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Worldtwitch Thailand

2007 THAILAND BIRD REPORTS

Bird Conservation Society of Thailand Bulletin (BCST Bulletin)

E-mail: bcstbcst.or.th

RECENT REPORTS
October 2007 to the year's end

Until the end of 2006, Recent Reports appeared in a similar format, monthly, for nearly 23 years, without interruption. From January 2007 the BCST Bulletin changed to a higher quality, quarterly magazine, and as RR now appears at quarterly rather than monthly intervals, it cannot help but be less topical and immediately relevant All those year ago, when RR started, the entire BCST Bulletin was typed on to wax stencils and then cyclostyled. RR was the only source of bird news. When rare birds were found, there was often a delay before anybody other than the finder heard about them, and few birders went to look. One of the first Thai "twitches" ( a hurried trip in search of a rare or unusual bird found immediately beforehand) that I can remember was in January 1989, when a small group hurried to Bang Pu to see three Black-faced Spoonbills that had been telephoned in the night before. How different from today, when news of scarce migrants, usually supported by excellent quality photographs, is instantly available on the web, and where observers regularly drive hundreds of kilometers in pursuit of a "life bird" or a unique photograph.

RR has a much wider role beyond that of providing news of rarities, of course. We have documented dates or arrival of winter visitors and passage migrants; new distributional records, breeding records, maximum counts, and much more. BCST Bulletin is distributed to the libraries of many ornithological museums and institutions around the world, thus enabling the authors of scholarly reviews to draw on RR as a reliable source on the status of the Thai bird avifauna. Over the years RR has therefore provided an invaluable contribution to the printed record of oriental ornithology.

But as the number of bird sightings increases, RR takes up ever-increasing printed space. Also, as sightings of some scarcer species become relatively mundane with the much increased coverage, one might question whether the expensive printed space that is used in documenting them could be more productively devoted to other material, especially that relevant to current conservation issues and events. A change in format is therefore deemed appropriate, and in fact has been anticipated ever since BCST changed to a quarterly format.

Henceforth, we propose that RR will take the form of a shorter summary of records. We encourage observers to continue to submit records as before. Observers may encounter their names in print less frequently than previously, but should not be dissuaded from submitting records, which will continue to be archived, and stored in spreadsheet format. In due course, we hope to make the entire records database fully available on the BCST Web Site, but it may take some time until a format is agreed, and the early part of 2008 should be regarded as a transition period. We value your contributions in documenting the fortunes of the Thai avifauna, and equally, your views as to how to keep RR useful and relevant to the rapidly evolving Thai ornithological scene. Please do not hesitate to share your views with the editor of BCST Bulletin, or with the Records Committee Chairman.

This issue of RR takes us to the end of 2007, though as a print deadline looms, it is likely that many sightings from the Christmas and New Year holiday period will fail to reach us in time, and will have to be held back until a future issue.

Every late autumn and winter brings keen anticipation as to which winter vagrants will turn up; whether the scarcer thrushes species will appear in numbers higher than usual whether there will be any faunal additions.

So far this winter has not disappointed. Pride of place goes to a Black-necked Grebe, discovered by Department of National Parks staff at Bung Boraphet (Nakhon Sawan) on 25 December (TS et al, WRD.), and which has delighted many observers since with its tameness, approachability and engaging behaviour. Also at Bung Boraphet, a Blyth's Reed Warbler was netted and banded on 26 November, and its identity confirmed by careful examination. (KE, KI, WRD). This species had long been predicted to occur and perhaps the only surprise is that it should have taken so long. Predating both these, however was a third possible addition: Long-billed Pipit, reported from Yonok, Chiang Saen (Chiang Rai) on 20 October. (DD, MD). Because adequate quality photographs were not obtained, this record will need careful assessment before acceptance, and details have been sent out to Records Committee consultants. (There is one previous claim of this species, from Chiang Mai, but the details were thought insufficient to justify adding it at that time.) A probable Pectoral Sandpiper at Laem Phak Bia (Phetchaburi) on 21 November (PE), another potential addition to the national list, was inadvertently flushed by a salt-farm worker before its details could be satisfactorily documented.

Doi Lang, the northern ridge of Doi Pha Hom Pok (Chiang Mai), has become the "must do" site for visitors to the north, and again this winter has produced some outstanding birds. Himalayan Griffons were recorded there for the second consecutive winter with two birds, a juvenile and an older immature, photographed on 15 December (UT), and as many as eight, seven of which were juveniles, on 30 December, and which headed off to the SE. (CC, PI, CK, KKi).

Four Fire-tailed Sunbirds on 18-19 December (KB, AK, SK, PDR) were the first records of this species since Ben King collected one on Doi Pha Hom Pok over 40 years ago. Since it is the commonest migrant sunbird in Yunnanese mountain passes, it should be regular in Northern Thailand. It has almost certainly been overlooked but we can confidently predict that birdwatchers will find more now that there is better knowledge of its plumage characters.

There were four Dark-breasted Rosefinches on 22 December (DD, MD), with as many as 12 seen the following day seen by many observers. Three were actually reported at Doi Lang slightly earlier, on 30 November (CCh, SE). These sightings are highly remarkable for a species previously seen only in ones and twos. Most previous records have been from the summit of Doi Inthanon, in damp forest understory around the edge of the sphagnum moss bog, and where there may not have been any confirmed sightings since as long ago as 1986. Some or all of the few other sightings since that time may have been misidentified Common Rosefinches, since the latter is a very variable species, and some males are very bright and intense red. The behaviour of Dark-breasted Rosefinch is very different to that of Common Rosefinch, with which it does not usually associate, as it skulks on the ground, favouring damp forest edge and forest floor.

Among other species reported from Doi Lang were a male Purple Cochoa on 30 December (CK, KKi); 4 Chestnut Thrushes on 10 December (ST), increasing to eight on 20 December (AK, SK), and 12 on 30 December (CK, KKi); two Grey-winged Blackbirds on 8 December (ST); four Cutias (including one singing) on 31 December (CC,PI CK); a male Pygmy Blue Flycatcher and a Spot-breasted Laughingthrush on 22-23 October (CT) and Spotted Wren Babbler on 9 December. (ST).

Another site in the far north, now benefiting from much improved coverage, is the Chiang Saen Basin, where the number of harriers entering the roosts (counted on over two successive nights, 19-20 December) was at least 444 on 19-20 December. (DD, MD). The observers estimate that there are roughly 250 Pied Harriers and 200 Eastern Marsh Harriers roosting in total. A subadult male Hen Harrier was also seen on 6 and 15 December (DD, MD) and (apparently) two juvenile Western Marsh Harriers on 1 December. (CW, TSu). A pale morph Booted Eagle over Maw Mong's bird reserve on 28 October (JH, RK, NLa) was a new record for the Chiang Saen Basin.

Other than the burgeoning population of Spot-billed Ducks, ducks numbers generally on Chiang Saen Lake (Nong Bong Khai) have generally been low. Globally threatened Baer's Pochards are very hard to find, with two on 6 November and 11 on December (DD, MD), and relatively few Garganeys reported also. Besides continuing to produce sightings of Grass Owls, neighbouring Nong Lom holds a roosting population of up to 1500 Red-throated Pipits. (DD,MD). A single Long-billed Plover was present on the Mekong River during 28-31 December (DD, MD, PE), as were three first-winter Pallas's Gulls and a single Heuglin's Gull from 13 December to the end of the year. (DD, MD).

At Bung Boraphet, in addition to the species already mentioned, there were one, possibly two Great Crested Grebes on 21–22 December and a Common Shelduck during 17–20 December (BBRS). Ducks recorded include 6000-7000 Garganeys and at least 20 Eurasian Wigeons (BBRS). Increased focus on reedbed and scrub-inhabiting birds, thanks to the efforts of a Wildlife Research Division banding team revealed, in addition to the Blyth's Reed Warbler mentioned above, a Manchurian Reed Warbler -- the first record for the lake -- on 28 December (KI et al. /BBRS). Also of major significance was the discovery of (presumably resident) populations of both Blue-throated Flycatchers and Hainan Blue Flycatchers in scrub woodland around the lakeshore, neither of which was previously known from the alluvial Central Plains. Several of each species have been both seen in the field and netted and banded since mid-November (KE, KI,/BBRS).

In the Inner Gulf, around Bangkok, the first Spoon-billed Sandpipers were detected at Khok Kham (Samut Sakhon) on 16 October and at Pak Thale (Phetchaburi) on 20 October (PS). BCST surveys during November and December revealed a minimum of 11 birds, with six at Pak Thale (fewer than last year) on 14 December (SD, SN), and interestingly at least three birds at new sites (all on salt-pans) in Samut Sakhon. 22 Nordmann's Greenshanks were detected at Samut Maneerat (Samut Sakhon) on 27 November, with a minimum 21 and probably 34 birds at Pak Thale on 15 December (SD, SN).

The trend of local increase of some waders continues, with 1200 Great Knots at Laem Phak Bia on 24 November (SN, P& PyS); 2000 Black-tailed Godwits at Bang Pu (Samut Prakan) on 24 November (JWKP, PDR); and 515 Eurasian Curlews at Bang Kaew (between Pak Thale and Laem Phak Bia) on 24 November. (SD,SN). Two Eastern Curlews put in an appearance at Pak Thale on 30 November (WN), with presumably one of the same at Laem Phak Bia on December. (PS). Another rarity was a single Black-faced Spoonbill at Bang Kaew on 24 November. (SD, SN). Red-necked Phalaropes were recorded from 16 October onwards, with the maximum, nine, frequenting Artemia ponds at Laem Phak Bia from 15 December onwards along with three Pied Avocets. (SD, SN).

