OBSERVATIONS ON THE BIRDS OF BULGARIA. Received on 13 January 1961 INTRODUCTION

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1 1961 GUY MOUNTFORT AND I. J. FERGUSON-LEES: BIRDS OF BULGARIA 443 OBSERVATIONS ON THE BIRDS OF BULGARIA GUY MOUNTFORT & I. J. FERGUSON-LEES Received on 13 January 1961 INTRODUCTION Since the publication of Pave1 PatefYs ' Birds of Bulgaria ' in 1950 no general report has been written on the status of the birds of that country, though regional studies have been made in the northeast by Petrov & Zlatanov (1955) and Mauersberger (1960 a, 1960 b). Earlier writers such as Reiser (1894), Klein (1909), Harrison (1933), Harrison & Pateff* (1937) and von Jordans (1940) were handicapped by the difficulty of exploring a largely mountainous country in which, in those days, roads were few and far between. Information therefore tended to be concentrated on the accessible areas. Even Pateff was unable to present a fully comprehensive geographical assessment and many of his references to status and distribution are vague or confusing, particularly as place names have been changed so often in Bulgaria. But his analysis of the little available literature was thorough and critical. His book, with Bulgarian text, remains the standard work on the region, though it is now difficult to obtain; fortunately it contains a brief summary in English. In this paper, references to Pateff's work are to his book of 1950, unless otherwise stated. At the time Pateff wrote his book, the Bulgarian avifauna included 236 breeding species and 102 passage migrants. The country represents four main regions: the relatively cool but fertile northern Danube plateau, embracing to the east the southern part of the Dobrudja steppe; the transverse belt of the Stara Planina, or Balkan range, rising to 7,840 ft.; the temperate central Thracian plain and the valleys of the Maritsa; and to the south the heavily-wooded Rila-Rhodope mountains, rising in the west to 9,660 ft. The northeast and southeast frontiers, and between them the long sweep of the Black Sea coast, stretching from the Dobrudja to the Turkish frontier, provide a junction between the boreal, steppe, temperate and Mediterranean climatic zones; the species of birds and other animals occurring in Bulgaria are correspondingly various in their zoogeographical affinities. It was with the intention of obtaining up-to-date information about the birds of this inadequately studied area that the senior author organized an expedition to Bulgaria in May and June Other members of the B.O.U. taking part were I. J. Ferguson- Lees, P. A. D. Hollom, Eric Hosking, G. J. Jamieson, E. D. H. Johnson, G. R. Shannon, R. Spencer and Dr. J. Stafford. ACKNOWLEDGMENTS We express thanks to Mr. Nikolai Boeff, of the Zoological Gardens at Sofia, for invaluable help in planning the expedition and for taking part in it. Both before and during the expedition we were given every possible assistance by the resident British Minister, His Excellency Mr. Anthony Lambert, C.M.G. (now ambassador to Tunis) and his Attach6 Mr. Rodney Bedford. Our gratitude is expressed for this help and also to Mrs. Lambert for so charmingly entertaining us on our way through Sofia. We have in addition to thank Mr. Lambert and Mrs. Hugh Henderson (both are members of the B.O.U.) for permitting us to extract information from their local ornithological records. * For convenience, the 1933 paper by Harrison (with supplementary notes!y Pateff), and th: 1937 paper by Harrisqn & Pateff, will be referred to in the following pages as Harrison (1933) and ' Harrison (1937) respectively. VOL. 103a 2D

2 444 GUY MOUNTFORT AND I. j. FERGUSON-LEES: BIRDS OF BULGARIA IBIS 103a Colonel and Mrs. Henderson visited the expedition at Varna. We also received a visit from the biologist Madame Paspaleva, daughter of Professor Paspaleff of the Bulgarian Academy of Sciences, while we were working at Lake Sreburna. We express sincere thanks to Madame Ekaterina Avramova and her staff on the Committee for Friendship and Cultural Relations with Foreign Countries, for the admirable arrangements made on our behalf, for the generous loan of vehicles and for the services of a highly qualified interpreter in the person of Mr. Georgi Petrov. We acknowledge with gratitude the help received from Mr. Mako Dakov, President of the Chief Directorate of Forestry at the Council of Ministers, and from Academician Dr. Ivan Buresht of the Bulgarian Academy of Sciences. Grateful thanks are also expressed to the Zoological Society of London for a grant towards the cost of the expedition. Finally we thank the members of the expedition, on whose field-work this report is largely based. REGIONS VISITED It had been intended to cover all the principal regions of Bulgaria, but this plan was speedily proved to be too ambitious. While main roads in the country are now very good, only slow progress could be made with heavily laden vehicles on the remoter by-ways. Delays were caused by the late arrival of the expedition s heavy equipment, which was held up in Jugoslavia. Further delays were caused by torrential rain, which repeatedly bogged-down the vehicles in the Black Sea area. Work in the central and southern, regions therefore had to be severely curtailed. Most of this report deals with the eastern Danube between Sreburna and Silistra, with the Southern Dobrudja steppe and southward along the Black Sea coast from Balchik in the north through Varna and Burgas to the semi-tropical Ropotamo valley in the extreme southeast. Baltata forest, on the Black Sea coast, was the only area where it was possible to conduct continuous studies by means of regular counts during a period of about two weeks. Observations in the Sofia basin and southwestern mountains around Rila were brief, but have been supplemented by information kindly provided by Mr. Lambert. Observations made elsewhere in Bulgaria were only fragmentary. STATUS OF BULGARIAN ORNITHOLOGY The study of ornithology in Bulgaria is at present largely the province of the Academy of Sciences, the Zoological Institute and the Agricultural Scientific Research Institute. There is no ornithological society as such and little organized amateur interest apart from elementary teaching in schools. In spite of the dearth of popular literature on birds, Bulgaria nevertheless has the distinction of issuing a superb series of postage stamps depicting native wild birds. The Natural History Museum at Sofia contains a representative collection of skins and the Bulgarian public is taking increasing advantage of the numerous national parks and wild-life sanctuaries. There are four sanctuaries on the Danube and three on the Black Sea coast and about 20 reserves for migratory birds. Nearly all species and their eggs are protected by law and even more comprehensive legislation is in preparation. Although protection is difficult to enforce in the remoter country districts and peasants evidently still occasionally persecute such birds as pelicans and the large birds of prey, the losses in Bulgaria are far less than, for example, in Greece, where bounties are still paid for shooting these birds. Over-enthusiastic efforts to reduce the population of wolves by the use of poison-bait have undoubtedly accelerated the decline in numbers of vultures and carrion-eating eagles, though reports published in Bulgaria concerning the losses by this means have been shown to be greatly exaggerated. Land reclamation and hydro-electric schemes have probably contributed to the reduction in the populations of some of the larger marsh birds. The annual cutting or burning of reed-beds along

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4 446 GUY MOUNTFORT AND I. J. FERGUSON-LEES: BIRDS OF BULGARIA IBIS 103a the Danube, which is extensively practised, has been controlled, though perhaps not yet to the same degree as on the Rumanian side of the river, where most of the remaining pelicans now find breeding refuge, In the Dobrudja, the planting of forest belts and the creation of water reservoirs has altered, but not necessarily harmed, the avian ecology of the steppe region. Shooting for sport is well regulated by comparison with many European countries, while the netting of birds and the commercial exploitation of the eggs of Lapwings and gulls are now completely prohibited. CHANGES IN STATUS OF SPECIES Without conducting a full survey of the mountain regions we could not accurately ascertain the status of the vultures and eagles, but judging from the literature and our own observations there seems little doubt that they have suffered a considerable decline. A few pairs of Bearded Vultures Gypaetus barbatus are said to survive in the southwest, but we did not see any. Neither did we see any Black Vultures Aegypius monachus, or Griffon Vultures Gyps fulvus, both of which Pateff listed as breeding in 1950; but a few Egyptian Vultures Neophron percnopferus were observed. Harrison (1933) commented that although the Egyptian Vulture was still common, the Griffon, Black and Bearded were getting very scarce in Bulgaria; it seems likely that they may all eventually disappear if the practice of setting poison bait for wolves is permitted to continue unchecked. The Golden Eagle Aquila chrysaetos has become much more scarce than earlier writers indicated and so, to a lesser extent, has the Imperial Eagle A. heliaca. There have been no post-war records of the Steppe Eagle A. nipalmsis, which, however, is said still to breed occasionally in Rumania. The Spotted Eagle A. clariga was never numerous and Pateff doubted that it bred in Bulgaria, though a few still occur on passage. We found the Lesser Spotted Eagle A. pomarina to be apparently holding its own in the Black Sea area. The once plentiful White-tailed Eagle Haliaetus alhicilla is said still to nest on the Black Sea coast, though in extremely small numbers; we saw only four or five. Two smaller species, the Booted Eagle Hieraetus pennatus and Short-toed Eagle Circaefus gallicus, may have suffered less decline. During the past century both the Dalmatian Pelican Pelecanus crispus and White Pelican P. onocrotalus have suffered catastrophic losses in the Danube delta. Once numbered in millions, the total combined populations now amount, according to Munteanu (1960), to no more than 2,000 birds, of which only 700 pairs breed each year." Of these, only a handful of P. crispus still nest on the Bulgarian side of the river. The intensive agricultural efforts around the Black Sea lakes have caused big changes in the status of birds dependent on the marginal marshes. A notable feature of our observations in this area was the very high proportion of non-breeding and immature birds seen at Lakes Burgas, Mandra and Atanosov. These lakes now appear to be used only as a summer feeding area by the White Pelicans, which twelve years ago Pateff listed as breeding on Lake Mandra. In this region we saw only non-breeding Great White Herons Egretta alba, Glossy Ibises Plegadis falcinellus and Spoonbills Platalea Zeucorodia. Huge flocks of immature Mediterranean Gulls Zmus melanocephalus and Little Gulls L. minutus also occurred here, but there was no evidence of their nesting either. The last mentioned species had apparently not been recorded at all by Pateff. The Red-necked Grebes Podiceps griseigena, which nested plentifully on Lake hlandra twenty or so years ago, had disappeared. There were no Grey Lag Geese Anser ansei * It should be added, however, that observations and enquiries made in the Rumanian delta of the Danube by Stanley Cramp, I. J. Ferguson-Lees and P. A. D. Hollom in May 1961, when this paper was in proof, suggest that these figures are unduly pessimistic. Some 2,500 qurs of pelicans actually breed each year and it is questionable whether anything like " millions were ever involved. A paper on the birds of the Danube delta proper and the Rumanian Dobrogea is in preparation.

