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diff --git a/.gitattributes b/.gitattributes new file mode 100644 index 0000000..d7b82bc --- /dev/null +++ b/.gitattributes @@ -0,0 +1,4 @@ +*.txt text eol=lf +*.htm text eol=lf +*.html text eol=lf +*.md text eol=lf diff --git a/LICENSE.txt b/LICENSE.txt new file mode 100644 index 0000000..6312041 --- /dev/null +++ b/LICENSE.txt @@ -0,0 +1,11 @@ +This eBook, including all associated images, markup, improvements, +metadata, and any other content or labor, has been confirmed to be +in the PUBLIC DOMAIN IN THE UNITED STATES. + +Procedures for determining public domain status are described in +the "Copyright How-To" at https://www.gutenberg.org. + +No investigation has been made concerning possible copyrights in +jurisdictions other than the United States. Anyone seeking to utilize +this eBook outside of the United States should confirm copyright +status under the laws that apply to them. diff --git a/README.md b/README.md new file mode 100644 index 0000000..24855ca --- /dev/null +++ b/README.md @@ -0,0 +1,2 @@ +Project Gutenberg (https://www.gutenberg.org) public repository for +eBook #65609 (https://www.gutenberg.org/ebooks/65609) diff --git a/old/65609-0.txt b/old/65609-0.txt deleted file mode 100644 index 3c9158d..0000000 --- a/old/65609-0.txt +++ /dev/null @@ -1,6459 +0,0 @@ -The Project Gutenberg eBook of Report on the Migration of Birds in the -Spring and Autumn of 1883., by J. A. Harvie Brown - -This eBook is for the use of anyone anywhere in the United States and -most other parts of the world at no cost and with almost no restrictions -whatsoever. You may copy it, give it away or re-use it under the terms -of the Project Gutenberg License included with this eBook or online at -www.gutenberg.org. If you are not located in the United States, you -will have to check the laws of the country where you are located before -using this eBook. - -Title: Report on the Migration of Birds in the Spring and Autumn of - 1883. - Fifth Report - -Author: J. A. Harvie Brown - J. Cordeaux - R. M. Barrington - A. G. More - -Release Date: June 13, 2021 [eBook #65609] - -Language: English - -Character set encoding: UTF-8 - -Produced by: Tom Cosmas compiled from materials made freely available on - The Internet Archive and placed in the Public Domain. - -*** START OF THE PROJECT GUTENBERG EBOOK REPORT ON THE MIGRATION OF BIRDS -IN THE SPRING AND AUTUMN OF 1883. *** - - - - - -Transcriber Note - -Text emphasis denoted as _Italics_ and =Bold=. - - - - - REPORT - - ON THE - - =MIGRATION OF BIRDS= - - IN THE - - SPRING AND AUTUMN OF 1883. - - - BY - - Mr. J. A. HARVIE BROWN, Mr. J. CORDEAUX, - Mr. R. M. BARRINGTON, and Mr. A. G. MORE. - - - - =FIFTH REPORT.= - - - "A good practical naturalist must be a good observer; and how many - qualities are required to make up a good observer! Attention, - patience, quickness to seize separate facts, discrimination to keep - them unconfused, readiness to combine them, and rapidity and yet - slowness of induction; above all, perfect fidelity, which can be - seduced neither by the enticements of a favourite theory nor by - the temptation to see a little more than actually happens in some - passing drama."--_Essays, Bishop Wilberforce, Vol. I._ - - - LONDON: - - PRINTED BY WEST, NEWMAN & CO., 54, HATTON GARDEN. - - 1884. - - - - -PREFACE. - - -The following Report contains a summary of investigations of the -Committee re-appointed by the British Association for the Advancement -of Science, at Southport, in 1883, to consist of Professor Newton, Mr. -J. A. Harvie Brown, Mr. John Cordeaux, Mr. W. Eagle Clarke, Mr. R. M. -Barrington, and Mr. A. G. More, for the purpose of obtaining (with -the consent of the Master and Elder Brethren of the Trinity House, -the Commissioners of Northern Lights, and the Commissioners of Irish -Lights) observations on the Migration of Birds at Lighthouses and -Lightships, and of reporting on the same at Montreal, Canada, in 1884. -Mr. Cordeaux to be the Secretary. - -The returns relating to Scotland have been arranged by Mr. J. A. Harvie -Brown; for the East Coast of England, by Mr. Cordeaux; and those for -the Coasts of Ireland, by Mr. R. M. Barrington and Mr. A. G. More. -No return has been received by the Committee from the West Coast of -England and the Isle of Man. - - - - -CONTENTS. - - - PAGE - - East Coast of Scotland 1 - - East Coast of England 33 - - West Coast of Scotland 63 - - Coasts of Ireland 82 - - -FIFTH REPORT - -ON - -THE MIGRATION OF BIRDS - -IN THE - -SPRING AND AUTUMN OF 1883. - - - "We had a succession of black nights going up the river, and it was - observable that whenever we landed and suddenly inundated the trees - with the intense sun-burst of the Electric Light, a certain curious - effect was always produced: hundreds of birds flocked instantly out - from the masses of shining green foliage, and went careering hither - and thither through the white rays, and often a song bird turned - up and fell to singing. We judged that they mistook this superb - artificial day for the genuine article."--Mark Twain, in '_Life on - the Mississippi_,' p. 452. - - "Yea, even the fowl-- - That through the polar summer months could see - A beauty in Spitzbergen's naked isles, - Or on the drifted icebergs seek a home-- - Even they had fled, on southern wing, in search - Of less inclement shores."--_The Fowler._ - - - - -EAST COAST OF SCOTLAND, &c. - - -From Skykkesholm, in Iceland, comes our first return from that country -since the commencement of our work. M. Thorlacius, to whom we are -indebted for this return, writes as follows:--"As this list cannot -nearly comprise all the Icelandic birds of passage, of which especially -the sea-birds are wanting, I shall complete this by next mail, and send -you the continuation along with a complete list of the appearances of -birds of passage in the present year (1883). The dates quoted opposite -each species is the day on which they were first observed here. The -approximate date of departure will be given later." - -The following notes are copied direct from M. Thorlacius' schedule, and -are most useful to the Committee, serving as they do as finger-posts -on the route of migration, indicating the important dates of arrival -at their breeding-quarters of Icelandic summer migrants. When M. -Thorlacius sends his autumn departures of migrants and the other good -things he so kindly promises us, we will have useful standpoints, -the spaces between which can be more easily filled in when these are -fixed:-- - -Skykkesholm, Iceland, 1882, lat. 65° 4′ N.; long. 22° 43′ W. - - April 7th, _Turdus iliacus_, S., very fresh; rain. - May 8th, _Saxicola œnanthe_, S.E., light air; clear. - April 24th, _Motacilla alba_, N.E., stormy; clear. - May 24th, _Anthus pratensis_, N.E., storm; light showers. - April 25th, _Scolopax gallinago_, N.E., storm; light showers. - April 19th, _Totanus calidris,_ E., very fresh; dry. - May 11th, _Numenius phæopus_, N.E., very fresh; light showers. - April 17th, _Charadrius pluvialis_, N.E., very fresh; clear. - April 19th, _Tringa alpina_, N.E., very fresh; clear. - May 3rd, _T. cinerea_, E., blowing hard; clear. - April 29th, _Strepsilas collaris_, N.E., storm; snow showers. - April 26th, _Tringa hiaticula_, N.E., storm; dry. - May 23rd, _Phalaropus cinerea_, N.E., blowing hard; clear. - May 24th, _P. platyrhincha_, N.E., storm; snow showers. - April 9th, _Falco cæsius_, N.E., very fresh; rain. - April 9th, _Limosa melanura_, N.E., very fresh; rain. - April 9th, _Hæmatopus ostralegus_, N.E., very fresh; rain. - March 30th, _H. ostralegus._ - April 30th, _Fringilla linaria_, N.E. storm, cloudy; rain. - April 30th, _Loxia serinus_, N.E. storm, cloudy; rain. - March 15th, _Uria grylle_, N.E.; clear. - March 15th, _U. brunnichii_, N.E.; clear. - March 15th, _U. troile_, N.E.; clear. - March 15th, _U. alle_, N.E.; clear. - March 15th, _Alca torda_, N.E.; clear, hard. - April 25th, _Mormon fratercula_, N.E., very fresh. - April 30th, _Carbo cormoranus_, N.E., light air. - April 30th, _C. graculus_, N.E., light air. - April 30th, _Puffinus arcticus_, N.E., light air. - -Faroe.--From Faroe, thanks again to our friend Herr H. C. Müller, we -have the following report, some twelve entries or so between Jan. 1st -and Sept. 10th, 1883:-- - -On Jan. 1st three Wild Swans, _C. musicus_, seen flying S. at noon. On -April 28th one _Gallinula chloropus_, Waterhen, taken alive in Vaay -in Bordó. Between May 3rd and 11th several White Wagtails seen during -N.N.E., stormy, with snow at different localities in the islands. On -May 27th two Red-necked Phalaropes were seen on the sea near Thorshavn -during S.W. wind, moderate, with showers of rain. - -In August White Wagtails again appeared, when several were seen on the -21st at Thorshavn at noon, fresh W. breeze and clear. Between Aug. 28th -and Sept. 10th, Whimbrels (see under Whimbrel, Curlew) were preparing -for departure, and disappeared on the last-named date. During this time -the winds were from N.W. on Aug. 28th by N. to N.E. on Aug. 30th to -Sept. 3rd, and W. on the 10th, the day of departure. - -_Note._--Herr H. C. Müller informs me that a lighthouse will be -shortly erected at Nossoe, in Faroe, eighty feet above the sea. Herr -Müller considers that this will prove a good station for observing -birds during migration. Suderöe would also be a good observatory. -He also told me of the occurrence, for the first time, of _Sciurus -noveboracensis_ at Nordtalik, Greenland, about May, 1882; and of the -occurrence also of a young Sabine's Gull at the same place. I have a -young Sabine's Gull, brought home last year (1883) by the whalers to -Dundee. - -Of the progress of the scheme of accumulation of migrational data in -other parts of the world, we may notice here that Dr. Arthur proposes -to take up the subject at the lighthouses in New Zealand, and will send -the Committee his schedules for arrangement. - -Our American friends have made a promising start with similar -intentions, but of a much wider scope, as is shown by the circular, -which we here reprint, as it will show to our reporters other -collateral subjects which offer plenty of opportunity for observation, -and which can easily be made as applicable here as in North America, as -regards our commoner species. Schedules somewhat more elaborate than -ours have been issued also to lighthouses in America:-- - -"At the first congress of the American Ornithologists' Union, held in -New York City, Sept. 26th-28th, 1883, a Committee on the Migration of -Birds was appointed. It is the purpose of this Committee to investigate -in all its bearings, and to the fullest extent possible, the subject -of the migration of birds in the United States and British North -America. The work will not be limited to the accumulation of records -of the times of arrival and departure of the different species, but -will embrace the collection of all data that may aid in determining -the causes which influence the progress of migration from season to -season. For example, severe storms, gales of wind, protracted periods -of unusually high or low temperature (for the locality and time of -year) are among the atmospheric conditions that are known to exert -marked effects upon the movements of birds. The opening of the leaves -and the flowering of certain plants, with the correlative appearance -of a multitude of insects, are also among the factors that have to do -with the abundance of many species. Hence the careful registration -of certain meteorological phenomena, and of the state of advancing -vegetation from day to day, will constitute prominent items in the -record books of the observer. - -"For convenience in collecting and arranging the enormous mass of -material which will be accumulated by the joint labours of this army -of field workers, it has been deemed advisable to divide the vast -expanse of territory embraced in the United States and British North -America into thirteen districts, each of which will be placed under the -immediate direction of a competent superintendent." - -Some time ago we received application from China for schedules -and letters of instructions, but as yet we have had no further -communication from that quarter. We would be glad to hear of the scheme -being started there also. Most of the lighthouse-keepers there are -Scotch and English. - -The ordinary papers were sent to thirty stations on the East Coast of -Scotland, Faroe, and Iceland, as in former years. Twelve stations on -this coast have sent in forty-two schedules out of the twenty-six E.C. -stations of Scotland. All returns are much lighter than in 1882, and -this is more readily noticed when we compare the numbers of schedules -returned from our principal stations. Thus, from Sumburgh Head we have -three; from Pentland Skerries twelve (three more than in 1882); from -Bell Rock two; and from Isle of May only ten, as against nineteen in -1882. - - East Coast of Scotland. - - '79 '80 '81 '82 '83 - * * * 4. N. Unst, Shetland 230 ft. J. Edgar. - * * * 5. Whalsey Skerries, Shet. 143 " - * 6. Bressay, Shetland 105 " - * * * * * 7. Sumburgh Head, Shet. 300 " D. M. Scott. - Land Notes.--7B. Fair Isle. - - Orkney. - - * * * * 8. North Ronaldshay 140 " - 9. Start Point 80 " - * * * * * 10. Auskerry 110 " J. McDonald. - 11. Hoy Sound (Low) 55 " - 12. Hoy Sound (High) 115 " - 13. Cantick Head 115 " - * * * * * 14. Pentland Skerries 170 " {D. McDonald.† - {J. Gilmour. - - Mainland. - - * * * * 15. Dunnet Head, Caithness 346 " D. Laidlaw. - 16. Holborn Head, Caithness 75 " D. Laidlaw. - * 17. Noss Head, Caithness 175 " A. Greig. - * 18. Tarbat Ness, East Ross 175 " W. Davidson.‡ - * * * 19. Cromarty, E. Cromarty 60 " R. S. Ritson. - * * 20. Chanonry, Point Elgin 40 " J. McGill.§ - * 21. Covesea Skerries 160 " - 22. Kinnaird Head, Aberdeen 120 "‖ - 23. Buchan Ness, Aberdeen 130 " - * 24. Girdleness, Aberdeen 185 " - 25. Montroseness, Aberdeen 124 "¶ - * * * * * 26. Bell Rock, Fife Coast 93 " J. Jack. - * * * * * 27. I. of May, Firth of Forth 240 " J. Agnew. - * * * * 28. Inchkeith, F. of Forth 220 " R. Grierson. - 29. St. Abb's Head, Berwicks 224 " - -† Mr. D. McDonald removed from Pentland Skerries to Skervuile (W. -C.) about July 26th, up to which time he sent returns from Pentland -Skerries. Thereafter Mr. J. Gilmour took in hand the returns at the -latter station. - -‡ I have to thank Mr. W. Davidson for the first schedule received -from Tarbat Ness. Between Aug. 15th and Oct. 30th there are only -eleven entries,' all light, of ten different dates only. This schedule -is valuable for its negative evidence, just as other more favoured -localities for migrants give valuable positive evidence. Can I not -induce others to return even empty schedules at the end of the year, -with the simple remark "No Birds" or "Few Birds" attached, if such is -the case? Then our Committee would have certainty to go by, not merely -hypothesis. Mr. Davidson gives me the further information regarding -this station, that he observed no further migration since Oct. 30th, -the weather being so mild. It is usually before any changes in the -weather that we see any birds passing here besides the birds which -frequent the locality. The situation of Tarbat Ness is a very high -tower, 175 feet, and is joined to farmhouses. It is not much sheltered, -the tower being on the bare point. At some seasons great quantities of -birds are seen (_in lit._, Jan. 20th, 1884). - -§ At Chanonry lighthouse the schedule, again kindly returned by Mr. -McGill, pretty clearly indicates and illustrates the action of local -migrations. Thus he tells us:--"There are plenty of Black Crows, which -fly between this and Nairn every day for feeding in the morning, and -fly back at night. A great many grey ducks come down on this Firth for -the purpose of feeding. It would seem they do not migrate. There are -several flocks of birds which seem to fly north the one day and in a -few days to fly back to the south; they seem to be the same flocks -that have been feeding." From Chanonry Mr. McGill writes:--"Only one -bird has struck the lantern since I came here in the summer of 1882, -and only two lighted on the lantern. None killed." The returns from -this station almost all relate to local movements, but are not on this -account less valuable, but rather more so, as giving good opportunity -of making comparisons and deductions. Most of the occurrences are -attended by highly developed pressures, squalls, strong breezes, &c., -but the directions of these are not given. - -‖ Mr. D. M. Scott, who left this station, removed to Sumburgh Head. -He sent the description of a bird from Kinnaird Head in 1882, but no -schedule. Scarcity is the true reason of lack of returns from this -station. Mr. Scott has sent well-filled schedules since from Sumburgh -Head. - -¶ "No Birds" at Montroseness, reason given for absence of returns in -1882 (_q.v._). - -From Kinnaird Head Lighthouse I have the following reply to my -inquiry:--"Birds at this lighthouse are every year getting more scarce, -as the town is now extended to the lighthouse, and cooperage works at -the very gate make much noise, and sparks of fire fly about whilst -making the barrels." At the same time Mr. D. M. Scott, now at Sumburgh -Head, tells me he has once caught, in one watch, forty-eight Starlings -at the lantern, and some Thrushes. - -I have also to thank Mr. Alexander Greig for the first return from Noss -Head. The movements of Gannets, as related there, cannot fail to be of -use to the Committee. Mr. Greig says, "There has been great scarcity of -birds this last year, except those which are generally with us." - -Through Mr. Thomas Southwell's kindness I have received a few items -of interest from the log of the whaler 'Eclipse,' Capt. D. Gray. -Also a note from Mr. T. H. Nelson, taken on board the 'Camoens,' 150 -miles N.N.W. of Orkney; as also a note or two, through the kindness -of Mr. Robert Gray, taken on board the 'Marathon' in the Atlantic by -Mr. Thomas Anderson. These are now given; and the land notes will be -entered after the paragraphs on each species or group. - -'Eclipse.'--March 28th, 1883, 70° 7′ north, 3° 40′ west, saw -but one Hooded Seal to-day, but plenty of Rotches, Looms, Snow -Birds, and Mallemauks. April 19th, 69° 53′ north, 5° 30′ west, -saw a few Bottlenose Whales, and at night a Merlin lighted on the -fore-topsail-yard, and there fell asleep, and was afterwards caught. -He seemed very tired and weak. I made a box for him, and fed him on -small pieces of meat. April 22nd, the Hawk seems to be thriving; he is -kept below during the day and on deck when it is fine. April 24th, 68° -29' north, 9° 12′ west, let the Hawk away at 10 a.m. He flew straight -to S.W. At 2 p.m. spoke the 'Catharine' brig. Whilst speaking the -'Catharine' I was astonished to see my old friend the Hawk sitting on -one leg in the lower quarter boat, looking very disconsolate, and, -when scared, immediately flew to the 'Catharine.' He had evidently -come across that vessel at sea, and had flown on board her. May 2nd, -68° 20′ north, 11° 30′ west, a great many birds about the ship, a few -hundreds of Mallemauks, and numerous Snow Birds, Burgomasters, Snow -Buntings, two Eider Ducks, and one Iceland Falcon. May 4th, the vessel -was followed by a good many Mallemauks, Burgomasters, Snow Birds, &c. -May 18th, 69° 37′ north, 9° 9′ east, in the morning a Loom alighted -on the main-topsail-yard, and Rotches have been numerous, besides the -usual number of Mallemauks, Kittiwakes, Snow Birds, and Burgomasters. -May 22nd, 69° 59′ 3° west, about 65 miles N.N.E. from Jan Mayen, "a -few Bottlenose Whales seen during the day, and several Black-headed -Gulls and Whimbrels." [This is an interesting note in the distribution -of the Whimbrel, which species Capt. Gray knows well, having brought -home skins before now, all the way from the coast of S. Greenland, and -others have arrived, brought by other whalers, at least two of which -are in our collection.--J. A. H. B.] June 10th (70° 32′ north, 1° 29′ -west), a Swallow or Martin seen. May 16th (about 67° 41′ north, 14° -34′ west), two birds known at home as Wheatears and Water Wagtails -["Watee Wagtails" (_sic_) local in Forfar.--J. A. H. B.] came on board -and died. They were experiencing very heavy weather at the time. - -'Marathon.'--October 12th, 1883 (46° 43′ north, 35° 39′ west), six or -seven Snow Buntings flew on board, winter plumage, wind fresh N.W., and -only two remained, the others leaving to go to another vessel passed by -the 'Marathon.' The other vessel had a deck-load of wood.--R. G. - -'Camoens.'--Mr. T. H. Nelson writes:--"A friend of mine took a trip to -Iceland in the 'Camoens' last October. On Oct. 14th, 150 miles N.N.W. -of Orkney, a Starling flew on board. On the journey both there and -back, _viz._, between Oct. 18th and Dec. 3rd, a great many small birds -were seen _flying south_, but my friend was not well enough versed in -Ornithology to be able to identify them." - -Notes are presented upon about seventeen species of water-fowl and -fifty-four species of land birds, and about thirteen species of waders -or littoral species, by our east coast reporters. - -Spring migration having been more considerable this season, I keep -separate in this Report. - -The movements recorded occupy the whole year, from date of February to -June, during spring, and from date of July to January, during autumn. - - -Separate Report under Genera and Species. - -Turdidæ.--In spring a considerable migration noticed at certain -stations, _viz._, Pentland Skerries, Bell Rock, and Isle of May. -Began Feb. 2nd, when a rush of Song Thrushes took place at Bell -Rock, and terminated May 10th, when, and upon the 9th, there were -indications of another rush of Fieldfares and Ring Ouzels. Whilst Song -Thrushes, Redwings, and Blackbirds seem usually to travel together, -the larger-winged Fieldfares and Ring Ouzels are usually associated -in our returns, though not invariably. Although this spring migration -was spread over such a very considerable time, none of the returns -are very heavy; but indications of rushes are sufficiently distinct. -At Bell Rock, as above stated, on Feb. 2nd, strong E.N.E., with haze. -Fieldfares and Ring Ouzels; at Isle of May, on March 2nd, light W., -clear, Thrushes and Blackbirds--a decided but not large rush, which -stopped abruptly with wind changing to gales from S.E. to E.N.E. and -to N.W. (see Third Report, General Remarks, p. 67.--J. A. H. B.). In -April, light but fairly continuous entries at Pentland Skerries and -Isle of May, but little indication of a general movement, except on -April 27th, when a good many Fieldfares and Ring Ouzels were noted at -Isle of May, wind fresh S.E. Prevailing winds up to termination of -spring migration, easterly along whole coast. On May 2nd, and again on -9th and 10th, there were faint indications of rushes at Isle of May, -principally of Fieldfares. - -In autumn the migration was pronounced, and confined principally to -October and November. Yet the earliest record we have yet received in -Scotland in our schedules occurred on Aug. 28th, at Isle of May, of -two Song Thrushes, followed by a single record on Sept. 21st; also -at Isle of May, "a few Redwings and Ring Ouzels." Again, passing at -present over October and November, only one record in December of a -solitary Fieldfare on the 5th; and in January, 1884, a flock on the -7th and three birds on the 22nd, during a wild W. gale. The month of -October has many entries, and I find the word "rush" opposite the -following dates and stations:--At Pentland Skerries and Isle of May, -but not at Bell Rock, on 13th-15th, hundreds of Redwings and Ring -Ouzels, also Blackbirds and Thrushes, besides many other birds whose -names I will give later. Also at N. Unst a few stragglers rested on -the 16th, and then flew south, with strong S.E. wind and haze. Again, -from about Oct. 28th to Nov. 5th, a great movement, developing into -vast rushes, between Oct. 30th and Nov. 3rd, on which latter day a -Dipper (_Cinclus_) was seen on the Isle of May; twice fired at for -the collection, but escaped. The stations, N. Unst, Sumburgh Head, -Pentland Skerries, Tarbat Ness, Bell Rock, and Isle of May participated -(maximum at Isle of May), but also large numbers at Pentland Skerries, -Bell Rock, and goodly appearance at Sumburgh Head on Nov. 1st. On -Oct. 13th-15th wind was S., but shifted to W. at Isle of May. On -Oct. 28th and 29th wind was S., light and clear; and on 30th to Nov. -1st still prevailing southerly and westerly. Mr. Agnew states that -the rush on 13th-15th was the largest ever witnessed by him at Isle -of May with a due S. wind, S.E. being usually the most productive. -Having detailed the movements and given dates and circumstances of -these rushes, I will now name the other species which participated -in them, and refer back to this paragraph afterwards throughout the -Report. During the October rush, 13th-15th, Redwings in hundreds; Ring -Ouzels, Bramblings, Larks, Woodcock, Short-eared Owl, Yellow Bunting, -Eider Ducks in large flocks; Chaffinches, Crows (Carrion and Hooded), -Jackdaws (the largest flock ever seen at Isle of May), Bramblings, -Tree Sparrows, Blackbirds, Thrushes, and one Missel Thrush; besides, -in smaller numbers. Wagtails, Redstarts, Hawks, &c. During the great -October to November rush the following participated: Sandpipers, Snow -Buntings, Skylarks, as far as N. Unst; and southwards. Lapwings, Grey -Crows, Robins (smaller numbers), Linnets, Chaffinches, Starlings. At -Sumburgh Head a large migration of Thrushes, with Starlings, Larks, and -Linnets; many killed. At Pentland Skerries rush began on 20th, and also -at Isle of May, principally _Turdidæ_ and _Emberizidæ_. At Bell Rock, -on Oct. 31st--Nov. 1st, rush began at 7 a.m. Mr. Jack writes:--"Immense -numbers killed. I have no doubt they were killed in hundreds. What we -think were Woodcocks struck with great force. Birds continued flying -within the influence of the rays of light till the first streak of day, -continually striking hard all night, and falling into the sea. Although -we cannot be sure, we think there was a great number of Woodcocks -struck and fell into the sea."[1] Species of _Turdidæ_ seven, including -_Cinclus_. - -[Footnote 1: What a loss of useful food to the lighthouse-keepers, -which might perhaps be saved to them by a few long poles and an old -herring-net stretched round and outside the balcony. This fact is -surely worthy of the attention of the Commissioners and all Directors -of our Lighthouse Stations.] - -Saxicolinæ.--In spring considerable arrival of at Pentland Skerries, -Bell Rock, and Isle of May. Earliest (a single Stonechat (_vera_) -_S. rubicola_) on March 20th, at Isle of May, with light E. wind and -haze. [N.B.--In our Third Report, p. 8, the first record was on 29th -of Wheatear, but this record in Mr. Agnew's schedule was entered as -"Stonechat." Owing to the confusion existing between the Wheatear and -"Stonechat" it is usually almost impossible to know to which the name -Stonechat is applied. The true Stonechat is very like a Whinchat, -and in no respect resembles the Wheatear, except in the sound of its -voice.] The next earliest was of three Redstarts (or Firetails), on -March 29th, also at Isle of May, S.E. fresh, haze. Indications of a -rush of Wheatears between April 5th and 13th, at Isle of May; and much -lighter indications of single birds at same dates at Pentland Skerries. -Redstarts scarce; two on April 27th, one on 26th at Isle of May, and -a few at same place. These in every instance with light or fresh S.E. -winds in April, and light N.E. in May. - -In autumn a considerable migration, commencing on August 20th; first -record at Isle of May--"Stonechat" [one earlier record occurs at same -place on July 14th, but it is perhaps difficult to say to what this -belongs, as Wheatears breed annually on Isle of May]; one killed at -lantern. Fresh N.W. wind, and terminating as far as schedules indicate, -by Nov. 11th. In this statement are included Wheatears, "Stonechats," -[true Stonechats identified], Redstarts; but there are no records at -any stations of Wheatears or Stonechats between Sept. 12th and Nov. -1st. October is, curiously enough, entirely blank of any returns of -_Saxicolinæ_, and there are only two records in November. The rushes -took place end of August, culminating on the night of Sept. 2nd-3rd, -when a great rush of Wheatears, Redstarts, and also Chiffchaffs, Robins -and Sedge Warblers, Wood Warblers, and Golden and Grey Plovers took -place. The absence of any record of Thrushes or _Turdidæ_ at this date -at any of the stations is noteworthy. Mr. Agnew writes:--"The night -of Sept. 2nd was very stormy, wind S.E., shifting to N.E., with heavy -rain. The birds were all in large numbers throughout the night, except -a Blue-throated Warbler, adult, which was solitary." On the 12th, -nearly all Wheatears left the Isle of May. On the 4th, at Pentland -Skerries, a rush all day with strong N. wind and rain. Indications at -Bell Rock very faint throughout. In the vast rush of _Turdidæ_ and -other species (see _Turdidæ_ under date) of Nov. 1st, one solitary -Wheatear is first recorded, the first notice since Sept. 12th. In all -three species of _Saxicolinæ_ with certainty. - -_Note._--The true Wheatear, "white on the rump," is intended in the -return from Pentland Skerries. - -Silviinæ.--In spring, earliest record (Robin) is March 18th, at -Pentland Skerries, and with an E.S.E. gale and sleet; and the latest -(also Robin) on May 11th, at Sumburgh Head, fresh, S.S.E. A rush of -Robins at Isle of May on April 26th, when "large numbers" appeared; -fresh, S.E. and haze. Robins disappeared from Cromarty station on March -30th. - -In autumn, earliest record at Isle of May on Aug. -16th,--Whitethroat,--when almost a rush might be recorded. On the -23rd again, at same place, large numbers of Whitethroats and Titmice. -At Cromarty station Robins reappeared, about a dozen being seen on -Sept. 15th, the first since spring. On Sept. 15th, a rush of Robins -at Isle of May, and on 22nd. Winds on all these dates easterly, with -fog, and on 15th "flying banks of fog." Records also of Blackcap on -10th, and more Blackcaps on 23rd; that on 10th with light W. wind, the -others light E. No records in October except at Chanonry, two on 15th, -strong squalls and S.W. Small numbers beginning of November, amongst -Thrushes, &c., _q.v._ stations; Pentland Skerries, light; Dunnet Head, -one record; the latest on Dec. 28th; and Jan. 30th, at Chanonry; light -squalls and sleet. Bell Rock and Isle of May (maximum). Blue-throated -Warbler on night of Sept. 2nd-3rd. In all three species. - -Phylloscopinæ.--In spring a distinct movement of Goldcrests, but -nothing to compare with the autumn rush of 1882, though comparing -favourably with the spring rush of the same year. Earliest record, -April 1st, Isle of May; then singly or in small numbers till 13th, when -rather more, along with other species. Latest date of Goldcrests or -other Leaf-warblers, April 16th, at Pentland Skerries; one Goldcrest; -light N.E., clear. The first Chiffchaff on April 26th; also at Isle of -May; wind S.E. and haze; and some again on May 2nd; and Willow Warblers -and Chiffchaffs on May 15th. - -In autumn a rush at Isle of May and no previous records; on Sept. -3rd (see _Saxicolinæ_); on the 2nd a S.E. gale, changing light W., -very dark. Scattered records running through 10th, 11th, to 15th, -when another rush of Willow Warblers and Chiffchaffs, and a solitary -Goldcrest on 22nd, with a rush of Robins. Goldcrests did not put in an -appearance much before Oct. 10th, when a rush took place that night, -with light E. wind and cloudy, again at Isle of May. Mr. D. M. Scott -speaks of the "smallest wrens he ever saw," which were seen at Sumburgh -Head, on Oct. 28th, which were probably of this species. Stations -recording are Sumburgh Head (one record); Tarbat Ness one record on -Oct. 30th [some years Caithness gets a large share of Goldcrests]; and -Isle of May. Three species. - -Paridæ.--A few scattered notices in April and May at Pentland Skerries -on April 25th, 27th and 29th, with S. easterly and N.E. wind; rain, -haze or clear; and at same place on May 13th. _Note._--Mr. MacDonald -distinguishes between "Titmice" and "Tomtits." Titmice are probably -Cole Tits, and "Tomtits" Blue Tits, _Parus cæruleus_. - -In autumn, in September, a few at Isle of May, on 4th, 5th, 18th, 19th; -on the 4th and 19th, travelling with "Stonechats"; also at Isle of May; -winds westerly and northerly. In October, one record at Inchkeith; wind -light S.W., which seems the usually chosen wind at this locality for -birds migrating. In November, on the 18th, one bird, which is either a -Cole Tit or a Great Tit, at Isle of May. - -Acrocephalinæ--Accentorinæ.--A Solitary record of one Sedge Warbler, at -Isle of May, on May 17th, constitutes the whole spring returns. - -In autumn, only two records in all; one at Isle of May on Sept. 12th, -of one Sedge Warbler, with light S.E., haze and rain; and the other -on Oct. 11th, at same place, of a Hedge Sparrow ("Blue Janet" of -Schedule). One species of Marsh Warblers, and one probably _Saxicolinæ_. - -Troglodytinæ, Common Wren.--On April 9th, one struck and killed (No. -66, in spirits); light W., clear! - -In autumn, on Aug. 18th, at Sumburgh Head, a few remained two days; -light W. and haze. Wrens not in large numbers accompanied rush of other -migrants on Sept. 22nd and 23rd; fresh E. and very dark, at Isle of -May. In October, one record at N. Unst, resting at 10 a.m.; S.W., light -and haze ("a rare visitor.") It would be interesting to know if this -was one of the large-footed form found in Faroe (_T. Faröensis_), or -our common species.[2] In November, a few on 7th at Isle of May; and -at Tarbat Ness, one on Oct. 27th; in November, three seen at Sumburgh -Head, with strong breeze and hailstones. - -[Footnote 2: This I hope to be able to decide next year, should any -turn up at this station.] - -Motacillidæ.--In Spring, at Pentland Skerries and Isle of May. -Earliest, March 2nd, at Isle of May; light W., clear; with a rush of -other migrants. Five seen on March 30th--"the most ever seen together -in spring," at Isle of May, "by Mr. Agnew;" a gale from the S. the -previous night, but wind westerly when seen; these birds flying north. -Other records are with E. or S.E. winds, on 19th, 20th and 23rd. In -April, two records at Pentland Skerries and Isle of May, on 3rd and -25th. - -In autumn, records from Pentland Skerries, Bell Rock and Isle of May. -Earliest, July 13th, at the first-named station, and again on 28th, -with fresh N. wind and haze or rain. Scattered records in August, -mostly at Pentland Skerries, with northerly winds; but two records, -one with light S. and clear, and the other, Aug. 18th, with fresh W. -and cloudy, when thirteen were counted. In September, a flock at Bell -Rock on 1st; a few on 2nd, at Pentland Skerries; a number on 11th, -with Robins, at Isle of May. In October, one record at Isle of May, on -10th, light E., haze; and the latest record at Isle of May, one bird on -7th. The Wagtails on Oct. 10th are described as very light-coloured, -but from the good description it is easily seen that they are immature -birds of probably the Pied Wagtail. But it is desirable to watch for -_very light_ or _light-backed birds_ at Isle of May and elsewhere, and -especially at Bell Rock, _during the spring_ migration, as such may -prove to be the continental White Wagtail. - -Anthidæ.--In spring, the Rock Pipits resident at the Isle of May -received considerable additions to their numbers on March 19th, and -Meadow Pipits arrived in small numbers on 21st, which is an early date. -On April 3rd, both had much increased in numbers. "Moss-cheepers," -_i.e._, Meadow Pipits, are also noted at Bell Rock, on April 27th. - -In autumn the movement was never great. Noted at Bell Rock, and, -curiously enough, _not_ at Isle of May, nor at any other stations. -Duration: Aug. 9th--light S. breeze, fog, one resting--to Nov. 1st, -when one was noted along with the vast rush of other migrants (see -_Saxicolinæ_). Indication of the rush very faint about Sept. 1st, -when a flock rested on the Rock; a few more seen on 16th, 19th and -22nd; winds light S.W. on 1st, light N.W. on 22nd, and E.N.E. on 19th; -calm on 16th. On Oct. 9th also a flock flying with "Bullfinches." -[These latter may, Mr. Jack thinks, be named wrong, and may be either -Crossbills or Hawfinches.] - -_Land Notes._--A Waxwing, _Ampelis garrula_,--a male in full -plumage,--was found at North Unst, of which Mr. Garrick writes me -that it had been kept too long and could not unfortunately be -preserved. Two very fine old Waxwings were shot at Kinneil Woods, -near Borrowstonness (or Bo'ness), by Mr. D. Nichol, gamekeeper to Mr. -Russell, Dundas Castle, on Jan. 18th, 1883. - -Laniadæ.--A male killed at Helensburgh (Dumbartonshire), shot by Major -Allan Colquhoun, Feb. 3rd, 1883. - -Hirundinidæ.--In spring, _i.e._, till end of June, records reach me -from Sumburgh Head, Auskerry, Pentland Skerries and Isle of May. (It is -often difficult to draw the line in the case of _Hirundinidæ_, between -spring migration, local flights, and autumn migration. This year, -however, they are tolerably distinct, as I have no records during the -whole of July). Earliest spring record is at Sumburgh Head, on April -21st, a single bird, and the next is at Isle of May on April 26th; -winds in both cases S.E., and two more on 28th. No more till May 14th, -with S.W. wind at Isle of May. Occasional light returns all through -May, at Pentland Skerries and Isle of May; winds easterly at former, -and westerly at latter. _Note._--None breed at Isle of May. No rush -distinguishable. In June the dates are 5th (at Sumburgh Head and at -Pentland Skerries), Sand Martin; 10th, four seen at Sumburgh Head, -and 13th, 14th, 17th and 26th, at different stations; winds from all -directions between S.W. at Sumburgh Head by N. to E. Swallows arrived -at Cromarty on May 13th; first seen. - -In autumn, the movement, as far as I can judge, extended through August -and September, and lingered into October, the latest record coming -from Sumburgh Head on Oct. 6th. A rush is indicated by the returns on -Sept. 8th and 15th at Isle of May, when "considerable numbers," "large -numbers," and on the 19th, "some," are the data. Wind light W. on 8th, -and easterly the other days. The directions of flight of Swallows -recorded in August vary considerably. Thus, at Pentland Skerries, one -Martin flying E.; strong S.E. and rain, on Aug. 8th; one Swallow, -"flying around," on 9th; fresh E., showers, and "flying W."; on 20th -light S.E. and haze. At Isle of May, five Swallows flying S., light -S.E., haze on 22nd, and flock "flying S." on 30th; light S.E., haze. -Swallows left Cromarty on Sept. 8th; last seen. - -_Land Notes._--Swallows seen by me in some numbers at Kirkmichael -House, Dumfries, on evening of April 13th, flying over the artificial -ponds. Also seen at Morningside by A. B. Herbert, on 15th. I have -the following notes from Dr. John Grieve, at Bridge of Allan, which -locality is famed in spring for the shelter afforded from east winds. -Dr. Grieve's notes refer however to autumn notes. In 1880 Swifts left -the Bridge of Allan on Aug. 10th. In 1879 Swifts left between 8th and -17th, and in 1882 on the 8th. "Previous to leaving they always chase -one another round the houses until two days before leaving; then they -appear to keep to higher air." In 1881 two were seen on May 3rd, being -the first arrivals. In 1880 about 200 "Martins and a few Swallows -collected on two houses in Bridge of Allan on Aug. 22nd, and similar -congregations took place in smaller numbers on 27th to 31st, and on -Sept. 8th. On Oct. 4th, frost; and in afternoon some twenty-five seen. -On Oct. 6th, five to one hundred seen hawking over the wood behind -Bridge of Allan. On 8th, six seen. On 8th, hard frost and fog; four -seen flying about _in silence_; next morning, hard frost. On 20th, 15° -frost; on 21st, 6°; 22nd, 10°; and 23rd, 2°. But on 23rd two Swallows -seen. These were the last that year." In 1882 great numbers of Swallows -and Martins were seen flying eastward, outside the cliffs of Beachy -Head on Oct. 4th, and a good many remained along the undercliff of the -Isle of Wight at Ventnor. - -The above notes by Dr. Grieve are quite to the point, and if we could -continue to receive land notes such as these from all parts of the -country they would be sure to prove most useful, even if confined to -one or two species of regular migrants. - -Fringillidæ.--Both in spring and autumn, one of the features of the -1883 migration is the number of records of Finches (also of Thrushes, -and to a less extent of Buntings), whilst Thrushes--of sorts--and -Finches, seem usually to travel together; there seems, if we may -so call it, more uniform action in the formers' movements in 1883. -The Thrushes' movements are more compressed: those of Finches more -extended in time; or, in other words, the spring and autumn migrations -of the _Turdidæ_ are more strongly defined than those of the Finches. -Thrushes (including Blackbirds and all species) are totally absent -during June and July (not including residents of course), and almost -absent during August and September, and again the same in December and -January (1884). But, though the migrations of the Finches are easily -defined, still they do spread out more over the whole year, and, with -the exception of July, occupy considerable space in the schedule. These -remarks are intended to apply only to 1883, not as a general statement. - -In spring, records come from five of the stations giving returns, -_viz._, Sumburgh Head, Auskerry, Pentland Skerries, Bell Rock and Isle -of May. The earliest, two Green Linnets at Isle of May, on Feb. 17th -(the only record of that month). Again, at Isle of May, Tree Sparrows -and Chaffinches on March 2nd--single birds. Latest, June 22nd, at -Pentland Skerries--four "Linnets." These are probably Twites or else -Grey Linnets. During April, between 1st and 5th, there was a rush of -Grey Linnets with light W. wind, clear, along with other species; and -during the month there are lighter movements recorded of the following -species:--Chaffinch, Sumburgh Head; Common Sparrow, Pentland Skerries; -Green Linnets, Isle of May; Bramblings, Tree Sparrows and Bullfinches. -Wind at Sumburgh Head light S.E., but elsewhere generally light W. and -usually clear. In May a small flock of Sparrows at Auskerry, from the -14th to 31st; one Brambling, one Chaffinch, one Green Linnet, between -10th and 15th, with fresh N.N.E. wind. - -In autumn, at North Unst, one flock, Oct. 17th; S.E., light, haze; -Sumburgh Head, considerable migration in October--November with other -species (see Thrush). Pentland Skerries, small indication as compared -with more southerly stations; Chanonry, light; Tarbat Ness, full -migration; Bell Rock, rush; and Isle of May, rushes. Earliest, Aug. -5th; numbers of small flocks; wind light W. at Isle of May. Latest, -Dec. 26th, at Isle of May. Rushes:--General rush of migrants, Sept. -22nd, at Isle of May, in which Bramblings participated; Oct. 13th, -at Tarbat Ness, Bramblings, wind due S.; also rush of same, 15th and -16th, same place; and rush also of Tree Sparrows, Chaffinches, "Green -Buntings" (? Green Linnets), and Linnets, at Chanonry; strong breeze -and showers; movements all through October of these same species; also -Linnets at Pentland Skerries; Siskins ("Sisting" of schedule), one -flock, old and young, on 7th, at Tarbat Ness, and again five on Oct. -29th. Light S., haze, on 30th at Pentland Skerries--date of principal -rush,--but westerly gales at Tarbat Ness on 29th. At the time of rush -between Oct. 13th and 16th, at Tarbat Ness, the wind began at due -S.; 14th, strong S., and to noon on 10th; then to W. and west gale at -night of 15th. West gales continued to end of month. By Nov. 1st to -3rd a vast rush at Bell Rock and Isle of May, and also at Sumburgh -Head. By the 5th, rush all over and almost all left. Pentland Skerries -did not appear to participate largely in this rush. The species are -chiefly Chaffinches and Bramblings, also Green Linnets, Gray Linnets -and Sparrows. Prevailing winds westerly. In December, fewer records -at Pentland Skerries and Isle of May. Winds prevailing N.W. and W. -At Dunnet Head "Linnets" are reported present all the year round. In -January, 1884, one or two light records of Brambling and Greenfinch -at Isle of May. Latest, Jan. 12th. _Note._--Mr. Gilmour, Pentland -Skerries, writes he was not sure of the Chaffinches at that station, -when he took up the keeping of the records, and that they may prove to -be Snow Buntings, which is very likely. Mr. D. M. Scott, at Sumburgh -Head, writes under date of Oct. 11th, "a number of small birds killed -on balcony: picked up four Green Linnets and two Chaffinches. I -discovered to-day what becomes of them after being killed. In a hole -of a stone dyke I found a large number of wings and legs of small -birds, taken there by Weasels" (_i.e._, _Mustela erminea_, which was -introduced to Shetland. The Common Weasel, _Mustela vulgaris_, is -not an inhabitant of Shetland). If Mr. Scott would in future collect -all the wings and send them to me by post, they would be useful in -identifying species; or, at any time, if a rare bird occurs, the name -of which is not known, the wings, might be sent (see addition to letter -of instructions, issued 1884). Mr. Agnew notes that he had never before -witnessed such a large migration at Isle of May, with a due S. wind, as -that of Oct. 13th, 14th, and 15th. Chaffinch was heard singing on Feb. -28th at Dunipace. - -Corvidæ.--I have records every month in the year but June. In January, -1884, one Hooded Crow flying north, W.S.W. gale, clear. In February, -1883, records of Grey Crows, Jackdaws (at Isle of May, "very rare" on -13th and 14th, light S. and S.W., shifting to N). Rooks (at Isle of -May, on. 19th, a single bird). In March, Rooks (at Pentland Skerries -a flock all day, fresh S.E., cloudy), and one Hooded Crow (on 19th at -Isle of May, light, S.E.). In April, at Sumburgh Head, Bell Rock, and -Isle of May, Rooks and Carrion Crows and one Hooded Crow; prevailing -winds S.E., clear. One Black Crow flying north at Noss Head, with light -N.W. and clear. In May two records only at Sumburgh Head on 3rd, and at -Pentland Skerries, on 11th, of Rooks (two flying W., fresh W. breeze -and clear). - -In autumn, in July, all the records are of Rooks, all at one station, -_viz._, Pentland Skerries, and in each case birds remaining on island -all day; winds moderate N., cloudy or clear, but strong S. on 27th. In -August, Rooks again at Pentland Skerries, on island; single birds. The -above are probably merely local predatory excursions from the mainland -of Scotland. In Sept. eighteen Ravens seen at Sumburgh Head, flying S., -light N.E. and clear. In October many more records. At Sumburgh Head -twelve to twenty Hooded Crows continually fighting with, four large -Hawks, one of which was so exhausted as nearly to allow Mr. D. M. Scott -to catch it on the ground. Many single or other light records. The -most seen, thirty Jackdaws (the largest flock Mr. Agnew has ever seen -on Isle of May), on Oct. 15th, S. to W. winds; also twenty-six Carrion -Crows and a few "Hoodies" on 31st at Isle of May. Of these sixteen -came from the north at 3 p.m., light S. and haze. In November Carrion -and Hooded Crows attended the rush of migrants on 1st, coming from the -north. On the 3rd the Isle of May was literally swarming with birds, -and on the 9th Jackdaws, two in number, reappeared; light W., clear. In -December, at Sumburgh Head, two "large Black Crows" (Carrion Crows?), -or, as the natives call them, "Scotch Crows"; strong breeze and hail -showers. A very regular local migration of Crows or Rooks takes place -day after day past Chanonry from and to Nairn, feeding in the morning -and back at night. At Sumburgh Head Grey Crows are seen almost daily. -_Land Notes._--Mr. R. Gray writes me that great numbers of Hooded -Crows are at present frequenting Tyne Woods on the estate of the Earl -of Haddington in East Lothian. They came some time ago in a body, -and have been seen feeding on the mud and sands of the estuary, and -betaking themselves to the woods at night to roost. These are evidently -migratory flocks, which have crossed Heligoland and landed on our east -coast without being actually observed in transit. - -Sturninæ.--In spring, from Feb. 8th at Pentland Skerries to April 23rd -at same place. Only four records in that time. - -In autumn, great continuous migration at Auskerry, July 30th, of old -and young; light W. One flock on August 7th at Pentland Skerries all -day; one flock stayed from March 15th to 24th at Sumburgh Head, and -many large flocks also seen to the north of that place at the same -time. In October two small Starlings, "one with a crest like a Crested -Lark, raised and lowered it at will" [Rose-coloured Pastor?--J. A. -H. B.] seen on 6th, light N. wind. Rushes took place on Nov. 1st, -especially at Sumburgh Head and Isle of May (see also under Thrush). -Latest, Dec. 31st, at Isle of May; but the Starling is resident all the -year round at many of our stations. - -Alaudidæ.--In spring at Sumburgh Head, Pentland Skerries, Bell Rock, -and Isle of May. Earliest, Feb. 8th, a single bird at Bell Rock, and -several on 9th at Pentland Skerries (see under Thrush at this date). -Latest, April 6th, at Sumburgh Head, when they were found increasing, -but not observed on arrival. A rush took place at Isle of May on Feb. -11th, 1 a.m. till daylight, light E. and fog, flying south (at least -all struck the north side of lantern).[1] Other movements took place, -but none of any magnitude; winds S. and W. in Feb., except the 11th, -_ut sup._; N.W., S.W. to E. on 20th, in March. - -[Footnote 3 1: Do the birds strike in light winds and fog upon the side -facing the wind, or on the sheltered side? In heavy gales they strike -_hard with the wind_, but touch and strike also on the Shetland side,] - -In autumn, a few records at N. Unst, Isle of May, and Inchkeith. -Earliest, Sept. 21st, at Isle of May, a small flock, fresh E., clear. -Latest, Nov. 26th, a single bird at N. Unst rested all night. Rushes, -11th to 20th, W., shifting to N. on 11th; W. gale on 19th and 20th. -Also rush on 31st and Nov. 1st, along with other species, principally, -at Bell Rock and Isle of May. Again a few in January, 1884, up to 17th, -light W. winds and haze; and at Chanonry on 24th a flock, with strong -squalls and sleet. [3] Emberizidæ.--In spring Snow Buntings began to -appear on Feb. 9th,--but this may not belong to spring records,--when -a large flock flew about all day on Pentland Skerries. They occurred -also at Auskerry, Sumburgh Head, Pentland Skerries, and Isle of May. -Earliest, as above. Latest, April 12th, at Sumburgh Head, when two were -killed. No great rushes evident, but largest numbers passed in March, -mostly with northerly or westerly winds. If any rush occurred it was -between March 9th and 25th, indicated principally at Pentland Skerries -and Isle of May. On 23rd, at Isle of May, a flock flying north. Common -Bunting seen at Isle of May on Feb. 12th, and again on April 6th. -Yellow Buntings at same place on March 5th and April 7th, in both cases -females. - -In autumn, as usual, we have numerous records, especially of Snow -Buntings, at most stations, _viz._, N. Unst, Sumburgh Head, Pentland -Skerries, Tarbat Ness, Dunnet Head, Bell Rock, and Isle of May. -Earliest at Isle of May on Sept. 21st. A rush on 22nd and 27th; fresh -E. to heavy S.W. gale on 26th and 27th. Latest records to Jan. 18th, -1884. Bushes in September _ut sup._, a few in October, many all through -November, but principally on 13th-15th, 16th, and in lesser degree on -1st and 2nd. Snow Buntings often appear with gales and snow or sleet, -but during this month S. and W. winds rather prevailed. They arrived -before the great W. gales, which began about the 16th. Of other species -we have as follows: Yellow Bunting, "Grey Bunting," "Green Bunting" (? -Green Linnet), and Cirl Bunting (one bird sent in spirits was not a -Cirl Bunting, but a young male Yellow Bunting). All these are recorded -from Isle of May, but no other station, and are distributed almost -entirely in October and December; prevailing winds westerly, with -stormy weather and gales. - -Cuculidæ.--One spring record from Cromarty station: Arrived on April -29th; E., fresh breeze, haze. - -One autumn record only, and the only record I have received from any -station during autumn migration, _viz._, one young bird at Isle of May -on August 23rd, light W., clear. Possibly amongst the many records of -"Hawks" at other stations some occurrences of the young brown-coloured -Cuckoo may have been included, as they are very like small Hawks in -their flight. - -_Land Notes._--Cuckoo heard at Dunipace, Stirlingshire, on April 9th, -1883, a very early record. Not heard again till May. Cuckoo recorded -from Busby, at Lee Farm, near Sheddens, on April 14th. Cuckoo heard on -Tinwald Downs, Dumfries, on April 23rd. - -Strigidæ.--In spring a Tawny Owl at Isle of May on April 28th, S.E. -fresh, haze; and at Auskerry an Owl (which is probably the Short-eared -Owl) came on the 14th, with stiff S.E. and showers, and remained a -week. "This Owl visits Auskerry annually in May." - -In autumn, in September, one Owl on 28th at Pentland Skerries, strong -N.N.E. and showers. In October four single records of Large Owl at -Pentland Skerries on 31st and 13th, and of Short-eared Owls at Isle of -May on 3rd and 13th. None in December, and one Owl at Pentland Skerries -all day on island on 1st; light N.W. showers. - -_Land Notes._--Short-eared Owls were reported unusually abundant on -Flanders Moss, Stirlingshire, in the autumn; and I saw two as late as -the 31st January, 1884, on Latham Moss, in the same county, so that -some appear to remain all winter. - -Falconidæ.--Spring records in March and April only, March 2nd to April -30th. At Pentland Skerries and Isle of May all single or light entries; -wind easterly, except on March 2nd, when it was S.W. and clear, and one -Kestrel was seen. The Merlin is twice noted. "Light Brown Hawks twice -at Isle of May and Pentland Skerries." - -In the autumn, at Sumburgh Head, Pentland Skerries, Bell Rock, and -Isle of May. All July records, three in number, at Pentland Skerries, -of "Sparrowhawk," "Large Brown Hawk," and "Large Hawk." In August -five records, three at Isle of May of Sparrowhawk and "Hawks"; one -at Pentland Skerries of "Falcon Hawk"; and one at Sumburgh Head of -one Large Brown Hawk. The "Falcon Hawk" is described as "hovering," -so is more likely a _Kestrel Hawk_. In September ten records; two at -Pentland Skerries, two "Hawks" and one "Game Hawk," and at Isle of May -one Sparrowhawk caught at gratings, and a "Hawk." Hawks are usually -found attending the rush of small migrants. In October only one record, -a Game Hawk at Pentland Skerries; four in November, all at Pentland -Skerries. None in December, and five in January, 1884. One bird Mr. -Agnew "feels almost sure was a Goshawk, and not a Sparrowhawk." The -rush, if any, would appear to be in September, but its faintness -precludes us from any feeling of certainty. A late schedule from -Sumburgh Head contains record of an Eagle ["Silver-crested Eagle"; -probably the Sea Eagle] wounded at Fitful Head by Mr. Birnie. At 11.15 -a.m. on January 29th, 1884, this bird landed on the high rocks, half a -mile north of the Read. Mr. Birnie says it cannot live long, as it was -severely wounded. Mr. Birnie is employed by the landed proprietors to -kill all the birds of prey in Shetland. He has killed a large number of -Black-backed Gulls, Hooded Crows, Ravens, &c. - - -Water Birds. - -Pelecanidæ.--In entering records of Gannets or Solan Geese I believe -the best way is to arrange the data in tabular form. Spring records -are only returned from Pentland Skerries; but, considering the central -position on the tract through the Pentland Firth, I think all records -from there are of use and value, if we desire to arrive at conclusions -regarding the movements of this species. - -_Spring,_ - - March 26th, Pentland Skerries, three Gannets flying E.; strong - N.E., and clear. - - April 6th, Pentland Skerries, one Gannet, 4.45 p.m., flying E.; - light W., clear. - - May 7th, Pentland Skerries, continuous flocks of Gannets all day, - flying E.; strong N., haze. - - May 16th, Pentland Skerries, continuous flocks of Gannets all day, - flying E.; light N.E., clear. - - May 28th, Pentland Skerries, several Gannets all day flying round; - strong S., showers. - - April 12th, Noss Head, four Gannets flying N.; light N.W., haze. - - June 28th, Noss Head, six Gannets flying S.E.; light S., fog. - -_Autumn._ - - July 1st to 15th, Auskerry, at 2 o'clock, flying from N. to S.; - light W. breeze. - - July 5th, Pentland Skerries, 8.20 p.m., flying E.; mod. E., fog and - rain. - - July 6th, Pentland Skerries, all day, several flocks flying E.; - light S., haze. - - July 6th, Pentland Skerries, a few fishing all day round L.; light - S., haze. - - July 7th, Pentland Skerries, several flocks fishing all day; mod. - S.E., haze. - - July 8th, Pentland Skerries, continuous flocks all day flying E.; - mod. W., clear. - - July 15th, Pentland Skerries, continuous flocks all day flying E.; - mod. W., clear. - - July 16th to 20th to 26th, Pentland Skerries, continuous flocks all - day flying E.;[4] light N.W. to mod. N. - - July 27th, on to Aug., Pentland Skerries, continuous flocks all day - flying E.; N. to S.W.; and all this month, all going E., except - several flocks on 22nd flying W. - -[Footnote 4: On 16th a few young observed. All flying E., except six -seen on the 20th, flying W.] - - Sept. 3rd to 15th, Pentland Skerries, fewer, all flying S.W. on - 15th; light S.E., wind. - - Sept. 5th to 30th, Noss Head, daily, flocks of six to fifty flying - N. all day. - - Oct. 19th, Noss Head, nineteen at 3 p.m.; strong W., haze and rain. - - Nov. 10th, Sumburgh Head, eight flying S., 12 noon; fresh N. - breeze, hail. - -The annual regularity with which the Solan Geese pass and repass -through the Pentland Firth and various other points of observation -cannot, we think, fail to develop, by the statistics accumulated, some -curious facts in migration. We are thus careful to record these with -some minuteness of detail. A late schedule from Sumburgh Head has--"Two -on 16th, Sumburgh Head. Eighteen Gannets flying S.W., 12 noon; strong -W., showers." - -Ardeidæ.--We do not think it will be so easy, in regard to Herons, to -arrive at laws regulating their flights; but, in case of development, -will on this occasion tabulate their records, though we have not done -so before. - -_Spring._ - - March 29th, Pentland Skerries, one flying N., 3 p.m.: S. gale, rain. - - June 13th, Isle of May, one flying S., 5 p.m., in company with - Gulls, which is rare. - - June 24th, Isle of May, one flying S., 5 p.m.; light W., clear. - -_Autumn._ - - Aug. 26th, Isle of May, one flying W.; light W., clear. - - Sept. 12th, Pentland Skerries, four flying about island (rare); - light S., clear. - - Oct. 15th, Pentland Skerries, one rose off rocks, 4.15 p.m. - - Oct. 23rd, Isle of May, one; fair W., clear. - - Nov. 1st, Pentland Skerries, one flying S., 7.50 a.m.; light N.W., - cloudy. - - Jan. 29th, Sumburgh Head, six (one shot); fair W., clear. - -There was a very large movement of Herons in 1882, principally in -October and November (see Report, 1882, p. 18). - -Anatidæ.--Very few records either in spring or autumn. Spring: none. -Autumn: Swans on Aug. 15th, at Tarbat Ness, two from the N., flying -S.E. at 1 p.m.; N. strong, and clear. The only other records are in -October, a large flock flying E. past Pentland Skerries at 12.20 p.m., -with light W. and showers, "very rarely seen here." On 19th, Ducks -(sp.?), three flying W. over same station at 10.30 a.m.; strong N.W. -wind. On 13th, Eiders at Isle of May in large flocks, both males and -females, all day; strong due S.; left at night. At Chanonry, local -movements of Grey Geese and Grey Ducks to and fro in stormy weather, -or from feeding to nesting ground. At Sumburgh Head, twenty-eight wild -Geese flying S.; strong S.W., and snow on 25th; and on 28th sixteen -wild Geese, also flying S.; gale from N.W. _Land Notes._--At Kirkwall, -twenty-five wild Swans frequented the Loch of Banks, and are described -as being "very tame" ('Scotsman,' 27, iii., 83). A very large flock of -Pink-footed or Bean Geese, probably the former, seen flying very high -towards S.E. and crying, at Kippen on March 23rd. Fully 150 Wild Geese -remained on Flanders Moss all spring after this date, and were seen -last on April 23rd. - -Columbidæ.--In spring, few records at Pentland Skerries and Bell Rock. -On Feb. 19th, at former station, three Rock Doves flying E., 7 a.m.; -S.W., fresh, clear. On March 4th, two Rock Doves at same station, seen -at 3 p.m.; light variable, and haze. On April 20th, one Wood Pigeon at -same station flying S.E.; fair S.S.E., fog. On May 12th, one Woodpecker -flying S.W. past Bell Rock, 1.12 p.m.; strong S.W.; and on 28th, a few -Rock Doves at Pentland Skerries; strong S., and fog. - -In autumn only two records; one at Pentland Skerries, twelve Rock -Pigeons, on July 23rd, on island; light N., haze and rain; and on Sept. -16th, one Wood Pigeon at 2 p.m., at Bell Rock, flying S.W.; light S.W. -breeze. - -_Land Notes._--A male _Columba œnas_ (Stock Dove) was shot at Garden, -in this county (Stirlingshire), on March 15th, 1883. This species has -been rapidly extending its range of late years in Scotland. See my -paper on the Stock Dove (Ryl. Phyl. Soc. Edinb., 1883, p. 241, Feb. -21st). In 1884 at least four pairs are breeding in the Vale of Menteith. - -Rallidæ.--Spring records meagre. One heard at Isle of May April 28th, -marked "rare here." One heard at Pentland Skerries on May 6th, 5.50 -p.m.; mod. S.S.E., clear. One heard first time at Cromarty station on -May 20th; strong E., clear. - -No autumn records this season. - -Charadriadæ.--Spring records meagre. April 18th, at Pentland Skerries, -three Golden Plovers at 5 p.m.; S.S.W. May 15th, at Auskerry, large -flocks of Plovers all day; light E., and showers. May 17th, at Isle of -May, one Oystercatcher; W., very fine. - -Autumn records almost equally meagre. July 13th, at Pentland Skerries, -one Golden Plover; fair N., light showers. Aug. 8th, at Pentland -Skerries, one Golden Plover; strong S.E. Aug. 14th, at Pentland -Skerries, one Golden Plover; light S.E., showers. Sept. 6th, at Isle -of May, six Golden Plovers; strong W., clear. Oct. 26th, at Pentland -Skerries, one "Silver Plover" (? Knot) killed at lantern; strong W., -showers. - -Of Lapwings, records are almost equally scanty. In spring, on Feb. -17th, a flock all day at Pentland Skerries; light S. breeze (see -Thrush). In March, along with the rush of other migrants on 2nd at -Isle of May; strong W., clear; and a number on 3rd. Lots of sixteen -and twenty on the 10th and 20th of same month; light E. and S.E., fog, -rain, and haze. - -In autumn five Ringed Plovers stayed for some days on Isle of May on -and after Aug. 28th; came with light W., and clear--the only record -given of any Charadriadæ in autumn. At Chanonry, numerous records -of Lapwings lighting on the point, or passing in stormy weather or -in strong breezes, in Sept. to January, 1884. A late schedule from -Sumburgh Head has a record of Lapwings on Jan. 24th, with the remark, -"I believe they have never been seen here at this season of the year -before." - -_Land Notes._--Lapwings seen in pairs on March 4th at breeding stations -in Stirlingshire. - -Scolopacidæ.--Spring. Curlews first heard at Pentland Skerries on March -2nd, when heard at 2.15 p.m.; mod. N.W., fog. Last on June 29th (but -probably belongs to autumn) at same place, when a flock flying S.; -light S., clear. A rush between April 7th and 15th, a few flying south -between these dates at Isle of May,--scarcely an appreciable rush,--and -one record in May. - -In autumn, not a great many records of Curlews. Earliest July 4th, -at Pentland Skerries, and on 15th and 29th at same station; also -in August, and at same station a few records, most probably local -movements. An apparent slight indication of a rush of Curlews in -September at three stations,--Sumburgh Head, Pentland Skerries, and -Isle of May,--young and old; and up to 23rd, at Isle of May, numbers -daily. Fewer in October, and occasional records up to January, 1884. - -Of Snipe, a few scattered records in spring, in March and April. March -2nd to 9th, at Pentland Skerries and Isle of May; and April 12th and -26th, at same stations, winds mostly westerly; but on March 8th E.N.E., -gale and snow. - -In autumn, not abundant either, and scarcely require details. Occurred -in July, August, October (a large flock at Sumburgh Head on 18th; gale -and sleet showers), and December. In July, at Pentland Skerries only; -in August, ditto; in September, not at all. In October, at Sumburgh -Head and Pentland Skerries (and a Jack Snipe at Isle of May). December, -at Sumburgh Head (a large number all day on 3rd); strong breezes, -snow-showers; and a Jack Snipe at Pentland Skerries on 24th. - -Woodcock.--In spring, one record on April 7th, at Bell Rock, flying -about the rock. - -In autumn, Oct. 13th and 14th, two single birds at Isle of May and -Pentland Skerries; and on Nov. 1st and 13th, at Isle of May, N. Unst, -and Shetland. The one on 1st accompanied the rush of other migrants. -On Oct. 13th six were shot on Isle of May; wind due S., an unusual -wind for migrants to arrive at Isle of May. At Chanonry, many local -records of "Whaups" (Curlews)--probably the same flock of forty or -fifty--appearing in stormy weather. - -_Land Notes._--On the night of March 26th, at Dunipace, whilst standing -at the front door (night bright and starry, and frost), a large flock -of birds crossed overhead, flying south. The cries were difficult to -make out, but belonged either to Whimbrels or other species of wader. -The subject of the sounds of bird-cries at night would form good matter -for explanation by those who have constant opportunities of hearing -them. Wind N.E. up to March 27th, when a S.W. gale, shifting to S., -with heavy rain. About fifty Curlews were seen at Caldarvon, west -of this county, on March 11th, and three pairs on 17th (auct. Jas. -Lumsden). - -Scolopacidæ (Waders).--Earliest spring migrants were Sandpipers and -Redshanks at Pentland Skerries on Feb. 9th (time of migration of -Thrushes, _q.v._); and on 17th, ditto. On April 27th a Purple Sandpiper -at Isle of May (No. 57 in spirits). - -Autumn. Earliest July 20th, at Pentland Skerries, Redshanks; and a few -records of these and Sandpipers to 31st. In August a few records of the -same, and one Turnstone (identified) (No. 60 in spirits). In September -great flocks of Sandpipers flew in rays of light at 9 p.m.; light -E.N.E., and fog. In end of October and beginning of November Sandpipers -and Red-shanks participated in the rush of migrants at that time at -Pentland Skerries especially; light S.W. Large numbers on 5th; strong -N.W., and showers; and numbers up to 21st, all day; strong N.W. In -December, rushes on 12th; N.W. gale, snow; and up to 21st, very likely -local movements. - -Sterninæ.--Records of either migration very scanty. First seen in -spring was at Pentland Skerries on May 13th, at 3.30 p.m.; light S.W., -haze; and again at same place two seen flying north on June 20th. On -June 3rd, at Sumburgh Head, two; fresh W., cloudy. Lesser Terns arrived -at Cromarty on May 23rd. - -In autumn, first record Aug. 7th, at Pentland Skerries, when those -breeding there all left, except one or two, with fresh N.W., clear. At -Bell Rock, on Sept. 19th, a flock kept flying round the rays of light -all night (_i.e._, 19th-20th); light E.N.E.; and on Sept. 27th one -immature bird appeared after a heavy gale from W. the previous night. -The above, I think, is the first occurrence I have of Terns flying -round and round within the rays of light of a lantern. Lesser Terns -disappeared from Cromarty on Aug. 26th; S.W., strong, clear. - -Laridæ.--In spring, large numbers arrive about March 1st for breeding -purposes at Pentland Skerries, and leave about the middle of August. On -March 21st, at Isle of May, Kittiwakes arrived in large numbers at 9 -a.m.--their first appearance; wind fresh E.S.E., cloudy and cold; and -by April 3rd had steadily increased in numbers. At Auskerry, May 18th -is given as first appearance of "Sea Maws"; strong N.W., and haze; and -a Black-headed Gull was seen, with light N.E. and clear, at Pentland -Skerries. At same station, record of two Black-backed Gulls on June -27th; fresh S.E., and haze completes spring records. - -In autumn, at Pentland Skerries during July the daily movements of -Gulls may be worth reproducing in detail. All the July records I have -are from this station, and also all the August ones. - - 1883, July 12, Pentland Skerries, one "Chaser" flying N.W., 2.15 - p.m.; light E., haze. - - July 18th, Pentland Skerries, three Black-backed Gulls flying N., - 2.30 p.m.; mod. N.W. - - July 23rd, Pentland Skerries, one "Chaser" flying W., 10.20 a.m.; - light N. - - July 25th, Pentland Skerries, continuous and large flocks of - Herring Gulls flying round all day; N., clear. - - July 28th, Pentland Skerries, three "Chasers" (one flying E. at 3 - p.m., and one flying S. at 5 p.m.); mod. S.W., clear. - - July 29th, Pentland Skerries, one "Dirty Allan" seen. Aug. 6th, - Pentland Skerries, large flock of young Gulls on rocks all day; - light S., clear. - - Aug. 7th, Pentland Skerries, large flock of young Gulls on rocks, - 3.30 p.m.; fresh N.W. - - Aug. 20th, Pentland Skerries, one "Chaser" flying S.E., 12.50 p.m.; - strong S.E., haze. - -On 15th, at Dunnet Head, Gulls leave breeding-places in cliffs. Our -correspondent includes both "Chasers" and a "Dirty Allan," both of -which names I held as applicable to the commonest species of Skua; but -here they seem to be divided, as applying to two different species, -probably Richardson's (common) Skua and the Pomatorhine Skua. - -"Dirty Allans" are again recorded from Isle of May, along with a rush -of small birds on Sept. 23rd; and in this case I doubt not Mr. Agnew -applies the name to Richardson's Skua. This is the only September -record. In October only two records at N. Unst; two pairs of Iceland -Gulls stayed two days, coming on the 4th with fresh N. and clear; and -two pairs more on 21st hovering round at 11 a.m.; fresh N., clear. - -In November and December the greatest movements are noticed, which I -give in detail:--Nov. 2nd, Pentland Skerries, several Kittiwakes flying -S.E., noon; fresh S.W. Nov. 10th, Isle of May, thousands of Gulls (?); -W. gale, clear; first seen at 4 a.m., wind shifting to north. Nov. -11th, Isle of May, all the above gone; light N.W., clear. These may -have been Glaucous, from description, but this is not clear; and from -subsequent records I have preferred to consider them Herring, though -Mr. Agnew includes the latter later by name, I believe Mr. Agnew knows -the Glaucous and Iceland Gulls well. _Land Note._--There has not been -a large migration of Glaucous and Iceland Gulls at Kincardine on Forth -for many years. - - Nov. 17th, Isle of May, hundreds of Herring Gulls came from S.E. - all day; light N.W. "Grey Gulls" mixed with Blackbacks, the - latter one in twenty. - - Nov. 18th, Isle of May, every Gull gone; light N.W. - - Nov. 24th, Isle of May, hundreds of Herring Gulls came from S.E. - all day; fresh W.; also accompanied by smaller numbers of - Black-backs. - - Dec. 13th, Pentland Skerries, two Black-backed Gulls on island, - 12.30 p.m.; N.W. gale. - - Dec. 3rd, Isle of May, thousands of "Gulls," 3 p.m.; W., clear. - - 1884, Jan. 22nd, Isle of May, large light-coloured Gulls with black - tips to wings; gale W. last night. - -_Note._--There is evidently considerable confusion existing regarding -the various species of Sea Gulls; and this is not to be wondered at -when the innumerable phases of plumage in even the same species, -according to maturity or immaturity, is considered. What is sadly -wanted in such a quest as ours is a series of cheap yet fairly well -executed plates of birds in all phases of plumage, with measurements to -scale; but the almost impossibility of issuing such at a sufficiently -low price for general distribution must, we fear, for ever debar our -correspondents from obtaining such a means of assistance. M. De La Rue -issues marvels of cheapness in Christmas Cards; could he not undertake -something in this line? His pictures of birds are admirable, but he -would have to keep up the standard, or even improve it, to be of -scientific value to us. - -Procellariidæ.--Records scarce in spring and autumn. At Auskerry, -arrived for first time on July 30th, but as early as 6th eggs were laid -at Pentland Skerries. Being a bird of nocturnal habits, the arrival -cannot, we fancy, be easily fixed at all times. At Auskerry, on 8th, -two pairs had two eggs each (some notes on the schedule margin here -have been torn off and lost, J. A. H. B.) On Sept. 25th one struck at -Dunnet Head; S.S.W., fog; and on 26th six struck and rested from 9 to -11 p.m.; S.E. fresh, and haze. It is seldom so many are recorded at the -same time. Are these Pentland Skerries birds? At Noss Head, on Aug. -28th and on 30th, one Stormy Petrel each time struck, but not killed, -with W.N.W. fresh on former date, and light S.E. and haze on latter. - -Alcidæ.--Spring. First visit at Isle of May on March 21st, when "not -very many" appeared, with fresh E.S.E. Guillemots and Razorbills. Next -visit at Isle of May, large numbers on April 1st with light W., and -in dear weather. Increased on 3rd, and on April 27th arrived again -finally, after a few days' absence, with fresh S.E. and haze. These -and other rock birds breeding here all left on Aug, 10th, except a few -Kittiwakes and Eider Ducks, after a heavy W. gale on 9th (see August, -below). Puffins were first observed at Isle of May; however, not before -May 4th, when a few showed. - -Following this comes what may be considered local flights, in search of -food, to and from the fishing grounds:-- - - May 16th, Pentland Skerries, continuous flocks flying E.; light - breeze N.E. - - May 21st, Pentland Skerries, continuous flocks flying E.; light W., - haze. - - June 4th, Pentland Skerries, continuous flocks flying S.E.; light - N.E., haze. - - June 6th, Pentland Skerries, continuous flocks flying S.E.; light - E., haze. - - June 17th to 20th, Pentland Skerries, continuous rush flying S.E.; - strong N. to light E. and W. - - June 21st, Pentland Skerries, several flocks all day flying S.E.; - lights. - - June 25th, Pentland Skerries, large flocks, 7.15 p.m., flying S.E.; - fresh S.E., fog and rain. - - June 29th, Pentland Skerries, a few around; light S., clear. - -We now come to the autumn movement, if we take the same dates as for -many land birds; but this is apt to be mixed up with the later summer -movements of old and young birds, and therefore we will keep July by -itself. All the records here relate, as before, to Pentland Skerries. -An equally exact record from each salient or conspicuous station -round our coasts could not fail to give us exact knowledge as regards -the movements of sea-fowl, or rather of rock birds. Food-supply is -an important factor in the local as well as the other migrations. -A knowledge of fishing-grounds would thereby be achieved; and a -knowledge of the two subjects, migration of birds and geography of the -distribution of fishes, would undoubtedly help each other. With these -remarks we continue our records for July, believing that this simple -tabular form is most useful in the present case, though cumbrous if -carried on in every instance. - -_July debatable ground,_ - - July 5th, Pentland Skerries, a flock 8.20 p.m.; mod. E., fog and - showers. - - July 6th, Pentland Skerries, several flocks all day; light S., haze. - - July 7th, Pentland Skerries, several flocks all day flying E.; mod. - S.E., haze. - - July 18th, Pentland Skerries, a few flocks all day; mod. N.W., - clear. - - July 25th, Pentland Skerries, continuous flocks all day; mod. N.E., - clear. - - July 26th, Pentland Skerries, continuous flocks all day flying E. - and S.E.; fresh N., haze. - -The last two entries appear to me to indicate decision in commencing -the autumn migration. - - Aug. 15th, Dunnet Head, rock birds leave about this time. - - Aug. 10th, Isle of May, all rock birds left, except a few - Kittiwakes; heavy westerly gale on 9th. - - Oct. 23rd, Pentland Skerries, flocks flying E.; strong W., showers. - - Nov. 2nd, Pentland Skerries, large flocks, noon, flying S.E. from - S.W. (?). - - Nov. 27th, Isle of May, abundant in sea along with Gulls; - "Garvies," _i.e._, _Culpea sprattus_, abundant (J. A. H. B.). - - Dec. 20th, Isle of May, large numbers; fresh W., haze. - - Dec. 27th, Isle of May, large numbers; S.W., haze. - -This completes our data of Guillemots and Razorbills, to which the -whole of the above records refer for 1883; and I think it shows pretty -plainly the life-history of these birds, at least in some important -particulars. A wider appreciation can be arrived at if similar tabular -returns come in from other salient points of observation, such as Isle -of May, Bell Rock, and one or two stations on the east coast; and Cape -Wrath, Butt of Lewis, Monach Isles, and Barra Head on the west coast; -and also for summer migrations, especially such stations as Island -Ghlais, Skerryvore, and Dhuheartach, and others on the inner line of -stations of the west coast. - -These data are minutely detailed here this year, because I have felt -more at liberty to do so, owing to the light returns of most of our -land birds, thus having more space than usual at command. - -Further remarks, should such occur to us, will appear in the "General -Observations," which I withhold till the close of the West Coast -Report. - - - - -EAST COAST OF ENGLAND. - - -Printed schedules and letters of instruction were forwarded to -thirty-seven lighthouses and light-vessels on the East Coast of -England, and two stations in the Channel Islands, and returns have been -received from twenty-five, against thirty in 1882. - -Independent reports have also been received from Heligoland, and -certain land stations along the East Coast, namely, Seaton-Carew, -Redcar, Flamborough, Spurn, North-East Lincolnshire, Wells (on the -Norfolk coast), Northrepps, Great Yarmouth, and the coast of Essex. -Making altogether a total of thirty-five reporting stations, against -thirty-seven in 1882. - -Our best thanks are due to H. Gätke, T. H. Nelson, C. Donald-Thompson, -Matthew Bailey, William Eagle Clarke, J. H. Gurney, jun., M. Vaughan, -of Haileybury College, Arthur Patterson, and Colonel Russell, for their -hearty co-operation and assistance, as well as to the numerous kind and -painstaking observers at the lighthouses and light-vessels, whose names -are given in the list of stations. Special thanks are due to Mr. Gurney -for having inaugurated along the Norfolk coast a parallel system of -enquiry, which for a first trial has worked well. In all doubtful cases -of identity, where birds are killed against the lanterns, a wing is cut -off, and with a label of the date attached these have been forwarded -in batches to Mr. Gurney for identification, and with satisfactory -results. We cannot too strongly urge upon our observers the advantages -of this system, and advise them to adopt it; nothing is easier than to -cut off a wing from each victim on any given night, wrap them in paper, -or tie them together, with the dates attached, or numbered on the -cover, and send them in one parcel by post either to myself or to Mr. -Gurney, for identification. It is intended that instructions for doing -this will be given in the next issue of schedules in the spring of this -year. - -The East Coast stations included in this report are as follows, those -making returns being marked with a star (*):-- - - *Longstone L.H. + Thomas O. Hall. - *Inner Farn L.H. Thomas H. Cutting. - *Tees L.V. Henry Harbord. - Coquet Island L.H. - *Whitby High L.H. John Odgers. - *Flamborough Head L.H. Charles Hood. - *Spurn L.H. James B. Smith. - Spurn (Newsand) L.V. - *Outer Dowsing L.V. William Stock & J. N. Utting. - *Inner Dowsing L.V. William King. - Dudgeon L.V. - *Llyn Wells L.V. George Rees. - *Hunstanton L.H. William Westmoreland. - *Cromer L.H. Richard Comben. - *Leman and Ower L.V. John Artis. - *Hasbro' L.H. By Mr. Gurney from G. H. Dunsford. - *Hasbro' L.V. J. Nicholas & B. Darnell. - *Newarp L.V. C. Campbell & W. Rees. - *Winterton L.H. John Watson. - *Cockle L.V. Samuel Pender & C. Prefrement. - Orfordness L.H. - Corton L.V. - *Shipwash L.V. The Principal. - *Languard Point L.H. Owen Boyle. - *Galloper L.V. The Principal: two batches of wings - from Mr. Gurney. - Kentish Knock L.V. - Swin Middle L.V. - *Tongue L.V. John Webber. - Nore L.V. - North Foreland L.H. - Goodwin L.V. - *Gull L.V. Francis Harvey & Joseph Jenkins. - *South Sand Head L.V. Joseph Ditcham. - *Eastside L.V. Edward le Gallais. - South Foreland L.H. - Casquets L.H., Alderney - *Hanois L.H., Guernsey Charles Williams. - - † For nature of light, position, and distances from the nearest land, - see Report for 1880. - - -SEPARATE REPORT ON EACH SPECIES.