Updated checklist of the birds of Lebanon, with notes on four new breeding species in spring 2020

Updated checklist of the birds of Lebanon, with notes on four new breeding species in spring 2020 GHASSAN RAMADAN-JARADI, FOUAD ITANI, JAMES HOGG, ASSAD SERHAL & MONA RAMADAN-JARADI Summary: Since the previous published checklist of the birds of Lebanon in 2008, many significant changes to the status and distribution of birds in the country have been recorded. Checklists evolve, and the one presented here uses the standardised taxonomic list for the OSME region. Of the 404 species recorded in Lebanon, nine have been added since the 2008 checklist; 284 (70.3%) are passage migrants or winter visitors (or both); 69 (17.1%) are vagrants; 73 (17.8%) are summer breeders and 65 (16.1%) are breeding residents (some species fall into more than one category). The remaining birds are of uncertain status (Leach’s Storm Petrel Hydrobates leucorhous, Western Brown Fish Owl Bubo (zeylonensis) semenowi, Eurasian Nuthatch Sitta europaea, and White-winged Snowfinch Montifringilla nivalis), have originated from escapes (Red Turtle Dove Streptopelia tranquebarica and Indian Silverbill Lonchura malabarica), were introduced (Mute Swan Cygnus olor, Rock Partridge Alectoris graeca and Common Pheasant Phasianus colchicus), or disappeared from Lebanon for over 120 and 70 years respectively but recently reappeared as vagrants (Lesser Crested Tern Thalasseus bengalensis and Blue-cheeked Bee-eater Merops persicus). We also describe the first breeding records in Lebanon of four species (Squacco Heron Ardeola ralloides, Western Cattle Egret Bubulcus ibis, Little Egret Egretta garzetta and Black-winged Kite Elanus caeruleus) in spring 2020.

INTRODUCTION This document highlights the most recent changes in the status, distribution and occurrence of all bird species observed in Lebanon. It is based on the previously published checklist of the birds of Lebanon (Ramadan-Jaradi et al 2008), 14 published ornithological papers and two books on the birds of Lebanon between 2008 and 2019, additional published records up to December 2019 (from Around The Region in Sandgrouse), the results of intensive surveys that are conducted on a continual basis in the country and the reports published by the Raptor Count Lebanon supported by OSME, BirdLife International and SPNL (the BirdLife Partner in Lebanon). In addition, casual observations by an increasing number of birdwatchers and (unfortunately) illegal hunting have provided some important records. Further observation has led to an increase in the number of bird species recorded in Lebanon from 395 in 2009 to 404 in 2019. The nine new species are: Cotton Pygmy Goose Nettapus coromandelianus, White-headed Duck Oxyura leucocephala, Black-eared Kite Milvus (migrans) lineatus, Diederik Cuckoo Chrysococcyx caprius, Eyebrowed Thrush Turdus obscurus, White-crowned Wheatear Oenanthe leucopyga, Eurasian Bullfinch Pyrrhula pyrhula, Common Rosefinch Carpodacus erythrinus, and Red Crossbill Loxia curvirostra. In this paper, we update the information on around 70% of the species listed in Ramadan-Jaradi et al (2008), particularly nine that were proved to breed for the first time in the country (Great Crested Grebe Podiceps cristatus, Squacco Heron Ardeola ralloides, Western Cattle Egret Bubulcus ibis, Little Egret Egretta garzetta, Eurasian Stone-curlew Burhinus oedicnemus, Black-winged Kite Elanus caeruleus, Little Ringed Plover Charadrius dubius, European Serin Serinus serinus and European Goldcrest Regulus regulus), five species previously considered to be vagrants that are now known to be regular winter visitors, passage migrants or both (Ruddy Shelduck Tadorna ferruginea, Crested Honey Buzzard Pernis ptilorhynchus, Little Bustard Tetrax tetrax, Armenian Gull Larus armenicus, Black-legged Kittiwake Rissa tridactyla), and three passage migrant species have been found also to regularly winter in the country (Greater Sand Plover Anarhynchus leschenaultii, Ruddy Turnstone Arenaria interpres, Sandwich Tern Thalasseus sandvicensis). Two species previously considered locally extinct have reappeared after 70 years (Blue-cheeked Bee-eater Merops persicus) 186

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Plate 1. Egyptian Vulture is one of the persecuted globally threatened species in Lebanon. © Fouad Itani

and 120 years (Lesser Crested Tern Thalasseus bengalensis). Some breeding species have shown a decline in numbers or occurrence and their status has changed from common to uncommon or scarce (Bonelli’s Eagle Aquila fasciatus, European Turtle Dove Streptopelia turtur, Sombre Tit Poecile lugubris, Rufous-tailed Scrub Robin Cercotrichas galactotes). The following recorded species in Lebanon are globally threatened: Critically Endangered: Sociable Lapwing Vanellus gregarius; Endangered: White-headed Duck Oxyura leucocephala, Egyptian Vulture Neophron percnopterus (Plate 1), Steppe Eagle Aquila nipalensis, Saker Falcon Falco cherrug; Vulnerable: Marbled Duck Marmaronetta angustirostris, Common Pochard Aythya ferina, Velvet Scoter Melanitta fusca, Yelkouan Shearwater Puffinus yelkouan, Horned Grebe Podiceps auritus, Greater Spotted Eagle Clanga clanga, Eastern Imperial Eagle Aquila heliaca, Great Bustard Otis tarda, Macqueen’s Bustard Chlamydotis macqueenii, Blacklegged Kittiwake Rissa tridactyla, European Turtle Dove Streptopelia turtur, Syrian Serin Serinus syriacus, Rustic Bunting Emberiza rustica.

Finally, for localised species, we list, if appropriate, the main locations where they have been recorded to help guide future assessment, to fill gaps, and provide a basis for followup and monitoring. For all species we provide references for their first occurrence and/or their first breeding record in Lebanon.

SYSTEMATIC LIST The most significant localities are shown in Figure 1, in which sites with lower serial numbers are those of either of higher ornithological significance (eg Aammiq, Qaa, Cheikh Zennad) or those that are more frequented by observers (eg Beirut, Dalhoun, Ainab). Data on breeding is provided where known. Generally, detailed records are provided only for species with fewer than 10 records and for threatened species where appropriate. Text within square brackets refers to reports that as yet are lacking proof or confirmation or in need of further documentation. They appear here only as hypothetical species, included to encourage observers to submit any outstanding documentation to the Lebanon Bird Sandgrouse 42 (2020)

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Figure 1. The 145 most significant localities of bird records in the Lebanon, their numbered order reflecting either their ornithological importance or frequency of visits. 1. Aammiq, 2. Beirut, 3. Qaa, 4. Palm Islands, 5. Cheikh Zennad, 6. Tyre Coast, 7. Qaraoun, 8. Damour, 9. Rihane, 10. Jabal Rihane, 11. Anjar, 12. Dalhoun, 13. Arz el Shouf, 14. Litani River, 15. Ehden, 16. Khalde, 17. Ain Zhalta, 18. Barouk, 19. Yammouneh, 20. Aqoura, 21. Tanayel, 23. Tripoli, 24.

Naqoura, 25. Qammouha, 26. Nahr el Kalb, 27. Azour, 28. Rachaya, 29. Hermel, 30. Faraya, 31. Saida, 32. Ainata North, 33. Joub Jannine, 34. Bcharre, 35. Baalbek, 36. Ainab, 37. Maasser el Shouf, 38. Jiyeh, 39. Deir el Qamar, 40.

Byblos, 41. Niha, 42. Hermon, 43. Baabda, 44. Yanta, 45. Tannourine, 46. Kfarhouneh, 47. Chtaura, 48. Zahleh, 49.

Sannine, 50. Laqlouq, 51. Kefraya South, 52. Jezzine, 53. Assi River, 54. Deir Mimas, 55. Aley, 56. Afqa, 57. Chwayya, 58. Bustan, 59. Nahr Beirut, 60. Mlikh, 61. Mimes, 62. Deir el Ahmar, 63. Bikfaya, 64. Alma el Chaab, 65. Qassimyeh, 66. Qartaba, 67. Faqra, 68. Batroun, 69. Qabb Elias, 70. Nabatyeh, 71. Marjayoun, 72. Dahr el Baidar, 73. Bwar, 75.

Ryaq, 76. Kousba, 77. Hasbani, 78. Doueir, 79. Aramta, 81. Qleiaat, 82. Bhamdoun, 83. Bentael, 85. Baadaran, 86.

Arnoun, 88. Zgharta, 89. Toumat Niha, 91. Qbeiyat, 94. Kamed el Lowz, 95. Jourd Nahleh, 96. Bisri, 97. Maanyeh, 102. Ibl el Saqi, 104. Hasbaya, 107. Fakiha, 110. Amchite, 111. Ablah, 112. Zahrani, 115. Rayfoun, 116. Ras el Chekaa, 117. Rachaya el Fokhar, 118. Machghara, 120. Bejje, 123. Karm el Mohr, 124. Jounieh, 125. Jabal Mazar, 126. Jabal Haouerta, 127. Hadeth el Jibbeh, 128. Fneideq, 129. Enfeh, 131. Douma, 132. Dahr el Ahmar, 133. Chambouq, 134.

Bebnine, 144. Tel el Akhdar, 145. Bireh, 148. Qana, 156. Majdaloune, 159. Kneisseh, 163. Kesrouane, 164. Kefraya North, 166. Jebrayel, 167. Hrajel, 168. Ehmej, 182. Ainata South, 184. Zighrine, 189. Wadi Faara, 191. Wadi el Karm, 196. Tair Dibba, 207. Qornet el Saouda, 208. Qlaiaa, 212. Nabha, 216. Mrah el Ain, 217. Minieh, 218. Mtein, 223. Marj Hine, 224. Maqneh, 226. Maifouq, 231. Khiara, 248. Hzarta, 253. Hammara, 260. Eddeh, 265. Deir Janine, 270. Chmis, 278. Bqaa Kafra, 288. Arsal, 290. Insaar, 293. Aitaroun. For information concerning any site, contact the authors.

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Rarities Committee (LBRC), which will evaluate these reports on the documentation available to them; in some cases, this is sparse. The LBRC stress that without full documentation, acceptance of a report as a record to be added to the Lebanon Checklist is unlikely.

Key

Abbreviations are used to indicate each species’ status. Lower case abbreviations (eg r, sb, s, wv and pm) indicate that the species is uncommon or rare in the respective season.

Resident with definite breeding records SB Breeding summer visitor S Non-breeding summer visitor WV Winter visitor PM Passage migrant FB Formerly bred (no breeding records since 1987) v Vagrant I Introduced ?

Uncertain status The following abbreviations denote threatened species as per the IUCN Red List categories for 2019: CR: Critically Endangered, EN: Endangered, VU: Vulnerable, NT: Near Threatened.

Months are abbreviated eg February = Feb. American University of Beirut is abbreviated to AUB. CLASSIFICATION ORDER:

The order of species and nomenclature follow the Simplified OSME Region List (Simplified ORL 5.1, Aug 2019), available at www.osme.org, With old records or those lacking sufficient information to assign to species, we have used the parent taxon.

PHASIANIDAE Rock Partridge Alectoris graeca (NT) I: Introduced in 1994–1995 and breeding confirmed, near Maasser el Shouf, in very small numbers (Ramadan-Jaradi & Ramadan-Jaradi 1997).

Current status uncertain, unknown if the species is locally extinct or overlooked.

Chukar Partridge Alectoris chukar R: Common and widespread resident breeder mainly at 1200–2000 m asl. Scattered at lower altitudes (700-1100 m asl) and considerably decreased in some sites (eg Jabal Rihane: 260-1350 m asl) due to persecution and accidental poisoning.

First recorded in 1824 (Hemprich & Ehrenberg 1833). First breeding recorded at Ainab in 1948 (West 1954).

Sand Partridge Ammoperdix heyi v: One record: between Baalbek and the Lebanon Range on 30 Apr 1946 by Hyde & Green (Kumerloeve 1962).

Black Francolin Francolinus francolinus v: Two records: one male at Anjar in 1958 (Tohmé & Neuschwander 1974) and one male shot at Marjayoun 11 Feb 2018 (GR-J).

Common Quail Coturnix coturnix sb, PM, wv: Uncommon and localised migrant breeder in Beqaa, on Palm Islands and elsewhere. Very common passage migrant over most of the country from mid-Feb to late May and early Aug to late Nov; peaks Mar and Sep. Few overwinter Dec–Feb, mainly in the Beqaa Valley. First mentioned by Tristram (1864). First breeding record was at the Beqaa (Aharoni 1931).

Common Pheasant Phasianus colchicus I: Sporadic occurrence of introductions or escapes with one breeding record at Daraya in 1995 (Ramadan-Jaradi 1997).

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ANATIDAE Eastern Greylag Goose Anser anser rubrirostris v: One record: nine flying north over Aammiq 25 Jan 2000 (Beale & Sprenger 2001).

Bean Goose Anser fabalis v: Considered a vagrant by Benson (1970).

Greater White-fronted Goose Anser albifrons wv, pm: Fairly common on passage over and off Palm Islands (Ramadan-Jaradi & Ramadan-Jaradi 2001), usually in small flocks of five to 11 birds (GR-J). Elsewhere scarce, Nov and Mar. Irregular in winter mid-Nov to early Mar (Ramadan-Jaradi & Ramadan-Jaradi 1999, Ramadan-Jaradi et al 2008). A flock of 11 was seen 28 Oct 2016 at Amyoun (GR-J) and four were recorded at Sanani Island 11 Feb 2017 (Ramadan-Jaradi 2017).

Mute Swan Cygnus olor v? (I): Four records: six off Beirut 20 Dec 1995 and 11 off Jiyeh 17 Mar 1996 (Ramadan-Jaradi & Ramadan-Jaradi 1999); four birds, probably introduced, at Bneshey Lake above Zgharta 3 Feb 2006 (Ramadan-Jaradi & Ramadan-Jaradi 1999, Ramadan-Jaradi et al 2008) and more recently four there Aug 2015 (FI).

Common Shelduck Tadorna tadorna pm, wv: Small numbers on passage Sep to late Nov and Mar to early May. Scarce winter visitor in small groups to most wetlands and coasts late Nov to late Mar, including Palm Islands (Ramadan-Jaradi 2017). First recorded 1958 (Flach 1959).

Ruddy Shelduck Tadorna ferruginea wv: Two older records: one shot at Beirut 17 Nov 1958 (Flach 1959) and one decomposed corpse at Bishmezzine (a man-made marsh) 26 Feb 2006 (Ramadan Jaradi et al 2008). The 3rd to 8th records and the first records for over 10 years (Ramadan-Jaradi et al 2017) were: two at Marjaayoun 21 Nov 2016; a flock of 25 flying over Jdeidit Al Fekiha 7 Dec 2016; a flock of six flying over the same area 12 Dec 2016; one shot in the Akkar plain, north Lebanon 20 Dec 2016; two individuals flying over Marjaayoun plain, southern Lebanon 20 Jan 2017; and three individuals 2 Feb 2017 at Rabbit island (RamadanJaradi 2017). More recently, Maher Rouhana (pers comm) photographed 14 birds in flight 3 Nov 2019. Considering these recent records, the species’ status is upgraded from vagrant to scarce winter visitor.

Cotton Pygmy Goose Nettapus coromandelianus v: First record for Lebanon: one shot at Mandara plain in West Beqaa late Dec 2015 (FI).

Garganey Spatula querquedula PM, sb: First breeding noted at Aammiq in spring 1999 (Beale & Sprenger 2001). A female also there with ten ducklings on 31 May 2005 and eight on 10 Jun 2005 (Colin Conroy pers comm). More recently, one female at Aammiq 12 Jun 2012 (GRJ). Widespread and common passage migrant at most wetlands early Feb to Apr, but much rarer Aug to early Nov. Recorded on passage at Palm Islands until 17 May (Ramadan-Jaradi & Ramadan-Jaradi 2001). First recorded by Tristram (1864).

Northern Shoveler Spatula clypeata PM, WV: Fairly common passage migrant, occasionally flocks of up to 200. At most wetlands from mid-Feb to early May and mid-Sep to early Nov. Fair numbers overwinter at Qaraoun, notably up to 1400 on 13 Jan 2002 (Andy Sprenger pers comm), and to a lesser extent elsewhere, late Oct-late Mar. First recorded in 1955 (Nevins 1960).

Gadwall Mareca strepera wv: Very scarce and irregular winter visitor at wetlands late Oct to mid-Mar (Ramadan-Jaradi et al 2008). Recently, 23 were recorded at Palm Islands 11 Feb 2017 (Ramadan-Jaradi 2017) and five off Beirut on 20 Dec 2019 (FI). First recorded in 1944 (MacLaren 1944).

Eurasian Wigeon Mareca penelope PM, wv: Relatively common passage migrant from midFeb to mid-May and Sep to early Dec, over most of the country. Occasional winter visitor in small numbers to Beqaa Valley wetlands, Dec to early Mar. First reported in 1877 by Van Dyck (Kumerloeve 1962).

Mallard Anas platyrhynchos PM, WV, s, sb: First breeding reported from Aammiq in 2005 (Ramadan-Jaradi 2006, Colin Conroy pers comm) followed by breeding success in 2006/2007 (Colin Conroy pers comm). Widespread in large numbers, Aug to early Apr at inland 190

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wetlands with fair numbers on coast and islands. First recorded by Van Dyck in 1873-1878 (Kumerloeve 1960a, 1962).

Northern Pintail Anas acuta PM, WV, s: Relatively common on inland and coastal waters from mid-Oct to late Apr with peak numbers Jan–Feb. Occasionally oversummers late May to mid-Aug. First recorded in 1877 by Van Dyck (Kumerloeve 1962).

Eurasian Teal Anas crecca FB, PM, WV: Widespread and common passage migrant (Mar to early May and mid-Aug to late Nov), and a winter visitor (Dec–Mar) in Beqaa wetlands; less common further west, along coast and on Palm Islands (Ramadan-Jaradi & RamadanJaradi 1999 & 2001). A pair was seen at Aammiq until at least 28 May 2006 and 31 May 2007 (Colin Conroy pers comm in Ramadan-Jaradi et al 2008) but no breeding evidence in either year. First reported in 1877 by Van Dyck (Kumerloeve 1962). First recorded as breeding by Festa (1894).

Marbled Duck Marmaronetta angustirostris (VU) v: Regarded as “accidental” in Lebanon

by Cramp & Simmons (1977). Five records since then: one at Qaraoun, Sep 1978 (Tohmé & Tohmé 1986); one at Cheikh Zennad 3 Oct 2000 (Ramadan-Jaradi & Ramadan-Jaradi 2002, Ramadan-Jaradi et al 2008); one shot at West Beqaa 6 Dec 2014 (Ramadan-Jaradi et al 2015); two shot at Aammiq, Jan 2015 (GR-J & FI); and two at Qaraoun Lake 31 Oct 2018 (FI).

Red-crested Pochard Netta rufina v: One record: a male at Tyre Coast 12 Mar 1995 (RamadanJaradi & Ramadan-Jaradi 1999, Ramadan-Jaradi et al 2008).

Common Pochard Aythya ferina (VU) pm, wv: Uncommon on passage Oct–Nov and even rarer Mar–Apr at inland waters, coasts and islands. A scarce winter visitor in relatively small numbers to inland wetlands Dec–Feb. First recorded in 1955 (Nevins 1960).

Ferruginous Duck Aythya nyroca (NT) pm, wv, s: Scarce passage migrant and winter visitor, mainly at Aammiq and Qaraoun, in relatively small numbers Sep to late Mar, with a maximum of 25 individuals in one flock, Dec 2016. Non-breeders occasionally oversummer (Jun to early Aug) at Anjar/Kfarzabad and Qaraoun. First recorded in 1954 (West 1954).

Tufted Duck Aythya fuligula pm, wv: Uncommon passage migrant in Beqaa Valley wetlands, mainly Mar to late Apr and mid-Sep to late Nov. Few overwinter (Dec to early Mar) at inland wetlands. First noted in 1943 (MacLaren 1944).

Velvet Scoter Melanitta fusca (VU) v: Two records: one at the Nahr El Kalb estuary 10 Dec 1960 (Kumerloeve 1972) and [one reported offshore Sarafand on 12 Nov 2005 (Balmer & Betton 2007a)].

Common Goldeneye Bucephala clangula v: One record: one off Beirut 20 Feb 1943 (Cawkell 1944).

Red-breasted Merganser Mergus serrator v: Two records: a male and six females on an islet off Tripoli 7 Mar 1998 (Bara 2002) and five at Qleiaat, 5 Nov 2018 (Ramadan-Jaradi et al 2019).

White-headed Duck Oxyura leucocephala (EN) v: One record: a female shot at Lake Qaraoun 4 Nov 2017 (Ramadan-Jaradi & Itani 2018).

CAPRIMULGIDAE European Nightjar Caprimulgus europaeus FB, PM, ?sb: Formerly bred (West 1954, Cramp 1985) but no evidence according to Tohmé & Neuschwander (1974). Currently, a common passage migrant in early Mar to late May and in early Sep to late Oct. Additional scattered observations early Jul-Aug on Palm Islands (Ramadan-Jaradi & Ramadan-Jaradi 2001).

Recorded in gardens in Beirut, the Beqaa Valley and montane areas up to c2000 m asl. First recorded by Schrader (1892).

APODIDAE Alpine Swift Tachymarptis melba sb, pm: Localised migrant breeder (mid-Feb to early Jul) to cliffs in most montane areas at mid- to high altitudes. Formerly bred in Beirut (Tohmé & Neuschwander 1974). Uncommon on passage over much of the country mid-Feb to Apr and Sandgrouse 42 (2020)

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much commoner early Jul to mid-Oct. First recorded in 1824 (Hemprich & Ehrenberg 1833).

First confirmed breeding recorded by Tristram (1865-1868).

Common Swift Apus apus SB, PM: Abundant migrant breeder over most of the country. Nests from Mar–Jul from sea-level to high altitude (including the Anti-Lebanon, especially at Jabal Akroum). Very common on passage in late Feb to late Apr and early Jun to late Nov. First recorded in 1824 (Hemprich & Ehrenberg 1833). First breeding recorded by Tristram (1865-68).

Pallid Swift Apus pallidus sb, pm: Locally common migrant breeder (Ramadan-Jaradi & Ramadan-Jaradi 1997, 1999, 2001). Uncommon to scarce on passage Feb–May and Jun–Sep over most of the country. First recorded by West (1954). First breeding record by RamadanJaradi & Ramadan-Jaradi (1997).

Little Swift Apus affinis FB, pm, ?sb: Formerly an occasional breeder (Schrader 1892, Cramp 1985), but no recent evidence, though small flocks have been recorded Apr–Jun and Aug in recent years at suitable nesting sites. Scarce on passage mid-Feb to mid-Apr and late Sep to late Nov. Sighted over most of the country. First recorded in 1878 (Schrader 1892).

OTIDIDAE Great Bustard Otis tarda (VU) v: Considered “accidental” by Cramp & Simmons (1980), presumably on the basis of a specimen found by Cawkell (1944) at Nahr El Kalb Café.

Macqueen’s Bustard Chlamydotis macqueenii (VU) v: Based on two records in 1958: singles at Ainbal on 12 Oct and south of Baalbek on 30 Oct (Flach 1959), this species was until recently considered vagrant in Lebanon. Recently: one shot 13 Nov 2016 at Sinay (Nabatieh Governate of South Lebanon); one shot 22 Nov 2016 in Rachaya Al Foukhar, south east Lebanon (Ramadan-Jaradi et al 2017).

Little Bustard Tetrax tetrax (NT) pm, wv: One Oct 1958 (Ramadan-Jaradi et al 2008). Then in 2013-2014, four observations in Nov and Dec were the first records in Lebanon for over 64 years (Ramadan-Jaradi et al 2015). More recently, nine individuals were shot in Dec 2016 (Ramadan-Jaradi et al 2017). These records suggest perhaps the species is a scarce passage visitor with probable attempts at wintering made unsuccessful by excessive hunting.

Recorded in Al Arida, Akkar, Damour, Jbeil, Ras Baalbek, Sareen El Fawqa and Tall Znoub.

CUCULIDAE Great Spotted Cuckoo Clamator glandarius FB, pm, wv, [sb]: First breeding confirmed at Beirut 1954 (West 1954, Cramp 1985) and [egg-laying reported from woods above Aammiq in 2001, parasitized species unknown (Balmer & Betton 2001)]. An uncommon but regular passage migrant in most areas from mid-Feb (GR-J) to late Apr and mid-Aug to late Sep, and a scarce winter visitor to Palm Islands (Ramadan-Jaradi & Ramadan-Jaradi 2001), the Beqaa Valley and lower montane areas in Dec–Jan (Ramadan-Jaradi & Ramadan-Jaradi 1999). First recorded in 1824 (Hemprich & Ehrenberg 1833).

Diederik Cuckoo Chrysococcyx caprius v: One record: one shot in Al Ghassaniya, southern Lebanon, 1 Dec 2016 (Ramadan-Jaradi et al 2017).

Common Cuckoo Cuculus canorus sb, PM: Uncommon and localised migrant breeder, mainly to northern Beqaa and montane southern Lebanon and the Anti-Lebanon range. Relatively common on passage across the country early Mar to mid-May (most early Apr) and midAug to late Sep. First recorded by Tristram (1864), first breeding confirmed by Kumerloeve (1962).

PTEROCLIDAE Black-bellied Sandgrouse Syrrhaptes orientalis wv: Five records. First record 18 birds at Cheikh Zennad on 16 Nov 1996 (Bara 1998). The second record was of c350 individuals on 7 Dec 2013 (Ramadan-Jaradi & Serhal 2014). More recently, 17 were shot 8-17 Jan and 22-25 Dec 2015. Four more were shot in Jan 2017 in Akkar. Between 1 and 5 Dec 2018, 25 were shot 192

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by eight different hunters in the north of Lebanon in different areas of Akkar. With these records, the species should no longer be regarded as a vagrant to Lebanon but as a regular and fairly common winter visitor (Ramadan-Jaradi et al 2019).

