Latest Sightings

Sightings need to reported to the Ranger’s Office via email wildlife@wpcc.org.uk or the WPCC website recording form at https://www.wpcc.org.uk/nature/nature-notes.

For rare or unusual sightings, reports will need to be accompanied by a photograph or sound file if possible. If you are sending a file with your report, please submit via e-mail wildlife@wpcc.org.uk.

The annual “Weekend of Nature” took place during June, a separate report of observations will be complied by the WPCC staff.

Any comments and suggestions welcome.

Les Evans-Hill
Editor – Nature Notes Newsletter

June to August (Summer) 2025

May 2025

Beetles

Lesser Stag Beetle (Dorcus paralellapipidus): 11 May, Manor Cottage Garden (CC)

Stag Beetle (Lucanus cervus): 30 May, Putney Heath, nr Wildcroft Manor (JS)

Birds

20 people attended the Commons’ organised bird walk to celebrate the International Dawn Chorus Day on 4 May which commenced at 5 a.m., for approximately 2 ½ hours. The following 34 species were recorded: Canada Goose; Mandarin Duck; Mallard; Rock Dove; Stock Dove; Common Wood Pigeon; Common Moorhen; Eurasian Coot; European Herring Gull; Tawny Owl; Great Spotted Woodpecker; European Green Woodpecker; Common Kestrel; Rose-ringed Parakeet; Eurasian Jay; Eurasian Magpie; Western Jackdaw; Carrion Crow; Coal Tit; Eurasian Blue Tit; Great Tit; Long-tailed Tit; Common Chiffchaff; Eurasian Blackcap; Garden Warbler; Common Firecrest; Eurasian Wren; Common Starling; Song Thrush; Common Blackbird; European Robin; Dunnock; Eurasian Chaffinch & European Greenfinch.

Canada Goose (Branta canadensis): 8 May, 14 (including 8 goslings, which sadly reduced to just 1 during the month) on Kingsmere (LE-H)

Greylag Goose (Anser anser): 2 May, 7+ in formation (AE-H); 9 May, 2 over the Plain (LE-H)

Egyptian Goose (Alopochen aegyptiaca): 8 May, 2 on Bluegate (LE-H). 24 May, with 3 goslings on Rushmere (GB)

Mandarin Duck (Aix galericulata)

Mallard (Anas platyrhynchos)

Tufted Duck (Aythya fuligula): 4 May, pair on Queensmere (LE-H)

Common Swift (Apus apus)

Feral Pigeon (Columba livia domestica)

Stock Dove (C. oenas)

Common Wood Pigeon (C. palumbus)

Common Moorhen (Gallinula chloropus)

Eurasian Coot (Fulica atra)

Little Grebe (Tachybaptus ruficollis): Throughout May on Bluegate, breeding (JM/LE-H)

European Herring Gull (Larus argentatus)

Lesser Black-backed Gull (L. fuscus)

Grey Heron (Ardea cinerea): 25 May, 3 over Putney Heath (LE-H)

Eurasian Sparrowhawk (Accipiter nisus): 6 May, headed north over Putney Heath (LE-H)

Red Kite (Milvus milvus): 4th May, 3 over the Large Mound; 10 May, headed north over the large Mound (LE-H)

Common Buzzard (Buteo buteo)

Tawny Owl (Strix aluco): A pair heard throughout May, Gravel Pit Cottage (LE-H).

Great Spotted Woodpecker (Dendrocopos major)

European Green Woodpecker (Picus viridis)

Common Kestrel (Falco tinnunculus)

Eurasian Hobby (Falco subbuteo): 14 May, hawking over the Parkside side of the Plain and Bluegate ~11am; 25 May, 2 over Gravel Pit Cottage (LE-H)

Rose-ringed Parakeet (Psittacula krameri)

Eurasian Jay (Garrulus glandarius)

Eurasian Magpie (Pica pica)

Western Jackdaw (Coloeus monedula)

Carrion Crow (Corvus corone)

Coal Tit (Periparus ater): 4 & 9 May, Putney heath (LE-H)

Eurasian Blue Tit (Cyanistes caeruleus)

Great Tit (Parus major)

Barn Swallow (Hirundo rustica)

Long-tailed Tit (Aegithalos caudatus)

Willow Warbler (Phylloscopus trochilus): 8 May, SE quadrant, Putney Heath (AE-H & LE-H)

Common Chiffchaff (Phylloscopus collybita)

Eurasian Blackcap (Sylvia atricapilla)

Garden Warbler (S. borin): 4 & 9 May, Putney Heath, probably throughout May (LE-H)

Lesser Whitethroat (Curruca curruca): 1st – 3rd May, SW quadrant, Putney Heath (AE-H & LE-H)

Common Whitethroat (C. communis): The large Mound, throughout May (LE-H)

Common Firecrest (Regulus ignicapilla): 1st May, Nature Trail, Windmill Road; 4 & 10 May, Nurses’ Ride (LE-H). 23 May, Transect B (DW)

Goldcrest (R. regulus)

Eurasian Wren (Troglodytes troglodytes)

Eurasian Nuthatch (Sitta europaea)

Eurasian Treecreeper (Certhia familiaris): 23 May, Transect B (DW)

Common Starling (Sturnus vulgaris)

Song Thrush (Turdus philomelos)

Mistle Thrush (T. viscivorus)

Common Blackbird (T. merula)

European Robin (Erithacus rubecula)

House Sparrow (Passer domesticus): 10 May, The Green (LE-H)

Dunnock (Prunella modularis)

Pied Wagtail (Motacilla alba yarrellii): 5 & 9 May, Ranger’s Office (LE-H)

Eurasian Chaffinch (Fringilla coelebs)

European Greenfinch (Chloris chloris)

