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E eS as Le = i ae eh Ce m Oe ALILSNI_ NVINOSHLINS Sa IyYvuag Houl BRARI ES SMITHSONIAN _ INSTITUT 5 = . x Ks = 3 z = 2 wW So z oO am ts oO a ie =i O at = i= x = - te Se : TARIES SMITHSONIAN INSTITUTION NOILNLILSNI NVINOSHLINS S31YVY . iP : F i oo = ox = ox < > = < + % < re a bar ‘oe sar ra co — (ae) = fo) —< Me! oO os ro) an pa rs al z ae NVINOSHLINS S3!Iu¥VvVuUsIT LIBRARIES SMITHSONIAN INSTITUT i 2 = ci a F cn w = ow = ow ~ = rad > x a = = ce ie... “ ARIES SMITHSONIAN INSTITUTION NOILNLILSNI NVINOSHLINS Sa1uVva NVINOSHLIWS NVINOSHLINS SMITHSONIAN NVINOSHLIWS S SMITHSONIAN ip, 4, We NVINOSHLIWS saiuvuai LIBRARIES SMITHSONIAN INSTITUT 2 on = Ss N N Sketch Map of St. Kilda .. Nest of MArsH-WARBLER in Somerset Pe Diagram showing the Down-tracks of Nestling Birds. . Nest of Scaup-Duck. (Photographed by P. H. Bahr). . Duck and Drake Scaup and pause Site. (Drawn by P. a Bahr) The Duck Scavue coming , off the Naat (Drawn by P. A Bahr) Nest of Turrep Duck in the same hollow as the Scaup’s Nest. (Photographed by P. H. Bahr) Plate from Plot’s ‘‘ Natural History of Staffordshire,” showing the taking of young “ Pewits.”’ Plate 5 facing PALLAS’s GRASSHOPPER-WARBLER, picked up dead at the Rockabill Lighthouse (co. Dublin) Aquatic WARBLER, Eastbourne, Sussex. (Drawn by KE. C. ARNOLD) = s% A Tame SNIPE and its habits. Figs. 1-8 THOMAS PENNANT. (From the Engraving by J. aa after the Painting by 'T. Gainsborough) Diagrams illustrating the length of wings of the Gamma LAND and ComMMoN WHEATEAR Drawing illustrating amputation of Lavwrhet S ae by means of Wool BuLWER’S PETREL, picked up near vite Sussex “The Ornithology of Francis Willughby,” by John Ray. (Facsimile of Title Page) Plate 6 .. facing JOHN Ray. (From the Engraving by H. eae Bios a Picture in the British Museum) . Facsimile of Entry in Parish Register of John Ray: s Baptism, and that of another John Ray .. LIST OF ILLUSFRATIONS. ’ Site of a Rostin’s Nest after a Snowstorm LirtLe TERN on the Nest, Spurn, Yorkshire. (Photo- graphed by Oxley Grabham) Plate 7 .. facing LirtLe TERN—KEggs in a slight scoop on fine sand. (Photographed by Oxley Grabham) .. LirtLe TERN—Newly-hatched Young. (Photographed by Oxley Grabham) =e LirrLe TERN calling to her Mate. (Photographed by Oxley Grabham) LirtLe TrrRN on the Nest. (Photographed by Oxley Grabham) ar Map showing the haunts of some Migrants in Part of the Borough of Tunbridge Wells THomas Bewicx. (From the Engraving by F. haan after the Picture by James Ramsay) ‘“* History of British Birds.” (Facsimile of Title Pee) GrorRGE Montaau. (From the Original Miniature in the possession of the Linnzean Society, London) Diagram of ring used for ae Birds at the Rossitten Station. . Male BLACK-THROATED pest ee at Regan Kent Immature Female BuAack and Run Gite, eer rer shot near Bala, North Wales Witit1am Macainiivray. (from the nature ii Vertebrate Fauna of the Outer Hebrides.’’) WILLIAM YARRELL (after the Frontispiece by F. A. Heath, to the 3rd Edition of Yarrell’s “ cae of British Fishes ’’) : : A nesting haunt of the Goosinuee ° i. i pee he Pea) ey eee " ‘EGGS OF PALAARCTIC BIRDS. | — -A Work on this gubject, ‘illustrated with BEAUTIFULLY COLOURED PLATES, is now. being issued. Write for Full Prsaeshes and a Part for inspection to : WILLIAMS & NORGATE, 4%, Henrietta Street, Covent Garden, London, W.C. ~ DALLMEYER'S Naturalists’ Camera, ; 1907 MODEL, For Telephoto or Ordinary LENSES. ‘DALLMEYER'S _ Lenses are used by the most ~~ skilled Bird | Photographers. The following ave. spectally recommended : THE STIGMATIC SERIES i F/6 (Convertible) THE SERIES D PATENT PORTRAIT LENSES F 6. (A Rapid Long Focus Lens‘at.a Moderate Price.) High or Moderate Power Telephoto Lenses (Original Make). aj We are Specialists i in Cameras and Apparatus for edie ge CATALOGUES AND ADVICE. FREE. Jo H. DALLMEYER, LimiTeD, DENZIL RD. Showrooms: 25, NEWMAN es W.. “NEASDEN, LONDON, a! g ce WATKINS & DONCASTER, 2 aturalists, - bis Gee And Manufacturers of CABINETS and APPARATUS for Entomology, Birds’: Fags ae and Skins, and all Branches of Natural History. ‘ & LARGE STOCK OF INSECTS, and BIRDS’ EGGS and SKINS. A Ry gs Speciality : —Objects for Nature Study, Drawing Classes, &c. BIRDS, MAMMALS, &c,, PRESERVED and MOUNTED hy FIRST-GLASS WORKMEN | TRUE TO NATURE. All Books and Publications on Natural History mingled: 36, STRAND, LONDON, W.C. (Five Doors doo Seis Gross.) af Catalaras (102 pp.) pees free. & BRITISH BIRDS, Vol. I1., Pl. 7. TypicaL FEATHERS FROM Ducks’ NEsTs. Nat. size. (Reproduced direct from the feathers.) (For explanation see p. 23). DNTIDSABIRDS POTD BY. H. F. WITHERBY, F.ZS., M.BO.U. peeve ley BY W. P. PYCRAFT, ALS, M.BO.U. ConTENTS OF NuMBER 1, Vor. II. June 1, 1908. Editorial . pe ‘ se Page 1 Some Early British Gea nolacicts ea their Worked by W. H. Mullens, M.a., Lu.M.,. M.B.0.U. i aera Turner be ; 5 On the Occurrence of Ealecal's Petrel ( Geri eiTooeas in Cheshire: a new British and European Bird, by Robert Newstead, a.u.s., and T. A. Coward, F.z.s... 14 On the Identification of Ducks’ Bees, by feohpe Noble, M.B.0.U. (Plate I.) . 18 On the More eaeeant Additions to our aeeendie of British Birds since 1899, by H. F. Witherby and N. F. Ticehurst. Part X. (continued from Vol. I., page 350). . 24 Notes :—Aquatic Warbler in Cornwall (C. B. Ticehurst). White Wagtail in Cornwall (C. B. Ticehurst). Blue- Headed Wagtail in Nottinghamshire (J. Whitaker). An Escaped Nutcracker (G. M. Beresford-Webb). The Black Woodpecker in England (Thos. Southwell). Short-Eared Owl Breeding in Nottinghamshire (J. Whitaker). Eiders off South Devon in April (K. S. Smith): Stock-Dove Nesting on Buildings (B. B. Riviere). Spotted Crake in Sussex (C. B. Ticehurst). Kentish Plover in Cheshire (T. A. Coward). Purple Sandpiper in the Channel Islands (C. B. Ticehurst). Redshank Breeding in Warwickshire (A. G. Leigh). Black Tern in Cheshire (T. A. Coward). Birds in Norfolk in 1907 (J. H. Gurney). A Plan for Marking Birds (H. F. W.). Marked Birds (C. B. Ticehurst), etc. ae 28 EDITORIAL. THANKS to the generous support accorded it during its first year of life, and to that which has been promised already for the future, BritisH Brrps enters upon its second year with the prospect of a useful career before it. The programme, which we are already able to announce, for the next twelve months is sufficient in itself to show that there will be no falling off in the interest of our pages ; but, on the contrary, as the year wears on, doubt- less we shall receive many other articles in every way as 2 BRITISH BIRDS. attractive and as valuable as those we have now the good fortune to announce. Of these, some, we hope, will bear on the themes to be presently suggested. Not the least interesting matter in our new programme will be, we venture to think, the series of essays on Karly British Ornithologists and their Work, by Mr. W. H. Mullens. As many of our readers doubtless know, there are few men so able to appraise the work of these old authors as Mr. Mullens, who has for some time been engaged in the study of these early authors, and during that time he has brought together an extensive collection of their books, many of which are quite inaccessible to the working ornithologist, and these are to be drawn upon for our benefit. There are some, indeed, who seem inclined to decry the labours of these pioneers—who mark only the inaccurate and, sometimes, absurd statements which passed with them for knowledge, and forget how difficult were the conditions under which they were