Rare Birds in The Netherlands in 2016
This is the 37th annual report on rare birds in the Netherlands to be published in Dutch Birding. It comprises records from 2016 as well as belated and reconsidered records, dating back to 1893, which have been evaluated by the Dutch rarities committee, the Commissie Dwaalgasten Nederlandse Avifauna (CDNA). Several 2016 reports are still under review or awaiting submission and could therefore not be included. In addition, some reports for 2015 and earlier years are still under consideration for various reasons. The increase in records entered online on internet portals such as www.waarneming.nl reveals many new details about past records. For the sake of completeness, date extensions are presented in this report.
Details included for each record are, if available: date(s); location and/or municipality (municipal divisions as on 1 January 2017); province; number of birds if more than one, plumage and sex; type of record if ringed, photographed, sound-recorded, videoed or found dead (and where specimen is stored, if known); names of up to three observers involved in finding, identifying and recording, and relevant references in the literature, which normally include (inter)national but not regional journals, and published photographs. Records from 2015 lasting into 2016 that already have been published in the 2015 report (Haas et al 2016) are repeated here without reference. Observations not (yet) submitted but mentioned in the 2015 report are not repeated in this report. The sequence of the records in the species accounts is from the current year backwards, with records within one year presented chronologically. Numbers after each (sub)species’ name refer to the total number of individuals 1 from 1 January 1800 to 31 December 1979, 2 since 1 January 1980 but excluding 3 the current year. Taxa marked with an asterisk * are new to the Dutch list.
The following CDNA members voted on some or all of the records in this report: Garry Bakker, Rob S A van Bemmelen, Ruud F J van Beusekom, Christian Brinkman, Thijs Fijen, Diederik Kok, James Lidster, Eddy Nieuwstraten, Roy Slaterus, Vincent van der Spek and Rik Winters. Marcel Haas (until May 2017) and Gerjon Gelling (from May 2017), with the assistance of August van Rijn, supported the committee as non-voting archivists and assisted by submitting many reports published on national and regional websites. Reports can be submitted, preferably using the electronic submission form on www.dutchavifauna.nl or filling in this form after entering a record on www.waarneming.nl; the online database on www.dutchavifauna.nl contains all records of rare birds up to 2016 (cf Dutch Birding 34: 346, 2012). Here, also recently accepted records or rejected reports as well as reports currently under review are listed.
Decisions regarding taxonomy have been delegated to the Dutch committee for avian systematics (Commissie Systematiek Nederlandse Avifauna; CSNA).
In 2016, at least 374 species were recorded, which is already five species above the average of 369 over the last 10 years (figure 1). This number may rise depending on pending reports. 2016 was a very good year. No less than six species were new to the Dutch list in 2016: Redhead Aythya americana, Masked Shrike Lanius nubicus, Moustached Warbler Acrocephalus melanopogon, Siberian Rubythroat Calliope calliope, Siberian Accentor Prunella montanella and Black-headed Wagtail Motacilla feldegg. With these additions (and the deletion of White-crowned Sparrow Zonotrichia leucophrys), the Dutch list now numbers 517 species. Other highlights for 2016 included the second Great Knot Calidris tenuirostris, Eastern Crowned Warbler Phylloscopus coronatus and Western Rufous-tailed Scrub Robin Cercotrichas galactotes galactotes, fourth Rufous Turtle Dove Streptopelia orientalis meena (and sixth Oriental Turtle Dove S orientalis sensu lato) and Stilt Sandpiper C himantopus, fourth to sixth Eastern Black Redstart Phoenicurus ochruros phoenicuroides, fifth Forster’s Tern Sterna forsteri and sixth Western Subalpine Warbler Sylvia inornata. In addition, 2016 was a good year for Squacco Heron Ardeola ralloides (16 records), Hume’s Leaf Warbler P humei (nine), Pacific Golden Plover Pluvialis fulva and Lesser Yellowlegs Tringa flavipes (seven), Radde’s Warbler P schwarzi (five), Black-winged Kite Elanus caeruleus and Baird’s Sandpiper C bairdii (four), and Alpine Swift Apus melba and Alpine Accentor P collaris (three).
Systematic list of records
Surf Scoter / Brilzee-eend Melanitta perspicillata 3,31,3
22 March, Camperduin, Bergen, Noord-Holland, female (N F van der Ham); 28 April, Schoorl aan Zee, Bergen, Noord-Holland, male (R Slaterus); 19 November, Rottumerplaat, Eemsmond, Groningen, male (N de Vries).
Another good year for this species; the past 10 years produced half of all records. All three records involved birds flying by. Both records near Bergen coincided with exceptional numbers (100 000s) of Common Scoters M nigra gathering along this part of the coast.
Marbled Duck / Marmereend Marmaronetta angustirostris 0,1,0
A well-visited first-year at Huis ter Heide, Tilburg, Noord-Brabant, from 24 september to 6 October (Dutch Birding 38: 473, plate 719, 2016) has not been accepted as a presumably wild bird (see Rejected reports).
* Redhead / Amerikaanse Tafeleend Aythya americana 0,0,1
19 January intermittently to 13 March, Van Starkenborghkanaal, Aduard, Noordhorn and Zuidhorn, Zuidhorn, Groningen, adult male, photographed, videoed (G van Noord et al; Dutch Birding 38: 194, plate 298, 256, plate 391, 2016).
This unringed bird provoked much discussion. In the canal where it was observed on 13 days during its 55-day stay, it mainly associated with Mallards Anas platyrhynchos but most of the days it could not be located as it appeared to move around quite a lot. A few primaries and tail-feathers showed some minor damage. Regardless, it was twitched by many birders. Since the species is regarded as a possible vagrant to western Europe (eg, records in Britain, Iceland and Ireland) and the bird’s behaviour and plumage were considered to be not at odds with a wild bird, the CDNA accepted the bird as the first.
Ring-necked Duck / Ringsnaveleend Aythya collaris 5,35,2
13 March to 2 May, Polder Wijde Wormer, Wormerland, Noord-Holland, adult male, photographed, sound-recorded, videoed (N Hopman, R Bekebrede et al; Dutch Birding 38: 256, plate 392, 2016); 27 November, Vinkhuizen, Groningen, Groningen, Groningen, male, photographed (H de Graaff).
Tufted x Ring-necked Duck / Kuifeend x Ringsnaveleend Aythya fuligula x collaris 0,8,1
20 January to 13 March, Koarnwertersân (Kornwerderzand), Súdwest-Fryslân, Friesland, adult male, photographed (R Offereins et al).
2013 16 December 2012 to 13 April and 31 December to 8 April 2014, Natuurplas Breeveld, Woerden, Woerden, Utrecht, adult male, photographed (E Schuller et al).
The Woerden record concerns a date extension of a returning individual.
Lesser Scaup / Kleine Topper Aythya affinis 0,15,3
12 December 2015 to 2 February and 19 March to 1 April, Dijkwielen and Zuiderhaven, Den Oever, Hollands Kroon, Noord-Holland, male, photographed, videoed (I van Veldhuisen et al); 23 January to 27 February, Jachthaven, Andijk, Medemblik, Noord-Holland, male, photographed (R S A van Bemmelen, S Rijnbeek et al); 15 November, Pluuthaven, Zeewolde, Flevoland, male, photographed (T van Oerle, J Vlot); 16 December, Wolderwijd, Zeewolde, Flevoland, male, photographed (D Kok).
2004 4 November, Gooimeer, Huizen, Huizen, Noord-Holland, male, photographed (R F J van Beusekom).
The bird at Den Oever was already mentioned in last year’s report but only until 2 February.
Bufflehead / Buffelkopeend Bucephala albeola 0,7,0
3 November 2015 to 26 April and 5 November to 27 May 2017, Gaatkensplas and surroundings, Barendrecht, Zuid-Holland, adult male, photographed, videoed (M Peene et al); 6 January to 13 April and 16 July to 21 November and 24 December to 12 March 2017, Den Oever and IJsselmeer, Hollands Kroon, Noord-Holland, adult male, photographed, videoed (P van Franeker et al).
2015 21 September to 10 October, Nieuwe Robbengat, Lauwersmeer, De Marne, Groningen, first-winter male or adult female, photographed, videoed (M Olthoff et al).
Two records from Noord-Holland and Zuid-Holland concern long-staying or returning birds (the latter since November 2004 (!) and the former from 4 October 2014 to 13 April 2015 and again on 21-23 October 2015). The bird at Lauwersmeer was the seventh record, bringing the total since 2012 to five.
Blue-winged Teal / Blauwvleugeltaling Anas discors 6,34,1
10-18 January, Rammelwaard, Voorst, Gelderland, adult male, photographed (A Mulder, R Wester et al).
The third record for the inland province of Gelderland. So far, coastal Noord-Holland has been the most productive, with 10 records.
Green-winged Teal / Amerikaanse Wintertaling Anas carolinensis 6,69,-
2002 20-21 April, De Zeearend, Oostvaardersplassen, Lelystad, Flevoland, male, photographed (V van der Spek et al).