[5] - -[Footnote 5: The sequence and nomenclature are adopted from the -'List of British Birds,' compiled by a Committee of the British -Ornithologists' Union. London: John Van Voorst. 1883.] - -_Turdus viscivorus_, Missel Thrush.--Great Yarmouth, Oct. 20th, -hundreds arriving; 23rd, one shot from flock coming in from sea. -Longstone L.H., 30th, several, and at intervals to Nov. 15th, many -being killed between these periods against lantern; on Nov. 4th, great -rush, coming all night. Great Cotes, N.E. Lincolnshire, Nov. 13th, very -numerous, fresh arrivals. - -_T. musicus_, Song Thrush.--Spring, 1883, Farn L.H., Jan. 20th to Feb. -1st, Thrushes with Blackbirds and Fieldfares on island, also through -March and at intervals to May 10th, at which date several of each -and one Ring Ouzel were seen. Whitby L.H., March 9th, E.N.E., snow -squalls, many with Fieldfares and other birds apparently moving south. -Flamborough, April 27th, first Thrush struck, and on May 7th four. In -the autumn at Farn, Flamborough and Spurn, Sept. 21st, great flight; -and at the majority of the east coast stations from Farn Islands -to Hanois L.H., Guernsey, up to Nov. 8th; great rushes, with other -_Turdidæ_, Oct. 13th, and all through first week of November. Longstone -L.H., Jan. 2nd, 1884, during the snow-storm before daylight, many, -with Blackbirds and Redwings, round lantern--perhaps a local migration -from north to south.[6] Heligoland, from Sept. 21st, S.S.E., to Nov. -12th; greatest rushes on Sept. 24th, Oct. 13th, 29th, and first week in -November. - -[Footnote 6: At the Farn L.H., on Feb. 20th, 1884, and four following -days, numbers of Fieldfares, Thrushes, and Blackbirds were seen on the -island; wind S.S.W.] - -_T. iliacus_, Redwing.--Seaton Carew, Sept. 21st, to Hasbro' L.V., Oct. -30th, great many round lantern, and at several stations between these -dates; rushes Sept. 21st, Oct. 29th and 30th. Heligoland, Oct. 3rd to -Nov. 6th; greatest flights on Oct. 13th and Nov. 6th. - -_T. pilaris_, Fieldfare.--First at Yarmouth, Sept. 8th, flock of ten -to fifteen, 6 a.m., travelling N.E. to S.W., very high,[7] to Hasbro' -L.V., Nov. 8th, many round lantern, and Nov. 16th, at Farn L.H., four -to S.W. At several stations in large numbers between these dates, -but none south of Yarmouth; rushes occurred on Sept. 21st, Oct. 19th -(Yarmouth, along coast to S.), 28th to 31st, and Nov. 6th to 8th. Inner -Dowsing L.V., Oct. 31st, seven killed, 7 p.m., N.E., and at Longstone -L.H., several on same night. Flamborough L.H., Nov. 9th, 1 a.m. to -daylight, great many; direction of migration N.E. to S.W. and E. to W. -or S.E. to N.W. Heligoland, from Sept. 24th to Nov. 7th; Oct. 28th, -great flight overhead, travelling E. to W.; from night of Oct. 31st to -Nov. 4th an immense migration day and night, on 6th also large numbers -still passing. - -[Footnote 7: In the autumn of 1880 Fieldfares were first seen in -Norfolk on Sept. 9th, in 1881 on Sept. 14th, and in 1883 on Sept. 8th. -The earliest occurrence in each case for England.] - -_T. varius_, White's Thrush.--Heligoland, April 15th, one all day long -(Sunday) in the churchyard, and was not obtained. - -_T. merula_, Blackbird.--First at Redcar, Sept. 18th, a few, to Whitby -L.H., Nov. 11th, several, and at Tees L.V., Nov. 15th, one overboard; -between these dates at a majority of the stations, chiefly those -north of the Humber;[8] the first flights young birds, young cocks -being greatly in excess. On Oct. 19th, at Spurn, flight of old cock -Blackbirds; rushes occurred on Sept. 21st, Oct. 28th to 31st, and Nov. -2nd to 8th. Heligoland, Oct. 11th, some. - -[Footnote 8: At Great Cotes, on Nov. 13th, sharp frost on previous -night; the hedgerows in the marsh swarmed with Blackbirds, Missel -Thrushes, Redwings, and Fieldfares; the former were young cocks with a -few old females. There was an average of one Blackbird to each lineal -six feet of hedge.] - -_T. torquatus_, Ring Ouzel.--Spring, Hunstanton L.H., April 31st, one -male. Inner Farn L.H. May 10th, one. Flamborough L.H., May 7th, one -very fine old bird struck. Autumn, at several stations between the -Farn Islands and Yarmouth, from Oct. 13th at the former to Nov. 1st at -the Spurn, flock at noon, wind N.N.E., light, and Nov. 2nd and 4th, -Longstone L.H.; the latter dates all night. Cock Ring Ouzels were -tolerably plentiful near the Spurn and Kilnsea during the fourth week -in October; rushes on Oct. 13th and Nov. 1st to 4th. Heligoland, Sept. -30th to Oct. 22nd; on the 20th two old males. - - Summary. - - Rushes - /---------------------------\ - Species. Limit of Migration. Days. Sept. Oct. Nov. - - Fieldfare Sept. 8th to Nov. 13th 67 21st 28th to 31st 6th to 8th - Blackbird " 18th to Nov. 15th 59 21st 30th to 31st 2nd to 8th - Common Thrush " 21st to Nov. 8th 49 21st 13th 2nd to 6th - Redwing " 21st to Oct. 30th 40 21st 29th to 30th -- - Ring Ouzel Oct. 13th to Nov. 4th 23 -- 13th 1st to 4th - Missel Thrush " 20th to Nov. 15th 27 -- 20th 4th - -Heligoland. - - Fieldfare Sept. 24th to Nov. 7th 45 24th 28th to 31st to 4th - Blackbird Oct. 11th -- -- -- -- -- - Common Thrush Sept. 21st to Nov. 12th 53 24th 13th & 29th first week - Redwing Oct. 3rd to Nov. 6th 35 -- 13th 6th - Ring Ouzel Sept. 30th to Oct. 22nd 23 -- 12th, 13th, 15th -- - Missel Thrush -- -- -- - - Lines of migration, E. to. W., S.E. to N.W., and exceptionally from N.E. - to S.W. - -_Saxicola œnanthe_, Wheatear.--Spring, Farn L.H., April 2nd to 24th; -many on 14th. Flamborough, 5th, 1.20 a.m., one struck. Tees L.V., May -10th, twenty going from S.E. to N.W. Autumn, Farn L.H., from July 20th, -2 p.m., N.E., several, to Nov. 7th; Llyn Wells L.V., one struck (wing -sent to Mr. Gurney). In considerable numbers in September and October, -covering the whole coast line; in the former month associated, as -usual, with Redstarts. At the Farn and Longstone lighthouses, Sept. -2nd and 3rd, E., great numbers of both crossing, and on 24th with both -Redstarts and Snow Buntings. Heligoland, Aug. 6th to 7th, a few, S.E. -wind, and on to 20th numerous, all young; 21st to 24th, in astounding -numbers; Sept. 10th, enormous rush, and 11th and 12th, less. - -_Pratincola rubetra_, Whinchat.--Heligoland, Aug. 21st, 22nd, and 24th, -great many young birds. - -_P. rubicola_, Stonechat.--Spring, Whitby L.H., Feb. 23rd, one. Autumn, -same station, Aug. 8th, many to S. Spurn, Oct. 23rd, many. Stonechats -have frequented the sheep-folds on the turnip-fields in Lincolnshire -throughout the whole of the late mild winter. Heligoland, Oct. 20th, -one young bird; Oct. 11th, S.S.W., _P. rubicola_ (_indica_)? "with -coloration just like a young autumn Whinchat, if not lighter, all the -breast buff or isabell, the rump also." - -_Ruticilla phœnicurus_, Redstart.--Spring, Hunstanton L.H., April -13th, 4 a.m., S., one male against lantern. Autumn, same station, Aug. -30th, one male, 1 a.m., against lantern. Numerous between Farn Islands -and Yarmouth in September to the 24th, associated frequently with -Wheatears. Heligoland, Sept. 9th to Oct. 1st; on Sept. 10th enormous -numbers, 14th great many, and 17th to 21st also great many. - -_Ruticilla titys_, Black Redstart.--Spurn, Oct. 23rd, one seen (in 1882 -at the Spurn, Oct. 29th). Galloper L.V., Oct. 28th, one, young male or -old female (wing to J. H. G.); I have no doubt it occurs regularly as -an autumn immigrant on our east coast, and may be expected about four -weeks later than the Redstart.[9] Heligoland, Oct. 27th, eight or ten. - -[Footnote 9: Messrs. Clarke and Roebuck state, in their 'Handbook of -Yorkshire Vertebrata,' p. 19, that "Mr. M. Bailey, of Flamborough, -has frequently observed these birds in spring on their arrival on the -headland, and has known them killed by flying against the light in -thick, foggy weather, with the wind E.N.E. He has also seen them on -their departure in September, and has noticed several in October and -November."] - -_Cyanecula suecica_, Red-spotted Bluethroat.--One, coast of -Northumberland late in September; one, Redcar, 21st, on Tees -breakwater; one about same time at the Spurn, but not obtained; ten, -coast of Norfolk, in same month; and about twenty others seen there -by a competent authority, Mr. Power. All obtained were birds of the -year.[10] The gizzard of one of these Norfolk birds which I examined -was crammed with the broken remains of small beetles having a bright -metallic lustre, but the remains were much broken and comminuted. - -[Footnote 10: Mr. Gätke says "the other form, _S. leucocyanea_, Brehm, -comes very rarely so far north as Heligoland, and when it turns up -it always does so four to six weeks earlier than the suecica in the -spring."] - -_Erithacus rubecula_, Redbreast.--First at the Shipwash L.V., Aug. -13th, large numbers associated with Wrens, to Llyn Wells L.V., Nov. -3rd, one killed; the main migration Sept. 10th to Oct. 14th, covering -the entire coast-line; rushes on Sept. 21st and 30th, Oct. 6th and 7th. -Heligoland, Sept. 24th to Nov. 23rd; rushes on Sept. 24th, and Oct. 3rd -to 7th.[11] - -[Footnote 11: At the Spurn, in the autumn, I have seen Redbreasts come -in directly from the sea, passing overhead inland; an a clear bright -day the orange-red of the breast shows very conspicuously.] - -_Sylvia cinerea_, Whitethroat.--Hanois L.H. (Guernsey), Nov. 2nd, -E., about lantern all night with Blackcaps. Heligoland, Sept. 10th, -enormous numbers; 11th and 12th, less; Oct. 1st, last. - -_S. atricapilla_, Blackcap.--Hanois L.H., as above. Heligoland, -Oct. 11th, one young bird shot in garden. _S. hortensis_, Garden -Warbler.--Sept. 24th, some. - -_Regulus cristatus_, Goldcrest.--Spring, Tees L.V., March 29th, one -stayed all night, then to E. Farn L.H., April 2nd, several all day. -Hunstanton L.H., 3rd and 4th, S., against lantern. Newarp L.V., 14th, -three to E. Autumn, Shipwash L.V., Aug. 13th, large numbers; and at -most stations between Sept. 2nd and Nov. 9th; rushes, Sept. 21st, -Oct. 28th to 31st. At the Shipwash L.V., on Oct. 15th, flights passed -westward from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m., and at 6 p.m. fourteen were killed at -lantern; the immigration of Goldcrests has been small compared with the -millions which crossed in the autumn of 1882, the period of migration -eighty-six days, against ninety-two in the preceding year; line E. to -W. Heligoland, Oct. 6th, not many yet; 7th, pretty numerous; 13th and -22nd, some. The Firecrest, _Regulus ignicapillus_.--Oct. 29th, many; -Nov. 2nd, many; 8th, some. - -_Phylloscopus superciliosus_, Yellow-barred Warbler. Heligoland, Sept. -17th, N.E., calm and clear, one. - -_P. rufus_, Chiffchaff.--Heligoland, Sept. 24th and 30th, some; -October, first seven days; 11th, early, great many and throughout day; -12th and 13th, less. - -_P. trochilus_, Willow Warbler.--Aug. 14th, some; 18th, 19th, 20th, -pretty numerous, all young; 21st, 22nd, and 24th, astonishing numbers; -Sept. 9th, some; 10th, enormous numbers; 11th and 12th, less; 24th, -less; Nov. 1st, final rush, marvellous numbers. - -_Hypolais pallida._--Heligoland, Sept. 20th, "first specimen got here," -shot by Ludwig Gätke. - -_Accentor modularis_. Hedgesparrow.--Languard Point L.H., March 1st, -12.30 p.m., large flock to E. In the autumn of 1882 there was an -enormous migration across Heligoland and on the East Coast of England; -this last autumn only five or six are recorded from Heligoland, and -none on our east coast. - -_Acredula rosea_, British Long-tailed Titmouse.--Yarmouth, Oct. 25th, -about this date several seen, flock of eleven on telegraph wire, and -on the 22nd a furze-bush on the "denes" covered with them. - -_Parus major_ and _cæridulus_, Great and Blue Titmouse.--Farn L.H., -March 8th, two Tits. Flamborough, April 3rd, one struck. Farn L.H., -Oct. 7th, two struck. Galloper L.V., 13th, one Great Tit (wing to J. H. -G.). Cockle L.V., 14th, both species. Shipwash L.V., 15th, two Great -Titmice (wings to J. H. G.). Spurn, 23rd, Blue Titmouse, a great many. -Heligoland, Great Titmouse from Oct. 14th to end of November; Oct. 29th -to 31st, a great many; Nov. 15th, same; Blue Titmouse from Oct. 14th -to Nov. 2nd; rush, Oct. 29th and 31st. _Parus ater_, Continental Coal -Titmouse.--Oct. 22nd, one. - -_Troglodytes parvulus_, Wren.--Spring, Flamborough L.H., April 3rd, -9.20 p.m., one struck; May 7th, 11.45 p.m., one. Winterton L.H., May -14th, several, 12.30 a.m., S., three killed; 15th, two. Spurn L.H., -24th, "large flock to south." Autumn, Shipwash L.V., Aug. 13th, 2 to -6.30 p.m., in large numbers. Tees L.V., Sept. 5th, one on board three -days. Whitby L.H., Oct. 10th, 8 a.m., Wrens to south. Cockle L.V., Nov. -1st, one. Outer Dowsing L.V., 2nd, great rush with others westward. -Heligoland, Oct. 31st, for several weeks past daily in great numbers; -Nov. 2nd, many; 7th and 8th, very many. - -_Motacilla alba_, White Wagtail.--Heligoland, Oct. 12th and 13th, some. - -_M. lugubris_, Pied Wagtail.--Spring, Whitby L.H., March 31st, two -pairs. Farn L.H., April 2nd, one; 4th to 14th, many. Flamborough, April -11th, a pair. Autumn, Cromer L.H., Aug. 12th, one Pied Wagtail (wing to -J. H. G.). Tees L.V., Sept. 17th, in flocks, twelve to fifteen. Whitby -L.H., Oct. 10th, last seen. Hanois L.H. (Guernsey), Oct. 29th, and on -Nov. 1st, all night. - -_M. flava_, Blue-headed Yellow Wagtail.--Heligoland, Aug. 21st, 22nd, -and 24th, astonishing numbers; Sept. 2nd, some; Oct. 13th, some. _M. -citriola_, Sept. 16th, calm and fine, one. - -_Anthus pratensis_, Meadow Pipit.--Heligoland, Sept. 24th, great many; -Oct. 1st, astounding numbers. _A. cervinus_, Sept. 16th, calm and fine, -one. - -_A. trivialis_, Tree Pipit.--Heligoland, Aug. 21st, 22nd, and 24th, -astounding numbers; Sept. 2nd, some; 9th and 12th, many; 24th, ceased; -again, Oct. 12th and 13th, passing. - -_A. richardi_, Richard's Pipit.--Heligoland, Sept. 16th and 17th; on -18th, two shot, 8½ in. long; 21st, some; 24th, some Oct. 11th, two. - -_A. obscurus_, Rock Pipit.--October, last fortnight, common on -Yorkshire, Lincolnshire, and Norfolk coast. At Heligoland, on Oct. 1st, -great many (_A. obscurus_, var. _rupestris_.[12]) - -[Footnote 12: This, the Scandinavian form of the Rock Pipit, is not -infrequent on the Yorkshire and Lincolnshire coast in the autumn.] - -_Oriolus galbula_, Golden Oriole.--Heligoland, May, a male; the first -in thirty years. - -_Lanius excubitor_ and _major_, Great Grey and Pallas's Great Grey -Shrike.--Heligoland, Oct. 5th, six or eight, and in last week in month -_major_, some; none on English coast. - -_L. collurio_, Red-backed Shrike.--Languard L.H., March 16th, one. Farn -L.H., Sept. 23rd, one shot on island. - -_Muscicapa grisola_, Spotted Flycatcher.--Spring, Whitby L.H., April -7th, great many small Flycatchers against lantern every night in the -week[13] (too soon by four or five weeks for _M. grisola_), Farn L.H., -April 28th, several. Hunstanton L.H., May 17th, 2 a.m., S.W., seven -killed. Tees L.V., Dec. 27th, one came on board. Heligoland, Sept. -10th, enormous numbers; 11th and 12th, some; 17th, many; 19th and 20th, -less. - -[Footnote 13: Probably this, as well as other entries in the schedules, -may refer to various small insect-feeding birds, as the term -"Flycatcher" amongst our observers is a very general one.] - -_M. atricapilla_, Pied Flycatcher.--Yarmouth, Sept. 15th, one young -bird (J. H. G.). Heligoland, Aug. 14th, some, and on to Sept. 20th; -on Aug. 21st, 22nd, and 24th, and again on Sept. 10th, in enormous -numbers. _M. parva_, Red-breasted Flycatcher.--Sept. 19th, "one with -orange throat." - -_Hirundo rustica_, Swallow.--Spring, Hunstanton L.H., April 5th, -one to S.W.; 29th, many. Farn L.H., 20th, two. In May, at Whitby, -Flamborough, Spurn, and Outer Dowsing L.V. At Tees L.V., on 10th, great -many, S.E. to N.W.; and 11th, 12th, and 13th, all through day in same -direction. Autumn, Cockle L.V., July 12th, six to S.; and from Sept. -25th to Oct. 13th, at several stations going south. Last observed at -the Spurn by myself, Oct. 24th and 25th; three young birds hawking in -the sun beneath Kilnsea cliff. Heligoland, Aug. 21st and 22nd, S.E., -"astounding numbers" of Swallows, Martins, and Sand Martins; Sept. -3rd, S.S.W. (No. 9), great numbers; 4th, great flock of Swallows late -in afternoon; Nov. 8th, small flights. - -_Chelidon urbica_, Martin.--Tees L.V., June 27th, 28th, 29th, great -many to S.W.; and at the Outer Dowsing L.V., on 23rd, two travelling -S.S.E. to W.N.W. Last observed at Seaton Snook, Tees, Oct. 2nd. - -_Carduelis elegans_, Goldfinch.--Tees L.V., Nov. 22nd, one on board. -Heligoland, Nov. 8th, some. - -_Chrysomitris spinus_, Siskin.--Yarmouth, Oct. 21st, small flights; -several taken by the birdcatchers. Heligoland, Oct. 27th, a few. - -_Ligurinus chloris_, Greenfinch.--Spurn, Oct. 23rd and 24th, large -flocks near the coast associated with Linnets. Great Cotes, Nov. 16th, -small flights. - -_Coccothraustes vulgaris_, Hawfinch.--Inner Dowsing L.V., Nov. 2nd, 9 -p.m., one struck lantern; two at same station in 1882. Heligoland, Oct. -31st, Nov. 1st, many. - -_Passer domesticus_, House Sparrow.--Spring, Outer Dowsing L.V., April -1st, 8 a.m., flock going S.E. by S. to N.W.; May 15th, six, and 18th -three to W.N.W.[14] Autumn, at several stations from Oct. 11th to Nov. -19th. Shipwash L.V., Nov. 8th and 17th, 8 a.m. to noon and 1 p.m., -continuous flights to W.S.W. - -[Footnote 14: All birds, including Crows, Sparrows, Tree Sparrows, -Chaffinches, Wrens, Swallows, Martins, Yellowhammers, Larks, Titlarks, -and some ducks, passing this station in March, April, May, and June, -were steering in _westerly_ directions. The Outer Dowsing L.V. is moored -on the edge of the shoal of that name 53 miles E.S.E. of the Spurn.] - -_P. montanus_, Tree Sparrow.--Are recorded at Newarp L.V., Oct. 14th, -Yarmouth, 14th, and Shipwash L.V., 15th; and at the Goodwin stations in -October.[15] - -[Footnote 15: As a rule more Common and Tree Sparrows pass the Goodwin -stations than any other on the east coast. These light-vessels, as -well as those off the mouth of the Thames, are very uniform in their -returns, the birds scheduled being the most abundant and commonest of -our immigrants, and it is seldom a rare visitor is chronicled.] - -_Fringilla cœlebs_, Chaffinch.--Spring, Newarp L.V., April 13th, all -day to E. Farn L.H., 29th, several. Autumn, between Sept. 21st, at -Redcar, to Nov. 29th and 30th, at Longstone L.H., immense flights are -recorded at the majority of stations along the east coast; great rushes -occurred Sept. 21st, Oct. 6th to 14th, and Nov. 1st and 2nd; line of -flight E. to W.[16] Heligoland, from Sept. 21st, E. by S., to Nov. 1st, -in immense numbers; great rush on Sept. 21st and 22nd, on which latter -day they passed in astounding numbers; Oct. 13th, all day passing on; -Nov. 7th to 29th, great many. - -[Footnote 16: Chaffinches are recorded as dying on board some of -the light-vessels, on which they arrive in an exhausted state. Mr. -Patterson, of Yarmouth, says, under date Oct. 13th, "Picked up some -dead at high-water mark. I have found numbers occasionally dead, -drowned thus, every year. They fare worse in this respect than most -small immigrants."] - -_Fringilla montifringilla_, Brambling.--Longstone L.H., Sept. 21st, E., -several. Cockle L.V., Oct. 11th, and Hasbro' L.H., 13th, two killed -(wings to J. H. G.). Heligoland, Oct. 7th, pretty numerous; 13th, all -day with Chaffinches; and numerous first week in November. - -_Linota cannabina_, Linnet. Spring, Newarp L.V., April 13th, all day to -E. Autumn, Whitby L.H., Aug, 8th, great many to south.[17] Heligoland, -Sept. 30th to Nov. 11th; rush on Oct. 13th. - -[Footnote 17: Linnets, Twites, and Redpoles work their way south along -the coast; those flocks also which cross the North Sea, after striking -land, follow the same route to the south. They often collect in immense -quantities in favourite localities, feeding on the seeds of salt-loving -plants along the coast.] - -_L. linaria_, Mealy Redpole.--Spurn, a few during the second week in -February, 1884, and one on 15th near Yarmouth. - -_L. rufescens_, Lesser Redpole.--Yarmouth, Oct. 15th, several about -"denes." - -_L. flavirostris_, Twite.--Numerous flocks on Lincolnshire coast in -October. Heligoland, Oct. 22nd, hundreds together, and to Nov. 15th; -rush, Oct. 26th to Nov. 7th. _L. exilipes_, Nov. 11th, one. - -_Pyrrhula europæa_, Bullfinch.--Newarp L.V., March 5th, one on board. -Outer Dowsing L.V., May 9th, one came on board, and ten to W.S.W. - -_Loxia curvirostra_, Crossbill.--Heligoland, during first week in July, -repeated flights from twenty to thirty. - -_Emberiza melanocephala_, Black-headed Bunting.--Heligoland, in May, -male and female obtained. - -_E. miliaria_, Corn Bunting.--Heligoland, Oct. 13th, many; Nov. 2nd, -many; 7th, many; 23rd, some; "never seen here except in very small -flights." - -_E. citrinella_, Yellowhammer.--May 13th, Whitby L.H., great many for -several days. Heligoland, Nov. 2nd, many; 23rd, some. _E. cirlus_, Cirl -Bunting.--May, one, "completing with the male obtained many years ago, -the only pair." - -_E. hortulana_, Ortolan Bunting. Great Cotes, May 3rd, N.E., very sharp -and cold, one seen, apparently an adult female [see Cordeaux, Zool., -vol. 1883, p. 253.] Heligoland, Aug. 21st, 22nd, and 24th, "astounding -numbers"; Sept. 9th and 12th, great many; 16th and 17th, first old -birds. _E. rustica_, Rustic Bunting, Sept. 24th, one shot by Ludwig -Gätke. _E. pusilla_, Little Bunting, Sept. 24th, one shot; 30th, one. - -_E. schœniclus_, Reed Bunting.--Great Cotes, Nov. 16th, considerable -flight. Heligoland, Sept. 20th, pretty large numbers; Oct. 11th, great -many; 13th, some; and 31st, many. - -_Calcarius lapponicus_, Lapland Bunting.--Heligoland, Sept. 30th, some. - -_Plectrophanes nivalis_, Snow Bunting.--Spring, Farn L.H., March 7th, -two. Cockle L.V., 14th, "Snow-birds" to W. Languard L.H., July 8th, -a pair on beach, 6.30 p.m., seen by Mr. Owen Boyle; certainly the -earliest record for England of this species. Autumn, first at Tees -L.V., Sept. 18th and 19th, one flock each day to S.W., and to Jan. 9th, -1884. Redcar, several flights to W.; a few recorded at stations between -the Farn Islands and Yarmouth in September, October, and November; and -from Dec. 1st to 29th in great numbers. At Great Cotes, on Dec. 4th, -thousands upon thousands, the stubbles near the Humber fairly covered -with their enormous flocks; young with a sprinkling of old birds, one -to forty. Heligoland, Nov. 6th, early, very numerous passage; 12th and -14th, great many. - -_Sturnus vulgaris_, Common Starling.--With few exceptions are recorded -at all our east coast stations, and often in immense numbers, the -occurrences being far too numerous to chronicle. The bulk crossed in -September, October, and November; less in December; the line of flight -and rushes corresponding with those of the Lark, with which species -they are very frequently associated. Heligoland, from Oct. 1st to Nov. -12th; on Oct. 6th in "astounding flights, thousands upon thousands"; -12th, "considerable numbers of astounding flights, both overhead and -in distance"; 13th, "still passing, astounding numbers all day"; 26th, -the same, very high; 27th, "night, from 11 p.m., myriads"; 28th, -"immense," and still great many to Nov. 12th. These extracts from -Mr. Gätke's notes show the enormous migration of this species across -Heligoland in the autumn, and the corresponding rush on to our east -coast. - -_Pastor roseus_, Rose-coloured Pastor.--Heligoland, July 16th, old male -shot. - -_Pyrrhocorax graculus_, Chough.--Heligoland, April 15th, seen for a -whole week, but not obtained. - -_Corvus monedula_, Jackdaw.--Considerable numbers south of Humber -throughout the autumn. Heligoland, Oct. 26th, many; 27th and 29th, -great flight. - -_Corvus corone_, Carrion Crow.--Spring, Farn L.H., March 8th, seven to -W. Autumn, Yarmouth, Oct. 14th, continuous flocks of Carrion and Grey -Crows coming in, and again on 27th. At the Inner Dowsing L.V., from -Oct. 25th to Nov. 13th, great many; also at other stations in October -and November. - -_Corvus cornix_, Hooded Crow.--Migrates in company with his near -cousin, the Carrion Crow, as well as in separate flocks.[18] Spring, -Farn L.H., May 25th, one Grey Crow on island, where it ate three young -Larks; on July 27th Mr. Owen Boyle saw five on the beach off Languard. -Autumn, first at Great Cotes, Oct. 4th, to Whitby L.H., Dec. 8th, -fifty. Enormous numbers crossed in October and November between the -Farn Islands and Shipwash L.V., off the coast of Essex, the main body -arriving on the flat coast of Lincolnshire and in Norfolk; great rushes -occurred on Oct. 9th, night of 12th, 20th, 27th, and 28th, and on to -Nov. 2nd, and also Nov. 7th to 15th; under date Nov. 8th, Hasbro' L.V. -reports "continuous flocks of Black Crows and Grey Crows, and Crows -with white backs and bellies"; it would be difficult to say what is -intended by the latter. Heligoland, Oct. 1st, flights, thirty to forty, -to Nov. 12th.[19] - -[Footnote 18: Probably something like one-half of the entries in the -schedules record the movements of Crows, Rooks, Daws, Starlings, Larks, -and Chaffinches, any detailed notice of which is unnecessary, and could -serve no practical purpose.] - -[Footnote 19: Under date Oct. 6th, N.E., clear, fresh, Mr. Gätke -remarks:--"Across the sea both sides of island (N. and S.), -particularly on north side, countless numbers of _cornix_, _sturnus_, -and all kinds of small birds, all from E. to W. This occurrence happens -not rarely; during this ponderous migration there were on the island -nearly no birds."] - -_Corvus frugilegus_, Rook.--Spring, Newarp L.V., during March and -April, many flocks of Rooks and Crows are recorded as going both to the -west and east, as if a cross migration was going on to and from the -Continent. At the Cockle L.V., March 20th, 24th, and 26th, continuous -Rooks and Crows to _west_. Llyn Wells, April 30th, various flocks of -Crows to _south-west_, and at the same station, on Aug. 3rd and 4th, -large flocks to _north north-east_. Autumn, with scarcely an exception, -at all stations between the Spurn and South Foreland, from the last -week in September to the end of the third week in November; the rushes -correspond with those of the preceding. - -_Alauda arvensis_, Sky Lark.--As in previous years. Larks hare crossed -in immense numbers to the east coast; it would be quite unnecessary -to give each occurrence in detail, almost involving the necessity of -writing a separate report. They are recorded at all stations from the -Farn Islands to Gull L.V., off the South Foreland, from Sept. 1st to -Jan. 3rd, 1884, and often continuously night and day; rushes took -place on Sept. 3rd, 4th, and 21st, Oct. 6th and 8th, 10th to 14th, -27th to Nov. 2nd-14th; and Dec. 27th and 30th; and again Jan. 3rd, -1884. Flocks which come in at daybreak will continue to arrive till -12 or 1 p.m., when migration for the time ceases. Numbers are killed -during the night migration against the lanterns of the lighthouses and -light-vessels.[20] Heligoland, Oct. 5th to Nov. 8th; great rushes, -Oct. 12th; 27th, night from 11 p.m., "milliards" with Starlings; 28th, -"immense flight"; 30th and 31st, in all four nights almost continuous -flights. - -[Footnote 20: The list of birds killed at the Hasbro' L.V., from Oct. -10th to Jan. 3rd 1884, was 162 Sky Larks, 73 Starlings, 23 Chaffinches, -60 Larks and Chaffinches, 28 Stormy Petrels, 1 Fork-tailed Petrel, 3 -Fieldfares, 3 Thrushes, 8 Ringed Plovers, 4 Grey Plovers, 2 Goldcrests, -2 Woodcocks, 1 Whimbrel, 1 Oystercatcher, 1 Kingfisher, 1 Blackbird, -1 Grey Crow, 1 Rook, 1 Lapwing, 1 tame Pigeon, 1 Curlew, 1 Brambling, -1 Redwing (wings sent to Mr. Gurney, but without date). Besides these -a large tub and bucket-full various. At Llyn Wells L.V., under date -Oct. 17th, Kestrel, Snow Bunting, Chaffinch, 2 Robins, Wren, Goldcrest; -on Nov. 4th, 3 Knots, 4 Thrushes, Redwing, 3 Stormy Petrels; Nov. -7th, 8 Chaffinches, 7 Thrushes, Knot, Blackbird, Wheatear, 2 Dunlins, -2 Snow Buntings, Brambling, Jack Snipe, 4 Fieldfares; another date, -2 Chaffinches, 2 Tree Sparrows, Thrush, 3 Stormy Petrels, 2 Snow -Buntings, Dunlin; Nov. 2nd, 5 Knots; Dec. 20th, Knot; Jan. 2, Knot; -6th, 2 Knots; 7th, Oystercatcher; also two more Knots and two Dunlins, -which had slipped their labels, but which Mr. Gurney thinks belong to -Nov. 22nd.] - -_Otocorys alpestris_, Shore Lark.--Yarmouth, between Oct. 25th and -28th, six obtained from a small flock. Galloper L.V., October 11th, -one, (wing to J. H. G.). At Heligoland the migration of the Shore Lark, -commencing on Oct. 1st and ending Dec. 16th, was the most remarkable -of the season; Oct. 1st, N.E., small flights; 11th, some flights; -13th, about one hundred; 22nd, flights of hundreds; 26th, flights of -thousands, in the forenoon cliff covered; 27th-30th, numerous; Nov. -7th, marvellous numbers; 8th, very numerous; 11th, many flights; 12th, -astounding numbers; 14th, numerous; 15th, astonishing, thousands in -flights; 16th, few; Dec. 16th, hundreds. - -_Cypselus apus_, Swift.--Hunstanton L.H., May 10th, great many. Whitby -L.H., 13th, one. Farn L.H., June 25th, three; the movement southward -appears to have commenced on or about this date. Last at Yarmouth, -Sept. 8th, several all day. Heligoland, August 21st, 22nd, and 24th, -great many. - -_Jynx torquilla_, Wryneck.--Heligoland, Aug. 21st, 22nd, and 24th, -immense numbers with Swallows, Martins, Sand Martins, Swifts, Ortolan -Buntings, Tree Pipits, Wheatears, Willow Wrens, Pied Flycatchers, and -Blue-headed Wagtails; all astounding numbers. - -_Alcedo ispida_, Kingfisher.--Yarmouth, first fortnight in September, -twenty-three brought to one birdstuffer. Hasbro' L.V., Oct. 10th, 10.30 -p.m., one on deck. Heligoland, Aug. 15th. - -_Coracias garrula_, Roller.--Bradwell, Norfolk, Oct. 9th, one shot. -Muckton, Louth, Lincolnshire, Oct. 27th, one also shot. - -_Upupa epops_, Hoopoe.--Longstone L.H., April 29th, one killed against -kitchen window, 2.15 a.m., rain and squalls from S.E. - -_Cuculus canorus_, Cuckoo.--Hunstanton and Whitby lighthouses. May -12th, one at each. Farn L.H., 15th, one. Longstone L.H., July 24th, -young Cuckoo on rocks. Heligoland, Aug. 19th and 20th, three young. - -_Strix flammea_, Barn Owl.--One at Cromer, on Oct. 6th., seen by Mr. -Gurney, and "a large cream-coloured Owl," at Farn L.H., on May 13th, -may have belonged to this species. - -_Asio otus_, Long-eared Owl.--Cromer, Oct. 6th, one. Hasbro' L.V. Nov. -4th, one resting on rigging at 7.30. a.m. for ten minutes, and perhaps -Whitby, Jan. 3rd, 1884, "one very large Horned Owl seen on cliff top." -Heligoland, Oct. 31st and Nov. 1st, pretty numerous. - -_A. brachyotus_, Short-eared Owl.--Spring, Farn L.V., April 25th, -7.45, p.m., "one very large Owl to E.N.E.; very high." Autumn, first -at Redcar, Sept. 11th to Dec. 20th. At Llyn Wells L.V., two to S.S.W.; -throughout October to Nov. 8th, at eleven stations;[21] rushes Oct. 1st -to 4th, 12th to 14th, and first week in November. Heligoland, Oct. 14th -and 15th, one each day; 22nd, numerous; 24th, some; 30th, great many; -31st, numerous. Nov. 1st to 4th, "and at night at the lighthouse, many, -also our smaller Owl, _tengmalmi_." - -[Footnote 21: Under date of Nov. 7th, at Happisburgh L.H., an Owl, -flying about in the glare of the lamps, was seen to pounce on a -Starling and carry it off. Mr. F. Spurr writes, "this latter, a fine -Horned Owl, has taken to visit the lighthouse regularly; he takes his -post just beneath the strong rays of light, and from thence pounces on -the small birds when they are frightened by the glare." He goes on to -say that he had seen it perched on the rail of the balcony, when its -eyes shone like living coals; just such a light as is visible in the -eyes of the night-flying moths when they settle on the pane.] - -Falconidæ.--Circus, Harrier, Redcar, Sept. 21st, six on Tees -Breakwater. Buzzards or "very large Hawks," Spring, Farn L.H., March -10th, "one large Hawk, feeding on Blackbird"; May 18th, large Hawk; -June 18th, very large Hawk, driving the Terns from their nesting-place; -also on 19th. Autumn, from Sept. 6th to Jan. 12th, 1884, numerous -Buzzards, and "very large Hawks" are recorded at ten stations between -the Farn Islands and Yarmouth; the majority between Sept. 6th and Oct. -20th. There appears to have been a rush of the larger _Falconidæ_ on -Sept. 21st. At the Spurn L.H., on Sept. 21st, two Common Buzzards; -14th, 1 a.m., Honey Buzzard caught against lantern, and another on -17th, shot near Kilnsea. Farn L.H., 23rd, one very large Hawk, "back -and wings dark brown, belly greyish white, beak slate-colour." Whitby -L.H., Jan. 12th, 8.30. a.m., one very large Hawk, "dark colour, with -long, square tail, the largest I have ever seen." _Accipiter nisus_, -Sparrowhawk, numerous through September and to Oct. 14th, and after -this in less numbers to Nov. 20th; rush, Sept. 21st, with other -_Falconidæ_. Heligoland, Rough-legged Buzzard, Oct. 12th and 13th, one -each day; Nov. 2nd, some; 19th, four to six. Sea Eagle, _Haliaëtus -albicilla_, Sept. 21st, some. Sparrowhawks, from Sept. 21st to Nov. -1st.; Oct. 4th, first old birds. As a rule Sparrowhawks pass late in -the afternoon. Peregrine Falcon, Oct. 12th, a few. Kestrel and others, -Sept. 22nd, "more than ever, with Sparrowhawks and Merlins." - -_Phalacrocorax carbo_, Cormorant.--Tees L.V., March 7th, flock of -twenty-five; 24th, fifty. - -_Sula bassana_, Gannet.--Spring, Farn L.V., Feb. 25th, many going N. -Longstone L.H., March 22nd to April 15th, daily to N., and from this -date every day till May 30th, never more than nine in a flock; great -numbers of young also seen off Farn Islands, Redcar and Whitby, first -three weeks, in October, generally moving in northerly directions. -Redcar, Oct. 26th and 31st and Nov. 2nd and 10th, great numbers to S.E. -Hanois L.H. (Guernsey), Nov. 24th, all day passing. - -_Ardea cinerea_, Heron.--Languard L.H., June 25th, a pair very high to -S.W., and several seen off Farn L.H. in August. - -_Botaurus stellaris_, Bittern.--Early in January, 1884, a Bittern was -shot near Thornton College, North Lincolnshire, and two others are -reported as seen. - -Anser, Geese.--Languard L.H., March 11th, sixteen Grey Geese, very high -to S.W. Whitby L.H., June 20th, nineteen going N., and on July 8th, 5 -p.m., a large flock from N. to S.W. Redcar, Sept. 21st, twelve Grey -Geese to E.; and at some stations also in October and November, having -probably reference to change of feeding-ground. A large flock of Brent -Geese, _Bernicla brenta_, were seen off the Farn Islands on March 23rd, -at 6 p.m., and in the autumn a few on Sept. 26th, at the Tees L.V. - -Cygnus, Swans.--At Tees L.V., March 25th, one. Outer Dowsing L.V., -14th, three from N.W. to E.S.E. Spurn, May 13th, three to S.; and on -15th, two in Humber. Llyn Wells L.V., Sept. 16th, three to W.S.W. It is -possible all these may have reference to escapes or strays from private -waters. - -_Tadorna cornuta_, Common Sheldrake.--Tees L.V., Jan. 13th, flock of -three hundred. "Never saw so many together before." Nov. 28th, flock of -about one hundred. - -_Mareca penelope_, Wigeon.--Redcar, Aug. 20th, two flocks; Sept. 20th, -flock of one hundred Teal at sea. Farn L.H., Dec. 12th, hundreds of -Wild Duck, _Anas boschas_, off island. - -_Harelda glacialis_, Long-tailed Duck.--Farn L.H., March 8th, "flock -of fifty to sixty off island." On Oct. 23rd, at Kilnsea, near the -Spurn, I shot a mature female Hareld from a flooded meadow. The stomach -contained a mass of small red worms and minute stones. - -_Somateria mollissima_, Eider Duck.--Farn L.H., Nov., "hundreds of -Eiders, drakes and ducks, with young birds, flying and swimming about -the island every day this month." In December six were shot on Breydon -Water, Norfolk. The King Eider, _Somateria spectabilis_, was again, as -in the last two years, seen at the Farn Islands, in company with the -Common Eider, in April. - -_Œdemia nigra_, Common Scoter.--Gull L.V., Aug. 19th to Sept. 11th, -great numbers going S.W. - -_Columba palumbus_, Ring Dove.--Farn L.H., Sept. 24th, one. Stock Dove, -_C. ænas_.--On Oct. 25th, at Kilnsea, near the Spurn, I saw one come in -direct from the sea and pitch in a field on the cliff top. Heligoland, -_C. palumbus_, Sept. 30th, some; Oct. 4th, flights, forty to fifty; -13th and 15th, passing on; 31st, many. - -_Rallus aquaticus_, Water Rail.--Farn L.H., Oct. 30th, S., foggy, three -at daylight; Nov. 2nd, one at noon, to land; Galloper, 3rd, one (wing -to J. H. G.) Hasbro' L.H., Dec. 9th, S.W., one struck. - -_Crex pratensis_, Corn Crake.--Farn L.H., May 1st, 3 p.m., N.E., one; -23rd, 2 p.m., one. Whitby, 11th, first heard. Winterton L.H., Aug. -10th, midnight, one struck. Spurn L.H., Sept. 15th, one; Hunstanton -L.H., Oct. 8th, one struck and caught alive. - -_Œdicnemus scolopax_, Stone Curlew.--Heligoland, Aug. 15th. - -_Charadrius pluvialis_, Golden Plover.--Farn L.H., July 27th, five to -E., and on Aug. 20th, flock to W.; numerous on island through August -and September, moving to and from the mainland. At the Spurn on Aug. -29th, a large flock to N.[22]; and at Wells, Norfolk, Aug. 27th, in -small parties on mud. Heligoland, July. 16th, one young bird shot; Aug. -21st to 24th, young birds; 16th and 17th, great flights, all young; -29th, great flights; night Oct. 31st to Nov. 1st, "whole atmosphere -gloomy darkness, Curlew, Lapwing, Tringa, Snipe, Woodcock, but no -Golden Plover." Dec. 4th, N.E. (No. 8 or 9), snow-storm. Woodcocks and -Golden Plover. - -[Footnote 22: The occurrence of a large body of Golden Plovers at -the Spurn at this date, passing to the north, is somewhat remarkable -in connection with the large flight of the same species seen there, -passing in the same direction, on Aug. 22nd, in 1880, and on Sept. 6th -in 1881. (Yarrell's Brit. Birds, ed. iv., vol. iii., p. 274).] - -_Squatarola helvetica_, Grey Plover.--Spurn, June 7th, 11 a.m., N.E., -flocks along coast. Hasbro' L.V., Nov. 1st, four killed. Tees L.V., -Dec. 13th, large flock. - -_Vanellus vulgaris_, Lapwing.--Spring, Cockle L.V., March 8th, large -flocks to S.W. Autumn, Yarmouth, Oct. 6th, large flocks in afternoon -from sea; 30th, Hasbro' L.V., great rush; Whitby L.H., Nov. 15th, 16th -and 17th, flights each day, south-westerly gale; also at Hunstanton -L.H. on 16th, to S.W., from daylight to noon. - -_Strepsilas interpres_, Turnstone.--Yarmouth, Aug. 11th, young birds -to S. Farn L.H., 14th, large flocks at noon. Redcar, 31st, large flock -near Teesmouth, fresh arrivals. - -_Hæmatopus ostralegus_, Oystercatcher.--Llyn Wells L.V., Jan. 7th, -1884, one killed (J. H. G.). - -_Phalaropus hyperboreus_, Red-necked Phalarope.--Yarmouth, Oct. 24th, -one shot. - -_Scolopax rusticula_, Woodcock.--Flamborough L.H., April 6th, struck -and killed. Two or three occurred at Teesmouth (Redcar), last week -in August, and a few in September. At Seaton Snook and Flamborough -on Sept. 21st. The "first flight" was on the Yorkshire, Lincolnshire -and Norfolk coasts, on the night of Oct. 21st, wind N.E. The "great -flight," or rush, on the nights of Oct. 28th and 29th, covering the -whole of the E. coast, from the Farn Islands to Yarmouth, the bulk -coming probably into the Humber district. A friend wrote me he had shot -eighteen on the morning of 29th, and might easily have doubled this -number if he had started early enough. From the 2nd to the 10th of -November stragglers continued to arrive between the Farn Islands and -Yarmouth. Heligoland, Sept. 22nd, first; Oct. 22nd, one hundred caught -or shot; 28th, astounding passage of Larks, Starlings, Peewits, Snipes -and Woodcocks; Oct. 30th, twenty to thirty shot; 31st, ten to twenty -shot; 31st to Nov. 1st, thirteen caught, a few stragglers to December -4th.[23] - -[Footnote 23: Mr. Clubley, of Kilnsea, near the Spurn, who during his -life has probably shot more Cock than anyone living on the east coast, -says that a S.E. wind always brings _large grey_ or _light-coloured_ -Woodcocks, a N. wind _small_ and _red-coloured_ birds--that is, -Scandinavian birds. This rule seems to hold good on other parts of our -east coast. See also remarks by Mr. J. Harvie-Brown.] - -_Gallinago major_, Great Snipe.--N. E. Lincolnshire, Oct. 2nd, one -shot; Yarmouth, same date, one. - -_G. cælestis_, Common Snipe.--Yarmouth, Aug. 11th, several. Great -Cotes, Sept. 25th, first considerable flight, wind S.E. night of 24th, -with gale and heavy rain. Hasbro' L.H., Nov. 8th, two struck and -killed. Heligoland, Oct. 22nd, great flight; 28th, night, immense. - -_Limnocryptes gallinula_, Jack Snipe.--Farn. L.H., Sept. 21st, S.E., -noon, two. Galloper L.V., Nov. 3rd, one (J. H. G.) Llyn Wells L.V., -7th, one (J. H. G.) - -_Tringa alpina_, Dunlin.--Languard L.H., March 10th, 7.40 a.m., very -large flock, very rapidly to N. _T. minuta_, Little Stint, Bridlington, -Aug. 3rd, two seen (W. E. C.), and at Yarmouth, second week in -September, three.[24] - -[Footnote 24: The first great rush of _Tringæ_ across Heligoland was -Aug. 6th and 7th; 14th also, all sorts; and on 21st and 22nd, same; -again on night of Oct. 31st, and morning of Nov. 1st.] - -_T. subarquata_, Curlew Sandpiper.--Essex coast, August 1st, Colonel -Russell shot three from a flock of Oxbirds; they were in partial moult; -another was seen. - -_T. striata_, Purple Sandpiper.--Farn L.H., May 15th, 6 p.m., S.S.E., -very large flock flying over island; and at the same station, on Nov. -28th, very large flocks of Turnstone, Purple Sandpiper and Redshank. -Yarmouth, Oct. 5th, five seen. - -_T. canutus_, Knot.--Spurn, June 13th, flock arrived from S. The first -Knots in the autumn were seen at Yarmouth and Redcar on Aug. 11th, and -by the end of the month were tolerably numerous along the east coast. -Llyn Wells L.V., Sept. 22nd, N.N.E., large flocks to S. all day; at -this station also, from Oct. 20th to Jan. 6th, 1884, twenty-eight were -killed against the lantern.[25] - -[Footnote 25: The Knot at Blakeney is always called "Knet"; Godwit, a -"Pick"; Dunlin, "Stint"; Whimbrel, "May-bird"; Turnstone, "Dotterel"; -Ringed Plover, "Oxbird." On the Essex coast the Whimbrel is a -"May-bird" or "Titterel," the latter from its cry; Godwits are "Pream;" -Knot, "Marl"; Dunlin, "Oxbird"; Ringed Plover, "Stone-runner." At -Spurn the Knot is a "Plover-knot," but on the Lincolnshire coast -simply a "Knot". Local names, common to both sides of the Humber, -are, Turnstone, "Dotterel"; Common Dotterel, "Land Dotterel," "Spring -Dotterel"; Grey Plover, "Pigeon," or "Buffel-headed Plover"; Dunlin, -"Stint," or "Tommy Stint"; Ringed Plover, "Sand-runner"; Whimbrel, -"Curlew-jack"; Godwit, "Curlew-whelp." On the Durham coast the Knot -is both a "Dunlin" and "Grey Plover"; Dunlin, a "Stint"; Sanderling, -"White Stint"; Whimbrel, "Curlew-jack"; Lapwing, a "Tyafit"; Godwit, -"Goodwin." The local names of birds vary so in different districts that -they frequently become very puzzling to the members of the Committee; -it would greatly assist their labours and facilitate enquiry if any -fellow-worker would take the trouble to compile a glossary of local -names of our British birds. The investigation might be rendered easy -by sending printed forms to the best known ornithologists, in their -respective districts. The results could not fail to be both useful and -interesting.] - -_Machetes pugnax_, Ruff.--Yarmouth, second week in September, five -ruffs and one reeve. - -_Calidris arenaria_, Sanderling.--Flamborough, Aug. 3rd, old male in -summer plumage (W. E. C.). Yarmouth, 11th, Knots and Sanderlings on -beach. Spurn, Oct. 23rd, a few. - -_Totanus glareola_, Wood Sandpiper.--Bridlington, middle of August, -a young bird was shot on South Sands (W. E. C.). Spurn, middle of -September, three, all immature, taken to Mr. P. Lawton, of Easington. - -_T. calidris_, Redshank.--Outer Dowsing L.V., May 9th, one "Red-legged -Sandpiper" on deck, then to W. Wells, Norfolk, Aug. 28th, numerous; one -hundred or more in a flock. Tees L.V., Sept. 23rd, large flock. Farn -L.V., Nov. 28th, very large flocks with Purple Sandpiper and Turnstone -on rocks. _T. fuscus_, Spotted Redshank, Breydon, Oct. 20th, one shot. - -_T. canescens_, Greenshank.--Wells, Norfolk, Aug. 27th, "comparatively -numerous." Yarmouth, Aug. 9th, four shot, all immature. Sept. 2nd, two. - -_Limosa lapponica_, Bar-tailed Godwit.--Redcar, July 28th, and forward -to Aug. 27th, in some numbers. - -_Numenius phæopus_, Whimbrel.--Redcar, July 18th, N.E. light, first -passing over, very high. Yarmouth, Aug. 1st, all day. Redcar, 8th, -S.W. strong, two large flocks of fifty; 23rd and 24th, rush, and at -intervals to Sept. 10th. - -_N. arquata_, Curlew.--Farn L.H., March 11th, 5 to 6 p.m., four to five -hundred to island from mainland in flocks from five to thirty. Whitby -L.H., June 20th, great many night and day. Winterton L.H., Sept. 10th, -12.30 a.m., one caught beating against lantern, great many during -night to W. Farn L.H., Nov. 17th, large flock to E. Hasbro' L.V., Jan. -3rd, 1884, one killed. Heligoland, Oct. 30th and 31st, great many with -_Tringa_ and _Scolopax_, _Limosa_ and _Vanellus_; and night of 31st, -great rush. - -Sterninæ, Terns.--Spurn, May 4th, all day to north. At the Farne Islands -the Arctic Terns, _Sterna macrura_, returned to their nesting quarters -on May 20th, and left again on Aug. 3rd, only a few being seen after -that date. Yarmouth, Aug. 7th to 10th, Black, Common, and Arctic Terns -along shore, and through the month to 31st; in shore only when wind is -westerly, in flocks of ten to fifty, nine-tenths being young; it is the -westerly winds which bring in the herring "syle," on which the Terns -feed. The Sandwich Tern, _Sterna cantiaca_, arrived at the Farn Islands -between April 15th and 23rd, leaving again on Aug. 3rd. At Languard -Point, Mr. Owen Boyle saw on June 1st, 4.45 a.m., a pair of Roseate -Terns; 7th, four Sandwich Terns; 15th, four Lesser Terns; and on 23rd, -four Common Terns. At Redcar, on Sept. 5th, 6th, 7th, and 10th, many -flights were heard passing over in dark. - -Larinæ, Gulls.--Whitby L.H., Feb. 15th, Herring Gulls returning to -cliffs; July 18th, first young on wing; Aug. 14th, Gulls, old and -young, left the cliff. Farn L.H., April 14th, Lesser Black-backed -Gulls returning to nesting quarters. Yarmouth, Aug. 10th, Gulls, -mostly young, along shore feeding on "syle," five to thirty in flock. -Flamborough, Sept. 12th, great many Gulls all day to south. Spurn, -Sept. 24th, two hundred Herring Gulls to south. Cockle L.V., Oct. 25th, -great many large Gulls, young and old, E. to W.; Nov. 17th to 23rd, -9.30 a.m. to 3 p.m., Great Black-backed Gulls from W. to E. Farn L.H., -Nov. 8th to 30th, very large number of Black-headed Gulls fishing round -island at flood each day; Dec. 8th, two "Bass" Gulls; 12th, one. "These -Gulls are all cream-colour. I am not sure if they are the Glaucous, so -have given them the local name." At Heligoland, young Glaucous Gulls, -_L. glaucus_, were repeatedly seen about island in December; and during -the last week in January, 1884, hundreds of Black-headed Gulls, _L. -ridibundus_, frequented the plateau of cliff, which Mr. Gätke says is a -"very exceptional" circumstance there. _Xema sabinii_, Sabine's Gull, -an immature example was shot on. Oct. 28th, the second example which -has been obtained there; and on Nov. 10th a second young bird was seen -by Aeuckens, the birdstuffer. - -Stercorariinæ, Skuas.--Redcar, Aug. 25th, two; Teesmouth, 27th, -Richardson's Skua, _S. crepidatus_. Farn L.H., Sept. 17th, several -chasing Gulls. Yarmouth, 20th, many. Heligoland, Oct. 27th, _S. -pomatorhinus_, one. - -Procellariidæ, Petrels.--The Stormy Petrel, _P. pelagica_, occurred at -Yarmouth, Oct. 2nd, and Spurn on 23rd, shot in each case from beach. -Hasbro' L.V., 27th, seven caught on deck, on 31st ten, and between -Oct. 27th and Nov. 4th several were taken at various stations at sea -off the east coast. One Fork-tailed Petrel, _P. leucorrhoa_, from -Happisburgh (Hasbro') L.V. in October. A Shearwater was seen at Farn -L.H. July 20th, 6 a.m., going north; and at Spurn L.H. on Aug. 5th, 2 -a.m., a Manx Shearwater, _P. anglorum_, was killed against the lantern. -Breydon, Sept. 5th, one shot. In the latter part of the same month two -Sooty Shearwaters, P. griseus, were obtained in Bridlington Bay, and -taken to the shop of Mr. Jones, birdstuffer, where they were seen and -identified by Mr. W. E. Clarke.[26] - -[Footnote 26: 'Zoologist,' 1884, p. 180.] - -Colymbidæ, Divers.--Tees L.V., March 28th, one Great Northern and two -Red-throated Divers off the light-ship, in company with two Grebes, -twelve Sheldrake, and six Brent Geese. Redcar, Sept. 2nd, four or five -Red-throated Divers; and on 20th several lots of both. Breydon Water, -Oct. 16th, adult Red-throated Diver. At the Farn Islands, last half of -October and in November, many Great Northern Divers about islands; Jan. -15th, 1884, several Red-throated Divers about island. - -Podicipidæ, Grebes.--Bridlington, latter part of August, Red-necked -Grebe, _P. griseigena_, shot, in full summer plumage. Spurn, Nov. 2nd, -a few pairs of Little Grebes, _Tachybaptes fluviatilis_, on ponds; and -on Jan. 6th, 1884, three Great Crested Grebes, _P. cristatus_, on the -sea off point. - -Alcidæ, Auks.--At Flamborough, in February, 1884, great numbers of -Razorbills, _Alca torda_, all returned to their nesting quarters on -the cliffs, an unprecedented circumstance there; and large numbers of -the Common Guillemot were reported by the fishermen as seen at sea -off the headland. At the Farn Islands, March 22nd, 1883, Guillemots -had come to their nesting quarters, thousands arriving on April 1st. -Puffins on the 15th. On January 10th and 28th, 1884, on each day a -Black Guillemot, _Uria grylle_, was shot from the island. The Little -Auk, _Mergulus alle_, shot there on Dec. 29th; and on Feb. 4th and 5th, -1884, a great many were seen flying and swimming about the islands, -more than had ever been seen before. - -The Committee are again indebted to Professor Chr. Fr. Lütken, of the -Universitetets Zoologiske Museum, Copenhagen, for a list of the birds -killed or taken against the lantern of the lighthouse of Stevns, on -the projecting part of Zealand, marking the limit between the Baltic -and Oresund, in the spring and autumn of 1883. The list has been drawn -up by Mr. Autander, a physician living in the neighbourhood of the -lighthouse. In forwarding the list to Professor Lütken he states there -has been in this year only a few nights in which any number of birds -have been killed, in consequence of the sky being generally clear -during the time of the migration. - - Stevns Fyr (Lighthouse of Stevns ), 1883. - -Night to-- - - April 6th. Saxicola œnanthe 2, male and female. - " " Regulus cristatus 2 males. - " " Erithacus rubecula 1 male. - " 12th. Turdus viscivorus 2. - " " T. merula 4. - " " T. musicus 10. - " " Alauda arvensis 6. - " " Regulus cristatus 1. - " " Saxicola œnanthe 4. - " " Erithacus rubecula 2. - " 13th. Scolopax rusticula 1 male. - " " Columba palumbus 1. - " " Sturnus vulgaris 1. - " " Emberiza citrinella 1. - " " Fringilla cœlebs 1. - " " Saxicola œnanthe 1. - " " Troglodytes parvulus 2. - " " Alauda arvensis 2. - " " Turdus musicus 8. - " " Erithacus rubecula 15. - Aug. 4th. Tringa alpina 1 male. - " 26th. Jynx torquilla 1 male. - Sept. 3rd. Sylvia trochilus 3. - " " Luscinia phœnicurus 1 male. - " " Muscicapa grisola 1 male. - " " M. atricapilla 1 female. - " " Columba ænas 1 female. - " " Lanius collurio 1 young male. - " 5th. Querquedula cracca 1 male. - " " Motacilla alba 1 young male. - " " Luscinia phœnicurus 6. - " " Jynx torquilla 1. - " " Sterna argentata 1. - " " Erithacus suecicus 1. - " " Sylvia schœnobænus 1. - " " S. cinerea 2. - " " S. hortensis 5. - " " S. trochilus 2. - " " Motacilla flava 1. - " " Saxicola œnanthe 2. - " " S. rubetra 1. - " " Muscicapa atricapilla 4. - " " †Locustella fluviatilis 1. - " 6th. Podiceps minor 1 young male. - Oct. 1st. Turdus musicus 2. - " 4th. Sylvia atricapilla 1. - " 11th. Turdus musicus 8. - " " Sturnus vulgaris 1. - " " Alauda arvensis 2. - " " Sylvia rufa 2. - " " Fringilla montifringilla 6. - " " Emberiza schœniclus 11. - " " Erithacus rubecula 25. - " 20th. Fringilla montifringilla 1. - " 26th. Coccothraustes vulgaris 1 male. - Nov. 1st. Emberiza citrinella 1 male. - - † Determined at the Museum; not before found in Denmark. - -Since the completion of the Report a schedule has been received from -the Leman and Ower L.V. moored forty-eight miles E.N.E. of Cromer, on -the coast of Norfolk. From Feb. 11th to May 8th, Skylarks, Black Crows, -Rooks, Wild Ducks, Starlings, and Goldcrests, are recorded as going -in _westerly_ directions; a like anomalous direction was maintained -during the same period at the Outer Dowsing, Newarp, Cockle, and Llyn -Wells light-vessels by birds passing these stations. On May 8th a great -many Goldcrests came from the south at 11 a.m., and then went _west_. -Sept. 11th, great numbers of Goldcrests going from S.E. to W.; and -on Oct. 28th with Redbreasts and Wrens from S. to N.W. Between Oct. -27th and Nov. 1st two hundred and eight birds were killed or taken -on the vessel, including seven Grey Crows, Larks, Redbreasts, Wrens, -Goldcrests, Starlings, Sparrows, Chaffinches, and two Woodcocks; these -birds were travelling from S., S.E., and E. to N.W., N.N.W., and W. - -Wings from Galloper L.V. by Mr. Gurney. Oct. 10th, Tree Sparrow and -Chaffinch; 11th, Shore Lark; 13th, Great Tit; 27th, Chaffinch; 28th, -Blackstart (young male or old female?), Thrush; 30th, Meadow Pipit; -Nov. 3rd, Jack Snipe and Water Rail. - -On April 9th, 1884, I received from Mr. Gurney the wing of a Dabchick -(Little Grebe), which struck the lantern of the Hasbro' lighthouse at -11 p.m. on the night of March 30th. The force was so great that the -bird was split from the neck along the entire length of body; and on -April 8th a Hoopoe was killed against the North Hasbro' L.V., and the -head, wings, and legs sent to Mr. Gurney by Mr. B. V. Darnell, mate of -that vessel. A Hoopoe was also taken alive on April 10th, on board a -Grimsby smack when one hundred miles E.N.E. of the Spurn, wind blowing -strong from E., and had been for some days. - -At Heligoland, on the night from Aug. 6th to 7th, S.E., a considerable -flight of the Silver Gamma Moth, _Plusia gamma_, but nothing to be -compared with the perfect snow-storms of this moth which passed in -the autumn of 1882, all going west. On Oct. 11th, S.S.W., there was a -considerable flight of _Hybernia defoliaria_, the Mottled Umber Moth, -mixed with _Hybernia aurantiaria_, the scarce Umber; and also during -the nights of the last week in October repeated flights of these -moths. With reference to the great flight of _Plusia gamma_ in 1882, a -notice of which appeared in our last Report, 1882, p. 47, Mr. Charles -Williams, of the Hanois L.H., Guernsey, sends this note:--"Seeing Mr. -Gätke's remarks in your Report about the Gamma Moth, I beg to say that -they were here in June or July." - -At the Tees L.V., Nov. 18th, "a large Seal came quite close to vessel, -largest I've ever seen." As the Common Seal is well known at the mouth -of the Tees, this probably may have been the Grey Seal, _Halichœrus -gryphus_. - -From Flamborough comes the announcement that, on Feb. 18th, that rare -fish, the Ribbon or Oar-fish, _Regalecus banksii_, was found alive -amongst the rocks on the south side near the Head; it measured thirteen -feet three inches in length, sixteen inches in depth, and five and a -half inches in thickness; it was supposed to have been brought in by -the tremendous easterly swell of the last few days. It was purchased by -Mr. Whittaker, of Scarborough, for thirty pounds. - - -General Remarks. - -The observations taken on the East Coast of England in 1883 have been -such as to generally confirm the conclusions arrived at in previous -Report, having special reference to directions of flight and lines of -migration. - -The winter of 1883-84 has been exceptionally mild, and there has been -an almost entire absence of severe frosts and lasting snow-storms; -the prevailing winds in the autumn W. and S.W.--such as we know are -specially favourable for the passage of the North Sea by great flights -of birds, and their direct movement inland without alighting to rest -or recruit themselves in the east coast districts. Our land stations -report a great scarcity both of land and sea-birds; this has not, -however, been the case at sea stations--that is, light-vessels situated -off the coast at distances varying from five to fifty miles; here the -stream of migration, so far from showing any abatement, has flown -steadily on in a full tide, and, judging from the well-filled schedules -that have been returned, there appears to have been a decided increase -in the migrants passing these distant stations--due, perhaps, in some -measure to increased interest and improved observations. Mr. Wm. Stock, -of the Outer Dowsing L.V., remarks that he had never before seen so -many birds past that station. The rush also over Heligoland during the -autumn was enormous. Migration is more marked there than on the English -coast; there was a great movement of various species passing forward on -the 6th and 7th of August, and again on the 14th, and more pronounced -still on the 21st and 22nd. - -The first great rush of birds on the English coast was on Sept. 21st, -and two following days; and a similar great movement or rush is -indicated in Mr. Gätke's notes from his island outpost, as well as on -our more distant light-ships. The prevailing winds on the North Sea on -Sept. 21st were moderate north-easterly and easterly off the coasts -of Denmark and Holland, blowing strong easterly on to our northern -coasts north of the Humber, with southerly and south-westerly off the -southeast coasts, causing cross-currents over the North sea. Whatever -then was the impulse, atmospheric or otherwise, which induced such an -immense rush of various birds at this time, it was one which acted -alike, and with precisely the same impulse, on the Sea Eagle and tiny -Goldcrest. - -The second great rush was on the 12th and 13th of October, a similar -movement being recorded at Heligoland. Then again from the 27th to the -31st, and somewhat less through the first week in November, the passage -across Heligoland, as well as the rush on our east coast, was enormous. -Speaking of the nights from the 27th to 31st inclusive, Mr. Gätke says, -"This was the first move by the million; for four nights there has been -a gigantic feathery tide running." During this time there were variable -winds over the North Sea, but generally easterly and south-easterly on -the Continent; but strong west winds and squalls prevailing generally -on the 5th and 6th of November. With the outburst of some severe -weather during the first week in December a considerable local movement -is indicated along our coast from north to south, culminating in the -enormous rush of Snow Buntings into Lincolnshire about the end of the -first week in that month. A careful perusal of the Report will show how -generally the rushes across Heligoland correlate with those observed -on our east coast, although not always confined to the same species in -both localities. - -A somewhat remarkable and very anomalous movement of migrants is -recorded in the schedules from some of the light-vessels off the -Lincolnshire and Norfolk coasts in the spring of 1883. In February, -March, April, and May, birds passing the Leman and Ower, Llyn Wells, -Outer Dowsing, Newarp, and Cockle light-vessels were as a rule coming -from easterly and passing in westerly directions. Had this movement -been noticed at one station only we might perhaps have been inclined to -doubt the accuracy of the return, but the fact of five light-vessels -having no communication with each other reporting the same circumstance -proves the correctness of the observations. A summary of the spring -quarter at these stations shows:-- - -Outer Dowsing L.V., March 31st to May 18th, Sparrows, Chaffinches, -Wrens, Rooks, Larks, Tree Sparrows, Linnets, Titlarks, Bullfinches, -from E., S.E., E. by S., and N.E. to W, N.W., W.N.W., and W.S.W. - -Llyn Wells L.V., April 30th, various flocks of Crows to S.W. - -Newarp L.V., March 17th to April 15th, Crows on six days to W. - -Leman and Ower L.V., Feb. 18th to May 8th, Skylarks, Starlings, -Titlarks, Goldcrests, E. and E.S.E. to N.W. - -Cockle L.V., Feb. 22nd to March 31st, Black Crows, Ducks, Jackdaws, -Starlings, Larks, Lapwings, "Snow-birds" to W. On March 20th, 24th, and -26th, Black Crows or Rooks continuous from 5.50 a.m. to 11 a.m., E. -to W.; and on 31st also continuous from morning to night in the same -direction. - -All these entries show a great immigration to our coast from the east -in the spring months, and on precisely the same lines and directions as -are travelled by these birds in the autumn. - -An interesting feature of the autumn migration is the occurrence of -a flight of the Blue-throated Warbler, _Cyanecula suecica_; twelve -altogether were obtained, all being birds of the year, and nine of -these on the coast of Norfolk, besides about twenty others seen by -competent observers. - -Very few Goldcrests, compared with the enormous flights of the -previous autumn, have crossed, and the same scarcity is observable in -the Heligoland return. Curiously enough, the Hedgesparrow, _Accentor -modularis_, which migrated in such immense numbers in the same autumn, -has been almost entirely absent. About half a dozen are recorded at -Heligoland, none on the East Coast of England. - -The intermittent migration of some birds, as the Jay, Shore Lark, -Goldcrest, Hedgesparrow, Siskin, and Mealy Redpole, indicated by -their extraordinary abundance in some years, and partial or entire -absence in others, is perhaps suggestive of local causes influencing -and regulating their movements, such as a succession of favourable -breeding seasons, scarcity or failure of food, sudden meteorological -changes; these acting separately or in combination, would be sufficient -to compel the migration of large bodies of birds from centres or -localities, where, under normal conditions, they would either have -remained or some part only migrated. In this manner whole districts -may become denuded for a time of their feathered inhabitants, and the -balance become again rectified by a return movement in the spring, or -from the surplus supply bred in other districts. - -Of the enormous immigration which crosses our east coast in the autumn, -either to winter in these islands or passing across them, a small -proportion only appear to return by the same route. Spring returns -from lighthouses and light-vessels show birds then move on the same -lines as were followed in the autumn, but in the reverse direction. Yet -these return travellers do not represent anything like a tithe of the -immigrants which, week by week and month after month in the autumn, -pour in one great tide on to the coast. - -What is called the "first flight" of the Woodcock arrived on the -Yorkshire, Lincolnshire, and Norfolk coasts on the night of Oct. 21st. -The "great flight" or rush, which covered the whole of the east coast -from the Farn Islands to Yarmouth, was on the nights of the 28th and -29th. These two periods correlate with the great flights of Woodcocks -over Heligoland. - -We are again indebted to Professor Ch. F. Lütken, of Copenhagen, for -a list of the birds killed or taken alive against the lantern of the -Stevns lighthouse, at the entrance of the Oresund, in Zealand. The list -is specially interesting, as it names so many of the Heligoland birds. -The occurrence of Locustella fluviatilis on Sept. 5th is the first -recorded example for Denmark. - -The Roller, _Coracias garrula_, occurred in October in two localities, -one in Lincolnshire, the other in Suffolk. Two examples of the Sooty -Shearwater, _Puffinus griseus_, were obtained in Bridlington Bay in -the end of September. Altogether there has been a very marked absence -along our east coast of rare and casual visitants; Heligoland, however, -retains its pre-eminence for rare wanderers, and Mr. Gätke's list for -1883 includes _Turdus varius_, _Pratincola rubicola_ var. _indicus_, -_Phylloscopus superciliosus_, _Hypolais pallida_, _Motacilla citriola_, -_Anthus cervinus_, _A. richardi_, _Oriolus galbula_, _Lanius major_, -_Muscicapa parva_, _Linota exilipes_, _Emberiza melanocephala_, _E. -cirlus_, _E. rustica_, _E. pusilla_, _Pastor roseus_, and _Xema -Sabinii_. - -_Note._--At page 47, under the head "_Coracias garrula_, Roller," -the locality of Bradwell is erroneously given in Norfolk, instead of -Suffolk (2½ miles S.W. of Great Yarmouth). Mr. Gurney writes that, on -June 6th, 1884, a Roller was shot at Gresham, near Cromer, and that -before this Norfolk has not produced one for about thirty years. - - - - -WEST COAST OF SCOTLAND. - - "And now, their route designed, their leaders chose, - Their tribes adjusted, clean'd their vigorous wings. - And many a circle, many a short essay, - Wheel'd round and round, in congregation full - The figur'd flight ascends, and riding high - The aërial billows, mixes with the clouds." - - Thomson. - - -Schedules were sent to thirty-four stations, as in previous years. We -have received filled schedules from seventeen stations. - -Generally the returns are very light, still lighter than last year. - -We have notes on about thirty-nine species of land birds from this -coast; about twenty species of water birds; and about eight species of -littoral species, or wading birds. - -The spring migration, for sake of uniformity with the East Coast, I -have kept separate. Weather notes are included in the General Remarks. - - List of Stations. - - '79 '80 '81 '82 '83 - * * * 81. Cape Wrath, Sutherland 400 ft. - * * * * 82. Rhu Stoir, " 195 " Wm. Wither - - Outer Hebrides. - - * * * * * 83. Butt of Lewis 170 " A. Thompson - * * * 84. Stornoway 56 " John Grierson - * * * 85. Island Glass 130 " - * * * * * 86. Monach Isles {150 "} J. Youngclause - { 62 "} - * * 87. Ushenish 176 " - * 88. Barra Head 683 " Wm. Irvine - - Mainland, Skye, and Inner Hebrides. - - 89. Rona, Skye 222 " - * * * * 90. Kyleakin, Rosshire 53 " D. M'Culloch - * * 91. Isle Ornsay, Skye 58 " - * * 92. Ardnamurchan Pt. Argyl. 180 " - {93. Hynish Signal Tower, } - * * * * * { Tyree } 150 " Wm. Crow - {94. Skerryvore, off Tyree } - * * * * * 95. Dhuheartach, S. of - Ross of Mull 145 " Jas. Ewing - * * * * * 96. Sound of Mull 55 " W. M'Lellan - 97. Corran Ferry, Loch Eil 38 " - * * * * 98. Lismore Island, Oban 103 " Alex. Murray - * * 99. Fladda, Easdale 42 " - * * * 100. Rhuvaal, Islay 147 " - * * * * 101. M'Arthur's Head, Islay 128 " W. Maill - * * * * * 102. Skervuile, Jura 73 " John Ewing - * * * * * 103. Rhinns of Islay 159 " Andrew Lyall - * * 104. Lochindaul 50 " - 105. Mull of Kintyre 297 " - 107. Devaar, Kintyre 120 " - 108. Pladda, Arran 130 " - * * 109. Lamlash, Arran 46 " David Waters - * * 110. Turnberry, Ayrshire 96 " - * * * * 111. Corsewall, Wigtonshire 112 " Robt. Laidlaw - * * * * * 112. Loch Ryan, " 46 " Ralph Ewing - * * * * * 113. Portpatrick, " 37 " James Begg - * * * * 114. Mull of Galloway " 325 " - * 115. Little Ross, Kircudbright 175 " - 116. - 117. - 118. - 119. [1880] - 120. - - - -General Remarks by Reporters. - -Mr. James Youngclause, Monach lighthouse, says:--"I am sorry to have -such a meagre report to send you, but birds have been awfully scarce -here for some years back, and I have sent you records of all that I -have seen." - -I am obliged to Mr. William Irvine for the first report I have received -from Barra Head, which, however, is a station which can hardly be -expected to give large returns, owing to its position and great height -above the sea. A daily record here for a few seasons of the movements -of Gannets and rock-birds might prove of considerable interest, such as -daily hours of going to and from their feeding-grounds. Such might be -found also interesting to fisherfolk. - -Mr. James Ewing, of Dhuheartach, says of the spring migration and the -long-continued east winds:--"A few Larks in March, and some Stonechats -in the first days of April, are all that we have seen of the spring -migration. I am convinced that a change of wind happening during the -migratory season tends more to lead the birds astray than strong -breezes. It will be interesting to note if there is any increase during -this autumn, as our light, which was red towards Mull, has been changed -to a white occulting light." - -By the autumn schedules migration appears to have quite ceased here by -date of Dec. 7th. - -Mr. W. M'Lellan speaks of the great scarcity of shore-birds, as -compared with other seasons. Where Curlews were seen daily in past -years only one was seen this year. Season very open and mild. - -Mr. Alex. Murray, Lismore, writes:--"During the last five nights of -October we had the largest number of birds that I have seen for a long -time, and especially Gold-crested Wrens; but since that time up to date -(8th Jan. 1884) there has been little of note." - -Mr. Andrew Lyall says, "Very few birds at Rhinns of Islay this season, -and not many striking." But the rush at end of October and beginning of -November was very marked. - -Mr. David Waters has few night records to chronicle, most of his -observations being made during the day. - -Mr. James Begg, Port Patrick, writes:--"Flocks of migrants very scarce -this winter. Great many sea-gulls flying inland and coming back to sea -daily. The Gannets commence to go south and return north in flight past -this station from March to September in great numbers." - -Mr. William Wither sends a light schedule from Storr Head, and speaks -of the general scarcity of birds there, but at a locality a little -more inland birds are plentiful in summer and autumn, and Mr. M'Ivor, -teacher there, has kindly offered to keep land-notes another year. - -Although so light at Dhuheartach, a considerable migration observed at -Skerryvore both in spring and autumn. On Oct. 30th (the date of the -universal rush of Thrushes, &c.) Mr. William Crow saw three Bullfinches -on the rock, wind S., fresh, and fog, and captured one of them with -little difficulty. "It appeared quite tame, I approaching it within -four feet. We placed a spare cage we had, with some linseed, within -six feet of it. The bird went in at once, and is still alive. It drank -fresh water to excess after being caught, and was ill all next day. It -revived afterwards, and is doing well." - -From Turnberry lighthouse there is no return, but Mr. Andrew writes, -birds were scarcer than usual. But as this is a station where there is -usually some migration discernible he hopes to send returns in future. -Like others of our reporters, he naturally complains of his difficulty -about the names of the birds; but if he will only enter such as he is -sure of, and send me the head and wings of others, or even the wings -alone, and by attaching a bit of cardboard and a number to them, and a -corresponding number in the schedule instead of a name, I could in most -cases be able to identify them.[27] - -[Footnote 27: A general request to this effect will be found in our -latest issue of Letters of Instruction.] - -From Cape Wrath lighthouse comes the following P.C.:--"There are no -land-birds at this station, with the exception of Grouse. The same -schedule will apply every year for the sea-birds, as they come and go -within a week of the same time. Eight years' experience." I may just -once more try to explain that it is exactly this week of difference -in time, one year with another, which the Committee desire to collect -statistics about as regards sea-fowl and rock-birds. - -Turdidæ.--The spring migration on the West Coast seems almost to have -escaped notice. At Stornoway Thrushes were heard on Feb. 19th and 20th, -and heard and seen on the 27th, but these may have been residents. - -The autumn migration, however, is almost as marked as on the East -Coast, the time and extent agreeing, though numerically, as might -be expected, not so great. Extent as follows:--Stornoway in the -north (light), Island Glass (indication), Monach (do.), Barra Head -(considerable), and on the mainland and Inner Hebrides from Kyleakin -(light), Skerryvore (distinct and considerable), Dhuheartach (light), -Sound of Mull (indication), M'Arthur's Head (a few), Rhinns of Islay.(a -few), Skervuile (a few), Lamlash (light), Corsewall (heavy), Loch Ryan -(considerable). The above remarks apply principally to Blackbirds and -Song Thrushes, but Fieldfares and "Mountain" Thrushes are once or twice -mentioned, and one Water Ouzel was caught at Skervuile on Sept. 13th. - -The time occupied was as follows:--Earliest record in autumn, Sept. -23rd, one Thrush on lantern at Lamlash; may have been local. Next, 1st -and 7th and 8th, a few scattered records at Barra Head, and between -Dhuheartach and Lismore. About Oct. 23rd greater numbers, but nothing -very remarkable till Oct. 28th, 29th, 30th, 31st, and Nov. 1st to 3rd -or 4th, when the rush took place. Movements continued up to end of -November, but not large numerically, and nothing more that could be -called a rush. A considerable number were killed at Skerryvore at the -height of the rush on 28th, 29th and 30th; eight Thrushes on first -date, thirty-six on 29th, and thirteen on 30th. Blackbirds and Thrushes -about in equal proportion of records, but Thrushes bulking largest -numerically. Species included are Song Thrush (max.). Blackbirds (large -numbers), Fieldfares, and one Dipper or Water Ouzel at Skervuile. -Thrushes of sorts quite absent during a rush of other species at -Kyleakin, and throughout the season. Five species. - -Saxicolinæ.--Wheatears.--In spring, appearance of a rush at Skerryvore -on April 20th and 21st, fifty seen during the day on former date and -twelve on latter; and on April 8th a single bird at Dhuheartach. A -great many at Skervuile on May 5th, and on 15th four seen at Butt of -Lewis. - -In autumn, extent, from Stornoway (Oct.), Skerryvore (Aug), Dhuheartach -(Sept. and Oct.), Lismore (Aug.). Redstarts.--Skervuile (Sept.), -Corsewall (Aug.). Earliest, Aug. 24th, at Skerryvore. Latest, Oct. -29th, at Dhuheartach. Rush of Redstarts all night at Lismore. The above -remarks apply in all cases to Wheatears (or so-called "Stonechats"), -except where otherwise specified. Numbers at Stornoway with Linnets in -Oct. Considered rare here by reporter. - -Prevailing winds in spring, E. through S.E. and S.S.E. to S., and -variable on April 8th at Dhuheartach. Two species. - -Silviinæ.--Robin.--No spring records. Autumn, Robin, Kyleakin; -Stornoway, isolated examples during December; Lismore, on Nov. 11th, -with Wrens and Linnets, and a few single records in September and -October; Dhuheartach, few; Lamlash and Corsewall, single records, and -Robins accompanying rush of other species on Aug. 28th and 29th. -At Kyleakin, Robins arrived on Nov. 15th and remained all winter. -Prevailing winds, W. and northerly, very rarely easterly or S.E. One -species. - -Phylloscopinæ.--Goldcrest.--No spring records. Autumn, slight -indications and single records as far north as Dhuheartach; one at -midnight on Nov. 7th, light W., haze. Then again at Lismore, Oct. 31st, -light S. airs, along with Larks; Skervuile, few, Nov. 1st, light S. -wind; Lamlash, one; Corsewall, great numbers, or rush, on Aug. 30th, -heralded by one single bird the day before. Loch Ryan, four on Oct. -30th. One species. - -Accentor.--Hedgesparrow.--A number seen in the garden at Lamlash on -Nov. 21st, during stormy weather. One species. - -Paridæ.--Two Titmice struck at Sound of Mull, in light W. breeze, not -killed, on Oct. 30th. One species. - -Troglodytinæ.--Spring, at Corsewall six struck, none killed, on 28th, -and five rested at same place on 29th; wind light E. and haze both -nights. - -In autumn a few records at Dhuheartach, Sound of Mull, M'Arthur's Head, -Lamlash, Corsewall, and Loch Ryan. Earliest, Oct. 3rd; latest, Nov. -30th; all single birds, or very light returns. Winds, N.W. or N.N.W., -except on Nov. 6th, at Lamlash, when wind was N.E. and weather fine. -One species. - -Motacillidæ.--In spring, at Kyleakin (earliest March 20th, when -two seen flying S.! light E., clear), Skerryvore, Dhuheartach, and -Skervuile. Latest at Kyleakin on May 17th, when two seen on garden -wall. Largest number, four, at Dhuheartach, rested on April 20th, and -flew towards Isle of Colonsay. Records relate always to "Wagtails." - -In autumn, at stations:--Barra Head (several had been there for a month -on Aug. 27th), Skerryvore, Dhuheartach, M'Arthur's Head (only record a -flock on Nov. 5th, with N.W. gale and sleet), Rhinns of Islay (first -and only record on Nov. 4th, a single bird, with W. gale), Lamlash -(three on Sept. 22nd, and two on Nov. 12th, the latest record, winds -westerly). One ? species. - -Anthidæ.--Single spring record, one Titlark, at Lamlash, rested on -lantern on May 2nd. - -In autumn, one at Skerryvore rested on rocks on Aug. 24th, light W., -haze, and _a number_ at Lamlash on Oct. 6th, and a few on 30th, being all -the records. One species. - -Hirundinidæ.--Spring records in April; earliest at Loch Ryan on -15th, when thirty arrived,--see autumn under September,--May, June; -latest June 15th, two flying S. at Kyleakin, or, if we take July, -three at Barra Head on 8th; remained all day, wind var. to S.E. by -evening. Greatest number of records in May. Stations:--Barra Head (Sand -Martins), Kyleakin, Skerryvore, Lismore, Rhinns of Islay, Lamlash, -and Corsewall. The following are first arrivals:--Barra Head (Sand -Martins), May 1st, two, fresh S.E., clear; Lamlash, May 1st; Corsewall, -May 2nd; Loch Ryan, April 15th. All records above apply to Chimney -Swallows, save in the two instances of Sand Martins. - -In autumn records light also on the whole coast. Dhuheartach, Lismore, -and Loch Ryan. Earliest, and rush, Aug. 19th, at Dhuheartach, large -flock of old and young flying S., and at Lismore, one seen flying S. On -Sept. 23rd twenty Swallows left Loch Ryan, and on 28th the remaining -ten (see spring, _supra_); winds westerly and N.W. Three species. - -Fringillidæ.