compelled to labour. But the spirit of kindly appreciation shown by Mr. Mullens will enable us to realize that libraries in those days, even where they existed, were not easily accessible ; and the dangers and difficulties of travel, even within the confines of Great Britain, were greater than we can readily imagine. We are, in short, inclined to forget that we have entered into their labours, and have built upon the foundations which they laid. There are many aspects of the bionomical, or, as some prefer to call it, the cecological side of our study which demand more attention than they have generally met with among ornithologists of this country. And we hope that some of our readers may be induced to send us contributions on such subjects, for example, as bear upon the influence of climate on plumage, and on the inter- relations of species. On this last theme, there are several important cases awaiting systematic investiga- tion: such, for instance, as the effect of the increasing numbers of Starlings on the Woodpecker; and of the decrease in the Swallow-tribe through the pugnacity of the House-Sparrow. How much of truth is there in the isolated statements which, of recent years, have been made on these subjects? Many other kindred problems will doubtless suggest themselves to our readers. —— Ss EDITORIAL. 3 The subject of Economic Ornithology in this country has been scandalously neglected. So far, scraps of in- formation, mostly incorrect and gathered at haphazard, generally by strongly biassed partizans, have been made to serve our needs. No attempt to remedy this state of affairs can possibly meet with success which is not made in all seriousness, and carried out on strictly scientific lines. One cannot “‘ dabble” with a problem of this kind. We had hoped very much to be able to carry on a pre- liminary investigation of the kind we are so anxious to see carried out, but a careful calculation has convinced us that the cost of such an enterprise would be prohibitive. We must again express the hope that an investigation will be undertaken by the Board of Agriculture, as has long been done, both on the Continent and in America, and with magnificent results. To carry conviction such an investigation must be prosecuted by an impartial body, and one which can command the services of fully qualified experts, whose work must be carried out under conditions which leave no loophole for doubt. In the present number will be found the first section of an article framed for the purpose of facilitating the identification of Ducks’ eggs—a by no means easy matter. Read with the help of the coloured plates which the generosity of the author enables us to provide, we feel sure that this contribution will overcome the difficulty that has hitherto existed in the determination of doubtful cases. Among other articles already promised we may mention the following: Mr. Boyd Alexander on the British migrants which he met with in his last great journey from the Niger to the Nile; Mr. E. Bidwell on Cuckoo fosterers; Mr. J. L. Bonhote on British birds which have bred in captivity; Mr. W. H. Kirkman on variations in the nest-building of the Common and Arctic Terns ; Commander H. Lynes on the habits of our summer birds when on migration in the Mediterranean ; Mr. M. J. Nicoll on the moult of the Swallow; and Prof. Lloyd Morgan on some aspects of the psychology of nest-building, or some kindred theme to be determined by him later. That this will prove a welcome and valuable contribution there is no need to doubt, for Prof. Morgan 4 BRITISH BIRDS. is the greatest authority on this difficult subject in this country. As we have already announced, the articles on ‘‘ Addi- tions to our Knowledge of British Birds since 1899” will be continued and completed in the present volume, and the results of the Wood-Pigeon enquiry will be given by Dr. C. B. Ticehurst in an early issue. Other contributors _ to last year’s volume will interest us again, and photo- graphy, as an aid to our science, will be to the fore. We have given an outline of our programme; but let no intending contributor think that our space is exhausted. We shall always find room for anything which we think should be put before the readers of BriTisH BrrDs. Finally, we need hardly say that we shall continue to make a feature of ‘‘ Notes,” which, we hope, will increase in number and importance, while we shall make a point, as hitherto, of extracting from all sources information of importance to the student of British birds, and thus provide a current history of the subject; and in this connection we must again ask our readers’ help by draw- ing attention to papers and records which have escaped our notice. THE EDITORS. SOME EARLY BRITISH ORNITHOLOGISTS AND THEIR WORKS. BY W. H. MULLENS, M.a., LL.M., M.B.O.U. I—WILLIAM TURNER (circa 1500—1568). Tue history of British ornithology may be said to commence from the time of William Turner, famous both as a naturalist and anauthor. Born just 400 years ago, this illustrious man, who is styled the “ Father of English Botany,” is perhaps best known for his researches in that department of natural history ; but he also excelled in several branches of zoology, and his claim to be considered the earliest responsible authority on the birds of this country is undeniable. Before Turner’s time, the available knowledge concerning British birds was small indeed. It is true that a quaint and very credulous writer, Giraldus Cambrensis (1146-1223) had in his Topography of Ireland (written in 1187, and first published in 1587) devoted ten chapters to a description of the birds of that country, but his observations, although made at first hand, are confused and unreliable, and more curious than instructive.* Passing mention of certain birds is also to be found in the itineraries of some of the earlier English writers, ¢.9., William of Worcester (ob. 1480), and John Leland (ob. 1552), and some information con- cerning the Hawks and Game Birds can be obtained from the old books of the chase—the most famous example of which is The Boke of St. Albans, containing the Treatises of Hawking, Hunting, and Coat-Armour, printed at St. Albans, 1486, and attributed to Dame Juliana Barnes, or * cf. also Forrest, “ The Fauna of North Wales,”’ p. XXv. 6 BRITISH BIRDS. Berners. The early forest laws, and the different Acts of Parliament enjoining the protection or destruction of certain birds, may also be consulted with advantage, but these necessarily include only a few species in their enactments. Small as the knowledge of birds was in this country, it can hardly be said to have stood in better case in Continental Europe. There the study of natural history had made little or no advance since the days of Aristotle and Pliny. It had been, in common with much else, enveloped and obscured in the intellectual gloom of the Middle Ages. Those few medizeval writers who concerned themselves with the subject of natural history were content to derive their information from the great Greek and Latin authors of the classic age, and while attempting in no way to improve or elaborate such information, they rather, in the spirit of the age in which they wrote, disguised it with a mass of superstition and ignorance. It must, of course, be remembered that their books were chiefly written with a medicinal purpose, and that their object was to set forth the various strange curative properties which they ascribed to the component parts of the birds and beasts they mentioned, rather than to study or describe the animals themselves. Among the more prominent medizval authors who treated of birds at any considerable length, it may here suffice to mention the following :—Albertus Magnus (ob. 1282), whose twenty-six books, De Animalibus, were printed in 1478; Vicentius Belovacensis (ob. 1264), whose Speculum Nature was published at Strasburg about the same date; and Bartholomew de Glanville, commonly known as Bartholomeus Anglius (fl. 1230-1255), from whose famous work, De Proprietatibus Rerum, first printed at Basle, circa 1470, we can obtain a good idea of the general state of knowledge concerning natural history in the Middle Ages. Mention should also be made of a work entitled (1)Ortus Sanitatis, commonly ascribed to Johannes de Cuba, and published at Mainz in 1475. This, though professedly a herbal, deals in its third tractatus SOME EARLY BRITISH ORNITHOLOGISTS. 