Banbury Ornithological Society - 1889 - The Birds of Oxfordshire, O.V. Aplin

This book, published by Oliver V. Aplin in 1889, presents the first definitive list of the birds of Oxfordshire. Aplin was a resident of Bloxham, just outside of Banbury, so there is a significant amount of content relating to the BOS coverage area.The bulk of the book is given over to a species-by-species account of all of the birds that were regarded has having occured within the county along with their current status.

The frontspiece is notable for giving pride of place to an Alpine Chough, shot in the locality, but much disputed, even at that time, as not being a wild bird but rather more likely being an escape.

There are 242 species listed, of which 60 are classified as resident and 71 migrants, the rest being occasional or accidental visitors. 92 species are noted as being regular breeders.

A digital copy of the book can be downloaded and read from this link: The Birds of Oxfordshire.

Sean Woodcock, MP for Banbury visited the BOS reserve at Balscote Quarry recently, to see conservation in action. Steve Holliday, one of the site wardens said, “Balscote may be a small site (6ha) but, through positive management, it holds Red List birds such as Lapwing and Yellowhammer, 24 species of butterfly and much more." We looked at the vital role volunteers play in habitat management on site and, in light of BOS data on local bird declines, how we can develop a more joined-up approach to nature conservation locally. We finished by discussing how new proposals in the Planning and Infrastructure Bill can benefit, not harm, biodiversity.

A walk round Farnborough Lakes and Woodland

Take Main Street into Farnborough from the A423 – the Southam to Banbury road - where Rachel and Gary will meet us at the Village Hall, (post code: OX17 1ED) where there is parking for about 10 cars. Please car share where possible and park responsibly in the village if the car park is full.

The walk from the Village Hall is less than half a mile downhill to the lakes. Those who would prefer a shorter walk or to avoid walking back up the hill later may like to park in the National Trust carpark at the bottom of the hill by the side of the lakes. Wait there for the main group to join you. Read more ...

1889 - The Birds of Oxfordshire, O.V. Aplin

Sean Woodcock MP visits Balscote Quarry

Outdoor Meeting: 10 August 2026 @ 7pm