--Spring:--At Butt of Lewis, four Tree Sparrows on April -14th, light S.W. wind; and Sparrows, a large flock flying south, light -E., haze. Also Sparrows at M'Arthur's Head, a number on May 12th. Of -Linnets, many after gale of April 17th, at M'Arthur's Head, a flock at -Lismore on June 21st, and one bird at Skerryvore on June 25th. A single -Goldfinch at Lismore, on 21st, with the Linnets. - -In autumn:--Earliest July 28th, a very large flock of Sparrows flying -S.E., at Butt of Lewis, and none again till Sept. 4th, when a number -of Linnets remained about till the 9th. Latest record Oct. 30th, -participated in rush of other species, but on Dec. 15th a rush of -"small birds" is recorded at several stations. Greatest numbers in -October, at Stornoway, Skerryvore (a Bullfinch, see light-keeper's -remarks, _antea_), Lismore (good many), M'Arthur's Head, Lamlash. It -is difficult to fix dates of rushes, but one great rush took place on -Sept. 15th, of Linnets and Sparrows at M'Arthur's Head, and indicated -at Lamlash by ten Linnets flying south. These notes are given of -Linnets and Grey Linnets, also on Oct. 30th, at Lismore, of Green and -Grey Linnets, a number at Priory Farm. Numerous instances of direction -of flight are given, usually "flying S." We have received considerably -more statistics this year of these important _directions of flight_. -We wish our reporters could distinguish between Common Linnets, Green -Linnets, and Twites or Mountain Linnets, always when possible. Linnets -have travelled in company with Wheatears at Stornoway, and with -Thrushes and Curlews (the latter several times). About seven species. - -Emberizidæ.--Snow Bunting. Very scanty records on W. coast. At -Stornoway one, first seen on Oct. 17th, and twenty on 18th. At Lismore -twenty on Oct. 22nd. At Rhinns of Islay one on Nov. 5th, and in -December no records, and in January a few at Butt of Lewis on 26th, and -strong W. and sleet. Prevailing winds W., strong to gales, but mod. N. -at Rhinns of Islay on Nov. 5th. One species. - -Alaudidæ.--Spring at Skerryvore, earliest Feb. 10th, four struck, two -killed, strong S.W.; and in March, at same place, on 10th, nine struck -and three were killed, fresh N. and showers. - -In autumn, at Dhuheartach, earliest on Sept. 10th, a few, and on 29th -three; wind N.N.E., clear. Also, furthest north, records at Butt of -Lewis, Stornoway, and so south by Skerryvore, Dhuheartach, Skervuile, -and Rhinns of Islay. Latest at Stornoway, small numbers on 24th. -Greatest movements in October at Butt of Lewis, on 11th, large numbers -flying south; and at Stornoway 19th, 20th, and 23rd; on latter date -with Thrushes and one Redbreast. Prevailing winds, northerly and -westerly. One species. - -Sturninæ.--Starlings feed all through the month of April at Butt of -Lewis. - -Autumn records scarce. Regular daily at Rhinns of Islay all August. -No records anywhere given in September. [We trust our reporters bear -in mind that we desire movements of even our commonest species, and -especially directions of flight.] In October a few records from Butt -of Lewis, two killed, but Mr. Thompson considers these part of the -residents; also at M'Arthur's Head and Lamlash. If any rush it was on -Oct. 30th, and also 29th, when it was noticed at Island Ghlais[28] -and at Rhinns of Islay; but the movement appears to have been -insignificant. I have a single record in November from Monach Island, -and one of a flock in December at Loch Ryan. One species. - -[Footnote 28: Ghlais or Glass: both spellings used.] - -Corvidæ.--Jackdaws, Crows, Black Grows, Grey Crows, Ravens, and one of -Magpie, the latter at Kyleakin, marked "very rare," on Jan. 7th, flying -S.E. Stations are Skerryvore, Dhuheartach in spring; and Rhu Stoir, -where Crows (are these Rooks or Carrion Crows?) feed every day till -31st (I suspect these are local Rooks from Cama Loch, but would like -to know for certain). Only some ten records in all--February, March, -April, May, June; and August, September, October (Ravens at Kyleakin), -November (Jackdaws at Sound of Mull, about 200 flying N. very high, -mod. breeze, sleet, showers). December 27th, two Ravens, flying W.; -light E., clear. Six species. - -Cypselidæ.--Three May records, all at Dhuheartach. Single birds on 22nd -and 23rd, flying E., with light S.E., clear; and on 24th, one flying -E., with W.N.W., and one found dead on rocks. One species. - -Cuculidæ.--Cuckoo records in spring, from-- - - Stornoway, first heard on May 2nd; N.E. breeze. - - Skerryvore, first heard at Land Station, Tyree, on June 1st. - - M'Arthur's Head, first on May 17th; light wind, clear. - - Rhinns of Islay, May 24th; fresh W., haze. - - Corsewall, May 6th, and Loch Ryan on May 2nd; light N.E., clear, - and rain. - -_Note._--During the first week in May there appears to have been an -indication of a migration of other species. - -The only autumn record is of one found dead at Rhinns of Islay on Sept. -1st. One species. - -Strigidæ.--Only one record on April 27th at Dhuheartach, where one -rested on rock at ten a.m.; light N.W. wind, and haze. One species. - -Falconidæ.--A Falcon flying N., at Kyleakin, in February; a Hawk at -Dhuheartach, flying round on 19th April, where in autumn they make -daily visits, and even in some seasons all the year round. In September -one Hawk remained a week here, resting on the balcony at night, and -feeding on small birds in the day. A Falcon seen at Butt of Lewis on -Sept. 1st, and a Sparrow Hawk at Skerryvore on Sept. 1st, flying E. Two -records in October and one in December--a Falcon flying W.; light N.W. -airs. About three species. - -Pelecanidæ.--In uniformity with East coast, records of Gannets, -chronologically under each station, beginning in the north, so far -as records permit. The stations recording in 1883 are Butt of Lewis -(82), Rhu Stoir (83), Stornoway (84), Barra Head (88), Kyleakin (90), -Dhuheartach (95), Lismore (98), M'Arthur's Head (101), Skervuile -(102), and Lamlash (109). (N.B. The Committee would be obliged for -chronological returns, giving always directions of flight, from any -other stations, of Gannets and Rock birds):-- - - 82. July 25th, began flying north in some numbers to Aug, 10th; - fresh N. - - 83. March 15th, seen daily in great numbers, noted at 83, up to - March 31st, but no directions of flight given, which we would - like to have always. - - 84. In August, reported as unusually scarce this season, but no - definite records given nor directions of flight, or if fishing - or not. - - 88. Under date of September 1st, the remark "a few fishing every - day." - - 90. On June 20th flocks all day, flying east. Was this the only day - on which Gannets were seen here? - - 95. Dec. 7th, two seen; only record given; no direction of flight; - wind light N.W., clear. - - 98. May 14th, "Solan Geese"; fresh, S. breeze, showery. June 22nd, - "Solan Geese" flying south; var. light, clear. Aug. 16th, two, - flying south; fresh N.W., clear. - - 101. April, a few daily seeking food. - - 102. March 21st, "Gannets seen;" E.S.E., light breeze. May 9th, - "Solan Geese" seen; fresh E. July 16th, "Solans;" fresh N.W., - clear. July 24th, "Solans;" N.N.W., clear. July 25th, "Solans;" - N.N.W., clear. - - 109. Feb. 5th, the first seen for some months. One species. - -Ardeidæ.--Only one record of Herons at Monach Island, where five were -seen on the outlying rocks on Nov. 25th, strong E. wind; and the remark -"seen daily all the year round at Kyleakin." One species. - -Anatidæ; Anserinæ (Geese).--I think we should endeavour to tabulate -also the movements of different species of Wild Geese; but as the -records are a little confusing, I find we must do so under one, or -at mast two headings, the occurrences of which are most frequently -recorded under these designations. - -Some four species (namely Bean, Pink-footed, Greylag--rarest -migrant--and White-fronted) may be included in the following, reported -as "Wild Grey Geese," "Geese," "Grey Geese," "Wild Geese," by the -various reporters. - -The stations returning these are:--Rhu Stoir (82), Butt of Lewis (83), -Monach (86), Kyleakin (90), Lismore (98), Lamlash (109), and Corsewall -(111). - - 82. "Wild Geese," April 14th, three; light S., haze and rain. - - 83. "Wild Geese," Sept. 19th, large flock, flying W., past the - lighthouse, and then turning S.W.; westerly gale and showers. - - 86. "Wild Grey Geese," Nov. 10th, twenty, flying round; light S.E. - - 90. "Geese," Sept. 19th, four, flying S.W.; light E. - - 98. "Grey Geese," Nov. 1st, five, flying S.; light S., haze. - - 109. "Grey Geese," April 27th, forty, flying N., light S., haze. - April 28th, fifty, flying N. Oct. 7th, three, flying S., N.W., - fine. Nov. 1st, twenty, flying E., light E., haze. - - 111. "Wild Geese," Nov. 13th, twenty, flying E., light E., haze. - Nov. 14th, thirty, flying E. - -Barnacle Goose seen at following stations:--Barra Head (88), Kyleakin -(90). - - 88. April 25th, 100, "flying over;" light N.E., clear. May 1st, - 150, fresh N.E., clear. Sept. 22nd, about thirty arrived, light - S.W., haze and rain. Nov. 10th, about fifty seen flying S., var. - W., showers. - - 90. Nov. 30th, seven flying S.W. ("first I have seen here"), light - N.W., clear. Five species of Geese. - -Eider Ducks, _ut sup._ 82, 95, 103. - - 82. May 26th, six, passing N., light S.W., clear. June 30th, - sixteen, passing N., light E., var. - - 95. Oct. 12th, one, first seen this season. Oct. 15th, six, fishing - round rock. November, forty (twenty males and twenty females), - fishing round rock, light N.W., clear. - -Wild Duck, only at 83, 88, 90. - - 83. March 21st, two males and two females, killed at lantern; - slight S.E., haze. - - 88. Sept. 21st, twenty, flying W., light E., haze. - - 90. Sept. 19th, four, flying S.W., light E. - -Eider Ducks at Rhu Stoir, Dhuheartach, and Rhinns of Islay. Three at -first named locality on April 14th; light S., haze and rain. Six on May -26th; strong S.W., passing north. Sixteen on June 30th, passing north, -with light var., and clear. Then at Dhuheartach, the first seen this -season was on Oct. 12th, in autumn migration, and at Rhinns of Islay, -three seen during a S.W. gale. At Dhuheartach again, twenty males and -twenty females, seen fishing round the rock, during strong W.N.W. wind, -and clear on Dec. 7th. Two species. - -Columbidæ.--A large flock of Rock Doves is resident at Butt of Lewis, -and is seen daily flying inland to feed. At Kyleakin a Woodpigeon was -seen flying S.E. at noon on Dec. 15th, with light W. wind, and clear; -at same station, on 23rd, four Rock Doves flying south, wind light -W.S.W.; and at same place two more flying south, with E.S.E. and haze, -on Jan. 2nd. One species. - -Rallinæ.--Corn Crake.--At Stornoway, first heard on May 2nd. At Barra -Head, one seen on July 1st, var., S.E., and fog. At Kyleakin, first -heard on May 16th, S., clear. At Rhinns of Islay, one found dead on May -23rd, light W., haze. One species. - -Charadriadæ.--Spring. Oystercatchers are resident all the year at Cape -Wrath. At Barra Head, three pairs arrived on April 10th. At M'Arthur's -Head they were present all April. - -In autumn oyster catchers appeared in flocks, along with the rush of -land migrants, about Aug. 23rd, at Stornoway, at which place they are -generally seen all September. - -Golden Plover records quite absent for 1883. - -Lapwing.--Spring record at Rhu Stoir, two seen on April 4th. In autumn, -at Kyleakin, ninety were counted flying S.E., and crying loudly, with -N.W. wind and haze, on Aug. 15th. Eight more on 23rd, flying east, wind -S.E., and haze; and at Lamlash, a single bird rested on the Island on -Aug. 13th. At Barra Head, seventeen were seen at two p.m., light east -wind, and haze (direction of flight not given), on Sept. 21st; one -record there also in October. At Loch Ryan, a flock flying S.E., on -Nov. 15th, S.E. wind; and at Dhuheartach, where migration appeared to -cease on Dec. 29th, the last migrant seen was a Lapwing, resting on the -Lantern on that date. At Kyleakin seven were seen flying S.W. on Jan. -4th, 1884. Two species. - -Scolopacidæ.--Woodcock, Snipe, Curlew, Whimbrel. No records of Woodcock -till October. Then a few at Monach Island, Dhuheartach, Lismore, and -Loch Ryan; and in November, at Kyleakin and Lismore. Single entries -on 16th at Kyleakin, and 5th at Lismore. Two killed at Monach on Oct. -29th, one killed at Dhuheartach on 31st, and three on 29th, at Lismore; -and one on 31st, at Loch Ryan, showing a general movement at these -dates. - -Snipe were even scarcer; earliest Oct. 22nd, at Monach, and occurring -on the same dates as Woodcock, or nearly. - -Curlew.--Numerous records at most of the stations, dating from Feb. -5th, at Rhuvaal, on to November. An appearance of a rush northwards on -May between 14th and 16th, when flocks seen flying north at Rhinns of -Islay; also on 16th, at Lismore, during the day. Records also at Loch -Ryan, Skerryvore, &c. - -In autumn, at Stornoway, Monach, Barra Head, and most stations indeed; -earliest, July 25th, at Skerryvore, when five Curlews seen flying N.E., -on to Nov. 16th, at Sound of Mull. Between Sept. 16th and 30th, at -Stornoway, seen every day on the shore, and large numbers on the 30th. - -There is only one record of Whimbrel under the name "The Small Curlew," -when two were seen at Skerryvore flying about the rocks. I wish we -could more exactly trace the lines of migration of the Whimbrel, or -"May fowl" of the Hebrides, in both spring and autumn (see remarks -of Mr. D. Gray in the Atlantic, _antea_). No records of Redshanks or -Sandpipers. Four species. - -Laridæ; Sterninæ.--Arrivals in spring recorded as follows:--At Rhu -Stoir, three Terns on May 10th; light N. breeze. At Stornoway, Terns -"arrived as usual about this time," and left in August. At Skervuile, -arrived on 14th, and more seen on 16th. The first came with a fresh S. -breeze and rain. At Corsewall first observed was on May 11th. - -In autumn. Terns, as already stated, left Stornoway in August, but -"about ten days later than usual." The last seen at Skervuile was on -Sept. 6th. At Sound of Mull, on Sept. 30th, a flock rested for two -hours, and then flew away S.E., composed of old and young together. -Moderate wind. - -An utter absence of records of any Gulls, Skuas, "Boatswains," or any -other Laridæ. One or two species? - -Procellariidæ.--One record of Storm Petrel at Lismore, where it is -accounted very rare, on Oct. 3rd, when one was killed; strong N.W. -wind, and haze. One species. - -Alcidæ.--At various stations taken notice of as follows:--At Barra -Head, a few seen on Feb. 4th; fresh S.W., banks of fog. No records in -April. "Marrots" and "Razorbills." At Barra Head, numbers seen of same, -and Puffins, on April 27th; light S.E. wind. A few Puffins seen on May -1st; and fresh N.E. A great many more on May 2nd; fresh N.E. At Butt of -Lewis, first Razorbills seen on April 25th. - -In autumn, Marrots leave Barra Head Aug. 12th, along with the bulk of -Razorbills, but Puffins not till Aug. 25th. Marrots and Razorbills -left with fresh E. wind. Puffins left in fresh S. wind. - -Cormorants arrived about same time as Razorbills and Aleidæ, but remain -about six weeks later at Butt of Lewis; and at Kyleakin there is record -of a flock of twenty-eight flying W. on 13th, with S.W. breeze. Four -species. - -Colymbidæ.--On June 10th one great N. Diver seen swimming near -Lighthouse, at Kyleakin, moving N. (but this movement may be due to set -of the tide only, hour not given, J. A. H. B.). In autumn, at Sound -of Mull, a G. N. D., passing S., var., light breezes. At Lismore, one -flying south; stormy W., rain, on Oct. 17th. At Sound of Mull, two -passing south, at noon; light airs. If the movement is only local -and due to tides, this should be mentioned in schedules, and the -words "drifting with tide," or "swimming with tide," used instead of -"passing." They are not likely to swim against the tide, but if this -phenomenon is observed it should be recorded. One species. - - -Weather Notes for General Remarks on Spring Migration, 1883. - -Fearful snow-storm over the north of Shetland on March 17th, and N.E. -gales and snow prevailed from March 5th to 24th; E. and N.E. and N. -winds prevailed all over Scotland with gales, notably on March 6th and -17th; from 6th to 24th slight changes to S.E., but of short duration; -on 25th (Sunday) wind S.W. strong to gale and rain, the first rain -since February, but only lasted half a day; wind backed again to N.E. -In Orkney the sea rose suddenly very high on the E. coast on March -21st; very cold and fine on 22nd, wind light S.W. "Large quantities -of Cormorants, Razorbills, and Shags, &c., are coming ashore along -the E. coast of Orkney." Deaths supposed to be from scarcity of food, -_viz._, coal-fish; and great damage done to rabbits by Hawks, in some -cases nearly exterminating them (daily papers of March 23rd, 1883). At -Dunipace 12° of frost on night of March 27th. Fearful gale at 9 a.m. on -March 30th, bar. at 28′ 9″; gale all night from S.W., bar. rising all -day; again till 9 p.m. to 29′ 6″, wind S.W. at 10 p.m.; again at 30′ -2″. S. gale at Isle of May on March 29th and 30th. - -As already mentioned in our General Remarks on 1882 Report (Fourth -Report, 1882, p. 67) the effects of these gales and N.E. winds in -spring of 1883 was almost to stop migration at Isle of May, which -migration had "set in pretty briskly" on March 2nd, and almost ceased -on the 5th. From the latter date only a few "stragglers of the -strongest wings" up to the 19th; while a great concourse of Wagtails -was observed inland in Edinburgh (see report as above quoted); few were -seen at Isle of May till the 30th, when five came with S. gale (_op. -cit._, p. 68). - -The general migration was much weaker in numbers this season in spring, -and this is doubtless owing to the prevalence of strong S.E. gales and -winds at the time of migration, moderate S.E. or easterly winds being -preferred. Still there were considerable rushes at the more favourable -localities for observation especially of Thrushes and other _Turdidæ_. - -The anomalous migration recorded by Mr. Cordeaux on to part of the -English coast between Feb. 18th and May 18th,[29] with strong E. and -S.E. winds, changing occasionally by N.E. to W. and N.W., is somewhat -difficult of explanation, unless we could correlate data from the -opposite coasts at the same dates in spring of 1883; but the fact -stated by me that migration began briskly at Isle of May on March 2nd -and almost ceased by the 5th may indicate that the migration thus -retarded by adverse winds, or altered in direction thereby, passed N. -by more inland routes, avoiding the Scottish coast-line, and hugging -every sheltering hollow of land. Blown across the North Sea at the -more southerly stations, they then crept northwards silently and more -inland. Being all adult birds, and having crossed the North Sea not at -the widest part if they came with a S.E. wind, less exhaustion would -occur, and thus, passing inland, they would escape notice near the -coast. - -[Footnote 29: See p. 60 of this Report.] - -Before we can speak with much certainty as to the progress of spring -migrations into the further districts influenced by them, we require -more full and continuous data from Faroe and Iceland. Still, the -earliest appearance noted in Iceland of the Redwing, _Turdus iliacus_, -on April 7th, 1882, should be noted as a possible means of comparison -in that year with the returns from our own coasts. Data from our West -Coast of Scotland help us little in 1883 in spring, and even less so -in 1882, as regards _Turdidæ_. Wheatears again, in 1882, are noted not -before April 24th, and on West Coast of Scotland the migration, though -but scantily observed, began on March 9th and terminated as late as May -17th (see 1882 Report, p. 57). - -The autumn migration of 1883 was pronounced, and confined principally -to end of October and November, of _Turdidæ_, _Cinclidæ_ (one of which, -seen at Isle of May, was afterwards described to me as having no brown -between the black and white of the breast); also of Snow Buntings, -Sky Larks, Robins (small numbers), Linnets, Chaffinches, Starlings, -culminating in a grand rush past of the bulk between Oct. 28th or -30th and Nov. 3rd. The heaviest rush, observed at the time of a south -wind, as compared with other years, at Isle of May, was on Oct. 13th -and 14th, a S.E. wind, according to Mr. Agnew, being usually more -favourable at that point. This October to November rush is undoubtedly -the principal feature of our returns over the whole country. Of the -expansion of the fan or wave our returns from both E. and W. coasts -give a very fair indication. It seems likely that, although most -land-stations have not returned very heavily-laden schedules,--not to -compare, for instance, with 1882,--yet, as noticed by Mr. Cordeaux, -quite as many, if not more, birds were observed at the light-ships; -that the reason for this may be found in the normal and favourable -direction of the winds prevailing in the North Sea at the time of -autumn migration, resulting in greater numbers of birds passing inland -without resting, and being thus less liable to come under observation, -except at specially suitable stations. And, if we / compare the -schedules of 1883 and those of 1882 on the West Coast of Scotland we -find that, while larger numbers are recorded at the more northerly -stations in 1883 than in 1882, there is a lighter return at more -southerly stations in the autumn of 1883 than there was in the autumn -of 1882. Thus to no inconsiderable degree the order of the statistics -of two years is reversed. It would almost appear in this way that when -a "spread fan" reaches our E. coast with S.E. winds--reaching, as it -did in 1882, from Faroe S. to the English Channel--the birds, being -tired and worn out, promptly seek shelter, and then, when rested, -pursue their migration on more southerly lines, and do not reach so -far west, except such as fail to catch up the land, and are driven -forward helplessly. This would cause comparative desertion of the more -northerly stations of the W. coast and Outer Hebrides, as in 1882. -But on the other hand, when a "closed fan" reaches our E. coast with -prevailing westerly and north-westerly winds, and, having much less -expansion to the northward, as in 1883, as regards the E. coast, it -seems that birds arriving, less exhausted with the winds best suited -for their successful passage, pass on inland, the same lines of flight -being persevered in, and thus reach further north upon the West Coast -of Scotland. - -Thus the Goldcrest, in 1883, reached as far north as Dhuheartach and -Lismore in some numbers; but in 1882, when they came in such vast -hordes to our east coast, we had no records north of Rhinns of Islay, -and none others until we found them in "great numbers" at stations -south of the Firth of Clyde. - -Rushes took place on August 16th at Isle of May, and again on 22nd, -with easterly wind and fog, principally of Wheatears, culminating -on night of Sept. 2nd-3rd, and being accompanied by Redstarts, -Chiffchaffs, Robins, Sedge Warblers, Wood Warblers, and Golden and -Grey Plovers; Thrushes apparently totally absent. A single adult -Blue-throated Warbler, with bright blue breast, was observed at Isle -of May. The rush was on Sept. 4th, at Pentland Skerries, with strong -N. wind. Another rush, about Sept. 15th, of Willow Warblers and -Chiffchaffs; and, on 22nd, of Robins, accompanied by a single recorded -Goldcrest. A rush of the latter took place on Oct. 10th at Isle of May. -Common Wrens, not in large numbers, also migrated on Sept. 22nd and -23rd. - -Another feature of the 1883 Report is the abundance of Finches, which -usually travel with the Thrushes, but whose migration appears to be -extended over a longer period of time than that of the Thrushes in 1883. - -It will be gathered from the Report that the dates of rushes on our -E. Scottish coasts were slightly later than those on the E. English -coast, averaging from twenty-four to thirty hours by the schedules, and -that the migration past the more northerly stations of Scotland were -in proportion later than in the south. And also that the dates of the -heaviest rushes on the E. coast agree fairly well with the dates of the -W. coast. - -While closing our 1883 Report it is perhaps desirable to call attention -to the very great spring migration of Woodcocks, which appears to have -crossed Scotland between Clyde and Forth on March 9th, 10th, 11th, -and 12th, 1884. On the 10th our covers here (Dunipace) were full of -Woodcock. Torwood also held large numbers on 9th, 10th, 11th, and 12th; -at Glenbervie, close to this, also unusual numbers were observed. From -the Ayrshire coast they are reported numerous, but not more so than -usual at this season, indicating that the Ayrshire coast, or properties -along the coast, are usually visited in the spring migration. At -Fassaroe, Bray, Co. Wicklow, Mr. Barrington made enquiries, but no -extraordinary numbers have been noted there. At Islay Mr. Ballingall -reports unusual numbers about the time mentioned. - -At Ross Priory, east side of Loch Lomond, a good many were observed, -there being snow on the ground at the time; but at Arden, on the west -side, and almost immediately opposite, no additions were observed. At -Aberfoyle and neighbourhood very large numbers were observed. In East -Kilbryde Parish, to the south of Forth and Clyde isthmus, two were -seen at a locality where none were ever seen before. At Callander no -unusual number was noticed, a good many appearing here at this season, -which is usually called "The Return of the Woodcocks." Mr. Robert -Ferguson, on the 11th, flushed eight within a mile-radius, "a most -unusual circumstance here,"--at Whitehill, Rosewell, Midlothian,--and -large numbers were observed near Innerleithen in Holylee Woods and -vicinity. To the east of this county no numbers of any consequence -were noted at Tulliallan or West Grange, in Fife.[30] All the birds -seen by myself were small red Scandinavian birds, which I consider -are quite unmistakable and distinct from home-bred birds. One with an -injured muscle under the wing was brought into the house,--also a red -bird,--which was found alive in a ditch close to. - -[Footnote 30: Subsequently I received a note from Mr. Seton Thomson, -of Kinnaird House, Stirlingshire, to the effect that the gamekeeper, -on March 1st, on taking a bee-line to Airth, two and a half miles -over moss-land (Airth is on the Stirlingshire side of the Firth of -Forth, where about three hundred yards of water separate it from -Tulliallan) put up half a dozen Woodcocks in a place where Woodcocks -are very rarely seen. Many also were seen about the garden at Kinnaird -House; these were observed not to be the usual Woodcocks, but a much -redder-looking bird. There appears to have been a great flight of -Woodcocks at Aberfoyle about March 15th. Mr. R. Ker's keeper flushed -five in about two square yards, and kept putting them up all over. Two -were seen also at Crutherland, by East Kilbryde, on the 12th, where a -Woodcock was never seen before.] - -I would like further to have ascertained the boundaries within which -this migration was observed; how far to the north and how far to the -south of the catchment Basin of Forth it extended. Here I can do little -more than direct attention to the facts, so far as known to me. But -it seems evident that, though so abundantly observed at Airth and -Kinnaird, scarcely any increase was noticeable just across the Forth -at Tulliallan or West Grange, or in Fife; and though numerous at Ross -Priory and Loch Lomond on the east side, no increase was observed at -Arden and the west side of the loch. When the birds "lifted" from -Kinnaird and Airth, their next probable resting place would be Norway -or the continental coast, possibly Heligoland, as no notice is taken -of them in the 1884 spring returns from Isle of May or Bell Rock. Nor -does there appear to have been any corresponding movement through the -Pentland Firth. - - - -I should like in this place to record the occurrence of the Black -Redstart in the following form. It is previously recorded by me in the -Proc. Royal Physical Society, Edinb. of April 23rd, 1884:-- - - +-----------------------------------+--------------------------------+ - | Date. | 1884. Mar. 31. | - +-----------------------------------+--------------------------------+ - | Locality. | Pentland Skerries. | - +-----------------------------------+--------------------------------+ - | Species. | _Ruticilla titys_ (Scop.). | - +-----------------------------------+--------------------------------+ - | Age--Adult or Young. | Ad. | - +-----------------------------------+--------------------------------+ - | Sex. | ♂ | - +-----------------------------------+--------------------------------+ - | Alone, or | -- | - +-----------------------------------+--------------------------------+ - | with others, | X | - +-----------------------------------+--------------------------------+ - | of its own, | -- | - +-----------------------------------+--------------------------------+ - | or other Species.* | X | - +-----------------------------------+--------------------------------+ - | Direction of Wind, | S.E. | - +-----------------------------------+--------------------------------+ - | and Strength. | Strong. | - +-----------------------------------+--------------------------------+ - | Prevailing Wind for past Few Days.| S. & S.E. | - +-----------------------------------+--------------------------------+ - | Weather. | Clear on 28th. Fog on 31st. | - +-----------------------------------+--------------------------------+ - | =Remarks.= | - | | - |* If with other species, name them here:--1 Robin, Sandpipers, | - | 1 Yellow Bunting, 1 Chaffinch, "Stonechats" (_i.e._, Wheatears),| - | 1 G. C. Wren, 1 Common Thrush. | - +--------------------------------------------------------------------+ - - - - -IRISH COAST. - - -In the spring of 1883 schedules were forwarded to forty-two stations, -Arklow North Light-ship having been added to those of the previous -year. Twenty-five replied. - -In the autumn only thirty-five schedules were sent out, seven having -been omitted, _i.e._, Mine Head, Wicklow Head, Lough Swilly, Eagle -Island East, Slyne Head South, Loop Head, and Samphire Island. -Thirty-four were returned, one station sending no answer. - -A decided improvement in filling the schedules occurred in the autumn, -the observations of some light-keepers extending over three or even -four schedules. The labour of arranging the materials for this report -and placing the entries under the head of each species has consequently -been much increased. - -In addition to the schedules the light-keepers at Coningbeg light-ship, -Tuskar Rock, Rathlin Island, Killybegs, Tearaght, and Skelligs have -forwarded lists of all the birds they have observed, whether migrating -or otherwise. There is an evident disposition on the part of all to -help us as far as possible in this enquiry. The light stations are -arranged geographically--beginning at the Fastnet, in Cork, and going' -round by the east to the west coast. - -The number of migrants passing in the autumn seems to have been greater -than usual. A great rush of Thrushes (including probably Redwings), -Blackbirds, and Starlings, took place at our south eastern and southern -stations between Oct. 25th and Nov. 2nd--notably at the Tuskar, on -the Wexford coast, which is the best Irish station. Smaller rushes of -these and other birds are also recorded, but it is premature at present -to analyse the movements of each species or the dates on which they -occurred. After a few years conclusions will be far more satisfactory. - -The great majority of birds are killed striking on foggy, misty, or -dark nights, and it is perhaps not impossible for a great migration -to take place, and pass almost unrecorded if the night be fine and -bright. Whenever a bird has been killed striking, it is so stated, and -not left to be understood. - -The bulk of the migrants appear to arrive on our south eastern coast, -except such birds as the Barnacle Goose and Snow Bunting, which are -mainly recorded from the north western stations, being rarely entered -in the schedules from the east or south coasts. - -An interesting feature this year is the occurrence of several examples -of the Greenland Falcon on the west coast. - -The winter of 1883-4 was exceptionally mild, and the entries due to -local migration from frost and hard weather are probably few. - -Many entries no doubt refer to birds not migrating at all, but none -have been omitted, as it is difficult to know where to draw the line. -It is desirable, however, that the light-keepers should state whether -the bird is believed to be migrating or merely moving about the -district from local causes. - -In the schedules for next year a special column for the direction -of flight has been added. This we think quite as important as the -direction of the wind. Birds seem rarely to fly directly with the wind. -Attention is drawn to this point in order to have it confirmed or -otherwise. - -In order to diminish the errors in the identification of species the -light-keepers have been instructed to forward, when possible, a leg and -wing of every bird about which they are doubtful, and we trust they -will do so. - -Some entries seem very improbable, and others are isolated and -apparently valueless. When records accumulate, both may prove useful. - -In addition to the little Skellig Rock--off the coast of Kerry--the -Gannet also breeds on the Bull Rock fifteen miles further south, and a -few are also reported as breeding in the Cow Rock quite close to it. - -No matter what results are arrived at from this enquiry, it is -satisfactory to be in correspondence with a number of observers on -isolated points all around the coast. - -The information supplied, if corroborated during several years by -different light-keepers, cannot but be valuable, and we wish to impress -on them the necessity of continuing to assist in this investigation. - -To all the light-keepers who have given their time and attention to the -subject we return our sincere thanks, especially as their assistance is -voluntary and given solely for the advancement of knowledge. - -Mr. Armstrong, Secretary to the Irish Lights Board, and Captain Boxer, -R.N., Inspector of Irish Lights, have helped us in many ways by their -advice and co-operation. The Commissioners of Irish Lights have given -us every facility, and also material support by subscribing for forty -copies of the report and distributing them among the light-keepers. - - Alexander G. More. - Richard M. Barrington. - - - List of Light-stations. - - Miles - from - Sp. Au. shore. Names of Observers. - 1. Fastnet, Co. Cork o x 8 James Walsh. - 2. Galley Head, Cork x x -- John Whelan and - John Kelly. - 3. Old Head, Kinsale, Cork x x -- Martin Kennedy. - 4. Mine Head, Waterford o * -- - 5. Dungarvan, Waterford o x -- Wm. Higginbotham. - 5.*Coningbeg Lt.-ship, Wexford x x 10 Patrick Cullen. - 6. Barrels Rock Lt.-ship, do. x x 4 Michael Doyle. - 7. Tuskar Rock Lt.-ship, do. x x 7 Richard Hamilton. - 8. Arklow Sth. Lt.-ship, Wicklow x x 7 Patrick Clancy. - 8.*Arklow North Lt.-ship, do. x x 8 William Daly. - 10. Kish Bank Lt.-ship, Dublin x x 7 Michael Cunniam and - John Pinston. - 11. Howth Baily, Dublin o o -- - 12. Rockabill, Dublin x x 5 Joseph Hammond. - 13. Copeland Island, Down x x 3 John Walsh. - 14. Maidens, Antrim x x 5 Patrick Keenan and - Michael Barry. - 15. Rathlin, Antrim x x 6 John A. Murray. - 16. Innishtrahull, Donegal x x 6 W. H. James. - 17. Dunree Head, Donegal o x -- John Stapleton. - 18. Lough Swilly, Donegal x * -- Henry Redmond. - 19. Tory Island, Donegal o x 9 Thomas Sweeny. - 20. Arranmore, Donegal x x 5 Henry Williams. - 21. Rathlin O'Birne, Donegal x x 2 Joseph Hill and - John Scallan. - 22. Killybegs, Donegal x x -- Daniel Hawkins. - 23. Oyster Island, N. Sligo x x 1 John Young and - Joseph Hill. - 24. Broadhaven, Mayo o x -- Patrick Keenan. - 25. Eagle Island, E., Mayo x * 2 Henry Stocker. - 26. Eagle Island, W., Mayo o x 2 Matthew Healy. - 27. Blackrock, Mayo o x 9 John Redmond and - John Young. - 28. Blacksod Point, Mayo o x -- Robt. W. Redmond. - 29. Clare Island, Mayo x x 4 G. H. Brownell. - 30. Slyne Head, N., Galway x x 3 Robert Tyrrell. - 31. Slyne Head, S., Galway o * 3 - 32. Arran Island, N., Galway o x 9 Thomas Fortune. - 33. Straw Island, Galway x x 9 Charles Boyle. - 34. Arran Island, S., Galway x x 6 John O'Donnell. - 36. Samphire Island, Kerry o * ½ - 37. Tearaght, Kerry x x 9 Edward McCarron. - 38. Valentia, Kerry o x -- Joseph Williams. - 39. Skelligs, Kerry o x 9 Thomas Kerley. - 40. Dursey Island, Cork x x ½ James Keenan. - - _Abbreviations:_ - - Sp. = Spring. Au = Autumn. - o = No reply. x = Schedule returned partly or wholly filled. - * = No schedule sent to this station. - - -General Remarks of Light-Keepers. - -_Fastnet._--"Autumn: On the night of Nov. 2nd, the weather being hazy, -there was a quantity of all species of birds came from the N.E., and -several of them were killed by striking the lantern; but what was most -remarkable was the quantity of large Moths, which I could compare -to nothing but a heavy fall of snow, they were so numerous. In bad -weather a few Seals frequent the rock, and a quantity of Gulls and -Sea Parrots--the latter I have frequently seen killed and eaten by -the Royal Gull. The Gannet is here all the year. No birds breed. On -Nov. 2nd, from one a.m. to seven a.m., there were killed by striking -the lantern twenty-two Thrushes, eleven Blackbirds, four Woodcocks, -seventeen Starlings, eight Linnets, five Larks, and seven Robins. Wind -S.E., light, hazy."--James Walsh. - -_Galley Head._--"Spring: The flight of the Gannet and Puffin is always -to the west here. I have many times thought they must pass east by some -other route. The Grey-backed Crow and Common Crow are seen all the -year round. The Wagtail, Stonechat, and other small birds have almost -disappeared this year. The Cuckoo I have not seen or heard this year. I -have never been at a station with less birds about than this one. I am -four years here, and there has not been one case of a bird striking the -lantern."--John Whelan. - -"Autumn: I arrived at this station Nov. 6th, and from that date to -the present from ninety to one hundred Sea Gulls are to be seen daily -flying about the cliffs near the Lighthouse. No birds of any other -species have been seen passing."--John Kelly. Feb., 1884. - -_Old Head, Kinsale._--"Autumn: I have only seen some small birds, such -as Larks and Chaffinches, from Dec. 17th to Jan. 1st, 1884. There are -Sea Gulls, Rooks, and Grey Crows seen here all the year round, also -two Falcon Hawks. Starlings commenced to leave here the last week of -November. Larks, Wrens, Titmice, and Twite Linnets are seen all the -year round, and on the lake, three miles distant, large Duck, Widgeon, -Coot, and Waterhens. On Dec. 15th I saw a large flight of birds going -to the south at a great height, and suspect they were Golden Plover. -The Curlew never leaves the marsh three miles from here. I never saw -less birds than there is this winter."--Martin Kennedy. - -_Coningbeg Light-ship._--"Autumn: A great quantity of birds passed this -station last month. I have not seen so many birds killed since I came -to this station three years ago."--Patrick Cullen. Nov., 1883. - -_Barrels Rock Light-ship._--"Spring: I have observed very few land -birds passing this year, and none about the ship in foggy weather, like -other stations I have been at." - -_Tuskar Rock._--"Spring: A great absence of sea fowl this year. I -consider it owing to the scarcity of fish." - -_Arklow North Light-ship._--"Autumn: As a rule all birds give the ship -a wide berth when passing, and it is very hard to tell what they are. -During thick foggy nights a large quantity of small land birds are -killed striking our lantern."--William Daly. - -_Copeland Island._--"Autumn: A number of sea birds of different species -resort to this locality in the autumn and winter months for feeding -purposes, and are seen in greater or lesser numbers each day as the -weather suits and feeding is plentiful. They are Gannets, Cormorants, -Puffins, Grey and Royal Gulls, Sea-pies, 'Cranes,' Ducks, Teal, Curlew, -and Sandpipers. None of these breed in the vicinity. On Oct. 10th a -rush of Larks, Starlings, Linnets, Titmice, Thrushes, Blackbirds, -'Grey' Plover, and Snipe. Eighteen Starlings, six Blackbirds, twenty -Larks, twelve Linnets, eight Titmice, four Thrushes, three Plover, -and two Snipe killed striking lantern, and several injured but not -killed."--John Walsh. - -_South Maidens._--"Spring: No birds strike the lantern in April and -May. They do not strike until October. Twelve Gannets, twenty-four -Ducks, six Sea-pies, and twelve Wild Geese are all the birds I have -seen for three months."--Patrick Keenan.--"Autumn: I arrived here Sept. -25th, 1883, and saw no birds up to Oct. 15th, save Puffins, Sea Gulls, -and Cormorants, and Sand Larks occasionally. Thrushes, Blackbirds, -and Larks are rarely seen. Wild Duck do not strike the lantern -glass."--Michael Barry. - -_Rathlin Island._--"April 12th: Blackbirds, Thrushes, Skylarks, Wild -Ducks, Redshanks, Pigeons, and 'Sea Coot' seem to remain for the -season. Autumn: I have never at any time during the migratory season -for Ducks, Widgeon, Wild Geese, Barnacles, and Swan heard them passing -at night as at other stations."--John A. Murray. - -_Innishtrahull._--"April 30th. A small bird with an orange tail, name -unknown, struck, not killed." Wind S.W.; a gale. "Very little birds -visited this island in May, June, and July, except a flock of Curlew." -Autumn: "There has been a great absence of birds this winter, and no -Snipe or Woodcock visited this place. Snow Buntings remained here all -the past winter." - -_Dunree Head._--"Autumn: No birds resort to this station only -Cormorants, which remain all the year and breed. I have been at several -stations on the coast, but never was at a station so scarce of birds as -this."--John Stapleton. - -_Tory Island._--"Autumn: Very few birds past this station. I suppose -owing to its being so far out to sea. I am informed that birds pass -more frequently the east side of the island. On the islands between -this and the mainland large flocks of Barnacle stop during the winter -months. I have not seen a Snow Bunting, Snipe, or Starling this season. -During heavy frost, snow-birds frequent the island from the mainland, -but return as soon as the thaw commences."--Thomas H. Sweeny. - -_Arranmore._--"Spring: Gulls and Puffins have laid great quantities of -their eggs this year on the rock. A great many have been destroyed by -the Grey Crow."--Henry Williams. - -_Killybegs._--"Autumn: The birds which breed around here are the Wild -Duck, Wild Pigeon, Lapwing, Lark, Linnet, Swallow, Snipe, Common Wren, -Thrush, Robin, Blackbird, Sparrow, Stonechat, Sand Lark, and Grey -Crow."--Daniel Hawkins. - -_Broadhaven._--"Autumn: No birds strike this light."--Patrick Keenan. - -_Eagle Island, East._--"Since I joined this station in Sept., 1882, up -to present date, Sept., 1883, nothing worth noting."--H. Stocker. - -_Eagle Island, West._--"There was absolutely nothing of interest to -enter in schedule last autumn-. The sea has been crossing this island, -I may say daily, for the last five months, and with the exception of a -few Sea Gulls, which seem never to leave the locality, there were no -birds visited." March, 1884.--Matthew Healy. - -_Blacksod._--"I have carefully looked out for birds, and seen none -worth entering. I have seen several seals."--Robert W. Redmond. - -_Clare Island._--"In February very few birds are seen at this station. -No birds strike this lantern. A great number of seals frequent this -place in caves round the cliffs."--George H. Brownell. - -_Slyne Head, North._--"Spring: I beg to remark that at all times -sea birds are to be seen on this coast, their numbers being chiefly -regulated by the feeding for them."--Robert Tyrrell. - -_Arran Island, North._--"During the months of January and February no -birds are seen except a few Sea-pies and Sand-larks. It must be in -consequence of the very wild and stormy weather."--Thomas Fortune. - -_Straw Island._--"Spring: The different species of sea fowl are very -scarce this season. I believe from the want of small fry. None breed -on this island, it being low and flat. Autumn: Birds scarcely ever -strike the lantern in consequence of the light appearing in a different -direction to the general flight of birds, being also a red light. It -is 26 feet above high water, and ten miles from land. I have remarked -a greater number of Blackbirds and Starlings this winter than since -the great frost of 1880. On Oct. 28th a flock of Wild Duck alighted, -apparently much exhausted, and remained a few hours, and went S.E., -towards land."--Charles Boyle. - -_Tearaght._--July 30th. "The following birds are still on the island, -_viz._, Guillemots, Sea Parrots, Kittiwakes, Grey Crows, Sea-pies, -Razorbills, Manx Shearwater, Stonechats, and, I think. Choughs and -Falcons (Blue Hawks). All these breed on the island. Dec. 18th, birds -remaining: Grey Linnets, Rock Pigeon, Thrushes, Mackerel Cock (on -water). Blackbirds. Residents, Titlarks and Common Wren. The 'Mackerel -Cock' is about the size of a Razorbill, but it is not the Razorbill. -Thousands of them are round the rock now. Feb. 2nd, 1884." (See under -Manx Shearwater). - -_Dursey Island._--"The Gannet breed on the Bull Rock, several hundred. -On the Cow Rock, distant three-quarters of a mile from the Bull, a few -also breed. I believe the Gannet did not breed on the Bull until after -the Skellig light was erected." [This was in 1826. R. M. B.]--Michael -Shea. "Very few birds breed on this island, except the Wild Pigeon, -Jackdaw, and a few Sea Gulls. On the Bull Rock, four miles N.W. of -Dursey Head, the Gannet and Puffin breed in great numbers, coming about -March 1st and leaving Oct. 1st."--James Keenan. - - -Eagle. - -_Clare Island._--"The Eagles still inhabit the cliffs, and have -been as usual destructive to young lambs and fowls belonging to the -inhabitants. In December they make very bold, and not having sea birds -to feed on, are often observed near the villages, principally when the -wind is east." - - -Greenland Falcon. - -_Blackrock Mayo._--Nov. 9th. "Two grey speckled Hawks at three p.m., -wind strong W., showery. One shot; it measured four feet from tip to -tip of wings, and had down under its feathers like a sea bird." - -_Slyne Head, North._--Dec. 2nd, one White Hawk, at two p.m.; wind N., -clear. First seen here, and very tame. - -_Tearaght._--Dec. 12th, Mr. P. Sheehy, assistant-keeper, saw a White -Hawk; wind N.W., strong breeze, and gloomy. March 23rd, 1884, one white -spotted Falcon shot. April 2nd, another much smaller and whiter shot. - -[This has been an extraordinary year for the occurrence of the -Greenland Falcon, no less than eight having been obtained at various -points along the west coast of Ireland from Donegal to Cork, and one -Iceland Falcon at West Port.--R. M. B.] - - -Hawks. - -_Fastnet._--Sept. 14th, one flying east. - -_Dungarvan._--Dec. 17th, two Falcons passing S.W. - -_Tuskar Rock._--Feb. 25th and 27th, March 3rd and 10th, one Hawk seen -at daylight; 26th, 'two Sparrow Hawks; Oct. 13th and 15th, one seen. - -_Arklow North Light-ship._--May 4th, one Sparrow Hawk, 7.20 a.m., on -lantern; Feb. 22nd, 1884, one hovering about ship nine a.m. - -_Kish Bank Light-ship._--Oct. 30th, three Hawks hovering about ship; -flew to N.W. - -_Rockabill._--Aug. 31st, one caught on balcony. - -_Rathlin Island._--June 25th, one Sparrow Hawk at noon; Aug. 28th, one -Sparrow Hawk and one Falcon Hawk; Dec. 8th and 20th, two Falcon Hawks -at noon. - -_Innishtrahull._--March 23rd, one Hawk, 11.50 a.m.; wind strong W. -April 15th, one, two p.m.; wind N., fresh. May 15th, a Grey Hawk, at -two a.m.; wind N.W., misty. During August several "Brown Hawks," which -remained most of the month; Dec. 8th, one Brown Hawk. - -_Lough Swilly._--April 3rd, one Hawk, four p.m.; May 14th, one Sparrow -Hawk; June 22nd, two Hawks. - -_Arranmore._--April 12th, Peregrine Hawks breed on island; 15th, one -Sparrow Hawk; May 6th, four Hawks; June 28th, one; Sept. 4th, one. - -_Killybegs._--Aug. 14th, one hovering about. - -_Blackrock Mayo._--Dec. 10th, two Falcons flying N.E., high; wind S.W., -gale. Dec. 19th, one Falcon, one p.m.; wind W., fresh, gloomy. Dec. -24th, two Sparrow Hawks, flying S.E.; wind S., gale. - -_Clare Island._--Two Kestrel Hawks build their nest, as usual, in the -vicinity of the Lighthouse. - -_Arran Island, South._--April 8th, four "Holland Hawks," six a.m.; wind -S.S.E. They remain here. - -_Tearaght._--Jan. 30th, one Falcon? one p.m.; wind N.W., clear. -March 2nd, two Sparrow Hawks, also on March 3rd. They come and go -occasionally the year round. Oct. 29th, one Hawk, colour grey, portions -white and black, beak white, and white spot on crown of head. A pair of -Falcons and "Sparrow Hawks" breed on the island. - -_Valentia._--Sept. 1st, two small Hawks; wind strong S.E. Also on Oct. -14th and Nov. 8th. - - -Owl. - -_Innishtrahull._--Feb. 15th, one "Brown Owl," two p.m.; wind N.E., -gale, squally. Nov. 8th, "I have been told another snowy Owl was seen -on the island about the 14th of last month, but not so large" as the -specimen shot on Nov. 19th, 1882. "It was not observed by me." (See -last year's Report). - -_Killybegs._--April 10th, one "Screech Owl," shot at six p.m. Rose out -of a swamp in vicinity, an unusual visitor. - - -Thrushes. - -_Fastnet._--Oct. 22nd, ten Thrushes; Nov. 2nd, twenty-two killed -striking. - -_Old Head, Kinsale._--Feb. 3rd, large numbers from sunrise to sunset, -coming from the north. Dec. 16th, some hundreds; wind N., frosty. - -_Coningbeg Light-ship._--Oct. 26th, one alighted on ship; 28th, flocks -about the ship from 9 p.m. until midnight; fifteen killed striking; -wind light, S., gloomy. 29th, a great number about ship during night, -many killed and fell overboard; gloomy. They made for the land. 30th, -three struck at 3 a.m., killed. 31st, two about light 10 p.m. - -_Dungarvan._--Oct. 2nd, a great number of song Thrushes in vicinity all -day. Oct. 26th, plentiful in fields about station. 28th, one "Redwing -Thrush" struck 11.20 p.m. - -_Tuskar Rock._--Feb. 24th and 25th, Thrushes during day and night, some -struck; fog and mist. Oct. 9th and 10th, Thrushes all night; a great -number killed and disabled. Oct. 27th to Nov. 2nd, great numbers of -Thrushes passed, many killed; weather foggy, with mist. On Oct. 29th, -at 7 a.m., I found two large mountain Thrushes, with grey breasts and -dark wings (Fieldfares?). Most of the Thrushes that are killed are -small mountain Thrushes, never seen here except in winter, mostly in -frosty weather. They have no regular round spots on breast--a sort of -striped head and a great deal of yellow under the wings (Redwings?). -Only twenty of the native Thrushes killed. - -_Arklow South Light-ship._--March 2nd, five on deck. April 22nd, three. -Oct. 10th, one killed; weather hazy. Oct. 28th and 29th, six killed, -striking; wind S., cloudy. - -_Arklow North Light-ship._--Sept. 16th, a large flock hovering about -ship during the day. 19th, Thrushes killed striking about midnight. -Oct. 29th and 30th, large numbers striking lantern; calm, overcast, -hazy. - -_Kish Bank Light-ship._--Oct. 8th, one flighted at 10 a.m. 28th, one -killed striking 10.30 p.m.; weather gloomy. - -_Rockabill._--Jan. 13th, Thrushes in night, some struck; weather misty. -Feb. 17th, some Thrushes from sunset to midnight. Oct. 26th and 27th, -large quantity killed in night; weather hazy, with light rain. Nov. -15th, Thrushes during night, some struck. Nov. 29th, five killed, -overcast and cloudy. Dec. 28th, several struck at 8 p.m., mist and fog. -Dec. 31st, two killed. - -_Copeland Island._--Oct. 10th, four killed striking, others injured; -wind N., light, drizzling rain. - -_South Maidens._--Oct. 15th, twenty-four at midnight, sixteen of them -killed against lantern; weather hazy, wind W., fresh. - -_Innishtrahull._--Nov. 1st, three at lantern; wind fresh, S. 2nd, three -at lantern, 11.30 p.m., misty. Nov. 5th, three at lantern. - -_Tory Island._--Oct. 17th, four struck lantern, 10 p.m.; wind W., gale. - -_Killybegs._--April 1st, five Thrushes about all day. Oct. 24th, three -killed striking; wind S.W., fresh, drizzling rain. Nov. 30th, two -killed, drizzling rain. Dec. 19th, three killed, thick drizzle. - -_Oyster Island, North._--Jan. 10th, 1884, two "Missel Thrushes" in -garden; flew S. - -_Blackrock Mayo._--Dec. 23rd, four Thrushes flying N., high; wind S., -fresh. - -_Slyne Head, North._--Nov. 9th, eight; wind S.E. 30th, six; wind N.E. - -_Arran Island, North._--Nov. 4th, two Thrushes killed in morning. Dec. -10th, two Thrushes 10 a.m.; wind W.S.W., gale. - -_Tearaght._--Oct. 27th, one Thrush killed striking, 11 p.m.; wind -fresh, S.E., foggy. Nov. 22nd, two or three, 2 p.m.; wind N.W., strong, -hail showers. - -_Skelligs._--Oct. 20th, one at 1 p.m.; wind N., fresh, misty. Oct. -21st, three, remained during month. A couple about rock in December. - -_Dursey Island._--Oct. 10th, ten going east, 8 a.m.; wind W. - - -Fieldfare. - -_Fastnet._--Sept. 18th, four flying N.E.; gloomy. Oct. 22nd, five; -31st, six. Nov. 1st, four. Dec. 16th, three. - -_Dungarvan._--Oct. 14th, small flocks in fields; 18th and 26th, several. - -_Rathlin Island._--Nov. 29th, one, going S.; wind S.W. - - -Blackbird. - -_Fastnet._--Oct. 22nd, thirteen. Nov. 2nd, eleven killed striking. - -_Old Head, Kinsale._--Feb. 3rd, large numbers. Nov. 15th, from 100 to -150 seen this day. It is remarkable to see so many of these birds; wind -S., strong. - -_Coningbeg Light-ship._--May 7th, three alighted on ship, 9.30 p.m.; -wind E.N.E., rain. Oct. 10th, one caught on deck at 2 a.m. 28th, -flocks, 9 p.m., until midnight, about the ship in great numbers; -gloomy, wind light S., twenty killed. 29th, a great number about light, -8 p.m., until midnight; many struck and fell overboard. 31st, four at -10 p.m., hovering about light. Nov. 1st, two struck at 9 p.m., killed. - -_Barrels Rock Light-ship._--Oct. 29th, one male killed against lantern, -2.15 a.m. - -_Tuskar Rock._--Feb. 24th, Blackbirds during day and night, fog and -mist; some struck lantern. 25th, 27th, and 28th, ditto. March 2nd, -four males and seven females. Oct. 9th and 10th, constantly striking -all night; a great number killed. Oct. 27th to Nov. 2nd, great numbers -passed at intervals during day and night; weather misty. Numbers -killed, 100 on Oct. 28th and 80 on 29th, besides hundreds disabled. -Most of the Blackbirds are female; they are of a dull brown colour. -Nov. 7th, two killed; 10th, one seen. - -_Arklow South Light-ship._--April 28th, one; wind light, S.E. Oct. -29th, twenty-six killed striking; wind S., light, cloudy. - -_Arklow North Light-ship._--April 30th, Blackbird, 11 p.m. to 11.50 -p.m., flying round lantern; did not strike; weather hazy. Sept. 16th, -large flock about ship. 19th, Blackbirds striking at midnight; weather -hazy, with rain. Oct. 29th and 30th, large numbers killed striking, -calm, overcast, hazy. Nov. 30th, two killed at midnight; weather hazy, -with rain. - -_Kish Bank Light-ship._--Oct. 28th, two Blackbirds. Nov. 7th, two; -13th, several, from 6 p.m. until midnight, flying about lantern; clear. - -_Rockabill._--Jan. 13th, Blackbirds during night, some struck, weather -misty. Feb. 17th, Blackbirds, sunset to midnight; rain and mist, some -struck. Oct. 26th and 27th, large quantity struck lantern in night; -weather hazy, with light rain. Nov. 15th, a dozen killed; 28th, six -killed. Dec. 28th, four; 31st three. In all cases weather overcast or -misty. - -_Copeland Island._--Blackbirds breed here, two pairs. Oct. 10th, six -killed striking, others injured; wind light N., drizzling rain. - -_South Maidens._--Oct. 16th, four struck, 2 a.m., not killed; weather -hazy. - -_Rathlin Island._--Oct. 31st, one killed striking. - -_Innishtrahull._--Nov. 1st, two at lantern; wind fresh S., gloomy, -misty. 2nd, one at lantern 11.30 p.m.; wind S. 5th, two at lantern, 8 -p.m.; wind light N.E. - -_Tory Island._--Oct. 18th, two struck, one killed, 9 p.m.; wind W.N.W., -gale. - -_Killybegs._--April 1st, three about all day. Nov. 30th, one killed -striking, drizzling rain. Dec. 18th, one killed; 19th, another, weather -thick. - -_Black Rock, Mayo._--Oct. 22nd, four at 8 a.m.; wind S.W., fresh, -misty, flying S., high. - -_Slyne Head, North._--Nov. 9th, six; wind S.E. - -_Arran Island, South._--May 15th, thirty "Blackbirds," 6 p.m.; wind -N.W. They remain here. Dec. 13th, two struck, not killed, 11 p.m.; wind -W.N.W. - -_Tearaght._--Nov. 20th, one Blackbird at 3 p.m.; wind W., fresh. - -_Skelligs._--Oct. 20th, two at 1 p.m.; wind N., fresh, misty. Remained -during month. A couple about rock in December. - - -Ring Ouzel. - -_Rathlin Island._--April 18th, "one Blackbird," at 4 p.m.; wind strong -S.E. This bird had a white throat. It was shot. - - -Robin. - -_Fastnet._--Oct. 27th, eight. Nov. 2nd, seven killed striking. Barrels -Rock Light-ship,--Aug. 29th, one "Robin Redbreast," rested on ship. - -_Rathlin Island._--Nov. 1st, two about all day. Nov. 13th, one seen. - -_Straw Island._--April 11th, two "Redbreasts," 9 a.m., calm. Passed -island for shore. - -_Arran Island, South._--July 1st, eighteen Robin Redbreasts, 9 p.m.; -wind S.S.E., four killed. - - -"Blackcap." - -_Arklow South Light-ship._--April 4th, three "Blackcaps" dead on deck, -7 a.m.; wind fresh S.W., rain. - - -"Sallypickers" (Willow Wren or Chiffchaff). - -_Arklow North Light-ship._--April 29th, eight "Sallypickers" flying -round ship. May 1st, three ditto. - - -"Stonechat" (Wheatear). - -_Galley Head._--April 4th, saw "Stonechicks," the first this year. - -_Fastnet._--Sept. 14th, five young ones. Oct. 1st, twelve; 9th, twenty. -Dec. 4th, seven; 16th, two. - -_Tuskar Rock._--Aug. 9th, three killed striking. Oct. 5th, -"Stonechatters." - -_Arklow North Light-ship._--April 21st, one "Stonechatter" on deck 6 -a.m. - -_Rathlin Island._--April 28th, flocks of Stonechats, picked up five; -wind fresh S.E., misty, rain. May 2nd, six at 7 a.m.; 20th, seven.; -21st, ten all day about the station. Foggy and gloomy. June 3rd and -19th, three to six seen. - -_Innishtrahull._--April 28th and 29th, "Stonechickers," 2 a.m.; wind N. -one day and S. the other. 30th, three, one struck lantern, killed; a -gale from S.W. May 3rd, two; 5th, one. Sept. 20th, two struck lantern, -not killed. Nov. 5th, two at lantern at midnight; gloomy, misty. - -_Arranmore._--April 3rd, four "Stonechatters arrived to build." - -_Rathlin O'Birne._--March 31st, April 1st and 6th, one to six -Stonechats. - -_Killybegs._--I noticed during April and May some "Stonechatters." - -_Clare Island._--March 1st, some "Stonechatters" flying S., 11.30 a.m. - -_Slyne Head, North._--April 1st, Stonechats arrive and increase in -number from this date. Aug. 2nd, Stonechats disappear; have not seen in -what direction they come or go. - -_Straw Island._--April 5th, two Stonechats; wind N.W., very light, -clear. Remained on island. - -_Arran Island, South._--May 18th, twenty Stonechatters. They remain -here. - -_Tearaght._--May 26th, about half a dozen Stonechats arrived about this -date. Sept. 20th, Stonechats left about this date. - - -Redstart. - -_Dungarvan._--Nov. 13th, one about garden, being the only one seen in -vicinity for seven years. - -_Tearaght._--Oct. 27th, two Redstarts, male and female. May have been -on island some time previous. Remained about a month. - -_Skelligs._--Oct. 13th, four birds of a slatish colour, red on back -near tail, about the size of a Titlark; wind S.W., fresh. Fog and -drizzle. Stayed all the month. - - -Goldencrested Wren. - -_Old Head, Kinsale._--Nov. 12th, five Goldencrested Wrens, one killed -striking; wind strong, N. - -_Coningbeg Light-ship._--April 27th, one alighted on ship, 8 a.m.; -29th, another ditto. - -_Dungarvan._--Oct. 1st, two struck lantern; and on 2nd, 9th, and 10th -one or two, but none killed. - -_Tuskar Rock._--Oct. 9th, one; 25th, one; 26th, two; 29th, two killed. -Nov. 2nd, two seen. - -_Copeland Island._--April 7th, six killed striking; weather clear, wind -S.E. - -_Arran Island, South._--June 20th, sixty "Goldencrested Wrens," 7 a.m.; -calm, blue sky. - - -Wren. - -_Fastnet._--Oct. 9th, Wrens. - -_Old Head, Kinsale._--Jan. 20th, five "Common Wrens," going S.W. - -_Coningbeg Light-ship._--May 10th, two Wrens killed, 10 p.m.; wind -moderate, N.N.E., clear. - -_Barrels Rock Light-ship._--April 26th, one alighted on ship. May 8th, -one ditto. Oct. 8th, one alighted on ship. - -_Tuskar Rock._--April 4th, "Wrens of all sorts," constantly striking -all night; several killed. June 24th, Wrens, 8 a.m. to 10 a.m. Aug. -3rd, six "Common Wrens," flying about rock, fog. Sept. 15th, three, -one killed, fog. Oct. 22nd and 26th, one seen. Oct. 29th, "a small grey -bird not much larger than a Wren with a black head," killed. - -_Rockabill._--Feb. 8th, Wrens during night, some struck; weather misty, -wind S.E. Oct. 26th and 27th, Wrens about lantern in night; weather -misty. Nov. 15th, some killed striking; wind S., rain. Dec. 31st, four -killed. - -_Rathlin Island._--April 28th, flocks of Wrens, picked up twelve; wind -fresh S.E., misty, rain. Aug. 14th, one killed striking, 11 p.m.; wind -light S.E., misty. - -_Innishtrahull._--Nov. 22nd, two Wrens at lantern, gloomy; wind N.W., -gale. - -_Killybegs._--Nov. 15th, three Wrens, with other small birds. - -_Blackrock Mayo._--Nov. 3rd, four Wrens, 11 a.m.; wind W.N.W., light, -one killed. - -_Tearaght._--The Wren is resident. - -_Valentia._--Dec. 12th, four "Common Wrens"; wind light W. - -_Skelligs._--Sept. 20th, several "Common Wrens" seen occasionally -during winter. They breed here. - - -Tits. - -_Tuskar Rock._--March 29th, 9 p.m. to 4 a.m., Tits striking, twelve -killed; wind strong south, rain, and fog. May 8th, "Titmice" constantly -striking, eight killed, from 11 p.m. to 4 a.m.; wind N.W., and fog. -13th, constantly striking during night, twelve killed, fog, and mist. -15th, five killed, fog and mist. 19th, one seen. Sept. 16th, two killed. - -_Copeland Island._--April 25th, one "Titmouse," killed striking. Oct. -10th, eight killed striking; wind N., light, drizzling rain. - - -Wagtail. - -_Dungarvan._--Jan. 14th, one "Golden Wagtail," on rocks. - -_Barrels Rock Light-ship._--Sept. 18th, one rested on ship, and flew N. - -_Rathlin Island._--One "Water Wagtail," seen on Aug. 12th, Oct. 10th, -and Dec. 27th. - -_Innishtrahull._--May 5th, one Wagtail seen. Nov. 3rd, two. - -_Arranmore._--May 3rd, one Grey Wagtail. - -_Tearaght._--March 3rd, one Wagtail, 9 a.m.; wind light S.E.; remained -only a few minutes. May 24th, another. None observed previous to this -year. - -_Skelligs._--One seen in July; very rare. - - -Larks. - -_Fastnet._--Oct. 9th, sixteen, flying west; 22nd, seven; 31st, eight. -Nov. 1st, seven. Nov. 2nd, five killed striking. - -_Old Head, Kinsale._--March 10th, large numbers from sunrise to sunset, -with Linnets and other small birds. - -_Coningbeg Light-ship._--April 26th, two Larks killed, 9 p.m.; wind -light, rain. Oct. 9th, three caught on deck, 5 a.m.; 10th, two caught -on deck, 2 a.m.; 28th, flocks from 9 p.m. to midnight, about the ship. -Light S. wind, gloomy; 29th, numbers about the light, 8 p.m. until -midnight, many struck and fell overboard. Nov. 2nd, three struck -lantern, killed. - -_Dungarvan._--Oct. 22nd, small straggling flocks all day. - -_Barrels Rock Light-ship._--Sept. 16th, flock of three or four dozen -rested on ship, flying N. Oct. 19th, one seen. - -_Tuskar Rock._--Feb. 27th and 28th, and March 1st and 2nd, many Larks, -some caught; weather foggy and overcast, with mist. Sept. 9th, a flock -at 8 a.m.; 25th, another flock. Oct. 8th, three killed striking; -9th and 10th, constantly striking all night, many killed, mist and -fog. At 8 a.m. on 10th, a large flock went west; 13th, a flock; -26th, thirty-five Larks killed striking, fog. Oct. 30th to Nov. 3rd, -constantly striking at night, some killed; in day time about rock, and -flying to N.W., weather misty. - -_Arklow South Light-ship._--March 2nd, six flying round ship. Flocks -noted on Oct. 7th, 10th, 11th, 15th, and Nov. 7th and 8th; and on Oct. -20th, 21st, 27th; and 29th, a few passed. Seven killed on Oct. 10th and -11th, weather foggy. Oct. 29th four killed. - -_Arklow North Light-ship._--Nov. 26th, a large flock going N.W.; wind -light N.W., clear. - -_Kish Bank Light-ship._--Oct. 26th, five passing N.W. Nov. 13th, -several about lantern from 6 p.m. until midnight. Dec. 23rd, three -flying west; 27th, one killed striking lantern, weather clear; 31st, -two killed striking, weather gloomy. - -_Rockabill._--Oct. 26th and 27th, Larks about lantern in night; weather -misty. - -_Copeland Island._--Oct. 10th, twenty killed striking, others injured; -wind north, light; drizzling rain. - -_South Maidens._--Oct. 16th, eight "common Larks" killed striking; wind -W.N.W., strong, weather thick. - -_Rathlin Island._--Oct. 29th, two killed striking; 30th, five killed, -overcast, misty. - -_Innishtrahull._--March 13th, eight struck, not killed, at 4 a.m.; wind -S.W., fresh, fog and mist. May 5th, one seen. Nov. 1st, two, 10.30 -p.m., at lantern, gloomy, misty. Nov. 3rd, one; 5th, one at lantern at -midnight. Dec. 8th, three Skylarks at 8 a.m.; wind S.W., fresh. - -_Rathlin O'Birne._--Skylarks noted on Feb. 2nd, which is earlier than -on previous years. On March 30th and 31st, April 1st, 3rd, and 6th, -from four to eight. - -_Killybegs._--April 22nd, several Skylarks observed about this time. - -_Oyster Island, North._--Dec. 26th, four Skylarks in a field; flew -south. - -_Clare Island._--March 31st, about a dozen Larks. Oct. 31st, a flock of -Larks flying about station; wind S.S.W., light. During November, small -flocks at intervals. - -_Slyne Head, North._--Nov. 11th, eight Larks; wind E.S.E. - -_Straw Island._--March 22nd, eight "Field Larks" at noon; wind S., -strong. Remained on island. - - -Titlark. - -_Fastnet._--Nov. 1st, fifteen. - -_Tuskar Rock._--Aug. 13th, Titlarks flying on rock. Oct. 21st, five, -remained some time. - -_Arklow South Light-ship._--April 5th, one going east. Sept. 18th, two -flying round ship; 21st, two flying east; 25th, five flying N.W. Nov. -3rd, a flock flying N.W. - -_Arklow North Light-ship._--April 21st, two on deck, 6 a.m. Sept. 20th, -some Titlarks killed striking, hazy, with rain. - -_Kish Bank Light-ship._--May 11th, three. June 20th, two. Oct. 8th, -four alighted on deck, 10 a.m. - -_Copeland Island._--April 12th, two Titlarks killed striking. They nest -on island. - -_South Maidens._--Oct. 17th, six Titlarks, 10 p.m.; weather foggy. - -_Rathlin Island._--Aug. 23rd, three, at 8 a.m. - -_Innishtrahull._--Nov. 3rd, five Titlarks; 5th, one; 22nd, three. - -_Lough Swilly._--May 2nd, two, 4 p.m.; wind N., strong. - -_Arran Island, South._--Nov. 2nd, one Titlark striking at 4 a.m.; -caught by keeper. - -_Tearaght._--The Titlark is resident. - -_Skelligs._--Titlarks common all the year; they breed. - - -Yellowhammer. - -_Rathlin O'Birne._--Nov. 16th, Yellow Buntings around walls of station; -22nd, large flocks of Buntings all day. - - -Snow Bunting. - -_Rathlin Island._--May 16th, "shot a bird very like a Snow Bunting." -Oct. 14th, thirty; wind N.W., squally. Some seen also on 15th, 17th, -18th; Nov. 7th, and one on 29th. - -_Innishtrahull._--Jan. 24th, continuous flocks of Snow Buntings for the -rest of the month. Dec. 4th, flock at 11 a.m., apparently just come to -island, and are on it ever since; wind N., gale. Seen on 7th, 8th, 9th, -and on 25th, Snow Buntings all day; wind S.W., fresh. - -_Arranmore._--Jan. 23rd, Snow Buntings all day. Feb. 18th, eight. They -leave in spring. April 27th, one shot. Aug. 18th, one Snow Bunting at 4 -p.m.; wind S., fresh. Sept. 1st, eight. Dec. 8th and 11th, a few. - -_Killybegs._--An occasional Snow Bunting visits us, but I have seen -none this winter nor during the winter of 1882-3. - -_Blackrock Mayo._--Oct. 30th, about thirty alighted on rock; wind -S.S.E., fresh, misty. Nov. 30th, about forty, 9.30 a.m.; wind N., -light. Dec. 4th, twenty. Jan. 10th, 1884, forty on rock; wind strong -S.W., misty. - -_Arran Island, South._--Nov. 5th, six arrived on island at 2 p.m.; wind -S., misty. - -_Tearaght._--Feb. 10th, Snow Buntings mentioned in last report, still -on island; left about March 1st. Sept. 30th, about six, but may have -been on the island some time previously. Remained about a fortnight. - -N.B. _Arranmore._--"Two Lapland Buntings shot, one on May 1st, the -other on 4th, very rare, and the oldest person has never seen the same -species before." [These were perhaps some stage of plumage of the Snow -Bunting.--A. G. M. and R. M. B.] - - -Chaffinch. - -_Fastnet._--Oct. 29th, ten. Nov. 1st, nine. Jan. 5th, 1884, seven about -the rock. - -_Old Head, Kinsale._--Dec. 16th, some hundreds; wind N., frosty. - -_Coningbeg Light-ship._--Oct. 27th, six about ship, one caught on deck; -28th, one alighted on ship; 29th, a great number about light, many -killed, and fell overboard; gloomy. Nov. 13th, one rested on ship. - -_Tuskar Rock._--Oct 5th, Chaffinches; 13th, 19th, and 26th a few. Oct. -30th to Nov. 3rd, several during the night. Nov. 13th, four died on -rock. - -_Arklow South Light-ship._--Sept. 21st, two. Oct. 29th, a flock; 31st, -two. - -_Arklow North Light-ship._--Sept. 13th, six hovering about ship. Nov. -12th, five. - -_Kish Bank Light-ship._--July 14th, three at 4.30 p.m., stayed on ship -until sunset, and then left. Oct. 8th, three alighted on deck, 10 a.m. -Oct. 26th, one alighted. Nov. 7th, four alighted. - -_Slyne Head, North._--Nov. 11th, three "Finches," wind E.S.E. - -_Tearaght._--Oct. 26th, about a dozen "Finches, several kinds," but -cannot give the names. Remained about a fortnight. - - -Sparrow. - -_Tuskar Rock._--March 1st, one Sparrow caught. - -_Rathlin Island._--June 5th, 13th, and 28th, a few Sparrows noted -(perhaps breeding). - -_Killybegs._--May 10th, observed about thirty Sparrows. They build in -old ruins in the neighbourhood. Aug. 11th, about sixty perched on stays -of signal mast. Sept. 18th, 19th, and 20th, Sparrows flying towards -S.W.; wind E. to E.S.E. - -_Straw Island._--March 30th, two house Sparrows, 10 a.m.; calm, wind S. - -_Arran Island, South._--July 26th, forty Sparrows, 8 a.m.; wind W.N.W., -clear. - - -Goldfinch. - -_Arran Island, South._--April 3rd, six Goldfinches, 3 p.m.; wind W.S.W. -They remain. July 28th, Goldfinches at 10 a.m. Nov. 12th, ten, at 9 -a.m.; wind W.S.W., hovering about. - -_Valentia._--Oct. 4th, 10th, and Dec. 15th, two or three Goldfinches. -They breed on the island. - -_Skelligs._--Seen in October. Breed on mainland near. - - -Linnets. - -_Fastnet._--Oct. 9th, Linnets flying west. Nov. 2nd, eight killed -striking. Jan. 5th, 1884, five, all day. - -_Old Head, Kinsale._--March 10th, large numbers, sunrise to sunset. -Dec. 5th, two hundred to three hundred. - -_Coningbeg Light-ship._--Oct. 9th, four killed on deck at 5 a.m.; 14th, -two going N.E.; 22nd, one alighted on ship. - -_Dungarvan._--Oct. 1st, flocks of Grey Linnets coming from S.E. Nov. -29th, flocks of Grey Linnets all day about station. - -_Barrels Rock Light-ship._--March 21st, six flying north, and a few -at end of March. May 8th, one. Sept. 27th, six. Oct. 8th, one; 19th, -seven; 22nd, large flocks. Nov. 12th, five. Dec. 6th, one alighted on -ship. Jan. 14th, 1884, one. - -_Tuskar Rock._--May 13th, Grey Linnets, 10 p.m. to 2 a.m., striking; -mist and fog. - -_Arklow South Light-ship._--Oct, 26th, one Green Linnet flying about. - -_Arklow North Light-ship._--Sept. 17th, some Grey Linnets at 8 a.m., -hovering about; weather hazy. Sept. 20th, some Linnets killed striking; -hazy, with rain. Nov. 13th, Linnets about ship; wind S.E., light, clear. - -_Rockabill._--Feb. 8th, Linnets during night, some struck; misty, wind -S.E. - -_Copeland Island._--Oct. 10th, twelve killed striking, others injured; -wind N., light, drizzling rain. - -_Rathlin Island._--May 9th, twenty Linnets seen; 16th, four flocks. -June 4th, twenty Grey Linnets; 14th, thirty; 23rd, seven. Entries occur -Oct. 20th, 22nd, 23rd, 24th, 29th; Nov. 3rd, 18th, 20th, 24th, 27th, -and frequently during December. Numbers vary up to 150, and direction -of flight when entered was south or west, and seemed independent of -direction of wind. - -_Innishtrahull._--Jan. 24th, continuous flocks of Green Linnets for the -rest of month. Nov. 7th, fifty at one p.m., wind S.W., light; 22nd, -four at lantern, wind N.W., gale, gloomy. - -_Dunree Head._--Nov. 16th, great flocks of Grey Linnets flying about -all day. - -_Arranmore._--Feb. 23rd, six Grey Linnets. They come daily. Dec. 19th, -a flock of Grey Linnets. - -_Rathlin O'Birne._--Sept. 21st, ten Grey Linnets alighted, and flew to -N.E. - -_Killybegs._--I noticed during April and May nine or ten Grey Linnets. -Aug. 11th, Linnets perched on stays of signal mast, 6 a.m. Sept. 18th, -19th, and 20th, continuous flocks flying S.W. all day, arriving and -departing after resting; wind E. to E.S.E. - -_Oyster Island, North._--Nov. 13th, fifty passing N.; wind S. - -_Clare Island._--April 15th, Linnets during the day. - -_Slyne Head, North._--July 9th, twenty Linnets appeared 10 a.m., flying -high. Nov. 11th, nine Linnets; wind E.S.E. - -_Straw Island._--Aug. 23rd, a large number of Grey Linnets going south; -flying low, calm. - -_Arran Island, South._--April 1st, fifty Linnets; wind E., drizzling -rain. Oct. 6th, forty Linnets hovering about, 4 p.m. - -_Tearaght._--Jan. 30th, twelve Grey Linnets, mentioned in last report, -left about this date. Sept. 22nd, about twelve Grey Linnets, 8 a.m.; -wind light E. Oct. 29th, five Grey Linnets, one killed striking, four -taken alive; foggy. - - -"Small Birds." - -_Fastnet._--Sept. 21st, twenty; 28th, ditto. Oct. 3rd, a flock passing -high to N.E. Oct. 7th, "mixed birds" striking glass; fog and mist. - -_Kish Bank Light-ship._--June 29th, two small birds flying W.; rain and -fog. July 7th, flock of "small land birds" going S.E. to N.W.; weather -hazy. Nov. 26th, flock of small birds, name unknown, flying low to -N.W., at 11 a.m. - -_Rockabill._--Feb. 8th, several small birds during night. - -_Killybegs._--Sept. 18th, 19th, and 20th, small birds. Sparrows, -Linnets, and others unknown to me, flying in a S.W. direction all -day; wind E. to E.S.E., cloudy, and misty. Constantly arriving, and -departing after resting. Nov. 15th, about thirty small birds remained -nearly all day, left at dusk. - -_Clare Island._--April 15th, Linnets and "other small yellow birds" -during the day. - -_Valentia._--Sept. 24th, four Grey Linnets. - - -Bullfinch. - -_Fastnet._--Oct. 31st, nine. - -_Killybegs._--"I noticed during April and May several piping -Bullfinches." - -_Slyne Head, North._--Dec. 7th, three "Bullfinches," wind E.S.E. - - -Starling. - -_Fastnet._--Oct. 27th, eleven; 29th, five striking. Nov. 1st, five. -Nov. 2nd, seventeen killed striking. - -_Old Head, Kinsale._--Feb. 3rd, large flock coming from N. Oct. 30th, -some hundreds of Starlings all going inland. - -_Coningbeg Light-ship._--May 9th, flocks of Starlings, 6 a.m., flying -N.E. Oct. 28th and 29th, flocks about ship, nights gloomy, seven -killed, but many struck and fell overboard; 30th, seven rested on ship, -8 a.m. Nov. 2nd, two killed, 9 p.m. - -_Dungarvan._--Oct. 5th, small flocks; 17th and 22nd, ditto; 29th, one -struck lantern. They are late this year. - -_Barrels Rock Light-ship._--Oct. 28th, one rested on ship; 29th, -another. Nov. 1st, a few. - -_Tuskar Rock._--Feb. 24th, 25th, 27th, 28th, and March 3rd, Starlings, -a considerable number struck lantern, several killed; weather foggy -and overcast, with mist. Oct. 9th, five killed, misty; 10th, passing -all night. Oct. 28th to Nov. 2nd, Starlings passed, with Blackbirds, -Thrushes, Larks, and Chaffinches, some killed; weather foggy with mist. -Nov. 13th, one. - -_Arklow South Light-ship._--Oct. 16th, a flock of "Stares;" 26th, a -flock; 29th, four killed striking; 31st, one seen. - -_Arklow North Light-ship._--April 30th, Starlings around lantern, 11 -p.m. to 11.50 p.m., did not strike; weather hazy. Sept. 19th, "Stares" -striking at midnight; wind light S.E., hazy. Oct. 30th, "Stares" -striking, overcast, calm. Nov. 13th, "Stares" about ship, 3 p.m. Nov. -30th, some Starlings striking, one killed; hazy, rain. Dec. 5th, a -large flock going W., 7.45 a.m.; wind N. - -_Kish Bank Light-ship._--May 14th, five, at 10.15 p.m., about lantern; -weather foggy. Oct. 7th, seven struck, killed, and a great number -fell overboard; weather foggy, wind light N.W. Oct. 27th, numbers of -Starlings, four killed striking, 9 p.m. Some fell overboard; clear, -wind fresh N.N.W. Nov. 7th, four, at 11 a.m., left ship 2 p.m. - -_Rockabill._--Oct. 31st, four killed striking; weather gloomy, wind -light S.E. - -_Copeland Island._--Starlings appear the first week in April to breed -here. Oct. 10th, eighteen killed striking, others injured; wind light -N., drizzling rain. - -_Rathlin Island._--April 3rd, seventy, going N., 3 p.m.; 14th, four, -breeding here. Entries of two to one hundred and fifty occur from Oct. -24th to Dec. 25th; most seen on Oct. 26th and Dec. 1st. Directions of -flight when entered generally S. or W. - -_Innishtrahull._--March 14th, four, at 11 a.m.; a gale from S.W. Oct. -30th, three struck, not killed; wind S.E., light, cloudy. Dec. 20th, -four; wind N.W., strong. - -_Rathlin O'Birne._--Nov. 12th, about two hundred came from mainland, -and returned again after some time. - -_Killybegs._--The Starling, which was commonly seen here in winter, is -now very rare. I have seen none at all this winter. - -_Oyster Island, North._--Nov. 13th, fifty passing W.; wind S. - -_Blackrock, Mayo._--Oct. 3rd, about twenty alighted on rock, 9 a.m.; -wind N., fresh, clear. Oct. 4th, one killed striking, at 1 a.m. - -_Clare Island._--During November a few occasionally in vicinity of -lighthouse. - -_Slyne Head, North._--Nov. 28th, eight Starlings, four killed, 10 p.m.; -wind N.E., rain. Dec. 10th, nine;-wind N. - -_Straw Island._--Aug. 31st, four Starlings, 1 p.m., going S.W., low; -wind fresh W. Also on Sept. 15th, and Oct. 13th, sixteen to twenty, -going south, low. - -_Arran Island, South._--April 2nd, thirty Starlings, going N., twenty -struck, none killed; wind S. Oct. 30th, thirty "Stares," 11 a.m.; -wind S., blue sky, five struck, two killed. "Stares" remained here. -Dec. 13th, six "Stares," 10 p.m., four killed striking; wind W.S.W., -drizzling rain. - -_Tearaght._--Jun. 30th, twelve, and again on Feb. 18th. Did not leave -until about March 1st. - -_Valentia._--Dec. 4th, fifteen; wind light N. - -_Skelligs._--Oct. 20th, six Starlings, 11 a.m., wind N., fresh, fog; -21st, two. Did not see them after this date. Bare here. - -_Dursey Island._--Oct. 2nd, twenty going north; 22nd, large flock at 2 -p.m., going N.W.; wind N.W. - - -Chough. - -_Tearaght._--Jan. 30th, three Choughs. In my last report I called these -"daws." Choughs come and go occasionally all the year. They breed here. - -_Skelligs._--They breed here; May to August. - - -Raven. - -_Dungarvan._--Nov. 7th, two coming from N.E.; rarely seen here. - -_Copeland Island._--Aug. 20th, six alighted on island at 9 a.m. - -_Arranmore._--Feb. 7th, two, at 10 a.m. Remain all the year. May 8th, -two. Sept. 11th, two. Oct. 18th, one. - -_Arran Island, South._--Dec. 26th, three Ravens. They remain about here. - -_Skelligs._--Sept. 20th, two Ravens about rock during month, also -during October, November, and December. - - -Hooded Crow. - -_Old Head, Kinsale._--Oct. 26th, ten Grey Crows. - -_Dungarvan._--Oct. 10th, seven. Jan. 4th, two in fields. - -_Rathlin Island._--April 4th, twenty, to be seen every day. They remain -all the year. Aug. 15th, one. - -_Lough Swilly._--April 10th, two Grey Crows. - -_Arranmore._--April 26th, one passing. - -_Killybegs._--Oct. 10th, four perched on cliffs. - -_Straw Island._--Feb. 22nd, forty Grey Crows at noon; calm. Oct. 21st, -four going west; wind N., strong. - -_Tearaght._--Feb. 13th, one Grey Crow found dead, partly devoured. They -come and go occasionally all the year. - -_Skelligs._--Sept. 20th, four during month; also during October, -November, and December. - -_Dursey Island._--Flocks of two to fifteen Grey Crows on April 2nd, May -20th, and July 11th; flight E. or N.E. Sept. 8th, four going east. - - -Rook. - -_Old Head, Kinsale._--Feb. 27th, one hundred to one hundred and fifty; -came from east. - -_Coningbeg Light-ship._--April 28th, two flying N.E. - -_Tuskar Rock._--March 18th, one "Crow" flying west; 25th, six seen. -April 6th, a large flock of Rooks going west. - -_Arklow South Light-ship._--March 18th, two "Crows" going N.W. - -_Kish Bank Light-ship._--Dec. 1st, eight "Crows" flying low to N.W., -11.30 a.m. - -_Copeland Island._--April 25th, a large flock of some hundred "Crows" -came from Scotch coast and left for mainland half an hour afterward. -Aug. 13th, about a thousand, at 11 a.m., flying high to south. - -_Rathlin Island._--April 1st, forty at noon; 6th and 7th, a flock going -north; 16th, three. May 8th, three; 24th, Black Crows going north. -June 6th, flocks seen. Entries occur in August, October, November, -and December, of flocks of Rooks at intervals of a week or fortnight; -largest on November 11th and 12th. Direction of flight in nearly all -cases south. - -_Innishtrahull._--April 1st, one "Black Crow" at 4 a.m.; foggy. May -26th, one. - -_Lough Swilly._--June 23rd, 25th, and 30th, flocks all day. - -_Rathlin O'Birne._--July 8th, fifteen Rooks. - -_Killybegs._--In April and May, "Crows" to the number of about one -hundred visited daily. Probably belonged to rookery ten miles distant. - -_Oyster Island, North._--April 27th, thirty at 4 p.m., passing S.E. - -_Clare Island._--Feb. 20th, a few Crows flying N.W.; wind S.W., light, -foggy. Oct. 25th, Black Crows flying north; low. - -_Arran Island, South._--April 6th, sixty common Crows. They remain. -Oct. 3rd, twenty Rooks going south; wind W.N.W. - -_Valentia._--Sept. 2nd, four Black Crows. Nov. 12th, four. - - -Jackdaw. - -_Valentia._--Oct. 12th, two. Nov. 26th, five. - - -Magpie. - -_Arran Island, South._--Oct. 20th, five Magpies at noon. They remain -about here. - -_Valentia._--Dec. 5th, two Magpies. - - -Swallow. - -_Fastnet._--Nov. 6th, two, all day about rock. - -_Coningbeg Light-ship._--May 13th, flock flying N.W.; 14th, continuous -flocks flying N.W. Three killed at 10 p.m.; wind S.W., clear. Four -alighted on ship. Sept. 22nd, 23rd, and 30th, a great number passed, -going E. and N.E. Oct. 8th, 9th, and 10th, a few passed, four caught on -deck, at 2 a.m., two alighted on ship. - -_Dungarvan._--Oct. 20th, flocks of House Swallows, going E.S.E.; wind -N.W., light. - -_Barrels Rock Light-ship._--May 8th, one alighted on ship; 17th and -18th, occasional Swallows, flying north. June 3rd and 6th, two or three -alighted on ship. Sept. 19th and 20th, odd Swallows, flying north, all -day. Oct. 8th, 20th, and 26th, a few passed. - -_Tuskar Rock._--April 11th, first seen, then occasionally to 21st and -22nd, when they passed at intervals of fifteen minutes, all going west. -On May 8th and 13th, one or two passed; 14th, constantly passing, -going W. and N.W., two killed; 15th, 16th, and 17th, Swallows all day, -remaining on rock some hours, then flying W. A few passing daily to end -of month, especially on 22nd. During August and September one or two at -intervals about rock. Aug. 24th, a great number. From Oct. 5th to 11th, -many passed to east. - -_Arklow South Light-ship._--April 15th, several flocks; wind W.N.W., -clear. May 13th, a flock; 14th, 15th, and 30th, Swallows. On Sept. -19th, 23rd, and 28th, one to six passed. - -_Arklow North Light-ship._--April 22nd, 28th, and May 18th, Swallows -noted going N.W. - -_Kish Bank Light-ship._--June 25th, four passing north; wind light S. - -_Rockabill._--April 16th, one, the first arrival, wind W., fresh; 18th, -several. - -_Copeland Island._--Sept. 12th, several large flocks at noon; wind W., -moderate, clear. They waited a few hours and went S. - -_Rathlin Island._--April 30th, four at noon. - -_Lough Swilly._--May 15th, a few Swallows, first seen. - -_Arranmore._--April 21st, one at 7.30 a.m., passing over island. May -9th, one. June 16th, two. - -_Rathlin O'Birne._--April 20th, one, wind N.; 23rd and 29th, May 4th -and 15th, one to three. - -_Killybegs._--May 10th, 11th, and 12th, two to six. They build in -vicinity, and generally leave about the middle of June. Aug. 24th, -about thirty hovering round. - -_Straw Island._--Sept. 12th, fifty going S.W., high; wind N., fresh. - - -Martin. - -_Oyster Island, North._--May 8th, one Martin, the first seen; 12th, -several. They remain and build about station. Aug. 12th, Martins last -seen. - - -Cuckoo. - -_Tuskar Rock._--Nov. 2nd, one Cuckoo killed striking. - -_Rathlin Island._--May 3rd, three or four; heard for first time. - -_Arranmore._--May 4th, one Cuckoo. May 12th, one. - -_Oyster Island, North._--May 15th, Cuckoo first heard; wind N., light. - -_Arran Island, South._--April 11th, "three Cuckoos," 4 p.m.; wind -E.S.E., cloudy. - - -Pigeon. - -_Fastnet._--Oct. 31st, one. - -_Rockabill._--Sept. 15th, ten going N. Oct. 30th, ten hovering about. -Dec. 3rd, two shot; 31st, Pigeons all day, one shot. - -_Rathlin Island._--Aug. 28th, forty Pigeons; they are always on the -island. Nov. 16th, eighteen going N.; 25th, five, going S. - -_Innishtrahull._--Dec. 8th, four Pigeons; wind S.W., light. - -_Dunree Head._--Sept. 22nd, great flocks of Pigeons flying about all -day. - -_Lough Swilly._--April 10th, flocks of Pigeons all day. - -_Killybegs._--April 22nd, four Wild Pigeons build on cliffs near -Lighthouse. Aug. 26th, eight Wild Pigeons, 5 a.m. - -_Clare Island._--Feb. 10th, some Wild Pigeons, flying E., in forenoon. -Oct. 15th, about four dozen flying generally over the island, also -during November and December about the fields on the island. - -_Arran Island, South._--May 14th, fifty Wild Pigeons. Dec. 3rd, six; -10th, twenty; 28th, ten. They remain on island. - -_Tearaght._--Oct. 21st, one Rock Pigeon; 27th, about a dozen. Jan. -15th, 1884, eighteen. Nov. 18th, five Rock Pigeons; 24th, about a -dozen, which still remain on island. - -_Dursey Island._--June 7th, eight Wild Pigeons going E.; 17th, two. -Entries also on Aug. 24th, Sept. 10th, and Nov. 22nd. - - -Partridge. - -_Rockabill._--Oct. 28th, six seen on rock in the morning; wind light -S.E., gloomy. - -_Tearaght._--May 18th, one Partridge, at 4 p.m. - - -Grouse. - -_Innishtrahull._--Nov. 1st, one Grouse, 4 p.m.; wind light S.W., -moderate. - -_Clare Island._--Grouse are not plentiful this year. - - -Golden Plover. - -_Fastnet._--Oct. 9th, four "Grey" Plover, midnight; fog & mist. - -_Old Head, Kinsale._--Jan. 28th, large flocks; wind N.E. Feb. 15th, -large flock of "Plover" coming from N.; wind N.E. Dec. 17th, large -flocks all day; blue sky, frosty. - -_Arklow North Light-ship._--June 16th, five "Plover" going N.E. Sept. -17th, some Plovers about ship at 8 a.m.; hazy. - -_Copeland Island._--Oct. 10th, three "Grey" Plover killed striking; -wind N., light, drizzling rain. - -_Innishtrahull._--Sept. 3rd, six; wind N., fresh. 