The species is no longer considered since 1 January 2015 but the CDNA still welcomes reports from before this date.
Rufous Turtle Dove / Meenatortel Streptopelia orientalis meena 0,3,1
30-31 October, Kroonspolder, Vlieland, Friesland, first calendar-year, ringed, photographed (F Majoor et al; Dutch Birding 38: 474, plate 722, 2016).
The first Oriental Turtle Dove S orientalis dates from as recent as the winter of 2009/10. Since then, five more have been recorded of which two could not be assigned to subspecies; the other four were accepted as Rufous Turtle Dove. The 2016 bird was the first to be ringed. A bird photographed on Vlieland on 20 October 2012 (cf van Duivendijk 2016; cf Dutch Birding 38: 294, plate 458-459, 2016) has only recently been submitted.
Red-billed Tropicbird / Roodsnavelkeerkringvogel Phaethon aethereus 0,0,0
A tideline corpse was found on Texel, Noord-Holland, on 17 January. The identification was accepted but the corpse was so decomposed that the stomach was missing and, therefore, the gastric contents could not be defined. It therefore remained unclear whether it died in the (Dutch part of the) North Sea. Another beached individual was found at Egmond aan Zee, Noord-Holland, in January 1986 (Bruinzeel 1986). This bird was not accepted because its stomach contained remains of fish species that do not occur in the North Sea.
Alpine Swift / Alpengierzwaluw Apus melba 7,55,3
27 March, Westkapelle, Veere, Zeeland, photographed (H Reijnhoudt, C Beeke et al; Dutch Birding 38: 261, plate 401, 2016); 20 July, Den Burg, Texel, Noord-Holland, photographed (T Schipper); 1 October, Hazewater, Leusden, Utrecht, photographed (M Dijksterhuis et al; Dutch Birding 38: 477, plate 725, 2016).
The individual at Westkapelle stayed just long enough to enable a few local birders to see it before it was chased off by a Peregrine Falcon Falco peregrinus and disappeared.
Little Crake / Klein Waterhoen Zapornia parva 36,27,4
22 April to 6 May, Wetering West, Weerribben, Steenwijkerland, Overijssel, male, sound-recorded (K Vedder et al); 2 May to 10 July, Wetering Oost, Weerribben, Steenwijkerland, Overijssel, male, sound-recorded (H de Lange et al); 18 May to 6 June, Beekslanden, Buinen, Borger-Odoorn, Drenthe, male, sound-recorded (C Teule, A-W Faber et al); 4-7 July, De Onlanden, Peizermade, Noordenveld, Drenthe, male, sound-recorded (F Tijsterman, W van Boekel).
With 15 records in the past five years, this species is doing well. North-western Overijssel is among the most productive regions.
European Storm Petrel / Stormvogeltje Hydrobates pelagicus -,129 (in 1982-99),-
1997 5 October, Camperduin, Bergen, Noord-Holland (N F van der Ham, W Schep et al).
The species was considered in 1982-99 and the CDNA still welcomes records from this period.
Squacco Heron / Ralreiger Ardeola ralloides 25 (since 1866),65,16
16-19 May, Afferdensche en Deestsche Waarden, Afferden, Druten, Gelderland, summer plumage, photographed, videoed (M de Jong, R Wester et al); 3-11 June, De Onlanden, Noordenveld, Drenthe, summer plumage, photographed, videoed (T Mulder et al); 5 June, Scheelhoek, Stellendam, Goedereede, Zuid-Holland, summer plumage, photographed (M Hoekstein); 5 June, Vockestaert, Schiedam, Zuid-Holland, photographed (G Goselink); 6-11 June, Noordse Dorp, Nieuwkoopse Plassen, Nieuwkoop, Zuid-Holland, summer plumage, photographed, videoed (via F van der Meer; Dutch Birding 38: 339, plate 530, 2016); 10-11 June, Wolfsblok, Polder Mastenbroek, Kampen, Overijssel, photographed (H Pelleboer, H Pelleboer, via M Bunskoek); 11-14 June, Dwingelderveld, Westerveld, Drenthe, summer plumage, photographed (O Carmi, P M A van der Wielen et al); 17 June, Polder Lopikerkapel, Lopik, Utrecht, summer plumage, photographed (E C de Klein); 22 June, Kamperhoek, Dronten, Flevoland, summer plumage, photographed (G Berger et al); 23-25 June, Dannemeer, Slochteren, Groningen, summer plumage, photographed (M Verduin et al); 24 June, Donge, Geertruidenberg, Geertruidenberg, Noord-Brabant, summer plumage, photographed (M Straathof, L de Waard); 30 June to 2 July, Zuidpolder, Muiden, Gooise Meren, Noord-Holland, summer plumage, photographed (J Jansen et al); 30 June to 3 July, Bovenwater, Lelystad, Flevoland, summer plumage, photographed, videoed (J D Eerdmans et al); 4 July, Santpoort-Zuid, Bloemendaal, Noord-Holland, sound-recorded (A B van den Berg); 23 July, De Onlanden, Tynaarlo, Drenthe, summer plumage, photographed (J Lok); 15 August, Harderbroek, Zeewolde, Flevoland, photographed (R Alkema, W Smit).
With 16 records, including no less than 13 between 3 June and 4 July, 2016 was a record year. The contrast with the previous year was therefore strong, since 2015 was the only year this century without any. The previous record year was 2012 with 10 records (concerning 11 individuals).
American Golden Plover / Amerikaanse Goudplevier Pluvialis dominica 1,44,3
17-26 May, Kwelder, Schiermonnikoog, Friesland, photographed (P de Vries et al); 18-19 August, Oost, Texel, Noord-Holland, and 3 September, Scheidingsvliet, Julianadorp, Den Helder, Noord-Holland, second calendar-year, photographed, videoed (R F J van Beusekom, R E Brouwer); 27 October, Mastenbroek, Kampen, Overijssel, adult, photographed (G Gerritsen).
Pacific Golden Plover / Aziatische Goudplevier Pluvialis fulva 9,54,7
4 February to 20 March and 6 December to 14 February 2017, Oostdijk, Goedereede, Zuid-Holland, photographed, videoed (G Tanis et al); 9-10 July, Eerste Kroonspolder, Vlieland, Friesland, and 22-28 July, Hoofdweg, Texel, Noord-Holland, second calendar-year, photographed (R Wilschut, J de Bruijn et al); 20 July, Slikken van Flakkee, Goeree-Overflakkee, Zuid-Holland, photographed (P A Wolf et al); 4-6 August, Ruygeborg, Nieuwkoop, Nieuwkoop, Zuid-Holland, photographed (H Russer, F van der Meer, P van der Meer et al); 7 August, Loozerheide, Weert, Limburg, and Ringselven, Cranendonck, Noord-Brabant, photographed (R Bouwman); 13 August, Laagwaalderweg, Texel, Noord-Holland, summer plumage (A Wassink); 17-19 October, Zoutelande, Veere, Zeeland, adult, photographed, videoed (T Luiten et al).
2015 5 December, Emmadorp, Hulst, Zeeland, photographed (W De Rouck).
Another very good year, equalling 2002 and 2015. Notable were a fly-by at an inland migration watchpoint, an island hopper moving from Vlieland to Texel in July, and a wintering bird first seen in February and returning the next winter. The 2015 bird was also seen (and accepted) in Belgium.
Sociable Lapwing / Steppekievit Vanellus gregarius 12,40,1
23-28 August, Koerkampshoek, Lettele, Deventer, Overijssel, adult, photographed (H Kleine Koerkamp et al; Dutch Birding 38: 414, plate 637, 2016).
Although believed to be a juvenile by many, the pattern on mantle and scapulars proved it to be an adult in ‘winter’ plumage.
Greater Sand Plover / Woestijnplevier Anarhynchus leschenaultii 1,15,1
20-29 May, Emmapolder, Eemsmond, Groningen, second calendar-year, photographed, videoed (H M van den Brink et al; Dutch Birding 38: 342, plate 535, 2016).
Up to 2016, all 17 were recorded between late April and mid-September. Most individuals have turned up in the north of the country, at Wadden Sea locations. Totals include Anatolian Sand Plover A l columbinus (three).
Great Knot / Grote Kanoet Calidris tenuirostris 0,1,1
13-17 May, De Cocksdorp and Volharding, Texel, Noord-Holland, adult summer, photographed, videoed (D Kok et al; Kok 2016; Dutch Birding 38: 246, plate 370, 269, plate 412-413, 342, plate 534, 2016).
This stunning bird was discovered by a keen birder (and rarities committee member) on Friday the 13th and became one of the highlights of the year. Although relocating the bird among 1000s of waders at the high tide roost was far from easy, many birders finally connected during its five-day stay. The only previous record was in September-October 1991.