European Goldfinch (Carduelis carduelis)

Butterflies

Comma (Polygonia c-album): 10 May, Putney heath (LE-H)

Common Blue (Polyommatus icarus): 9 & 14 May, The Plain (LE-H)

Green-veined White (Pieris napi): 3, 8 10 & 15 May, Putney heath (LE-H)

Green Hairstreak (Callophrys rubi): 8-9 May, SW quadrant, Putney Heath; 16 May, Gravel Pit Cottage (LE-H)

Holly Blue (Celastrina argiolus): 8, 10 & 16 May, Putney Heath (LE-H). 12 May, Centre Path (JI)

Orange-tip (Anthocharis cardamines): 3 May, Putney Heath (LE-H)

Painted Lady (Vanessa cardui): 7 May, The Plain (LE-H). 24 May, Manor Cottage garden (CC*)

Peacock (Aglais io): 3, 8 & 10 May, Putney Heath (LE-H)

Red Admiral (Vanessa atalanta): 3, 7, 8 & 16 May, Putney Heath (LE-H)

Small Copper (Lycaena phlaeas): 8 May, the Plain, Wimbledon Common (LE-H)

Small Heath (Coenonympha pamphilus): 9 & 14 May, The Plain (LE-H). Putney Lower Common (JS)

Small White (Pieris rapae)

Speckled Wood (Pararge aegeria): 9 & 16 May, Putney heath (LE-H)

Dragonflies

Black-tailed Skimmer (Orthetrum cancellatum): 14 May, Putney Lower Common (JS)

Broad-bodied Chaser (Libellula depressa): 1 May, garden pond, The Ranger’s Office (LE-H). 10 May, Green Man, Putney Heath (JS)

Moths

Unless stated, observations are from the Nature Notes editor’s Putney Heath garden moth trap:

Beautiful Crescent (Grapholita jungiella): 7 May, the Plain (LE-H)

Blossom Underwing (Orthosia miniosa): 6 May, larval, Putney Heath (NH)

Burnet Companion (Euclidia glyphica): 14 May, 4 on the Plain (LE-H)

Cinnabar (Tyria jacobaeae): 31 May, The Causeway (JS)

Cocksfoot Moth (Glyphipterix simpliciella): 28 May, new to site (LE-H)

Common Fern Moth (Psychoides filicivora): 26 May, new to site (LE-H)

Common Heath (Ematurga atomaria): Throughout May, wherever there is heath (LE-H)

Cryptic Ash Bud Moth (Prays ruficeps): 1 May, new to site (LE-H)

Emperor Moth (Saturnia pavonia): 2 May, dead female, The Ranger’s Office (AE-H)

Jersey Mocha (Cyclophora ruficiliaria): 1 & 8 May, Putney Heath (LE-H)

Lime Dot (Stigmella tiliae): 24 May, new to site (LE-H)

Mother Shipton (Callistege mi): 9 & 14 May, the Plain (LEH)

Mocha (Cyclophora annularia): 1 May, new to site (LE-H)

Pea Moth (Cydia nigricana): 9 May, swept on the Plain, new to site (LE-H)

Plumed Bagworm (Epichnopterix plumella): (LE-H)

Red-tipped Clearwing (Synanthedon formicaeformis): 14 May, Putney Heath (LE-H)

Sandy Longhorn (Nematopogon schwarziellus): 1 May, new to site (LE-H)

Silver Grass-miner (Elachista argentella): 9 & 14 May, swept on the Plain, new to site (LE-H)

Striped Cutter (Phylloporia bistrigella): 26 May, new to site (LE-H)

Southern Grey Tortrix (Cnephasia communana): 2 May, new to site (LE-H)

Woodrush Moth (Glyphipterix fuscoviridella): ~1000s on the Plain from 9 May (LE-H)

Yellow Belle (Aspitates ochrearia): 15 May, the Ranger’s Office, a rare vagrant in Surrey and new to site (LE-H)

Yellow-legged Clearwing (Synanthedon vespiformis): 10 May, Putney Heath (LE-H)

Sawflies

Orange Bordered Oak-cutter (Periclista pubescens): 11 May, larva on Oak, Putney Heath (LE-H)

Recorders
With thanks to:

†AB – Alastair Brown
*AE-H – Angela Evans-Hill
†AH – Andrew Harding
*CC – Colin Cooper
CS – Charles Swift
*GB – Guy Brown
†DW – David Wood
*JI – Julia Iremonger
JM – John Meredith
JN – Josh Nachowitz (eBird)
JO – James Owen (eBird)
JS – Jonathan Startup
JW – Jan Wilczur
†KB – Kath Brown
LE-H – Les Evans-Hill
MB – Mark Bravery (eBird)
MR – Matt Ripley (eBird)
NH – Nick Haswell

† - Transect volunteers
* - WPCC staff
** - WPCC Conservator

April 2025

Birds

Bird Walk 19 April 2025: The following 37 species were recorded during the Commons’ organised bird walk on 19 April: Canada Goose; Greylag Goose; Mute Swan; Egyptian Goose; Mandarin Duck; Mallard; Feral Pigeon; Common Wood Pigeon; Common Moorhen; Eurasian Coot; European Herring Gull; Great Cormorant; Grey Heron; Common Buzzard; Great Spotted Woodpecker; Common Kestrel; Eurasian Jay; Eurasian Magpie; Western Jackdaw; Carrion Crow; Eurasian Blue Tit; Great Tit; Long-tailed Tit; Common Chiffchaff; Eurasian Blackcap; Garden Warbler; Common Whitethroat; Common Firecrest; Goldcrest; Eurasian Wren; Eurasian Nuthatch; Song Thrush; Common Blackbird; European Robin; Dunnock; Eurasian Chaffinch; European Goldfinch.