18th, a pair shot. - -_Tory Island._--Jan. 6th, 1884, seven resting on island. - -_Arranmore._--Sept. 3rd, seventeen "Grey Plovers"; 18th, twenty. - -_Killybegs._--April 16th, fifteen Golden Plovers, which only remained a -few days. A large flock of "Grey Plovers," which remained till the end -of April. Oct. 4th, about eighty Golden Plovers; remained up to this -date. Dec. 2nd, Golden and Grey Plover begin to come about the middle -of September, and are reinforced by flocks up to the end of November; -they usually leave about end of December. - -_Arran Island South._--October 10th, twenty "Grey" Plover; wind W., -going S. - -_Dursey Island._--Nov. 12th, eight going W., 11 a.m. - - -Green Plover. - -_Coningbeg Light-ship._--March 2nd, two Lapwings around ship; 22nd, -thirty, flying N.W. May 7th, one killed, 9.30 p.m.; wind E.N.E., rain. - -_Dungarvan._--Oct. 9th, large flocks all day about shore; and on Oct. -21st and Jan. 11th, large flocks. - -_Barrels Rock Light-ship._--March 21st, eight, flying N.W. - -_Rockabill._--March 5th, one Green Plover struck, killed, 4 a.m., -cloudy; wind fresh N.; 27th, Green Plover going N.; wind N., snow -showers; 28th, large flocks of Plover going N.; wind S.E., snow showers. - -_Copeland Island._--April 4th, thirty, at 10 a.m.; 7th, a large flock -from mainland, going towards Scotch coast; 25th, continuous flocks -flying towards Scotch coast, all day; wind E., clear. Sept. 29th, -twenty alighted and remained on island; 30th, large flocks, some -hundreds in each, going N.E. and very high; wind strong, N., gloomy. - -_Rathlin Island._--April 6th, six Green Plover, 4 p.m.; Oct. 30th, two -seen; Nov. 24th, one. - -_Innishtrahull._--April 2nd, four at 5 p.m.; wind E.S.E., fresh, misty. -Sept. 20th, about twenty "Lapwing Plover"; wind E.S.E., strong; stayed -two days and then left, going S. - -_Tory Island._--Sept. 15th, seven at noon, rested on island. - -_Rathlin O'Birne._--Sept. 21st, twelve alighted, then flew to N.E. - -_Killybegs._--April 7th and 8th, four to eight; they hatch in vicinity. - -_Slyne Head, North._--Dec. 14th, four Lapwings; wind N.E. - -_Tearaght._--March 24th, one Lapwing, 8 a.m.; wind N.E., light; seemed -tired, and remained a few hours. - - -Turnstone. - -_Tory Island._--Jan. 10th, 1884, flock of Turnstone, going S., 1 p.m.; -wind N.W., gale. - - -"Sand Larks." - -_Old Head, Kinsale._--Dec. 14th, five Sand Larks; these were strange -birds. I have not seen them before on the coast. - -_Coningbeg Light-ship._--Dec. 9th, one, the first seen for two years. - -_Barrels Rock Light-ship._--Jan. 19th, 19th, seven Sand - - -Larks. - -_Arklow South Light-ship._--April 15th, two flocks of Sand-birds. - - -_Rockabill._--Sand Larks noted in August and December. It is remarked -they remain "all the year." - -_Innishtrahull._--Feb. 2nd, flock of "small sea-birds," 11 a.m. Sept. -11th, 12th, and 13th, "Sand Larks and some other small sea birds, name -unknown." - -_Arran Island, North._--A few Sand Larks remain during the winter. - -_Arran Island, South._--July 27th, eighty Sand Larks. Nov. 18th, a -flock on strand. - -_Tearaght._--Dec. 13th, one Sand Lark; 15th, three; wind W., very -stormy. All a greyish colour, beaks about one inch long, and a little -red on the top towards feathers. Remained about a week. - - -Sea Pie. - -_South Maidens._--May 10th, six Sea Pies; misty, rain. - -_Rathlin Island._--Aug. 27th, three at noon. - -_Arranmore._--May 18th, one Oystercatcher. - -_Killybegs._--"Sepoys" to the number of thirty or forty from August to -end of September. - -_Oyster Island, North._--Jan. 6th, 1884, six Oystercatchers on shore. - -_Slyne Head, North._--The Sea Pie remains all the year. - -_Arran Island, North._--A few "Sepoys" remain during the winter. - -_Arran Island, South._--April 5th, thirty "Seapoys"; wind E., going S. - -_Tearaght._--Two Sea Pies remained round island until about September. - -_Skelligs._--Sept. 4th, four Sea Pies until 15th. - - -Redshank. - -_Tuskar Rock._--May 16th, one seen. - -_Skelligs._--One seen after a storm in November, very rare. - - -Greenshank. - -_Dungarvan._--Oct. 29th, about one dozen. Jan. 6th, a large flock from -sea into bay. - - -Heron. - -_Dungarvan._--Nov. 22nd, four flying high, and apparently fighting. - -_Rathlin Island._--Oct. 6th, one at noon; wind light N.E. - -_Innishtrahull._--Dec. 8th, one "Crane"; wind S.S.W., light. - -_Tory Island._--Jan. 2nd, 1884, one Heron, at noon, at lake. - -_Arranmore._--Aug. 16th, one "Crane" at 9 a.m. - -_Killybegs._--Dec. 19th, two "Cranes" to be seen daily, in a swamp. - -_Arran Island, South._--Oct. 25th, four "Cranes," 2 p.m.; wind W.N.W., -going W. - -_Tearaght._--Aug. 23rd, one Heron passing E.; wind N.W., light. - -_Skelligs._--Sept. 2nd, two "Cranes," 9 a.m.; wind N., gale; stayed -about the rock for a fortnight. - - -Bittern. - -_Old Head, Kinsale._--Feb. 15th, one Bittern, 11 a.m.; wind N. This -bird I shot; it was the second ever seen here. - - -Whimbrel and Curlew. - -_Galley Head._--May 15th, thirteen "May-birds or young Curlew" rested -a little while on headland and passed northwards. May 30th, fourteen -Curlew, going S.E. - -_Coningbeg Light-ship._--May 7th, one caught on ship; wind E.N.E., -9.30 p.m.; 8th, flock of Curlew, 11 p.m., around ship; wind strong N., -overcast. Oct. 28th, flock flying N.E., 10 p.m. - -_Tuskar Rock._--March 23rd, one Curlew shot. - -_Arklow North Light-ship._--May 18th, a flock of Curlew going N.E. - -_Kish Bank Light-ship._--May 17th, one Curlew heard, 9.30 p.m. July -30th, several Curlew around ship, 6.30 a.m.; weather foggy. - -_Copeland Island._--May 10th, large flocks of Curlew appeared, and have -remained in vicinity to date of sending schedule in July. - -_Rathlin Island._--April 5th, four Curlew going S., 7 a.m.; wind N.W. -May 10th, thirty Curlew, 3 p.m.; wind N. June 10th, flocks of Curlew, -6 a.m.; 20th, five seen; 24th, three. One or two dozen entered at -intervals during the winter months. They are here all the year. - -_Innishtrahull._--Curlew in flocks of twenty to thirty during June and -July. - -_Lough Swilly._--March 30th, thirteen Curlew; wind W., gale. May 15th, -a flock of "Whimbrel Curlew," 8 a.m.; wind W., light. 26th, twenty -"Whimbrel Curlew," 9 a.m.; wind N.W., gale. - -_Tory Island._--"Curlews remain here during the year." - -_Rathlin O'Birne._--March 31st and April 1st, one; July 6th, fifteen. - -_Killybegs._--April 1st, twenty-one Curlew, "May-birds"; 12th, a flock -of "May-birds"; 21st, a flock. These birds are unusually numerous, and -some shot were in very good condition. Aug. 31st, about one hundred -Curlew. Curlew (old birds) arrive about the beginning of August, and -remain up to the middle of December. Young Curlew, called "May-birds" -(Whimbrel), begin to arrive about the end of April in small flocks, -until they form one large flock, when they generally leave about the -beginning of June. - -_Oyster Island, North._--May 3rd, several May-birds or young Curlew -arrived, and remained most part of the month. - -_Blacksod._--Curlew are very numerous all the year round. - -_Clare Island._--Feb. 1st, about two dozen Curlew flying S. at noon. -May 5th, flocks of "young Curlew" flying E.; wind E. to N. Oct. 10th, -a large flock flying low, and alighting. Curlew during November and -December, generally flying low through the fields. - -_Arran Island, North._--Nov. 4th, twenty Curlew; wind N.E., moderate, -clear. - -_Straw Island._--April 19th, sixty "young Curlew," 1 p.m.; wind N.W., -fresh; remained a short time, and went towards shore. - -_Arran Island, South._--April 4th, twenty Curlew, 6 a.m. May 13th, -thirty Curlew, 8 p.m.; wind W.S.W., hazy; three killed. July 29th, -fifty. Oct. 16th, thirty at "3 p.m.," three striking, one killed; wind -S.W., drizzling rain. Nov. 15th, four at 3 a.m.; wind S., two killed -striking, overcast and rainy. - -_Tearaght._--Feb. 11th, one Curlew; wind S., strong; remained a -few days. Dec. 18th, one; wind N.E., clear. On several occasions -afterwards. Remained about a month. - -_Valentia._--Oct. 30th, fifty; Nov. 6th, twenty. - -_Dursey Island._--Two to ten Curlew at intervals from April 30th to May -23rd. Flight in various directions. Aug. 8th, large flock flying N., -and a few at intervals to end of month. - - -Woodcock. - -_Fastnet._--Oct. 29th, one. Nov. 1st, one; 2nd, four killed striking. - -_Old Head, Kinsale._--Dec. 17th, three. - -_Coningbeg Light-ship._--Oct. 30th, one caught on deck, 2.30 a.m., the -first seen at this station. Nov. 2nd, one killed striking at 2 a.m. - -_Rockabill._--Nov. 28th, one killed striking; wind S., fresh, cloudy -and overcast. 29th, another killed. - -_South Maidens._--Oct. 15th, one killed, 11 p.m., drizzling rain; wind -light W.S.W. - -_Arranmore._--Dec. 3rd, one Woodcock. - -_Killybegs._--Sept. 21st, one Woodcock killed striking, 11.30 p.m.; -wind E.S.E., cloudy and misty. 22nd, another killed, 8 p.m.; wind E. - -_Clare Island._--During November, a few Woodcock in mountainous parts -of island. - -_Skelligs._--Nov. 4th, Woodcock seen. - -_Dursey Island._--Nov. 4th, one Woodcock going N.; wind N.E. - - -Snipe. - -_Old Head, Kinsale._--Nov. 8th, twenty Snipe, six shot. Dec. 17th, five -Snipe. - -_Tuskar Rock._--Oct. 29th, one Snipe killed striking; light mist. - -_Copeland Island._--Snipe breed here. Oct. 10th, two killed striking; -wind N., light drizzling rain. - -_South Maidens._--Oct. 19th, one Snipe killed striking; wind fresh -S.S.W., clear. - -_Rathlin Island._--Aug. 9th, one Jack Snipe killed striking; wind light -S.E., cloudy. - -_Arranmore._--Nov. 20th, one Snipe; 30th, one. - -_Rathlin O'Birne._--Oct. 18th, two Snipe on the shore. - -_Blackrock Mayo._--Oct. 14th, one Jack Snipe, 1 p.m.; wind W., light. - -_Clare Island._--Feb. 28th, a few Snipe flying W.; wind S.W. Oct. 20th, -Snipe on marshy land, flying in different directions. - -_Tearaght._--Feb. 18th, one Snipe, 10 a.m.; wind light S.W., fine; -previously stormy. Nov. 20th, one; 23rd, three; left about a fortnight -afterwards. - -_Skelligs._--Jan. 12th, 1884, Snipe seen. - - -Corn Crake. - -_Tuskar Rock._--April 27th, came on rock in night. May 8th, another; -16th, one much exhausted; 29th, one. - -_Kish Bank Light-ship._--May 16th, one struck lantern, 11.10 p.m., -killed; wind light, clear. - -_Rockabill._--July 30th, one caught on rock. - -_Rathlin Island._--May 13th, heard for first time. - -_Oyster Island, North._--May 17th, Landrail first heard. - -_Skelligs._--May 5th, one seen, very rare - - -Waterhen. - -_Old Head, Kinsale._--Nov. 8th, five Waterhen. - -_Coningbeg Light-ship._--Oct. 8th, one alighted on ship, 6 a.m.; calm, -thick fog. - - -Coot. - -_Old Head, Kinsale._--Nov. 8th, twenty Coot (a marsh near). - - -Geese. - -_Old Head, Kinsale._--Feb. 10th, three Wild Geese, came from S. Oct. -15th, three going N. - -_Dungarvan._--Nov. 20th, eleven flying N. and very high. - -_Rockabill._--Oct. 28th, six going E. in the morning; weather gloomy. - -_Copeland Island._--April 12th, eight going from mainland towards -Scotch coast. Dec. 10th, eight Wild Geese rested on island, came from -N.; wind S.W., fresh, rain. - -_South Maidens._--June 12th, twelve Wild Geese. - -_Rathlin Island._--Oct. 23rd, two Wild Geese, 7 a.m.; wind strong N.W. - -_Innishtrahull._--Jan. 24th, flock of thirty Barnacle; wind S.W., -strong. March 12th, fifteen going N.; wind S.W., strong. 14th, -twenty-four Wild Geese; wind S.W., gale. 15th, six Barnacle; wind -strong W., squally. Oct. 13th, one Wild Goose; wind S., fresh. 23rd, -nine Barnacle; 24th to 28th, nine to twenty Barnacle. Dec. 14th, three -Wild Geese; 17th, seventeen Barnacle. - -_Dunree Head._--Aug. 1st, one hundred Barnacle flying very high to the -N. Sept. 12th, about two hundred Wild Geese flying low to the N. Oct. -14th, several flocks of Barnacle going S.; wind N.W., strong. 24th, -twenty Wild Geese going S. - -_Tory Island._--Oct. 7th, 8th, and 12th, flocks of Wild Geese, 4 to 6 -a.m.; wind W. and S.W., going W. and S. - -_Arranmore._--January, thirty-six Barnacle; these birds have remained -all the winter; have not done so for years before. Feb. 4th, -twenty-two. March 2nd, two flocks passing. Sept. 30th, one Barnacle; -wind N., fresh. Oct. 20th, one; 31st, a flock, and flying all night for -many nights, in great quantities, in the direction of Sligo. Far the -last two winters numerous flocks of Barnacle have remained on island. -On Nov. 7th, 24th, 29th, and Dec. 25th, flocks are entered. - -_Rathlin O'Birne._--Oct. 24th, thirty-six. Nov. 4th, twenty came from -N., and passed over island to S.E.: 12th, six; 16th, small flocks -coming from N., and passing S. all day. Dec. 7th, eleven on island -grazing. 11th, six ditto; two were shot. - -_Killybegs._--Aug. 17th, two Wild Geese, rested and flew N. Sept. 2nd, -about forty at a great height, flying N.; 27th, thirteen seen. Oct. -30th, eight Wild Geese generally take a S. to S.W. course, beginning -about the end of September and continuing up to the end of December, -and usually travel high; but they sometimes stop to feed and rest. - -_Oyster Island, North._--"During the winter months a considerable -number of Barnacle arrive, some of which remain, and others pass -further south, the time of their arrival and departure apparently -depending on the severity of the season or otherwise." Entries of small -flocks occur from Sept. 9th to Oct. 5th. Larger and more frequent -flocks on Oct. 8th, 13th, 15th, Nov. 22nd, 29th, 30th, and on Dec. 5th; -in almost every case the direction of flight is S. or S.E. On. Dec. -6th, 15th, and 17th, large flocks passed in the opposite direction. On -Dec. 22nd continuous flocks again passed S.E., and on Jan. 5th, 1884, a -small flock. The direction of flight was apparently independent of the -direction of the wind or state of the weather. - -_Broadhaven._--Dec. 20th and 26th. Barnacle and Wild Geese. They -frequent the place in winter. - -_Blackrock Mayo._--Nov. 21st, twenty Barnacle flying S.E. - -_Clare Island._--Oct. 6th, about two dozen Wild Geese flying high to -S.W.; wind W., light. - -_Slyne Head, North._--Nov. 12th, five to twelve Barnacle at intervals; -wind N.W., one shot. Are very common; arrive Nov. 1st and remain to -March 1st. - -_Straw Island._--March 16th, twenty Wild Geese, passing N.; wind light -S.W. Oct. 29th, twenty-two, 5 p.m., going N., high, calm. - - -Swans. - -_Rathlin Island._--Nov. 23rd, "A Black Swan shot by the rector on one -of the lakes on the island." - - -Wild Duck. - -_Fastnet._--Nov. 3rd, flock flying to E. Jan. 3rd, flock flying E. - -_Old Head, Kinsale._--Nov. 8th, ten Wild Duck; two shot. - -_Dungarvan._--Oct. 28th, large flock. Nov. 3rd, fifty. Dec. 23rd, four -"Shelldrakes." - -_Barrels Rock Light-ship._--Sept. 10th, 12th, and 15th, a few Wild Duck -flying high to S. Nov. 16th, a large flock flying N.E. Dec. 7th, 14th, -and 19th, two to seven at intervals. - -_Tuskar Rock._--Nov. 14th, seven Wild Duck came from N.W. and flew -round rock. - -_Arklow North Light-ship._--Dec. 1st, a large flock going N. Feb. 6th, -1884, flock going N.E. - -_Kish Bank Light-ship._--May 13th, a flock passing E. to W., 7.30 a.m. -Oct. 6th, twelve at 10.45 p.m., flying high to N.W.; weather hazy. Nov. -29th, thirteen flying N.W. - -_Copeland Island._--April 12th, thirty left Mew Island after remaining -all the winter; wind light E., clear. Oct. 16th, several flocks of Teal -and Duck on Mew Island; wind S.W., strong. - -_South Maidens._--April 14th, twenty-four Ducks; hazy, with rain. Oct. -20th, twelve, 10 a.m., went towards Scotland; wind W.S.W., strong. - -_Rathlin Island._--Nov. 6th, five at 8 a.m.; wind S. Dec. 6th, two -going E.; wind N.E. - -_Innishtrahull._--Nov. 6th, one "Shelldrake," 2 p.m.; wind N., fresh. - -_Dunree Head._--Nov. 7th, about one hundred Wild Duck flying high to S. -Dec. 22nd, about fifty swimming opposite lighthouse all day. - -_Tory Island._--Nov. 23rd, Dec. 1st, 2nd, and Jan. 1st, one to three -going S. or W. - -_Arranmore._--April 5th, two arrived to breed. June 18th, three -seen. On Nov. 3rd, 10th, 28th, and Dec. 13th, Wild Duck seen. One -"Shelldrake" on Nov. 18th and 26th. - -_Killybegs._--"I saw, in December, 1882, some Teal, but none since." - -_Oyster Island, North._--"During the winter months a considerable -number of Widgeon arrive; some remain, and others pass further south." -Dec. 24th, continuous flocks going S.E. - -_Clare Island._--December. A few Wild Duck on a lake during this month. - -_Straw Island._--Feb. 13th, thirty, 10 a.m., remained on rock a short -time, and went S. Oct. 28th, thirty going S.E.; wind light S. - -_Arran Island, South._--Dec. 6th, twenty Wild Duck went S.; wind E. -30th, twenty went S., wind E. - - -Merganser. - -_Dungarvan._--Dec. 5th, four coming from S.E. - - -Great Northern Diver. - -_Old Head, Kinsale._--Jan. 20th, six passing S.W. - -_Dungarvan._--Jan. 9th, two feeding near station. - -_Tory Island._--Sept. 22nd, two "Speckled Diver," 8 a.m., going S.E. - -_Arranmore._--April 7th, a Great Northern Diver shot on rock. - -_Killybegs._--The Northern Diver visits us in the autumn and leaves -early. I have never seen more than three together. - -_Clare Island._--During December a few of the Great Northern Diver. - - -Guillemot. - -_Rathlin O'Birne._--March 31st, ten, and April 1st, thirty alighted on -rock at shore. - -_Clare Island._--A large number this year. - -_Tearaght._--Jan. 20th, Guillemot first observed round island on the -water. Feb. 19th, about fifty came on rock for first time; left about -Aug. 1st. - -_Skelligs._--Nov. 20th and Dec. 11th, a few Guillemots fishing in -shelter of rock; wind N.W. to W., strong gale. - -_Barrels Rock Light-ship._--June 15th and 19th, "Murs" in flocks, -flying in different directions. Dec. 10th, large flocks of "Murs"; also -on 23rd and 26th; flocks also on 29th, 30th, Jan. 8th and 15th. - - -Puffin. - -_Galley Head._--Feb. 12th, twenty going W.; 16th, nine ditto. April -29th, continuous flocks, from seventy to one hundred in each, going W. -From May 6th to 13th, 18th to 27th, and June 16th to 25th, continuous -flocks, and occasional flocks to July 16th; all going W. - -_Old Head, Kinsale._--Jan. 23rd, continuous flocks, 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.; -wind fresh S. Large numbers going S. on Feb. 7th, 20th, 22nd, and March -17th; continuous flocks on March 5th. From Oct. 7th to 10th, some -hundreds going S. - -_Coningbeg Light-ship._--April 21st, continuous flocks flying S.W.; -26th, flocks. Nov. 16th, flocks, 9 to 11 a.m.; 21st, 23rd, Dec. 9th and -14th, flocks; passing continuously on Nov. 29th and Dec. 19th; wind W. -to S.W. - -_Dungarvan._--Nov. 6th, a great number. - -_Tuskar Rock._--From June 13th to 18th, "Puffins and Sea-parrots" -alighted in large flocks. Aug. 20th to 22nd, Puffins in hundreds on -rock. - -_Rathlin Island._--April 12th, "Parrots, Bridle Nebs," &c., begin to -arrive; 22nd, arrived in full force and took possession of the cliffs. -The Sea-parrots hatching on the cliffs are not at all as numerous as -last year. - -_Innishtrahull._--Dec. 8th, "three Sea-parrots and twenty Puffins." -January, 1884, a few "Puffins and Sea-parrots through the month." - -_Lough Swilly._--April 19th, several flocks of Puffins. June 1st, -Puffins passing and repassing. - -_Arranmore._--March 12th, Puffins passing. - -_Rathlin O'Birne._--May 14th, Puffins passing S. In June, about the -island. - -_Killybegs._--April 22nd, Puffins arriving in large numbers about this -date, coming early each morning and leaving in the evening, flying W. -Aug. 14th, Puffins leaving, going W. They arrive about the month of -July, and are to be seen in thousands until October. - -_Oyster Island, North._--April 19th, several during day. May 29th, -small flocks. - -_Black Rock, Mayo._--Sept. 9th, Puffins on water round the rock; a few -nearly every day during September and October. - -_Clare Island._--March 15th, about fifty; wind N.N.E. Generally arrive -latter part of March, and leave towards the end of August. A large -number this year. - -_Straw Island._--March 17th, forty Puffins remained two days; wind S., -hazy fog. April 9th, twenty "Sea-parrots," wind S.W., strong. Aug. -20th, forty-four going S. They arrive early in spring and generally -leave in September, and breed on the middle island of Arran. - -_Tearaght._--"April 1st, the Sea-parrots arrived; not so plentiful as -in previous years. Aug. 20th, only about half a dozen Sea-parrots on -the island; left about this date. When they arrive on April 1st they -remain perhaps a week on the water before they come on the island; -then they mostly rise in one body, and hover some time before they -rest. They all go down to the water again when getting dark, except -when breeding; those hatching remain. As a rule there is a rush to the -island every day about 4 p.m. Sometimes there are two rushes in the -day. Their fighting propensities are often put into practice, and when -so engaged they can readily be captured; their fight only ends when -they have reached the sea, after having tumbled sometimes all the way -from the highest pinnacle of the island." - -_Skelligs._--Nov, 20th, a few Puffins fishing in shelter of rock; wind -N.W., gale. - - -Razorbill. - -_Clare Island._--April 30th, two to four dozen Razorbills at 9 a.m. - -_Tearaght._--March 19th, great numbers of Razorbills first observed; -20th, first rested on rock. Left about Aug. 10th. - -_Skelligs._--Sept. 16th, large flocks flying S.S.W.; wind S.E. Nov. -20th, flocks fishing in shelter of rock, mostly young birds; wind N.W., -strong gale. Dec. 11th, Razorbills fishing in shelter; wind W., strong -gale. - - -Cormorant. - -_Tuskar Rock._--April 27th, the Cormorants have totally deserted the -rock. - -_Rockabill._--Oct. 30th, Cormorants all day; they leave the rock in -April, and are back this month. - -_Rathlin Island._--June 22nd, five seen. Aug. 17th, three. Dec. 4th, -5th, and 9th, one to six. - -_Tory Island._--Dec. 11th, six on rock at 9 a.m. - -_Killybegs._--May 2nd, Cormorants to the number of about forty -observed. Aug. 26th, about seventeen. The greater number leave about -the end of December, but some remain all the winter. - -_Blackrock, Mayo._--Sept. 30th, five flying S.E. A few nearly every day -during September and October. - -_Clare Island._--Cormorants are seen all the year round. - -_Slyne Head, North._--The Cormorant leaves to breed elsewhere. - - -_Straw Island._--Feb. 22nd, Cormorants at all hours. Remain during the -year, generally fishing singly. Sept. 24th, ten. - -_Arran Island, South._--Nov. 11th, eleven Cormorants seen at intervals -along the shore. - -_Valentia._--Sept. 20th, four. Nov. 16th, two; 22nd, five. Dec. 5th, -eight; also on 21st and 24th. - -_Skelligs._--One or two entered on Sept. 20th, Oct. 12th, and during -December. - -_Dursey Island._--A few noted on April 11th and July 13th, and one to -four seen at intervals from Sept. 27th to Dec. 18th. - - -Gannet. - -_Galley Head._--Five to twelve going W. on Jan. 29th, Feb. 7th, April -11th, May 14th, 18th to 27th; continuous flocks of Gannets going W. on -March 19th, 20th, 27th, 28th, June 16th to 25th; and in less numbers -to date of sending schedule, July 16th. No entry of Gannets going E. -at this station except on April 20th. One or two grey or young Gannets -seen on May 14th and June 16th. - -_Old Head, Kinsale._--Jan. 20th to 23rd, continuous flocks passing S.W. -Large flocks on Feb. 7th, 22nd, and March 17th. On Oct, 5th and 6th, -some hundreds going S. Nov. 5th, forty-five going E.; 20th, Gannets. - -_Coningbeg Light-ship._--April 29th, four flying W. June 6th, two -Gannets, and at intervals to end of month. Oct. 15th, four flying E.; -and from 31st to Dec. 1st, one to five passing at intervals. - -_Barrels Rock Light-ship._--April 27th, May 18th, 20th, and 26th, -occasional Gannets flying W. June 27th, Gannets in twos and threes. -Oct. 23rd, occasional Gannets, and a few at intervals until January. - -_Arklow South Light-ship._--March 10th, a flock; 26th, seven. During -April flocks at intervals, especially towards end of month. In May two -to seven passing at intervals in various directions. During June, July, -August and September a few Gannets seen frequently. In October less -common. - -_Arklow North Light-ship._--Gannets noted at intervals during April, -May, and June; May 1st and 12th, flocks continuous. Flight generally -N.E. September, flocks at intervals. - -_Kish Bank Light-ship._--Three entries of Gannets in May, one in June, -and one in July; direction of flight different in each case. Oct. 3rd, -six flying S.W. Nov. 23rd, flocks from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. going to S.W. - -_Copeland Island._--Gannets remain about the island all the year. In -August this year large numbers fishing in vicinity. - -_South Maidens._--Two entries of Gannets in April. Oct. 20th, two seen. - -_Rathlin Island._--Fourteen entries occur in schedule between March -28th and June 17th; in eleven the direction of flight was entered, and -in all it was towards the west, and seemed independent of the weather. -On April 13th, 19th, 21st, May 4th, 7th, 12th, 13th, 23rd, and June 2nd -the flocks were passing all day. During August four entries occur, but -direction of flight is not given. One entry in October. - -_Innishtrahull._--Jan. 8th, four Gannets; wind strong S.W. - -_Lough Swilly._--May 1st, 20th, and July 30th, a few noted. - -_Tory Island._--Nov. 13th, two going E.; noon. - -_Arranmore._--March 9th and 26th, four to six passing all day. Oct. -14th, twelve. - -_Rathlin O'Birne._--April 6th and 18th, a few. May 14th and 18th, -continuous flock all day going S. In June Gannets around island at -intervals. Sept. 9th, 19th, a few. Oct. 5th and 6th, hundreds; most -left about Oct. 17th. - -_Killybegs._--April 9th, two; 12th, about thirty, usually in pairs. -Aug. 14th, Gannets leaving. Gannets begin to arrive in June, sometimes -earlier, and mostly leave in September; their movements are very -uncertain. - -_Oyster Island, North._--Gannets noted at intervals from April 5th to -18th. - -_Blackrock, Mayo._--To be seen nearly every day during September and -October. - -_Slyne Head, North._--Aug. 1st, numbers of young Gannets are to be -seen. Gannets entered on Aug. 10th, 17th, very common, and flocks at -intervals on Nov. 17th; and thirty on Nov. 25th. - -_Straw Island._--Feb. 10th, fifteen Gannets seen at 2 p.m., strong -breeze, W., going S. Gannets entered on Aug. 8th, Sept. 3rd, and Oct. -11th, generally hovering about. It generally makes its appearance with -various kinds of fish, mackerel, pilchards, &c. - -_Arran Island, South._--Nov. 29th, two at noon; remained three days. - -_Skelligs._--Sept. 20th, several fishing. Nov. 20th, saw no Gannets -since Oct. 29th. - -_Dursey Island._--Seven to thirty noted at intervals during April and -on May 11th and 29th; flight generally W. or N.W. A few noted Aug. -11th; Sept. 6th, large flocks all day going S.; and a few on Sept. 28th. - - -Tern. - -_Copeland Island._--The Terns appear on Mew Island to breed on May 15th -and 16th. They come in the night, at first in small numbers, increasing -each night for ten or twelve nights, when many hundreds are to be seen. -Sept. 19th, some hundreds of Terns left Mew Island on this date; wind -S.E., light misty rain. Heard leaving during night. - -_Rathlin O'Birne._--Terns arrived at usual time; they breed on island -outside lighthouse. - -_Oyster Island, North._--April 8th, five Terns passing S.; 12th, -several during day. - -_Slyne Head, North._--May 20th, the Tern arrives for breeding, and -continues until about Aug. 2nd. - - -Gulls. - -_Galley Head._--June 1st to 15th, large flocks of Gulls after fry. - -_Old Head, Kinsale._--Oct. 7th to 10th, some hundreds going S. Nov. -20th, Grey Gulls. - -Coningbeg Light-skip.--April 22nd, flocks of Grey Gulls; 26th, ditto. -June 13th, ditto. Nov. 21st, flocks of small Gulls. - -_Dungarvan._--Nov. 6th, a great number. - -_Barrels Rock Light-ship._--July 3rd and 9th, Sea Gulls in flocks, -flying E. after fry. During November and part of December large flocks -apparently after small fish, working east and west with the tides. - -_Tuskar Rock._--From June 13th to 18th, Gulls alighted in large flocks. - -_Arklow North Light-ship._--April 1st, continuous flocks of Grey Gulls -going N.E. - -_Kish Bank Light-ship._--Flocks of Grey Gulls noted on May 8th, 25th, -and June 15th. Oct. 16th, flock of Grey Gulls hovering about all day. -Nov. 27th, a flock all day after fry. - -_Rockabill._--Gulls come in April and leave at the end of September. - -_Copeland Island._--Herring Gulls remain about the island all the year. -In August a large number of Grey and Royal Gulls fishing in vicinity. - -_Rathlin Island._--Flocks of Gulls on March 29th, May 1st, 18th, 22nd, -June 8th, 20th, and 27th; direction of flight not given. Flocks during -August of twenty to thirty Royal Gulls at intervals. Two or three -thousand Kittiwakes on 11th and 30th. Entries of Gulls occur twice in -November, and large flocks going S. on Dec. 17th, 21st, and 30th. - -_Innishtrahull._--Dec. 25th, two Royal Gulls. - -_Lough Swilly._--April 1st, a few; 6th, several; 19th, in great -numbers. May 1st, ditto. May 20th and June 1st, Gulls. July 27th, very -numerous all day. - -_Tory Island._--Sept. 5th, a flock of "Common Gulls" flying W. Nov. -15th, three Black-backed Gulls at 8 a.m., going E.; 28th, a flock of -Gulls. - -_Arranmore._--March 12th, Gulls passing. - -_Rathlin O'Birne._--Flocks of fifty to one hundred on April 10th, 12th, -28th, and May 8th. In June, Gulls about island. Flocks of Gulls from -one hundred to thousands on Aug. 31st, Sept. 19th, 20th, 30th, Oct. -5th, and 6th. The greater number left on Oct. 17th. On Nov. 4th, 22nd, -and Dec. 7th, eighty to one hundred all day. - -_Killybegs._--Gulls of the grey species to the number of about two -hundred remained here during spring, coming in the morning and -departing in the evening to the cliffs around Slieve League. Thousands -of Kittiwakes arrived about beginning of May, and still (August) -remain. Aug. 14th, several hundreds leaving. Kittiwakes and Grey Gulls -usually arrive in large numbers about June or July, and leave towards -the end of September; but a few, notably the large grey kind, remain -all the month. - -_Oyster Island, North._--Gulls noted on April 12th, 18th, 22nd, May -24th, and 29th. - -_Broadhaven._--Oct. 10th, three dozen Kittiwakes; 24th, four dozen -Black-headed Gulls. - -_Blackrock, Mayo._--Sept. 9th, flocks of small Gulls on water. Sept. -22nd and Jan. 5th, 1884, two Royal Gulls. Large and small Gulls nearly -every day during September and October. - -_Clare Island._--March 15th, about a dozen small Sea Gulls during -day. A large number of Gulls of different species in the cliffs near -lighthouses this year. Kittiwakes are here all the year. - -_Slyne Head, North._--Gulls noted on Aug. 20th and Nov. 17th. - -_Arran Island, North._--Nov. 14th, ten; wind fresh W.S.W. - -_Straw Island._--Feb. 13th, the Grey and the Royal Gull continually -in vicinity of lighthouse. The Grey Gulls remain during year. Gulls -entered Aug. 13th, Sept. 1st, and Oct. 5th (Royal). Flight generally -S.W. - -_Arran Island, South._--July 25th, fifty Sea Gulls. Nov. 27th, Sea -Gulls about shore to be seen at all times. - -_Tearaght._--Feb. 6th, Kittiwakes first came on rock about this -time; left about Sept. 1st. "They commence to build about May 1st. -On May 24th only two eggs were found among hundreds of nests. The -nest-building is carried on by some after hatching has commenced with -others. A difficult business this nest-making seems to be, as the mud -or clay which makes up the foundation has to be carried from some soft -bank. Hundreds of them are employed about six weeks at this operation, -some going with the very small portion of mud they are able to take in -their beaks, others coming for more, the bank covered over with more in -the act of digging out. The whole is a continuous busy scene." - -_Valentia._--Royal Gulls, one to four, Sept. 10th, 30th, Oct. 28th, and -Nov. 10th. - -_Skelligs._--Sept. 16th, observed large flocks of Kittiwakes flying -S.S.W.; wind S.E. Grey Gulls noticed from September to January, and -two to four Black-backed Gulls occasionally. Kittiwakes fishing in -shelter of rock, Nov. 20th and Dec. 11th; wind strong gale, N.W. and W. - -_Dursey Island._--Large flock of Gulls noted on April 7th, 25th, 27th, -and May 5th. A few on May 27th, and at intervals to July. Large flocks -on Aug. 25th and Sept. 18th, going W. Four Royal Gulls on Dec. 22nd. - - -Skua Gull. - -_Galley Head._--Jan. 20th, flocks of five to seven Skua Gulls going W. - -_Coningbeg Light-ship._--Oct. 28th, two Skuas chasing Gulls. - -_Tuskar Rock._--June 7th, flocks alighted on rock four mornings in -succession at same hour. Aug. 20th to 22nd, Skua Gulls in hundreds. - -_Lough Swilly._--June 22nd, one "Boatswain Skua Gull." - -_Valentia._--Nov. 22nd, four Skua Gulls. - - -Manx Shearwater. - -_Barrels Rock Light-ship._--July 6th, "Mackerel Cocks" flying in -different directions. - -_Rathlin Island._--April 12th, Shearwater began to arrive; 22nd, more -arrived. - -_Tearaght._--Jan. 30th, "Mackerel Cock" in great numbers diving round -rock; observed a fortnight previous to this date. Feb. 25th, "Mackerel -Cock" (believed to be) left, always diving, and did not come on rock. -April 5th, note of the Shearwater first heard. Nov. 21st, "Mackerel -Cock" diving about the rock pretty plentifully. Not certain about this -bird. The Manx Shearwater left about Aug. 1st. It was heard frequently -during the summer, and always on very dark calm nights. The sounds, -being frequent and distinct, were, very impressive. When the moon would -rise, or it would clear, a single note was not to be heard. - - -Stormy Petrel. - -_Coningbeg Light-ship._--Oct. 9th, five Mother Carey's Chickens caught -on deck, 5 a.m.; wind light, hazy. Oct. 15th, two Stormy Petrels about -ship; 28th, two caught on deck, 10.30 p.m. - -_Arklow South Light-ship._--April '24th, one; wind light E. - -_Tearaght._--Stormy Petrel very plentiful this year. They are not -much observed until July, from which time they continue breeding -until September. They make a noise which is a continuous chain of -articulations, and might be heard on a calm night a distance of 300 -feet; this noise is kept up by those in the holes as well as those on -the wing. - -_Skelligs._--Sept. 4th, two struck, 10.30 p.m., not killed; did not -notice any after this date. They breed here. - - -Birds not Identified. - -_Rockabill._--"March 6th, large bird, name unknown, killed striking, at -3 a.m.; wind N., fresh, cloudy. Had long bill, and long black legs." - -_Killybegs._--April 8th, "three strange birds, name unknown. White -fan-shaped tail, tipped with black; wings white, tipped with black; -white ring round neck; size of Sparrow; came from seaward, and remained -several days." - -_Tearaght._--May 20th, "one bird, not known, about the size of a -Lapwing; colour of a Grey Plover, land-bred, fan-tail, tips of feathers -of tail white, chased by Crows." - -_Tearaght._--Oct. 28th, "small bird, size of a Linnet; shoulders red or -copper-colour; breast and belly grey, also round neck; head tufted. It -remained about a week." - -_Tearaght._--Nov. 18th, "a bird about the size of a Linnet came on -island; above eyes a white curved streak; eyes and round eyes black; -under head, round breast, a white ring, thence down belly, wings, and -back of a reddish or copper-colour; some white feathers in wing; top -of head black, and tail appears narrow and black. Two of these, one -readily distinguished from the other." - - - -WEST, NEWMAN AND CO., PRINTERS, 54, HATTON GARDEN, LONDON, E.C. - - - * * * * * - - -Transcriber Note - -Minor typos corrected. In previous editions, one locality was listed as -"Farne". In this edition, there is one reference to Farne Islands (p. 54) -all of the other locations are listed as "Farn" and left as is. Due to -space limitations, the table on page 81 was rotated 90°. - - - - - - -*** END OF THE PROJECT GUTENBERG EBOOK REPORT ON THE MIGRATION OF BIRDS IN -THE SPRING AND AUTUMN OF 1883. *** - -Updated editions will replace the previous one--the old editions will -be renamed. - -Creating the works from print editions not protected by U.S. copyright -law means that no one owns a United States copyright in these works, -so the Foundation (and you!) can copy and distribute it in the -United States without permission and without paying copyright -royalties. 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A. Harvie Brown, J. Cordeaux, R. M. Barrington, and A. G. 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A. Harvie Brown</div> - -<div style='display:block; margin:1em 0'> -This eBook is for the use of anyone anywhere in the United States and -most other parts of the world at no cost and with almost no restrictions -whatsoever. You may copy it, give it away or re-use it under the terms -of the Project Gutenberg License included with this eBook or online -at <a href="https://www.gutenberg.org">www.gutenberg.org</a>. If you -are not located in the United States, you will have to check the laws of the -country where you are located before using this eBook. -</div> - -<p style='display:block; margin-top:1em; margin-bottom:0; margin-left:2em; text-indent:-2em'>Title: Report on the Migration of Birds in the Spring and Autumn of 1883.</p> -<p style='display:block; margin-top:0; margin-bottom:1em; margin-left:2em; text-indent:0;'>Fifth Report</p> - -<div style='display:block; margin-top:1em; margin-bottom:1em; margin-left:2em; text-indent:-2em'>Author: J. A. Harvie Brown, J. Cordeaux, R. M. Barrington and A. G. More</div> - -<div style='display:block; margin:1em 0'>Release Date: June 13, 2021 [eBook #65609]</div> - -<div style='display:block; margin:1em 0'>Language: English</div> - -<div style='display:block; margin:1em 0'>Character set encoding: UTF-8</div> - -<div style='display:block; margin-left:2em; text-indent:-2em'>Produced by: Tom Cosmas compiled from materials made freely available on The Internet Archive and placed in the Public Domain.</div> - -<div style='margin-top:2em; margin-bottom:4em'>*** START OF THE PROJECT GUTENBERG EBOOK REPORT ON THE MIGRATION OF BIRDS IN THE SPRING AND AUTUMN OF 1883. ***</div> - - - - - -<div class="figcenter" id="cover" style="width: 265px;"> - <img src="images/cover.png" width="265" height="441" alt="Report on the Migration of Birds in the Spring and Autumn of 1883, by J. A. Harvie Brown, J. Cordeaux, R. M. Barrington, And A. G. More" /> -</div> - -<hr class="chap x-ebookmaker-drop" /> - -<div class="chapter"> -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_i">-i-</span></p> -<h1 class="nobreak" id="REPORT">REPORT<br /> - -<span class="vsmall">ON THE</span><br /> - -<b>MIGRATION OF BIRDS</b><br /> - -<span class="vsmall">IN THE</span><br /> - -<span class="smaller">SPRING AND AUTUMN OF 1883.</span></h1> -</div> - - -<p class="tdc">BY</p> - -<p class="caption2nb"><span class="smcap">Mr. J. A. HARVIE BROWN, Mr. J. CORDEAUX,<br /> - -Mr. R. M. BARRINGTON, and Mr. A. G. MORE.</span></p> - - -<hr class="tb" /> - -<p class="tdc"><b>FIFTH REPORT.</b></p> - -<hr class="tb" /> - - -<div class="pmt4 blockquot pmb4"> - -<p class="smaller">"A good practical naturalist must be a good observer; and how many qualities -are required to make up a good observer! Attention, patience, quickness to seize -separate facts, discrimination to keep them unconfused, readiness to combine them, -and rapidity and yet slowness of induction; above all, perfect fidelity, which can be -seduced neither by the enticements of a favourite theory nor by the temptation to -see a little more than actually happens in some passing drama."—<i>Essays, Bishop -Wilberforce, Vol. I.</i></p> -</div> - - -<p class="tdc pmb4">LONDON:<br /> - -PRINTED BY WEST, NEWMAN & CO., 54, HATTON GARDEN.<br /> - -1884.</p> - - -<hr class="chap x-ebookmaker-drop" /> - -<div class="chapter"> -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_iii">-iii-</span></p> - -<h2 class="nobreak" id="PREFACE">PREFACE.</h2> -</div> - - -<p>The following Report contains a summary of investigations -of the Committee re-appointed by the British Association for -the Advancement of Science, at Southport, in 1883, to consist -of Professor Newton, Mr. J. A. Harvie Brown, Mr. John -Cordeaux, Mr. W. Eagle Clarke, Mr. R. M. Barrington, and -Mr. A. G. More, for the purpose of obtaining (with the -consent of the Master and Elder Brethren of the Trinity -House, the Commissioners of Northern Lights, and the Commissioners -of Irish Lights) observations on the Migration of -Birds at Lighthouses and Lightships, and of reporting on the -same at Montreal, Canada, in 1884. Mr. Cordeaux to be the -Secretary.</p> - -<p>The returns relating to Scotland have been arranged by -Mr. J. A. Harvie Brown; for the East Coast of England, -by Mr. Cordeaux; and those for the Coasts of Ireland, by -Mr. R. M. Barrington and Mr. A. G. More. No return has -been received by the Committee from the West Coast of -England and the Isle of Man.</p> -<hr class="chap x-ebookmaker-drop" /> - -<div class="chapter"> -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_iv">-iv-</span></p> - -<h2 class="nobreak" id="CONTENTS">CONTENTS.</h2> -</div> - - -<table class="tblcont" summary="TOC"> -<tr> - <td></td> - <td class="smaller tdr">PAGE</td> -</tr> -<tr> - <td class="tdl">East Coast of Scotland</td> - <td class="tdr"><a href="#EAST_COAST_OF_SCOTLAND_c">1</a></td> -</tr> -<tr> - <td class="tdl">East Coast of England</td> - <td class="tdr"><a href="#EAST_COAST_OF_ENGLAND">33</a></td> -</tr> -<tr> - <td class="tdl">West Coast of Scotland</td> - <td class="tdr"><a href="#WEST_COAST_OF_SCOTLAND">63</a></td> -</tr> -<tr> - <td class="tdl">Coasts of Ireland</td> - <td class="tdr"><a href="#IRISH_COAST">82</a></td> -</tr> -</table> - - -<div class="chapter"> -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_1">-1-</span></p> - - -<p class="caption3nb">FIFTH REPORT</p> - -<p class="tdc">ON</p> - -<p class="caption2">THE MIGRATION OF BIRDS</p> - -<p class="tdc">IN THE</p> - -<p class="caption4nb">SPRING AND AUTUMN OF 1883.</p> -</div> - -<div class="blockquot"> - -<p>"We had a succession of black nights going up the river, and it was observable -that whenever we landed and suddenly inundated the trees with the intense sun-burst -of the Electric Light, a certain curious effect was always produced: hundreds -of birds flocked instantly out from the masses of shining green foliage, and went -careering hither and thither through the white rays, and often a song bird turned -up and fell to singing. We judged that they mistook this superb artificial day for -the genuine article."—<span class="smcap">Mark Twain</span>, in '<i>Life on the Mississippi</i>,' p. 452.</p> -</div> - -<div class="poetry-container"> -<div class="poetry"> - <div class="stanza"> - <div class="verse indent20">"Yea, even the fowl—</div> - <div class="verse indent0">That through the polar summer months could see</div> - <div class="verse indent0">A beauty in Spitzbergen's naked isles,</div> - <div class="verse indent0">Or on the drifted icebergs seek a home—</div> - <div class="verse indent0">Even they had fled, on southern wing, in search</div> - <div class="verse indent0">Of less inclement shores."—<i>The Fowler.</i></div> - </div> -</div> -</div> - - -<hr class="chap x-ebookmaker-drop" /> - -<div class="chapter"> -<h2 class="nobreak" id="EAST_COAST_OF_SCOTLAND_c">EAST COAST OF SCOTLAND, &c.</h2> -</div> - - -<p>From Skykkesholm, in Iceland, comes our first return from -that country since the commencement of our work. M. Thorlacius, -to whom we are indebted for this return, writes as follows:—"As -this list cannot nearly comprise all the Icelandic birds of -passage, of which especially the sea-birds are wanting, I shall -complete this by next mail, and send you the continuation along -with a complete list of the appearances of birds of passage in -the present year (1883). The dates quoted opposite each species -<span class="pagenum" id="Page_2">-2-</span> -is the day on which they were first observed here. The approximate -date of departure will be given later."</p> - -<p>The following notes are copied direct from M. Thorlacius' -schedule, and are most useful to the Committee, serving as they -do as finger-posts on the route of migration, indicating the important -dates of arrival at their breeding-quarters of Icelandic -summer migrants. When M. Thorlacius sends his autumn -departures of migrants and the other good things he so kindly -promises us, we will have useful standpoints, the spaces between -which can be more easily filled in when these are fixed:—</p> - -<p class="caption3nb"><span class="smcap">Skykkesholm, Iceland</span>, 1882, lat. 65° 4′ N.; long. 22° 43′ W.</p> - -<p class="ind2em"> - April 7th, <i>Turdus iliacus</i>, S., very fresh; rain.<br /> - May 8th, <i>Saxicola œnanthe</i>, S.E., light air; clear.<br /> - April 24th, <i>Motacilla alba</i>, N.E., stormy; clear.<br /> - May 24th, <i>Anthus pratensis</i>, N.E., storm; light showers.<br /> - April 25th, <i>Scolopax gallinago</i>, N.E., storm; light showers.<br /> - April 19th, <i>Totanus calidris,</i> E., very fresh; dry.<br /> - May 11th, <i>Numenius phæopus</i>, N.E., very fresh; light showers.<br /> - April 17th, <i>Charadrius pluvialis</i>, N.E., very fresh; clear.<br /> - April 19th, <i>Tringa alpina</i>, N.E., very fresh; clear.<br /> - May 3rd, <i>T. cinerea</i>, E., blowing hard; clear.<br /> - April 29th, <i>Strepsilas collaris</i>, N.E., storm; snow showers.<br /> - April 26th, <i>Tringa hiaticula</i>, N.E., scorm; dry.<br /> - May 23rd, <i>Phalaropus cinerea</i>, N.E., blowing hard; clear.<br /> - May 24th, <i>P. platyrhincha</i>, N.E., storm; snow showers.<br /> - April 9th, <i>Falco cæsius</i>, N.E., very fresh; rain.<br /> - April 9th, <i>Limosa melanura</i>, N.E., very fresh; rain.<br /> - April 9th, <i>Hæmatopus ostralegus</i>, N.E., very fresh; rain.<br /> - March 30th, <i>H. ostralegus.</i><br /> - April 30th, <i>Fringilla linaria</i>, N.E. storm, cloudy; rain.<br /> - April 30th, <i>Loxia serinus</i>, N.E. storm, cloudy; rain.<br /> - March 15th, <i>Uria grylle</i>, N.E.; clear.<br /> - March 15th, <i>U. brunnichii</i>, N.E.; clear.<br /> - March 15th, <i>U. troile</i>, N.E.; clear.<br /> - March 15th, <i>U. alle</i>, N.E.; clear.<br /> - March 15th, <i>Alca torda</i>, N.E.; clear, hard.<br /> - April 25th, <i>Mormon fratercula</i>, N.E., very fresh.<br /> - April 30th, <i>Carbo cormoranus</i>, N.E., light air.<br /> - April 30th, <i>C. graculus</i>, N.E., light air.<br /> - April 30th, <i>Puffinus arcticus</i>, N.E., light air.<br /> -</p> - -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_3">-3-</span></p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Faroe.</span>—From Faroe, thanks again to our friend Herr H. C. -Müller, we have the following report, some twelve entries or so -between Jan. 1st and Sept. 10th, 1883:—</p> - -<p>On Jan. 1st three Wild Swans, <i>C. musicus</i>, seen flying S. at -noon. On April 28th one <i>Gallinula chloropus</i>, Waterhen, taken -alive in Vaay in Bordó. Between May 3rd and 11th several -White Wagtails seen during N.N.E., stormy, with snow at different -localities in the islands. On May 27th two Red-necked -Phalaropes were seen on the sea near Thorshavn during S.W. -wind, moderate, with showers of rain.</p> - -<p>In August White Wagtails again appeared, when several -were seen on the 21st at Thorshavn at noon, fresh W. breeze -and clear. Between Aug. 28th and Sept. 10th, Whimbrels (see -under Whimbrel, Curlew) were preparing for departure, and -disappeared on the last-named date. During this time the winds -were from N.W. on Aug. 28th by N. to N.E. on Aug. 30th to -Sept. 3rd, and W. on the 10th, the day of departure.</p> - -<p><i>Note.</i>—Herr H. C. Müller informs me that a lighthouse will -be shortly erected at Nossoe, in Faroe, eighty feet above the sea. -Herr Müller considers that this will prove a good station for -observing birds during migration. Suderöe would also be a good -observatory. He also told me of the occurrence, for the first -time, of <i>Sciurus noveboracensis</i> at Nordtalik, Greenland, about -May, 1882; and of the occurrence also of a young Sabine's Gull -at the same place. I have a young Sabine's Gull, brought home -last year (1883) by the whalers to Dundee.</p> - -<p>Of the progress of the scheme of accumulation of migrational -data in other parts of the world, we may notice here that Dr. -Arthur proposes to take up the subject at the lighthouses in New -Zealand, and will send the Committee his schedules for arrangement.</p> - -<p>Our American friends have made a promising start with -similar intentions, but of a much wider scope, as is shown by -the circular, which we here reprint, as it will show to our -reporters other collateral subjects which offer plenty of opportunity -for observation, and which can easily be made as applicable -here as in North America, as regards our commoner species. -Schedules somewhat more elaborate than ours have been issued -also to lighthouses in America:—</p> - -<p>"At the first congress of the American Ornithologists' Union, -<span class="pagenum" id="Page_4">-4-</span> -held in New York City, Sept. 26th-28th, 1883, a Committee -on the Migration of Birds was appointed. It is the purpose of -this Committee to investigate in all its bearings, and to the -fullest extent possible, the subject of the migration of birds in -the United States and British North America. The work will -not be limited to the accumulation of records of the times of -arrival and departure of the different species, but will embrace -the collection of all data that may aid in determining the causes -which influence the progress of migration from season to season. -For example, severe storms, gales of wind, protracted periods of -unusually high or low temperature (for the locality and time of -year) are among the atmospheric conditions that are known to -exert marked effects upon the movements of birds. The opening -of the leaves and the flowering of certain plants, with the correlative -appearance of a multitude of insects, are also among the -factors that have to do with the abundance of many species. -Hence the careful registration of certain meteorological phenomena, -and of the state of advancing vegetation from day to -day, will constitute prominent items in the record books of the -observer.</p> - -<p>"For convenience in collecting and arranging the enormous -mass of material which will be accumulated by the joint labours -of this army of field workers, it has been deemed advisable to -divide the vast expanse of territory embraced in the United -States and British North America into thirteen districts, each of -which will be placed under the immediate direction of a competent -superintendent."</p> - -<p>Some time ago we received application from China for -schedules and letters of instructions, but as yet we have had -no further communication from that quarter. We would be glad -to hear of the scheme being started there also. Most of the -lighthouse-keepers there are Scotch and English.</p> - -<p>The ordinary papers were sent to thirty stations on the East -Coast of Scotland, Faroe, and Iceland, as in former years. -Twelve stations on this coast have sent in forty-two schedules -out of the twenty-six E.C. stations of Scotland. All returns are -much lighter than in 1882, and this is more readily noticed when -we compare the numbers of schedules returned from our principal -stations. Thus, from Sumburgh Head we have three; from -Pentland Skerries twelve (three more than in 1882); from Bell -<span class="pagenum" id="Page_5">-5-</span> -Rock two; and from Isle of May only ten, as against nineteen -in 1882.</p> - -<table summary="stations"> -<tr> - <td class="caption3nb" colspan="10"><span class="smcap">East Coast of Scotland.</span></td> -</tr> -<tr> - <td class="tdc">'79,</td> - <td class="tdc">'80,</td> - <td class="tdc">'81,</td> - <td class="tdc">'82.</td> - <td class="tdc">'83.</td> - <td colspan="5"></td> -</tr> -<tr> - <td class="tdc">*</td> - <td class="tdc">*</td> - <td></td> - <td></td> - <td class="tdc">*</td> - <td class="tdr">4.</td> - <td class="tdl">N. Unst, Shetland</td> - <td class="tdr">230</td> - <td class="tdc">ft.</td> - <td class="tdl">J. Edgar.</td> -</tr> -<tr> - <td></td> - <td class="tdc">*</td> - <td class="tdc">*</td> - <td class="tdc">*</td> - <td></td> - <td class="tdr">5.</td> - <td class="tdl">Whalsey Skerries, Shet.</td> - <td class="tdr">143</td> - <td class="tdc">"</td> - <td></td> -</tr> -<tr> - <td></td> - <td></td> - <td></td> - <td class="tdc">*</td> - <td></td> - <td class="tdr">6.</td> - <td class="tdl">Bressay, Shetland</td> - <td class="tdr">105</td> - <td class="tdc">"</td> - <td></td> -</tr> -<tr> - <td class="tdc">*</td> - <td class="tdc">*</td> - <td class="tdc">*</td> - <td class="tdc">*</td> - <td class="tdc">*</td> - <td class="tdr">7.</td> - <td class="tdl">Sumburgh Head, Shet.</td> - <td class="tdr">300</td> - <td class="tdc">"</td> - <td class="tdl">D. M. Scott.</td> -</tr> -<tr> - <td></td> - <td class="tdl" colspan="9">Land Notes.—7B. Fair Isle.</td> -</tr> -<tr> - <td class="caption3nb" colspan="10"><span class="smcap">Orkney.</span></td> -</tr> -<tr> - <td class="tdc">*</td> - <td class="tdc">*</td> - <td class="tdc">*</td> - <td class="tdc">*</td> - <td></td> - <td class="tdr">8.</td> - <td class="tdl">North Ronaldshay</td> - <td class="tdr">140</td> - <td class="tdc">"</td> - <td></td> -</tr> -<tr> - <td></td> - <td></td> - <td></td> - <td></td> - <td></td> - <td class="tdr">9.</td> - <td class="tdl">Start Point</td> - <td class="tdr">80</td> - <td class="tdc">"</td> - <td></td> -</tr> -<tr> - <td class="tdc">*</td> - <td class="tdc">*</td> - <td class="tdc">*</td> - <td class="tdc">*</td> - <td class="tdc">*</td> - <td class="tdr">10.</td> - <td class="tdl">Auskerry</td> - <td class="tdr">110</td> - <td class="tdc">"</td> - <td class="tdl">J. McDonald.</td> -</tr> -<tr> - <td></td> - <td></td> - <td></td> - <td></td> - <td></td> - <td class="tdr">11.</td> - <td class="tdl">Hoy Sound (Low)</td> - <td class="tdr">55</td> - <td class="tdc">"</td> - <td></td> -</tr> -<tr> - <td></td> - <td></td> - <td></td> - <td></td> - <td></td> - <td class="tdr">12.</td> - <td class="tdl">Hoy Sound (High)</td> - <td class="tdr">115</td> - <td class="tdc">"</td> - <td></td> -</tr> -<tr> - <td></td> - <td></td> - <td></td> - <td></td> - <td></td> - <td class="tdr">13.</td> - <td class="tdl">Cantick Head</td> - <td class="tdr">115</td> - <td class="tdc">"</td> - <td></td> -</tr> -<tr> - <td class="tdc">*</td> - <td class="tdc">*</td> - <td class="tdc">*</td> - <td class="tdc">*</td> - <td class="tdc">*</td> - <td class="tdr">14.</td> - <td class="tdl">Pentland Skerries</td> - <td class="tdr">170</td> - <td class="tdc">"</td> - <td class="tdl">D. McDonald.†<br /> & J. Gilmour.</td> -</tr> -<tr> - <td class="caption3nb" colspan="10"><span class="smcap">Mainland.</span></td> -</tr> -<tr> - <td></td> - <td class="tdc">*</td> - <td class="tdc">*</td> - <td class="tdc">*</td> - <td class="tdc">*</td> - <td class="tdr">15.</td> - <td class="tdl">Dunnet Head, Caithness</td> - <td class="tdr">346</td> - <td class="tdc">"</td> - <td class="tdl">D. Laidlaw.</td> -</tr> -<tr> - <td></td> - <td></td> - <td></td> - <td></td> - <td></td> - <td class="tdr">16.</td> - <td class="tdl">Holborn Head, Caithness</td> - <td class="tdr">75</td> - <td class="tdc">"</td> - <td class="tdl">D. Laidlaw.</td> -</tr> -<tr> - <td></td> - <td></td> - <td></td> - <td></td> - <td class="tdc">*</td> - <td class="tdr">17.</td> - <td class="tdl">Noss Head, Caithness</td> - <td class="tdr">175</td> - <td class="tdc">"</td> - <td class="tdl">A. Greig.</td> -</tr> -<tr> - <td></td> - <td></td> - <td></td> - <td></td> - <td class="tdc">*</td> - <td class="tdr">18.</td> - <td class="tdl">Tarbat Ness, East Ross</td> - <td class="tdr">175</td> - <td class="tdc">"</td> - <td class="tdl">W. Davidson.‡</td> -</tr> -<tr> - <td></td> - <td></td> - <td class="tdc">*</td> - <td class="tdc">*</td> - <td class="tdc">*</td> - <td class="tdr">19.</td> - <td class="tdl">Cromarty, E. Cromarty</td> - <td class="tdr">60</td> - <td class="tdc">"</td> - <td class="tdl">R. S. Ritson.</td> -</tr> -<tr> - <td></td> - <td></td> - <td></td> - <td class="tdc">*</td> - <td class="tdc">*</td> - <td class="tdr">20.</td> - <td class="tdl">Chanonry, Point Elgin</td> - <td class="tdr">40</td> - <td class="tdc">"</td> - <td class="tdl">J. McGill.§</td> -</tr> -<tr> - <td></td> - <td></td> - <td></td> - <td class="tdc">*</td> - <td></td> - <td class="tdr">21.</td> - <td class="tdl">Covesea Skerries</td> - <td class="tdr">160</td> - <td class="tdc">"</td> - <td></td> -</tr> -<tr> - <td></td> - <td></td> - <td></td> - <td></td> - <td></td> - <td class="tdr">22.</td> - <td class="tdl">Kinnaird Head, Aberdeen</td> - <td class="tdr">120</td> - <td class="tdc">"‖</td> - <td></td> -</tr> -<tr> - <td></td> - <td></td> - <td></td> - <td></td> - <td></td> - <td class="tdr">23.</td> - <td class="tdl">Buchan Ness, Aberdeen</td> - <td class="tdr">130</td> - <td class="tdc">"</td> - <td></td> -</tr> -<tr> - <td></td> - <td class="tdc">*</td> - <td></td> - <td></td> - <td></td> - <td class="tdr">24.</td> - <td class="tdl">Girdleness, Aberdeen</td> - <td class="tdr">185</td> - <td class="tdc">"</td> - <td></td> -</tr> -<tr> - <td></td> - <td></td> - <td></td> - <td></td> - <td></td> - <td class="tdr">25.</td> - <td class="tdl">Montroseness, Aberdeen</td> - <td class="tdr">124</td> - <td class="tdc"> "¶</td> - <td></td> -</tr> -<tr> - <td class="tdc">*</td> - <td class="tdc">*</td> - <td class="tdc">*</td> - <td class="tdc">*</td> - <td class="tdc">*</td> - <td class="tdr">26.</td> - <td class="tdl">Bell Rock, Fife Coast</td> - <td class="tdr">93</td> - <td class="tdc">"</td> - <td class="tdl">J. Jack.</td> -</tr> -<tr> - <td class="tdc">*</td> - <td class="tdc">*</td> - <td class="tdc">*</td> - <td class="tdc">*</td> - <td class="tdc">*</td> - <td class="tdr">27.</td> - <td class="tdl">I. of May, Firth of Forth</td> - <td class="tdr">240</td> - <td class="tdc">"</td> - <td class="tdl">J. Agnew.</td> -</tr> -<tr> - <td></td> - <td class="tdc">*</td> - <td class="tdc">*</td> - <td class="tdc">*</td> - <td class="tdc">*</td> - <td class="tdr">28.</td> - <td class="tdl">Inch Keith, F. of Forth</td> - <td class="tdr">220</td> - <td class="tdc">"</td> - <td class="tdl">R. Grierson.</td> -</tr> -<tr> - <td></td> - <td></td> - <td></td> - <td></td> - <td></td> - <td class="tdr">29.</td> - <td class="tdl">St. Abb's Head, Berwicks</td> - <td class="tdr">224</td> - <td class="tdc">"</td> - <td></td> -</tr> -</table> - -<div class="blockquot"> -<p>† Mr. D. McDonald removed from Pentland Skerries to Skervuile (W. C.) -about July 26th, up to which time he sent returns from Pentland Skerries. -Thereafter Mr. J. Gilmour took in hand the returns at the latter station.</p> - -<p>‡ I have to thank Mr. W. Davidson for the first schedule received from -Tarbat Ness. Between Aug. 15th and Oct. 30th there are only eleven -entries,' all light, of ten different dates only. This schedule is valuable for -its negative evidence, just as other more favoured localities for migrants give -valuable positive evidence. Can I not induce others to return even empty -schedules at the end of the year, with the simple remark "No Birds" or -"Few Birds" attached, if such is the case? Then our Committee would -have certainty to go by, not merely hypothesis. Mr. Davidson gives me -the further information regarding this station, that he observed no further -migration since Oct. 30th, the weather being so mild. It is usually before -any changes in the weather that we see any birds passing here besides the -birds which frequent the locality. The situation of Tarbat Ness is a very -high tower, 175 feet, and is joined to farmhouses. It is not much sheltered, -the tower being on the bare point. At some seasons great quantities of birds -are seen (<i>in lit.</i>, Jan. 20th, 1884).</p> - -<p>§ At Chanonry lighthouse the schedule, again kindly returned by Mr. -McGill, pretty clearly indicates and illustrates the action of local migrations. -Thus he tells us:—"There are plenty of Black Crows, which fly between this -and Nairn every day for feeding in the morning, and fly back at night. A -great many grey ducks come down on this Firth for the purpose of feeding. -It would seem they do not migrate. There are several flocks of birds which -seem to fly north the one day and in a few days to fly back to the south; -they seem to be the same flocks that have been feeding." From Chanonry -Mr. McGill writes:—"Only one bird has struck the lantern since I came -here in the summer of 1882, and only two lighted on the lantern. None -killed." The returns from this station almost all relate to local movements, -but are not on this account less valuable, but rather more so, as giving good -opportunity of making comparisons and deductions. Most of the occurrences -are attended by highly developed pressures, squalls, strong breezes, &c., but -the directions of these are not given.</p> - -<p>‖ Mr. D. M. Scott, who left this station, removed to Sumburgh Head. -He sent the description of a bird from Kinnaird Head in 1882, but no -schedule. Scarcity is the true reason of lack of returns from this station. -Mr. Scott has sent well-filled schedules since from Sumburgh Head.</p> - -<p>¶ "No Birds" at Montroseness, reason given for absence of returns in -1882 (<i>q.v.</i>).</p> -</div> - -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_6">-6-</span></p> - -<p>From Kinnaird Head Lighthouse I have the following reply -to my inquiry:—"Birds at this lighthouse are every year getting -more scarce, as the town is now extended to the lighthouse, and -cooperage works at the very gate make much noise, and sparks -of fire fly about whilst making the barrels." At the same time -Mr. D. M. Scott, now at Sumburgh Head, tells me he has once -caught, in one watch, forty-eight Starlings at the lantern, and -some Thrushes.</p> - -<p>I have also to thank Mr. Alexander Greig for the first return -from Noss Head. The movements of Gannets, as related there, -cannot fail to be of use to the Committee. Mr. Greig says, -"There has been great scarcity of birds this last year, except -those which are generally with us."</p> - -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_7">-7-</span></p> - -<p>Through Mr. Thomas Southwell's kindness I have received a -few items of interest from the log of the whaler 'Eclipse,' Capt. -D. Gray. Also a note from Mr. T. H. Nelson, taken on board the -'Camoens,' 150 miles N.N.W. of Orkney; as also a note or two, -through the kindness of Mr. Robert Gray, taken on board the -'Marathon' in the Atlantic by Mr. Thomas Anderson. These are -now given; and the land notes will be entered after the paragraphs -on each species or group.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">'Eclipse.'</span>—March 28th, 1883, 70° 7′ north, 3° 40′ west, saw -but one Hooded Seal to-day, but plenty of Rotches, Looms, -Snow Birds, and Mallemauks. April 19th, 69° 53′ north, 5° 30′ -west, saw a few Bottlenose Whales, and at night a Merlin lighted -on the fore-topsail-yard, and there fell asleep, and was afterwards -caught. He seemed very tired and weak. I made a box for him, -and fed him on small pieces of meat. April 22nd, the Hawk -seems to be thriving; he is kept below during the day and on -deck when it is fine. April 24th, 68° 29' north, 9° 12′ west, let -the Hawk away at 10 a.m. He flew straight to S.W. At 2 p.m. -spoke the 'Catharine' brig. Whilst speaking the 'Catharine' I -was astonished to see my old friend the Hawk sitting on one leg -in the lower quarter boat, looking very disconsolate, and, when -scared, immediately flew to the 'Catharine.' He had evidently -come across that vessel at sea, and had flown on board her. -May 2nd, 68° 20′ north, 11° 30′ west, a great many birds about -the ship, a few hundreds of Mallemauks, and numerous Snow -Birds, Burgomasters, Snow Buntings, two Eider Ducks, and one -Iceland Falcon. May 4th, the vessel was followed by a good -many Mallemauks, Burgomasters, Snow Birds, &c. May 18th, -69° 37′ north, 9° 9′ east, in the morning a Loom alighted on the -main-topsail-yard, and Rotches have been numerous, besides the -usual number of Mallemauks, Kittiwakes, Snow Birds, and -Burgomasters. May 22nd, 69° 59′ 3° west, about 65 miles N.N.E. -from Jan Mayen, "a few Bottlenose Whales seen during the day, -and several Black-headed Gulls and Whimbrels." [This is an -interesting note in the distribution of the Whimbrel, which -species Capt. Gray knows well, having brought home skins before -now, all the way from the coast of S. Greenland, and others have -arrived, brought by other whalers, at least two of which are in -our collection.—J. A. H. B.] June 10th (70° 32′ north, 1° 29′ -west), a Swallow or Martin seen. May 16th (about 67° 41′ north, -<span class="pagenum" id="Page_8">-8-</span> -14° 34′ west), two birds known at home as Wheatears and Water -Wagtails ["Watee Wagtails" (<i>sic</i>) local in Forfar.—J. A. H. B.] -came on board and died. They were experiencing very heavy -weather at the time.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">'Marathon.'</span>—October 12th, 1883 (46° 43′ north, 35° 39′ west), -six or seven Snow Buntings flew on board, winter plumage, wind -fresh N.W., and only two remained, the others leaving to go to -another vessel passed by the 'Marathon.' The other vessel had -a deck-load of wood.—R. G.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">'Camoens.'</span>—Mr. T. H. Nelson writes:—"A friend of mine took -a trip to Iceland in the 'Camoens' last October. On Oct. 14th, -150 miles N.N.W. of Orkney, a Starling flew on board. On the -journey both there and back, <i>viz.</i>, between Oct. 18th and Dec. -3rd, a great many small birds were seen <i>flying south</i>, but my -friend was not well enough versed in Ornithology to be able to -identify them."</p> - -<p>Notes are presented upon about seventeen species of water-fowl -and fifty-four species of land birds, and about thirteen -species of waders or littoral species, by our east coast reporters.</p> - -<p>Spring migration having been more considerable this season, -I keep separate in this Report.</p> - -<p>The movements recorded occupy the whole year, from date -of February to June, during spring, and from date of July to -January, during autumn.</p> - - -<p><span class="smcap">Separate Report under Genera and Species.</span></p> - -<p><a id="Turdidae"></a><span class="smcap">Turdidæ.</span>—In spring a considerable migration noticed at -certain stations, <i>viz.</i>, Pentland Skerries, Bell Rock, and Isle of -May. Began Feb. 2nd, when a rush of Song Thrushes took -place at Bell Rock, and terminated May 10th, when, and upon -the 9th, there were indications of another rush of Fieldfares and -Ring Ouzels. Whilst Song Thrushes, Redwings, and Blackbirds -seem usually to travel together, the larger-winged Fieldfares and -Eing Ouzels are usually associated in our returns, though not -invariably. Although this spring migration was spread over -such a very considerable time, none of the returns are very -heavy; but indications of rushes are sufficiently distinct. At -Bell Rock, as above stated, on Feb. 2nd, strong E.N.E., with -haze. Fieldfares and Ring Ouzels; at Isle of May, on March -2nd, light W., clear, Thrushes and Blackbirds—a decided but -<span class="pagenum" id="Page_9">-9-</span> -not large rush, which stopped abruptly with wind changing to -gales from S.E. to E.N.E. and to N.W. (see Third Report, General -Remarks, p. 67.—J. A. H. B.). In April, light but fairly continuous -entries at Pentland Skerries and Isle of May, but little -indication of a general movement, except on April 27th, when a -good many Fieldfares and Ring Ouzels were noted at Isle of May, -wind fresh S.E. Prevailing winds up to termination of spring -migration, easterly along whole coast. On May 2nd, and again -on 9th and 10th, there were faint indications of rushes at Isle of -May, principally of Fieldfares.</p> - -<p>In autumn the migration was pronounced, and confined principally -to October and November. Yet the earliest record we -have yet received in Scotland in our schedules occurred on Aug. -28th, at Isle of May, of two Song Thrushes, followed by a single -record on Sept. 21st; also at Isle of May, "a few Redwings and -Ring Ouzels." Again, passing at present over October and -November, only one record in December of a solitary Fieldfare on -the 5th; and in January, 1884, a flock on the 7th and three birds -on the 22nd, during a wild W. gale. The month of October has -many entries, and I find the word "rush" opposite the following -dates and stations:—At Pentland Skerries and Isle of May, but -not at Bell Rock, on 13th-15th, hundreds of Redwings and Ring -Ouzels, also Blackbirds and Thrushes, besides many other birds -whose names I will give later. Also at N. Unst a few stragglers -rested on the 16th, and then flew south, with strong S.E. wind -and haze. Again, from about Oct. 28th to Nov. 5th, a great -movement, developing into vast rushes, between Oct. 30th and -Nov. 3rd, on which latter day a Dipper (<i>Cinclus</i>) was seen on the -Isle of May; twice fired at for the collection, but escaped. The -stations, N. Unst, Sumburgh Head, Pentland Skerries, Tarbat -Ness, Bell Rock, and Isle of May participated (maximum at Isle -of May), but also large numbers at Pentland Skerries, Bell Rock, -and goodly appearance at Sumburgh Head on Nov. 1st. On -Oct. 13th-15th wind was S., but shifted to W. at Isle of May. -On Oct. 28th and 29th wind was S., light and clear; and on 30th -to Nov. 1st still prevailing southerly and westerly. Mr. Agnew -states that the rush on 13th-15th was the largest ever witnessed -by him at Isle of May with a due S. wind, S.E. being usually the -most productive. Having detailed the movements and given -dates and circumstances of these rushes, I will now name the -<span class="pagenum" id="Page_10">-10-</span> -other species which participated in them, and refer back to this -paragraph afterwards throughout the Report. During the -October rush, 13th-15th, Redwings in hundreds; Ring Ouzels, -Bramblings, Larks, Woodcock, Short-eared Owl, Yellow Bunting, -Eider Ducks in large flocks; Chaffinches, Crows (Carrion and -Hooded), Jackdaws (the largest flock ever seen at Isle of May), -Bramblings, Tree Sparrows, Blackbirds, Thrushes, and one -Missel Thrush; besides, in smaller numbers. Wagtails, Redstarts, -Hawks, &c. During the great October to November -rush the following participated: Sandpipers, Snow Buntings, -Skylarks, as far as N. Unst; and southwards. Lapwings, Grey -Crows, Robins (smaller numbers), Linnets, Chaffinches, Starlings. -At Sumburgh Head a large migration of Thrushes, -with Starlings, Larks, and Linnets; many killed. At Pentland -Skerries rush began on 20th, and also at Isle of May, -principally <i>Turdidæ</i> and <i>Emberizidæ</i>. At Bell Rock, on Oct. -31st—Nov. 1st, rush began at 7 a.m. Mr. Jack writes:—"Immense -numbers killed. I have no doubt they were killed in -hundreds. What we think were Woodcocks struck with great -force. Birds continued flying within the influence of the rays -of light till the first streak of day, continually striking hard all -night, and falling into the sea. Although we cannot be sure, we -think there was a great number of Woodcocks struck and fell -into the sea."<a id="FNanchor_1" href="#Footnote_1" class="fnanchor">[1]</a> Species of <i>Turdidæ</i> seven, including <i>Cinclus</i>.</p> - -<div class="footnote"> - -<p><a id="Footnote_1" href="#FNanchor_1" class="label">[1]</a> What a loss of useful food to the lighthouse-keepers, which might perhaps -be saved to them by a few long poles and an old herring-net stretched -round and outside the balcony. This fact is surely worthy of the attention -of the Commissioners and all Directors of our Lighthouse Stations.