Stilt Sandpiper / Steltstrandloper Calidris himantopus 0,3,1
11-12 May, Neer, Leudal, Limburg, and 14-18 May, Borculo, Berkelland, Gelderland, and 19 May, Terschellinger Polder, Formerum, Terschelling, Friesland, first-summer, photographed, videoed (D Meeuwissen, J de Jong, H van Stijn et al; Meeuwissen 2016; Dutch Birding 38: 243, plate 365, 268, plate 410-411, 338, plate 527-528, 346, plate 548, 2016).
An incredible record of a bird discovered at three locations in three non-neighbouring provinces within nine days; from Neer in the south-east of the country, it first moved c 100 km to the north to Borculo and then another c 165 km to Terschelling in the extreme north-west. Previous records were in 1998, 2000 and 2004.
Baird’s Sandpiper / Bairds Strandloper Calidris bairdii 0,10,4
23 July, Breebaartpolder, Termunten, Delfzijl, Groningen, photographed (P van Veelen, R Wilschut et al); 16-17 September, Dijkmanshuizen, Texel, Noord-Holland, first calendar-year, photographed (J de Bruijn et al); 17 September to 3 October, Ezumakeeg, Dongeradeel, Friesland, first calendar-year, photographed, videoed (M Bot et al); 17-18 September, Noordwaard Polder, Brabantse Biesbosch, Werkendam, Noord-Brabant, first calendar-year, photographed (B Verhoeven et al).
Four records in one year is a new record. The previous maximum was three in 2012. The arrival of three young birds within two days in mid-September is remarkable.
White-rumped Sandpiper / Bonapartes Strandloper Calidris fuscicollis 1,42,4
10 August to 2 September, Westhoek, Het Bildt, Friesland, adult summer, photographed, videoed (D Kok et al; Dutch Birding 38: 414, plate 638, 2016); 20 August, Westhoek, Het Bildt, Friesland, adult summer, photographed (T Burger et al); 24 August to 5 September, Dannemeer, Slochteren, Groningen, adult, photographed, videoed (M Bot et al); 16 September, Ezumakeeg, Dongeradeel, Friesland, and 18 September, Achter de Zwarten, Lauwersmeer, De Marne, Groningen, adult summer, photographed (M Olthoff, B-J Prak).
There are now 46 records (of 47 individuals). The northern provinces have hosted most of them, with 22 records in Friesland, 12 in Noord-Holland and six in Groningen. Two individuals present at Westhoek on 20 August (one a long-stayer and the other a one-day bird) are noteworthy.
Pectoral Sandpiper / Gestreepte Strandloper Calidris melanotos 9,96,-
1976 20 May, Gaasperplas, Amsterdam-Zuidoost, Amsterdam, Noord-Holland (R Sjouken).
The species is no longer considered since 1 January 2000 but the CDNA still welcomes reports from before this date.
Semipalmated Sandpiper / Grijze Strandloper Calidris pusilla 0,10,1
25 July, Kwadehoek, Goedereede, Zuid-Holland, adult, photographed, videoed (S Lilipaly et al).
Lesser Yellowlegs / Kleine Geelpootruiter Tringa flavipes 2,37,7
26 January to 22 February, Harger- en Pettemerpolder, Camperduin, Bergen, Noord-Holland, second calendar-year, photographed (B Foppema, B de Jong et al; Dutch Birding 38: 197, plate 304, 2016); 22 February to 30 April, Kerkwerve, Schouwen-Duiveland, Zeeland, maximum of two (on 21 April), photographed (S Lilipaly et al); 8 March to 19 May, Noordwaard, Brabantse Biesbosch, Werkendam, Noord-Brabant, maximum of two (on 20 March), photographed, videoed (J Braat et al; Dutch Birding 38: 259, plate 397, 2016); 5-8 May, Rijnfront, Oegstgeest, Zuid-Holland, adult summer, photographed, videoed (R Genuit et al; Dutch Birding 38: 342, plate 533, 2016); 25 May to 26 June, Haastrecht, Krimpenerwaard, Zuid-Holland, adult summer, photographed, videoed (D Stout et al; Dutch Birding 38: 342, plate 536, 2016); 29 May, Beningerwaard, Zuidland, Nissewaard, Zuid-Holland, photographed (E Reinstra).
The Bergen record was considered to refer to the same bird as the one near Callantsoog, Noord-Holland, on 6 October 2015. Two birds together at two sites in one year is remarkable.
Marsh Sandpiper / Poelruiter Tringa stagnatilis 54,109,-
1972 13 August, Gaasperdam, Amsterdam-Zuidoost, Amsterdam, Noord-Holland (via R J J Vlek).
The species is no longer considered since 1 January 1993 but the CDNA still welcomes reports from before this date.
Long-billed Dowitcher / Grote Grijze Snip Limnodromus scolopaceus 0,40,2
11 January, Akmarijpsterpolder, Akmarijp, De Friese Meren, Friesland, first-winter, photographed (S Bernardus); 22-23 May, Noordwaardpolder, Brabantse Biesbosch, Werkendam, Noord-Brabant, and 25-31 May, Donkse Laagten, Bleskensgraaf, Molenwaard, Zuid-Holland, summer plumage, photographed, videoed (B Verhoeven, N Godijn et al).
Great Snipe / Poelsnip Gallinago media -,43,1
26 April, Polder Arkemheen, Nijkerk, Gelderland, adult, photographed (R Akkies).
Franklin’s Gull / Franklins Meeuw Larus pipixcan 0,9,1
14 July, Laag Veldweg, Lottum, Horst aan de Maas, Limburg, first-summer, photographed, sound-recorded (M Verbeek; Dutch Birding 38: 411, plate 628, 2016).
A well-documented record from the landlocked province of Limburg. The bird was seen by just one lucky observer, who was checking her local patch. Since the first in Noord-Brabant (and across the border in Belgium) in 1987, there are now 10 records in eight provinces.
Baltic Gull / Baltische Mantelmeeuw Larus fuscus fuscus 0,35,1
13 May, De Cocksdorp, Texel, Noord-Holland, second calendar-year, photographed (D Kok).
2015 22-30 July, Nieuwe Haven, Arnhem, Arnhem, Gelderland, second calendar-year, photographed (J Nagtegaal et al).
Kumlien’s Gull / Kumliens Meeuw Larus glaucoides kumlieni 0,3,0
The CDNA has decided to postpone the decision concerning the adult with very subtle dark markings on the outer primaries at Bergen aan Zee, Noord-Holland, on 14-19 April (Dutch Birding 37: 208, plate 328-329, 2015).
Gull-billed Tern / Lachstern Gelochelidon nilotica -,85,-
1991 6-29 August, De Putten, Camperduin, Bergen, Noord-Holland, four (possibly five) (H Russer et al).
The species has been considered in 1982-92 only for localities away from the regular roost at Balgzand, Noord-Holland, and the CDNA still welcomes reports from this period.
Roseate Tern / Dougalls Stern Sterna dougallii 3,33,2
2 May, Volharding and Utopia, De Cocksdorp, Texel, Noord-Holland, adult, photographed, videoed (M Martens, L Punt et al; Dutch Birding 38: 339, plate 529, 2016); 4 August, Utopia, De Cocksdorp, Texel, Noord-Holland, third calendar-year, found dead, wearing ring, photographed (B Verhoeven, L Boon, via A Wassink).
These were (only) the first and second for Texel. The second was found dead in a tern colony; it had been ringed as a chick on Coquet Island, Northumberland, England, on 26 July 2014 (486 km north-west of Texel).
Forster’s Tern / Forsters Stern Sterna forsteri 0,4,1
10-15 April, Utopia, De Cocksdorp, and 16-18 April and 29 April, Volharding, De Cocksdorp, Texel, Noord-Holland, adult, photographed, videoed (M Leopold et al; Leopold 2016; Dutch Birding 38: 257, plate 394, 263, plate 404, 264, plate 405, 2016).
The first since 2003. Previous records date from November 1986, January 1995, November 1999 and July 2003.
Black-winged Kite / Grijze Wouw Elanus caeruleus 1,13,4
4 April, Vogelduin, Noordhollands Duinreservaat, Castricum, Noord-Holland, adult, photographed (H van Oosten et al); 10 April, Den Oever, Wieringerwerf, Noord-Holland (B Woets, K van den Berg); 10 June, Luntershoek, Hulst, Zeeland, adult, photographed (E Nijs); 27 August, Wierdense Veld, Nijverdal, Wierden, Overijssel, adult, photographed (W Veneman).
Again, a crazy number for one year! The first record of this former mega rarity was in 1971, the second in 1998 and the third in 2000. The remaining 15 followed since 2009, with six in 2015 and four in 2016. Limburg is now the only province without any. A paper documenting the range extension and strong increase in vagrancy of this species in Europe was published by Ławicki & Perlman (2017).
Bearded Vulture / Lammergier Gypaetus barbatus 0,0,0
The CDNA for now considers all unmarked birds (eg, a wandering third calendar-year in early May 2015; Dutch Birding 37: 196, plate 304, 280, plate 442, 2015) as descendants of the reintroduction programme in the Alps and has decided that they should not be considered genuine vagrants. There are c 17 records since 1997, mostly involving marked birds born in captivity and a few of unmarked birds presumably born in the wild.
