Systematic List for March 2005

The following list contains records that have not been corrected or corroborated.

Little Grebe Tachybaptus ruficollis  

Reported all month. Max. numbers as follows: Akhna Dam: 12 on 20-Mar , 19 on 18-Mar . Athalassa dam: 15 on 19-Mar . Larnaca Sewage Works: nine 11-Mar . Livadhi: 18 on 15-Mar . Oroklini: up to 15 all month. Paralimni lake: 43 on 18-Mar . Phasouri Reed-beds: 10 on 21-Mar . Zakaki Marsh: 17 on 20-Mar , 11 on 15-Mar . Up to four reported Agia Thekla, Aspro Pools, Lymbia dam.

Great Crested Grebe Podiceps cristatus  

Last remaining winter visitors present: Akhna Dam: 14 on 9-Mar, four 13-Mar , five 18-Mar . Asprokremnos dam: 13 on 17-Mar , one remaining 31-Mar . Larnaca Sewage Works: one 14-Mar .

Black-necked Grebe Podiceps nigricollis  

Very localised. Akhna dam: three reported 18-Mar , though not seen subsequently. Larnaca Sewage Works: up to 28 present 7-11 Mar, nine 20 Mar  and 37, possible migrants, on 22-Mar . 

Cormorant Phalacrocorax carbo  

Massive evacuation of winter visitors by end of month: Akhna Dam: 250 imms. 14-Mar, 92 on 18-Mar , 52 on 20-Mar , 16 remaining 26-Mar. Polemedhia dam: 26 on 11-Mar . Coral Bay: c40 flying north 18-Mar . Kouris dam: 76 on 11-Mar. Lara: c150 flying north 20-Mar . Yeronisos Island: one imm. 28-Mar .

Shag Phalacrocorax aristotelis  

Ones and twos Cape Drepanum, Mandria, Paphos Lighthouse. Helios Bay: 30 on 21-Mar . 

Bittern Botaurus stellaris 

Phasouri Reed-bed: one 22 & 24 Mar.

Night Heron Nycticorax nycticorax   

Passage birds noted as follows: Cape Greco: one 21-Mar . Cape Drepanum: 19 (all but one, adults) 24-Mar . Mandria beach: nine 25 Mar. Paphos Headland: four flying north 28-Mar . Kissonerga: eight 30-Mar . Yeroskipou: one 31-Mar . 

Squacco Heron Ardeola ralloides  

All records: Aspro Pools area: one 27 & 28 Mar. Akhna Dam: one 30-Mar . 

Cattle Egret Bubulcus ibis  

Livadhi: four 15-Mar . Phasouri Reed-beds: up to four all month. 

Little Egret Egretta garzetta  

Cape Drepanum: 12 flying north 27-Mar . Larnaca Sewage Works: six 29-Mar .Mandria: two on rocks offshore 30-Mar , 16 there 31-Mar . Paphos Lighthouse: four 22-Mar . Phasouri Reed Beds: up to four 3-30 Mar, with nine 20-Mar . Zakaki Marsh: eight 20-Mar . Singles reported throughout the month at various locations. 

Great White Egret Egretta alba  

A few migrants reported: Akrotiri salt lake: up to two 6-29 Mar, with 10+ on 8 & 13 Mar. Larnaca Sewage Works: six 2-Mar . Oroklini Marsh: one 18-Mar . Paralimni lake: one 18-Mar . Phasouri Reed-beds: one 3, 11 & 24-Mar, with two 31 Mar. Larnaca Salt Lake: one 26-Mar. 

Grey Heron Ardea cinerea  

Up to five several locations. Phasouri Reed-beds: six 31-Mar . Asprokremnos dam: 45 on 17-Mar , same flock seen migrating north at sunset . Coral Bay: 18 flying north 20-Mar . Kouris dam: 23 on 11-Mar . Larnaca Salt Lake: seven 19 & 20-Mar. Larnaca Sewage Works: nine 29-Mar . Achelia: 12 flying east near coast 8-Mar. Zakaki Marsh: 13 on 11-Mar , 28 on 12-Mar , 25 on 15-Mar . 

Small Heron/Egrets  

Paphos Lighthouse area: 10 landing in distance 25-Mar . 

Purple Heron Ardea purpurea  

Akhna Dam: one 13 & 26-Mar, six 30-Mar . Cape Greco: one 30-Mar. Phasouri Reed-beds: up to two 13-30 Mar, plus 23 flew up from pools and reeds near dusk 24-Mar . Timi Beach: one 15 Mar. Zakaki Marsh: one 24-Mar . 

Glossy Ibis Plegadis falcinellus  

Ayios Georgios: one 30-Mar . Oroklini Marsh: three 31-Mar . Phasouri Reed-beds: one 20-22 Mar, two 26-29 Mar, four 30-31 Mar. Zakaki marsh: one 20-29 Mar. 

Greater Flamingo Phoenicopterus ruber  

Counts at two main sites Akrotiri and Larnaca vary with observers. Significant counts listed: Akrotiri Salt Lake: c.400 on 12-Mar , 550 on 15-Mar , c.740 on 20-Mar , 480 on 21-Mar , 500+ on 24-Mar . Meneou Pools: c600 on 2-Mar . Larnaca area: 500+ on 8-14 Mar. Larnaca Salt Lake: 546 on 19-Mar , 343 on 20-Mar , c.400 on 26-Mar. Larnaca Sewage Works: 85 on 29-Mar . Patsalos: 41on 19-Mar . 

Greylag Goose Anser anser  

Phasouri Reed-beds: one eastern race 12-Mar . 

Shelduck Tadorna tadorna  

Steady decline throughout month… Zakaki Marsh: one 11-Mar . Larnaca Salt Lake: 200+ on 8-14 Mar, 128 on 19-Mar , 36 on 20-Mar . Akrotiri Salt Lake: 195 on 15-Mar , 73 on 20-Mar . Meneou Lake: 25 on 26-Mar.  Back of Phasouri Reed-beds: one 31-Mar . 

Wigeon Anas penelope 

Only reported at two sites: Evretou Dam: 30 on 6-Mar, 24 on 14-Mar. Larnaca Sewage Works: 31on 7-Mar , eight 19-Mar ,14 on 23-Mar , declining to two 26-Mar . 

Gadwall Anas strepera  

This very localised winter visitor only reported at Phasouri Reed-beds: one 12 & 13 Mar . 

Teal Anas crecca  

Reported all month. Significant reports:  Akhna Dam: six 18-Mar . Zakaki Marsh: c15 on 11-Mar , 32 on 12-Mar . Bishop's Pool: 47 on 15-Mar , 12 on 20-Mar . Larnaca Sewage Works: c80 on 14-Mar , 204 on 19-Mar , 15 on 26-Mar. Livadhi: 22 on 15-Mar . Curium Bay: c1500 on 22-Mar , indicates considerable movement. Evretou dam: 25 on 17-Mar , one remaining  29-Mar  . Phasouri Reed-beds: 39-40 on 20-21 Mar. 

Mallard Anas platyrhynchos  

Movement similar to Teal, showing build-up of passage at certain sites in 3rd week of month prior to departure. Yermasoyia dam: 13 on 11-Mar . Phasouri Reed-reds: up to five 11-21 Mar. Akrotiri Salt Lake: 19 on 20-Mar . Asprokremnos Dam: seven 19-Mar . Larnaca Sewage Works: max. 161 on 19-Mar , 36 on 20-Mar , c.10 remaining 26-Mar . 

