INCORPORATING
Loretto School Ornithological Society, Bird Report 1946-54
January 1955
The Birds of Musselburgh Bay October 1957 to July 1960
(with additional records till May 1966)
J Ballantyne, 1967
Birds of Musselburgh Bay, August 1969 to March 1970
John Ballantyne, 5 March 1970
Red-throated Diver
Loretto 1946-54 Regular offshore from autumn to spring in small numbers; one record for late spring: a single bird offshore in winter plumage 7 May 1951.
1957-60 status Very occasional winter visitor.
Scarcer than in previous years.
1969-70 status One oiled bird on westernmost lagoon on 4 Oct 1969. Status unchanged. Four on 18 Jan 1970 (LLJV).
Extra 1969-70 (JHB) 1 on 12 May 1970, 1 on 25 May 1970.
Black-throated Diver
Loretto 1946-54 Occasional in winter from Oct to Mar. ... on 1 May 1953 two were seen off Morrison's Haven. A single bird was seen offshore on 22 Jul 1954 (EBB 5:2).
Great Northern Diver
Loretto 1946-54 Scarce winter visitor from Oct to Mar. One summer record - a bird in nearly full breeding plumage off the mouth of the Esk 24 Jun 1951 (EBB 1:6).
1969-70 status One off the mouth of the Esk on 28 Dec 1969 - a very rare visitor. Two on 1 Jan 1970 and thereafter till 18 Jan 1970 (LLJV).
Little Grebe
Loretto 1946-54 There are several records for the shore: one at the mouth of the Esk 25 Sep 1951, 8 on 28 Sep 1952; 2 on 22 Feb 1954 and 1 on 20 Oct 1954, all at Musselburgh.
1969-70 status A new bird to the shore. Small numbers now appear in the central lagoons in winter - for instance there were 5 on 28 Dec 1969.
Extra 1969-70 (JHB) 5 on 28 Dec 1969, 1 on 1 Mar, 1 on 13 Apr.
Great Crested Grebe
Loretto 1946-54 Regular off the shore at Musselburgh from the end of June to early May. Largest numbers occur in late autumn and early spring, the largest pack being 150 on 20 Feb 1954.
1957-66 status Scarce winter visitor. Small spring passage from March to May noted. From July to November Great Crested Grebes are most frequently recorded., but in fewer numbers than before 1957. The highest number recorded since 1957 was of 35 on 18 Sep 1960 - since 1960 not more than 15 have been seen on any visit.
1969-70 status There were 24 lying off the lagoon on the sea on 6 Aug 1969. Numbers increased to 95 by 13 Sep 1969 thereafter dwindling to under 10 by December. 35 on 18 Oct 1960 was the previous highest since 1957. 15 on 14 Mar 1970 (LLJV).
Extra 1969-70 (JHB) 22 on 11 Aug 1969, 28 on 15 Aug, 30 on 31 Aug, 25 on 2 Sep, 52 on 18 Sep, 30 on 12 Oct.
Red-necked Grebe
Loretto 1946-54 A few are seen offshore every winter. The largest number recorded being 6 on 20 Feb 1954.
1969-70 status One on central lagoon on 17 Jan 1970 (LLJV).
Slavonian Grebe
Loretto 1946-54 Five records: 2 were seen off Morrison's Haven 30 Jan 1949; single birds were seen on 20 Oct 1951 and 20 Feb, 8 Oct and 25 Nov 1954.
1957-66 status One was seen off Eastfield on 5 Mar 1960 (SB 1(8), 227).
1969-70 status One on 2 Jan and 2 on 24 Jan 1970 - both on the sea (LLJV).
Black-necked Grebe
Loretto 1946-54 Two records - 5 were seen on 23 and 30 Jan 1949, off Morrison's Haven.
Fulmar
Loretto 1946-54 In summer regularly seen offshore and occasionally recorded over the school, especially the Newfield playing fields. Early birds arrive in late Mar and early Apr.
1957-66 status Occasionally seen offshore in the summer prior to 1960.
Extra 1969-70 (JHB) 2 on 26 Apr 1970.
Manx Shearwater
Loretto 1946-54 Three off the shore at Musselburgh on 8 Jul 1951.
1957-66 status One record: a bird was seen offshore on 19 Jul 1958.
Petrel sp.
Loretto 1946-54 Four small petrels flew up the Forth on 26 Jan 1955 (EBB 5:3).
Gannet
Loretto 1946-54 Adults can be seen diving offshore from Mar to Sep (earliest record - 24 Feb 1952); birds of the year are occasionally seen in Sep and Oct (2 were seen offshore on 21 Nov 1954). A dark bird seen in Jul 1950 must have been a 2nd-year bird.
1957-66 status Can be seen offshore throughout the summer, especially in July. Young birds can be seen as late as October.
90 adults and immatures seen feeding offshore on 23 Aug 1964 was an unprecedented number.
1969-70 status No change in status. 34 offshore on 13 Sep 1969 is a good count, and 4 offshore on 28 Dec 1969 is a late date.
Cormorant
Loretto 1946-54 Present offshore all year, except in Jul when it is less frequent. Usual numbers in winter about 7-8 but large numbers (anything up to 50-60) occur in autumn when the juveniles join the adults.
1957-66 status Birds present during most months of the year. In winter, numbers are usually less than 10. In 1960 when regular counts were made, up to 24 were seen in May, but there were fewer birds seen in June and only one record in July. There seems to be a build-up of numbers in autumn with a peak at about mid-September - for instance there were 55 on 18 Sep 1960.
Since 1960 fewer Cormorants have been seen than formerly.
1969-70 status No change in status. The autumn peak was 45 on 12 Oct 1969.
Shag
Loretto 1946-54 Occasionally seen in winter, generally in small numbers, off the shore at Musselburgh.
1957-60 status Regular in small numbers during the winter. Occasionally seen at other times of the year.
Grey Heron
Loretto 1946-54 Occasionally seen flying over the shore.
1957-66 status A bird was seen flying in from the sea at Levenhall on 2 Jul 1958.
Mute Swan
Loretto 1946-54 Fairly frequently seen at the mouth of the Esk or flying over Musselburgh. Family parties are quite common, especially in autumn and sometimes up to 16 can be seen resting on the river.
1957-60 status Regularly seen in small numbers near the mouth of the River Esk at most times of the year.
In the spring of 1958 and 1959 there were several swans on the river with maxima numbers of 24 and 31 respectively. However, numbers since then have not been so high.
A pair breeds in most year by the river opposite the railway station.
Bewick's Swan
1957-66 status One, an adult, was present at the mouth of the River Esk for about a week from 20 Apr 1960 (SB 1(8), 229).
Whooper Swan
Loretto 1946-54 A juvenile which flew over Newfield and which was later seen at the mouth of the Esk on 17 Oct 1951, is the only record (EBB 2:1).
Pink-footed Goose
Loretto 1946-54 Winter visitor and passage migrant. Occasionally seen on the shore during winter, but never regularly. Birds generally arrive during the 1st week of October, but in 1954 were much earlier - 100 were seen at Levenhall on 21 Sep and 200 on 23 Sep (BB 5:2). The return migration take splace in late April-early May, but is not nearly so marked as in the autumn (late dates 50 on 14 May 1951 and 3 on 14 May 1952).
1957-66 status Seen passing over regularly in late September and October. Also occasionally seen flying overhead in the winter months especially during cold spells.
White-fronted Goose
Loretto 1946-54 Once recorded in Mar 1947, when a single adult bird was seen resting on the Newfield playing fields on the 16th.
Greylag Goose
Loretto 1946-54 Winter visitor and passage migrant. Owing to the difficulty of identification when in flight, the full status and numbers are uncertain but several flocks have been definitely identified as Greylags.
Barnacle Goose
Loretto 1946-54 Two were seen offshore on 12 Oct 1949, and 16 were seen 50 yards offshore as they flew up the Forth on 4 Oct 1952.
1957-66 status One was seen on the football pitch by the gasworks on 14 Jun 1960. The bird was not ringed.
Brent Goose
Loretto 1946-54 A single bird was seen on 20 Feb 1953 offshore at Musselburgh (EBB 3:4).
1969-70 status Three of the dark-bellied race were reported from the lagoons in January 1970.
Shelduck
Loretto 1946-54 Occasional offshore in Jul but uncommon at other times of the year. A family party was present in Oct 1951, on the shore where it could be seen any day of the month, feeding or preening inside the breakwater when the tide was out.