Griffon Vulture / Vale Gier Gyps fulvus 9,307,12
7 May, Breskens, Sluis, Zeeland, and Crezéepolder, Ridderkerk, and Zwijndrecht, Zwijndrecht, and Hendrik-Ido-Ambacht, Hendrik-Ido-Ambacht, and Alblasserdam, Alblasserdam, and 7-8 May, Giessen-Oudekerk, Giessenlanden, and 8 May, Papendrecht, Papendrecht, and Brandwijk, Molenwaard, and Sliedrecht, Sliedrecht, and Hardinxveld-Giessendam, Hardinxveld-Giessendam, and Sliedrechtse Biesbosch, Dordrecht, Zuid-Holland, and Werkendam, Werkendam, Noord-Brabant, maximum of 11, including one wearing colour-ring, photographed, videoed (T Luiten et al; Dutch Birding 38: 341, plate 531, 2016); 19-21 May, IJmuiden and Nationaal Park Zuid-Kennemerland, Velsen, and 21 May, Geestmerambacht, Langedijk, and Den Helder, Den Helder, and 21-28 May, various locations, Texel, and 28-31 May, Den Helder and surroundings, Den Helder, Noord-Holland, and 31 May to 3 June, Stellendam, Mellisant and Dirksland, Goedereede, Zuid-Holland, third calendar-year, wearing colour-ring (yellow R04), photographed (P van der Zanden et al; Dutch Birding 38: 345, plate 547, 2016).
Before 1997, there were only five records involving 10 individuals. From 1997 onwards, however, the species has been recorded almost annually, often in large flocks. Seven colour-ringed individuals originated from Italy (one), southern France (one) and Spain (five). Of these, ‘yellow R04’ from Spain was seen both in 2015 and 2016 along the Holland coast, even returning to the very same tree on Texel.
Lesser Spotted Eagle / Schreeuwarend Aquila pomarina 3,6,2
5 May, Galdersche Heide, Breda, Noord-Brabant, adult, photographed (D Janssens; Dutch Birding 38: 345, plate 544-545, 2016); 11 May, Achtkarspelen, Kootstertille, Friesland, second calendar-year, photographed (A Niehof).
Greater Spotted Eagle / Bastaardarend Aquila clanga 15,14,2
6 May, Lekdijk, Houten, and Polder Everdingen, Vianen, Utrecht, subadult, photographed (B Rijksen, R Rijksen); 16 October, De Hamert, Bergen, Limburg, first calendar-year, photographed (J E Kikkert et al).
With the ongoing decrease of the western population combined with regular hybridization with Lesser Spotted Eagle A pomarina (cf Lontkowski & Maciorowski 2010), the identification of these two eagle species has not become any easier, especially since most records concern fly-bys. The CDNA therefore developed a review protocol. Baseline of this protocol is that several but not all hybrid features need to be judged in order to rule out a hybrid with reasonable certainty. No hybrid features were found in the first bird, whereas the excellent photographs of the second ticked all the right boxes for a pure bird.
Long-legged Buzzard / Arendbuizerd Buteo rufinus 1,8,0
10 October 2015 to 8 March, Tweede Maasvlakte, Rotterdam, Zuid-Holland, third-year, photographed, videoed.
This individual was first seen as a juvenile on 25 September 2013. It stayed for the winter and returned for two consecutive winters; it did not reappear in autumn and winter 2016.
Lesser Kestrel / Kleine Torenvalk Falco naumanni 0,1,0
The CDNA has decided to reject the previously accepted female at De Hoge Veluwe, Gelderland, on 23 March 2002 (Ebels et al 2015; Dutch Birding 37: 103, plate 158, 2015). Of this ‘accidentally’ photographed bird, only a single photograph is available. It was accepted many years later after a long process. After reconsideration, the CDNA concluded that some plumage details were not consistent with this species and that the pale claws (clearly visible in the photograph) were in itself insufficient to retain the record on the Dutch list. The single remaining record concerns a female found weakened (which later died) near Bergen, Noord-Holland, on 5 November 2000 (Ebels & Roselaar 2005).
Eurasian Pygmy Owl / Dwerguil Glaucidium passerinum 0,8,0
The CDNA still awaits the details of a bird photographed at De Groote Peel, Noord-Brabant, on 2 April and staying until 6 June (Dutch Birding 38: 409, plate 626, 2016).
Tengmalm’s Owl / Ruigpootuil Aegolius funereus 34,31,1
26 and 31 March, Onna, Steenwijkerland, Overijssel, male, singing, sound-recorded (S Osinga).
Daurian Shrike / Daurische Klauwier Lanius isabellinus 0,13,2
5 October, De Nollen, Egmond aan den Hoef, Bergen, Noord-Holland, first-year, photographed (T Visser, via W Janse); 22 October, Everdingen, Vianen, Utrecht, first-year, photographed, videoed (M Kok, H Prinsen et al; Dutch Birding 38: 477, plate 727, 2016).
The first bird was found on Facebook when a birder checked a photograph of a presumed Red-backed Shrike L collurio. Remarkably, the same birder also found this year’s Siberian Rubythroat Calliope calliope by scrutinizing this social media site. The second bird was well inland. No less than nine out of 15 records are from the Noord-Holland province.
* Masked Shrike / Maskerklauwier Lanius nubicus 0,0,1
3, 4 or 5 January, Hoorn, Terschelling, Friesland, first-year, photographed (P J Rutgers, via R Halff; Dutch Birding 38: 123, plate 192, 2016).
This bird was photographed with a mobile phone by a tourist, who had no clue that he had just captured a mega rarity. The locality was retraced the day after the news broke a few weeks later but the bird was nowhere to be found. There was some confusion about the date at first (with November 2015 also mentioned) but examination by the CDNA showed that the correct date must be one of the three days mentioned.
Greater Short-toed Lark / Kortteenleeuwerik Calandrella brachydactyla 3,51,2
7 May, Oldenhave, De Wolden, Drenthe, photographed (J Vriend); 12 June, Zesduinenpad, Vlieland, Friesland, photographed (J D Eerdmans; Dutch Birding 38: 343, plate 540, 2016).
Eastern Crowned Warbler / Kroonboszanger Phylloscopus coronatus 0,1,1
21-23 October, Infiltratiegebied, Noordhollands Duinreservaat, Castricum, Noord-Holland, ringed on 21 October, retrapped on 22 October, videoed, photographed (A Wijker et al; Dutch Birding 38: 461, plate 704, 479, plate 731-732, 2016).
This bird lingered around the ringing site for another two days after it was first trapped. Nine years after the first record, it became one of the highlights of the year. It was the 10th record for Europe.
Arctic Warbler / Noordse Boszanger Phylloscopus borealis 2,20,0
A bird photographed on Vlieland, Friesland, on 17 September is still in circulation.
Hume’s Leaf Warbler / Humes Bladkoning Phylloscopus humei 2,51,9
3-28 January, Cadzand-Bad, Sluis, Zeeland, photographed, sound-recorded (A Wieland et al); 20 January, Nieuw-West, Amsterdam, Amsterdam, Noord-Holland, photographed (L Chang Sing Pang-Lim, via G Ottens); 14-16 October, Rottumerplaat, Eemsmond, Groningen, photographed, sound-recorded (B J Prak et al); 3 and 6-11 November, Koarnwertersân (Kornwerderzand), Súdwest-Fryslân, Friesland, ringed (on 3 November), photographed, sound-recorded (H Schepp, M Olthoff et al); 8-11 November, West-Terschelling, Terschelling, Friesland, photographed (A Ouwerkerk et al); 15-16 November, Wassenaarse Slag, Wassenaar, Zuid-Holland (V van der Spek et al); 28 November to 18 March 2017, Vinkel, Den Bosch, Noord-Brabant, photographed, sound-recorded (B van de Meulengraaf et al); 4-20 December, Huttenheugte, Coevorden, Drenthe, photographed, sound-recorded (D de Heer et al); 27 December to 15 January 2017, Noordwijkerhout, Noordwijkerhout, Zuid-Holland, photographed, sound-recorded (M Wielstra et al).
2015 5 November to 4 December, Vogelwijk, Den Haag, Den Haag, Zuid-Holland, photographed, sound-recorded (M Lok et al); 28-29 December, Wassenaar, Wassenaar, Zuid-Holland, photographed, sound-recorded (M van Waasdijk).
The best year so far, easily beating 2003 and 2012 (both with six). The 23 km coastal stretch between Noordwijk and Den Haag, Zuid-Holland, has had a remarkable 16 records (17 individuals), including this year’s bird from Wassenaar and both records from 2015.