A wader that is definitely not increasing, and for which fewer reports have been received, is Asian Dowitcher. Even so, 112 were counted at Samut Sakhon Mangrove Research Station during the autumn passage period on 23 October (SN) and one at Pak Thale on 16 October (CK, CS).

The totals of principal raptor species counted at Radar Hill, Bang Saphan Noi (Prachuap Khiri Khan) mostly during weekends during 21 September to 4 November

were 58,757 Black Bazas, 9,925 Oriental Honey-buzzards,10,234 Chinese Sparrowhawks, 880 Japanese Sparrowhawks and 1,156 Grey-faced Buzzards. (TRG).

Scarcer species included three Jerdon's Bazas on 4 November; four on 12 November; three Eurasian Sparrowhawks; a total of 34 Crested Serpent Eagles; "Steppe" Buzzards (Buteo buteo vulpinus) on 9 October and 4 November; two japonicus Common Buzzards; 16 Booted Eagles during 15 October to 12 November ( including at least three pale morphs and 11 dark morph individuals) and eight Greater Spotted Eagles during 20 October to 11 November. (TRG).

Other Greater Spotted Eagles (apparent winterers) were reported from Plaeng Yao, Chachoengsao (one on 11 November; CK); the Bang Jaak to Khao Yoi area of Phetchaburi (at least four during 4-18 November; LD, SNu, PP, KS, CTe et al.) During 16-31 December, 15 were counted at various sites from Prachinburi - Nakhon Nayok to Phetchaburi. (TRG; CN, PDR). There were two Imperial Eagles (one juv.; one subadult) at Ban Nong Hoi (Nakhon Nayok) on 16 December (CS, NW); one juvenile at Thalang (Phuket) on 3 December (SE, DW); a single Steppe Eagle at Sri Mahaphot (Prachinburi) on 16 December (CB); and five Booted Eagles (four dark, one pale) at various sites from Nakhon Nayok to Phetchaburi during 16-30 December (TRG).

A Northern Goshawk was seen on Doi Ang Khang (Chiang Mai) on 22 October. (SM, KS). A total of 209 Amur Falcons was recorded from 16 October to 26 November, with most from the north -- 80 on Doi Lang on 21 October (CT); 44 at Chiang Dao (Chiang Mai) on 6 November (NL) and 77 at Chiang Saen during 16 October to 5 November. (DD,MD). Singles were seen at Radar Hill on 11 November (CC) and Khao Dinso, Patiu District (Chumphon) on 31 October (CN). Single Northern Hobbies were seen at Radar Hill on 20 October and 3 November (TRG); at Yonok, Chiang Saen on 3 November (DD,MD); and over Chiang Dao town on 7 November. (NL)

There were four Milky Storks at Huai Talat (Buriram) on 12-13 October (WN), where this species now seems to be an annual visitor. A single Woolly-necked Stork near the Lum Jangwa substation of Khao Ang Ru Nai Wildlife Sanctuary, (Chachoengsao) on 10 December (RP) provides evidence that this nationally threatened species still survives there. A concentration of 70 Black-headed Ibises on newly flooded paddies at Wat Jantharam (Ang Thong) on 19 December included one Sacred Ibis (TS/ WRD). This may be the first report of this escaped species associating in the wild with its native congener and one hopes it does not presage the beginnings of an ecological problem. A Common Shelduck flew over Laem Phak Bia on 23 December. (SNu). Single Parasitic Jaegers were reported off Pak Phanang (Nakhon Si Thammarat) on 7 December (WK) and Ko Samui (Surat Thani) on 13 December. (PPu). A Japanese Robin was seen at Nam Nao (Phetchabun) on 27 December. (NiL, RPa). The observers provided full details of this national rarity. A concentration of 200 Streaked Weavers in tall reeds at Nong Han Kumphawapi (Udon Thani) on 17 October (PB, PDR) was apparently the first record for NE Thailand.

Contributors: Records were received from the following observers during the reporting period: Bung Boraphet Wildlife Research Station (BBRS), Chultawat Bhowatanadilok (CB), Sasiwimol Boonserm (SB), Klos Boonthawee (KB), Panupong Burapha (PB), Chaiwat Chinuparawat (CC), Chaiyalit Chulavanitchakul (CCh), Suchart Daengphayon (SD), Wildlife Research Division (WRD), Dowroong Damlamajak (DD), Mick Davies (MD), Douglas Downard (DDo), Krairat Eiam-amphai (KE), Sutin Ekkaphobyotin (SE), Sergei Eliseev (SEl), Jorgen Ericsson (JE), Thai Raptor Group (TRG), Johann Holt (JH), Pajaree Intravooth (PI), Kungtida Ittipron (KI), Jet Jaimung (JJ), Pitchaya Janhom (PJ), Anutin Janteva (AJ), Rattapon Kaichid (RKa), Dr. Rungsrit Kanjanavanit (RK), Dr. Chaiyan Kasorndorkbua (CK), Pornthep Katsura (PK), Kamchai Kitsilp (KKi), Wichian Kongtong (WK), Dr.Apirat Kulsantipong (AKu), Akalak Kunsorn (AK), Neil Lambert (NLa), Nittaya Lawrence (NiL), Neil Lawton (NL), Dr. Suwanna Mookachonphan (SM), Mongkhon Mora (MM), Wicha Narungsri (WN), Somchai Nimnuan (SN), Chukiat Nualsri (CN), Sompong Nuamsawat (SNu), Parinya Padungtin (PP), Ralph Parks (RPa), Rungnapa Phoonjampa (RP), Pichit Pumathon (PPu), Philip Round (PDR), Pinit Saengkaew (PS), Piyanipa Saengkaew (PyS), Panlerd Sakkaew (PSa), Chatuporn Sawasdee (CS), Robert J. Smith (RJS), Thiti Sornsa (TS), Dr. Jessada Sukpitak (JS), Dr. Thaweewat Supindham (TSu), Dr. Kaset Sutasha (KS), Dr. Staporn Suvitvong (StS), Lode Duoit (LD), Maanode Taengtum (MT), Kittivut Tancharoen (KT), Sopitcha Tantitadapitak (ST), Varangkahana Taothampitak (VT), Somboon Thongdee (STh), Chirdphong Termtanan (CTe). Chanin Thienwiwatnukul (CT), Stijn de Win (SW), Dave Williams (DW) Nattawat Wiratkul (NW), Chaiwat Wongchai (CW). We apologise to any observers whose names may have been omitted in error.

Compiled on behalf of the BCST Records Committee by Philip Round, with assistance from Dr. Chaiyan Kasorndorkbua (Thai Raptor Group); Nick Upton (Thaibirding.com), Pajaree Intravooth and Chanchai Rodrang (BCST) and Parinya Padungtin (www.tourtamoan.com).

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

RECENT REPORTS
August - early October 2007

A Short-tailed Shearwater was picked up dead at Laypang Beach, near Laguna, (Phuket) on 19 August (IS). Eight nests of Oriental Darter, all apparently incubating, were seen at Sanambin (Buriram) on 15-17 September (WN). This is a new breeding locality. Apparently migrant Grey Herons appeared at Laem Phak Bia earlier than previously, with the first on 17 August (SN); two on 25 August (SN, PDR, PS) and three on 31 August (SN, PDR). A Chinese Egret was again present at Pak Thale on 1 September (SM, SN, P & PS et al.) with others at Laem Hin (Phuket) on 2 September (IS) and near Chumphon Mangrove Research Station (Chumphon) a new locality, on 8 October (SS). The earliest (presumed) Chinese Pond Heron was reported from Kaem Ling Nong Yai (Chumphon) on 29 August (CN). Two Glossy Ibises were present at Bang Pu (Samut Prakan) on 22-23 September (observer?) and another seen at North Rangsit (Pathumthani) on 3 October (LM).

A staggering total of 793 Painted Storks was counted, apparently passing southwards over Khao Hin Lek Fai, near Hua Hin (Prachuap Khiri Khan) during the eight days 15-22 September inclusive. The largest single day's total was 250 on 18 September (JS). Where were they going, one wonders? 31 were seen feeding on a pond at Hat Chao Samran (Phetchaburi) on 7 October (SD, PDR et al.).

A Bat Hawk was seen at Krung Ching (Nakhon Si Thammarat) on 11 August (PC). The first Japanese Sparrowhawks (five: said to be juveniles/first-year) passed over Ban U-Tapao (Chumphon) on 3 September (CN).

Raptor passage, was observed at a site 2km west of Khao Hin Lek Fai, Hua Hin when, on 22 September after four days of cloud, 88 Chinese Sparrowhawks, 28 Japanese Sparrowhawks, and 101 unidentified Accipiter were counted, along with three Oriental Honey-buzzards and a single Greater Spotted Eagle (JS). A single Oriental Honey-buzzard flew over Laem Phak Bia on 7 October (P&PS) and 18 Oriental Honey-buzzards, together with a few Accipiter and a single Spot-billed Pelican flew over Taling Chan (Bangkok) on 9 October (PS). (For TRG Raptor Counts at Radar Hill, see the table following.) A male Western Marsh Harrier was reported from Wat Pak Ma Nor, Chiang Saen (Chiang Rai) on 26 September (DD, MD).

