Draft Environmental Statement Volume 3 Appendices Part 3 of 11

Transcription

1 Draft Environmental Statement Volume 3 Appendices Part 3 of 11 Brechfa Forest Connection Project November 2014

2 Contents Appendix 3.1 Appendix 3.2 Appendix 6.1 Appendix 7.1 Appendix 9.1 Appendix 9.2 Appendix 9.3 Appendix 9.4 Appendix 9.5 Appendix 9.6 Appendix 9.7 Appendix 9.8 Appendix 10.1 Appendix 10.2 Appendix 10.3 Appendix 10.4 Appendix 10.5 Appendix 10.6 Appendix 11.1 Appendix 11.2 Appendix 12.1 Appendix 13.1 Appendix 14.1 Appendix 15.1 Appendix 16.1 Appendix 16.2 Appendix 17.1 WPD s Schedule 9 Statement A record of Change Requests to the preferred alignment A copy of the Scoping Opinion Summary of Relevant Local Planning Policies Effect on landscape elements (principally woodlands, trees and hedgerows) Effect on landscape character Effect on landscape designations (SLAs) Visual effect at representative viewpoint locations Visual effect on residents (including holiday lets) Visual effect on footpath users (including promoted routes) Visual effect on road users (including scenic drives) Visual effect on other recreational and visitor locations (including cycle routes) Bat Technical Report Botany Technical Report Bird Technical Report Dormouse Draft Method Statement Marsh Fritillary Butterfly Technical Report Otter & Water Vole Technical Report Historic Environment Supporting Information Historic Environment Planning Compliance Geology, soil and ground conditions baseline study Hydrology, Flood Risk and Drainage Tables Construction Data Air Quality Assessment Copy of a response letter from CCC Construction Programme A summary of the methodologies, scope of impact assessments and proposed mitigation for the socioeconomic assessments of other reviewed projects Green highlight indicates the contents of this document.

3 Bird Technical Report Appendix 10.3 Brechfa Forest Connection Project November 2014

4 Contents 1 Bird Technical Report Summary Methodology Results References Appendix Appendix 2 30 Tables Table 1 Summary of all Winter Bird Survey Vantage Point 1 Flight Lines Table 2 Summary of all Winter Bird Survey Vantage Point 2 Flight Lines Table 3 Summary of all Winter Bird Survey Vantage Point 6 Flight Lines Table 4 List of all species recorded at Transect 1 Table 5 List of all species recorded at Transect 2 Table 6 List of all species recorded at Transect 13 Table 7 Summary of all Raptor Vantage Point 1 Flight Lines Table 8 Summary of all Raptor Vantage Point 2 F Table 9 Weather Data for Breeding Bird Surveys Table 10 Weather Data for Winter Bird Vantage Point Surveys Flight Lines Table 11 Weather Data for Raptor Vantage Point Surveys 1

5 Table 12 Weather Data for Winter Bird Transect Surveys Figures Figure 1 - Site Location Plan and Aerial View Figure 2 Background Data Search Notable Bird Records Figure 3 Bird Survey Areas Figure 4 Winter Vantage Point Survey Results High Collision Risk Species Figure 5 Winter Survey Transects Figure 6 Breeding Raptor Vantage Point Survey Results Figure 7 Breeding Bird Survey Results Notable Species Appendices Appendix 1 EOAC Guidelines Appendix 2 All Weather Data 2

6 1 Bird Technical Report 1.1 Summary This report details methods and results of bird surveys carried out in relation to a 132 kv power line to connect a wind farm at Brechfa Forest, Carmarthenshire to a suitable grid connection point near Llandyfaelog, south of Carmarthen the Proposed Development Records of Schedule 1 birds were identified in the background data search Bird surveys were carried out in advance of the preferred route alignment being selected. Areas of specific habitat types were targeted for bird surveys to give a broad understanding of the bird species assemblage in these habitats Results presented in this report focus on habitat types impacted by the Proposed Development only Bird surveys undertaken include; winter bird surveys, Hen Harrier surveys, breeding bird surveys and raptor vantage point surveys Winter bird surveys identified a variety of raptors, large numbers of gulls and various water-birds No roosting Hen Harriers were observed Breeding bird surveys recorded a large number of species of conservation importance. The species assemblages were most varied and important in areas with diverse or varied habitats, particularly lowland woodland, upland grassland and upland woodland fringe habitat Raptor vantage point surveys recorded a variety of species including the Schedule 1 species Goshawk and Red Kite, however breeding was not confirmed during these surveys. 3

