Pencarnan & access for rarities generally

John & Marion your sightings are envied and your dilemma appreciated.

I am not surprised to hear now that the owner will permit access in future (I am also delighted!), provided he is in control of the situation. Believe me it would have to be a special bird to attract 300 birders this far west, even if it whatever it is stays for weeks! I am confident that any situation can be managed effectively, given proper discussion with appropriate people and careful management - the Pechora Pipit being a great example here.

I know some had concerns about releasing the Rose-coloured Starling news, but even this went largely succesfully, and the one problem that did occur could easily have been solved by releasing the news for a defined period and then witholding it (as was eventually done, with some great efforts from Richard D). I believe that in 99% of cases a bit of effort on our part when the bird is found can smooth the way to enable news to be released for special birds - just read the account of the Kent Dark-eyed Junco in this month's Birdwatch to see what I mean (whilst you're reading that don't forget the excellent article on the Marloes Black Duck!!!!!!!!).

A message to all - if in doubt, please don't hesitate to get in touch with me, Paul, Richard, Jon G or whoever, to talk things through and we can work together to try and ensure everyone can enjoy all the good birds Pembrokeshire will no doubt have in the future - the last couple of years have been really good, we're on a roll! Right, I'm off to find a Cattle Egret!!!!