BIRD NOTES AND RECORDS OF MEETINGS, 1970 301
that the merest amateur can reasonably hope to make observa-
tions that are worth recording. Indetification s admittedly not
easy at first, but with the larger flies the difficulties are soon
overcome. I should be glad to offer any assistance I can, and to
hear from members who have records of even the common
species.
Bird Notes and Records of Meetings,
1969
Nine Bird Meetings were held during 1969. Attendances at
these meetings were very encouraging and averaged 28 per
meeting; only two meetings were badly affected by the weather.
23rd March. Fingringhoe Wick. A biting East wind did not
deter 36 members from attending this meeting; the weather was
dry but little sunshine. There were quite a few signs of Spring,
such as the yellow flowers of Coltsfoot and early Palm. The party
was rewarded with recording 39 different species of birds. These
included Brent Geese, Curlew, Redshank, Ring Plover, and Shell-
duck on the marshes. Away from the Salt Marsh a large flock
of Chaffinches was seen, the songs of Dunnock and "yaffle" of the
Green Woodpecker heard. An unidentified Warbler was also
seen, probably a Willow Warbler.
4th May. Galleywood Common. This was a fine sunny and
warm day for 36 members that attended. Linnets in large num-
bers were seen, and these birds seemed to be everywhere amongst
the brilliant yellow of the Gorse in full flower. It was also good
to see and hear the following Summer migrants:—Willow
Warbler, Chiff Chaff, Blackcap, Common and Lesser White-
throats. Some members spent quite a time trying to decide
whether they saw a Goldcrest or a Firecrest. 37 different species
were recorded, a good total for such a fine day.
18th May. Hylands Park, Chelmsford. This was a General
Meeting attended by 26 Members. In spite of thunder, hail,
heavy rain, and even a snow shower, this was a successful meet-
ing. Before lunch the Woods were visited, the songs of the
Garden Warbler and Blackcap were heard. Both these have
songs difficult to differentiate. In the afternoon the Heronry was
visited, and good views of the birds were seen. At least six nests
were seen. An excellent tea was provided by Mr and Mrs T. H.
C. Bartrop, and a collection for the Essex Naturalists' Trust
yielded £4.00. At the end of the day 32 different birds were
either seen or heard.