7 1.2 Methodology Background Data Search A detailed background data search was undertaken and records were obtained from the Carmarthenshire County Records Centre for all species and designated sites including bird species. Records were requested from within 2 km of the route alignment options and redefined when there was a preferred route alignment. Field Surveys Objectives The survey scope was designed and sent to NRW, the RSPB and the Carmarthenshire County Council Ecologist prior to surveys commencing The objectives of the bird surveys were to: identify the wintering and breeding bird assemblages along the route; locate any birds that are likely to be at higher risk of impacts from an overhead cable; and identify any species which may require special mitigation during the works There was a particular focus on species that are of conservation significance or are likely to be affected by overhead cables. These target species are derived from the following sources: Species listed on Schedule 1 of The Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981 (as amended); Birds of Conservation Concern listed by Eaton et al (Red and Amber species); and Species listed on the UK or Local Biodiversity Action Plans. 4

8 Survey Team and Survey Times Surveys were coordinated by RSK and undertaken by experienced bird surveyors from RSK and AMC Ecological Surveys undertaken comprised: Winter Bird Surveys (October 2013 to March 2014); Hen Harrier Surveys (October 2013 to March 2014); Breeding Bird Surveys (April to June 2014); and Raptor Vantage Point Surveys (March to July 2014) Full details of the methods for each survey are provided below. Wintering Bird Surveys At the time of the commencement of winter bird surveys in 2013, the preferred route alignment had not been chosen and a number of route alignment options were proposed. Due to the size of the area to be covered specific locations were targeted for survey. These were selected based on a study of background records and a review of aerial photography to highlight habitats most suitable for higher risk birds. Survey areas relevant to the current scheme are shown in Figure Vantage point surveys were carried out carried out at the possible crossing points of the River Towy, in Winter Survey Area 3, shown in Figure 3. The vantage points were positioned to allow for as much of the Towy Valley crossing to be viewed as possible, whilst ensuring as little disturbance as possible to the birds. Records of bird activity were noted using best practice methodology (Bibby et al. 1992, Gilbert et a.l 1998, SNH 2010) In WPD s original scope for the winter bird surveys it was planned to carry out six hours survey a month at each vantage point (split into two 3-hour surveys), with the aim of completing 36 hours at each point for the survey season 5

9 (October to March), in accordance with the wind farm guidance (SNH 2010). During the first surveys it was found that very little extra data was gained during the third hour of the surveys. Based on this, and the additional knowledge of bird activity at the vantage point locations, it was decided two hours of survey at each visit to a vantage point was sufficient to gain the level of data required for the impact assessment Wintering bird transect surveys were carried out to assess the assemblage of birds using the selected survey areas during the winter months (October to March) where vantage point surveys would not be appropriate. Transect surveys provide a greater understanding of bird assemblages in woodland habitats than vantage point surveys, and they can also provide information on a wider area than vantage point surveys. Transect surveys were carried out in Winter Survey Areas 1, 2, and 13 1, shown in Figure 3. A minimum of one transect survey in each area was carried out each month. Hen Harrier Roost Surveys During preliminary consultation with NRW it was highlighted that Hen Harriers are occasionally present in the area during winter particularly in upland/ moorland areas, which are used for roosting. Considering the specific habitat requirements of this species two areas were selected for Hen Harrier roost surveys and these surveys were carried out between October and March. No Hen Harriers were observed roosting in these areas. These survey areas are 4 to 8 km from the Proposed Development and are therefore not discussed any further in this report. Breeding Bird Surveys At the time of the commencement of breeding bird surveys in 2014, the preferred route alignment had not been chosen and a number of route alignment options were proposed. Due to the size of the area to be covered 1 Survey areas no longer situated close to the Proposed Development have been omitted from this report 6

10 specific locations were targeted for survey. These sites were selected by the ornithologists that undertook the winter bird surveys, based on their knowledge of the habitats crossed by the route alignment options. They encompass a sample of the various habitats crossed by the route including open pasture fields, floodplain grazing marsh along the Towy corridor, broadleaved woodland and upland fringe habitats. Each breeding bird survey site is described in the results section along with the survey results A modified Common Bird Census (CBC) method was used to identify breeding birds within specific habitats. Three separate visits were undertaken to each site in April, May and June The surveys started shortly after dawn. Records of bird activity were recorded using CBC methodology with the specific detail required to determine breeding birds e.g. species behaviour annotations as described by Gilbert et al and Bibby et al All birds and activity were mapped, and selected species of conservation concern (WCA Sch. 1 and BoCC Red listed species) are shown in Figure 7. Vantage Point Surveys Species-specific surveys were carried out for Northern Goshawk and European Honey Buzzard using Vantage Point survey methodology. Both are listed as a Schedule 1 species on The Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981 (as amended), and are afforded special protection against disturbance while breeding. The surveys followed methodologies set out by SNH (SNH 2010), Gilbert et al and Hardy et al. (2009). Encounters with other raptor species were also recorded (e.g. Red Kite) Vantage Points were located in areas with good visibility of the surrounding area above tree level to observe behaviour. Five visits were made in the months of March, April, May, June and July 2014, which covered the survey season for Goshawk and Honey Buzzard. Vantage points were observed for four hours commencing at dawn. Flights of all birds of prey were recorded and any 7