Greylag Goose (Anser anser): 29 April, 3 flying over the Large Mound (LE-H).

Common Pheasant (Phasianus colchicus): 14 April, male, Roehampton Ride (Lucie, per AE-H).

Common Swift (Apus apus): 28 April, 2 on Rushmere (JO). 29 April, high and headed north over ladies Mile, Putney Heath (LE-H).

Common Cuckoo (Cuculus canorus): 29 April, heard calling London Scottish Golf Club (per CC).

Stock Dove (Columba oenas): Virtually daily. A breeding pair seem to have taken residence in the Kestrel box in Putney Heath SE quadrant (LE-H).

Little Grebe (Tachybaptus ruficollis): 22 April, calling on Bluegate (LE-H). 28 April, Bluegate (JO).

Common Sandpiper (Actitis hypoleucos): 27 April, Bluegate (JM).

Great Cormorant (Phalacrocorax carbo): 30 April, 4 over the Large Mound, Putney Heath (LE-H).

Eurasian Sparrowhawk (Accipiter nisus): Virtually daily, over Putney Heath; 3 April, Kingsmere (LE-H). 28 April, Wimbledon Common (JO).

Common Buzzard (Buteo buteo): Virtually daily, with a max of 6 circling over on 8 April, Putney Heath (LE-H). 3 April, displaying over Jerry’s Hill (JW).

Tawny Owl (Stryx aluco): Male calling most nights, Putney Heath (LE-H).

Barn Swallow (Hirundo rustica): 2 April, 1 over Putney Heath (LE-H). 7 April, Ranger’s Office (AE-H). 14 April, 2 over Rushmere Pond (JO).

Willow Warbler (Phylloscopus trochilus): 10 April, 1 male singing, Inner Park Ride (LE-H).

Common Chiffchaff (P. collybita): Virtually daily.

Eurasian Blackcap (Sylvia atricapilla): Virtually daily.

Garden Warbler (S. borin): First record on 19 April, Putney Heath (LE-H). 26 April, Wimbledon Common (JO). 28 April, the Large Mound and Putney Heath (LE-H).

Lesser Whitethroat (Curruca curruca): 28-30 April, singing and showing on Putney Heath SW quadrant (LE-H).

Common Whitethroat (C. communis): 22 April, Wimbledon Common (JO). 19-30 April, the Large Mound, Putney Heath (LE-H).

Common Firecrest (Regulus ignicapella): 10, 18 & 30 April, near Parkside, Putney Heath; 28 April, Gravel Pit (LE-H). 26 & 30 April, adjacent to Windmill Road, Wimbledon Common (JO).

Goldcrest (R. regulus): Virtually daily (LE-H).

Eurasian Treecreeper (Certhia familiaris): 8 April, Wimbledon Common (JO).

Common Starling (Sturnus vulgaris): Mostly over the Meadow (LE-H).

Mistle Thrush (Turdus viscivorus): Virtually daily.

Grey Wagtail (Motacilla cinerea): 14 April, Queensmere Pond (SM).

Eurasian Chaffinch (Fringilla coelebs): Males singing virtually daily (LE-H).

Butterflies

Brimstone (Gonopteryx rhamni): 4 April, Putney Lower Common (KB). 3 & 7-8 & 28 April, Putney Heath (LE-H).

Comma (Polygonia c-album): 1, 2, 6 & 9 April, Putney Lower Common (KB). 3 April, Jubilee Ride (LE-H). 7, 10 & 28 April, Putney Heath (LE-H).

Green-veined White (Pieris napi): 6 & 9 April, Putney Lower Common (KB). 3, 8 ,10 & 28 April, Putney Heath (LE-H).

Holly Blue (Celastrina argiolus): 7 & 28 April, Putney Heath (LE-H).

Orange-tip (Anthocharis cardamines): 7 & 28 April, Putney Heath (LE-H). 9 April, Putney Lower Common (KB).

Peacock (Aglais io): 2 & 6 April, Putney Lower Common (KB). 3 April, Jubilee Ride; 7-10, 19, 22 & 28 April, Putney Heath (LE-H).

Red Admiral (Vanessa atalanta): 22 April, Putney Heath (LE-H).

Small Copper (Lycaena phlaeas): 29 April, the Large Mound and the Meadow (LE-H).

Small White (Pieris rapae): 8, 10, 22 & 28-29 April, Putney Heath (LE-H).

Speckled Wood (Pararge aegeria): 1 & 4 April, Putney Lower Common (KB). 10, 19, 22 & 28-29 April, Putney Heath (LE-H).

Moths

Unless stated, observations are from the Nature Notes editor’s Putney Heath garden moth trap:

Blossom Underwing (Orthosia miniosa): 6 April (LE-H).

Chocolate-tip (Clostera curtula): 6 & 18 April (LE-H).

Cinnabar (Tyria jacobaeae): 19 & 29 April, The Ranger’s Office (AU/AE-H).

Common Heath (Ematurga atomaria): 28-30 April, a day-flyer wherever there is heath (LE-H).

Emperor Moth (Saturnia pavonia): 16, 19 & 28-29 April, male day-flyer, Putney Heath SW quadrant (LE-H).

Green Longhorn (Adela reaumurella): 8 April, Putney Heath SW quadrant; 10 April (LE-H).

Jersey Mocha (Cyclophora ruficiliaria): 13, 17-18 & 29 April (LE-H).

Lead-coloured Drab (Orthosia populeti): 1 & 7 April (LE-H).

Light Orange Underwing (Archiearis notha): 7 April (LE-H).

Mocha (Cyclophora annularia): 20 April (LE-H).

Orange Underwing (Archiearis parthenias): 7 April (LE-H).