Pin-tailed Sandgrouse Pterocles alchata v: Five records: one at Aammiq on 15 Aug 1975 (Macfarlane 1978); two there 4 Oct 1997 (Walley in Ramadan-Jaradi & Ramadan-Jaradi 1999); and seven in Dec 2014. At Akkar a hunter on the Andqit plain had a female on a string and a total of 19 in flight were seen there in the same day (Ramadan-Jaradi and Serhal 2014).

Lichtenstein’s Sandgrouse Nyctiperdix lichtensteinii ?: [On 28 Feb 2020, Michel Sawan provided GR-J with a photo of three apparently slightly injured Lichtenstein’s Sandgrouse supplied to him by a hunter on 19 Jan 2020 at Akkar and he believes they were shot in Lebanon. However, the LBRC has asked for additional information and full documentation before making any judgement on this report. To date further supporting information is lacking.]

COLUMBIDAE Rock Dove Columba livia R: Breeding reconfirmed after a gap of over 35 years at Yammouneh in 1995 (Ramadan-Jaradi & Ramadan-Jaradi 1997). A fairly common resident in montane rocky areas of the Lebanon and Anti-Lebanon ranges and to a lesser extent in some sea cliffs, including Raouché (Pigeon Rock of Beirut). Many Feral Pigeons Columba livia f. domestica have returned to wild or semi-wild conditions, some inhabiting (for over 40 years) the upper storeys of tall buildings in Beirut, abandoned since the civil war – these birds constitute the main prey of the Peregrine Falcons Falco peregrinus that winter every year at the top of an empty 25-storey tower (Ramadan-Jaradi et al 2005). First recorded by Tristram in 1867 (1865-68). First breeding record in 1959 (Kumerloeve 1962).

Stock Dove Columba oenas pm, wv: Previously considered a vagrant in Lebanon (RamadanJaradi & Ramadan-Jaradi 1999), and later as an uncommon passage migrant and winter visitor to the Beqaa Valley (Ramadan-Jaradi et al 2008). Recently, ten records: a flock of unknown size was seen at Aammiq 27 Oct 2010 and 12 at the same location 14 Mar 2011 (Rasmus Bogeskovlarsen pers comm). There are further records of several shot birds at Hermel and Marjhine from Nov and Dec 2017. First recorded by Shoubridge (1945).

Common Woodpigeon Columba palumbus ?FB, PM, WV: Perhaps formerly bred but no proof (Kumerloeve 1968). Fairly common passage migrant Mar-Apr and late Sep to Nov, and an abundant but irregular winter visitor late Nov to late Feb, with invasion peaks up to 3000 in Dec, mainly at Bentael (Ramadan-Jaradi & Ramadan-Jaradi 1999, 2002). Recent records in Jun 2015 and May 2017 suggest some late movements or possibly breeding birds. First recorded in 1958 (Flach 1959).

European Turtle Dove Streptopelia turtur (VU) sb, pm: Turtle Dove (Plate 2) is a fairly common migrant breeder (Apr–Aug) in montane areas up to 1800 m asl, in the Beqaa Valley (mainly Hermel and Qaa and the slopes above the valley) and probably on Palm Islands.

Uncommon passage migrant across most of the country late Mar to early Jun (peak early Apr to mid-May) and early Aug to late Nov (peak late Aug to late Sep). First recorded in 1877 by Van Dyck (Kumerloeve 1960a, 1962), first breeding confirmed by Kumerloeve (1962).

Eurasian Collared Dove Streptopelia decaocto R: Considered extinct by Tohmé & Neuschwander (1974) and a former breeder (Cramp 1985). Reappearance and breeding confirmed (Ramadan-Jaradi & Ramadan-Jaradi 1997, 1999). Presently a common and abundant resident breeder in town, villages and fields.

Red Turtle Dove Streptopelia tranquebarica escape: One at el Mina, Tripoli 2 Oct 1999 was presumably an escape, although records exist for Iran and Oman (Marc Almecija in Ramadan-Jaradi et al 2008).

Laughing Dove Spilopelia senegalensis R: Abundant resident breeder in town, villages and fields. First recorded in 1894 by Van Dyck (Kumerloeve 1960a, 1962), first breeding confirmed at Beirut (Kumerloeve 1962).

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Plate 2. European Turtle Dove is another of the persecuted globally threatened birds in Lebanon, even in spring when breeding. © Fouad Itani

Namaqua Dove Oena capensis pm: Historically, one record near Anjar, east Beqaa Valley 16 May 2006 (Tomas Haraldsson 2008 & pers comm). One at Ras Beirut 7 Jul 2003 and one at Baabda 6 Feb 2005, both birds showed possible cage wear to feathers suggesting escapes (Ramadan-Jaradi et al 2008). Recently several records were reported in Ramadan-Jaradi & Itani (2016); since that publication a total of 12 further separate records from 2015 to 2017, recorded in Al Qaa, Al Shouf, Anjar, Baabda, Baalbeck, Beirut, Hermel, Keserwen, Labwe, Makse, Okaybeh, Ras Baalbek, Shouf, Tyre and Zahle. These recent findings suggest that the species is a rare passage migrant possibly undergoing range expansion.

RALLIDAE Western Water Rail Rallus aquaticus sb, PM, WV: Scarce summer breeder at Aammiq, Anjar, and Qassimyeh (eggs Mar–May). Common and widespread passage migrant and winter visitor early Sep to early May, mainly at inland waters and estuaries. Very few oversummer Jun-Aug. First recorded in 1877 by Van Dyck (Kumerloeve 1962), first breeding recorded at Anjar (Tohmé & Neuschwander 1974).

Corncrake Crex crex pm: An uncommon passage migrant over Lebanon mid-Aug to late Oct and early Mar to late May (Ramadan-Jaradi et al 2004). Regular in May and beginning of Jun on Palm Islands (Ramadan-Jaradi & Ramadan-Jaradi 2001), with peaks of up to six birds. An isolated record at Tyre Coast 6 Dec 2003 was exceptional (Ramadan-Jaradi et al 2005). First recorded in 1824 (Hemprich & Ehrenberg 1833).

Western Baillon’s Crake Zapornia intermedia pm: Scarce spring migrant (Mar–Apr), singles at inland waters, particularly Aammiq. Two autumn records at Aammiq: one 19 Sep 1996 (Ramadan-Jaradi & Ramadan-Jaradi 1999) and one 10 Sep 2005 (Colin Conroy pers comm).

First recorded in 1996 (Ramadan-Jaradi & Ramadan-Jaradi 1999).

Little Crake Zapornia parva pm, ?sb: Uncommon to scarce passage migrant. Scarce in spring (Mar to late Apr) when almost exclusively seen at Aammiq, Anjar, Bishmezzine and Kfar Zabad. Even smaller numbers in late Aug to early Sep on Palm Islands, Aammiq, Anjar and Cheikh Zennad. Calling birds heard and pairs seen at two sites in 2000, suggestive of breeding (Beale & Sprenger 2001). First recorded in 1975 (Macfarlane 1978).

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Spotted Crake Porzana porzana PM, wv: Common spring passage migrant Mar to mid-May (peak in Apr), at estuaries, inland waters and, to a lesser extent, Palm Islands. Scarce on autumn passage Sep–Oct and rare in winter from mid-Nov to late Feb at Aammiq, Anjar, Qassimyeh and Tyre Coast. First recorded in 1891 by Van Dyck (Kumerloeve 1962).

Grey-headed Swamphen Porphyrio poliocephalus v: Three records: one at Jabal Mazar Lake in 1945 (Hardy 1946); six at Aammiq on 16 Jan 2005 (Ramadan-Jaradi et al 2008); one shot in front of observers (Balmer & Betton 2005) was confiscated and the corpse later prepared for the Faculty of Science collection room; and one at Dbayyeh 23 Jul 2019 (Nizar Hani pers comm).

Common Moorhen Gallinula chloropus R, PM, wv: Common resident breeder (eggs Mar to late Jun), mainly at Aammiq, Anjar/Kfarzabad, Assi River, Bishmezzine, Bisri River, Damour estuary, Qassimyeh, Qob Elias, Litani River, Oyoun el Samak, Tall Znoub, and Tyre Coast. Numbers increase from immigration mid-Aug to late Apr. First recorded by Van Dyck (Kumerloeve 1962) and first breeding confirmed at Aammiq by West (1954).

Eurasian Coot Fulica atra R, PM, WV: Fairly common resident breeder at inland wetlands.

Very common on passage and in winter, mainly Sep to late May, in most suitable habitats.

On 11 Nov 2017, >120 birds were observed at Qaraoun (JH). First recorded in 1877 by Van Dyck (Kumerloeve 1962) and first breeding confirmed at Jabal Mazar Lake (Hardy 1945).

GRUIDAE Demoiselle Crane Grus virgo pm: Scarce and irregular spring passage (Mar to early Apr) and uncommon autumn passage (Oct-Nov), through coastal, montane and the Beqaa Valley areas. The highest recorded numbers was [a group of 45 at Laqlouq on 14 Oct and 160 individuals 17 Oct 2003 at Nahr Ibrahim Valley (Balmer & Betton (2004)]. First recorded in 1958 (Flach 1959).

Common Crane Grus grus PM, wv: Common and abundant passage migrant during both periods, more so in the interior (the Beqaa Valley) in spring (Mar–Apr, but mainly early Mar), with maximum daily peaks of 3300 birds. In autumn it is generally more abundant (mid-Sep to Nov, mainly late Oct), between the coast and 300 m asl, the largest total being 6500 on 21 Oct 2003. Few winter records suggested that the species may also be considered a scarce winter visitor (GR-J & FI). First recorded in 1958 (Flach 1959).

PODICIPEDIDAE Little Grebe Tachybaptus ruficollis R, SB, pm, wv: Localized resident and summer breeding populations mainly at Aammiq, Bishmezzine, Qassimyeh, Anjar, Dbayyeh, Oyun el Samak and Tyre Coast Nature Reserve; augmented by wintering birds, mainly from Nov to late Feb. Scarce to uncommon passage migrant in Beqaa and other wetlands from early Sep to late Nov and mid-Mar to late Apr, usually on estuaries and inland wetlands. First recorded

by Van Dyck in 1873-1878 (Kumerloeve 1960a, 1962), first breeding confirmed at Jabal Mazar Lake in 1954 by Hardy (Kumerloeve 1962).

Red-necked Grebe Podiceps grisegena v: Three records: one in Beirut harbour 18 Jan 1942 (Cawkell 1944); one dead non-breeding adult at Beirut seafront 29 Oct 2002 (Ramadan-Jaradi et al 2004); and three 4 Oct 2010 (Rasmus Bogeskovlarsen pers comm).

Great Crested Grebe Podiceps cristatus sb, wv, pm, s: Small numbers regularly winter (Dec to early Mar) at Qaraoun lake, Tanayel pool, Yammouneh pond and other freshwater sites.

Non-breeders occasionally in summer (May to mid-Aug). First breeding record 28 Apr 2019 at Aammiq Wetlands (Ramadan-Jaradi et al 2019). Also seen at Beirut, Nahr El Kalb and Palm Islands. First recorded by Schrader (1892).

Horned Grebe Podiceps auritus (VU) v: Two records: one at Damour river mouth 20 Dec 1996 (Ramadan-Jaradi & Ramadan-Jaradi 1999); and one in autumn plumage at an artificial pond at Tyre Coast Nature Reserve 28 Sep 2004 (Ramadan-Jaradi et al 2005, 2008).

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Black-necked Grebe Podiceps nigricollis wv, pm: Uncommon: small numbers at Qaraoun, Bishmezzine and Tanayel from Dec–Mar. Few passage records Mar to early May (mainly Apr) and early-Sep to early Nov (mainly Oct) over much of the country. First recorded by Carruthers (1910).

PHOENICOPTERIDAE Greater Flamingo Phoenicopterus roseus pm, w: Status unclear prior to 1999 (Ramadan-Jaradi & Ramadan-Jaradi 1999). Later records suggest that the species is a scarce and irregular passage migrant and probably an equally scarce winter visitor, rather than a vagrant (Ramadan-Jaradi et al 2004). Recorded Jan-Jun, Aug, Sep, Oct and Dec; at Aammiq, Majdal Anjar, Palm Islands and along the coast. First recorded in 1881 by Van Dyck (Kumerloeve 1962).

BURHINIDAE Eurasian Stone-curlew Burhinus oedicnemus PM, sb: Common passage migrant mid-Mar to late May and Sep-Oct on the coast and in the Beqaa Valley (Ramadan-Jaradi & RamadanJaradi 1999, Ramadan-Jaradi 2003). Unusual records: 12 at Hermel 2 Dec 2001 (Marc Almecija pers comm); three at Saednayel West Bekaa Dec 2013 (GR-J & FI); and observed at Palm Islands 6 May 2007 (GR-J). Found breeding at Ras Baalbek and Hermel (Plate 3) on a gravel plain 26 Jul 2016 (Ramadan-Jaradi et al 2017). First recorded in 1878 by Van Dyck (Kumerloeve 1962).

Plate 3. Eurasian Stone-curlew is one of the eight species promoted to the status of summer breeder in Lebanon. Š Fouad Itani

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HAEMATOPODIDAE Eurasian Oystercatcher Haematopus ostralegus (NT) pm: Only four records from 1955-1998, thus previously considered a vagrant in Lebanon (Ramadan-Jaradi & Ramadan-Jaradi 1999).

Subsequent observations on Palm Islands (Ramadan-Jaradi 2003); one 23 Apr and two 28 Sep 2002; and one 7 Apr and five 11 May 2003. Elsewhere, a corpse at Qaraoun Lake on 24 May 2004 (Ramadan-Jaradi et al 2008). Outside passage dates, one at Beirut 9 Jul 2006 (Colin Conroy pers comm). A single bird was seen regularly at Tripoli 8 Apr, 25 Nov, 4 Dec 2008, then 27 Jan and 29 Feb 2009 (Mike Orr & Karen Wade pers comm). Further individuals seen at Ouzai 22 Jul 2015 and Tripoli 29 Dec 2017 (FI). Records thus suggest this species is a regular but scarce passage migrant, the Sep record being the first for autumn (RamadanJaradi et al 2005). First recorded in 1955 (Nevins 1960).

RECURVIROSTRIDAE Black-winged Stilt Himantopus himantopus PM: Common passage migrant early Mar to mid-May and mid-Jun to late Oct on islands (most on Palm Islands), coasts (mainly at Cheikh Zennad) and inland waters (mostly Aammiq and Qaraoun). First recorded in 1877

by Van Dyck (Kumerloeve 1962).

Pied Avocet Recurvirostra avosetta pm, wv, s: Scarce passage migrant early Mar to mid-May and early Aug to late Oct on coasts and islands. At Cheikh Zennad, two 18 Jan 2002 and one 20 Dec 2006 (GR-J) indicate that the species is also a rare winter visitor. Also, one seen 30 Jul 2008 by Colin Conroy indicates a non-breeding summer visitor. First recorded by Schrader (1892).

CHARADRIIDIAE Northern Lapwing Vanellus vanellus (NT) PM, WV: Widespread and abundant passage migrant over most of the country, and a common winter visitor to the Beqaa Valley.

Recorded mid-Aug to mid-May (mainly late Oct to mid-Apr). First recorded by Van Dyck in 1873-1878 (Kumerloeve 1960a, 1962).

Spur-winged Lapwing Vanellus spinosus pm, wv, SB: Scarce passage migrant mid-Feb to mid-Jun (peak mid-Apr to mid-May) and early Aug to late Oct. Most on Palm Island and coast, or at Aammiq and Qaraoun. In winter at Dbayyeh 10 individuals 4 Decmber 2008 (Mike Orr) and two 30 Jan 2018 (JH). First recorded by Van Dyck in 1873-1878 (Kumerloeve 1960a, 1962). First breeding confirmed and nests photographed at Tyre Coast Nature Reserve in Jun 2006 (GR-J in Ramadan-Jaradi et al 2008), further breeding at Dbayyeh 4 Apr 2016 (GR-J, FI & Maher Rouhana).

Sociable Lapwing Vanellus gregarius (CR) pm, wv: Rare winterer and very rare passage migrant. A small flock at Ryaq, Beqaa Valley 30 Oct 1958 (Flach 1959); three in a cultivated field above Qaraoun Lake 22 Oct 2004 (Ramadan-Jaradi et al 2004); one shot in the semideserts of Ras Baalbeck Dec 2011; one out of four was shot in Hermel Jan 2012; one was shot in Akkar 8 Oct 2016 (Ramadan-Jaradi & Itani, 2017); and three seen at Kawkaba (the foot of Jabal El Cheikh (Hermon) 15 Mar 2019 (GR-J & Saleem Hamadeh in Harrison 2019).

Eurasian Golden Plover Pluvialis apricaria pm, wv: Scarce passage migrant in Mar–Apr and uncommon in Oct to mid-Nov, mostly on coasts and in the Beqaa; extremely rare elsewhere.

Fairly common winterer (late Nov to late Mar) with >350 individuals seen over Khaldeh (Costa Brava) 19 Jan 2017 (GR-J). Wintered in Beqaa, Aammiq, Cheikh Zennad, Hermel and Ras Baalbeck. First recorded by TohmĂŠ & Neuschwander (1974).

Pacific Golden Plover Pluvialis fulva v: One record: one at Cheikh Zennad 12 Oct 1996 (Bara 1998).

Grey Plover Pluvialis squatarola pm, wv: Scarce passage migrant and winter visitor to coasts and islands in mid-Aug to late May. First recorded by Tristram (1864).

Common Ringed Plover Charadrius hiaticula PM, wv, s: Relatively common passage migrant late Mar to early Jun and mid-Aug to late Oct on coasts, islands, fishponds and Sandgrouse 42 (2020)

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inland waters. Few overwinter Nov–Mar on coasts and islands. Very small numbers of non-breeders oversummer Jun–Jul at Tyre Coast, Cheikh Zennad and Palm Islands. First recorded in 1875 by Van Dyck (Kumerloeve 1962).

Little Ringed Plover Charadrius dubius PM, sb: Relatively common in spring (late Mar to mid-May) and scarce autumn migrant (early Aug to early Oct) at coast and inland waters (Beqaa). Two records 19 and 30 Jul 2008 at Cheikh Zennad by Colin Conroy (pers comm) point to non-breeding summer visitors. At Enfeh 23 Jun 2009 one chick and two parents were very vocal and flying around, confirming breeding of this species (Chadi Indary 2010).

Between 14 Apr and 12 May a small population has been seen in recent years at the Beirut waterfront, and lately distraction displays confirmed breeding at this site. On 12 Jun 2020, an adult and chick were photographed at Jdeideh, north of Beirut City (Samer Azar pers comm). These are the second and third breeding records in over 10 years. First recorded in 1975 by Van Dyck (Kumerloeve 1962).

Eurasian Dotterel Charadrius morinellus pm, wv: Scarce late Sep–Nov and only one spring record; three at Tyre 17 Mar 1995 (Ramadan-Jaradi & Ramadan-Jaradi 1999). Most records from coasts and the Beqaa Valley. Very small numbers occasionally winter (Jan–Feb) at Qaraoun lake and the Litani River. First recorded by Van Dyck in 1873-1878 (Kumerloeve 1960a, 1962).

Kentish Plover Anarhynchus alexandrinus pm, s: Rare to scarce passage migrant from early Feb to late May and early Aug to late Dec on coasts, estuaries and inland waters. Few non-breeders occasionally in Jun–Jul, mainly on coasts, Aammiq and Qaraoun Lake. First recorded in 1904 (Carruthers 1910).

Greater Sand Plover Anarhynchus leschenaultii pm, wv: Scarce to rare passage migrant from Mar to late Apr and rare Aug–Sep on coasts, fishponds and on Palm Islands. An occasional non-breeding summer visitor Jun-Jul and a very rare winter visitor. First recorded in 1877

by Van Dyck (Kumerloeve 1962).

Caspian Plover Anarhynchus asiaticus v: Four records: one at Beirut 21 Mar 1904 (Carruthers 1910); one Damour River mouth 26 Apr 1975 (Macfarlane 1978); one Cheikh Zennad 11 Apr 2002 (Ramadan-Jaradi et al 2004) and one also there 22 Sep 2002 (Ramadan-Jaradi & Waterbury in Ramadan-Jaradi et al 2008).

SCOLOPACIDAE Eurasian Whimbrel Numenius phaeopus pm: Rare passage migrant Apr and early Aug to mid-Oct on coasts and islands. Recorded at Beirut, Batroun, Cheikh Zennad, Nahr El Kalb, Naqoura, Ouzaii, Palm Islands, Sarafand, Mina/Tripoli and Tyre. First recorded in 1956 (Hollom 1959).

Eurasian Curlew Numenius arquata (NT) v, ?pm: Six records: one at Cheikh Zennad 21 Apr 1996 and two also there 30 Apr 1996 (Bara 1998); three at Damour 4 Sep 1996 (Ramadan-Jaradi & Ramadan-Jaradi (1999); one at Cheikh Zennad 21 Aug 2005 (Colin Conroy pers comm), and one 10 Aug 2008 at Cheikh Zennad (Colin Conroy pers comm).

On 29 Apr 2020, one was seen flying north and photographed by FI at the waterfront of the Jdeideh, north of Beirut city. This is the seventh record and the first for over 12 years.

Bar-tailed Godwit Limosa lapponica (NT) v: Four records: one at Cheikh Zennad 12 May 1996 (Bara 1998); one at Aammiq 5 May 2000 (Ramadan-Jaradi 2003) and one there 15 Sep 2000 (Beale & Sprenger 2001); and one at Tyre Coast 14 Oct 2004 (Ramadan-Jaradi et al 2005).

Black-tailed Godwit Limosa (limosa) limosa (NT) pm: Scarce passage migrant Mar-Apr and Aug-Nov along the coast and at inland waters. First recorded at Aammiq in 1975 (Macfarlane 1978).

Ruddy Turnstone Arenaria interpres pm, wv: Scarce but regular passage migrant (Mar-May and Aug-Oct) along the coast and at inland waters. Most at Cheikh Zennad, Palm Islands, Tyre Coast, Tripoli and Qaraoun Lake. Only one record from Aammiq 2 May 2001 (GR198

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J). Scarce winter visitor (Dec-Feb), mainly on the archipelagos between Mina shore and Ramkine Island. First recorded by Tohmé & Neuschwander (1974).

Sanderling Calidris alba pm: Rare and irregular passage migrant along the coast in May and Sep-Oct. First recorded at Beirut in late spring 1876 by Van Dyck (Kumerloeve 1962).

Little Stint Calidris minuta PM, s: Common passage migrant in flocks of up to several hundred in early Mar to late May and early Aug to late Oct on coasts, islands, and wetlands throughout the country. Only two summer records: one 19 Jul 2008 at Cheikh Zennad (Colin Conroy pers comm) and fifteen 23 Jul 2018 at Qaraoun Lake (FI). First recorded in 1882 by Van Dyck (Kumerloeve 1962).

Dunlin Calidris alpina PM, WV, s: Common passage migrant in Aug to mid-Nov (with only one summer record, 19 Jul 2008 at Cheikh Zennad; Colin Conroy pers comm) and to a lesser extent Apr–May on coasts, islands and inland wetlands. Regularly recorded Dec–Feb on Palm Islands and occasionally or locally in smaller numbers at other sites. First recorded in 1875 by Van Dyck (Kumerloeve 1962).

Curlew Sandpiper Calidris ferruginea (NT) pm, s: Scarce but regular passage migrant late Apr to May and Aug to Oct on coasts and wetlands throughout Lebanon. Very small numbers oversummer Jun–Jul on Palm Islands. First recorded by Ramadan-Jaradi & Ramadan-Jaradi (1999).

Temminck’s Stint Calidris temminckii pm: Scarce but regular passage migrant late Apr to late May and mid-Aug to late Oct, mainly in Beqaa and to a lesser extent on coast, fishponds and estuaries. First recorded by West (1954).

Red Knot Calidris canutus (NT) v: One record: one at Khaldeh pool 2 Apr 1955 (Navins in Kumerloeve 1962).

Ruff Calidris pugnax PM, wv, s: Common to abundant passage migrant mid-Feb to late May (peak Mar-Apr) and early Aug to mid-Nov (peak Sep), mainly in the Beqaa Valley, coast and estuaries. Scarce winter visitor (late Nov to mid-Feb), mainly to Cheikh Zennad and Palm Islands. Very small numbers oversummer at Cheikh Zennad, Jun–Jul (Bara in RamadanJaradi et al 2008). First recorded in 1878 by Van Dyck (Kumerloeve 1962).

Broad-billed Sandpiper Calidris falcinellus pm: Scarce passage migrant (mid-Apr to late May and early Aug to early Oct), usually in small numbers from one to four. Maximum seen; 18 at Cheikh Zennad 1 Sep 1996 (Bara 1998). To a lesser extent at Qaraoun, Palm Islands and Yammouneh (Ramadan-Jaradi et al 2008). First recorded in 1964 (Benson 1970).

Eurasian Woodcock Scolopax rusticola PM, WV: Fairly common and regular passage migrant and winter visitor in moderate numbers across most of the country, mainly mid-Oct to midApr, chiefly in the Beqaa area and Mount Lebanon. First recorded by Carruthers in 1904 (Kumerloeve 1962).

Jack Snipe Lymnocryptes minimus pm, wv: Rare passage migrant and scarce winter visitor from mid-Oct to late Apr, with records from Aammiq, Cheikh Zennad, Hermel, Kfar Zabad, Litani River, Palm Islands, Qaraoun and Ras Baalbek. Perhaps more common than records suggest. First recorded by Van Dyck 1873-1878 (Kumerloeve 1960a, 1962).