1957-66 status In 1959 and 1960 a pair of Shelduck were present on the shore during the month of May. Otherwise there have been only five records, as follows:
1 on 27 Oct 1957
15 on 1 Mar 1959
1 on 26 Feb 1960
1 on 26 Jun 1960
7 on 21 Aug 1963 (DIMW) - these were all juveniles.
1969-70 status Odd birds recorded in October (2 on 12th) and December (1 on 28th).
Wigeon
Loretto 1946-54 Fairly frequently to the Musselburgh shore; a party of 42 seen on 28 Sep 1950 and three parties numbering 130 in all on 4 Oct 1954 were obviously birds on passage. Greatest number recorded on the shore at Musselburgh is c.300 on 23 Oct 1953.
1957-60 status Occasional winter visitor in small numbers. Passage migrant in the autumn when up to 50 may be seen.
Records are now much less frequent than formerly.
1969-70 status 80 on 18 Sep 1969 is the highest number recorded since 1957. Recorded three other times in the autumn.
Extra 1969-70 (JHB) 9 on 27 Aug 1969.
Teal
Loretto 1946-54 Occasional offshore in hard weather; a pair which were seen at the mouth of the Esk on 8 Jul 1951 may have been local breeders but this is the only summer record for the shore.
1957-66 status Very occasional winter visitor. Other records as follows:
6 May 1960 - 2 )
29 Jun 1960 - 1 ) All seen on the shore
18 Sep 1960 - 1 )
19 Sep 1961 - 2 )
1969-70 status Recorded on six visits which is much more frequent than formerly. Highest number is eight on the lagoons on 18 Sep 1969.
Extra 1969-70 (JHB) 2 on 19 Aug 1969, 2 on 31 Aug, 8 on 18 Sep, 3 on 4 Oct, 4 on 12 Oct.
Mallard
Loretto 1946-54 Resident; breeds in practically every suitable locality in the area. Jun and Jul are the only months when it is not regularly recorded offshore. Largest numbers generally occur in Mar when c.300 are a common sight - the largest number present was during the cold spell in 1952 when c.500 were offshore (EBB 2:4). Birds on the shore flight to feed at night to inland fields and return in the early morning.
1957-66 status Winter visitor from September to May.
Large influxes of up to 200 birds which occur from October onwards generally coincide with cold spells. Numbers from October to March (inclusive) are normally under 40, except during influxes. Mallard are only occasionally seen from June to August.
1969-70 status Much less common than formerly. Not recorded in any numbers prior to the New Year when formerly up to 200 occurred from October to May. 40 on 1 Mar 1970 is the highest yet recorded this season.
Pintail
Loretto 1946-54 Until the spring of 1952 only one had been recorded on the shore - a single duck on 24 Oct 1951, but since then they have been seen very frequently in Nov and Mar in small numbers.
Garganey
1957-66 status A drake was seen swimming on the sea together with 7 Mallard at the mouth of the Esk on 8 May 1959 (P D Calder), at a time when there were several reports of this species on the east coast (SB 1(5), 128).
Shoveler
Loretto 1946-54 A drake was seen on the shore on 24 Feb 1954 (EBB 4:4).
1957-60 status Very occasionally recorded as a bird of passage.
Two were seen on 2 Nov 1958, and one (a drake) was seen on 30 Mar 1960.
Extra 1969-70 (JHB) 4 on 25 May 1970.
Tufted Duck
Loretto 1946-54 Only one record for the shore - 13 on 31 Apr 1947 [sic]. JHB has added the note: recorded 4 times in 1947 alone in Musselburgh Bay. Occasional winter visitor (with Pochard from Duddingston). Passage migrant.
1957-60 status Winter visitor in small numbers: usually in the company of Pochard (from Duddingston ?). Also twice recorded in the spring - on 23 Mar 1960 and 8 May 1960 - single birds in the company of Mallard on both occasions.
Extra 1969-70 (JHB) 2 on 25 May 1970.
Pochard
Loretto 1946-54 Seen every winter offshore when the hard weather is on (EBB 2:2); during the cold spell of early 1952, 300 were present in late Jan until a partial thaw took place.
1957-60 status Winter visitor: usually from January to March. Appearances nearly always coincide with cold spells.
Apparently none was recorded in 1958, but 1959 was an excellent year for Pochard with a maximum count of 250 on 30 Jan. A flock of 120 was seen on 26 Feb 1960.
Scaup
Loretto 1946-54 Winter visitor; numbers present vary each year but numbers have never again been higher than in the winter of 1946-47, when at times 4000 could be seen offshore. Largest numbers in recent years: 1893 on 10 Feb 1951, and 1250 on 26 Feb 1954.
1957-60 status Winter visitor from September to May.
The large flocks occur only from November to March. Numbers recorded vary considerably from year to year. The winters of 1957/58 and 1959/60 were good for Scaup, with flocks numbering up to 1000 and more.
The coast from Newhaven to Musselburgh Bay is one of the most favoured in Britain by wintering Scaup. The main wintering grounds in this area are off Seafield, and consequently numbers of Scaup recorded off the mouth of the River Esk are only a reflection of numbers at Seafield. But in a year when there are high numbers off Seafield, there are not necessarily large flocks at Musselburgh bay. Large numbers of Scaup are often seen at Musselburgh for short periods during the winter, thus indicating that they form part of the larger Seafield population.
Scaup sometimes linger on well into May. For instance 3 were seen on 24 May 1960.
There is one summer record of 2 birds on 12 Aug 1965.
1969-70 status Up to 50 frequent the lagoon in the winter especially the western-most one. Large flocks seen occasionally offshore as before.
Extra 1969-70 (JHB) 1 on 25 May 1970.
Eider
Loretto 1946-54 Prior to 1954 had been seen offshore only in small numbers in autumn but in 1954 numbers gradually built up to a maximum of 250 on 30 Sep, but from then on gradually dwindled to a few birds on 10 Oct.
1957-66 status Can be seen at any time of the year, but it is infrequently recorded in the winter.
Largest numbers occur in late September and October when up to 100 Eider may be seen off the mouth of the Esk. Maxima counts are of 50+ on 27 Sep 1959 and 60 on 25 Oct 1963.
From November to June, inclusive, numbers recorded have not exceeded 10 at any visit.
1969-70 status A flock of 24 moulting drakes were seen on 23 Aug 1969 and numbers built up to 158 by 31 Aug 1969, thereafter ducks were recorded as well and numbers increased to 400 by 12 Oct 1969 and have remained at about the 300 mark to the present date. They lie mainly to the west of the mouth of the Esk and come on shore to feed on the mussels at low tide. Such high numbers and their presence throughout the winter did not occur formerly.
Extra 1969-70 (JHB) 75 (all mm) on 27 Aug 1969, 158 (all mm) on 31 Aug, 170 on 2 Sep, 190 on 6 Sep (only 2ff) , 240 (mm) on 13 Sep, 310 on 4 Oct, 400 on 12 Oct, 300 on 28 Dec, 200 on 1 Feb 1970.
Long-tailed Duck
Loretto 1946-54 Winter visitor in small numbers, usually about 10, from Oct-Apr. Largest number recorded - 43 on 25 Oct 1950.
1957-60 status Winter visitor from October to March in small numbers, rarely more than 10 being seen.
1969-70 status Higher numbers in winter than formerly viz. 28 on 28 Dec 1969 and reports of over 50 on other dates from other watchers. 70 on 22 Jan and 14 Mar 1970 (LLJV).
Common Scoter
Loretto 1946-54 Present offshore at most times of the year, even in Jun (a large pack of 70 was seen on 16 Jun 1951). Usual numbers about 20.
1957-60 status Winter visitor and passage migrant. Non-breeding birds can be seen offshore in the summer.
Numbers rarely exceed 20; but a flock of 120 was seen off the shore on 28 Sep 1958, and 88 [188 written in LSOSBR] were seen passing down the Forth on the evening of 23 Mar 1960.
1969-70 status No change in status. Up to 35 having been seen so far this winter. 40+ on 14 Mar 1970 (LLJV).
Velvet Scoter
Loretto 1946-54 Fairly regular offshore in autumn and spring in small numbers, occasionally in winter. Early arrivals here in Jul (EBB 1:6).
1957-60 status Occasional winter visitor in small numbers. Passage migrant in spring especially, and also in the autumn - again in small numbers.
Velvet Scoter were seen off the shore from the 15th to the end of May in 1958 (maximum number was 13).
1969-70 status A male on 22 Jan and 24 Jan 1970 (LLJV).
