Small Minivets, including two recently fledged juveniles, were seen at Khlong Luang (Pathumthani) on 14 July. An adult male was feeding the juvenile male, while a juvenile female was fed by an adult female (WS).

There were two Grey Wagtails at Khao Yai on 3 July (CK). Grey Wagtail is traditionally the first returning landbird migrant to be recorded (other than Barn Swallow, small numbers of which seem to be present in all weeks of the year).

Ten pairs of nesting Asian Golden Weavers were found at Bang Khanak, Bang Nam Paeo, on 7 July, some already feeding fledged young (PJ, RK)

Contributors: Philip Bawden (PB), Chaiwat Chinuparawat (CC), Douglas Downard (DD), Peter Ericsson (PE), Thai Raptor Group (TRG), Pitchaya Janhom (PJ), Anutin Janteva (AJ), Dr. Chaiyan Kasorndorkbua (CK), Rattapon Kaichid (RK), Bruce Kekule (BK), Apirat Kulsontipong (AK), Jan Matthysen (JMa), Petch Manopawitr (PM), Yotin Meekaeo (YM), Lester Mulford (LM), Jonathan Murray (JM), John Parr (JWKP), Andrew J. Pierce (AJP), Korakoch Pobprasert (KP), John Roberts (JR), Philip Round (PDR), Wachara Sanguansombat (WS), Chuman Sermsai (CS), Siriya Sriphanomyom (SS), Niti Sukumal (NS), Peerasit Tandavanitj (PT).

Compiled by Philip D. Round and Roongroj Jukmongkol with special assistance from Dr. Chaiyan Kasorndorkbua and the Thai Raptor Group.

RECENT REPORTS
March-June 2006

There were c. 15 Spot-billed Pelicans on fish ponds at Pak Hai (Ayutthaya) on 28 May (PDR) and 5 Spot-billed Pelicans at Wat Khao Takhrao (Phetchaburi) on 3 June (PDR). At least 5 Oriental Darter nests were present at the known breeding colony at Khlong Malakaw, Sa Kaeo by 8 June, among nests of Cattle Egrets, Little Egrets and a few Javan Pond Herons (KJ). Breeding plumage Indian Pond Herons were reported from Khlong Bang Kaew (Samut Prakan) on 29 April (PK); at Mu 8, Ban Thung Jik, Nathung Sub-district, Muang, Chumphon on 3 May (CN) and from Khao Sam Roi Yot on 9 May (SN, PDR, SS). There were still six Intermediate Egrets in fields near Phetchaburi on 3 June, possibly indicating a year-round presence of this bird which is not known to breed anywhere in the Central Plains area. (RK photographed a breeding plumage Intermediate Egret at a colony in Phitsanulok on 28 February, suggesting that the species probably breeds there: however firm evidence of a nest and or young was not obtained.)

Eight Black-crowned Night Herons at Nong Samrong, (Udon Thani) on 15 April (PB) are from an area of the country with rather few records. There were two Black Bitterns at Nong Samrong on 10 May and another on 16 May (PB); 30-40 Painted Storks and a single Lesser Adjutant at Wat Khao Takhrao on 25 MY (AM & JM), and 30 Painted Storks at Laem Phak Bia on 3 June (PDR). A Glossy Ibis fed a marshy area adjacent to Chiang Saen Lake on 16 May (SW). Meanwhile, in an exciting development, the first-recorded nesting of Glossy Ibis in Thailand took place, at Bung Boraphet, where five nests were noted on 29 April (KE/BBWRS per WS). Three Cotton Pygmy-geese were seen at Khlong Bang Kaew on 29 April (PK).

A female Blue-breasted Quail reported from the road at Doi Inthanon, c. km 38, 1800 m elevation on 23 May (PS) was unexpected. White-browed Crake was described as "widespread and fairly common" at Nong Samrong during April (PB). A breeding plumage male Watercock was seen at Khlong Bang Kaew on 29 April (PK).

A subadult Mountain Hawk Eagle was seen and digiscoped at Panoen Thung, Kaeng Krachan NP (Phetchaburi) on May 3-4 (PT, BK). Adult Blyth's Hawk Eagles were reported from at Krung Ching Waterfall, (Nakhon Si Thammarat) on 6 May , apparently hunting small passerines visiting a fruiting Ficus tree (PC); 10 km distant, at Krung Nang Waterfall on May 11 (PC, CK). A further adult Blyth's Hawk Eagle was perched on an old nest at Krung Ching on May 28 (PC). This nest was used by a pair of the same species last year, but was not productive. Two Short-toed Eagles were reported from Doi Lang, (Chiang Mai) on 6 May (CC, PrK, KaS), an unexpectedly late date. A Lesser Fish Eagle was photographed at the fifth level of Krung Ching Waterfall on May 13. The fish eagle was perched on a rock and plunged into the water, rather like an Osprey (WN), when hunting. Two fledglings of Shikra roosted in a tall tree in woodland, Chainat Province during June 3-4 (CK). No adults were observed in the vicinity. One of the fledglings successfully caught a cicada. A pre-dusk observation at a bat cave in Khao Nor, Banphotpisai District (Nakhon Sawan) on June 4 produced one adult Oriental Hobby and a pair of Shikras, hunting flying bats (CK). A Chinese Sparrowhawk was reported from Nong Samrong on 30 April (PB). An unidentified vulture flew over the road at Km 38, between Mae Chan and Tha Ton (Chiang Mai/Chiang Rai) on 16 May (SW).

There were 60 Red Knots at Khok Kham (Samut Sakhon) on 6 May (SD). The first-year Spoon-billed Sandpiper that was leg-flagged in the Gulf of Thailand colours (black/green) on 3 February remained until 5 May, when still in non-breeding plumage (SD). At Laem Phak Bia there was a breeding plumage Little Stint on 26 March (PDR) and three Sanderling and Grey-tailed Tattler at on 29 April (P& PS, SN, PDR, SS). Grey-tailed Tattlers were also seen at Mu 3, Ban Hua Laem, Nathung Sub-district, Muang, Chumphon on 20 April (a single individual: CN), with six at Bang Pu (Samut Prakan) on 29 April (PK), and still one at Khok Kham on 4 June (SD). Only 33 Asian Dowitchers were counted on mudflats between Samut Sakhon Mangrove Research Station westwards to Rangjan during 17-20 April (SN). 843 Black-tailed Godwits were counted during the same period and at roughly the same localities, with a further 460 at Chao Thale, Khok Kham 18 April, and 260 at Bang Pu, Samut Prakan on 9 April SN). There were 300-350 Black-tailed Godwits at Khok Kham on 28 May (SD) and still 60 on 7 June (SD). Three breeding plumage Whiskered Terns at Nong Samrong (Udon Thani) on 29 April (PB). A Common Tern was reported from the Chao Phraya River at Siriraj Hospital (Bangkok) on 22 May (KS).

A Speckled Woodpigeon at Doi Mon Laan, Jae Son National Park (Lampang) during 24-25 May (MT) is the only record of this species outside the winter season. Between 100 and 200 Red-breasted Parakeets were present in tall dipterocarps at Wat Pho Prathap Chang (Phichit) on 8 May (MT). There were three Alexandrine Parakeets at Ramkhamhaeng National Park (Sukhothai) on 16 May (MT). Indian Cuckoo at Nong Samrong, 23 April (PB). Grey Nightjar at Ban Pak Khlong (Mu 7), Na Thung, Chumphon on 6 May (CN).

Single White-throated Needletails were seen at Khao Yai on 30 April and 4 May, with two on 7 May (NS). There were also five Silver-backed Needletails among the resident Brown-backed Needletails on 1 May, two on 4 May (NS) and still two on 24 May (PDR). A Tiger Shrike was videoed on the Mo-Singto Biodiversity Study Plot, Khao Yai, on 15 May (WS). Four Black Drongos flying past at Tung Song Hong (Bangkok) on 4 May (BM) would be an unusually late date for the migrant subspecies

There were at least 6 Oriental Skylarks on a treeless expanse on the north side of Nong Samrong, on 22 April, with at least 15-20 birds including young on 10 May (PB). A female Siberian Rubythroat at Laem Phak Bia on 29 April (SM, P& PS, PDR et al.) was a relatively late record for this migrant.