Radde’s Warbler / Raddes Boszanger Phylloscopus schwarzi 2,36,5
2 October, Slag Baardmannetje, Oostvoornse Meer, Westvoorne, Zuid-Holland, photographed (A van Benten); 3 October, Kobbeduinen, Schiermonnikoog, Friesland, photographed, sound-recorded (L Bregman et al; Dutch Birding 38: 477, plate 723, 2016); 3 October, Staatsbossen, De Koog, Texel, Noord-Holland, photographed (J van den Berg et al); 9 October, Dorpzicht, De Cocksdorp, Texel, Noord-Holland, sound-recorded (D Kok et al); 12 and 14 October, Vogelringstation Castricum, Noordhollands Duinreservaat, Castricum, Noord-Holland, first calendar-year, ringed, photographed (A Wijker et al).
The second best year for the species after 2008 (eight records). The record from Schiermonnikoog possibly involved two birds but the second one was seen too briefly to be accepted.
Western Bonelli’s Warbler / Bergfluiter Phylloscopus bonelli 5,38,1
6 July, Maarnsche Berg, Maarn, Utrechtse Heuvelrug, Utrecht, singing, photographed, sound-recorded (A Schaftenaar et al).
This was only the second July record. The other concerned a long-stayer in June-July 2012, whereas this bird was not relocated the following day. It was not heard calling but the diagnostic bonelli song elements allowed it to be separated from Eastern Bonelli’s Warbler P orientalis.
Iberian Chiffchaff / Iberische Tjiftjaf Phylloscopus ibericus 2,34,3
11 April to 25 June, Loosduinen, Den Haag, Zuid-Holland, singing, photographed, sound-recorded (R Lekkerkerk et al; Dutch Birding 38: 259, plate 398, 2016); 20-21 April, Rottumeroog, Eemsmond, Groningen, photographed, sound-recorded (R Oving, E Klunder); 5 May, Witte Hoek, De Cocksdorp, and 8-9 May, Vijver van Jochems, De Cocksdorp, Texel, Noord-Holland, singing, photographed, sound-recorded (J de Bruijn, M Collier et al).
Based on song structure, the two observations at two sites on Texel were regarded as the same individual. The bird on the tiny uninhabited island of Rottumeroog did not sing which meant it was the first to be accepted based on plumage and calls alone.
Western Subalpine Warbler / Westelijke Baardgrasmus Sylvia inornata 0,5,1
14-18 April, Campus Wageningen University, Wageningen, Gelderland, male, photographed, sound-recorded, videoed (R van der Meer et al; Dutch Birding 38: 260, plate 400, 2016).
Due to the recent splits within the subalpine warbler complex, this bird, found on a campus by a keen birder (and student), was very popular. The call, underparts and tail pattern left no doubts about its identity.
Eastern Subalpine Warbler / Balkanbaardgrasmus Sylvia cantillans 1,31,1
3-4 May, Kooiplas, Schiermonnikoog, Friesland, first-summer male, photographed, sound-recorded (L Bregman et al).
After an unidentified subalpine warbler S inornata/subalpina/cantillans in October-November 2005, this was (only) the first for the Wadden Sea island of Schiermonnikoog.
subalpine warbler / baardgrasmus Sylvia inornata/subalpina/cantillans 4,34,1
17 May, Noordduinen, Julianadorp aan Zee, Den Helder, Noord-Holland, male, sound-recorded (J van Dillen-Staal).
The numbers include birds identified as inornata/cantillans.
Hume’s Whitethroat / Humes Braamsluiper Sylvia althaea althaea 0,0,0
A bird ringed at Meijendel, Den Haag, Zuid-Holland, on 16 September 2014 and identified as nominate Hume’s Whitethroat based on DNA and morphological characters is waiting for completion of the file. If accepted, this will be the first record for Europe of this Central Asian taxon.
Siberian Lesser Whitethroat / Siberische Braamsluiper Sylvia althaea blythi 0,6,0
Birds ringed at Noordhollands Duinreservaat, Castricum, Noord-Holland, on 12 September and at Groene Glop, Schiermonnikoog, Friesland, on 23 October, both assumed to belong to this taxon, are waiting for completion of the file, after which the consideration can be (re)started.
Dartford Warbler / Provençaalse Grasmus Sylvia undata 1,8,1
22-28 October, Tweede Maasvlakte, Rotterdam, Zuid-Holland, first calendar-year, photographed, videoed (R A de By, C Derks et al; Dutch Birding 38: 481, plate 735, 2016).
The birders involved in this record dipped on the Siberian Accentor Prunella montanella that was present the previous day but found this consolation prize instead. Although this bird ticked a few S u dartfordiensis boxes, the CDNA could not positively assign it to subspecies. Totals include five accepted as dartfordiensis.
Lanceolated Warbler / Kleine Sprinkhaanzanger Locustella lanceolata 2,2,0
The CDNA still awaits the submission of a well-documented (photographs, video and faeces collected) but much debated Locustella at Tweede Maasvlakte, Zuid-Holland, on 4 October.
Booted Warbler / Kleine Spotvogel Iduna caligata 0,25,3
6 September, Nieuwe Stuifdijk, Maasvlakte, Rotterdam, Zuid-Holland, first calendar-year, photographed (T van Oerle, M van Oss et al; Dutch Birding 38: 477, plate 724, 2016); 10 September, Vogelringstation Castricum, Noordhollands Duinreservaat, Castricum, Noord-Holland, first calendar-year, ringed, photographed, videoed (H Levering et al; Dutch Birding 38: 478, plate 730, 2016); 10 September, Zwanenwater, Schagen, Noord-Holland, first calendar-year, ringed, photographed (F J Koning).
With three records, 2016 is now the second best year after the exceptional year 2013, with seven.
Paddyfield Warbler / Veldrietzanger Acrocephalus agricola 1,37,3
8 June, Vogelringstation Paradijsveld, Amsterdamse Waterleidingduinen, Zandvoort, Noord-Holland, adult female, ringed, photographed (M Schalkwijk, A de Winter, via S Wytema); 31 August, Wormer- en Jisperveld, Wormerland, Noord-Holland, first calendar-year, ringed, photographed (J van der Geld; Dutch Birding 38: 413, plate 633, 2016); 3-5 November, Zwanenwater, Schagen, Noord-Holland, first calendar-year, ringed, photographed (F J Koning, A B van den Berg; Dutch Birding 39: 67, plate 98, 2017).
This was the 13th year in a row with at least one record, yet this remains one of the ultimate bogey birds for Dutch twitchers. All but two records involved ringed birds (and this year was no different), while the only two field records were not (widely) available. The bird at Zwanenwater represents the first November record.
Blyth’s Reed Warbler / Struikrietzanger Acrocephalus dumetorum 0,36,3
6-11 June, Robbenjager, De Cocksdorp, Texel, Noord-Holland, singing, photographed, sound-recorded, videoed (J van den Berg et al; Dutch Birding 38: 343, plate 538, 2016); 8 September, Vogelringstation Castricum, Noordhollands Duinreservaat, Castricum, Noord-Holland, first calendar-year, ringed, photographed (T van der Meer et al); 17 September, Poterslid, Vlieland, Friesland, first calendar-year, photographed (J Denee et al).
This species was recorded for the 10th year in a row. Apart from one November record, all were recorded between June and October. The Castricum bird was the 10th to be ringed at this site. The CDNA still awaits the submission of two birds ringed on Vlieland in September (with one retrapped in October).
* Moustached Warbler / Zwartkoprietzanger Acrocephalus melanopogon 0,0,1
21-28 April, Vogelringstation Ooijse Graaf, Ooijpolder, Ubbergen, Gelderland, male, singing, ringed, photographed, sound-recorded (B Ubels et al; Ubels 2016; Dutch Birding 38: 254, plate 389, 260, plate 399, 265, plate 406, 2016).
Given recent sightings in surrounding countries, this species was more or less expected to show up eventually. On the first morning, it was trapped by an astonished ringer at an inaccessible inland site, where it was singing its characteristic lu lu lu notes in the evening. The following days, birders could hear it from a fairly distant public road, although some needed a directional microphone and head phones to actually hear anything at all. Fortunately, Eurasian Reed Warblers A scirpaceus had not arrived in large numbers yet. Only a few birders caught a glimpse of the bird through their telescopes.
White’s Thrush / Goudlijster Zoothera aurea 11,8,1
26 September, Julianadorp, Den Helder, Noord-Holland, first calendar-year, dead, window victim, skin retained at Naturalis Biodiversity Center, Leiden, Zuid-Holland (G J Abeln).
2011 November, Vogelzang, Drachten, Smallingerland, Friesland, first calendar-year, dead, window victim, skin retained in private collection T Debreczenyi, Drachten (T Debreczenyi, via R Cazemier).
This species continued its long streak of untwitchable records, with both a new and an old window victim that came to light. There are (only) three field records, against three ringed birds and no less than 14 corpses. One of the dead birds was found as a Eurasian Sparrowhawk Accipiter nisus prey, all others died due to one antropogenic influence or another. A twitchable bird is long overdue, since the last (and only) one dates back to October 2004.