A River Lapwing showed up at Kaem Ling Nong Yai (Chumphon) on 4-5 September (CN). There were two Grey-headed Lapwings at Khok Kham on 2 October (PS), and eight passed Radar Hill, Bang Saphan Noi (Prachuap Khiri Khan) on 30 September (TRG). A single adult-plumaged Red Knot was seen at Laem Phak Bia on 25 August (LF, SN, PDR et al.); there were 59 Great Knots that day (LF, SN,PDR) and 154 on 1 September (SN, PDR, P & PS). At least two Little Stints were photographed at Khok Kham on 27 August (PE), one was seen on 16 September (PE), and one banded at Laem Phak Bia on 16 September (SN). There were single Asian Dowitchers at Laem Phak Bia on and 6 October (P & PS) and a Grey-tailed Tattler at Pak Thale on 10 September (P?).

An adult Slender-billed Gull photographed at Na Thung, Chumphon on 19 September (CN) was the first record for the Thai-Malay Peninsula. Two Pin-tailed Pigeons were seen at Mae Wong (Nakhon Sawan) on 29-30 October (VA, SM, MW, SW).

1000 Red-breasted Parakeets, the largest flock for decades, were reported from Phupasak, Wong Mung (Saraburi) on 7 September (AAA). A Chestnut-winged Cuckoo was seen in mangroves at Laem Phak Bia on 29 September (BK). An adult Moustached Hawk-Cuckoo photographed at Mo-Singto, Khao Yai on 26 September (KP), was the first confirmed record for the park of a species long suspected to occur there. Asian Barred Owlet, a bird that is scarce in and around the city, was seen in Suan Rotfai (Bangkok) on 25 August (KT). At least two Pacific Swifts passed over Laem Phak Bia on 25 August (PDR, P & PS) with seven more on 1 September (P & PS). 29 passed over Radar Hill on 22 September and 21 on 29 September, with one on 23 September and four on 30 September (TRG). A migrant Black-backed Kingfisher banded at Laem Phak Bia on 2 September was only the second record for the site (SN, PDR, PS et al.). Another (migrant or resident?) was reported from Kaeng Krachan (Petchaburi) on 18 September (AAA). The earliest Black-capped Kingfisher appeared at Suan Rotfai on 9 September (KT) with no others reported until a second appeared at KU Kamphaengsaen (Nakhon Pathom) on 23 September (PP). A flock of over 100 Chestnut-headed Bee-eaters roosted in mangroves at Phuket Boat Lagoon on 26 August (IS). Passage of Blue-tailed Bee-eaters at Radar Hill built up from 9 on 22 September, increasing throughout the month to 125 on 30 September (TRG). Apparent passage was recorded at Laem Phak Bia on the weekend of 6-7 October. The earliest Eurasian Wryneck was at Chiang Saen (Chiang Rai) on 9 October (DD, MD).

Two pairs of Golden-bellied Gerygones were nest-building at Samut Sakhon Mangrove Research Center on 30 August (MU). A Brown Shrike, at Phuket on 4 August (IS), was an exceptionally early date. No others were seen until 27 August (LF, PDR et al.), an adult at Laem Phak Bia, with another at Din Daeng, Bangkok on 31 August (DA). There were Tiger Shrikes at Khao Yai on 4 September (KP,WS); Laem Phak Bia on 9 September (SN, PDR, PS et al.) and 1 October (PoK, SN,PDR) and Samut Sakhon Mangrove Research Station on 19 September (WT, YT). Two Burmese Shrikes were seen at KU Kamphaengsaen on 23 September (PA). A Long-tailed Shrike at Thalang (Phuket) on 8 October (IS) was unexpected. This was undoubtedly the black-headed continental race (tricolor) rather than the grey-crowned, grey-mantled peninsular Malaysian race (L.s. bentet). Asian Paradise-flycatchers were present at Laem Phak Bia on 9 September (two); 30 September (three); 1 October (one) and 6 October (one: SN,PDR et al), with others at KU Kamphaengsaen on 4 September (RM) and 19 September (T?); in Suan Rotfai on 9 September (KT) and 25 September (SSu); and Chulalongkorn University on 14 September (white morph; CC). The 25 September bird was an undoubted adult male incei with a full-length tail -- the only such that has been seen in autumn, so far as known.

A remarkable partial albino Barn Swallow was photographed at Nong Lahan, Chaturat (Chaiyaphum) on 12 August (PP). A red-vented morph of Sooty-headed Bulbul was seen in Chatuchak (Bangkok) on 28 August (DA).

The earliest Pallas's Grasshopper Warbler was banded at Laem Phak Bia on 25 August (SM, SN, PDR et al.), with others on 1 September, 7 September and 30 September (three; SN, PDR et al.). The earliest Oriental Reed Warbler was on 14 September (SN) and the first Black-browed Reed Warbler on 1 October (SN, PDR). The first Arctic Warbler was reported at Suan Rotfai (Bangkok) on 20 August (KT), with others at Samut Sakhon Mangrove Research Center on 19 September (WT,YT) and Laem Phak Bia on 30 September (SN,PDR et al.). Khao Yai (four on 30 September, and a further individual on 4 October; KP, WS). Eastern Crowned Warblers were seen at Laem Phak Bia on 1 September (PS), Suan Rotfai on 9 September and Chulalongkorn University on 15 September (KT).

The earliest Purple-backed Starlings were reported from Ko Samui (Surat Thani) on 30 August, with 100 by 28 September (AAA). There were 30 Purple-backed Starlings at Laem Phak Bia on 5 October (SD, SN, PDR et al.). There were 140 White-shouldered Starlings at Laem Phak Bia on 25 September (SN) and 200 on 5 October (PDR). 600 Chestnut-tailed Starlings were seen at Chiang Saen on 25 September (DD, MD). A single Jungle Myna, a bird which is rapidly losing ground to the expanding population of White-vented Mynas, was seen at Phuket on 21 September (IS).

The first Siberian Blue Robin was seen at AIT (Pathumthani) on 20 September (AAA); others were banded at Laem Phak Bia on 22 September (one); during 30 September to 1 October, no fewer than 28 -- the same weekend that last year produced an influx of over 50 -- and three more on 6-7 October (SN, PDR et al.). Two were also banded at Khao Yai on 30 September (KP, WS) and one seen at Phutthamonthol (Nakhon Pathom) on 5 October (AK). The first-reported Siberian Rubythroat was from Chiang Saen on 9 October (DD, MD).

A Dark-sided Flycatcher in largely juvenile plumage was photographed at Suan Rotfai on 25 September (MK); another was reported at Mae Wong during 29-30 September (VA, SM, MW, SW). An unexpectedly early migrant was a Ferruginous Flycatcher at Suan Rotfai on 2 September (KT) with another at KU Kamphaengsaen on 29 September (SSu).

At Laem Phak Bia Yellow-rumped Flycatchers, all females or immatures, were recorded on 25 August (two); 26 August (one); 8-9 September (three); 30 September 1 (three) and 1 October (five more; SN, PDR et al.). Elsewhere, a total of at least six adult males and 12 females or immatures were reported from various localities, in Khao Yai, from Bangkok and neighbouring provinces, south to Nong Phlak Phraya (Satun) during 25 August to 4 October (DA, WB, KP, KT, WS et al). A male Blue-throated "Chinese Blue" Flycatcher which flew into a window and stunned itself at Laem Phak Bia on 24 September (SN) was a new record for the project site. It recovered, was banded and released. A female was also banded in Khao Yai on 30 September (KP, WS), and both a first-year male and a female photographed in Phutthamonthol on 5 October (AK). There were Forest Wagtails at Phuket Boat Lagoon on 26 August (IS); one at Kaeng Krachan on 28 August (AAA) and two at Suan Somdej (adjacent to Suan Rotfai), Bangkok, on 2 September (KT).

A roost of c. 200 House Sparrows in the grounds of a gas station in Kui Buri (Prachuap Khiri Khan) on 8 October (SS) seems to be the most southerly documented record. Three Red Avadavats were seen at Sanambin on 19 September (B?)

Additional records from July

At Khao Sok Wallaces' Hawk Eagle on 3 July and Black Eagle on 4 July (AL)

Presumed resident Black Bazas at Khao Yoi-Nong Ya Plong Road (Phetchaburi) on 29 July (SNu) and Sakaerat (Nakhon Ratchasima), three on 29 July (AK).

Contributors:

Anonymous or pseudonymous web-board postings (AAA); Vorawan Aksornsart (VA), Patamaporn Amavisit (PA), Derek Anderson (DA), Worapot Boonkhwamdee (WB), Dr. Piyapong Chotipuntu (PC), Chutinan Chutima (CC), Suchart Daengphayon (SD), Dawroong Damlamajak (DD), Mick Davies (MD), Londo Febrianto (LF), Runnaporn Iamchung (RI), Mongkol Kaewthep (MK), Pornkaesem Kantamara (PoK), Boonrawd Khieoyuu (BK), Dr. Apirat Kulsantipong (AK), Amorn Liukiratiyutkul (AL), Rujira Mahaprom (RM), Dr. Suwanna Mookachonphan (SM), Lester Mulford (LM), Wicha Narungsri (WN), Somchai Nimnuan (SN), Sompong Nuamsawat (SNu), Parinya Padungtin (PP), Korakoch Pobprasert (KP), Philip Round (PDR), Pinit and Piyanipa Saengkaew (P & PS), Wangworn Sankamethavee (WS), Jans Sikkens (JS), Ike Suriwong (IS), Smith Sutibut (SS), Dr. Sataporn Suvitvong (SSu), Wassana Tammapon (WT), Yupin Tatuwan (YT), Khemthong Tonsakulrungruang (KT), Mahidol University Vertebrate Zoology Class (MU) Mongkud Wongchai (MW), Supapon Wongkongkathep (SW); Boonrod, no surname supplied (B?), Parn, no surname supplied (P?); Teradeth, no surname supplied (T?).