An Aberrant Bush Warbler was reported near the summit of Doi Inthanon, 13 May (SW). This species is a suspected breeder. Baikal Bush Warblers and Manchurian Reed Warblers were still present in the freshwater marsh at Khao Sam Roi Yot on 12 May (SN, PDR, SaS). There was a Pale-legged Leaf Warbler at Laem Phak Bia on 30 April (SN, PDR, et al.). A Dark-sided Flycatcher was reported from Km 40, Doi Inthanon, 13 May (SW) and a male Yellow-rumped Flycatcher from Khao Nan National Park (Nakhon Si Thammarat) on 2 May (GG). A Rufous-browed Flycatcher reported from Doi Mon Laan during 24-25 May (MT) does not fit with what is known of the distribution of this species

A Rosy Starling was present on Tarutao, with a myna flock, from 10 May to at least 17 May (RE). White-vented Myna appears to be the latest open-country colonist to the headquarters area of Khao Yai National Park; two were seen on 31 May (PDR).

Two Striated Yuhinas were seen at an unusually low elevation at Tham Pha Phlong, at the foot of Doi Chiang Dao (Chiang Mai) on 15 May (SW). Spectacled Barwing, reported among a list of many species from Doi Mon Laan, Jae Sorn National Park during 24-25 May (MT) is a new record for any site in the Khun Tan range. Black-throated Parrotbills were also present (MT). Many Japanese White-eyes were found at Km 23, Doi Inthanon on 23 May (SW). Resident status for this species has long been suspected.

There were at least 20 Red Avadavats at Bung Si Fai (Phichit) on 8 May (MT). Nine Chestnut Munias came to a roost at Nong Samrong on 30 April (PB), with ten birds at a second site on 10 May, including one or two nest-building (PB).

Breeding records:

Pak Phli, Nakhon Nayok (PN): occupied nest of Chestnut-tailed Starling, 12 May.

Pho Thong District, Ang Thong (BrK, AM & JM): A breeding colony of Blue-tailed Bee-eaters in a disused sand-pile held several tens of nest burrows during May.

Thung Song Hong, Bangkok, (BM): nest of Spotted Dove with one chick (May; undated); Nest of Pied Fantail fledged two nestlings from two eggs on 28 May.

Common Tailorbird feeding young in nest (May; undated); Streak-eared Bulbul nest with one chick (May; undated).

Phanat Nikhom District, Chonburi, 29 April (CN): A previously undocumented waterbird colony was said to have about 1,000 nests, including one Oriental Darter nest. There were also nests of Little and Indian Cormorants, Javan Pond Herons, Cattle Egrets, Little Egrets, Great Egrets and Black-crowned Night Herons.

Khlong Bang Kaew, Samut Prakan (PK): Plain-backed Sparrow pair with two food-begging juveniles, 29 April.

Wat Phikul Kaew, Ban Laem District, Phetchaburi: c. 120 nests of Great Egrets, 30 April (SN, PDR). Most had large nestlings or fledged young by 3 June (PDR).

Khao Sam Roi Yot: estimated to be c., 60 pairs of Little Terns breeding at various sites in the coastal strip, 7-12 May (SN, PDR, SaS). Clutches of one, two and three eggs were observed, as well as a number of nests with small and newly hatched young. Oriental Pratincole small fledged young and a nest with two eggs, Khao Sam Roi Yot, 7 May (SN, PDR, SaS). At least four Blue-throated Bee-eaters were seen in vicinity of an apparent nest-burrow on 9 May, indicating probable breeding.

Department of Marine and Coastal Resources Station, Mu 7, Ban Pak Khlong , Nathung Sub-district, Muang District, Chumphon, 16 May (CN): Nest of Malaysian Plover with two small chicks and one egg. The breeding attempt probably failed as two days later, neither chicks nor the egg could be found.

Kaem Ling NongYai, Muang District, Chumphon 20 May 2006 (CN): five nests of Paddyfield Pipits; some nests with chicks and some with three eggs.

Phuket Island (SW):

Blue-tailed Bee-eater is confirmed as a breeder with adults seen feeding fledged young (observer estimates that residents comprise about one-third of birds seen, the remainder being non-breeding winter visitors).

While Blue-throated Bee-eater breeds on Phuket, with adults seen feeding fledged young during April, the breeders apparently are only present during February to June or July, and move away thereafter. The observer comments that he has never seen even a single individual during autumn to early winter, which is puzzling, as one would expect a distinct passage of northern migrants at that time.

Black-naped Oriole is also confirmed as a breeder: the observer estimates there are about five times as many birds during winter months, when breeders are supplemented by winter visitors.

Khao Pra-Bang Kram (Khao Nor Chuchi, Krabi, CT): Brown-streaked Flycatcher pair with two recently fledged chicks, 13 May.

Contributors: Philip Bawden (PB), Chaiwat Chinuparawat (CC), Dr.Piyapong Chotipuntu (PC), Suchart Daengphayon (SD), Ronnaporn Eangchoun (RE), Krairat Eiam-amphai/Bung Boraphet Wildlife Research Station (KR/BBWRS), Dr. George Gale (GG), Dr. Kajornsak Jaiyawat (KJ), Rattapon Kaichid (RK), Dr.Chaiyan Kasorndorkbua (CK), Pornthep Katsura (PK), Bruce Kekule (BrK), Boonrod Kiawyoo (BK), Prasong Kraisukdawat (PrK), Agnes and Jan Matthysen, (AM & JM), Miss B. Mountfield (BM), Wicha Narangsi (WN), Somchai Nimnuan (SN), Porpol Nontapa (PN), Chukiat Nualsri (CN), Philip D. Round (PDR), Pinit Saengkaew (PS), Pinit and Piyanipa Saengkaew (P&PS), Wachara Sanguansombat (WS), Sayaka Someya (SaS), Kamphol Sukumalind (KaS), Niti Sukumal (NS), Dr. Kaset Sutasha (KS), Smith Suthibut (SS), Maanode Taengtum (MT), Peerasit Tandavanitj (PT), ChaninThienwiwatnukul (CT), Stijn De Win (SW).

Compiled by Philip D. Round and Roongroj Jukmongkol, with special assistance from Dr. Chaiyan Kasorndorkbua and the Thai Raptor Group

RECENT REPORTS
February-April 2006

A breeding plumage Javan Pond Heron was seen on mudflats at Saphan Hin, Phuket on 27 March, with two on 25 April (AC, SW). An Indian Pond Heron was present at Bang Pu on 22 April (BP,CK), but there were a staggering 12 Indian Pond Herons at Sapan Hin on 25 April (AC, SW). Six Chinese Egrets were found at Maphrao Bay, Phuket on 29 March (SW); four were still present on 19 April (SW). There were six Painted Storks and four Asian Dowitchers on the salt pans behind Sripratum University (Chonburi), 9 March (CT).

Two Short-toed Eagles were reported from Doi Pui on 19 April (AJ). A juvenile Greater Spotted Eagle was seen in fields near Chumphon Provincial Sports Ground on 27 March (CN). A Grey-headed Fish Eagle was reported from the Bala (Narathiwat) Sector of Hala-Bala Wildlife Sanctuary on 7 April (SM, KS, CT). A Japanese Sparrowhawk and 3 dark morph Oriental Honey-buzzards passed over Mu7, Ban Pak Klong, Nathung Sub-district, Muang, (Chumphon) on 14 April (CN). A male Chinese Sparrowhawk was seen at Mae Fang National Park headquarters (Chiang Mai) on 20 April (WB, PDR, JS). Three Amur Falcons passed north over Doi Lang (Chiang Mai) on 21 April (WB, AK, PDR, JS). A pair of White-rumped Falcons were seen near the known site at Km 13, Doi Inthanon, on 14 March (PE).