11 behaviour indicating breeding (display flights, nesting material, food offerings, alarm calls) were recorded. Criteria for evaluation Identification of Birds of Conservation Concern A number of criteria are available to determine the conservation status of those bird species recorded. These criteria aid in evaluating the function of the site for birds and thus the value of the bird assemblage. The most appropriate of these are: The Birds Directive - Directive 2009/147/EC of the European Parliament and of the Council of 30 November 2009 on the conservation of wild birds (this is the codified version of Directive 79/409/EEC as amended) is the EU s oldest piece of nature legislation and one of the most important, creating a comprehensive scheme of protection for all wild bird species naturally occurring in the European Union. It was adopted unanimously by Member States in 1979 as a response to increasing concern about the declines in Europe's wild bird populations resulting from pollution and loss of habitats. It was also in recognition that wild birds, many of which are migratory, are a shared heritage of the Member States and that their effective conservation required international co-operation. The Birds Directive bans activities that directly threaten birds, such as the deliberate killing or capture of birds, the destruction of their nests and taking of their eggs, and associated activities such as trading in live or dead birds. Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981 Schedule 1 Species All bird species are protected from intentionally killing and injuring, and to the destruction of nests, eggs and dependent young. Schedule 1 species are also protected from disturbance whilst nesting or attempting to make a nest. The population status of birds in Wales 2 Under this approach bird populations are assessed, using quantitative criteria, to determine the 8

12 population status of each species and then placed on one of three lists; Red, Amber or Green. Red list species are of high conservation concern, being either globally threatened, having historical UK population declines between 1800 and 1995 or a rapid population decline or breeding range contraction by 50% or more in the last 25 years. Amber list species are of medium conservation concern due to a number of factors, for example having suffered between 25% and 49% contraction of UK breeding range or a 25-49% reduction in breeding or non-breeding populations over the last 25 years. Species that have a five year mean of breeding pairs (bp) in the UK or an unfavourable European conservation status or for which the breeding population in the UK represents 20% or more of the European breeding populations are also listed on the Amber list. Green list species have a favourable conservation status. National and Local Biodiversity Action Plans (BAP) and Species of Principal Importance The United Kingdom BAP (UK Biodiversity Steering Group 1995, reviewed 2007) lists a number of bird species of conservation concern, for which national targets and priorities have been set in order to address those species needs. In June 2007 after a review of the UK BAP an additional 22 priority bird species were added to the list of species for which Species Action Plans (SAPs) will be prepared. The Carmarthenshire Local Biodiversity Action Plan lists habitats and species for which conservation targets exist within the local area. An action plan for these habitats and species has been developed to set specific, measurable, achievable, realistic and time bounded targets for the conservation for them. Evaluation of Breeding Status The breeding status of each species is classified into three categories: Confirmed breeding; Probable breeding; and Possible breeding. The behaviour, sex, age and location of individual birds allow conclusions to be drawn about breeding status, based on categories devised by the European Ornithology Atlas Committee (EOAC), Breeding evidence used in this 9

13 report follows EOAC guidelines and these are given in Appendix 1. It is also possible that species are merely present in a habitat and are not actually breeding. Birds not thought to be breeding and birds only recorded flying-over are classed as non-breeding. Evaluation of Collision Risk Collision risk was considered for all species identified during vantage point surveys and some species recorded during transect surveys. When birds were recorded in flight between 0 m and 25 m, they were considered at risk of collision with the proposed overhead lines. The proposed overhead line will be between 12 and 20 m tall (considering the proposed limits of deviation and the conductors, actual pole heights are between 12 and 15m), therefore it is likely that flights between 16 m and 20 m would be at risk of collision. However, it is very difficult to be specific with flight heights during field surveys therefore using all flights within the range of 0 m to 25 m provides a worst case scenario for assessment Whether a species is considered at risk of collision is based on a combination of the species behaviour, flight style, total number of flights recorded, total number of flight lines recorded at risk height, and peak count of the species. The species is then assigned a category of none, low, moderate or high risk of collision. Survey Limitations Surveys were undertaken at the ideal time of year and during good weather for bird surveys In spite of the good conditions, generally it is not realistic to expect to record every bird using a site during the survey visits. However, the surveys were sufficient to record any important assemblages, and to identify areas or species of particular interest. 10