Great Snipe Gallinago media (NT) pm: Rare passage migrant mainly recorded mid-Mar to mid-May in the Beqaa Valley (with most at Aammiq) and on Palm Islands. Only four autumn records. At Aammiq: one 6 Oct 1956 (Kumerloeve 1962); one trapped there 14 Sep 1996 (Ramadan-Jaradi & Ramadan-Jaradi 1999); and one 11 Oct 2005 (A Rocha Lebanon 2006). Elsewhere recorded Beirut, Faraya and Tyre Coast. First recorded in 1881 by Van Dyck (Tristram in Kumerloeve 1962).

Common Snipe Gallinago gallinago pm, wv: Uncommon but regular passage migrant and winter visitor from mid-Aug to mid-May. Occurs over most of the country but favours the Aammiq area, Bishmezzine and Tyre Coast, mainly in winter. First recorded in 1904 (Carruthers 1910).

Terek Sandpiper Xenus cinerea pm: Seven records, all from the Cheikh Zennad area: one 18 Aug 1996 (Bara 1998); one 22 Sep 2002 (Ramadan-Jaradi et al 2005); one 6 and three 7 Sep Sandgrouse 42 (2020)

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2003 (Marc Almecija pers comm); one 21 Aug 2005; two 23 Aug 2015; and one 15 Sep 2008 (Colin Conroy pers comm). These records suggest Terek Sandpiper is a rare passage migrant rather than a vagrant.

Red-necked Phalarope Phalaropus lobatus pm: Six records, none in breeding plumage: a juvenile on the coast near Zahrani 3 Aug 1996 (Ramadan-Jaradi & Ramadan-Jaradi, 1999); one presumed adult at Palm Islands 17 Aug 2000 (Ramadan-Jaradi 2003); one juvenile at Cheikh Zennad 22 Jul 2001 seen and photographed by Nidal Issa (pers comm) and two juveniles there 22 Sep 2002 (Ramadan-Jaradi et al 2008); one adult near Aana 2 Oct 2003 (GR-J); and one at Cheikh Zennad 21 Sep 2003 (Marc Almecija pers comm). These records suggest that the Red-necked Phalarope is probably a rare passage migrant rather than a vagrant (Ramadan-Jaradi et al 2008).

Common Sandpiper Actitis hypoleucos PM, wv, s: Common passage migrant and scarce winter visitor. Recorded year-round on inland waters, coasts and islands. First recorded by Van Dyck in 1873-1878 (Kumerloeve 1960a, 1962).

Green Sandpiper Tringa ochropus PM, wv: Fairly common passage migrant late Feb to late Jun (peak mid-Mar to mid-Apr) and late Jul to late Oct. Scarce winter visitor Nov–Feb. Most at Cheikh Zennad, Palm Islands and at inland waters, including Aammiq; very few coastal records. First recorded in 1877 by Van Dyck (Kumerloeve 1962).

Common Redshank Tringa totanus pm, wv: Uncommon but regular passage migrant Mar– Apr and more common early Aug to late Dec. Few overwinter (Jan-Feb) at Cheikh Zennad and Palm Islands. Regular on Palm Islands and coasts, much less so at inland waters (Ramadan-Jaradi & Ramadan-Jaradi 1999). First recorded in 1904 (Carruthers 1910).

Marsh Sandpiper Tringa stagnatilis pm, ?wv: Uncommon passage migrant in early Mar to late Apr and early Aug to late Oct at coasts, estuaries and Palm Islands; and scarce at inland waters, including Aammiq. One winter record at Al Ain near Tyre 12 Dec 1996 (Ramadan-Jaradi & Ramadan-Jaradi 1999). Twelve records at Cheikh Zennad in Apr and then Aug–Nov, with a maximum of 31 on 17 Apr 2006 (Colin Conroy pers comm). First recorded by Tohmé & Neuschwander (1974).

Wood Sandpiper Tringa glareola PM: Fairly common passage migrant mid-Feb to late May and late Jul to early Nov, on islands, coasts and inland wetlands. First recorded by Van Dyck in 1873-1878 (Kumerloeve 1960a, 1962).

Common Greenshank Tringa nebularia PM, wv: Relatively common passage migrant Mar– Apr and late Jul to late Oct over much of the country. Very few in winter (Jan to mid-Feb), in the Beqaa, mainly at Qaraoun and the Litani River and on the coast, mainly at Cheikh Zennad and on Palm Islands. First recorded in 1877 by Van Dyck (Kumerloeve 1962).

Spotted Redshank Tringa erythropus pm: A scarce passage migrant rather than true vagrant, with 15 records. Reported Mar-Apr and late Jul to Sep from Aammiq, Cheikh Zennad, Khaldeh and Nahr Beirut. Only one winter record at Cheikh Zennad 19 Jan 2000 (RamadanJaradi et al 2005). First recorded in 1975 (Macfarlane 1978).

GLAREOLIDAE Cream-coloured Courser Cursorius cursor sb, pm: First breeding recorded at Fakiha in 2000 (Ramadan-Jaradi & Ramadan-Jaradi 2002), bred again at Ras Baalbek in 2017 (GR-J and FI).

Recorded from Mar to Nov, rare but locally common at Hermel, Ras Baalabek and Qaa (north Beqaa) and to a lesser extent elsewhere. First recorded by Hardy (1945).

Collared Pratincole Glareola pratincola pm: Uncommon passage migrant Apr–May and midAug to early Nov, mostly on coasts and islands. Reported from Aammiq, Beirut, Cheikh Zennad, Chwaifat, Mansoura, Palm Islands and Ras Baalbek. First recorded in 1875 by Van Dyck (Kumerloeve 1962).

Black-winged Pratincole Glareola nordmanni (NT) pm: Uncommon to scarce passage migrant (Apr–May and mid-Sep to early Oct) on islands, coasts, low montane areas (Dalhoun) and

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at Aammiq (Ramadan-Jaradi 1999). All records fall within the stated periods. First recorded in 1969 (Benson 1970).

LARIDAE Black-legged Kittiwake Rissa tridactyla (VU) wv, ?pm: Very rare winter visitor and/or extremely rare passage migrant. At Ras Beirut, three in Jan, five in Nov, and eight in Dec 1974-1975 (Macfarlane 1978). One bird at Palm Islands on 15 Feb 1998 (Ramadan-Jaradi & Ramadan-Jaradi 1999). At Tripoli between late Feb and end Mar 2009 up to seven birds were seen on five occasions (Mike Orr & Karen Wade pers comm).

Slender-billed Gull Chroicocephhalus genei pm, wv: An irregular spring passage migrant (Ramadan-Jaradi et al 2008) and uncommon winter visitor (GR-J). First recorded by Tristram (1864).

Common Black-headed Gull Chroicocephhalus ridibundus PM, WV: Abundant passage migrant and winter visitor from Aug to late Apr with peaks Nov–Dec when flocks of several hundred are present. Recorded on islands, coasts, fishponds, estuaries and irregularly at inland waters where usually fewer than 10 birds per site. First recorded by Van Dyck in 1873-1878 (Kumerloeve 1960a, 1962).

Little Gull Hydrocoloeus minutus pm, WV: Uncommon passage migrant (Sep-Nov and Mar to mid-May) with peaks up to 65 in Apr (GR-J), mainly at Cheikh Zennad. A common winter visitor (Dec-Feb), with peaks of up to 100 in Jan (GR-J), on islands, coasts, estuaries and to a lesser extent at inland waters (Qaraoun and Yammouneh). First recorded by Van Dyck in 1873-1878 (Kumerloeve 1960a, 1962).

Audouin’s Gull Ichthyaetus audouinii FB, pm: Bred on Palm island in 1895 (Stenhouse 1904).

Eighteen there but apparently not breeding 3 Apr 1973 (Tohmé & Neuschwander 1974).

Seven more records at the same place: ten 23 Aug 1997 (Ramadan-Jaradi & Ramadan-Jaradi 1999); one present 1, 4 and 25 Apr 1998; one 6 Jul 2000 (Ramadan-Jaradi & Ramadan-Jaradi 2001); three 4 Apr 2002 and four 11 Aug 2004 (GR-J). Elsewhere: three off Beirut 3 Oct 1958 (Flach 1959); at Cheikh Zennad, five 25 Aug 1996 (Bara 1998), six 5 Apr 2002 and 14 on 1 Sep 2003 (Ramadan-Jaradi 2003); three 7 Apr 2017 at Enfeh; and two 16 Oct 2019 at Sanani Island.

These records confirm that Audouin’s Gull is a rare passage migrant rather than a vagrant.

Mediterranean Gull Ichthyaetus melanocephalus pm, wv: Scarce and irregular passage migrant and winter visitor. Fairly common offshore in autumn and winter (Benson 1970); recorded on seven dates in Jan (Nevins 1960, Macfarlane 1978), seven in Feb and five in Mar (Macfarlane (1978); two in Dec (Macfarlane 1978), and two 10 Apr 1997 (Busuttil et al 1998a).

One at Tripoli 8 Feb 2008 (Mike Orr pers comm) and one at Ouzai 1 Aug 2015 (FI). First recorded by Schrader (1892).

Great Black-headed Gull Ichthyaetus ichthyaetus pm, wv: Several records from Oct-Apr indicate that this species is a scarce to uncommon passage migrant and winter visitor (Ramadan-Jaradi et al 2008). Previously, it was considered a vagrant with only five records (Ramadan-Jaradi & Ramadan-Jaradi 1999). First recorded in 1975 (Macfarlane 1978).

Sooty Gull Ichthyaetus hemprichii v: One record: one near Tyre 22 Oct 1958 (Flach 1959).

Common Gull Larus canus WV, pm, s: Scarce passage migrant Mar and early Nov to midDec, and widespread and common winter visitor Dec to late Feb, with small numbers oversummering Jun–Jul off Tripoli. First recorded by Van Dyck in 1873-1878 (Kumerloeve 1960a, 1962).

Great Black-backed Gull Larus marinus pm, wv: Extremely rare passage migrant and winter visitor. The first part of Benson’s (1970) statement that “a few are seen offshore here in most seasons, chiefly immature birds in autumn and winter” appears unlikely given the pattern of records elsewhere in this part of the Middle East. Singles off Antelias 7 Apr and 12 Dec 1995, off Beirut 15 Mar 1996; Palm Islands 5 May 1996 (Ramadan-Jaradi & Ramadan-Jaradi 1999). Fourteen at Cheikh Zennad 22 Feb 2002 (Ramadan-Jaradi et al 2008), two 7 Mar 2016

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at Ouzai (Costa Brava) with other gulls (GR-J). Very recently, six off Beirut, 7 Mar 2020 (FI).

First recorded by Schrader (1892).

Caspian Gull Larus cachinnans wv, ?pm: One recorded at el Mina/Tripoli 9 Nov 2004 (Nidal Issa pers comm), a few adults and an immature at Cheikh Zennad 30 Jan 1998 were thought to be this taxon (Thierry Bara), and one adult observed and photographed at Palm Islands 25 Jan 2008, following an intensive search since 13 Jan that year. The latter showed more white on the black wing-tip than Yellow-legged Gull L. michahellis, paler grey upperparts, a more flattened head shape, pinkish legs and black eyes (GR-J). Recently, JH recorded four offshore Dbayeh 13 Mar 2019. Prior to the elevation of this bird to a species, most birders were not likely to apply the correct identification criteria. Nevertheless, a few past photographs show Caspian Gull characters clearly enough. Future observations will doubtless confirm the status of this species.

Yellow-legged Gull Larus michahellis R, PM, WV, S: Fairly common non-breeding summer visitor in May–July. Breeding was reconfirmed (after 36 years) in fair numbers on Palm Islands (Ramadan-Jaradi & Ramadan-Jaradi 1997, 1999, 2001), and normally eggs mid-Apr. However, in 2019 the first eggs were in early May due to the winter season extending into Apr (GR-J). In Jul 2019, the total number of Yellow-legged Gulls at that location was 8001000 individuals (FI). Fairly common passage migrant Mar to mid-May and mid-Aug to early Nov; a relatively common winter visitor mid-Nov to late Feb. Occasional at inland wetlands. First recorded by Tristram (1864) and first breeding record was on Palm Islands in 1956 (Hollom 1959).

Armenian Gull Larus armenicus (NT) pm, wv: With four records between 1996 and 2001, the species was considered a vagrant by Ramadan-Jaradi et al (2008). Subsequently nine observations at Tripoli in January, Feb and Mar 2008, 2009, 2010 with a maximum of 11 individuals at any one time (Mike Orr & Karen Wade pers comm). More recently; four individuals on rocks of islets of the Tripoli archipelagos 27 Februray 2016; three there 22 Mar 2017, photographed by Rabah Assafiri and identified by GR-J; five on Sanai Island 4 Apr 2018 (GR-J); two or more individuals were seen at Daoura (Beirut) 31 Mar 2017, and one off-shore at Dbayeh 13 Mar 2019 (JH). These more recent records suggest the species is a scarce migrant and scarce winter visitor.

‘Baltic Gull’ Larus fuscus fuscus PM, WV, s: Abundant passage migrant in early Mar to late May and mid-Aug to early Nov, and common winter visitor in mid-Nov to mid-Mar along coasts and offshore. (Ramadan-Jaradi & Ramadan-Jaradi 1999). Vagrant at Aammiq wetland (Beale & Sprenger 2001). Very small numbers regularly oversummer at the coast, particularly at Palm Islands. First recorded in 1824 (Hemprich & Ehrenberg (1833).

Heuglin’s Gull Larus (fuscus/heuglini) heuglini v: Three records: two at Tripoli 2 Apr 2001 (Marc Almecija pers comm); one at the Beirut River mouth 6 Jan 2004 (Thierry Bara in Ramadan-Jaradi et al 2008); one offshore at Dbayeh 13 Mar 2019, in a mixed flock including Baltic Gulls. The bird was the same size and jizz as L. f. fuscus but was lighter grey, though not as pale as Yellow-legged Gull, being similar to Western Lesser Black-backed Gull L. f. graellsii (JH, Tamima Itani & Bassel Abi Jummaa pers comm). Being insufficiently documented by observers, this hard-to-identify species is a candidate for further research.

STERNIDAE Gull-billed Tern Gelochelidon nilotica pm: Tristram’s late 19th century report that the species was found on sand spits and lagoons near Tyre and Beirut cannot be confirmed (Kumerloeve 1962). With only two records at Qaraoun and Cheikh Zennad in 1996-1997 (Bara 1998), Gull-billed Tern was considered a vagrant (Ramadan-Jaradi & Ramadan-Jaradi 1999). Recently, four additional records suggest that the species is a rare passage migrant rather than a vagrant: three at Mina/Tripoli 14 Jan 2000; 11 at Cheikh Zennad 31 Mar and 13 on 2 Apr 2001 (Marc Almecija pers comm); two at Lake Qaraoun 4 Aug 2005 (Colin Conroy pers comm); and one additional record at Cheikh Zennad 18 Jul 2011 (Bassel Abi Jummaa pers comm).

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Lesser Crested Tern Thalasseus bengalensis FB, v: Recorded as breeding at Palm Islands off Tripoli in 1895 but without subsequent records and considered extinct in Lebanon (Ramadan-Jaradi & Ramadan-Jaradi 1999). On 3 Mar 2019, at Chekka in North Lebanon, Bassel Abi Jummaa observed and photographed the second record for this species in Lebanon and the first for over 120 years (Ramadan-Jaradi et al 2019).

Sandwich Tern Thalasseus sandvicensis pm, WV: Previously recorded as an extremely rare passage migrant and winter visitor (early Aug to mid-Apr) to coasts and Palm Islands (Ramadan-Jaradi & Ramadan-Jaradi 1999, 2001). Records between 2008 and 2019, however, suggest it is a fairly common winter visitor. First recorded in 1878 by Van Dyck (Kumerloeve 1962).

Little Tern Sternula albifrons FB, pm: Bred on Palm Islands at the end of the 19th century (Stenhouse 1904) but no subsequent records until; 11 at Cheikh Zennad on 14 Jun 1996, three 8 Sep 1996 and eight 16 May 1997 (TB); one at Sanani island 4 Apr 1998 (RamadanJaradi & Ramadan-Jaradi 1999); two at Qaraoun Lake 27 Sep 2003; and one 6-8 Apr 2014 at Palm Islands (GR-J). These records suggest this species is a very rare passage migrant rather than vagrant as indicated in Ramadan-Jaradi & Ramadan-Jaradi (1999). First recorded in 1877 by Van Dyck (Kumerloeve 1962).

Common Tern Sterna hirundo FB, PM: Formerly bred on Palm Islands (Stenhouse 1904) but considered a vagrant by Cramp (1985). Presently, a fairly common passage migrant (late Mar to late May and early Aug to early Oct) at coasts and islands. One early record on 21 Feb 1998 (Ramadan-Jaradi & Ramadan-Jaradi 1999). First recorded by Schrader (1892).

Whiskered Tern Chlidonias hybrida sb, pm: First breeding confirmed 1995 (repeated 1996) on a flood plain at Assi River (Ramadan-Jaradi & Ramadan-Jaradi 1997, 1999). Scarce on passage Apr to mid-May and early Aug to late Sep at inland waters, coasts and islands. First recorded by Tohmé & Neuschwander (1974).

White-winged Tern Chlidonias leucopterus PM: Fairly common passage migrant mid-Mar to mid-May and early Aug to late Oct at inland and coastal waters (Ramadan-Jaradi & Ramadan-Jaradi 1999). Two recorded 7 Jul 2008 (Colin Conroy pers comm). First recorded in 1904 by Carruthers (Kumerloeve 1962).

Black Tern Chlidonias niger pm: Between 1974 and 1998, there were eight records (RamadanJaradi & Ramadan-Jaradi 1999). Subsequently, five records: one at Ras Beirut 2 Sep 2001, three at Khaldeh 11 Aug and one there 2 Oct 2003, one at Bishmezzine 3 Apr and singles at Naqoura 9 Sep 2005 (GR-J). More recently, one at Aammiq 25 Apr 2007 (Colin Conroy pers comm) and one over the AUB campus 12 Apr 2015 (GR-J). Together, these records confirm it as a rare passage migrant (early Aug to mid-Oct and Apr). Elswehere; Aammiq, Cheikh Zennad, Naqoura and Qaraoun. First recorded in 1974 (Macfarlane 1978).

STERCORARIIDAE Pomarine Skua Stercorarius pomarinus pm, wv: Twenty records: 12 records at Ras Beirut in February, August–Sep and Dec 1974-1976 (Macfarlane 1978); one or two off Beirut 10 Apr (Kirwan 1997); six there 8–11 Apr 1997 (Busuttil & Flumm 1998a); one at El Mina/Tripoli 14 Jan 2000 (Marc Almecija pers comm); one off Palm Islands 20 Feb 2001; one off Beirut 17 Apr 2001 (Ramadan-Jaradi & Ramadan-Jaradi 2002); one over Palm Islands 11 May 2001 (Ramadan-Jaradi & Sandwith unpub); and one in a photo taken overhead by the ranger of Palm Islands, Issam Sidawi, 9 Oct 2015. The records confirm that the species is an irregular scarce passage migrant and rare winter visitor rather than a vagrant (Ramadan-Jaradi & Ramadan-Jaradi 1999). First recorded in 1974 (Macfarlane 1978).

Arctic Skua Stercorarius parasiticus pm, wv: Recorded off Ras Beirut and Tripoli 11 May, 21–28 Aug and 6 Sep 1974, 1975 (Macfarlane 1978); four at Ras Beirut 10 Apr 1997 (Busuttil & Flumm 1998a); four off Ras Beirut 8–11 Apr 1997 were either this species or Pomarine Skua (Ramadan-Jaradi & Ramadan-Jaradi 1999); one at Palm Islands 21 Feb 1998 (Bara 1998); one harassing gulls off Ras Beirut 5 and 28 Dec 2005; one at Tripoli 3 Mar 2006 (Richard Prior pers comm); 11 above el Mina/Tripoli harbour 30 Jan 2008 (GR-J); one off Ras Beirut 27 Dec Sandgrouse 42 (2020)

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2005 (Colin Conroy pers comm). More recently: one at Tripoli 31 January, 12, 17, 29 Mar 2009 and 23, 25 Feb 2009 (Karen Wade and Mike Orr pers comm). These records confirm that the species is a rare passage migrant and rare winter visitor rather than a vagrant (RamadanJaradi & Ramadan-Jaradi 1999). First recorded in 1974 (Macfarlane 1978).

HYDROBATIDAE European Storm Petrel Hydrobates (pelagicus) pelagicus v: Three records: singles off Ras Beirut 18 Sep 1996 (Ramadan-Jaradi & Ramadan-Jaradi 1999) and 10 Apr 1997 (Busuttil & Flumm 1998a); one at Naqoura 21 Dec 2003 (Ramadan-Jaradi et al 2008).

Leach’s Storm Petrel Hydrobates leucorhous (VU) ?wv: Seven records suggest this species may be an overlooked rare winter visitor rather than a true vagrant: singles off Damour 20 Dec 1995; near Ramkine Island 12 Oct 1996 (Ramadan-Jaradi & Ramadan-Jaradi 1999); two off Ain el Mreissa in Beirut 22 Dec 2002; one off Khaldeh 3 Feb 2003 (Ramadan-Jaradi et al 2004, 2008); one at Tripoli Harbour 29 Mar 2008 (Mike Orr pers comm); one on Palm Islands 11 Feb 2017; and one off Cheikh Zennad 10 Feb 2017 (Ramadan-Jaradi 2017).

PROCELLARIIDAE Scopoli’s Shearwater Calonectris diomedea PM, wv: Common on passage Mar to mid-May and early Aug to late Sep and recorded irregularly in large flocks offshore and near Palm Islands Jan–Feb. Elsewhere; Batroun, Beirut, Naqoura, Palm Islands, Tripoli and Tyre Coast (Ramadan-Jaradi et al 2008, Ramadan-Jaradi 2017). First recorded by Van Dyck in 1873-1878 (Carruthers 1910, Kumerloeve 1962).

Sooty Shearwater Ardenna grisea (NT) v: One record: two north of Beirut 16 Mar 1981 (Khairallah 1986).

Great Shearwater Ardenna gravis v: Three records: singles at Ras Beirut 29 Dec 1974 and 1 Jan 1975 (Macfarlane 1978); and three near Palm Islands 5 Jan 2003 (Ramadan-Jaradi et al 2004).

Given these late dates, the LBRC may wish to assess its occurrence in Lebanon (RamadanJaradi et al 2008).

Yelkouan Shearwater Puffinus yelkouan (VU) PM, wv: Common on passage, usually in small numbers early Aug to early Sep (200 reported off Tripoli in late Sep) and Mar–Apr. Few winter records of singles or flocks (up to 55) often mixing with Common Black-headed Gulls while resting on the sea Nov-Feb (Ramadan-Jaradi et al 2008, Ramadan-Jaradi 2017).

Observed elsewhere offshore; Batroun, Beirut, Palm Islands, and Naqoura. First recorded in 1877 by Van Dyck (Kumerloeve 1962).

CICONIIDAE Black Stork Ciconia nigra PM: Relatively common passage migrant near coasts, over mountains and in the Beqaa Valley, including Aammiq. Over 300 at Aana 13 Mar 2005 (Richard Prior pers comm) and c600 at Cheikh Zennad 15 Oct 2000 (Marc Almecija pers comm). Often with flocks of Western White Stork C. ciconia, mainly mid-Feb to mid-Jun and mid-Aug to early Nov. At Aammiq one seen regularly in Feb 2006 and up to two in Feb 2007 (Colin Conroy pers comm). First recorded in 1957 (Nevins 1960).

Western White Stork Ciconia ciconia ciconia PM, s: Abundant and regular on both spring and autumn passage over the whole country, but generally commoner in spring (mid-Feb to late Jun) and mainly over coastal plains (eg a maximum of 10 000 recorded 9 Apr 2000 over Dalhoun) and over Beqaa Valley, where in autumn occurs early Aug–late Oct. Largest flocks usually appear following periods of hot easterly winds. Five birds oversummered at Anjar up to 9 Jul 2015 (FI). First recorded in 1948 (West 1954).

SULIDAE Northern Gannet Morus bassanus wv: Scarce in winter (late Nov to late Apr), mainly off the coasts of Batroun, Beirut, Enfeh, Naqoura, Palm Islands and Tripoli. The largest flock 204

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recorded was nine birds at Naqoura 14 Dec 2003 (Ramadan-Jaradi et al 2005). First recorded 1894 by Van Dyck (Kumerloeve 1960a, 1962).

PHALACROCORACIDAE Pygmy Cormorant Microcarbo pygmaeus wv, pm, s: Occasional passage (Nov and Mar), scarce winterer (Dec-Feb), mainly off Naqoura in the south and Palm Islands in the north. A single adult at Aammiq 24 Jun to 14 Jul 2005 (seen on 17 days; Colin Conroy pers comm). Two 23-29 Mar 2019 between Mina/Tripoli and Palm Islands Nature Reserve (GR-J in Harrison 2019).

Historically, reported inland at the Litani River (Tristram 1864) and at Aammiq wetland in Nov 1954 (Nevins 1960).

Continental Great Cormorant Phalacrocorax carbo sinensis WV, PM, s: Common along coasts and on Palm Islands, and to a lesser extent at Aammiq wetland and Qaraoun Lake Oct to early Apr. Occasionally oversummers (May–Aug), usually on Sanani and Ramkine islands (Ramadan-Jaradi & Ramadan-Jaradi 1999). First recorded at Beirut in 1894 by Van Dyck (Kumerloeve 1962).