Thai Raptor Group contributors were: Dr. Chaiyan Kasorndorkbua (principal counter); Boonrod family (Sombut, Karuna & Thiti), Napasporn Chaturaphat, Chaiwat Chinuparawat, Tanaporn Daotong, Pajaree Intravooth, Dr.Sirikamon Inthawi, Kamthorn Jansuwannason, Dr. Wut Kiatwong, Benchapol Lawsunyaluck, Panmeeros family (Theerayuth & Waritta), Chultawat Powattanadilok, Peerasit Tandavanitj and Jaratsri Vatcharapiyasophon.

Compiled by Philip Round, with assistance from Dr. Chaiyan Kasorndorkbua (Thai Raptor Group),and Nick Upton (Thaibirding.com), Ms Pajaree Intravooth (BCST) and Parinya Padungtin.

RECENT REPORTS
June-August 2007

Ten Oriental Darters at Bung Boraphet (Nakhon Sawan) on 9 June included a nest-building bird. (CT). Nesting of Oriental Darter at Wat Huai Jan, Muang District (Lopburi) has been under observation since April. The colony held about 30 nests and (up to four young per nest) during May to early June. (WC/WRD). Details on numbers of birds fledged are awaited. Three adult Oriental Darters were also present on the reservoir near Chachoengsao Forest Research Center (Chachoengsao) on 30 July (PK, PW). There were 20 Oriental Darters, including one nest and two recently fledged juveniles at Ban Wang Pet, Bang Rakam (Phitsanuloke), a new breeding site, on 13-14 August (NBC, MT et al.). As many as 24 Glossy Ibises (NBC, PhK, MT et al.) were also present at the same site on the latter date, when they were photographed. Four Glossy Ibises (said to have been juveniles) were seen at Bung Boraphet on 9 June. (CT).

A newly discovered breeding colony of waterbirds, at Phru Krajud, Hat Sairee, Muang District (Chumphon), held 50 nests of Purple Heron, and five nests each of Little Cormorant and Black-crowned Night Heron on 12 August, most of which had young. (CN). A pair of Great Egrets was found breeding in a mixed waterbird colony at Phanat Nikhom (Chonburi) on 29 July. (CN). An estimated 100 nests of Great Egret, most of which had more or less full-grown young, were found in the recently established waterbird colony in mangroves inside the Laem Phak Bia Environmental Research and Development Project (Phetchaburi) on 11 August, together with a few nests of Black-crowned Night Heron, Little Cormorant and Little Egret. (SN, PDR). The former colony a few km up the coast from Laem Phak Bia, at Wat Phikul Kaew, may now be deserted, many nest trees having been now lost to coastal erosion. Single breeding plumage Indian Pond Herons were present at Laem Phak Bia on 11 August (SN, PDR) and at Ban Wang Pet on 14-15 August. (NBC, PhK, MT et al.).

A Chinese Egret (probably a first-year) photographed at Pak Thale (Phetchaburi) on 12 August (SM, SN, MP, KS et al) is believed to be the earliest on record. An adult Malayan Night Heron was seen in the grounds of the military academy at Khao Cha-Ngok (Nakhon Nayok) on 13 August. (PE). Three Painted Storks at the Laem Phak Bia Environmental Research and Development Project 15 July, and two more on the weekend of 11-12 August. (SN, PDR) were the first ever to land in lagoons inside the project compound, probably reflecting both an increase in the population visiting the Phetchaburi coast and the absence of persecution. 15 Painted Storks were seen on salt-pans outside the project on 18 July (SN), where some are now present for most of the year. There was an Osprey at Chachoengsao Forest Research Station reservoir on 30 July. (PK, PW) and an Oriental Hobby was seen at Doi Luang Look Raek, Doi Chiang Dao (Chiang Mai) on 27 July. (CB).

A male and female Chinese Francolin and a male Blue-breasted Quail were seen and photographed at Bang Phra (Chonburi) on 18 August. (CT). A male Hume's Pheasant at Den Ya Khat, Doi Chiang Dao on 28 July, lacked the long tail and was presumed to be in post-breeding moult. (CB, CK, PN). Two male Mountain Bamboo Partridges were also seen. (CB, CK, PN).

43 Red Knots and a single Great Knot were counted on mudflats off Samut Sakhon Mangrove Research Station on 9 May. (YT/SSRS).

More frequent observations these past years indicate that rather more shorebirds then realised may oversummer on mudflats in the gulf: there are interesting wader concentrations to see year-round. A Pied Avocet was present at Samut Sakhon Mangrove Research Station on 23 June (SD); and seemingly another (with a damaged leg) on 25 June. (SN). 27 Eurasian Curlews and c. 100 Black-tailed Godwits (SN, PDR, YT) were also present on the latter date.

Pak Thale held 11 Eurasian Curlews, 40 Black-tailed Godwits, a Bar-tailed Godwit, 15 Common Greenshanks, 40 Common Redshanks, two Terek Sandpipers, a Ruddy Turnstone, at least 520 Red-necked Stints, 10 Curlew Sandpipers, 17 Great Knots, two Broad-billed Sandpipers, c. 500 mixed Lesser and Greater Sand Plovers, and a single Malaysian Plover on 26 June. (SD, PDR, BCST). There were also 150 Little Terns, a single Great Crested Tern and a White-winged Tern present. One of the two Terek Sandpipers had been leg-flagged at Khok Kham, 40 km away, on the night of 21-22 October 2006 -- all the more remarkable as it is the only Terek Sandpiper ever leg-flagged in this country. On 12 August the same site at Pak Thale held 12 Terek Sandpipers and three Grey-tailed Tattlers (SM, SN, MP, KS et al. ) along with good numbers of other waders.

On 22 July, mudflats at Samut Sakhon Mangrove Research Station held 20 Asian Dowitchers (two in breeding plumage), 450 Black-tailed Godwits, 8 Eurasian Curlews and small numbers of Common Redshanks (50), Marsh Sandpipers (5), Lesser Sand Plovers (9), Whiskered Terns (30) and a single Gull-billed Tern (KS). There were 13 Great Knots at Laem Phak Bia on 4 August (SN, PDR) while Pak Thale held four Asian Dowitchers on 5 August. (SN, PDR).

The first Marsh Sandpiper noted on the lagoons of the Laem Phak Bia project was on 16 July. (SN). The earliest Wood Sandpipers were on 15 July (two; PS) and 7 on 16 July. (SN). Long-toed Stints increased there from two on 19 July to five on 25 July and ten by 30 July. (SN). Although a few Common Redshanks were present on project lagoons from at least 25 July, there was a major influx (mainly juveniles) on 18 August when no fewer than 31 were caught and ringed (SN), with another 11 on 20 August. (SN, P & PS). The first Pintail Snipes (two) were seen at Lum Luk Ka (Pathumthani) on 17 August (PE) and the first Ruff at Laem Phak Bia on 4 August. (PDR). Seven pairs of Little Terns and four chicks were observed on salt-pans outside the Laem Phak Bia Project on 13 July. (SN).

Farther south, in Chumphon Province, 45 Lesser Sand Plovers, 21 Whimbrels and 12 Common Sandpipers were counted at Tha Yang on 3 August (CN); there were singles of Greater Sand Plover and Pacific Golden Plover at Na Thung, Muang District on 14 August. (CN). Roughly 500 Bridled Terns (including three nests each with a single young); c. 30 Black-naped Terns, and 10 Pied Imperial Pigeons (two birds sitting on nests) were observed on islands inside Mo Ko Chumphon National Park on 21 August. (CN).

House Swifts were nesting on a cliff inside the Ang Khang Royal Project (Chiang Mai) on 16 June (PS), when a minimum of 12 birds and three nests were observed.

The earliest (migrant) Common Kingfisher appeared at Laem Phak Bia on 6 August. (SN). A Black-backed Kingfisher was picked up, apparently stunned, in the lobby of the Anantara Resort at Chiang Saen (Chiang Rai) on 12 August. (JR). If flew off upon release. Five Dusky Crag Martins were seen at Doi Luang Look Raek, Doi Chiang Dao, c. 1,900 m, on 27 July. (CB, CK, PN). Two adult and three juvenile Blue Magpies were observed in a rubber garden in Bo Thong (Chonburi) on 30 July. (CN).

Two Hill Mynas were present at Bang Po, Bang Sue District (Bangkok) on 6 August, when photographed, perched on a high metal tower. (CM, JS). One of the two was said to have been present for four months.

A male Purple Cochoa and a single male Green Cochoa were seen at the second check-point of Doi Inthanon (Chiang Mai) on 14 June. (PS). A nest of Green Cochoa on the Mae Uan route, Doi Inthanon on 28 July (SC, BK) had, apparently, a single nest-helper (thought to be an immature male) assisting the breeding pair to feed the single nestling on 30 July. (CB, CK, PN). A Scaly Thrush feeding young at Phu Khieo (Chaiyaphum) on 30 and 31 July (PS) provided a new distributional record for the resident taxon. An Orange-headed Thrush adult was observed in attendance on a fledged juvenile on Doi Suthep, 18 July. (PK). Male and female White-browed Shortwing were feeding chicks under the boardwalk of Ang Ka, on the summit of Doi Inthanon on 15 June. (PS). A Slaty-bellied Tesia family group (two adults and two juveniles) was seen along the Doi Inthanon Jeep Track on 30 July. (CB, CK, PN).