14 Some areas of the Proposed Development were not surveyed due to landowners not permitting access, or for health and safety purposes (e.g. felling operations within the forest). These areas are not considered to be of higher value for birds and it is unlikely that survey results would have varied greatly. 1.3 Results Background Data Search The Carmarthenshire Local BAP lists 37 species of birds. These are Barn Owl, Bar-tailed Godwit, Black-headed Gull, Bullfinch, Cuckoo, Common Scoter, Curlew, Dunnock, Golden Plover, Grasshopper Warbler, Grey Partridge, Hawfinch, Hen Harrier, Herring Gull, House Sparrow, Kestrel, Lapwing, Lesser Redpoll, Lesser Spotted Woodpecker, Linnet, Little Ringed Plover, Marsh Tit, Nightjar, Pied Flycatcher, Reed bunting, Ringed Plover, Ring Ouzel, Skylark, Spotted Flycatcher, Starling, Song Thrush, Tree Pipit, Tree Sparrow, Willow Tit, Wood Warbler, Yellowhammer and Yellow Wagtail Species records received from the Carmarthenshire County Records Centre (within 2 km of the Proposed Development) included the following notable species: Barn Owl (WCA Schedule 1, Amber list) Black Redstart (WCA Schedule 1, Amber list) Brambling (WCA Schedule 1) Bullfinch (UK BAP, Red list) Common Crossbill (WCA Schedule 1) Curlew (UK BAP, Red list) Dipper (Amber list) Fieldfare (WCA Schedule 1, Amber list) 11

15 Golden Plover (Birds Directive Annex 1, Red list) Goldeneye (WCA Schedule 1) Goshawk (WCA Schedule 1) Grasshopper Warbler (Red list) Green Sandpiper (WCA Schedule 1) Hen Harrier (BD Annex 1, WCA Schedule 1, Red list) Hobby (WCA Schedule 1, Amber list) House Sparrow (UK BAP, Amber list) Jack Snipe (Amber list) Kestrel (Red list) Kingfisher (BD Annex 1, WCA Schedule 1, Amber list) Lapwing (UK BAP, Red list) Lesser Spotted Woodpecker (UK BAP, Red list) Little Egret (BD Annex 1) Manx Shearwater (Amber list) Marsh Tit (UK BAP) Merlin (BD Annex 1, WCA Schedule 1, Amber list), Peregrine Falcon (BD Annex 1, WCA Schedule 1) Red Kite (BD Annex 1, WCA Schedule 1, Amber list) Redwing (WCA Schedule 1, Amber list) Reed Bunting (UK BAP, Amber list) 12

16 Sand Martin (Amber list) Skylark (UK BAP, Amber list) Snipe (Amber list) Snow Bunting (WCA Schedule 1, Amber list) Song Thrush (UK BAP, Amber list) Spotted Flycatcher (UK BAP) Starling (UK BAP, Red list) Swift (Amber list) Teal (Amber list) Tree Pipit (UK BAP, Amber list) Whimbrel (WCA Schedule 1, Amber list) Whooper Swan (BD Annex 1, WCA Schedule 1, Amber list) Wigeon (Amber list) Wood Warbler (UK BAP, Red list); and Woodcock (Amber list). Wintering bird Surveys Vantage Point Surveys The Vantage Point surveys recorded a variety of bird species in the lowland areas where the Proposed Development crosses the Towy Valley. The majority of birds recorded were gulls and corvids but wildfowl and raptors were also recorded A summary of the bird flight lines recorded at the vantage points are given in the 13

17 tables below. The summary tables show the species, the number of flight lines recorded, the number of flight lines recorded at collision risk height, notes on behaviour and the overall risk of collision impact on the species. The risk of collision impact is categorised as low, moderate or high. A low category is assigned if there are up to four flight lines at collision height. A moderate category is assigned if there are between 4 and 8 flight lines at collision height and a high category is assigned if there are over 8 flight lines at collision height. However, if the individual flight lines consist of high numbers of birds the category may be increased. Vantage Point Two hundred and twelve flight lines were recorded from Vantage Point 1 through the winter. Table 1 Summary of all Winter Bird Survey Vantage Point 1 Flight Lines Common Name Total Number of Flight Lines Number of Flight Lines at Collision height (0 to 25 m) Dominant Direction of Flight Peak Count Notes At Risk of Collision Impact Black-headed Gull East - West 28 Generally short movements around fields High Common Buzzard 5 1 Varied 1 - Low Goosander 5 5 East - West 4 Flying along river Moderate Goshawk Low Great Blackbacked Gull 1 0 East/West 2 - No Grey Heron 1 1 East 1 - Low Greylag Goose 1 1 West 3 - Low Herring Gull 23 2 East - West 80 - Moderate 14

