91
Again, Mr. Buxton, in his guide, refers to "the preservation of all the
wild life which finds a home in the 'waste.' "It is therefore clear
that the intention of those" who were responsible for the acquisition of
Epping Forest as public land, although they may not have had the
naturalist's conception of a natural reserve, was that it should afford
sanctuary to wild life. The question arises as to whether or not the
birds of the Forest are maintaining their status, still further, even if
they are, whether it is not possible to increase the avifauna of the some
6,000 acres comprised in the area. In answering such questions the
Committee feels that such a report as this would be indispensable.
It is hardly necessary to point out the value and interest this report
would have for local naturalists, and in time it would have ecological
value.
The records here presented are the results of the observations of a
few members of the Society, and the Committee is fully alive to their
inadequacy as constituting a survey of the selected district. It is hoped
that this first contribution will serve as a call not only to all the
observers of the society but particularly to all ornithologists working
in Epping Forest.
From Chingford, which is the most convenient step off for those
who have contributed to the diary, northwards to Woodridden Hill on
the west and Jack's Hill on the east, the ground has been well covered.
Occasional records are available for most of the Forest, but none are
forthcoming from Lord's Bushes. Regular recorders are required for
the ground stretching northwards from Wanstead Flats to Chingford,
and again from Theydon Bois to the Lower Forest. At the same time
records are invited from all parts.
Conspicuous absentees from the diary are the nocturnal species,
with the exception of the nightjar, and records of these are specially
requested.
By the courtesy of Mr. F. F. McKenzie, Superintendent of the
Forest, a report on the Wanstead Park Heronry is included, and it is
hoped this will be furnished annually.
At this preliminary stage it would be unwise to draw deductions,
but it is felt that the records confirm Mr. E. N. Buxton's opinion of
the jay, and it is hoped that if "the solemn order which went forth
from the Guildhall, that the numbers are to be limited," has fallen
into abeyance, it will be revived.
Finally, an appeal is made for communications which have any
bearing on the birds, common as well as rare, of Epping Forest.
January 9th.—39 Tufted Ducks and 1 Kingfisher, Connaught Water.
January 16th.—50 Tufted Ducks on Connaught Water. This is the
largest flock we have record of on the lake. The Green
Woodpecker and Kingfisher also identified here. Two female
Bullfinches, Strawberry Hill, Large flocks of Lesser Red-
polls at High Beach. These birds were feeding on the
ground, previously they had confined themselves to the
higher branches of the birches.
January 30th.—Tufted Ducks were again on Connaught Water,
1916