</p> - -</div> - -<p><a id="Saxicolinae"></a><span class="smcap">Saxicolinæ.</span>—In spring considerable arrival of at Pentland -Skerries, Bell Rock, and Isle of May. Earliest (a single Stonechat -(<i>vera</i>) <i>S. rubicola</i>) on March 20th, at Isle of May, with -light E. wind and haze. [N.B.—In our Third Report, p. 8, the -first record was on 29th of Wheatear, but this record in Mr. -Agnew's schedule was entered as "Stonechat." Owing to the -confusion existing between the Wheatear and "Stonechat" it is -usually almost impossible to know to which the name Stonechat -is applied. The true Stonechat is very like a Whinchat, and in -no respect resembles the Wheatear, except in the sound of -its voice.] The next earliest was of three Redstarts (or Firetails), -on March 29th, also at Isle of May, S.E. fresh, haze. -<span class="pagenum" id="Page_11">-11-</span> -Indications of a rush of Wheatears between April 5th and 13th, -at Isle of May; and much lighter indications of single birds at -same dates at Pentland Skerries. Redstarts scarce; two on -April 27th, one on 26th at Isle of May, and a few at same place. -These in every instance with light or fresh S.E. winds in April, -and light N.E. in May.</p> - -<p>In autumn a considerable migration, commencing on August -20th; first record at Isle of May—"Stonechat" [one earlier -record occurs at same place on July 14th, but it is perhaps -difficult to say to what this belongs, as Wheatears breed annually -on Isle of May]; one killed at lantern. Fresh N.W. wind, and -terminating as far as schedules indicate, by Nov. 11th. In this -statement are included Wheatears, "Stonechats," [true Stonechats -identified], Redstarts; but there are no records at any -stations of Wheatears or Stonechats between Sept. 12th and -Nov. 1st. October is, curiously enough, entirely blank of any -returns of <i>Saxicolinæ</i>, and there are only two records in November. -The rushes took place end of August, culminating on the -night of Sept. 2nd-3rd, when a great rush of Wheatears, -Redstarts, and also Chiffchaffs, Robins and Sedge Warblers, -Wood Warblers, and Golden and Grey Plovers took place. The -absence of any record of Thrushes or <i>Turdidæ</i> at this date at -any of the stations is noteworthy. Mr. Agnew writes:—"The -night of Sept. 2nd was very stormy, wind S.E., shifting to N.E., -with heavy rain. The birds were all in large numbers throughout -the night, except a Blue-throated Warbler, adult, which was -solitary." On the 12th, nearly all Wheatears left the Isle -of May. On the 4th, at Pentland Skerries, a rush all day with -strong N. wind and rain. Indications at Bell Rock very faint -throughout. In the vast rush of <i>Turdidæ</i> and other species -(see <a href="#Turdidae"><i>Turdidæ</i></a> under date) of Nov. 1st, one solitary Wheatear is -first recorded, the first notice since Sept. 12th. In all three species -of <i>Saxicolinæ</i> with certainty.</p> - -<p><i>Note.</i>—The true Wheatear, "white on the rump," is intended -in the return from Pentland Skerries.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Silviinæ.</span>—In spring, earliest record (Robin) is March 18th, -at Pentland Skerries, and with an E.S.E. gale and sleet; and -the latest (also Robin) on May 11th, at Sumburgh Head, fresh, -S.S.E. A rush of Robins at Isle of May on April 26th, when -"large numbers" appeared; fresh, S.E. and haze. Robins disappeared -from Cromarty station on March 30th.</p> - -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_12">-12-</span></p> - -<p>In autumn, earliest record at Isle of May on Aug. 16th,—Whitethroat,—when -almost a rush might be recorded. On the -23rd again, at same place, large numbers of Whitethroats and -Titmice. At Cromarty station Robins reappeared, about a dozen -being seen on Sept. 15th, the first since spring. On Sept. 15th, -a rush of Robins at Isle of May, and on 22nd. Winds on -all these dates easterly, with fog, and on 15th "flying banks -of fog." Records also of Blackcap on 10th, and more Blackcaps -on 23rd; that on 10th with light W. wind, the others light E. -No records in October except at Chanonry, two on 15th, strong -squalls and S.W. Small numbers beginning of November, -amongst Thrushes, &c., <i>q.v.</i> stations; Pentland Skerries, light; -Dunnet Head, one record; the latest on Dec. 28th; and -Jan. 30th, at Chanonry; light squalls and sleet. Bell Rock and -Isle of May (maximum). Blue-throated Warbler on night -of Sept. 2nd-3rd. In all three species.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Phylloscopinæ.</span>—In spring a distinct movement of Goldcrests, -but nothing to compare with the autumn rush of 1882, -though comparing favourably with the spring rush of the same year. -Earliest record, April 1st, Isle of May; then singly or in small -numbers till 13th, when rather more, along with other species. -Latest date of Goldcrests or other Leaf-warblers, April 16th, at -Pentland Skerries; one Goldcrest; light N.E., clear. The first -Chiffchaff on April 26th; also at Isle of May; wind S.E. and -haze; and some again on May 2nd; and Willow Warblers and -Chiffchaffs on May 15th.</p> - -<p>In autumn a rush at Isle of May and no previous records; -on Sept. 3rd (see <a href="#Saxicolinae"><i>Saxicolinæ</i></a>); on the 2nd a S.E. gale, changing -light W., very dark. Scattered records running through 10th, -11th, to 15th, when another rush of Willow Warblers and Chiffchaffs, -and a solitary Goldcrest on 22nd, with a rush of Robins. -Goldcrests did not put in an appearance much before Oct. 10th, -when a rush took place that night, with light E. wind and cloudy, -again at Isle of May. Mr. D. M. Scott speaks of the "smallest -wrens he ever saw," which were seen at Sumburgh Head, on -Oct. 28th, which were probably of this species. Stations -recording are Sumburgh Head (one record); Tarbat Ness one -record on Oct. 30th [some years Caithness gets a large share -of Goldcrests]; and Isle of May. Three species.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Paridæ.</span>—A few scattered notices in April and May at Pentland -<span class="pagenum" id="Page_13">-13-</span> -Skerries on April 25th, 27th and 29th, with S. easterly and -N.E. wind; rain, haze or clear; and at same place on May 13th. -<i>Note.</i>—Mr. MacDonald distinguishes between "Titmice" and -"Tomtits." Titmice are probably Cole Tits, and "Tomtits" -Blue Tits, <i>Parus cæruleus</i>.</p> - -<p>In autumn, in September, a few at Isle of May, on 4th, 5th, -18th, 19th; on the 4th and 19th, travelling with "Stonechats"; -also at Isle of May; winds westerly and northerly. In October, -one record at Inchkeith; wind light S.W., which seems the -usually chosen wind at this locality for birds migrating. In -November, on the 18th, one bird, which is either a Cole Tit or a -Great Tit, at Isle of May.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Acrocephalinæ—Accentorinæ.</span>—A Solitary record of one -Sedge Warbler, at Isle of May, on May 17th, constitutes the -whole spring returns.</p> - -<p>In autumn, only two records in all; one at Isle of May on -Sept. 12th, of one Sedge Warbler, with light S.E., haze and -rain; and the other on Oct. 11th, at same place, of a Hedge -Sparrow ("Blue Janet" of Schedule). One species of Marsh -Warblers, and one probably <i>Saxicolinæ</i>.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Troglodytinæ</span>, Common Wren.—On April 9th, one struck -and killed (No. 66, in spirits); light W., clear!</p> - -<p>In autumn, on Aug. 18th, at Sumburgh Head, a few -remained two days; light W. and haze. Wrens not in large -numbers accompanied rush of other migrants on Sept. 22nd and -23rd; fresh E. and very dark, at Isle of May. In October, one -record at N. Unst, resting at 10 a.m.; S.W., light and haze ("a -rare visitor.") It would be interesting to know if this was one -of the large-footed form found in Faroe (<i>T. Faröensis</i>), or our -common species.<a id="FNanchor_2" href="#Footnote_2" class="fnanchor">[2]</a> In November, a few on 7th at Isle of May; -and at Tarbat Ness, one on Oct. 27th; in November, three seen -at Sumburgh Head, with strong breeze and hailstones.</p> - -<div class="footnote"> - -<p><a id="Footnote_2" href="#FNanchor_2" class="label">[2]</a> This I hope to be able to decide next year, should any turn up at this -station.</p> - -</div> - -<p><span class="smcap">Motacillidæ.</span>—In Spring, at Pentland Skerries and Isle -of May. Earliest, March 2nd, at Isle of May; light W., clear; -with a rush of other migrants. Five seen on March 30th—"the -most ever seen together in spring," at Isle of May, "by -Mr. Agnew;" a gale from the S. the previous night, but wind -<span class="pagenum" id="Page_14">-14-</span> -westerly when seen; these birds flying north. Other records are -with E. or S.E. winds, on 19th, 20th and 23rd. In April, two -records at Pentland Skerries and Isle of May, on 3rd and 25th.</p> - -<p>In autumn, records from Pentland Skerries, Bell Rock and -Isle of May. Earliest, July 13th, at the first-named station, and -again on 28th, with fresh N. wind and haze or rain. Scattered -records in August, mostly at Pentland Skerries, with northerly -winds; but two records, one with light S. and clear, and the -other, Aug. 18th, with fresh W. and cloudy, when thirteen -were counted. In September, a flock at Bell Rock on 1st; a few -on 2nd, at Pentland Skerries; a number on 11th, with Robins, -at Isle of May. In October, one record at Isle of May, on 10th, -light E., haze; and the latest record at Isle of May, one bird on -7th. The Wagtails on Oct. 10th are described as very light-coloured, -but from the good description it is easily seen that -they are immature birds of probably the Pied Wagtail. But it -is desirable to watch for <i>very light</i> or <i>light-backed birds</i> at Isle of -May and elsewhere, and especially at Bell Rock, <i>during the -spring</i> migration, as such may prove to be the continental White -Wagtail.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Anthidæ.</span>—In spring, the Rock Pipits resident at the Isle of -May received considerable additions to their numbers on March -19th, and Meadow Pipits arrived in small numbers on 21st, -which is an early date. On April 3rd, both had much increased -in numbers. "Moss-cheepers," <i>i.e.</i>, Meadow Pipits, are also -noted at Bell Rock, on April 27th.</p> - -<p>In autumn the movement was never great. Noted at Bell -Rock, and, curiously enough, <i>not</i> at Isle of May, nor at any -other stations. Duration: Aug. 9th—light S. breeze, fog, one -resting—to Nov. 1st, when one was noted along with the vast -rush of other migrants (see <a href="#Saxicolinae"><i>Saxicolinæ</i></a>). Indication of the rush -very faint about Sept. 1st, when a flock rested on the Rock; a -few more seen on 16th, 19th and 22nd; winds light S.W. on 1st, -light N.W. on 22nd, and E.N.E. on 19th; calm on 16th. On -Oct. 9th also a flock flying with "Bullfinches." [These latter -may, Mr. Jack thinks, be named wrong, and may be either -Crossbills or Hawfinches.]</p> - -<p><i>Land Notes.</i>—A Waxwing, <i>Ampelis garrula</i>,—a male in full -plumage,—was found at North Unst, of which Mr. Garrick -writes me that it had been kept too long and could not -<span class="pagenum" id="Page_15">-15-</span> -unfortunately be preserved. Two very fine old Waxwings were -shot at Kinneil Woods, near Borrowstonness (or Bo'ness), by -Mr. D. Nichol, gamekeeper to Mr. Russell, Dundas Castle, on -Jan. 18th, 1883.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Laniadæ.</span>—A male killed at Helensburgh (Dumbartonshire), -shot by Major Allan Colquhoun, Feb. 3rd, 1883.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Hirundinidæ.</span>—In spring, <i>i.e.</i>, till end of June, records reach -me from Sumburgh Head, Auskerry, Pentland Skerries and Isle -of May. (It is often difficult to draw the line in the case -of <i>Hirundinidæ</i>, between spring migration, local flights, and -autumn migration. This year, however, they are tolerably -distinct, as I have no records during the whole of July). Earliest -spring record is at Sumburgh Head, on April 21st, a single bird, -and the next is at Isle of May on April 26th; winds in both -cases S.E., and two more on 28th. No more till May 14th, with -S.W. wind at Isle of May. Occasional light returns all through -May, at Pentland Skerries and Isle of May; winds easterly -at former, and westerly at latter. <i>Note.</i>—None breed at Isle of -May. No rush distinguishable. In June the dates are 5th (at -Sumburgh Head and at Pentland Skerries), Sand Martin; 10th, -four seen at Sumburgh Head, and 13th, 14th, 17th and 26th, at -different stations; winds from all directions between S.W. at -Sumburgh Head by N. to E. Swallows arrived at Cromarty on -May 13th; first seen.</p> - -<p>In autumn, the movement, as far as I can judge, extended -through August and September, and lingered into October, the -latest record coming from Sumburgh Head on Oct. 6th. A -rush is indicated by the returns on Sept. 8th and 15th at Isle -of May, when "considerable numbers," "large numbers," and -on the 19th, "some," are the data. Wind light W. on 8th, and -easterly the other days. The directions of flight of Swallows -recorded in August vary considerably. Thus, at Pentland Skerries, -one Martin flying E.; strong S.E. and rain, on Aug. 8th; one -Swallow, "flying around," on 9th; fresh E., showers, and -"flying W."; on 20th light S.E. and haze. At Isle of May, five -Swallows flying S., light S.E., haze on 22nd, and flock "flying -S." on 30th; light S.E., haze. Swallows left Cromarty on -Sept. 8th; last seen.</p> - -<p><i>Land Notes.</i>—Swallows seen by me in some numbers at -Kirkmichael House, Dumfries, on evening of April 13th, flying -<span class="pagenum" id="Page_16">-16-</span> -over the artificial ponds. Also seen at Morningside by A. B. -Herbert, on 15th. I have the following notes from Dr. John -Grieve, at Bridge of Allan, which locality is famed in spring for -the shelter afforded from east winds. Dr. Grieve's notes refer -however to autumn notes. In 1880 Swifts left the Bridge of -Allan on Aug. 10th. In 1879 Swifts left between 8th and 17th, -and in 1882 on the 8th. "Previous to leaving they always -chase one another round the houses until two days before -leaving; then they appear to keep to higher air." In 1881 two -were seen on May 3rd, being the first arrivals. In 1880 about -200 "Martins and a few Swallows collected on two houses in -Bridge of Allan on Aug. 22nd, and similar congregations took -place in smaller numbers on 27th to 31st, and on Sept. 8th. On -Oct. 4th, frost; and in afternoon some twenty-five seen. On -Oct. 6th, five to one hundred seen hawking over the wood behind -Bridge of Allan. On 8th, six seen. On 8th, hard frost and fog; -four seen flying about <i>in silence</i>; next morning, hard frost. On -20th, 15° frost; on 21st, 6°; 22nd, 10°; and 23rd, 2°. But on 23rd -two Swallows seen. These were the last that year." In 1882 -great numbers of Swallows and Martins were seen flying eastward, -outside the cliffs of Beachy Head on Oct. 4th, and a good -many remained along the undercliff of the Isle of Wight at -Ventnor.</p> - -<p>The above notes by Dr. Grieve are quite to the point, and if -we could continue to receive land notes such as these from all -parts of the country they would be sure to prove most useful, -even if confined to one or two species of regular migrants.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Fringillidæ.</span>—Both in spring and autumn, one of the -features of the 1883 migration is the number of records of -Finches (also of Thrushes, and to a less extent of Buntings), -whilst Thrushes—of sorts—and Finches, seem usually to travel -together; there seems, if we may so call it, more uniform action -in the formers' movements in 1883. The Thrushes' movements -are more compressed: those of Finches more extended in time; -or, in other words, the spring and autumn migrations of the -<i>Turdidæ</i> are more strongly defined than those of the Finches. -Thrushes (including Blackbirds and all species) are totally -absent during June and July (not including residents of course), -and almost absent during August and September, and again the -same in December and January (1884). But, though the migrations -<span class="pagenum" id="Page_17">-17-</span> -of the Finches are easily defined, still they do spread out -more over the whole year, and, with the exception of July, -occupy considerable space in the schedule. These remarks are -intended to apply only to 1883, not as a general statement.</p> - -<p>In spring, records come from five of the stations giving -returns, <i>viz.</i>, Sumburgh Head, Auskerry, Pentland Skerries, -Bell Rock and Isle of May. The earliest, two Green Linnets -at Isle of May, on Feb. 17th (the only record of that month). -Again, at Isle of May, Tree Sparrows and Chaffinches on March -2nd—single birds. Latest, June 22nd, at Pentland Skerries—four -"Linnets." These are probably Twites or else Grey -Linnets. During April, between 1st and 5th, there was a rush -of Grey Linnets with light W. wind, clear, along with other -species; and during the month there are lighter movements -recorded of the following species:—Chaffinch, Sumburgh Head; -Common Sparrow, Pentland Skerries; Green Linnets, Isle of -May; Bramblings, Tree Sparrows and Bullfinches. Wind at -Sumburgh Head light S.E., but elsewhere generally light W. and -usually clear. In May a small flock of Sparrows at Auskerry, -from the 14th to 31st; one Brambling, one Chaffinch, one Green -Linnet, between 10th and 15th, with fresh N.N.E. wind.</p> - -<p>In autumn, at North Unst, one flock, Oct. 17th; S.E., light, -haze; Sumburgh Head, considerable migration in October—November -with other species (see <a href="#Turdidae">Thrush</a>). Pentland Skerries, -small indication as compared with more southerly stations; -Chanonry, light; Tarbat Ness, full migration; Bell Rock, rush; -and Isle of May, rushes. Earliest, Aug. 5th; numbers of small -flocks; wind light W. at Isle of May. Latest, Dec. 26th, at Isle -of May. Rushes:—General rush of migrants, Sept. 22nd, at -Isle of May, in which Bramblings participated; Oct. 13th, at -Tarbat Ness, Bramblings, wind due S.; also rush of same, 15th -and 16th, same place; and rush also of Tree Sparrows, -Chaffinches, "Green Buntings" (? Green Linnets), and Linnets, -at Chanonry; strong breeze and showers; movements -all through October of these same species; also Linnets -at Pentland Skerries; Siskins ("Sisting" of schedule), one -flock, old and young, on 7th, at Tarbat Ness, and again five -on Oct. 29th. Light S., haze, on 30th at Pentland Skerries—date -of principal rush,—but westerly gales at Tarbat Ness on -29th. At the time of rush between Oct. 13th and 16th, at Tarbat -<span class="pagenum" id="Page_18">-18-</span> -Ness, the wind began at due S.; 14th, strong S., and to noon -on 10th; then to W. and west gale at night of 15th. West -gales continued to end of month. By Nov. 1st to 3rd a vast -rush at Bell Rock and Isle of May, and also at Sumburgh -Head. By the 5th, rush all over and almost all left. Pentland -Skerries did not appear to participate largely in this rush. -The species are chiefly Chaffinches and Bramblings, also Green -Linnets, Gray Linnets and Sparrows. Prevailing winds westerly. -In December, fewer records at Pentland Skerries and Isle of May. -Winds prevailing N.W. and W. At Dunnet Head "Linnets" -are reported present all the year round. In January, 1884, -one or two light records of Brambling and Greenfinch at Isle -of May. Latest, Jan. 12th. <i>Note.</i>—Mr. Gilmour, Pentland -Skerries, writes he was not sure of the Chaffinches at that -station, when he took up the keeping of the records, and that -they may prove to be Snow Buntings, which is very likely. Mr. -D. M. Scott, at Sumburgh Head, writes under date of Oct. 11th, -"a number of small birds killed on balcony: picked up four -Green Linnets and two Chaffinches. I discovered to-day what -becomes of them after being killed. In a hole of a stone dyke -I found a large number of wings and legs of small birds, taken -there by Weasels" (<i>i.e.</i>, <i>Mustela erminea</i>, which was introduced -to Shetland. The Common Weasel, <i>Mustela vulgaris</i>, is not an -inhabitant of Shetland). If Mr. Scott would in future collect all -the wings and send them to me by post, they would be useful in -identifying species; or, at any time, if a rare bird occurs, the -name of which is not known, the wings, might be sent (see -addition to letter of instructions, issued 1884). Mr. Agnew -notes that he had never before witnessed such a large migration -at Isle of May, with a due S. wind, as that of Oct. 13th, 14th, and -15th. Chaffinch was heard singing on Feb. 28th at Dunipace.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Corvidæ.</span>—I have records every month in the year but June. -In January, 1884, one Hooded Crow flying north, W.S.W. gale, -clear. In February, 1883, records of Grey Crows, Jackdaws (at -Isle of May, "very rare" on 13th and 14th, light S. and S.W., -shifting to N). Rooks (at Isle of May, on. 19th, a single bird). -In March, Rooks (at Pentland Skerries a flock all day, fresh S.E., -cloudy), and one Hooded Crow (on 19th at Isle of May, light, -S.E.). In April, at Sumburgh Head, Bell Rock, and Isle of -May, Rooks and Carrion Crows and one Hooded Crow; prevailing -<span class="pagenum" id="Page_19">-19-</span> -winds S.E., clear. One Black Crow flying north at Noss Head, -with light N.W. and clear. In May two records only at Sumburgh -Head on 3rd, and at Pentland Skerries, on 11th, of Rooks -(two flying W., fresh W. breeze and clear).</p> - -<p>In autumn, in July, all the records are of Rooks, all at one -station, <i>viz.</i>, Pentland Skerries, and in each case birds remaining -on island all day; winds moderate N., cloudy or clear, but -strong S. on 27th. In August, Rooks again at Pentland Skerries, -on island; single birds. The above are probably merely local -predatory excursions from the mainland of Scotland. In Sept. -eighteen Ravens seen at Sumburgh Head, flying S., light N.E. -and clear. In October many more records. At Sumburgh -Head twelve to twenty Hooded Crows continually fighting with, -four large Hawks, one of which was so exhausted as nearly to -allow Mr. D. M. Scott to catch it on the ground. Many single -or other light records. The most seen, thirty Jackdaws (the -largest flock Mr. Agnew has ever seen on Isle of May), on Oct. -15th, S. to W. winds; also twenty-six Carrion Crows and a few -"Hoodies" on 31st at Isle of May. Of these sixteen came from -the north at 3 p.m., light S. and haze. In November Carrion -and Hooded Crows attended the rush of migrants on 1st, coming -from the north. On the 3rd the Isle of May was literally swarming -with birds, and on the 9th Jackdaws, two in number, reappeared; -light W., clear. In December, at Sumburgh Head, -two "large Black Crows" (Carrion Crows?), or, as the natives -call them, "Scotch Crows"; strong breeze and hail showers. A -very regular local migration of Crows or Rooks takes place day -after day past Chanonry from and to Nairn, feeding in the -morning and back at night. At Sumburgh Head Grey Crows -are seen almost daily. <i>Land Notes.</i>—Mr. R. Gray writes me -that great numbers of Hooded Crows are at present frequenting -Tyne Woods on the estate of the Earl of Haddington in East -Lothian. They came some time ago in a body, and have been -seen feeding on the mud and sands of the estuary, and betaking -themselves to the woods at night to roost. These are evidently -migratory flocks, which have crossed Heligoland and landed on -our east coast without being actually observed in transit.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Sturninæ.</span>—In spring, from Feb. 8th at Pentland Skerries to -April 23rd at same place. Only four records in that time.</p> - -<p>In autumn, great coutinuous migration at Auskerry, July -<span class="pagenum" id="Page_20">-20-</span> -30th, of old and young; light W. One flock on August 7th at -Pentland Skerries all day; one flock stayed from March 15th to -24th at Sumburgh Head, and many large flocks also seen to the -north of that place at the same time. In October two small -Starlings, "one with a crest like a Crested Lark, raised and -lowered it at will" [Rose-coloured Pastor?—J. A. H. B.] seen -on 6th, light N. wind. Rushes took place on Nov. 1st, especially -at Sumburgh Head and Isle of May (see also under <a href="#Turdidae">Thrush</a>). -Latest, Dec. 31st, at Isle of May; but the Starling is resident -all the year round at many of our stations.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Alaudidæ.</span>—In spring at Sumburgh Head, Pentland Skerries, -Bell Rock, and Isle of May. Earliest, Feb. 8th, a single bird at -Bell Rock, and several on 9th at Pentland Skerries (see under -<a href="#Turdidae">Thrush</a> at this date). Latest, April 6th, at Sumburgh Head, -when they were found increasing, but not observed on arrival. A -rush took place at Isle of May on Feb. 11th, 1 a.m. till daylight, -light E. and fog, flying south (at least all struck the north side -of lantern).<a id="FNanchor_3" href="#Footnote_3" class="fnanchor">[3]</a> Other movements took place, but none of any -magnitude; winds S. and W. in Feb., except the 11th, <i>ut sup.</i>; -N.W., S.W. to E. on 20th, in March.</p> - -<div class="footnote"> - -<p><a id="Footnote_3" href="#FNanchor_3" class="label">[3]</a> Do the birds strike in light winds and fog upon the side facing the wind, -or on the sheltered side? In heavy gales they strike <i>hard with the wind</i>, -but touch and strike also on the Shetland side,</p> - -</div> - -<p>In autumn, a few records at N. Unst, Isle of May, and Inch-keith. -Earliest, Sept. 21st, at Isle of May, a small flock, fresh -E., clear. Latest, Nov. 26th, a single bird at N. Unst rested all -night. Rushes, 11th to 20th, W., shifting to N. on 11th; W. -gale on 19th and 20th. Also rush on 31st and Nov. 1st, along -with other species, principally, at Bell Rock and Isle of May. -Again a few in January, 1884, up to 17th, light W. winds and haze; -and at Chanonry on 24th a flock, with strong squalls and sleet.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Emberizidæ.</span>—In spring Snow Buntings began to appear on -Feb. 9th,—but this may not belong to spring records,—when a -large flock flew about all day on Pentland Skerries. They -occurred also at Auskerry, Sumburgh Head, Pentland Skerries, -and Isle of May. Earliest, as above. Latest, April 12th, at -Sumburgh Head, when two were killed. No great rushes -evident, but largest numbers passed in March, mostly with -northerly or westerly winds. If any rush occurred it was between -March 9th and 25th, indicated principally at Pentland Skerries -<span class="pagenum" id="Page_21">-21-</span> -and Isle of May. On 23rd, at Isle of May, a flock flying north. -Common Bunting seen at Isle of May on Feb. 12th, and again -on April 6th. Yellow Buntings at same place on March 5th and -April 7th, in both cases females.</p> - -<p>In autumn, as usual, we have numerous records, especially -of Snow Buntings, at most stations, <i>viz.</i>, N. Unst, Sumburgh -Head, Pentland Skerries, Tarbat Ness, Dunnet Head, Bell Rock, -and Isle of May. Earliest at Isle of May on Sept. 21st. A -rush on 22nd and 27th; fresh E. to heavy S.W. gale on 26th -and 27th. Latest records to Jan. 18th, 1884. Bushes in -September <i>ut sup.</i>, a few in October, many all through November, -but principally on 13th-15th, 16th, and in lesser degree on 1st -and 2nd. Snow Buntings often appear with gales and snow or -sleet, but during this month S. and W. winds rather prevailed. -They arrived before the great W. gales, which began about the -16th. Of other species we have as follows: Yellow Bunting, -"Grey Bunting," "Green Bunting" (? Green Linnet), and -Cirl Bunting (one bird sent in spirits was not a Cirl Bunting, -but a young male Yellow Bunting). All these are recorded from -Isle of May, but no other station, and are distributed almost -entirely in October and December; prevailing winds westerly, -with stormy weather and gales.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Cuculidæ.</span>—One spring record from Cromarty station: Arrived -on April 29th; E., fresh breeze, haze.</p> - -<p>One autumn record only, and the only record I have received -from any station during autumn migration, <i>viz.</i>, one young bird -at Isle of May on August 23rd, light W., clear. Possibly amongst -the many records of "Hawks" at other stations some occurrences -of the young brown-coloured Cuckoo may have been included, as -they are very like small Hawks in their flight.</p> - -<p><i>Land Notes.</i>—Cuckoo heard at Dunipace, Stirlingshire, on -April 9th, 1883, a very early record. Not heard again till May. -Cuckoo recorded from Busby, at Lee Farm, near Sheddens, on April -14th. Cuckoo heard on Tinwald Downs, Dumfries, on April 23rd.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Strigidæ.</span>—In spring a Tawny Owl at Isle of May on April -28th, S.E. fresh, haze; and at Auskerry an Owl (which is -probably the Short-eared Owl) came on the 14th, with stiff S.E. -and showers, and remained a week. "This Owl visits Auskerry -annually in May."</p> - -<p>In autumn, in September, one Owl on 28th at Pentland -<span class="pagenum" id="Page_22">-22-</span> -Skerries, strong N.N.E. and showers. In October four single -records of Large Owl at Pentland Skerries on 31st and 13th, and -of Short-eared Owls at Isle of May on 3rd and 13th. None in -December, and one Owl at Pentland Skerries all day on island -on 1st; light N.W. showers.</p> - -<p><i>Land Notes.</i>—Short-eared Owls were reported unusually -abundant on Flanders Moss, Stirlingshire, in the autumn; and -I saw two as late as the 31st January, 1884, on Latham Moss, in -the same county, so that some appear to remain all winter.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Falconidæ.</span>—Spring records in March and April only, March -2nd to April 30th. At Pentland Skerries and Isle of May all -single or light entries; wind easterly, except on March 2nd, -when it was S.W. and clear, and one Kestrel was seen. The -Merlin is twice noted. "Light Brown Hawks twice at Isle of -May and Pentland Skerries."</p> - -<p>In the autumn, at Sumburgh Head, Pentland Skerries, Bell -Rock, and Isle of May. All July records, three in number, at -Pentland Skerries, of "Sparrowhawk," "Large Brown Hawk," -and "Large Hawk." In August five records, three at Isle of -May of Sparrowhawk and "Hawks"; one at Pentland Skerries of -"Falcon Hawk"; and one at Sumburgh Head of one Large -Brown Hawk. The "Falcon Hawk" is described as "hovering," -so is more likely a <i>Kestrel Hawk</i>. In September ten records; -two at Pentland Skerries, two "Hawks" and one "Game Hawk," -and at Isle of May one Sparrowhawk caught at gratings, and a -"Hawk." Hawks are usually found attending the rush of -small migrants. In October only one record, a Game Hawk at -Pentland Skerries; four in November, all at Pentland Skerries. -None in December, and five in January, 1884. One bird Mr. -Agnew "feels almost sure was a Goshawk, and not a Sparrowhawk." -The rush, if any, would appear to be in September, but -its faintness precludes us from any feeling of certainty. A late -schedule from Sumburgh Head contains record of an Eagle -["Silver-crested Eagle"; probably the Sea Eagle] wounded at -Fitful Head by Mr. Birnie. At 11.15 a.m. on January 29th, -1884, this bird landed on the high rocks, half a mile north of -the Read. Mr. Birnie says it cannot live long, as it was severely -wounded. Mr. Birnie is employed by the landed proprietors to -kill all the birds of prey in Shetland. He has killed a large -number of Black-backed Gulls, Hooded Crows, Ravens, &c.</p> - -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_23">-23-</span></p> - - -<p class="caption4nb smcap">Water Birds.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Pelecanidæ.</span>—In entering records of Gannets or Solan Geese -I believe the best way is to arrange the data in tabular form. -Spring records are only returned from Pentland Skerries; but, -considering the central position on the tract through the Pentland -Firth, I think all records from there are of use and value, if we -desire to arrive at conclusions regarding the movements of this -species.</p> - -<p class="tdc"><i>Spring,</i></p> - -<div class="blockquot"> - -<p>March 26th, Pentland Skerries, three Gannets flying E.; strong -N.E., and clear.</p> - -<p>April 6th, Pentland Skerries, one Gannet, 4.45 p.m., flying E.; -light W., clear.</p> - -<p>May 7th, Pentland Skerries, continuous flocks of Gannets all day, -flying E.; strong N., haze.</p> - -<p>May 16th, Pentland Skerries, continuous flocks of Gannets all -day, flying E.; light N.E., clear.</p> - -<p>May 28th, Pentland Skerries, several Gannets all day flying -round; strong S., showers.</p> - -<p>April 12th, Noss Head, four Gannets flying N.; light N.W., haze.</p> - -<p>June 28th, Noss Head, six Gannets flying S.E.; light S., fog.</p> -</div> - -<p class="tdc"><i>Autumn.</i></p> - -<div class="blockquot"> - -<p>July 1st to 15th, Auskerry, at 2 o'clock, flying from N. to S.; -light W. breeze.</p> - -<p>July 5th, Pentland Skerries, 8.20 p.m., flying E.; mod. E., fog -and rain.</p> - -<p>July 6th, Pentland Skerries, all day, several flocks flying E.; -light S., haze.</p> - -<p>July 6th, Pentland Skerries, a few fishing all day round L.; -light S., haze.</p> - -<p>July 7th, Pentland Skerries, several flocks fishing all day; mod. -S.E., haze.</p> - -<p>July 8th, Pentland Skerries, continuous flocks all day flying E.; -mod. W., clear.</p> - -<p>July 15th, Pentland Skerries, continuous flocks all day flying E.; -mod. W., clear.</p> - -<p>July 16th to 20th to 26th, Pentland Skerries, continuous flocks -all day flying E.;<a id="FNanchor_4" href="#Footnote_4" class="fnanchor">[4]</a> light N.W. to mod. N.</p> - -<p>July 27th, on to Aug., Pentland Skerries, continuous flocks all -day flying E.; N. to S.W.; and all this month, all going E., -except several flocks on 22nd flying W.</p> -</div> - -<div class="footnote"> - -<p><a id="Footnote_4" href="#FNanchor_4" class="label">[4]</a> On 16th a few young observed. All flying E., except six seen on the -20th, flying W.</p> - -</div> - -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_24">-24-</span></p> - -<div class="blockquot"> - -<p>Sept. 3rd to 15th, Pentland Skerries, fewer, all flying S.W. on -15th; light S.E., wind.</p> - -<p>Sept. 5th to 30th, Noss Head, daily, flocks of six to fifty flying -N. all day.</p> - -<p>Oct. 19th, Noss Head, nineteen at 3 p.m.; strong W., haze and rain.</p> - -<p>Nov. 10th, Sumburgh Head, eight flying S., 12 noon; fresh N. -breeze, hail.</p> -</div> - -<p>The annual regularity with which the Solan Geese pass and -repass through the Pentland Firth and various other points of -observation cannot, we think, fail to develop, by the statistics -accumulated, some curious facts in migration. We are thus -careful to record these with some minuteness of detail. A late -schedule from Sumburgh Head has—"Two on 16th, Sumburgh -Head. Eighteen Gannets flying S.W., 12 noon; strong -W., showers."</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Ardeidæ.</span>—We do not think it will be so easy, in regard to -Herons, to arrive at laws regulating their flights; but, in case of -development, will on this occasion tabulate their records, though -we have not done so before.</p> - -<p class="tdc"><i>Spring.</i></p> - -<div class="blockquot"> - -<p>March 29th, Pentland Skerries, one flying N., 3 p.m.: S. gale, rain.</p> - -<p>June 13th, Isle of May, one flying S., 5 p.m., in company with -Gulls, which is rare.</p> - -<p>June 24th, Isle of May, one flying S., 5 p.m.; light W., clear.</p> -</div> - -<p class="tdc"><i>Autumn.</i></p> - -<div class="blockquot"> - -<p>Aug. 26th, Isle of May, one flying W.; light W., clear.</p> - -<p>Sept. 12th, Pentland Skerries, four flying about island (rare); -light S., clear.</p> - -<p>Oct. 15th, Pentland Skerries, one rose off rocks, 4.15 p.m.</p> - -<p>Oct. 23rd, Isle of May, one; fair W., clear.</p> - -<p>Nov. 1st, Pentland Skerries, one flying S., 7.50 a.m.; light -N.W., cloudy.</p> - -<p>Jan. 29th, Sumburgh Head, six (one shot); fair W., clear.</p> -</div> - -<p>There was a very large movement of Herons in 1882, principally -in October and November (see Report, 1882, p. 18).</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Anatidæ.</span>—Very few records either in spring or autumn. -Spring: none. Autumn: Swans on Aug. 15th, at Tarbat Ness, -two from the N., flying S.E. at 1 p.m.; N. strong, and clear. -The only other records are in October, a large flock flying E. -past Pentland Skerries at 12.20 p.m., with light W. and showers, -<span class="pagenum" id="Page_25">-25-</span> -"very rarely seen here." On 19th, Ducks (sp.?), three flying -W. over same station at 10.30 a.m.; strong N.W. wind. On -13th, Eiders at Isle of May in large flocks, both males and -females, all day; strong due S.; left at night. At Chanonry, -local movements of Grey Geese and Grey Ducks to and fro in -stormy weather, or from feeding to nesting ground. At Sumburgh -Head, twenty-eight wild Geese flying S.; strong S.W., and snow -on 25th; and on 28th sixteen wild Geese, also flying S.; gale -from N.W. <i>Land Notes.</i>—At Kirkwall, twenty-five wild Swans -frequented the Loch of Banks, and are described as being "very -tame" ('Scotsman,' 27, iii., 83). A very large flock of Pink-footed -or Bean Geese, probably the former, seen flying very high -towards S.E. and crying, at Kippen on March 23rd. Fully 150 -Wild Geese remained on Flanders Moss all spring after this date, -and were seen last on April 23rd.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Columbidæ.</span>—In spring, few records at Pentland Skerries -and Bell Rock. On Feb. 19th, at former station, three Rock -Doves flying E., 7 a.m.; S.W., fresh, clear. On March 4th, -two Rock Doves at same station, seen at 3 p.m.; light variable, -and haze. On April 20th, one Wood Pigeon at same station -flying S.E.; fair S.S.E., fog. On May 12th, one Woodpecker -flying S.W. past Bell Rock, 1.12 p.m.; strong S.W.; and on 28th, -a few Rock Doves at Pentland Skerries; strong S., and fog.</p> - -<p>In autumn only two records; one at Pentland Skerries, -twelve Rock Pigeons, on July 23rd, on island; light N., haze -and rain; and on Sept. 16th, one Wood Pigeon at 2 p.m., at -Bell Rock, flying S.W.; light S.W. breeze.</p> - -<p><i>Land Notes.</i>—A male <i>Columba œnas</i> (Stock Dove) was shot -at Garden, in this county (Stirlingshire), on March 15th, 1883. -This species has been rapidly extending its range of late years -in Scotland. See my paper on the Stock Dove (Ryl. Phyl. Soc. -Edinb., 1883, p. 241, Feb. 21st). In 1884 at least four pairs are -breeding in the Vale of Menteith.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Rallidæ.</span>—Spring records meagre. One heard at Isle of May -April 28th, marked "rare here." One heard at Pentland Skerries -on May 6th, 5.50 p.m.; mod. S.S.E., clear. One heard -first time at Cromarty station on May 20th; strong E., clear.</p> - -<p>No autumn records this season.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Charadriadæ.</span>—Spring records meagre. April 18th, at Pentland -Skerries, three Golden Plovers at 5 p.m.; S.S.W. May 15th, -<span class="pagenum" id="Page_26">-26-</span> -at Auskerry, large flocks of Plovers all day; light E., and showers. -May 17th, at Isle of May, one Oystercatcher; W., very fine.</p> - -<p>Autumn records almost equally meagre. July 13th, at Pentland -Skerries, one Golden Plover; fair N., light showers. Aug. -8th, at Pentland Skerries, one Golden Plover; strong S.E. Aug. -14th, at Pentland Skerries, one Golden Plover; light S.E., -showers. Sept. 6th, at Isle of May, six Golden Plovers; strong -W., clear. Oct. 26th, at Pentland Skerries, one "Silver Plover" -(? Knot) killed at lantern; strong W., showers.</p> - -<p>Of Lapwings, records are almost equally scanty. In spring, -on Feb. 17th, a flock all day at Pentland Skerries; light S. -breeze (see <a href="#Turdidae"><span class="smcap">Thrush</span></a>). In March, along with the rush of other -migrants on 2nd at Isle of May; strong W., clear; and a number -on 3rd. Lots of sixteen and twenty on the 10th and 20th of -same month; light E. and S.E., fog, rain, and haze.</p> - -<p>In autumn five Ringed Plovers stayed for some days on Isle -of May on and after Aug. 28th; came with light W., and clear—the -only record given of any <span class="smcap">Charadriadæ</span> in autumn. At -Chanonry, numerous records of Lapwings lighting on the point, -or passing in stormy weather or in strong breezes, in Sept. to -January, 1884. A late schedule from Sumburgh Head has a -record of Lapwings on Jan. 24th, with the remark, "I believe -they have never been seen here at this season of the year before."</p> - -<p><i>Land Notes.</i>—Lapwings seen in pairs on March 4th at -breeding stations in Stirlingshire.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Scolopacidæ.</span>—Spring. Curlews first heard at Pentland Skerries -on March 2nd, when heard at 2.15 p.m.; mod. N.W., fog. -Last on June 29th (but probably belongs to autumn) at same -place, when a flock flying S.; light S., clear. A rush between -April 7th and 15th, a few flying south between these dates at Isle -of May,—scarcely an appreciable rush,—and one record in May.</p> - -<p>In autumn, not a great many records of Curlews. Earliest -July 4th, at Pentland Skerries, and on 15th and 29th at same -station; also in August, and at same station a few records, -most probably local movements. An apparent slight indication -of a rush of Curlews in September at three stations,—Sumburgh -Head, Pentland Skerries, and Isle of May,—young and old; and -up to 23rd, at Isle of May, numbers daily. Fewer in October, -and occasional records up to January, 1884.</p> - -<p>Of Snipe, a few scattered records in spring, in March and -<span class="pagenum" id="Page_27">-27-</span> -April. March 2nd to 9th, at Pentland Skerries and Isle of May; -and April 12th and 26th, at same stations, winds mostly westerly; -but on March 8th E.N.E., gale and snow.</p> - -<p>In autumn, not abundant either, and scarcely require details. -Occurred in July, August, October (a large flock at Sumburgh -Head on 18th; gale and sleet showers), and December. In -July, at Pentland Skerries only; in August, ditto; in September, -not at all. In October, at Sumburgh Head and Pentland Skerries -(and a Jack Snipe at Isle of May). December, at Sumburgh -Head (a large number all day on 3rd); strong breezes, snow-showers; -and a Jack Snipe at Pentland Skerries on 24th.</p> - -<p>Woodcock.—In spring, one record on April 7th, at Bell Rock, -flying about the rock.</p> - -<p>In autumn, Oct. 13th and 14th, two single birds at Isle of -May and Pentland Skerries; and on Nov. 1st and 13th, at Isle of -May, N. Unst, and Shetland. The one on 1st accompanied the -rush of other migrants. On Oct. 13th six were shot on Isle of -May; wind due S., an unusual wind for migrants to arrive at -Isle of May. At Chanonry, many local records of "Whaups" -(Curlews)—probably the same flock of forty or fifty—appearing -in stormy weather.</p> - -<p><i>Land Notes.</i>—On the night of March 26th, at Dunipace, -whilst standing at the front door (night bright and starry, -and frost), a large flock of birds crossed overhead, flying -south. The cries were difficult to make out, but belonged either -to Whimbrels or other species of wader. The subject of the -sounds of bird-cries at night would form good matter for -explanation by those who have constant opportunities of hearing -them. Wind N.E. up to March 27th, when a S.W. gale, shifting -to S., with heavy rain. About fifty Curlews were seen at -Caldarvon, west of this county, on March 11th, and three pairs -on 17th (auct. Jas. Lumsden).</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Scolopacidæ</span> (Waders).—Earliest spring migrants were Sandpipers -and Redshanks at Pentland Skerries on Feb. 9th (time of -migration of Thrushes, <i>q.v.</i>); and on 17th, ditto. On April 27th -a Purple Sandpiper at Isle of May (No. 57 in spirits).</p> - -<p>Autumn. Earliest July 20th, at Pentland Skerries, Redshanks; -and a few records of these and Sandpipers to 31st. In -August a few records of the same, and one Turnstone (identified) -(No. 60 in spirits). In September great flocks of Sandpipers -<span class="pagenum" id="Page_28">-28-</span> -flew in rays of light at 9 p.m.; light E.N.E., and fog. In end -of October and beginning of November Sandpipers and Red-shanks -participated in the rush of migrants at that time at -Pentland Skerries especially; light S.W. Large numbers on -5th; strong N.W., and showers; and numbers up to 21st, all -day; strong N.W. In December, rushes on 12th; N.W. gale, -snow; and up to 21st, very likely local movements.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Sterninæ.</span>—Records of either migration very scanty. First -seen in spring was at Pentland Skerries on May 13th, at 3.30 p.m.; -light S.W., haze; and again at same place two seen flying north -on June 20th. On June 3rd, at Sumburgh Head, two; fresh W., -cloudy. Lesser Terns arrived at Cromarty on May 23rd.</p> - -<p>In autumn, first record Aug. 7th, at Pentland Skerries, when -those breeding there all left, except one or two, with fresh N.W., -clear. At Bell Rock, on Sept. 19th, a flock kept flying round the -rays of light all night (<i>i.e.</i>, 19th-20th); light E.N.E.; and on -Sept. 27th one immature bird appeared after a heavy gale from -W. the previous night. The above, I think, is the first occurrence -I have of Terns flying round and round within the rays of -light of a lantern. Lesser Terns disappeared from Cromarty on -Aug. 26th; S.W., strong, clear.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Laridæ.</span>—In spring, large numbers arrive about March 1st -for breeding purposes at Pentland Skerries, and leave about the -middle of August. On March 21st, at Isle of May, Kittiwakes -arrived in large numbers at 9 a.m.—their first appearance; wind -fresh E.S.E., cloudy and cold; and by April 3rd had steadily -increased in numbers. At Auskerry, May 18th is given as first -appearance of "Sea Maws"; strong N.W., and haze; and a -Black-headed Gull was seen, with light N.E. and clear, at Pentland -Skerries. At same station, record of two Black-backed Gulls -on June 27th; fresh S.E., and haze completes spring records.</p> - -<p>In autumn, at Pentland Skerries during July the daily movements -of Gulls may be worth reproducing in detail. All the July -records I have are from this station, and also all the August ones.</p> - -<div class="blockquot"> - -<p>1883, July 12, Pentland Skerries, one "Chaser" flying N.W., -2.15 p.m.; light E., haze.</p> - -<p>July 18th, Pentland Skerries, three Black-backed Gulls flying N., -2.30 p.m.; mod. N.W.</p> - -<p>July 23rd, Pentland Skerries, one "Chaser" flying W., 10.20 a.m.; -light N.</p> - -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_29">-29-</span></p> - -<p>July 25th, Pentland Skerries, continuous and large flocks of -Herring Gulls flying round all day; N., clear.</p> - -<p>July 28th, Pentland Skerries, three "Chasers" (one flying E. at -3 p.m., and one flying S. at 5 p.m.); mod. S.W., clear.</p> - -<p>July 29th, Pentland Skerries, one "Dirty Allan" seen. -Aug. 6th, Pentland Skerries, large flock of young Gulls on rocks -all day; light S., clear.</p> - -<p>Aug. 7th, Pentland Skerries, large flock of young Gulls on rocks, -3.30 p.m.; fresh N.W.</p> - -<p>Aug. 20th, Pentland Skerries, one "Chaser" flying S.E., 12.50 -p.m.; strong S.E., haze.</p> -</div> - -<p>On 15th, at Dunnet Head, Gulls leave breeding-places in -cliffs. Our correspondent includes both "Chasers" and a -"Dirty Allan," both of which names I held as applicable to -the commonest species of Skua; but here they seem to be -divided, as applying to two different species, probably Richardson's -(common) Skua and the Pomatorhine Skua.</p> - -<p>"Dirty Allans" are again recorded from Isle of May, along -with a rush of small birds on Sept. 23rd; and in this case I -doubt not Mr. Agnew applies the name to Richardson's Skua. -This is the only September record. In October only two records -at N. Unst; two pairs of Iceland Gulls stayed two days, coming -on the 4th with fresh N. and clear; and two pairs more on 21st -hovering round at 11 a.m.; fresh N., clear.</p> - -<p>In November and December the greatest movements are -noticed, which I give in detail:—Nov. 2nd, Pentland Skerries, -several Kittiwakes flying S.E., noon; fresh S.W. Nov. 10th, -Isle of May, thousands of Gulls (?); W. gale, clear; first seen at -4 a.m., wind shifting to north. Nov. 11th, Isle of May, all the -above gone; light N.W., clear. These may have been Glaucous, -from description, but this is not clear; and from subsequent records -I have preferred to consider them Herring, though Mr. Agnew includes -the latter later by name, I believe Mr. Agnew knows the -Glaucous and Iceland Gulls well. <i>Land Note.</i>—There has not -been a large migration of Glaucous and Iceland Gulls at Kincardine -on Forth for many years.</p> - -<div class="blockquot"> - -<p>Nov. 17th, Isle of May, hundreds of Herring Gulls came from -S.E. all day; light N.W. "Grey Gulls" mixed with Blackbacks, -the latter one in twenty.</p> -<span class="pagenum" id="Page_30">-30-</span> -<p>Nov. 18th, Isle of May, every Gull gone; light N.W.</p> - -<p>Nov. 24th, Isle of May, hundreds of Herring Gulls came from -S.E. all day; fresh W.; also accompanied by smaller numbers -of Black-backs.</p> - -<p>Dec. 13th, Pentland Skerries, two Black-backed Gulls on island, -12.30 p.m.; N.W. gale.</p> - -<p>Dec. 3rd, Isle of May, thousands of "Gulls," 3 p.m.; W., clear.</p> - -<p>1884, Jan. 22nd, Isle of May, large light-coloured Gulls with -black tips to wings; gale W. last night.</p> -</div> - -<p><i>Note.</i>—There is evidently considerable confusion existing -regarding the various species of Sea Gulls; and this is not to be -wondered at when the innumerable phases of plumage in even the -same species, according to maturity or immaturity, is considered. -What is sadly wanted in such a quest as ours is a series of cheap -yet fairly well executed plates of birds in all phases of plumage, -with measurements to scale; but the almost impossibility of -issuing such at a sufficiently low price for general distribution -must, we fear, for ever debar our correspondents from obtaining -such a means of assistance. M. De La Rue issues marvels of -cheapness in Christmas Cards; could he not undertake something -in this line? His pictures of birds are admirable, but he -would have to keep up the standard, or even improve it, to be of -scientific value to us.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Procellariidæ.</span>—Records scarce in spring and autumn. At -Auskerry, arrived for first time on July 30th, but as early as 6th -eggs were laid at Pentland Skerries. Being a bird of nocturnal -habits, the arrival cannot, we fancy, be easily fixed at all times. -At Auskerry, on 8th, two pairs had two eggs each (some notes on -the schedule margin here have been torn off and lost, J. A. H. B.) -On Sept. 25th one struck at Dunnet Head; S.S.W., fog; and on -26th six struck and rested from 9 to 11 p.m.; S.E. fresh, and -haze. It is seldom so many are recorded at the same time. Are -these Pentland Skerries birds? At Noss Head, on Aug. 28th -and on 30th, one Stormy Petrel each time struck, but not -killed, with W.N.W. fresh on former date, and light S.E. and -haze on latter.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Alcidæ.</span>—Spring. First visit at Isle of May on March 21st, -when "not very many" appeared, with fresh E.S.E. Guillemots -and Razorbills. Next visit at Isle of May, large numbers on -April 1st with light W., and in dear weather. Increased on 3rd, -<span class="pagenum" id="Page_31">-31-</span> -and on April 27th arrived again finally, after a few days' absence, -with fresh S.E. and haze. These and other rock birds breeding -here all left on Aug, 10th, except a few Kittiwakes and Eider -Ducks, after a heavy W. gale on 9th (see August, below). Puffins -were first observed at Isle of May; however, not before May 4th, -when a few showed.</p> - -<p>Following this comes what may be considered local flights, in -search of food, to and from the fishing grounds:—</p> - -<div class="blockquot"> - -<p>May 16th, Pentland Skerries, continuous flocks flying E.; light -breeze N.E.</p> - -<p>May 21st, Pentland Skerries, continuous flocks flying E.; light -W., haze.</p> - -<p>June 4th, Pentland Skerries, continuous flocks flying S.E.; light -N.E., haze.</p> - -<p>June 6th, Pentland Skerries, continuous flocks flying S.E.; light -E., haze.</p> - -<p>June 17th to 20th, Pentland Skerries, continuous rush flying S.E.; -strong N. to light E. and W.</p> - -<p>June 21st, Pentland Skerries, several flocks all day flying S.E.; -lights.</p> - -<p>June 25th, Pentland Skerries, large flocks, 7.15 p.m., flying S.E.; -fresh S.E., fog and rain.</p> - -<p>June 29th, Pentland Skerries, a few around; light S., clear.</p> -</div> - -<p>We now come to the autumn movement, if we take the same -dates as for many land birds; but this is apt to be mixed up with -the later summer movements of old and young birds, and therefore -we will keep July by itself. All the records here relate, as -before, to Pentland Skerries. An equally exact record from each -salient or conspicuous station round our coasts could not fail to -give us exact knowledge as regards the movements of sea-fowl, -or rather of rock birds. Food-supply is an important factor in -the local as well as the other migrations. A knowledge of -fishing-grounds would thereby be achieved; and a knowledge of -the two subjects, migration of birds and geography of the distribution -of fishes, would undoubtedly help each other. With these -remarks we continue our records for July, believing that this -simple tabular form is most useful in the present case, though -cumbrous if carried on in every instance.</p> - -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_32">-32-</span></p> - -<p><i>July debatable ground,</i></p> - -<div class="blockquot"> - -<p>July 5th, Pentland Skerries, a flock 8.20 p.m.; mod. E., fog and -showers.</p> - -<p>July 6th, Pentland Skerries, several flocks all day; light S., haze.</p> - -<p>July 7th, Pentland Skerries, several flocks all day flying E.; mod. -S.E., haze.</p> - -<p>July 18th, Pentland Skerries, a few flocks all day; mod. N.W., clear.</p> - -<p>July 25th, Pentland Skerries, continuous flocks all day; mod. -N.E., clear.</p> - -<p>July 26th, Pentland Skerries, continuous flocks all day flying E. -and S.E.; fresh N., haze.</p> -</div> - -<p>The last two entries appear to me to indicate decision in -commencing the autumn migration.</p> - -<div class="blockquot"> - -<p>Aug. 15th, Dunnet Head, rock birds leave about this time.</p> - -<p>Aug. 10th, Isle of May, all rock birds left, except a few Kittiwakes; -heavy westerly gale on 9th.</p> - -<p>Oct. 23rd, Pentland Skerries, flocks flying E.; strong W., showers.</p> - -<p>Nov. 2nd, Pentland Skerries, large flocks, noon, flying S.E. from -S.W. (?).</p> - -<p>Nov. 27th, Isle of May, abundant in sea along with Gulls; -"Garvies," <i>i.e.</i>, <i>Culpea sprattus</i>, abundant (J. A. H. B.).</p> - -<p>Dec. 20th, Isle of May, large numbers; fresh W., haze.</p> - -<p>Dec. 27th, Isle of May, large numbers; S.W., haze.</p> -</div> - -<p>This completes our data of Guillemots and Razorbills, to -which the whole of the above records refer for 1883; and I think -it shows pretty plainly the life-history of these birds, at least in -some important particulars. A wider appreciation can be arrived -at if similar tabular returns come in from other salient points of -observation, such as Isle of May, Bell Rock, and one or two -stations on the east coast; and Cape Wrath, Butt of Lewis, -Monach Isles, and Barra Head on the west coast; and also for -summer migrations, especially such stations as Island Ghlais, -Skerryvore, and Dhuheartach, and others on the inner line of -stations of the west coast.</p> - -<p>These data are minutely detailed here this year, because I -have felt more at liberty to do so, owing to the light returns of most -of our land birds, thus having more space than usual at command.</p> - -<p>Further remarks, should such occur to us, will appear in the -"General Observations," which I withhold till the close of the -West Coast Report.</p> -<hr class="chap x-ebookmaker-drop" /> - -<div class="chapter"> -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_33">-33-</span></p> - -<h2 class="nobreak" id="EAST_COAST_OF_ENGLAND">EAST COAST OF ENGLAND.</h2> -</div> - - -<p>Printed schedules and letters of instruction were forwarded -to thirty-seven lighthouses and light-vessels on the East -Coast of England, and two stations in the Channel Islands, -and returns have been received from twenty-five, against thirty -in 1882.</p> - -<p>Independent reports have also been received from Heligoland, -and certain land stations along the East Coast, namely, Seaton-Carew, -Redcar, Flamborough, Spurn, North-East Lincolnshire, -Wells (on the Norfolk coast), Northrepps, Great Yarmouth, and -the coast of Essex. Making altogether a total of thirty-five -reporting stations, against thirty-seven in 1882.</p> - -<p>Our best thanks are due to H. Gätke, T. H. Nelson, C. Donald-Thompson, -Matthew Bailey, William Eagle Clarke, J. H. Gurney, -jun., M. Vaughan, of Haileybury College, Arthur Patterson, and -Colonel Russell, for their hearty co-operation and assistance, as -well as to the numerous kind and painstaking observers at the -lighthouses and light-vessels, whose names are given in the list -of stations. Special thanks are due to Mr. Gurney for having -inaugurated along the Norfolk coast a parallel system of enquiry, -which for a first trial has worked well. In all doubtful cases of -identity, where birds are killed against the lanterns, a wing is -cut off, and with a label of the date attached these have been -forwarded in batches to Mr. Gurney for identification, and with -satisfactory results. We cannot too strongly urge upon our -observers the advantages of this system, and advise them to -adopt it; nothing is easier than to cut off a wing from each -victim on any given night, wrap them in paper, or tie them -together, with the dates attached, or numbered on the cover, and -send them in one parcel by post either to myself or to Mr. Gurney, -for identification. It is intended that instructions for doing this -will be given in the next issue of schedules in the spring of this -year.</p> - -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_34">-34-</span></p> - -<p>The East Coast stations included in this report are as follows, -those making returns being marked with a star (*):—</p> - -<table summary="stations"> -<tr> - <td class="tdl">*Longstone <span class="allsmcap">L.H.</span> +</td> - <td class="tdl">Thomas O. Hall.</td> -</tr> -<tr> - <td class="tdl">*Inner Farn <span class="allsmcap">L.H.</span></td> - <td class="tdl">Thomas H. Cutting.</td> -</tr> -<tr> - <td class="tdl">*Tees <span class="allsmcap">L.V.</span></td> - <td class="tdl">Henry Harbord.</td> -</tr> -<tr> - <td class="tdl"> Coquet Island <span class="allsmcap">L.H.</span></td> - <td></td> -</tr> -<tr> - <td class="tdl">*Whitby High <span class="allsmcap">L.H.</span></td> - <td class="tdl">John Odgers.</td> -</tr> -<tr> - <td class="tdl">*Flamborough Head <span class="allsmcap">L.H.</span></td> - <td class="tdl">Charles Hood.</td> -</tr> -<tr> - <td class="tdl">*Spurn <span class="allsmcap">L.H.</span></td> - <td class="tdl">James B. Smith.</td> -</tr> -<tr> - <td class="tdl"> Spurn (Newsand) <span class="allsmcap">L.V.</span></td> - <td></td> -</tr> -<tr> - <td class="tdl">*Outer Dowsing <span class="allsmcap">L.V.</span></td> - <td class="tdl">William Stock & J. N. Utting.</td> -</tr> -<tr> - <td class="tdl">*Inner Dowsing <span class="allsmcap">L.V.</span></td> - <td class="tdl">William King.</td> -</tr> -<tr> - <td class="tdl"> Dudgeon <span class="allsmcap">L.V.</span></td> - <td></td> -</tr> -<tr> - <td class="tdl">*Llyn Wells <span class="allsmcap">L.V.</span></td> - <td class="tdl">George Rees.</td> -</tr> -<tr> - <td class="tdl">*Hunstanton <span class="allsmcap">L.H.</span></td> - <td class="tdl">William Westmoreland.</td> -</tr> -<tr> - <td class="tdl">*Cromer <span class="allsmcap">L.H.</span></td> - <td class="tdl">Richard Comben.</td> -</tr> -<tr> - <td class="tdl">*Leman and Ower <span class="allsmcap">L.V.</span></td> - <td class="tdl">John Artis.</td> -</tr> -<tr> - <td class="tdl">*Hasbro' <span class="allsmcap">L.H.</span></td> - <td class="tdl">By Mr. Gurney from G. H. Dunsford.</td> -</tr> -<tr> - <td class="tdl">*Hasbro' <span class="allsmcap">L.V.</span></td> - <td class="tdl">J. Nicholas & B. Darnell.</td> -</tr> -<tr> - <td class="tdl">*Newarp <span class="allsmcap">L.V.</span></td> - <td class="tdl">C. Campbell & W. Rees.</td> -</tr> -<tr> - <td class="tdl">*Winterton <span class="allsmcap">L.H.</span></td> - <td class="tdl">John Watson.</td> -</tr> -<tr> - <td class="tdl">*Cockle <span class="allsmcap">L.V.</span></td> - <td class="tdl">Samuel Pender & C. Prefrement.</td> -</tr> -<tr> - <td class="tdl"> Orfordness <span class="allsmcap">L.H.</span></td> - <td></td> -</tr> -<tr> - <td class="tdl"> Corton <span class="allsmcap">L.V.</span></td> - <td></td> -</tr> -<tr> - <td class="tdl">*Shipwash <span class="allsmcap">L.V.</span></td> - <td class="tdl">The Principal.</td> -</tr> -<tr> - <td class="tdl">*Languard Point <span class="allsmcap">L.H.</span></td> - <td class="tdl">Owen Boyle.</td> -</tr> -<tr> - <td class="tdl">*Galloper <span class="allsmcap">L.V.</span></td> - <td class="tdl">The Principal: two batches of wings from Mr. Gurney.</td> -</tr> -<tr> - <td class="tdl"> Kentish Knock <span class="allsmcap">L.V.</span></td> - <td></td> -</tr> -<tr> - <td class="tdl"> Swin Middle <span class="allsmcap">L.V.</span></td> - <td></td> -</tr> -<tr> - <td class="tdl">*Tongue <span class="allsmcap">L.V.</span></td> - <td class="tdl">John Webber.</td> -</tr> -<tr> - <td class="tdl"> Nore <span class="allsmcap">L.V.</span></td> - <td></td> -</tr> -<tr> - <td class="tdl"> North Foreland <span class="allsmcap">L.H.</span></td> - <td></td> -</tr> -<tr> - <td class="tdl"> Goodwin <span class="allsmcap">L.V.</span></td> - <td></td> -</tr> -<tr> - <td class="tdl">*Gull <span class="allsmcap">L.V.</span></td> - <td class="tdl">Francis Harvey & Joseph Jenkins.</td> -</tr> -<tr> - <td class="tdl">*South Sand Head <span class="allsmcap">L.V.</span></td> - <td class="tdl">Joseph Ditcham.</td> -</tr> -<tr> - <td class="tdl">*Eastside <span class="allsmcap">L.V.</span></td> - <td class="tdl">Edward le Gallais.</td> -</tr> -<tr> - <td class="tdl"> South Foreland <span class="allsmcap">L.H.</span></td> - <td></td> -</tr> -<tr> - <td class="tdl"> Casquets <span class="allsmcap">L.H.</span>, Alderney</td> - <td></td> -</tr> -<tr> - <td class="tdl">*Hanois <span class="allsmcap">L.H.</span>, Guernsey</td> - <td class="tdl">Charles Williams.</td> -</tr> -</table> - -<div class="blockquot"> -<p>† For nature of light, position, and distances from the nearest land, see Report for 1880.</p> -</div> - -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_35">-35-</span></p> - - -<p class="caption3nb">SEPARATE REPORT ON EACH SPECIES.<a id="FNanchor_5" href="#Footnote_5" class="fnanchor">[5]</a></p> - -<div class="footnote"> - -<p><a id="Footnote_5" href="#FNanchor_5" class="label">[5]</a> The sequence and nomenclature are adopted from the 'List of British -Birds,' compiled by a Committee of the British Ornithologists' Union. -London: John Van Voorst. 1883.</p> - -</div> - -<p><i>Turdus viscivorus</i>, Missel Thrush.—Great Yarmouth, Oct. 20th, -hundreds arriving; 23rd, one shot from flock coming in from sea. -Longstone <span class="allsmcap">L.H.</span>, 30th, several, and at intervals to Nov. 15th, many -being killed between these periods against lantern; on Nov. 4th, -great rush, coming all night. Great Cotes, N.E. Lincolnshire, -Nov. 13th, very numerous, fresh arrivals.</p> - -<p><i>T. musicus</i>, Song Thrush.—Spring, 1883, Farn <span class="allsmcap">L.H.</span>, Jan. 20th -to Feb. 1st, Thrushes with Blackbirds and Fieldfares on island, -also through March and at intervals to May 10th, at which date -several of each and one Ring Ouzel were seen. Whitby <span class="allsmcap">L.H.</span>, -March 9th, E.N.E., snow squalls, many with Fieldfares and -other birds apparently moving south. Flamborough, April 27th, -first Thrush struck, and on May 7th four. In the autumn at -Farn, Flamborough and Spurn, Sept. 21st, great flight; and at -the majority of the east coast stations from Farn Islands to -Hanois <span class="allsmcap">L.H.</span>, Guernsey, up to Nov. 8th; great rushes, with other -<i>Turdidæ</i>, Oct. 13th, and all through first week of November. -Longstone <span class="allsmcap">L.H.</span>, Jan. 2nd, 1884, during the snow-storm before -daylight, many, with Blackbirds and Redwings, round lantern—perhaps -a local migration from north to south.<a id="FNanchor_6" href="#Footnote_6" class="fnanchor">[6]</a> Heligoland, -from Sept. 21st, S.S.E., to Nov. 12th; greatest rushes on Sept. -24th, Oct. 13th, 29th, and first week in November.</p> - -<div class="footnote"> - -<p><a id="Footnote_6" href="#FNanchor_6" class="label">[6]</a> At the Farn <span class="allsmcap">L.H.</span>, on Feb. 20th, 1884, and four following days, numbers -of Fieldfares, Thrushes, and Blackbirds were seen on the island; wind -S.S.W.</p> - -</div> - -<p><i>T. iliacus</i>, Redwing.—Seaton Carew, Sept. 21st, to Hasbro' <span class="allsmcap">L.V.</span>, -Oct. 30th, great many round lantern, and at several stations -between these dates; rushes Sept. 21st, Oct. 29th and 30th. -Heligoland, Oct. 3rd to Nov. 6th; greatest flights on Oct. 13th -and Nov. 6th.</p> - -<p><i>T. pilaris</i>, Fieldfare.—First at Yarmouth, Sept. 8th, flock of -<span class="pagenum" id="Page_36">-36-</span> -ten to fifteen, 6 a.m., travelling N.E. to S.W., very high,<a id="FNanchor_7" href="#Footnote_7" class="fnanchor">[7]</a> to -Hasbro' <span class="allsmcap">L.V.</span>, Nov. 8th, many round lantern, and Nov. 16th, at -Farn <span class="allsmcap">L.H.</span>, four to S.W. At several stations in large numbers -between these dates, but none south of Yarmouth; rushes -occurred on Sept. 21st, Oct. 19th (Yarmouth, along coast to S.), -28th to 31st, and Nov. 6th to 8th. Inner Dowsing <span class="allsmcap">L.V.</span>, Oct. 31st, -seven killed, 7 p.m., N.E., and at Longstone <span class="allsmcap">L.H.</span>, several on same -night. Flamborough <span class="allsmcap">L.H.</span>, Nov. 9th, 1 a.m. to daylight, great -many; direction of migration N.E. to S.W. and E. to W. or S.E. -to N.W. Heligoland, from Sept. 24th to Nov. 7th; Oct. 28th, -great flight overhead, travelling E. to W.; from night of Oct. 31st -to Nov. 4th an immense migration day and night, on 6th also -large numbers still passing.</p> - -<div class="footnote"> - -<p><a id="Footnote_7" href="#FNanchor_7" class="label">[7]</a> In the autumn of 1880 Fieldfares were first seen in Norfolk on Sept. 9th, -in 1881 on Sept. 14th, and in 1883 on Sept. 8th. The earliest occurrence in -each case for England.</p> - -</div> - -<p><i>T. varius</i>, White's Thrush.—Heligoland, April 15th, one all -day long (Sunday) in the churchyard, and was not obtained.</p> - -<p><i>T. merula</i>, Blackbird.—First at Redcar, Sept. 18th, a few, to -Whitby <span class="allsmcap">L.H.</span>, Nov. 11th, several, and at Tees <span class="allsmcap">L.V.</span>, Nov. 15th, one -overboard; between these dates at a majority of the stations, -chiefly those north of the Humber;<a id="FNanchor_8" href="#Footnote_8" class="fnanchor">[8]</a> the first flights young birds, -young cocks being greatly in excess. On Oct. 19th, at Spurn, -flight of old cock Blackbirds; rushes occurred on Sept. 21st, -Oct. 28th to 31st, and Nov. 2nd to 8th. Heligoland, Oct. 11th, -some.</p> - -<div class="footnote"> - -<p><a id="Footnote_8" href="#FNanchor_8" class="label">[8]</a> At Great Cotes, on Nov. 13th, sharp frost on previous night; the -hedgerows in the marsh swarmed with Blackbirds, Missel Thrushes, Redwings, -and Fieldfares; the former were young cocks with a few old females. There -was an average of one Blackbird to each lineal six feet of hedge.</p> - -</div> - -<p><i>T. torquatus</i>, Ring Ouzel.—Spring, Hunstanton <span class="allsmcap">L.H.</span>, April -31st, one male. Inner Farn <span class="allsmcap">L.H.</span> May 10th, one. Flamborough -<span class="allsmcap">L.H.</span>, May 7th, one very fine old bird struck. Autumn, at several -stations between the Farn Islands and Yarmouth, from Oct. 13th -at the former to Nov. 1st at the Spurn, flock at noon, wind N.N.E., -light, and Nov. 2nd and 4th, Longstone <span class="allsmcap">L.H.</span>; the latter dates all -night. Cock Ring Ouzels were tolerably plentiful near the Spurn -and Kilnsea during the fourth week in October; rushes on Oct. -13th and Nov. 1st to 4th. Heligoland, Sept. 30th to Oct. 22nd; -on the 20th two old males.</p> - -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_37">-37-</span></p> - -<p class="caption3nb"><span class="smcap">Summary.</span></p> - -<table summary="data"> -<tr> - <td rowspan="2" colspan="3"></td> - <td class="tdc" colspan="3">Rushes</td> -</tr> -<tr> - <td colspan="3"><img src="images/braceh_388.png" width="388" height="12" alt="" /></td> -</tr> -<tr> - <td class="tdc">Species.</td> - <td class="tdc">Limit of Migration.</td> - <td class="tdc">Days.</td> - <td class="tdc">Sept.</td> - <td class="tdc">Oct.</td> - <td class="tdc">Nov.</td> -</tr> -<tr> - <td class="tdl">Fieldfare</td> - <td class="tdl">Sept. 8th to Nov. 13th</td> - <td class="tdc">67</td> - <td class="tdc">21st</td> - <td class="tdc">28th to 31st</td> - <td class="tdc">6th to 8th</td> -</tr> -<tr> - <td class="tdl">Blackbird</td> - <td class="tdl"> " 18th to Nov. 15th</td> - <td class="tdc">59</td> - <td class="tdc">21st</td> - <td class="tdc">30th to 31st</td> - <td class="tdc">2nd to 8th</td> -</tr> -<tr> - <td class="tdl">Common Thrush</td> - <td class="tdl"> " 21st to Nov. 8th</td> - <td class="tdc">49</td> - <td class="tdc">21st</td> - <td class="tdc">13th</td> - <td class="tdc">2nd to 6th</td> -</tr> -<tr> - <td class="tdl">Redwing</td> - <td class="tdl"> " 21st to Oct. 30th</td> - <td class="tdc">40</td> - <td class="tdc">21st</td> - <td class="tdc">29th to 30th</td> - <td class="tdc">—</td> -</tr> -<tr> - <td class="tdl">Ring Ouzel</td> - <td class="tdl">Oct. 13th to Nov. 4th</td> - <td class="tdc">23</td> - <td class="tdc">—</td> - <td class="tdc">13th</td> - <td class="tdc">1st to 4th</td> -</tr> -<tr> - <td class="tdl">Missel Thrush</td> - <td class="tdl"> " 20th to Nov. 15th</td> - <td class="tdc">27</td> - <td class="tdc">—</td> - <td class="tdc">20th</td> - <td class="tdc">4th</td> -</tr> -<tr> - <td colspan="5" class="tdl"> <span class="smcap">Heligoland.</span></td> -</tr> -<tr> - <td class="tdl">Fieldfare</td> - <td class="tdl">Sept. 24th to Nov. 7th</td> - <td class="tdc">45</td> - <td class="tdc">24th</td> - <td class="tdc">28th to 31st</td> - <td class="tdc">to 4th</td> -</tr> -<tr> - <td class="tdl">Blackbird</td> - <td class="tdl">Oct. 11th —</td> - <td class="tdc">—</td> - <td class="tdc">—</td> - <td class="tdc">—</td> -</tr> -<tr> - <td class="tdl">Common Thrush</td> - <td class="tdl">Sept. 21st to Nov. 12th</td> - <td class="tdc">53</td> - <td class="tdc">24th</td> - <td class="tdc">13th & 29th</td> - <td class="tdc">first week</td> -</tr> -<tr> - <td class="tdl">Redwing</td> - <td class="tdl">Oct. 3rd to Nov. 6th</td> - <td class="tdc">35</td> - <td class="tdc">—</td> - <td class="tdc">13th</td> - <td class="tdc">6th</td> -</tr> -<tr> - <td class="tdl">Ring Ouzel</td> - <td class="tdl">Sept. 30th to Oct. 22nd</td> - <td class="tdc">23</td> - <td class="tdc">—</td> - <td class="tdc">12th, 13th, 15th</td> - <td class="tdc">—</td> -</tr> -<tr> - <td class="tdl">Missel Thrush</td> - <td class="tdc"> — — </td> - <td class="tdc">—</td> - <td class="tdc">—</td> - <td class="tdc">—</td> - <td class="tdc">—</td> -</tr> -</table> - -<div class="blockquot"> -<p>Lines of migration, E. to. W., S.E. to N.W., and exceptionally from N.E. - to S.W.</p> -</div> - -<p><i>Saxicola œnanthe</i>, Wheatear.—Spring, Farn <span class="allsmcap">L.H.</span>, April 2nd -to 24th; many on 14th. Flamborough, 5th, 1.20 a.m., one -struck. Tees <span class="allsmcap">L.V.</span>, May 10th, twenty going from S.E. to N.W. -Autumn, Farn <span class="allsmcap">L.H.</span>, from July 20th, 2 p.m., N.E., several, to -Nov. 7th; Llyn Wells <span class="allsmcap">L.V.</span>, one struck (wing sent to Mr. Gurney). -In considerable numbers in September and October, covering the -whole coast line; in the former month associated, as usual, with -Redstarts. At the Farn and Longstone lighthouses, Sept. 2nd -and 3rd, E., great numbers of both crossing, and on 24th with -both Redstarts and Snow Buntings. Heligoland, Aug. 6th to 7th, -a few, S.E. wind, and on to 20th numerous, all young; 21st to -24th, in astounding numbers; Sept. 10th, enormous rush, and -11th and 12th, less.</p> - -<p><i>Pratincola rubetra</i>, Whinchat.—Heligoland, Aug. 21st, 22nd, -and 24th, great many young birds.</p> - -<p><i>P. rubicola</i>, Stonechat.—Spring, Whitby <span class="allsmcap">L.H.</span>, Feb. 23rd, one. -Autumn, same station, Aug. 8th, many to S. Spurn, Oct. 23rd, -many. Stonechats have frequented the sheep-folds on the turnip-fields -in Lincolnshire throughout the whole of the late mild -winter. Heligoland, Oct. 20th, one young bird; Oct. 11th, S.S.W., -<i>P. rubicola</i> (<i>indica</i>)? "with coloration just like a young autumn -<span class="pagenum" id="Page_38">-38-</span> -Whinchat, if not lighter, all the breast buff or isabell, the rump -also."</p> - -<p><i>Ruticilla phœnicurus</i>, Redstart.—Spring, Hunstanton <span class="allsmcap">L.H.</span>, -April 13th, 4 a.m., S., one male against lantern. Autumn, same -station, Aug. 30th, one male, 1 a.m., against lantern. Numerous -between Farn Islands and Yarmouth in September to the 24th, -associated frequently with Wheatears. Heligoland, Sept. 9th to -Oct. 1st; on Sept. 10th enormous numbers, 14th great many, -and 17th to 21st also great many.</p> - -<p><i>Ruticilla titys</i>, Black Redstart.—Spurn, Oct. 23rd, one seen -(in 1882 at the Spurn, Oct. 29th). Galloper <span class="allsmcap">L.V.</span>, Oct. 28th, one, -young male or old female (wing to J. H. G.); I have no doubt -it occurs regularly as an autumn immigrant on our east coast, -and may be expected about four weeks later than the Redstart.<a id="FNanchor_9" href="#Footnote_9" class="fnanchor">[9]</a> -Heligoland, Oct. 27th, eight or ten.</p> - -<div class="footnote"> - -<p><a id="Footnote_9" href="#FNanchor_9" class="label">[9]</a> Messrs. Clarke and Roebuck state, in their 'Handbook of Yorkshire -Vertebrata,' p. 19, that "Mr. M. Bailey, of Flamborough, has frequently -observed these birds in spring on their arrival on the headland, and has -known them killed by flying against the light in thick, foggy weather, with -the wind E.N.E. He has also seen them on their departure in September, -and has noticed several in October and November."</p> - -</div> - -<p><i>Cyanecula suecica</i>, Red-spotted Bluethroat.—One, coast of -Northumberland late in September; one, Redcar, 21st, on Tees -breakwater; one about same time at the Spurn, but not obtained; -ten, coast of Norfolk, in same month; and about twenty others -seen there by a competent authority, Mr. Power. All obtained -were birds of the year.<a id="FNanchor_10" href="#Footnote_10" class="fnanchor">[10]</a> The gizzard of one of these Norfolk -birds which I examined was crammed with the broken remains -of small beetles having a bright metallic lustre, but the remains -were much broken and comminuted.</p> - -<div class="footnote"> - -<p><a id="Footnote_10" href="#FNanchor_10" class="label">[10]</a> Mr. Gätke says "the other form, <i>S. leucocyanea</i>, Brehm, comes very -rarely so far north as Heligoland, and when it turns up it always does so four -to six weeks earlier than the suecica in the spring."</p> - -</div> - -<p><i>Erithacus rubecula</i>, Redbreast.—First at the Shipwash <span class="allsmcap">L.V.</span>, -Aug. 13th, large numbers associated with Wrens, to Llyn Wells -<span class="allsmcap">L.V.</span>, Nov. 3rd, one killed; the main migration Sept. 10th to Oct. -14th, covering the entire coast-line; rushes on Sept. 21st and -30th, Oct. 6th and 7th. Heligoland, Sept. 24th to Nov. 23rd; -rushes on Sept. 24th, and Oct. 3rd to 7th.<a id="FNanchor_11" href="#Footnote_11" class="fnanchor">[11]</a></p> - -<div class="footnote"> - -<p><a id="Footnote_11" href="#FNanchor_11" class="label">[11]</a> At the Spurn, in the autumn, I have seen Redbreasts come in directly -from the sea, passing overhead inland; an a clear bright day the orange-red -of the breast shows very conspicuously.</p> - -</div> - -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_39">-39-</span></p> - -<p><i>Sylvia cinerea</i>, Whitethroat.—Hanois <span class="allsmcap">L.H.</span> (Guernsey), Nov. -2nd, E., about lantern all night with Blackcaps. Heligoland, -Sept. 10th, enormous numbers; 11th and 12th, less; Oct. 1st, -last.</p> - -<p><i>S. atricapilla</i>, Blackcap.—Hanois <span class="allsmcap">L.H.</span>, as above. Heligoland, -Oct. 11th, one young bird shot in garden. <i>S. hortensis</i>, Garden -Warbler.—Sept. 24th, some.</p> - -<p><i>Regulus cristatus</i>, Goldcrest.—Spring, Tees <span class="allsmcap">L.V.</span>, March 29th, -one stayed all night, then to E. Farn <span class="allsmcap">L.H.</span>, April 2nd, several -all day. Hunstanton <span class="allsmcap">L.H.</span>, 3rd and 4th, S., against lantern. -Newarp <span class="allsmcap">L.V.</span>, 14th, three to E. Autumn, Shipwash <span class="allsmcap">L.V.</span>, Aug. -13th, large numbers; and at most stations between Sept. 2nd and -Nov. 9th; rushes, Sept. 21st, Oct. 28th to 31st. At the Shipwash -<span class="allsmcap">L.V.</span>, on Oct. 15th, flights passed westward from 10 a.m. to -3 p.m., and at 6 p.m. fourteen were killed at lantern; the immigration -of Goldcrests has been small compared with the -millions which crossed in the autumn of 1882, the period of -migration eighty-six days, against ninety-two in the preceding -year; line E. to W. Heligoland, Oct. 6th, not many yet; 7th, -pretty numerous; 13th and 22nd, some. The Firecrest, <i>Regulus -ignicapillus</i>.—Oct. 29th, many; Nov. 2nd, many; 8th, some.</p> - -<p><i>Phylloscopus superciliosus</i>, Yellow-barred Warbler. Heligoland, -Sept. 17th, N.E., calm and clear, one.</p> - -<p><i>P. rufus</i>, Chiffchaff.—Heligoland, Sept. 24th and 30th, some; -October, first seven days; 11th, early, great many and throughout -day; 12th and 13th, less.</p> - -<p><i>P. trochilus</i>, Willow Warbler.—Aug. 14th, some; 18th, 19th, -20th, pretty numerous, all young; 21st, 22nd, and 24th, astonishing -numbers; Sept. 9th, some; 10th, enormous numbers; 11th -and 12th, less; 24th, less; Nov. 1st, final rush, marvellous -numbers.</p> - -<p><i>Hypolais pallida.</i>—Heligoland, Sept. 20th, "first specimen -got here," shot by Ludwig Gätke.</p> - -<p><i>Accentor modularis</i>. Hedgesparrow.—Languard Point <span class="allsmcap">L.H.