7 with “ Birds and Flying-Things,” and being the first printed book to contain illustrations of birds, must always be of interest to the student of early ornithology. It was not until the middle of the sixteenth century that the general revival of learning throughout Europe touched the study of ornithology in particular, and that of natural history in general. This revival, as far as it affected ornithology, was largely due to the illustrious Conrad Gesner (1516-1565), and his able contemporaries, Pierre Belon (1517-1564), author of L’ Histoire de la Nature des Oyseaux (Paris, 1555), Gybertus Longolius (1507-1543), who wrote the Dialogus de Avibus, and William Turner, the subject of this article. In no way inferior in ability to the authors mentioned, Turner was in point of publication their leader, his book Aviwm ... . historia, appearing in 1544, eleven years before the ornithological works of Belon and Gesner were printed. William Turner* was born at the beginning of the sixteenth century at Morpeth, in Northumberland, the exact date of his birth bemg unknown, as the registers of his native town date only from the year 1582. He is said to have been the son of a tanner, but of his childhood and early education we have no record. Through the influence of Thomas, Lord Wentworth, Turner in due course became a member of Pembroke Hall, Cambridge, where he graduated B.A. 1529-30. He became a Fellow of his College in 1531, and its Senior Treasurer in 1538. His M.A. degree he commenced in 1533. How long he retained his Fellowship is uncertain. Mr. Jackson thinks he may have held it until his marriage with Jane, daughter of George Ander, alderman of Cambridge. At Cambridge, Turner was a contemporary of the famous John Caius, founder of the college which bears his name, and also one of our earliest writers on natural history (his De rariorum animalium atque stirpium Hrstoria was * The particulars of Turner’s life are derived from those given in the facsimile reprint of Turner’s ‘“Libellus de re Herbaria,” by Benjamin Daydon Jackson, F.L.S., privately printed, London, 1877. 1 vol., 4to. 8 BRITISH BIRDS. published at London, 1570). It was probably during his residence at Cambridge that Turner first directed his attention to the study of birds, while there, no doubt the fascination of the Fens fell upon him, as it has fallen on so many since his time, and it was in the Fens that many of his most valuable observations were made on birds which, then resident, are now only known as rare stragglers to this country. It seems unlikely that Turner could have devoted much time to natural history before he went to the University, as he himself informs us that he had never seen the nest of the Water Ousel or Dipper, a somewhat curious fact when we remember that he was a native of Northumber- land. It was in 1538, while still at Cambridge, that Turner published his first work on natural history, entitled :— Libellus de / re Herbaria Novvs, / in quo her- barum aliquot no- / mina Greca, Latina & Anglica / habes, vna cum nomini- / bus officin- arum, in / gratiam stu- / diose iuuentutis nunc pri- / mum in lucem / editus. Such was the prevailing ignorance of those times that, writing thirty years later, he bitterly complains that he could get no assistance in his work from his contemporaries :— ‘“ Wher as I could learne never one Greke, neither Latin, nor English name, even amongest the Phisicions of any herbe or tre, suche was the ignorance in simples at that tyme, and as yet there was no Englishe Herbal but one, al full of unlearned Cacographees and falselye naming of herbes.”’ During his stay at Cambridge, Turner became an intimate friend of Nicholas Ridley (1500-1555), and of Hugh Latimer, Ridley’s fellow martyr at the stake. From Ridley, Turner received his first instruction in Greek, and, influenced by the teaching of the Reformers, he now embraced those religious views for which he laboured so zealously during the remainder of his life. Leaving his University he travelled through a consider- SOME EARLY BRITISH ORNITHOLOGISTS. 9 able part of England, preaching, and while at Oxford he was imprisoned for: preaching “ without a call.’’ When, ** At length being let loose, and banished, he travelled into Italy.” In Italy Turner studied botany under Luca Ghini, at Bologna, and took the degree of M.D. either at that University or at Ferrara. Continuing his travels, he visited the illustrious Conrad Gesner, at Zurich, and became a firm friend and trusted correspondent of that great naturalist. Turner seems to have been at Basle in 1543, and the following year at Cologne. From this latter place he issued in 1544 his Aviwm Precipuarum ... . hostoria, dedicated to Edward, Prince of Wales (afterwards Edward VI.), and in the same year the posthumous work of his friend, Gybertus Longolius, of Utrecht (1507-1543), entitled Dialogus de Avibus. Turner’s polemical works. now followed each other in quick succession, and were prohibited by a proclamation of Henry VIII. On the death of that monarch, Turner returned to England, and whilst waiting for ecclesiastical preferment acted as physician to the Lord Protector, Somerset. At length, after several disappointments, Turner obtained the Deanery of Wells in 1550. The accession of Queen Mary saw Turner again a fugitive, and his writings were once more prohibited in England, and ordered to be destroyed wherever found. He returned to his native country when Elizabeth succeeded her sister, and was reinstated in his Deanery. In 1564, however, he was again suspended for non- conformity, and took up his abode in London. ‘There he died on the 7th July, 1568, and was buried in the Church of St. Olave, Crutched Friars, where may be seen a tablet to his memory erected by his widow. The book on which Turner’s fame as an ornithologist rests has the following title :— “ Avium / Precipu / arum, quarum / apud Plinium et Ari- / stotelem mentio est, brevis 10 BRITISH BIRDS. & / succincta historia. / Ex optimis quibusque scripto- / ribus Contexta, Scholio illu / strata & aucta. / Adjectis nominibus Grecis, Ger- manicis & / Britannicis. / Per Dn. Guilielmum Turnerum, artium & Me- / dicine doctorem / Coloniz excudebat Ioan. Gymnicus, / Anno M.D.XLIIT.”’ 