Pintail Anas acuta  

Passage noted from mid-month only. Max. numbers: Akrotiri Salt Lake: three 20-Mar . Larnaca Sewage Works: up to three 19-26 Mar. Phasouri Reed-beds: six 21-Mar . 

Garganey Anas querquedula  

Widely reported on passage from 8 Mar, peaking 24-31 Mar. Noteworthy counts: Larnaca Sewage Works: three 8-Mar, 15 on 26-Mar , six 29-Mar . Asprokremnos dam: four 17-Mar . Livadhi: 14 on 15-Mar . Phasouri Reed-beds: eight 20-21 Mar, 9+ on 24-Mar , five 31-Mar . Zakaki marsh: four 15-Mar , five 29-Mar . Oroklini marsh: max. 11 on 18-Mar , 10 on 31 Mar . Paralimni lake: nine 18-Mar . Akhna Dam: eight 26-Mar . Spiro's Pool: 14 on 26-Mar . Kiti Lighthouse: 30 flying east 29-Mar . Paphos Airport: 50 flying east 30-Mar . 

Shoveler Anas clypeata  

Large numbers (but oddly few reports in the first half of the month?!). Highest counts: Phasouri Reed-beds: c.60 on 11-Mar , 46 on 20-Mar , c.20 on 20-21 Mar. Larnaca Sewage Works: c200 on 14-Mar , 1040 on 20-Mar , 472 on 26-Mar . Larnaca Salt Lake: 13 on 19-Mar , 128 on 20-Mar . Livadhi: 58 on 15-Mar . Orhani: 43 on 19-Mar . Oroklini Marsh: '100, maximum daily count all month' , but only four 14-Mar . Akrotiri Salt Lake: 53 on 20-Mar , 150 on 26-Mar. Coral Bay: 30 flying north 22-Mar . Meneou Lake: 150 on 26-Mar . Less than 10 each Bishop's Pool, Akhna dam, Athalassa Dam, Paphos airport and Kokkinos. 

Pochard Aythya ferina  

Bishop’s Pool: two 15-20-Mar. 

Ferruginous Duck Aythya nyroca  

Phasouri Reed-beds: pair 24-Mar, 1 male 26-Mar . 

Duck sp. 

Mandria: c.50 on 22-Mar . (Note: this was a period of major passage by Teal round the southern coast - see above) 

Black Kite Milvus migrans  

Reported several times this winter, this bird still present. Paphos rubbish dump: one 19 & 22 Mar. 

Griffon Vulture Gyps fulvus 

The species is in desperate decline and casual sightings are becoming increasingly scarce and more localised. Kidasi: five 4-Mar . Dora: one 7-Mar. Episkopi/Kensington cliffs: 3 pairs 7-Mar , five 13-Mar, 3 in nests 28-Mar , three 30-Mar . Ayios Ioannis feeding station (also viewed from Vretsia): one sitting on cage 12-Mar , two 16-24 Mar, four 29-Mar , 8 in cages, one on top 30-Mar. Arminou: one adult in the nest 21-Mar . Dhiarizos Valley to Mandria: one 24-Mar . 

Black Vulture Aegypius monachus  

This bird continues to commute between inland feeding station and coastal cliffs. Kidasi: one 4-Mar . Kensington cliffs: one 23 & 30 Mar . Ayios Ioannis feeding station: one 24 & 29 Mar . 

Marsh Harrier Circus aeruginosus   

Present at all marshy wetlands. Akrotiri area: four 8-Mar, singles at other times. Larnaca Sewage Works: one most visits 14-26 Mar. Akhna Dam: one 26-30 Mar. Cape Drepanum: max. 3 (male and 2 females) 29-Mar . Cape Greco: two 29-Mar . Mandria: four 22-Mar . Phasouri Reed Beds: two most visits, with three 20-Mar . Zakaki Marsh: up to two 11-27 Mar. Singles reported Livadhi, Oroklini Marsh, Mandria beach and Aspro Dam Pools. 

Hen Harrier Circus cyaneus  

All reports: Oroklini: one 9-Mar . Phasouri Reed-beds: one female 13-Mar . Agia Varvara: one male 19-Mar . Larnaca Sewage Works: one♂ 19 & 19 Mar. Akrotiri Salt Lake: one male 24-Mar . Evretou: one 26-Mar . Spiro's Pools: one 30-Mar . Cape Greco: one 31-Mar . 

Pallid Harrier Circus macrourus  

Definite passage mid-late month: Anarita Park: one imm. 19-Mar . Kouklia: one male 27-Mar . Cape Greco: one male 28, 30 & 31 Mar. Paphos headland: one male 28 & 29 Mar. Between Larnaca-Limassol: one male over road 29-Mar . Larnaca Sewage Works and Spiro's Pools: at least 4 males, 1 ringtail 29-Mar. Phasouri Reed-beds: one male 29-Mar . Mandria (west): one male 30-Mar . Ayios Georgios: one male 30 & 31Mar . Akrotiri salt lake: one male 31-Mar . Pyla area: one 31-Mar . 

Montagu’s Harrier Circus pygargus  

Akrotiri salt lake: one male 31-Mar . 

Ring-tail harrier  

Phasouri Reed-beds: one 21-Mar . Akrotiri salt lake: three ring-tailed could have been Pallid or Montagu's 31-Mar . 

Goshawk Accipiter gentilis  

Asproyia: one 5-Mar . 

Sparrowhawk Accipiter nisus  

Troodos: two 10-Mar. Dhiarizos Valley (to Mandria): one 24-Mar . Phasouri Reed-beds: one 29-Mar . Asprokremnos Dam: one 31-Mar . 

Common Buzzard Buteo buteo  

Phasouri Reed-beds: two 8-Mar, one 29-Mar . Choulou: one 'pair displaying' 12-Mar . Episkopi: two 13-Mar. Cape Greco: two 27-Mar . Kouklia: one 27-Mar . Zakaki Marsh: one 27-Mar. 

Steppe Buzzard B.b.vulpinus  

Akrotiri Salt Lake: one 12-Mar . Akrotiri Salt Lake: three 29-Mar . Phasouri Reed-beds: one 29-Mar . 

Long-legged Buzzard Buteo rufinus  

Seen very widely, mostly in west. All records follow: Vretsia: one ad. 1-Mar . Lefkara: pair 2-Mar . Choulou: one 4-Mar . Pissouri and several valleys running up to Troodos: several 5-16 Mar. Chapotami Gorge: one 5-Mar . Dora: one 7-Mar . Kinousa hill: one 12-Mar . Letymbou: one 13-Mar . Akhna Dam: one 20-Mar . Episkopi cliffs: one 20-Mar . Kouklia: two adults 21-Mar . Kato Platres: one 22-Mar. Mousere: pair 'displaying' 22-Mar . Evretou: two 26-Mar . Xeros Potamos valley: one 26-Mar . Vouni Panayia: two 27-Mar . Episkopi, Paphos: one 30-Mar . Galataria: one 30-Mar . Tsada: one 30-Mar . Singles independently reported over Pera Vesa and nearby Ayios Ioannis feeding station 30-Mar may refer to same bird. 

Bonelli’s Eagle Hieraaetus fasciatus    

Becoming difficult to find. Paphos rubbish dump: one imm. 1-Mar . Koilinia: one 6-Mar . Malia: pair 11-Mar. Paphos district: two pairs, one had chicks and the other, two eggs 12-Mar . Paphos forest: one female incubating eggs 16-Mar . Vretsia: one pair displaying 24-Mar . Dhiarizos Valley at Platoria (just north of Kedares): one ad. 27-Mar . Tsada one 30-Mar .  