Goldeneye
Loretto 1946-54 Winter visitor; numbers do not vary much, the usual figure being about 65 or 70 in mid-winter, less in early winter and late spring. Largest number recorded - 163 on 10 Feb 1951. Period of stay - Oct-Mar; latest date - 3mm on 9 May 1951.
1957-60 status Winter visitor from October to March, and occasionally April. Latest date - one on 10 May 1959.
Usually counts in winter give between 10 and 70 Goldeneye. Occasionally none is recorded, but they are very regularly recorded from mid-October to March. Up to 150, and sometimes more, may be seen in calm weather when it is easier to pick out and identify duck in calm water - these larger numbers are often in association with a large flock of Scaup.
For a while in the early spring of 1960 there appeared to be a general movement of Goldeneye down the Forth in the evenings. It seems probable that they gathered in Musselburgh Bay off the mouth of the River Esk each evening. This movement was discovered on the evening of 23 March when a watch was made and more than 1000 Goldeneye were counted: the birds arrived in groups of 5 to 100 over a period of more than two hours (90% of the birds flew in from the west). However, since March 1960 I have not recorded this evening flight.
1969-70 status Wintering numbers are about 200 which is more than double than pre-1966 figures. Larger numbers are frequently seen (LLJV).
Extra 1969-70 (JHB) 10 on 12 Oct 1969, 900 on 13 Apr 1970, 27 on 26 Apr, 2 on 12 May, 1 on 25 May.
Red-breasted Merganser
Loretto 1946-54 Arrives offshore in small numbers in Jul (earliest date - 5 Jul 1951), and from then on numbers gradually increase to c.300 in late Sep-early Oct (EBB 2:1), from then onwards dwindling to a few birds in the mid-winter months. One mid-summer record - a single on 21 Jun 1953.
1957-66 status Has been recorded offshore in every month of the year except June.
Flocks numbering from 100 to over 400 have been seen lying offshore from mid-July to late October in most years - notably in 1960, 1961 and 1963. The most abundant year appears to have been 1960 when 100 were noted as early as 16 Jul, and on 2 Oct there were more than 400 birds.
In winter Red-breasted Mergansers are occasional visitors in small numbers, rarely exceeding 10.
1969-70 status 75 and 80 on 4 Oct and 12 Oct offshore to the west of the river mouth. These numbers do not compare with the larger flocks recorded in autumn in earlier years. Otherwise only occasional records. Large flocks on 17 Jan 1970 (LLJV).
Goosander
Loretto 1946-54 Two records, both during hard weather: single birds were seen off the shore at Musselburgh on 28 Jan 1952 and 23 Mar 1954.
1957-66 status One was seen on 6 Nov 1957 in company with a party of Wigeon.
Sparrowhawk
Loretto 1946-54 Several records: 26-27 Oct 1951, 8 Mar and 10 Oct 1952 and 7 and 15 Feb 1954, all at Musselburgh.
Kestrel
Loretto 1946-54 Resident, at least 2 pairs in the immediate vicinity of the school. Regular over the shore in hard weather. Suspected autumn migrant.
1957-66 status A few frequent the vicinity, especially during winter.
Merlin
Loretto 1946-54 Three records for the shore: single birds were seen on 31 Jan 1951 at Drummore, 16 Oct 1952 at Newfield (EBB 3:2) and another there on 12 Dec 1953.
Peregrine
Loretto 1946-54 A falcon was seen on the shore on 26 Jan 1951.
Partridge
Loretto 1946-54 In hard weather comes down to the stubble fields on the outskirts of Musselburgh and occasionally to the Newfield playing fields.
1957-66 status A family party was reported on the links in August or September 1959.
Pheasant
Loretto 1946-54 Resident; breeds in suitable places.
Moorhen
Loretto 1946-54 Resident; breeds in all suitable localities in the areas.
Coot
Loretto 1946-54 One was seen on the shore on 18 Jan 1953.
1957-66 status One was seen at the mouth of the Esk on 8 May 1960.
Oystercatcher
Loretto 1946-54 Present on the shore all the year round; also winter visitor and passage migrant; normal number present on the shore in winter is c.150; in summer only c10-20.
1957-66 status Present on the shore throughout the year.
There is a winter population of about 300 or 400 birds, but more may be recorded on occasions as on 24 Feb 1962 when 1000 were present. Evidence of passage seems to be blurred due to continually fluctuating numbers, but my impression is that there is some passage in March and also in September. There is also a good summer population of Oystercatchers and between 30 and 250+ are present on the shore between May and August in fluctuating numbers.
These figures compare with a winter population of 150 before 1955, and a summer population of 20 before 1955.
At high tide the Oystercatchers either used to rest on the shingle spit which was usually left uncovered by the sea or fly off down the Forth towards Aberlady, as do other species of larger waders, returning again when the tide recedes behind the old breakwater.
1969-70 status Wintering numbers now between 600 and 1000 compared with 300 to 400 in the early 1960s. Will roost on the west lagoon.
Extra 1969-70 (JHB) 400 on 5 Aug 1969, 400+ on 11 Aug, 650 on 23 Aug, 650 on 31 Aug, 700 on 6 Sep, 800 on 18 Sep, 900 on 12 Oct, 900 on 28 Dec, 440 on 25 May 1970.
Ringed Plover
Loretto 1946-54 Winter visitor and passage migrant, present on the shore from mid-Jul to end of May; normal numbers in winter c35, but numbers are nearly doubled during migration. Occasionally on the shore in Jun.
1957-60 status Present on the shore from mid-July to the end of May (one June record of a single bird).
The winter population from November to March is usually between 10 and 20, but occasional irruptions can give as many as 50 birds temporarily. There is a marked passage in May when up to 80 birds have been seen (viz. 82 on 14 May 1960 and 50 on 24 May 1960).
The autumn passage is not so noticeable, but up to 30 birds have been recorded in September and October.
1969-70 status Unprecedented numbers on migration in autumn with peaks of 200 on 19 Aug 1969 and 105 on 18 Sep 1969. Generally fed inside west lagoon. Wintering numbers now over 20.
Extra 1969-70 (JHB) 60 on 5 Aug, 55 on 6 Aug, 200 on 19 Aug, 130 on 23 Aug, 80 on 2 Sep, 105 on 18 Sep, 80 on 25 May 1970.
Golden Plover
Loretto 1946-54 On the shore passage migrant in varying numbers in spring and autumn (largest number recorded - 360 on 4 Oct 1951); also visitor to the shore in hard weather (79 on 28 Jan 1951, and 62 on 23 Jan 1953, being the largest winter flocks), and to the fields at Wallyford.
1957-66 status Winter visitor to the shore in hard weather. Irregular passage migrant in the autumn.
There has always been a flock which winters in the Wallyford fields, and in hard weather these birds (plus others?) may be seen on the shore at low tide. The following are winter records, which have all occurred in frosty or snowy weather:
24 Jan 1958 - 100
9 Feb 1958 - 100
12 Jan 1961 - 200+
15 Jan 1961 - 70
15 Jan 1966 - 150
Since 1960 the autumn passage has only been noticeable in one year - namely 1963, when 29 were recorded on 11 Sep and 60 on 25 Oct, these being successive visits.
1969-70 status Frequent the shore regularly while formerly rarely seen outwith cold spells. Up to 175 recorded during autumn, and 300 on 1 Feb 1970.
Extra 1969-70 (JHB) 14 on 6 Aug 1969, 20 on 11 Aug, 34 on 23 Aug, 33 on 31 Aug, 105 on 6 Sep, 175 on 4 Oct, 200 on 28 Dec, 300 on 1 Feb 1970, 2 on 13 Apr, 1 on 12 May, 1 on 25 May.
Grey Plover
Loretto 1946-54 Winter visitor to the shore in small numbers from Oct-May.
1957-66 status Scarce passage migrant in the spring, but more regular in the autumn. Occasional winter visitor. It is only on rare occasions that more than 10 have been recorded.
1969-70 status Up to two recorded during this winter.
Extra 1969-70 (JHB) None in autumn 1969.
Lapwing
Loretto 1946-54 Regular on the shore in late autumn and occasional in hard weather in winter; present in fields at Wallyford throughout the winter.
1957-60 status Occasionally seen flying over in winter, especially during January and February. Eleven which were seen flying up the Forth on 27 Feb 1960 formed part of a widespread movement (SB 1(8), 231).