A Black-tailed Crake flew out of scrub at the side of paddies at 1200 m, Doi Lang, on 23 April (PDR). Two Spoon-billed Sandpipers were seen on mudflats at Pak Thale (Phetchaburi) on 5 March (PE). A Spoon-billed Sandpiper that was leg-flagged in the Gulf of Thailand colours (black/green) at Khok Kham (Samut Sakhon) on the early morning of 3 February was again seen at the same site during 10-13 March and on 25 April (SD). One of two Spoon-billed Sandpipers on salt pans at Pak Thale on 2 March bore a light blue leg flag on the right leg (DB, KSv, JO, STh), indicating that it had been ringed as a chick in N Chuchotka, Russia. A single Dunlin was present at Pak Thale on 5 March (PE). A mixed flock of roughly 500 Red Knots and Great Knots (probably mainly the latter) was present on mudflats at Chao Thale, Khok Kham on 12 April (SN). Asian Dowitchers were scarcer than expected Rangjan (Samut Sakhon) held only one 17 March and 4 April; Kalong (Samut Sakhon) held 94 on 4 April; there were two (one of which had a broken leg) at Chao Thale, Khok Kham on 7 April and 8 on 10 April; and one at Samut Sakhon Mangrove Research Station on 5 April (SN). The highest counts of Black-tailed Godwits received were 682 at Rangjan on 17 March (SN), 480 at Kalong on April and c. 600 at Chao Thale on 10 April (SN).

14 Nordmann's Greenshanks were seen on the Laem Phak Bia sandspit on 6 March (PE). Two Grey-tailed Tattlers on the beach at Mu 3, Tha Yang Subdistrict (Chumphon) on 30 March (CN). Ten Grey-tailed Tattlers on the mudflats at Bang Pu, at low tide, on 22 April (BP,CK). A Pied Avocet was seen at Samut Sakhon Mangrove Research Station on 5 April (SN).

A spectacular concentration of at least 30,000 Whiskered and White-winged Terns (mainly the former) roosted on salt pans at Khok Kham on the night of 5 April (SD, PDR, SN et al.). There were still 5,000 present on 26 April (PDR).

A Pied Imperial Pigeon was seen in a fruit garden, 20 km from the coast, at Phrommakhiri (Nakhon Si Thammarat) on 22 April (PA, PC, OT). About 20 Ashy Wood Pigeons were reported from Doi Inthanon (Chiang Mai) on 8 April (AJ).

Dipterocarps at Wat Suan Yai, Bang Kruay District (Bangkok) held, in addition to a few Red-breasted Parakeets, two Sulphur-crested Cockatoos and two Goffin's Cockatoos on 9 April (SP, PDR,). Local people say that the Sulphur-cresteds evict Red-breasted Parakeets from nest-holes. They also reported "large black cockatoos" (probably one or more Palm Cockatoos) as being present in neighbouring orchards. This is presumably a legacy from the large, wildlife trading concern that has operated off Charan Sanitwong Road, for some decades.

Chestnut-winged Cuckoo were seen at Maphrao Bay, Phuket on 29 March (SW); in deciduous forest at Huai Kha Khaeng, Uthai Thani Province (two, 30 March: GG,PDR,TS) and at Khao Yai on 5 April (AJP). A Spot-bellied Eagle Owl was seen near the headquarters of Khao Soi Dao Wildlife Sanctuary (Chanthaburi) on 28 March (PK), where a territory has now been known for over twenty years. An Asian Barred Owlet in towering rain trees of Wat Chalerm Prakiat (Nonthaburi) on 9 April (SP, PDR) must be one of very few in suburban Bangkok . Two swifts on Doi Lang on 22 April were either Dark-rumped Swifts or Common Swifts (PDR, JS). A White-throated Needletail made a brief appearance among the Silver-backed and Brown-backed Needletails at the TAT pond at Khao Yai on 16 April (PDR).

An adult male Cinnamon-rumped Trogon was observed close to Sala Pratoo Chai, Krung Ching (Nakhon Si Thammarat) on 19 April (PA, PC). A pair of Crested Kingfishers were seen at the Ko Sadeung Guard Station, Thung Yai Wildlife Sanctuary on 26 February (ST). A report of a rufous-backed Oriental Dwarf Kingfisher was the second received from Mo-singto, Khao Yai, on 26 March (NS). It remains to be determined whether these were imperfectly seen "black-backed kingfishers", or whether they truly were rufous-backed or intermediate-plumaged birds. Oriental Dwarf Kingfisher is a scarce passage migrant around the Khao Yai headquarters, but breeds at lower elevations.

A Wrinkled Hornbill and a Black Hornbill were seen at Bala on 8-9 April (SM, KS, CT). A Streak-throated Woodpecker reported from Thuing Yai Wildlife Sanctuary, along the trail between Langka and Thi Lai Paa Guard Stations on 25 February (ST) seems to have been in unexpected (evergreen?) habitat. A Hooded Pitta appeared in a garden off Ramindra, Km. 6 (Bangkok) on 14 April (Anonymous posting on BCST webboard). A small flock of Asian House Martins was seen daily at Bala during 6–9 April (SM, KS, CT). A male Black-winged Cuckooshrike gave subsong in the grounds of Wat Chalerm Prakiat on 9 April (SP,PDR). Two Crow-billed Drongos were reported taking nectar from a flowering Bombax at Jakae Thong, Thung Yai, Wildlife Sanctuary (Kanchanaburi) on 24 February (ST). Crow-billed Drongos were also reported Mo-Singto, Khao Yai on 23 March (GG); near the headquarters of Huai Kha Khaeng on 30 March (PDR); at Kapuk Kapieng, Huai Kha Khaeng on 30 March (PDR) and at Khlong Mon, Khlong Saeng on 15 April (SKu, SM, WP, KS, PS).

Large Wren Babbler was reported from Khong Mon, Khlong Saeng Wildlife Sanctuary on 13 April (SKu, SM, WP, KS, PS).

A male Golden Bush Robin was still present at 2000 m on Doi Lang on 23 April (WB, AK, JS). An Orange-flanked Bush Robin was still present on Doi Inthanon on 8 April (AJ). Reliable last spring dates for this species, which seems to depart earlier than many other migrants, have been hard to obtain. A male Jerdon's Bushchat was seen sitting in the crown of a small tree at 1200 m on Doi Lang on 23 April (WB,AK,PDR, JS). The species must be living on borrowed time at this locality, all of its tall grass habitat having been trashed to make way for rice paddies. A male Green Cochoa was photographed on the ground at Phu Khieo (Chaiyaphum) on 21 March (SKi).

Siberian Thrushes, a spring and autumn passage migrant, were recorded at Mo-Singto, Khao Yai on 2 April (male, DK), 9 April (one female, NS), 10 April (male, DK), and 13 April (male and female, NS) and 14 April (female, DK). Two males were also seen on Doi Lang on 23 April (WB,AK,PDR, JS). An Orange-headed Thrush, a bird now known to be a scarce breeder at montane elevations in Khao Yai (as well as a winter visitor to lower elevations) was singing at Mo-Singto, Khao Yai on 22 March (NS). There was still a Grey-sided Thrush on Doi Inthanon on 8 April (AJ).

Migrant/wintering Asian Brown Flycatchers were seen daily (more than 10 birds in total) at Bala during 6–9 April (SM, KS, CT). A siamensis race Asian Brown Flycatcher was photographed at the nest at the Queen Sirikit Botanic Garden (Chiang Mai) on 19 April (AJ). Dark-sided Flycatcher was seen at Bala on 8April (SM, KS, CT). A male Mugimaki Flycatcher appeared in a Nonthaburi garden on 26 March (RH), and a female Yellow-rumped Flycatcher at Khao Yai, 10 April (AJP, KP, et al.). Male Blue-and-white Flycatchers were seen at Khao Yai headquarters (one singing, 21 March, GG, AJP, et al.); and in deciduous forest near Sap Fa Pa, Huai Kha Khaeng, on 31 March (GG, AP, PDR et al.) A female Tiger Shrike was at Bala on 8 April (SM, KS, CT), and another Tiger Shrike at Khlong Mon, Khlong Saeng on 15 April (SKu, SM, WP, KS, PS).