Plumed Bagworm (Epichnopterix plumella): 28-29 April, Putney Heath (LE-H).

Sallow Longhorn (Adela cuprella): 6 April, 4 males over Sallow, Roehampton Ride (LE-H).

Seraphim (Lobophora halterata): 18 & 29 April (LE-H).

Speckled Grass-miner (Elachista rufocinerea): 14 April (LE-H).

Reptiles

Common Lizard (Zootoca vivipara): 28 April, Putney Heath SW quadrant (LE-H).

True Flies

Common Dronefly (Eristalis tenax): Virtually daily, Putney Heath (LE-H).

Dark-edged Bee-fly (Bombilyus major): 1-4, 7- April, Putney Heath (LE-H).

Johann’s Bibio (Bibio johannis): 7 April, Putney Heath (LE-H).

Shieldbug Fly (Phasia hemiptera): 7 April, Putney Heath (LE-H).

St. Mark’s Fly (Bibio marci): 28 April, Putney Heath (LE-H).

Tapered Dronefly (Eristalis pertinax): Virtually daily, Putney Heath (LE-H).

Recorders
With thanks to:

AU – Adrian Upton
*AE-H – Angela Evans-Hill
*CC – Colin Cooper
JM – John Meredith
JO – James Owen
JW – Jan Wilczur
KB – Kate Bradley
LE-H – Les Evans-Hill
*SM – Sarah Murton

*WPCC staff

January/February 2025

Common Buzzard (Buteo buteo): Virtually daily over Putney Heath (LE-H).

Common Snipe (Gallinago gallinago): 12 January, Putney Heath, heading north (SM). 27 January, Putney Heath, disturbed (LE-H).

Cormorant (Phalacrocorax carbo): 3 January, Queensmere (RT).

Firecrest (Regulus ignicappilus): 24 January, 2 on transect (DW).

Grey Heron (Ardea cinerea): 3 January, Queensmere (RT).

Grey Wagtail (Motacilla cinerea): 2 January, 1 on muddy shore of Queensmere Pond (SM).

Greylag Goose (Anser anser): 18 February, 28 on Rushmere (SM).

Little Egret (Tachybaptus ruficollis): 18 February, Beverley Brook (per AE-H).

Mandarin Duck (Aix galericulata): 3 January, 9 females, Kingsmere (JW); 3 pairs, Queensmere (RT).

Redwing (Turdus iliacus): 18 February, 3 near the entrance to the Nature Trail (SM). Most days in small numbers over Putney Heath (LE-H). 23 February, on transect (AB/KB).

Shoveler (Anas clypeata): 3 January, 2 males, Kingsmere (JW). 29 January, 4 males and 1 female, Kingsmere (LE-H). 13 February, 3 on transect, Kingsmere (AH).

Teal (Anas crecca): 3 January, 2 pairs, Queensmere (RT).

Treecreeper (Certhia familiaris): 2 January, 1 near Bluegate (LE-H). 24 January, 3 on transect (DW). 28 February, 4 on transect (DW).

Tufted Duck (Aythya fuligula): 3 January, 2 males, Queensmere (RT). 28 February, 5 on transect (DW).

Sparrowhawk (Accipiter nisus): Virtually daily over Gravel Pit (LE-H).

March

Blackcap (Sylvia atricapilla): 29-31 March, Gravel Pit (LE-H). 20 March, on transect (AH). 27 March, on transect (AB/KB).

Chiffchaff (Phylloscopus collybita): 6 March and daily since, Putney Heath, Putney Heath (LE-H). 15 March, on transect (AH). 27 March, on transect (AB/KB).

Common Buzzard (Buteo buteo): Virtually daily over Putney Heath (LE-H). 31 March, 3 seen at the same time from Richmond Park over the western side of the Common; 1 over the northern end of the golf course, 1 over Gravelly Hill area and 1 over the Warren Farm area (JW).

Common Firecrest (Regulus ignicapilla): 12 March, 2 in courtship display, Nature Trail during the Friends of WPCC Bird Walk; 19 & 29 March, in garden, Gravel Pit (LE-H).

Common Snipe (Gallinago gallinago): 12 March, Putney Heath, flew off pool in NE quadrant of heathland (SM).

Kingfisher (Alcedo atthis): 11 March, 2 on Beverley Brook (SM). 20 March, on transect, Beverley Brook (AH).

Little Egret (Tachybaptus ruficollis): 11 March, Beverley Brook (SM).

Red Kite (Milvus milvus): 30 March, 2 displaying over Gravel Pit (LE-H).

Redwing (Turdus iliacus): 11 March, 35+ over the centre path lower meadow (SM). 20 March, 20 on transect (AH).

Shoveler (Anas clypeata): 15 March, on transect, Kingsmere (AH).

Sparrowhawk (Accipiter nisus): Virtually daily over Gravel Pit (LE-H).

Woodcock (Scolopax rusticola): 1 in flight over tress adjacent to the Plain during public bird walk (LE-H).

Butterflies
January to March

Red Admiral (Vanessa atalanta): 28 February, The Ranger’s Office (AE-H).

Brimstone (Gonopteryx rhamni): 7 March, The Nature Trail (SM). 19, 26 & 29-30 March, Gravel Pit (LE-H).

Comma (Polygonia c-album): 19, 26 & 29-30 March, Gravel Pit (LE-H).

Peacock (Aglais io): 26, 28-30 March, Gravel Pit (LE-H).

Speckled Wood (Pararge aegeria): 29 March, Gravel Pit (LE-H).

Mammals

Bank Vole (Myodes glareolus): 12 January, east side of Hookhamslade pond (JM).

Moths
January to March

Dotted Chestnut (Conistra rubiginea): 21 February, Gravel Pit (LE-H).