Knot
Loretto 1946-54 Winter visitor and passage migrant; numbers in winter usually c.60 but anything up to 400 during migration; heaviest passage recorded was in Mar 1951, when in the week from 9-16th altogether [whatever that means - IJA] c.1400 were recorded. Latest date in spring - 19 May 1950. Earliest in autumn - 18 Jul 1950.
1957-66 status Winter visitor and passage migrant.
Knot may be seen on the shore from the end of July to the end of May - it has not yet been recorded in June.
Winter flocks at Musselburgh which occur from October to March are no comparison to the vast flocks seen at Aberlady during the autumn and winter. Numbers in winter fluctuate considerably, but are normally between 50 and 200. There is an exceptional record of 2500 on 25 Nov 1963.
There is no marked spring passage. In autumn the first migrants appear at the end of July (early date - one on 22 Jul 1960), but flocks do not occur until September when up to 250 Knot have been recorded.
As the Knot mainly feed on the mud flats which are uncovered only at low tide, they usually fly off to the east at high tide, returning again at low tide. This is the probable explanation for the fluctuating numbers.
1969-70 status Passage numbers unchanged but wintering numbers greatly increased due to their roosting in the near lagoon. For instance there were 2000 on 28 Dec 1969.
Extra 1969-70 (JHB) 57 on 5 Aug 1969, 55 on 6 Aug, 100 on 31 Aug, 350 on 18 Sep, 400 on 4 Oct, 2000 on 28 Dec, 850 on 26 Apr 1970.
Sanderling
Loretto 1946-54 Regular on passage in spring and autumn. Only record for the winter months: one was seen on the shore on 6 Dec 1954.
1957-66 status Passage migrant in small numbers in spring (May) and autumn (August to October).
Of the few records, the largest number recorded was eight on 17 May 1960.
Sanderling have not been seen on the shore during the winter for over ten years.
Little Stint
Loretto 1946-54 Several records: birds were seen in Sep 1947, 1948 and 1950 and a late bird was recorded on 9 Oct 1948 on the shore.
1957-66 status Two were seen on 25 Sep 1960 (RIM) (SB 1(10), 342).
1969-70 status Rare passage migrant. 1969 was a good year with one on 13 Sep and 8 on 18 Sep all the birds being recorded inside the west lagoon.
Curlew Sandpiper
Loretto 1946-54 Passage migrant varying considerably in numbers every year, generally in Sep. One record for Oct: on 9 Oct 1950.
1957-66 status Passage migrant in small numbers in September. The most recent record is of four on 11 Sep 1963.
1969-70 status Musselburgh Bay shared in the nationwide invasion in August and September 1969 with a maxima of 20 on 18 Sep 1969. Most records were from the west lagoon.
Extra 1969-70 (JHB) 9 on 31 Aug 1969, 2 on 6 Sep, 1 on 13 Sep, 20 on 18 Sep.
Purple Sandpiper
Loretto 1946-54 Visits of this wader are few and far between. Singles in Mar 1949 and on 13 May 1947 and 20 May 1950.
Dunlin
Loretto 1946-54 In winter and during migration the number of Dunlin on the shore reach great heights [10,000 has been inserted]. Birds of the northern race alpina presumably are the cause of this. Normal numbers on the shore are c.300, but on migration this number is doubled or even quadrupled.
1957-66 status Winter visitor and passage migrant.
May be seen regularly on the shore every month of the year, except during June. Normal winter numbers are between 200 and 400.
The only outstanding influx in recent years occurred on 11 Dec 1959, when after disastrous easterly gales more than 4000 Dunlin were present on the shore. Two days later, however, numbers had returned to the more normal 200 mark.
There is a spring passage in May with up to 120 birds in the first half of the month, and up to 40 birds in the latter half of the month.
In autumn, the first Dunlin appear in about mid-July; up to 40 occur in August; and from just after mid-September 200 birds are present.
1969-70 status Will feed and roost inside the near lagoon - consequently much greater numbers being recorded regularly with 600-1000 wintering (200-400 formerly). Up to 300 recorded in August on passage. Higher numbers than 1000 on occasions (LLJV).
Extra 1969-70 (JHB) 90 on 5-6 Aug 1969, 100 on 11 Aug, 240 on 15 Aug, 300 on 19 Aug, 300 on 23 Aug, 350 on 12 Oct, 800 on 28 Dec, 1000 on 1 Feb 1970, 300 on 26 Apr.
Ruff
Loretto 1946-54 Occasional autumn migrant, usually singly, in Jul and Sep. Only one spring record: a single bird on 27 Apr 1950.
1969-70 status Four (3mm) with Redshank on Newfield playing fields on 13 Sep 1969 is the first record for many years.
Snipe
Loretto 1946-54 One was seen at the mouth of the Esk during hard weather on 1 Mar 1954.
1957-66 status One was seen on the shore on 5 Jul 1960.
Woodcock
Loretto 1946-54 Single bird in Pinkie on 3 Feb 1954.
Bar-tailed Godwit
Loretto 1946-54 Winter visitor and passage migrant; present on shore from end Jul (earliest date - 9 Jul 19500 to the end of May (latest date - 3 Jun 19470. Usual numbers during winter c40 but up to 150-200 in the migration period.
1957-60 status Winter visitor and passage migrant (scarce in spring).
The largest recorded number in winters between 1957 and 1960 was of 26 on 22 Mar 1960. However, as godwit often frequent the mud flats towards Levenhall they may have been overlooked. For instance on 18 Dec 1960, 120 Bar-tailed Godwit were observed leaving the mud flats on the flow tide, and flying off in the direction of Aberlady. Like Knot, the reason why godwit are not regular in numbers throughout the winter is probably because the mud flats are uncovered only at low tide, and also that the shore line is too disturbed at high tide for godwit to remain.
Godwit are scarce on spring passage, and my only record is of 16 on 24 Apr 1961. Despite visits to the shore on 23 days in May 1960 no godwit were recorded in that month.
The autumn passage lasts from the end of July (early date - one on 10 Jul 1960) till the end of September. Approximately 45 were seen on 18 Sep 1960 which seems to mark the peak of the autumn passage.
1969-70 status Apart from one on 26 Aug 1969, not recorded till 13 Sep 1969 which is later than formerly. Winter numbers are much higher due to birds roosting on the west lagoon and 350 were recorded on 1 Mar 1970.
Extra 1969-70 (JHB) 40 on 4 Oct 1969, 150 on 12 Oct, 120 on 28 Dec, 200 on 1 Feb 1970.
Black-tailed Godwit
Loretto 1946-54 Single birds were seen at the mouth of the Esk on 25-26 Sep 1948, 2 on 15 Oct 1949 and one on 29 Jul 1950.
Extra 1969-70 (JHB) 3 on 13 Apr 1970.
Whimbrel
Loretto 1946-54 Passage migrant in spring and autumn (early date - Mar 1947).
1957-60 status Passage migrant in the spring (May) and autumn.
The spring passage is irregular, and only small numbers are recorded. The autumn passage which lasts from July to October is more pronounced - usually not more than five birds are seen, but a party of 17 Whimbrel was seen on 16 Jul 1960 which rose from the mud flats and flew off in a south-westerly direction after circling and calling.
Occasionally odd birds consort with the Curlew in the summer.
1969-70 status Up to two recorded on three visits in autumn. No change in status.
Curlew
Loretto 1946-54 on the shore passage migrant and winter visitor; odd birds present throughout the year, even in Jun. Numbers on shore are never very large - c25 being the usual count.
1957-66 status Winter visitor and passage migrant. A few non-breeding birds spend the summer on the shore.
Normally about 20 to 30 birds are present during the winter months. In March there is a small spring passage of up to 50 birds (highest March count is of 55 on 18 Mar 1960). About 10 birds, or less, are usually present from April to the end of June when numbers start to rise again - an exceptional June record was of 65 on 29 Jun 1960. However, from mid-July until winter, Curlew counts frequently exceed 50. The following is a summary of the highest counts:
8 Oct 1962 - 100
11 Sep 1963 - 120
25 Nov 1963 - 95
12 Aug 1965 - 155
It seems evident that autumn numbers of Curlew at Musselburgh have greatly increased since before 1960.
At high tide Curlew often flight inland or to the east towards Aberlady, but will sometimes remain on the shore or shingle spit if they are undisturbed.
1969-70 status Numbers built up from 30 on 5 Aug 1969 to 245 on 18 Sep 1969, and have remained high since. These are more than formerly. Will roost on west lagoon.
