Mike Foley and Bryan Davies, Cambridgeshire Bird Club

Summary

This is the thirteenth annual report of a survey to determine permanent gains or losses of the bird species breeding on Magog Down, using the revised field methods described in Appendix 1 of the 2012 Report.  Twenty-six species probably bred on the Down in 2024 which is two less than in 2023 due to the absence of Dunnocks and Yellowhammer; both these species have been seen on the Down during the year so it is likely that they are still present albeit in very small numbers.  No new species were recorded.  Chaffinch, Song Thrush, and Corn Bunting continue to breed but in very low numbers.  The only species recorded that continues to defy the national downward trend is the Skylark which delight visitors with its soaring song.  Other well represented species are Blackbird, Blackcap, Chiffchaff, Common Whitethroat, Goldfinch, Robin, Blue Tit and Great Tit.

Although buzzards and red kites are frequently seen in the air the only bird of prey probably breeding on the Down is the kestrel.

Field Visits

As in previous years two recording visits were made in 2024 (19/04 and 9/05) starting at 7am.

Results

Table 1.  Number of Species and number of Birds recorded at each of the 13 Locations on each of the two visits, following the same transect as in previous years.

Wood Pigeons excluded

Table 2. Species probably breeding on Magog Down in 2024

1. Number of birds recorded on first and second surveys.
2. Number of locations where birds were recorded.
3. Species of greatest conservation concern.