Pale Pinion (Lithophane socia): 22 February, Gravel Pit (LE-H).

Black-shouldered Grey (Carpatolechia decorella): 29 March, Gravel Pit (LE-H)

Blossom Underwing (Orthosia miniosa): 23 & 28 March, Putney Heath (LE-H)

Emperor Moth (Saturnia pavonia): 24 & 29 March, Gravel Pit (LE-H)

Spiders

Piratula latitans, during February (NH).

Neon reticulatus, during February (NH).

True Flies
Dark-edged Bee-fly (Bombilyus major): 30 March, Gravel Pit (LE-H).

Recorders
With thanks to:

AB/KB - Alastair Brown/Kath Brown
*AE-H - Angela Evans-Hill
AH - Andrew Harding
DW - David Wood
JM - John Meredith
LE-H - Les Evans-Hill
NH - Nick Haswell
RT - Richard Thomas
*SM - Sarah Murton

*WPCC staff.
**WPCC Conservator

September/October 2024

Amphibians

Common Frog (Rana temporaria): 20 September, ~12, Gravel Pit (LE-H).

Common Toad (Bufo bufo): 20 September, ~12, Gravel Pit (LE-H).

Birds

Barn Swallow (Hirundo rustica): 20 September, Gravel Pit (LE-H). 20 September, 4 over the Plain (TS).

Buzzard (Buteo buteo): 3 September, Spring Cottage area (PB). Virtually daily, Gravel Pit; 14 September, 2 juveniles calling on Putney Heath during the Friends of WPCC Bird Walk; 21 September, 5 adults circling over Gravel Pit (LE-H). 11 October, 3 circling and calling above the windmill (TS).

Chiffchaff (Phylloscopus collybita): 14-15 September, Putney Heath (LE-H). 20 September, feeding on exposed mud on Bluegate (TS).

Cormorant (Phalacrocorax carbo): 2 October & 5-6 October, 8, 5 & 12 respectively on Rushmere (AH).

Egyptian Goose (Alopochen aegyptiaca): 12 September, 3 on Rushmere (HS).

Firecrest (Regulus ignicappilus): September & October, most days, Gravel Pit (LE-H).

Greenfinch (Chloris chloris): 6 on the Manor Cottage feeders (TS).

Grey Heron (Ardea cinerea): 5-6 October, 2 on both days, Rushmere (AH).

Grey Wagtail (Motacilla cinerea): 20 September, Bluegate & Queensmere (TS).

Greylag (Anser anser): 11 October, 3 on Rushmere (RT).

Hobby (Falco subbuteo): 19 September, Putney Heath (LE-H).

Kestrel (Falco tinnunculus): September, Putney Heath (SM). 20 September, hovering over the car park; 11 October, ‘tame’ bird near Tibbets Corner (TS).

Kingfisher (Alcedo atthis): 14 September, Kingsmere (per PH).

Little Egret (Tachybaptus ruficollis): 3 September, Bluegate (MC). 6 September, overhead the Ranger’s Office from the Queensmere direction heading east (SM). 15 September, Bluegate during the WPCC Bird Walk (LE-H). 5 October, Rushmere (AH), 5-6 October, Rushmere (NG).

Mandarin Duck (Aix galericulata): 30 September, 44 present ~18:00hrs, Kingsmere (JW).

Meadow Pipit (Anthus pratensis): 14 September, 2 calling over the Plain during the Friends of WPCC Bird Walk (LE-H).

Nuthatch (Sitta europaea): 20 September, feeding on exposed mud on Bluegate (TS).

Peregrine (Falco peregrinus): 15 September, Putney Heath (LE-H).

Redwing (Turdus iliacus): 27 October, Putney JHeath (LE-H).

Sparrowhawk (Accipiter nisus): 15 September & 3 October, Putney Heath; 19 & 25 September, Gravel Pit (LE-H).

Stonechat (Saxicola rubicola): 20 September, 4 on The Plain; 11 October, cleared gorse patch at Ladies Mile (TS). 27 October, The Plain (LE-H).

Beetles

Devil’s Coach-horse (Ocypus olens): 20 September, Gravel Pit (AE-H).

Butterflies

Brimstone (Gonepteryx rhamni): 22 September, Ladies Mile/Jubilee Ride (LE-H).

Red Admiral (Vanessa atalanta): 14 September, >12 during a continental influx, Putney Heath (LE-H).

Small Copper (Lycaena phlaeas): 14 September, Putney Heath (LE-H).

Small Heath (Coenonympha pamphilus): 14 September, Putney Heath; 15 September, Gravel Pit (LE-H).

Speckled Wood (Pararge aegeria): 11 October, 3 near the bridle path (RT).

Dragonflies

Common Darter (Sympetrum striolatum): 21 September, 5 on Bluegate (RT).

Migrant Hawker (Aeshna mixta):18 September, Gravel Pit (LE-H). 21 September (15) & 11 October on Bluegate (RT).

Ruddy Darter (Sympetrum sanguineum): 21 September, 50+ on Bluegate, 1 on Hookhamslade (RT).

Southern Hawker (Aeshna cyanea): 21 September, Hookhamslade (RT).

Willow Emerald Damselfly (Chalcolestes viridis): 12 September, Scio Pond (per PH); 18-20 September, Gravel Pit (LE-H). 21 September, 70+ & 11 October, 3 including a pair the female of which was ovipositing into willow trigs right at the edge of the water on Bluegate (RT).

Fungi

Fly Agaric (Amanita muscaria): Quite a clump, Bluegate (RT).

Hoverflies

Batman Hoverfly (Myathropa florea): Gravel Pit (LE-H).

Moths

Aspen Leaf-miner (Phyllonorycter sagitella): New to VC17-Surrey, UK rare, tenanted mines on Aspen (Populus tremula) bred through to adults (LE-H).