5 1961 GUY MOUNTFORT AND I. J. FERGUSON-LEES: BIRDS OF BULGARIA 4.47 and only one Mute Swan Cygnus olor, though until recently both nested regularly around these lakes. Bitterns Botaurus stellaris, which used to be plentiful on the lakes and along the Danube, were not once recorded by us. The decline in the numbers of Cormorants Phalacrocorax carbo and Pygmy Cormorants P. pygmaeus in the marshes of the Danube and on the Black Sea coast is difficult to explain; Pateff listed the former as nesting numerously around the Bay of Burgas and the latter on the Danube; we saw only one Cormorant, near Varna, and no Pygmy Cormorants. The Stock Dove Columba oenas, which Harrison (1933) found abundant throughout north and northeast Bulgaria, has been reduced to negligible numbers. So apparently has the Partridge Perdix perdix. Harrison (1933, 1937) also found the Whinchat Saxicolu rubetra extremely abundant, yet we saw only one. The Sombre Tit Parus lugubris, once exceedingly common and widespread, was seen by us only in very small numbers and only in the area of the Black Sea coast. The interesting thick-billed race of the Reed Bunting Emberiza schoeniclus tschusii, which still nested in eastern Bulgaria in Pateff s time, was not seen at all. Among species which have increased in numbers or range might be mentioned the Squacco Heron Ardeola ralloides, listed by Pateff as breeding only on the Danube; it has now become more plentiful and has spread to the Black Sea lakes, though in the absence of suitable vegetation it seems unlikely to be able to breed there. The Black-winged Stilt Himantopus himantopus, which Pateff called a rare breeding species, was found nesting commonly around the Black Sea lakes. In May, Harrison (1933) could find only half a dozen Avocets Recurvirostra avosetta in the Black Sea area (at Lake Atanosov) whereas we estimated the breeding population around the lakes to be now hetween 500 and 1,000 birds. The Icterine Warbler tlippolais icterina has extended its breeding range northward to the Danube and the Olive-tree Warbler H. olivetorurn, previously recorded only twice in the extreme southeast, was found well established as far north as the Batova river. Pateff had only two records of the Pied Wheatear Oenanthe leucomela on the Black Sea coast and doubted that it bred there; we considered it common on the cliffs between Varna and Balchik and found several nests. The Hawfinch Coccothraustes coccothraustes, which Harrison (1933) described as by no means numerous in Bulgaria, was found to be now remarkably common. The Black-headed Bunting Emberiza melanocephala and Cirl Bunting E. cirlus, listed by Pateff as breeding only in the southern half of the country, now nest at least as far north as Balchik. The total number of species seen or heard during the expedition was 205. Among these were four not listed by Pateff, I emminck s Stint Calidris temminckii, Curlew Sandpiper C. testacea, Lesser Black-hacked Gull Larus fuscus and Little Gull L. minutus, all on the Black Sea lakes or shore. hiigration There was a late and spectacular concentration of hirundines at Lake Burgas from 30 May to 4 June. Very late dates of passage were noted for many species. During the first week of June half a dozen species of waders, three species of terns, Quail Coturnix coturnix. Turtle Doves Steptopelia turtur, and many other species were still moving along the Black Sea coast in considerable numbers. Some 400 apparently migrant Swifts Apus apus were seen as late as 18 June. Lambert (1961) has drawn attention to the need for further study of the interesting possibility that many spring migrants, instead of following the Black Sea coast northward, may turn west at the Gulf of Burgas, to cross Bulgaria along the so-called Balkan Corridor to the south of the Qtara Planina range. That we obtained very small indication of coastal migration to the north of Burgas may appear to lend some support to this theory, though it cannot be taken as evidence. Comments on observed migration are included in the Systematic List.

6 448 GUY MOUNTFORT AND I. J. FERGUSON-LEES: BIRDS OF BULGARIA IBIS 103a Migration through Bulgaria has not yet been studied, though Petrov & Zlatanov (1955) have commented on the fact that some species such as the Willow Warbler Phylloscopus trochihs and Tree Pipit Anthus trivialis appear to cross the Dobrudja in large numbers on autumn migration, but are rarely seen in spring. There is an obvious opportunity here for a rewarding research project, supported by trapping and ringing, particularly on the Black Sea coast, the Danube and at the Shipka and Dragoman passes. SYSTEMATIC LIST Except where otherwise stated the following notes are based on observations made during May and June 1960, supplemented by current information provided by Mr. Anthony Lambert in reference to the Sofia basin. Where information on status or distribution differs notably from that given by Harrison (1933, 1937) or Pateff (1950) this is indicated. References are also made to the regional observations of Petrov PC Zlatanov (1955) and Mauersbqrger (1960 a, b ). In view of the incomplete and scattered nature of information available in the literature, the present list includes notes on even the commonest species. Exact dates are given only where they are possibly significant. For comparative purposes the status of species according to Pateff is shown in brackets after the scientific names, using the abbreviations employed in the English summary of his book, i.e. Res.=resident, S.V.=summer visitor, W.V.=winter visitor, P.M.= passage migrant, V.=vagrant, B.=breeds, Im.=immigrates, W.=winters, L.==local, R.=rare. Nomenclature employed follows that used in the latest edition of ' A Field Guide to the Birds of Britain and Europe '. BLACK-THROATED DIVER Gaviu arcticu. (P.M.) An immature bird was seen off the Black Sea coast by Baltata forest on 20 June; three immature divers seen much further out to sea on 16 June were thought to be of this species. GREAT CRESTED GREBE Podiceps cristatus. (S.V., B.) A dozen were seen on Lake Sreburna, six on Lake Mandra and at least 12 on Lake Burgas. Most of these appeared to be paired, but no nests were found. Three were seen on the Black Sea. Lambert records this species as breeding numerously in the Sofia basin. RED-NECKED GREBE Podiceps grisei&ma. (P.M.) Although Harrison (1933) found this species common on Lake Mandra in May, we saw none. BLACK-NECKED GREBE Podiceps nigricollis. (S.V., B.) One seen on the sea coast near Lake Mandra on 27 May; at least 20 on the sea opposite Baltata forest on 15 June and one at the same place on 17 June. CORMORANT Phalacrocorax carbo. (S.V., B.) According to Harrison (1933) and Pateff this species bred commonly on the Black Sea coast, especially at Burgas, and also on the Danube. We saw only one adult off the Baltata forest coast, on 16 June. Mauersberger saw only four, between Varna and the Golden Sands resort, on 28 May 1959; he also recorded a single P. aristotelis (of which we saw none) off the coast at Nessebur. PYGMY CORMORANT Phalacrocoraxpygmaeus. (S.V., B., L.) Not seen in the Danube region, where Pateff and Petrov & Zlatanov recorded it as breeding, nor on the Black Sea coastal lakes where we had been told it should occur. WHITE PELICAN Pelecunus onocrotalus. (S.V., B., L.) A total of up to 700 seen at Lake Burgas or Lake Mandra from 27 May to 4 June. Occasionally the whole flock was present, but more frequently smaller groups flew between the lakes or swam in dense packs on the water. A few fully adult birds were present, but the great majority