THRESKIORNITHIDAE Glossy Ibis Plegadis falcinellus pm, s: Scarce on passage (mainly Apr to mid-May and Aug to early Oct). Recorded mainly at Aammiq, Anjar, Cheik Zeinnad, Maqneh, Qobb Elias, Qaraoun, more rarely at coastal areas. The largest flock seen in Lebanon was 17 at Anjar 23 Apr 2006 (GR-J & Semaan unpubl data). Singles occasionally oversummer (Jun–Jul) at coastal and inland waters. First recorded by Cawkell (1944).

Eurasian Spoonbill Platalea leucorodia pm: Very scarce. Singles or pairs on coasts Sep to mid-Nov, mainly at Beirut, Batroun, Cheikh Zennad and Palm Islands. In spring, four records: nine at Palm Islands 17 Mar 1995 (Ramadan-Jjaradi & Ramadan-Jaradi 1999); one over Aammiq 17 Mar 2000 (Beale & Sprenger 2001); two at Cheikh Zennad 14 Apr 2000 (Ramadan-Jaradi 2003); and 10 over Beirut 6 Mar 2005 (Colin Conroy pers comm). Recently, one at Qaraoun Lake 13 Aug 2017 (Bassel Janbieh, pers comm). First recorded in 1877 by Van Dyck (Kumerloeve 1962).

ARDEIDAE Eurasian Bittern Botaurus stellaris wv, pm: Singles overwinter (Nov–Mar), mainly at Aammiq, Anjar, Nahr El Kalb and Damour estuaries. Scarce mid-Aug to Nov and mid-Mar to late May on coast and at inland waters. Elsewhere at Beirut, Bhamdoun, and Hermel.

First recorded in 1878 by Van Dyck (Kumerloeve 1962).

Little Bittern Ixobrychus minutus SB, pm, wv: Locally common migrant breeder at Aammiq, Anjar, Kfar Zabad, Qobb Elias and Khaldeh pool, arriving Apr (eggs May). Most depart Aug; small numbers Sep to mid-Nov. Very scarce in winter (Dec to mid-Mar). Elsewhere at Beirut, Damour, Khaldeh, Mina/ Tripoli, Nahr El Kalb, Palm Islands and Tyre Coast. First recorded in 1824 (Hemprich & Ehrenberg 1833). First breeding record confirmed at Aammiq and Anjar (Tohmé & Neuschwander 1974).

Black-crowned Night Heron Nycticorax nycticorax SB, PM, S: Breeds at Aammiq (Evans 1994) with c50 pairs in 2005 (GR-J & Colin Conroy in Ramadan-Jaradi et al 2008). Bred at Qaraoun (FI pers obs), Anjar/Kfarzabad (GR-J & FI) and may breed at Bishmezzine (Ramadan-Jaradi et al 2004) where non-breeding summer visitors are also noted (GR-J).

Common passage migrant in small numbers at most wetlands late Mar to mid-Jun (most May) and early Aug to early Nov (Ramadan-Jaradi & Ramadan-Jaradi 1999). Largest passing flock was c60 birds over Palm Islands in 1996 (Ramadan-Jaradi & Ramadan-Jaradi 1999, 2001) and largest aggregate was 215 on 31 Aug 2005 (Richard Prior pers comm) at Aammiq (>100 there in Sep 2004). On 7 May 2020, eight pairs breeding at Mansoura in the West Beqaa Valley, together with Squacco Heron, Western Cattle Egret and Little Egret. This site is the fourth breeding location for the Black-crowned Night Heron in the country. First recorded

by Van Dyck (Kumerloeve 1962) and first breeding confirmed at Aammiq (Evans 1994).

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Squacco Heron Ardeola ralloides sb, PM, wv: Recorded in small numbers on coasts, estuaries and at Bishmezzine, Tanayel, Yammouneh and Anjar, with larger numbers at Aammiq mid-Mar to early Jun and early Aug to late Sep. Small numbers regularly overwinter (Nov to early Mar) on coasts and at inland waters (RamadanJaradi et al 2008). On 7 May 2020, about 11 pairs were found breeding at Mansoura (33°41’11.76” N, 35°48’33.72” E), in the West Beqaa Valley (Maher Osta, GR-J & FI). This is the first breeding record of the species for Lebanon (Plate 4). First recorded by Van Dyck (Kumerloeve 1960a, 1962).

Western Cattle Egret Bubulcus ibis sb, pm, wv: Uncommon on spring passage at coasts and inland waters, Mar to mid-Jun (mainly Apr). Scarce autumn passage Aug-Nov (mainly Sep); A scarce winter visitor DecFeb (Ramadan-Jaradi et al 2008). On 7 May 2020, approximately 16 pairs were found breeding at Mansoura in the West Beqaa Valley (Maher Osta, GR-J & FI). This is the first breeding record of the species for Plate 4. Squacco Heron collecting nesting material, Lebanon (Plate 5). First recorded in 1878 by spring 2020; the first breeding record for Lebanon. © Fouad Itani Van Dyck (Kumerloeve 1962).

Plate 5. Cattle Egret chicks in nest, spring 2020; the first breeding record for Lebanon. © Ghassan Ramadan-Jaradi

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Plate 6. Little Egret in a nest at Mansoura in the West Beqaa Valley, spring 2020; the first breeding record for Lebanon. © Ghassan Ramadan-Jaradi

Grey Heron Ardea cinerea PM, wv: Common on passage on islands, coasts, estuaries and at inland waters, most frequent at Palm Islands, Cheikh Zennad, Aammiq and Tanayel, late Feb to early Jun and mid-Aug to mid-Nov. Regularly overwinters on Palm Islands (Ramadan-Jaradi & Ramadan-Jaradi 1999) and at Aammiq, where non-breeding singles are also occasionally observed in Jun (Beale & Sprenger 2001). First recorded in 1881 by Van Dyck (Kumerloeve 1962).

Purple Heron Ardea purpurea pm: Passage migrant on coasts, islands and at inland waters mid-Mar to mid-Jun, and in larger numbers early Aug to late Nov. First recorded by Schrader (1892).

Western Great Egret Ardea (alba) alba pm, wv, s: Scarce and irregular on coasts but locally common at inland waters late Aug-Nov (mainly Oct) and Mar to mid-May (mainly Mar).

Regular in winter (mainly Jan-Feb), mostly at Aammiq and Qaraoun in flocks up to 20.

Occasional in summer; three non-breeders (single birds) Jun–Aug. Notable high count of 46 at Qaraoun in Oct 2005 (Colin Conroy pers comm). First recorded by Van Dyck in 1873-1878 (Kumerloeve 1960a, 1962).

Little Egret Egretta garzetta sb, PM, wv, S: Common and regular on passage on coasts, estuaries, cultivated fields in lower montane areas and at inland waters, in small flocks (up to 30), from Mar to early Jun (most Apr–May), and Aug to late Oct. High count, 91 at Aammiq 31 Aug 2007 (Colin Conroy pers comm). Common Nov to late Feb in Tripoli but scarcer elsewhere. Up to 50 were recorded on daily basis between 10-18 Jul 2004 at Qaraoun Lake (Ramadan-Jaradi et al 2004). On 7 May 2020, approximately 9 pairs were found breeding at Mansoura in the West Beqaa Valley (Maher Osta, GR-J & FI). This is the first breeding record of this species for Lebanon (Plate 6). First recorded in 1954 (West 1954).

PELECANIDAE Great White Pelican Pelecanus onocrotalus PM: Common regular passage migrant in both seasons (mid-Feb to early Jun and early Sep to late Nov) with flocks of up to 1000 birds near coasts (especially Palm Islands), at Aammiq and Qaraoun, and over mountains up to 1800 m asl. First recorded by Tristram (1882).

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Pink-backed Pelican Pelecanus rufescens v: Two records: one at Beirut 25 Mar 1876 (Van Dyck in Kumerloeve 1962, Benson 1970); [and one dead bird possibly taken in Batroun, in Mar 2003 (Ramadan-Jaradi et al 2004); this mainly African species is traded extensively, hence the LBRC may wish to debate the latter’s origin].

Dalmatian Pelican Pelecanus crispus (NT) pm: Scarce. Small flocks (mainly Mar–Apr and Nov) in the Beqaa Valley, off Tyre, Tripoli and on Palm Islands (Ramadan-Jaradi & Ramadan-Jaradi 2001). Largest flock seen c45, 3 Apr 1975 (Macfarlane 1978). Semi-captive bird seen 10 Jun 2015 by GR-J, it was found by a fisherman in the Damour River Estuary Apr 2015, (Ramadan-Jaradi & Itani 2016). Elsewhere; Aammiq, Chtaura, Qaraoun. First recorded

by Tristram (1882).

PANDIONIDAE Western Osprey Pandion haliaetus pm: Uncommon passage migrant across the country (late Mar to late Apr and early Sep to early Nov). First recorded by Tristram (1865-68).

ACCIPITRIDAE Black-winged Kite Elanus caeruleus sb, pm, wv: Singles at Tyre 4 Dec 1863 (Tristram 1882), and at Cedars 21 Sep 1954 (Kumerloeve 1972). Recently a spate of observations suggest this species is a scarce passage migrant and a rare winter visitor rather than a vagrant: one caught and released 7 Dec 2013 in Akkar (Ramadan-Jaradi & Serhal 2014); one caught at Ras Baalback 22 Nov 2014; one in Oct 2014, location unknown (Shadi Indary pers comm); two birds in Sep 2015 at Hillan; one shot at Terbol, late Mar 2016 (Michel Sawan pers comm); one shot at Jdeidit Al Fekiha Sep 2016 (Mahmoud Khalil, pers comm); one shot at Hillan, Sep 2016 (Michel Sawan pers comm); and one shot at Aiasha Donnieh, late Mar 2017. Very recently two oversummered in Ammiq from Jul-Oct 2019 (Abdallah Hanna pers comm) and one pair was seen by GR-J carrying food in Anjar between 11-18 Jun 2020. This is the first breeding record of this species in Lebanon.

Lammergeier Gypaetus barbatus (NT) v: Listed as an accidental by Cramp & Simmons (1980).

No recent records, probably due to lack of surveys at suitable areas in southern Lebanon (Ramadan-Jaradi & Ramadan-Jaradi 1999).

Egyptian Vulture Neophron percnopterus (EN) FB, pm: Formerly bred (Kumerloeve 1962, Benson 1970), but no recent evidence (Tohmé & Neuschwander 1973, Ramadan-Jaradi & Ramadan-Jaradi 1999). A common passage migrant in the past that has shown an obvious decline in recent years (GR-J pers obs). Occurs Mar to early Jun (most mid-Mar to midApr) and late Aug to late Oct, mainly over the Beqaa Valley and Lebanon mountain range.

During the raptor count events in the autumn of 2019, the total recorded was just nine. First recorded in 1878 by Van Dyck (Kumerloeve 1962).

European Honey Buzzard Pernis apivorus PM: Widespread and common passage migrant over the whole country, early Aug to late Oct (most first half Sep) with maximum daily count of c6000 late Aug and c7500 early Sep 2007 (Ramadan-Jaradi et al 2008). Spring passage is also considerable from early Apr to early Jun, peak in the first half of May. First recorded by Tristram (1864).

Crested Honey Buzzard Pernis ptilorhynchus pm: Rare passage migrant. One at Arnoun (Beaufort Castle) 7 Oct 2003 (Ramadan-Jaradi et al 2004); 10 reported past Bhamdoun between 27 Aug and 1 Oct 2006 (Balmer & Betton 2007a); three at Aley Ras El Jabal 25 Sep 2011 (GR-J); three at Hammana 13 Sep 2019; and two more on the same day along Mount Lebanon outside the OSME-led raptor count at Hammana (Meyburg et al 2020).

Eurasian Griffon Vulture Gyps fulvus FB, pm, ?w, ?r, ?b: Formerly bred in southern Lebanon (Tristram 1864, 1882) and recorded in winter near Aammiq (Beqaa) 3 Jan 1959 (Kumerloeve 1962). Current resident status uncertain; probably a rare and local resident near the Israeli border and perhaps elsewhere, given that Marc Almecija (pers comm) saw one 16 Apr 2000 at Deir Jannine, Ramadan-Jaradi (2003) recorded one at Arz el Shouf 25 Jul 2000, and Richard Prior (pers comm) saw one at Tannourine 10 May 2005. A scarce passage migrant 208

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mid-Mar to mid-May (over mountains and the Beqaa) and extremely rare in autumn from early Sep to late Oct (over Akkar, Donnieh, Barouk, Ehden, Jabal Sannine, and Toumat Niha). First recorded in 1824 (Hemprich & Ehrenberg 1833).

Cinereous Vulture Aegypius monachus (NT) pm: Extremely rare passage migrant over the Beqaa and montane areas where singles recorded, usually with other raptors (Feb–Apr and Oct to mid-Nov). An adult captured at Faraya 6 May 1993 (Ramadan-Jaradi & RamadanJaradi 1999); one shot at Harar/Akkar 11 Nov 2013; one photographed by Bassel Abi Jummaa over Barouk 8 Feb 2014; and one at Ehden 6 Oct 2018 (Michel Sawan pers comm). Elsewhere: Aammiq, Damour, Dbayeh, Litani Valley and Nahr El Laban. First recorded in 1957 (Nevins 1960).

Short-toed Snake Eagle Circaetus gallicus SB, PM: Common summer breeder, with an average of 120 pairs in the country, especially above 300 m asl. Also a widespread and common passage migrant over much of the country, early Mar to late Apr (peak early Apr) and early Sep to late Oct. First recorded by Tristram (1864) and first confirmed breeding at Charquieh in 1996 by Ramadan-Jaradi & Ramadan-Jaradi (1999).

Lesser Spotted Eagle Clanga pomarina PM, wv, s: Widespread and very common on passage over most of the country in Mar to late May (mainly mid-Mar to mid-Apr), and mid-Aug to late Oct (mainly early Sep to early Oct). Very small numbers overwinter in Beqaa and nearby Dec to late Feb. One oversummered in fields near Aammiq from 9 May-30 Aug 2001 (Andy Sprenger pers comm), one also oversummered there in 2006 (Colin Conroy pers comm). First recorded by Tristram (1864).

Greater Spotted Eagle Clanga clanga (VU) pm, ?wv: Irregular and scarce passage migrant over the country, mostly seen on the main migration routes (Mar–Apr and Sep–Oct).

Exceptionally, one over Palm Islands 16 Nov 1996 (Ramadan-Jaradi & Ramadan-Jaradi 1999). Formerly rare winter visitor (Nevins 1960, Kumerloeve 1962). First recorded by Tristram (1864).

Booted Eagle Hieraaetus pennata sb, pm, ?wv: Scarce and irregular summer breeding in Lebanon with scattered but regular breeding pairs observed between 9 Apr and 13 Sep at Maanyeh and Mlita. An uncommon passage migrant over most of the country, mostly mid-Mar to late Apr, to a lesser extent late Aug–Oct. In the past was recorded in Nov and Dec (Tristram 1864), though yet to be observed in winter in recent years. First recorded by Tristram (1864). First breeding confirmed at Maanyeh in 1996 (Ramadan-Jaradi & RamadanJaradi 1997).

Steppe Eagle Aquila nipalensis (EN) pm: Uncommon to scarce passage migrant over most of the country, small flocks from early Feb to early May (mainly mid-Mar to mid-Apr) and late Sep to mid-Nov (mainly Oct). Absence of records from Dec-Jan suggests that a few scattered records in early Feb relate to early migrants rather than winter visitors. First recorded by Tristram (1864).

Eastern Imperial Eagle Aquila heliaca (VU) ?FB, pm, ?wv: Reportedly once bred (Kumerloeve 1962, Benson 1970) and once overwintered (Kumerloeve 1962) but no recent evidence. Rare passage migrant late Feb to mid-Apr and mid-Sep to Oct along main migration routes.

Reported from Aammiq, Aley, Azour, Barouk, Beirut, Bhamdoun, Bustan, Ehden, Jourd Nahleh, Dalhoun, Deir el Qamar, Deir Mimas, Fraidies, Kherbet Qanafar, Nabatyeh, Nahr El Kalb, Niha, Qaa, Sharoon, Terbol and Zahleh. First recorded by Tristram (1864).

Golden Eagle Aquila chrysaetos FB, pm, ?r: Former breeder (Tristram 1865-68). Occasional passage and/or dispersive individuals from neighbouring countries with records midMar to mid-Apr and mid-Sep to mid-Oct (Ramadan-Jaradi & Ramadan-Jaradi 1999). Three records in Dec, Feb and May suggest breeding in the Litani Valley (Ramadan-Jaradi et al 2004) or elsewhere especially considering that one was reported from Ehden 3 Jun 2007 (Balmer & Betton 2007b). Seen twice at Ehden by Antoine Faissal in Apr and Oct 2013. First recorded by Tristram (1865-68).

Verreaux’s Eagle Aquila verreauxii v: Four records: an adult seen soaring high over Tyre 6 Jun 1996 (Ramadan-Jaradi & Ramadan-Jaradi 1999); one immature at Dalhoun 1 May 2000; one Sandgrouse 42 (2020)

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adult at Doueir 1 Oct 2002 (GR-J); and one juvenile south of Aammiq 5 May 2002 (A Rocha Lebanon 2006).

Bonelli’s Eagle Aquila fasciata r, pm, wv: Breeding confirmed in 1996 on a cliff at Ijbeh of Jabal Aitou (Ramadan-Jaradi & Ramadan-Jaradi 1997). Later, nests found at nine localities (Azour, Ban, Chwayya, Deir Mimas, Ehden, Jabal Barouk, Jezzine, Marjaayoun, Toumat Niha). Since 2010, has become uncommon to scarce as a resident breeding. A rare passage migrant and winter visitor from early Sep to late Apr throughout the country. First recorded

by Tristram (1865-68).

Levant Sparrowhawk Accipiter brevipes FB, PM: Formerly bred (Benson 1970). Widespread and common passage migrant (Mar to mid-May and Sep–Oct) across Lebanon in large numbers. One of the most abundant migrant raptors (Beale & Ramadan-Jaradi 2001). First recorded by Schrader (1892).

Eurasian Sparrowhawk Accipiter nisus ?FB, PM, wv: Probably formerly nested (Kumerloeve 1962, Benson 1970). A common passage migrant over most of Lebanon, Mar to early May and Sep to early Nov. A few overwintering Nov to late Feb in montane areas and the Beqaa Valley. First recorded by Tristram (1865-68).

Northern Goshawk Accipiter gentilis pm, wv: Scarce passage migrant Mar–Apr and early Sep–Nov. A rare winter visitor Dec–Feb, mainly in pine and cedar groves (Ramadan-Jaradi et al 2008). First recorded by Tristram (1864).

Western Marsh Harrier Circus aeruginosus sb, PM, wv: Breeding suspected at Aammiq (Kumerloeve 1962, Benson 1970, Tohmé & Neuschwander 1976) and confirmed 2006 (Teeuw & Conroy 2007, Colin Conroy pers comm). Fairly common on passage late Feb to late May (peak Mar) and late Aug to mid-Nov (most mid-Sep to early Oct). Local winter visitor (Dec–Feb) in small numbers to Beqaa wetlands (Ramadan-Jaradi & Ramadan-Jaradi 1999).

Exceptionally at Aammiq in the winter of 2004/05, up to 29 roosted (Teeuw and Conroy 2007). First recorded by Hemprich & Ehrenberg (1833).

Hen Harrier Circus cyaneus pm, wv: Relatively uncommon on passage and in winter at most wetlands Oct–Apr. Most frequently recorded in the Beqaa Valley, particularly Aammiq (Ramadan-Jaradi & Ramadan-Jaradi 1999, Teeuw and Conroy 2007). First recorded in 1882

by Van Dyck (Kumerloeve 1962).

Pallid Harrier Circus macrourus (NT) pm, wv: Uncommon but regular on passage (mainly early Mar to early May and early Sep to mid-Nov) over most of the country, most at Aammiq. A rare winter visitor (mid-Nov to late Feb) at least to Aammiq (Beale & Sprenger 2001, [GR-J in Balmer & Betton 2004], Teeuw & Conroy 2007). First recorded by Schrader (1892).

Montagu’s Harrier Circus pygargus pm: Rare passage migrant mid-Mar to mid-May (most first half Apr) and late Aug to late Nov over most of the country, especially the Beqaa Valley and Mount Lebanon. First recorded by Hemprich & Ehrenberg (1833).

Red Kite Milvus milvus (NT) FB, pm: Extremely rare passage migrant, in early Apr and midSep to late Nov, mainly over the Beqaa Valley with other migrant raptors. Most recently, four records: four at Aammiq 29 Nov 1999; three at Qaa 14 Sep 2000; one at Dalhoun 18 Oct 2002 (GR-J); and [three reported past Bhamdoun between 27 Aug and 1 Oct 2006 (Balmer & Betton (2007a)]. Formerly considered to breed in the ravines of Lebanon (Tristram 1864). The LBRC doubtless will wish to assess the likely occurrence of similarly red-tailed individuals of Yellow-billed Kite M. aegyptiacus and consider the identification criteria separating it from M. milvus.

Black Kite Milvus (migrans) migrans PM, WV, s: Fairly common spring passage and winter visitor throughout the country, early Sep to late Apr. Peak count 141 on 2 Dec 2005 (Richard Prior pers comm). One oversummering at Jbeil (Byblos) since late May 2020 and still present until at least early Jul 2020 (Samer Azar pers comm). First recorded in 1877 by Van Dyck (Kumerloeve 1962).

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Black-eared Kite Milvus (migrans) lineatus [v]: [Vagrant. One record, a bird photographed

by Michel Sawan 7 Nov 2017 in Kfar-habou Northern Lebanon]. Since there is a risk of intergrades in the region, the LBRC needs to assess the occurrence of this taxon in Lebanon.

White-tailed Eagle Haliaeetus albicilla v: Five records: singles at Rachaya Lake in AntiLebanon 2 and 8 Jan 1955 (Kumerloeve 1972); an immature at Bikfayya 15 Sep 1974 (Macfarlane 1978); an adult on Palm Islands 11 Oct 1996 (Ramadan-Jaradi & Ramadan-Jaradi 1999) and one at Zgharta 8 May 2020 (Michel Sawan pers comm). First reported by Van Dyck in 1873-1878 (Kumerloeve 1960a, 1962).

Rough-legged Buzzard Buteo lagopus pm: Six records: singles at Ryaq 26–28 Mar 1958; one over Ainab Sep 1960 (Kumerloeve 1962); one at Qalaat Faqra near Faraya 24 Apr 1973 (Tohmé & Neuschwander 1974); one at Aammiq 28 Mar 1998 (Ramadan-Jaradi & Ramadan-Jaradi 1999); one at Dalhoun 10 Oct 2002; one at Aammiq 29 Nov 2003 (GR-J & MR-J). The records suggest a scarce irregular passage migrant rather than a true vagrant. First recorded by Kumerloeve (1962).

Common Buzzard Buteo buteo buteo PM, WV: Widespread and common passage migrant on a broad front (late Feb to mid-May and early Aug–Nov). A common regular winter visitor (Nov to mid-Mar), with most in the Beqaa Valley. Also seen across the west side of the Mt Lebanon range winter 2017/18 (JH). First recorded as parent taxon by Tristram (1865-68).

Northern Steppe Buzzard Buteo buteo vulpinus PM, WV: A more abundant passage migrant than Common Buzzard B. b. buteo. On a broad front (late Feb to early May and early Aug to early Nov), and less regular winterer (Nov to mid-Mar), with most in the Beqaa Valley. First recorded as parent taxon by Tristram (1865-68).

Long-legged Buzzard Buteo rufinus R, PM, wv: Breeding confirmed 1995, 1996 and 1997 (Ramadan-Jaradi & Ramadan-Jaradi, 1999); 2000 (Beale & Sprenger 2001), 2003 (RamadanJaradi et al 2004), and 2006-2019 (GR-J) with an average of 60 pairs in the country. Present year-round, largest numbers in spring (Mar–Apr) and fewer in autumn (Sep–Nov).

Uncommon in winter (Nov to early Mar) in most of the country, most frequent in the Beqaa.

First recorded in 1877 by Van Dyck (Kumerloeve 1962). First breeding confirmed at Jabal Barouk and Ehden in 1995 (Ramadan-Jaradi & Ramadan-Jaradi 1997).

TYTONIDAE Western Barn Owl Tyto alba R: Widespread resident in fair numbers, breeding from sea-level to high mountains and the Beqaa Valley. First recorded in 1904 (Carruthers 1910). First breeding confirmed by Tohmé & Neuschwander (1974).

STRIGIDAE Eurasian Scops Owl Otus scops SB, pm, wv: Common and widespread migrant breeder to most areas. Mostly identified and located by call, usually recorded from 300–1800 m asl in ravines, valleys and near rural settlements. An especially high concentration in the Beqaa. Scarce on passage and in winter (late Aug to mid-May) in most areas. First recorded by Van Dyck in 1873-1878 (Kumerloeve 1960a, 1962). First nesting confirmed by Meinertzhagen (1935).

Eurasian Eagle Owl Bubo bubo r: The 12th-14th records confirmed breeding (Prior & Bayle 2006). Previously, the status of the species was upgraded from uncertain (Ramadan-Jaradi & Ramadan-Jaradi 1999) to uncommon resident (Ramadan-Jaradi et al 2004) and it may be more abundant but overlooked. Seen or heard at Aammiq, Daher el Ahmar (Rashaya), Deir el Qamar, Ehden, Kfarhouneh, Marjaayoun, Mlikh, Qobb Elias, Rayhan, Sofar and Zgharta.

First recorded by Van Dyck in 1873-1878 (Kumerloeve 1960a, 1962). First breeding confirmed at Qobb Elias in 2004 (Prior & Bayle 2006).

Western Brown Fish Owl Bubo (zeylonensis) semenowi ?v: Status uncertain: one undated specimen in Van Dyck’s collection at the AUB. Considered accidental in Lebanon by Cramp (1985) but Shirihai (1996) states that it was recorded in Lebanon up to the 1970s. No further information or more recent records.