Oriental White-eye was nest-building at Samut Sakhon Mangrove Research Station on 23 June. (SD). A small flock was also observed in regenerating Avicennia mangroves at Pak Thale on 26 June (BCST) and 4 August. (SN, PDR).

The earliest Yellow Wagtail (the only landbird migrant other than Grey Wagtail reported so far) was seen at Na Thung, Muang District (Chumphon) on 10 August. (CN).

Approximately ten nests of Streaked Weavers were observed along with Asian Golden Weavers at KU Kamphaengsaen (Nakhon Pathom) on 24 June. (SS).

Over 30 nests of Streaked Weavers were found at Wang Pet on 14-15 August (NBC, PhK, MT et al.), and over 20 nests of Asian Golden Weaver at Bung Yai (Sukhothai) on 12 August. (MT).

Contributors:

Bird Conservation Society of Thailand Field Trip (BCST); Naresuan Bird Watching Club (NBC), per Wanlaya Channittawong /Wildlife Research Division (WC/WRD), Chulthawat Bhowattanadilok (CB), Singha Chatavasu (SC), Suchart Daengphayon (SD), Peter Ericsson (PE), Phantitra Kamol (PhK), Dr. Chaiyan Kasorndorkbua (CK), Pornthep Katsura (PK), Banphot Kittikinglert (BK), Watcharasak Makerd (WM), Clifford Miller (CM), Dr. Suwanna Mookachonpan (SM), Sorasak Naak-Eim (SoN), Pornpat Nikmanon (PN), Somchai Nimnuan (SN), Chukiat Nualsri (CN), Dr. Manthanee Pairachavet (MP), John Roberts (JR), Philip Round (PDR), Pinit Saengkaew (PS), Pinit and Piyanipa Saengkaew (P & PS), James Steward (JS), Dr Kaset Sutasha (KS), Yupin Tatuwan/Samut Sakhon Mangrove Research Station (YT/SSRS), Maanode Taengtum (MT), Chanin Thienwiwatnukul (CT), Paitoon Wisia (PW), Thanakorn Wongsa (TW).

Compiled by Philip Round with assistance from Dr. Chaiyan Kasorndorkbua (Thai Raptor Group) and Nick Upton (Thaibirding.com). 

RECENT REPORTS
May-June 2007

A juvenile Christmas Frigatebird was photographed off Ar-Sila (Choburi) on 27 May (AAA). Two Oriental Darters were seen at Nong Ya Plong (Phetchaburi) on 20 May (SNu), with four at Kasetsart University Kamphaengsaen (Nakhon Pathom) on 27 May (KUKG). Eight Oriental Darters were also present at the egret colony at Ban Wang Phetch, Bang Rakam (Phitsanuloke) on 13 May (MT). 70 Spot-billed Pelicans at Windor Gulf Park, Minburi (Bangkok) on 31 May (KT) were presumed to be free-flying birds from a nearby safari park. Seven were also present over Mahidol University Phaya Thai Campus (Bangkok) on 14 June (PDR). A male Schrenck's Bittern was photographed near Khao Bandai, Huai Kha Khaeng (Uthai Thani) on 4 May (SS).

A single Grey Heron was still present at Nong Lom (Chiang Rai) on 6 May (IB, PDR). Approximately 40 Intermediate Egrets (all in non-breeding plumage) in marshy fields near Ban Pak Thale (Phetchaburi) on 15 June (PDR) provides further evidence of a year-round presence of this egret in the Lower Central Plains. The only confirmed breeding records of Intermediate Egret in Thailand (so far as known) are from Phitsanuloke Province where, at Ban Wang Phetch, Bang Rakam, there were roughly ten nests with young on 13 May (MT). A grey morph Little Egret was seen at Wat Tan En (Ayutthaya) on 31 May (SS).

Ten Painted Storks were seen off the expressway at Bang Pa-In (Ayutthaya) on 4 May (BK). There were ten Glossy Ibises at Bung Boraphet on 27 May (PP, KT).

There was evidence of raptor passage continuing well into May: 250 Oriental Honey-buzzards flew north over the Asia Highway in Thoen District (Lampang) on 6 May (PS) and five more, also heading north, at 1800 m were seen over Doi Inthanon on 8 May (PS), with seven over the 2000 m ridge of Doi Lang, on 10 May (CK et al.). Single Chinese Sparrowhawks were seen over the Mittraphap Highway in Kaeng Khoi (Saraburi) on 16 and 17 May (TT).

Among resident or apparently resident raptors, Black Baza (one) was reported from Mae Jarim Wildlife Sanctuary (Uttaradit) on 6 May (MT), with three at Phu Khieo (Chaiyaphum) on 9 June (TP). Three Rufous-winged Buzzards were also reported from Mae Jarim on 6 May (MT). An adult Lesser Fish Eagle was photographed at Krung Ching, Khao Luang National Park (Nakhon Si Thammarat) on 9 April (SNu).

An adult Wallace's Hawk-Eagle was seen at Krung Ching on 2 May (PCh). The same nest of Wallace's Hawk-Eagle at Krung Ching that has been used in recent years, held an adult and chick on 1 June (PC). The chick was estimated 14-21 days old on 3 June (KS). An adult Mountain Hawk-Eagle was reported from Pong Kon Sao Forest Park (Saraburi) on 20 May (TT), and a family group of Changeable Hawk-Eagles at Khao Nang Rum, Huai Kha Khaeng (Uthai Thani) on 30 May (CK). Both adults were pale morph.

A Yellow-legged Buttonquail appeared in a suburban garden at Nong Khaem (Bangkok) on 11 May (PDR,TR). There were still 20 Whimbrels and five Common Redshanks at Pak Nam, Krabi on 30 May (MG), and approximately 40 Red-necked Stints on mudflats off Pak Thale on 15 June (PDR, WT). 18 Brown-headed Gulls on were seen on the Mekong River at Chiang Saen on 5 May (IB, MD, DD, CW et al.). A River Tern was present at Wat Sri Yonok, Chiang Saen during 26 May to 1 June, and then again on 7–8 June (DD,MD et al.). A count of 25 Ashy Wood Pigeons on Doi Inthanon on 27 May (AJ) is probably the largest count ever.

There were two Chestnut-winged Cuckoos at Huai Thung Tao (Chiang Mai) on 19 May (AB). A nest of Coral-billed Ground Cuckoo with two eggs was found at Mo-singto, Khao Yai, on 17 June (KP, AJP). Two possibly three Grass Owls were present at the single, previously known site, Nong Lom, on 6 May (IB, PDR, CW). Another pair was found a few km north of Chiang Saen town, and three recently fledged juveniles on the morning of 13 May (DD,MD) in a much less extensive area of marsh grasses, suggesting that the species could perhaps be widespread in this northern basin. Unfortunately, feathers were found, suggesting that the breeding pair had been shot. On 24-25 May, three Grass Owls were seen at Nong Lom (RK, CW et al.) and four at the second site (DD,MD, RK, CW), and there are now reports from a third site in the Chiang Saen Basin (DD, MD). A Spot-bellied Eagle-Owl was seen on the Mo-Singto Study Plot, Khao Yai on 30 May (WS). A Blue-eared Kingfisher was photographed near a nest at Ban Krang, Kaeng Krachan (Phetchaburi) on 3 June (PS). A colony of c. 100 pairs of Blue-tailed Bee-eaters was found near Had Puk Thian (Phetchaburi) on 30 April (PS). The birds were excavating burrows in more or less level ground of sandy coastal flats.

There was a Hooded Pitta on the Pha Kluey Mai to Haew Suwat streamside trail, Khao Yai, on 12 May (MG) with another carrying nest-material behind the workers' accommodation, near the headquarters of Khao Yai, on 28 May (WS). At least three Blue-winged Pittas were singing in scrub at the margins of Nong Lom on 6 May (PDR,CW). Ten Chestnut-tailed Starlings were present at Windsor Gulf park, Minburi on 31 May (KT).

An estimated 100 Plain Martins were present over the Maekong River at Chiang Saen on 5 May (IB, MD, DD, CW et al.) A Bluethroat was seen at Nong Lom on 6 May (IB, PDR, CW) with another (extraordinarily late) bird at Chiang Saen on 6 June (DD,MD). A Pale-footed Bush Warbler identified from lower hills around Chiang Saen on 3 June (MD) would be a new locality record. The bird was not heard singing, however. A Chestnut-eared Bunting was still present at Nong Lom on 6 May (IB, PDR, CW). A Forest Wagtail was seen at Nong Lom on 6 May (C)

LATE ADDITIONS FROM MARCH-APRIL

Breeding plumage Chinese Pond Heron, Saphan Hin (Phuket) on 9 April (IS)

Black-headed Ibis: 50 at Thale Noi (Phatthalung) on 21 March (SS).