7 1961 GUY MOUNTFORT AND I. J. FERGUSON-LEES: BIRDS OF BULGARIA 449 were immature. Munteanu (1960) reports that this species now breeds in the Danube marshes in Rumania only at Uzlina, Buhaiova and Hrecisca; but according to Pateff they were still breeding on Lake Mandra at the time he wrote his book. At the last census (1959) the combined populations of P. onocrotalus and P. crispus on the Danube totalled only 2,000 birds, of which only 700 pairs were breeding.+ It is possible that some of the immature birds we saw came from the Volga breeding grounds, as birds from the Caspian Sea are known to pass through the western Black Sea on migration. However, Mauersberger s observations suggest a fairly regular movement of flocks between the Danube and the Black Sea lakes. DALMATIAR PELICAN Pelecanus crispus. (S.V., B., L.) This species is said to have bred for many years on Lake Sreburna, which is now a wild-life sanctuary. About 30 occupied nests were seen here by Madame Paspaleva just before our visit. When we arrived we found that the nests, with the young in them, had been burnt, presumably by the local peasants. We saw parties of up to 18 adults at Sreburna and Popino, with a possible maximum of 30 on 19 May, but there was no evidence of replacement nesting and the birds were probably merely moving to and fro between this area and the Rumanian marshes. Although this species once outnumbered P. onocrotalus in the Danube marshes it represents today only a small fraction of the combined total. HERON Ardea cinerea. (S.V., B.) Common in all suitable areas visited. Approximate maxima seen on or around lakes: Sreburna 6, Popino 11, Maluk Preslavitz 8, Atanosov 10, Burgas 5, Mandra 31. PURPLE HERON Ardea purpurea. (S.V., B.) More numerous than A. cinerea in the Danube region, but less often seen on the Black Sea lakes. Approximate maxima: Sreburna 24, Popino 12, Atanosov 2, Burgas 10, Mandra 27. Appeared to be nesting at Sreburna, but the pressure of predation by Magpies in the reed-beds made success seem unlikely. LITTLE EGRET Egretta garzetta. (S.V., B.) A few seen from 19 to 21 May at Lake Sreburna and the Popino marshes, where Petrov & Zlatanov found it breeding in 1952, and along the adjacent Danube bank. More numerous from 22 May to 2 June in the Black Sea coastal region. Approximate maxima: Lake Atanosov 50, Mandra 25, Burgas 3, Balchik 3, Varna 3. About six were seen near Plovdiv on 22 June and a few in rice paddies between there and Sofia. We found no evidence of breeding, though the species is said still to nest in Bulgaria. Population declining both in Bulgaria and Rumania. GREAT WHITE HERON Egretta alba. (P.M. & R.W.V.) Another once numerous bird of the Danube region which has now become a rare passage migrant in Bulgaria, though a number still nest in Rumania. We saw a maximum of five on Lake Atanosov between 27 May and 2 June. Single birds seen on Lake Burgas and Mandra may have been from this group. There has been no recent evidence of breeding in Bulgaria. SQUACCO HERON Ardeola ralloides. (S.V., B.) Very numerous around Lake Sreburna and Popino, often feeding in open meadows among cattle in the manner of A. ibis. This species breeds in the Danube marshes. Uncommon around the Black Sea lakes (which offer few breeding sites), though small numbers were seen occasionally near Lake Burgas. A flock of 30 and occasional smaller numbers were seen around the swamps in Baltata forest. Mauersberger saw 20 or more here on 23 May 1959 and it is probable that observations in this area refer to migrants on their way to the Danube breeding grounds. We saw one bird near Plovdiv on 22 June. NIGHT HERON Nycticorax nycticorax. (S.V., B.) Two or three pairs seen on Lake Sreburna, one of which was carrying nest material on 19 May. There was one in the Popino marshes and two on the Danube opposite Sreburna. An immature bird near * But see footnote on page 446.

8 450 GUY MOUNTFORT AND I. J. FERGUSON-LEES: BIRDS OF BULGARIA IBIS 103a Lake Burgas was the only record in the Black Sea area. Numbers appear to have diminished since Pateff described the species as a very common breeding bird in Bulgaria,.. large colonies along the Danube. LITTLE BITTERN Zxobrychus minutus. (S.V., B.) Two or more pairs seen at Lake Sreburna. Three birds seen near Baltata forest, three at Lake Varna and four at Lake Mandra, all before the end of May, were probably migrants. BITTERN Botuurus stelluris. (Res., B.) Harrison (1933) heard this species on Lakes Mandra and Burgas in May; Petrov & Zlatanov heard it in the Danube marshes and Dobrudja in 1952, but failed to find any nests. Neither we nor Mauersberger recorded any. There appears to have been a marked decline in numbers since Pateff s day. WHITE STORK Czconiu ciconiu. (S.V., B.) A fairly common breeding species in or around most towns and villages, a few even in fairly high mountain valleys. Largest numbers were seen at Lake Burgas, where 72 were feeding in a field on 1 June. Lambert records a few pairs still nesting in the suburbs of Sofia. that this species is much less numerous in Bulgaria than in Rumania. BLACK STORK Ciconiu nigru. (R.S.V. & P.M.) One seen three times at Baltata forest between 24 May and 18 June. Single birds were also seen at Lake Atanosov and near Rosen. Mauersberger saw two near Turnovo. Petrov & Zlatanov have recorded breeding in the Batova region. Pateff said this species was almost extinct in Bulgaria, but thought a few pairs might still breed. SPOONBILL Plutuleu Zeucorodiu. (S.V., B.) Feeding flocks of up to 20 seen at Lakes Burgas and Mandra between 27 May and 4 June may have been the same birds. All those examined were immature. Pateff said this species still bred on the Danube; it is doubtful that they still do so, though there are a few very small colonies on the Rumanian side of the river. GLOSSY IBIS Plegudis fulcinellus. (S.V., R.B. & P.M.) Seen only at Lake Burgas, where a flock of up to 22 fed regularly between 30 May and 4 June. At least some were in immature plumage. According to Pateff this species nested in some numbers in the Danube marshes in the 1930 s, but by 1950 was a rare breeding bird. We saw none in that locality, though Petrov & Zlatanov said some still bred in the Blatnitza swamps in MALLARD Anus plutyrhynchos. (S.V., B. & P.M.) Fairly common on nearly all the waters visited. Approximate maxima: Sreburna 12, and a nest with C/S on 19 May; Popino 12-15; the Danube near Sreburna 12, and a nest with C/S on 20 May; Baltatd forest swamps 2; Lake Burgas 25; Lake Atanosov and adjacent marshes 30; Lake Mandra 9. TEAL Anus creccu. (P.M., B?) A pair was seen on Lake Burgas from 29 May to 4 June; on Lake Atanosov eight and four birds were seen on 1 and 8 June; those dates were probably too late for the birds to have been passage migrants, though Pateff regarded breeding as doubtful. GARGANEY Anus querquedulu. (S.V., B. & P.M.) Two seen near Sreburna on 19 May. Between 27 May and 4 June up to eight males and two females were seen at Lake Atanosov and up to eight, mostly males, on Lake Burgas. These were beginning to be seen in pairs on both lakes by 2 June. A pair was seen on a sea pool near Baltata forest on 14 June. Pateff thought breeding was restricted to the Danube. GADWALL Anas strepera. (S.V., B. & P.M.) Very numerous on Lake Sreburna, where there were on 19 May; a further 8-10 on the Popino marshes and six on the Danube. Less common on the Black Sea lakes, where between 27 May and 4 June about 10 were seen on Lake Atanosov, 12 on Lake Burgas and eight on Lake Mandra. A pair was also seen on a lake near the Ropotamo river. PINTAIL Anus ucutu. (P.M.) Not seen by us, but Lambert saw 2 pairs on a pond near Bankya on 10 March.

9 1961 GUY MOUNTFORT AND I. J. FERGUSON-LEES: BIRDS OF BULGARIA 45 1 SHOVELER Spatula clypeata. (P.M.) Three males and a female seen on Lake Burgas on 29 May and two pairs on Lake Atanosov marshes on 3 June. POCHARD Aythya ferina. (P.M.) One seen at Sreburna on 19 May and two at Lake Burgas on 17 May. FERRUGINOUS DUCK Aythya nyroca. (P.M. & B., L.) The commonest duck in the Danube region. From 19 to 21 May there were at Lake Sreburna and on the Popino marshes. A nest with C/3 found on an islet in Lake Sreburna on 19 May contained no down and the bird was clearly still laying, though flushed from the nest. We did not record it on the Black Sea Lakes and Pateff said it bred only in the Danube area. SHELDUCK Tadorna tadorna. (S.V., B.) Seen only in the Burgas-Varna region. Numbers at Lake Atanosov varied from one to 18, at the PomoriC salt-marsh from two to 20, at Lake Burgas from two to four, on the sea coast two. Harrison (1933) saw only one pair in this region in May. Mauersberger saw a pair near Nessebur on 21 May 1929 which he thought might have been nesting. RUDDY SHELDUCK Casarca ferruginea. (S.V., B.) A maximum of eight seen from 1 to 3 June in the marshes by Lake Atanosov. Petrov & Zlatanov said some still nested in the Blatnitza swamps. Munteanu (1960) said the species was disappearing as a breeding species on the Rumanian side of the Danube. LESSER WHITE-FRONTED GOOSE Anser erythropus. (P.M.) One or possibly two pairs seen on Lake Burgas on 29 and 31 May. A flock of 11 unidentified geese was seen flying over Lake Atanosov on 3 June. We did not see A. anser, which, according to Pateff used to breed in this area and according to Petrov & Zlatanov also at Sreburna. MUTE SWAN Cygnus olor. (P.M., B. in the past) A single bird was seen on Lake Sreburna on 19 May. EGYPTIAN VULTURE Neophron percnopterus. (Res., B.) Fairly widespread, but only in small numbers. Single birds seen near Rusk, Sreburna, Aladza, Balchik and in the Ropotamo valley. One to three sighted frequently in the Baltata forest region. Petrov & Zlatanov recorded breeding near Sreburna. We saw no other vultures, but Mauersberger saw several of this species and quoted Prostov (1955) as saying they occasionally nested in trees in Bulgaria, as in southern Asia. GOLDEN EAGLE Aquila chrysaetos. (R. Res., B.) One or possibly two were seen in the Rila mountains south of Borovets on 13 June and an immature bird in an adjacent area on 26 June. IMPERIAL EAGLE Aquila heliaca. (Res., B.) One seen at Sreburna and one at Silistra on 19 May. Mauersberger saw two fairly regularly above the Aladza monastery. Some still breed in Bulgaria. SPOTTED EAGLE Aquila clanga. (P.M., B?) This species and A. pomarina are extremely difficult to distinguish in flight. Only one bird seen had the seven separated primary wing-feathers and other characteristics of A. clanga; this was in the Rila mountains on 26 June. Pateff considered it doubtful that A. clanga still nested in Bulgaria, though it occurred as a passage migrant. LESSER SPOTTED EAGLE Aquila pomarina. (S.V., B.) Four adults, presumed to be two pairs, frequented the Baltata forest region and could be individually separated by minor plumage variations. Several others were identified between Burgas and the Ropotamo river. On 24 May a loosely constructed nest with one egg was found 46 ft. above ground in a white elm near the centre of Baltata forest. The female was sitting closely. The egg hatched between 11 and 14 June. On 19 June, after a violent storm, the nestling was found in a moribund condition on the ground, having evidently been blown out of the nest. Although already fly-blown it was revived, cleaned and replaced in the nest. The parents quickly returned to feed it on frogs and Susliks Citellus citellus and it was thriving when we left the area. The adults were seen on many occasions to