At Laem Phak Bia on 26 March there was a single Rosy Starling amid a roosting flock of small starlings, estimated at c.1000 Purple-backed Starlings and c. 200 White-shouldered Starlings (SN,PDR). Roughly 20 Scarlet Finches s on Doi Lang on 21 April (WB, AK, JS) were thought to be taking the seeds of Englehardtia spicata.

Nesting records:

Doi Pui, Chiang Mai (AJ): nest of Hill Blue Flycatcher, 19 April.

Thung Yai Wildlife Sanctuary (ST): Red-throated Barbet feeding figs to fledged young, near Sarawas Village, 26 February; Blue-eared Barbet feeding fledged young near Jakae Thong, 24 February; Ashy Bulbul feeding fledged young, 25 February; Grey-throated Babbler feeding two fledglings, 21 March; another incubating, 25 March.

Huai Kha Khaeng 30 March (GG,AP,PDR,TS): Kapuk Kapieng, Silver-breasted Broadbill nest and incubating or brooding bird; Black-naped Monarch nest and incubating or brooding female; Hair-crested Drongo one nest with four small nestlings; another pair nest-building; Headquarters area, Common Woodshrike fledged juvenile.

Bangkok (GG): Yellow-vented Bulbul nest and two eggs (15 March) fledged two young on 4 April.

Khlong Mon, Khlong Saeng Wildlife Sanctuary, Asian Paradise-flycatcher, nest with two chicks, 13-16 April (SKu, SM, WP, KS, PS).

Bala, Narathiwat (SM, KS, CT): Rufous-tailed Shamas, pair in attendance on a nest-hole, 8–9 April

Late-included records:

Wat Tan En (Ayutthaya) Painted Stork on 7 February (WC).

Muang District, Chumphon Province: Provincial Sports Ground, one male Chestnut-cheeked Starling and 32 Purple-backed Starlings on 21 February; 100 Purple-backed Starlings and one male Chestnut-cheeked Starling, 25 March (CN).

Mu7, Nathung Sub-district, 60 Purple-backed Starlings on 13 March, with 80 on 13 April (CN).

Contributors: Piyatep Awakul, Daniel Bengtsson, Worapot Boonkhwamdee, Wanlaya Chanittawong, Piyapong Chotipuntu, Andy Colthorpe, Suchart Daengphayon, Peter Ericsson, Dr. George Gale, Robert Heath, Ayuwat Jearwattanakanok, Dr. Chaiyan Kasorndorkbua, Pornthep Katsura, Daphawan Khamcha, Supachai Kirdratanasak (SKi), Akalak Kunsorn, Suporn Kusolnamsanong (SKu), Dr. Suwanna Mookachonpan, Somchai Nimnuan, Chukiat Nualsri, Jam Oldebring, Dr. Anak Pattanavibool, Bogdan Persson, Andrew J. Pierce, Santana Pluemshoosak, Korakoch Pobprasert, Wuthipong Prapatsorn, Philip D. Round, Jitraporn Satamaya, Dr. Tommaso Savini, Pensri Srikaew, Niti Sukumal, Dr. Kaset Sutasha, Kristian Svensson (KSv), Opas Tantitakul, Sopitcha Tantitadapitak, Chirdphong Termtanan, Sukanya Thanombuddha (STh), Chanin Thienwiwatnukul, Stijn De Win (SW).

Compiled by Philip D. Round and Roongroj Jukmongkol on behalf of BCST Records Committee. Raptor observations from Thai Raptor Group contributed by Dr. Chaiyan Kasondorkbua.

Mist Nets in the Chiang Saen Area

by Mick Davies & Dowroong Damlamajak

Over the past months we have been studying birds, and in particular harriers, in the Chiang Sean Area. In December 2005 we found an excellent wetland area lying south and east of Chiang Saen Lake.

This area comprises many square kilometers of seasonally flooded wetland, bordered by rice paddies, although the western flank is of low hills containing mostly bamboo thickets. The low elevations have many small pools with reeds and lagoons.

There is also an extensive scheme of land reclamation for agricultural orange groves and pineapple fields, and some hills have been deforested and wetlands drained for this purpose

This area is very significant and important wetland: we have all seen the loss of much traditional farming land, given over to intensive modern agriculture- the Tha Ton paddies, in Mae Ai District, Chiang Mai (now converted to fields of pesticide-laced vegetables) are a prime example.

The Chiang Saen area is excellent for birds and contains a good variety of wetland species, including. jacanas, crakes, ducks, waders, pipits and wagtails.

Notable sightings include 15 White-browed Crakes, three Greater Spotted Eagles and a Peregrine. Large numbers of fresh water waders winter in the floodplain and we have received reports of 14 Glossy Ibises and a Black Stork this past winter.

The roost of Pied and Eastern Marsh Harriers is the largest ever recorded in Thailand. The highest count so far is 360, comprising 60% Pied, but we have yet to find a place to count them all.

Some 2 months ago we discovered an area near to the harrier roost in which 30 mist nets had been set, in a remote and distant position. (With the aid of a 'scope we could see birds lying in the nets). The site was so remote and difficult of access that when I reported the nets to the non-hunting area they were unable to locate them.

In the ensuing weeks we found a new line of nets and quickly reported this to the non-hunting area. I returned and photographed the nets and the following day they were gone, only to reappear 2 days later. However the non-hunting area staff quickly got on the job and caught those responsible. A few days later I found more nets near the original area of 30, again we reported this matter.

Mr. Sompop and Mr. May of the Nong Bong Khai Non-Hunting Area have been very appreciative of our efforts in finding these nets and we thank them for their diligence in enforcing the law.

RECENT REPORTS
Late January to early March 2006

There were 25 Grey Herons and 10 Painted Storks on salt pans behind Sripratum University, (Chonburi), 8 February (CT)

An adult Jerdon's Baza was photographed at Khao Yai on 6 February (PV/TRG); Black Eagle was seen on Doi Pha Hom Pok during 13-15 February (KS) and a male Pied Harrier at Krabi Airport, 19 February (YM). A Short-toed Eagle was photographed at Lopburi, 14 February (CK/TRG) and a subadult Greater Spotted Eagle, Hat Yai, 25 February (SK/TRG). Thee were two Eurasian Kestrels at Ranong Airport, 23-25 February (YM).

A female Hume's Pheasant near the summit of Doi Suthep (Chiang Mai) on 11 February (Wings) was wary, though relatively approachable, and perhaps provides an indication of what birdwatching could be like in a well-protected area. Hume's Pheasants were rediscovered on Doi Suthep-Pui in 1995, after more than 60 years with no records. This latest sighting suggests that the population there is building up, especially since all previous sightings were near the summit of Doi Pui, whereas this bird was further down the mountain, though in the same oak-pine type woodland habitat. (This was not thought to be a released bird: there are very few Hume's Pheasants in captivity and no releases of this species, so far as known, have ever been made. In contrast, many observers reported a number of rather battered looking Silver Pheasants along the jeep track on Doi Inthanon during mid-February, which clearly derived from a rather ill-conceived release of birds by the National Parks Department!).

A Water Rail was photographed at Nong Bong Khai (Chiang Rai) on 5 February (CC, CK, CW). There were 9 Black-tailed Godwits on salt pans behind Sripratum University, 8 February (CT). There were two Spoon-billed Sandpipers at Khok Kham on 2 February and one on 4 February, but none was seen thereafter (SD). At Pak Thale there were four Spoon-billed Sandpipers on 5 February (Wings), two on 1 March (STh) and one on 4 March (SM). Two Dunlin were seen at Pak Thale on 5 February (Wings) and 4 March (SM et al.).