Dusky Thrush / Bruine Lijster Turdus eunomus 2,0,0
A much-debated bird photographed and observed by many birders at Beijum, Groningen, Groningen, on 8-9 November and found dead on 11 November (skin retained at Naturalis Biodiversity Center, Leiden, Zuid-Holland), is still under review (cf Welbedacht & Ebels 2016; Dutch Birding 38: 463, plate 705, 487, plate 742-743, 2016).
Western Rufous-tailed Scrub Robin / Westelijke Rosse Waaierstaart Cercotrichas galactotes galactotes 0,1,1
20-24 September, Slufter, Maasvlakte, Rotterdam, Zuid-Holland, first calendar-year, photographed, videoed (J Vlot et al; Vlot 2016; Dutch Birding 38: 417, plate 641-643, 481, plate 736, 2016).
With the first record as recent as 2013, the second record followed relatively soon (both concerned the western subspecies C g galactotes). This popular bird turned up at a well-known migrant and rarity hotspot. It did not seem to be in particularly good health and it was speculated to have died rather than moved on after the final day it was seen.
* Siberian Rubythroat / Roodkeelnachtegaal Calliope calliope 0,0,1
8 January to 12 April, Hoogwoud, Opmeer, Noord-Holland, second calendar-year male, photographed, sound-recorded, videoed (M van der Capellen, via R Hofland et al; Ebels 2016, Hofland et al 2017; Dutch Birding 38: 113, plate 177, 125, plate 198, 126, plate 199, 198, plate 305-306, 2016; 39: 22, plate 29, 23, plate 30-31, 24, plate 32-33, 26, plate 34-35, 27, figure 1, 28, plate 36-37, 2017).
This country’s first was found on a Facebook page for garden birds, where a member asked if anyone knew which species had popped up in her son’s garden. In this (normally) quiet village, the bird received a lot of attention from birders from all over Europe and attracted a range of national media. During its long stay, it started singing and analyses of its song, which developed over time and gradually became louder, showed it to mimic at least 15 Siberian breeding species, with Yellow-browed Warbler Phylloscopus inornatus seeming to be its favourite.
Red-flanked Bluetail / Blauwstaart Tarsiger cyanurus 1,21,3
15-18 October, De Koog, Texel, Noord-Holland, first calendar-year, photographed, videoed (B van Gennip, T van Doornik et al; Dutch Birding 38: 482, plate 737-738, 2016); 12-14 November, Molenwerf, Edam, Edam, Noord-Holland, first calendar-year, photographed (H Germeraad et al); 5-6 December, Pan van Persijn, Wassenaar, Zuid-Holland, first calendar-year, photographed, videoed (R Dekker et al; Dutch Birding 39: 64, plate 91, 65, plate 93, 2017).
The bird from Wassenaar represented the first December record for the species. The bird at Edam was photographed in a private garden. The non-birding resident reported two birds but only one individual was identified on the available photographs.
Eastern Black Redstart / Oosterse Zwarte Roodstaart Phoenicurus ochruros phoenicuroides 0,3,3
4-5 November, Oostpunt, Vlieland, Friesland, first calendar-year male, photographed (S Lagerveld, J van der Laan et al; Dutch Birding 39: 69, plate 102, 2017); 5-10 November, West-Terschelling, Terschelling, Friesland, first calendar-year male, photographed (V van der Spek, A Ouwerkerk et al; Dutch Birding 39: 64, plate 92, 2017); 7 November, Maasvlakte, Rotterdam, Zuid-Holland, male, photographed (H Goudappel).
A record year for Europe was also a record year for the Netherlands with three, doubling the previous total. On 5 November, two birds were present simultaneously less than 10 km apart but on two different Wadden Sea islands. A bird at Alphen aan den Rijn, Zuid-Holland, on 24 December has not been accepted.
Common Rock Thrush / Rode Rotslijster Monticola saxatilis 2,10,1
19-22 May, Heisterboomsdijk, Bronckhorst, Gelderland, second calendar-year male, photographed, videoed (E Merx, E A W Ernens et al; Dutch Birding 38: 346, plate 549, 2016).
Siberian Stonechat / Aziatische Roodborsttapuit Saxicola maurus 9,38,1
6-10 October, Paal 18, Terschelling, Friesland, first calendar-year female, photographed (P van Beers et al).
Stejeneger’s Stonechat / Stejnegers Roodborsttapuit Saxicola stejnegeri 0,1,0
The CDNA still awaits the submission of a bird ringed on Vlieland, Friesland, on 9 October (cf Dutch Birding 38: 477, plate 726, 2016).
Isabelline Wheatear / Izabeltapuit Oenanthe isabellina 0,11,1
25 October, Polredijk, Veere, Veere, Zeeland, first calendar-year, photographed, videoed (T Luiten et al).
Desert Wheatear / Woestijntapuit Oenanthe deserti 1,37,2
15 October, Midden-Eierland, Texel, Noord-Holland, first calendar-year male, photographed (A Wassink, R E Brouwer et al; Dutch Birding 38: 477, plate 728, 2016); 6 November, Paal 29, Texel, Noord-Holland, first calendar-year male, photographed, videoed (F van der Meer et al; Dutch Birding 39: 65, plate 95, 2017).
Pied Wheatear / Bonte Tapuit Oenanthe pleschanka 0,21,1
20 October, De Slufter, Texel, Noord-Holland, first calendar-year male, photographed (E Lindhout, D van der Aa).
Alpine Accentor / Alpenheggenmus Prunella collaris 0,10,3
5-6 April, Meijendel, Wassenaar, Zuid-Holland, photographed (R Wanders et al; van der Spek & Ebels 2016; Dutch Birding 38: 266, plate 407, 2016); 14 April, Soeckebacker, Noordhollands Duinreservaat, Bergen, Noord-Holland, photographed (C J G Scharringa; van der Spek & Ebels 2016); 5-6 May, Vuurboetsduin, Vlieland, Friesland, photographed, videoed (C Zuhorn, P Bakker et al; van der Spek & Ebels 2016; Dutch Birding 38: 267, plate 408-409, 2016).
During an unprecedented, mainly central European influx, especially in Germany, a record three birds popped up. Remarkably, the Vlieland bird was found around the very same house as a bird in 2008.
* Siberian Accentor / Bergheggenmus Prunella montanella 0,0,1
21 October, Vuurtorenvlakte, Maasvlakte, Rotterdam, Zuid-Holland, first calendar-year, photographed, videoed (J van Deijk, J Lotz et al; van Deijk & Lotz 2016, van Deijk et al 2017; Dutch Birding 38: 472, plate 717, 485, plate 740-741, 2016, 39: 323-325, plate 452-453, 2017).
In a year like this, it is hard to pinpoint the ultimate highlight but this one surely comes close. Before 2016, not many people expected this new bird but due to the unprecedented influx in Europe in autumn 2016, expectations reached a boiling point. In the days prior to this record, many birders were looking for the species at presumed suitable sites. Thankfully, this one popped up at the rarity hotspot that Maasvlakte – despite all the changes to this industrial port area – still is. It disappeared shortly after its discovery but eventually showed extremely well to a very relieved and pleased crowd. It could not be relocated the following day. Many expected more birds to show up but in the end this one turned out to be the most southwesterly record of the entire European influx. Hence, looking back, it is fair to say that Dutch twitchers were in fact lucky to get ‘only’ one record.
* Black-headed Wagtail / Balkankwikstaart Motacilla feldegg 0,0,1
30 April to 4 May, De Nederlanden, Texel, Noord-Holland, male, photographed, sound-recorded, videoed (R Aluvihare et al; Aluvihare & Ebels 2016; Dutch Birding 38: 229, plate 347-348, 230, figure 1, 261, plate 403, 343, plate 539, 2016).
On the first day, this long-awaited first was only available for those already on the island. It seemed to have left the next day, until it was relocated in the evening by its original discoverer – just when the disappointed twitchers were on the last boat back to the mainland. The bird however performed well during the following days, offering ample opportunity for a second chance to connect with it.
Citrine Wagtail / Citroenkwikstaart Motacilla citreola 0,47,3
23 April, Strijensas, Strijen, Zuid-Holland, female, photographed (R Portielje, E Portielje); 29 April, Kampsestraat, Elst, Overbetuwe, Gelderland, second calendar-year male, photographed, videoed (E de Waard, H Damen et al); 20-21 August, Jaap Deensgat, Lauwersmeer, De Marne, Groningen, juvenile, photographed, videoed (M Bunskoek, M Kopijn et al; Dutch Birding 38: 414, plate 640, 2016).
After a remarkable series of blank years in 2003-05, this species has been annual since 2006, with an average three records a year.
Olive-backed Pipit / Siberische Boompieper Anthus hodgsoni 0,85,-
2014 18 October, Westenschouwen, Schouwen-Duiveland, Zeeland, sound-recorded (M Sluijter).
The species is no longer considered since 1 January 2015 but the CDNA still welcomes reports from before this date.