1 Vol., 8vo., pages unnumbered, 157 (cf. bts, 1899, p. 153). The above is the first edition. It was reprinted by Dr. George Thackeray, Provost of King’s College, Cambridge, in 1823; the reprint is said to be as rare as the original—and again by Mr. A. H. Evans, in 1903, at the Cambridge University Press—Mr. Evans’ edition contains a full translation and many valuable notes. Turner’s object in writing this work is set out both in the title and in the EHpistola Nuncupatoria thereof. This was to determine the principal kinds of birds named by Aristotle and Pliny in their writings. In addition to this, he also added copious notes on those species which came under his own immediate observation, ‘and in so doing he has produced the first book on birds which treats them in anything like a scientific spirit,” and not merely from a medical point of view. But the great value of Turner’s work consists in the fact that he is always most careful to tell us whether he observed the birds he describes in England or abroad, and it is for this reason that his comments are of such importance to the student of British ornithology. It must here suffice to give a few short extracts. Speaking of the Crane, he says :—‘‘ The smaller, that is, younger, Cranes, are called by Pliny, Vipiones, as young Doves are known as Pipiones. Cranes, moreover, breed in England in marshy places; I myself have often seen their pipers [young Pigeons are still called pipers in England], though some people born away from England urge that this is false ” (cf. Evans’ Ed., p. 97). And of the Kite, or ‘‘ Kyte ” :—‘“‘ I know two sorts of Kites, the greater and the less; the greater is in colour SOME EARLY BRITISH ORNITHOLOGISTS. 11 nearly rufous, and in England is abundant and remark- ably rapacious. This kind is wont to snatch food out of children’s hands, in our cities and towns. The other kind is smaller, blacker, and more rarely haunts cities. This I do not remember to have seen in England... .” (cf. Evans Id., p. 117). His remarks on the Black Tern, which ceased to breed in this country about the middle of the last century, the last recorded eggs having been taken in Norfolk in 1858, are also of considerable importance, especially when we consider that this bird still visits the British Isles with unfailing regularity :—‘‘ There is another small bird of. this kind called Stern* in local dialect, which is so like the sea Lari that it seems to differ from them only in its size and colour; for it is a Larus, though smaller than the sea Lari, and blacker. Throughout the whole of summer, at which time it breeds, it makes such an unconscionable noise that by its unrestrained clamour it almost deafens those who live near lakes and marshes. This, I certainly believe to be the bird whose vile garrulity gave rise to the old proverb ‘Larus partavit.’ It is almost always flying over lakes and swamps, never at rest, but always open-mouthed for prey. This bird nests in thick reed-beds” (cf. Evans’ Hd., p: 79). | The care and trouble which Turner took in verifying the statements of Aristotle and Pliny is shown in the following passage :—‘* The Mergus [7.e., Cormorant], a sad-coloured bird, is nearly equal to a goose in size, with the bill long and hooked at the end; it is web-footed, heavy in the body, and the attitude is upright in the sitting bird. Pliny writes that it nests on trees, but Aristotle says on sea-rocks. What each man saw or learnt from the reports: of bird-catchers, he has set down in writing. And I have observed both birds myself, for I have seen Mergi nesting on sea-cliffs about the mouth of the Tyne river, and on lofty trees in Norfolk with the Herons” (cf. Evans’ Ed., p. 111). * «The Black Tern (Sterna nigra).”’ 12 BRITISH BIRDS. - The following affords us some idea of the value in which the Godwit was held as a table bird :—‘* Furthermore, the bird (which ‘the English call the Godwit, or Fedoa ’*) is so much like the Woodcock that, if it were not a little . larger, and did not the breast verge upon ash-colour, the one of them could hardly be distinguished from the other. It is found in marshy places and on river banks. The beak is long; but in captivity it feeds on wheat, just as our Pigeons do. With us it sells for thrice as much again as any Woodcock, so much does its flesh tickle the palates of our magnates ”’ (cf. Evans’ Ed., p. 45). Equally interesting are his observations of the Hobby, Hen-Harrier, Water Ousel (or Dipper),+ Bald-Buzzard (or Marsh-Harrier), Osprey, Wheatear, Sandpiper, Fieldfare, Cuckoo, Black-headed Gull, and many other birds, and though he fell into the prevailing error with regard to the generation of the Bernacle Goose, the fault was hardly his own. Misled by the accounts he had read and heard on this subject, he was by no means convinced, and as he tells us :—‘*‘ Inasmuch as it seemed hardly safe to trust the vulgar, and by reason of the rarity of the thing I did not quite credit Gyraldus [7.e., Giraldus Cambrensis], while I thought on this, of which I now am writing, I took counsel of a certain man, whose upright conduct, often proved by me, had justified my trust, a theologian by profession and an Irishman by birth, Octavian by name, whether he thought Gyraldus worthy of belief in this affair.’ The said Octavian, however, not only informed our author that the popular fable was a fact, but, further, “ taking oath upon the very Gospel which he taught,” stated that he had seen and handled the young Bernacles as they emerged from the fungi of wood rotted in the sea, and even promised to forward Turner “some of these growing Chicks.” * Vide Newton ‘“ Dict. Birds,” p. 248. + The name ‘“ Dipper” was first applied to the Water Ouzel by Marmaduke Tunstall in his ‘‘ Ornithologia Britannica.’’ London. 177il. Ivel., folio. SOME EARLY BRITISH ORNITHOLOGISTS. 138 Turner was held in great estimation by Gesner, who quotes him freely in his writings under the title of Turnerus Anglus (cf. Evans’ Ed., p. x1., etc.). There is no evidence that Turner studied mammals, but he certainly published one or more works on ichthyology, besides supplying Gesner with much information about the fishes of Great Britain.* In taking leave of William Turner, it only remains to add that the authentic books of this remarkable man number no less than thirty-nine, and to quote the description of him given by John Ray :—‘ Vir solide eruditionis et judici.” * cf. Art. by Rev. H. A. Macpherson, “ Zoologist,’’ 1898, p. 337. ( 4 ) ON THE OCCURRENCE OF SCHLEGEL’S PETREL (ESTRELATA NEGLECTA) IN CHESHIRE. A NEW BRITISH AND EUROPEAN BIRD. BY ROBERT NEWSTEAD, a.1.s., & T. A. COWARD, F.z.s. On April Ist, 1908, an example of one of the ‘‘ Dove- like Fulmars’’ was found dead under a tree near Tarporley, Cheshire, by a man who attends the weekly market at Chester. On the fourth day after its dis- - covery the bird was offered to Mr. Arthur Newstead, who subsequently purchased it ; it is now in his posses- sion. The bird, a male, was examined by one of us while it was still in the flesh, an outline drawing was made of it, and the colour of the soft parts, the weight, and other details, carefully noted. The bird was in an excellent state of preservation, and, as might be expected with a Petrel, there was no indication that it had been in captivity. The distinguishing characters of the bird are as follows :—Uniformly brown, paler beneath ; forehead and cheeks faintly mottled; ‘‘ exposed portion of the outer primary beneath—white towards the base of the inner web.’’* Tarsi, proximal third of the toes, and webs, bluish-grey ; the rest of the feet black. Tail very slightly rounded. Bill black. Irides dark hazel. The details are :—Upper-surface dark brown, head and neck decidedly greyer ; all the feathers edged with paler brown, with the exception of some of the scapulars, which are also decidedly darker (blackish-brown) than the feathers of the back; forehead and cheeks mottled with brown. Under-surface greyish-brown, in a strong * Salvin, Cat. Birds in coll. Brit. Museum, XXV., p. 397. SCHLEGEL’S PETREL IN CHESHIRE. 