18 Common Name Total Number of Flight Lines Number of Flight Lines at Collision height (0 to 25 m) Dominant Direction of Flight Peak Count Notes At Risk of Collision Impact Lesser Blackbacked Gull 4 2 East 4 - Low Mallard 11 6 Varied 13 - Moderate Meadow Pipit 3 3 West 14 Feeding in fields Low Peregrine 1 0 West 1 - No Red Kite 13 4 East - South West Redwing 2 1 North East - South West 1 - Moderate 16 - Low Snipe 2 2 West 1 - Low Sparrowhawk 1 1 West 1 - Low Starling 5 5 Varied 44 - Moderate Vantage Point 2 Two hundred and forty-nine flight lines were recorded from Vantage Point 2 through the winter. Table 2 Summary of all Winter Bird Survey Vantage Point 2 Flight Lines Common Name Total Number of Flight Lines Number of Flight Lines at Collision height (0 to 25 m) Dominant Direction of Flight Peak Count Notes At Risk of Collision Impact Black-headed Gull Varied 500 Feeding and loafing in fields with numerous short flights High Common Buzzard 9 4 Varied 2 - Moderate Goosander 1 1 West 2 Landed on river Low 15

19 Common Name Total Number of Flight Lines Number of Flight Lines at Collision height (0 to 25 m) Dominant Direction of Flight Peak Count Notes At Risk of Collision Impact Grey Heron 2 2 West 1 - Low Herring Gull East - West 120 Loafing in fields and bathing in river High Lesser Blackbacked gull 8 3 Varied 32 - Moderate Little Egret 2 2 Varied 1 - Low Mallard 2 1 Varied 4 - Low Meadow Pipit 1 1 South West 1 - Low Mixed gull flocks 18 8 West High Mute Swan 3 3 Varied 1 - Moderate Peregrine 1 0 North West 2 - No Pintail 1 1 West 2 - Low Red Kite 15 9 South 2 - High Redshank 1 1 North 1 - Low Redwing 4 4 Varied 48 - Moderate Shelduck 2 2 Varied 2 - Low Snipe 1 1 East 1 - Low Starling 5 4 South 26 - Moderate Teal 1 1 North 16 - Low Vantage Point 6 Two hundred and eighty-three flight lines were recorded from Vantage Point 6 through the winter. Table 3 Summary of all Winter Bird Survey Vantage Point 6 Flight Lines 16

20 Common Name Total Number of Flight Lines Number of Flight Lines at Collision height (0 to 25 m) Dominant Direction of Flight Peak Count Notes At Risk of Collision Impact Black-headed Gull 2 0 Varied 1 No Common Buzzard Varied 4 High Dipper 1 1 North - South 1 Up and down river corridor Low Fieldfare 2 1 West / South West 60 Low Goosander 3 3 North - South 2 Up and down river corridor Low Goshawk 1 0 South East 1 No Grey Heron 1 1 South 1 Low Greylag Goose 2 0 Varied 25 No Herring Gull 15 0 Varied 28 No Lesser Blackbacked Gull 3 0 West 8 No Mallard 1 0 South 3 No Peregrine Low Red Kite 17 5 South East 2 Moderate Redwing 4 2 Varied 60 Moderate Sparrowhawk 4 4 Varied 1 Moderate Starling 3 3 Varied 33 Moderate Transect Surveys A list of the birds recorded during transects through the winter are given in the tables below. The tables show the species and which months the bird was recorded in. Where species of higher conservation concern and that are more likely to be at risk of impacts from the Proposed Development are recorded, 17

21 these are shown in bold. Transect 1 Table 4 List of all species recorded at Transect 1 Common Name Oct Nov Dec Jan Feb Mar Blackbird Black-headed Gull Blue Tit Bullfinch Buzzard Chaffinch Crow Dunnock Fieldfare Goldfinch Great Spotted Woodpecker Great Tit Herring Gull House Sparrow Jackdaw Not surveyed no access 18

22 Common Name Oct Nov Dec Jan Feb Mar Magpie Meadow Pipit Mistle Thrush Nuthatch Red Kite Redwing Robin Rook Skylark Song Thrush Sparrowhawk Starling Wood Pigeon Wren 19

23 Transect 2 Table 5 List of all species recorded at Transect 2 Common Name Oct Nov Dec Jan Feb Mar Blackbird Blue Tit Buzzard Chaffinch Coal Tit Crow Dunnock Goldfinch Great Tit Greenfinch Herring Gull Long-tailed Tit Marsh Tit Meadow Pipit Mistle Thrush Nuthatch Not surveyed no access 20