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Tawny Owl Strix aluco R: Common breeding resident in montane areas, mainly in cedar, pine and oak groves and in rocky crevices at Faqra and Aammiq. Rarely recorded outside breeding season (early Aug to early Mar). First recorded in 1824 (Hemprich & Ehrenberg 1833). First breeding recorded by Tohmé & Neuschwander (1974).

Little Owl Athene noctua R: Fairly common breeding resident in most montane areas and the Beqaa, and may be more common but overlooked. Calling most frequently noted Mar– Jun (Ramadan-Jaradi & Ramadan-Jaradi 1999). First recorded by Tristram (1865-68). First breeding confirmed at Beirut (Kumerloeve 1962) but may no longer breed there.

Long-eared Owl Asio otus wv, pm, r: Formerly bred in the Cedars of Lebanon (Tristram 1864).

Breeding reconfirmed near Aammiq in May 2006 (Colin Conroy in Ramadan-Jaradi et al 2008). Otherwise, occasionally observed early Aug to late May. Perhaps more common than records suggest. Seen at Aammiq, Ain Zhalta, Barouk, Bcharri, Beirut, Bishmezzine, Cheikh Zennad, Kfarhouneh and Maasser el Shouf. First recorded by Hemprich & Ehrenberg (1833).

First breeding recorded by Tristram (1864).

Short-eared Owl Asio flammeus wv, ?pm: Extremely rare winter visitor (early Dec to late Feb), mainly in the Beqaa and river valleys in coastal areas. Further records from Mar-Apr and Sep–Nov (Kumerloeve 1962). Seen at Aammiq, Beirut, Beqaa Valley, Cheikh Zennad, Tyre and Zahleh. More recently one at Shouf Biosphere Reserve 10 Nov 2014 (Ramadan-Jaradi and Itani, 2016). First recorded by Hemprich & Ehrenberg in 1824 (Kumerloeve 1960a, 1962).

UPUPIDAE Eurasian Hoopoe Upupa epops R, sb, PM, wv: Common breeding resident in Cedar of Lebanon forests at Qammouha, Fneideq, and Bacharre (Ramadan-Jaradi & Ramadan-Jaradi 1997). A common migrant breeder at Hermel, Qaa, Palm Islands (Ramadan-Jaradi & RamadanJaradi 1999), Ras Baalbek and Horsh Baabda (Ramadan-Jaradi et al 2008). Augmented by migrants late Feb to early May and mid-Aug to early Nov, and, to a much lesser extent, by wintering birds Dec–Feb (Ramadan-Jaradi et al 2008). Sighted almost everywhere in the country. First recorded by Tristram (1865-68). First breeding confirmed in 1995 (RamadanJaradi & Ramadan-Jaradi 1997, 1999).

CORACIIDAE European Roller Coracias garrulus (NT) ?FB, PM, ?sb: Perhaps formerly bred but no recent evidence (Tohmé & Neuschwander 1974). Common passage migrant (late Mar to early Jun and early Aug to late Oct), mainly in cedar groves and the Beqaa Valley, including Aammiq.

Very scarce on the coast. Outside the passage range, it was recorded at Rachaya 24 Jul 1947 (West 1954) and at Aammiq 11 Jul 2000 (Beale & Sprenger 2001). First recorded in 1877 by Van Dyck (Kumerloeve 1962).

ALCEDINIDAE White-throated Kingfisher Halcyon smyrnensis ?FB, pm, wv: Probable former breeder but no recent evidence (Kumerloeve 1967-69). Breeding in southern Lebanon (Shirihai 1996) unproven. Recorded in all months of the year except June. Seen at Aammiq, Al Mansouri, Barouk, Beirut, Damour, Deir Mimas, Litani River Valley, Oyoun el-Samak, Nahr El Kalb, Al Ain Pond (Tyre), Qalat al Mudiq, and Wadi el Aazzyeh. First recorded by Schrader (1892).

Common Kingfisher Alcedo atthis PM, wv, s, ?r: Rare breeder (Tohmé & Neuschwander 1974) but no recent evidence. Small numbers year-round on islands, estuaries, rocky shores, coastal mudflats, rivers, fishponds of Beqaa, Anjar, Yammouneh, and, more regularly, in reedbeds at Aammiq and Tyre. Numbers augmented by migrants early Mar to mid-May and mid-Aug to late Nov, and in winter (Dec–Mar). First recorded by Tristram (1865-68).

Pied Kingfisher Ceryle rudis FB, wv, pm: Formerly bred at Nahr Beirut (Schrader (1892) and at Anjar (Tohmé & Neuschwander 1974) but no recent evidence. Recorded as an uncommon to scarce passage migrant and very rare winter visitor early Aug to late Apr on coasts and at inland waters. First recorded by Tristram (1865-68).

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MEROPIDAE Blue-cheeked Bee-eater Merops persicus FB, v: A small colony of c10 pairs in 1945 near Beirut (Leavesley in Kumerloeve 1962), but no subsequent evidence of breeding (Kumerloeve 1962) or records (Ramadan-Jaradi & Ramadan-Jaradi 1999) until 10 Nov 2016, when a hunter shot two individuals flying over an orchard of banana trees at Abu Al Asswad, 16 km north of Tyre. This was the first record for this species in over 70 years (Ramadan-Jaradi et al 2017).

[Very recently three individulas were recorded at Arida in west Akkar while writing this paper on 15 Mar 2020; Monzer Chouman pers comm]. First recorded in 1877 by Van Dyck (Kumerloeve 1962).

European Bee-eater Merops apiaster ?FB, PM, ?sb: Perhaps formerly bred (Tohmé & Neuschwander 1974), but only recent evidence is a failed attempt at Ehden in May 1996 (Ramadan-Jaradi & Ramadan-Jaradi 1997). Very common and widespread on passage from early Apr to early Jun (mainly Apr-May) and much commoner mid-Aug to early Nov (mainly Sep-Oct). First recorded by Schrader (1892).

PICIDAE Jynx torquilla Eurasian Wryneck pm: Scarce to rare passage migrant early Mar to midMay and mid-Aug to early Nov. Singles, occasionally up to seven, recorded in city gardens, coasts, montane areas and, most frequently, the Beqaa Valley. First recorded

by Van Dyck in 1873-1878 (Kumerloeve 1960a, 1962).

Syrian Woodpecker Dendrocopos syriacus R: The Syrian Woodpecker (Plate 7) was considered extirpated in Lebanon by Tohmé & Neuschwander (1974), but rediscovered and breeding was confirmed in 1995 at Qammouha and Fneideq (Ramadan-Jaradi & Ramadan-Jaradi 1997). Then found nesting at Jabal El Cheikh (Hermon), above Aammiq, Qaraoun (Ramadan-Jaradi & Ramadan-Jaradi 1999), Andqit, Qobayyat and Oudine Valley (GR-J). Dispersing individuals recorded at Aammiq and the Litani River Valley. First recorded and described as new species in 1824 (Hemprich Plate 7. Syrian Woodpecker is one of the declining & Ehrenberg 1833). First breeding confirmed sedentary species of Lebanon. © Ghassan Ramadan-Jaradi at Qammouha in 1995 (Ramadan-Jaradi & Ramadan-Jaradi 1997).

FALCONIDAE Lesser Kestrel Falco naumanni sb, pm, s: Formerly bred (Schrader 1892, Meinertzhagen 1935, Hardy 1946, Kumerloeve 1962, Benson 1970). Reconfirmed breeding at Tyre ruins in 2001 was the first for over 40 years (Ramadan-Jaradi & Ramadan-Jaradi 2002). Uncommon passage migrant over most of the country (late Mar to late Apr and early Sep to late Oct).

May be more common than records suggest due to possible confusion of females with Common Kestrel F. tinnunculus. Some non-breeding individuals regularly over-summer (May to mid-August). First recorded and first breeding confirmed near Beirut by Schrader (1892).

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Common Kestrel Falco tinnunculus R, PM, WV: The most common and widespread resident raptor breeding in Lebanon (Ramadan-Jaradi & Ramadan-Jaradi 1997). Found in a wide variety of habitats from sea-level (including Palm Islands) to 2600 m asl. A common passage migrant (early Mar to mid-May and late Aug to early Nov). Widespread in winter (Nov to late Feb). First recorded and first breeding confirmed near Beirut by Schrader (1892).

Red-footed Falcon Falco vespertinus (NT) pm: Uncommon passage migrant Sep–Oct and rare in Apr–May. Outside passage dates, one immature at Aammiq 7 Nov 2005 (Colin Conroy pers comm). First recorded by Schrader (1892).

Eleonora’s Falcon Falco eleonorae FB, pm: Formerly bred (Tristram 1865-68). Extremely rare passage migrant (Ramadan-Jaradi & Ramadan-Jaradi 1999) late Mar to late May and early Sep to late Oct. Mainly observed in Mount Lebanon. First recorded by Tristram (1865-68).

Merlin Falco columbarius pm, wv: Small numbers on passage (Mar to late Apr and Oct–Nov) over most of the country. Scarce winter visitor (Nov–Feb), mainly to the Beqaa Valley and recently to Aammiq (Ramadan-Jaradi et al 2008). First recorded in 1877 by Van Dyck (Kumerloeve 1962).

Eurasian Hobby Falco subbuteo SB, PM, s: Fairly common passage migrant (early Sep to early Nov and Apr to mid-May) over most of the country, but mainly the Beqaa Valley.

Many summer breeders in high montane areas (Ramadan-Jaradi et al 2008). One oversummered on Palm Islands 30 June-12 Jul 2000 (Ramadan-Jaradi & Ramadan-Jaradi 2002).

First recorded by Schrader (1892). First breeding confirmed at Hadath el Jibbeh cedars by West (1954).

Lanner Falcon Falco biarmicus pm, wv, s, ?sb: Formerly considered a possible breeder (Meinertzhagen 1935, Benson 1970), but no evidence. Uncommon or scarce passage migrant and winter visitor (late Aug to early May) in the Beqaa, over mountains, coasts, and islands.

One female on Palm Islands between 8-12 Jul 2000 (Ramadan-Jaradi 2003). First recorded

by Tristram (1865-68).

Saker Falcon Falco cherrug (EN) pm, wv: Scarce passage migrant along main raptor migration routes Sep–Oct and even rarer Mar–Apr. Very scarce winter visitor (Nov–Feb), with most in the northern Beqaa at Baalbek, Hermel and Qaa (Ramadan-Jaradi & Ramadan-Jaradi 1999).

First recorded by Hardy (1945).

Peregrine Falcon Falco peregrinus ?FB, pm, wv: Perhaps formerly bred (Schrader 1892, Benson 1970) but no evidence (Kumerloeve 1968, Tohmé & Neuschwander 1974) and no recent evidence of over-summering (Ramadan- Jaradi & Ramadan-Jaradi 1999). [One reported from Ras Chekka 4 Jun 2007 (Balmer & Betton (2007b)]. Scarce passage migrant late Mar to late Apr and late Aug to late Oct over many areas including Beirut. Very scarce winter visitor from late Nov to late Feb to the Beqaa Valley, low mountains and the coastal strip, including Beirut (Ramadan-Jaradi et al 2005). First recorded by Tristram (1865-68).

Barbary Falcon Falco peregrinus pelegrinoides v: Three records: one at Palm Islands but no data (Evans 1994); one at the Fatima Gates area 28 May 2000; and one at Kousba 21 Oct 2000 (Marc Almecija pers comm). Recently, one recorded at Hammana, 10 Oct 2019 (Bernd Mayburg pers comm)

PSITTACULIDAE Rose-ringed Parakeet Psittacula krameri r: Originally escapes, several small breeding colonies were established at AUB (Ramadan-Jaradi 1997, 1999), Horsh Beirut, French Embassy, Khaldeh, Ain Seaada and Ryaq (Ramadan-Jaradi et al 2008). A single at Aammiq 30 Apr 2005 (Richard Prior pers comm) is also believed to be an escape. First recorded and first breeding confirmed at Beirut in 1995 (Ramadan-Jaradi & Ramadan-Jaradi 1997).

LANIIDAE Red-backed Shrike Lanius collurio SB, PM: Formerly considered only a passage migrant until breeding reconfirmed in 1996 (Ramadan-Jaradi & Ramadan-Jaradi 1997) prior to 214

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the previous breeding record in 1892 (Schrader 1892). Common breeding summer visitor, arriving mainly in Apr (peak late Apr) and breeding mid-May to early Aug at mid- and high altitudes. Most common at 600–1950 m asl (Ramadan-Jaradi & Ramadan-Jaradi 1997).

Very common and widespread on passage from sea-level to c2000 m asl, early Apr to late May and early Aug to late Nov. First recorded in 1824 by Hemprich & Ehrenberg (1833). First noted breeding by Tristram (1864).

Turkestan Shrike Lanius phoenicuroides pm, wv: Very scarce passage migrant early Apr to late May and more regular mid-Sep to mid-Nov. Very scarce in winter mid-Nov to late Feb. Occurs in open areas with scattered vegetation and in derelict lands and agricultural fields. Seen at Aammiq, Aitou, Anjar, Baadaran, Baaloul, Cheikh Zennad, Dalhoun, Deir el Ahmar, Ehden, Fakiha, Hermel, Jabal Rihane, Kamed el Lowz, Mreijat, Tabarja, Tyre and Ras el Harf. First recorded by Ramadan-Jaradi & Ramadan- Jaradi (1999), the species’ status was based on 17 records, all adults, 1994-1998.

Lesser Grey Shrike Lanius minor PM, s: Common passage migrant early Aug to late Oct (mainly Sep) and much less frequent in late Apr to late May. Very small numbers of nonbreeders in Jun–Jul. Occurs from sea-level to c1500 m asl. First recorded by Van Dyck in 1873-1878 (Kumerloeve 1960a, 1962).

Mauryan Grey Shrike Lanius (excubitor) lahtora v: (Note: relationships in L. excubitor complex and far from settled) Subspecies pallidirostris considered a vagrant to Aammiq area: one record on 1 Oct 1998 (Beale & Sprenger 2001) [and one undocumented report of one just south of Aana near Aammiq on 16 Sep 2004 (Marius Teeuw pers comm)]. Elsewhere, one at Qelia near Hasbaya on 28 Sep 2000 thought to be this taxon (Thierry Bara). The LBRC needs to assess the occurrence of this taxon in Lebanon.

Arabian Grey Shrike Lanius (excubitor) aucheri FB, ?sb, pm: Old records refer to Great Grey Shrike L. excubitor sensu lato. Breeding reported occasionally (Hardy 1945, Benson 1970) but no recent evidence. There is a record of one adult and two juveniles at Tyre on 27 Jun 1996 (Nabil Khairallah pers comm) [and a report of an adult and two juveniles of this taxon at Cheikh Zennad in 2006 (Balmer & Betton (2007a)]. Scarce or rare on passage in early Oct to mid-Nov and extremely rare early Mar to early Apr (Ramadan-Jaradi & Ramadan-Jaradi 1999). Outside the range of its passage dates there are two records: two at Qaraoun 12 Jul 2003 and one at Dalhoun between 15-21 Jul and on 23 Jul 2007, but without any breeding evidence (Ramadan-Jaradi et al 2008). Recorded in 23 locations of Mount-Lebanon, AntiLebanon and Beqaa Valley. First recorded as Lanius excubitor aucheri by Aharoni (1931). First breeding noted by Hardy (1945).

Woodchat Shrike Lanius senator sb, PM: Fairly common migrant breeder (late Mar to midJuly) in most montane areas with sparse vegetation or open woodlands, and from coast to 1800 m asl at edges of cedar forest. Relatively common migrant early Mar to late May and early Aug to late Sep, from sea-level to the treeline. First recorded by Tristram (1865-68).

First breeding confirmed near Beirut by Schrader (1892).

Masked Shrike Lanius nubicus SB, PM: Common and widespread migrant breeder from late Mar to mid-Jul in most montane areas, replacing Red-backed Shrike at lower altitudes.

Frequents open areas with sparse vegetation and scattered trees and open woodland.

Recorded from low hills to cedar forests and in Beqaa. Relatively common on passage late Feb to mid-May and early Aug to late Oct. First recorded and first breeding noted at Beirut

by Schrader (1892).

ORIOLIDAE Eurasian Golden Oriole Oriolus oriolus sb, PM: A scarce migrant breeder (mid-Apr to midJul) in southern Lebanon, mainly south of Zahrani (Ramadan-Jaradi & Ramadan-Jaradi 1999). Common on passage early Apr to late May (mainly May) and late Aug to late Oct (mainly Sep) across much of the country (including Beirut and Palm Islands). First recorded

by Schradder (1892) and first breeding confirmed at Zahrani in 1996 (Ramadan-Jaradi & Ramadan-Jaradi 1999).

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CORVIDAE Eurasian Jay Garrulus glandarius R: The subspecies atricapillus is an abundant breeding resident (breeding mid-Mar to late Aug) in montane areas, mainly in orchards, olive groves, pine, cedar and oak forests at 500–1900 m asl. First recorded and first breeding noted by Tristram (1865-68).

Eurasian Magpie Pica pica pm: Formerly recorded as a vagrant (Ramadan-Jaradi 2008).

Only seven records: several reported in the south of the country in Oct 1967 and Aug 1968 (Benson 1970), one in woodland north of Baabda 15 Apr 1984 (Khairallah 1986); one poor flyer (perhaps of captive origin) over the main Beirut-Tripoli road 4 Sep 2000 (RamadanJaradi & Ramadan-Jaradi 2002); two at Aammiq 1 Apr 2015 (FI); and one at Ghalboun 9 Apr 2017 (Tamima Itani). On 29 Aug 2018, one shot at the river in Fakiha. It was feeding alone on a smaller bird when shot. With these additional records, the Eurasian Magpie should no longer be regarded as a vagrant to Lebanon, but as a scarce irregular passage migrant.

Some are probably post breeding dispersals from neighbouring countries (Ramadan-Jaradi et al 2019).

Red-billed Chough Pyrrhocorax pyrrhocorax R: Only five records of this localised species: a large number in the highest areas of the Lebanon range (Aharoni 1931), one at Faraya in 1969 (Benson 1970); 17 adults and 38 juveniles to the east of Bqaa Kafra at c2200 m asl 23 Jun 2003, constituted the first breeding record for over seven decades (Ramadan-Jaradi et al 2004); 15 on a cliff above Dounniyeh at c2400 m asl 10 Oct and 26 there 17 Nov 2004 (Ramadan-Jaradi et al 2005). First recorded in 1895 by Van Dyck (Kumerloeve 1962). First breeding noted at unspecified locality by Aharoni (1931).

Yellow-billed Chough Pyrrhocorax graculus R: Breeding reconfirmed (Ramadan-Jaradi & Ramadan-Jaradi 1997). Ramadan-Jaradi et al 2008 detailed several sightings up to 2008, notably a colony of c200 with young at Oyoun Al Siman. Recently, most often seen at high altitude in the northern section of the Mount Lebanon Range. First recorded near Bcharre in 1824 (Hemprich & Ehrenberg 1833). First breeding recorded by TohmĂŠ & Neuschwander (1978).

Western Jackdaw Coloeus monedula WV: Reportedly resident (Shirihai 1996) but specific evidence unavailable. Common and regular in winter Oct to early Mar in Beqaa, the AntiLebanon and Marjaayoun Valley (Ramadan-Jaradi & Ramadan-Jaradi 1999). Seen mainly at the Beqaa Valley and the western slopes of Anti-Lebanon. First recorded by Kumerloeve (1962).

Rook Corvus frugilegus v: Listed as a vagrant by Kumerloeve (1962) and Benson (1970). Three recent records: one at Aammiq between 23 Oct and 6 Nov 1998 (Boisclair-Joly in Beale & Sprenger 2001); four flew south over Qaraoun among groups of Jackdaw C. monedula 30 Oct 1999 (Beale 2000); two birds Dbayeh 1 Mar 2015 (Theirry Bara pers comm). First recorded by Van Dyck in 1873-1878 (Kumerloeve 1960a, 1962).

Oriental Crow Corvus (corone) orientalis v: One record: one at Aammiq from 24-27 Oct 2005 (Prior 2007).

Hooded Crow Corvus cornix R: Common breeding resident (breeds late Feb to late Jul) in montane areas, from coastal cliffs to c1900 m asl. Most frequent in cedar groves, orchards and around rubbish dumps. Sighted almost everywhere; travels to beaches in search of food. First recorded by Tristram (1864). First breeding noted by Kumerloeve (1962).

Northern Raven Corvus corax r: Breeding recorded occasionally (Kumerloeve 1962, Benson 1970). Recorded sporadically from 1976 to 2006 in singles or pairs with some observations suggesting breeding. Breeding reconfirmed (Ramadan-Jaradi & Serhal 2014) following evidence in 2013 on cliffs at Qalaat Niha. Recently recorded by FI in Jul and Aug at Al Arz and Qornet el Sawda during 2015-2017, usually in flocks of 8-20 individuals. First recorded

by Tristram (1864) and first breeding noted by Kumerloeve (1962).

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PARIDAE Coal Tit Periparus ater R: Very common breeding resident (breeds mid-Mar to late Jul) in montane areas, from low ravines in maquis (350 m asl) to woodland at c1850 m asl. Prefers river valleys and mixed woodland, but most regularly found in cedar forests. In winter may descend to sealevel. First recorded by Tristram (1864) Sombre Tit Poecile lugubris r: Uncommon and local breeding resident in a variety of generally open wooded habitats, at mid and high altitudes. Chiefly recorded in Arz el Shouf, the east slope of the Lebanon range and on Jabal El Cheikh (Hermon). First recorded by Tristram (1864). First breeding confirmed by Hollom (1959).

Eurasian Blue Tit Cyanistes caeruleus r, wv, pm: Eurasian Blue Tit (Plate 8) bred at Ehden 17 Jun 1998 (Bara 2002) and the Cedars of Jej 26 Apr 2008 (Theirry Bara pers comm). Scarce winter visitor (mid-Nov to late Feb), and scarcer passage migrant (Sep), Plate 8. Eurasian Blue Tit is expanding its breeding range in river valleys and ravines. Most regularly south in Lebanon. Š Fouad Itani at Horsh Ehden, Nahr Ibrahim Valley and Mchati. First recorded by Flach (1959).

Great Tit Parus major R: Very common breeding resident (breeds late Mar to late Jul) in montane areas, from c300 m asl in ravines to the tree-line. Sighted in a wide variety of habitats. First recorded by Tristram (1864). First breeding noted by Kumerloeve (1962).

REMIZIDAE Eurasian Penduline Tit Remiz pendulinus sb, wv, pm: Bred at Assi (Ramadan-Jaradi et al 2004) and was regularly breeding there until 2016 (GR-J & FI). Was found breeding at Anjar 18 Apr 2014 by GR-J with two nests located. Earliest nests achieved were 5 Apr 2015 Ain Al Rehan (FI), and also 5 Apr 2016 in Assi/Hermel (GRJ & FI). Believed to breed at Sheikh Zennad since parents were seen with juveniles by Bassel Abi Jummaa 18 Jul 2011. Scarce or rare in winter (early Dec to late Feb) and rare on passage (early Mar to mid-Apr and mid-Oct to late Nov). First recorded by Schrader (1892) who believed he found a nest near Beirut yet was unable to see birds. First breeding confirmed at Assi River in 2003 (Bara & Almecija in Ramadan-Jaradi et al 2004).

PANURIDAE Bearded Reedling Panurus biarmicus v: Two records: six at Aammiq 30 Mar 1996 (Naylor in Ramadan-Jaradi & Ramadan-Jaradi 1999); and two at Anjar 5 Apr 2005 (Rob Crofton pers comm).

ALAUDIDAE Greater Hoopoe Lark Alaemon alaudipes v: Two records: two collected in Beqaa in autumn 1958 (Flach 1959); one shot at Ras Baalback in Dec 2009 (FI).

Bar-tailed Lark Ammomanes cinctura sb: The only known records are: 30 singing males seen

by Beale and Crofton in the semi-desert area around el Qaa 29 Apr 2000 (Colin Beale pers comm); one in the desert of Hermel 1 May 2002 (Andy Sprenger pers comm); two adults

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seen feeding a juvenile near Ras Baalbek 9 Jun 2005, seen again 8 Jul 2005 and then ten birds observed with at least seven calling at the same place 27 May 2006 (Colin Conroy in Ramadan-Jaradi et al 2008). Subsequent records all in or near Ras Baalbek include four birds 30 Jul 2008 (Helen Demopoulos pers comm), one individual 26 Jul 2016 (FI) and three individuals 12 Jun 2019 (JH, Samer Azar & Maher Rouhana pers comm).

Desert Lark Ammomanes deserti r or sb: Seven published records: one shot or caught in the Beqaa in autumn 1958 (Flach 1959); two at Jabal Haouerta in the Anti-Lebanon on 4 May 2003 (Ramadan-Jaradi et al 2004). From 2003 to 2008; a single at Ras Baalbek 27 Mar 2006, one pair there collecting nesting material on 14 Apr, and three at the same place on 27 May 2006 (Colin Conroy in Ramadan-Jaradi et al 2008). More recently, one to three birds at Ras Baalbek 24 Mar 2008 (Richard Prior pers comm) and also at Ras Baalbek seven birds 30 Jul 2008 (Helen Demopoulos pers comm). Previously, Desert Lark was considered accidental in Lebanon (Kumerloeve 1962, Cramp 1988, Ramadan-Jaradi & Ramadan-Jaradi 1999).

Woodlark Lullula arborea R: Common breeding resident (eggs from early Apr) in open rocky and grassy areas in the montane zone where it usually replaces Crested Lark Galerida cristata. Regularly at Qammouha, Bcharri, Ain Zhalta, Barouk, Maasser el Shouf and high plateaus of the Anti-Lebanon. Altitudinal movements to lower areas are undertaken in winter (Ramadan-Jaradi & Ramadan-Jaradi 1999). First recorded in 1824 (Hemprich & Ehrenberg 1833). First breeding confirmed around the cedars by Meinertzhagen (1935).