Extra 1969-70 (JHB) 170 on 23 Aug 1969, 220 on 31 Aug, 210 on 13 Sep, 245 on 18 Sep, 205 on 12 Oct, 220 on 28 Dec.
Spotted Redshank
1957-66 status One, in winter plumage, was seen on the shore on 21 Aug 1964.
Redshank
Loretto 1946-54 Winter visitor and passage migrant to the shore where it is present from Jul-May. Normal numbers in winter - about 200, increasing during migration to double that figure. Has been seen in all months. One caught on 28 Oct 1951 had a wing measurement of 171 mm and was considered to be of the race robusta.
1957-66 status Winter visitor and passage migrant.
The approximate number of Redshank which spend the winter months on the shore has not been accurately ascertained; partly because the watcher has not bothered himself to count the birds, and partly because Redshank tend to go about in small parties covering the whole of the shore from Levenhall to Fisherrow. At high tide, several leave the area, small numbers frequent the links and the football pitches, and a flock might sometimes be found on the Newfield playing fields especially when it is windy. However, if the shore is properly counted on any winter's day one can safely hope to see at least 100. Thus, the normal winter population seems to lie between 100 and 300 birds.
During spring migration, which lasts from the end February to the end of March, one can see up to 500 Redshanks and occasionally even more (for instance, 600 on Newfield playing fields on 12 Mar 1961).
In autumn numbers appear to build up fast and early suggesting that these birds are British breeders. For instance in July 1960 I kept a check on the increase, which was made easy by the tendency for he Redshank to come in from the east in parties as the tide ebbed - it might be of interest to quote the numbers recorded:
26 Jun - 2
29 Jun - 9
5 Jul - 4
7 Jul - 7
8 Jul - 20
10 Jul - 24
11-15 Jul - only single birds recorded
16 Jul - 30
18 Jul - 11
19 Jul - 50
20 Jul - 90
21 Jul - 120
22 Jul - 170
1957-66 status Unfortunately no visits were made after 22 July for two months. However, a count of 320 Redshank on 22 Aug 1963 (DIMW) would seem to mark the peak of the autumn passage. Up to 250 and 150 respectively have been recorded in September ad October respectively.
Thus the Redshank is common on the shore for all months of the year, apart from May when it is scarce and in June when it has only occasionally been recorded.
1969-70 status Greatly increased numbers. Will either roost on Newfield playing fields or the west lagoon. Maxima in autumn was 800 on 13 Sep 1969. Wintering population 400-500 (100-300 formerly).
Extra 1969-70 (JHB) 130 on 5 Aug 1969, 150 on 6 Aug, 200 on 19 Aug, 600 on 23 Aug, 660 on 31 Aug, 780 on 2 Sep, 800 on 13 Sep, 700 on 18 Sep, 500 on 28 Dec.
Greenshank
Loretto 1946-54 Only one record for the shore at Musselburgh: 2 on 19 May 1950.
1969-70 status One on 18 Sep 1969 is the first recorded on the shore for many years.
Common Sandpiper
Loretto 1946-54 Regular on spring and autumn passage, especially in autumn; earliest date in spring - 19 Mar 1952; earliest autumn date - 9 Jul 1950; latest autumn date - 4 Oct 1950.Normally 3-4 birds present, but up to 12 have been recorded.
1957-60 status Irregular passage migrant in the spring and autumn.
The spring passage which occurs during April and the first fortnight of May, is not as pronounced as the autumn passage which begins in July (about the 20th) and lasts till mid-September.
Usual numbers in the spring are below five; in the autumn up to 10 may be seen (for instance, 9 on 22 Jul 1960).
No records since 1960.
1969-70 status Recorded on 5-6 Aug 1969. No change in status.
Wood Sandpiper
Loretto 1946-54 A single bird appeared on the river bed on 4 Oct 1949; it was in poor condition and stayed until 7 Oct.
Turnstone
Loretto 1946-54 Winter visitor and passage migrant, staying late in May and returning early in Jul; has been seen every month of the year. Usual number in winter is c.70, but anything up to 500 occur during migration.
1957-66 status Winter visitor and passage migrant.
Turnstone may be seen regularly every month of the year, except in June when it is only rarely recorded. The winter population from November to March is generally between 30 and 110 (usually about 40). There is a marked passage in May with up to 160 birds being recorded. The autumn passage appears to be less well defined, but it can involve larger numbers than in spring. The following are my highest autumn counts:
16 Oct 1960 - 100
8 Oct 1962 - 200
11 Sep 1963 - 60
25 Oct 1963 - 80
1969-70 status No change in status. Autumn maxima was 215 on 19 Aug 1969. Less than 100 wintering. 160 on 22 Mar 1970 (LLJV).
Extra 1969-70 (JHB) 60 on 5 Aug 1969, 90 on 6 Aug (more accurate count made), 215 on 19 Aug, 100 on 6 Sep.
Pomarine Skua
Loretto 1946-54 Three records: single birds were seen offshore on 10 Oct 1951, and 10th and 20 Oct 1954 (EBB 5:2).
1957-66 status One, a bird of the year, was seen off the mouth of the Esk on 20-21 Aug 1963 (DIMW).
Arctic Skua
Loretto 1946-54 Regular passage migrant in autumn and spring in smallish numbers. The largest number recorded is 6 on 10 Oct 1954. A late bird was seen on 12 Nov 1954 (EBB 5:2).
1957-66 status Occasionally recorded from July to October.
Five seen on 23 Aug 1964 is the largest number recorded.
1969-70 status Recorded on autumn passage with a maximum of six on 23 Aug 1969.
Great Skua
Loretto 1946-54 Irregular autumn migrant off shore - birds being recorded in Sep most years. One was seen offshore on 26 Nov 1954 (EBB 5:2).
1957-66 status Two were seen offshore on 5 Oct 1958.
Little Gull
Loretto 1946-54 On 6 Oct 1954, a very large passage of gulls took place along the shore and 14 adults plus 1 juvenile of this species were identified (EBB 5:2).
Black-headed Gull
Loretto 1946-54 Present on the shore throughout the year but some arrive on the shore from their breeding grounds at the end of Jun when numbers grow to around 500 in late autumn; birds begin to disperse in Mar.
1957-60 status Present on the shore throughout the year. There appears to be an increase in numbers at the end of June, and numbers remain high throughout the autumn.
Common Gull
Loretto 1946-54 Present on the shore for most of the year, but not in such large numbers as Herring Gull. Passage migrant.
1957-60 status Normally present throughout he year. There appears to be an increase in numbers at the end of June, and numbers remain high throughout the autumn.
Lesser Black-backed Gull
Loretto 1946-54 Regular spring and autumn migrant. Occasional immature birds are seen in summer and winter. Birds of the Scandinavian race fuscus are thought to be regular passage migrants but a definite record for this part of the shore is lacking.
1957-60 status Passage migrant in the spring and autumn, especially during September.
Herring Gull
Loretto 1946-54 Present on the shore throughout the year, mainly immature birds in summer; winter visitor and passage migrant. In the morning birds flight inland to feed and return during the afternoon.
1957-66 status Always present in varying numbers. Birds often flight inland to feed during the day, returning to the shore towards dusk.
Great Black-backed Gull
Loretto 1946-54 Immature birds are present on the shore all the year and are joined by adults in winter. Numbers of adults in winter about 60.
1957-60 status May be seen on the shore any month of the year. From August to March usually from 10 to 30 may be seen - there may often be more.
Glaucous Gull
Loretto 1946-54 A sub-adult was seen on 7 Jun 1950 (BB 43(12), 413).
Kittiwake
Loretto 1946-54 Seen offshore most often in May and Jul; largest numbers are recorded in late Jul when juveniles join adults. Has been recorded in every month.
1957-66 status Present on the shore in the summer months. Many of the Kittiwakes recorded are immature birds.
DIM Wallace has made the following note based on his observations in August 1963:
'High tide roost (on breakwater, shingle spit and nearby playing fields) at mouth of Esk with counts as follows:
19th 20th 21st 22nd 23rd
75 100 150 50 50
Many birds further out on sea all days.'
1969-70 status A new feature on the shore was an autumn flock which used the old breakwater inside the west lagoon as a roosting site. My highest count was of 200 on 15 Aug 1969.
Extra 1969-70 (JHB) 200 on 15 Aug, 120 on 19 Aug, 70 on 6 Sep, 185 on 13 Sep, 70+ on 4 Oct, 60 on 12 Oct.