10 452 GUY MOUNTFORT AND I. J. FERGUSON-LEES: BIRDS OF BULGARIA IBIS 103a indulge in a form of display flight apparently not previously recorded. This took two forms: either a brief dive followed by a short vertical climb to a stall and then a swoop to recover, or a curious winnowing flight with the wing-tips alone moving rapidly. The latter was performed in level flight for about three seconds and was often accompanied by two or three yelping cries " k'yeep, k'yeep ". BOOTED EAGLE Hieraetus pennatus. (S.V., B.) A light-phase adult was seen regularly between 24 May and 11 June over the hills behind Baltata forest. Mauersberger recorded a light-phase bird at Aladza on May. Petrov & Zlatanov say it still breeds in the Batova valley. BUZZARD Buteo buteo. (Res., B.) A total of 15 seen in six weeks, at Turnovo, between there and Silistra, at Sreburna, Balchik, Aladza, Varna, Baltata, Burgas, Mount Vitosha and the Ropotamo valley. ROUGH-LEGGED BUZZARD Buteo lugopus. (P.W. & W.V.) Not observed by us, but Mrs. Henderson and Lambert consider the species a regular passage migrant and winter visitor to the Sofia basin. SPARROW HAWK Accipiter nisus. (Res., B. & P.M.) or LEVANT SPARROW HAWK A. brevipes. (S.V., B.) Seen only at distances which precluded distinction between these two species. One at Alphata on 22 May and two near Baltata forest on 28 May and 6 June. Petrov & Zlatanov doubt that either species breeds in the Dobrudja. GOSHAWK Accipiter gentilis. (Res., B. & P.M.) A pair was evidently breeding in Baltata forest; adults were seen carrying small rodents (probably Susliks) from 25 May to 18 June. An adult was also seen at 4,000 ft. on Mount Vitosha on 13 June. BLAC KITE Milvus migrans. (S.V., B.) Seen in small numbers in the lowland areas, chiefly in the northeast. A pair was feeding young in a nest in Baltata forest on 18 June; there were at least three pairs in this region. WHITE-TAILED EAGLE Haliuetus albicilla. (Res., B. & Im.) An immature bird was seen at Lake Burgas on 29 and 31 May and was observed to catch a fish. Two immatures were at the lake on 4 June. On 31 May an adult pair was seen at Lake Mandra. Reiser (1894) described this species as plentiful in the Varna and Svishtov regions;. Harrison (1933), who recorded it only at Lake Mandra, commented on the obvious reduction in numbers since Reiser's day. The status in Pateff (1950) is not clear. Petrov & Zlatanov mention only one record in the Dobrudja, in HONEY BUZZARD Pernis apivorus. (S.V., B.) Between 18 May and 13 June single birds were seen near Botevgrad, Sreburna, Balchik and Borovets. Two were noted in the Ropotamo valley on 4 June. Between 25 May and 8 June there were five sightings over the Baltata forest coastal cliffs. Four and one birds were seen on 2 and 5 June near Nessebur. Eight seen over Lake Atanosov on 3 June were presumed to be passage migrants. MARSH HARRIER Circus aeruginosus. (Res., B. & Im.) Very common in the Danube region. About six pairs at Lake Sreburna, where a nest with three young and one or two eggs were found on 21 May: Four birds were seen at the Popino marshes. Less numerous but well distributed around the Black Sea lakes, where there were about three pairs at the Kutchuk end of Lake Mandra (two were carrying food on 31 May), and one bird at Lake Burgas. A pair was evidently nesting inside Baltata forest in one of the swamps where irises and other aquatic vegetation were growing luxuriantly; one of the adults was seen carrying a snake to the site on 8 June. PALLID HARRIER Circus macrourus. (P.M.) One seen near Baltata forest on 11 June. Although regarded by Pateff as a passage migrant, it probably breeds in the Dobrudja according to Petrov & Zlatanov. MONTAGU'S HARRIER Circus pygargus. (P.M. & R.B.) An adult was seen on 24 May and 8 June in the cultivated area west of Baltata forest, a region we seldom visited. What was thought to be a bird of this species was seen here on 10 June and there were

11 1961 GUY MOUNTFORT AND I. J. FERGUSON-LEES: BIRDS OF BULGARIA 453 also two immature Montagu's or possibly Pallid Harriers on the previous day. It seemed probable that a pair was nesting in the area. SHORT-TOED EAGLE Circaetus gallicus. (S.V., B.) One seen at Lake Mandra on 31 May. A pair was presumed to be nesting in the Baltata forest area, where one was seen repeatedly between 23 May and 19 June; the pair was mobbing a Marsh Harrier on 18 June. Mauersberger saw one at Turnovo on 27 May. OSPREY Pandion haliaetus. (S.V., B.) One seen over the Danube near Sreburna, on 20 May. HOBBY Falco subbuteo. (S.V., B.) On 19 May four were seen hawking insects over Lake Sreburna and one of these mobbed an Imperial Eagle. Others were seen there later and also at Popino. At Baltata forest and Lakes Mandra and Burgas single birds were seen on various dates and may have been breeding. Petrov & Zlatanov found nests at Popino and Balchik. SAKER FALCON Falco cherrug. (P.M. & W.I-.) Single birds seen on nine occasions from 26 May to 20 June in the Baltata forest region. Pateff said this species used to breed in the Danube region. Petrov & Zlatanov have since recorded breeding in the Dobrudja. MERLIN Falco columbarius. (W.V. & P.M.) Not seen by us, but Lambert saw a passage migrant just east of Sofia on 5 March. RED-FOOTED FALCON Falco vespertinus. (P.M.) Very local and certainly not as numerous as earlier writers found. An adult and an immature were seen on the cliffs by Baltata forest on 17 and 18 June respectively. Lambert saw a flock of 12 near Samokov in May. According to Pateff there had been only one Bulgarian breeding record, but Petrov & Zlatanov believe breeding now occurs in the Dobrudja. LESSER KESTREL Falco naumanni. (S.\r., B.) Less numerous than earlier writers indicated. We saw only single birds at Turnovo and Popino and two or three at the Stalin Dam; none noted when we passed through Plovdiv, where Harrison (1933) found colonies., Not recorded in the Dobrudja by Petrov & Zlatanov. KESTREL Falco tinnunculus. (S.V., B.) Widely distributed, but in surprisingly small numbers in the areas visited; only 30 seen in six weeks. CAPERCAILLIE Tetrao urogallus. (Res., B.) Not seen by us, but Lambert reports it in small numbers on Mount \'itosha. PARTRIDGE Perdix perdix. (Res., B.) Apparently now very scarce. Two were seen west of Silistra on 18 May. A nest with C/13 was found on an island in the Danube near Sreburna on 20 May and a single bird was seen on the river bank next day. The only other record was of one heard at the " petrified forest " of Dikilitash on 23 May. Considered " rather rare " in the Dobrudja by Petrov & Zlatanov. QUAIL Coturnix coturnix. (S.V., B.) Two heard on the Sreburna-Popino road on 20 May and a few in crops around Lake Burgas and Baltata forest from 24 May to 20 June. There was a considerable influx in the Lake Burgas region on 1 June, at least 25 being heard that day. Several were heard at Lake Atanosov on 3 June. One in the Ropotamo valley on 4 June and several in crops near Plovdiv on 22 June. CRANE Megalornisgrus. (P.M., B. in past). An immature bird was seen on 4 June, " caught up " with a large flock of White Pelicans soaring over Lake Burgas; one or possibly two other immatures were seen several times near Baltata forest from 8 to 10 June. Petrov & Zlatanov speak of " thousands " of Cranes on spring migration through the Dobrudja. A few are said still to nest on the Rumanian side of the Danube. WATER RAIL Rallus aquaticus. (Res., B.) One heard at Lake Atanosov on 3 June. CORNCRAKE Crex crex. (Res., B.) Two heard near Sreburna on 20 May, one near Alphata on 22 May and two in crops and reed-beds near Baltata forest on 24 May and 6 June.