Osprey Pandion haliaetus  

Tight passage noted 25 & 26 Mar! Akhna Dam: one 25-Mar . Paphos headland: one 26-Mar . 

Kestrel Falco tinnunculus  

Pairs and singles widely reported. 

Merlin Falco columbarius  

Cape Greco: one 24-Mar . Asprokremnos Dam: one 25-Mar . 

Hobby Falco subbuteo   

Galataria: one 30-Mar . 

Peregrine Falco peregrinus  

Quite commonly reported. All records listed: Ayios Minas: one 2-Mar . Trachypedhoula: one 4-Mar . Kinousa hill: one 6-Mar . Koilinia: one 6-Mar . Vouni Panayia: one 19-Mar . Cape Drepanum: one 23-Mar, one 29-Mar, one chasing a Quail in off sea (!) 30-Mar , one 26-Mar . Oroklini Marsh: one chasing Ruff 25 & 26 Mar. Larnaca Sewage Works: one 26-Mar. Troodos village: one over 27-Mar . Kensington cliffs: pair mobbing vultures 30-Mar . Cape Greco: one calidus 31-Mar. 

Chukar Alectoris chukar  

Widely reported. 

Black Francolin Francolinus francolinus  

Its noisy call reported widely, including Armou, Athalassa, Cape Drepanum, Ezousa Pools area, Lady's Mile, Mandria, Nata fields, Oroklini Marsh, Paphos Lighthouse, Phasouri Reed-beds, UN Nicosia, Achelia and Ziripilis. 

Quail Coturnix coturnix  

Very common, heard widely. Paphos Lighthouse: 2-3 calling 6-15 Mar. Agia Varvara: two heard 19-22 Mar .  Paphos Sewage Treatment Works area: four 27-Mar . Ayios Georgios: two 30-Mar, four 31-Mar . Also heard Pera, Anarita Park, Evretou Dam, Polis Reed-beds and Tomb of the Kings. 

Water Rail Rallus aquaticus  

Rather scarce this year. Phasouri Reed-beds: one 12 & 20 Mar . Mazotos: one 17-Mar. Zakaki Marsh: one 20-Mar . 

Spotted Crake Porzana porzana  

Paralimni Lake: two 31-Mar. 

Little Crake Porzana parva  

Surprisingly common and easily seen at main sites. Yermasoyia dam: one 11-Mar . Akhna Dam: at least three, including two males and a female 14-26 Mar. Aspro Pools: at least three, including two males and a female from 19-Mar to month end, with 2 males, 2 fems. 28-Mar . Paralimni Lake: four 31-Mar. 

Moorhen Gallinula chloropus  

Common. Max. numbers: Akhna dam: 32 on 18-Mar . Athalassa: c20 on 18-Mar . Bishop's Pool: 11 on 15-Mar . Paralimni lake: 21 on 18-Mar . Up to 10 other sites. 

Coot Fulica atra  

Very common at suitable sites. Max. numbers: Yermasoyia dam: 31on 11-Mar . Evretou Dam: 46 on 14-Mar. Livadhi: 117 on 15-Mar . Zakaki Marsh: 112 on 15-Mar , 92 on 20-Mar . Athalassa: c30 on 18 Mar , with one sitting on nest, and pair with 6 chicks 27-Mar , 79 on 19-Mar . Larnaca Sewage Works: 105 on 19-Mar . Akhna Dam: 430 on 20-Mar . Akrotiri Salt Lake: 68 on 20-Mar . Bishop’s Pool: 30 on 20-Mar . Oroklini Marsh: 80, maximum daily count, 1st juvs on 23 Mar . Phasouri Reed-beds: 152 on 20-Mar . 

Common Crane Grus grus  

Rather scarce this spring, compared to the 100s reported in 2003 & 2004. Asprokremnos Dam: four flew in from south 16-Mar. 

Black-winged Stilt Himantopus himantopus  

Main migration commenced from mid-month: Zakaki marsh: first month's records, two 8-13 Mar, 10 from 20-Mar , 20 from 25-Mar , c.40 on 27-Mar. Max. numbers: Phasouri Reed-beds: 15 on 29-Mar . Larnaca Salt Lake: 13 on 20-Mar. Larnaca Sewage Works: 14 on 30-Mar . Oroklini: 35 on 26-Mar, with numbers for month peaking at 60 . Up to 10 Spiro's Pools, Paralimni lake, Patsalos and Akhna Dam. 

Avocet Recurvirostra avosetta  

Larnaca Sewage Works: two 23-Mar , 24 on 26-Mar . 

Stone Curlew Burhinus oedicnemus  

Larnaca Airport pools: 22 on 13 Mar, with six 14 Mar. Cape Andreas (north- east Cyprus): 10 in pairs holding territories 26-Mar . Ayios Georgios: one 27-Mar. Mandria: two 31-Mar . Xeros Potamos Pools: one 28-Mar . 

Cream-coloured Courser Cursorius cursor  

Mandria: one 31-Mar . 

Little Ringed Plover Charadrius dubius  

Larnaca Sewage Works: 30+ were the first evidence of spring influx 13-14 Mar, with only two 25-Mar . Evretou Dam: one 14-Mar. Zakaki Marsh: five 16-Mar . Thereafter up to six together Akhna Dam, Akrotiri Salt Lake, Lady's Mile, Larnaca Salt Lake, Oroklini Marsh (max 12 reported, though date unknown) and Tekke pools. 

Ringed Plover Charadrius hiaticula  

All records: Evretou: c10 on 20-Mar . Lady's Mile Beach: one 26-Mar . Larnaca Sewage Works: six 7-Mar . 

Kittlitz’s Plover Charadrius pecuarius  

Spiro's Beach: one (under assessment) 29-Mar , would be the 5th record if accepted. 

Kentish Plover Charadrius alexandrinus  

Reported from 11 Mar with two at Lady's Mile, with max. 60+ Larnaca area 13-14 Mar, 12 Zakaki Marsh 20-Mar , 12 Larnaca Sewage Works 22-Mar  and c.100 Lady's Mile 25-Mar  

Greater Sand Plover Charadrius leschenaultii  

Agia Thekla: one 4 & 12 Mar . Akrotiri Gravel Pits: two 20-Mar . Cape Pyla: two 6-Mar . None remained at Paphos headland. 

Grey Plover Pluvialis squatarola  

Spiro's Pools: one 5-Mar . 

Spur-winged Plover Vanellus spinosus 

Influx noted from mid-month. Akhna Dam: one 14-Mar, increasing to four by 30-Mar. Mazotos: six 17-Mar. Phasouri Reed-beds: two 20-Mar , increasing to three 31-Mar . Paralimni lake: three 18-Mar . Zakaki Marsh: two 20-Mar . Larnaca Airport South Pools: four 26-Mar . Oroklini: max. eight - incubation started on 21 Mar , four 26-Mar. Kiti Lighthouse: two 29-Mar . Singles late month reported Helios Bay Evretou Dam Meneou Pools and, unusually, Paphos headland 26 Mar . 

Little Stint Calidris minuta  

Max. numbers: Lady's Mile: 40 on 25 & 29 Mar , with 53 on 26-Mar . Larnaca Salt Lake: 73 on 29-Mar . Zakaki Marsh: 53 on 15-Mar . Late month, up to four each, Larnaca Sewage Works and Oroklini Marsh. 