Sandwich Tern
Loretto 1946-54 Regular passage migrant in spring and autumn; occasional in small numbers in the summer months. Earliest date - 1 May 1953. Latest date - 20 Oct 1948.
1957-66 status Full status uncertain. Scarce passage migrant in spring, but occurs in larger numbers in the autumn from the beginning of August onwards. Highest counts are of 110 resting on the shore at low tide on 23 Aug 1964; and of 100 on 11 Aug 1966 (DIMW).
1969-70 status The post-breeding flock on the shore in the autumn has continued to increase since 1964 and maxima counts of 320 and 200 were recorded on 23 Aug and 31 Aug 1969 respectively. Last record was of 12 on 4 Oct 1969. The birds would use the west lagoon especially latterly. Several juveniles were colour-ringed and I have learnt they have come from Aberdeenshire colonies.
Extra 1969-70 (JHB) 115 (incl. 15 imms) 5 Aug 1969, 120 on 15 Aug, 100 on 19 Aug, 320 on 23 Aug, 200 on 31 Aug, 70 on 6 Sep, 120 on 13 Sep, 120 on 18 Sep, 12 on 4 Oct.
Roseate Tern
Loretto 1946-54 Single birds were seen offshore on 24-25 Jun 1950.
1957-66 status One on 21 May 1958; and three (two young birds and an adult) on 20 Aug 1963 (DIMW) are the only records.
This species probably occurs more regularly on the shore in the summer in view of the large colony on Inchmickery Island further up the Forth.
Common Tern
Loretto 1946-54 Very common passage migrant in spring and autumn; birds are also regular in small numbers throughout the summer. Earliest arrival - 3 May 1951; latest departure - 21 Oct 1950. There was a commic tern offshore on 1 Nov 1951.
1957-66 status Passage migrant and summer visitor.
As a summer visitor the Common Tern has greatly increased in numbers in the past few years. Until 1963 not more than 40 terns were seen in the summer months, but since then much higher numbers have been recorded. For instance, the following counts have been made:
21 Aug 1963 - 50 (DIMW)
23 Aug 1964 - 60
12 Aug 1965 - 250
18 May 1966 - 90
As well as resting on the shore the terns seem to find the mouth of the Esk a rich feeding area.
The first Common Terns arrive at the beginning of May; and in the autumn they often linger on into October. My latest record is of 26 (including several young birds) on 15 Oct 1959.
1969-70 status 40 on 11 Aug 1969 was the highest number recorded. No apparent change in status.
Arctic Tern
Loretto 1946-54 Full status uncertain but quite a few have been definitely identified. Presumably status much the same as the Common Tern but in smaller numbers.
1957-66 status Full status uncertain. The Arctic Tern is a passage migrant in the spring (May) and autumn at Musselburgh, but in considerably smaller numbers than Common Tern. It is distinctly scarce on the shore during June and July - in 1960 when frequent visits were made in these months the Arctic Tern was not recorded.
Little Tern
Loretto 1946-54 Not many seen off the shore but most of these records come in Jul.
1957-66 status My only record is of an immature bird resting with other terns on the shore on 21 Aug 1964.
Black Tern
Loretto 1946-54 Two were seen hawking over the Esk on 19 Sep 1946. Another was seen there on 25th and 2 on 27 Sep 1951, when strong tern passage was in progress (EBB 2:1).
Guillemot
Loretto 1946-54 Occasionally seen offshore in small numbers from autumn to spring, and less frequent in summer.
1957-60 status Occasional winter visitor.
Sometimes oiled birds may be found on the shore in a pitiful condition, if not already dead.
Razorbill
Loretto 1946-54 Present offshore in ones and twos from Sep to Mar. Occasionally seen in the summer months.
1957-60 status Very occasional winter visitor.
There are also records of four and one on 21st and 22 Aug 1963 respectively (DIMW).
Extra 1969-70 (JHB) 1 on 28 Dec 1969.
Little Auk
Loretto 1946-54 Occasional in winter. A number were seen in winter of 1946/47, but few since. One was found exhausted in the Pinkie hen run in Sep 1952, and another was found in a Musselburgh garden on 11 Feb 1953.
1969-70 status One on lagoon wall on 1 Jan 1970 (LLJV).
Puffin
Loretto 1946-54 Very occasionally seen in winter. Occasionally seen offshore in summer.
Stock Dove
Loretto 1946-54 Resident; 4+ pairs bred at Pinkie in 1954.
Woodpigeon
Loretto 1946-54 Resident and winter visitor. Large numbers noted arriving in Nov 1949 and Jan and Oct 1954.
1957-66 status Resident.
Cuckoo
Loretto 1946-54 Summer visitor; breeds fairly generally over the whole area.
Tawny Owl
Loretto 1946-54 Resident; breeds in all suitable places. A single bird frequented the trees which border the Newfield playing fields in 1953-54.
1957-60 status Resident.
Short-eared Owl
Loretto 1946-54 A single bird was seen on the shore on 28 Oct 1951.
Swift
Loretto 1946-54 Summer visitor; breeds (4-5 prs in the vicinity of the school). Early birds arrive at the beginning of May, about the 10th, but the main stock arrives a week later. From the first week of Jul family parties can be seen following their migration route along the coast. Latest date - 28 Sep 1951 (EBB 2:1).
1957-66 status Summer visitor.
First arrivals are usually seen over the River Esk between the 7th and 10th of May. Birds are present over the Esk for much of the summer.
Great Spotted Woodpecker
Loretto 1946-54 Seen regularly every winter in Pinkie.
Skylark
Loretto 1946-54 Breeds (3+ prs on the shore and on the golf links); passage migrant and winter visitor; marked local movement in hard weather in 1950, birds continually moving south and returning at the end of the cold spell.
1957-66 status Resident; at least one pair breeds on the links annually. Winter visitor, and also irregular passage migrant. In the winter birds appear to be forced down from higher ground to the shore when snow in lying (40 were seen on 20 Feb 1960 in such conditions).
Sand Martin
Loretto 1946-54 Summer visitor. No actual nesting sites located but birds are present for the whole of he summer over the Esk.
1957-66 status Summer visitor and passage migrant.
Birds are present throughout the summer on the Esk above Newfield Bridge. As with Swallows and House Martins, Sand Martins may be seen moving up the coast in small parties during the first week of May.
Swallow
Loretto 1946-54 Summer visitor and passage migrant; breeds (2 prs in the school grounds, not including Pinkie). A late bird was seen on 6 Nov 1948.
1957-66 status Summer visitor and passage migrant.
House Martin
Loretto 1946-54 Summer visitor and passage migrant; breeds in the school grounds. Late dates - 26 Oct 1952 and 22 Oct 1954 (ENN 5:2).
1957-60 status Summer visitor and passage migrant.
Occurs in smaller numbers than the Swallow.
Tree Pipit
1957-66 status One was heard calling over the mouth of the River Esk on 22 Aug 1963 (DIMW).
Meadow Pipit
Loretto 1946-54 Passage migrant in spring and autumn; winter visitor to the shore.
1957-60 status Winter visitor and passage migrant.
Up to 20 have been recorded during hard weather.
Rock Pipit
Loretto 1946-54 Winter visitor in small numbers (generally c2-3 at the mouth of the Esk) and irregular passage migrant.
1957-60 status Occasional winter visitor.
1969-70 status One or two pairs have taken up winter territories around the lagoon.
Extra 1969-70 (JHB) 1 on 6 Sep 1969, 4 on 4 Oct, 4 on 12 Oct. Now regular.
Yellow Wagtail
Loretto 1946-54 A family party of 2 adults and 4 juveniles was present on the river bed from 19 Aug-9 Sep 1951. Three other records: singles on 27 Apr, 2 May and 9 May 1951 (EBB 1:5).
Grey Wagtail
Loretto 1946-54 Fairly regular winter visitor to the shore. Spring and autumn migrant.
1957-60 status Occasional passage migrant in spring and autumn in small numbers.
Most usually seen on the bed of the River Esk below Newfield Bridge. The Grey Wagtail is no longer a winter visitor to the shore.
Pied Wagtail
Loretto 1946-54 Resident. Passage migrant and winter visitor to the shore in small numbers (rarely exceed 4). Family parties collect on the playing fields and in the school grounds in late Jul before dispersal in autumn.
1957-66 status Winter visitor in small numbers, and passage migrant. Seventeen were seen by the River Esk on 23 Mar 1958.
White Wagtail
Loretto 1946-54 Regular passage migrants in May.