12 454 GUY MOUNTFORT AND I. 1. FERGUSON-LEES: BIRDS OF BULGARIA IBIS 103a MOORHEN Gallinula chloropus. (Res., B.) Seen or heard in very small numbers in the areas of Sreburna and Popino adjacent to the Danube. Even scarcer in the Black Sea region, being noted only once in the vicinity of Baltata and a few times at Lake Mandra. COOT Fulica atra. (Res., B. & P.M.) Slightly more numerous than Moorhens and again more scarce in the Black Sea area than the Danube. Petrov & Zlatanov however considered it abundant in both localities. Noted on Lakes Sreburna, Popino, Mandra, Burgas and Atanosov, and on an un-named lake near the Ropotamo river. Both Coot and Moorhen were however apparently even more rare when Harrison (1933) visited these parts-he reported them only on Lake Mandra. OYSTERCATCHER Haematopus ostralegus. (P.M.) Two were seen at Lake Atanosov on several occasions between 27 May and 3 June; on 1 June there were three here and another six in the adjacent marsh-presumably late migrants. LAPWING Vanellus vanellus. (S.V., B.) Only locally common, breeding in many marshy areas visited, but almost completely absent from fields and open areas where one would expect to see them. Numerous around Lakes Burgas, Mandra and Atanosov and a few on the PomoriC salt-pans; young of various ages seen on 27 May and nests with C/2 and C/4 found on 31 May. Seen in small numbers (max. 8-10) around Danube lakes and near Plovdiv. One seen near Baltata forest and a few in marshes between Varna and Burgas. Mauersberger, who did not visit the Black Sea lakes, commented that he saw this species only in wet marshes east of Turnovo. RINGED PLOVER Charadrius hiaticula. (P.M.) Not recorded by Harrison (1933). We saw three on the edge of the Batova river on 24 May, two at the Kutchuk end of Lake Mandra on 27 May and two at Lake Atanosov on 2-3 June, but found no evidence of breeding. LITTLE RINGED PLOVER Charadrius dubius. (S.V., B.) hlore numerous and now breeding since the visit of Harrison (1933). Three were seen on the Black Sea shore by Baltata forest and a nest with C/3 was found on 28 May; this was robbed by fishermen and a replacement with C/4 was found on 23 June; another pair was thought to be nesting near Balchik on 13 June. There were two pairs at Lake Burgas, and three or four pairs at Lake hlandra (one of which was displaying) on 31 May. At least two pairs were seen in the Ropotomo region on 4 June. Probable migrants seen were one at Lake Varna on 25 Nay, 10 at the PomoriC salt-pans, 5-10 at Lake Atanosov and several at 1,ake Mandra on 27 May, and four at Lake Atanosov on 3 June. KENTISH PLOVER Charadrius alexandrinus. (S.V., 3.) Seen only at the Burgas group of lakes, where it was quite common. About 10 at Lake Atanosov, where three fresh scrapes were found on 3 June, two or three at Lake Mandra, about apparently breeding at Lake Burgas on 30 May, one on the Pomorii: salt-pans. GREY PLOVER Charadrius spatarola. (P.M.) Two seen at Lake Atanosov, one of which was in breeding plumage, on 27 May; Harrison (1933) recorded a pair here in May. One heard at Lake Burgas on 31 May. GOLDEN PLOVER Charadrius apricarius. (P.M.) One in nearly complete breeding plumage seen at Lake Burgas on 30 May. rurnsrone Arenaria interpres. (R.P.M.) One seen at Lake Atanosov on 27 h4ay. CURLEW Numenius avquaia. (P.M.) Eight passage migrants seen in a marsh near Lake Atanosov on 1 June, one on 2 June and 15 on 3 June. BLACK-TAILED GODWIT Limosa limosa. (P.M.) Seen only at Lake Atanosov, where there were three or four on 27 May, two on 1 June and one on 2 June. GREEN SANDPIPER Tringa ochropus. (P.M.) Seen only in the marshes and around Baltata forest, where there were two or three on 9 June and one on 10 and 11 June.

13 1961 GUY MOUNTFORT AND I. J. FERGUSON-LEES: BIRDS OF BULGARIA 455 WOOD SANDPIPER Tringa glareola. (P.M.) One seen at Lake Burgas from 30 May to 1 June and at least four on 4 June; four at Lake Mandra on 31 May; three at Lake Atanosov on 1 and 2 June and one on 3 June. COMMON SANDPIPER Tringa hypoleucos. (S.V., B., L.) One seen at Lake Atanosov on 2 June; single birds seen at the edge of Baltata forest on 7, 16 and 18 June. REDSHANK Tringa totanus. (S.V., B.) Two or three seen at Lake Mandra on 31 May; up to four at Lake Atanosov from 1 to 3 June may have been breeding; two or three moving along the shore by Baltata forest on 10 June were clearly migrants. SPOTTED REDSHANK Tringa erythropus. (P.M.) One seen on the shore off Baltata forest on 7 June. GREENSHANK Tringa nebularia. (P.M.) One seen in the lake Atanosov marshes on 1 June. MARSH SANDPIPER Tringa stagnatilis. (P.M.) One seen in the Lake Atanosov marshes on 1 June. Now breeds numerously around the Blatnitza swamps according to Petrov & Zlatanov. LITTLE STINT Calidris minuta. (P.M.) Seen in fairly large flocks around Lakes Burgas, Atanosov and Mandra and the PomoriC salt-pans from 27 May to 4 June. At Lake Burgas there were 100 on 29 May, on 30 May, 100 on 31 May, 75 on 1 June, on 4 June. At Lake Atanosov there were 400 on 27 May, on 29 May, 20 on 1 June, 65 on 2 and 3 June. At Lake Mandra there was a sharp decline from 200 on 27 May to on 31 May. At the mouth of the Batova river there were 11 on 24 May. TEMMINCK S STINT Calidris femminckii. (Not listed by Pateff.) One seen with a flock of C. minuta at Lake Mandra on 27 May and another (or the same bird) at Lake Burgas on 30 May. DUNLIN Calidrisalpina. (P.M.) One and five seen at Lake Burgas on 2 and 4 June; at least 30, mostly in breeding plumage, at Lake Atanosov on 3 June. Mauersberger saw 50 or more at the mouth of the Batova river on 24 Rlay and Reiser (1894) referred to large flocks in this part of Bulgaria in May. CURLEW SANDPIPER Calidris tesfacea. (Xot listed by Pateff.) One seen at Lake Mandra and 30 at Lake Atanosov, all in breeding plumage, on 27 May. RUFF Philomachus pugnax. (P.M.) There were at least 40 at Lake Atanosov on 27 May, 22 on 1 June, about 45 on 2 June and 11 on 3 June. At the PomoriC salt-pans there were on 29 May. At Lake Burgas there were on 30 May and 40 or more on 31 May, when three were also seen at Lake Mandra. AVOCET Recurvirostra aoosetta. (S.V., B.) Harrison (1933) saw only half a dozen at Lake Atanosov in May. We estimated the breeding population on 1 June at between 500 and 750 birds in the marshes around this lake; in addition there were 50 on the PomoriC salt-pans, 25 at Lake Burgas and 12 at Lake Mandra. Breeding was proved at Lake Burgas and was probably taking place also at PomoriC and Lake Mandra. On 1 June 410 eggs and some dead nestlings were washed up on one part of the Lake Atanosov shore; the total number destroyed by storms must have been very large. Five live nestlings were seen at Lake Atanosov on 1 June, one of which was already days old; on 2 June about 10 families of young were seen. On 3 June nine nests examined contained 3 x C/4, 2 x C/3, 2 x C/2, 2 x C/1; a pair with large young was also seen. BLACK-WINGED STILT Himantopus himantopus. (R.S.V., B., L.) Apparently not recorded around the Black Sea lakes by Harrison (1933, 1937) and regarded by Pateff as a rare breeding species. We estimated the number of breeding birds at 100 at Lake Atanosov, 30 at Lake Burgas and 20 at PomoriC; there were at least 50 birds at Lake Mandra on 27 May, but only 4-5 pairs on 31 May. Deserted nests with C/1 and C/2 were found at Lake Burgas on 30 May and an occupied nest with C/3 at Lake Atanosov on 3 June. The last-mentioned nest had an unusual dove-like construction of dead

