If you are fortunate enough to find an uncommon or rare bird within our recording area then you should describe your findings on our Description Species Form and return to the respective county recorder. Even if the validity of the record is to be decided by the WRP or BBRC, then the preferred procedure is to submit the record locally so that the appropriate recorder is aware of it, and for it to be referred on as appropriate.
By making good, clear and accurate notes at the time of the sighting you will increase your chances of a successful outcome. It is important to remember that it is the responsibility of the observer to prove, to the committee, in their description that the claimed sighting is an accurate one.
The form is in three parts. The top, clear tables headed Glamorgan Rarities Committee, are for the use of the committee when deliberating the record and should remain clear. The following, banded tables are for the observer to enter the important information regarding the sighting environment and observer details. The third part allows you to detail, in depth, the circumstances surrounding the sighting and should also detail a full description and your evaluation of the species claimed. If you have taken photos and are able to do so, they can be embedded within your description on the form, provided they do not make the file size too large for e-mailing.
The committee receives many submitted forms throughout the year and the process of assessing them all is a time consuming one. To help this process run smoothly we advise you first and foremost to include clear notes and to complete and return them promptly, thus avoiding a backlog of forms towards the end of the year. If at all possible please return the forms by email.
Please also take time to visit the Description Guidelines page(above) where further useful information is available.
Direct copy from Glamorgan Birds web site - click here
If you encounter any problems then you can alternatively contact your recorder who will email a copy to you.
