Hi all. A few of us have been wondering whether 2011 has been the best ever year for Cleveland, at least in terms of the number of species recorded. With Sandhill Crane, White-throated Robin, Pallid Harrier and a great run of rare waders the quality has certainly been there, but how will the final total compare?
I have been back through the records since 1974, updating the annual totals to reflect later changes, including the results of subsequent reviews and any splits or lumps. The 250 species barrier has been broken 8 times before this year, the first time in 1994. The best annual totals are:
1. 259 (1995)
2. 257 (1994)
2. 257 (2008)
4. 255 (2002)
5. 253 (2006)
6. 251 (2003)
6. 251 (2005)
6. 251 (2010)
So how does 2011 compare? It is difficult to give a definitive answer until all the year's records have been received, but it seems that 258 is an absolute minimum. However, this does not include 3 species where decisions are pending, namely Arctic Redpoll, Baird's Sandpiper and Red-breasted Goose. So 261 is a possibility, which would indeed be a new record. Unless someone finds a Firecrest or a Hawfinch in the next 7 days, when it could rise further....
Merry Christmas to you all!
Graeme Joynt ;D