14 456 GUY MOUNTFORT AND I. J. FERGUSON-LEES: BIRDS OF BULGARIA IBIS 103a twigs of Salicornia. Petrov & Zlatanov say it now breeds in the Blatnitza and Shabla swamps. PRATINCOLE,Glareolu pratincola. (S.V., B.) Four or more were seen at Lake Mandra on 27 and 31 May; at Lake Burgas there were five on 30 May; at Lake Atanosov four were seen from 1 to 3 June. No definite evidence of breeding, though it was suspected. Harrison (1933) saw about 20 at Lake Atanosov in May. Petrov & Zlatanov say large numbers breed near Blatnitza and Shabla. LESSER BLACK-BACKED GULL Larus fuscus. (Not recorded by Pateff or Petrov & Zlatanov.) One seen at Balchik on 22 May, one at Lake Atanosov on 2 June and up to five between 24 May and 17 June on the shore off Baltata forest. Mauersberger saw four at Balchik and two at Cape EminC. HERRINGULL Larus urgentatus. (Res., B.) The yellow-legged race L. a. rnichahellis was common on the Black Sea coast and in coastal towns from Balchik to the Ropotamo river; a few were also seen around the coastal lakes. Flocks of up to 250, mostly immature, were seen on the sea. Several hundred pairs were nesting on roof-tops above busy streets in Varna, Burgas and Nessebur. Well-grown young were seen at Varna on 25 May and at Nessebur on 2 June. Harrison (1933) noted the presence of this species on roof-tops in Varna and Burgas, but apparently saw no nests; but Reiser (1894) commented that breeding in the Black Sea coastal towns had already taken place as far back as that time. MEDITERRANEAN GULL Larus melanocephalus. (S.V., B. & P.M.) Harrison (1933) saw this species on the Danube but not on the Black Sea coast. On 29 May we saw at Lake Burgas, only a very few being second year or adult birds. On 31 May the total had risen to about 1,000, again almost all first-year birds, though two adults were displaying. A single-bird frequented Lake Atanosov from 1 to 3 June. LITTLE GULL Larus minutus. (Not recorded by Harrison (1933), Pateff, or Petrov & Zlatanov.) We saw 13 at Balchik on 22 May, 20 at the PomoriC salt-pans on 27 and 29 Rlay, 30 at Lake Atanosov on 1 and 3 June and at Lake Burgas from 30 May to 4 June. A few second-summer birds were noted, but all the remainder were firstsummer. BLACK-HEADED GULL Larus ridibundus. (S.V., B., W.V. & P.M.) Seen by Harrison (1933) only in the Gulf of Burgas. We found it fairly widespread, though there was no evidence of nesting and nearly all the birds were immature. Approximate numbers: four at Sreburna on 19 and 21 May; 4-6 at Popino on 20 May; about 85 at Maluk Preslavitz on 20 May; 10 at Lake Mandra on 27 May. At Lake Burgas there was a steady increase; two on 27 May, six on the 29th, on the 30th, 12 on the 31st and on 1 June. Petrov & Zlatanov confirm breeding on the Danube marshes and Black Sea coast. BLACK TERN Chlidonias niger. (S.V., B.) During May about 50 appeared to be preparing to nest on Lake Sreburna and a similar number at the Popino marshes. On the Black Sea coastal lakes however there was no indication of nesting by the second week in June and numbers fluctuated considerably. On 27 May there were about 150 on Lake Burgas, 100 on Lake Mandra and a few on the PomoriC salt-pans and at Lake Atanosov. On 29 May the total had increased to several hundred on Lake Burgas, but the following day most of these migrants had gone. The decrease continued and by the first few days of June only 50 were left at Lake Burgas, a dozen at Lake Atanosov and half a dozen at PomoriC. By 5 June the number at PomoriC had increased again to Lambert reported a mixed flock of this species and C. leucopterus (about 100 of each) on flood-water near Sofia on 8 May and it is possible that a westerly movement from Burgas through the " Balkan Corridor " takes place until well into June. Mauersberger reported breeding on the bogs near Sindel (north of the Kamtchiya river) on 19 May 1959 and also saw some birds of this species over the sea between Balchik and Nessebur.

15 1961 GUY MOUNTFORT AND I. J. FERGUSON-LEES: BIRDS OF BULGARIA 45 7 WHITE-WINGED BLACK TERN Chlidonias leucopterus. (S.V., B. & P.M.) Seen only in the Burgas region, where fluctuating numbers suggested passage movements. Numbers at Lake Burgas were: on 27 May, 60 on 29 May, on 30 May, 100 on 31 May, on 1 June, 6-8 on 4 June. The only other places where this species was seen were the PomoriC salt-pans (five on 27 May, on 2 June) and Lake Atanosov (two on 1 June, six or more on 3 June). No evidence of breeding, though Pateff records it as doing so and Petrov & Zlatanov suspected breeding in the Blatnitza marshes. WHISKERED TERN Chlidonias hybrida. (R.S.V., B.) From 19 to 21 hciay about 40 were present on Lake Sreburna and on 20 May there were at Popino; these birds all appeared to be settling to nest. When Harrison (1933) visited the Danube area in May he saw only one Whiskered Tern, near Svishtov. At Lake Burgas numbers fluctuated between 29 May and 4 June from five to About 15 were also seen at PomoriC on 27 May. Pateff said this was " a rare breeding species ". Petrov & Zlatanov thought " a small number might nest at Blatnitza ". GULL-BILLED TERN Gelochelidon nilotica. (P.M.) Between 29 May and 1 June between six and 20 were seen at Lake Burgas. From 1 to 3 June about eight were present at Lake Atanosov. COMMON TERN Sterna hirundo. (S.V., B.) A dozen or so pairs were nesting at Lake Sreburna, incomplete clutches being found on 19 May; a few pairs were also seen at Popino. On, 27 May birds were present at the PomoriC salt-pans, but were evidently late migrants as few were seen there two days later. There were a few pairs, or perhaps migrants, at Lake Burgas and Mandra and in the Ropotamo valley between 31 May and 4 June. On 3 June four occupied nests (2x C/l and 2x C/2) and several empty nests were found at Lake Atanosov; a pair at the Kutchuk end of Lake Mandra may have been nesting. LITTLE TERN Sterna albifrons. (S.V., B.) Evidently nesting in small numbers around the Black Sea coastal lakes. Nest building was noted on 3 June at Lake Atanosov, where there were at least two pairs. At the Kutchuk end of Lake hlandra birds appeared to be preparing to nest. At Lake Burgas 4-5 were seen, over Burgas town two, at Pomorie three. Petrov & Zlatanov record breeding 011 the Danube marshes. STOCK DOVE Columba oenas. (Res., B.) Harrison (1933) found this species abundant in the Varna region, the Dobrudja and all northern Bulgaria. We were surprised to see only two pairs, at Popino, on 20 May. Had they been present in the Varna region, where we spent three weeks, we should certainly have seen them, though Mauersberger said he heard one here. Petrov & Zlatanov say a few breed in the Dobrudja. WOOD PIGEON Columba palurnbus. (Res., B.) Present only in very small numbers in areas visited; we recorded only 25 in six weeks, three of which were in mountainous regions. We saw none in the Burgas or Ropotamo regions. Mauersberger saw only one, at Turnovo. TURTLE DOVE Streptopelia turtur. (S.V., B.) Fairly numerous in all areas visited up to 2,500 ft. Lambert reported a very big passage movement near Sofia on 9 May. On 20 May we saw parties of up to 14 in the regions of Sreburna, Popino and Maluk Preslavitz and there had clearly been a recent influx in the Danube area. A more numerous influx was seen on May, when 100 or more were present at the edge of Baltata forest. A flock of was seen feeding on the adjacent open ground on 8 June. Between these dates numbers decreased until only the local paired birds were left. A nest with C/2 was found in the hills above Nessebur on 2 June. COLLAREDOVE Streptopelia decaocto. (Res., B.) Very numerous and aggressive in all the parks and gardens in Sofia; seen also in most of the towns and villages visited. Two nests were found on window ledges and one in a tree. Several of these birds were present near Samakov and one near Plovdiv, both localities being at about 3,000 ft. A