1957-60 status Passage migrant in late April and the first half of May. Not more than two have been recorded at any one time.
Dipper
Loretto 1946-54 Resident; breeds inland up the Esk.
Waxwing
Loretto 1946-54 Seen in Dec 1946 and Nov 1949. In Nov 1949 the largest number recorded was 29 on 18th feeding on hawthorn berries a mile and a half up the Esk; they appeared on the 13th and remained till the 21st (BB 44(5), 158). "11 Musselburgh 13 Nov, up to 29 15-24 Nov, 150 flew in from sea 21 Nov; 1 4 Dec".
Wren
Loretto 1946-54 Resident. A bird seen on the shore in Oct 1948 might have been a genuine migrant.
1957-66 status Resident.
Dunnock
Loretto 1946-54 Resident, common; breeds (c15 prs in Pinkie in 1954)..
1957-66 status Resident.
Robin
Loretto 1946-54 Resident; a bird nested on the library wall in 1954, but later deserted.
1957-66 status Resident.
Redstart
Loretto 1946-54 One was seen at Newfield on 4 Oct 1952 (EBB 3:1).
Whinchat
Loretto 1946-54 A male was seen at Newfield on 5 May 1952.
Wheatear
Loretto 1946-54 Passage migrant; regular on the shore in spring and autumn. Birds of the Greenland race leucorrhoa are passage migrants in small numbers in May at Musselburgh.
1957-66 status Passage migrant in very small numbers in the spring and autumn.
It is possible that birds of the Greenland race occur in May.
Blackbird
Loretto 1946-54 Resident; breeds (no full count of nests taken but 15+ were found in the Pinkie estate in 1954). Birds which may have been actual migrants were recorded on the shore in Nov 1948 and 1950, during suitable migration conditions.
1957-66 status Resident.
Fieldfare
Loretto 1946-54 Winter visitor but never in large numbers. Earliest - 13 Oct 1948. Latest - 8 May 1950.
1957-60 status Occasional winter visitor on the links and other open places during cold spells. In January and February 1958 it was fairly regular.
Song Thrush
1957-66 status Resident. Numbers tend to increase during the winter.
Redwing
Loretto 1946-54 Winter visitor from Oct to Mar. Used to be fairly regular in flocks of 15-20 in the school grounds and on the playing fields but since 1951 this has not been a common sight. Largest number recorded was on 26 Jan 1952, in a driving snowstorm when 200 were seen moving along the shore. Marked passage took place in the 2nd and 3rd week of Mar 1951 and definite local migration during the cold spell in early 1954. A bird of the Iceland race coburni was seen on 21 Mar 1951.
1957-66 status Winter visitor.
Several were seen in January and February 1960. The majority of these birds were in poor condition and could usually be found feeding on the bed of the Esk near Newfield Bridge at low tide.
Mistle Thrush
Loretto 1946-54 Resident, c10 prs breeding in the immediate vicinity of the school; no evidence of true migration but influxes in late Oct and Nov 1949 may have been caused by winter visitors.
1957-66 status Resident.
Sedge Warbler
Loretto 1946-54 Summer visitor; breeding in almost all suitable places.
Garden Warbler
Loretto 1946-54 Birds seen in spring are thought to be passage birds. The latest record is 14 May 1950, when 3 where seen in Pinkie.
Whitethroat
Loretto 1946-54 Summer visitor and passage migrant; breeds along the coast and inland (suspected breeding in the school grounds in 1950). It is the only warbler which has been seen on the actual shore on migration: 1 on 11 May, 2 on 13 May and 1 on 17 May 1950 besides others recorded in Apr 1948 and May 1949.
Willow Warbler
Loretto 1946-54 Common summer visitor from Apr-Aug.
1957-66 status Summer visitor.
Goldcrest
Loretto 1946-54 Resident; breeds in most suitable localities. Commoner in winter than in summer.
Spotted Flycatcher
Loretto 1946-54 Summer visitor; breeds (2-3 prs in Pinkie every year); bred in the school grounds in 1951 and 1952. Generally arrives in mid-May, but the first arrival in 1951 did not appear until 2 Jun in Pinkie.
1957-60 status Summer visitor.
A pair often nests in the Loretto School grounds.
Long-tailed Tit
Loretto 1946-54 Resident; breeds inland. Quite often recorded in Pinkie in winter. Six were seen near the chapel on 19 Feb 1953.
1957-66 status Winter visitor in small parties; usually to be found among the trees by the River Esk near Shire Haugh.
Does not occur near the shore.
Blue Tit
Loretto 1946-54 Resident; breeds (10-11 prs in Pinkie in 1954). Occasionally recorded on the shore in autumn, possibly owing to local movement.
1957-66 status Resident.
Great Tit
Loretto 1946-54 Resident; breeds (c.6 prs in Pinkie in 1954). Numbers increase in winter possibly due to local migration.
1957-66 status Resident.
Willow Tit
Loretto 1946-54 One definite Willow Tit was seen in Pinkie on 19 Oct 1950, and one very probable one there on 29 Mar 1950. Other Marsh/Willow Tit records: three seen in Pinkie in May 1950, and two were seen in the school grounds on 21 Oct 1951 (EBB 2:3).
Treecreeper
Loretto 1946-54 Resident; breeds just outside Musselburgh and birds present during breeding season in Pinkie, but no definite nesting proved there. A pair bred in the school grounds in 1948, where it is a winter visitor.
Jay
Loretto 1946-54 One record - a single bird in Pinkie on 16 May 1948.
Jackdaw
1957-60 status Resident.
Up to 20 birds may be seen on the shoe in the winter; it is not recorded so frequently in the summer.
Rook
Loretto 1946-54 Resident; breeds (2 rookeries in Pinkie. Three successful effort were made to establish nests in the school grounds by the Colin-Thompson Hall in 1948-49 and 50 but efforts in 1951-54 have failed). Birds move to the shore after breeding and stay till Feb; odd birds present all the year round. No evidence of migrants but local movement takes place.
1957-66 status Resident.
Maybe seen on the shore throughout the year, but generally in smaller numbers than the Carrion Crow.
Carrion Crow
Loretto 1946-54 Resident; breeds (no full count of nests has been taken, but 5+ prs nest in the immediate vicinity of the school); birds are present on the foreshore all the year. Largest numbers occur in late autumn when up to 30 are recorded.
1957-66 status Resident.
Birds are present on the shore throughout the year in varying numbers. Normally less than 10 are present, but in June 1960 up to 70 were recorded on the shore.
Hooded Crow
Loretto 1946-54 A pair was seen at Drummore on 5 Mar 1948. Recorded three times in 1951, singles on 4 Nov, 25 Nov and 1 Dec. One was also seen on 5 Nov 1954.
1957-60 status Several were seen during the winter of 1959-1960. These birds would most likely have been continental immigrants as they were recorded only between January and May. The largest number recorded was nine at Eastfield on 15 Mar 1960.
Starling
Loretto 1946-54 Very common breeder. Present on the shore throughout the year. Largest numbers in spring and autumn; undoubtedly a passage migrant to some extent but full status difficult to ascertain. There are roosts in Pinkie and at Newfield.
1957-66 status Resident.
Present on the shore throughout the year. In the winter, especially during cold spells, numbers increase and birds tend to flock.
House Sparrow
Loretto 1946-54 Resident; present on the shore at all times of the year.
1957-66 status Resident.
Tree Sparrow
Loretto 1946-54 Resident; 2 prs breed in Pinkie every year and c10 at Wallyford. Flocks of c30 birds are present in the fields at Wallyford during late autumn and winter.
Chaffinch
Loretto 1946-54 Common breeder. Present on the shore in hard weather. Passage migrant in small numbers in spring and autumn.
1957-66 status Resident.
Brambling
Loretto 1946-54 A female was seen on the river bed on 26 Jan 1950.
Greenfinch
Loretto 1946-54 Common breeder (1+ pr in the school grounds every year and many more in Pinkie). Present on shore most times of the year even in summer. Flocks in the winter of 1954 numbered 25+ birds on many occasions. Passage migrant.
1957-66 status Resident.
May be seen on the shore throughout the year. Flocks of more than 40 birds may often be seen in the autumn and winter on the racecourse or near the shore.
Goldfinch
Loretto 1946-54 Winter visitor to the outskirts of Musselburgh. Two records for the shore: a juvenile at Newfield on 16 Nov 1951 and an adult on 20 Nov 1954.