24 Common Name Oct Nov Dec Jan Feb Mar Raven Red Kite Robin Skylark Starling Wood Pigeon Wren Transect 13 Table 6 List of all species recorded at Transect 13 Common Name Oct Nov Dec Jan Feb Mar Blackbird Blue Tit Bullfinch Buzzard Chaffinch Coal Tit Crow Dunnock 21

25 Common Name Oct Nov Dec Jan Feb Mar Goldcrest Goshawk Great Spotted Woodpecker Great Tit Greenfinch Jay Long-tailed Tit Magpie Marsh Tit Meadow Pipit Mistle Thrush Nuthatch Raven Red Kite Redwing Robin Song Thrush Sparrowhawk 22

26 Common Name Oct Nov Dec Jan Feb Mar Starling Treecreeper Wood Pigeon Wren Breeding Bird Surveys A description of the breeding bird survey areas are given in the section below along with a summary of the notable species recorded. Notable species detailed are all WCA Sch. 1 species or BoCC Red listed species. These species are shown in Figure 7. BBS area Breeding Bird Survey area 1 is at the southern end of the proposed route, south west of LLandyfaelog. This site comprises a wooded valley created by the Nant Morlais stream and some marshy grassland Notable species recorded were Red Kite (fly over only), Bullfinch (possible breeding), Herring Gull (fly over only), Lesser Redpoll (possible breeding), Song Thrush (probable breeding), Starling (possible breeding) and Willow Warbler (probable breeding) The assemblage totalled 31 species, typical of lowland woodland. BBS area Breeding Bird Survey area 3 is to the south of the A48, south of Nantycaws. It comprises lowland pasture fields with associated hedgerows and some areas of young conifer plantation. The farm buildings at Bwlchymynydd are included in the site. 23

27 Notable species recorded were Black-headed Gull (fly over only), Bullfinch (probable breeding), Cuckoo (possible breeding), Grasshopper Warbler (possible breeding), Herring Gull (fly over only), House Sparrow (probable breeding), Song Thrush (probable breeding), Starling (possible breeding) and Willow Warbler (confirmed breeding) The assemblage totalled 37 species, typical of the habitat present. BBS area Breeding Bird Survey area 5 is in the River Towy valley east of Carmarthen. It comprised lowland pasture adjacent to the River Towy together with associated field boundary hedgerows Notable species recorded were Cuckoo (possible breeding), Herring Gull (fly over only), Linnet (fly over only), Red Kite (possible breeding), Song Thrush (probable breeding) and Willow Warbler (possible breeding) The assemblage totalled 41 species and was typical of the habitat. BBS area Breeding Bird Survey area 7 is north east of Peniel near the A485. The habitat is primarily lowland pasture with hedgerow, but also has some small areas of deciduous woodland Notable species recorded were Bullfinch (possible breeding), Great Blackbacked Gull (fly over only), House Sparrow (probable breeding), Linnet (possible breeding), Red Kite (fly over only), Skylark (probable breeding), Song Thrush (probable breeding), Spotted Flycatcher (possible breeding) and Willow Warbler (probable breeding) The assemblage was typical of lowland farmland and totalled 39 species. BBS area 8 24

28 Breeding Bird Survey area 8 is north west of Rhydargaeau and both sides of the B4301. It has large areas of blanket bog and marshy grassland with hedgerows and areas of scrub Notable species recorded were Bullfinch (possible breeding), Cuckoo (possible breeding), Grasshopper Warbler (possible breeding), Herring Gull (fly over only), House Sparrow (possible breeding), Lapwing (possible breeding), Linnet (possible breeding), Red Kite (fly over only), Song Thrush (possible breeding), Tree Pipit (possible breeding), Tree Sparrow (possible breeding) and Willow Warbler (confirmed breeding) The assemblage totalled 48 species, which reflects the diversity of habitat on site. BBS area Breeding Bird Survey area 9 is just south west of Alltwalis and has the Nant Alltwalis stream and Allt Garedig woodland to the west. The site comprises pasture and marshy grassland fields with mature hedgerows Notable species recorded were Bullfinch (possible breeding), Cuckoo (possible breeding), Grasshopper Warbler (possible breeding), House Sparrow (possible breeding), Song Thrush (probable breeding), Swallow (possible breeding), Tree Pipit (probable breeding), Willow Tit (probable breeding) and Willow Warbler (confirmed breeding) The assemblage was typical of the habitats and totalled 37 species. Raptor Vantage Point Surveys The Vantage Point Surveys recorded a variety of raptor species in the Brechfa Forest area, all of which were species that were expected through information provided from the background data search and the habitats present. Additionally some wildfowl was also recorded. 25