Dunlin Calidris alpina   

Passage eastern end of island. Larnaca Salt Lake: one 26-Mar . Larnaca Sewage Works: three 29-Mar . Akhna Dam: one 25-Mar . 

Ruff Philomachus pugnax  

Very large numbers building up locally on passage. Akhna Dam: 25 on 20-Mar, 230 on 23-Mar, 110 on 25-Mar, 170 on 30-Mar . Lady's Mile: 20 on 25-Mar . Larnaca Salt Lake: 220 on 19-Mar , 708 on 20-Mar, 273 on 20-Mar , c.300 on 26-Mar . Oroklini Marsh: 35 was month's maximum daily count . Phasouri Reed Beds: 20 on 20-Mar . Spiro's Pools: 14 on 22-Mar . Zakaki Marsh: up to 25 from 16-27 Mar. 

Snipe Gallinago gallinago  

Akhna Dam: up to three 9-26 Mar, with six 13 Mar. Kokkinos: eight 19-Mar . Larnaca Salt Lake: eight 20-Mar . Mazotos: six 17-Mar. Oroklini Marsh: up to 12 all month . Phasouri Reed-beds: eight 21-Mar . Singles also reported Aspro Dam, Paralimni Lake, Polis Reed-beds and Zakaki Marsh. 

Black-tailed Godwit Limosa limosa  

Lady's Mile: one 11-Mar . Oroklini Marsh: up to two 9-25 Mar, three from 27-31 Mar, with five 30 Mar .Ezousa River Pools area: one 26-Mar . 

Curlew Numenius arquata  

Singles Ezousa Pools area and Lady's Mile. Oroklini Marsh: up to three most days, with five 30 Mar. 

Spotted Redshank Tringa erythropus  

Larnaca Sewage Works: five 26-Mar . Zakaki Marsh: three 24-Mar, one 26-Mar . 

Redshank Tringa totanus  

Akrotiri gravel pits: up to two 6-20 Mar. Kokkinos: six 19-Mar . Larnaca Salt Lake: up to five19 & 20 Mar. Larnaca Sewage Works: two 23-Mar. Oroklini Marsh: up to 10 all month . 

Marsh Sandpiper Tringa stagnatilis  

Akhna Dam: one from 13-Mar, two from 25 Mar and three 30-Mar . Aspro Pools: two 19-Mar. Ladies Mile: two 25-Mar , 10 on 26-Mar . Zakaki marsh: up to three 29-31 Mar. 

Greenshank Tringa nebularia  

Akhna Dam: max. nine 9-Mar . Lady's Mile: three 26-Mar . Singles Akrotiri Gravel Pits, Evretou, Zakaki Marsh, Larnaca Sewage Works and Phasouri Reed-beds. 

Green Sandpiper Tringa ochropus  

Akhna Dam: max. 10 on 13-Mar , declining to two 26-Mar.  Lakatameia: three Manglis lake 23-Mar . Mandria irrigation canal: two 28-Mar . Oroklini Marsh: max. eight all month . Otherwise singles reported. 

Wood Sandpiper Tringa glareola  

Akhna Dam: one 9-Mar, three 26-Mar. Oroklini Marsh: max. two 26 Mar . Phasouri Reed-beds: max. four 26-Mar . Zakaki marsh: 11 on 20-Mar , otherwise up to two to 29 Mar. Singles from 14 Mar to month end Polis Reed-beds,  Mandria and Evretou Dam. 

Common Sandpiper Actitis hypoleucos   

Akhna Dam: one present 13-26 Mar, was the only record. 

Turnstone Arenaria interpres  

Paphos Headland: three present 22-28 Mar . 

Mediterranean Gull Larus melanocephalus  

Old Larnaca sea front: up to c.10 from 8-13 Mar. Larnaca Sewage Works: one (3rd cy) 29-Mar. 

Little Gull Larus minutus  

Akhna Dam: up to three 9-20 Mar , with two to 26 Mar. Larnaca Salt Lake: four 26-Mar . Zakaki marsh: four 6-Mar , one 16-Mar . 

Black-headed Gull Larus ridibundus  

Max. numbers: Akrotiri Salt Lake: 165 on 20-Mar . Larnaca Salt Lake: 82 on 20-Mar . Oroklini Marsh: 275 maximum daily count . Zakaki Marsh: 130 on 15-Mar . Smaller numbers reported widely. 

Slender-billed Gull Larus genei   

Max. numbers: Akrotiri salt lake: c200 on 25-Mar . Larnaca Salt Lake: 238 on 29-Mar . Smaller numbers reported Cape Drepanum, Oroklini Marsh, Paphos headland, Spiro's Pool and Zakaki Marsh. 

Audouin’s Gull Larus audouinii  

All reports: Agia Thekla: one 4-Mar . Pomos: two (one sub-adult and one adult) 6-Mar. Cape Andreas (north- east Cyprus): two 26-Mar . 

Lesser Black-backed (Baltic) Gull Larus f. fuscus  

Helios Bay: c. 5 on 23-Mar . Larnaca Sewage Works: total eight birds 8 & 14 Mar, 14, including one ringed with white colour-ring on left leg and metal ring on right, probably from Finland, maybe Sweden 26-Mar, eight 29 Mar . Ones and twos reported Lakatameia, Akrotiri Gravel Pits, Cape Drepanum, Kissonerga, Kiti Lighthouse, Lady's Mile and Zakaki Marsh. 

Heuglin's Gull L. f .heuglini  

Larnaca Salt Lake: two 2-Mar . Cape Greco: one 12-Mar . Larnaca Sewage Works: 3+ on 8-14 Mar, 2 (1x 4cy, 1 adult) 26-Mar . 

Yellow-legged Gull Larus cachinnans   

The most common form occurring. Greatest numbers reported: Asprokremnos Dam: up to 55 from 19-25 Mar. Larnaca Salt Lake: 260 on 20-Mar . Larnaca Sewage Works: 60 on 26-Mar.Paphos rubbish dump: 60+ on 12-Mar (RHM).

Caspian Gull L. c. cachinnans  

Subtly different from michahellis. Under-recorded. Larnaca Sewage Works: 35+ on 8-14 Mar, 17 on 26-Mar, five 29-Mar . Lady's Mile:  1x 2cy on 24 & 29-Mar . 

Steppe Gull Larus cachinnans barabensis (eastern form of Caspian Gull) 

This form may occur infrequently. Larnaca Sewage Works: two possible adults reported 8 & 13 Mar, for the record. 

Armenian Gull Larus armenicus  

Larnaca Sewage Works: 15+ from 8-14 Mar, 13on 20-Mar , 14, including one adult 26-Mar , four 29-Mar . 

Gull-billed Tern Gelochelidon nilotica  

Curium Bay: two reported 22-Mar . 

White-winged Black Tern Chlidonias leucopterus  

Larnaca Sewage Works: one 11-Mar . 

Rock Dove Columba livia  

Only reported at Cape Greco (where birds might be of pure stock) and Koilinia. 

Woodpigeon Columba palumbus  

Max. numbers: Koilinia: 96+ including a flock of about 70+ moving to the Paphos forest 27-Mar . 

Collared Dove Streptopelia decaocto   

Very common and widespread. 