</span>, -March 1st, 12.30 p.m., large flock to E. In the autumn of 1882 -there was an enormous migration across Heligoland and on the -East Coast of England; this last autumn only five or six are -recorded from Heligoland, and none on our east coast.</p> - -<p><i>Acredula rosea</i>, British Long-tailed Titmouse.—Yarmouth, -Oct. 25th, about this date several seen, flock of eleven on -<span class="pagenum" id="Page_40">-40-</span> -telegraph wire, and on the 22nd a furze-bush on the "denes" -covered with them.</p> - -<p><i>Parus major</i> and <i>cæridulus</i>, Great and Blue Titmouse.—Farn -<span class="allsmcap">L.H.</span>, March 8th, two Tits. Flamborough, April 3rd, one struck. -Farn <span class="allsmcap">L.H.</span>, Oct. 7th, two struck. Galloper <span class="allsmcap">L.V.</span>, 13th, one Great Tit -(wing to J. H. G.). Cockle <span class="allsmcap">L.V.</span>, 14th, both species. Shipwash <span class="allsmcap">L.V.</span>, -15th, two Great Titmice (wings to J. H. G.). Spurn, 23rd, Blue -Titmouse, a great many. Heligoland, Great Titmouse from Oct. -14th to end of November; Oct. 29th to 31st, a great many; -Nov. 15th, same; Blue Titmouse from Oct. 14th to Nov. 2nd; -rush, Oct. 29th and 31st. <i>Parus ater</i>, Continental Coal Titmouse.—Oct. -22nd, one.</p> - -<p><i>Troglodytes parvulus</i>, Wren.—Spring, Flamborough <span class="allsmcap">L.H.</span>, -April 3rd, 9.20 p.m., one struck; May 7th, 11.45 p.m., one. -Winterton <span class="allsmcap">L.H.</span>, May 14th, several, 12.30 a.m., S., three killed; -15th, two. Spurn <span class="allsmcap">L.H.</span>, 24th, "large flock to south." Autumn, -Shipwash <span class="allsmcap">L.V.</span>, Aug. 13th, 2 to 6.30 p.m., in large numbers. -Tees <span class="allsmcap">L.V.</span>, Sept. 5th, one on board three days. Whitby <span class="allsmcap">L.H.</span>, -Oct. 10th, 8 a.m., Wrens to south. Cockle <span class="allsmcap">L.V.</span>, Nov. 1st, one. -Outer Dowsing <span class="allsmcap">L.V.</span>, 2nd, great rush with others westward. -Heligoland, Oct. 31st, for several weeks past daily in great -numbers; Nov. 2nd, many; 7th and 8th, very many.</p> - -<p><i>Motacilla alba</i>, White Wagtail.—Heligoland, Oct. 12th and -13th, some.</p> - -<p><i>M. lugubris</i>, Pied Wagtail.—Spring, Whitby <span class="allsmcap">L.H.</span>, March -31st, two pairs. Farn <span class="allsmcap">L.H.</span>, April 2nd, one; 4th to 14th, many. -Flamborough, April 11th, a pair. Autumn, Cromer <span class="allsmcap">L.H.</span>, Aug. -12th, one Pied Wagtail (wing to J. H. G.). Tees <span class="allsmcap">L.V.</span>, Sept. -17th, in flocks, twelve to fifteen. Whitby <span class="allsmcap">L.H.</span>, Oct. 10th, last -seen. Hanois <span class="allsmcap">L.H.</span> (Guernsey), Oct. 29th, and on Nov. 1st, all -night.</p> - -<p><i>M. flava</i>, Blue-headed Yellow Wagtail.—Heligoland, Aug. -21st, 22nd, and 24th, astonishing numbers; Sept. 2nd, some; -Oct. 13th, some. <i>M. citriola</i>, Sept. 16th, calm and fine, one.</p> - -<p><i>Anthus pratensis</i>, Meadow Pipit.—Heligoland, Sept. 24th, -great many; Oct. 1st, astounding numbers.<i> A. cervinus</i>, Sept. -16th, calm and fine, one.</p> - -<p><i>A. trivialis</i>, Tree Pipit.—Heligoland, Aug. 21st, 22nd, and -24th, astounding numbers; Sept. 2nd, some; 9th and 12th, -many; 24th, ceased; again, Oct. 12th and 13th, passing.</p> - -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_41">-41-</span></p> - -<p><i>A. richardi</i>, Richard's Pipit.—Heligoland, Sept. 16th and -17th; on 18th, two shot, 8½ in. long; 21st, some; 24th, some -Oct. 11th, two.</p> - -<p><i>A. obscurus</i>, Rock Pipit.—October, last fortnight, common -on Yorkshire, Lincolnshire, and Norfolk coast. At Heligoland, -on Oct. 1st, great many (<i>A. obscurus</i>, var. <i>rupestris</i>.<a id="FNanchor_12" href="#Footnote_12" class="fnanchor">[12]</a>)</p> - -<div class="footnote"> - -<p><a id="Footnote_12" href="#FNanchor_12" class="label">[12]</a> This, the Scandinavian form of the Rock Pipit, is not infrequent on the -Yorkshire and Lincolnshire coast in the autumn.</p> - -</div> - -<p><i>Oriolus galbula</i>, Golden Oriole.—Heligoland, May, a male; -the first in thirty years.</p> - -<p><i>Lanius excubitor</i> and <i>major</i>, Great Grey and Pallas's Great -Grey Shrike.—Heligoland, Oct. 5th, six or eight, and in last week -in month <i>major</i>, some; none on English coast.</p> - -<p><i>L. collurio</i>, Red-backed Shrike.—Languard <span class="allsmcap">L.H.</span>, March 16th, -one. Farn <span class="allsmcap">L.H.</span>, Sept. 23rd, one shot on island.</p> - -<p><i>Muscicapa grisola</i>, Spotted Flycatcher.—Spring, Whitby <span class="allsmcap">L.H.</span>, -April 7th, great many small Flycatchers against lantern every -night in the week<a id="FNanchor_13" href="#Footnote_13" class="fnanchor">[13]</a> (too soon by four or five weeks for <i>M. grisola</i>), -Farn <span class="allsmcap">L.H.</span>, April 28th, several. Hunstanton <span class="allsmcap">L.H.</span>, May 17th, -2 a.m., S.W., seven killed. Tees <span class="allsmcap">L.V.</span>, Dec. 27th, one came on -board. Heligoland, Sept. 10th, enormous numbers; 11th and -12th, some; 17th, many; 19th and 20th, less.</p> - -<div class="footnote"> - -<p><a id="Footnote_13" href="#FNanchor_13" class="label">[13]</a> Probably this, as well as other entries in the schedules, may refer to -various small insect-feeding birds, as the term "Flycatcher" amongst our -observers is a very general one.</p> - -</div> - -<p><i>M. atricapilla</i>, Pied Flycatcher.—Yarmouth, Sept. 15th, one -young bird (J. H. G.). Heligoland, Aug. 14th, some, and on to -Sept. 20th; on Aug. 21st, 22nd, and 24th, and again on Sept. -10th, in enormous numbers. <i>M. parva</i>, Red-breasted Flycatcher.—Sept. -19th, "one with orange throat."</p> - -<p><i>Hirundo rustica</i>, Swallow.—Spring, Hunstanton <span class="allsmcap">L.H.</span>, April -5th, one to S.W.; 29th, many. Farn <span class="allsmcap">L.H.</span>, 20th, two. In May, -at Whitby, Flamborough, Spurn, and Outer Dowsing <span class="allsmcap">L.V.</span> At -Tees <span class="allsmcap">L.V.</span>, on 10th, great many, S.E. to N.W.; and 11th, 12th, -and 13th, all through day in same direction. Autumn, Cockle -<span class="allsmcap">L.V.</span>, July 12th, six to S.; and from Sept. 25th to Oct. 13th, at -several stations going south. Last observed at the Spurn by -myself, Oct. 24th and 25th; three young birds hawking in the -sun beneath Kilnsea cliff. Heligoland, Aug. 21st and 22nd, -S.E., "astounding numbers" of Swallows, Martins, and Sand -<span class="pagenum" id="Page_42">-42-</span> -Martins; Sept. 3rd, S.S.W. (No. 9), great numbers; 4th, great -flock of Swallows late in afternoon; Nov. 8th, small flights.</p> - -<p><i>Chelidon urbica</i>, Martin.—Tees <span class="allsmcap">L.V.</span>, June 27th, 28th, 29th, -great many to S.W.; and at the Outer Dowsing <span class="allsmcap">L.V.</span>, on 23rd, -two travelling S.S.E. to W.N.W. Last observed at Seaton -Snook, Tees, Oct. 2nd.</p> - -<p><i>Carduelis elegans</i>, Goldfinch.—Tees <span class="allsmcap">L.V.</span>, Nov. 22nd, one on -board. Heligoland, Nov. 8th, some.</p> - -<p><i>Chrysomitris spinus</i>, Siskin.—Yarmouth, Oct. 21st, small -flights; several taken by the birdcatchers. Heligoland, Oct. -27th, a few.</p> - -<p><i>Ligurinus chloris</i>, Greenfinch.—Spurn, Oct. 23rd and 24th, -large flocks near the coast associated with Linnets. Great Cotes, -Nov. 16th, small flights.</p> - -<p><i>Coccothraustes vulgaris</i>, Hawfinch.—Inner Dowsing <span class="allsmcap">L.V.</span>, Nov. -2nd, 9 p.m., one struck lantern; two at same station in 1882. -Heligoland, Oct. 31st, Nov. 1st, many.</p> - -<p><i>Passer domesticus</i>, House Sparrow.—Spring, Outer Dowsing -<span class="allsmcap">L.V.</span>, April 1st, 8 a.m., flock going S.E. by S. to N.W.; May 15th, -six, and 18th three to W.N.W.<a id="FNanchor_14" href="#Footnote_14" class="fnanchor">[14]</a> Autumn, at several stations -from Oct. 11th to Nov. 19th. Shipwash <span class="allsmcap">L.V.</span>, Nov. 8th and 17th, -8 a.m. to noon and 1 p.m., continuous flights to W.S.W.</p> - -<div class="footnote"> - -<p><a id="Footnote_14" href="#FNanchor_14" class="label">[14]</a> All birds, including Crows, Sparrows, Tree Sparrows, Chaffinches, -Wrens, Swallows, Martins, Yellowhammers, Larks, Titlarks, and some -ducks, passing this station in March, April, May, and June, were steering in -<i>westerly</i> directions. The Outer Dowsing <span class="allsmcap">L.V.</span> is moored on the edge of the -shoal of that name 53 miles E.S.E. of the Spurn.</p> - -</div> - -<p><i>P. montanus</i>, Tree Sparrow.—Are recorded at Newarp <span class="allsmcap">L.V.</span>, -Oct. 14th, Yarmouth, 14th, and Shipwash <span class="allsmcap">L.V.</span>, 15th; and at the -Goodwin stations in October.<a id="FNanchor_15" href="#Footnote_15" class="fnanchor">[15]</a></p> - -<div class="footnote"> - -<p><a id="Footnote_15" href="#FNanchor_15" class="label">[15]</a> As a rule more Common and Tree Sparrows pass the Goodwin stations -than any other on the east coast. These light-vessels, as well as those off the -mouth of the Thames, are very uniform in their returns, the birds scheduled -being the most abundant and commonest of our immigrants, and it is seldom -a rare visitor is chronicled.</p> - -</div> - -<p><i>Fringilla cœlebs</i>, Chaffinch.—Spring, Newarp <span class="allsmcap">L.V.</span>, April 13th, -all day to E. Farn <span class="allsmcap">L.H.</span>, 29th, several. Autumn, between Sept. -21st, at Redcar, to Nov. 29th and 30th, at Longstone <span class="allsmcap">L.H.</span>, -immense flights are recorded at the majority of stations along -the east coast; great rushes occurred Sept. 21st, Oct. 6th to -<span class="pagenum" id="Page_43">-43-</span> -14th, and Nov. 1st and 2nd; line of flight E. to W.<a id="FNanchor_16" href="#Footnote_16" class="fnanchor">[16]</a> Heligoland, -from Sept. 21st, E. by S., to Nov. 1st, in immense numbers; -great rush on Sept. 21st and 22nd, on which latter day -they passed in astounding numbers; Oct. 13th, all day passing -on; Nov. 7th to 29th, great many.</p> - -<div class="footnote"> - -<p><a id="Footnote_16" href="#FNanchor_16" class="label">[16]</a> Chaffinches are recorded as dying on board some of the light-vessels, -on which they arrive in an exhausted state. Mr. Patterson, of Yarmouth, -says, under date Oct. 13th, "Picked up some dead at high-water mark. I -have found numbers occasionally dead, drowned thus, every year. They fare -worse in this respect than most small immigrants."</p> - -</div> - -<p><i>Fringilla montifringilla</i>, Brambling.—Longstone <span class="allsmcap">L.H.</span>, Sept. -21st, E., several. Cockle <span class="allsmcap">L.V.</span>, Oct. 11th, and Hasbro' <span class="allsmcap">L.H.</span>, 13th, -two killed (wings to J. H. G.). Heligoland, Oct. 7th, pretty -numerous; 13th, all day with Chaffinches; and numerous first -week in November.</p> - -<p><i>Linota cannabina</i>, Linnet. Spring, Newarp <span class="allsmcap">L.V.</span>, April 13th, -all day to E. Autumn, Whitby <span class="allsmcap">L.H.</span>, Aug, 8th, great many to -south.<a id="FNanchor_17" href="#Footnote_17" class="fnanchor">[17]</a> Heligoland, Sept. 30th to Nov. 11th; rush on Oct. -13th.</p> - -<div class="footnote"> - -<p><a id="Footnote_17" href="#FNanchor_17" class="label">[17]</a> Linnets, Twites, and Redpoles work their way south along the coast; -those flocks also which cross the North Sea, after striking land, follow the -same route to the south. They often collect in immense quantities in -favourite localities, feeding on the seeds of salt-loving plants along the coast.</p> - -</div> - -<p><i>L. linaria</i>, Mealy Redpole.—Spurn, a few during the second -week in February, 1884, and one on 15th near Yarmouth.</p> - -<p><i>L. rufescens</i>, Lesser Redpole.—Yarmouth, Oct. 15th, several -about "denes."</p> - -<p><i>L. flavirostris</i>, Twite.—Numerous flocks on Lincolnshire coast -in October. Heligoland, Oct. 22nd, hundreds together, and to -Nov. 15th; rush, Oct. 26th to Nov. 7th. <i>L. exilipes</i>, Nov. 11th, -one.</p> - -<p><i>Pyrrhula europæa</i>, Bullfinch.—Newarp <span class="allsmcap">L.V.</span>, March 5th, one -on board. Outer Dowsing <span class="allsmcap">L.V.</span>, May 9th, one came on board, and -ten to W.S.W.</p> - -<p><i>Loxia curvirostra</i>, Crossbill.—Heligoland, during first week -in July, repeated flights from twenty to thirty.</p> - -<p><i>Emberiza melanocephala</i>, Black-headed Bunting.—Heligoland, -in May, male and female obtained.</p> - -<p><i>E. miliaria</i>, Corn Bunting.—Heligoland, Oct. 13th, many; -Nov. 2nd, many; 7th, many; 23rd, some; "never seen here -except in very small flights."</p> - -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_44">-44-</span></p> - -<p><i>E. citrinella</i>, Yellowhammer.—May 13th, Whitby <span class="allsmcap">L.H.</span>, great -many for several days. Heligoland, Nov. 2nd, many; 23rd, -some. <i>E. cirlus</i>, Cirl Bunting.—May, one, "completing with the -male obtained many years ago, the only pair."</p> - -<p><i>E. hortulana</i>, Ortolan Bunting. Great Cotes, May 3rd, N.E., -very sharp and cold, one seen, apparently an adult female [see -Cordeaux, Zool., vol. 1883, p. 253.] Heligoland, Aug. 21st, -22nd, and 24th, "astounding numbers"; Sept. 9th and 12th, -great many; 16th and 17th, first old birds. <i>E. rustica</i>, Rustic -Bunting, Sept. 24th, one shot by Ludwig Gätke. <i>E. pusilla</i>, -Little Bunting, Sept. 24th, one shot; 30th, one.</p> - -<p><i>E. schœniclus</i>, Reed Bunting.—Great Cotes, Nov. 16th, considerable -flight. Heligoland, Sept. 20th, pretty large numbers; -Oct. 11th, great many; 13th, some; and 31st, many.</p> - -<p><i>Calcarius lapponicus</i>, Lapland Bunting.—Heligoland, Sept. -30th, some.</p> - -<p><i>Plectrophanes nivalis</i>, Snow Bunting.—Spring, Farn <span class="allsmcap">L.H.</span>, -March 7th, two. Cockle <span class="allsmcap">L.V.</span>, 14th, "Snow-birds" to W. Languard -<span class="allsmcap">L.H.</span>, July 8th, a pair on beach, 6.30 p.m., seen by Mr. -Owen Boyle; certainly the earliest record for England of this -species. Autumn, first at Tees <span class="allsmcap">L.V.</span>, Sept. 18th and 19th, one -flock each day to S.W., and to Jan. 9th, 1884. Redcar, several -flights to W.; a few recorded at stations between the Farn -Islands and Yarmouth in September, October, and November; -and from Dec. 1st to 29th in great numbers. At Great Cotes, -on Dec. 4th, thousands upon thousands, the stubbles near the -Humber fairly covered with their enormous flocks; young with a -sprinkling of old birds, one to forty. Heligoland, Nov. 6th, -early, very numerous passage; 12th and 14th, great many.</p> - -<p><i>Sturnus vulgaris</i>, Common Starling.—With few exceptions are -recorded at all our east coast stations, and often in immense -numbers, the occurrences being far too numerous to chronicle. -The bulk crossed in September, October, and November; less in -December; the line of flight and rushes corresponding with -those of the Lark, with which species they are very frequently -associated. Heligoland, from Oct. 1st to Nov. 12th; on Oct. -6th in "astounding flights, thousands upon thousands"; 12th, -"considerable numbers of astounding flights, both overhead and -in distance"; 13th, "still passing, astounding numbers all -day"; 26th, the same, very high; 27th, "night, from 11 p.m., -<span class="pagenum" id="Page_45">-45-</span> -myriads"; 28th, "immense," and still great many to Nov. 12th. -These extracts from Mr. Gätke's notes show the enormous -migration of this species across Heligoland in the autumn, and -the corresponding rush on to our east coast.</p> - -<p><i>Pastor roseus</i>, Rose-coloured Pastor.—Heligoland, July 16th, -old male shot.</p> - -<p><i>Pyrrhocorax graculus</i>, Chough.—Heligoland, April 15th, seen -for a whole week, but not obtained.</p> - -<p><i>Corvus monedula</i>, Jackdaw.—Considerable numbers south of -Humber throughout the autumn. Heligoland, Oct. 26th, many; -27th and 29th, great flight.</p> - -<p><i>Corvus corone</i>, Carrion Crow.—Spring, Farn <span class="allsmcap">L.H.</span>, March 8th, -seven to W. Autumn, Yarmouth, Oct. 14th, continuous flocks -of Carrion and Grey Crows coming in, and again on 27th. At -the Inner Dowsing <span class="allsmcap">L.V.</span>, from Oct. 25th to Nov. 13th, great many; -also at other stations in October and November.</p> - -<p><i>Corvus cornix</i>, Hooded Crow.—Migrates in company with -his near cousin, the Carrion Crow, as well as in separate flocks.<a id="FNanchor_18" href="#Footnote_18" class="fnanchor">[18]</a> -Spring, Farn <span class="allsmcap">L.H.</span>, May 25th, one Grey Crow on island, where it -ate three young Larks; on July 27th Mr. Owen Boyle saw five -on the beach off Languard. Autumn, first at Great Cotes, Oct. -4th, to Whitby <span class="allsmcap">L.H.</span>, Dec. 8th, fifty. Enormous numbers crossed -in October and November between the Farn Islands and Shipwash -<span class="allsmcap">L.V.</span>, off the coast of Essex, the main body arriving on the -flat coast of Lincolnshire and in Norfolk; great rushes occurred -on Oct. 9th, night of 12th, 20th, 27th, and 28th, and on to Nov. -2nd, and also Nov. 7th to 15th; under date Nov. 8th, Hasbro' -<span class="allsmcap">L.V.</span> reports "continuous flocks of Black Crows and Grey Crows, -and Crows with white backs and bellies"; it would be difficult to -say what is intended by the latter. Heligoland, Oct. 1st, flights, -thirty to forty, to Nov. 12th.<a id="FNanchor_19" href="#Footnote_19" class="fnanchor">[19]</a></p> - -<div class="footnote"> - -<p><a id="Footnote_18" href="#FNanchor_18" class="label">[18]</a> Probably something like one-half of the entries in the schedules record -the movements of Crows, Rooks, Daws, Starlings, Larks, and Chaffinches, -any detailed notice of which is unnecessary, and could serve no practical -purpose.</p> - -</div> - -<div class="footnote"> - -<p><a id="Footnote_19" href="#FNanchor_19" class="label">[19]</a> Under date Oct. 6th, N.E., clear, fresh, Mr. Gätke remarks:—"Across -the sea both sides of island (N. and S.), particularly on north side, countless -numbers of <i>cornix</i>, <i>sturnus</i>, and all kinds of small birds, all from E. to W. -This occurrence happens not rarely; during this ponderous migration there -were on the island nearly no birds."</p> - -</div> - -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_46">-46-</span></p> - -<p><i>Corvus frugilegus</i>, Rook.—Spring, Newarp <span class="allsmcap">L.V.</span>, during March -and April, many flocks of Rooks and Crows are recorded as going -both to the west and east, as if a cross migration was going on to -and from the Continent. At the Cockle <span class="allsmcap">L.V.</span>, March 20th, 24th, -and 26th, continuous Rooks and Crows to <i>west</i>. Llyn Wells, -April 30th, various flocks of Crows to <i>south-west</i>, and at the same -station, on Aug. 3rd and 4th, large flocks to <i>north north-east</i>. -Autumn, with scarcely an exception, at all stations between the -Spurn and South Foreland, from the last week in September to -the end of the third week in November; the rushes correspond -with those of the preceding.</p> - -<p><i>Alauda arvensis</i>, Sky Lark.—As in previous years. Larks hare -crossed in immense numbers to the east coast; it would be quite -unnecessary to give each occurrence in detail, almost involving -the necessity of writing a separate report. They are recorded -at all stations from the Farn Islands to Gull <span class="allsmcap">L.V.</span>, off the South -Foreland, from Sept. 1st to Jan. 3rd, 1884, and often continuously -night and day; rushes took place on Sept. 3rd, 4th, -and 21st, Oct. 6th and 8th, 10th to 14th, 27th to Nov. 2nd-14th; -and Dec. 27th and 30th; and again Jan. 3rd, 1884. Flocks -which come in at daybreak will continue to arrive till 12 or -1 p.m., when migration for the time ceases. Numbers are killed -during the night migration against the lanterns of the lighthouses -and light-vessels.<a id="FNanchor_20" href="#Footnote_20" class="fnanchor">[20]</a> Heligoland, Oct. 5th to Nov. 8th; -great rushes, Oct. 12th; 27th, night from 11 p.m., "milliards" -with Starlings; 28th, "immense flight"; 30th and 31st, in all -four nights almost continuous flights.</p> - -<div class="footnote"> - -<p><a id="Footnote_20" href="#FNanchor_20" class="label">[20]</a> The list of birds killed at the Hasbro' <span class="allsmcap">L.V.</span>, from Oct. 10th to Jan. 3rd -1884, was 162 Sky Larks, 73 Starlings, 23 Chaffinches, 60 Larks and -Chaffinches, 28 Stormy Petrels, 1 Fork-tailed Petrel, 3 Fieldfares, 3 Thrushes, -8 Ringed Plovers, 4 Grey Plovers, 2 Goldcrests, 2 Woodcocks, 1 Whimbrel, -1 Oystercatcher, 1 Kingfisher, 1 Blackbird, 1 Grey Crow, 1 Rook, 1 Lapwing, -1 tame Pigeon, 1 Curlew, 1 Brambling, 1 Redwing (wings sent to Mr. Gurney, -but without date). Besides these a large tub and bucket-full various. At -Llyn Wells <span class="allsmcap">L.V.</span>, under date Oct. 17th, Kestrel, Snow Bunting, Chaffinch, 2 -Robins, Wren, Goldcrest; on Nov. 4th, 3 Knots, 4 Thrushes, Redwing, 3 -Stormy Petrels; Nov. 7th, 8 Chaffinches, 7 Thrushes, Knot, Blackbird, -Wheatear, 2 Dunlins, 2 Snow Buntings, Brambling, Jack Snipe, 4 Fieldfares; -another date, 2 Chaffinches, 2 Tree Sparrows, Thrush, 3 Stormy Petrels, 2 -Snow Buntings, Dunlin; Nov. 2nd, 5 Knots; Dec. 20th, Knot; Jan. 2, -Knot; 6th, 2 Knots; 7th, Oystercatcher; also two more Knots and two -Dunlins, which had slipped their labels, but which Mr. Gurney thinks -belong to Nov. 22nd.</p> - -</div> - -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_47">-47-</span></p> - -<p><i>Otocorys alpestris</i>, Shore Lark.—Yarmouth, between Oct. -25th and 28th, six obtained from a small flock. Galloper <span class="allsmcap">L.V.</span>, -October 11th, one, (wing to J. H. G.). At Heligoland the -migration of the Shore Lark, commencing on Oct. 1st and -ending Dec. 16th, was the most remarkable of the season; Oct. -1st, N.E., small flights; 11th, some flights; 13th, about one -hundred; 22nd, flights of hundreds; 26th, flights of thousands, -in the forenoon cliff covered; 27th-30th, numerous; Nov. 7th, -marvellous numbers; 8th, very numerous; 11th, many flights; -12th, astounding numbers; 14th, numerous; 15th, astonishing, -thousands in flights; 16th, few; Dec. 16th, hundreds.</p> - -<p><i>Cypselus apus</i>, Swift.—Hunstanton <span class="allsmcap">L.H.</span>, May 10th, great -many. Whitby <span class="allsmcap">L.H.</span>, 13th, one. Farn <span class="allsmcap">L.H.</span>, June 25th, three; -the movement southward appears to have commenced on or -about this date. Last at Yarmouth, Sept. 8th, several all day. -Heligoland, August 21st, 22nd, and 24th, great many.</p> - -<p><i>Jynx torquilla</i>, Wryneck.—Heligoland, Aug. 21st, 22nd, and -24th, immense numbers with Swallows, Martins, Sand Martins, -Swifts, Ortolan Buntings, Tree Pipits, Wheatears, Willow Wrens, -Pied Flycatchers, and Blue-headed Wagtails; all astounding -numbers.</p> - -<p><i>Alcedo ispida</i>, Kingfisher.—Yarmouth, first fortnight in -September, twenty-three brought to one birdstuffer. Hasbro' -<span class="allsmcap">L.V.</span>, Oct. 10th, 10.30 p.m., one on deck. Heligoland, Aug. 15th.</p> - -<p><i>Coracias garrula</i>, Roller.—Bradwell, Norfolk, Oct. 9th, one -shot. Muckton, Louth, Lincolnshire, Oct. 27th, one also shot.</p> - -<p><i>Upupa epops</i>, Hoopoe.—Longstone <span class="allsmcap">L.H.</span>, April 29th, one -killed against kitchen window, 2.15 a.m., rain and squalls from -S.E.</p> - -<p><i>Cuculus canorus</i>, Cuckoo.—Hunstanton and Whitby lighthouses. -May 12th, one at each. Farn <span class="allsmcap">L.H.</span>, 15th, one. Longstone <span class="allsmcap">L.H.</span>, -July 24th, young Cuckoo on rocks. Heligoland, Aug. -19th and 20th, three young.</p> - -<p><i>Strix flammea</i>, Barn Owl.—One at Cromer, on Oct. 6th., seen -by Mr. Gurney, and "a large cream-coloured Owl," at Farn -<span class="allsmcap">L.H.</span>, on May 13th, may have belonged to this species.</p> - -<p><i>Asio otus</i>, Long-eared Owl.—Cromer, Oct. 6th, one. Hasbro' -<span class="allsmcap">L.V.</span> Nov. 4th, one resting on rigging at 7.30. a.m. for ten -<span class="pagenum" id="Page_48">-48-</span> -minutes, and perhaps Whitby, Jan. 3rd, 1884, "one very large -Horned Owl seen on cliff top." Heligoland, Oct. 31st and -Nov. 1st, pretty numerous.</p> - -<p><i>A. brachyotus</i>, Short-eared Owl.—Spring, Farn <span class="allsmcap">L.V.</span>, April -25th, 7.45, p.m., "one very large Owl to E.N.E.; very high." -Autumn, first at Redcar, Sept. 11th to Dec. 20th. At Llyn -Wells <span class="allsmcap">L.V.</span>, two to S.S.W.; throughout October to Nov. 8th, -at eleven stations;<a id="FNanchor_21" href="#Footnote_21" class="fnanchor">[21]</a> rushes Oct. 1st to 4th, 12th to 14th, and -first week in November. Heligoland, Oct. 14th and 15th, one -each day; 22nd, numerous; 24th, some; 30th, great many; -31st, numerous. Nov. 1st to 4th, "and at night at the lighthouse, -many, also our smaller Owl, <i>tengmalmi</i>."</p> - -<div class="footnote"> - -<p><a id="Footnote_21" href="#FNanchor_21" class="label">[21]</a> Under date of Nov. 7th, at Happisburgh <span class="allsmcap">L.H.</span>, an Owl, flying about in -the glare of the lamps, was seen to pounce on a Starling and carry it off. -Mr. F. Spurr writes, "this latter, a fine Horned Owl, has taken to visit the -lighthouse regularly; he takes his post just beneath the strong rays of light, -and from thence pounces on the small birds when they are frightened by -the glare." He goes on to say that he had seen it perched on the rail of the -balcony, when its eyes shone like living coals; just such a light as is visible -in the eyes of the night-flying moths when they settle on the pane.</p> - -</div> - -<p><span class="smcap">Falconidæ.</span>—Circus, Harrier, Redcar, Sept. 21st, six on Tees -Breakwater. Buzzards or "very large Hawks," Spring, Farn -<span class="allsmcap">L.H.</span>, March 10th, "one large Hawk, feeding on Blackbird"; -May 18th, large Hawk; June 18th, very large Hawk, driving -the Terns from their nesting-place; also on 19th. Autumn, -from Sept. 6th to Jan. 12th, 1884, numerous Buzzards, and -"very large Hawks" are recorded at ten stations between the -Farn Islands and Yarmouth; the majority between Sept. 6th -and Oct. 20th. There appears to have been a rush of the larger -<i>Falconidæ</i> on Sept. 21st. At the Spurn <span class="allsmcap">L.H.</span>, on Sept. 21st, two -Common Buzzards; 14th, 1 a.m., Honey Buzzard caught against -lantern, and another on 17th, shot near Kilnsea. Farn <span class="allsmcap">L.H.</span>, -23rd, one very large Hawk, "back and wings dark brown, belly -greyish white, beak slate-colour." Whitby <span class="allsmcap">L.H.</span>, Jan. 12th, -8.30. a.m., one very large Hawk, "dark colour, with long, -square tail, the largest I have ever seen." <i>Accipiter nisus</i>, -Sparrowhawk, numerous through September and to Oct. 14th, -and after this in less numbers to Nov. 20th; rush, Sept. 21st, -with other <i>Falconidæ</i>. Heligoland, Rough-legged Buzzard, Oct. -12th and 13th, one each day; Nov. 2nd, some; 19th, four to -<span class="pagenum" id="Page_49">-49-</span> -six. Sea Eagle, <i>Haliaëtus albicilla</i>, Sept. 21st, some. Sparrowhawks, -from Sept. 21st to Nov. 1st.; Oct. 4th, first old birds. -As a rule Sparrowhawks pass late in the afternoon. Peregrine -Falcon, Oct. 12th, a few. Kestrel and others, Sept. 22nd, -"more than ever, with Sparrowhawks and Merlins."</p> - -<p><i>Phalacrocorax carbo</i>, Cormorant.—Tees <span class="allsmcap">L.V.</span>, March 7th, flock -of twenty-five; 24th, fifty.</p> - -<p><i>Sula bassana</i>, Gannet.—Spring, Farn <span class="allsmcap">L.V.</span>, Feb. 25th, many -going N. Longstone <span class="allsmcap">L.H.</span>, March 22nd to April 15th, daily to N., -and from this date every day till May 30th, never more than -nine in a flock; great numbers of young also seen off Farn -Islands, Redcar and Whitby, first three weeks, in October, -generally moving in northerly directions. Redcar, Oct. 26th and -31st and Nov. 2nd and 10th, great numbers to S.E. Hanois -<span class="allsmcap">L.H.</span> (Guernsey), Nov. 24th, all day passing.</p> - -<p><i>Ardea cinerea</i>, Heron.—Languard <span class="allsmcap">L.H.</span>, June 25th, a pair very -high to S.W., and several seen off Farn <span class="allsmcap">L.H.</span> in August.</p> - -<p><i>Botaurus stellaris</i>, Bittern.—Early in January, 1884, a -Bittern was shot near Thornton College, North Lincolnshire, and -two others are reported as seen.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Anser</span>, Geese.—Languard <span class="allsmcap">L.H.</span>, March 11th, sixteen Grey -Geese, very high to S.W. Whitby <span class="allsmcap">L.H.</span>, June 20th, nineteen -going N., and on July 8th, 5 p.m., a large flock from N. to S.W. -Redcar, Sept. 21st, twelve Grey Geese to E.; and at some -stations also in October and November, having probably reference -to change of feeding-ground. A large flock of Brent Geese, -<i>Bernicla brenta</i>, were seen off the Farn Islands on March 23rd, -at 6 p.m., and in the autumn a few on Sept. 26th, at the Tees <span class="allsmcap">L.V.</span></p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Cygnus</span>, Swans.—At Tees <span class="allsmcap">L.V.</span>, March 25th, one. Outer -Dowsing <span class="allsmcap">L.V.</span>, 14th, three from N.W. to E.S.E. Spurn, May -13th, three to S.; and on 15th, two in Humber. Llyn Wells -<span class="allsmcap">L.V.</span>, Sept. 16th, three to W.S.W. It is possible all these may -have reference to escapes or strays from private waters.</p> - -<p><i>Tadorna cornuta</i>, Common Sheldrake.—Tees <span class="allsmcap">L.V.</span>, Jan. 13th, -flock of three hundred. "Never saw so many together before." -Nov. 28th, flock of about one hundred.</p> - -<p><i>Mareca penelope</i>, Wigeon.—Redcar, Aug. 20th, two flocks; -Sept. 20th, flock of one hundred Teal at sea. Farn <span class="allsmcap">L.H.</span>, Dec. -12th, hundreds of Wild Duck, <i>Anas boschas</i>, off island.</p> - -<p><i>Harelda glacialis</i>, Long-tailed Duck.—Farn <span class="allsmcap">L.H.</span>, March 8th, -<span class="pagenum" id="Page_50">-50-</span> -"flock of fifty to sixty off island." On Oct. 23rd, at Kilnsea, -near the Spurn, I shot a mature female Hareld from a flooded -meadow. The stomach contained a mass of small red worms -and minute stones.</p> - -<p><i>Somateria mollissima</i>, Eider Duck.—Farn <span class="allsmcap">L.H.</span>, Nov., "hundreds -of Eiders, drakes and ducks, with young birds, flying and -swimming about the island every day this month." In December -six were shot on Breydon Water, Norfolk. The King Eider, -<i>Somateria spectabilis</i>, was again, as in the last two years, -seen at the Farn Islands, in company with the Common Eider, -in April.</p> - -<p><i>Œdemia nigra</i>, Common Scoter.—Gull <span class="allsmcap">L.V.</span>, Aug. 19th to -Sept. 11th, great numbers going S.W.</p> - -<p><i>Columba palumbus</i>, Ring Dove.—Farn <span class="allsmcap">L.H.</span>, Sept. 24th, one. -Stock Dove, <i>C. ænas</i>.—On Oct. 25th, at Kilnsea, near the Spurn, -I saw one come in direct from the sea and pitch in a field on the -cliff top. Heligoland, <i>C. palumbus</i>, Sept. 30th, some; Oct. 4th, -flights, forty to fifty; 13th and 15th, passing on; 31st, many.</p> - -<p><i>Rallus aquaticus</i>, Water Rail.—Farn <span class="allsmcap">L.H.</span>, Oct. 30th, S., foggy, -three at daylight; Nov. 2nd, one at noon, to land; Galloper, -3rd, one (wing to J. H. G.) Hasbro' <span class="allsmcap">L.H.</span>, Dec. 9th, S.W., one -struck.</p> - -<p><i>Crex pratensis</i>, Corn Crake.—Farn <span class="allsmcap">L.H.</span>, May 1st, 3 p.m., -N.E., one; 23rd, 2 p.m., one. Whitby, 11th, first heard. -Winterton <span class="allsmcap">L.H.</span>, Aug. 10th, midnight, one struck. Spurn <span class="allsmcap">L.H.</span>, -Sept. 15th, one; Hunstanton <span class="allsmcap">L.H.</span>, Oct. 8th, one struck and -caught alive.</p> - -<p><i>Œdicnemus scolopax</i>, Stone Curlew.—Heligoland, Aug. 15th.</p> - -<p><i>Charadrius pluvialis</i>, Golden Plover.—Farn <span class="allsmcap">L.H.</span>, July 27th, five -to E., and on Aug. 20th, flock to W.; numerous on island through -August and September, moving to and from the mainland. At the -Spurn on Aug. 29th, a large flock to N.<a id="FNanchor_22" href="#Footnote_22" class="fnanchor">[22]</a>; and at Wells, Norfolk, -Aug. 27th, in small parties on mud. Heligoland, July. 16th, one -young bird shot; Aug. 21st to 24th, young birds; 16th and 17th, -great flights, all young; 29th, great flights; night Oct. 31st to -Nov. 1st, "whole atmosphere gloomy darkness, Curlew, Lapwing, -Tringa, Snipe, Woodcock, but no Golden Plover." Dec. 4th, -N.E. (No. 8 or 9), snow-storm. Woodcocks and Golden Plover.</p> - -<div class="footnote"> - -<p><a id="Footnote_22" href="#FNanchor_22" class="label">[22]</a> The occurrence of a large body of Golden Plovers at the Spurn at this -date, passing to the north, is somewhat remarkable in connection with the -large flight of the same species seen there, passing in the same direction, on -Aug. 22nd, in 1880, and on Sept. 6th in 1881. (Yarrell's Brit. Birds, ed. iv., -vol. iii., p. 274).</p> - -</div> - -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_51">-51-</span></p> - -<p><i>Squatarola helvetica</i>, Grey Plover.—Spurn, June 7th, 11 a.m., -N.E., flocks along coast. Hasbro' <span class="allsmcap">L.V.</span>, Nov. 1st, four killed. -Tees <span class="allsmcap">L.V.</span>, Dec. 13th, large flock.</p> - -<p><i>Vanellus vulgaris</i>, Lapwing.—Spring, Cockle <span class="allsmcap">L.V.</span>, March 8th, -large flocks to S.W. Autumn, Yarmouth, Oct. 6th, large flocks -in afternoon from sea; 30th, Hasbro' <span class="allsmcap">L.V.</span>, great rush; Whitby -<span class="allsmcap">L.H.</span>, Nov. 15th, 16th and 17th, flights each day, south-westerly -gale; also at Hunstanton <span class="allsmcap">L.H.</span> on 16th, to S.W., from daylight -to noon.</p> - -<p><i>Strepsilas interpres</i>, Turnstone.—Yarmouth, Aug. 11th, young -birds to S. Farn <span class="allsmcap">L.H.</span>, 14th, large flocks at noon. Redcar, -31st, large flock near Teesmouth, fresh arrivals.</p> - -<p><i>Hæmatopus ostralegus</i>, Oystercatcher.—Llyn Wells <span class="allsmcap">L.V.</span>, -Jan. 7th, 1884, one killed (J. H. G.).</p> - -<p><i>Phalaropus hyperboreus</i>, Red-necked Phalarope.—Yarmouth, -Oct. 24th, one shot.</p> - -<p><i>Scolopax rusticula</i>, Woodcock.—Flamborough <span class="allsmcap">L.H.</span>, April 6th, -struck and killed. Two or three occurred at Teesmouth (Redcar), -last week in August, and a few in September. At Seaton Snook -and Flamborough on Sept. 21st. The "first flight" was on the -Yorkshire, Lincolnshire and Norfolk coasts, on the night of Oct. -21st, wind N.E. The "great flight," or rush, on the nights of -Oct. 28th and 29th, covering the whole of the E. coast, from the -Farn Islands to Yarmouth, the bulk coming probably into the -Humber district. A friend wrote me he had shot eighteen on -the morning of 29th, and might easily have doubled this number -if he had started early enough. From the 2nd to the 10th -of November stragglers continued to arrive between the Farn -Islands and Yarmouth. Heligoland, Sept. 22nd, first; Oct. -22nd, one hundred caught or shot; 28th, astounding passage of -Larks, Starlings, Peewits, Snipes and Woodcocks; Oct. 30th, -twenty to thirty shot; 31st, ten to twenty shot; 31st to Nov. 1st, -thirteen caught, a few stragglers to December 4th.<a id="FNanchor_23" href="#Footnote_23" class="fnanchor">[23]</a></p> - -<div class="footnote"> - -<p><a id="Footnote_23" href="#FNanchor_23" class="label">[23]</a> Mr. Clubley, of Kilnsea, near the Spurn, who during his life has -probably shot more Cock than anyone living on the east coast, says that a -S.E. wind always brings <i>large grey</i> or <i>light-coloured</i> Woodcocks, a N. wind -<i>small</i> and <i>red-coloured</i> birds—that is, Scandinavian birds. This rule seems -to hold good on other parts of our east coast. See also remarks by Mr. J. -Harvie-Brown.</p> - -</div> - -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_52">-52-</span></p> - -<p><i>Gallinago major</i>, Great Snipe.—N. E. Lincolnshire, Oct. 2nd, -one shot; Yarmouth, same date, one.</p> - -<p><i>G. cælestis</i>, Common Snipe.—Yarmouth, Aug. 11th, several. -Great Cotes, Sept. 25th, first considerable flight, wind S.E. -night of 24th, with gale and heavy rain. Hasbro' <span class="allsmcap">L.H.</span>, Nov. -8th, two struck and killed. Heligoland, Oct. 22nd, great flight; -28th, night, immense.</p> - -<p><i>Limnocryptes gallinula</i>, Jack Snipe.—Farn. <span class="allsmcap">L.H.</span>, Sept. 21st, -S.E., noon, two. Galloper <span class="allsmcap">L.V.</span>, Nov. 3rd, one (J. H. G.) Llyn -Wells <span class="allsmcap">L.V.</span>, 7th, one (J. H. G.)</p> - -<p><i>Tringa alpina</i>, Dunlin.—Languard <span class="allsmcap">L.H.</span>, March 10th, 7.40 -a.m., very large flock, very rapidly to N. <i>T. minuta</i>, Little -Stint, Bridlington, Aug. 3rd, two seen (W. E. C.), and at Yarmouth, -second week in September, three.<a id="FNanchor_24" href="#Footnote_24" class="fnanchor">[24]</a></p> - -<div class="footnote"> - -<p><a id="Footnote_24" href="#FNanchor_24" class="label">[24]</a> The first great rush of <i>Tringæ</i> across Heligoland was Aug. 6th and 7th; -14th also, all sorts; and on 21st and 22nd, same; again on night of Oct. 31st, -and morning of Nov. 1st.</p> - -</div> - -<p><i>T. subarquata</i>, Curlew Sandpiper.—Essex coast, August 1st, -Colonel Russell shot three from a flock of Oxbirds; they were in -partial moult; another was seen.</p> - -<p><i>T. striata</i>, Purple Sandpiper.—Farn <span class="allsmcap">L.H.</span>, May 15th, 6 p.m., -S.S.E., very large flock flying over island; and at the same -station, on Nov. 28th, very large flocks of Turnstone, Purple -Sandpiper and Redshank. Yarmouth, Oct. 5th, five seen.</p> - -<p><i>T. canutus</i>, Knot.—Spurn, June 13th, flock arrived from S. -The first Knots in the autumn were seen at Yarmouth and -Redcar on Aug. 11th, and by the end of the month were -tolerably numerous along the east coast. Llyn Wells <span class="allsmcap">L.V.</span>, Sept. -22nd, N.N.E., large flocks to S. all day; at this station also, -from Oct. 20th to Jan. 6th, 1884, twenty-eight were killed -against the lantern.<a id="FNanchor_25" href="#Footnote_25" class="fnanchor">[25]</a></p> - -<div class="footnote"> - -<p><a id="Footnote_25" href="#FNanchor_25" class="label">[25]</a> The Knot at Blakeney is always called "Knet"; Godwit, a "Pick"; -Dunlin, "Stint"; Whimbrel, "May-bird"; Turnstone, "Dotterel"; Ringed -Plover, "Oxbird." On the Essex coast the Whimbrel is a "May-bird" or -"Titterel," the latter from its cry; Godwits are "Pream;" Knot, "Marl"; -Dunlin, "Oxbird"; Ringed Plover, "Stone-runner." At Spurn the Knot is -a "Plover-knot," but on the Lincolnshire coast simply a "Knot". Local -names, common to both sides of the Humber, are, Turnstone, "Dotterel"; -Common Dotterel, "Land Dotterel," "Spring Dotterel"; Grey Plover, -"Pigeon," or "Buffel-headed Plover"; Dunlin, "Stint," or "Tommy Stint"; -Ringed Plover, "Sand-runner"; Whimbrel, "Curlew-jack"; Godwit, "Curlew-whelp." -On the Durham coast the Knot is both a "Dunlin" and "Grey -Plover"; Dunlin, a "Stint"; Sanderling, "White Stint"; Whimbrel, "Curlew-jack"; -Lapwing, a "Tyafit"; Godwit, "Goodwin." The local names of -birds vary so in different districts that they frequently become very puzzling -to the members of the Committee; it would greatly assist their labours and -facilitate enquiry if any fellow-worker would take the trouble to compile a -glossary of local names of our British birds. The investigation might be -rendered easy by sending printed forms to the best known ornithologists, in -their respective districts. The results could not fail to be both useful and -interesting.</p> - -</div> - -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_53">-53-</span></p> - -<p><i>Machetes pugnax</i>, Ruff.—Yarmouth, second week in September, -five ruffs and one reeve.</p> - -<p><i>Calidris arenaria</i>, Sanderling.—Flamborough, Aug. 3rd, old -male in summer plumage (W. E. C.). Yarmouth, 11th, Knots -and Sanderlings on beach. Spurn, Oct. 23rd, a few.</p> - -<p><i>Totanus glareola</i>, Wood Sandpiper.—Bridlington, middle of -August, a young bird was shot on South Sands (W. E. C.). -Spurn, middle of September, three, all immature, taken to -Mr. P. Lawton, of Easington.</p> - -<p><i>T. calidris</i>, Redshank.—Outer Dowsing <span class="allsmcap">L.V.</span>, May 9th, one -"Red-legged Sandpiper" on deck, then to W. Wells, Norfolk, -Aug. 28th, numerous; one hundred or more in a flock. Tees -<span class="allsmcap">L.V.</span>, Sept. 23rd, large flock. Farn <span class="allsmcap">L.V.</span>, Nov. 28th, very large -flocks with Purple Sandpiper and Turnstone on rocks. <i>T. -fuscus</i>, Spotted Redshank, Breydon, Oct. 20th, one shot.</p> - -<p><i>T. canescens</i>, Greenshank.—Wells, Norfolk, Aug. 27th, "comparatively -numerous." Yarmouth, Aug. 9th, four shot, all immature. -Sept. 2nd, two.</p> - -<p><i>Limosa lapponica</i>, Bar-tailed Godwit.—Redcar, July 28th, -and forward to Aug. 27th, in some numbers.</p> - -<p><i>Numenius phæopus</i>, Whimbrel.—Redcar, July 18th, N.E. -light, first passing over, very high. Yarmouth, Aug. 1st, all day. -Redcar, 8th, S.W. strong, two large flocks of fifty; 23rd and -24th, rush, and at intervals to Sept. 10th.</p> - -<p><i>N. arquata</i>, Curlew.—Farn <span class="allsmcap">L.H.</span>, March 11th, 5 to 6 p.m., -four to five hundred to island from mainland in flocks from five -to thirty. Whitby <span class="allsmcap">L.H.</span>, June 20th, great many night and day. -<span class="pagenum" id="Page_54">-54-</span> -Winterton <span class="allsmcap">L.H.</span>, Sept. 10th, 12.30 a.m., one caught beating -against lantern, great many during night to W. Farn <span class="allsmcap">L.H.</span>, -Nov. 17th, large flock to E. Hasbro' <span class="allsmcap">L.V.</span>, Jan. 3rd, 1884, one -killed. Heligoland, Oct. 30th and 31st, great many with <i>Tringa</i> -and <i>Scolopax</i>, <i>Limosa</i> and <i>Vanellus</i>; and night of 31st, great rush.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Sterninæ</span>, Terns.—Spurn, May 4th, all day to north. At -the <a id="Farne_Islands"></a>Farne Islands the Arctic Terns, <i>Sterna macrura</i>, returned to -their nesting quarters on May 20th, and left again on Aug. 3rd, -only a few being seen after that date. Yarmouth, Aug. 7th to -10th, Black, Common, and Arctic Terns along shore, and through -the month to 31st; in shore only when wind is westerly, in -flocks of ten to fifty, nine-tenths being young; it is the westerly -winds which bring in the herring "syle," on which the Terns -feed. The Sandwich Tern, <i>Sterna cantiaca</i>, arrived at the Farn -Islands between April 15th and 23rd, leaving again on Aug. 3rd. -At Languard Point, Mr. Owen Boyle saw on June 1st, 4.45 a.m., -a pair of Roseate Terns; 7th, four Sandwich Terns; 15th, four -Lesser Terns; and on 23rd, four Common Terns. At Redcar, on -Sept. 5th, 6th, 7th, and 10th, many flights were heard passing -over in dark.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Larinæ</span>, Gulls.—Whitby <span class="allsmcap">L.H.</span>, Feb. 15th, Herring Gulls -returning to cliffs; July 18th, first young on wing; Aug. 14th, -Gulls, old and young, left the cliff. Farn <span class="allsmcap">L.H.</span>, April 14th, Lesser -Black-backed Gulls returning to nesting quarters. Yarmouth, -Aug. 10th, Gulls, mostly young, along shore feeding on "syle," -five to thirty in flock. Flamborough, Sept. 12th, great many -Gulls all day to south. Spurn, Sept. 24th, two hundred Herring -Gulls to south. Cockle <span class="allsmcap">L.V.</span>, Oct. 25th, great many large Gulls, -young and old, E. to W.; Nov. 17th to 23rd, 9.30 a.m. to 3 p.m., -Great Black-backed Gulls from W. to E. Farn <span class="allsmcap">L.H.</span>, Nov. 8th to -30th, very large number of Black-headed Gulls fishing round -island at flood each day; Dec. 8th, two "Bass" Gulls; 12th, -one. "These Gulls are all cream-colour. I am not sure if they -are the Glaucous, so have given them the local name." At -Heligoland, young Glaucous Gulls, <i>L. glaucus</i>, were repeatedly -seen about island in December; and during the last week in -January, 1884, hundreds of Black-headed Gulls, <i>L. ridibundus</i>, -frequented the plateau of cliff, which Mr. Gätke says is a "very -exceptional" circumstance there. <i>Xema sabinii</i>, Sabine's Gull, -an immature example was shot on. Oct. 28th, the second example -<span class="pagenum" id="Page_55">-55-</span> -which has been obtained there; and on Nov. 10th a second -young bird was seen by Aeuckens, the birdstuffer.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Stercorariinæ</span>, Skuas.—Redcar, Aug. 25th, two; Teesmouth, -27th, Richardson's Skua, <i>S. crepidatus</i>. Farn <span class="allsmcap">L.H.</span>, Sept. 17th, -several chasing Gulls. Yarmouth, 20th, many. Heligoland, -Oct. 27th, <i>S. pomatorhinus</i>, one.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Procellariidæ</span>, Petrels.—The Stormy Petrel, <i>P. pelagica</i>, -occurred at Yarmouth, Oct. 2nd, and Spurn on 23rd, shot in -each case from beach. Hasbro' <span class="allsmcap">L.V.</span>, 27th, seven caught on deck, -on 31st ten, and between Oct. 27th and Nov. 4th several were -taken at various stations at sea off the east coast. One Fork-tailed -Petrel, <i>P. leucorrhoa</i>, from Happisburgh (Hasbro') <span class="allsmcap">L.V.</span> in -October. A Shearwater was seen at Farn <span class="allsmcap">L.H.</span> July 20th, 6 a.m., -going north; and at Spurn <span class="allsmcap">L.H.</span> on Aug. 5th, 2 a.m., a Manx -Shearwater, <i>P. anglorum</i>, was killed against the lantern. -Breydon, Sept. 5th, one shot. In the latter part of the same -month two Sooty Shearwaters, P. griseus, were obtained in -Bridlington Bay, and taken to the shop of Mr. Jones, birdstuffer, -where they were seen and identified by Mr. W. E. Clarke.<a id="FNanchor_26" href="#Footnote_26" class="fnanchor">[26]</a></p> - -<div class="footnote"> - -<p><a id="Footnote_26" href="#FNanchor_26" class="label">[26]</a> 'Zoologist,' 1884, p. 180.</p> - -</div> - -<p><span class="smcap">Colymbidæ</span>, Divers.—Tees <span class="allsmcap">L.V.</span>, March 28th, one Great -Northern and two Red-throated Divers off the light-ship, in -company with two Grebes, twelve Sheldrake, and six Brent -Geese. Redcar, Sept. 2nd, four or five Red-throated Divers; -and on 20th several lots of both. Breydon Water, Oct. 16th, -adult Red-throated Diver. At the Farn Islands, last half of -October and in November, many Great Northern Divers about -islands; Jan. 15th, 1884, several Red-throated Divers about -island.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Podicipidæ</span>, Grebes.—Bridlington, latter part of August, -Red-necked Grebe, <i>P. griseigena</i>, shot, in full summer plumage. -Spurn, Nov. 2nd, a few pairs of Little Grebes, <i>Tachybaptes -fluviatilis</i>, on ponds; and on Jan. 6th, 1884, three Great Crested -Grebes, <i>P. cristatus</i>, on the sea off point.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Alcidæ</span>, Auks.—At Flamborough, in February, 1884, great -numbers of Razorbills, <i>Alca torda</i>, all returned to their -nesting quarters on the cliffs, an unprecedented circumstance -there; and large numbers of the Common Guillemot were -reported by the fishermen as seen at sea off the headland. -At the Farn Islands, March 22nd, 1883, Guillemots had come to -<span class="pagenum" id="Page_56">-56-</span> -their nesting quarters, thousands arriving on April 1st. Puffins -on the 15th. On January 10th and 28th, 1884, on each day a -Black Guillemot, <i>Uria grylle</i>, was shot from the island. The -Little Auk, <i>Mergulus alle</i>, shot there on Dec. 29th; and on Feb. -4th and 5th, 1884, a great many were seen flying and swimming -about the islands, more than had ever been seen before.</p> - -<p>The Committee are again indebted to Professor Chr. Fr. -Lütken, of the Universitetets Zoologiske Museum, Copenhagen, for -a list of the birds killed or taken against the lantern of the -lighthouse of Stevns, on the projecting part of Zealand, marking -the limit between the Baltic and Oresund, in the spring and -autumn of 1883. The list has been drawn up by Mr. Autander, -a physician living in the neighbourhood of the lighthouse. In -forwarding the list to Professor Lütken he states there has been -in this year only a few nights in which any number of birds have -been killed, in consequence of the sky being generally clear -during the time of the migration.</p> - -<p class="caption3nb smcap">Stevns Fyr (Lighthouse of Stevns ), 1883.</p> - -<p>Night to—</p> - -<table summary="birds"> -<tr> - <td class="tdc">April</td> - <td class="tdc">6th.</td> - <td class="tdl">Saxicola œnanthe</td> - <td class="tdl">2, male and female.</td> -</tr> -<tr> - <td class="tdc">"</td> - <td class="tdc">"</td> - <td class="tdl">Regulus cristatus</td> - <td class="tdl">2 males.</td> -</tr> -<tr> - <td class="tdc">"</td> - <td class="tdc">"</td> - <td class="tdl">Erithacus rubecula</td> - <td class="tdl">1 male.</td> -</tr> -<tr> - <td class="tdc">"</td> - <td class="tdc">12th.</td> - <td class="tdl">Turdus viscivorus</td> - <td class="tdl">2.</td> -</tr> -<tr> - <td class="tdc">"</td> - <td class="tdc">"</td> - <td class="tdl">T. merula</td> - <td class="tdl">4.</td> -</tr> -<tr> - <td class="tdc">"</td> - <td class="tdc">"</td> - <td class="tdl">T. musicus</td> - <td class="tdl">10.</td> -</tr> -<tr> - <td class="tdc">"</td> - <td class="tdc">"</td> - <td class="tdl">Alauda arvensis</td> - <td class="tdl">6.</td> -</tr> -<tr> - <td class="tdc">"</td> - <td class="tdc">"</td> - <td class="tdl">Regulus cristatus</td> - <td class="tdl">1.</td> -</tr> -<tr> - <td class="tdc">"</td> - <td class="tdc">"</td> - <td class="tdl">Saxicola œnanthe</td> - <td class="tdl">4.</td> -</tr> -<tr> - <td class="tdc">"</td> - <td class="tdc">"</td> - <td class="tdl">Erithacus rubecula</td> - <td class="tdl">2.</td> -</tr> -<tr> - <td class="tdc">"</td> - <td class="tdc">13th.</td> - <td class="tdl">Scolopax rusticula</td> - <td class="tdl">1 male.</td> -</tr> -<tr> - <td class="tdc">"</td> - <td class="tdc">"</td> - <td class="tdl">Columba palumbus</td> - <td class="tdl">1.</td> -</tr> -<tr> - <td class="tdc">"</td> - <td class="tdc">"</td> - <td class="tdl">Sturnus vulgaris</td> - <td class="tdl">1.</td> -</tr> -<tr> - <td class="tdc">"</td> - <td class="tdc">"</td> - <td class="tdl">Emberiza citrinella</td> - <td class="tdl">1.</td> -</tr> -<tr> - <td class="tdc">"</td> - <td class="tdc">"</td> - <td class="tdl">Fringilla cœlebs</td> - <td class="tdl">1.</td> -</tr> -<tr> - <td class="tdc">"</td> - <td class="tdc">"</td> - <td class="tdl">Saxicola œnanthe</td> - <td class="tdl">1.</td> -</tr> -<tr> - <td class="tdc">"</td> - <td class="tdc">"</td> - <td class="tdl">Troglodytes parvulus</td> - <td class="tdl">2.</td> -</tr> -<tr> - <td class="tdc">"</td> - <td class="tdc">"</td> - <td class="tdl">Alauda arvensis</td> - <td class="tdl">2.</td> -</tr> -<tr> - <td class="tdc">"</td> - <td class="tdc">"</td> - <td class="tdl">Turdus musicus</td> - <td class="tdl">8.</td> -</tr> -<tr> - <td class="tdc">"</td> - <td class="tdc">"</td> - <td class="tdl">Erithacus rubecula</td> - <td class="tdl">15.</td> -</tr> -<tr> - <td class="tdl">Aug.</td> - <td class="tdc">4th.</td> - <td class="tdl">Tringa alpina</td> - <td class="tdl">1 male.</td> -</tr> -<tr> - <td class="tdc">"</td> - <td class="tdc">26th.</td> - <td class="tdl">Jynx torquilla</td> - <td class="tdl">1 male.</td> -</tr> -<tr> - <td class="tdl">Sept.</td> - <td class="tdc">3rd.</td> - <td class="tdl">Sylvia trochilus</td> - <td class="tdl">3.</td> -</tr> -<tr> - <td class="tdc">"</td> - <td class="tdc">"</td> - <td class="tdl">Luscinia phœnicurus</td> - <td class="tdl">1 male.</td> -</tr> -<tr> - <td class="tdc">"</td> - <td class="tdc">"</td> - <td class="tdl">Muscicapa grisola</td> - <td class="tdl">1 male.</td> -</tr> -<tr> - <td class="tdc">"</td> - <td class="tdc">"</td> - <td class="tdl">M. atricapilla<span class="pagenum" id="Page_57">-57-</span></td> - <td class="tdl">1 female.</td> -</tr> -<tr> - <td class="tdc">"</td> - <td class="tdc">"</td> - <td class="tdl">Columba ænas</td> - <td class="tdl">1 female.</td> -</tr> -<tr> - <td class="tdc">"</td> - <td class="tdc">"</td> - <td class="tdl">Lanius collurio</td> - <td class="tdl">1 young male.</td> -</tr> -<tr> - <td class="tdc">"</td> - <td class="tdc">5th.</td> - <td class="tdl">Querquedula cracca</td> - <td class="tdl">1 male.</td> -</tr> -<tr> - <td class="tdc">"</td> - <td class="tdc">"</td> - <td class="tdl">Motacilla alba</td> - <td class="tdl">1 young male.</td> -</tr> -<tr> - <td class="tdc">"</td> - <td class="tdc">"</td> - <td class="tdl">Luscinia phœnicurus</td> - <td class="tdl">6.</td> -</tr> -<tr> - <td class="tdc">"</td> - <td class="tdc">"</td> - <td class="tdl">Jynx torquilla</td> - <td class="tdl">1.</td> -</tr> -<tr> - <td class="tdc">"</td> - <td class="tdc">"</td> - <td class="tdl">Sterna argentata</td> - <td class="tdl">1.</td> -</tr> -<tr> - <td class="tdc">"</td> - <td class="tdc">"</td> - <td class="tdl">Erithacus suecicus</td> - <td class="tdl">1.</td> -</tr> -<tr> - <td class="tdc">"</td> - <td class="tdc">"</td> - <td class="tdl">Sylvia schœnobænus</td> - <td class="tdl">1.</td> -</tr> -<tr> - <td class="tdc">"</td> - <td class="tdc">"</td> - <td class="tdl">S. cinerea</td> - <td class="tdl">2.</td> -</tr> -<tr> - <td class="tdc">"</td> - <td class="tdc">"</td> - <td class="tdl">S. hortensis</td> - <td class="tdl">5.</td> -</tr> -<tr> - <td class="tdc">"</td> - <td class="tdc">"</td> - <td class="tdl">S. trochilus</td> - <td class="tdl">2.</td> -</tr> -<tr> - <td class="tdc">"</td> - <td class="tdc">"</td> - <td class="tdl">Motacilla flava</td> - <td class="tdl">1.</td> -</tr> -<tr> - <td class="tdc">"</td> - <td class="tdc">"</td> - <td class="tdl">Saxicola œnanthe</td> - <td class="tdl">2.</td> -</tr> -<tr> - <td class="tdc">"</td> - <td class="tdc">"</td> - <td class="tdl">S. rubetra</td> - <td class="tdl">1.</td> -</tr> -<tr> - <td class="tdc">"</td> - <td class="tdc">"</td> - <td class="tdl">Muscicapa atricapilla</td> - <td class="tdl">4.</td> -</tr> -<tr> - <td class="tdc">"</td> - <td class="tdc">"</td> - <td class="tdl"><span style="margin-left:-1em;">†</span>Locustella fluviatilis</td> - <td class="tdl">1.</td> -</tr> -<tr> - <td class="tdc">"</td> - <td class="tdc">6th.</td> - <td class="tdl">Podiceps minor</td> - <td class="tdl">1 young male.</td> -</tr> -<tr> - <td class="tdl">Oct.</td> - <td class="tdc">1st.</td> - <td class="tdl">Turdus musicus</td> - <td class="tdl">2.</td> -</tr> -<tr> - <td class="tdc">"</td> - <td class="tdc">4th.</td> - <td class="tdl">Sylvia atricapilla</td> - <td class="tdl">1.</td> -</tr> -<tr> - <td class="tdc">"</td> - <td class="tdc">11th.</td> - <td class="tdl">Turdus musicus</td> - <td class="tdl">8.</td> -</tr> -<tr> - <td class="tdc">"</td> - <td class="tdc">"</td> - <td class="tdl">Sturnus vulgaris</td> - <td class="tdl">1.</td> -</tr> -<tr> - <td class="tdc">"</td> - <td class="tdc">"</td> - <td class="tdl">Alauda arvensis</td> - <td class="tdl">2.</td> -</tr> -<tr> - <td class="tdc">"</td> - <td class="tdc">"</td> - <td class="tdl">Sylvia rufa</td> - <td class="tdl">2.</td> -</tr> -<tr> - <td class="tdc">"</td> - <td class="tdc">"</td> - <td class="tdl">Fringilla montifringilla</td> - <td class="tdl">6.</td> -</tr> -<tr> - <td class="tdc">"</td> - <td class="tdc">"</td> - <td class="tdl">Emberiza schœniclus</td> - <td class="tdl">11.</td> -</tr> -<tr> - <td class="tdc">"</td> - <td class="tdc">"</td> - <td class="tdl">Erithacus rubecula</td> - <td class="tdl">25.</td> -</tr> -<tr> - <td class="tdc">"</td> - <td class="tdc">20th.</td> - <td class="tdl">Fringilla montifringilla</td> - <td class="tdl">1.</td> -</tr> -<tr> - <td class="tdc">"</td> - <td class="tdc">26th.</td> - <td class="tdl">Coccothraustes vulgaris</td> - <td class="tdl">1 male.</td> -</tr> -<tr> - <td class="tdl">Nov.</td> - <td class="tdc">1st.</td> - <td class="tdl">Emberiza citrinella</td> - <td class="tdl">1 male.</td> -</tr> -</table> - -<div class="blockquot"> -<p> - † Determined at the Museum; not before found in Denmark. -</p> -</div> - -<p>Since the completion of the Report a schedule has been -received from the Leman and Ower <span class="allsmcap">L.V.</span> moored forty-eight miles -E.N.E. of Cromer, on the coast of Norfolk. From Feb. 11th to -May 8th, Skylarks, Black Crows, Rooks, Wild Ducks, Starlings, -and Goldcrests, are recorded as going in <i>westerly</i> directions; a like -anomalous direction was maintained during the same period at -the Outer Dowsing, Newarp, Cockle, and Llyn Wells light-vessels -by birds passing these stations. On May 8th a great many -Goldcrests came from the south at 11 a.m., and then went <i>west</i>. -Sept. 11th, great numbers of Goldcrests going from S.E. to W.; -and on Oct. 28th with Redbreasts and Wrens from S. to N.W. -Between Oct. 27th and Nov. 1st two hundred and eight birds -<span class="pagenum" id="Page_58">-58-</span> -were killed or taken on the vessel, including seven Grey Crows, -Larks, Redbreasts, Wrens, Goldcrests, Starlings, Sparrows, -Chaffinches, and two Woodcocks; these birds were travelling -from S., S.E., and E. to N.W., N.N.W., and W.</p> - -<p>Wings from Galloper <span class="allsmcap">L.V.</span> by Mr. Gurney. Oct. 10th, Tree -Sparrow and Chaffinch; 11th, Shore Lark; 13th, Great Tit; -27th, Chaffinch; 28th, Blackstart (young male or old female?), -Thrush; 30th, Meadow Pipit; Nov. 3rd, Jack Snipe and Water -Rail.</p> - -<p>On April 9th, 1884, I received from Mr. Gurney the wing of -a Dabchick (Little Grebe), which struck the lantern of the -Hasbro' lighthouse at 11 p.m. on the night of March 30th. The -force was so great that the bird was split from the neck along the -entire length of body; and on April 8th a Hoopoe was killed -against the North Hasbro' <span class="allsmcap">L.V.</span>, and the head, wings, and legs -sent to Mr. Gurney by Mr. B. V. Darnell, mate of that vessel. -A Hoopoe was also taken alive on April 10th, on board a -Grimsby smack when one hundred miles E.N.E. of the Spurn, -wind blowing strong from E., and had been for some days.</p> - -<p>At Heligoland, on the night from Aug. 6th to 7th, S.E., a -considerable flight of the Silver Gamma Moth, <i>Plusia gamma</i>, -but nothing to be compared with the perfect snow-storms of this -moth which passed in the autumn of 1882, all going west. On -Oct. 11th, S.S.W., there was a considerable flight of <i>Hybernia -defoliaria</i>, the Mottled Umber Moth, mixed with <i>Hybernia aurantiaria</i>, -the scarce Umber; and also during the nights of the last -week in October repeated flights of these moths. With reference -to the great flight of <i>Plusia gamma</i> in 1882, a notice of which -appeared in our last Report, 1882, p. 47, Mr. Charles Williams, -of the Hanois <span class="allsmcap">L.H.</span>, Guernsey, sends this note:—"Seeing Mr. -Gätke's remarks in your Report about the Gamma Moth, I beg -to say that they were here in June or July."</p> - -<p>At the Tees <span class="allsmcap">L.V.</span>, Nov. 18th, "a large Seal came quite close to -vessel, largest I've ever seen." As the Common Seal is well -known at the mouth of the Tees, this probably may have been -the Grey Seal, <i>Halichœrus gryphus</i>.</p> - -<p>From Flamborough comes the announcement that, on Feb. -18th, that rare fish, the Ribbon or Oar-fish, <i>Regalecus banksii</i>, -was found alive amongst the rocks on the south side near the -Head; it measured thirteen feet three inches in length, sixteen -<span class="pagenum" id="Page_59">-59-</span> -inches in depth, and five and a half inches in thickness; it was -supposed to have been brought in by the tremendous easterly -swell of the last few days. It was purchased by Mr. Whittaker, -of Scarborough, for thirty pounds.</p> - - -<p class="caption3nb smcap">General Remarks.</p> - -<p>The observations taken on the East Coast of England in 1883 -have been such as to generally confirm the conclusions arrived at -in previous Report, having special reference to directions of -flight and lines of migration.</p> - -<p>The winter of 1883-84 has been exceptionally mild, and there -has been an almost entire absence of severe frosts and lasting -snow-storms; the prevailing winds in the autumn W. and S.W.—such -as we know are specially favourable for the passage of the -North Sea by great flights of birds, and their direct movement -inland without alighting to rest or recruit themselves in the east -coast districts. Our land stations report a great scarcity both of -land and sea-birds; this has not, however, been the case at sea -stations—that is, light-vessels situated off the coast at distances -varying from five to fifty miles; here the stream of migration, so -far from showing any abatement, has flown steadily on in a full -tide, and, judging from the well-filled schedules that have been -returned, there appears to have been a decided increase in the -migrants passing these distant stations—due, perhaps, in some -measure to increased interest and improved observations. Mr. -Wm. Stock, of the Outer Dowsing <span class="allsmcap">L.V.</span>, remarks that he had -never before seen so many birds past that station. The rush -also over Heligoland during the autumn was enormous. Migration -is more marked there than on the English coast; there was -a great movement of various species passing forward on the 6th -and 7th of August, and again on the 14th, and more pronounced -still on the 21st and 22nd.</p> - -<p>The first great rush of birds on the English coast was on -Sept. 21st, and two following days; and a similar great movement -or rush is indicated in Mr. Gätke's notes from his island -outpost, as well as on our more distant light-ships. The prevailing -winds on the North Sea on Sept. 21st were moderate -north-easterly and easterly off the coasts of Denmark and -Holland, blowing strong easterly on to our northern coasts north -of the Humber, with southerly and south-westerly off the southeast -<span class="pagenum" id="Page_60">-60-</span> -coasts, causing cross-currents over the North sea. Whatever -then was the impulse, atmospheric or otherwise, which -induced such an immense rush of various birds at this time, it -was one which acted alike, and with precisely the same impulse, -on the Sea Eagle and tiny Goldcrest.</p> - -<p>The second great rush was on the 12th and 13th of October, -a similar movement being recorded at Heligoland. Then again -from the 27th to the 31st, and somewhat less through the first -week in November, the passage across Heligoland, as well as the -rush on our east coast, was enormous. Speaking of the nights -from the 27th to 31st inclusive, Mr. Gätke says, "This was the -first move by the million; for four nights there has been a -gigantic feathery tide running." During this time there were -variable winds over the North Sea, but generally easterly and -south-easterly on the Continent; but strong west winds and -squalls prevailing generally on the 5th and 6th of November. -With the outburst of some severe weather during the first week -in December a considerable local movement is indicated along -our coast from north to south, culminating in the enormous rush -of Snow Buntings into Lincolnshire about the end of the first -week in that month. A careful perusal of the Report will show -how generally the rushes across Heligoland correlate with those -observed on our east coast, although not always confined to the -same species in both localities.</p> - -<p>A somewhat remarkable and very anomalous movement of -migrants is recorded in the schedules from some of the light-vessels -off the Lincolnshire and Norfolk coasts in the spring of -1883. In February, March, April, and May, birds passing the -Leman and Ower, Llyn Wells, Outer Dowsing, Newarp, and -Cockle light-vessels were as a rule coming from easterly and -passing in westerly directions. Had this movement been noticed -at one station only we might perhaps have been inclined to doubt -the accuracy of the return, but the fact of five light-vessels having -no communication with each other reporting the same circumstance -proves the correctness of the observations. A summary -of the spring quarter at these stations shows:—</p> - -<p>Outer Dowsing <span class="allsmcap">L.V.</span>, March 31st to May 18th, Sparrows, -Chaffinches, Wrens, Rooks, Larks, Tree Sparrows, Linnets, -Titlarks, Bullfinches, from E., S.E., E. by S., and N.E. to W, -N.W., W.N.W., and W.S.W.</p> - -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_61">-61-</span></p> - -<p>Llyn Wells <span class="allsmcap">L.V.</span>, April 30th, various flocks of Crows to S.W.</p> - -<p>Newarp <span class="allsmcap">L.V.</span>, March 17th to April 15th, Crows on six days to W.</p> - -<p>Leman and Ower <span class="allsmcap">L.V.</span>, Feb. 18th to May 8th, Skylarks, Starlings, -Titlarks, Goldcrests, E. and E.S.E. to N.W.</p> - -<p>Cockle <span class="allsmcap">L.V.</span>, Feb. 22nd to March 31st, Black Crows, Ducks, -Jackdaws, Starlings, Larks, Lapwings, "Snow-birds" to W. -On March 20th, 24th, and 26th, Black Crows or Rooks continuous -from 5.50 a.m. to 11 a.m., E. to W.; and on 31st also -continuous from morning to night in the same direction.</p> - -<p>All these entries show a great immigration to our coast from -the east in the spring months, and on precisely the same lines -and directions as are travelled by these birds in the autumn.</p> - -<p>An interesting feature of the autumn migration is the occurrence -of a flight of the Blue-throated Warbler, <i>Cyanecula suecica</i>; -twelve altogether were obtained, all being birds of the year, and -nine of these on the coast of Norfolk, besides about twenty -others seen by competent observers.</p> - -<p>Very few Goldcrests, compared with the enormous flights of -the previous autumn, have crossed, and the same scarcity is -observable in the Heligoland return. Curiously enough, the -Hedgesparrow, <i>Accentor modularis</i>, which migrated in such immense -numbers in the same autumn, has been almost entirely -absent. About half a dozen are recorded at Heligoland, none on -the East Coast of England.</p> - -<p>The intermittent migration of some birds, as the Jay, Shore -Lark, Goldcrest, Hedgesparrow, Siskin, and Mealy Redpole, -indicated by their extraordinary abundance in some years, and -partial or entire absence in others, is perhaps suggestive of local -causes influencing and regulating their movements, such as a -succession of favourable breeding seasons, scarcity or failure of -food, sudden meteorological changes; these acting separately or in -combination, would be sufficient to compel the migration of large -bodies of birds from centres or localities, where, under normal -conditions, they would either have remained or some part only -migrated. In this manner whole districts may become denuded -for a time of their feathered inhabitants, and the balance become -again rectified by a return movement in the spring, or from the -surplus supply bred in other districts.</p> - -<p>Of the enormous immigration which crosses our east coast in -the autumn, either to winter in these islands or passing across -<span class="pagenum" id="Page_62">-62-</span> -them, a small proportion only appear to return by the same -route. Spring returns from lighthouses and light-vessels show -birds then move on the same lines as were followed in the -autumn, but in the reverse direction. Yet these return travellers -do not represent anything like a tithe of the immigrants which, -week by week and month after month in the autumn, pour in one -great tide on to the coast.</p> - -<p>What is called the "first flight" of the Woodcock arrived on -the Yorkshire, Lincolnshire, and Norfolk coasts on the night of -Oct. 21st. The "great flight" or rush, which covered the whole -of the east coast from the Farn Islands to Yarmouth, was on the -nights of the 28th and 29th. These two periods correlate with -the great flights of Woodcocks over Heligoland.</p> - -<p>We are again indebted to Professor Ch. F. Lütken, of Copenhagen, -for a list of the birds killed or taken alive against the -lantern of the Stevns lighthouse, at the entrance of the Oresund, -in Zealand. The list is specially interesting, as it names so -many of the Heligoland birds. The occurrence of Locustella -fluviatilis on Sept. 5th is the first recorded example for Denmark.</p> - -<p>The Roller, <i>Coracias garrula</i>, occurred in October in two -localities, one in Lincolnshire, the other in Suffolk. Two -examples of the Sooty Shearwater, <i>Puffinus griseus</i>, were -obtained in Bridlington Bay in the end of September. Altogether -there has been a very marked absence along our east coast of -rare and casual visitants; Heligoland, however, retains its pre-eminence -for rare wanderers, and Mr. Gätke's list for 1883 -includes <i>Turdus varius</i>, <i>Pratincola rubicola</i> var. <i>indicus</i>, -<i>Phylloscopus superciliosus</i>, <i>Hypolais pallida</i>, <i>Motacilla citriola</i>, <i>Anthus -cervinus</i>, <i>A. richardi</i>, <i>Oriolus galbula</i>, <i>Lanius major</i>, <i>Muscicapa -parva</i>, <i>Linota exilipes</i>, <i>Emberiza melanocephala</i>, <i>E. cirlus</i>, <i>E. -rustica</i>, <i>E. pusilla</i>, <i>Pastor roseus</i>, and <i>Xema Sabinii</i>.</p> - -<p><i>Note.</i>—At page 47, under the head "<i>Coracias garrula</i>, Roller," -the locality of Bradwell is erroneously given in Norfolk, instead -of Suffolk (2½ miles S.W. of Great Yarmouth). Mr. Gurney -writes that, on June 6th, 1884, a Roller was shot at Gresham, -near Cromer, and that before this Norfolk has not produced one -for about thirty years.</p> -<hr class="chap x-ebookmaker-drop" /> - -<div class="chapter"> -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_63">-63-</span></p> - -<h2 class="nobreak" id="WEST_COAST_OF_SCOTLAND">WEST COAST OF SCOTLAND.</h2> -</div> - -<div class="poetry-container"> -<div class="poetry"> - <div class="stanza"> - <div class="verse indent0">"And now, their route designed, their leaders chose,</div> - <div class="verse indent0">Their tribes adjusted, clean'd their vigorous wings.</div> - <div class="verse indent0">And many a circle, many a short essay,</div> - <div class="verse indent0">Wheel'd round and round, in congregation full</div> - <div class="verse indent0">The figur'd flight ascends, and riding high</div> - <div class="verse indent0">The aërial billows, mixes with the clouds."</div> - </div> - -<p class="tdr smcap">Thomson.</p> -</div> -</div> - - -<p>Schedules were sent to thirty-four stations, as in previous -years. We have received filled schedules from seventeen stations.</p> - -<p>Generally the returns are very light, still lighter than last -year.</p> - -<p>We have notes on about thirty-nine species of land birds from -this coast; about twenty species of water birds; and about -eight species of littoral species, or wading birds.</p> - -<p>The spring migration, for sake of uniformity with the East -Coast, I have kept separate. Weather notes are included in the -General Remarks.</p> - -<p class="caption3nb"><span class="smcap">List of Stations.</span></p> - -<table summary="stations"> -<tr> - <td class="caption3nb" colspan="10"><span class="smcap">East Coast of Scotland.</span></td> -</tr> -<tr> - <td class="tdc">'79,</td> - <td class="tdc">'80,</td> - <td class="tdc">'81,</td> - <td class="tdc">'82.</td> - <td class="tdc">'83.</td> - <td colspan="5"></td> -</tr> -<tr> - <td class="tdc">*</td> - <td class="tdc">*</td> - <td class="tdc">*</td> - <td></td> - <td></td> - <td class="tdr">81.</td> - <td class="tdl">Cape Wrath, Sutherland</td> - <td class="tdr">400</td> - <td class="tdc">ft.</td> - <td></td> -</tr> -<tr> - <td class="tdc">*</td> - <td class="tdc">*</td> - <td class="tdc">*</td> - <td></td> - <td class="tdc">*</td> - <td class="tdr">82.</td> - <td class="tdl">Rhu Stoir, "</td> - <td class="tdr">195</td> - <td class="tdc">"</td> - <td class="tdl">Wm. Wither - - <span class="caption3nb smcap">Outer Hebrides.</span></td> -</tr> -<tr> - <td class="tdc">*</td> - <td class="tdc">*</td> - <td class="tdc">*</td> - <td class="tdc">*</td> - <td class="tdc">*</td> - <td class="tdr">83.</td> - <td class="tdl">Butt of Lewis</td> - <td class="tdr">170</td> - <td class="tdc">"</td> - <td class="tdl">A. Thompson</td> -</tr> -<tr> - <td></td> - <td class="tdc">*</td> - <td class="tdc">*</td> - <td></td> - <td class="tdc">*</td> - <td class="tdr">84.</td> - <td class="tdl">Stornoway</td> - <td class="tdr">56</td> - <td class="tdc">"</td> - <td class="tdl">John Grierson</td> -</tr> -<tr> - <td class="tdc">*</td> - <td class="tdc">*</td> - <td class="tdc">*</td> - <td></td> - <td></td> - <td class="tdr">85.</td> - <td class="tdl">Island Glass</td> - <td class="tdr">130</td> - <td class="tdc">"</td> - <td></td> -</tr> -<tr> - <td class="tdc">*</td> - <td class="tdc">*</td> - <td class="tdc">*</td> - <td class="tdc">*</td> - <td class="tdc">*</td> - <td class="tdr">86.</td> - <td class="tdl">Monach Isles</td> - <td colspan="2"> - <table summary="data"> - <tr> - <td rowspan="2"><span style="font-size:2em">{</span></td> - <td class="tdr">150</td> - <td class="tdc">"</td> - <td rowspan="2"><span style="font-size:2em">}</span></td> - </tr> - <tr> - <td class="tdr">62</td> - <td class="tdc">"</td> - </tr> - </table> - </td> - <td class="tdl">J. Youngclause</td> -</tr> -<tr> - <td></td> - <td class="tdc">*</td> - <td class="tdc">*</td> - <td></td> - <td></td> - <td class="tdr">87.</td> - <td class="tdl">Ushenish</td> - <td class="tdr">176</td> - <td class="tdc">"</td> - <td></td> -</tr> -<tr> - <td></td> - <td></td> - <td></td> - <td></td> - <td class="tdc">*</td> - <td class="tdr">88.</td> - <td class="tdl">Barra Head</td> - <td class="tdr">683</td> - <td class="tdc">"</td> - <td class="tdl">Wm. Irvine</td> -</tr> -<tr> - <td class="caption3nb" colspan="10"><span class="smcap">Mainland, Skye, and Inner Hebrides.</span></td> - <td></td> -</tr> -<tr> - <td></td> - <td></td> - <td></td> - <td></td> - <td></td> - <td class="tdr">89.</td> - <td class="tdl">Rona, Skye</td> - <td class="tdr">222</td> - <td class="tdc">"</td> - <td></td> -</tr> -<tr> - <td></td> - <td class="tdc">*</td> - <td class="tdc">*</td> - <td class="tdc">*</td> - <td class="tdc">*</td> - <td class="tdr">90.</td> - <td class="tdl">Kyleakin, Rosshire</td> - <td class="tdr">53</td> - <td class="tdc">"</td> - <td class="tdl">D. M'Culloch</td> -</tr> -<tr> - <td></td> - <td class="tdc">*</td> - <td class="tdc">*</td> - <td></td> - <td></td> - <td class="tdr">91.</td> - <td class="tdl">Isle Ornsay, Skye<span class="pagenum" id="Page_64">-64-</span></td> - <td class="tdr">58</td> - <td class="tdc">"</td> - <td></td> -</tr> -<tr> - <td class="tdc">*</td> - <td class="tdc">*</td> - <td></td> - <td></td> - <td></td> - <td class="tdr">92.</td> - <td class="tdl">Ardnamurchan Pt. Argyl.</td> - <td class="tdr">180</td> - <td class="tdc">"</td> - <td></td> -</tr> -<tr> - <td class="tdc">*</td> - <td class="tdc">*</td> - <td class="tdc">*</td> - <td class="tdc">*</td> - <td class="tdc">*</td> - <td class="tdl" colspan="2"> - <table summary="data"> - <tr> - <td class="tdl" rowspan="2"><span style="font-size: 2em;">{</span></td> - <td class="tdr">93.</td> - <td class="tdl">Hynish Signal Tower, Tyree</td> - <td rowspan="2"><span style="font-size: 2em;">}</span></td> - </tr> - <tr> - <td class="tdr">94.</td> - <td class="tdl">Skerryvore, off Tyree</td> - </tr> - </table> - </td> - <td class="tdr">150</td> - <td class="tdc">"</td> - <td class="tdl">Wm. Crow</td> -</tr> -<tr> - <td class="tdc">*</td> - <td class="tdc">*</td> - <td class="tdc">*</td> - <td class="tdc">*</td> - <td class="tdc">*</td> - <td class="tdr">95.</td> - <td class="tdl">Dhuheartach, S. of Ross of Mull</td> - <td class="tdr">145</td> - <td class="tdc">"</td> - <td class="tdl">Jas. Ewing</td> -</tr> -<tr> - <td class="tdc">*</td> - <td class="tdc">*</td> - <td class="tdc">*</td> - <td class="tdc">*</td> - <td class="tdc">*</td> - <td class="tdr">96.</td> - <td class="tdl">Sound of Mull</td> - <td class="tdr">55</td> - <td class="tdc">"</td> - <td class="tdl">W. M'Lellan</td> -</tr> -<tr> - <td></td> - <td></td> - <td></td> - <td></td> - <td></td> - <td class="tdr">97.</td> - <td class="tdl">Corran Ferry, Loch Eil</td> - <td class="tdr">38</td> - <td class="tdc">"</td> - <td></td> -</tr> -<tr> - <td></td> - <td class="tdc">*</td> - <td class="tdc">*</td> - <td class="tdc">*</td> - <td class="tdc">*</td> - <td class="tdr">98.</td> - <td class="tdl">Lismore Island, Oban</td> - <td class="tdr">103</td> - <td class="tdc">"</td> - <td class="tdl">Alex. Murray</td> -</tr> -<tr> - <td class="tdc">*</td> - <td class="tdc">*</td> - <td></td> - <td></td> - <td></td> - <td class="tdr">99.</td> - <td class="tdl">Fladda, Easdale</td> - <td class="tdr">42</td> - <td class="tdc">"</td> - <td></td> -</tr> -<tr> - <td class="tdc">*</td> - <td class="tdc">*</td> - <td class="tdc">*</td> - <td></td> - <td></td> - <td class="tdr">100.</td> - <td class="tdl">Rhuvaal, Islay</td> - <td class="tdr">147</td> - <td class="tdc">"</td> - <td></td> -</tr> -<tr> - <td></td> - <td class="tdc">*</td> - <td class="tdc">*</td> - <td class="tdc">*</td> - <td class="tdc">*</td> - <td class="tdr">101.</td> - <td class="tdl">M'Arthur's Head, Islay</td> - <td class="tdr">128</td> - <td class="tdc">"</td> - <td class="tdl">W. Maill</td> -</tr> -<tr> - <td class="tdc">*</td> - <td class="tdc">*</td> - <td class="tdc">*</td> - <td class="tdc">*</td> - <td class="tdc">*</td> - <td class="tdr">102.</td> - <td class="tdl">Skervuile, Jura</td> - <td class="tdr">73</td> - <td class="tdc">"</td> - <td class="tdl">John Ewing</td> -</tr> -<tr> - <td class="tdc">*</td> - <td class="tdc">*</td> - <td class="tdc">*</td> - <td class="tdc">*</td> - <td class="tdc">*</td> - <td class="tdr">103.</td> - <td class="tdl">Rhinns of Islay</td> - <td class="tdr">159</td> - <td class="tdc">"</td> - <td class="tdl">Andrew Lyall</td> -</tr> -<tr> - <td class="tdc">*</td> - <td class="tdc">*</td> - <td></td> - <td></td> - <td></td> - <td class="tdr">104.</td> - <td class="tdl">Lochindaul</td> - <td class="tdr">50</td> - <td class="tdc">"</td> - <td></td> -</tr> -<tr> - <td></td> - <td></td> - <td></td> - <td></td> - <td></td> - <td class="tdr">105.</td> - <td class="tdl">Mull of Kintyre</td> - <td class="tdr">297</td> - <td class="tdc">"</td> -</tr> -<tr> - <td></td> - <td></td> - <td></td> - <td></td> - <td></td> - <td class="tdr">107.</td> - <td class="tdl">Devaar, Kintyre</td> - <td class="tdr">120</td> - <td class="tdc">"</td> - <td></td> -</tr> -<tr> - <td></td> - <td></td> - <td></td> - <td></td> - <td></td> - <td class="tdr">108.</td> - <td class="tdl">Pladda, Arran</td> - <td class="tdr">130</td> - <td class="tdc">"</td> - <td></td> -</tr> -<tr> - <td></td> - <td></td> - <td class="tdc">*</td> - <td></td> - <td class="tdc">*</td> - <td class="tdr">109.</td> - <td class="tdl">Lamlash, Arran</td> - <td class="tdr">46</td> - <td class="tdc">"</td> - <td class="tdl">David Waters</td> -</tr> -<tr> - <td></td> - <td class="tdc">*</td> - <td class="tdc">*</td> - <td></td> - <td></td> - <td class="tdr">110.</td> - <td class="tdl">Turnberry, Ayrshire</td> - <td class="tdr">96</td> - <td class="tdc">"</td> -</tr> -<tr> - <td class="tdc">*</td> - <td class="tdc">*</td> - <td class="tdc">*</td> - <td></td> - <td class="tdc">*</td> - <td class="tdr">111.</td> - <td class="tdl">Corsewall, Wigtonshire</td> - <td class="tdr">112</td> - <td class="tdc">"</td> - <td class="tdl">Robt. Laidlaw</td> -</tr> -<tr> - <td class="tdc">*</td> - <td class="tdc">*</td> - <td class="tdc">*</td> - <td class="tdc">*</td> - <td class="tdc">*</td> - <td class="tdr">112.