A single Nordmann's Greenshank, 100 Grey Plovers and 140 Great Knots were counted at Laem Phak Bia on 5 February (Wings). 12 Nordmann's Greenshanks at Khok Kham on 27 February (SD). A Grey-tailed Tattler was seen at Krabi on 15 February (YM). There were at least 4 Pallas's Gulls and 18 Heuglin's Gulls at Laem Phak Bia on 5 February (Wings).

White-bellied Pigeon was reported from Doi Pha Hom Pok during 11-13 February (KS). A Ratchet-tailed Treepie sunbathing at the Km 16, Ban Krang (Kaeng Krachan), was an unusually low elevation for this species, on 31 January, (ST). Giant Nuthatch was seen on Doi Ang Khang (Chiang Mai), where rather scarce, in late February or early March, (JND). There were at least eight Black-throated Tits behind the A Frames on Doi Pha Hom Pok, 25 February (CT). There were probably as many as 7 different Black-breasted Thrushes (up to five together at any one time) feeding on a wet patch behind the restaurant at the Royal Project, Doi Ang Khang during 16-19 February together with a male Grey-winged Blackbird (SR et al., Wings). Another male Grey-winged Blackbird was present on the summit of Doi Pui during mid-February (LBC). At least 12 Chestnut Thrushes and 20+ Grey-sided Thrushes were seen on the Doi Inthanon summit on 1 February (RJo). Chestnut Thrush was reported from Doi Pha Hom Pok during 13-15 February (KS). Daurian Redstarts were seen on Doi Pha Hom Pok (a male, 11-13 February; KS) and Doi Pui (male, 11 February; Wings); Doi Inthanon, Km 31 (male, 12 February; Wings) and Doi Ang Khang (a female, 18 February; Wings). There was a Yellow-vented Warbler on Doi Ang Khang later February or 1 March (precise date not supplied: JND). Three different Spot-breasted Laughingthrushes singing, Doi Ang Khang, late February or early March (JND). Three Citrine Wagtails were seen at Rangsit (Pathumthani) on 6 February (Wings) and three more at Mae Taeng (Chiang Mai) on 16 February (Wings).

29 Spot-winged Grosbeaks frequented a Bombax tree in the grounds of the Royal Project, Doi Ang Khang, on 19 February (Wings) while and as many as 50-60 were photographed eating soil at Fang Hot Springs (Chiang Mai) in late February (CT).

Breeding records:

Kaeng Krachan (ST):

Heart-spotted Woodpecker feeding young in nest, 29 January; young apparently left nest on 30 January; Hair-crested Drongo adult feeding fledged young, 29 January; Greater Racket-tailed Drongo feeding fledged young, 30 January.

Doi Pha Hom Pok (CT): Blyth's Leaf Warbler carrying nest material behind the A-Frames, 25 February.

Bang Phli, Samut Prakan: two Collared Scops Owls fledged from a nest in a palm on a suburban housing estate, 3 February (ST).

Contributors: Chaiwat Chinuparawat, Lanna Bird and Nature Conservation Club (LBC), Suchart Daengphayon, J.N. Dymond, Thai Raptor Group, Ron Johns (RJo), Dr. Chaiyan Kasorndorkbua, Suppalak Klabdee, Yotin Meekaew, Dr. Suwanna Mookachonphan, Surachai Rungkhunakon, Dr Kaset Sutasha, Sopitcha Tantitadapitak, Chanin Thienwiwatnukul, Pongsuda Vongsingha, Wings Bird Tour, Chaiwat Wongchai.

LEG-FLAGGED WADERS

Lesser Sand Plover (Green/white flags, R leg) at Khok Kham on 27 February (SD)

This bird was flagged at Sungei Buloh Wetland Reserve, Singapore, approximate co-ordinates 1deg 27min S, 103deg 43min E, which uses the flag combination Green/White, sometime since August 2003.

The re-sighting was a distance of approximately 1704 km, with a bearing of 348 degrees, from the marking location. (Data supplied by Australasian Wader Studies Group)

Spoon-billed Sandpiper with light blue leg flag on right leg, Pak Thale, 1 March (Daniel Bengtsson, Kristian Svenssson, Jam Oldebring). This bird was flagged in Northern Chukotka, approximate coordinates 67deg 4min N, 174deg 35min W, which uses the flag combination light blue, in June or July, in 2002, 2004 or 2005.

The re-sighting was a distance of approximately 8464 km, with a bearing of 271 degrees, from the marking location. (Data supplied by Australasian Waders Studies Group)

A Spoon-billed Sandpiper was ringed and leg-flagged (back /green right leg: the colours assigned to the Inner Gulf of Thailand, at Khok Kham on the night of 1-2 February.

Spoon-billed Sandpiper expedition, Bangladesh 2006

Contributed by Christoph Zöckler, ArcCona Consulting, Cambridge, U.K.

At least 11 globally endangered Spoon-billed Sandpipers were found at three sites along the coast of Bangladesh in January, during an international expedition of Bangladeshi, British, German and Russian Ornithologists, organised by the Wildlife Trust for Bangladesh and ArcCona Consulting Cambridge, and funded by the German-based Manfred-Hermsen-Foundation. The findings are raising hopes for the survival of the birds, whose population has declined to just 300-350 pairs in the wild. The sightings are all from previously unknown sites and crucial in the understanding of its wintering. It is now assumed that the species is much more scattered, with the core wintering areas located on mudflats extending from the Gulf of Thailand and possibly Vietnam in the east, westwards to the eastern shores of Bangladesh.

No birds were found in the western part of Bangladesh, coinciding with a lack of sightings on the east coast of India during last year's expedition to West Bengal. Bangladesh and possibly Myanmar, from where no information is available, are therefore believed to be highly important for the Spoon-billed Sandpiper. In this respect, it is of great concern that so many mudflats in Bangladesh were degraded or converted into prawn farms or salt pans, preventing the vital intertidal exchange of saltwater, critical for the species' feeding grounds. These mudflats are disappearing at an alarming rate in Eastern Bangladesh, but also in Thailand, Vietnam and possibly Myanmar. These small-scale, but widespread conversions reduce the habitat of the species, adding significantly to the impact being caused by the devastating large-scale reclamation of the Saemangeum mudflats in Korea.

The expedition members received a warm reception from the local people, the government and the press. Even the President of Bangladesh backed the expedition and sent his good wishes. The level of interest and support is very promising for the implementation of a future action plan, envisioned in the country and the wider region to protect core sites along the flyway. The safeguarding of intertidal ecosystems will not only help the Spoon-billed Sandpiper, but also secure the livelihoods of many millions people, who depend on small-scale coastal fisheries.

Urgent action is required and an international species action plan will need to address the issues within each country along the flyway.

The success of the expedition was due to the help of many people in Bangladesh and outside. In particular thanks are due to Prof Anwarul Islam and Enam Ul Haque.

STOP PRESS: Raptor Censuses

A raptor census organized by the Thai Raptor Group on Feb 25, 2006 covered known sites in five provinces (Chaing Rai, Sukhothai, Ayuthaya, Petchaburi and Prachinburi), recording 2 Imperial Eagles, 8 Greater Spotted Eagles, and a total of 217 harriers (Pied and Eastern Marsh Harriers).

On March 5, a one-day trip to Khao Yoi and Bangjak ricefields, Phetchaburi, organised by Dr Chiayan Kasorndorkbua and Thai Raptor Group on behalf of BCST found: 1 juvenile Imperial Eagle, 1 subadult Greater Spotted Eagle, 1 juvenile Pied Harrier, many Black Kites and Brahminy Kites

(Contributed by Thai Raptor Group/Dr. Chaiyan Kasorndorkbua)

RECENT REPORTS
December 2005-February 2006

This issue of Recent Reports includes a few records, omitted in error, from December 2005, and is written in the knowledge that further records from January and February 2006 are still to be received, and will be incorporated in succeeding months' compilations.