Great Spotted Cuckoo Clamator glandarius   

65 birds reported. Major influx this month from about 9 Mar. Earliest and most noteworthy reports: Pera: one 3-Mar . Lythrodhonda: 2-4 from 9 Mar, all month. Ayia Varvara (Nicosia): two 12-Mar. Akhna Dam: two 13-14 Mar. Armou: up to two from 16-Mar . Thereafter reported Ayios Minas, Anarita, Anarita Park, Dhiarizos Valley, Episkopi (Paphos), Ineia, Kiti Lighthouse, Koilinia, Kritou Tera, Lara, Larnaca Sewage Works, Lymbia dam, Paphos Lighthouse area, Paramali, Pera, Pissouri, Tala, Ag. Nikolaos and Vretsia. 

Cuckoo Cuculus canorus  

Migrants reported as follows: Lymbia dam: one 19-Mar . Akrotiri salt lake: one 22-Mar . Larnaca Salt Lake: one heard 26-Mar  [interesting record as breeding is rarely confirmed, although calls are regularly reported in spring]. Neo Chorio: one 28-Mar . Vretsia: one 30-Mar . 

Barn Owl Tyto alba  

Between Paphos and Limassol over motorway: one 29-Mar . Paphos: one hunting east of Kato Paphos at 4am 26-Mar . Paphos Town Centre: one 21-Mar . 

Scops Owl Otus scops cyprius  

Pera: up to two calling every night all month . Lythrodhonda: up to two calling 'most evenings all month'. Koilinia: 4+ heard 6-20 Mar . Stavros tis Psokas: one 6 & 15 Mar.  Marathounta: up to two calling 17-28 Mar . Moniatis: one 21-Mar. Nikoklia: one 21 Mar. Neo Chorio: pair roosting in daytime 28-Mar . Baths of Aphrodite: 2 calling in daytime 28-Mar . 

Little Owl Athene noctua  

Oddly, very few reports, as the species was formerly common. Tunnel Beach: one 30-Mar. 

Short-eared Owl Asio flammeus  

Migrants reported: Mandria: one sitting on rocky islet 22-Mar . Paphos Airport: one coming off sea 30-Mar . Pioneer Beach Hotel, Paphos: one in nearby field 30 Mar . 

Nightjar Caprimulgus europaeus  

Lysos: one 6-Mar , exceptionally early. 

Swift Apus apus  

Most breeding colonies in place by mid month. First reports and max. numbers reported: Episkopi Garrison: two, first date noted 3-Mar . Nicosia: eight 8-Mar . Lakatameia: two 10-Mar . Larnaca Sewage Works: 30 on 11-Mar . Evretou Dam: 10 on 14-Mar. Armou: 30 on 18-Mar . 

Pallid Swift Apus pallidus  

Scarce on passage. Larnaca Sewage Works: two 14-Mar. Paphos Lighthouse: one 25-Mar . 

Alpine Swift Apus melba  

First spring records: Pissouri: two 12-Mar. Kensington cliff top: seven 12-Mar . Lymbia dam: one 19-Mar . Mavrokolympos Dam: one 23-Mar . Aspro Dam Pools: up to 15 from 24-28 Mar. 

Kingfisher Alcedo atthis  

Singles from 16 Mar to month end: Agia Thekla, Akhna Dam, Aspro Pools, Polis Reed-beds, Mandria canal and Zakaki Marsh. 

Pied Kingfisher Ceryle rudis  

Uncommon passage migrant. Phasouri Reed beds: one present from 31-Mar. 

Hoopoe Upupa epops  

Major influx noted 29-30 Mar. 54 migrants and breeding visitors reported, including: Cape Greco: two 8-21 Mar . Oroklini: two 14-Mar . Lythrodhonda: up to four from 15 Mar all month. Troodos: one calling 22-Mar. Mandria: two 22 & 30-Mar. Aspro Pools: two 24-Mar . Cape Apostolos Andreas: five 26-Mar . Spiro’s Pool: one flying  in off the sea 26-Mar . Paphos Lighthouse: 10 on 29-Mar . Kiti Lighthouse: three 29-Mar . Larnaca Sewage Works: two 29-Mar . Akrotiri salt lake: three 29-Mar . Tunnel beach, Episkopi: two 30-Mar . Vretsia: two 30-Mar . Kannaviou Dam: up to two 30-31 Mar . Akhna Dam: two 30-Mar. near Paphos airport: four 30 Mar. 

Wryneck Jynx torquilla  

All records follow: RAF Akrotiri: one 16-Mar . Mavrokolympos Dam: one 23 & 26-Mar. Mandria: one 25-Mar . Akrotiri Salt Lake: one 25-Mar . Cape Drepanum: one 27-Mar . 

Calandra Lark Melanocorypha calandra  

Only seen at two sites: Larnaca Sewage works and nearby Spiro's pools: up to four 20-29 Mar. Cape Apostolos Andreas: 18 on 26-Mar . 

Bimaculated Lark Melanocorypha bimaculata  

A good spring for this species: Coral Bay: two 18-Mar . Ayios Georgios (Cape Drepanum): three 28-Mar, one 30 Mar , 13+  flew through 29-Mar . Cape Greco: three 30-Mar. 

Short-toed Lark Calandrella brachydactyla  

The first spring migrants reported: Lara: three 20-Mar . Coral Bay: seven 21-Mar. Main influx from 27 Mar. Cape Drepanum: five 27-Mar , eight 28-Mar, up to 16 daily from 29-30 Mar. Mandria: 15 on 31-Mar . 

Lesser Short-toed Lark Calandrella rufescens  

Rare migrant. Coral Bay: one 22-Mar . Mandria: one 31-Mar . 

Crested Lark Galerida cristatus  

Common and widespread. 

Woodlark Lullula arborea   

Last migrants reported as follows: Koilinia: seven 12-Mar . Armou: three 13-Mar. Agia Varvara: three 19-Mar . Kensington cliff top: three 24-Mar, last date seen . 

Skylark Alauda arvensis  

Last reports of winter visitors as follows: Akrotiri Gravel Pits: Larnaca Sewage Works: three 14-Mar  , one 29-Mar . Armou: two 20-Mar . 

Sand Martin Riparia riparia   

First and only spring record so far: Spiro’s Pool: one 29-Mar . 

Crag Martin Ptyonoprogne rupestris  

All records: Baths of Aphrodite: four 28-Mar . Kannaviou Dam: four 28-Mar . Mavrokolympos Dam: one 15-Mar. 

Swallow Hirundo rustica  

Very common and widespread all month. Mid month, many orange-breasted forms  H.r. transitiva reported - which breeds in southern Turkey, Syria and Lebanon. Nesting reported from mid-month. Max. numbers: Spiro's Pools: c.70 on 8-Mar . Zakaki Marsh: c200 on 11 & 20 Mar. Larnaca Sewage Works: c.200 on 11-Mar . Agia Thekla: 60 on 12-Mar . Paphos villages: 10+ orange-breasted 18-Mar . Aphrodite's Bath: 100s on 26-Mar . Athalassa: c60 on 27-Mar . 

Red-rumped Swallow Hirundo daurica 

First records mid-month, becoming common on passage late month. Paphos Lighthouse: one 15-Mar, earliest report. Max. numbers: Akamas: 10s migrating 26-Mar . Ones and twos reported from 19 Mar Agia Varvara, Lymbia dam, Anarita Park, Armou, Dhiarizos Valley, Spiro's Pools, Akhna Dam and Paphos Lighthouse. 