Eurasian Skylark Alauda arvensis FB, PM, WV, s: Formerly bred in Beqaa (Tohmé & Neuschwander 1974) but no recent evidence. Common on passage early Mar to mid-Apr and abundant early Oct to late Nov in most areas, particularly the coast and Beqaa Valley.

Very small numbers overwinter (Dec to late Jan) in Beqaa. A few non-breeding individuals oversummer May–Jun. First recorded in 1824 (Hemprich & Ehrenberg 1833).

Crested Lark Galerida cristata R: Common breeding resident (eggs from late Mar) in cultivated coastal areas, Beqaa and montane areas to c1300 m asl, often in low, sparse vegetation near habitation (Ramadan-Jaradi & Ramadan-Jaradi 1999). First recorded and first breeding confirmed by Van Dyck in 1878 (Kumerloeve 1962).

Caucasian Horned Lark Eremophila (alpestris) penicillata R: Very common breeding resident (most are double-brooded, with eggs from third week Apr to late Jul) in grassy or stony areas at, or above, the tree-line. Often alongside Rock Sparrow Petronia petronia and Northern Wheatear Oenanthe oenanthe on the crests of the Lebanon and Anti-Lebanon ranges (Ramadan-Jaradi et al 2008). Flocks from mid-Aug, may winter at lower elevations (Ramadan-Jaradi & Ramadan-Jaradi 1999). First recorded in 1824 (Hemprich & Ehrenberg 1833) and first breeding noted in Kumerloeve (1962).

Temminck’s Lark Eremophila bilopha r or sb: Confirmed records: one near the Chtaura– Damascus road 29 Oct 1958 (Flach 1959); a specimen, apparently taken in Lebanon, is held in the AUB collection; one injured (photographed) and about 15 found breeding at Ras Baalbeck from 27 Apr to 4 May 2000 (Ramadan-Jaradi & Ramadan-Jaradi 2002).

Subsequently, several observers recorded the species at and around Ras Baalbek and found it to be one of the commonest breeding birds there (Colin Conroy in Ramadan-Jaradi et al 2008). More recently, 20 birds at Ras Baalbek 24 Mar 2008 (Richard Prior pers comm) and also at Ras Baalbek 16 birds 30 Jul 2008 (Helen Demopoulos, pers comm). Previously considered a vagrant (Ramadan-Jaradi & Ramadan-Jaradi 1999).

Greater Short-toed Lark Calandrella brachydactyla sb, PM, wv: Scarce migrant breeder from early Mar to mid-Jul in Beqaa (including Aammiq) and most montane areas (including Anti-Lebanon). Relatively common on passage early Sep to late Nov and Mar–Apr, through coastal areas and Beqaa. Rare in winter mid-Nov to late Feb, usually in breeding areas. First recorded by Tristram (1865-68). First confirmed breeding by Schrader (1892).

Calandra Lark Melanocorypha calandra R, PM, wv: Local and fairly common breeding resident (eggs from early Mar) in moderate numbers in the Beqaa Valley, mainly in cultivated fields, but also on low hillsides of the Lebanon and Anti-Lebanon ranges 218

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bordering the valley. Abundant on passage late Sep to late Nov and, less commonly midFeb to mid-Apr through the Beqaa and Marjaayoun, low hills of southern Lebanon, and on Palm Islands (Ramadan-Jaradi 2001). Small numbers overwinter (Dec–Feb) in the Beqaa, particulary in the Aammiq area. First recorded and first noted breeding at the foot of Jabal El Cheikh (Hermon) by Tristram (1865-68).

Bimaculated Lark Melanocorypha bimaculata sb, PM, wv: Uncommon migrant breeder in high montane areas, chiefly in Arz el Shouf, high hillsides looking over the Beqaa area and slopes of Jabal El Cheikh (Hermon), and very rare in the Beqaa Valley. 120 individuals feeding together to the west of Hermel 18 Aug 1996 (Thierry Bara) indicates either postbreeding gathering or early autumn passage. Less common than Calandra Lark M. calandra but regular on passage Sep–Oct and scarcer in early Mar to mid-Apr over most of the country, including coastal areas. Overwinters (Nov–Feb) in small numbers in Beqaa.

First recorded and first noted breeding at higher slopes of Lebanon and Jabal El Cheikh (Hermon) by Tristram (1885).

Black Lark Melanocorypha yeltoniensis v: One record: one shot near Baalbek 31 Oct 1958 (Flach 1959, Benson 1970).

Lesser Short-toed Lark Alaudala rufescens sb, pm, wv: Localised migrant breeder early Mar to late Jun in small numbers at Qaa and Hermel (north Beqaa), low hills of the Anti-Lebanon range, Akkar plain, Cheikh Zennad and probably elsewhere. Uncommon passage migrant throughout the country, including Palm Islands, and a scarce winter visitor to Beqaa in late Sep to early May (Ramadan-Jaradi & Ramadan-Jaradi 1999, 2001). At Aammiq during the 1970s it was recorded in Apr, May, Jun and Nov, but no subsequent records (Macfarlane 1978, Beale & Sprenger 2001, Ramadan-Jaradi et al 2008). First noted by Kumerloeve (1962).

First breeding confirmed in 1974 (Macfarlane 1978).

Arabian Lark Eremalauda eremodites v: Two records: one at unknown date and locality in Lebanon (Harrison 1962); and one at Hermel 24 Apr 2002 (Andy Sprenger pers comm).

PYCNONOTIDAE White-spectacled Bulbul Pycnonotus xanthopygos R: Very common and widespread breeding resident in most scrub and wooded habitats, from sea-level to c1100 m asl, and locally in Beqaa. First recorded in 1824 (Hemprich & Ehrenberg 1833). First breeding noted

by West (1954).

HIRUNDINIDAE Sand Martin Riparia riparia PM, ?wv, ?s, ?sb: Suspected to breed, from May to mid-Jul, in the Assi River Valley (north Beqaa). Common and widespread on passage mid-Feb to late May (mainly Apr to mid-May) and late Aug to early Nov (mainly Sep to mid-Oct) on coast, montane areas and Beqaa. Outside passage dates: one at Aammiq 21 Jun 1976 (Macfarlane 1978); two at Hermel 6 Dec 1996; one at Fakiha 2 Feb 2003 (Ramadan-Jaradi 2003). Elsewhere; Ainata North, Beirut, Bejjeh, Bikfayya, Cheikh Zennad, Dalhoun, Jabal Rihane, Jourd Nahleh, Khaldeh, Mechmech, Qaa and Tal Al Akhdar. First recorded near Beirut in 1949 (West 1954).

Eurasian Barn Swallow Hirundo rustica SB, PM, wv: Abundant migrant breeder (late Mar to mid-Jul) to most areas, from sea-level to high plateaus but preferring areas near habitation.

Uncommon in winter Dec–Feb, but very common and widespread on passage mid-Feb to mid-Jun and early Jul to mid-Nov throughout the country, including islands. First recorded

by Van Dyck in 1873-1878 (Kumerloeve 1960a, 1962). First breeding noted by Kumerloeve (1962).

Eurasian Crag Martin Ptyonoprogne rupestris sb, PM, wv, ?r: Present year-round but status uncertain. Small numbers of summer visitors regularly nest on Palm Islands and at cliffs of Nahr Ibrahim, Nahr El Jouz, Nahr El Kalb, Moltaqa el Nahrein, Faraya, Faqra, Arz el Shouf and probably elsewhere from mid-Apr to early Jul. Common on passage late Feb to late Apr and mid-Aug to late Nov through most areas. Small flocks rarely winter (Nov–Feb) along Sandgrouse 42 (2020)

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coasts, rocky river valleys of low mountains and Beqaa. First recorded in 1824 (Hemprich & Ehrenberg 1833). First breeding noted by Tristram (1864).

Common House Martin Delichon urbicum SB, PM: Relatively common migrant breeder from Mar to mid-Jul (often from early Apr) in most open habitats, but most often found in hilly and montane areas near habitation or on cliffs, and to a lesser extent in cities and towns where artificial nests are sometimes adopted. Relatively widespread and fairly common on passage early Feb to late May and early Sep to early Nov throughout the country. Impressive numbers at Jabal Moussa 12 and 15 May 2017 with flocks of >200 birds hawking low over the mountainside (JH). First recorded in 1824 (Hemprich & Ehrenberg 1833) and first breeding confirmed at Bcharre gorge in 1933 (Meinertzhagen 1935).

Red-rumped Swallow Cecropis rufula sb, pm: Uncommon migrant breeder (early Mar to early Aug) mainly to river valleys near coasts and Beqaa. Elsewhere, uncommon or scarce on passage in early Mar to late Apr and early Sep to early Oct. First recorded by Schrader (1892) and first breeding confirmed at Nahr El Kalb in 1947 (West 1954).

CETTIIDAE Cetti’s Warbler Cettia cetti R: Common breeding resident (eggs from mid-Mar at Tanayel) in thickets or thorny vegetation bordering inland waters. Seen at Aammiq, Anjar, Kfarselwan, Kfar Zabad, Tal Al Akdar, Tanayel and the Litani River in Beqaa and the south; also in thickets along edges of montane rivers below the cedar zone. First recorded and first breeding confirmed by Schrader (1892).

SCOTOCERCIDAE Streaked Scrub Warbler Scotocerca inquieta r: One above the cedars of Bcharre 26 Sep 1969 (Jensen in Ramadan-Jaradi et al 2004). Two above Ras Baalbek 30 Aug 2001 (Bara 2002). One seen near Kherbet Qanafar 30 Aug 2004 (Marius Teeuw pers comm). At a wadi north of Ras Baalbek, three on 3 Dec 2005, and a pair with three young 27 May 2006 (Colin Conroy in Ramadan-Jaradi et al 2008). At Ras Baalbek one 24 Mar 2008 (Richard Prior, pers comm) and 15 on 30 Jul 2008 (Helen Demopoulos pers comm). Most recently four at Qaa, 22 Nov 2019 (Bassel Abi Jummaa pers comm).

PHYLLOSCOPIDAE Wood Warbler Phylloscopus sibilatrix FB, PM: Formerly bred (Kumerloeve 1962). Recent records suggest it is a migrant in small numbers late Mar to late May (mainly Apr) and midAug to late Nov (mainly Sep-Oct) from sea-level to the treeline. First recorded in 1878 by Van Dyck (Kumerloeve 1960a, 1962). First noted breeding near the Litani River by Tristram in 1881 (Kumerloeve 1962).

Eastern Bonelli’s Warbler Phylloscopus orientalis sb, pm: Scarce to uncommon migrant breeder from mid-Mar to late Jul in montane groves (including cedar and oak) and orchards. Uncommon on migration over much of the country from early Mar to late May and scarce in early Aug to mid-Oct. First recorded in 1877 by Van Dyck (Kumerloeve 1960a, 1962). First breeding noted by Kumerloeve (1962).

Plain Leaf Warbler Phylloscopus neglectus v: One record: four at Qammouha 28 Oct 1996 were hunting large numbers of flying insects from the trees (Ramadan-Jaradi & RamadanJaradi 1999). Misorientation (by 180°) of individuals from nearest Iranian population to Lebanon (and Jordan and Israel; Porter 1996) approximates to distance to winter quarters.

Willow Warbler Phylloscopus trochilus PM: Common and widespread passage migrant early Mar to late May (mainly Mar to early May) and more abundant mid-Aug to late Nov, in a wide range of habitats from sea-level to c1800 m asl. First recorded by Van Dyck in 1873-1878 (Kumerloeve 1960a, 1962).

Common Chiffchaff Phylloscopus collybita SB, PM, WV: Fairly common summer breeder all over the country. The first confirmed breeding record was at Ehden and Tannourine in 1998

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(Bara 2002, Ramadan-Jaradi & Ramadan-Jaradi 2002). Common and widespread on passage and a winter visitor from late Aug–late May, over much of the country (Ramadan-Jaradi et al 2008). First recorded by Van Dyck in 1873-1878 (Kumerloeve 1960a, 1962).

Green Warbler Phylloscopus nitidus v: Three records: one late Sep 1964 seen by two observers (Benson 1970); three (one a first-winter) photographed in Beirut 28 Sep 1997 (RamadanJaradi & Ramadan-Jaradi 1999); two at Dalhoun 28 Oct 2017.

Greenish Warbler Phylloscopus trochiloides v: One record: Beale and Crofton (in Beale & Sprenger 2001) recorded one at Aammiq on 2 May 2000.

ACROCEPHALIDAE Great Reed Warbler Acrocephalus arundinaceus SB, PM: Common migrant breeder from midApr to early Aug at Aammiq, Anjar/Kfar Zabad, Cheikh Zennad, Joub Jannine, Kfar Zabad, Qaraoun, Bishmezzine, Damour, Litani River, Tal Al Akhdar and probably elsewhere.

Common on passage mid-Mar to mid-May and scarcer mid-Aug to mid-Nov, over much of the country, particularly at estuaries and inland waters in Beqaa. First recorded by West (1954). First confirmed breeding at Aammiq by Tohmé & Neuschwander (1974).

Clamorous Reed Warbler Acrocephalus (stentoreus) stentoreus ?v: Status uncertain.

A vagrant to the Aammiq area, with one record 29 Apr 1999 (Beale & Springer 2001).

[Reported breeding at Kfar Zabad in the eastern Beqaa Valley by Balmer & Betton (2007a) but confirmation is lacking]. Great care is required in identification. Great Reed Warbler A. arundinaceus is very similar and the taxon brunnescens found in the region, formerly regarded as a race of Clamorous Warbler, is now elevated by some to a full species, Indian Reed Warbler A. (s.) brunnescens.

Moustached Warbler Acrocephalus melanopogon SB, pm, wv: Relatively common but local migrant breeder (food-carrying early Apr) at Aammiq, Anjar, Kfarzabad, Bishmezzine, Cheikh Zennad, in estuaries and areas with waterside reeds and low vegetation. Scarce on passage Mar–Apr and Oct–Nov over most of the country (winter ringing records; Colin Conroy in Ramadan-Jaradi et al 2008). First recorded and first noted breeding, at Aammiq,

by Tohmé & Neuschwander (1974).

Sedge Warbler Acrocephalus schoenobaenus PM, wv: Fairly common passage migrant midFeb to early Jun (peak Apr) and scarcer late Aug to early Nov. Very scarce in winter from early Dec to late Feb (no winter ringing records – Colin Conroy pers comm – perhaps due to the limited ringing areas); its scarcity may reflect its status as a very rare and irregular wintering species in northern Israel, very near the Lebanese border (Shirihai 1996). Mostly recorded at Aammiq, Anjar and river mouths. First recorded in 1824 by Hemprich & Ehrenberg (1833). The LBRC will certainly require all winter records to be submitted for evaluation.

Eurasian Reed Warbler Acrocephalus (scirpaceus) scirpaceus SB, PM, wv: Common and local migrant breeder mid-Apr to late Jul at Aammiq, Anjar and Kfarzabad. Common on passage mid-Mar to late May and mid-Aug to early Nov and very rare in winter from late Nov to late Feb, mostly at Qaraoun and coastal river mouths but also in Cheikh Zennad, Fakiha, Ras Baalbek, Hermel, Assi, Tall Znoub, Tyre Coast Reserve. First recorded by West (1954). First confirmed breeding by Tohmé & Neuschwander (1974).

Marsh Warbler Acrocephalus palustris PM: Uncommon passage migrant late Mar to early Jun (peak late Mar to mid-Apr) and common on passage early Sep to mid-Nov, particularly at Anjar, Aammiq, Bishmezzine, Kfar Zabad, Sofar, Tal Al Akhdar and Tanayel. Normally follows loop migration strategy. First recorded by Flach (1959).

Booted Warbler Iduna caligata v: Two records: one in 1964 (Benson 1970) and one at Aammiq 20 Apr 2000 (Beale & Sprenger 2001).

Eastern Olivaceous Warbler Iduna pallida SB, PM: Common migrant breeder mid-Apr to early Aug in damp fields, gardens, orchards, riverine scrub and other bushy areas of mainly the lower and middle regions. Widespread on passage in early Mar to late May

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and early Aug to early Nov. First recorded by Tristram (1864). First breeding confirmed by Kumerloeve (1962).

Upcher’s Warbler Hippolais languida SB, pm: Common migrant breeder late Apr to late Jul, mainly in montane garrigue, ravines, olive groves and orchards. Scarce to uncommon on passage late Apr to early Jun and early Aug to late Oct. First recorded by Hemprich & Ehrenberg (1833). First breeding confirmed above Rachaya by Tristram (1864).

Olive-tree Warbler Hippolais olivetorum sb, pm: Scarce migrant breeder mid-Apr to early Jul. Evidence of breeding obtained at Maanyeh ravine, in maquis at Dibbyeh, hills above Aammiq, Ainab, Bejjeh, Bireh, Bwar, Arz el Shouf, Damour, Deir el Qamar and Jabal Rihane, probably also elsewhere. Scarce and irregular on passage mid-Apr to late May and early Aug to late Sep over much of the country. First recorded and first noted breeding by Tristram (1864).

Icterine Warbler Hippolais icterina pm: Very scarce passage migrant in mid-Apr to late May and late Aug to late Oct, in a wide variety of habitats. First recorded in 1958 by Flach (1959).

LOCUSTELLIDAE Western Grasshopper Warbler Locustella naevia v: One record: one near Tyre 17 Oct 1958 (Flach 1959).

River Warbler Locustella fluviatilis v: Two records: [One with unknown place or date by Benson (1970)]; and one at the AUB campus 6 Oct 2003 (Ramadan-Jaradi et al 2005).

Savi’s Warbler Locustella luscinioides sb, pm: Scarce and local migrant breeder from late Mar to mid-Jul to wetlands in most areas, although most common at Aammiq, Anjar/Kfarzabad and the Litani River. Very scarce on passage, mainly early Mar to early May and late Aug to early Oct (Ramadan-Jaradi & Ramadan-Jaradi 1999, 2001). First recorded and first noted breeding, at Aammiq, by Tohmé & Neuschwander (1974).

CISTICOLIDAE Zitting Cisticola Cisticola juncidis r: Uncommon and local breeding resident in coastal strip, Beqaa, cultivated grassland in low montane valleys, and perhaps elsewhere. A recent increase is apparent. Reported from Aammiq, Ain Zhalta, Anjar, Bikfayya, Bishmezzine, Cheikh Zennad, Deir el Qamar, Jbeil, Palm Islands and Qaraoun. First recorded and first breeding confirmed by West (1954).

Graceful Prinia Prinia gracilis R: Very common breeding resident (eggs from early Mar), from sea-level to c1100 m asl and in Beqaa, Beirut and Palm Islands where in the latter it is a summer breeder since it returns to the mainland in winter (GR-J). It has apparently extended its range since the 1960s. Formerly, it was extremely rare on the coast and almost absent in the Beqaa (Hemprich & Ehrenberg 1833, Schrader 1892, Kumerloeve 1962). First recorded in 1824 (Hemprich & Ehrenberg 1833). First breeding confirmed by Kumerloeve (1962).

SYLVIIDAE Eurasian Blackcap Sylvia atricapilla SB, PM, WV: Common and widespread migrant breeder from early Mar to mid-Jul, at low and mid-altitudes and up to c1950 m asl, in various habitats including Palm Islands (Ramadan-Jaradi & Ramadan-Jaradi 1997). Very common on passage and uncommon in winter from late Jul to late May, from sea-level to c1900 m asl (Ramadan-Jaradi & Ramadan-Jaradi 1999). First recorded and first breeding confirmed by Tristram (1864).

Garden Warbler Sylvia borin pm: Uncommon but regular passage migrant early Apr to late May and scarce late Aug to early Nov. Occurs throughout the country from sea-level to above the tree-line. First recorded by Van Dyck & Carruthers (Kumerloeve 1962).

Barred Warbler Curruca nisoria pm: Uncommon passage migrant mid-Apr to early Jun (seen at Hadath-Beirut Lebanese University campus and photographed singing May to early Jun 222

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2012-2013, without breeding evidence; GR-J), and even less numerous mid-Aug to mid-Oct. Usually found in lightly wooded montane areas, but also on the coast and in the Beqaa Valley. First recorded by Tristram (1865-68).

Lesser Whitethroat Curruca curruca SB, PM, ?wv: Common migrant breeder from mid-Mar to late Jul in most montane areas, from low garrigue up to 2200 m asl, mainly in open bushy areas with scattered trees. Common migrant early Mar to early May and less frequent early Aug to mid-Nov. One winter record; Dalhoun 2 Dec 1995 (Ramadan-Jaradi & RamadanJaradi 1999). First recorded and first breeding confirmed by Tristram (1865-68).

Eastern Orphean Warbler Curruca crassirostris SB, PM: Fairly common migrant breeder from mid-Mar to mid-Jul in a wide range of habitats (including Beqaa), at c450–1800 m asl. Recorded in olive groves, orchards, oak, open cedar forests, and maquis. Common on passage from early Mar to mid-May and late Jul to early Oct. First recorded in 1824 by Hemprich & Ehrenberg (1833). First breeding confirmed at Ainata North and Rachaya by Kumerloeve (1962).

Common Whitethroat Curruca communis SB, PM: Common and widespread migrant breeder from late Mar to early Aug in a wide variety of habitats, from sea-level to c1950 m asl. Breeds in wooded gardens at Beirut, maquis, orchards, thickets and bushes bordering swamps of Beqaa, olive groves, pine, oak and cedar forests. Absent from the semi-desert of north Beqaa. Common on passage late Feb to late May and late Jul to early Nov. First recorded and first breeding confirmed by Hemprich & Ehrenberg (1833).

Spectacled Warbler Curruca conspicillata R, ?pm: Breeding resident (eggs mid-May at high altitudes) in small numbers, mainly in garrigue and degraded garrigue in both mountain ranges, apparently to upper tree-line wherever there are bushes. An apparent but slight increase in numbers in Mar and Sep-Oct may reflect passage. Reported from Ainata North, Aichyeh, Aramta, Barouk, Chekka, Chwayya, Kfarhouneh, Maasser el Shouf, Mlikh, Ras Baalbek, Qaraoun, Kamed el Lowz and Yanta. First recorded and first breeding confirmed at Anti-Lebanon in 1931 by Aharoni (Kumerloeve 1962).

Eastern Subalpine Warbler Curruca cantillans pm: Uncommon to scarce passage migrant early Mar to late Apr but no autumn records. Recorded almost exclusively in open montane bushland in both ranges (Ramadan-Jaradi & Ramadan-Jaradi 1999), but two records from 2004 and four from spring 2017 were along the coast. Older records; one at Kfarhouneh 6 Apr 2002; one at Fneideq 23 Mar 2003; five at Maasser el Shouf 20 Apr 2003; two at Beirut 4 Mar 2004; four at Yanta 15 Apr 2004; two at Barouk 29 Mar 2005; and one at Oyoun Orghosh 22 Apr 2005 (GR-J). Recently four records of individuals; 24 Mar 2017 Beirut Port (Maher Rohana pers comm), 28 and 29 Mar 2017 Beil Beirut (JH); and 4 Apr 2017 at Jbeil Ruins (JH and Samer Azar). First recorded by Van Dyck in 1873-1878 (Kumerloeve 1960a, 1962).

Sardinian Warbler Curruca melanocephala R, PM, WV: Very common breeding resident (breeds late Mar–late Jul) in most habitats (from sea-level to c1600 m asl in north Lebanon).

Common on passage and in winter from mid-Sep to late Apr. First recorded by Hemprich & Ehrenberg (1833). First noted breeding near Beirut by Schrader (1892).

Ménétries’s Warbler Curruca mystacea sb, pm: Apparently a former breeder in the Anti-Lebanon (Kumerloeve, 1962). Breeding was re-confirmed at Dalhoun in 2001 (Ramadan-Jaradi & Ramadan-Jaradi 2002), at Assi River in 2003 (Ramadan-Jaradi et al 2004) and at Koura in 2011 (Antoine Faissal pers comm). Also a very scarce passage migrant MarApr and Sep to mid-Oct, mainly in degraded garrigue and coastal areas (Ramadan-Jaradi & Ramadan-Jaradi 1999). First recorded by Aharoni (1931) as C. cantillans but later identified as C. mystacea (Kumerloeve (1962). First breeding confirmed at Dalhoun in 2000-2001 (Ramadan-Jaradi & Ramadan-Jaradi 2002).

Rüppell’s Warbler Curruca ruppeli ?sb, pm: Status uncertain: no recent records of breeding (Benson 1970), although nesting recorded by Tohmé & Neuschwander (1974) and one male at Bejjeh 1 Jun 1998 (Thierry Bara in Ramadan-Jaradi et al 2008). Recent observations suggest it is a scarce migrant early Mar to late Apr and occasionally in in Sep. Mainly observed in maquis, wooded ravines, hillsides and on Palm Islands. Sighted at Aammiq hillsides, Sandgrouse 42 (2020)

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Plate 9. European Goldcrest is the only species that has recently been promoted to the status of resident breeder in Lebanon. © Fouad Itani

Baabda, Beirut, Beit Merri, Bejjeh, Cheik Zennad, Damour, Jabal Baiyada, Mlikh, Naqoura, Palm Islands, Saadyat, Saida and Tyre. First recorded by Tristram (1864).

Cyprus Warbler Curruca melanothorax pm, wv: Scarce passage migrant early Mar to early Apr and extremely rare winter visitor Dec–Feb. Usually found in garrigue interspersed with olive groves or cultivation and gardens (Ramadan-Jaradi & Ramadan-Jaradi 1999).

Seen at Alma, Aramoun, Bebnine, Beddawi, Beirut, Deir Qoubil, Fanar, Haret Sakhr, Kfar Hazir, Palm Islands and Roumieh. First recorded in 1904 (Carruthers in Kumerloeve 1962).