15 light presenting a marked grey reflection; traces of narrow, interrupted, obscure dark bands on the breast, which are evident only when closely examined in a good light. Under tail-coverts dark-brown; bases white. Under wing-coverts and axillaries brown with paler margins ; primaries blackish-brown, bases of inner webs and shafts white. Concealed bases of all the feathers white, a character most strongly marked on the neck and Male example of Schlegel’s Petrel (@strelata neglecta) found dead at Tarporley, Cheshire, April Ist, 1908. (Photographed by ALFRED NEWSTEAD.) breast, where the grey-brown tips barely cover the under- lying portions, so that on the slightest displacement of the feathers the white proximal portions show distinctly through. Total length, 15 inches ; wing 11.1; tail, central and lateral rectrices, 4; bill, 1.7; tarsus, 1.5; middle and outer toe, 2.1; inner toe, 1.7. Weight, 16 oz. * Salvin, op. cit., p. 412. 16 BRITISH BIRDS. This example agrees best with the dark-breasted form of @. neglecta (Schlegel), but this species, according to Salvin,* has the tarsi and basal portions of the toes yellow. However this may be, we find on comparing our specimen with an example of the dark-breasted form of @. neglecta, in the collection of the Liverpool Museum, and with the specimens in the Natural History Museum, South Kensington, that they are, we think, specifically identical. The plumage agrees in almost every detail. Furthermore, Salvin* states that ‘ great variation exists as to the colour of the under-surface, some birds being nearly uniform greyish-brown.”’ . arminjoniana, Gigl. and Salvad., comes very near it, but this species is said to have the ‘“ under tail- coverts white,’’t and there are other marked differences. Both the species hitherto recorded for the British Isles [Z. hesitata, Kuhl., and @. brevipes (Peale)], belong to that section of the genus (@strelata. in which the exposed portion of the outer primary beneath is dark not white, so that, apart from other differences, the Cheshire specimen cannot be either of these. Regardless, therefore, of the difference in the colour of the feet and legs, we have come to the conclusion that our specimen is referable to @strelata neglecta, and that this species should be added to our fauna as a wanderer to the British Isles. Drs. Bowdler Sharpe and Du Cane Godman, to whom we showed the specimen, are of opinion that our conclusion is warranted. (HZ. neglecta is known only as a South Pacific species ; it has been obtained in the neighbourhood of the Kermadec Islands, but little is known about its range. Apparently it has never before been recorded as occurring in Europe. On March 25th the wind in Cheshire veered from the south-east to the west, and later to the N.N.W. On the 27th it backed to the S.S.W., rising in force, and remained westerly until the 31st, when, as registered at Manchester, it was blowing * Salvin, op. cit., p. 412. + Salvin, op. cit., p. 413. SCHLEGEL’S PETREL IN CHESHIRE. 1a) with an average velocity of 21 miles an hour. Tarporley is about 11 miles S.S.E. of the Mersey Estuary, 16 miles S.E. of the Dee Estuary, some 60 miles E. of Cardigan Bay, and over 100 miles N. of the Bristol Channel. From the condition of the bird when found we conclude that it dropped towards the end of the month, probably on or about March 31st, when the westerly winds were at their strongest. The bird was exhibited at the meeting of the Zoological Society held on May 12th, and at the meeting of the British Ornithologists’ Club held on May 20th last. Ger ON THE IDENTIFICATION OF DUCKS’ EGGS. BY HEATLEY NOBLE, M.B.0.0v. (Puate I.) THE eggs of various species of Anatide are so frequently sent to me for identification that I have gained some experience in the matter, and it has been thought that the results of that experience might be of some interest to readers of BritisH Birps. There are three means of identification—(1) the eggs themselves; (2) the down found in the nests; (3) the feathers which are generally mixed with the down. The last provides by far the most important and certain means of identification, although it is seldom mentioned by writers on this subject. The down by itself is not reliable except in isolated cases. Take, for example, that found in the nests of the Wigeon and the Shoveler ; it would be a bold ornithologist who would guarantee to separate the two were they mixed together. The clue is given by the feathers, those of the Wigeon being white sometimes with grey centres, and quite unmistakable. Then, again, the down in different nests of the same species is often so dissimilar that it appears to belong to different species. I think I shall be able to show that if the eggs, down, and feathers are all con- sidered in relation to each other, identification, if not absolutely certain, becomes little doubtful. Occasionally cases arise which are distinctly difficult. Last season, for instance, a beautiful nest of snow-white down, with white eggs and white feathers tipped with grey, was sent me from Ireland. The nest had been taken in heather, not from a hole, as might be expected from the colour of the down. It certainly belonged to no — British, or even European, breeding duck, neither was it that of any foreign duck usually kept in confinement. IDENTIFICATION OF DUCKS’ EGGS. tg The female was eventually shot, and proved to be a speckled mongrel mallard! Another interesting case was that of an unmistakable Wigeon’s egg found in a Wild Duck’s nest, with equally unmistakable down of the latter. The Wigeon had laid in the same nest after the larger duck had hatched off. I have known more than one instance of this, Anas boscas being an early breeder and the Wigeon much later. In this article I have been asked to include the Golden-eye, Velvet Scoter, and Long-tailed Duck. Although these three have not as yet been proved to have bred in these islands, there is some evidence that at least two of the species named may have done so, and there seems no reason why they should not. Most of the following remarks are from personal observation, and, with the exception of the three species mentioned above, the nests described have been found by the writer. ComMonN SHELD-DUCK (T'adorna cornuta).—The eggs of this bird could hardly be confused with those of any other British duck except, perhaps, the Goosander. They are creamy white, rather lighter and more glossy than those of the latter. The down is light pearl-grey, and larger than that of the Goosander, while the feathers render a mistake impossible, for they are tipped with black, or occasionally red-brown. There is no doubt that this handsome duck is greatly on the increase. The nests are generally placed in a hole in a sandbank, not far from the sea, but at Wolverton, in Norfolk, I have found them more than two miles from the shore. On this estate the keeper informs me that the female Sheld-duck may often be seen conducting her brood through the village in the early morning, en route for the sea, and they are sometimes noticed marching down the railway line to the same destination. So numerous are they in this carefully protected area, that whilst I was examining a nest twenty-three adult birds were counted in the air at the same time. On June 3rd this nest contained fifteen eggs 20 BRITISH BIRDS. about a quarter incubated, and underneath were many old egg-shells, showing that the hole had been occupied the previous season. In confinement I have known the ‘* Burrow Duck ”’ to nest in a hole in a tree. (PI. [., Fig. 1.) MatiLarD (Anas boscas).