29 A summary of the bird flight lines recorded at the vantage points are given in the tables below. The summary tables show the number of flight lines recorded, the number of flight lines recorded at collision risk height, notes on behaviour and the overall risk of collision impact on the species. Vantage Point Eight raptor flight lines were recorded from vantage point 1 through the breeding bird period. Table 7 Summary of all Raptor Vantage Point 1 Flight Lines Common Name Total Number of Flight Lines Number of Flight Lines at Collision height (0 to 25 m) Dominant Direction of Flight Peak Count Notes At Risk of Collision Impact Buzzard Mostly over valley - some displaying in March Low Goshawk Mobbed by Buzzard No Red Kite Drifted over No Sparrowha wk Male hunting Low Vantage Point Six raptor flight lines were recorded from vantage point 2 through the breeding 26

30 bird period. Table 8 Summary of all Raptor Vantage Point 2 Flight Lines Common Name Total Number of Flight Lines Number of Flight Lines at Collision height (0 to 25 m) Dominant Direction of Flight Peak Count Notes At Risk of Collision Impact Buzzard Fly overs - sometimes circling No Red Kite Fly overs - sometimes circling No 1.4 References Bibby, C.J., Burgess, N.D., Hill, D.A. & Mustoe, S. (1992). Bird Census Techniques. Academic Press, London. Eaton, M.A, Brown, A.F, Noble, D.G, Musgrove, A.J, Hearn, R., Aebischer, N.J, Gibbons, D.W, Evans, A, and Gregory, R.D. (2009) Birds of Conservation Concern 3: the population status of birds in the United Kingdom, Channel Islands and the Isle of Man. British Birds 102 pp European Ornithological Atlas Committee Categories of Breeding Bird Evidence. European Ornithological Atlas Committee. Gilbert, G., Gibbons, D. W. and Evans, J., Bird Monitoring Methods. RSPB. Hardey, J., Crick, H., Wernham, C., Riley, H. & Thompson, D. (2009): Raptors: a field guide to survey and monitoring. 2nd Edition Edinburgh: The Stationery Office. Prinsen, H.A.M., G.C. Boere, N. Píres & J.J. Smallie (Compilers), Review of 27

31 the conflict between migratory birds and electricity power grids in the African- Eurasian region. CMS Technical Series No. XX, AEWA Technical Series No. XX. Bonn, Germany. Scottish Natural Heritage ( revised 2010) Survey methods for use in assessing the impacts of onshore windfarms on bird communities (Guidance note). Scottish Natural Heritage, Edinburgh, Scotland. 1.5 Appendix 1 EOAC breeding bird assessment criteria Possible Breeding 1. Species observed in breeding season in possible nesting habitat. 2. Singing male(s) present (or breeding calls heard) in breeding season Probable Breeding 1. Pair observed in suitable nesting habitat in breeding season 2. Permanent territory presumed through registration of territorial behaviour (song, etc.) on at least two different days a week or more apart at the same place 3. Courtship and display 4. Visiting a probable nest site 5. Agitated behaviour or anxiety calls from adults 6. Brood patch on adult examined in the hand 7. Nest building or excavating nest hole Confirmed Breeding 1. Distraction display or injury feigning 2. Used nest or eggshells found (occupied or laid within period of survey) 3. Recently fledged young (nidicolous species) or downy young (nidifugous species) 4. Adults entering or leaving nest site in circumstances indicating occupied nest (including high nest or nest holes, the contents of which cannot be seen) or adult seen incubating 5. Adult carrying faecal sac or food for young 6. Nest containing eggs 28