House Martin Delichon urbica  

Common on passage all month. Max. numbers: Zakaki Marsh: c15 on 11-Mar , 50 on 20-Mar . Kouklia: 10 on 10 Mar. Phasouri Reed-beds: c20 on 11-Mar , 35 on 20-Mar . Evretou Dam: 10 on 14-Mar. Kannaviou Dam: c80 on 24-Mar . Paphos Lighthouse: 10 on 25-Mar .Aphrodite's Bath: 100s migrating 26-Mar . 

Richard’s Pipit Anthus novaeseelandiae  

Paphos Lighthouse: one 9-15 Mar, two 29-Mar . 

Tawny Pipit Anthus campestris   

First migrants this spring. Paphos Lighthouse: one 15-Mar. Akhna Dam: one 20-Mar . Akrotiri Gravel Pits: four 20-Mar .Cape Drepanum: one 28-Mar . Phasouri Reed-beds: one flew over 29-Mar . Mandria: one 30-Mar , three 31-Mar . 

Tree Pipit Anthus trivialis  

First migrants: Paphos Lighthouse: one 6-Mar. Paramali: one 13-Mar . Singles, mostly flyovers, seen or heard at Cape Greco, Neo Chorio, Akrotiri Salt Lake, Anarita Park and Episkopi (Paphos) from 28 Mar. 

Meadow Pipit Anthus pratensis  

Many winter visitors still present. Max. numbers: Akrotiri gravel area: 35 on 21-Mar . Koilinia: up to five 20-27 Mar . Latest record: Paphos Lighthouse: two 29-Mar . 

Red-throated Pipit Anthus cervinus   

Migrants only reported in west of island. First report: Tsada golf course: 19 on 21-Mar . Cape Drepanum: up to two 28-30 Mar. Mandria: max. 10 on 22-Mar . Singles also reported. 

Water Pipit Anthus spinoletta  Few winter visitors still remain. Phasouri Reed-beds: one 20-Mar . Cape Drepanum: one 24 & 30 Mar .

 

Blue-headed Wagtail Motacilla flava flava  

Larnaca Sewage Works: one 14-Mar , was the season's first record. Singles at Mandria 16 & 30 Mar, Akhna Dam and Larnaca Sewage Works 26 Mar, and Mandria 30 Mar were the only other records. 

Grey-headed Wagtail Motacilla flava thunbergi  

Larnaca Sewage Works: one 14-Mar . 

Black-headed Wagtail Motacilla flava feldegg  

Zakaki marsh: one 8 & 13 Mar, were the season's first records. Other records include, Zakaki Marsh: eight 20-Mar , four 27-Mar. Coral Bay: eight 21-Mar . Cape Drepanum: 80+  at roost 23-Mar and 60+ on 24-Mar . Mandria: 15 on 30-Mar . Paphos Lighthouse: three males 25-Mar . Larnaca Sewage Works: three 26-Mar . Ones and twos Zakaki Marsh, Akhna Dam and Oroklini Marsh.

M. f. superciliaris  Larnaca Sewage Works: one 14-Mar. Akhna Dam: one 26-Mar . 

Citrine Wagtail Motacilla citreola  

Only one report: one in field opposite Pioneer Beach Hotel, Paphos 30 Mar . 

Grey Wagtail Motacilla cinerea 

Avgas Gorge: one 6-Mar. Troodos: one 16-Mar. 

White Wagtail Motacilla alba  

Widely reported throughout the month. Interesting reports include: Achelia: 100 on 8-Mar. Phasouri Reed-beds: 25 coming to roost 21-Mar . Cape Drepanum: 50+ heading north in evening 23-Mar . 

Wren Troglodytes troglodytes  

This resident is always elusive. Several heard in foothills Paphos - Troodos 6-15 Mar. Dhiarizos Valley to Mandria: two 24-Mar . Caledonia Falls: one 25-Mar . Troodos: three heard 27-Mar . 

Dunnock Prunella modularis  

Uncommon in winter. At least two in Paphos forest near Troodos 6-15 Mar. Cape Greco: one 31-Mar . 

Robin Erithacus rubecula  

Present to late month with last records as follows: Aspro Pools: one 26-Mar . Neo Chorio: one 28-Mar . 

Nightingale Luscinia megarhynchos  

Noticeable passage late month. Singles at Akrotiri Salt Lake, Larnaca Sewage Works, Phasouri Reed-beds and Kiti Lighthouse 29-Mar. Cape Greco: two 31-Mar . 

Bluethroat Luscinia svecica  

All reports: Akrotiri gravel pits: one 6-Mar . Episkopi, Paphos: one 6-Mar . Phasouri Reed-beds: one heard 8-Mar. Akhna Dam: one male 14-Mar &  26-Mar. 'Fall' on 29 Mar, with singles at Evretou Dam South , Larnaca Sewage Works (singing red-spotted male) and two at Larnaca Salt Lake . Aspro Pools: one 30 Mar . 

Black Redstart Phoenicurus ochruros  

Most winter visitors departed by end of month, with noteworthy birds as follows: Paphos Lighthouse: four 17-Mar , two 25-Mar . Kensington cliff top: one, last date seen, 24-Mar . Ezousa River mouth: one 27-Mar . Xeros Potamos: two 28-Mar . 

Redstart Phoenicurus phoenicurus   

First spring reports: Larnaca Sewage Works: one 11-Mar . Akrotiri Gravel Pits: one 12-Mar . Cape Greco: one 14-Mar . Akrotiri Salt Lake: one 20-Mar . Cape Kiti: one 29-Mar . 

'Ehrenberg's Redstart' Phoenicurus phoenicurus samamisicus  

Larnaca Sewage Works: one  male 29-Mar . 

Whinchat Saxicola rubetra  

First spring migrant: Cape Greco: one 16 & 27 Mar . 

Stonechat Saxicola torquata  

Noteworthy records and latest birds: Akrotiri gravel area: three 21-Mar . Paphos Lighthouse: one female 25-Mar, pair 29-Mar . Near Spiro's Pools: one 26-Mar. Ezousa River mouth: one 27-Mar . 

Siberian Stonechat sp.  

Akrotiri Salt Lake: one female 20-Mar , field notes to follow. 

Isabelline Wheatear Oenanthe isabellina  

89 birds reported, including: Cape Drepanum: at least four 28-31 Mar , with seven 29-Mar . Cape Apostolos Andreas: 18 on 26-Mar . Paphos Headland: five 28-Mar . Mandria: nine 30-Mar .RAF Akrotiri: four 31-Mar . 

Northern Wheatear Oenanthe oenanthe   

117 birds reported. Pomos Point: one 14-Mar. Agia Varvara: four 19-Mar . Otherwise major passage in late month. Cape Apostolos Andreas: 26 on 26-Mar . Pissouri: four 26-Mar . Cape Drepanum: 31 on 28-Mar . Baths of Aphrodite: six 28-Mar . Xeros Potamos: four 28-Mar . Akrotiri salt lake: five 29-Mar . Spiro’s Pool area: five 29-Mar . Galataria: three 30-Mar . Mandria: five 31-Mar . 

Cyprus Wheatear Oenanthe cypriaca  

Species started to appear mid month, with major influx late month. First reports: Larnaca desalination plant: one 14-Mar. Avdimou bay: two 16-Mar . Agia Napa sewage works: one 16-Mar . Episkopi, Paphos: one 17-Mar . Largest numbers: Vouni Panayia: eight 24-Mar . Cape Apostolos Andreas: 12 on 26-Mar. Agia Napa sewage works: six 27-Mar . Vretsia: six 30-Mar . Kannaviou Dam: eight 30-Mar . 