Chinese Egret at LaemPhak Bia on 29 March (MB). Mountain Hawk-Eagle, juvenile waterfall nr Seaview Resort, Ko Chang on 8 April (JS). Chinese Francolin: 6 at Huai Thung Tao on 2 April (AB). Grey-headed Lapwing: eight at Thale Noi, 21 March (SS). Pink-necked Pigeon: "several pairs" at Suan Luang (Rama 9 Park) Bangkok on 1 April (JR). Chestnut-winged Cuckoo at Huai Thung Tao on 18 April (AB). White-throated Needletail: one over a waterfall nr Seaview Resort, Ko Chang on 7 April (JS). Ashy Minivet: one at Suan Luang (Rama 9 Park) Bangkok on 1 April (JR). Daurian Redstart male at Huai Thung Tao on 23 April (AB). Yellow-rumped Flycatcher (male) at Suan Luang (Rama 9 Park) Bangkok on 1 April (JR). Green-backed Flycatcher: anonymous web-board posting of one (sex unreported) on Ko Samui (Surat Thani) on 26 April.

ADDITIONS & CORRECTIONS:

The report of two Black-bellied Terns at Kut Ting, Nong Khai in the previous Recent Reports was erroneous and the record has been withdrawn by the observers.

Contributors: Anonymous Web-Board posting (AAA), Tony Ball (AB), Ian Barber (IB), Miquel Bonet (MB), Prasit Chansarekorn (PCh), Dr. Piyapong Chotipuntu (PC), Dawroong Damlamajak (DD), Mick Davies (MD), Mike Greenfelder (MG), Kasetsart University Kamphaengsaen Group (KUKG), Ayuwat Jearwattanakanok (AJ), Dr. Chaiyan Kasorndorkbua (CK), Sompong Nuamsawat (SNu), Parinya Padungthin (PP), Theerayuth Panmeerot (TP), Andrew J. Pierce (AJP), Korakoch Pobprasert (KP), John Ross (JR), Philip D. Round (PDR), Tiyapa Round (TR), Pinit Saengkaew (PS), Wangworn Sankamethavee (WS), Smith Sutibut (SS), Johan Svensson (JS), Maanode Taengtum (MT), Thiti Tanaree (TT), Woraphol Thanyathara (WT), Kemthong Tongsakulrungrueng, (KT), Chaiwat Wongchai (CW).

Compiled by Philip Round with assistance from Dr. Chaiyan Kasorndorkbua (Thai Raptor Group) and Nick Upton (Thaibirding.com).

RECENT REPORTS
January to April 2007

A Lesser Frigatebird was reported off Bang Pu (Samut Prakan) on 19 February (PE). An Andaman Coast cruise off Trang Province recorded a Brown Booby, two Lesser Frigatebirds and Long-tailed Jaegers on 28 March (CC). Precise location data have not yet been supplied and, indeed, more seabirds were recorded than have been reported here. Full details are awaited. A Juvenile Oriental Darter at Khlong Bang Kaew on 19 March (PE, PK) was photographed. There were said to be "large numbers" of Indian Cormorants and Black-crowned Night Herons in the Prachuap Khiri Khan bay hinterland on 6 February (WA,HS). A Great Bittern at Na Wung, Muang District (Phetchaburi) on 20 April (SD,PDR) was an unusual sighting of this very scarce winter visitor.

There were four Chinese Egrets at Laem Pakarang (Phang-nga) on 16 March (CC).A single bird was also present in the Pak Thale/Laem Phak Bia area of Phetchaburi (where seen earlier in the winter) on 19 March (PZM). Two immature Painted Storks at Mae Sai (Chiang Rai) on 23 April (DD, MD) is the first modern-era record from the far north. A single bird was also seen near Suphanburi town on 8 March (NL).

A Greater Flamingo, a presumed escaped, was seen on a sandbar off Laem Phak Bia on 25 February (CC) and 23 March (SE, PDR et al.). There was a single Black-headed Ibis at Wat Khao Takhrao (Phetchaburi) on 23 March (SE, PDR) and a Glossy Ibis near Suphanburi town on 8 March (NL). 28 Cotton Pygmy-geese were counted at Nong Samrong (Udon Thani) on 14-15 January (PB) and 18 at Laguna Resort (Phuket) on 26 February (WA, HS). Two Spot-billed Ducks were reported from Koot Sang, near Bung Khong Long, (Nong Khai), on 18 April (WRD).

Black Bazas were passing in small numbers daily over Khao Yai National Park headquarters during 4-6 April (SE, PDR, et al.). A flock of 5 Black Bazas flew over Highway 12 near Kong Krailat (Phitsanulok) on 7 April (MT). A male and 2 female Chinese Sparrowhawks were observed over Muang Thong Thani, Pak Kret (Nonthaburi) on 22 Feb (PT). Two Chinese Sparrowhawks and five Oriental Honey-buzzards passed over Dan Makham Tia (Kanchanaburi) on 14 March (KT). Thirty-five Oriental Honey-buzzards, 12 Chinese Sparrowhawks and 6 Crested Serpent Eagles flew north over Ban Prajah, Jana District, (Songkhla) on 27 March (PD). An adult female Eurasian Sparrowhawk chased a Red-collared Dove on the Kampaengsaen campus of Kasetsart University (Nakhon Pathom) on 8 March (KU BPC).

Three Grey-headed Fish Eagles were seen over Nong Mah stream, near Khao Bandai, Huai Kha Khaeng Wildlife Sanctuary (Uthai Thani) on 14 January (PeK). An adult Lesser Fish Eagle was photographed along Khlong Klai stream, Krung Ching, Khao Luang National Park (Nakhon Si Thammarat) on 11 March (PC). The fish eagle was perched near a nest on a tall tree along the stream and continued to be seen at the locality until 28 March (CT). A juvenile dark-morph Booted Eagle was photographed over the Chiang Mai-Chom Thong Highway, Chiang Mai on 8 January (NT).

Pied Harriers were recorded from Nong Samrong on 14-15 January (a juvenile: PB); Sri Mahasot (Prachinburi: a male on 11 January (CT)); near Wat Uthaitharam, Lad Krabang (Bangkok) on 18 February (two: a male and a female (CT)). and at Bang Rakam and Kong Krailat, Phitsanulok, respectively, (single males at each site on 17 March (MT). Details are awaited for a female Hen Harrier from Lumtakhong Reservoir (Nakhon Ratchcasima) on 20 January (WA, HS).

Single Black Eagles were seen over Chong Yen, Mae Wong NP (Nakhon Sawan) on 21 January (TSa) and at Kiew Lom, Doi Pha Hom Pok, Chiang Mai on 30 January (CS).

Four Greater Spotted Eagles, a dark-morph Booted Eagle and 260 Black Kites were observed at a woodland-agricultural field habitat in Sri Mahaphot (Prachinburi) on 25 February (CP). Five Greater Spotted Eagles, including 1 "fulvescens" morph, 857 Black Kites were present at the Bangjak and Khao Yoi sites combined, (Phetchaburi) on 25 February. (CT, ST, LD) Three Greater Spotted Eagles were still present with Black Kites at Ban Bangjak on 18 March (SNu) with a single juvenile at Wat Khao Takhrao on 23 March (SE, PDR et al.). A full-day survey of a known raptor site at Ban Thung Sawang (Nakhon Sawan) on 4 March produced a juvenile Steppe Eagle, a juvenile Imperial Eagle, 8 Greater Spotted Eagles in a variety of age-classes/ plumages, 2 dark-morph Booted Eagles, 1 Rufous-winged Buzzard, 12 Black Kites and a male Western Marsh Harrier (NR, NS,PT). A juvenile Imperial Eagle and 15 Black Kites were found in ricefields of Hat Song Kwae, Tron district, (Uttaradit) on 19 March (NT).

A juvenile Grey-faced Buzzard was seen sat Ban Krang, Kaeng Krachan on 17 March (PK).

Rufous-winged Buzzards were reported from Si Mahosot (two on 11 January (CT)). Mae Moei National Park (Tak) during 19-21 January (MT); Mae Hia (Chiang Mai) on 16 February (TM); Thong Saenkun district, Uttaradit (two on 19 February (NT)); near Pra Prong Reservoir, Wattana Nakhon (Sa Kaeo) on 15 March, (three, with two more perched at a nest nearby (BL)); and Bang Pra Non-hunting Area, Chonburi on 18 April (AL).

An adult wintering race Peregrine Falcon was digiscoped at Bang Kaew (Samut Prakan) on 18 Feb (SM). There was presumably a different wintering adult Peregrine Falcon near Wat Uthaitharam, Lad Krabang on 18 Feb (CT). and 25 February (when photographed (CC)). A juvenile Peregrine Falcon was observed in the Bang Jak-Khao Yoi area on 25 February (CT, ST, LD). An adult Oriental Hobby chased a bulbul on the summit of Pha Hom Pok on 4 March (CS). Common Kestrels were seen at Laem Phak Bia on 11 February (SN), Mae Hia on 16 February (TM) and Naresuan University, Phitsanuloke on 13 March (MT).

At least 21 White-browed Crakes were counted at Nong Samrong on 14-15 January (PB). A Baillon's Crake at Laem Phak Bia on 14 February (SN) was a new record for the project site. A Water Rail was seen at Nong Samrong on 15 January (PB). There were 55 Grey-headed Lapwings at Laguna Resort (Phuket) on 26 February (WA, HS). A single Nordmann's Greenshank and 53 Ruddy Turnstones were counted at Laem Pakarang on 16 March (CC).

Dunlins were seen at Khok Kham on 18 March (SD et al) and 7 April (PE) with three at Pak Thale on 19 March (SE, PDR, et al.). There was a Little Stint at Khok Kham on 18 March (SE, PDR) and at least two on 7 April (PE).