</td> - <td class="tdl">Loch Ryan, "</td> - <td class="tdr">46</td> - <td class="tdc">"</td> - <td class="tdl">Ralph Ewing</td> -</tr> -<tr> - <td class="tdc">*</td> - <td class="tdc">*</td> - <td class="tdc">*</td> - <td class="tdc">*</td> - <td class="tdc">*</td> - <td class="tdr">113.</td> - <td class="tdl">Portpatrick, "</td> - <td class="tdr">37</td> - <td class="tdc">"</td> - <td class="tdl">James Begg</td> -</tr> -<tr> - <td class="tdc">*</td> - <td class="tdc">*</td> - <td class="tdc">*</td> - <td class="tdc">*</td> - <td></td> - <td class="tdr">114.</td> - <td class="tdl">Mull of Galloway "</td> - <td class="tdr">325</td> - <td class="tdc">"</td> - <td></td> -</tr> -<tr> - <td></td> - <td></td> - <td class="tdc">*</td> - <td></td> - <td></td> - <td class="tdr">115.</td> - <td class="tdl">Little Ross, Kircudbright</td> - <td class="tdr">175</td> - <td class="tdc">"</td> - <td></td> -</tr> -<tr> - <td></td> - <td></td> - <td></td> - <td></td> - <td></td> - <td class="tdr">116.</td> - <td></td> - <td></td> - <td></td> - <td></td> -</tr> -<tr> - <td></td> - <td></td> - <td></td> - <td></td> - <td></td> - <td class="tdr">117.</td> - <td></td> - <td></td> - <td></td> - <td></td> -</tr> -<tr> - <td></td> - <td></td> - <td></td> - <td></td> - <td></td> - <td class="tdr">118.</td> - <td></td> - <td></td> - <td></td> - <td></td> -</tr> -<tr> - <td></td> - <td></td> - <td></td> - <td></td> - <td></td> - <td class="tdr">119.</td> - <td class="tdl">[1880]</td> - <td></td> - <td></td> - <td></td> -</tr> -<tr> - <td></td> - <td></td> - <td></td> - <td></td> - <td></td> - <td class="tdr">120.</td> - <td></td> - <td></td> - <td></td> - <td></td> -</tr> -</table> - - -<p class="caption3nb smcap">General Remarks by Reporters.</p> - -<p>Mr. James Youngclause, Monach lighthouse, says:—"I am -sorry to have such a meagre report to send you, but birds have -been awfully scarce here for some years back, and I have sent -you records of all that I have seen."</p> - -<p>I am obliged to Mr. William Irvine for the first report I have -received from Barra Head, which, however, is a station which -can hardly be expected to give large returns, owing to its position -and great height above the sea. A daily record here for a few -<span class="pagenum" id="Page_65">-65-</span> -seasons of the movements of Gannets and rock-birds might prove -of considerable interest, such as daily hours of going to and from -their feeding-grounds. Such might be found also interesting to -fisherfolk.</p> - -<p>Mr. James Ewing, of Dhuheartach, says of the spring migration -and the long-continued east winds:—"A few Larks in March, -and some Stonechats in the first days of April, are all that we have -seen of the spring migration. I am convinced that a change of wind -happening during the migratory season tends more to lead the birds -astray than strong breezes. It will be interesting to note if there -is any increase during this autumn, as our light, which was red -towards Mull, has been changed to a white occulting light."</p> - -<p>By the autumn schedules migration appears to have quite -ceased here by date of Dec. 7th.</p> - -<p>Mr. W. M'Lellan speaks of the great scarcity of shore-birds, as -compared with other seasons. Where Curlews were seen daily in -past years only one was seen this year. Season very open and mild.</p> - -<p>Mr. Alex. Murray, Lismore, writes:—"During the last five -nights of October we had the largest number of birds that I have -seen for a long time, and especially Gold-crested Wrens; but since -that time up to date (8th Jan. 1884) there has been little of note."</p> - -<p>Mr. Andrew Lyall says, "Very few birds at Rhinns of Islay -this season, and not many striking." But the rush at end of -October and beginning of November was very marked.</p> - -<p>Mr. David Waters has few night records to chronicle, most of -his observations being made during the day.</p> - -<p>Mr. James Begg, Port Patrick, writes:—"Flocks of migrants -very scarce this winter. Great many sea-gulls flying inland and -coming back to sea daily. The Gannets commence to go south -and return north in flight past this station from March to -September in great numbers."</p> - -<p>Mr. William Wither sends a light schedule from Storr Head, -and speaks of the general scarcity of birds there, but at a locality -a little more inland birds are plentiful in summer and autumn, -and Mr. M'Ivor, teacher there, has kindly offered to keep land-notes -another year.</p> - -<p>Although so light at Dhuheartach, a considerable migration -observed at Skerryvore both in spring and autumn. On Oct. 30th -(the date of the universal rush of Thrushes, &c.) Mr. William -Crow saw three Bullfinches on the rock, wind S., fresh, and fog, -<span class="pagenum" id="Page_66">-66-</span> -and captured one of them with little difficulty. "It appeared -quite tame, I approaching it within four feet. We placed a spare -cage we had, with some linseed, within six feet of it. The bird -went in at once, and is still alive. It drank fresh water to -excess after being caught, and was ill all next day. It revived -afterwards, and is doing well."</p> - -<p>From Turnberry lighthouse there is no return, but Mr. Andrew -writes, birds were scarcer than usual. But as this is a station -where there is usually some migration discernible he hopes to -send returns in future. Like others of our reporters, he naturally -complains of his difficulty about the names of the birds; but if -he will only enter such as he is sure of, and send me the head -and wings of others, or even the wings alone, and by attaching -a bit of cardboard and a number to them, and a corresponding -number in the schedule instead of a name, I could in most cases -be able to identify them.<a id="FNanchor_27" href="#Footnote_27" class="fnanchor">[27]</a></p> - -<div class="footnote"> - -<p><a id="Footnote_27" href="#FNanchor_27" class="label">[27]</a> A general request to this effect will be found in our latest issue of -Letters of Instruction.</p> - -</div> - -<p>From Cape Wrath lighthouse comes the following P.C.:—"There -are no land-birds at this station, with the exception of -Grouse. The same schedule will apply every year for the sea-birds, -as they come and go within a week of the same time. -Eight years' experience." I may just once more try to explain -that it is exactly this week of difference in time, one year with -another, which the Committee desire to collect statistics about -as regards sea-fowl and rock-birds.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Turdidæ.</span>—The spring migration on the West Coast seems -almost to have escaped notice. At Stornoway Thrushes were -heard on Feb. 19th and 20th, and heard and seen on the 27th, -but these may have been residents.</p> - -<p>The autumn migration, however, is almost as marked as on -the East Coast, the time and extent agreeing, though numerically, -as might be expected, not so great. Extent as follows:—Stornoway -in the north (light), Island Glass (indication), Monach (do.), -Barra Head (considerable), and on the mainland and Inner -Hebrides from Kyleakin (light), Skerryvore (distinct and considerable), -Dhuheartach (light), Sound of Mull (indication), -M'Arthur's Head (a few), Rhinns of Islay.(a few), Skervuile (a -few), Lamlash (light), Corsewall (heavy), Loch Ryan (considerable). -The above remarks apply principally to Blackbirds and -<span class="pagenum" id="Page_67">-67-</span> -Song Thrushes, but Fieldfares and "Mountain" Thrushes are -once or twice mentioned, and one Water Ouzel was caught at -Skervuile on Sept. 13th.</p> - -<p>The time occupied was as follows:—Earliest record in -autumn, Sept. 23rd, one Thrush on lantern at Lamlash; may -have been local. Next, 1st and 7th and 8th, a few scattered -records at Barra Head, and between Dhuheartach and Lismore. -About Oct. 23rd greater numbers, but nothing very remarkable -till Oct. 28th, 29th, 30th, 31st, and Nov. 1st to 3rd or 4th, -when the rush took place. Movements continued up to end of -November, but not large numerically, and nothing more that -could be called a rush. A considerable number were killed at -Skerryvore at the height of the rush on 28th, 29th and 30th; -eight Thrushes on first date, thirty-six on 29th, and thirteen on -30th. Blackbirds and Thrushes about in equal proportion of -records, but Thrushes bulking largest numerically. Species -included are Song Thrush (max.). Blackbirds (large numbers), -Fieldfares, and one Dipper or Water Ouzel at Skervuile. -Thrushes of sorts quite absent during a rush of other species at -Kyleakin, and throughout the season. Five species.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Saxicolinæ.</span>—Wheatears.—In spring, appearance of a rush at -Skerryvore on April 20th and 21st, fifty seen during the day on -former date and twelve on latter; and on April 8th a single bird -at Dhuheartach. A great many at Skervuile on May 5th, and -on 15th four seen at Butt of Lewis.</p> - -<p>In autumn, extent, from Stornoway (Oct.), Skerryvore (Aug), -Dhuheartach (Sept. and Oct.), Lismore (Aug.). Redstarts.—Skervuile -(Sept.), Corsewall (Aug.). Earliest, Aug. 24th, at -Skerryvore. Latest, Oct. 29th, at Dhuheartach. Rush of Redstarts -all night at Lismore. The above remarks apply in all -cases to Wheatears (or so-called "Stonechats"), except where -otherwise specified. Numbers at Stornoway with Linnets in -Oct. Considered rare here by reporter.</p> - -<p>Prevailing winds in spring, E. through S.E. and S.S.E. to S., -and variable on April 8th at Dhuheartach. Two species.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Silviinæ.</span>—Robin.—No spring records. Autumn, Robin, Kyleakin; -Stornoway, isolated examples during December; Lismore, -on Nov. 11th, with Wrens and Linnets, and a few single -records in September and October; Dhuheartach, few; Lamlash -and Corsewall, single records, and Robins accompanying rush -<span class="pagenum" id="Page_68">-68-</span> -of other species on Aug. 28th and 29th. At Kyleakin, Robins -arrived on Nov. 15th and remained all winter. Prevailing winds, -W. and northerly, very rarely easterly or S.E. One species.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Phylloscopinæ.</span>—Goldcrest.—No spring records. Autumn, -slight indications and single records as far north as Dhuheartach; -one at midnight on Nov. 7th, light W., haze. Then again at -Lismore, Oct. 31st, light S. airs, along with Larks; Skervuile, -few, Nov. 1st, light S. wind; Lamlash, one; Corsewall, great -numbers, or rush, on Aug. 30th, heralded by one single bird the -day before. Loch Ryan, four on Oct. 30th. One species.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Accentor.</span>—Hedgesparrow.—A number seen in the garden at -Lamlash on Nov. 21st, during stormy weather. One species.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Paridæ.</span>—Two Titmice struck at Sound of Mull, in light W. -breeze, not killed, on Oct. 30th. One species.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Troglodytinæ.</span>—Spring, at Corsewall six struck, none killed, -on 28th, and five rested at same place on 29th; wind light E. -and haze both nights.</p> - -<p>In autumn a few records at Dhuheartach, Sound of Mull, -M'Arthur's Head, Lamlash, Corsewall, and Loch Ryan. Earliest, -Oct. 3rd; latest, Nov. 30th; all single birds, or very light -returns. Winds, N.W. or N.N.W., except on Nov. 6th, at Lamlash, -when wind was N.E. and weather fine. One species.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Motacillidæ.</span>—In spring, at Kyleakin (earliest March 20th, -when two seen flying S.! light E., clear), Skerryvore, Dhuheartach, -and Skervuile. Latest at Kyleakin on May 17th, when -two seen on garden wall. Largest number, four, at Dhuheartach, -rested on April 20th, and flew towards Isle of Colonsay. Records -relate always to "Wagtails."</p> - -<p>In autumn, at stations:—Barra Head (several had been there -for a month on Aug. 27th), Skerryvore, Dhuheartach, M'Arthur's -Head (only record a flock on Nov. 5th, with N.W. gale and sleet), -Rhinns of Islay (first and only record on Nov. 4th, a single bird, -with W. gale), Lamlash (three on Sept. 22nd, and two on Nov. -12th, the latest record, winds westerly). One ? species.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Anthidæ.</span>—Single spring record, one Titlark, at Lamlash, -rested on lantern on May 2nd.</p> - -<p>In autumn, one at Skerryvore rested on rocks on Aug. 24th, -light W., haze, and <i>a number</i> at Lamlash on Oct. 6th, and a few -on 30th, being all the records. One species.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Hirundinidæ.</span>—Spring records in April; earliest at Loch Ryan -<span class="pagenum" id="Page_69">-69-</span> -on 15th, when thirty arrived,—see autumn under September,—May, -June; latest June 15th, two flying S. at Kyleakin, or, if we -take July, three at Barra Head on 8th; remained all day, wind -var. to S.E. by evening. Greatest number of records in May. -Stations:—Barra Head (Sand Martins), Kyleakin, Skerryvore, -Lismore, Rhinns of Islay, Lamlash, and Corsewall. The following -are first arrivals:—Barra Head (Sand Martins), May 1st, two, -fresh S.E., clear; Lamlash, May 1st; Corsewall, May 2nd; Loch -Ryan, April 15th. All records above apply to Chimney Swallows, -save in the two instances of Sand Martins.</p> - -<p>In autumn records light also on the whole coast. Dhuheartach, -Lismore, and Loch Ryan. Earliest, and rush, Aug. 19th, -at Dhuheartach, large flock of old and young flying S., and at -Lismore, one seen flying S. On Sept. 23rd twenty Swallows left -Loch Ryan, and on 28th the remaining ten (see spring, <i>supra</i>); -winds westerly and N.W. Three species.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Fringillidæ.</span>—Spring:—At Butt of Lewis, four Tree Sparrows -on April 14th, light S.W. wind; and Sparrows, a large flock -flying south, light E., haze. Also Sparrows at M'Arthur's Head, -a number on May 12th. Of Linnets, many after gale of April -17th, at M'Arthur's Head, a flock at Lismore on June 21st, and -one bird at Skerryvore on June 25th. A single Goldfinch at -Lismore, on 21st, with the Linnets.</p> - -<p>In autumn:—Earliest July 28th, a very large flock of Sparrows -flying S.E., at Butt of Lewis, and none again till Sept. 4th, when -a number of Linnets remained about till the 9th. Latest record -Oct. 30th, participated in rush of other species, but on Dec. 15th -a rush of "small birds" is recorded at several stations. Greatest -numbers in October, at Stornoway, Skerryvore (a Bullfinch, -see light-keeper's remarks, <i>antea</i>), Lismore (good many), -M'Arthur's Head, Lamlash. It is difficult to fix dates of rushes, -but one great rush took place on Sept. 15th, of Linnets and -Sparrows at M'Arthur's Head, and indicated at Lamlash by ten -Linnets flying south. These notes are given of Linnets and -Grey Linnets, also on Oct. 30th, at Lismore, of Green and Grey -Linnets, a number at Priory Farm. Numerous instances of -direction of flight are given, usually "flying S." We have -received considerably more statistics this year of these important -<i>directions of flight</i>. We wish our reporters could distinguish -between Common Linnets, Green Linnets, and Twites or -<span class="pagenum" id="Page_70">-70-</span> -Mountain Linnets, always when possible. Linnets have travelled -in company with Wheatears at Stornoway, and with Thrushes -and Curlews (the latter several times). About seven species.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Emberizidæ.</span>—Snow Bunting. Very scanty records on W. -coast. At Stornoway one, first seen on Oct. 17th, and twenty -on 18th. At Lismore twenty on Oct. 22nd. At Rhinns of Islay -one on Nov. 5th, and in December no records, and in January a -few at Butt of Lewis on 26th, and strong W. and sleet. Prevailing -winds W., strong to gales, but mod. N. at Rhinns of -Islay on Nov. 5th. One species.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Alaudidæ.</span>—Spring at Skerryvore, earliest Feb. 10th, four -struck, two killed, strong S.W.; and in March, at same place, -on 10th, nine struck and three were killed, fresh N. and showers.</p> - -<p>In autumn, at Dhuheartach, earliest on Sept. 10th, a few, -and on 29th three; wind N.N.E., clear. Also, furthest north, -records at Butt of Lewis, Stornoway, and so south by Skerryvore, -Dhuheartach, Skervuile, and Rhinns of Islay. Latest at -Stornoway, small numbers on 24th. Greatest movements in -October at Butt of Lewis, on 11th, large numbers flying south; -and at Stornoway 19th, 20th, and 23rd; on latter date with -Thrushes and one Redbreast. Prevailing winds, northerly and -westerly. One species.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Sturninæ.</span>—Starlings feed all through the month of April at -Butt of Lewis.</p> - -<p>Autumn records scarce. Regular daily at Rhinns of Islay -all August. No records anywhere given in September. [We -trust our reporters bear in mind that we desire movements of -even our commonest species, and especially directions of flight.] -In October a few records from Butt of Lewis, two killed, but -Mr. Thompson considers these part of the residents; also at -M'Arthur's Head and Lamlash. If any rush it was on Oct. -30th, and also 29th, when it was noticed at Island Ghlais<a id="FNanchor_28" href="#Footnote_28" class="fnanchor">[28]</a> and -at Rhinns of Islay; but the movement appears to have been -insignificant. I have a single record in November from Monach -Island, and one of a flock in December at Loch Ryan. One species.</p> - -<div class="footnote"> - -<p><a id="Footnote_28" href="#FNanchor_28" class="label">[28]</a> Ghlais or Glass: both spellings used.</p> - -</div> - -<p><span class="smcap">Corvidæ.</span>—Jackdaws, Crows, Black Grows, Grey Crows, -Ravens, and one of Magpie, the latter at Kyleakin, marked "very -rare," on Jan. 7th, flying S.E. Stations are Skerryvore, Dhuheartach -in spring; and Rhu Stoir, where Crows (are these Rooks -<span class="pagenum" id="Page_71">-71-</span> -or Carrion Crows?) feed every day till 31st (I suspect these are -local Rooks from Cama Loch, but would like to know for certain). -Only some ten records in all—February, March, April, May, -June; and August, September, October (Ravens at Kyleakin), -November (Jackdaws at Sound of Mull, about 200 flying N. very -high, mod. breeze, sleet, showers). December 27th, two Ravens, -flying W.; light E., clear. Six species.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Cypselidæ.</span>—Three May records, all at Dhuheartach. Single -birds on 22nd and 23rd, flying E., with light S.E., clear; and -on 24th, one flying E., with W.N.W., and one found dead on -rocks. One species.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Cuculidæ.</span>—Cuckoo records in spring, from—</p> - -<div class="blockquot"> - -<p>Stornoway, first heard on May 2nd; N.E. breeze.</p> - -<p>Skerryvore, first heard at Land Station, Tyree, on June 1st.</p> - -<p>M'Arthur's Head, first on May 17th; light wind, clear.</p> - -<p>Rhinns of Islay, May 24th; fresh W., haze.</p> - -<p>Corsewall, May 6th, and Loch Ryan on May 2nd; light N.E., clear, -and rain.</p> -</div> - -<p><i>Note.</i>—During the first week in May there appears to have -been an indication of a migration of other species.</p> - -<p>The only autumn record is of one found dead at Rhinns of -Islay on Sept. 1st. One species.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Strigidæ.</span>—Only one record on April 27th at Dhuheartach, -where one rested on rock at ten a.m.; light N.W. wind, and -haze. One species.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Falconidæ.</span>—A Falcon flying N., at Kyleakin, in February; -a Hawk at Dhuheartach, flying round on 19th April, where in -autumn they make daily visits, and even in some seasons all the -year round. In September one Hawk remained a week here, -resting on the balcony at night, and feeding on small birds in -the day. A Falcon seen at Butt of Lewis on Sept. 1st, and a -Sparrow Hawk at Skerryvore on Sept. 1st, flying E. Two records -in October and one in December—a Falcon flying W.; light -N.W. airs. About three species.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Pelecanidæ.</span>—In uniformity with East coast, records of -Gannets, chronologically under each station, beginning in the -north, so far as records permit. The stations recording in 1883 -are Butt of Lewis (82), Rhu Stoir (83), Stornoway (84), Barra -Head (88), Kyleakin (90), Dhuheartach (95), Lismore (98), -M'Arthur's Head (101), Skervuile (102), and Lamlash (109).<span class="pagenum" id="Page_72">-72-</span> -(N.B. The Committee would be obliged for chronological -returns, giving always directions of flight, from any other -stations, of Gannets and Rock birds):—</p> - -<div class="blockquot"> - -<p>82. July 25th, began flying north in some numbers to Aug, -10th; fresh N.</p> - -<p>83. March 15th, seen daily in great numbers, noted at 83, up to -March 31st, but no directions of flight given, which we -would like to have always.</p> - -<p>84. In August, reported as unusually scarce this season, but no -definite records given nor directions of flight, or if fishing -or not.</p> - -<p>88. Under date of September 1st, the remark "a few fishing -every day."</p> - -<p>90. On June 20th flocks all day, flying east. Was this the only -day on which Gannets were seen here?</p> - -<p>95. Dec. 7th, two seen; only record given; no direction of flight; -wind light N.W., clear.</p> - -<p>98. May 14th, "Solan Geese"; fresh, S. breeze, showery. -June 22nd, "Solan Geese" flying south; var. light, clear. -Aug. 16th, two, flying south; fresh N.W., clear.</p> - -<p>101. April, a few daily seeking food.</p> - -<p>102. March 21st, "Gannets seen;" E.S.E., light breeze. May -9th, "Solan Geese" seen; fresh E. July 16th, "Solans;" -fresh N.W., clear. July 24th, "Solans;" N.N.W., clear. -July 25th, "Solans;" N.N.W., clear.</p> - -<p>109. Feb. 5th, the first seen for some months. One species.</p> -</div> - -<p><span class="smcap">Ardeidæ.</span>—Only one record of Herons at Monach Island, -where five were seen on the outlying rocks on Nov. 25th, strong -E. wind; and the remark "seen daily all the year round at -Kyleakin." One species.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Anatidæ; Anserinæ</span> (Geese).—I think we should endeavour -to tabulate also the movements of different species of -Wild Geese; but as the records are a little confusing, I find we -must do so under one, or at mast two headings, the occurrences -of which are most frequently recorded under these designations.</p> - -<p>Some four species (namely Bean, Pink-footed, Greylag—rarest -migrant—and White-fronted) may be included in the -following, reported as "Wild Grey Geese," "Geese," "Grey -Geese," "Wild Geese," by the various reporters.</p> - -<p>The stations returning these are:—Rhu Stoir (82), Butt of -Lewis (83), Monach (86), Kyleakin (90), Lismore (98), Lamlash -(109), and Corsewall (111).</p> - -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_73">-73-</span></p> - -<div class="blockquot"> - -<p>82. "Wild Geese," April 14th, three; light S., haze and rain.</p> - -<p>83. "Wild Geese," Sept. 19th, large flock, flying W., past the -lighthouse, and then turning S.W.; westerly gale and -showers.</p> - -<p>86. "Wild Grey Geese," Nov. 10th, twenty, flying round; -light S.E.</p> - -<p>90. "Geese," Sept. 19th, four, flying S.W.; light E.</p> - -<p>98. "Grey Geese," Nov. 1st, five, flying S.; light S., haze.</p> - -<p>109. "Grey Geese," April 27th, forty, flying N., light S., haze. -April 28th, fifty, flying N. Oct. 7th, three, flying S., N.W., -fine. Nov. 1st, twenty, flying E., light E., haze.</p> - -<p>111. "Wild Geese," Nov. 13th, twenty, flying E., light E., -haze. Nov. 14th, thirty, flying E.</p> -</div> - -<p>Barnacle Goose seen at following stations:—Barra Head (88), -Kyleakin (90).</p> - -<div class="blockquot"> - -<p>88. April 25th, 100, "flying over;" light N.E., clear. May 1st, -150, fresh N.E., clear. Sept. 22nd, about thirty arrived, -light S.W., haze and rain. Nov. 10th, about fifty seen -flying S., var. W., showers.</p> - -<p>90. Nov. 30th, seven flying S.W. ("first I have seen here"), -light N.W., clear. Five species of Geese.</p> -</div> - -<p>Eider Ducks, <i>ut sup.</i> 82, 95, 103.</p> - -<div class="blockquot"> - -<p>82. May 26th, six, passing N., light S.W., clear. June 30th, -sixteen, passing N., light E., var.</p> - -<p>95. Oct. 12th, one, first seen this season. Oct. 15th, six, fishing -round rock. November, forty (twenty males and twenty -females), fishing round rock, light N.W., clear.</p> -</div> - -<p>Wild Duck, only at 83, 88, 90.</p> - -<div class="blockquot"> - -<p>83. March 21st, two males and two females, killed at lantern; -slight S.E., haze.</p> - -<p>88. Sept. 21st, twenty, flying W., light E., haze.</p> - -<p>90. Sept. 19th, four, flying S.W., light E.</p> -</div> - -<p>Eider Ducks at Rhu Stoir, Dhuheartach, and Rhinns of -Islay. Three at first named locality on April 14th; light S., -haze and rain. Six on May 26th; strong S.W., passing north. -Sixteen on June 30th, passing north, with light var., and clear. -Then at Dhuheartach, the first seen this season was on Oct. -12th, in autumn migration, and at Rhinns of Islay, three seen -during a S.W. gale. At Dhuheartach again, twenty males and -twenty females, seen fishing round the rock, during strong -W.N.W. wind, and clear on Dec. 7th. Two species.</p> - -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_74">-74-</span></p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Columbidæ.</span>—A large flock of Rock Doves is resident at Butt -of Lewis, and is seen daily flying inland to feed. At Kyleakin a -Woodpigeon was seen flying S.E. at noon on Dec. 15th, with light -W. wind, and clear; at same station, on 23rd, four Rock Doves -flying south, wind light W.S.W.; and at same place two more -flying south, with E.S.E. and haze, on Jan. 2nd. One species.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Rallinæ.</span>—Corn Crake.—At Stornoway, first heard on May -2nd. At Barra Head, one seen on July 1st, var., S.E., and fog. -At Kyleakin, first heard on May 16th, S., clear. At Rhinns of -Islay, one found dead on May 23rd, light W., haze. One species.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Charadriadæ.</span>—Spring. Oystercatchers are resident all the -year at Cape Wrath. At Barra Head, three pairs arrived on -April 10th. At M'Arthur's Head they were present all April.</p> - -<p>In autumn oyster catchers appeared in flocks, along with the -rush of land migrants, about Aug. 23rd, at Stornoway, at which -place they are generally seen all September.</p> - -<p>Golden Plover records quite absent for 1883.</p> - -<p>Lapwing.—Spring record at Rhu Stoir, two seen on April -4th. In autumn, at Kyleakin, ninety were counted flying S.E., -and crying loudly, with N.W. wind and haze, on Aug. 15th. -Eight more on 23rd, flying east, wind S.E., and haze; and at -Lamlash, a single bird rested on the Island on Aug. 13th. At -Barra Head, seventeen were seen at two p.m., light east wind, -and haze (direction of flight not given), on Sept. 21st; one -record there also in October. At Loch Ryan, a flock flying S.E., -on Nov. 15th, S.E. wind; and at Dhuheartach, where migration -appeared to cease on Dec. 29th, the last migrant seen was a -Lapwing, resting on the Lantern on that date. At Kyleakin -seven were seen flying S.W. on Jan. 4th, 1884. Two species.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Scolopacidæ.</span>—Woodcock, Snipe, Curlew, Whimbrel. No -records of Woodcock till October. Then a few at Monach Island, -Dhuheartach, Lismore, and Loch Ryan; and in November, at -Kyleakin and Lismore. Single entries on 16th at Kyleakin, and -5th at Lismore. Two killed at Monach on Oct. 29th, one killed -at Dhuheartach on 31st, and three on 29th, at Lismore; and one -on 31st, at Loch Ryan, showing a general movement at these dates.</p> - -<p>Snipe were even scarcer; earliest Oct. 22nd, at Monach, and -occurring on the same dates as Woodcock, or nearly.</p> - -<p>Curlew.—Numerous records at most of the stations, dating -from Feb. 5th, at Rhuvaal, on to November. An appearance of -<span class="pagenum" id="Page_75">-75-</span> -a rush northwards on May between 14th and 16th, when flocks -seen flying north at Rhinns of Islay; also on 16th, at Lismore, -during the day. Records also at Loch Ryan, Skerryvore, &c.</p> - -<p>In autumn, at Stornoway, Monach, Barra Head, and most -stations indeed; earliest, July 25th, at Skerryvore, when five -Curlews seen flying N.E., on to Nov. 16th, at Sound of Mull. -Between Sept. 16th and 30th, at Stornoway, seen every day on -the shore, and large numbers on the 30th.</p> - -<p>There is only one record of Whimbrel under the name "The -Small Curlew," when two were seen at Skerryvore flying about -the rocks. I wish we could more exactly trace the lines of -migration of the Whimbrel, or "May fowl" of the Hebrides, in -both spring and autumn (see remarks of Mr. D. Gray in the -Atlantic, <i>antea</i>). No records of Redshanks or Sandpipers. Four -species.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Laridæ; Sterninæ.</span>—Arrivals in spring recorded as follows:—At -Rhu Stoir, three Terns on May 10th; light N. breeze. At -Stornoway, Terns "arrived as usual about this time," and left -in August. At Skervuile, arrived on 14th, and more seen on -16th. The first came with a fresh S. breeze and rain. At -Corsewall first observed was on May 11th.</p> - -<p>In autumn. Terns, as already stated, left Stornoway in -August, but "about ten days later than usual." The last seen -at Skervuile was on Sept. 6th. At Sound of Mull, on Sept. 30th, -a flock rested for two hours, and then flew away S.E., composed -of old and young together. Moderate wind.</p> - -<p>An utter absence of records of any Gulls, Skuas, "Boatswains," -or any other Laridæ. One or two species?</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Procellariidæ.</span>—One record of Storm Petrel at Lismore, -where it is accounted very rare, on Oct. 3rd, when one was -killed; strong N.W. wind, and haze. One species.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Alcidæ.</span>—At various stations taken notice of as follows:—At -Barra Head, a few seen on Feb. 4th; fresh S.W., banks of -fog. No records in April. "Marrots" and "Razorbills." At -Barra Head, numbers seen of same, and Puffins, on April 27th; -light S.E. wind. A few Puffins seen on May 1st; and fresh -N.E. A great many more on May 2nd; fresh N.E. At Butt -of Lewis, first Razorbills seen on April 25th.</p> - -<p>In autumn, Marrots leave Barra Head Aug. 12th, along with -the bulk of Razorbills, but Puffins not till Aug. 25th. Marrots -<span class="pagenum" id="Page_76">-76-</span> -and Razorbills left with fresh E. wind. Puffins left in fresh -S. wind.</p> - -<p>Cormorants arrived about same time as Razorbills and -Aleidæ, but remain about six weeks later at Butt of Lewis; and -at Kyleakin there is record of a flock of twenty-eight flying W. -on 13th, with S.W. breeze. Four species.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Colymbidæ.</span>—On June 10th one great N. Diver seen swimming -near Lighthouse, at Kyleakin, moving N. (but this movement -may be due to set of the tide only, hour not given, -J. A. H. B.). In autumn, at Sound of Mull, a G. N. D., passing -S., var., light breezes. At Lismore, one flying south; stormy W., -rain, on Oct. 17th. At Sound of Mull, two passing south, at -noon; light airs. If the movement is only local and due to -tides, this should be mentioned in schedules, and the words -"drifting with tide," or "swimming with tide," used instead of -"passing." They are not likely to swim against the tide, but if -this phenomenon is observed it should be recorded. One species.</p> - - -<p><span class="smcap">Weather Notes for General Remarks on Spring -Migration, 1883.</span></p> - -<p>Fearful snow-storm over the north of Shetland on March -17th, and N.E. gales and snow prevailed from March 5th to -24th; E. and N.E. and N. winds prevailed all over Scotland with -gales, notably on March 6th and 17th; from 6th to 24th slight -changes to S.E., but of short duration; on 25th (Sunday) wind -S.W. strong to gale and rain, the first rain since February, but -only lasted half a day; wind backed again to N.E. In Orkney -the sea rose suddenly very high on the E. coast on March 21st; -very cold and fine on 22nd, wind light S.W. "Large quantities -of Cormorants, Razorbills, and Shags, &c., are coming ashore -along the E. coast of Orkney. Deaths supposed to be from -scarcity of food, <i>viz.</i>, coal-fish; and great damage done to -rabbits by Hawks, in some cases nearly exterminating them -(daily papers of March 23rd, 1883). At Dunipace 12° of frost on -night of March 27th. Fearful gale at 9 a.m. on March 30th, bar. -at 28′ 9″; gale all night from S.W., bar. rising all day; again -till 9 p.m. to 29′ 6″, wind S.W. at 10 p.m.; again at 30′ 2″. S. -gale at Isle of May on March 29th and 30th.</p> - -<p>As already mentioned in our General Remarks on 1882 -<span class="pagenum" id="Page_77">-77-</span> -Report (Fourth Report, 1882, p. 67) the effects of these gales -and N.E. winds in spring of 1883 was almost to stop migration -at Isle of May, which migration had "set in pretty briskly" -on March 2nd, and almost ceased on the 5th. From the latter -date only a few "stragglers of the strongest wings" up to the -19th; while a great concourse of Wagtails was observed inland in -Edinburgh (see report as above quoted); few were seen at Isle of -May till the 30th, when five came with S. gale (<i>op. cit.</i>, p. 68).</p> - -<p>The general migration was much weaker in numbers this -season in spring, and this is doubtless owing to the prevalence of -strong S.E. gales and winds at the time of migration, moderate -S.E. or easterly winds being preferred. Still there were considerable -rushes at the more favourable localities for observation -especially of Thrushes and other <i>Turdidæ</i>.</p> - -<p>The anomalous migration recorded by Mr. Cordeaux on to part -of the English coast between Feb. 18th and May 18th,<a id="FNanchor_29" href="#Footnote_29" class="fnanchor">[29]</a> with -strong E. and S.E. winds, changing occasionally by N.E. to W. -and N.W., is somewhat difficult of explanation, unless we could -correlate data from the opposite coasts at the same dates in -spring of 1883; but the fact stated by me that migration began -briskly at Isle of May on March 2nd and almost ceased by the -5th may indicate that the migration thus retarded by adverse -winds, or altered in direction thereby, passed N. by more inland -routes, avoiding the Scottish coast-line, and hugging every -sheltering hollow of land. Blown across the North Sea at the -more southerly stations, they then crept northwards silently and -more inland. Being all adult birds, and having crossed the -North Sea not at the widest part if they came with a S.E. wind, -less exhaustion would occur, and thus, passing inland, they would -escape notice near the coast.</p> - -<div class="footnote"> - -<p><a id="Footnote_29" href="#FNanchor_29" class="label">[29]</a> See <a href="#Page_60">p. 60</a> of this Report.</p> - -</div> - -<p>Before we can speak with much certainty as to the progress -of spring migrations into the further districts influenced by them, -we require more full and continuous data from Faroe and Iceland. -Still, the earliest appearance noted in Iceland of the Redwing, -<i>Turdus iliacus</i>, on April 7th, 1882, should be noted as a possible -means of comparison in that year with the returns from our own -coasts. Data from our West Coast of Scotland help us little in -1883 in spring, and even less so in 1882, as regards <i>Turdidæ</i>. -Wheatears again, in 1882, are noted not before April 24th, and -<span class="pagenum" id="Page_78">-78-</span> -on West Coast of Scotland the migration, though but scantily -observed, began on March 9th and terminated as late as May -17th (see 1882 Report, p. 57).</p> - -<p>The autumn migration of 1883 was pronounced, and confined -principally to end of October and November, of <i>Turdidæ</i>, <i>Cinclidæ</i> -(one of which, seen at Isle of May, was afterwards described to -me as having no brown between the black and white of the -breast); also of Snow Buntings, Sky Larks, Robins (small -numbers), Linnets, Chaffinches, Starlings, culminating in a grand -rush past of the bulk between Oct. 28th or 30th and Nov. 3rd. -The heaviest rush, observed at the time of a south wind, as -compared with other years, at Isle of May, was on Oct. 13th -and 14th, a S.E. wind, according to Mr. Agnew, being usually -more favourable at that point. This October to November rush -is undoubtedly the principal feature of our returns over the -whole country. Of the expansion of the fan or wave our returns -from both E. and W. coasts give a very fair indication. It seems -likely that, although most land-stations have not returned very -heavily-laden schedules,—not to compare, for instance, with -1882,—yet, as noticed by Mr. Cordeaux, quite as many, if not -more, birds were observed at the light-ships; that the reason for -this may be found in the normal and favourable direction of the -winds prevailing in the North Sea at the time of autumn -migration, resulting in greater numbers of birds passing inland -without resting, and being thus less liable to come under -observation, except at specially suitable stations. And, if we -/ compare the schedules of 1883 and those of 1882 on the West -Coast of Scotland we find that, while larger numbers are -recorded at the more northerly stations in 1883 than in 1882, -there is a lighter return at more southerly stations in the autumn -of 1883 than there was in the autumn of 1882. Thus to no inconsiderable -degree the order of the statistics of two years is -reversed. It would almost appear in this way that when a -"spread fan" reaches our E. coast with S.E. winds—reaching, -as it did in 1882, from Faroe S. to the English Channel—the -birds, being tired and worn out, promptly seek shelter, and then, -when rested, pursue their migration on more southerly lines, and -do not reach so far west, except such as fail to catch up the land, -and are driven forward helplessly. This would cause comparative -desertion of the more northerly stations of the W. coast and -<span class="pagenum" id="Page_79">-79-</span> -Outer Hebrides, as in 1882. But on the other hand, when a -"closed fan" reaches our E. coast with prevailing westerly and -north-westerly winds, and, having much less expansion to the -northward, as in 1883, as regards the E. coast, it seems that -birds arriving, less exhausted with the winds best suited for -their successful passage, pass on inland, the same lines of -flight being persevered in, and thus reach further north upon the -West Coast of Scotland.</p> - -<p>Thus the Goldcrest, in 1883, reached as far north as Dhuheartach -and Lismore in some numbers; but in 1882, when -they came in such vast hordes to our east coast, we had no -records north of Rhinns of Islay, and none others until we found -them in "great numbers" at stations south of the Firth of -Clyde.</p> - -<p>Rushes took place on August 16th at Isle of May, and again -on 22nd, with easterly wind and fog, principally of Wheatears, -culminating on night of Sept. 2nd-3rd, and being accompanied -by Redstarts, Chiffchaffs, Robins, Sedge Warblers, Wood Warblers, -and Golden and Grey Plovers; Thrushes apparently totally absent. -A single adult Blue-throated Warbler, with bright blue breast, -was observed at Isle of May. The rush was on Sept. 4th, at -Pentland Skerries, with strong N. wind. Another rush, about -Sept. 15th, of Willow Warblers and Chiffchaffs; and, on 22nd, of -Robins, accompanied by a single recorded Goldcrest. A rush of -the latter took place on Oct. 10th at Isle of May. Common -Wrens, not in large numbers, also migrated on Sept. 22nd and -23rd.</p> - -<p>Another feature of the 1883 Report is the abundance of -Finches, which usually travel with the Thrushes, but whose -migration appears to be extended over a longer period of time -than that of the Thrushes in 1883.</p> - -<p>It will be gathered from the Report that the dates of rushes -on our E. Scottish coasts were slightly later than those on the -E. English coast, averaging from twenty-four to thirty hours by -the schedules, and that the migration past the more northerly -stations of Scotland were in proportion later than in the south. -And also that the dates of the heaviest rushes on the E. coast -agree fairly well with the dates of the W. coast.</p> - -<p>While closing our 1883 Report it is perhaps desirable to call -attention to the very great spring migration of Woodcocks, which -<span class="pagenum" id="Page_80">-80-</span> -appears to have crossed Scotland between Clyde and Forth on -March 9th, 10th, 11th, and 12th, 1884. On the 10th our covers -here (Dunipace) were full of Woodcock. Torwood also held -large numbers on 9th, 10th, 11th, and 12th; at Glenbervie, close -to this, also unusual numbers were observed. From the Ayrshire -coast they are reported numerous, but not more so than usual at -this season, indicating that the Ayrshire coast, or properties -along the coast, are usually visited in the spring migration. At -Fassaroe, Bray, Co. Wicklow, Mr. Barrington made enquiries, -but no extraordinary numbers have been noted there. At -Islay Mr. Ballingall reports unusual numbers about the time -mentioned.</p> - -<p>At Ross Priory, east side of Loch Lomond, a good many -were observed, there being snow on the ground at the time; but -at Arden, on the west side, and almost immediately opposite, no -additions were observed. At Aberfoyle and neighbourhood very -large numbers were observed. In East Kilbryde Parish, to the -south of Forth and Clyde isthmus, two were seen at a locality where -none were ever seen before. At Callander no unusual number was -noticed, a good many appearing here at this season, which is usually -called "The Return of the Woodcocks." Mr. Robert Ferguson, -on the 11th, flushed eight within a mile-radius, "a most unusual -circumstance here,"—at Whitehill, Rosewell, Midlothian,—and -large numbers were observed near Innerleithen in Holylee -Woods and vicinity. To the east of this county no numbers of -any consequence were noted at Tulliallan or West Grange, in -Fife.<a id="FNanchor_30" href="#Footnote_30" class="fnanchor">[30]</a> All the birds seen by myself were small red Scandinavian -birds, which I consider are quite unmistakable and distinct from -home-bred birds. One with an injured muscle under the wing -was brought into the house,—also a red bird,—which was found -alive in a ditch close to.</p> - -<div class="footnote"> - -<p><a id="Footnote_30" href="#FNanchor_30" class="label">[30]</a> Subsequently I received a note from Mr. Seton Thomson, of Kinnaird -House, Stirlingshire, to the effect that the gamekeeper, on March 1st, on -taking a bee-line to Airth, two and a half miles over moss-land (Airth is on -the Stirlingshire side of the Firth of Forth, where about three hundred yards -of water separate it from Tulliallan) put up half a dozen Woodcocks in a -place where Woodcocks are very rarely seen. Many also were seen about -the garden at Kinnaird House; these were observed not to be the usual -Woodcocks, but a much redder-looking bird. There appears to have been a -great flight of Woodcocks at Aberfoyle about March 15th. Mr. R. Ker's -keeper flushed five in about two square yards, and kept putting them up all -over. Two were seen also at Crutherland, by East Kilbryde, on the 12th, -where a Woodcock was never seen before.</p> - -</div> - -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_81">-81-</span></p> - -<p>I would like further to have ascertained the boundaries within -which this migration was observed; how far to the north and how -far to the south of the catchment Basin of Forth it extended. -Here I can do little more than direct attention to the facts, so -far as known to me. But it seems evident that, though so -abundantly observed at Airth and Kinnaird, scarcely any increase -was noticeable just across the Forth at Tulliallan or -West Grange, or in Fife; and though numerous at Ross Priory -and Loch Lomond on the east side, no increase was observed at -Arden and the west side of the loch. When the birds "lifted" -from Kinnaird and Airth, their next probable resting place would -be Norway or the continental coast, possibly Heligoland, as no -notice is taken of them in the 1884 spring returns from Isle of -May or Bell Rock. Nor does there appear to have been any -corresponding movement through the Pentland Firth.</p> - - - -<p>I should like in this place to record the occurrence of the -Black Redstart in the following form. It is previously recorded -by me in the Proc. Royal Physical Society, Edinb. of April 23rd, -1884:—</p> - -<table summary="data"> -<tr> - <td class="bdt bdl tdc smaller">Date.</td> - <td class="bdt bdl tdc smaller">Locality.</td> - <td class="bdt bdl tdc smaller">Species.</td> - <td class="bdt bdl tdc smaller">Age—Adult<br />or Young.</td> - <td class="bdt bdl tdc smaller">Sex.</td> - <td class="bdt bdl tdc smaller">Alone, or</td> - <td class="bdt bdl tdc smaller">with others,</td> - <td class="bdt bdl tdc smaller">of its own,</td> - <td class="bdt bdl tdc smaller">or other Species.*</td> - <td class="bdt bdl tdc smaller">Direction of Wind,</td> - <td class="bdt bdl tdc smaller">and Strength.</td> - <td class="bdt bdl tdc smaller">Prevailing<br />Wind for<br />past Few<br />Days.</td> - <td class="bdt bdl bdr tdc smaller">Weather.</td> -</tr> -<tr> - <td class="bdt bdl tdc smaller">1884.<br />Mar. 31.</td> - <td class="bdt bdl tdc smaller">Pentland<br />Skerries.</td> - <td class="bdt bdl tdc smaller"><i>Ruticilla<br />titys</i> (Scop.).</td> - <td class="bdt bdl tdc smaller">Ad.</td> - <td class="bdt bdl tdc smaller">♂</td> - <td class="bdt bdl tdc smaller">—</td> - <td class="bdt bdl tdc smaller">X</td> - <td class="bdt bdl tdc smaller">—</td> - <td class="bdt bdl tdc smaller">X</td> - <td class="bdt bdl tdc smaller">S.E.</td> - <td class="bdt bdl tdc smaller">Strong.</td> - <td class="bdt bdl tdc smaller">S. & S.E.</td> - <td class="bdt bdl bdr tdc smaller">Clear on<br />28th.<br />Fog on<br />31st.</td> -</tr> -<tr> - <td class="bdt bdr bdb bdl tdc smaller" colspan="13"><b>Remarks.</b><br /> - * If with other species, name them here:—1 Robin, Sandpipers, - 1 Yellow Bunting, 1 Chaffinch, "Stonechats" (<i>i.e.</i>, Wheatears), - 1 G. C. Wren, 1 Common Thrush.</td> -</tr> -</table> - - -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_82">-82-</span></p> - - -<hr class="chap x-ebookmaker-drop" /> - -<div class="chapter"> -<h2 class="nobreak" id="IRISH_COAST">IRISH COAST.</h2> -</div> - - -<p>In the spring of 1883 schedules were forwarded to forty-two -stations, Arklow North Light-ship having been added to those of -the previous year. Twenty-five replied.</p> - -<p>In the autumn only thirty-five schedules were sent out, seven -having been omitted, <i>i.e.</i>, Mine Head, Wicklow Head, Lough -Swilly, Eagle Island East, Slyne Head South, Loop Head, and -Samphire Island. Thirty-four were returned, one station -sending no answer.</p> - -<p>A decided improvement in filling the schedules occurred in -the autumn, the observations of some light-keepers extending -over three or even four schedules. The labour of arranging the -materials for this report and placing the entries under the head -of each species has consequently been much increased.</p> - -<p>In addition to the schedules the light-keepers at Coningbeg -light-ship, Tuskar Rock, Rathlin Island, Killybegs, Tearaght, -and Skelligs have forwarded lists of all the birds they have -observed, whether migrating or otherwise. There is an evident -disposition on the part of all to help us as far as possible in this -enquiry. The light stations are arranged geographically—beginning -at the Fastnet, in Cork, and going' round by the east -to the west coast.</p> - -<p>The number of migrants passing in the autumn seems to -have been greater than usual. A great rush of Thrushes (including -probably Redwings), Blackbirds, and Starlings, took place at our -south eastern and southern stations between Oct. 25th and Nov. -2nd—notably at the Tuskar, on the Wexford coast, which is the -best Irish station. Smaller rushes of these and other birds are -also recorded, but it is premature at present to analyse the movements -of each species or the dates on which they occurred. -After a few years conclusions will be far more satisfactory.</p> - -<p>The great majority of birds are killed striking on foggy, misty, -or dark nights, and it is perhaps not impossible for a great -migration to take place, and pass almost unrecorded if the night -<span class="pagenum" id="Page_83">-83-</span> -be fine and bright. Whenever a bird has been killed striking, it -is so stated, and not left to be understood.</p> - -<p>The bulk of the migrants appear to arrive on our south -eastern coast, except such birds as the Barnacle Goose and Snow -Bunting, which are mainly recorded from the north western -stations, being rarely entered in the schedules from the east or -south coasts.</p> - -<p>An interesting feature this year is the occurrence of several -examples of the Greenland Falcon on the west coast.</p> - -<p>The winter of 1883-4 was exceptionally mild, and the entries -due to local migration from frost and hard weather are probably -few.</p> - -<p>Many entries no doubt refer to birds not migrating at all, -but none have been omitted, as it is difficult to know where to -draw the line. It is desirable, however, that the light-keepers -should state whether the bird is believed to be migrating or -merely moving about the district from local causes.</p> - -<p>In the schedules for next year a special column for the direction -of flight has been added. This we think quite as important -as the direction of the wind. Birds seem rarely to fly directly -with the wind. Attention is drawn to this point in order to -have it confirmed or otherwise.</p> - -<p>In order to diminish the errors in the identification of species -the light-keepers have been instructed to forward, when possible, -a leg and wing of every bird about which they are doubtful, and -we trust they will do so.</p> - -<p>Some entries seem very improbable, and others are isolated -and apparently valueless. When records accumulate, both may -prove useful.</p> - -<p>In addition to the little Skellig Rock—off the coast of Kerry—the -Gannet also breeds on the Bull Rock fifteen miles further -south, and a few are also reported as breeding in the Cow Rock -quite close to it.</p> - -<p>No matter what results are arrived at from this enquiry, it -is satisfactory to be in correspondence with a number of observers -on isolated points all around the coast.</p> - -<p>The information supplied, if corroborated during several years -by different light-keepers, cannot but be valuable, and we wish to -impress on them the necessity of continuing to assist in this -investigation.</p> - -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_84">-84-</span></p> - -<p>To all the light-keepers who have given their time and -attention to the subject we return our sincere thanks, especially -as their assistance is voluntary and given solely for the advancement -of knowledge.</p> - -<p>Mr. Armstrong, Secretary to the Irish Lights Board, and -Captain Boxer, R.N., Inspector of Irish Lights, have helped us -in many ways by their advice and co-operation. The Commissioners -of Irish Lights have given us every facility, and also -material support by subscribing for forty copies of the report -and distributing them among the light-keepers.</p> - -<p class="tdr2"> -<span class="smcap">Alexander G. More. <br /> -Richard M. Barrington.</span><br /> -</p> - -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_85">-85-</span></p> - - -<p class="caption3nb smcap">List of Light-stations.</p> - -<table summary="stations"> -<tr> - <td></td> - <td></td> - <td class="tdc vbot">Sp.</td> - <td class="tdc vbot">Au.</td> - <td class="tdc">Miles<br />from<br />shore.</td> - <td class="tdc vbot">Names of Observers.</td> -</tr> -<tr> - <td class="tdr">1.</td> - <td class="tdl">Fastnet, Co. Cork</td> - <td class="tdc">o</td> - <td class="tdc">x</td> - <td class="tdc">8</td> - <td class="tdl">James Walsh.</td> -</tr> -<tr> - <td class="tdr">2.</td> - <td class="tdl">Galley Head, Cork</td> - <td class="tdc">x</td> - <td class="tdc">x</td> - <td class="tdc">—</td> - <td class="tdl">John Whelan and John Kelly.</td> -</tr> -<tr> - <td class="tdr">3.</td> - <td class="tdl">Old Head, Kinsale, Cork</td> - <td class="tdc">x</td> - <td class="tdc">x</td> - <td class="tdc">—</td> - <td class="tdl">Martin Kennedy.</td> -</tr> -<tr> - <td class="tdr">4.</td> - <td class="tdl">Mine Head, Waterford</td> - <td class="tdc">o</td> - <td class="tdc">*</td> - <td class="tdc">—</td> -</tr> -<tr> - <td class="tdr">5.</td> - <td class="tdl">Dungarvan, Waterford</td> - <td class="tdc">o</td> - <td class="tdc">x</td> - <td class="tdc">—</td> - <td class="tdl">Wm. Higginbotham.</td> -</tr> -<tr> - <td class="tdr">5.</td> - <td class="tdl">*Coningbeg Lt.-ship, Wexford</td> - <td class="tdc">x</td> - <td class="tdc">x</td> - <td class="tdc">10</td> - <td class="tdl">Patrick Cullen.</td> -</tr> -<tr> - <td class="tdr">6.</td> - <td class="tdl">Barrels Rock Lt.-ship, do.</td> - <td class="tdc">x</td> - <td class="tdc">x</td> - <td class="tdc">4</td> - <td class="tdl">Michael Doyle.</td> -</tr> -<tr> - <td class="tdr">7.</td> - <td class="tdl">Tuskar Rock Lt.-ship, do.</td> - <td class="tdc">x</td> - <td class="tdc">x</td> - <td class="tdc">7</td> - <td class="tdl">Richard Hamilton.</td> -</tr> -<tr> - <td class="tdr">8.</td> - <td class="tdl">Arklow Sth. Lt.-ship, Wicklow</td> - <td class="tdc">x</td> - <td class="tdc">x</td> - <td class="tdc">7</td> - <td class="tdl">Patrick Clancy.</td> -</tr> -<tr> - <td class="tdr">8.</td> - <td class="tdl">*Arklow North Lt.-ship, do.</td> - <td class="tdc">x</td> - <td class="tdc">x</td> - <td class="tdc">8</td> - <td class="tdl">William Daly.</td> -</tr> -<tr> - <td class="tdr">10.</td> - <td class="tdl">Kish Bank Lt.-ship, Dublin</td> - <td class="tdc">x</td> - <td class="tdc">x</td> - <td class="tdc">7</td> - <td class="tdl">Michael Cunniam and John Pinston.</td> -</tr> -<tr> - <td class="tdr">11.</td> - <td class="tdl">Howth Baily, Dublin</td> - <td class="tdc">o</td> - <td class="tdc">o</td> - <td class="tdc">—</td> -</tr> -<tr> - <td class="tdr">12.</td> - <td class="tdl">Rockabill, Dublin</td> - <td class="tdc">x</td> - <td class="tdc">x</td> - <td class="tdc">5</td> - <td class="tdl">Joseph Hammond.</td> -</tr> -<tr> - <td class="tdr">13.</td> - <td class="tdl">Copeland Island, Down</td> - <td class="tdc">x</td> - <td class="tdc">x</td> - <td class="tdc">3</td> - <td class="tdl">John Walsh.</td> -</tr> -<tr> - <td class="tdr">14.</td> - <td class="tdl">Maidens, Antrim</td> - <td class="tdc">x</td> - <td class="tdc">x</td> - <td class="tdc">5</td> - <td class="tdl">Patrick Keenan and Michael Barry.</td> -</tr> -<tr> - <td class="tdr">15.</td> - <td class="tdl">Rathlin, Antrim</td> - <td class="tdc">x</td> - <td class="tdc">x</td> - <td class="tdc">6</td> - <td class="tdl">John A. Murray.</td> -</tr> -<tr> - <td class="tdr">16.</td> - <td class="tdl">Innishtrahull, Donegal</td> - <td class="tdc">x</td> - <td class="tdc">x</td> - <td class="tdc">6</td> - <td class="tdl">W. H. James.</td> -</tr> -<tr> - <td class="tdr">17.</td> - <td class="tdl">Dunree Head, Donegal</td> - <td class="tdc">o</td> - <td class="tdc">x</td> - <td class="tdc">—</td> - <td class="tdl">John Stapleton.</td> -</tr> -<tr> - <td class="tdr">18.</td> - <td class="tdl">Lough Swilly, Donegal</td> - <td class="tdc">x</td> - <td class="tdc">*</td> - <td class="tdc">—</td> - <td class="tdl">Henry Redmond.</td> -</tr> -<tr> - <td class="tdr">19.</td> - <td class="tdl">Tory Island, Donegal</td> - <td class="tdc">o</td> - <td class="tdc">x</td> - <td class="tdc">9</td> - <td class="tdl">Thomas Sweeny.</td> -</tr> -<tr> - <td class="tdr">20.</td> - <td class="tdl">Arranmore, Donegal</td> - <td class="tdc">x</td> - <td class="tdc">x</td> - <td class="tdc">5</td> - <td class="tdl">Henry Williams.</td> -</tr> -<tr> - <td class="tdr">21.</td> - <td class="tdl">Rathlin O'Birne, Donegal</td> - <td class="tdc">x</td> - <td class="tdc">x</td> - <td class="tdc">2</td> - <td class="tdl">Joseph Hill and John Scallan.</td> -</tr> -<tr> - <td class="tdr">22.</td> - <td class="tdl">Killybegs, Donegal</td> - <td class="tdc">x</td> - <td class="tdc">x</td> - <td class="tdc">—</td> - <td class="tdl">Daniel Hawkins.</td> -</tr> -<tr> - <td class="tdr">23.</td> - <td class="tdl">Oyster Island, N. Sligo</td> - <td class="tdc">x</td> - <td class="tdc">x</td> - <td class="tdc">1</td> - <td class="tdl">John Young and Joseph Hill.</td> -</tr> -<tr> - <td class="tdr">24.</td> - <td class="tdl">Broadhaven, Mayo</td> - <td class="tdc">o</td> - <td class="tdc">x</td> - <td class="tdc">—</td> - <td class="tdl">Patrick Keenan.</td> -</tr> -<tr> - <td class="tdr">25.</td> - <td class="tdl">Eagle Island, E., Mayo</td> - <td class="tdc">x</td> - <td class="tdc">*</td> - <td class="tdc">2</td> - <td class="tdl">Henry Stocker.</td> -</tr> -<tr> - <td class="tdr">26.</td> - <td class="tdl">Eagle Island, W., Mayo</td> - <td class="tdc">o</td> - <td class="tdc">x</td> - <td class="tdc">2</td> - <td class="tdl">Matthew Healy.</td> -</tr> -<tr> - <td class="tdr">27.</td> - <td class="tdl">Blackrock, Mayo</td> - <td class="tdc">o</td> - <td class="tdc">x</td> - <td class="tdc">9</td> - <td class="tdl">John Redmond and John Young.</td> -</tr> -<tr> - <td class="tdr">28.</td> - <td class="tdl">Blacksod Point, Mayo</td> - <td class="tdc">o</td> - <td class="tdc">x</td> - <td class="tdc">—</td> - <td class="tdl">Robt. W. Redmond.</td> -</tr> -<tr> - <td class="tdr">29.</td> - <td class="tdl">Clare Island, Mayo</td> - <td class="tdc">x</td> - <td class="tdc">x</td> - <td class="tdc">4</td> - <td class="tdl">G. H. Brownell.</td> -</tr> -<tr> - <td class="tdr">30.</td> - <td class="tdl">Slyne Head, N., Galway</td> - <td class="tdc">x</td> - <td class="tdc">x</td> - <td class="tdc">3</td> - <td class="tdl">Robert Tyrrell.</td> -</tr> -<tr> - <td class="tdr">31.</td> - <td class="tdl">Slyne Head, S., Galway</td> - <td class="tdc">o</td> - <td class="tdc">*</td> - <td class="tdc">3</td> -</tr> -<tr> - <td class="tdr">32.</td> - <td class="tdl">Arran Island, N., Galway</td> - <td class="tdc">o</td> - <td class="tdc">x</td> - <td class="tdc">9</td> - <td class="tdl">Thomas Fortune.</td> -</tr> -<tr> - <td class="tdr">33.</td> - <td class="tdl">Straw Island, Galway</td> - <td class="tdc">x</td> - <td class="tdc">x</td> - <td class="tdc">9</td> - <td class="tdl">Charles Boyle.</td> -</tr> -<tr> - <td class="tdr">34.</td> - <td class="tdl">Arran Island, S., Galway</td> - <td class="tdc">x</td> - <td class="tdc">x</td> - <td class="tdc">6</td> - <td class="tdl">John O'Donnell.</td> -</tr> -<tr> - <td class="tdr">36.</td> - <td class="tdl">Samphire Island, Kerry</td> - <td class="tdc">o</td> - <td class="tdc">*</td> - <td class="tdc">½</td> -</tr> -<tr> - <td class="tdr">37.</td> - <td class="tdl">Tearaght, Kerry</td> - <td class="tdc">x</td> - <td class="tdc">x</td> - <td class="tdc">9</td> - <td class="tdl">Edward McCarron.</td> -</tr> -<tr> - <td class="tdr">38.</td> - <td class="tdl">Valentia, Kerry</td> - <td class="tdc">o</td> - <td class="tdc">x</td> - <td class="tdc">—</td> - <td class="tdl">Joseph Williams.</td> -</tr> -<tr> - <td class="tdr">39.</td> - <td class="tdl">Skelligs, Kerry</td> - <td class="tdc">o</td> - <td class="tdc">x</td> - <td class="tdc">9</td> - <td class="tdl">Thomas Kerley.</td> -</tr> -<tr> - <td class="tdr">40.</td> - <td class="tdl">Dursey Island, Cork</td> - <td class="tdc">x</td> - <td class="tdc">x</td> - <td class="tdc">½</td> - <td class="tdl">James Keenan.</td> -</tr> -</table> - -<p class="pmt1 smaller tdc"><i>Abbreviations:</i></p> - -<p class="smaller ind2em"> - Sp. = Spring. Au = Autumn.<br /> - o = No reply. x = Schedule returned partly or wholly filled. - * = No schedule sent to this station. -</p> - - -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_86">-86-</span></p> - - -<p class="caption3nb smcap">General Remarks of Light-Keepers.</p> - -<p><i>Fastnet.</i>—"Autumn: On the night of Nov. 2nd, the weather -being hazy, there was a quantity of all species of birds came -from the N.E., and several of them were killed by striking the -lantern; but what was most remarkable was the quantity of -large Moths, which I could compare to nothing but a heavy fall -of snow, they were so numerous. In bad weather a few Seals -frequent the rock, and a quantity of Gulls and Sea Parrots—the -latter I have frequently seen killed and eaten by the Royal Gull. -The Gannet is here all the year. No birds breed. On Nov. -2nd, from one a.m. to seven a.m., there were killed by striking -the lantern twenty-two Thrushes, eleven Blackbirds, four Woodcocks, -seventeen Starlings, eight Linnets, five Larks, and seven -Robins. Wind S.E., light, hazy."—James Walsh.</p> - -<p><i>Galley Head.</i>—"Spring: The flight of the Gannet and Puffin -is always to the west here. I have many times thought they -must pass east by some other route. The Grey-backed Crow -and Common Crow are seen all the year round. The Wagtail, -Stonechat, and other small birds have almost disappeared this -year. The Cuckoo I have not seen or heard this year. I have -never been at a station with less birds about than this one. I -am four years here, and there has not been one case of a bird -striking the lantern."—John Whelan.</p> - -<p>"Autumn: I arrived at this station Nov. 6th, and from -that date to the present from ninety to one hundred Sea -Gulls are to be seen daily flying about the cliffs near the -Lighthouse. No birds of any other species have been seen -passing."—John Kelly. Feb., 1884.</p> - -<p><i>Old Head, Kinsale.</i>—"Autumn: I have only seen some small -birds, such as Larks and Chaffinches, from Dec. 17th to Jan. 1st, -1884. There are Sea Gulls, Rooks, and Grey Crows seen here -all the year round, also two Falcon Hawks. Starlings commenced -to leave here the last week of November. Larks, Wrens, -Titmice, and Twite Linnets are seen all the year round, and on -the lake, three miles distant, large Duck, Widgeon, Coot, and -Waterhens. On Dec. 15th I saw a large flight of birds going to -the south at a great height, and suspect they were Golden Plover. -The Curlew never leaves the marsh three miles from here. I -<span class="pagenum" id="Page_87">-87-</span> -never saw less birds than there is this winter."—Martin -Kennedy.</p> - -<p><i>Coningbeg Light-ship.</i>—"Autumn: A great quantity of birds -passed this station last month. I have not seen so many birds -killed since I came to this station three years ago."—Patrick -Cullen. Nov., 1883.</p> - -<p><i>Barrels Rock Light-ship.</i>—"Spring: I have observed very -few land birds passing this year, and none about the ship in -foggy weather, like other stations I have been at."</p> - -<p><i>Tuskar Rock.</i>—"Spring: A great absence of sea fowl this -year. I consider it owing to the scarcity of fish."</p> - -<p><i>Arklow North Light-ship.</i>—"Autumn: As a rule all birds -give the ship a wide berth when passing, and it is very hard to -tell what they are. During thick foggy nights a large quantity -of small land birds are killed striking our lantern."—William -Daly.</p> - -<p><i>Copeland Island.</i>—"Autumn: A number of sea birds of -different species resort to this locality in the autumn and winter -months for feeding purposes, and are seen in greater or lesser -numbers each day as the weather suits and feeding is plentiful. -They are Gannets, Cormorants, Puffins, Grey and Royal Gulls, -Sea-pies, 'Cranes,' Ducks, Teal, Curlew, and Sandpipers. None -of these breed in the vicinity. On Oct. 10th a rush of Larks, -Starlings, Linnets, Titmice, Thrushes, Blackbirds, 'Grey' Plover, -and Snipe. Eighteen Starlings, six Blackbirds, twenty Larks, -twelve Linnets, eight Titmice, four Thrushes, three Plover, and -two Snipe killed striking lantern, and several injured but not -killed."—John Walsh.</p> - -<p><i>South Maidens.</i>—"Spring: No birds strike the lantern in -April and May. They do not strike until October. Twelve -Gannets, twenty-four Ducks, six Sea-pies, and twelve Wild Geese -are all the birds I have seen for three months."—Patrick Keenan.—"Autumn: -I arrived here Sept. 25th, 1883, and saw no birds -up to Oct. 15th, save Puffins, Sea Gulls, and Cormorants, and -Sand Larks occasionally. Thrushes, Blackbirds, and Larks are -rarely seen. Wild Duck do not strike the lantern glass."—Michael Barry.</p> - -<p><i>Rathlin Island.</i>—"April 12th: Blackbirds, Thrushes, Skylarks, -Wild Ducks, Redshanks, Pigeons, and 'Sea Coot' seem to -remain for the season. Autumn: I have never at any time -<span class="pagenum" id="Page_88">-88-</span> -during the migratory season for Ducks, Widgeon, Wild Geese, -Barnacles, and Swan heard them passing at night as at other -stations."—John A. Murray.</p> - -<p><i>Innishtrahull.</i>—"April 30th. A small bird with an orange -tail, name unknown, struck, not killed." Wind S.W.; a gale. -"Very little birds visited this island in May, June, and July, -except a flock of Curlew." Autumn: "There has been a great -absence of birds this winter, and no Snipe or Woodcock visited -this place. Snow Buntings remained here all the past winter."</p> - -<p><i>Dunree Head.</i>—"Autumn: No birds resort to this station only -Cormorants, which remain all the year and breed. I have been -at several stations on the coast, but never was at a station so -scarce of birds as this."—John Stapleton.</p> - -<p><i>Tory Island.</i>—"Autumn: Very few birds past this station. -I suppose owing to its being so far out to sea. I am informed -that birds pass more frequently the east side of the island. On -the islands between this and the mainland large flocks of Barnacle -stop during the winter months. I have not seen a Snow Bunting, -Snipe, or Starling this season. During heavy frost, snow-birds -frequent the island from the mainland, but return as soon as -the thaw commences."—Thomas H. Sweeny.</p> - -<p><i>Arranmore.</i>—"Spring: Gulls and Puffins have laid great -quantities of their eggs this year on the rock. A great many -have been destroyed by the Grey Crow."—Henry Williams.</p> - -<p><i>Killybegs.</i>—"Autumn: The birds which breed around here -are the Wild Duck, Wild Pigeon, Lapwing, Lark, Linnet, -Swallow, Snipe, Common Wren, Thrush, Robin, Blackbird, -Sparrow, Stonechat, Sand Lark, and Grey Crow."—Daniel -Hawkins.</p> - -<p><i>Broadhaven.</i>—"Autumn: No birds strike this light."—Patrick Keenan.</p> - -<p><i>Eagle Island, East.</i>—"Since I joined this station in Sept., -1882, up to present date, Sept., 1883, nothing worth noting."—H. Stocker.</p> - -<p><i>Eagle Island, West.</i>—"There was absolutely nothing of -interest to enter in schedule last autumn-. The sea has been -crossing this island, I may say daily, for the last five months, -and with the exception of a few Sea Gulls, which seem never to -leave the locality, there were no birds visited." March, 1884.—Matthew Healy.</p> - -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_89">-89-</span></p> - -<p><i>Blacksod.</i>—"I have carefully looked out for birds, and seen -none worth entering. I have seen several seals."—Robert W. -Redmond.</p> - -<p><i>Clare Island.</i>—"In February very few birds are seen at this -station. No birds strike this lantern. A great number of seals -frequent this place in caves round the cliffs."—George H. -Brownell.</p> - -<p><i>Slyne Head, North.</i>—"Spring: I beg to remark that at all -times sea birds are to be seen on this coast, their numbers being -chiefly regulated by the feeding for them."—Robert Tyrrell.</p> - -<p><i>Arran Island, North.</i>—"During the months of January and -February no birds are seen except a few Sea-pies and Sand-larks. -It must be in consequence of the very wild and stormy -weather."—Thomas Fortune.</p> - -<p><i>Straw Island.</i>—"Spring: The different species of sea fowl -are very scarce this season. I believe from the want of small -fry. None breed on this island, it being low and flat. -Autumn: Birds scarcely ever strike the lantern in consequence -of the light appearing in a different direction to the general -flight of birds, being also a red light. It is 26 feet above high -water, and ten miles from land. I have remarked a greater -number of Blackbirds and Starlings this winter than since the -great frost of 1880. On Oct. 28th a flock of Wild Duck alighted, -apparently much exhausted, and remained a few hours, and went -S.E., towards land."—Charles Boyle.</p> - -<p><i>Tearaght.</i>—July 30th. "The following birds are still on the -island, <i>viz.</i>, Guillemots, Sea Parrots, Kittiwakes, Grey Crows, -Sea-pies, Razorbills, Manx Shearwater, Stonechats, and, I think. -Choughs and Falcons (Blue Hawks). All these breed on the -island. Dec. 18th, birds remaining: Grey Linnets, Rock -Pigeon, Thrushes, Mackerel Cock (on water). Blackbirds. -Residents, Titlarks and Common Wren. The 'Mackerel Cock' -is about the size of a Razorbill, but it is not the Razorbill. -Thousands of them are round the rock now. Feb. 2nd, 1884." -(See under Manx Shearwater).</p> - -<p><i>Dursey Island.</i>—"The Gannet breed on the Bull Rock, -several hundred. On the Cow Rock, distant three-quarters of a -mile from the Bull, a few also breed. I believe the Gannet did -not breed on the Bull until after the Skellig light was erected." -[This was in 1826. R. M. B.]—Michael Shea. "Very few birds -<span class="pagenum" id="Page_90">-90-</span> -breed on this island, except the Wild Pigeon, Jackdaw, and a few -Sea Gulls. On the Bull Rock, four miles N.W. of Dursey Head, -the Gannet and Puffin breed in great numbers, coming about -March 1st and leaving Oct. 1st."—James Keenan.</p> - - -<p class="caption4nb smcap">Eagle.</p> - -<p><i>Clare Island.</i>—"The Eagles still inhabit the cliffs, and have -been as usual destructive to young lambs and fowls belonging -to the inhabitants. In December they make very bold, and not -having sea birds to feed on, are often observed near the villages, -principally when the wind is east."</p> - - -<p class="caption4nb smcap">Greenland Falcon.</p> - -<p><i>Blackrock Mayo.</i>—Nov. 9th. "Two grey speckled Hawks -at three p.m., wind strong W., showery. One shot; it measured -four feet from tip to tip of wings, and had down under its feathers -like a sea bird."</p> - -<p><i>Slyne Head, North.</i>—Dec. 2nd, one White Hawk, at two -p.m.; wind N., clear. First seen here, and very tame.</p> - -<p><i>Tearaght.</i>—Dec. 12th, Mr. P. Sheehy, assistant-keeper, saw a -White Hawk; wind N.W., strong breeze, and gloomy. March -23rd, 1884, one white spotted Falcon shot. April 2nd, another -much smaller and whiter shot.</p> - -<p>[This has been an extraordinary year for the occurrence of -the Greenland Falcon, no less than eight having been obtained -at various points along the west coast of Ireland from Donegal to -Cork, and one Iceland Falcon at West Port.—R. M. B.]</p> - - -<p class="caption4nb smcap">Hawks.</p> - -<p><i>Fastnet.</i>—Sept. 14th, one flying east.</p> - -<p><i>Dungarvan.</i>—Dec. 17th, two Falcons passing S.W.</p> - -<p><i>Tuskar Rock.</i>—Feb. 25th and 27th, March 3rd and 10th, one -Hawk seen at daylight; 26th, 'two Sparrow Hawks; Oct. 13th -and 15th, one seen.</p> - -<p><i>Arklow North Light-ship.</i>—May 4th, one Sparrow Hawk, -7.20 a.m., on lantern; Feb. 22nd, 1884, one hovering about ship -nine a.m.</p> - -<p><i>Kish Bank Light-ship.</i>—Oct. 30th, three Hawks hovering -about ship; flew to N.W.</p> - -<p><i>Rockabill.</i>—Aug. 31st, one caught on balcony.</p> - -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_91">-91-</span></p> - -<p><i>Rathlin Island.</i>—June 25th, one Sparrow Hawk at noon; -Aug. 28th, one Sparrow Hawk and one Falcon Hawk; Dec. 8th -and 20th, two Falcon Hawks at noon.</p> - -<p><i>Innishtrahull.</i>—March 23rd, one Hawk, 11.50 a.m.; wind -strong W. April 15th, one, two p.m.; wind N., fresh. May 15th, -a Grey Hawk, at two a.m.; wind N.W., misty. During August -several "Brown Hawks," which remained most of the month; -Dec. 8th, one Brown Hawk.</p> - -<p><i>Lough Swilly.</i>—April 3rd, one Hawk, four p.m.; May 14th, -one Sparrow Hawk; June 22nd, two Hawks.</p> - -<p><i>Arranmore.</i>—April 12th, Peregrine Hawks breed on island; -15th, one Sparrow Hawk; May 6th, four Hawks; June 28th, -one; Sept. 4th, one.</p> - -<p><i>Killybegs.</i>—Aug. 14th, one hovering about.</p> - -<p><i>Blackrock Mayo.</i>—Dec. 10th, two Falcons flying N.E., high; -wind S.W., gale. Dec. 19th, one Falcon, one p.m.; wind W., -fresh, gloomy. Dec. 24th, two Sparrow Hawks, flying S.E.; -wind S., gale.</p> - -<p><i>Clare Island.</i>—Two Kestrel Hawks build their nest, as usual, -in the vicinity of the Lighthouse.</p> - -<p><i>Arran Island, South.</i>—April 8th, four "Holland Hawks," six -a.m.; wind S.S.E. They remain here.</p> - -<p><i>Tearaght.</i>—Jan. 30th, one Falcon? one p.m.; wind N.W., -clear. March 2nd, two Sparrow Hawks, also on March 3rd. -They come and go occasionally the year round. Oct. 29th, one -Hawk, colour grey, portions white and black, beak white, and -white spot on crown of head. A pair of Falcons and "Sparrow -Hawks" breed on the island.</p> - -<p><i>Valentia.</i>—Sept. 1st, two small Hawks; wind strong S.E. -Also on Oct. 14th and Nov. 8th.</p> - - -<p class="caption4nb smcap">Owl.</p> - -<p><i>Innishtrahull.</i>—Feb. 15th, one "Brown Owl," two p.m.; wind -N.E., gale, squally. Nov. 8th, "I have been told another -snowy Owl was seen on the island about the 14th of last month, -but not so large" as the specimen shot on Nov. 19th, 1882. -"It was not observed by me." (See last year's Report).</p> - -<p><i>Killybegs.</i>—April 10th, one "Screech Owl," shot at six p.m. -Rose out of a swamp in vicinity, an unusual visitor.</p> - -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_92">-92-</span></p> - - -<p class="caption4nb smcap">Thrushes.</p> - -<p><i>Fastnet.</i>—Oct. 22nd, ten Thrushes; Nov. 2nd, twenty-two -killed striking.</p> - -<p><i>Old Head, Kinsale.</i>—Feb. 3rd, large numbers from sunrise to -sunset, coming from the north. Dec. 16th, some hundreds; -wind N., frosty.</p> - -<p><i>Coningbeg Light-ship.</i>—Oct. 26th, one alighted on ship; 28th, -flocks about the ship from 9 p.m. until midnight; fifteen -killed striking; wind light, S., gloomy. 29th, a great number -about ship during night, many killed and fell overboard; -gloomy. They made for the land. 30th, three struck at 3 a.m., -killed. 31st, two about light 10 p.m.</p> - -<p><i>Dungarvan.</i>—Oct. 2nd, a great number of song Thrushes in -vicinity all day. Oct. 26th, plentiful in fields about station. -28th, one "Redwing Thrush" struck 11.20 p.m.</p> - -<p><i>Tuskar Rock.</i>—Feb. 24th and 25th, Thrushes during day -and night, some struck; fog and mist. Oct. 9th and 10th, -Thrushes all night; a great number killed and disabled. Oct. -27th to Nov. 2nd, great numbers of Thrushes passed, many -killed; weather foggy, with mist. On Oct. 29th, at 7 a.m., I -found two large mountain Thrushes, with grey breasts and dark -wings (Fieldfares?). Most of the Thrushes that are killed are -small mountain Thrushes, never seen here except in winter, -mostly in frosty weather. They have no regular round spots on -breast—a sort of striped head and a great deal of yellow under -the wings (Redwings?). Only twenty of the native Thrushes -killed.</p> - -<p><i>Arklow South Light-ship.</i>—March 2nd, five on deck. April -22nd, three. Oct. 10th, one killed; weather hazy. Oct. 28th -and 29th, six killed, striking; wind S., cloudy.</p> - -<p><i>Arklow North Light-ship.</i>—Sept. 16th, a large flock hovering -about ship during the day. 19th, Thrushes killed striking about -midnight. Oct. 29th and 30th, large numbers striking lantern; -calm, overcast, hazy.</p> - -<p><i>Kish Bank Light-ship.</i>—Oct. 8th, one flighted at 10 a.m. -28th, one killed striking 10.30 p.m.; weather gloomy.</p> - -<p><i>Rockabill.</i>—Jan. 13th, Thrushes in night, some struck; -weather misty. Feb. 17th, some Thrushes from sunset to midnight. -Oct. 26th and 27th, large quantity killed in night; -<span class="pagenum" id="Page_93">-93-</span> -weather hazy, with light rain. Nov. 15th, Thrushes during -night, some struck. Nov. 29th, five killed, overcast and cloudy. -Dec. 28th, several struck at 8 p.m., mist and fog. Dec. 31st, -two killed.</p> - -<p><i>Copeland Island.</i>—Oct. 10th, four killed striking, others -injured; wind N., light, drizzling rain.</p> - -<p><i>South Maidens.</i>—Oct. 15th, twenty-four at midnight, sixteen -of them killed against lantern; weather hazy, wind W., fresh.</p> - -<p><i>Innishtrahull.</i>—Nov. 1st, three at lantern; wind fresh, S. -2nd, three at lantern, 11.30 p.m., misty. Nov. 5th, three at -lantern.</p> - -<p><i>Tory Island.</i>—Oct. 17th, four struck lantern, 10 p.m.; wind -W., gale.</p> - -<p><i>Killybegs.</i>—April 1st, five Thrushes about all day. Oct. 24th, -three killed striking; wind S.W., fresh, drizzling rain. Nov. -30th, two killed, drizzling rain. Dec. 19th, three killed, thick -drizzle.</p> - -<p><i>Oyster Island, North.</i>—Jan. 10th, 1884, two "Missel -Thrushes" in garden; flew S.</p> - -<p><i>Blackrock Mayo.</i>—Dec. 23rd, four Thrushes flying N., high; -wind S., fresh.</p> - -<p><i>Slyne Head, North.</i>—Nov. 9th, eight; wind S.E. 30th, -six; wind N.E.</p> - -<p><i>Arran Island, North.</i>—Nov. 4th, two Thrushes killed in -morning. Dec. 10th, two Thrushes 10 a.m.; wind W.S.W., -gale.</p> - -<p><i>Tearaght.</i>—Oct. 27th, one Thrush killed striking, 11 p.m.; -wind fresh, S.E., foggy. Nov. 22nd, two or three, 2 p.m.; wind -N.W., strong, hail showers.</p> - -<p><i>Skelligs.</i>—Oct. 20th, one at 1 p.m.; wind N., fresh, misty. -Oct. 21st, three, remained during month. A couple about rock -in December.</p> - -<p><i>Dursey Island.</i>—Oct. 10th, ten going east, 8 a.m.; wind W.</p> - - -<p class="caption4nb smcap">Fieldfare.</p> - -<p><i>Fastnet.</i>—Sept. 18th, four flying N.E.; gloomy. Oct. 22nd, -five; 31st, six. Nov. 1st, four. Dec. 16th, three.</p> - -<p><i>Dungarvan.</i>—Oct. 14th, small flocks in fields; 18th and 26th, -several.</p> - -<p><i>Rathlin Island.</i>—Nov. 29th, one, going S.; wind S.W.</p> - -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_94">-94-</span></p> - - -<p class="caption4nb smcap">Blackbird.</p> - -<p><i>Fastnet.</i>—Oct. 22nd, thirteen. Nov. 2nd, eleven killed -striking.</p> - -<p><i>Old Head, Kinsale.</i>—Feb. 3rd, large numbers. Nov. 15th, -from 100 to 150 seen this day. It is remarkable to see so many -of these birds; wind S., strong.</p> - -<p><i>Coningbeg Light-ship.</i>—May 7th, three alighted on ship, 9.30 -p.m.; wind E.N.E., rain. Oct. 10th, one caught on deck at 2 -a.m. 28th, flocks, 9 p.m., until midnight, about the ship in great -numbers; gloomy, wind light S., twenty killed. 29th, a great -number about light, 8 p.m., until midnight; many struck and -fell overboard. 31st, four at 10 p.m., hovering about light. -Nov. 1st, two struck at 9 p.m., killed.</p> - -<p><i>Barrels Rock Light-ship.</i>—Oct. 29th, one male killed against -lantern, 2.15 a.m.</p> - -<p><i>Tuskar Rock.</i>—Feb. 24th, Blackbirds during day and night, -fog and mist; some struck lantern. 