Broom Buff (Agonopterix scopariella): 7 September, at light, Gravel Pit (LE-H).

Clifden Nonpareil (Catocala fraxini): 6, 11 & 17 September, at light, Gravel Pit (LE-H).

Great Oak Beauty (Hypomecis roboraria): 1-7 & 15 September, rare 2nd generation, at light, Gravel Pit (LE-H).

L-album Wainscot (Mythimna l-album): 5, 17-18 & 20 September, at light, Gravel Pit (LE-H).

Pied Rabbit Moth (Ypsolopha sequella): 19-20 September, at light, Gravel Pit (LE-H).

Plumed Fan-foot (Pechipogo plumigeralis): 1 & 5 September, at light, Gravel Pit (LE-H).

Yellow-legged Clearwing (Synanthedon vespiformis): 19 September, to VES pheromone lure, Gravel Pit (LE-H).

Recorders
With thanks to:

AE-H Angela Evans-Hill*
AH Anna Hansell
JW Jan Wilczur
LE-H Les Evans-Hill
MC Mike Caldwell
NG Neil Grover
PB Peter Ball
PH Peter Haldane*
RT Richard Thomas
SM Sarah Murton*
TS Tim Straw

*WPCC staff.

Images
Moth Images - Les Evans-Hill
Grey Wagtail - Dave Wills - historical

July/August 2024

Amphibians

No reports

Birds

Buzzard (Buteo buteo): Regular during July and August including up to 2 juveniles calling every day during August, Gravel Pit (LE-H). 11 July, 2 over Warren Farm area (AH). 25 August, 2 adults over Jerry's Hill and a juvenile calling persistently and seen low over the wood near the Curling Pond (JW).

Common Tern (Sterna hirundo): 1 July, Rushmere, briefly at 12:00 (RT).

Common Whitethroat (Sylvia communis): 7 July, the Mounds (AH).

Firecrest (Regulus ignicappilus): 7 July, edge of path running parallel to Ladies Mile (AH). Last week of August, Gravel Pit (LE-H).

Garden Warbler (Sylvia borin): 18 July, Green Ride, between the Memorial Ride junction and North View (AB/KB).

Greylag Goose (Answer anser): 16 August, Rushmere (RT).

Hobby (Falco subbuteo): 13 July, 7 & 30 August, Putney Heath (LE-H). 28 July, Putney Heath (CW).

Kestrel (Falco tinnunculus): 16 July & 22 August, The Plain (SM).

Little Grebe (Tachybaptus ruficollis): 18 July, 2 including a “sizable juvenile” on Bluegate (AB/KB).

Sparrowhawk (Accipiter nisus): 13 July, Kingsmere, heading north at 3.30pm; 12 August, Gravel Pit (LE-H). 25 August, adult female displayed briefly over Jerry's Hill before stooping into wood (JW).

Swift (Apus apus): 4 July, about 9pm, >30 swifts swooping along Southside Common and Rushmere; 14 & 30 July, up to 30+, Rushmere (AHa).

Willow Warbler (Phylloscopus trochilus): 16 August, Hookhamslade (RT).

Bees

Green-eyed Flowerbee (Anthophora bimaculata): 7 August (RT).

Red-tailed Bumblebee (Bombus laidarius): 7 August (RT).

White-tailed Bumblebee (Bombus lucorum): 7 August (RT).

Buff-tailed Bumblebee (Bombus terrestris): 7 August (RT).

Common Carder Bee (Bombus pascourum): 7 August (RT).

Beetles

Orange Ladybird (Halyzia sedecimguttata): 7 August (RT).

Stag Beetle (Lucanus cervus): 16 August (SC).

Summer Chafer (Amphimallon solstitiale): 4 July, Rushmere, reports of many being predated by Swift (AHa).

Bugs

Gorse Shieldbug (Piezodorus lituratus): Ladies Mile, 20 August (RT).

Butterflies

Common Blue (Polyommatus icarus): 20 August, The Plain (RT).

Marbled White (Melanargia galathea): 3 July, Wilberforce meadow; 4 July, 2 in Tibbet’s Meadow; 11 July, Curling Pond; 16 July, 2 over the Plain (SM). 4, 13 & 19 July, Gravel Pit (LE-H). 19 July, SW Commons (SR).

Purple Hairstreak (Favonius quercus): 1, 11 & 13 July plus odd days through August, Gravel Pit; 13 July, Putney Heath meadow (LE-H). 19 July, SW Commons (SR).

Silver-washed Fritillary (Argynnis paphia): Inner Park Ride close to Parkside (LE-H).

Small Copper (Lycaena phlaeas): 8 July, Southern Pound meadow (SM). 19 July, SW Commons (SR).

Small Heath (Coenonympha pamphilus): 20 August, The Plain (RT)

Small/Essex Skipper (Thymelicus sylvestris/lineola): 11 July, survey sample produced 8 Small and 2 Essex, Ladies Mile north of Inner Park Ride (LE-H).

White Admiral (Limenitis camilla): Not strictly a Commons sighting; 13 July, one interrupted play for a while during the final of the Men’s Doubles on Centre Court (CM).

Dragonflies

Azure Damselfly (Coenagrion puella): 13 July, Rushmere (SR).

Banded Demoiselle (Calopteryx splendens): 13 July (SR). 7 August, Ravine Pond (RT).

Black-tailed Skimmer (Orthetrum cancellatum): 1 July, Gravel Pit (LE-H). 13 July, Rushmere (SR). 7 August, Bluegate (RT).

Blue-tailed Damselfly (Ischnura elegans): 7 August, 3 on Bluegate (RT).