A single Spoon-billed Sandpiper was present at Khok Kham on 6 April with two on 17 April (SD). No fewer than 23 Red-necked Phalaropes were present on an Artemia pond at Laem Phak Bia on 7 April (CTh), including many in breeding plumage. 30 Ruffs and a single Pied Avocet were also present.

Four Small Pratincoles were seen on the River Khwae at Kanchanburi town on 24 January (NL). Five Lesser Crested Terns but only a single Great Crested Tern at Laem Phak Bia on 23 March (SE, PDR). [Erroneous report subsequently withdrawn by the observers: An exciting and remarkable record was two breeding plumage Black-bellied Terns at Koot Ting (Nong Khai) on 29 April (CP/WWF). The birds were reportedly photographed.] A Pale-capped Pigeon was seen on an island off Hat Nopparat Thara (Krabi) on 8 March (PZM). A Pompadour Pigeon was reported from Huai Thung Tao (Chiang Mai ) on 12 March (AB) and a female Treron there on 25 March was tentatively identified as an Orange-breasted Pigeon (SE, PDR et al.). A single female White-bellied Pigeon went to roost at Km. 24.5, Doi Inthanon on 28 March (SE, PDR). A female Rose-ringed Parakeet was seen at Khlong Bang Kaew on 24 March (PK) and 15 Blossom-headed Parakeets at Bang Phra on 18 March (GB).

There were at least 4 Chestnut-winged Cuckoos at Kaeng Krachan during 15-18 March (PK) and one was seen there on 21 March (PDR et al.) A hawk cuckoo with streaked underparts, found dead at Ban Krang, Kaeng Krachan on 16 March (PK) was tentatively identified as a Hodgson's Hawk Cuckoo. An Adult Hodgson's Hawk Cuckoo was also seen at Me Puh, Doi Ang Khang on 2 April (SE, PDR et al.). A grey morph Indian Cuckoos were seen at Kaeng Krachan on 18 March (a juvenile: PK) and 21 March, a grey individual (SE, PDR). Oriental Cuckoo was seen at Km. 27, Kaeng Krachan, on 25 February (TS) and 16 March (a hepatic or immature bird: PK), and there were two grey birds in deciduous forest at Doi Inthanon, Km 13, 27 March (SE, PDR, et al.) with another heard calling the night before at Inthanon Highland Resort.

A Chequer-throated Woodpecker reported from Kaeng Krachan on 10 February (AAA) would be a new record for the site if confirmed. A female Olive-backed Woodpecker was also reported on 23 March (OL). A Blue-winged Pitta appeared in the garden of the residence of the Belgian Ambassador off Sathorn Road, Bangkok, on 24 April (JM) with another at Ban Laddawan, Bang Na on 23-24 April (ST). A Hooded Pitta appeared at Phutthamonthol (Nakhon Pathom) on 26 April (BBB).

A Japanese Paradise-flycatcher was seen and photographed in mangroves at Tambon Samet, Muang District, Chonburi (BCST, AL, WN et al.) on 22 April. A salangensis race Ashy Drongo at Laem Phak Bia on 22 April was growing its tail feathers (PDR). An adult-plumaged Rosy Starling was present near the Ancient City (Samut Prakan) on 23 March (MI). A single Purple-backed Starling was seen near Suphanburi on 89 March (NL).

Black-breasted Thrush is almost certainly resident on Doi Ang Khang. Although no thrushes were observed at the usual feeding spot behind the restaurant on 1 April, a singing male was observed at No Lae that day (SE, PDR et al.) with three more singing birds found during the following two days, at Mae Puh Watershed Station; in the grounds of Amari Ang Khang Nature Resort; and in the Royal Project (SE, PDR, et al.). Response to playback of song was observed, and since the species breeds as close at the Shan States in eastern Burma, the only surprise is that it was never considered resident before. A single Grey-sided Thrush was still present on the summit of Doi Inthanon on 29 March (SE, PDR et al.). A total of eight passage-migrant Siberian Blue Robins (three first-year males; three first-year females, and two adult females) were recorded at Laem Phak Bia on 21-22 April (SD, SN, PDR, et al.). A Rufous-tailed Robin was seen in the Tham Pha Phlong gully, Doi Chiang Dao on 13-14 March (NL). A female Golden Bush Robin was photographed on Doi Lang on 4 February (CTh); a male was seen there on 16 February (MDa, PE) and a female on 2 April (ST). Both male and female Blue-fronted Robins were reported from Doi Lang, at 18000 m, on 2 April (ST).

A Ferruginous Flycatcher was seen at Kaeng Krachan on 19 March (OL). There were Yellow-rumped Flycatchers at Kaeng Krachan on 19 and 20 March (adult male; OL, PDR); and on 28 March (sex unreported: AAA); four Yellow-rumped Flycatchers (two adult males, a first-year male and a female) at Laem Phak Bia on 21-22 April (SD, SN, PDR, et al.) and one at Suan Rotfai (Bangkok) on 21 April together with two Mugimaki Flycatchers and a Dark-sided Flycatcher (JJ,KT). A male Slaty-backed Flycatcher was reported at an unusually low elevation "at the same site as last year" outside the northern gate of Khao Yai on 13 January (WA,HS). A Lanceolated Warbler was present at Laem Phak Bia on 21 April (SD, SN, PDR et al.). An Aberrant Bush Warbler was present in the summit bog on Doi Inthanon on 26 and 29 March (SE, PDR) where it was singing.

A Spotted Wren Babbler both seen and heard singing at 1800 m on Doi Lang on 21 March (UT) was a remarkable addition to the list of resident birds in Thailand.

110 Baya Weavers were present at Nong Samrong on 7 March (PB), and 20-30 Asian Golden Weavers, along with both 5-6 Streaked Weavers and c. 200 Baya Weavers near the town of Suphanburi on 28 February (NL). There were still 50 Pin-tailed Parrotfinches in flowering bamboos at Khao Yai on 5 March (JC), but the seeds had been exhausted and the birds had dispersed less than a month later (SE, PDR et al.). At least 8 Chestnut Munias were found in the hinterland of Prachuap Khiri Khan bay on 6 February (WA, HS). A minimum of 170 Red Avadavats at Nong Samrong on 31 March (PB) was a new record count for any site in Thailand. There were also said to be "lots" at Khlong Bang Kaew on 19 March, including one flock of 19 individuals (PE).

Breeding records:

Doi Saket (Chiang Mai) Two male Baya Weavers were already in breeding plumage at on 25 March (SE,PDR et al).

Doi Inthanon, Km 38: Chestnut-crowned Warbler nest-building on 28 March (PDR et al.).

Sanam Jan, Nakhon Pathom: Small Minivets a flock with at least one recently fledged young, on 25 April (PDR).

Khlong Bang Kaew; Baya Weaver - nest building already reported at on 14 March (PK); Asian Golden Weaver-nest-building on 14 March (PK).

Phetchaburi: Baya Weaver completed nests and adults alarm-calling, 21 April (PDR).

Laem Phak Bia: Two Red-wattled Lapwings and a Black-winged Stilt were incubating on 21-22 April (SD,SN, PDR et al.). 60 incubating Little Terns on a dry pond on 21 April (SD, SN,PDR et al.).

Khao Sok (Surat Thani): Black-capped Babbler, adult feeding two recently fledged young, 14 February (WA,HS); Abbott's Babbler feeding three recently fledged young, 14 February (WA, HS).

Khao Nor Chuchi (Krabi): Spotted Wood Owl with a recently fledged juvenile on 7 April (ST); Gould's Frogmouth with a single on the night of 8 April (SE, YM et al.). Stripe-throated Bulbul feeding fledged young on 6 April (ST); Brown-streaked Flycatcher incubating, 6 April (ST).

Contributors: AAA (anonymous posting or pseudonym: BCST web-board); BBB (anonymous posting or pseudonym: Pantip web-board); Wayne Allan (WA), Tony Ball (AB), Philip Bawden (PB), Gary Bell (GB), John Carroll (JC), Chaiwat Chinuparawat (CC), Kasetsart University Bird Protection Club (KU BPC), Dr.Piyapong Chotipuntu (PC), Suchart Daengphayon (SD), Dawroong Damlamajak (DD), Martin Daniel (MDa), Mick Davies (MD), Wildlife Research Division, Department of National Parks (WRD), Pisitsak Duangyod (PD), Lode Duoit (LD), Stephen Eccles (SE), Peter Ericsson (PE), Marshall Iliff (MI), Jutatip Judi (JJ), Permsak Kanitthachat (PeK), Pornthep Katsura (PK), Orjan Landelius (OL), Benchapol Lawsunyaluck (ฺBL), Neil Lawton (NL), Amorn Liukiratiyutkul (AL), Marshall Iliff (MI), Tawatchai Maneemongkol (TM), Petter Zahl Marki (PZM), Jan Matthysen (JM), Dr.Suwanna Mookachonpan (SM), Wicha Narungsi (WN), Sompong Nuamsawat (SNu), Chaiya Peng-un/WWF Greater Mekong Project (CP), Chulthawat Phowattanadilok (CP), Philip D. Round (PDR), Natee Raungpaisanbamroong (NR), Tawan Saengkrajang (TSa), Chatuporn Sawasdee (CS), Hanna Serafinowicz (HS), Napaporn Sermsai (NS), Dr Taweewat Supindham (TS), Maanode Taengtum (MT), Peerasit Tandavanij (PT), Sopitcha Tantitadapitak (ST), Natthapat Thanapolpaisan (NT), Chirdpong Termtanan (CT), Chanin Thienwiwatnukul (CTh), Sombat Thongdee (ST), Khemthong Tonsakulrungroeng (KT), BCST Official Trip (BCST). Records were also received from Yupin Tatuwan (Samut Sakhon Mangrove Research Station).