An unidentified Tropicbird was seen on a speed-boat between Ao Nang (Krabi) and Mu Ko Similan (Phang-nga) in late January (SB). There were two Spot-billed Ducks on a pond outside the northern gate of Khao Yai on 17 January (WAA, HMA), and one male and 3 female Baer's Pochards on Nong Bong Khai (Chiang Rai) on 17 January (SW). 17 Jan. An adult Brahminy Kite was present at a marsh at Ban Chan, on the south side of Udon Thani city, on 24 January (PB). Two juvenile Imperial Eagles and 6 Greater Spotted Eagles were present at Khao Yoi (Phetchaburi) on 16 December (TRG/CK); two female and four juvenile Pied Harriers were also recorded during 15-18 December (TRG/CK). Reports of raptors from Sawankhalok District (Sukhothai) on 14-15 December included Japanese Sparrowhawk, Pied and Eastern Marsh Harriers, Common Kestrel (TRG/CK). A pair of Oriental Hobbies were copulating at Khao Khanab Nam (Krabi) on January (SB)

Nine White-browed Crakes at Nong Samrong (Udon Thani), included one with three black chicks on 20 January (PB). A Black-tailed Crake was seen on Doi Lang, Doi Pha Hom Pok (Chiang Mai), 21 January (SW).

There were three different Northern Lapwings at Chiang Saen (Chiang Rai) on 28 January. In addition to the single bird on the Mekong, there were two additional birds south of the lake, Nong Bong Khai (WB, TD, RK). Two different Spoon-billed Sandpipers were present at Khok Kham on 3 February (SD) —the only time this year that two individuals have been known to be simultaneously present at this site. A River Tern was seen on the Mekong at Chanuman (Amnat Charoen) on 27 January (DP, WS et al.)

Four Nicobar Pigeons were seen on Ko 4, Mu Ko Similan (Phang-nga) on 19 January (SB). A pair of Barred Eagle Owls were observed copulating at Khao Nor Chuchi on 17 January (SB,YM). A male and female Rufous-necked Hornbill were seen at Thinuey, Thung Yai (Kanchanaburi) on 15 January (ST). There was a female Silver Oriole at Phu Soi Dao (Uttaradit) on 30 January (SW) and two more, both male and female, at Thinuey Guard Station, Thung Yai on 15 January (ST). A Long-tailed Minivet was feeding a fledged young at Thinuey on 15 January (ST). Crow-billed Drongos were reported from Thinuey on 16 January (ST) at Khao Phanom Song, Nam Nao (Phetchabun) on 20 January (ST). A Red-whiskered Bulbul coming to a flowering bush with Brown-breasted Bulbuls, near the summit of Doi Pha Hom Pok, 2285 m, on 24 January (SW), c. 400 m higher than the upper range limit usually given. Up to five Limestone Wren Babblers (race calcicola) at Tham Phaya Nak, Khao Hin Phun, Nam Nao (Phetchabun) on 18-19 January (ST) is a range extension for this species and subspecies. A pair of Jerdon's Bushchats were seen at the usual site (1200 m) on Doi Lang on 21 January (SW). There was a male Golden Bush Robin on Doi Pha Hom Pok, along the trail between the Kiew Lom Camspite and the summit, on 24 January, along with at least one Grey-sided Thrush, one Long-tailed Thrush (SW). A Grey-sided Thrush was reported from the Phrom Leng Guard Station, Nam Nao on 18-19 January (ST). There was one Chestnut Thrush on the summit of Doi Inthanon, 13 January (SW), and ten Chestnut Thrushes and 4 Grey-sided Thrushes on the summit of Doi Inthanon on 1 February (PS). Two Chestnut Thrushes were also present on the Kiew Lom campsite lawns, Doi Pha Hom Pok, on 24 January (SW). A male Black Redstart was present, and was photographed at Tilosu Waterfall, Umphang (Tak) on 5, 6 and 7 December (SP). A Grey-cheeked Warbler was seen at Doi Dong Ya Wai, Doi Phu Kha National Park (Nan) on 28 January (SW). A Yellow-vented Warbler was seen at Thinuey, Thung Yai, on 14 January (ST). There was a male Slaty-backed Flycatcher at an unusually low elevation in lowland deciduous forest outside the northern gate of Khao Yai on 28 January (WAA,HMA). Excitingly, three Mekong Wagtails at Chanuman on 27 January (DP,WS et al.) may well indicate that the species is more widespread as a breeding bird along the Mekong than previously thought.

Contributors: Wayne A Allen, Hannah Marie Allen, Philip Bawden, Simon Buckell, Wanphot Bunkhwamdee, Thoswan Devakul, Dr. Rungsrit Kanjanavanit, Thai Raptor Group per Dr. Chaiyan Kasondorkbua (TRG/CK) , Sittikul Poungmali, Dome Pratumtong, Pinit Saengkaew, Wachara Sanguansombat, Sopitcha Tantitadapitak, Stijn De Win.

Compiled by Philip D. Round and Roongroj Jukmongkol on behalf of BCST Records Committee. Raptor observations from Thai raptor Group contributed by Dr. Chaiyan Kasondorkbua.

RECENT REPORTS
November 2005-January 2006

The period covered by this installment of recent reports overlaps with the Asian Midwinter Waterbird Census (AWC), normally carried out in the middle two weeks of January. We are not yet in a position to include all records from AWC, as these are still being compiled and, in some cases, still being collected. We include the few records that have so far reached us, especially those of scarce species. A full compilation should be available in due course.

An Oriental Darter was still present on a pond near Phuket Municipal Rubbish Tip on 30 December (SW) and another was seen at Khlong Bang Kaew (Samut Prakan) on 7 January (VP). A large dark heron that flew over Bang Phra (Chon Buri) on 22 January was thought to be a Great-billed Heron (DL). Two apparently new sites for Chinese Egrets on the east coast of the peninsula were Laem Talumphuk (Nakhon Si Thammarat), which held four, probably six, different individuals on 11 January (PA,YM,PDR); and Laem Sui, a sand spit in Chaiya District, at the NW corner of Ao Bandon (Surat Thani) which held three, probably four, on 13 January (PA,YM,PDR).

Ten Painted Storks were seen on ponds at a fish-farm near Sri Mahosot (Prachinburi) on 30 December (MM). There were 100 Painted Storks reported from Bang Chai [sic], Ayutthaya on 7 January (WS per WC). A Black Stork showed up at Thaton (Chiang Mai) on 23 December (KK, MT & ST), while, remarkably, 4 Black Storks (per RK) and 14 Glossy Ibises (RK) were seen on a small pond to the south of Nong Bong Khai on 15 January (per RK). A count of 13 Black-headed Ibises was made at Wat Khao Takhrao (Petchaburi) on 24 December (HF). A Black-faced Spoonbill flew past the Samut Sakhon Mangrove Research Centre on 15 January (DMCR/YT). A Greater Flamingo, a (presumed) escaped bird, was seen at Tanot Noi, Cha-am (Phetchaburi) on 12 January (AG,NS). Two Eurasian Wigeons and 2-3 Garganeys were the only palearctic ducks seen among c. 3,080 Lesser Whistling-ducks and 336 Cotton Pygmy-geese at Nong Lahan (Chaiyaphum) on 27-28 December (MM,PDR). There were c. 10,000 Lesser Whistling-ducks and 40 Cotton Pygmy-geese at nearby Nong Waeng, Khon Sawan (Chaiyaphum) on 16 January (LM). 145 Cotton Pygmy-geese were counted at Huai Chorakhe Mak on 8 January (SM). Five Ruddy Shelducks were seen on the entrance road to Sam Phraya Beach, Khao Sam Roi Yot (Prachuap Khirikhan) on 2 January (Anonymous posting on BCST web-page). A Common Shelduck appeared on the Mekong at Chiang Saen on 22 January (DD & MD).There were five Comb Ducks at Huai Talat and 8 at nearby Huai Chorakhe Mak (Buriram) on 8 January (SM).