—Though this species is usually an early breeder, nests may be found throughout the spring and summer months, from March, or even February, until well on into June. The eggs of this bird vary more than those of any other British duck, from greenish-blue they range through yellowish-cream colour to white. The down is large, brown in colour, with light centres, the points hardly lighter than the rest. The down might be confused with that of the Pintail, although the latter is smaller. The flank feathers found amongst the down are, however, larger, more pointed, and very different in pattern, as will be seen by reference to figures 2 (Mallard) and figures 7 (Pintail) in Plate I. GADWALL (A. strepera).—This bird is now well estab- lished in certain parts of Norfolk and Suffolk. In the Thetford district it is one of the commonest ducks in winter, and a certain number remain to breed. ‘The nests I have seen in the Eastern Counties and in Spain have never been far from water; one was in a wood close to a river, and another in a reed-bed at the edge of a large lagoon. The eggs are buffish-white, with no tinge of green ; the down is very dark, with small light centres, and with distinct grey points. The feathers are small, light in colour, with irregular darker markings in the centre, but lighter towards the tips. It would be difficult to confuse them with those of any other duck. (PI. L, Fig. 3.) SHOVELER (Spatula clypeata)—-This duck is probably far more common than is generally supposed, owing to the fact that numbers leave their breeding haunts after the young are able to fly. In some counties where they breed regularly I have never seen one in the shooting season. The nest is often placed on dry ground, some little distance from water, and they seem to show IDENTIFICATION OF DUCKS’ EGGS. 21 partiality for rough, rushy meadows. The eggs are distinctly greenish in colour, which at once separates them from those of the Wigeon, though the down closely resembles that of the latter, and except that it is slightly darker (probably varying in different individuals) I can find little difference. The feathers, however, are totally different, and render confusion between these two species impossible. The only British duck’s eggs which at all approach the Shoveler’s are certain varieties of the Pintail’s, but the Pintail’s down is larger and lighter, and the Shoveler’s feathers (especially the large ones) are quite distinct, as will be seen by reference to Plate I., Figs. 4, 4. This species breeds fairly early, half incubated eggs were found by me on May 8th. Wigeon seldom nest until the latter part of that month. Pintatu (Dafila acuta).—The fact of this bird breeding ~ on Loch Leven is now unfortunately common knowledge : there is, or was, a considerable colony on one of the islands. I once counted thirteen nests, and there were probably more. A few also nest in a certain spot in Orkney, and it is said to have bred in Ireland. Its breeding range extends as far south as Andalusia, and I found a nest there (from which the female was procured) in May, 1902. ‘The eggs are generally described as green- ish in colour, and this is, no doubt, usually the case, but there is at least one other variety which is almost as creamy-coloured as the egg of the Wigeon, and without any trace of green. As far as I know, the shape, which is oval, remains constant. The eggs might be confused with those of the Long-tailed Duck, but that bird’s down is much darker, while its eggs are smaller, and the feathers are distinct, as will be seen by reference to the figures. The Pintail’s nests observed in Scotland were placed on dry ground, and one was in an exposed situation on burnt grass. In Spain and Hungary I have found them in damp places, one on a marsh quite surrounded by water. It is an early breeder, and full nests may be seen Pye May Sth. (Pl. I., Figs. 7, 7.) 22 BRITISH BIRDS. TEAL (Nettion crecca).—There is no difficulty about the identification of the eggs of this bird, as the only others that approach their small size are those of the Garganey. Teal’s eggs are, however, slightly smaller than those of the Garganey, and they have a greenish tinge entirely absent from the eggs of the latter species. The down of the Teal is also darker than that of its congener, and has no white tips. The feathers are of a light stone colour, with broad dark patches extending almost to the tip of the feather (Pl. I., Figs. 5, 5). GARGANEY (Querquedula circia).—-In this case the down alone is quite sufficient for identification ; it is smaller than that of the Teal, and very distinctly white tipped. The feathers are light grey, with dark central patches which do not extend either to the tip or edges of the feather (Pl. I., Figs. 6, 6). The eggs are creamy without the green tinge. The Garganey is probably the rarest of ° the ducks which breed regularly in this country. It nests in the Broad district, and according to Howard Saunders* has been found breeding in Yorkshire, and its eggs have recently been discovered in Kent. The only nest that has come under my personal observation was found on May 18th, in a field of rank grass not far from one of the Broads. It contained seven fresh eggs. Wicron (Mareca penelope).—Probably owing to pro- tection, and also to the numbers of these birds that are bred in semi-confinement and subsequently allowed their liberty, this bird has largely increased its breeding range. At one time confined to the North of Scotland, it has recently been known to nest in Perthshire, Dumfriesshire, and Yorkshire, whilst I have some evidence that eggs have been laid in Norfolk, and very young birds have been seen at Beaulieu, in Hants, during early August. It has not yet been known to breed in Ireland, and the statement to the contrary has been proved incorrect. Eggs are seldom laid before the latter part of May. The nest is often placed in heather some distance from water * “Til, Man, Brit. Birds,” 2nd Ed., p. 435. IDENTIFICATION OF DUCKS’ EGGS. 23 but frequently on an island. The eggs are cream- coloured, the down is dark, with no particular charac- teristic, but the feathers are unmistakable, being white sometimes with grey centres, which spread to the top of the web (PI. I., Figs. 8, 8). The down of the American Wigeon is much darker, and the centres not so distinct. Common PocHarp (Fuligula ferina)—The down: of this bird is large and exceedingly soft to the touch; the egos are of a dirty greenish colour, and might easily be mistaken for those of the Scaup, or the Tufted Duck, although they are usually larger than the former, and considerably larger than the latter. Nests I have seen in Scotland were placed in thick dead rushes on or close to the edge of a loch, and they might almost have been mistaken for Coots’ nests, for in two instances there was not a particle of down present, although the eggs were on the point of hatching.* In Spain we noticed a nest in the middle of a swamp, thickly lined with down, which was damp at the bottom. In the North, incubation com- mences about the middle of May. The feathers found in the nests are rather large and brownish in colour, slightly streaked from the centre upwards, and often tipped for a quarter of an inch with grey (PI. I., Figs. 9, 9). EXPLANATION OF PuaTE I. Figs. Feathers from Where When By whom Nest of. taken. taken. taken. 1 Sheld-duck .. Norfolk .. 3.6.1903 .. H. Noble. aie Mallard fw wberkshire 3. .Sb.a L901} 2, a 3 Gadwall see Noriole” v2, 2a: 1901. ... ts 4,4 Shoveler aa, NOrhollic -)-... 