White-crowned Sparrow / Witkruingors Zonotrichia leucophrys 0,0,0
A male at Spaarndam, Haarlemmerliede en Spaarnwoude, Noord-Holland, from mid-December 1981 to mid-February 1982 (Lichtenbeld 1982, Kleiberg 1984; Dutch Birding 6: 64, plate 54, 1984) has been rejected after review. Close inspection of the digitized photographs revealed obvious damages and deformations to the legs. This aspect had not been considered in the original circulation. Combined with the extreme rarity in western Europe and the fact that it was a known cagebird in the 1980s in the Netherlands, the CDNA considered the possibility of an escape too strong to maintain the species on the Dutch list.
Black-headed Bunting / Zwartkopgors Emberiza melanocephala 2,13,1
3-5 September, Crezéepolder, Ridderkerk, Zuid-Holland, first calendar-year, photographed, sound-recorded, videoed (C Fokker et al; Dutch Birding 38: 408, plate 625, 2016).
From the start, it was obvious that Black-headed Bunting and not Red-headed Bunting E bruniceps was the prime candidate. However, since in this plumage virtually all features show some degree of overlap between these two species, it was not easy to clinch the identification. In the end, it was the combination of characters that did the job.
Pine Bunting / Witkopgors Emberiza leucocephalos 15,22,9
19 October, Meeuwenlidsduin, and 23 October, Noordoosthoek, Vlieland, Friesland, first calendar-year male, photographed, sound-recorded (T van Oerle, C Brinkman, L Buckx et al; Dutch Birding 38: 480, plate 734, 2016); 21 October, Velden Nieuwe Kooi and Waterzuivering, Vlieland, Friesland, first calendar-year female, photographed, sound-recorded (D Drukker et al); 24 October, Oosternieuwlandpolder, Veere, Zeeland, first calendar-year female, photographed (M Peene, C Beeke et al); 25 October, Hondsbossche Zeewering, Camperduin, Bergen, Noord-Holland, first calendar-year male, photographed (R van Dorland); 23-24 November, Zuidpier, IJmuiden, Velsen, Noord-Holland, first calendar-year female, photographed, sound-recorded (R Rotscheid, A B van den Berg et al; Dutch Birding 39: 70, plate 104, 2017); 28 November, ’t Schild, Wolfheze, Renkum, Gelderland, first calendar-year male, photographed (W Janssen et al); 10-17 December, Ginderdoor, Lieshout, Laarbeek, Noord-Brabant, first calendar-year male, photographed, videoed (M Vervoort et al); 17 December, Puth, Schinnen, Limburg, male, photographed (J van Leeuwen); 18 December to 15 January 2017, Loodsmansduin, Texel, Noord-Holland, first-winter male, photographed, videoed (R F J van Beusekom et al; Dutch Birding 39: 65, plate 94, 70, plate 103, 2017).
2015 15 December to 14 March 2016, Wilhelminapolder, Wilhelminadorp, Goes, Zeeland, first to second calendar-year female, photographed, videoed (M Klootwijk et al; Dutch Birding 38: 114, plate 180, 117, plate 181, 133, plate 202, 2016; cf Hellquist 2016, Driessens 2017).
Thanks to an unprecedented autumn influx, we witnessed the best year so far (and by far). A number of additional reports is still in circulation. The now second best year dates back to 1996, with five records. Based mainly on Occhiato (2003), Panov et al (2003), Hellquist (2016) and Driessens (2017), the CDNA has formulated guidelines how to deal with the problem of hybrids and gene flow with Yellowhammer E citrinella.
Systematic list of rejected reports
This list contains all records not accepted by the CDNA. Records marked with @ were rejected by all committee members in the first or second voting. Most records were rejected because the identification was not fully established (often due to lack of documentation) or when the bird showed signs of captivity, such as dubious rings, excessive wear and/or aberrant behaviour.
Bufflehead / Buffelkopeend Bucephala albeola 19 June to 9 July, Brabantse Biesbosch, Drimmelen, Noord-Brabant, male, photographed (@ identification accepted but photographs do not document absence of rings). Hooded Merganser / Kokardezaagbek Lophodytes cucullatus 3-4 December, Pampushaven, Almere, Flevoland, first-year, female, photographed (@ identification accepted but photographs do not document absence of rings). Marbled Duck / Marmereend Marmaronetta angustirostris 24 September to 6 October, Huis ter Heide, Tilburg, Noord-Brabant, first-year, photographed, videoed (Dutch Birding 38: 473, plate 719, 2016; identification accepted but considered of dubious origin based on damaged tip of single primary, missing tail-feathers, tameness and unusual feeding behaviour). Ring-necked Duck / Ringsnaveleend Aythya collaris 17-24 April, Quackjeswater, Westvoorne, Zuid-Holland, male, photographed (@ identification accepted but photographs show presence of ring). Little Scaup / Kleine Topper Aythya affinis 17 December, Wolderwijd, Zeewolde, Flevoland, male, photographed (@ description incomplete and photographs show too little detail to exclude other taxa). Red-billed Tropicbird / Roodsnavelkeerkringvogel Phaethon aethereus 17 January, Texel, Noord-Holland, tideline corpse, photographed (@ identification accepted; see main text). Alpine Swift / Alpengierzwaluw Apus melba 16 August, Gouderak, Krimpenerwaard, Zuid-Holland (@ description incomplete). African Spoonbill / Afrikaanse Lepelaar Platalea alba 29 February, Kerkwerve, Schouwen-Duiveland, Zeeland, photographed (@ photographs show aberrant Eurasian Spoonbill P leucorodia). Pygmy Cormorant / Dwergaalscholver Phalacrocorax pygmeus 3 October, Moordrecht, Zuidplas, Zuid-Holland (@ description incomplete). American Golden Plover / Amerikaanse Goudplevier Pluvialis dominica 23 August, Roodkeelplasje, Lauwersmeer, De Marne, Groningen (@ description incomplete). Baird’s Sandpiper / Bairds Strandloper Calidris bairdii 21 September, Zuidland, Nissewaard, Zuid-Holland (@ description incomplete). Great Snipe / Poelsnip Gallinago media 17 January, Moergestel, Oisterwijk, Noord-Brabant (@ description incomplete); 24 October, Eemshaven, Eemsmond, Groningen (@ description incomplete). Baltic Gull / Baltische Mantelmeeuw Larus fuscus fuscus 2 June, Opperdoes, Wieringermeer, Noord-Holland, photographed (features do not comply with criteria to identify this taxon). Roseate Tern / Dougalls Stern Sterna dougallii 3 May, Utopia, De Cocksdorp, Texel, Noord-Holland (@ description incomplete). Griffon Vulture / Vale Gier Gyps fulvus 1 April, Kampen, Kampen, Overijssel (@ description incomplete); 4 June, Loo, Duiven, Gelderland, photographed (@ description incomplete and photographs show too little detail to exclude other taxa); 10 June, Tilburg, Tilburg, Noord-Brabant (@ description incomplete); 25 June, Ovezande, Borsele, Zeeland (@ description incomplete). Golden Eagle / Steenarend Aquila chrysaetos 9 November, Graverode, Landgraaf, Limburg (@ description incomplete). Booted Eagle / Dwergarend Aquila pennata 15 June, Hoornse Meer, Groningen, Groningen, Groningen (@ description incomplete). Long-legged Buzzard / Arendbuizerd Buteo rufinus 24 September, Dwingelderveld, De Wolden, Drenthe, photographed (@ photographs show Common Buzzard B buteo). Eleonora’s Falcon / Eleonora’s Valk Falco eleonorae 29 May, Katwijk aan den Rijn, Katwijk, Zuid-Holland (@ description incomplete); 26 June, Gouda, Gouda, Zuid-Holland (@ description incomplete); 19 August, Perkpolder, Walsoorden, Zeeland, photographed (@ bird wearing transmitter and considered escaped dark Falco species). Azure Tit / Azuurmees Cyanistes cyanus 26 February to 13 March, Castricum, Castricum, Noord-Holland, photographed (@ photographs show aberrant Eurasian Blue Tit C caeruleus); Crested Lark / Kuifleeuwerik Galerida cristata 1 May, Noordkaapduin, Terschelling, Friesland (description incomplete). Greater Short-toed Lark / Kortteenleeuwerik Calandrella brachydactyla 6 May, Ouddorp, Goedereede, Zuid-Holland, photographed, sound-recorded (photographs and sound-recording show Eurasian Skylark Alauda arvensis); 19 May, Afsluitdijk, Hollands Kroon, Noord-Holland, photographed (photographs do not exclude Eurasian Skylark and seem to fit that species better); 12 September, Utopia, Texel, Noord-Holland (@ description incomplete). Arctic Warbler / Noordse Boszanger Phylloscopus borealis 4 October, Rijswijk, Rijswijk, Zuid-Holland (@ description incomplete). Hume’s Leaf Warbler / Humes Bladkoning Phylloscopus humei 8 November, Maasdam, Binnenmaas, Zuid-Holland (@ bird not seen and sound not described). Radde’s Warbler / Raddes Boszanger Phylloscopus schwarzi 3 October, Kobbeduinen, Schiermonnikoog, Friesland (@ description incomplete of second bird present at this site; see main text). Iberian Chiffchaff / Iberische Tjiftjaf Phylloscopus ibericus 29 April to 10 September, Enschede, Overijssel, photographed, sound-recorded (@ this remarkable bird that bred with a Common Chiffchaff P collybita shared some plumage and structural features with Iberian. However, during its entire stay its unique song never matched that of a typical Iberian. Although the calls did recall Iberian, they differed slightly from a wide range of analysed calls from the Iberian peninsula, both by ear and on sonagrams); 13 May, Groeningen, Boxmeer, Noord-Brabant, sound-recorded (@ sound-recording is of atypical Common Chiffchaff). Sardinian Warbler / Kleine Zwartkop Sylvia melanocephala 6 July, Cadzand, Sluis, Zeeland, male, photographed (@ record appeared to be a hoax). Booted Warbler / Kleine Spotvogel Iduna caligata 18 September, Maasvlakte, Rotterdam, Zuid-Holland (@ description incomplete). Paddyfield Warbler / Veldrietzanger Acrocephalus agricola 28 August, Eemshaven, Eemsmond, Groningen, photographed (description incomplete and photograph shows too little detail to exclude other taxa). Dusky Thrush / Bruine Lijster Turdus eunomus 29 February, Midwolda, Oldambt, Groningen, four, photographed (@ photograph showing Mistle Thrushes T viscivorus). American Robin / Roodborstlijster Turdus migratorius 6 December, Suorein, Grou (Grouw), Leeuwarden, Friesland (@ description incomplete). Collared Flycatcher / Withalsvliegenvanger Ficedula albicollis 7 July, Harles, Vaals, Limburg, two (@ description incomplete). Eastern Black Redstart / Oosterse Zwarte Roodstaart Phoenicurus ochruros phoenicuroides 24 December, Hoge Zijde, Alphen aan den Rijn, Zuid-Holland, male, photographed (no description; photographs too poor to exclude hybrid Common x Black Redstart P phoenicurus x ochruros, even with the new criteria). Eastern Common Redstart / Oostelijke Gekraagde Roodstaart Phoenicurus phoenicurus samamisicus 17 November, Middenmeer, Hollands Kroon, Noord-Holland (@ description incomplete). Citrine Wagtail / Citroenkwikstaart Motacilla citreola 1 May, Bergerden, Lingewaard, Gelderland (@ description incomplete). Blyth’s Pipit / Mongoolse Pieper Anthus godlewskii 25 October, Ternaard, Dongeradeel, Friesland, photographed (@ description incomplete and photographs show too little detail to exclude other taxa).