Black-eared Wheatear Oenanthe hispanica melanoleuca   

13 birds reported. First report: Cape Greco: one each visit 5-31 Mar . Agia Napa sewage works: one 14-Mar . Most reports late month. Cape Apostolos Andreas: five 26-Mar . Anarita Park: two black-throated males 29-Mar . Larnaca Sewage Works: one 29-Mar. Galataria: one male 30-Mar . 

Desert Wheatear Oenanthe deserti  

One report only: Cape Kiti: one female 29-Mar. 

Finsch’s Wheatear Oenanthe finschii  

All reports, including last reports as the species left the country: Mamonia: three males 10-Mar. Anarita Park: one male 25-Mar . Kiti Lighthouse: one female 29-Mar . 

Rock Thrush Monticola saxatilis   

One report: Anarita Park: one female 24-25 Mar . 

Blue Rock Thrush Monticola solitarius  

Wintering birds were reported at Mavrokolympos Dam 5-Mar, Cape Greco 6-12 Mar and Paramali until date last seen 15-Mar. Passage migrants appeared from late month, with singles at Akrotiri Gravel Pits from 20-Mar, Helios Bay 21-Mar, Meneou 26-Mar and Cape Drepanum 27-29 Mar. Two at Cape Greco 28-Mar. 

Blackbird Turdus merula  

All reports as follows: Deftera: two 10-Mar . Koilinia: one 13-Mar . Nicosia: one female in supermarket car park 14-Mar . Armou: one female 18-Mar . Lakatameia: one male 29-Mar . Troodos: two including one singing off Persephone Trail 27-Mar . Moniatis: three 21-Mar. 

Fieldfare Turdus pilaris  

All reports: Koilinia: 100+ on 6-Mar, 65+ on 12-Mar . Armou: one 18-Mar . Phasouri Reed-beds: one 29-Mar . 

Song Thrush Turdus philomelos  

Distinct passage noted mid-late month. Noteworthy numbers as follows: Koilinia: 52+ on 13-Mar, 15 on 20-Mar, 40+ on 27-Mar . Armou: 14 on 24-Mar . Mavrokolympos Dam: 11+ on 23-Mar . Kouklia:  c.10 on 27-Mar . Latest report: Neo Chorio: one 28-Mar . 

Mistle Thrush Turdus viscivorus  

A couple of good records on same day: Koilinia: one 27-Mar . Troodos: one (by visitors centre) 27-Mar . 

Cetti’s Warbler Cettia cetti   

Common and widely heard. 

Fan-tailed Warbler Cisticola juncidis   

Very common and widespread - all in full song by mid month. 

Savi’s Warbler Locustella luscinioides  

Cape Drepanum: one singing 30-Mar . 

Moustached Warbler Acrocephalus melanopogon  

Winter visitors remained to end of month. Aspro Pools: at least one present to 28-Mar. Phasouri Reed-beds: one heard 8-Mar. Zakaki marsh: one 29-Mar . 

Sedge Warbler Acrocephalus schoenobaenus  

All records: Akhna Dam: one 9 & 30 Mar . Larnaca Sewage Works: one 22-Mar. Polis Reed-beds: two 30-Mar . 

Reed Warbler Acrocephalus scirpaceus  

all records, mostly based on song heard: Phasouri Reed-beds: one singing 8-Mar. Zakaki Marsh: one 12-Mar . Larnaca Salt Lake: 10+ singing 26-Mar . Xeros Potamos to mouth: up to five in song 28-Mar . Akhna Dam: one 30-Mar . 

Great Reed Warbler Acrocephalus arundinaceus  

All records: Phasouri Reed-beds: one heard singing 24-Mar . Zakaki marsh: one singing 29-Mar . 

Eastern Olivaceous Warbler Hippolais pallida elaeica  

Akhna Dam: one 30-Mar . Akrotiri Salt Lake: one singing 29-Mar . 

Spectacled Warbler Sylvia conspicillata  

Reported, assumed resident Akrotiri Gravel Pits, Anarita Park, Cape Greco, Lady's Mile, Larnaca Sewage Works, Oroklini Marsh, Paphos headland and Tsada golf club track. 

Subalpine Warbler Sylvia cantillans  

c.25 birds reported from 8-31 Mar, with distinct gap in passage 18-23 Mar. Larnaca Sewage Works: one female, race albistiana 8-Mar. Cape Arnaouti: one 8-Mar . Paramali: two 12-Mar . Paphos Lighthouse: several males 12-16 Mar, two 13-Mar , one male 17-Mar , two 26-Mar, one 28-Mar. Akrotiri Gravel Pits: one 13-Mar . Armou: one 13 & 24-Mar . Cape Greco: one 14-Mar . Asprokremnos Dam: one 15-Mar. Koilinia: two 20-Mar . Mavrokolympos Dam: 'males' 23-Mar . Helios Bay: one dead female probably flew into hotel window 24-Mar . Akrotiri Salt Lake: one 25-Mar . RAF Akrotiri: one 31-Mar . 

Sardinian Warbler Sylvia melanocephala  

Coral Bay: four males holding territory 18-Mar . Reported throughout the month, mostly wintering birds, Akhna Dam, Armou, Cape Drepanum, Ineia, Kannaviou Dam, Kensington cliff top, Koilinia, Oroklini Marsh, Paphos Lighthouse, Tala and Tsada golf club track. 

Cyprus Warbler Sylvia melanothorax  

Regularly reported Akrotiri Salt Lake, Anarita Park, Armou, Aspro Dam Pools, Athalassa, Cape Greco, Koilinia, Lymbia dam, Lythrodhonda, Marathounta, Pera, Terra and Mesapotamos. 

Rüppell's Warbler Sylvia rueppelli   

45 birds reported 8-28 Mar. Significant reports: Cape Greco: one 1-5 birds 8-28 Mar. Kensington cliff top: three 13-Mar . Mandria: two 22-Mar . Paphos headland: four 25-Mar , three 26-Mar . Cape Apostolos Andreas: three 26-Mar . Near Tekke: two 26-Mar. Kouklia: three 27-Mar . Kannaviou Dam: two 28-Mar. 

Eastern Orphean Warbler Sylvia crassirostris  

Main passage 26-30 Mar. All reports: Cape Greco: one 17-Mar . Larnaca Sewage Works: one 26-Mar . Kensington cliff top: one 27-Mar . Paphos Lighthouse: one male 28-Mar . Larnaca Salt Lake: one 29-Mar . Cape Kiti: three 29-Mar . Larnaca Sewage Works: one 29-Mar . Oroklini Marsh: one 29-30 Mar. Armou: one 30-Mar . 

Lesser Whitethroat Sylvia curruca  

At least 58 birds reported, but surely 100s overlooked! Passage from mid-month. First report: Cape Greco: two 14-Mar . Noteworthy reports: Armou hills: two 30-Mar . Bishop’s Pool: four 20-Mar . Cape Apostolos Andreas: six 26-Mar . Cape Drepanum: two 30-Mar . Cape Greco: two 17-Mar . Kiti Lighthouse: four 29-Mar . Larnaca Sewage Works: two 26-Mar, 10+ on 29-Mar . Paphos headland: 10 on 31-Mar , two 25-Mar . Paphos Lighthouse area: two 25-Mar . 