Broad-bodied Chaser (Libellula depressa): 13 July, Bluegate (SR).

Brown Hawker (Aeshna grandis): 13 July, Bluegate (SR). 7 August, Bluegate; 20 August, Queensmere (RT).

Common Blue Damselfly (Enallagma cyathigerum): 13 July, Rushmere (SR). 7 August, 100+ on Queensmere; 16 August, 4 on Rushmere; 16 August, 2 on Bluegate; 20 August, Queensmere (RT).

Common Darter (Sympetrum striolatum): 13 July, Bluegate & Rushmere (SR). 7 August, 7 on Bluegate; 16 August, 4 on Bluegate; 20 August, 2 on Ranger’s Office Pond (RT).

Emerald Damselfly (Lestes sponsa): 13 July, Bluegate (SR). 7 August, 8 on Bluegate; 16 August, 15 on Bluegate (RT).

Emperor (Anax imperator): 13 July, Bluegate & Rushmere (SR). 7 August, 2 on Bluegate and 2 on Queensmere; 16 August, Bluegate (RT).

Migrant Hawker (Aeshna mixta): 16 August, 4 on Bluegate including 2 mating; 20 August, Queensmere (RT).

Ruddy Darter (Sympetrum sanguineum): 13 July, Bluegate (SR). 7 August, 3 along Parkside between Bus Stop and Bluegate; Hookhamslade, 40+ Bluegate; 16 August, 50+ on Bluegate; 16 August, 7 on Hookhamslade (RT).

Red-eyed Damselfly (Erythromma najas): 7 August, Queensmere (RT).

Small Red-eyed Damselfly (Erythromma viridulum): 13 July, Rushmere (SR); 20 August, Queensmere (RT).

Southern Hawker (Aeshna cyanea): 7 & 16 August, Hookhamslade (RT).

Willow Emerald Damselfly (Chalcolestes viridis): 13 July, Bluegate (SR). 7 August, 5 on Bluegate and 2 on Queensmere; 16 August, 6 on Rushmere; 16 August, 11 on Bluegate (RT).

Hoverflies

Hornet Plumehorn (Volucella zonaria): 7 August, Car Park (RT).

Pied Plumehorn (Volucella pellucens): 7 August, Car Park (RT).

Wasp Plumehorn (Volucella inanis): 7 August, Car Park (RT).

Moths

Beautiful Silver-mark (Promalactis procerella): 15 July, at light, Gravel Pit, 2nd site record of a rare and occasional immigrant (LE-H).

Birch Mocha (Cyclophora albipunctata): 25, 29-31 July, 7, 11-12, 14 & 28-29 September, Gravel Pit (LE-H).

Cinnabar (Tyria jacobaeae): 15 July, larvae on Ragwort, PLS fairground site (SM).

Clay Triple-lines (Cyclophora linearia): 11 July, 2, 7, 11-4, 26 & 28 August, Gravel Pit (LE-H).

Cloaked Carpet (Euphyia biangulata): 2 July, Gravel Pit (LE-H).

Cotoneaster Webworm (Athrips rancidella): 22 July, Gravel Pit (LE-H).

Dark Crimson Underwing (Catocala sponsa): 18, 23, 25 July & 12 August, Gravel Pit (LE-H).

Dusky Sallow (Eremobia ochroleuca): 16 July, on Ragwort, west of the windmill car park (MJ).

Jersey Mocha (Cyclophora ruficiliaria): 25, 28-31 July, 1-7, 11-14, 26, 28-29 August, a recent colonist (LE-H).

Leopard Moth (Zeuzera pyrina): 4 July, 2 at light trap, Gravel Pit (LE-H).

Light Crimson Underwing (Catocala promissa): 30 July, Gravel Pit (LE-H).

Pinion-streaked Snout (Schrankia costaestrigalis): 12 August, Gravel Pit (LE-H).

Puss Moth (Cerura vinula): 3 July, larva on Aspen, Putney Heath, Ladies Mile north of Inner Park Ride (LE-H).

Red Underwing (Catocala nupta): 27 August, Gravel Pit (LE-H).

Rosy Minor (Litoligia literosa): 16 July, Gravel Pit (LE-H).

Sallow Clearwing (Synanthedon flaviventris): 24 July, Putney Heath, pheromone lure (LE-H).

Six-spot Burnet (Zygaena filipendulae): 27 July, 4 at a pheromone lure on the Plain meant for an unrelated species Six-belted Clearwing (Bembecia ichneumoniformis) (LE-H).

Small Emerald (Hemistola chrysoprasaria): 28 July, at light, Gravel Pit, new to the Commons (LE-H).

Reptiles

Common Lizard (Zootoca vivipara): 31 July, Bluegate (per AE-H).

Robberflies

Brown Heath Robberfly (Tolmerus cingulatus): 7 August (RT).

Wasps

Bee-wolf (Philanthus triangulum): 7 August (RT).

Recorders
With thanks to:

AB
Alastair Brown
AE-H
*Angela Evans-Hill
AH
Andrew Harding
AHa
Anna Hansell
CM
Cluny Macpherson
CW
Claire Williams
JW
Jan Wilczur
KB
Kath Brown
LE-H
Les Evans-Hill
MJ
**Michael Johnston
RT
Richard Thomas
SC
Susannah Cannell
SM
*Sarah Murton
SR
Simon Riley
*WPCC staff.
**WPCC Conservator.

Images
Leopard Moth
LE-H
Firecrest
by kind permission of Shaun Ferguson
Broad-bodied Chaser
AE-H
Small Copper
Dave Wills (historic)
Small Emerald
LE-H
Dusky Sallow
Michael Johnston

May/June 2024

Amphibians

Smooth Newt (Lissotriton vulgaris), 27 June, Ranger’s Office, nature garden (AE-H).