Two White-bellied Sea Eagles were seen at a nest at Tambol Natung, Muang (Chumphon) on 11 January (CN). Irrigated rice is now being grown around Sri Mahosot in an area that was so productive of kites and eagles in previous years. Nevertheless about 520 Black Kites and six Greater Spotted Eagles dispersed from a roost on 30 December (MM). A single Grey-faced Buzzard and a juvenile Pied Harrier were also seen (MM). A male Pied Harrier was also reported from Bang Klar (Chachoengsao) on 22 January (CT). Bang Jaak (Phetchaburi) held three juvenile and one adult Greater Spotted Eagles, a juvenile Imperial Eagle and an adult Steppe Eagle on 1 January (KS, SS). A rufous morph Booted Eagle was seen near Mai Khao Beach (Phuket) on 29 December (SW).

The harrier roost to the south of Nong Bong Khai was said to hold 238 birds on 15-16 January (MD,DD), most of which were Pied Harriers. A Northern Goshawk was seen at 1800 m, Doi Pha Hom Pok on 1 January (LBC). A small falcon near the entrance to the Laem Pak Bia Environmental Research and Development Project on 12 January appeared to be blue-grey above (AG,NS) and was thought probably to be a Merlin, though the observers are wisely not making a definitive claim. There was a Peregrine Falcon at Pak Phun, Muang District (Nakhon Si Thammarat) on 8 January (PA,SA) and a male Common Kestrel at Ban Nathung ,Nathung Sub-district,Muang, Chumphon on 5 December (CN).

As many as 15 White-browed Crakes were counted at Nong Bong Khai on 2 January (MD and DD) and there were eight at Khlong Bang Kaew on 7 January (RL, AS,PW). One was seen with four chicks near Bang Pu on 14 January (JWKP/WWF). A Slaty-legged Crake was photographed at Silpakorn University Thap Kae (Nakhon Pathom) on 4 January (AR). A single Eurasian Coot at Khao Sam Roi Yot on 15 January (Ajarn Supoj) is perhaps new for the park. Elsewhere, there were 78 Eurasian Coots at Nong Lahan on 27 December (MM,PDR), and 24 at Huai Chorakhe Mak on 8 January (SM). Eight Watercocks at Huai Chorakhe Mak on 8 January (SM) was an unexpected record as the species was thought to be a wet-season breeding visitor to the NE. Three were also seen at Pak Phun (Nakhon Si Thammarat) on 10 January (PA,YM, PDR).

Four Small Pratincoles and 104 Pheasant-tailed Jacanas at were counted Nong Lahan on 27 December (MM,PDR). A River Lapwing at Phutthamonthol 3 Jan was still present on 24 January (SK). There was a single Grey-headed Lapwing in paddy stubbles at Nakhon Si Thammarat on 12 January (PA,YM,PDR), and three at Kaem Ling Nong Yai (Chumphon) on 10 January (CN).

A single Long-billed Plover and 50 Temminck's Stints were present on a sandbank of the Mekong River, 5 January (MD & DD). Long-billed Plover and a Northern Lapwing were also seen at the same site on 14 January (SM, KS, et al.).

Eight Spoon-billed Sandpipers were again counted at Pak Thale on 5 January (JW) and 6 January (PK, JW). The single Spoon-billed Sandpiper at Khok Kham is proving elusive, but was again seen on 24 December, 4 January (SD) and 17 January (SD). 60 Nordmann's Greenshanks, at Khok Kham on 24 December (SD), is the largest ever single count in Thailand. Forty Asian Dowitchers and a Red-necked Phalarope were also present (SD). The same site held eleven Nordmann's Greenshanks, along with 150 Asian Dowitchers, over 100 Great Knots, 20 Red Knots and 60 Bar-tailed Godwits on 3 January (SD), while 20 Terek Sandpipers were counted on 7 January (SD). A single Pied Avocet and about 400 Black-tailed Godwits were reported from Khlong Khone on 24 December (DD,CD). A Red Phalarope, photographed with 4 Red-necked Phalaropes at Pak Thale on 5 January (JW) was Thailand and (probably) SE Asia's first record. Unfortunately, it was only seen on one day.

Another good Palearctic rarity, a first-winter Black-legged Kittiwake photographed on the Laem Phak Bia sandspit on 30 December (PS), was the second record for the country. An adult Black-tailed Gull was seen at the same site on 1 January (KS, SS) along with at least 14 Caspian Terns. . Over 500 Common Terns and 50 Little Terns were counted at Laem Phak Bia on 22 January (SM, SpM). Nine Pallas's Gulls and six Heuglin's Gulls were reported from Laem Phak Bia on 22 January (SM,SpM).

We have received many more shorebird records from the peninsula than is usual.

There was a Grey-tailed Tattler and two Nordmann's Greenshanks at Krabi on 27 November (BF), and three Nordmann's Greenshanks on 18 December (PDR,TM et al). Twenty Asian Dowitchers and 70 Eurasian Curlews were counted at Pak Phun, (Nakhon Si Thammarat) on 8 January (PA,SA) while Laem Sui held 30 Great Knots, 22 Red Knots and 33 Ruddy Turnstones besides several hundred Lesser Sand Plovers and smaller numbers of other waders on 12-13 January (PA,YM,PDR). Seven Caspian Terns were counted at Pak Phun on 8 January (PA,SA), while 100 Great Crested Terns at Laem Sui on 12-13 January is probably the largest single count ever made in the country. There were also 16 Lesser Crested Terns, 321 Common Terns and 233 Little Terns at the same site (PA,YM,PDR), and 15 Black-headed Gulls and one Brown-headed Gull at Pak Phanang (Nakhon Si Thammarat) on 10 January (PA,YM, PDR). The last two species are scarce and under-recorded in the south.

At least 100 Orange-breasted Pigeons were seen at Laguna Phuket on 29 December (SW). At least three Chestnut winged Cuckoos and 5-6 Large Hawk Cuckoos were seen in mangroves and coastal scrub at Laem Talumphuk on 11 January (PA,YM,PDR), while another Large Hawk Cuckoo was seen at Sa Bua, Tha Sala District (Nakhon Si Thammarat) on 10 January (PA,YM,PDR). A juvenile (presumably Large) Hawk Cuckoo was also seen at Phutthamonthol on 3 Jan (SK), and a rufous morph Oriental Scops Owl at Silpakorn University, Thap Kaeo, on 4 January (NRS).

A pair of Rufous-necked Hornbills at the headquarters of Thongphaphum National Park (Kanchanaburi) on 4 January (PS) may be a new locality. A pair of Pied Trillers was present at Laem Talumphuk, a known site for this rather scarce inhabitant of coastal areas, on 12 January (PA,YM,PDR). An estimated 1,000 Sand Martins flying westwards, to a presumed roost, at Rangsit (Pathumthani) on 28 December (MM,PDR) is the largest count for the Bangkok area. A female Silver Oriole was photographed at Kaeng Krachan, 30 December (PS) and a male seen on Doi Luang, Doi Chiang Dao (Chiang Mai) on 1 January (ST).

Several hundred White-headed Bulbuls were feeding on nectar in flowering trees on Doi Ang Khang during 21-23 December (RO, JT). Other observers later mentioned that hilltribe boys were shooting these birds, seemingly with little or no interference by neither the many soldiers, nor the other government officials stationed on the mountain.

The resident population of House Crows in Phuket, seen usually around the city dump, now numbers about 15 individuals (SW). A Crow-billed Drongo was found in coastal Causarinas at Laem Talumphuk on 11 January (PA,YM,PDR).