8.5.1897 550 Teal er eOrtoule!! \ 8.5.1897 6, 6 Garganey oe Orrolie Ns. Yr Lb ES99 via Pintail sy Scotland. 2.) 18tsck899 8, 8 Wigeon t= scotland...:. -26.5.1896 .. _ 9, 9 Pochard ee” COLAING of. = “ae LOO os a * Since the above was written, I have had particulars of seven more nests placed in thick rushes, in which no down was present. I have several times noticed that Mallards’ nests have no down when placed in such positions. I should be very glad to know the experience of other readers of BritisH Brrps on this point. (To be continued.) (ome 9 ON THE MORE IMPORTANT ADDITIONS TO OUR KNOWLEDGE OF BRITISH BIRDS SINCE 1899.* BY H. F. WITHERBY anp N. F. TICHHURST. PAnr 2 (Continued from Vol. T., page 350.) FLAMINGO Phenicopterus roseus Pall. S. page 395. [On November 22nd, 1902, a Flamingo was shot on the Wash ; on November 5th, 1904, another was seen in Norfolk ; and in August, 1906, three were shot in the same county. In December, 1904, one was killed in Kent; but so many have been turned out at Woburn with only cut wings (cf. Vol. I., p. 91),and probably at other places, that we cannot regard these as genuine migrants. We must here record our emphatic opinion that it is con- trary to the interests of scientific ornithology to turn out birds of species which visit us or may be likely to visit us as genuine migrants. | GREY LAG-GOOSE Anser cinereus Meyer. S. page 397. ScotLanp.—A young bird still unable to fly was obtained in the Tay area in the autumn of 1906, and the bird was considered to have been bred in the district (T. G. Laidlaw, Ann. Scot. Nat. Hist., 1906, p. 237). Mr. Harvie-Brown records a decided increase in the numbers of this species in many parts of Scotland, and a distinct expansion of range to certain new haunts (Fauna N. W. Highlands and Skye, p. 221). A bird received from Limerick November 23rd, 1901, has been assigned by Mr. F. Coburn (cf. Bull. B.O.C., XII., p. 80, and Zool., 1903, p. 46) to the supposed distinct eastern form which was separated by Hodgson under the name of Anser rubrirostris. Mons. 8. Alpheraky, who examined a very * As was explained in the first instalment of these articles (vide BritisH Birps, Vol. I., p. 52), we refer here only to those records and observations which are additions to the Second Edition (1899) of Saunders’ ‘ Illustrated Manual of British Birds.”’ It must also be pointed out that nothing which has already appeared in any part of this magazine is included in these articles, so that they must be read in conjunction with the magazine so far as published, as well as with Saunders’ ‘* Manual.” ADDITIONS SINCE 1899. 25 large series of this goose, does not, however, admit the validity of this bird even as a geographical form (cf. Geese of Europe and Asia, p. 29), and Mr. Coburn’s arguments seem to be set aside by the proofs of great variability in size and colouring brought forward by M. Alpheraky. WHITE-FRONTED GOOSE Anser albifrons (Scop.). S. page 399. There has been a great deal of discussion during the last few years as to the validity of Anser gambeli of Hartlaub, the American representative of the White-fronted Goose (epee. HH. Gurney,.fb1s, 1902, p:- 269 e¢ seg.; F.“Coburn, Zool., 1902, p. 337; H. W. Robinson, t.c., 1903, p. 268; J. A. Harvie-Brown, t.c., p. 315, and 8. Alpheraky, Geese of Europe, etc., p. 45, etc.). Mr. Coburn thinks, with some former authors, that the bird is distinct, and that specimens which he says he received from Ireland belong to it; M. Alpheraky, on the other hand, unites the bird with A. albifrons. It must be pointed out that specific characters founded on specimens obtained outside the breeding area of the bird are really of little value. The White-fronted Goose is without question a variable species, and whether it can be separated into geographical races or not, can only be determined by a careful comparison of a large series of specimens obtained within one breeding area, with a corre- sponding series obtained in another breeding area. LESSER WHITE-FRONTED GOOSE Anser erythropus (L.). S. page 400 (also cf. B.B., Vol. I., p. 14). NorroLtk.—An adult female was shot near King’s Lynn on January 24th, 1900, and sent to Mr. F. Coburn (cf. F. Bopucn, 200. a 100l wn aly, ¢ ull. BOWC., XI1., p. 15’; J. H. Gurney, Jbis, 1902, p. 269, etc.). Yorxs.—A male in the collection of the late Sir H. Boynton was said to have been taken near York (T. H. Nelson, B. of Yorks., p. 413). BEAN-GOOSE Anser segetum (J. F.Gm.). 8S. page 401. OvuTER HEBRIDES.—One was shot and two others were seen in South Uist in March, 1903 (J. A. Harvie-Brown, Ann. Scot. Nat. Hist., 1903, p. 119). The “ Manual” says that its reported occurrence in the Outer Hebrides requires con- firmation. M. Alpheraky’s separation (op. cit.) of the Anser arvensis of Brehm from the A. segetum of Gmelin is supported by a considerable amount of evidence. The chief characters lie in the bill, that of A. arvensis being “longer and com- — 26 BRITISH BIRDS. paratively broader at the point, and far more depressed behind the nail of the upper mandible (than that of A. segetum). At the same time the lower mandible in WM. arvensis is less curved and comparatively less depressed in the thickest part (looking at the shut bill from the side) than in M. segetum. The nail is considerably shorter, but at the same time also broader and more rounded, both longitudinally and transversely.” The colours of the bills of the two birds are also different, but they do not seem to form a safe guide owing to their variability. We have quoted the above passage at length because Mr. F. W. Frohawk affirms that this goose is the usual form of the Bean-Goose to be found in this country, and that the true A. segetum is rare (cf. Field, 1902, p. 605 ; Zool., 1903, p. 41). Mr. Einar Lonnberg in discussing the question is inclined to think that variability accounts for the differences, and that there are not two distinct species (Zool., 1903, p. 164). Mr. Frohawk considers (Zool., 1903, p. 42, etc.) that the bird shot at St. Abb’s Head on February 25th, 1896, and described by Mr. F. Coburn at length in the “ Zoologist ” (1902, pp. 441-448), as Anser paludosus of Strickland, is referable to A. arvensis. Mr. Coburn laid stress on the great length of the neck of the bird he described, but the specimen being a stuffed one no reliance can be placed on this feature. The distribution of A. arvensis and A. segetum is in- completely known, but according to M. Alpheraky A. arvensis is far more numerous than A. segetuwm, and the “ region of its nidification is larger both in longitude and latitude.” Another species of Bean-Goose, viz., the Anser neglectus of Sushkin (cf. bis, 1897, p. 5) from Novaya Zemlia and Kolguev, is suspected by M. Alpheraky (op. cit., p. 81), and by Mr. Frohawk (Field, 1902, p. 1045) to occur in Great Britain. Many diverse opinions have been expressed as to the specific differences of these Geese and their occurrence in this country, and it appears to us that before a definite decision can be reached more observations and examination of larger material must be made. | These birds undoubtedly vary greatly individually both in size and coloration; moreover, they are usually shot by sportsmen rather than naturalists, and consequently it is difficult to get together a good series with careful notes as to the colouring of the soft parts, which has, perhaps unfortunately, been used as a character for the separation of the species. Thus a bird, which the editor declared to be a Pink-footed Goose (Anser brachyrhyncus), was sent to the ‘“ Field’ from Breconshire this year, and this specimen had yellow legs and ADDITIONS SINCE 1899. 