Compiled by Philip Round, with the assistance of Dr. Chaiyan Kasorndorkbua (Thai Raptor Group) and Nick Upton (Thaibirding.com)

RECENT REPORTS
January - early March 2007

There was an Oriental Darter at the Pasak Cholasit Dam (Lopburi) on 3 January (JWD). Seven Chinese Egrets at Pak Phanang (Nakhon Si Thammarat) on 20 January and three more in Ao Bandon (Surat Thani) on 21 January (PA) were among waterbirds counted in the course of the Asian Waterbird Census (PA,SU). A single Chinese Egret was also present at Pak Thale (Phetchaburi) on 4 February (Wings). An immature Black-faced Spoonbill appeared on a freshwater marshy area at Tub Yao, Lad Krabang (Bangkok) on 16 February (JP). The bird was both photographed and videoed by several observers; it was again seen on 20 February (CC, JP), 21 February (CT, ST) and remained until 23 February (details supplied by CT). Four Northern Pintails were among waterbirds counted at Thung Talaad (Nakhon Si Thammarat) on 19 January (PA, SA). 25 were seen over the sea off Pak Thale on 4 February (Wings). Pride of place this month, however, goes to a male Scaly-sided Merganser that flew over Chiang Saen Lake (also known as Nong Bong Khai), Chiang Rai Province, on 5 March (DD, MD). A search in the two ensuing hours failed to reveal the bird anywhere on the water and no further reports have been received. This is only the second Thai record and a full description is awaited.

An adult Grey-headed Fish Eagle was apparently photographed at Mo-Singto, Khao Yai, on 17 January (RKe). A Peregrine Falcon flew over, and perched on, the stanchions of the Rama 9 Bridge (over the Chao Phraya River, Bangkok) on 12 March (PDR). Two male Hume's Pheasants were seen within 50 m of each other along the Ban Arunothai Road (Doi Ang Khang) on 18 February (Wings). Two Small Buttonquails were seen on paddies at Doi Saket (Chiang Mai) on 11 February (Wings). The days of high bird diversity at this site are numbered, however, as it is gradually being converted from single-crop rice to multi-cropped "green bio-desert". Grey-headed Lapwings were reported from Nong Samrong (Udon Thai) on 25 January (ten birds; PB) and from paddies at Doi Saket on 11 February (a flock of 45; Wings). 63 Eurasian Curlews were counted at Pak Phanang on 20 January (PA, SA). Ten Nordmann's Greenshanks and 150 Spotted Redshanks were counted at Laem Phak Bia on 4 February (Wings); 20 Great Knots and two Red Knots at Ao Bandon on 21 January (PA) and 39 Ruddy Turnstones at Pak Phanang on 20 January (PA,SU). A breeding plumage Dunlin was present at Khok Kham on 11 March (SS) and 12 Asian Dowitchers at Rangjan (Samut Sakhon) on 13 March (SS). There were 20 Sanderlings at Laem Phak Bia on 24 February (KS, SM, WO). A Spoon-billed Sandpiper was seen on salt pans adjacent to the royal project at Laem Phak Bia on 30 January (SN) and again on 15 March (SN). Two were present at Pak Thale on 4 February (Wings). A single Spoon-billed Sandpiper appeared regularly at Khok Kham during the first half of March (SD).

Artemia ponds at Laem Phak Bia (3 km SW of the Royal Project) held 16 Pied Avocets on 31 January (SN). The Pied Avocets had been joined by 12 Red-necked Phalaropes on 11 February; by 19 February there were 22 Pied Avocets and 12 Red-necked Phalaropes and by 8 March a staggering 25 Pied Avocets (SN).

16 Pied Avocets (a record count) on ponds at Laem Phak Bia on 30 January (SN). Two Parasitic Jaegers flew over Pak Thale, heading out to sea on 4 February (Wings). First-winter Black-tailed Gull was reported at Samut Sakhon on 27 January (Observer?). Ao Bandon held 88 Great Crested Terns and 12 Lesser Crested Terns on 21 January (PA) while singles of both Caspian Tern and Great Crested Tern were encountered at Pak Phanang on the day before (PA, SA). Laem Phak Bia held 5 Pallas's Gulls, 2 Heuglin's Gulls, 42 Great Crested Terns and 5 Lesser Crested Terns on 24 February (KS, SM, WO).

A Crested Kingfisher on the Phetchaburi River, Kaeng Krachan National Park on 9 February (BK, Sutat) was the first record of this rare and patchily distributed species for the park. A Pied Kingfisher at Mae Taeng Irrigation Project (Chiang Mai) on 15 February (Wings) was perhaps a new site for the species. A female Rusty-naped Pitta on Doi Ang Khang on 18 February (Wings) was in unusually dry, pine-oak forest just a few metres from where two Hume's Pheasants were seen that same morning (18 February). A male Japanese Robin was reported below the summit of Doi Pui on the summit on 13 January (WY), though no details were received.

The male Silver Oriole was still present at Km 33, Khao Yai on 8 February (Wings).

Two male and one female Black-breasted Thrushes, two Eyebrowed Thrushes, three Scaly Thrushes and a female White-tailed Robin behind the royal propject restaurant on Doi Ang Khang on 26 January (PE). At least three Grey-sided Thrushes and six Black-breasted Thrushes were present during 16-17 February (Wings). One of the latter had a deformed bill (PDR).

There were two Citrine Wagtails at the Pasak Cholasit Dam on 4 January (JWD) and three at Rangsit (Pathumthani) on 5 February (Wings). Oriental Skylarks were said to be fairly common on paddy stubbles around Nong Samrong in late January (PB) and have been found at four other sites west of Udon

A last date for Bramblings at Doi Ang Khang is required. The birds had apparently gone by 16 February.

Contributors: Dr. Panom Archarit (PA), Sunit Archarit (SA), Philip Bawden (PB), Chaiwat Chinuparawat, Suchart Daengphayon (SD), Dawroong Damlamajak (DD), Mick Davies (MD), Will Duckworth (JWD), Bruce Kekule BK), Rittichai Kengsungnoen (RKe), Dr.Suwanna Mookachonpan (SM), Miss B. Mountfield, Somchai Nimnuan (SN), Dr.Wiroj Onganankul (WO), Jackree Powpan (JP), P. D. Round (PDR), Pornkamon Singhkham (PS), Dr.Kaset Sutasha (KS), Smith Suthibut (SS), Chirdphong Termtanan (CT), Suwat Thongpussa (ST), Wings Bird Tour, Sutat (National Park staff at Kaeng Krachan).

Flag-sightings and recoveries

A Broad-billed Sandpiper with black/white, right leg seen at Laem Phak Bia, 30 January (SN, PS) was ringed at Chongming Dao, Shanghai, China. It is not known if this is the same individual that was seen at the same site earlier in the winter.

Compiled on behalf of BCST Records Committee by Philip Round.

Research project on Hume's Pheasant completed

The first detailed field study of Hume's Pheasant has just been completed by Apirat Iamsiri of King Mongkut's University of Technology. He found at least five groups of pheasants, in Doi Chiang Dao Wildlife Sanctuary; three at Mae La-Mae Sae Wildlife Sanctuary; and single groups or pairs on both Doi Ang Khang and Doi Suthep-Pui. A group usually consisted of one male and two females

Importantly, two new localities were identified: at Mae Daet Noi Village, Mae Chaem District, Chiang Mai, and Doi Inthanon National Park, where he obtained remains from Karen hunters and eventually saw one female -- the first ever confirmed sighting in the park, and the most southerly confirmed record for the country.

He found the habitat used was evergreen hardwood forest with pines, in areas where there was a high species richness of grasses, but where vegetation cover above 1 m height was less dense. The estimated area of suitable oak-pine open forest hill evergreen habitat for the species in northern Thailand was only 2,667 sq km.

He was able to follow a female, which had three chicks, for almost two months before the birds vanished. The female and brood had a home-range size of 1.47 sq km.

Hunting clearly posed a continued problem for Hume's Pheasant conservation. Additionally, climate change would also impact, but to a limited extent, perhaps causing a net reduction in habitat area of approximately 10%. Habitat loss due to the expansion of agricultural activities in national reserve forests is a much more severe and immediate problem, as only 23% of suitable habitat for the species lies inside park or sanctuary boundaries. Doi Inthanon, even though a national park, is a prime example of how intensive agricultural use has devastated the middle elevation drier pine-oak forest habitat that is used by Hume's Pheasant. (What remains of the higher elevation moister evergreen forest on the mountain, though relatively well-protected, is not suitable for Hume's Pheasant, nor for Giant Nuthatch, which often occurs alongside Hume's Pheasant, and may have already been extirpated from the mountain).

The project was funded by the Royal Jubilee Ph.D. Program and by the World Pheasant Association

Reference:

Iamsiri, Apirat. 2006. Distribution and habitat use of Hume's Pheasant, Syrmaticus humiae burmanicus: impact of anthropogenic threats including climate change in northern Thailand. Thesis submitted as part requirements for Ph.D.  in Environmental Technology, Joint Graduate School of Energy and Environment, King Mongkut's University of Technology, Thonburi, Bangkok.

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