A male Blue-fronted Robin was reported from Doi Chiang Dao on 2 January (ST). A pair of Jerdon's Bushchats was again seen at c. 1200 m on Doi Lang (Chiang Mai) on 31 December (JWKP). A Scaly Thrush was seen in the lowlands near the lakeshore of Nong Bong Khai on 16 January (DD) and there was an unusual midwinter record of a male Siberian Thrush on Doi Luang, Doi Chiang Dao on 1 January (ST) . Two Chestnut Thrushes were feeding in the Doi Kiew Lom Campground of Doi Pha Hom Pok (Chiang Mai) on 26 December (VP). At least 10 Chestnut Thrushes were reported from Doi Pha Hom Pok on during 31 December-2 January (LBC), some as low as 1400 m. There were also at least three Grey-winged Blackbirds (LBC). A single fruiting tree on Doi Pha Hom Pok held c. 30 Eyebrowed Thrushes, 5 Grey-winged Blackbirds (3 males and 2 female), 2 female Black-breasted Thrushes and a Chestnut Thrush (RK). A male Black-breasted Thrush was also seen on Doi Chiang Dao on 1 January (ST). A single thrush seen at Km 39-40 on Doi Inthanon on 16 January was reported as a Brown-headed Thrush Turdus chrysolaus (WS), which would be a first Thai record. However, no substantiating details have yet been forthcoming. Two Daurian Redstarts were also seen Doi Pha Hom Pok on 26 December (VP), and two more, a male and female on Doi Chiang Dao on 3 January (ST). A staggering total of 9 Cutias were seen in the same tree at 2100 m on Doi Pha Hom Pok on 1 January (RK).

A sighting of a Baikal Bush Warbler at Khlong Bang Kaew on 12 January (PK) provides a reminder that only the most skilled observers ever see this very shy and skulking, yet surprisingly common, migrant species, which winters widely around Bangkok in scrubby areas close to water. (Most field guides still treat this species as conspecific with the shorter-distance migrant Spotted Bush Warbler, B. thoracicus, for which there are no confirmed Thai records). Male and female Ultramarine Flycatchers were seen on Doi Luang Chiang Dao on 2 January (ST). A male Blue-and-white Flycatcher was reported in a garden at Thung Song Hong (Bangkok) on 28 November (BM). A female Chinese Blue Flycatcher (possibly the same individual reported earlier in the autumn/winter) was seen at Khlong Bang Kaew on 7 January (TT).

Four Chestnut-tailed Starlings were present among a group of about 40 starlings, both White-shouldered and Purple-backed, at Laguna Phuket on 29 December (SW). Small numbers of Chestnut-tailed Starlings were present at Chumphon throughout from 18 November to 4 January. The peak count was 85 S. m. nemoricola and 10 nominate malabarica on 4 January (CN). One Chestnut-cheeked Starling was present with Purple-backed Starlings in the grounds of Chumphon Ketudomsak Hospital on 13 January (CN). By 14 January there were three Chestnut-cheeked Starlings with 26 Purple-backed Starlings and one White-shouldered Starlings (CN). Remarkably, one Common Starling appeared at the Chumphon Provincial Sports Stadium on 1 January (CN). A Brahminy Starling was seen near Kamala Beach (Phuket) on 30 December and was still present on 1 January (AC, SW). Over 50 Jungle Mynas were seen at Thung Talaad (Nakhon Si Thammarat) on 24 December (PA, SA).

A male Yellow Wagtail of the race taivana and a Citrine Wagtail at Suan Thao Suranaree, Lum Takhong reservoir (Nakhon Ratchasima) on 27 December (MM,PDR)

A flock of c. 150 Red-throated Pipits was seemingly roosting on coastal flats at Laem Sui on 12 February (PA,YM,PDR).

A male Tristram's Bunting was seen on Doi Ang Khang on 21 December (JT). Other scarce winter visitore were a Yellow-bellied Flowerpecker Siriphum Waterfall Doi Inthanon 21 Dec (SK) and a male Scarlet Finch at 1800m on Doi Pha Hom Pok, 1 January (LBC).

Contributors: Dr. Panom Archarit, Ms. Sunit Archarit, Ms. Wanlaya Chanittawong, Lanna Bird Club (LBC), Andy Colthorpe, Catherine Downard, Douglas Downard, Attakorn Engsuspohon, Horst Flotow, Benny Fredriksson, Alec Gordon, Suppalak Klabdee, Rewadi Lerdariyakit, David Lewis, Mark Mallalieu, Miss B. Mountfield, Dr. Suwanna Mookachonpan, Suporn Mookachonpan (SpM), Lester Mulford, Dr. Taej Mundkur, Chukiat Nualsri, Ron Orenstein, John Parr (JWKP), Vetida Pongpanit, Department of Marine and Coastal Resources (DMCR), Philip D. Round, Pinit Saengkaew, Apakorn Saetang, Wachara Sanguansombat, Napat Sirisambhand, Nipon Ratchapol Srathongchai (NRS), Dr. Kaset Sutasha, Smith Suthibut, Chanin Thienwiwatnukul, Thiti Tanaree, Sopitcha Tantitadapitak, Yupin Tatuwan, Jens Toettrup, Stijn de Win, Paitoon Wisia, WorldWide Fund for Nature-Thailand (WWF), John Wright.

Late records: Omitted from previous monthly summaries in error:

Phuket island (AC, SW): Greater Spotted Eagle, a juvenile 16 November to at least 27 November, between Ban Don and Ban Riang; two juveniles on 20-23 November. Booted Eagle, a rufous morph bird at Ban Don on 4, 8, 18, 19, 20, 22 November was in identical plumage to an individual seen in the same area one year ago. Common Buzzard, dark morph on 19 November; pale morph on 22 and 25 November. Pied Harrier, male near Ban Don, 15 and 16 October. Orange-breasted Pigeon, a group of about 30 birds near Laguna Phuket, 26-27 November. White-shouldered Starling, at least 20 birds appeared in the Ban Don area on 31 October until at least 27 November. Chestnut-tailed Starling, one with Purple-backed Starlings on 24 November, near Ban Don (AC). Pallas's Grasshopper Warbler, one 25 November, near Ban Don Had Tong Krud, Ko Samui, Surat Thani (UT). Greater Sand Plover 8, Lesser Sand Plover, 200+; Malaysian Plover 10, Kentish Plover 2; Ruddy Turnstone 8, Whimbrel one; 15 November Nam Nao, Phetchabun 8-9 November 2005 (ST). Phu Phajit, 20 Brown Hornbills.

Compiled by Philip D. Round and Roongroj Jukmongkol on behalf of BCST Records Committee.

Illegal bird trapping widespread

Over 60 mist-nets were seen over wader pools at the south end of Nong Bong Khai on 31 December (Mick Davies). Although reported to officials of the nearby Nong Bong Khai Non-Hunting Area, so far as known, no action was taken.

Roughly 100 m of netting set to catch shorebirds on mudflats was seen at Sa Bua, Thai Sala District, Nakhon Si Thammarat on 10 January by Dr. Panom Archarit, Yotoin Meekaeo and Philip Round.

Municipal developments affects Purple Heron nesting colony

One of Thailand's largest nesting colonies of Purple Herons, thought to support at least 200 pairs, at Thung Talad (Talad Park), Muang District, Nakhon Si Thammarat, has been badly disrupted in the past year. The local authorities dug a large pond in a formerly wooded area in which the Purple Herons, together with many egrets nested. It is not yet possible to assess the affects on the Purple Heron population. Many birds also nest in reeds and scrub in the surroundings, and extensive flooding this year has limited access into much of the surrounding area.

(Contributed by Dr Panom Archarit)

Worldtwitch Thailand

2006 THAILAND BIRD REPORTS

Bird Conservation Society of Thailand Bulletin (BCST Bulletin)

RECENT REPORTS Late November 2006 - January 2007

RECENT REPORTS Late October to Early December 2006

RECENT REPORTS: August-early October 2006

RECENT REPORTS May-July 2006

RECENT REPORTS March-June 2006

RECENT REPORTS February-April 2006