Birds

Buzzard (Buteo buteo), 9 June, an immature hovered low over the large mound before flying off towards Kingsmere (JW); 29 June, Warren Farm (AH); throughout May and June around Gravel Pit (LE-H).

Common Tern (Sterna hirundo), 30 June, Rushmere, fishing over the pond at 14:00 (RT); also reported by JL.

Garden Warbler (Sylvia borin), throughout May and June, Ladies Mile south of Inner Park Ride (LE-H); 3 June, in trees at the junction of Ladies Mile/Roehampton Ride (AE-H).

Grey Wagtail (Motacilla cinerea), 28 May, 4 along Beverley Brook (SM); 4 during the first week of June, Gravel Pit (LE-H).

Hoopoe (Upupa epops), 20 May, unconfirmed report from a recorder with demonstrable experience of this species abroad, about 06:50 around the Kingsmere area across the A3 to the Roehampton/Putney side of the Common between roundabout and Roehampton Lane (SG).

Kingfisher (Alcedo atthis), 11 June, Beverley Brook between Brook cottage bridge and the BCB bridge (SM).

Little Grebe (Tachybaptus ruficollis), 21 June, Bluegate (AB/KB); 30 June, 2 juveniles on Bluegate (RT).

Mandarin (Aix galericulata), 30 June, 18 ducklings on Bluegate (RT).

Red Kite (Milvus milvus), 24 May, 3 over Gravel Pit (LE-H); 9 June, 5 in total – four birds at 09:50 over Jerry's Hill from the north, one went south and another south-west. At 10:10 a fifth bird went west over the small mound (JW).

Spotted Flycatcher (Muscicapa striata), 21 June, east end of Memorial Drive (AB/KB).

Starling (Sturnus vulgaris), 17 May, flock over Gravel Pit (AE-H).

Swift (Apus apus), 9 June: >10 over the large mound (JW).

Treecreeper (Certhia familiaris), 7 June, 3 around Gravel Pit (LE-H).

Whitethroat (Sylvia communis), end of May and throughout June, the large mound (LE-H).

Willow Warbler (Phylloscopus trochilus), throughout May, various individuals noted around Putney Heath south of the A3 (LE-H).

Beetles

Stag Beetle (Lucanus cervus), 6 June, female, Telegraph Road (GD); 7 June: female, wandering the pavement between Mill Hill Road and Putney Lower Common, approx. 15:45 (KD).

Wasp Beetle (Clytus arietis), 17 May, Gravel Pit (LE-H).

Butterflies

Common Blue (Polyommatus icarus), 2 June, 3 on the Plain (LE-H).

Green Hairstreak (Callophrys rubi), 12 May, Ladies Mile south of Inner Park Ride; individuals also on15 May and 2 June (LE-H).

Marbled White (Melanargia galathea): 25 June, Gravel Pit (LE-H).

Purple Hairstreak (Favonius quercus), 23 June, Gravel Pit (LE-H).

Purple Emperor (Apatura iris), 25 June, Gravel Pit (LE-H).

White Admiral (Limenitis camilla), 26 June, Gravel Pit (LE-H).

Dragonflies

Broad-bodied Chaser (Libellula depressa), 20 May, Gravel Pit (LE-H).

Azure Damselfly (Coenagrion puella), 22 June, Ladies Mile north of Inner Park Ride (LE-H).

Emerald Damselfly (Lestes sponsa), 30 June, 8 on Rushmere and 2 on Bluegate (RT).

Emperor (Anax imperator), 6 June, Ladies Mile south of Inner Park Ride (LE-H).

Fungi

Red Cap, (Species unknown), 12 June, Putney Lower Common (KD).

Gastropods

Roman Snail (Helix pomatia), 10 June, location withheld (A-LB).

Moths

Cinnabar (Tyria jacobaeae), 27 June, >20 larva on Ragwort, Ranger’s Office, nature garden (AE-H).

Common Heath (Ematurga atomaria), 19 May, first record, daytime, Ladies Mile north of Inner Park Ride (LE-H).

Double Line (Mythimna turca), 21 June, first record, light trap, Gravel Pit (LE-H).

Mullein (Cucullia verbasci), 31 May, 25 larvae on Buddleia and a further 5 on a nearby plant, The Bungalow (PH).

Old Lady (Mormo maura), 27 June, Ranger’s Office (AE-H).

Puss Moth (Cerura vinula), 11 June, larva on Aspen, Ladies Mile north of Inner Park Ride (LE-H).

Reptiles

Common Lizard (Zootoca vivipara), 24 May, Ladies Mile south of Inner Park Ride (LE-H).

Sawflies

Alder Swordtail (Xiphydria camelus), 19 June, female, dead, near Scio Pond (LE-H).

Wasps

Eremotylus curvinervis, Ophion brocki, O. minutus, O. mocsaryi, O. ocellaris, O. paraparvulus & O. ventricosus, various dates during May, light trap, Gravel Pit. Natural History Museum (London) ‘Nocternal Wasps’, a parasitic wasp citizen science project (LE-H).

Recorders

With thanks to:

A-LB	Anna-Louise Burdett
AB	Alastair Brown
AE-H	*Angela Evans-Hill
AH	Andrew Harding
GD	Gary Dunn
JL	John Lucas
JW	Jan Wilczur
KB	Kath Brown
KD	Katie Davies
LE-H	Les Evans-Hill
PH	*Peter Haldane
RT	Richard Thomas
SG	Sofia Graves
SM	*Sarah Murton

*WPCC staff.

Images

Common Tern	RT
Emperor	LE-H
Green Hairstreak	LE-H
Mullein	PH
*Ophion ventricosus*	LE-H
Wasp Beetle	LE-H

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