2015
Middendorff’s Bean Goose / Middendorffs Rietgans Anser middendorffii 30 September, Kloosterhaar, Hardenberg, Overijssel, eight, photographed (@ description incomplete and photographs show too little detail to exclude other taxa). Bufflehead / Buffelkopeend Bucephala albeola 28 August to 29 September, Den Oever, Hollands Kroon, Noord-Holland, female, photographed (@ identification accepted but photographs do not document absence of rings); 19-20 December, Hindeloopen, Súdwest-Fryslân, Friesland, photographed (@ identification accepted but photographs do not document absence of rings). Hooded Merganser / Kokardezaagbek Lophodytes cucullatus 4 November, Groenzoom, Lansingerland, Zuid-Holland, female, photographed (@ identification accepted but photographs do not document absence of rings). Bearded Vulture / Lammergier Gypaetus barbatus 5 May, Sallandse Heuvelrug, Hellendoorn, Overijssel, and 8 May, Nieuwe Dokkumerzijlen, Dongeradeel, Friesland, and 9 May, Vierhuizen, De Marne, Groningen, third calendar-year, photographed (@; see main text). Crested Lark / Kuifleeuwerik Galerida cristata 22 October, Mokbaai, Texel, Noord-Holland, sound-recorded (sound-recording too poor to exclude other taxa).
2014
Richardson’s Cackling Goose / Kleine Canadese Gans Branta hutchinsii hutchinsii 5 May, Schokland, Noordoostpolder, Flevoland, photographed (description incomplete and photographs show too little detail to exclude other taxa).
2012
Little Crake / Klein Waterhoen Zapornia parva, 18 August, Delft, Zuid-Holland, sound-recorded (identification accepted but considered dubious; a singing Little Crake in a ditch in August would be highly remarkable, even more so with an also singing Eurasian Reed Warbler Acrocephalus scirpaceus in the background; the recording has several cuts and is therefore edited but the observer could not provide the original file). Lesser Spotted/Greater Spotted Eagle / Schreeuwarend/Bastaardarend Aquila pomarina/clanga 17 May, Midsland aan Zee, Terschelling, Friesland (@ description incomplete).
2011
Kumlien’s Gull / Kumliens Meeuw Larus glaucoides kumlieni 9 December, Katwijk aan Zee, Katwijk, Zuid-Holland, photographed (description incomplete and photographs showing too little detail to exclude well-marked Iceland Gull L g glaucoides).
2010
Blue-cheeked Bee-eater / Groene Bijeneter Merops persicus 8 August, Horsmeertjes, Texel, Noord-Holland, photographed (no description and single available photograph shows too little detail to exclude several other bee-eater species).
2004
Stilt Sandpiper / Steltstrandloper Calidris himantopus 6 May, Jaap Deensgat, Lauwersmeer, De Marne, Groningen, photographed (the description and the photograph show too little detail to exclude other taxa; acceptance would extend the date of a currently accepted record).
2002
Lesser Kestrel / Kleine Torenvalk Falco naumanni 23 March, De Hoge Veluwe, Ede, Gelderland, female, photographed (Ebels et al 2015; Dutch Birding 37: 103, plate 158, 2015; see main text).
1985
Cattle Egret / Koereiger Bubulcus ibis 25 September, Vijfhoek, Diemen, Noord-Holland (@ description incomplete).
1984
European Flamingo / Flamingo Phoenicopterus roseus 6 October, Veerse Meer, Noord-Beveland, Zeeland (@ description incomplete).
1983
Marsh Sandpiper / Poelruiter Tringa stagnatilis 1 November, Amsterdam, Amsterdam, Noord-Holland (description incomplete).
1982
White-crowned Sparrow / Witkruingors Zonotrichia leucophrys mid-December 1981 to mid-February, Spaarndam, Haarlemmerliede en Spaarnwoude, Noord-Holland, male, photographed (Lichtenbeld 1982, Kleiberg 1984; Dutch Birding 6: 64, plate 54, 1984; see 1981).
1981
Red-winged Blackbird / Epauletspreeuw Agelaius phoeniceus 9 June 1980 to 29 July, Oostvoornse Meer, Westvoorne, Zuid-Holland, photographed (see 1980). White-crowned Sparrow / Witkruingors Zonotrichia leucophrys mid-December to mid-February 1982, Spaarndam, Haarlemmerliede en Spaarnwoude, Noord-Holland, male, photographed (Lichtenbeld 1982, Kleiberg 1984; Dutch Birding 6: 64, plate 54, 1984; rejected after review, see main text).
1980
European Flamingo / Flamingo Phoenicopterus roseus 21 July, Ter Apel, Vlagtwedde, Groningen, two, photographed (@ description incomplete and photograph shows too little detail to exclude other taxa). Red-winged Blackbird / Epauletspreeuw Agelaius phoeniceus 9 June to 29 July 1981, Oostvoornse Meer, Westvoorne, Zuid-Holland, photographed (while alleged existing photographs were not provided, the description alone does not fully exclude Tricolored Blackbird A tricolor; the song description fits a western taxon of Red-winged better, which is far less likely for a vagrant in the WP. Also, the absence of rings was not proven. It was mentioned as ‘identification accepted’ in Ebels (1996) for 21 March 1982, with the comment that is was also present on 9-27 June 1980 and 25-30 April 1981).
1976
Iceland Gull / Kleine Burgemeester Larus glaucoides 22 January, Hilversum, Hilversum, Noord-Holland (@ description incomplete).
1923
Icelandic Merlin / IJslands Smelleken Falco columbarius subaesalon 24 March, Amsterdam, Amsterdam, Noord-Holland, collected, specimen in Naturalis Biodiversity Center, Leiden (ZMA.AVES 4080) (@ identification based on measurements but criteria to identify this taxon not clear).
1893
Alpine Chough / Alpenkauw Pyrrhocorax graculus 15 October, Winterswijk, Winterswijk, Gelderland, collected, specimen in Naturalis Biodiversity Center, Leiden (RMNH.AVES 4158; Snouckaert van Schauburg 1906) (@ identification accepted but CDNA is not convinced it was collected in the Netherlands).
Acknowledgements
The CDNA wishes to thank Bram Rijksen who kindly provided the drawing of the Siberian Accentor on p 363. The editors of Dutch Birding assisted in checking record details. August van Rijn kindly assisted the archivist in submitting records and/or gathering and checking record details. Jan van der Laan provided the total number of bird species recorded in 2016.
References
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