16 458 GUY MOUNTFORT AND I. J. FERGUSON-LEES: BIRDS OF BULGARIA IBIS 103a single bird was seen several times on the edge of Baltata forest, a long way from any village. The range of this species has evidently spread since the reports of Harrison (1933) and Pateff. CUCKOO Cuculus canorus. (S.V., B.) Widespread in wooded country and several noted even in coniferous forests up to 5,500 ft. near Borovets and on Mount Vitosha, but very few seen in treeless areas. Surprisingly absent from the vicinities of the reed-beds of Lakes Burgas and Mandra, where they might be expected to parasitize the numerous Great Reed Warblers. SCOPS OWL Otus scops. (S.V., B.) Noted in hotel gardens at Varna, where from 22 May to 20 June there were about six. Single records also near the Varna opera house, at Burgas and at Baltata forest. Mauersberger heard at least a dozen near the Golden Sands resort. Harrison (1933) quoted Pateff as saying this was a common breeding species around Sofia. EAGLE OWL Bubo bubo. (Res., B.) A pair was seen on the cliffs by Baltata forest on 15 June and single birds on 17 and 18 June. Petrov & Zlatanov consider it fairly widespread in forested areas in the Dobrudja. LITTLE OWL Athene noctua. (Res., B.) Single birds seen at Dikilitash, Lake Burgas, Kranevo and Varna. Lambert considers it fairly numerous around Sofia. TAWNY OWL Strix aluco. (Res., B.) One seen on 10 and 20 June in Baltata forest and one heard near Plovdiv on 23 June. Mauersberger found a dead red-phase adult in the Golden Sands park in June NIGHTJAR Caprimulgus wropaeus. (S.V., B.) One heard calling and " singing " on 14 June near Baltata forest and one seen near Plovdiv on 22 June. Lambert reports it common in the Sofia basin and had one " singing " in the Legation garden in the centre of Sofia in May-a most unlikely spot. Mauersberger heard one near Golden Sands. Petrov & Zlatanov say it breeds around the forests in the Dobrudja. SWIFT Apus apus. (S.V., B.) Rather uncommon and not often seen over towns or villages, though a few (4-5) were seen over Sofia on 17 May and 26 June. A breeding colony of pairs was noticed by Mauersberger and ourselves on the high cliffs behind Balchik. Parties of from 10 to 60 birds were often seen feeding over Baltata forest between 26 May and 20 June and were thought to be foraging parties from the Balchik colony. A northward movement along the Black Sea coast was noted on 18 June when more than 400 passed along the shore by Baltata forest in the course of the morning. Small numbers (2-20) were occasionally seen feeding over Lakes Burgas or Mandra or elsewhere along the coast, from 20 May to 5 June. Apart from Sofia the only other inland record was a single bird over the Popino marshes on 20 May. ALPINE SWIFT Apus melba. (S.V., B.) About 10 were seen on 22 May at an established breeding colony on a high cliff behind Balchik, where Mauersberger reported seeing about 20 pairs in Sightings of from one to four birds on four occasions between 27 May and 17 June near Baltata forest were assumed to refer to wanderers from this colony; but on 18 June birds were seen over the adjacent cli ffs and on 19 June several were seen entering nest-holes there. Pateff in 1933 said that this species had not then been proved to breed in Bulgaria (see Harrison (1933) ), but he listed it in 1950 as doing so. KINGFISHER Alcedo atthis. (Res., B.) A pair was seen regularly on 20 May near a sandy cutting 50 yds. from water at Popino; a nest-hole with the characteristic fishy smell was found 24 ft. above ground and was assumed to contain young. Single birds were seen on the Danube and on the canal at Beloslav (near Lake Varna). One was seen several times in and around Baltata forest, its territory evidently extending into the dense part of the forest where there was an overgrown and very muddy stream. BEE-EATER Merops apiaster. (S.V., B.) Fairly numerous in the Silistra-Popino and Balchik-Baltata regions. Nesting colonies were found at Sreburna, near Silistra and at

17 1961 GUY MOUNTFORT AND I. J. FERGUSOI'i-LEES: BIRDS OF BULGARIA 459 ' Balchik. There were undoubtedly colonies also near Baltata forest, where on 28 May about 20 birds were seen taking bees at the entrances of bee-hives. Possible migrants were seen flying high in a northwesterly direction over Lake Burgas on 1 June. Small numbers were seen over Sofia airfield, the Rusk to Silistra road, Maluk Prelavitz, and along the coast from Varna to the Ropotamo. Mauersberger found this species plentiful in open country but none settling to breed before 28 May (at the Golden Sands resort). ROLLER Coracias garrulus. (S.V., B.) Apparently in Bulgaria chiefly found at fairly low altitudes among old trees and on inland and sea cliffs. A few seen in the Sofia region, but increasingly frequently from Turnovo to RosC and eastwards along the Danube. Comparatively scarce in the Burgas area. Seen also on the Varna to Plovdiv road. A pair was displaying and prospecting nest-sites in old trees at Popino on 20 May and a presumed nest-hole was found on a cliff at Alphata on 22 May. In the Baltata region a pair was seen carrying food into the edge of the forest from 8 to 10 June, where courtship feeding took place and a bird was seen entering a probable nest-hole. On 15 June a nest with young was found 25 ft. up a sea-cliff near Balchik. Frequent searches for nests showed that breeding territories were remarkably large, some birds regularly using look-out posts nearly a mile from their nests; no fewer than eight birds were seen frequently on roadside wires along the few miles between Baltata and the outskirts of Varna, but no nests were found in any of the suitable trees near the road. HOOPOE Upupa epops. (S.V., B.) Widespread and nesting along the Danube and Black Sea coastal regions, but neither common nor seen in all areas visited. Chiefly in lowlands along edges of woods and among scattered old trees. Nests, or birds carrying food, were seen at Popino (20 May), Sreburna (21 May) and Dikilitash (23 May). Four were seen in the Baltata forest region, of which two had young (24 and 27 May and 8 and 17 June) and one at Burgas (1 June). There were three or four pairs possibly nesting in the cliffs south of Balchik on 13 June. GREEN WOODPECKER Picus viridis. (Res., B.) Lambert considers this a fairly common species in the Sofia basin. Harrison (1937) recorded some in the central Rhodope range and near the Greek frontier. We saw none in the Danube region. Between 29 May and 12 June we heard or saw one several times at Varna and single records were also obtained at Baltata forest and Dikilitash. Petrov & Zlatanov consider it rare in the Dobrudja. GREY-HEADED WOODPECKER Picus canus. (Res., B.) Apart from one in a park at Sofia, seen only in the Sreburna and Baltata regions, where it was noted sufficiently frequently to indicate that several were present; but these were the only wooded areas in which we spent much time. Mauersberger saw one at Turnovo and two at Kamtchiya. Petrov & Zlatanov say it breeds in the Dobrudja woods. GREAT SPOTTED WOODPECKER Dendrocopos major. (Res., B.) Although, according to Madame Paspaleva, this is the second most common woodpecker in the Danube area, we did not identify it there for certain. We may however have mis-identified some Great Spotted Woodpeckers in flight as Syrian Woodpeckers, which they resemble at a distance. Quite common in Baltata forest, chiefly in the swampy areas, where young were being fed in the nest on 9 June. Resident, according to Lambert, in both deciduous and coniferous woods in the Sofia basin. SYRIAN WOODPECKER Dendrocopos syriacus. (Res., B.) The commonest woodpecker in the Sreburna region of the Danube. Identified only three times in the Baltata forest region, but possibly sometimes confused with D. major when not clearly seen. A pair was seen carrying food in a Sofia park on 13 June. Lambert records it as abundant in the Sofia basin below 3,000 ft. Harrison (1937) found it common in the central Rhodope range. Pateff showed distribution to be chiefly in the western half of Bulgaria and along the Danube, but had one breeding record on the Black Sea coast, VOL. 103a 2E

18 460 GUY MOUNTFORT AND I. J. FERGUSON-LEES: BIRDS OF BULGARIA IBIS 103a WHITE-BACKED WOODPECKER Dendrocopos leucotos. (Res., B.) Not seen by us, but Lambert saw one in a beech wood near Botevgrad in October LESSER SPOTTED WOODPECKER Dendrocopos minor. (Res., B.) Five single sightings and one of a pair in Baltata forest, between 24 May and 10 June. One was seen in the wooded hills just north of Nessebur. Mauersberger recorded young being fed near Golden Sands on 23 May. MIDDLE SPOTTED WOODPECKER Dadrocopos medius. (Res., B.) Not seen by us, but Mauersberger mentioned one in the woods above Golden Sands and one by the Kamtchiya river. Petrov & Zlatanov had a breeding record near Batovo in BLACK WOODPECKER Dryocopus martius. (Res., B., L.) Several nest-holes characteristic of this species were seen at 4,500 ft. near Borovets, where it is known to breed. WRYNECK Jynx torquilla. (S.V., B.) Fairly common in the Black Sea coastal area from Balchik to Varna and (according to Lambert) in the Sofia basin. Quite a number were noted in Baltata forest; on 9 June as many as six were heard calling along only two sides of the wood. CALANDRA LARK Melanocorypha calandra. (Res., B.) Common along roadsides by arable and cultivated fields and in crops east of a line drawn from Silistra to Plovdiv. Seen carrying food from 30 May onwards. Harrison (1933) noted this species in the northeast only in agricultural areas between Varna and Rusk. CRESTED LARK Galerida cristata. (Res., B.) Fairly common along dusty tracks and roads in all areas visited except the Ropotomo valley. Not seen above 4,000 ft. In the Varna-Baltata region we saw courtship display on 25 May, nest-building on 28 May, food-carrying on 14 June. Harrison (1933, 1937) did not find this species in the Black Sea region, but considered it common in the Struma Valley and central Rhodopes. WOOD LARK Lullulu arborea. (S.V., B., P.M.) Seen only in the Black Sea coastal region, where it was not uncommon near Varna, Balchik and Burgas and in the wooded hills near Nessebur. Mauersberger apparently recorded a male singing in the Batova valley. We saw fledged young here on 26 May. Lambert has seen this species near Samokov. Harrison (1947) saw some in the central Khodopes. SKY LARK Alauda arvensis. (Res., B., partly Im. & W.V.) Small numbers noted in all areas visited except the Ropotamo valley and Rila mountains. One heard singing at 3,000 ft. near Samakov. Most authors have considered this a common Bulgarian bird, but both von Jordans (1940) and Mauersberger remarked on its scarcity. Petrov & Zlatanov found it common only in the southeast Dobrudja. SHORT-TOED LARK Calandrella cinerea. (S.V., B.) Seen only in the Black Sea coastal region, where it was locally common at Lakes Burgas and Atanosov. Harrison (1933) saw none here. We also saw it at Balchik and near Baltata forest and in the dunes near Nessebur. Mauersberger saw at least one singing in these dunes on 21 May 1959, which he considered the first record for the actual coastal area. We found a newly constructed nest by Lake Burgas on 1 June. HOUSE MARTIN Delichon urbica. (S.V., B.) Numerous everywhere. Very large numbers (possibly migrants) seen in the Turnovo gorge on 18 May. On 23 May 10 nests were being built only 10 ft. from the ground near crowded restaurant tables immediately above a noisy orchestra in Varna; the birds were still building on 5 June, though one nest had already been occupied by House Sparrows. Many other colonies were seen under the eaves of newly constructed hotels, which were being adopted in some instances even before completion. Cliff colonies are evidently quite widespread on the Black Sea coast. We found colonies of pairs on the high white cliffs near Baltata forest and Balchik. Mauersberger, who noted " multitudes " of House Martins at Turnovo, Balchik and Nessebur, cited Muller (1927) as having found a cliff colony at Cape Kaliakra, east of Balchik. There was a steady flow of northwesterly migrants from 29 to 31 May at Lake Burgas. On 30 May several thousand hirundines were