32 7. Nest with young seen or heard 29

33 1.6 Appendix 2 All Weather Data from Bird Surveys Table 9 Weather Data for Breeding Bird Surveys Site Visit 1 Visit 2 Visit /04/ Calm, cloud 8/8, mild. 3 08/05/ SW3-4, light drizzle w/ occasional heavy rain 5 24/04/ Calm light mist then cloud 6/8 7 08/05/ Breezy, overcast, misty, some heavy rain 8 22/04/ Calm, cloud 8/8, light rain with heavier showers 9 15/05/2014. SW2, cloud 3/8, dry 19/05/ Dull, thunderstorm then sunny spells. 19/05/ Light winds, showers, warm. 20/05/ Light winds, humid, heavy showers. 20/05/ Overcast, warm, sunny spells 20/05/ Light winds, humid, heavy showers. 21/05/ Bright, sunny, dry. 09/06/ Calm, cloud 8/8, freq rain, dry spells. 09/06/ Overcast, mild, calm, some heavy showers. 10/06/ S 1-2, cloud 7/8, one brief shower 10/6/ Breezy, overcast, some rain. 10/06/ S 2-3, gusting 4, 7/8 cloud, dry 11/06/ SW1, 3/8 cloud, dry Table 10 Weather Data for Winter Bird Vantage Point Surveys VP Visit October November December January February March /10/ Wind1 Cloud6 18/11/ Wind2 Cloud6 Light drizzle 9/12/ Wind1 Cloud5 Dry, cloudy, still 13/01/ Wind3 Cloud8 Short spells of rain, dark clouds 12/02/ Wind2-5 Cloud8 Cold, overcast, light breeze with occasional strong gusts 03/03/ Wind1 Cloud6 Sunny intervals, cloud, light wind, cold 30

34 VP Visit October November December January February March /10/ Wind3-4 Cloud7 25/11/ Wind1 Cloud1 Dry, calm, sunny 12/12/ Wind2 Cloud7 Overcast with light rain towards end 29/01/ Wind2 Cloud7 Dry, cloudy, cold 19/02/ Wind2 Cloud8 Overcast light drizzle 6/3/ Wind1-2 Cloud8 Overcast, drizzle /10/ Wind2-3 Cloud8 26/11/ Wind1 Cloud8 Cold, dry, cloudy 12/12/ Wind3 Cloud8 Cloudy, cold, dull, misty, light rain 13/01/ Wind3 Cloud7 Dry, spells of sun, cold 13/2/ Wind3 Cloud4 03/03/ Sunny intervals, bright /10/ Wind0 Cloud8 27/11/ Wind2 Cloud4 Dry, cloudy, cold 17/12/ Wind1 Cloud4 Gentle breeze, slight sunny, partial mist. 28/01/ Wind2 Cloud7 Dry, cold, cloudy, dull 19/2/ Wind1 Cloud8 Drizzle 18/03/ Wind3 Cloud /10/ Wind1 Cloud 5 Some light rain 18/11/ Wind1 Cloud6 Dry, cool, still 9/12/ Wind1 Cloud6 Sunny, calm, cold 16/01/ Wind3 Cloud7 High dark cloud, cold breeze 11/2/ Wind2-4 Cloud6 Cold, sunny spells, occ gusts of wind 5/3/ Wind1 Cloud8 Dry, cloudy /10/ Wind2-3 Cloud 8 Mild, overcast some light rain 26/11/ Wind1 Cloud 8 Dry, cold, still 12/12/ Wind1 Cloud8 Cold and damp 29/01/ Wind1 Cloud4 Cold, dry 14/2/ Wind4-7 Cloud8 Cold, overcast, continuous rain with occassional downpours 6/3/ Wind2 Cloud8 31

35 Table 11 Weather Data for Raptor Vantage Point Surveys Vantage Point March April May June July VP 1 20/03/ Cloud 8/8, wind 4-5, occasional light rain. 10/04/ Mist 6-9 intermittent, wind 1. 16/05/ Cloud 1, wind 1. 10/06/ Cloud 7-8/8, wind S3, occasional rain. 15/07/ Cloud 6-8/8, wind W-NW2, dry. VP 2 26/03/ Wind 1, cloud 8/8, cold 24/04/ Cloud 2/8, wind 1, dry. 21/05/ Cloud 4/8, wind 0, dry. 10/06/ Cloud 7/8, Wind S2, short rain showers. 15/07/ Cloud 6/8, wind NW1, dry. Table 12 Weather Data for Winter Bird Transect Surveys Transect October November December January February March 1 30/10/13 Wind4 Cloud4 8C 28/11/13 Wind2 Cloud3 7C 18/12/2013 Wind4 11C Cloud8 28/01/2014 8C Wind2 Cloud7 12/02/2014 8C Wind2 Cloud7 05/03/2014 6C Wind0 Cloud6 2 30/10/13 Wind4 Cloud4 8C 28/11/3 Wind2 Cloud3 7C 18/12/2013 Wind4 11C Cloud8 28/01/2014 8C Wind2 Cloud7 13/02/2014 5C Wind1 Cloud4 Showers 05/03/2014 6C Wind0 Cloud /10/ Wind4-5 Cloud8 Very wet 21/11/13 Wind4-5 Cloud3 28/11/13 Wind3 Cloud8 5'C 10/12/ C Wind5 Cloud6 14/01/2014 Minus2C Wind0 Cloud2 11/02/2014 4C Wind7 Cloud7 04/03/2014 7C Wind3 Cloud4 32

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