Birds of Mys Shmidta, north Chukotka, Russia

A survey of avifauna was carried out in the Mys Shmidta area, north Chukotka, Russia from 8 June to 12 July 2011. A total of 90 species was recorded in the area, which together with literature data made a final list of 104 species. For several species this area is beyond the northern, north-eastern or north-western limits of their known distribution. We collected new data for 19 globally or locally threatened species. Tundra Swan Cygnus columbianus, Emperor Goose Anser canagica, American Golden Plover Pluvialis dominica, Western Sandpiper Calidris mauri, Semipalmated Sandpiper C. pusilla, Northern House Martin Delichon urbica and Barn Swallow Hirundo rustica were all confirmed to be breeding. Breeding of Brent Goose Branta bernicla nigricans, Spectacled Eider Somateria fischeri and Steller's Eider Polysticta stelleri was judged to be 'very likely'. There was no evidence for breeding of Ross's Gull Rhodostethia rosea despite several records. Two Eurasian Dotterels Eudromias morinellus were recorded displaying for the first time in the area, but the status of the species is unclear. The area is important for Snowy Owl Nyctea scandiaca, and as moulting grounds for Emperor Goose. Canada Goose Branta canadensis, Baikal Teal Anas formosa, Bar-tailed Godwit Limosa lapponica, Slaty-backed Gull Larus schistisagus, Thayer's Gull L. thayeri, Black-headed Gull L. ridibundus, White-tailed Eagle Haliaeetus albicilla, Steller's Sea Eagle H. pelagicus, Osprey Pandion haliaetus, Arctic Warbler Phylloscopus borealis and House Sparrow Passer domesticus are more likely to be rare vagrants or migrants. An observation of a Pine Siskin Carduelis pinus is the first record for Eurasia.