Siskin
Loretto 1946-54 A party of 7 was seen on the shore on 13 Oct 1950, prior to this a bird was seen on the shore on 12 Nov 1949.
Linnet
Loretto 1946-54 Common breeder (8+ nests in Pinkie in 1954). Regular passage migrant in spring and autumn on the shore where odd birds are present for most of the year.
1957-60 status About two pairs breed on the links annually. In the autumn and winter parties of up to 50 birds may be seen on the waste land at Levenhall.
Redpoll
Loretto 1946-54 Occasional winter visitors to the school grounds. A Mealy Redpoll was seen at Newfield on 15 Nov 1951 (EBB 2:2).
Bullfinch
Loretto 1946-54 Resident; breeds in small numbers. Present on the shore in hard weather. Spring and autumn migrant.
1957-66 status Resident (?).
Does not occur near the shore.
Snow Bunting
Loretto 1946-54 Winter visitor from Oct-Mar; largest numbers occurred in winter of 1948/49 when c150 were to be seen, but since the numbers have decreased to 30 in 1949/50, 20 in 1950/51, 15 in 1951/52, 5 in 1952/53 and only odd birds were seen in 1953/54. Earliest - 24 Sep 1949 and 30 Sep 1952.
1957-66 status Winter visitor from late October to March.
Status varies annually:
In 1957/58 when they were not recorded until January, there was a peak of 50 birds which was maintained from January until the end of February.
In 1958/59 they were first seen on 21 Nov and numbers built up only gradually, the peak of 45 birds not being reached until 1 Mar.
In 1959/60 Snow Buntings were first recorded in November when at least 40 were seen; 70 were present by mid-winter (January), and thereafter numbers dwindled gradually.
In 1960/61 they were first seen on 13 Nov when there were 30. However, by mid-January numbers had dwindled to 12 after which none was recorded.
Winter visits since 1960/61 have been very sporadic, and my only subsequent record is of 15 Snow Buntings seen on 24 Feb 1962.
1969-70 status Only the odd bird recorded. The regular winter flock is no longer. Four on 14 Mar 1970 (LLJV).
Extra 1969-70 (JHB) 1 on 28 Dec 1969.
Yellowhammer
Loretto 1946-54 Resident. A definite increase of birds in the hard weather of Nov-Dec 1950 was probably caused by local movements: on 18 Dec, 150+ were concentrated in the stubble fields on the outskirts of Musselburgh, where normally there are only c6.
1957-66 status Two were seen on waste ground near the shore at Levenhall on 23 Jan 1960.
Corn Bunting
Loretto 1946-54 Resident; breeds (3-4 prs in the fields near Wallyford).
Ecology of area now completely changed from 1950s. To the west of river mouth no obvious change, but all (anti-landing) posts gone and recently formed shingle spit still there. Small-boat disturbance ex Fisherrow. To the east a complete change; the concrete enclosures creating a series of deep basins. Of these, the westernmost is only partly flooded and shingle, sand and mud is still visible, though some change in water level occurs at high tide. It appears that the wader population has increased and the high tide roosts have shifted from Morrison's Haven (now enclosed and being dumped into) and Loretto playing fields to the westernmost basin.
Counts of main species on the three days:
|
12th (high tide) |
13th (high tide) |
14th (low tide) |
|
|
Eider |
5 |
20 |
5 |
|
Scoter |
100 |
120 |
100+ |
|
Long-tailed Duck |
3 |
12 passing E |
|
|
Goldeneye |
100 |
150 |
no count |
|
Red-breasted Merganser |
1 |
3 |
|
|
Oystercatcher |
500 |
400 |
present |
|
Ringed Plover |
2 |
5 |
|
|
Turnstone |
150 |
80 |
present ) |
|
Dunlin |
500 |
500 |
present ) |
|
Knot |
800 |
1000 |
present ) c. 300 in all |
|
Redshank |
300 |
500 |
present ) |
|
Bar-tailed Godwit |
250 |
300 |
present ) |
|
Curlew |
100 |
150 |
present ) |
The total numbers of waders on first two days, 2600 and 1935, are exceptional compared to the records of late 1940s and early 1950s. Up to 1954 the peak numbers for Oystercatcher was 150, for Redshank 400, for Bar-tailed Godwit 260 and for Curlew 25.
The numbers of [Common] Scoter and Eider are also high in my experience. Incidentally the main embrasure is obviously an excellent watch place. At one point, I was only feet away from a party of Long-tails!
It seems a great shame that no-one watches the foreshore regularly. The current conditions are ideal. One can count the wader roost from a carefully driven car!
|
17 October 1969 |
22 October 1969 |
|
|
Red-necked Grebe |
5 |
|
|
Great Crested Grebe |
40 |
|
|
Cormorant |
25 |
|
|
Whooper Swan |
5E |
|
|
Gannet |
3 |
1 |
|
Shelduck |
1 |
|
|
Wigeon |
2 |
|
|
Mallard |
20 |
4 |
|
Eider |
290 |
670 (surely a record for Musselburgh) |
|
Scoter |
1 |
|
|
Goldeneye |
37 |
|
|
Red-breasted Merganser |
210 |
134 |
|
Oystercatcher |
150 |
480 |
|
Ringed Plover |
5 |
14 |
|
Golden Plover |
75 |
470 |
|
Turnstone |
10 |
125 |
|
Dunlin |
100 |
65 |
|
Knot |
40 |
50 |
|
Redshank |
100 |
210 |
|
Bar-tailed Godwit |
75 |
7 |
|
Curlew |
50 |
86 |
|
Arctic Tern |
1 |
|
|
Peregrine |
1m (never saw one there in 1947-51) |
|
|
Lesser Black-backed Gull |
1 sub-ad |
|
|
Twite |
1 |
Great Crested Grebe (10+ on 22nd)
Fulmar (none)
Shag (1 on 21st - normally only in winter)
Common Scoter (1-2 on 21-22nd)
[Eider - no mention]
Shelduck (party of 7 juvs on 21st)
Oystercatcher (at high tide roost the remarkable number of c250 on 22nd, and c260 on 23rd; birds were packed both on shingle spit and nearby playing fields: the numbers are without precedent)
Curlew (at high tide roost, c15 on 22nd and no less than c65 on 23rd - the latter a high count for the locality)
Redshank (at high tide roost, 40 on 20th, no less than 320 on 22nd, but only 200 on 23rd)
Knot (10 on 22nd)
Dunlin (up to 10 daily feeding on tide wrack - up to 1951, all birds left at high tide)
Sanderling (2 1st-winter birds on 18th - probably the first August record for Musselburgh).
Pomarine Skua (off mouth of Esk, one bird of the year on 20th and 21st "waiting" on sea and only occasionally harrying Sandwich Tern or Kittiwakes: not nearly so active as nearby Arctics and differing clearly as follows: "...")
Arctic Skua (off mouth of Esk, up to a mile offshore, 2 on 19th, 4 on 20th, 3 on 21st and one on 22nd. All birds of the year)
Great Black-backed and Herring Gulls (a high tide roost of c.30 of former and c100-150 of latter, clearly regular - up to 1951, no high tide roost)
Common Gull (only 1-2 imms 18-23rd)
Little Gull (although looked for, none seen off Musselburgh - amazing how scarce this species is on the south shore of the Forth)
Kittiwake (high tide roost on breakwater, shingle spit and nearby playing fields with counts as follows : 19th 20th 21st 22nd 23rd
75 100 150 50 50
Many birds further out on sea all days)
Common and Arctic Tern (high tide roost (as Kittiwake, but none on playing fields) with counts as follows: 19th 20th 21st 22nd 23rd
"commic" 50 40 15
Common 35 50
Arctic 2 1
Of those present on 18th (c.30) at least 10 went upstream, i.e. to the south, and did not return within 10 minutes)
Roseate Tern (three (one adult and the other two birds of the year) came in to join roost on 20th, but almost immediately went out to sea again)
Sandwich Tern (up to 30 roosting from 19-22nd, but only 5 on 23rd)
Razorbill (4 on 21st, 1 on 22nd)
Swift (post-breeding groups still present)
Tree Pipit (one, calling, on 22nd)
Greenfinch (as in 1947-51, feeding regularly on shore - up to 30)
Note: The presence of a high tide roost of ?? limicoline species at mouth of Esk is clearly a recent event; the shape of the coast having changed in the last two years so that there is now a 75 yard shingle spit at all times and a small shingle isle at anytime but full high tide. Clearly also the number of birds using the Loretto playing fields has increased.
DIMW 24 Aug 1963