25th, 27th, and 28th, ditto. -March 2nd, four males and seven females. Oct. 9th and 10th, -constantly striking all night; a great number killed. Oct. 27th -to Nov. 2nd, great numbers passed at intervals during day and -night; weather misty. Numbers killed, 100 on Oct. 28th and -80 on 29th, besides hundreds disabled. Most of the Blackbirds -are female; they are of a dull brown colour. Nov. 7th, -two killed; 10th, one seen.</p> - -<p><i>Arklow South Light-ship.</i>—April 28th, one; wind light, S.E. -Oct. 29th, twenty-six killed striking; wind S., light, cloudy.</p> - -<p><i>Arklow North Light-ship.</i>—April 30th, Blackbird, 11 p.m. to -11.50 p.m., flying round lantern; did not strike; weather hazy. -Sept. 16th, large flock about ship. 19th, Blackbirds striking at -midnight; weather hazy, with rain. Oct. 29th and 30th, large -numbers killed striking, calm, overcast, hazy. Nov. 30th, two -killed at midnight; weather hazy, with rain.</p> - -<p><i>Kish Bank Light-ship.</i>—Oct. 28th, two Blackbirds. Nov. -7th, two; 13th, several, from 6 p.m. until midnight, flying about -lantern; clear.</p> - -<p><i>Rockabill.</i>—Jan. 13th, Blackbirds during night, some struck, -weather misty. Feb. 17th, Blackbirds, sunset to midnight; rain -and mist, some struck. Oct. 26th and 27th, large quantity -struck lantern in night; weather hazy, with light rain. Nov. -<span class="pagenum" id="Page_95">-95-</span> -15th, a dozen killed; 28th, six killed. Dec. 28th, four; 31st -three. In all cases weather overcast or misty.</p> - -<p><i>Copeland Island.</i>—Blackbirds breed here, two pairs. Oct. 10th, -six killed striking, others injured; wind light N., drizzling rain.</p> - -<p><i>South Maidens.</i>—Oct. 16th, four struck, 2 a.m., not killed; -weather hazy.</p> - -<p><i>Rathlin Island.</i>—Oct. 31st, one killed striking.</p> - -<p><i>Innishtrahull.</i>—Nov. 1st, two at lantern; wind fresh S., -gloomy, misty. 2nd, one at lantern 11.30 p.m.; wind S. 5th, -two at lantern, 8 p.m.; wind light N.E.</p> - -<p><i>Tory Island.</i>—Oct. 18th, two struck, one killed, 9 p.m.; -wind W.N.W., gale.</p> - -<p><i>Killybegs.</i>—April 1st, three about all day. Nov. 30th, one -killed striking, drizzling rain. Dec. 18th, one killed; 19th, -another, weather thick.</p> - -<p><i>Black Rock, Mayo.</i>—Oct. 22nd, four at 8 a.m.; wind S.W., -fresh, misty, flying S., high.</p> - -<p><i>Slyne Head, North.</i>—Nov. 9th, six; wind S.E.</p> - -<p><i>Arran Island, South.</i>—May 15th, thirty "Blackbirds," 6 -p.m.; wind N.W. They remain here. Dec. 13th, two struck, -not killed, 11 p.m.; wind W.N.W.</p> - -<p><i>Tearaght.</i>—Nov. 20th, one Blackbird at 3 p.m.; wind W., fresh.</p> - -<p><i>Skelligs.</i>—Oct. 20th, two at 1 p.m.; wind N., fresh, misty. -Remained during month. A couple about rock in December.</p> - - -<p class="caption4nb smcap">Ring Ouzel.</p> - -<p><i>Rathlin Island.</i>—April 18th, "one Blackbird," at 4 p.m.; wind -strong S.E. This bird had a white throat. It was shot.</p> - - -<p class="caption4nb smcap">Robin.</p> - -<p><i>Fastnet.</i>—Oct. 27th, eight. Nov. 2nd, seven killed striking. -Barrels Rock Light-ship,—Aug. 29th, one "Robin Redbreast," -rested on ship.</p> - -<p><i>Rathlin Island.</i>—Nov. 1st, two about all day. Nov. 13th, -one seen.</p> - -<p><i>Straw Island.</i>—April 11th, two "Redbreasts," 9 a.m., calm. -Passed island for shore.</p> - -<p><i>Arran Island, South.</i>—July 1st, eighteen Robin Redbreasts, -9 p.m.; wind S.S.E., four killed.</p> - -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_96">-96-</span></p> - - -<p class="caption4nb smcap">"Blackcap."</p> - -<p><i>Arklow South Light-ship.</i>—April 4th, three "Blackcaps" -dead on deck, 7 a.m.; wind fresh S.W., rain.</p> - - -<p class="caption4nb"><span class="smcap">"Sallypickers"</span> (Willow Wren or Chiffchaff).</p> - -<p><i>Arklow North Light-ship.</i>—April 29th, eight "Sallypickers" -flying round ship. May 1st, three ditto.</p> - - -<p class="caption4nb"><span class="smcap">"Stonechat"</span> (Wheatear).</p> - -<p><i>Galley Head.</i>—April 4th, saw "Stonechicks," the first this -year.</p> - -<p><i>Fastnet.</i>—Sept. 14th, five young ones. Oct. 1st, twelve; 9th, -twenty. Dec. 4th, seven; 16th, two.</p> - -<p><i>Tuskar Rock.</i>—Aug. 9th, three killed striking. Oct. 5th, -"Stonechatters."</p> - -<p><i>Arklow North Light-ship.</i>—April 21st, one "Stonechatter" -on deck 6 a.m.</p> - -<p><i>Rathlin Island.</i>—April 28th, flocks of Stonechats, picked up -five; wind fresh S.E., misty, rain. May 2nd, six at 7 a.m.; -20th, seven.; 21st, ten all day about the station. Foggy and -gloomy. June 3rd and 19th, three to six seen.</p> - -<p><i>Innishtrahull.</i>—April 28th and 29th, "Stonechickers," 2 -a.m.; wind N. one day and S. the other. 30th, three, one -struck lantern, killed; a gale from S.W. May 3rd, two; 5th, -one. Sept. 20th, two struck lantern, not killed. Nov. 5th, two -at lantern at midnight; gloomy, misty.</p> - -<p><i>Arranmore.</i>—April 3rd, four "Stonechatters arrived to build."</p> - -<p><i>Rathlin O'Birne.</i>—March 31st, April 1st and 6th, one to six -Stonechats.</p> - -<p><i>Killybegs.</i>—I noticed during April and May some "Stonechatters."</p> - -<p><i>Clare Island.</i>—March 1st, some "Stonechatters" flying S., -11.30 a.m.</p> - -<p><i>Slyne Head, North.</i>—April 1st, Stonechats arrive and increase -in number from this date. Aug. 2nd, Stonechats disappear; -have not seen in what direction they come or go.</p> - -<p><i>Straw Island.</i>—April 5th, two Stonechats; wind N.W., very -light, clear. Remained on island.</p> - -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_97">-97-</span></p> - -<p><i>Arran Island, South.</i>—May 18th, twenty Stonechatters. -They remain here.</p> - -<p><i>Tearaght.</i>—May 26th, about half a dozen Stonechats arrived -about this date. Sept. 20th, Stonechats left about this date.</p> - - -<p class="caption4nb smcap">Redstart.</p> - -<p><i>Dungarvan.</i>—Nov. 13th, one about garden, being the only -one seen in vicinity for seven years.</p> - -<p><i>Tearaght.</i>—Oct. 27th, two Redstarts, male and female. May -have been on island some time previous. Remained about a -month.</p> - -<p><i>Skelligs.</i>—Oct. 13th, four birds of a slatish colour, red on -back near tail, about the size of a Titlark; wind S.W., fresh. -Fog and drizzle. Stayed all the month.</p> - - -<p class="caption4nb smcap">Goldencrested Wren.</p> - -<p><i>Old Head, Kinsale.</i>—Nov. 12th, five Goldencrested Wrens, -one killed striking; wind strong, N.</p> - -<p><i>Coningbeg Light-ship.</i>—April 27th, one alighted on ship, 8 -a.m.; 29th, another ditto.</p> - -<p><i>Dungarvan.</i>—Oct. 1st, two struck lantern; and on 2nd, 9th, -and 10th one or two, but none killed.</p> - -<p><i>Tuskar Rock.</i>—Oct. 9th, one; 25th, one; 26th, two; 29th, -two killed. Nov. 2nd, two seen.</p> - -<p><i>Copeland Island.</i>—April 7th, six killed striking; weather -clear, wind S.E.</p> - -<p><i>Arran Island, South.</i>—June 20th, sixty "Goldencrested -Wrens," 7 a.m.; calm, blue sky.</p> - - -<p class="caption4nb smcap">Wren.</p> - -<p><i>Fastnet.</i>—Oct. 9th, Wrens.</p> - -<p><i>Old Head, Kinsale.</i>—Jan. 20th, five "Common Wrens," going -S.W.</p> - -<p><i>Coningbeg Light-ship.</i>—May 10th, two Wrens killed, 10 p.m.; -wind moderate, N.N.E., clear.</p> - -<p><i>Barrels Rock Light-ship.</i>—April 26th, one alighted on ship. -May 8th, one ditto. Oct. 8th, one alighted on ship.</p> - -<p><i>Tuskar Rock.</i>—April 4th, "Wrens of all sorts," constantly -striking all night; several killed. June 24th, Wrens, 8 a.m. to -10 a.m. Aug. 3rd, six "Common Wrens," flying about rock, -<span class="pagenum" id="Page_98">-98-</span> -fog. Sept. 15th, three, one killed, fog. Oct. 22nd and 26th, -one seen. Oct. 29th, "a small grey bird not much larger than -a Wren with a black head," killed.</p> - -<p><i>Rockabill.</i>—Feb. 8th, Wrens during night, some struck; -weather misty, wind S.E. Oct. 26th and 27th, Wrens about -lantern in night; weather misty. Nov. 15th, some killed striking; -wind S., rain. Dec. 31st, four killed.</p> - -<p><i>Rathlin Island.</i>—April 28th, flocks of Wrens, picked up -twelve; wind fresh S.E., misty, rain. Aug. 14th, one killed -striking, 11 p.m.; wind light S.E., misty.</p> - -<p><i>Innishtrahull.</i>—Nov. 22nd, two Wrens at lantern, gloomy; -wind N.W., gale.</p> - -<p><i>Killybegs.</i>—Nov. 15th, three Wrens, with other small birds.</p> - -<p><i>Blackrock Mayo.</i>—Nov. 3rd, four Wrens, 11 a.m.; wind -W.N.W., light, one killed.</p> - -<p><i>Tearaght.</i>—The Wren is resident.</p> - -<p><i>Valentia.</i>—Dec. 12th, four "Common Wrens"; wind light W.</p> - -<p><i>Skelligs.</i>—Sept. 20th, several "Common Wrens" seen -occasionally during winter. They breed here.</p> - - -<p class="caption4nb smcap">Tits.</p> - -<p><i>Tuskar Rock.</i>—March 29th, 9 p.m. to 4 a.m., Tits striking, -twelve killed; wind strong south, rain, and fog. May 8th, -"Titmice" constantly striking, eight killed, from 11 p.m. to 4 -a.m.; wind N.W., and fog. 13th, constantly striking during -night, twelve killed, fog, and mist. 15th, five killed, fog and -mist. 19th, one seen. Sept. 16th, two killed.</p> - -<p><i>Copeland Island.</i>—April 25th, one "Titmouse," killed -striking. Oct. 10th, eight killed striking; wind N., light, -drizzling rain.</p> - - -<p class="caption4nb smcap">Wagtail.</p> - -<p><i>Dungarvan.</i>—Jan. 14th, one "Golden Wagtail," on rocks.</p> - -<p><i>Barrels Rock Light-ship.</i>—Sept. 18th, one rested on ship, -and flew N.</p> - -<p><i>Rathlin Island.</i>—One "Water Wagtail," seen on Aug. 12th, -Oct. 10th, and Dec. 27th.</p> - -<p><i>Innishtrahull.</i>—May 5th, one Wagtail seen. Nov. 3rd, two.</p> - -<p><i>Arranmore.</i>—May 3rd, one Grey Wagtail.</p> - -<p><i>Tearaght.</i>—March 3rd, one Wagtail, 9 a.m.; wind light S.E.; -<span class="pagenum" id="Page_99">-99-</span> -remained only a few minutes. May 24th, another. None -observed previous to this year.</p> - -<p><i>Skelligs.</i>—One seen in July; very rare.</p> - - -<p class="caption4nb smcap">Larks.</p> - -<p><i>Fastnet.</i>—Oct. 9th, sixteen, flying west; 22nd, seven; 31st, -eight. Nov. 1st, seven. Nov. 2nd, five killed striking.</p> - -<p><i>Old Head, Kinsale.</i>—March 10th, large numbers from sunrise -to sunset, with Linnets and other small birds.</p> - -<p><i>Coningbeg Light-ship.</i>—April 26th, two Larks killed, 9 p.m.; -wind light, rain. Oct. 9th, three caught on deck, 5 a.m.; 10th, -two caught on deck, 2 a.m.; 28th, flocks from 9 p.m. to midnight, -about the ship. Light S. wind, gloomy; 29th, numbers about -the light, 8 p.m. until midnight, many struck and fell overboard. -Nov. 2nd, three struck lantern, killed.</p> - -<p><i>Dungarvan.</i>—Oct. 22nd, small straggling flocks all day.</p> - -<p><i>Barrels Rock Light-ship.</i>—Sept. 16th, flock of three or four -dozen rested on ship, flying N. Oct. 19th, one seen.</p> - -<p><i>Tuskar Rock.</i>—Feb. 27th and 28th, and March 1st and 2nd, -many Larks, some caught; weather foggy and overcast, with -mist. Sept. 9th, a flock at 8 a.m.; 25th, another flock. Oct. -8th, three killed striking; 9th and 10th, constantly striking all -night, many killed, mist and fog. At 8 a.m. on 10th, a large -flock went west; 13th, a flock; 26th, thirty-five Larks killed -striking, fog. Oct. 30th to Nov. 3rd, constantly striking at night, -some killed; in day time about rock, and flying to N.W., weather -misty.</p> - -<p><i>Arklow South Light-ship.</i>—March 2nd, six flying round ship. -Flocks noted on Oct. 7th, 10th, 11th, 15th, and Nov. 7th and 8th; -and on Oct. 20th, 21st, 27th; and 29th, a few passed. Seven -killed on Oct. 10th and 11th, weather foggy. Oct. 29th four -killed.</p> - -<p><i>Arklow North Light-ship.</i>—Nov. 26th, a large flock going -N.W.; wind light N.W., clear.</p> - -<p><i>Kish Bank Light-ship.</i>—Oct. 26th, five passing N.W. Nov. -13th, several about lantern from 6 p.m. until midnight. Dec. -23rd, three flying west; 27th, one killed striking lantern, weather -clear; 31st, two killed striking, weather gloomy.</p> - -<p><i>Rockabill.</i>—Oct. 26th and 27th, Larks about lantern in night; -weather misty.</p> - -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_100">-100-</span></p> - -<p><i>Copeland Island.</i>—Oct. 10th, twenty killed striking, others -injured; wind north, light; drizzling rain.</p> - -<p><i>South Maidens.</i>—Oct. 16th, eight "common Larks" killed -striking; wind W.N.W., strong, weather thick.</p> - -<p><i>Rathlin Island.</i>—Oct. 29th, two killed striking; 30th, five -killed, overcast, misty.</p> - -<p><i>Innishtrahull.</i>—March 13th, eight struck, not killed, at 4 -a.m.; wind S.W., fresh, fog and mist. May 5th, one seen. -Nov. 1st, two, 10.30 p.m., at lantern, gloomy, misty. Nov. 3rd, -one; 5th, one at lantern at midnight. Dec. 8th, three Skylarks -at 8 a.m.; wind S.W., fresh.</p> - -<p><i>Rathlin O'Birne.</i>—Skylarks noted on Feb. 2nd, which is -earlier than on previous years. On March 30th and 31st, -April 1st, 3rd, and 6th, from four to eight.</p> - -<p><i>Killybegs.</i>—April 22nd, several Skylarks observed about this -time.</p> - -<p><i>Oyster Island, North.</i>—Dec. 26th, four Skylarks in a field; -flew south.</p> - -<p><i>Clare Island.</i>—March 31st, about a dozen Larks. Oct. 31st, -a flock of Larks flying about station; wind S.S.W., light. -During November, small flocks at intervals.</p> - -<p><i>Slyne Head, North.</i>—Nov. 11th, eight Larks; wind E.S.E.</p> - -<p><i>Straw Island.</i>—March 22nd, eight "Field Larks" at noon; -wind S., strong. Remained on island.</p> - - -<p class="caption4nb smcap">Titlark.</p> - -<p><i>Fastnet.</i>—Nov. 1st, fifteen.</p> - -<p><i>Tuskar Rock.</i>—Aug. 13th, Titlarks flying on rock. Oct. 21st, -five, remained some time.</p> - -<p><i>Arklow South Light-ship.</i>—April 5th, one going east. Sept. -18th, two flying round ship; 21st, two flying east; 25th, five -flying N.W. Nov. 3rd, a flock flying N.W.</p> - -<p><i>Arklow North Light-ship.</i>—April 21st, two on deck, 6 a.m. -Sept. 20th, some Titlarks killed striking, hazy, with rain.</p> - -<p><i>Kish Bank Light-ship.</i>—May 11th, three. June 20th, two. -Oct. 8th, four alighted on deck, 10 a.m.</p> - -<p><i>Copeland Island.</i>—April 12th, two Titlarks killed striking. -They nest on island.</p> - -<p><i>South Maidens.</i>—Oct. 17th, six Titlarks, 10 p.m.; weather -foggy.</p> - -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_101">-101-</span></p> - -<p><i>Rathlin Island.</i>—Aug. 23rd, three, at 8 a.m.</p> - -<p><i>Innishtrahull.</i>—Nov. 3rd, five Titlarks; 5th, one; 22nd, three.</p> - -<p><i>Lough Swilly.</i>—May 2nd, two, 4 p.m.; wind N., strong.</p> - -<p><i>Arran Island, South.</i>—Nov. 2nd, one Titlark striking at 4 -a.m.; caught by keeper.</p> - -<p><i>Tearaght.</i>—The Titlark is resident.</p> - -<p><i>Skelligs.</i>—Titlarks common all the year; they breed.</p> - - -<p class="caption4nb smcap">Yellowhammer.</p> - -<p><i>Rathlin O'Birne.</i>—Nov. 16th, Yellow Buntings around walls -of station; 22nd, large flocks of Buntings all day.</p> - - -<p class="caption4nb smcap">Snow Bunting.</p> - -<p><i>Rathlin Island.</i>—May 16th, "shot a bird very like a Snow -Bunting." Oct. 14th, thirty; wind N.W., squally. Some seen -also on 15th, 17th, 18th; Nov. 7th, and one on 29th.</p> - -<p><i>Innishtrahull.</i>—Jan. 24th, continuous flocks of Snow Buntings -for the rest of the month. Dec. 4th, flock at 11 a.m., apparently -just come to island, and are on it ever since; wind N., gale. -Seen on 7th, 8th, 9th, and on 25th, Snow Buntings all day; -wind S.W., fresh.</p> - -<p><i>Arranmore.</i>—Jan. 23rd, Snow Buntings all day. Feb. 18th, -eight. They leave in spring. April 27th, one shot. Aug. 18th, -one Snow Bunting at 4 p.m.; wind S., fresh. Sept. 1st, eight. -Dec. 8th and 11th, a few.</p> - -<p><i>Killybegs.</i>—An occasional Snow Bunting visits us, but I have -seen none this winter nor during the winter of 1882-3.</p> - -<p><i>Blackrock Mayo.</i>—Oct. 30th, about thirty alighted on rock; -wind S.S.E., fresh, misty. Nov. 30th, about forty, 9.30 a.m.; -wind N., light. Dec. 4th, twenty. Jan. 10th, 1884, forty on -rock; wind strong S.W., misty.</p> - -<p><i>Arran Island, South.</i>—Nov. 5th, six arrived on island at 2 -p.m.; wind S., misty.</p> - -<p><i>Tearaght.</i>—Feb. 10th, Snow Buntings mentioned in last -report, still on island; left about March 1st. Sept. 30th, -about six, but may have been on the island some time previously. -Remained about a fortnight.</p> - -<p>N.B. <i>Arranmore.</i>—"Two Lapland Buntings shot, one on May -1st, the other on 4th, very rare, and the oldest person has never -<span class="pagenum" id="Page_102">-102-</span> -seen the same species before." [These were perhaps some stage -of plumage of the Snow Bunting.—A. G. M. and R. M. B.]</p> - - -<p class="caption4nb smcap">Chaffinch.</p> - -<p><i>Fastnet.</i>—Oct. 29th, ten. Nov. 1st, nine. Jan. 5th, 1884, -seven about the rock.</p> - -<p><i>Old Head, Kinsale.</i>—Dec. 16th, some hundreds; wind N., -frosty.</p> - -<p><i>Coningbeg Light-ship.</i>—Oct. 27th, six about ship, one caught -on deck; 28th, one alighted on ship; 29th, a great number about -light, many killed, and fell overboard; gloomy. Nov. 13th, one -rested on ship.</p> - -<p><i>Tuskar Rock.</i>—Oct 5th, Chaffinches; 13th, 19th, and 26th a -few. Oct. 30th to Nov. 3rd, several during the night. Nov. -13th, four died on rock.</p> - -<p><i>Arklow South Light-ship.</i>—Sept. 21st, two. Oct. 29th, a -flock; 31st, two.</p> - -<p><i>Arklow North Light-ship.</i>—Sept. 13th, six hovering about -ship. Nov. 12th, five.</p> - -<p><i>Kish Bank Light-ship.</i>—July 14th, three at 4.30 p.m., stayed -on ship until sunset, and then left. Oct. 8th, three alighted on -deck, 10 a.m. Oct. 26th, one alighted. Nov. 7th, four -alighted.</p> - -<p><i>Slyne Head, North.</i>—Nov. 11th, three "Finches," wind -E.S.E.</p> - -<p><i>Tearaght.</i>—Oct. 26th, about a dozen "Finches, several kinds," -but cannot give the names. Remained about a fortnight.</p> - - -<p class="caption4nb smcap">Sparrow.</p> - -<p><i>Tuskar Rock.</i>—March 1st, one Sparrow caught.</p> - -<p><i>Rathlin Island.</i>—June 5th, 13th, and 28th, a few Sparrows -noted (perhaps breeding).</p> - -<p><i>Killybegs.</i>—May 10th, observed about thirty Sparrows. They -build in old ruins in the neighbourhood. Aug. 11th, about sixty -perched on stays of signal mast. Sept. 18th, 19th, and 20th, -Sparrows flying towards S.W.; wind E. to E.S.E.</p> - -<p><i>Straw Island.</i>—March 30th, two house Sparrows, 10 a.m.; -calm, wind S.</p> - -<p><i>Arran Island, South.</i>—July 26th, forty Sparrows, 8 a.m.; -wind W.N.W., clear.</p> - -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_103">-103-</span></p> - - -<p class="caption4nb smcap">Goldfinch.</p> - -<p><i>Arran Island, South.</i>—April 3rd, six Goldfinches, 3 p.m.; -wind W.S.W. They remain. July 28th, Goldfinches at 10 a.m. -Nov. 12th, ten, at 9 a.m.; wind W.S.W., hovering about.</p> - -<p><i>Valentia.</i>—Oct. 4th, 10th, and Dec. 15th, two or three Goldfinches. -They breed on the island.</p> - -<p><i>Skelligs.</i>—Seen in October. Breed on mainland near.</p> - - -<p class="caption4nb smcap">Linnets.</p> - -<p><i>Fastnet.</i>—Oct. 9th, Linnets flying west. Nov. 2nd, eight -killed striking. Jan. 5th, 1884, five, all day.</p> - -<p><i>Old Head, Kinsale.</i>—March 10th, large numbers, sunrise to -sunset. Dec. 5th, two hundred to three hundred.</p> - -<p><i>Coningbeg Light-ship.</i>—Oct. 9th, four killed on deck at 5 -a.m.; 14th, two going N.E.; 22nd, one alighted on ship.</p> - -<p><i>Dungarvan.</i>—Oct. 1st, flocks of Grey Linnets coming from -S.E. Nov. 29th, flocks of Grey Linnets all day about station.</p> - -<p><i>Barrels Rock Light-ship.</i>—March 21st, six flying north, and -a few at end of March. May 8th, one. Sept. 27th, six. Oct. -8th, one; 19th, seven; 22nd, large flocks. Nov. 12th, five. -Dec. 6th, one alighted on ship. Jan. 14th, 1884, one.</p> - -<p><i>Tuskar Rock.</i>—May 13th, Grey Linnets, 10 p.m. to 2 a.m., -striking; mist and fog.</p> - -<p><i>Arklow South Light-ship.</i>—Oct, 26th, one Green Linnet -flying about.</p> - -<p><i>Arklow North Light-ship.</i>—Sept. 17th, some Grey Linnets -at 8 a.m., hovering about; weather hazy. Sept. 20th, some -Linnets killed striking; hazy, with rain. Nov. 13th, Linnets -about ship; wind S.E., light, clear.</p> - -<p><i>Rockabill.</i>—Feb. 8th, Linnets during night, some struck; -misty, wind S.E.</p> - -<p><i>Copeland Island.</i>—Oct. 10th, twelve killed striking, others -injured; wind N., light, drizzling rain.</p> - -<p><i>Rathlin Island.</i>—May 9th, twenty Linnets seen; 16th, four -flocks. June 4th, twenty Grey Linnets; 14th, thirty; 23rd, -seven. Entries occur Oct. 20th, 22nd, 23rd, 24th, 29th; Nov. -3rd, 18th, 20th, 24th, 27th, and frequently during December. -Numbers vary up to 150, and direction of flight when entered -was south or west, and seemed independent of direction of wind.</p> - -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_104">-104-</span></p> - -<p><i>Innishtrahull.</i>—Jan. 24th, continuous flocks of Green Linnets -for the rest of month. Nov. 7th, fifty at one p.m., wind S.W., -light; 22nd, four at lantern, wind N.W., gale, gloomy.</p> - -<p><i>Dunree Head.</i>—Nov. 16th, great flocks of Grey Linnets flying -about all day.</p> - -<p><i>Arranmore.</i>—Feb. 23rd, six Grey Linnets. They come daily. -Dec. 19th, a flock of Grey Linnets.</p> - -<p><i>Rathlin O'Birne.</i>—Sept. 21st, ten Grey Linnets alighted, and -flew to N.E.</p> - -<p><i>Killybegs.</i>—I noticed during April and May nine or ten Grey -Linnets. Aug. 11th, Linnets perched on stays of signal mast, -6 a.m. Sept. 18th, 19th, and 20th, continuous flocks flying S.W. -all day, arriving and departing after resting; wind E. to E.S.E.</p> - -<p><i>Oyster Island, North.</i>—Nov. 13th, fifty passing N.; wind S.</p> - -<p><i>Clare Island.</i>—April 15th, Linnets during the day.</p> - -<p><i>Slyne Head, North.</i>—July 9th, twenty Linnets appeared 10 -a.m., flying high. Nov. 11th, nine Linnets; wind E.S.E.</p> - -<p><i>Straw Island.</i>—Aug. 23rd, a large number of Grey Linnets -going south; flying low, calm.</p> - -<p><i>Arran Island, South.</i>—April 1st, fifty Linnets; wind E., -drizzling rain. Oct. 6th, forty Linnets hovering about, 4 p.m.</p> - -<p><i>Tearaght.</i>—Jan. 30th, twelve Grey Linnets, mentioned in last -report, left about this date. Sept. 22nd, about twelve Grey -Linnets, 8 a.m.; wind light E. Oct. 29th, five Grey Linnets, -one killed striking, four taken alive; foggy.</p> - - -<p class="caption4nb smcap">"Small Birds."</p> - -<p><i>Fastnet.</i>—Sept. 21st, twenty; 28th, ditto. Oct. 3rd, a flock -passing high to N.E. Oct. 7th, "mixed birds" striking glass; -fog and mist.</p> - -<p><i>Kish Bank Light-ship.</i>—June 29th, two small birds flying -W.; rain and fog. July 7th, flock of "small land birds" going -S.E. to N.W.; weather hazy. Nov. 26th, flock of small birds, -name unknown, flying low to N.W., at 11 a.m.</p> - -<p><i>Rockabill.</i>—Feb. 8th, several small birds during night.</p> - -<p><i>Killybegs.</i>—Sept. 18th, 19th, and 20th, small birds. Sparrows, -Linnets, and others unknown to me, flying in a S.W. direction all -day; wind E. to E.S.E., cloudy, and misty. Constantly arriving, -and departing after resting. Nov. 15th, about thirty small -birds remained nearly all day, left at dusk.</p> - -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_105">-105-</span></p> - -<p><i>Clare Island.</i>—April 15th, Linnets and "other small yellow -birds" during the day.</p> - -<p><i>Valentia.</i>—Sept. 24th, four Grey Linnets.</p> - - -<p class="caption4nb smcap">Bullfinch.</p> - -<p><i>Fastnet.</i>—Oct. 31st, nine.</p> - -<p><i>Killybegs.</i>—"I noticed during April and May several piping -Bullfinches."</p> - -<p><i>Slyne Head, North.</i>—Dec. 7th, three "Bullfinches," wind -E.S.E.</p> - - -<p class="caption4nb smcap">Starling.</p> - -<p><i>Fastnet.</i>—Oct. 27th, eleven; 29th, five striking. Nov. 1st, -five. Nov. 2nd, seventeen killed striking.</p> - -<p><i>Old Head, Kinsale.</i>—Feb. 3rd, large flock coming from N. -Oct. 30th, some hundreds of Starlings all going inland.</p> - -<p><i>Coningbeg Light-ship.</i>—May 9th, flocks of Starlings, 6 a.m., -flying N.E. Oct. 28th and 29th, flocks about ship, nights -gloomy, seven killed, but many struck and fell overboard; 30th, -seven rested on ship, 8 a.m. Nov. 2nd, two killed, 9 p.m.</p> - -<p><i>Dungarvan.</i>—Oct. 5th, small flocks; 17th and 22nd, ditto; -29th, one struck lantern. They are late this year.</p> - -<p><i>Barrels Rock Light-ship.</i>—Oct. 28th, one rested on ship; -29th, another. Nov. 1st, a few.</p> - -<p><i>Tuskar Rock.</i>—Feb. 24th, 25th, 27th, 28th, and March 3rd, -Starlings, a considerable number struck lantern, several killed; -weather foggy and overcast, with mist. Oct. 9th, five killed, -misty; 10th, passing all night. Oct. 28th to Nov. 2nd, Starlings -passed, with Blackbirds, Thrushes, Larks, and Chaffinches, some -killed; weather foggy with mist. Nov. 13th, one.</p> - -<p><i>Arklow South Light-ship.</i>—Oct. 16th, a flock of "Stares;" -26th, a flock; 29th, four killed striking; 31st, one seen.</p> - -<p><i>Arklow North Light-ship.</i>—April 30th, Starlings around -lantern, 11 p.m. to 11.50 p.m., did not strike; weather hazy. -Sept. 19th, "Stares" striking at midnight; wind light S.E., -hazy. Oct. 30th, "Stares" striking, overcast, calm. Nov. 13th, -"Stares" about ship, 3 p.m. Nov. 30th, some Starlings striking, -one killed; hazy, rain. Dec. 5th, a large flock going W., 7.45 -a.m.; wind N.</p> - -<p><i>Kish Bank Light-ship.</i>—May 14th, five, at 10.15 p.m., about -lantern; weather foggy. Oct. 7th, seven struck, killed, and a -<span class="pagenum" id="Page_106">-106-</span> -great number fell overboard; weather foggy, wind light N.W. -Oct. 27th, numbers of Starlings, four killed striking, 9 p.m. -Some fell overboard; clear, wind fresh N.N.W. Nov. 7th, four, -at 11 a.m., left ship 2 p.m.</p> - -<p><i>Rockabill.</i>—Oct. 31st, four killed striking; weather gloomy, -wind light S.E.</p> - -<p><i>Copeland Island.</i>—Starlings appear the first week in April -to breed here. Oct. 10th, eighteen killed striking, others injured; -wind light N., drizzling rain.</p> - -<p><i>Rathlin Island.</i>—April 3rd, seventy, going N., 3 p.m.; 14th, -four, breeding here. Entries of two to one hundred and fifty -occur from Oct. 24th to Dec. 25th; most seen on Oct. 26th and -Dec. 1st. Directions of flight when entered generally S. or W.</p> - -<p><i>Innishtrahull.</i>—March 14th, four, at 11 a.m.; a gale from -S.W. Oct. 30th, three struck, not killed; wind S.E., light, -cloudy. Dec. 20th, four; wind N.W., strong.</p> - -<p><i>Rathlin O'Birne.</i>—Nov. 12th, about two hundred came from -mainland, and returned again after some time.</p> - -<p><i>Killybegs.</i>—The Starling, which was commonly seen here in -winter, is now very rare. I have seen none at all this winter.</p> - -<p><i>Oyster Island, North.</i>—Nov. 13th, fifty passing W.; wind S.</p> - -<p><i>Blackrock, Mayo.</i>—Oct. 3rd, about twenty alighted on rock, 9 -a.m.; wind N., fresh, clear. Oct. 4th, one killed striking, at 1 a.m.</p> - -<p><i>Clare Island.</i>—During November a few occasionally in -vicinity of lighthouse.</p> - -<p><i>Slyne Head, North.</i>—Nov. 28th, eight Starlings, four killed, -10 p.m.; wind N.E., rain. Dec. 10th, nine;-wind N.</p> - -<p><i>Straw Island.</i>—Aug. 31st, four Starlings, 1 p.m., going S.W., -low; wind fresh W. Also on Sept. 15th, and Oct. 13th, sixteen -to twenty, going south, low.</p> - -<p><i>Arran Island, South.</i>—April 2nd, thirty Starlings, going N., -twenty struck, none killed; wind S. Oct. 30th, thirty "Stares," -11 a.m.; wind S., blue sky, five struck, two killed. "Stares" -remained here. Dec. 13th, six "Stares," 10 p.m., four killed -striking; wind W.S.W., drizzling rain.</p> - -<p><i>Tearaght.</i>—Jun. 30th, twelve, and again on Feb. 18th. Did -not leave until about March 1st.</p> - -<p><i>Valentia.</i>—Dec. 4th, fifteen; wind light N.</p> - -<p><i>Skelligs.</i>—Oct. 20th, six Starlings, 11 a.m., wind N., fresh, -fog; 21st, two. Did not see them after this date. Bare here.</p> - -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_107">-107-</span></p> - -<p><i>Dursey Island.</i>—Oct. 2nd, twenty going north; 22nd, large -flock at 2 p.m., going N.W.; wind N.W.</p> - - -<p class="caption4nb smcap">Chough.</p> - -<p><i>Tearaght.</i>—Jan. 30th, three Choughs. In my last report I -called these "daws." Choughs come and go occasionally all the -year. They breed here.</p> - -<p><i>Skelligs.</i>—They breed here; May to August.</p> - - -<p class="caption4nb smcap">Raven.</p> - -<p><i>Dungarvan.</i>—Nov. 7th, two coming from N.E.; rarely seen -here.</p> - -<p><i>Copeland Island.</i>—Aug. 20th, six alighted on island at 9 a.m.</p> - -<p><i>Arranmore.</i>—Feb. 7th, two, at 10 a.m. Remain all the year. -May 8th, two. Sept. 11th, two. Oct. 18th, one.</p> - -<p><i>Arran Island, South.</i>—Dec. 26th, three Ravens. They -remain about here.</p> - -<p><i>Skelligs.</i>—Sept. 20th, two Ravens about rock during month, -also during October, November, and December.</p> - - -<p class="caption4nb smcap">Hooded Crow.</p> - -<p><i>Old Head, Kinsale.</i>—Oct. 26th, ten Grey Crows.</p> - -<p><i>Dungarvan.</i>—Oct. 10th, seven. Jan. 4th, two in fields.</p> - -<p><i>Rathlin Island.</i>—April 4th, twenty, to be seen every day. -They remain all the year. Aug. 15th, one.</p> - -<p><i>Lough Swilly.</i>—April 10th, two Grey Crows.</p> - -<p><i>Arranmore.</i>—April 26th, one passing.</p> - -<p><i>Killybegs.</i>—Oct. 10th, four perched on cliffs.</p> - -<p><i>Straw Island.</i>—Feb. 22nd, forty Grey Crows at noon; calm. -Oct. 21st, four going west; wind N., strong.</p> - -<p><i>Tearaght.</i>—Feb. 13th, one Grey Crow found dead, partly -devoured. They come and go occasionally all the year.</p> - -<p><i>Skelligs.</i>—Sept. 20th, four during month; also during -October, November, and December.</p> - -<p><i>Dursey Island.</i>—Flocks of two to fifteen Grey Crows on April -2nd, May 20th, and July 11th; flight E. or N.E. Sept. 8th, -four going east.</p> - - -<p class="caption4nb smcap">Rook.</p> - -<p><i>Old Head, Kinsale.</i>—Feb. 27th, one hundred to one hundred -and fifty; came from east.</p> - -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_108">-108-</span></p> - -<p><i>Coningbeg Light-ship.</i>—April 28th, two flying N.E.</p> - -<p><i>Tuskar Rock.</i>—March 18th, one "Crow" flying west; 25th, -six seen. April 6th, a large flock of Rooks going west.</p> - -<p><i>Arklow South Light-ship.</i>—March 18th, two "Crows" going -N.W.</p> - -<p><i>Kish Bank Light-ship.</i>—Dec. 1st, eight "Crows" flying low -to N.W., 11.30 a.m.</p> - -<p><i>Copeland Island.</i>—April 25th, a large flock of some hundred -"Crows" came from Scotch coast and left for mainland half an -hour afterward. Aug. 13th, about a thousand, at 11 a.m., flying -high to south.</p> - -<p><i>Rathlin Island.</i>—April 1st, forty at noon; 6th and 7th, a -flock going north; 16th, three. May 8th, three; 24th, Black -Crows going north. June 6th, flocks seen. Entries occur in -August, October, November, and December, of flocks of Rooks -at intervals of a week or fortnight; largest on November 11th -and 12th. Direction of flight in nearly all cases south.</p> - -<p><i>Innishtrahull.</i>—April 1st, one "Black Crow" at 4 a.m.; -foggy. May 26th, one.</p> - -<p><i>Lough Swilly.</i>—June 23rd, 25th, and 30th, flocks all day.</p> - -<p><i>Rathlin O'Birne.</i>—July 8th, fifteen Rooks.</p> - -<p><i>Killybegs.</i>—In April and May, "Crows" to the number of -about one hundred visited daily. Probably belonged to rookery -ten miles distant.</p> - -<p><i>Oyster Island, North.</i>—April 27th, thirty at 4 p.m., passing -S.E.</p> - -<p><i>Clare Island.</i>—Feb. 20th, a few Crows flying N.W.; wind -S.W., light, foggy. Oct. 25th, Black Crows flying north; low.</p> - -<p><i>Arran Island, South.</i>—April 6th, sixty common Crows. They -remain. Oct. 3rd, twenty Rooks going south; wind W.N.W.</p> - -<p><i>Valentia.</i>—Sept. 2nd, four Black Crows. Nov. 12th, four.</p> - - -<p class="caption4nb smcap">Jackdaw.</p> - -<p><i>Valentia.</i>—Oct. 12th, two. Nov. 26th, five.</p> - - -<p class="caption4nb smcap">Magpie.</p> - -<p><i>Arran Island, South.</i>—Oct. 20th, five Magpies at noon. -They remain about here.</p> - -<p><i>Valentia.</i>—Dec. 5th, two Magpies.</p> - -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_109">-109-</span></p> - - -<p class="caption4nb smcap">Swallow.</p> - -<p><i>Fastnet.</i>—Nov. 6th, two, all day about rock.</p> - -<p><i>Coningbeg Light-ship.</i>—May 13th, flock flying N.W.; 14th, -continuous flocks flying N.W. Three killed at 10 p.m.; wind -S.W., clear. Four alighted on ship. Sept. 22nd, 23rd, and 30th, -a great number passed, going E. and N.E. Oct. 8th, 9th, and -10th, a few passed, four caught on deck, at 2 a.m., two alighted -on ship.</p> - -<p><i>Dungarvan.</i>—Oct. 20th, flocks of House Swallows, going -E.S.E.; wind N.W., light.</p> - -<p><i>Barrels Rock Light-ship.</i>—May 8th, one alighted on ship; -17th and 18th, occasional Swallows, flying north. June 3rd and -6th, two or three alighted on ship. Sept. 19th and 20th, odd -Swallows, flying north, all day. Oct. 8th, 20th, and 26th, a few -passed.</p> - -<p><i>Tuskar Rock.</i>—April 11th, first seen, then occasionally to -21st and 22nd, when they passed at intervals of fifteen minutes, -all going west. On May 8th and 13th, one or two passed; 14th, -constantly passing, going W. and N.W., two killed; 15th, 16th, -and 17th, Swallows all day, remaining on rock some hours, then -flying W. A few passing daily to end of month, especially on -22nd. During August and September one or two at intervals -about rock. Aug. 24th, a great number. From Oct. 5th to -11th, many passed to east.</p> - -<p><i>Arklow South Light-ship.</i>—April 15th, several flocks; wind -W.N.W., clear. May 13th, a flock; 14th, 15th, and 30th, -Swallows. On Sept. 19th, 23rd, and 28th, one to six passed.</p> - -<p><i>Arklow North Light-ship.</i>—April 22nd, 28th, and May 18th, -Swallows noted going N.W.</p> - -<p><i>Kish Bank Light-ship.</i>—June 25th, four passing north; wind -light S.</p> - -<p><i>Rockabill.</i>—April 16th, one, the first arrival, wind W., fresh; -18th, several.</p> - -<p><i>Copeland Island.</i>—Sept. 12th, several large flocks at noon; -wind W., moderate, clear. They waited a few hours and went S.</p> - -<p><i>Rathlin Island.</i>—April 30th, four at noon.</p> - -<p><i>Lough Swilly.</i>—May 15th, a few Swallows, first seen.</p> - -<p><i>Arranmore.</i>—April 21st, one at 7.30 a.m., passing over -island. May 9th, one. June 16th, two.</p> - -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_110">-110-</span></p> - -<p><i>Rathlin O'Birne.</i>—April 20th, one, wind N.; 23rd and 29th, -May 4th and 15th, one to three.</p> - -<p><i>Killybegs.</i>—May 10th, 11th, and 12th, two to six. They -build in vicinity, and generally leave about the middle of June. -Aug. 24th, about thirty hovering round.</p> - -<p><i>Straw Island.</i>—Sept. 12th, fifty going S.W., high; wind N., -fresh.</p> - - -<p class="caption4nb smcap">Martin.</p> - -<p><i>Oyster Island, North.</i>—May 8th, one Martin, the first seen; -12th, several. They remain and build about station. Aug. -12th, Martins last seen.</p> - - -<p class="caption4nb smcap">Cuckoo.</p> - -<p><i>Tuskar Rock.</i>—Nov. 2nd, one Cuckoo killed striking.</p> - -<p><i>Rathlin Island.</i>—May 3rd, three or four; heard for first time.</p> - -<p><i>Arranmore.</i>—May 4th, one Cuckoo. May 12th, one.</p> - -<p><i>Oyster Island, North.</i>—May 15th, Cuckoo first heard; wind -N., light.</p> - -<p><i>Arran Island, South.</i>—April 11th, "three Cuckoos," 4 p.m.; -wind E.S.E., cloudy.</p> - - -<p class="caption4nb smcap">Pigeon.</p> - -<p><i>Fastnet.</i>—Oct. 31st, one.</p> - -<p><i>Rockabill.</i>—Sept. 15th, ten going N. Oct. 30th, ten hovering -about. Dec. 3rd, two shot; 31st, Pigeons all day, one shot.</p> - -<p><i>Rathlin Island.</i>—Aug. 28th, forty Pigeons; they are always -on the island. Nov. 16th, eighteen going N.; 25th, five, going S.</p> - -<p><i>Innishtrahull.</i>—Dec. 8th, four Pigeons; wind S.W., light.</p> - -<p><i>Dunree Head.</i>—Sept. 22nd, great flocks of Pigeons flying -about all day.</p> - -<p><i>Lough Swilly.</i>—April 10th, flocks of Pigeons all day.</p> - -<p><i>Killybegs.</i>—April 22nd, four Wild Pigeons build on cliffs near -Lighthouse. Aug. 26th, eight Wild Pigeons, 5 a.m.</p> - -<p><i>Clare Island.</i>—Feb. 10th, some Wild Pigeons, flying E., in -forenoon. Oct. 15th, about four dozen flying generally over -the island, also during November and December about the fields -on the island.</p> - -<p><i>Arran Island, South.</i>—May 14th, fifty Wild Pigeons. Dec. -3rd, six; 10th, twenty; 28th, ten. They remain on island.</p> - -<p><i>Tearaght.</i>—Oct. 21st, one Rock Pigeon; 27th, about a dozen. -Jan. 15th, 1884, eighteen. Nov. 18th, five Rock Pigeons; 24th, -about a dozen, which still remain on island.</p> - -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_111">-111-</span></p> - -<p><i>Dursey Island.</i>—June 7th, eight Wild Pigeons going E.; 17th, -two. Entries also on Aug. 24th, Sept. 10th, and Nov. 22nd.</p> - - -<p class="caption4nb smcap">Partridge.</p> - -<p><i>Rockabill.</i>—Oct. 28th, six seen on rock in the morning; wind -light S.E., gloomy.</p> - -<p><i>Tearaght.</i>—May 18th, one Partridge, at 4 p.m.</p> - - -<p class="caption4nb smcap">Grouse.</p> - -<p><i>Innishtrahull.</i>—Nov. 1st, one Grouse, 4 p.m.; wind light -S.W., moderate.</p> - -<p><i>Clare Island.</i>—Grouse are not plentiful this year.</p> - - -<p class="caption4nb smcap">Golden Plover.</p> - -<p><i>Fastnet.</i>—Oct. 9th, four "Grey" Plover, midnight; fog & mist.</p> - -<p><i>Old Head, Kinsale.</i>—Jan. 28th, large flocks; wind N.E. -Feb. 15th, large flock of "Plover" coming from N.; wind N.E. -Dec. 17th, large flocks all day; blue sky, frosty.</p> - -<p><i>Arklow North Light-ship.</i>—June 16th, five "Plover" going -N.E. Sept. 17th, some Plovers about ship at 8 a.m.; hazy.</p> - -<p><i>Copeland Island.</i>—Oct. 10th, three "Grey" Plover killed -striking; wind N., light, drizzling rain.</p> - -<p><i>Innishtrahull.</i>—Sept. 3rd, six; wind N., fresh. 18th, a pair shot.</p> - -<p><i>Tory Island.</i>—Jan. 6th, 1884, seven resting on island.</p> - -<p><i>Arranmore.</i>—Sept. 3rd, seventeen "Grey Plovers"; 18th, -twenty.</p> - -<p><i>Killybegs.</i>—April 16th, fifteen Golden Plovers, which only -remained a few days. A large flock of "Grey Plovers," which -remained till the end of April. Oct. 4th, about eighty Golden -Plovers; remained up to this date. Dec. 2nd, Golden and Grey -Plover begin to come about the middle of September, and are -reinforced by flocks up to the end of November; they usually -leave about end of December.</p> - -<p><i>Arran Island South.</i>—October 10th, twenty "Grey" Plover; -wind W., going S.</p> - -<p><i>Dursey Island.</i>—Nov. 12th, eight going W., 11 a.m.</p> - - -<p class="caption4nb smcap">Green Plover.</p> - -<p><i>Coningbeg Light-ship.</i>—March 2nd, two Lapwings around -ship; 22nd, thirty, flying N.W. May 7th, one killed, 9.30 p.m.; -wind E.N.E., rain.</p> - -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_112">-112-</span></p> - -<p><i>Dungarvan.</i>—Oct. 9th, large flocks all day about shore; and -on Oct. 21st and Jan. 11th, large flocks.</p> - -<p><i>Barrels Rock Light-ship.</i>—March 21st, eight, flying N.W.</p> - -<p><i>Rockabill.</i>—March 5th, one Green Plover struck, killed, -4 a.m., cloudy; wind fresh N.; 27th, Green Plover going N.; -wind N., snow showers; 28th, large flocks of Plover going N.; -wind S.E., snow showers.</p> - -<p><i>Copeland Island.</i>—April 4th, thirty, at 10 a.m.; 7th, a large -flock from mainland, going towards Scotch coast; 25th, continuous -flocks flying towards Scotch coast, all day; wind E., -clear. Sept. 29th, twenty alighted and remained on island; -30th, large flocks, some hundreds in each, going N.E. and very -high; wind strong, N., gloomy.</p> - -<p><i>Rathlin Island.</i>—April 6th, six Green Plover, 4 p.m.; Oct. -30th, two seen; Nov. 24th, one.</p> - -<p><i>Innishtrahull.</i>—April 2nd, four at 5 p.m.; wind E.S.E., fresh, -misty. Sept. 20th, about twenty "Lapwing Plover"; wind -E.S.E., strong; stayed two days and then left, going S.</p> - -<p><i>Tory Island.</i>—Sept. 15th, seven at noon, rested on island.</p> - -<p><i>Rathlin O'Birne.</i>—Sept. 21st, twelve alighted, then flew to -N.E.</p> - -<p><i>Killybegs.</i>—April 7th and 8th, four to eight; they hatch in -vicinity.</p> - -<p><i>Slyne Head, North.</i>—Dec. 14th, four Lapwings; wind N.E.</p> - -<p><i>Tearaght.</i>—March 24th, one Lapwing, 8 a.m.; wind N.E., -light; seemed tired, and remained a few hours.</p> - - -<p class="caption4nb smcap">Turnstone.</p> - -<p><i>Tory Island.</i>—Jan. 10th, 1884, flock of Turnstone, going S., -1 p.m.; wind N.W., gale.</p> - - -<p class="caption4nb smcap">"Sand Larks."</p> - -<p><i>Old Head, Kinsale.</i>—Dec. 14th, five Sand Larks; these -were strange birds. I have not seen them before on the coast.</p> - -<p><i>Coningbeg Light-ship.</i>—Dec. 9th, one, the first seen for two -years.</p> - -<p><i>Barrels Rock Light-ship.</i>—Jan. 19th, 19th, seven Sand</p> - - -<p class="caption4nb smcap">Larks.</p> - -<p><i>Arklow South Light-ship.</i>—April 15th, two flocks of Sand-birds.</p> -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_113">-113-</span></p> - -<p><i>Rockabill.</i>—Sand Larks noted in August and December. -It is remarked they remain "all the year."</p> - -<p><i>Innishtrahull.</i>—Feb. 2nd, flock of "small sea-birds," 11 a.m. -Sept. 11th, 12th, and 13th, "Sand Larks and some other small -sea birds, name unknown."</p> - -<p><i>Arran Island, North.</i>—A few Sand Larks remain during -the winter.</p> - -<p><i>Arran Island, South.</i>—July 27th, eighty Sand Larks. -Nov. 18th, a flock on strand.</p> - -<p><i>Tearaght.</i>—Dec. 13th, one Sand Lark; 15th, three; wind W., -very stormy. All a greyish colour, beaks about one inch long, -and a little red on the top towards feathers. Remained about a -week.</p> - - -<p class="caption4nb smcap">Sea Pie.</p> - -<p><i>South Maidens.</i>—May 10th, six Sea Pies; misty, rain.</p> - -<p><i>Rathlin Island.</i>—Aug. 27th, three at noon.</p> - -<p><i>Arranmore.</i>—May 18th, one Oystercatcher.</p> - -<p><i>Killybegs.</i>—"Sepoys" to the number of thirty or forty from -August to end of September.</p> - -<p><i>Oyster Island, North.</i>—Jan. 6th, 1884, six Oystercatchers on -shore.</p> - -<p><i>Slyne Head, North.</i>—The Sea Pie remains all the year.</p> - -<p><i>Arran Island, North.</i>—A few "Sepoys" remain during the -winter.</p> - -<p><i>Arran Island, South.</i>—April 5th, thirty "Seapoys"; wind -E., going S.</p> - -<p><i>Tearaght.</i>—Two Sea Pies remained round island until about -September.</p> - -<p><i>Skelligs.</i>—Sept. 4th, four Sea Pies until 15th.</p> - - -<p class="caption4nb smcap">Redshank.</p> - -<p><i>Tuskar Rock.</i>—May 16th, one seen.</p> - -<p><i>Skelligs.</i>—One seen after a storm in November, very rare.</p> - - -<p class="caption4nb smcap">Greenshank.</p> - -<p><i>Dungarvan.</i>—Oct. 29th, about one dozen. Jan. 6th, a large -flock from sea into bay.</p> - - -<p class="caption4nb smcap">Heron.</p> - -<p><i>Dungarvan.</i>—Nov. 22nd, four flying high, and apparently -fighting.</p> - -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_114">-114-</span></p> - -<p><i>Rathlin Island.</i>—Oct. 6th, one at noon; wind light N.E.</p> - -<p><i>Innishtrahull.</i>—Dec. 8th, one "Crane"; wind S.S.W., light.</p> - -<p><i>Tory Island.</i>—Jan. 2nd, 1884, one Heron, at noon, at lake.</p> - -<p><i>Arranmore.</i>—Aug. 16th, one "Crane" at 9 a.m.</p> - -<p><i>Killybegs.</i>—Dec. 19th, two "Cranes" to be seen daily, in a -swamp.</p> - -<p><i>Arran Island, South.</i>—Oct. 25th, four "Cranes," 2 p.m.; -wind W.N.W., going W.</p> - -<p><i>Tearaght.</i>—Aug. 23rd, one Heron passing E.; wind N.W., -light.</p> - -<p><i>Skelligs.</i>—Sept. 2nd, two "Cranes," 9 a.m.; wind N., gale; -stayed about the rock for a fortnight.</p> - - -<p class="caption4nb smcap">Bittern.</p> - -<p><i>Old Head, Kinsale.</i>—Feb. 15th, one Bittern, 11 a.m.; wind -N. This bird I shot; it was the second ever seen here.</p> - - -<p class="caption4nb smcap">Whimbrel and Curlew.</p> - -<p><i>Galley Head.</i>—May 15th, thirteen "May-birds or young -Curlew" rested a little while on headland and passed northwards. -May 30th, fourteen Curlew, going S.E.</p> - -<p><i>Coningbeg Light-ship.</i>—May 7th, one caught on ship; wind -E.N.E., 9.30 p.m.; 8th, flock of Curlew, 11 p.m., around ship; -wind strong N., overcast. Oct. 28th, flock flying N.E., 10 p.m.</p> - -<p><i>Tuskar Rock.</i>—March 23rd, one Curlew shot.</p> - -<p><i>Arklow North Light-ship.</i>—May 18th, a flock of Curlew -going N.E.</p> - -<p><i>Kish Bank Light-ship.</i>—May 17th, one Curlew heard, 9.30 -p.m. July 30th, several Curlew around ship, 6.30 a.m.; weather -foggy.</p> - -<p><i>Copeland Island.</i>—May 10th, large flocks of Curlew appeared, -and have remained in vicinity to date of sending schedule in -July.</p> - -<p><i>Rathlin Island.</i>—April 5th, four Curlew going S., 7 a.m.; -wind N.W. May 10th, thirty Curlew, 3 p.m.; wind N. June -10th, flocks of Curlew, 6 a.m.; 20th, five seen; 24th, three. -One or two dozen entered at intervals during the winter months. -They are here all the year.</p> - -<p><i>Innishtrahull.</i>—Curlew in flocks of twenty to thirty during -June and July.</p> - -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_115">-115-</span></p> - -<p><i>Lough Swilly.</i>—March 30th, thirteen Curlew; wind W., gale. -May 15th, a flock of "Whimbrel Curlew," 8 a.m.; wind W., -light. 26th, twenty "Whimbrel Curlew," 9 a.m.; wind N.W., -gale.</p> - -<p><i>Tory Island.</i>—"Curlews remain here during the year."</p> - -<p><i>Rathlin O'Birne.</i>—March 31st and April 1st, one; July 6th, -fifteen.</p> - -<p><i>Killybegs.</i>—April 1st, twenty-one Curlew, "May-birds"; 12th, -a flock of "May-birds"; 21st, a flock. These birds are unusually -numerous, and some shot were in very good condition. Aug. -31st, about one hundred Curlew. Curlew (old birds) arrive -about the beginning of August, and remain up to the middle of -December. Young Curlew, called "May-birds" (Whimbrel), begin -to arrive about the end of April in small flocks, until they form -one large flock, when they generally leave about the beginning -of June.</p> - -<p><i>Oyster Island, North.</i>—May 3rd, several May-birds or young -Curlew arrived, and remained most part of the month.</p> - -<p><i>Blacksod.</i>—Curlew are very numerous all the year round.</p> - -<p><i>Clare Island.</i>—Feb. 1st, about two dozen Curlew flying S. at -noon. May 5th, flocks of "young Curlew" flying E.; wind E. -to N. Oct. 10th, a large flock flying low, and alighting. Curlew -during November and December, generally flying low through -the fields.</p> - -<p><i>Arran Island, North.</i>—Nov. 4th, twenty Curlew; wind N.E., -moderate, clear.</p> - -<p><i>Straw Island.</i>—April 19th, sixty "young Curlew," 1 p.m.; -wind N.W., fresh; remained a short time, and went towards shore.</p> - -<p><i>Arran Island, South.</i>—April 4th, twenty Curlew, 6 a.m. -May 13th, thirty Curlew, 8 p.m.; wind W.S.W., hazy; three -killed. July 29th, fifty. Oct. 16th, thirty at "3 p.m.," three -striking, one killed; wind S.W., drizzling rain. Nov. 15th, four -at 3 a.m.; wind S., two killed striking, overcast and rainy.</p> - -<p><i>Tearaght.</i>—Feb. 11th, one Curlew; wind S., strong; remained -a few days. Dec. 18th, one; wind N.E., clear. On several occasions -afterwards. Remained about a month.</p> - -<p><i>Valentia.</i>—Oct. 30th, fifty; Nov. 6th, twenty.</p> - -<p><i>Dursey Island.</i>—Two to ten Curlew at intervals from April -30th to May 23rd. Flight in various directions. Aug. 8th, large -flock flying N., and a few at intervals to end of month.</p> - -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_116">-116-</span></p> - - -<p class="caption4nb smcap">Woodcock.</p> - -<p><i>Fastnet.</i>—Oct. 29th, one. Nov. 1st, one; 2nd, four killed -striking.</p> - -<p><i>Old Head, Kinsale.</i>—Dec. 17th, three.</p> - -<p><i>Coningbeg Light-ship.</i>—Oct. 30th, one caught on deck, 2.30 -a.m., the first seen at this station. Nov. 2nd, one killed striking -at 2 a.m.</p> - -<p><i>Rockabill.</i>—Nov. 28th, one killed striking; wind S., fresh, -cloudy and overcast. 29th, another killed.</p> - -<p><i>South Maidens.</i>—Oct. 15th, one killed, 11 p.m., drizzling -rain; wind light W.S.W.</p> - -<p><i>Arranmore.</i>—Dec. 3rd, one Woodcock.</p> - -<p><i>Killybegs.</i>—Sept. 21st, one Woodcock killed striking, 11.30 -p.m.; wind E.S.E., cloudy and misty. 22nd, another killed, -8 p.m.; wind E.</p> - -<p><i>Clare Island.</i>—During November, a few Woodcock in mountainous -parts of island.</p> - -<p><i>Skelligs.</i>—Nov. 4th, Woodcock seen.</p> - -<p><i>Dursey Island.</i>—Nov. 4th, one Woodcock going N.; wind N.E.</p> - - -<p class="caption4nb smcap">Snipe.</p> - -<p><i>Old Head, Kinsale.</i>—Nov. 8th, twenty Snipe, six shot. Dec. -17th, five Snipe.</p> - -<p><i>Tuskar Rock.</i>—Oct. 29th, one Snipe killed striking; light mist.</p> - -<p><i>Copeland Island.</i>—Snipe breed here. Oct. 10th, two killed -striking; wind N., light drizzling rain.</p> - -<p><i>South Maidens.</i>—Oct. 19th, one Snipe killed striking; wind -fresh S.S.W., clear.</p> - -<p><i>Rathlin Island.</i>—Aug. 9th, one Jack Snipe killed striking; -wind light S.E., cloudy.</p> - -<p><i>Arranmore.</i>—Nov. 20th, one Snipe; 30th, one.</p> - -<p><i>Rathlin O'Birne.</i>—Oct. 18th, two Snipe on the shore.</p> - -<p><i>Blackrock Mayo.</i>—Oct. 14th, one Jack Snipe, 1 p.m.; wind -W., light.</p> - -<p><i>Clare Island.</i>—Feb. 28th, a few Snipe flying W.; wind S.W. -Oct. 20th, Snipe on marshy land, flying in different directions.</p> - -<p><i>Tearaght.</i>—Feb. 18th, one Snipe, 10 a.m.; wind light S.W., -fine; previously stormy. Nov. 20th, one; 23rd, three; left -about a fortnight afterwards.</p> - -<p><i>Skelligs.</i>—Jan. 12th, 1884, Snipe seen.</p> - -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_117">-117-</span></p> - - -<p class="caption4nb smcap">Corn Crake.</p> - -<p><i>Tuskar Rock.</i>—April 27th, came on rock in night. May 8th, -another; 16th, one much exhausted; 29th, one.</p> - -<p><i>Kish Bank Light-ship.</i>—May 16th, one struck lantern, 11.10 -p.m., killed; wind light, clear.</p> - -<p><i>Rockabill.</i>—July 30th, one caught on rock.</p> - -<p><i>Rathlin Island.</i>—May 13th, heard for first time.</p> - -<p><i>Oyster Island, North.</i>—May 17th, Landrail first heard.</p> - -<p><i>Skelligs.</i>—May 5th, one seen, very rare</p> - - -<p class="caption4nb smcap">Waterhen.</p> - -<p><i>Old Head, Kinsale.</i>—Nov. 8th, five Waterhen.</p> - -<p><i>Coningbeg Light-ship.</i>—Oct. 8th, one alighted on ship, 6 a.m.; -calm, thick fog.</p> - - -<p class="caption4nb smcap">Coot.</p> - -<p><i>Old Head, Kinsale.</i>—Nov. 8th, twenty Coot (a marsh near).</p> - - -<p class="caption4nb smcap">Geese.</p> - -<p><i>Old Head, Kinsale.</i>—Feb. 10th, three Wild Geese, came from -S. Oct. 15th, three going N.</p> - -<p><i>Dungarvan.</i>—Nov. 20th, eleven flying N. and very high.</p> - -<p><i>Rockabill.</i>—Oct. 28th, six going E. in the morning; weather -gloomy.</p> - -<p><i>Copeland Island.</i>—April 12th, eight going from mainland -towards Scotch coast. Dec. 10th, eight Wild Geese rested on -island, came from N.; wind S.W., fresh, rain.</p> - -<p><i>South Maidens.</i>—June 12th, twelve Wild Geese.</p> - -<p><i>Rathlin Island.</i>—Oct. 23rd, two Wild Geese, 7 a.m.; wind -strong N.W.</p> - -<p><i>Innishtrahull.</i>—Jan. 24th, flock of thirty Barnacle; wind -S.W., strong. March 12th, fifteen going N.; wind S.W., strong. -14th, twenty-four Wild Geese; wind S.W., gale. 15th, six -Barnacle; wind strong W., squally. Oct. 13th, one Wild Goose; -wind S., fresh. 23rd, nine Barnacle; 24th to 28th, nine to -twenty Barnacle. Dec. 14th, three Wild Geese; 17th, seventeen -Barnacle.</p> - -<p><i>Dunree Head.</i>—Aug. 1st, one hundred Barnacle flying -very high to the N. Sept. 12th, about two hundred Wild -Geese flying low to the N. Oct. 14th, several flocks of Barnacle -going S.; wind N.W., strong. 24th, twenty Wild Geese going S.</p> - -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_118">-118-</span></p> - -<p><i>Tory Island.</i>—Oct. 7th, 8th, and 12th, flocks of Wild Geese, -4 to 6 a.m.; wind W. and S.W., going W. and S.</p> - -<p><i>Arranmore.</i>—January, thirty-six Barnacle; these birds have -remained all the winter; have not done so for years before. Feb. -4th, twenty-two. March 2nd, two flocks passing. Sept. 30th, -one Barnacle; wind N., fresh. Oct. 20th, one; 31st, a flock, -and flying all night for many nights, in great quantities, in the -direction of Sligo. Far the last two winters numerous flocks of -Barnacle have remained on island. On Nov. 7th, 24th, 29th, -and Dec. 25th, flocks are entered.</p> - -<p><i>Rathlin O'Birne.</i>—Oct. 24th, thirty-six. Nov. 4th, twenty -came from N., and passed over island to S.E.: 12th, six; 16th, -small flocks coming from N., and passing S. all day. Dec. 7th, -eleven on island grazing. 11th, six ditto; two were shot.</p> - -<p><i>Killybegs.</i>—Aug. 17th, two Wild Geese, rested and flew N. -Sept. 2nd, about forty at a great height, flying N.; 27th, thirteen -seen. Oct. 30th, eight Wild Geese generally take a S. to S.W. -course, beginning about the end of September and continuing up -to the end of December, and usually travel high; but they -sometimes stop to feed and rest.</p> - -<p><i>Oyster Island, North.</i>—"During the winter months a considerable -number of Barnacle arrive, some of which remain, and -others pass further south, the time of their arrival and departure -apparently depending on the severity of the season or otherwise." -Entries of small flocks occur from Sept. 9th to Oct. 5th. Larger -and more frequent flocks on Oct. 8th, 13th, 15th, Nov. 22nd, -29th, 30th, and on Dec. 5th; in almost every case the direction -of flight is S. or S.E. On. Dec. 6th, 15th, and 17th, large flocks -passed in the opposite direction. On Dec. 22nd continuous -flocks again passed S.E., and on Jan. 5th, 1884, a small flock. -The direction of flight was apparently independent of the -direction of the wind or state of the weather.</p> - -<p><i>Broadhaven.</i>—Dec. 20th and 26th. Barnacle and Wild Geese. -They frequent the place in winter.</p> - -<p><i>Blackrock Mayo.</i>—Nov. 21st, twenty Barnacle flying S.E.</p> - -<p><i>Clare Island.</i>—Oct. 6th, about two dozen Wild Geese flying -high to S.W.; wind W., light.</p> - -<p><i>Slyne Head, North.</i>—Nov. 12th, five to twelve Barnacle at -intervals; wind N.W., one shot. Are very common; arrive -Nov. 1st and remain to March 1st.</p> - -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_119">-119-</span></p> - -<p><i>Straw Island.</i>—March 16th, twenty Wild Geese, passing N.; -wind light S.W. Oct. 29th, twenty-two, 5 p.m., going N., high, -calm.</p> - - -<p class="caption4nb smcap">Swans.</p> - -<p><i>Rathlin Island.</i>—Nov. 23rd, "A Black Swan shot by the -rector on one of the lakes on the island."</p> - - -<p class="caption4nb smcap">Wild Duck.</p> - -<p><i>Fastnet.</i>—Nov. 3rd, flock flying to E. Jan. 3rd, flock flying -E.</p> - -<p><i>Old Head, Kinsale.</i>—Nov. 8th, ten Wild Duck; two shot.</p> - -<p><i>Dungarvan.</i>—Oct. 28th, large flock. Nov. 3rd, fifty. Dec. -23rd, four "Shelldrakes."</p> - -<p><i>Barrels Rock Light-ship.</i>—Sept. 10th, 12th, and 15th, a few -Wild Duck flying high to S. Nov. 16th, a large flock flying N.E. -Dec. 7th, 14th, and 19th, two to seven at intervals.</p> - -<p><i>Tuskar Rock.</i>—Nov. 14th, seven Wild Duck came from N.W. -and flew round rock.</p> - -<p><i>Arklow North Light-ship.</i>—Dec. 1st, a large flock going N. -Feb. 6th, 1884, flock going N.E.</p> - -<p><i>Kish Bank Light-ship.</i>—May 13th, a flock passing E. to W., -7.30 a.m. Oct. 6th, twelve at 10.45 p.m., flying high to N.W.; -weather hazy. Nov. 29th, thirteen flying N.W.</p> - -<p><i>Copeland Island.</i>—April 12th, thirty left Mew Island after -remaining all the winter; wind light E., clear. Oct. 16th, -several flocks of Teal and Duck on Mew Island; wind S.W., -strong.</p> - -<p><i>South Maidens.</i>—April 14th, twenty-four Ducks; hazy, with -rain. Oct. 20th, twelve, 10 a.m., went towards Scotland; wind -W.S.W., strong.</p> - -<p><i>Rathlin Island.</i>—Nov. 6th, five at 8 a.m.; wind S. Dec. 6th, -two going E.; wind N.E.</p> - -<p><i>Innishtrahull.</i>—Nov. 6th, one "Shelldrake," 2 p.m.; wind -N., fresh.</p> - -<p><i>Dunree Head.</i>—Nov. 7th, about one hundred Wild Duck -flying high to S. Dec. 22nd, about fifty swimming opposite -lighthouse all day.</p> - -<p><i>Tory Island.</i>—Nov. 23rd, Dec. 1st, 2nd, and Jan. 1st, one to -three going S. or W.</p> - -<p><i>Arranmore.</i>—April 5th, two arrived to breed. June 18th, three -<span class="pagenum" id="Page_120">-120-</span> -seen. On Nov. 3rd, 10th, 28th, and Dec. 13th, Wild Duck seen. -One "Shelldrake" on Nov. 18th and 26th.</p> - -<p><i>Killybegs.</i>—"I saw, in December, 1882, some Teal, but none -since."</p> - -<p><i>Oyster Island, North.</i>—"During the winter months a considerable -number of Widgeon arrive; some remain, and others -pass further south." Dec. 24th, continuous flocks going S.E.</p> - -<p><i>Clare Island.</i>—December. A few Wild Duck on a lake during -this month.</p> - -<p><i>Straw Island.</i>—Feb. 13th, thirty, 10 a.m., remained on rock -a short time, and went S. Oct. 28th, thirty going S.E.; wind -light S.</p> - -<p><i>Arran Island, South.</i>—Dec. 6th, twenty Wild Duck went S.; -wind E. 30th, twenty went S., wind E.</p> - - -<p class="caption4nb smcap">Merganser.</p> - -<p><i>Dungarvan.</i>—Dec. 5th, four coming from S.E.</p> - - -<p class="caption4nb smcap">Great Northern Diver.</p> - -<p><i>Old Head, Kinsale.</i>—Jan. 20th, six passing S.W.</p> - -<p><i>Dungarvan.</i>—Jan. 9th, two feeding near station.</p> - -<p><i>Tory Island.</i>—Sept. 22nd, two "Speckled Diver," 8 a.m., -going S.E.</p> - -<p><i>Arranmore.</i>—April 7th, a Great Northern Diver shot on rock.</p> - -<p><i>Killybegs.</i>—The Northern Diver visits us in the autumn and -leaves early. I have never seen more than three together.</p> - -<p><i>Clare Island.</i>—During December a few of the Great Northern -Diver.</p> - - -<p class="caption4nb smcap">Guillemot.</p> - -<p><i>Rathlin O'Birne.</i>—March 31st, ten, and April 1st, thirty -alighted on rock at shore.</p> - -<p><i>Clare Island.</i>—A large number this year.</p> - -<p><i>Tearaght.</i>—Jan. 20th, Guillemot first observed round island -on the water. Feb. 19th, about fifty came on rock for first time; -left about Aug. 1st.</p> - -<p><i>Skelligs.</i>—Nov. 20th and Dec. 11th, a few Guillemots fishing -in shelter of rock; wind N.W. to W., strong gale.</p> - -<p><i>Barrels Rock Light-ship.</i>—June 15th and 19th, "Murs" in -flocks, flying in different directions. Dec. 10th, large flocks of -"Murs"; also on 23rd and 26th; flocks also on 29th, 30th, Jan. -8th and 15th.</p> - -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_121">-121-</span></p> - - -<p class="caption4nb smcap">Puffin.</p> - -<p><i>Galley Head.</i>—Feb. 12th, twenty going W.; 16th, nine ditto. -April 29th, continuous flocks, from seventy to one hundred in -each, going W. From May 6th to 13th, 18th to 27th, and June -16th to 25th, continuous flocks, and occasional flocks to July -16th; all going W.</p> - -<p><i>Old Head, Kinsale.</i>—Jan. 23rd, continuous flocks, 9 a.m. to -3 p.m.; wind fresh S. Large numbers going S. on Feb. 7th, -20th, 22nd, and March 17th; continuous flocks on March 5th. -From Oct. 7th to 10th, some hundreds going S.</p> - -<p><i>Coningbeg Light-ship.</i>—April 21st, continuous flocks flying -S.W.; 26th, flocks. Nov. 16th, flocks, 9 to 11 a.m.; 21st, 23rd, -Dec. 9th and 14th, flocks; passing continuously on Nov. 29th -and Dec. 19th; wind W. to S.W.</p> - -<p><i>Dungarvan.</i>—Nov. 6th, a great number.</p> - -<p><i>Tuskar Rock.</i>—From June 13th to 18th, "Puffins and Sea-parrots" -alighted in large flocks. Aug. 20th to 22nd, Puffins in -hundreds on rock.</p> - -<p><i>Rathlin Island.</i>—April 12th, "Parrots, Bridle Nebs," &c., -begin to arrive; 22nd, arrived in full force and took possession -of the cliffs. The Sea-parrots hatching on the cliffs are not at -all as numerous as last year.</p> - -<p><i>Innishtrahull.</i>—Dec. 8th, "three Sea-parrots and twenty -Puffins." January, 1884, a few "Puffins and Sea-parrots through -the month."</p> - -<p><i>Lough Swilly.</i>—April 19th, several flocks of Puffins. June -1st, Puffins passing and repassing.</p> - -<p><i>Arranmore.</i>—March 12th, Puffins passing.</p> - -<p><i>Rathlin O'Birne.</i>—May 14th, Puffins passing S. In June, -about the island.</p> - -<p><i>Killybegs.</i>—April 22nd, Puffins arriving in large numbers -about this date, coming early each morning and leaving in the -evening, flying W. Aug. 14th, Puffins leaving, going W. They -arrive about the month of July, and are to be seen in thousands -until October.</p> - -<p><i>Oyster Island, North.</i>—April 19th, several during day. May -29th, small flocks.</p> - -<p><i>Black Rock, Mayo.</i>—Sept. 9th, Puffins on water round the -rock; a few nearly every day during September and October.</p> - -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_122">-122-</span></p> - -<p><i>Clare Island.</i>—March 15th, about fifty; wind N.N.E. Generally -arrive latter part of March, and leave towards the end of -August. A large number this year.</p> - -<p><i>Straw Island.</i>—March 17th, forty Puffins remained two days; -wind S., hazy fog. April 9th, twenty "Sea-parrots," wind S.W., -strong. Aug. 20th, forty-four going S. They arrive early in -spring and generally leave in September, and breed on the middle -island of Arran.</p> - -<p><i>Tearaght.</i>—"April 1st, the Sea-parrots arrived; not so plentiful -as in previous years. Aug. 20th, only about half a dozen -Sea-parrots on the island; left about this date. When they -arrive on April 1st they remain perhaps a week on the water -before they come on the island; then they mostly rise in one -body, and hover some time before they rest. They all go down to -the water again when getting dark, except when breeding; those -hatching remain. As a rule there is a rush to the island every -day about 4 p.m. Sometimes there are two rushes in the day. -Their fighting propensities are often put into practice, and when -so engaged they can readily be captured; their fight only ends -when they have reached the sea, after having tumbled sometimes -all the way from the highest pinnacle of the island."</p> - -<p><i>Skelligs.</i>—Nov, 20th, a few Puffins fishing in shelter of rock; -wind N.W., gale.</p> - - -<p class="caption4nb smcap">Razorbill.</p> - -<p><i>Clare Island.</i>—April 30th, two to four dozen Razorbills at -9 a.m.</p> - -<p><i>Tearaght.</i>—March 19th, great numbers of Razorbills first -observed; 20th, first rested on rock. Left about Aug. 10th.</p> - -<p><i>Skelligs.</i>—Sept. 16th, large flocks flying S.S.W.; wind S.E. -Nov. 20th, flocks fishing in shelter of rock, mostly young birds; -wind N.W., strong gale. Dec. 11th, Razorbills fishing in shelter; -wind W., strong gale.</p> - - -<p class="caption4nb smcap">Cormorant.</p> - -<p><i>Tuskar Rock.</i>—April 27th, the Cormorants have totally deserted -the rock.</p> - -<p><i>Rockabill.</i>—Oct. 30th, Cormorants all day; they leave the -rock in April, and are back this month.</p> - -<p><i>Rathlin Island.</i>—June 22nd, five seen. Aug. 17th, three. -Dec. 4th, 5th, and 9th, one to six.</p> - -<p><i>Tory Island.</i>—Dec. 11th, six on rock at 9 a.m.</p> - -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_123">-123-</span></p> - -<p><i>Killybegs.</i>—May 2nd, Cormorants to the number of about -forty observed. Aug. 26th, about seventeen. The greater -number leave about the end of December, but some remain all -the winter.</p> - -<p><i>Blackrock, Mayo.</i>—Sept. 30th, five flying S.E. A few nearly -every day during September and October.</p> - -<p><i>Clare Island.</i>—Cormorants are seen all the year round.</p> - -<p><i>Slyne Head, North.</i>—The Cormorant leaves to breed elsewhere.</p> - -<p><i>Straw Island.</i>—Feb. 22nd, Cormorants at all hours. Remain -during the year, generally fishing singly. Sept. 24th, ten.</p> - -<p><i>Arran Island, South.</i>—Nov. 11th, eleven Cormorants seen at -intervals along the shore.</p> - -<p><i>Valentia.</i>—Sept. 20th, four. Nov. 16th, two; 22nd, five. -Dec. 5th, eight; also on 21st and 24th.</p> - -<p><i>Skelligs.</i>—One or two entered on Sept. 20th, Oct. 12th, and -during December.</p> - -<p><i>Dursey Island.</i>—A few noted on April 11th and July 13th, -and one to four seen at intervals from Sept. 27th to Dec. 18th.</p> - - -<p class="caption4nb smcap">Gannet.</p> - -<p><i>Galley Head.</i>—Five to twelve going W. on Jan. 29th, Feb. -7th, April 11th, May 14th, 18th to 27th; continuous flocks of -Gannets going W. on March 19th, 20th, 27th, 28th, June 16th to -25th; and in less numbers to date of sending schedule, July -16th. No entry of Gannets going E. at this station except on -April 20th. One or two grey or young Gannets seen on May -14th and June 16th.</p> - -<p><i>Old Head, Kinsale.</i>—Jan. 20th to 23rd, continuous flocks -passing S.W. Large flocks on Feb. 7th, 22nd, and March 17th. -On Oct, 5th and 6th, some hundreds going S. Nov. 5th, forty-five -going E.; 20th, Gannets.</p> - -<p><i>Coningbeg Light-ship.</i>—April 29th, four flying W. June 6th, -two Gannets, and at intervals to end of month. Oct. 15th, four -flying E.; and from 31st to Dec. 1st, one to five passing at -intervals.</p> - -<p><i>Barrels Rock Light-ship.</i>—April 27th, May 18th, 20th, and -26th, occasional Gannets flying W. June 27th, Gannets in twos -and threes. Oct. 23rd, occasional Gannets, and a few at intervals -until January.</p> - -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_124">-124-</span></p> - -<p><i>Arklow South Light-ship.</i>—March 10th, a flock; 26th, seven. -During April flocks at intervals, especially towards end of month. -In May two to seven passing at intervals in various directions. -During June, July, August and September a few Gannets seen -frequently. In October less common.</p> - -<p><i>Arklow North Light-ship.</i>—Gannets noted at intervals during -April, May, and June; May 1st and 12th, flocks continuous. -Flight generally N.E. September, flocks at intervals.</p> - -<p><i>Kish Bank Light-ship.</i>—Three entries of Gannets in May, -one in June, and one in July; direction of flight different in each -case. Oct. 3rd, six flying S.W. Nov. 23rd, flocks from 10 a.m. -to 4 p.m. going to S.W.</p> - -<p><i>Copeland Island.</i>—Gannets remain about the island all the -year. In August this year large numbers fishing in vicinity.</p> - -<p><i>South Maidens.</i>—Two entries of Gannets in April. Oct. 20th, -two seen.</p> - -<p><i>Rathlin Island.</i>—Fourteen entries occur in schedule between -March 28th and June 17th; in eleven the direction of flight was -entered, and in all it was towards the west, and seemed independent -of the weather. On April 13th, 19th, 21st, May 4th, -7th, 12th, 13th, 23rd, and June 2nd the flocks were passing all -day. During August four entries occur, but direction of flight is -not given. One entry in October.</p> - -<p><i>Innishtrahull.</i>—Jan. 8th, four Gannets; wind strong S.W.</p> - -<p><i>Lough Swilly.</i>—May 1st, 20th, and July 30th, a few noted.</p> - -<p><i>Tory Island.</i>—Nov. 13th, two going E.; noon.</p> - -<p><i>Arranmore.</i>—March 9th and 26th, four to six passing all day. -Oct. 14th, twelve.</p> - -<p><i>Rathlin O'Birne.</i>—April 6th and 18th, a few. May 14th and -18th, continuous flock all day going S. In June Gannets around -island at intervals. Sept. 9th, 19th, a few. Oct. 5th and 6th, -hundreds; most left about Oct. 17th.</p> - -<p><i>Killybegs.</i>—April 9th, two; 12th, about thirty, usually in -pairs. Aug. 14th, Gannets leaving. Gannets begin to arrive in -June, sometimes earlier, and mostly leave in September; their -movements are very uncertain.</p> - -<p><i>Oyster Island, North.</i>—Gannets noted at intervals from April -5th to 18th.</p> - -<p><i>Blackrock, Mayo.</i>—To be seen nearly every day during September -and October.</p> - -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_125">-125-</span></p> - -<p><i>Slyne Head, North.</i>—Aug. 1st, numbers of young Gannets -are to be seen. Gannets entered on Aug. 10th, 17th, very common, -and flocks at intervals on Nov. 17th; and thirty on Nov. -25th.</p> - -<p><i>Straw Island.</i>—Feb. 10th, fifteen Gannets seen at 2 p.m., -strong breeze, W., going S. Gannets entered on Aug. 8th, Sept. -3rd, and Oct. 11th, generally hovering about. It generally -makes its appearance with various kinds of fish, mackerel, -pilchards, &c.</p> - -<p><i>Arran Island, South.</i>—Nov. 29th, two at noon; remained -three days.</p> - -<p><i>Skelligs.</i>—Sept. 20th, several fishing. Nov. 20th, saw no -Gannets since Oct. 29th.</p> - -<p><i>Dursey Island.</i>—Seven to thirty noted at intervals during -April and on May 11th and 29th; flight generally W. or N.W. -A few noted Aug. 11th; Sept. 6th, large flocks all day going S.; -and a few on Sept. 28th.</p> - - -<p class="caption4nb smcap">Tern.</p> - -<p><i>Copeland Island.</i>—The Terns appear on Mew Island to breed -on May 15th and 16th. They come in the night, at first in small -numbers, increasing each night for ten or twelve nights, when -many hundreds are to be seen. Sept. 19th, some hundreds of -Terns left Mew Island on this date; wind S.E., light misty rain. -Heard leaving during night.</p> - -<p><i>Rathlin O'Birne.</i>—Terns arrived at usual time; they breed on -island outside lighthouse.</p> - -<p><i>Oyster Island, North.</i>—April 8th, five Terns passing S.; 12th, -several during day.</p> - -<p><i>Slyne Head, North.</i>—May 20th, the Tern arrives for breeding, -and continues until about Aug. 2nd.</p> - - -<p class="caption4nb smcap">Gulls.</p> - -<p><i>Galley Head.</i>—June 1st to 15th, large flocks of Gulls after -fry.</p> - -<p><i>Old Head, Kinsale.</i>—Oct. 7th to 10th, some hundreds going -S. Nov. 20th, Grey Gulls.</p> - -<p>Coningbeg Light-skip.—April 22nd, flocks of Grey Gulls; 26th, -ditto. June 13th, ditto. Nov. 21st, flocks of small Gulls.</p> - -<p><i>Dungarvan.</i>—Nov. 6th, a great number.</p> - -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_126">-126-</span></p> - -<p><i>Barrels Rock Light-ship.</i>—July 3rd and 9th, Sea Gulls in -flocks, flying E. after fry. During November and part of -December large flocks apparently after small fish, working east -and west with the tides.</p> - -<p><i>Tuskar Rock.</i>—From June 13th to 18th, Gulls alighted in -large flocks.</p> - -<p><i>Arklow North Light-ship.</i>—April 1st, continuous flocks of -Grey Gulls going N.E.</p> - -<p><i>Kish Bank Light-ship.</i>—Flocks of Grey Gulls noted on May -8th, 25th, and June 15th. Oct. 16th, flock of Grey Gulls hovering -about all day. Nov. 27th, a flock all day after fry.</p> - -<p><i>Rockabill.</i>—Gulls come in April and leave at the end of -September.</p> - -<p><i>Copeland Island.</i>—Herring Gulls remain about the island all -the year. In August a large number of Grey and Royal Gulls -fishing in vicinity.</p> - -<p><i>Rathlin Island.</i>—Flocks of Gulls on March 29th, May 1st, -18th, 22nd, June 8th, 20th, and 27th; direction of flight not -given. Flocks during August of twenty to thirty Royal Gulls -at intervals. Two or three thousand Kittiwakes on 11th and -30th. Entries of Gulls occur twice in November, and large -flocks going S. on Dec. 17th, 21st, and 30th.</p> - -<p><i>Innishtrahull.</i>—Dec. 25th, two Royal Gulls.</p> - -<p><i>Lough Swilly.</i>—April 1st, a few; 6th, several; 19th, in great -numbers. May 1st, ditto. May 20th and June 1st, Gulls. July -27th, very numerous all day.</p> - -<p><i>Tory Island.</i>—Sept. 5th, a flock of "Common Gulls" flying -W. Nov. 15th, three Black-backed Gulls at 8 a.m., going E.; -28th, a flock of Gulls.</p> - -<p><i>Arranmore.</i>—March 12th, Gulls passing.</p> - -<p><i>Rathlin O'Birne.</i>—Flocks of fifty to one hundred on April -10th, 12th, 28th, and May 8th. In June, Gulls about island. -Flocks of Gulls from one hundred to thousands on Aug. 31st, -Sept. 19th, 20th, 30th, Oct. 5th, and 6th. The greater number -left on Oct. 17th. On Nov. 4th, 22nd, and Dec. 7th, eighty to -one hundred all day.</p> - -<p><i>Killybegs.</i>—Gulls of the grey species to the number of -about two hundred remained here during spring, coming in the -morning and departing in the evening to the cliffs around Slieve -League. Thousands of Kittiwakes arrived about beginning of -<span class="pagenum" id="Page_127">-127-</span> -May, and still (August) remain. Aug. 14th, several hundreds -leaving. Kittiwakes and Grey Gulls usually arrive in large -numbers about June or July, and leave towards the end of -September; but a few, notably the large grey kind, remain all -the month.</p> - -<p><i>Oyster Island, North.</i>—Gulls noted on April 12th, 18th, 22nd, -May 24th, and 29th.</p> - -<p><i>Broadhaven.</i>—Oct. 10th, three dozen Kittiwakes; 24th, four -dozen Black-headed Gulls.</p> - -<p><i>Blackrock, Mayo.</i>—Sept. 9th, flocks of small Gulls on water. -Sept. 22nd and Jan. 5th, 1884, two Royal Gulls. Large and -small Gulls nearly every day during September and October.</p> - -<p><i>Clare Island.</i>—March 15th, about a dozen small Sea Gulls -during day. A large number of Gulls of different species in the -cliffs near lighthouses this year. Kittiwakes are here all the -year.</p> - -<p><i>Slyne Head, North.</i>—Gulls noted on Aug. 20th and Nov. 17th.</p> - -<p><i>Arran Island, North.</i>—Nov. 14th, ten; wind fresh W.S.W.</p> - -<p><i>Straw Island.</i>—Feb. 13th, the Grey and the Royal Gull continually -in vicinity of lighthouse. The Grey Gulls remain during -year. Gulls entered Aug. 13th, Sept. 1st, and Oct. 5th (Royal). -Flight generally S.W.</p> - -<p><i>Arran Island, South.</i>—July 25th, fifty Sea Gulls. Nov. 27th, -Sea Gulls about shore to be seen at all times.</p> - -<p><i>Tearaght.</i>—Feb. 6th, Kittiwakes first came on rock about -this time; left about Sept. 1st. "They commence to build about -May 1st. On May 24th only two eggs were found among -hundreds of nests. The nest-building is carried on by some -after hatching has commenced with others. A difficult business -this nest-making seems to be, as the mud or clay which makes -up the foundation has to be carried from some soft bank. -Hundreds of them are employed about six weeks at this -operation, some going with the very small portion of mud -they are able to take in their beaks, others coming for more, -the bank covered over with more in the act of digging out. -The whole is a continuous busy scene."</p> - -<p><i>Valentia.</i>—Royal Gulls, one to four, Sept. 10th, 30th, Oct. -28th, and Nov. 10th.</p> - -<p><i>Skelligs.</i>—Sept. 16th, observed large flocks of Kittiwakes -flying S.S.W.; wind S.E. Grey Gulls noticed from September -<span class="pagenum" id="Page_128">-128-</span> -to January, and two to four Black-backed Gulls occasionally. -Kittiwakes fishing in shelter of rock, Nov. 20th and Dec. 11th; -wind strong gale, N.W. and W.</p> - -<p><i>Dursey Island.</i>—Large flock of Gulls noted on April 7th, -25th, 27th, and May 5th. A few on May 27th, and at intervals -to July. Large flocks on Aug. 25th and Sept. 18th, going W. -Four Royal Gulls on Dec. 22nd.</p> - - -<p class="caption4nb smcap">Skua Gull.</p> - -<p><i>Galley Head.</i>—Jan. 20th, flocks of five to seven Skua Gulls -going W.</p> - -<p><i>Coningbeg Light-ship.</i>—Oct. 28th, two Skuas chasing Gulls.</p> - -<p><i>Tuskar Rock.</i>—June 7th, flocks alighted on rock four -mornings in succession at same hour. Aug. 20th to 22nd, Skua -Gulls in hundreds.</p> - -<p><i>Lough Swilly.</i>—June 22nd, one "Boatswain Skua Gull."</p> - -<p><i>Valentia.</i>—Nov. 22nd, four Skua Gulls.</p> - - -<p class="caption4nb smcap">Manx Shearwater.</p> - -<p><i>Barrels Rock Light-ship.</i>—July 6th, "Mackerel Cocks" flying -in different directions.</p> - -<p><i>Rathlin Island.</i>—April 12th, Shearwater began to arrive; -22nd, more arrived.</p> - -<p><i>Tearaght.</i>—Jan. 30th, "Mackerel Cock" in great numbers -diving round rock; observed a fortnight previous to this date. -Feb. 25th, "Mackerel Cock" (believed to be) left, always diving, -and did not come on rock. April 5th, note of the Shearwater -first heard. Nov. 21st, "Mackerel Cock" diving about the rock -pretty plentifully. Not certain about this bird. The Manx -Shearwater left about Aug. 1st. It was heard frequently during -the summer, and always on very dark calm nights. The sounds, -being frequent and distinct, were, very impressive. When the -moon would rise, or it would clear, a single note was not to be -heard.</p> - - -<p class="caption4nb smcap">Stormy Petrel.</p> - -<p><i>Coningbeg Light-ship.</i>—Oct. 9th, five Mother Carey's -Chickens caught on deck, 5 a.m.; wind light, hazy. Oct. -15th, two Stormy Petrels about ship; 28th, two caught on deck, -10.30 p.m.</p> - -<p><i>Arklow South Light-ship.</i>—April '24th, one; wind light E.</p> - -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_129">-129-</span></p> - -<p><i>Tearaght.</i>—Stormy Petrel very plentiful this year. They are -not much observed until July, from which time they continue -breeding until September. They make a noise which is a continuous -chain of articulations, and might be heard on a calm -night a distance of 300 feet; this noise is kept up by those in -the holes as well as those on the wing.</p> - -<p><i>Skelligs.</i>—Sept. 4th, two struck, 10.30 p.m., not killed; did -not notice any after this date. They breed here.</p> - - -<p class="caption4nb smcap">Birds not Identified.</p> - -<p><i>Rockabill.</i>—"March 6th, large bird, name unknown, killed -striking, at 3 a.m.; wind N., fresh, cloudy. Had long bill, and -long black legs."</p> - -<p><i>Killybegs.</i>—April 8th, "three strange birds, name unknown. -White fan-shaped tail, tipped with black; wings white, tipped -with black; white ring round neck; size of Sparrow; came -from seaward, and remained several days."</p> - -<p><i>Tearaght.</i>—May 20th, "one bird, not known, about the size -of a Lapwing; colour of a Grey Plover, land-bred, fan-tail, tips -of feathers of tail white, chased by Crows."</p> - -<p><i>Tearaght.</i>—Oct. 28th, "small bird, size of a Linnet; -shoulders red or copper-colour; breast and belly grey, also -round neck; head tufted. It remained about a week."</p> - -<p><i>Tearaght.</i>—Nov. 18th, "a bird about the size of a Linnet -came on island; above eyes a white curved streak; eyes and -round eyes black; under head, round breast, a white ring, -thence down belly, wings, and back of a reddish or copper-colour; -some white feathers in wing; top of head black, and -tail appears narrow and black. Two of these, one readily distinguished -from the other."</p> - -<hr class="tb" /> - -<p class="tdc">WEST, NEWMAN AND CO., PRINTERS, 54, HATTON GARDEN, LONDON, E.C.</p> - - -<hr class="tb" /> - -<div class="transnote"> - -<p class="caption3nb">Transcriber Note</p> - -<p>Minor typos were corrected. In previous editions, one locality was listed as -"Farne". In this edition, there is one reference to Farne Islands (<a href="#Farne_Islands">p. 54</a>) -all of the other locations are listed as "Farn" and left as is.</p> - -</div> - - - - - -<div style='display:block; margin-top:4em'>*** END OF THE PROJECT GUTENBERG EBOOK REPORT ON THE MIGRATION OF BIRDS IN THE SPRING AND AUTUMN OF 1883. ***</div> -<div style='text-align:left'> - -<div style='display:block; margin:1em 0'> -Updated editions will replace the previous one—the old editions will -be renamed. -</div> - -<div style='display:block; margin:1em 0'> -Creating the works from print editions not protected by U.S. copyright -law means that no one owns a United States copyright in these works, -so the Foundation (and you!) can copy and distribute it in the United -States without permission and without paying copyright -royalties. 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