REGULIDAE Common Firecrest Regulus ignicapilla v: Two records: some in cedars near Bcharre 13 Oct and 12 Nov 1958 (Flach 1959); one shot near Zayneye’ lake above Yammouneh 13 Nov 2015 (Ramadan-Jaradi & Itani 2016).

European Goldcrest Regulus regulus r: Very rare and irregular in Nov–Jan in cedar, pine and fir groves at Barouk, Ehden and Qammouha (Ramadan-Jaradi & Ramadan-Jaradi 1999).

Three at Barouk cedars 18 Nov and one at Ain Zhalta cedars 8 Dec 1999 (Beale 2000). One at Aammiq 26 Nov 2000 (Beale & Springer 2001). More recently five birds were shot: one bird Baisour, Dec 2013 (Sultan Jaramani pers comm); one at Akkar, Nov 2014; two birds at Bait Shabab Dec 2014; and one at Shayleh below Ajaltoun Dec 2014. Five in a mixed flock of tits 25 Nov 2016, above Chouwan at Jabal Moussa (JH). On 11 Aug 2018, Bassel Abi Jummaa (BAJ) observed four individuals of this species (Plate 9) in a fir forest at Qammouha, suggesting possible breeding. On 28 Aug 2018, G R-J, FI and Thierry Bara were led by BAJ to the site, where they observed six individuals. On 30 Apr, 2019 GR-J returned and saw three individuals but heard no fewer than 10. After extensive observation, calling nestlings were heard every time one of the parents moved between the thick leaves of a tree, but were difficult to see and photograph. This is the first breeding record of this species in Lebanon and finding Goldcrest chicks in the nest in late Apr may indicate that the species is an early 224

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summer breeding visitor or more likely a sedentary species (Ramadan-Jaradi et al 2019).

First recorded in 1877 (Tristram 1882).

TROGLODYTIDAE Eurasian Wren Troglodytes troglodytes R: Common breeding resident in most areas, from sealevel to c1900 m asl, and in Beqaa, chiefly at Aammiq hillsides and the Litani River areas.

Mainly recorded in thickets with highest densities in cedar and fir forest, but generally absent from dry degraded garrigue. First recorded by Van Dyck in 1873-1878 (Kumerloeve 1960a, 1962). First breeding apparently noted by West (1954).

SITTIDAE Eurasian Nuthatch Sitta europaea ?v, ?r: Tristram (1885) reported it to be resident throughout Lebanon, but there appear to have been no further records (Kumerloeve 1962, RamadanJaradi & Ramadan-Jaradi 1999), although it was listed as a vagrant by Benson (1970).

Recently individuals are believed seen and photographed in Ain Dara and Kfarhebbo but not documented yet. Given that there is only one very early record and because of the possible confusion with Western Rock Nuthatch S. neumayer, the LBRC must examine the status of this species.

Western Rock Nuthatch Sitta neumayer R: Common and widespread breeding resident (breeds mid-Mar to late Jul) in montane areas with sparse tree cover or groves. Common in rocky dells of cedar and oak forests. Mainly recorded at 850–2000 m asl. In winter, descends to lower areas. First recorded by Hemprich & Ehrenberg (1835). First breeding noted by Aharoni (1931).

TICHODROMIDAE Wallcreeper Tichodroma muraria wv, ?r: Regarded as probably a scarce breeding resident

by Kumerloeve (1962) and Benson (1970), but no evidence. Extremely rare but regular at Richmaya and Aammiq el Shouf in Nov–Jan. Sighted at Aammiq el Shouf, Akkar, Assi River hills, Broummana, Qobayyat, Litani Valley, Mount Lebanon, Nahr El Kalb Valley, Niha, Ras Chekka, Richmaya, Tannourine and Zahleh. First recorded by Tristram (1864).

STURNIDAE Common Myna Acridotheres tristis R: Believed to have originated from escapes (Bara 2002).

In 2008 this species was a localised resident nesting in tree cavities and behind outer airconditioning units on buildings with five colonies presumably originated from escapes: one colony established in 1999 at the Pine Forest of Beirut (Bara 2002); one in 2003 at the AUB campus; one in 2006 at the Beirut Central District; one near Beirut Museum and one at Tripoli in 2007 (Ramadan-Jaradi et al 2008). Since 2008 the species has since become established and is now seen along the coast at least as far south as Al Mansouri, at least as far north as Jbeil and inland, with individuals having been killed by hunters at Bchamoun, Maqneh and Ras Baalbek.

Rosy Starling Pastor roseus ?FB, pm, ?sb: Considered a very erratic late spring and summer vagrant, occasionally remaining until autumn (Benson 1970), which may have bred in 1945 (Hardy 1946, Kumerloeve 1962). Only six subsequent dated records in May and one in Oct were mentioned in Ramadan-Jaradi et al (2008). More recently, in 2015, FI recorded illegally killed birds; in Apr at Aammiq, Hosh El Harim and Anjar; in Jul at Qobb Elias; and in Jul and Sep at Kherbet Qanafar. These records suggest the species is an irregular scarce passage migrant or possibly breeding rather than a vagrant. First recorded by Schradder (1892).

Common Starling Sturnus vulgaris PM, WV: Common autumn migrant early Oct to late Nov and scarce in Mar. Abundant in winter Dec to mid-May in most cultivated and open areas of Beqaa Valley, less regular elsewhere, including Beirut. First recorded by Van Dyck in 1873-1878 (Kumerloeve 1960a, 1962).

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TURDIDAE Ring Ouzel Turdus torquatus pm, wv: Scarce on passage early Nov to early Dec and a scarce winter visitor Dec to late Feb. Only one record from spring passage, one in an olive grove at Dalhoun 21 Apr 2004 (GR-J). Reported from Aichyeh, Ainata North, Bcharre, Dalhoun, Damour, Deir el Qamar, Hermel, Jabal El Cheikh (Hermon), Rachaya, Rihane, Wadi el Jowz. If Bessonornis albigularis is synonymous with T. torquatus then first recorded by Tristram (1864). Otherwise recorded by Hardy (1945), erroneously as nesting (Kumerloeve (1962).

Common Blackbird Turdus merula R, pm, wv: Common breeding resident in a wide variety of habitats. Scarce to uncommon passage migrant and winter visitor from mid-Oct to mid-Mar in most areas, including Palm Islands. First recorded in 1824 (Hemprich & Ehrenberg 1833).

First breeding apparently noted by Schrader (1892).

Eyebrowed Thrush Turdus obscurus v: One record: one shot 23 Nov 2017 at Bchaaleh (Batroun District) in North Lebanon (Ramadan-Jaradi & Itani 2018).

Black-throated Thrush Turdus atrogularis v, ?wv: One male in winter plumage at Kfarhouneh 24 Nov 2002 (GR-J). One at Aammiq 11 Feb 2000 (Beale & Sprenger 2001) recorded under the parent taxon seems, most probably, to be of this species. Recently, three more records: one shot in Marjhine 12 Nov 2016, another one shot in Akkar 14 Dec 2016, and one shot at Baysour (Mount Lebanon) 9 Jan 2020 (FI). These records suggest the species is a possible winter visitor in small numbers.

Fieldfare Turdus pilaris pm, wv: Uncommon passage migrant and winter visitor from early Nov to early Mar in most montane areas; chiefly in orchards, cultivated areas, river valleys, open areas with trees and mixed woodland. First recorded by Van Dyck in 1873-1878 (Kumerloeve 1960a, 1962).

Redwing Turdus iliacus (NT) pm, WV: Scarce passage migrant in mid-Feb to late Mar and early Nov to mid-Dec and commoner in winter early Dec to early Feb. Most frequently in montane orchards, olive groves, open cedar groves, open mixed woodland, open country and cultivation. Rare on coast and in Beqaa, including Aammiq. First recorded by Schrader (1892).

Song Thrush Turdus philomelos PM, wv: Very common passage migrant in early Oct to late Nov and mid-Feb to early May and an uncommon winter visitor late Nov to late Feb. Recorded in orchards, olive groves, open cedar groves, cultivation, maquis, isolated trees and around Aammiq. Rare on the coast and islands, mainly in Mount Lebanon, Beqaa Valley and Anti-Lebanon. First recorded by Van Dyck in 1873-1878 (Kumerloeve 1960a, 1962).

Mistle Thrush Turdus viscivorus sb, pm, WV: Scarce and local migrant breeder to remote areas of the north, mainly in woodlands at Qammouha, Fneideq and Karm el Mohr, near Ehden. Uncommon to scarce on passage and common in winter from late Oct to late Mar in open montane woodland and river valleys. Uncommon winterer in the Beqaa, including Aammiq (Ramadan-Jaradi et al 2008). First recorded 1872 by Van Dyck (Kumerloeve 1962).

First breeding noted at Ainata North by Meinertzhagen (1935).

MUSCICAPIDAE Rufous-tailed Scrub Robin Cercotrichas galactotes sb, pm: Uncommon migrant breeder to many areas from late Apr to mid-Jul, from coast to Anti-Lebanon and Beqaa. Mainly recorded in field edges, orchards, olive groves, maquis, garrigue, and oak forest edge.

Reaches c1450 m asl at Horsh Ehden. Uncommon on passage across the country early Apr to mid-May and less frequent early Aug to late Sep. First recorded and first noted breeding

by Tristram (1864).

Spotted Flycatcher Muscicapa striata SB, PM: Relatively common and widespread migrant breeder (Ramadan-Jaradi & Ramadan-Jaradi 1997) in various habitats, eg light undergrowth in pine forests, orchards, light mixed woodland and cultivated areas with trees. Common 226

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on passage late Mar to mid-May and less frequent late Aug to late Nov. First recorded in 1824 (Hemprich & Ehrenberg 1833). First breeding confirmed at Nahr El Joz in 1972 by Tohmé & Neuschwander (1974).

European Robin Erithacus rubecula ?sb, pm, WV: Scarce passage migrant early Mar to early Apr and rare early Oct to late Nov, and a relatively common winter visitor late Oct to late Feb. Two late records: one 12 May 2017 at Jabal Moussa (JH); one 9 Jun 2018 at Ain Zhalta (Alessio Martinoli pers comm). Recorded from sea-level to 1550 m asl at Dahr El Baidar and 1850 m asl at Qammouha in a varety of habitats. First recorded by Tristram (1864).

Bluethroat Luscinia svecica PM, WV: Common passage migrant across the country early Mar to mid-Apr and even more frequent mid-Sep to late Nov; also, a local and generally common winter visitor (Dec tolate Feb) to Aammiq Swamp and other suitable areas of Beqaa. First recorded in 1904 (Carruthers 1910).

Thrush Nightingale Luscinia luscinia pm: Scarce spring migrant mid-Apr to mid-May and rare in autumn early Sep to mid-Oct across the country, chiefly on coasts and in Beqaa.

Regular in undergrowth bordering drainage canals at Aammiq. Seen at Aammiq, Ainata North, Arz el Shouf, Azour, Balamand, Beirut, Bejjeh, Bzizia, Dalhoun, Deir Mimas, Hadath, Jabal Rihane, Jaj, Kfarselwan, Messaloun, Palm Islands, Rachaya, Tal Al Akhdar, Yanta and Zaarour. First recorded by Meinertzhagen (1935).

Common Nightingale Luscinia megarhynchos sb, pm: First breeding confirmed at Dalhoun in 1996 (Ramadan-Jaradi & Ramadan-Jaradi 1997, 1999). Uncommon migrant breeder from early Apr to early Jul at low elevations, especially in maquis, garrigue and degraded garrigue. On passage, uncommon in spring (early Mar to mid-May) and very scarce in autumn (early Sep to late Oct) over much of the country. First recorded by Van Dyck in 1873-1878 (Kumerloeve 1960a, 1962) White-throated Robin Irania gutturalis sb, pm: Breeding confirmed at Qammouha in 2003 (Ramadan-Jaradi et al 2004), at Jabal Barouk in 2006 (Ramadan-Jaradi et al 2008) and at Tannourine in 2005 to 2007 (Colin Conroy pers comm). A rare passage migrant, recorded on five occasions in Aug-Oct and Apr (Ramadan-Jaradi & Ramadan-Jaradi 1999). Seen at Aammiq, Anti-Lebanon, Arz el Shouf, Baadaran, Ras Chekka, Chwayya, Dalhoun, Hadath Baalbek, Jabal Barouk, Maaser Al Shouf, Oyoun al Seeman, Qammouha, Saida, Sannine, Tannourine and Tyre. First recorded by Tristram (1864). First breeding noted at Mount Lebanon in 1893 (Festa 1894).

Red-flanked Bluetail Tarsiger cyanurus v: One record: a male collected at El Hajje near Saida 15 Oct 1958 (Kumerloeve 1962, Ramadan-Jaradi & Ramadan-Jaradi 1999).

European Pied Flycatcher Ficedula hypoleuca PM: Relatively common on passage mid-Mar to late May (mainly Apr) and uncommon late Aug to late Oct (mainly Sep to early Oct).

Occurs in a wide variety of habitats, from sea-level to cedar forest, and in Beqaa, but prefers gardens and orchards. First recorded by Meinertzhagen (1935).

Collared Flycatcher Ficedula albicollis PM: Relatively common on spring passage late Mar to late May (mainly Apr) and much less frequent in late Aug to early Nov (mainly Sep).

Recorded in most areas with trees, particularly gardens and orchards, from sea-level to high altitude, and in Beqaa, including Aammiq. First recorded in 1881 by Tristram (Kumerloeve 1962).

Semi-collared Flycatcher Ficedula semitorquata pm: Considered a vagrant when first recorded in Apr 1997 (Ramadan-Jaradi & Ramadan-Jaradi 1999). The subsequent 13 records (Busuttil & Flumm 1998b, Bara in Ramadan-Jaradi & Ramadan-Jaradi 1999, Ramadan-Jaradi 2003, GR-J, TB), especially between mid-Mar and early Apr (with an obvious influx midApr 1997) and to a lesser extent between early Sep and mid-Oct at Aammiq, Aana, Beirut, Ehden, Kfarhouneh and Mlikh, indicate that it is a rare passage migrant rather than a vagrant.

Red-breasted Flycatcher Ficedula parva pm: Extremely rare but regular passage migrant Apr– May and Oct–Nov, in orchards and gardens, mainly in the coastal strip (Ramadan-Jaradi

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& Ramadan-Jaradi 1999). Seen at Aammiq, Aley, Aramta, Baabda, Beirut, Dahr el Ahmar, Khiara and Tannourine. Most recently at Aammiq 28 Sep 2016 (Bassel Abi Jummaa, pers comm). First recorded by Tristram (1884).

Western Black Redstart Phoenicurus (ochuros) ochruros R, sb (semirufa), PM, wv (gibraltariensis): Common breeding resident in highlands (mainly 800–2000 m asl asl) on rocky slopes with sparse bushes and scattered trees or on forest edges, particularly cedar.

At lower altitudes in winter (early Nov to mid-Mar), mostly at 300–1450 m asl. Common and widespread on migration late Feb to late Apr and mid-Oct to early Dec (Ramadan-Jaradi et al 2008). First recorded and noted breeding above Mayrouba by Tristram (1864).

Common Redstart Phoenicurus phoenicurus sb, PM: Scarce migrant breeder late Mar to early Jul in open woodland and orchards, mainly on terraced slopes of the Lebanon and Anti-Lebanon ranges. Fairly common on passage across the country, from sea-level to c1850 m asl, early Mar to late May and late Aug to late Nov. First recorded in 1877 by Van Dyck (Kumerloeve 1962). First confirmed breeding by Tohmé & Neuschwander (1974).

Common Rock Thrush Monticola saxatilis SB, pm: Common migrant breeder from mid-Apr to mid-Jul in mountainous rocky areas with sparse vegetation. Uncommon on passage late Mar to early May and early Sep to early Oct over much of the country. First recorded by Hemprich & Ehrenberg (1833). First breeding noted by Tristram (1864).

‘Western’ Blue Rock Thrush Monticola (solitarius) solitarius R, pm, wv: Widespread breeding resident in small numbers, chiefly in mountainous and rocky areas with sparse vegetation. Uncommon on passage and in winter mid-Sep to late Apr in a variety of habitats (Ramadan-Jaradi & Ramadan-Jaradi 1999). First recorded in 1824 by Hemprich & Ehrenberg (1833). First breeding noted near cedars by Bourne (1958).

Whinchat Saxicola rubetra PM: Relatively common on passage in late Mar to late May and very common early Sep to late Oct, chiefly in open montane habitats and cultivated areas of Beqaa. First recorded by Tristram (1865-68).

European Stonechat Saxicola rubicola PM, WV: Common passage migrant and winter visitor from mid-Sep to late Apr in open montane habitats and the Aammiq area. First recorded

by Schrader (1892).

Northern Wheatear Oenanthe oenanthe SB, PM, wv: Very common migrant breeder, mainly at 1500–2500 m asl, with highest densities above the tree-line, in habitat shared with Caucasian Horned Lark Eremophila (alpestris) penicillata and Rock Sparrow Petronia petronia.

Common and widespread almost everywhere on autumn passage early Aug to late Nov and uncommon in late Feb to mid-May. Relatively scarce in winter from Dec to late Feb, from sea-level to highlands of the Lebanon and Anti-Lebanon ranges (including Beqaa). First recorded in 1824 (Hemprich & Ehrenberg 1833) and first confirmed breeding by Tristram (1864).

Isabelline Wheatear Oenanthe isabellina SB, PM, wv: Breeding reconfirmed (Ramadan-Jaradi & Ramadan-Jaradi 1997). Fairly common migrant breeder around the cedars of Bsharri (at c1850 m asl), and very common in the semi-desert of northern Beqaa (Qaa, Fakiha, hills near the Assi River) where breeding density is c25–30 pairs/km2 and 5–10 pairs/km2 in the AntiLebanon range (up to 1450 m asl). It also breeds at Aammiq (Beale & Sprenger 2001). Fairly common on passage across most of the country, from sea-level to 1900 m asl and the Beqaa, mid-Feb to early May and early Aug to late Nov. Three records in Dec suggest it is also a very rare winterer (Ramadan-Jaradi 2003). First recorded in 1824 (Hemprich & Ehrenberg 1833). First breeding noted in low montane areas by Kumerloeve (1962).

Desert Wheatear Oenanthe deserti pm: Scarce and irregular on passage mid-Sep to early Nov and rare mid-Mar to mid-Apr. Most frequently recorded at Hermel, Fakiha, Qaa, in north Beqaa and the foothills of the northern and central Anti-Lebanon. Only four records from Aammiq (Macfarlane 1978, Beale & Sprenger 2001) and one record from Beirut (Macfarlane 1978). One from Aramta 27 Oct 2002 (Ramadan-Jaradi et al 2008). Recent records: one bird at Bcharre 27 Aug 2010 (Anssi Kullberg pers comm); one at Turbol 14 Oct 2015 (FI and GR-J); one at Bmohray 5 Oct 2016 (Bassel Abi Jummaa pers comm); one at Mansouri Beach 16 Oct 228

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2016 (Rami Khashab pers comm); and one at Bcharre 31 Aug 2017 (FI). First recorded in 1958 (Flach 1959).

Eastern Black-eared Wheatear Oenanthe melanoleuca SB, PM: Very common migrant breeder early Apr to mid-Jul in rocky and hilly areas of the Lebanon and Anti-Lebanon ranges, mainly at 1000–1900 m asl. Very common on passage early Aug to mid-Oct and early Mar to early May, from sea-level to c2000 m asl. First recorded by Hemprich & Ehrenberg (1833). First noted breeding around Beirut by Schrader (1892).

Cyprus Wheatear Oenanthe cypriaca v, ?pm: Four records, all single males: Hadath near Beirut 3 Oct 1995; Dalhoun 28 Oct 1996; Palm Islands 14 Mar 1997 (Ramadan-Jaradi & Ramadan-Jaradi 1999); and near Rachaya 8 and 9 Apr 2005 (Colin Conroy pers comm).

Pied Wheatear Oenanthe pleschanka FB, pm: Perhaps formerly bred near Beirut (Tristram 1864) but proof lacking (Kumerloeve 1967-69). Recent observations show it to be uncommon on passage late Mar to early May and mid-Aug to late Oct, usually below 1500 m asl and most frequently at Ainata and Arz el Shouf Biosphere Reserve. First recorded by Tristram (1864).

Blyth’s Wheatear Oenanthe picata v: One record: a male between Hermel and Qaa, 2 Dec 2000 (Marc Almecija & Nidal Issa pers comm). Given the normal winter range of this species in SW Asia, mainly between S Iran and N India, the record is a prime candidate for the LBRC. White-crowned Wheatear Oenanthe (leucopyga) leucopyga v: One photographed 14 Sep 2015 at Roumieh Village by Maher Rouhana. The bird was later shot by a hunter, but was recovered for inspection and identification (Ramadan-Jaradi & Itani 2016).

Finsch’s Wheatear Oenanthe finschii sb, pm, wv: Scarce and probably irregular migrant breeder from late Apr to late Jul on rocky mountain slopes and degraded slopes above Aammiq, Arz el Shouf and probably elsewhere. Uncommon on passage and in winter from early Oct to late Mar across much of the country when relatively more frequent in Beqaa.

Seen at Ain Zhalta, Barouk, Beirut, Beqaa Valley, Bmohray, Chtaura, Dahr el Baidar, Faraya, Jabal Rihane, Hasbani, Hermel, Jabal El Cheikh (Hermon), Kneisseh, Machghara, Qaa, Qaraoun and Rachaya. First recorded by Carruthers in 1904 (1910). First breeding confirmed near Faraya by Tohmé & Neuschwander (1974). Given the difficulty in separating this species from other wheatears, the LBRC will doubtless wish to validate breeding records.

Western Mourning Wheatear Oenanthe lugens r: Reportedly bred in southern Lebanon (Benson 1970), and Aharoni (1926, 1931) stated that it bred commonly in Lebanon and AntiLebanon but no additional data (Kumerloeve 1962). Up to the 2008 Checklist seven breeding records at Niha, Qaa, Ras Baalbek, Kfarhouneh, and Jabal Haouerta. Recent records include: 15 individuals at Ras Baalbek/Qaa 24 Mar 2008 (Richard Prior pers comm); 20 at Ras Baalbek 30 Jul 2008 (Helen Demopoulos pers comm); and 20 at Fakiha, Ras Baalbek, Hermel and Assi 5 Apr 2015 (FI). First recorded by Tristram (1865-68). First breeding noted by Aharoni (1931).

First breeding reconfirmed in 2001 (Bara 2002).

CINCLIDAE White-throated Dipper Cinclus cinclus R: Locally common breeding resident on streams and rivers of the western slopes (600–1800 m asl). The subspecies occurring in Lebanon, rufiventris, is endemic to the country. Reported from Afqa, Ain el Fijeh, Bcharre, Ehden, Litani River, Nahr El Kalb, Nahr Ibrahim, Riachi River and Zahleh (Ramadan-Jaradi et al 2008). Recent sightings include: two shot at Faraya 21 Nov 2015 (FI); then recorded at a waterfall above Hammana by several observers in spring 2018, including a young bird 10 May 2018 (JH). First recorded in 1824 (Hemprich & Ehrenberg 1833). First breeding apparently noted by Kumerloeve (1962).

NECTARINIIDAE Palestine Sunbird Cinnyris osea R, wv: This species (Plate 10) is a common breeding resident (breeds late Feb to mid-Aug) in southern Lebanon, mainly around Tyre. One nesting record Sandgrouse 42 (2020)

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in Beirut, in May 1947 or 1948 (Kumerloeve 1962). Attempted to breed at Aramoun in late Apr 1974 (Tohmé in Ramadan-Jaradi & Ramadan-Jaradi 1999). Bred at Doha, near Aramoun, Apr 2002 and at Beirut in May 2003 (Ramadan-Jaradi et al 2004, 2008). More recently, bred at Aramoun, AUB Campus in Beirut, Antelias, Adma and Jbeil.

Scarce winter visitor in early Nov to late Jan between Naqoura and Adma. Sighted without evidence of breeding at Alma, Amchit, Aramoun, Beaufort Castle, Beirut, Bisri, Chekka, Dalhoun, Dbayyeh, Doha, Helweh, Jounieh, Naqoura, Qassimyeh, Saida, and Zahrani. First recorded by Van Dyck in 1873-1878 (Kumerloeve 1960a, 1962).

First breeding noted at Beirut in 1947 or 1948 by Glockler (Kumerloeve (1960b).

PASSERIDAE House Sparrow Passer domesticus R: Very common and widespread breeding resident (almost all year round) around habitation and at rubbish dumps in more remote areas.

Spanish Sparrow Passer hispaniolensis sb, pm, wv: Fairly common migrant breeder Plate 10. Palestine Sunbird is expanding its breeding from early Apr to mid-Jul. Colonies located: range north in Lebanon. © Fouad Itani five nests in two Robinia sp trees at Bcharre 4 Jun 1996 (c1850 m asl); four nests in a Pistacea sp tree at Mreyjat 17 May 1997 (c1000 m asl) (Ramadan-Jaradi & Ramadan-Jaradi 1999); and a mixed P. hispaniolensis/P. domesticus colony at Ain Dara (Thierry Bara in Ramadan-Jaradi et al 2008). Also, the species nests at Aammiq (Macfarlane 1978, Beale & Sprenger 2001, GR-J unpubl data), Kefraya and Joub Jannine, with over a hundred pairs at the latter location in 2005 (Richard Prior pers comm). Scarce on passage in small flocks from mid-Feb to midMay and mid-Aug to late Nov. Probably more common than records suggest. Occasional winter visitor to Aammiq area and elsewhere: 20 at Aammiq 15 Dec 1998; 10 at Dbayeh 6 Dec 1999 (Thierry Bara in Ramadan-Jaradi et al 2008); 25 at Aammiq 18 Jan and 75 there 18 Feb 2005 (Richard Prior pers comm). First recorded by Van Dyck in 1873-1878 (Kumerloeve 1960a, 1962) and first breeding noted by Kumerloeve (1962).