Whitethroat Sylvia communis  

Only half-a-dozen birds reported. Cape Greco: one 16-Mar . Akrotiri Gravel Pits: two 20-Mar . Armou hills: one sub-song 24-Mar . Ezousa River Pools area: one 26-Mar . Larnaca Sewage Works: one 29-Mar . 

Blackcap Sylvia atricapilla  

Recorded all month. Maximum numbers: Koilinia: up to 11 from 6-27 Mar . Armou: 10 on 20-Mar . Aspro Dam Pools: 10 on 28-Mar . Cape Drepanum: seven 30-Mar . Episkopi, Paphos: six sub-song 29-Mar . Ineia: six 28-Mar . Larnaca Sewage Works: 10+ on 29-Mar . Lymbia dam: seven 19-Mar . Neo Chorio: 12+ on 28-Mar . 

Eastern Bonelli’s Warbler Phylloscopus orientalis  

Akrotiri Salt Lake (west side): one 29-Mar . 

Chiffchaff Phylloscopus collybita   

Common, at least up to 29 Mar, though races occurring still remain confusing. Common everywhere on island 6-15 Mar, apparently race abietinus and fulvescens. Widespread in small numbers 28-29 Mar, several of tristis form . Max. numbers: Akrotiri Salt Lake: 20 on 21-Mar , 11 on 29-Mar . Armou: 10 on 20-Mar . Ineia: six 28-Mar . Kiti Lighthouse: six 29-Mar . Koilinia: 18 on 20-Mar. Larnaca Sewage Works: 10+ on 29-Mar . Armou hills: one 'odd whistle' 30-Mar . 

Willow Warbler Phylloscopus trochilus 

Earliest migrant reported: Akrotiri Salt Lake: two 16-Mar . Cape Greco: one 28-Mar . Akhna Dam: one 30-Mar . 

Coal Tit Parus ater cypriotes  

Reported in mountain forests only.  

Great Tit Parus major aphrodite  

Ubiquitous.  Archangelos: two, including one with nesting material 9-Mar . Goudhi: two, including one bright and pale (with almost white vent) 1-Mar. 

Wallcreeper Tichodroma muraria  

Apparently wintering but previously unrecorded this season. Avgas Gorge: one 6-Mar. Cliff 300m west Pissouri Bay: one 11-Mar . Akamas (Sotira cliff): one 16-Mar . 

Short-toed Treecreeper Certhia brachydactyla dorotheae  

Caledonian Trail: one 16-Mar . 

Penduline Tit Remiz pendulinis   

Rare and elusive winter visitor this year. Zakaki marsh: seven 6-Mar . Akrotiri Reed Beds: two 25-Mar . 

Isabelline Shrike Lanius isabellinus  

One phoenicuroides was found 1km. west of Cape Drepanum 27 Mar , awaiting assessment. 

Lesser Grey Shrike Lanius minor  

Avdimou bay: one '1st winter' 12-Mar , rather early, confirmation sought. 

Woodchat Shrike Lanius senator 

Asprokremnos Dam: one 31-Mar , season's earliest report. 

Masked Shrike Lanius nubicus  

First report of year: Kensington cliff top: one male, 12 Mar, with two present to month end . Akrotiri Salt Lake: one 29-Mar . Vretsia: two males singing on territory 30-Mar.

Jay Garrulus glandarius glaszneri  

Troodos: several 11, 16 & 25 Mar. 

Magpie Pica pica   

Common and evident everywhere. 

Jackdaw Corvus monedula  

Also reported. 

Hooded Crow Corvus corone  

Oroklini Marsh: Pair nest building 7 Mar . Otherwise abundant. 

Raven Corvus corax   

Becoming scarce. Mt Olympus: two 25-Mar . Cape Apostolos Andreas (north- east Cyprus): 12 on 26-Mar . 

Starling Sturnus vulgaris  

An odd occurrence. This bird appeared again in April. Paphos harbour                 one 23-Mar . 

House Sparrow Passer domesticus  

Also reported. 

Spanish Sparrow Passer hispaniolensis 

Max. numbers reported: Anarita: 300+ on 19-Mar . Anarita Park: 60+ on 25-Mar . Cape Drepanum: 70 on 28-Mar , 150+ on 24-Mar . Kannaviou Dam: c100 at nesting colony in pine tree 3-Mar . Mandria: c.100 on 22-Mar . North of Coral Bay: c300 on 20-Mar . 

Chaffinch Fringilla coelebs  

Common. Max. numbers Koilinia: 106+ on 12-13 Mar . 

Serin Serinus serinus  

Still many wintering birds present, including 6+ at Armou & Marathounta 18-Mar  and unusually, 20 at lower Xeros Potamos pools 28-Mar . Following may be in breeding areas: Kannaviou: five 3-Mar, c15 on 8-Mar .Koilinia: six 27-Mar . Psathi: three 8-Mar . Evretou: c10 on 20-Mar . Kato Platres: 10 on 22-Mar. Lythrodhonda: 20+ all month. Omodos: 10 on 22-Mar. 

Greenfinch Carduelis chloris  

Also reported. Good numbers at Koilinia and Paphos Lighthouse. Koilinia: 10+ on 27-Mar . Paphos Lighthouse: 10 on 29-Mar . 

Goldfinch Carduelis carduelis   

Commonly reported, usually in flocks of 10+. 

Siskin Carduelis spinus   

Rather scarce. These only reports were received from visitors. Avgas Gorge: 30 on 6-Mar. Troodos visitor centre: two 25-Mar . 

Linnet Carduelis cannabina  

Also reported. Max. numbers, Anarita: 100 on 19-Mar. 

Crossbill Loxia curvirostra  

Resident, but can be elusive. These, only reports received, from visitors.: Pano Platres: three 11-Mar. Troodos, off Persephone Trail: 7+ flying over, 2 females perched 27-Mar . 

Hawfinch Coccothraustes coccothraustes   

Interesting records, and quite late in season: Koilinia: two 6-Mar, one 27-Mar . 

Cinereous Bunting Emberiza cineracea

Paphos Lighthouse, one on 28-Mar, the first since 2000.

Ortolan Bunting Emberiza hortulana  

Passage occurred from late month:. Paphos Lighthouse: one 25-Mar , was season's first report; three 28-Mar , seven 29-Mar , one 31-Mar . Larnaca Sewage Works: one 26-Mar . Cape Drepanum: two 30-Mar . Asprokremnos Dam: six 31-Mar . 

Cretzschmar’s Bunting Emberiza caesia  

First arrivals reported mid-month. Paphos Lighthouse: two 15-Mar, seven 17-Mar , then max. c.35 on 28-Mar . Agia Varvara: 20 on 19-Mar. Singles and groups of up to five reported to end of month at Akrotiri salt lake, Anarita Park, Aspro Dam Pools, Cape Drepanum, Dhiarizos Valley, Episkopi Garrison, Episkopi (Paphos), Ezousa Pools area, Helios Bay, Kannaviou Dam, Kensington cliff top, Larnaca Salt Lake, Nata and Vouni Panayia. One in song and on territory Vretsia 30-Mar . Latest, four at Xeros Potamos Pools 28-Mar . Max. numbers, 15 at Pissouri 26-Mar , 12 at Koilinia 27-Mar . 

Corn Bunting Emberiza calandra  

Very common all month and widely reported singing from mid-month. Yermasoyia dam: 1 pair feeding chicks 23-Mar . Max. numbers: Kouklia: c.30 on 27-Mar .