19 1961 GUY MOUNTFORT AND I. J. FERGUSON-LEES: BIRDS OF BULGARIA 46 1 present, of which 30% were House Martins. Next day numbers diminished slightly (House Martins 55%) and the following day the flock had gone. House Martins were seen at Samokov (3,000 ft.) and there was a nesting colony of birds at the Rila monastery (3,400 ft.) SAND MARTIN Riparia riparia. (S.V., B.) A nesting colony of about 20 pairs was found in the Danube bank near Sreburna on 20 May and a group of birds was seen at Popino. Only very small numbers were noted in the Black Sea coastal area until we visited Lake Burgas on 30 May, where we found several thousand migrant hirundines. The flock contained 65% Sand Martins, 30% House Martins, 524 Swallows. Next day the total was smaller, the composition being 43% Sand Martins, 55% House Martins, 2'7; Swallows; in a large mixed flock over Lake Mandra Sand Martins predominated. On 1 June at least 2,000 Sand Martins were perched on telegraph wires at Lake Burgas, but all had gone by evening. On 3 June several hundred were seen flying northwest over Lake Atanosov and a flock of passed over Lake Burgas on 4 June. A few coastal stragglers were seen passing until as late as 8 June. SWALLOW Hirundo rustica. (S.V., B.) Widespread in all areas visited, though not in large numbers. A trickle of migrants was seen flying north or northwest along the Black Sea coast from 28 May to 3 June, with most on 30 May (see Sand Martin). We saw one or two around the half completed Kasino restaurant at Golden Sands, where the previous year Mauersberger found a pair nesting on a lamp shade. He apparently found this species more abundant than we did. The maximum altitude at which we observed Swallows was at Samokov (3,000 ft.). CRAG MARTIN Ptyonoprogne rupestris. (S.V., B.) Two seen at 4,500 ft. in the Rila mountains south of Borovets and two at 6,000 ft. in an adjacent area, on 13 June. Five seen at 3,500 ft. at a different locality in the same range on 25 June. Harrison (1937) recorded this species in the Rhodope mountains and in the Struma valley. GOLDEN ORIOLE Oriolus oriolus. (S.V., B.) Seen frequently in all areas visited except the Rila mountains. Very numerous in the Danube woods and in Baltata forest. A nest with C/4 on the point of hatching was found in the Ropotamo valley on 4 June and birds were seen carrying food at Baltata forest on 10 June. Lambert records this species as common in the Sofia basin. RAVEN Corous corax. (Res., B., L.) A pair in the Ropotamo valley on 4 June was our only record during six weeks. Mauersberger saw none. Whether the use of poisonbait or the abundance of Hooded Crows accounts for the scarcity of this species is not known. HOODED CROW Corvus cornix. (Res., B.) Widespread and locally numerous in all areas visited up to 5,000 ft., occurring even on the beach (a group of 15) and on rubbish dumps (a group of 12). ROOK Corvus frugilegus. (Res., B., L.) Very local and we found no evidence of breeding, though Petrov & Zlatanov say it does so in the southeast Dobrudja. The groups we saw appeared to be nomadic. A dozen were seen near the Dragoman Pass on 15 May, five near Sreburna and one or two near Silistra on 21 May. A few were scattered along the route from Silistra to Varna and seven were seen with Hooded Crows near Lake Burgas on 1 June. Harrison (1933, 1937) at first considered this species to have a strictly northern distribution in Bulgaria, but in 1935 saw several in the Struma valley, southwest of Sofia. JACKDAW Corous monedulu. (Res., B.) Widespread and locally common, but chiefly around towns and villages up to 2,000 ft; seldom seen in woods. We saw about 50 at the edge of the town in the Turnovo gorge and at Varna; Mauersberger apparently saw a considerable number on the chalk cliffs at Balchik, but we found fewer than 10 there and most of our records were of small numbers. Lambert considers this species to be diminishing since the spread of the Collared Dove into Bulgarian towns and

20 462 GUY MOUNTFORT AND I. J. FERGUSON-LEES: BIRDS OF BULGARIA IBIS 103a villages, and says it has become rather scarce in the Sofia basin, though a small colony still occupies the Alexander Nevsky cathedral in Sofia. MAGPIE Pica pica. (Res., B.) Rather uncommon around Sofia, but increasingly numerous towards the Danube; small numbers scattered along the whole of the Black Sea coast; not observed in the Rila mountains. Large numbers were preying on the eggs of marsh birds in the reed-beds around Lake Sreburna and at Popino and a few also at Lake Mandra. Three nests, one with young, were found in small dead willows in the reed-beds at Lake Sreburna on 19 May. NUTCRACKER Nucifraga caryocatactes. (Res., B.) Two seen on 13 June at 5,500 ft. in the Rila mountains, one of which was a young bird about 2-3 weeks out of the nest. Two adults seen at a similar altitude in an adjacent locality on 26 June. Lambert has seen this species in both coniferous and deciduous woods on Mount Vitosha and elsewhere in the Sofia basin. JAY Garrulus glandarius. (Res., B.) Widespread in very small numbers in all areas visited. Seen on Mount Vitosha in both coniferous and deciduous woods up to 5,500 ft. and in conifers in the Rila mountains up to 6,000 ft. A nest was found at 35 ft. in a hole in an inland cliff-face at Alphata on 22 May and a pair was feeding young in Baltata forest on 18 June. GREAT TIT Parus major. (Res., B.) Very common in the Varna-Balchik area, but not seen at all in the more open country around Burgas; several seen at Sreburna, Popino and Ropotamo and at up to 5,000 ft. on Mount Vitosha and the Rila mountains. Six nests with young were found between 20 May and 9 June, sites including a crevice in a " petrified tree " at Dikilitash. First young out of the nest were seen on 11 June; Rlauersberger saw family parties as early as 23 May. BLUE TIT Parus cueruleus. (Res., B.) Seen only in very small numbers in wooded areas of the Black Sea coast (Baltata and Ropotamo) and up to 4,500 ft. in the mountain forests of the southwest (Rila and Vitosha). Apparently absent from open country around Burgas and surprisingly also from the Silistra-Sreburna area. Single birds seen along the road from Turnovo to Rusk and at Alphata. Nests with young were found in Baltata forest on 9 June and at 4,000 ft. in the Rila mountains on 26 June; flying young were seen in the Ropotamo valley on 4 June. COAL TIT Parus ater. (Res., B.) Seen only in conifers and birches in the mountains of the southwest between about 4,000 and 6,000 ft.; fairly numerous on Mount Vitosha and rather less so in the Rila mountains. Pateff records it as breeding only in the south and coastal mountain ranges. SOMBRE TIT Parus lugu6ris. (Res., B.) Seen only at Dikilitash (23 May) and in the Ropotamo valley (4 June) where at least four were noted. Mauersberger saw family parties in the Golden Sands area and one or two by the Kamtchiya. P.etrov & Zlatanov reported breeding only on the Batova river. Reiser (1894) described this species as exceedingly common and widely distributed; Harrison (1933, 1937) reported it only from the Rila and Rhodope mountains. A considerable change in status appears to have taken place. MARSH TIT Parus palustris. (Res., B.) One seen on the lower slopes of Mount Vitosha (17 May) and two heard in deciduous woods at 4,000 ft. in the Rila mountains (26 June). Petrov & Zlatanov had one breeding record in the Dobrudja in WILLOW TIT Parus atricapillus. (Res., B.) Two were heard clearly and seen briefly in conifers at 5,000 ft. in the Rila mountains south of Borovets on 13 June. Harrison (1937) collected specimens in the central Rhodopes and Pateff recorded it as breeding only in the mountains. LONC-TAILED TIT Aegithalos caudatus. (Res., B.) Two seen near Baltata forest on 26 May. Mauersberger saw two parties on 20 May and a single bird (presumably all in