Eurasian Tree Sparrow Passer montanus v: Vagrant to Lebanon (Shirihai 1996), status probably based on an uncertain record by Nevins (1960), who may have seen it in the Litani River Valley on 19 Mar 1955 (Ramadan-Jaradi et al 2008). On 3 Nov 2018, one was shot in an open semi-desert at Qaa Valley was reported to FI & GR-J by Chouman Monzer. This is the second record for Lebanon and the first for over 65 years (Ramadan-Jaradi et al 2019).

Pale Rock Finch Carpospiza brachydactyla SB, pm: Scarce migrant breeder from mid-May to mid-Jul in the southern Anti-Lebanon, and scarce on passage in Mar–Apr and mid-Aug to mid-Sep in montane rocky areas with sparse vegetation (Ramadan-Jaradi & RamadanJaradi 1999). More recent records show it to be locally abundant in Lebanon and that a large-scale influx of this species occurred and hundreds of pairs are estimated to have bred on both the eastern slopes of Mount Lebanon and the western slopes of the Anti-Lebanon (Ramadan-Jaradi et al 2004, 2008). First recorded by Hemprich in 1824 (Kumerloeve 1962).

First breeding confirmed by Aharoni (1931) in Anti-Lebanon during 1914-18.

Rock Sparrow Petronia petronia R: Breeding reconfirmed (Ramadan-Jaradi & RamadanJaradi 1997). Very common breeding resident (breeds early Apr to early Aug) in high 230

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montane areas of the Lebanon and Anti-Lebanon ranges (1300–2200 m asl), chiefly around cedar groves and in rocky areas above the tree-line. Undertakes altitudinal movements to lower elevations in winter. First recorded and first breeding confirmed by Tristram in 1867 (1865-68).

Yellow-throated Sparrow Gymnoris xanthocollis v: Two older records: a male trapped and photographed at Mreyjat above Beqaa 15 May 1997 (Ramadan-Jaradi & Ramadan-Jaradi 1999); one seen on a tree in Chtaura town 29 Apr 2006 (Ramadan-Jaradi et al 2008). More recently three shot by a hunter 17 May 2015 at Jabal El Cheikh (Hermon) hillsides, and one shot by a hunter 16 May 2020 at Arida in North Lebanon (FI).

White-winged Snowfinch Montifringilla nivalis ?: [Tristram (1864) considered it sedentary on the summits of Jabal El Cheikh (Hermon) and Lebanon mountains, but neither Kumeroloeve (1962) nor Shirihai (1996) could find proof of the species in Palestine or Lebanon (Ramadan-Jaradi et al 2008). In 1999, Shirihai et al did not record the species in Israel or Jordan (GR-J).]

ESTRILDIDAE Indian Silverbill Euodice malabarica ?escapes: One record: two were observed at El Mina, Tripoli, 9 Feb 2000, and were presumably to be escapes (Marc Almecija in Ramadan-Jaradi et al 2008).

PRUNELLIDAE Alpine Accentor Prunella collaris pm: Six records: singles at Faraya 17 Nov 1995 and Laqlouq 6 Mar 1996 (Ramadan-Jaradi & Ramadan-Jaradi 1999); three at Faqra 25 Jan 1997 (Walley in Ramadan-Jaradi & Ramadan-Jaradi 1999); three at Tannourine 24 Nov 2001 (Marc Almecija pers comm); one above Kefraya South 29 Nov 2003 (GR-J), and another at Laqlouq the same date (Marc Almecija pers comm). These records indicate that the Alpine Accentor is a rare passage migrant rather than a true vagrant (Ramadan-Jaradi et al 2008). First recorded and considered vagrant in 1995 (Ramadan-Jaradi & Ramadan-Jaradi 1999).

Siberian Accentor Prunella montanella v: One record: one taken by a bird-catcher near Khaldeh 18 Nov 1958 (Flach 1959).

Radde’s Accentor Prunella ocularis v: One record: one 16 Aug 2002, between Bcharre and Oyoun Orgouch, Mount Lebanon at c2500 m asl (Bara 2003).

Dunnock Prunella modularis PM, WV: Relatively common passage migrant late Oct to early Dec and uncommon late Feb to late Mar. Fairly common in winter (Nov–Feb) on low bushy slopes. Seen at Aammiq hillsides, Balamand, Feghal, Jabal Rihane, Arz el Shouf area and Zgharta. First recorded by Tristram (1864) as a scarce resident.

MOTACILLIDAE ‘Blue-headed Wagtail’ Motacilla (flava) flava PM: Common and abundant on passage early Mar to late May (peaks Apr) and Aug to early Nov (peaks mid-Aug to mid-Sep) across the country. First recorded in 1876 by Van Dyck (Kumerloeve 1962).

‘Ashy-headed Wagtail’ Motacilla (flava) cinereocapilla v: One male at Ras Beirut 8 Apr 1975 thought to be this taxon (Macfarlane 1978). Two at Hosh al Harime 7 Apr 2016 (FI).

‘Sykes’s Wagtail’ Motacilla (flava) beema PM: Fairly common passage migrant Mar to midMay and Sep-Oct. Perhaps may be commoner if searched for. Reported from many of the same localities as the ‘Blue-headed Wagtail’ M. f. flava (Ramadan-Jaradi et al 2008).

‘Grey-headed Wagtail’ Motacilla (flava) thunbergi PM: Common passage migrant in most wetlands Mar-May and early Sep to mid-Oct. First noted by Carruthers (1910).

‘Black-headed Wagtail’ Motacilla (flava) feldegg SB, PM: Relatively common migrant breeder (Ramadan-Jaradi & Ramadan-Jaradi 1997) early Apr to early Jul near water, chiefly at Bsharri streams, Aammiq and the Litani River (Ramadan-Jaradi & Ramadan-Jaradi 1999).

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Common on passage in early Mar to early Jun and late Aug to early Nov across the country, with particularly large concentrations at Aammiq mid-Mar to mid-Apr and mid-Sep (Ramadan-Jaradi et al 2008). First recorded by Van Dyck (Kumerloeve 1962). First breeding confirmed at Aammiq in 1974 (Macfarlane 1978).

‘Yellow-headed Wagtail’ Motacilla (flava/tschutschensis) lutea v: One record: one at Tyre Coast 4 Apr 2002 (GR-J in Ramadan-Jaradi et al 2008).

Citrine Wagtail Motacilla citreola pm: Previously four records at Cheikh Zennad and Aammiq (Ramadan-Jaradi & Ramadan-Jaradi 1999). Six records detailed in the 2008 list: one at Palm Islands on 5 Apr 1998 (Ramadan-Jaradi & Ramadan-Jaradi 2001); one at Aammiq 17 Aug 1999 (Beale 2001); [three there in Apr and singles 29 Aug and 15-16 Sep 2000 (Kirwan 2001)]; three at Cheikh Zennad on 22 Sep 2002 (Ramadan-Jaradi & Waterbury unpub).

Recent records: one at Aammiq 3 Sep 2010 (Anssi Kullberg pers comm); one Kfar Zabad 4 Oct 2010 (Rasmus Bogeskovlarsen pers comm); and two at Oyun el Samak 20 Aug 2016 (FI). The records above indicate that the species is a scarce passage migrant rather than a vagrant. First recorded in 1996 at Cheikh Zennad by Bara (1998).

Grey Wagtail Motacilla cinerea sb, pm, wv: Scarce migrant breeder mid-May to late Jun at Joueet spring near Ehden (Ramadan-Jaradi & Ramadan-Jaradi 1997). Uncommon passage migrant and scarce winter visitor in early-Aug to late Apr. Most often encountered near freshwater, eg streams, pools and marshes, in montane areas and the Beqaa Valley.

Apparently more numerous in autumn than on spring passage (Ramadan-Jaradi et al 2008).

First recorded by Hemprich & Ehrenberg (1833). First breeding noted at Afqa in 1949 (West 1954) and reconfirmed at Joueet in 1996 (Ramadan-Jaradi & Ramadan-Jaradi 1997, 1999).

White Wagtail Motacilla (alba) alba sb, PM, WV: Relatively scarce migrant breeder to inland waters of the Lebanon range, Palm Islands and Beqaa Valley. More common on passage and in winter (late Aug to late May) in most areas, mainly at Aammiq, coasts and Palm Islands. First recorded in 1824 (Hemprich & Ehrenberg 1833). First breeding confirmed at Palm Islands (Stenhouse 1904).

Richard’s Pipit Anthus richardi v: One record: one near Bcharre 12 Nov 1958 (Flach 1959).

Tawny Pipit Anthus campestris sb, PM, wv: Uncommon migrant breeder (early Apr to midAug) usually in sparse, low grassy vegetation, from foothills to c1800 m asl, and on Palm Islands. Common on passage mid-Feb to mid-May and mid-Aug to mid-Nov (mainly Sep) over much of the country. A few irregularly overwinter (late Nov to late Feb) on Palm Islands. First recorded by Van Dyck in 1873-1878 (Kumerloeve 1960a, 1962). First breeding confirmed by Meinertzhagen (1935).

Long-billed Pipit Anthus similis r: Uncommon breeding resident in open areas with low vegetation, from foothills to c1650 m asl, with most at Faqra, Ain Zhalta, Barouk and Baadaran. Recorded on Palm Islands in winter. Elsewhere; Faraya, Jabal Rihane, Laqlouq, Maasser el Shouf and Ras Baalbek. First recorded and first breeding noted in Anti-Lebanon

by Aharoni (1931).

Meadow Pipit Anthus pratensis (NT) WV, PM: Common winter visitor and fairly common passage migrant over most of the country. Regularly recorded in small numbers mid-Sep to mid-Apr, mostly in coastal areas and the Beqaa. First recorded by Van Dyck in 1873-1878 (Kumerloeve 1960a, 1962).

Tree Pipit Anthus trivialis PM, ?wv: Common passage migrant Mar to early May (mainly Apr) and late Aug to late Nov (mainly Sep-Oct), with apparently fewer in spring. Very few records early Dec and late Feb may indicate passage migrants rather than winter visitors.

Occurs from coasts to high areas, mainly in cultivation and the Beqaa. First recorded by Van Dyck in 1873-1878 (Kumerloeve 1960a, 1962).

Red-throated Pipit Anthus cervinus PM, ?wv: Abundant passage migrant from sea-level to c1800 m asl, mainly in damp or cultivated areas. Apparently more common in spring (early Mar to mid-May) than in autumn (Sep to mid-Nov). Most recorded near coast and Beqaa Valley, particularly at Aammiq. Beale & Sprenger (2001) noted that a few records of the

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species at Aammiq are from mid-winter (Ramadan-Jaradi et al 2008). First recorded in 1904 (Carruthers 1910).

Siberian Buff-bellied Pipit Anthus (rubescens) japonicus [v]: [One report of apparently two at Cheikh Zennad 10 Mar 2006 was in Balmer & Betton (2007a).] Another candidate for the LRBC. European Water Pipit Anthus (spinoletta) spinoletta PM, wv: Widespread passage migrant in mid-Feb to early May and mid-Sep to late Nov through most areas. Scarce and local in winter at wetlands, mainly along the coast (Ramadan-Jaradi et al 2008). First recorded by Flach (1959).

FRINGILLIDAE Common Chaffinch Fringilla coelebs R, PM, WV: Very common breeding resident (breeds mid-Mar to late Jul) in most habitats at mid to high altitude, with highest densities in cedar groves, fir and pine forests, river valleys and orchards. Very common on passage and in winter early Oct to late Apr. First recorded and first breeding confirmed, in cedar groves,

by Tristram (1864).

Brambling Fringilla montifringilla pm, wv: Uncommon but regular passage migrant and winter visitor in early Oct to late Apr in cedar, pine and fir forests, and orchards (RamadanJaradi & Ramadan-Jaradi 1999). Flocks of up to 100 may occur locally (Colin Conroy in Ramadan-Jaradi et al 2008). First recorded in 1904 by Van Dyck (Kumerloeve 1962).

Hawfinch Coccothraustes coccothraustes pm, wv: Very rare on passage early Mar to early Apr and mid-Oct to Nov. Scarce in winter from early Dec to mid-Feb. Recorded from sealevel to 1750 m asl (near Qammouha), mainly in open groves interspersed with orchards or cultivation. Seen at Aammiq, Akkar, Al Ain, Barouk, Beirut, Bziza, Deir el Ahmar, Hardine, Hazmiyeh, Hermel (Wadi El Jawz), Kamed el Lowz, Kfarhouneh, Khaldeh, Labwe, Ras Baalbek, Ras El Metn, Saghbine, Shafka, Tanayel, Yammouneh and Zgharta. First Lebanese records are four specimens collected near Beirut: one by Van Dyck in 1876 or 1877 and three

by Carruthers in Nov 1904 (Kumerloeve 1962).

Eurasian Bullfinch Pyrrhula (pyrrhula) pyrrhula v: Four records: 29 Nov 2014 a female was shot in Douar above Bikfayya, then a male was shot 15 Jan 2015 in Ehden. These were the first two records for Lebanon (Ramadan-Jaradi et al 2015). On 9 Nov 2016 a male was shot in Aley at 850 m asl. On 20 Nov 2016 a male was shot at 780 m asl in Hermel, north Lebanon, These are the third and fourth records for Lebanon (FI).

Asian Crimson-winged Finch Rhodopechys sanguineus r: Uncommon breeding resident (breeds mid-May to mid-Jul) on rocky or stony slopes with sparse scrub at 1350–2500 m asl.

Post-breeding and in winter, regularly occurs at edge of cedar and fir forests (RamadanJaradi et al 2008). First recorded and first breeding confirmed by Tristram (1864).

Trumpeter Finch Bucanetes githagineus r: Very scarce to rare local breeding resident in the Anti-Lebanon, particulary Bekka, near Deir el Achayer, Aiha, Arsal, Akkar, Maqneh, Ras Baalbek, Qaa and Shmis el Maaiysra near Arsal, where post-breeding flocks occur mid-Aug to early Sep. First recorded in 1878 by Van Dyck (Kumerloeve 1962). First breeding noted in Anti-Lebanon by Aharoni (1931).

Common Rosefinch Carpodacus erythrinus v: One record: one shot 7 May 2015 at Damour (Ramadan-Jaradi & Itani 2016).

European Greenfinch Chloris chloris R, WV, pm: Very common and widespread breeding resident (breeds mid-Mar–mid-Aug), usually from sea level to c1850 m asl, chiefly in cedar, pine and mixed groves, maquis, garrigues, orchards, cultivation and ravines with trees.

It also breeds in the AUB campus and in Horsh Beirut (GR-J). Scarce passage migrant late Feb to early May and mid-Sep to late Nov. In winter (early Nov to early Mar) the resident population is augmented by large numbers of migrants (Ramadan-Jaradi et al 2008). First recorded in 1824 by Hemprich & Ehrenberg (1833). First breeding noted by Kumerloeve (1962).

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Desert Finch Rhodospiza obsoletus wv, ?r: Scarce to rare winter visitor, almost exclusively in Beqaa (Ramadan-Jaradi & Ramadan-Jaradi 1999). A singing male was seen at Aana, in the West Beqaa, between 24 June and 11 Jul 2006 (Colin Conroy in Ramadan-Jaradi et al 2008). Recently: reports of individuals shot at Maqne, north of the Beqaa Valley, in Jun and Jul 2015 (FI); FI saw at least two Desert Finches 13 Jul 2017 and photographed one of them.

They were feeding on seeds along with House Sparrows at Tall Znoub (West Beqaa), 4 km to the south-east of Aana. Hunters shown the photo said that they usually hunt this species in summer in the Mansoura area, 4 km to the northeast of Tall Znoub. The summer records should stimulate birdwatchers in Lebanon to obtain evidence of breeding at least at Maqne and the Aana-Tall Znoub-Mansoura triangle. (Ramadan-Jaradi & Itani 2018). First recorded in 1926 (Aharoni 1931).

Common Linnet Linaria cannabina R, PM, WV: Common breeding resident (breeds midMar–mid-Aug) in mountains, mainly at 1500–2200 m asl. Inhabits open cedar forest and areas above the tree-line with low scrub. During post-breeding dispersal, birds flock at higher altitudes but in autumn and winter they descend to lower elevations. Considerable immigration early Oct to early Apr. First recorded in 1824 by Hemprich & Ehrenberg (1833).

First breeding noted by Aharoni (1931).

Red Crossbill Loxia curvirostra pm: This species was not reported from Lebanon (RamadanJaradi et al 2008) until a pair was shot on 12 Mar 2017 in Ftouh Kesrwan, an area above Nahr Ibrahim (Ramadan-Jaradi et al 2017). Then; one female shot in Akkar 16 Oct 2019 (Monzer Chouman pers comm); two shot in Ras Al Jabal at Aley 8 Nov 2019 (Mounir Abi Said pers comm); one female shot in Zaarour 12 Nov 2019; one female shot 23 Nov 2019 in Wata El Jawz and another in Ghbale at the same day (FI); and one male shot at Sannine 1 Dec 2019 (George Rizk pers comm). These records suggest irregular rare passage in spring and scarce passage in autumn mid-Oct to early December.

European Goldfinch Carduelis carduelis R, WV, pm: Very common breeding resident (breeds early Mar–mid-Aug) in a wide variety of habitats, preferably from mid-altitudes to c1850 m asl, frequently in conifers, orchards and cultivated areas. Scarce on passage late Feb to early Apr and late Sep to late Nov. Considerable winter immigration late Nov to mid-Feb (Ramadan-Jaradi & Ramadan-Jaradi 1999). First recorded and first breeding confirmed by Tristram in 1867 (1865-68).

Red-fronted Serin Serinus pusillus pm, wv: Scarce passage migrant mid-Feb to late Mar and late Oct to late Nov, overwintering early Dec to early Feb. On migration, mainly recorded in high rocky montane areas with scattered trees; in winter, mostly on hills above Beqaa. First recorded by Van Dyck in 1881/82 (Kumerloeve 1962).

European Serin Serinus serinus WV, sb, pm: Fairly common summer breeder, passage migrant and common winter visitor. First breeding record of the European Serin (Plate 11)

by GR-J at Anjar (Ramadan-Jaradi et al 2016). Uncommon passage migrant early Mar to late Apr and early Oct to late Nov. Common in winter from Dec to mid-Mar, usually in coastal orchards and gardens, low hills and cultivated areas of Beqaa. First recorded by Van Dyck in 1873-1878 (Kumerloeve 1960a, 1962).

Syrian Serin Serinus syriacus (VU) SB, pm, wv: Very common migrant breeder from late Apr to mid-Aug in rocky montane areas. Mainly recorded in open cedar, pine and fir forests.

During post-breeding dispersal, commonly found above the tree-line. Some migrants from outside Lebanon probably arrive early Oct to late Mar. First recorded and first breeding confirmed, in cedars, by Tristram (1864) and breeding reconfirmed after 22 years’ absence

by Ramadan-Jaradi & Ramadan-Jaradi (1997).

Eurasian Siskin Spinus spinus pm, WV, s: Scarce on passage early Feb to late Apr and late Oct to late Nov. Locally uncommon to common in winter (early Dec to mid-Feb) in conifers in the central Lebanon range, mainly at 250–600 m asl and in the Beqaa. Very few records of oversummering (Jun-Jul). First recorded by Van Dyck in 1873-1878 (Kumerloeve 1960a, 1962).

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Plate 11. European Serin is another of the eight species that has recently been promoted to the status of summer breeder in Lebanon. © Mohamed El Golli

EMBERIZIDAE Corn Bunting Emberiza calandra R, PM, WV: Common breeding resident (breeds mid-Mar to early Jul) in the Lebanon and Anti-Lebanon ranges, in grassy areas with few trees, and in Beqaa. Common on passage over much of the country late Feb to early Apr and early Oct to late Nov. Residents augmented by immigrants Dec to early Mar, particularly in cultivated and open areas of Beqaa and terraced hills or valleys. First recorded by Van Dyck in 18731878 (Kumerloeve 1960a, 1962). First breeding noted by Kumerloeve (1962).

Yellowhammer Emberiza citrinella wv: Scarce winter visitor mid-Oct to mid-Mar in open coniferous woodland and orchards, mainly at 500–1300 m asl and in Beqaa. Occasionally recorded on the coast. First recorded in 1955 by Nevins (1960).

Pine Bunting Emberiza leucocephalos wv: Listed as a vagrant in Lebanon (Shirihai 1996, Ramadan-Jaradi & Ramadan-Jaradi 1999). Recent records: at Aammiq one 8 Dec 1999 (Beale 2000), three 18 and 23 January, one 20 February; and at least three at Mount Sannine 4 Mar 2000 (Colin Beale in Ramadan-Jaradi et al 2008). Records suggest a it is a very rare winter visitor rather than a vagrant.

Rock Bunting Emberiza cia R: Common breeding resident (breeds late Apr to mid-Jul) in rocky montane areas with sparse low vegetation and scattered trees, mainly above 1000 m asl. Highest densities on edges of cedar groves. In winter, descends to lower altitudes. First recorded in 1924 by Hemprich & Ehrenberg (1833) and first breeding noted by Tristram (1864).

Cinereous Bunting Emberiza cineracea (NT) pm: Very scarce passage migrant mid-Mar to early May and even rarer in Sep. Most recorded at mid- and high altitudes, in low vegetation on rocky slopes or hills, particularly in the Anti-Lebanon range. Seen at Ain Ata, Ain el Tineh, Ain Zebdeh, Batroun, Bustan, Chambouq, Fakiha, Lala, Maad, Mazraat el FaQaa, Rachaya, Tannoura, Yammouneh, Yanta. First recorded by Flach (1959).

Ortolan Bunting Emberiza hortulana sb, PM: Scarce migrant breeder late Apr to mid-Jul in high rocky areas with scattered low vegetation, at 1500–2000 m asl but mainly above the Sandgrouse 42 (2020)

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tree-line. Common on passage in open habitats late Mar to mid-May (mainly Apr) and early Aug to late Oct (mainly Sep). First recorded by Van Dyck in 1873-1878 (Kumerloeve 1960a, 1962). First breeding mentioned by Meinertzhagen (1935).

Cretzschmar’s Bunting Emberiza caesia sb, PM: Uncommon migrant breeder early Apr to mid-Jul in open montane habitats, eg degraded oak groves at low and mid-altitudes, and low bushy areas with scattered trees at higher altitudes. Common on passage early Mar to mid-Apr and late Aug to early Oct. First recorded in 1824 by Hemprich & Ehrenberg (1833).

First breeding confirmed between Jabal El Cheikh (Hermon) and Litani by Tristram (1864).

Little Bunting Emberiza pusilla v: Based probably on one specimen captured by Tristram (1885), Kumerloeve (1962) and Benson (1970) considered Little Bunting a vagrant in Lebanon. No subsequent records until one at Aammiq 23 Apr 2003 was thought to be this species. Then one or two individuals, in first winter plumage, were observed at Damour 2 Dec 2003 (Ramadan-Jaradi et al 2005). One young female was caught 27 Oct 2010 as part of a ringing project at Aammiq Wetland (Rasmus Bogeskovlarsen pers comm).

Rustic Bunting Emberiza rustica (VU) v: Listed as a vagrant by Shirihai (1996). Subsequently two records both at Aammiq: one 4 Nov 1999 (Beale 2000) and two 25 Dec 2003 (GR-J in Ramadan-Jaradi et al 2008).

Black-headed Bunting Emberiza melanocephala SB, PM: Very common and widespread migrant breeder from late-Apr to late Jul in montane areas; highest densities in orchards at 1400–1500 m asl, but also common in Cilician Fir Abies cilicica and Turkey Oak Quercus cerris var pseudocerris forests at c1900 m asl. Less common at lower altitudes in the Lebanon and Anti-Lebanon ranges, in open hilly terrain with few trees or in terraced valleys, and in Beqaa. No breeding records below 500 m asl. Very common on passage from sea-level to high altitude, mainly mid-Apr to late May and less commonly late Aug to mid-Oct. First recorded by Schrader (1892). First breeding noted by Meinertzhagen (1935).

Common Reed Bunting Emberiza schoeniclus pm, wv: Very scarce passage migrant and winter visitor late Oct to early Apr to Aammiq, Yammouneh, Anjar and Tanayel in the Beqaa Valley (Ramadan-Jaradi & Ramadan-Jaradi 1999). More recent records all fall within the above localities and dates (Beale 2000, Beale & Sprenger 2001, Ramadan-Jaradi 2003).

First recorded by Tohmé & Neuschwander (1974).

ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS

We would like to thank all those who contributed to the completion of this checklist and its publication.

Our gratitude goes also to the large number of observers who have contributed their notes or records either directly or through their respective online social media groups, and some of them made available their unpublished ornithological records to us, without which the value of this paper would have been reduced.

We encourage observers to take photographs and to take good field notes (date, location, description of the birds features and behavior). We encourage them to report any rare or unusual sightings to the Lebanon Bird Rarities Committee at the mail address of the first author or to the authors at their e-mail addresses.

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Ghassan Ramadan-Jaradi, Lebanese University, Faculty of Science. Beirut- Lebanon. grjaradi@hotmail.com Fouad Itani, Association for Bird Conservation in Lebanon, Quraytem, Beirut, Lebanon. fouaditani@birdsoflebanon.com James Hogg, c/o Scarth Wood Farm, Swainby, Northallerton, North Yorkshire DL6 3DJ, UK. jwthogg@googlemail.com Assad Serhal, SPNL, abdel Aziz Street, Beirut, Lebanon. aserhal@spnl.org Mona Karakira, c/o NCSR, P.O.Box 11-8281, Beirut-Lebanon. mona.karakira@gmail.com

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