27 feet (cf. Field, 1908, p. 182, 410). On this point M. Alpheraky (op. cit., p. 89) remarks that he can find but one record of such an occurrence in the wild bird (Payne-Gallwey, Letters to Young Shooters, 3rd Series, p. 69), although it has been recorded that Pink-footed Geese bred in captivity sometimes have both the bill and the feet yellow. SNOW-GOOSE Chen hyperboreus (Pall.). S. page 405. IRELAND.—A female in excellent plumage. was shot in co. Longford on October 28th, 1903. It was in company with another bird, also shot, but not preserved, which was described as “dark in the plumage,” and may have been a young bird of the same species (Williams and Son, Zool., 1903, p. 459). Four were observed flying overhead within forty yards at Foxford, co. Mayo, on December Ist, 1903 (G. F. Knox, Irish Nat., 1904, p. 76, and R. Warren, Zool., 1904, p- 32). On December 30th, 1906, Captain Kirkwood saw a flock of fourteen (four white adults and ten greyish-coloured birds) at Bartragh, co. Mayo (R. Warren, t.c., 1907, p. 72). GREATER SNOW-GOOSE Chen nivalis Forster. (cf. S. page 406.) This form, which is only to be distinguished from the fore- going species by its larger size, inhabits Arctic America, whereas the smaller bird is apparently confined, as a breeding species, to eastern Siberia and the western shores of Arctic America (cf. Alpheraky, op. cit., p. 15). A specimen of this bird was shot near Belmullet, co. Mayo (? date), and was exhibited by Dr. R. B. Sharpe on behalf of Mr. R. J. Ussher at the November, 1899 meeting of the Brit. Orn. Club (Bull. BO 5, OX. KV.) BRENT GOOSE Bernicla brenta (Pall.). S. page 411. An adult female of the American Black Brent (B. _ nigricans) is said by Mr. F. Coburn to have been shot by a wildfowler, named Richardson, in the Wash “deeps” (Norfolk), on January 15th, 1907, and sent to him (cf. J. H. Gurney, Zool., 1908, pp. 121 and 123 and Plate). Mr. Coburn informs Mr. Gurney that a male of the same species was shot by the same wildfowler near Lynn and sent to him on February 14th, 1902. If the occurrence of a bird new to the British list is to be accepted as authentic, it is far more satisfactory wherever possible that it should be examined in the flesh by two or more ornithologists, and recorded at the time, than that it should be recorded for the first time months and even years after it was obtained. (To be continued.) AQUATIC WARBLER IN CORNWALL. An Aquatic Warbler (Acrocephalus aquaticus) was killed at the Eddystone Lighthouse, off Cornwall, on October 11th, 1907, and a wing sent for identification. C. B. TickEHuRST. WHITE WAGTAIL IN CORNWALL. Ir may be worth while to record that a specimen of the White Wagtail (Motacilla alba) was killed at the Eddystone Light, off Cornwall, on October 11th, 1906, and a wing sent for identification. C. B. TIcEHURST. BLUE-HEADED WAGTAIL IN NOTTINGHAMSHIRE. In August, or early in September, 1907, a specimen of the Blue-headed Wagtail (Motacilla flava) was shot near Nottingham. The bird was seen at Rose’s, the taxidermist, of Nottingham, by Mr. J. Musters, who had it sent to me, as he felt sure it was a Blue-headed Wagtail. Mr. G. Millais and Mr. H. E. Dresser have also examined it and pronounced it to be a specimen of M. flava. 1. Wane [This bird was shown to Dr. C. B. Ticehurst and myself by Mr. Dresser, and as it has been suggested that the bird must have been bred near the place of its capture it is as well to point out that the plumage of the bird affords no proof that this was so. Had it been in the pipit-like juvenile plumage of the species, it might have been well said that the bird had been bred near by, for this plumage is retained but a very short time after the young has left the nest. But the specimen in question was already in its first winter plumage, and was therefore perfectly capable of flying from the Continent, or elsewhere.—H. F. W.] AN ESCAPED NUTCRACKER. I NoTICE in last month’s BritisH Brirps (Vol. IL. p. 388) a note to the effect that a Nutcracker was shot “in Kent” on December 29th, 1907. It would be interesting to know in what part of Kent this bird met its death, inasmuch as a Nutcracker escaped from my aviaries on December 26th, 1907, three days previous to the time when the bird recorded was. shot. This house is about five miles from the Kentish NO'TES. 29 border, so that it is not unlikely that the example was my bird. It was in perfect plumage when it escaped. I believe it wasa male. It was very tame, and would feed from hand. G. M. BERESFORD-WEBB. THE BLACK WOODPECKER IN ENGLAND. Many are the records of the occurrence of this bird in England, but it has been clearly shown that even the apparently best authenticated instances are untenable. This is only what might be expected of a bird which, although of strong flight, is strictly an inhabitant of the pine forests ‘‘ from the Arctic Circle to Spain,” and is a most unlikely species to wander far from its natural habitat, while the localities in this country which are suitable to its habits are very restricted. But, on the other hand, some of the more recent records are so precise, and the bird itself is so remarkable in appearance, that they cannot be dismissed offhand. This particularly applies to the numerous reports of its appearance on the borders of Norfolk and Suffolk, in the neighbourhood of Thetford, Brandon, and Euston, perhaps the most suitable locality that could be found for it in East Anglia. The Rev. E. T. Daubeny, in recording several instances of the supposed occurrence of this bird in Euston Park, Ixworth, and Brandon, in 1897, remarked that it was ‘‘ well- known that Lord Lilford liberated some of these birds towards the end of the last century,” but I could obtain no confir- mation of this, and so the matter stood till the year 1903, when, much to my surprise, my friend, Mr. W. H. Tuck, then living at Tostock, now at Bury St. Edmunds, informed me that a friend of his, whose name he was not at liberty to mention, brought seven or eight young Great Black Wood- peckers from Sweden in the year 1897. These were seen by Mr. Tuck, who further stated that they were placed in an aviary near Brandon for about two months, after which they were allowed to regain their liberty. This fact will, doubtless, account for the presence of the birds reported to have been seen in that neighbourhood, and perhaps for others which may have wandered further afield. Mr. Tuck was requested not to mention this fact for a specified period, which accounts for his silence till 1903, but he quite agrees with the writer that it is most reprehensible that birds or insects should be thus secretly introduced to the disturbance of the British fauna. THOS. SOUTHWELL. 50 BRITISH BIRDS. SHORT-EARED OWL BREEDING IN NOTTINGHAMSHIRE. A GoopLy number of these very interesting birds came to some young coverts at Rainworth in November last. There are two newly-planted pieces, one forty-six acres, the other twenty-seven. There were about eight birds in each, and we Nest and eggs of Short-eared Owl found at Rainworth, Notts., May Ist, 1908. (Photographed by H. E. Forrest.) saw them when shooting, and in February I saw four or five. About the middle of March I again saw one in each wood, and on April 21st one in the smaller covert. I now thought they would nest, so on Saturday, May 2nd, I tied a hand- NOTES. 51 kerchief on the end of a 20-ft. salmon rod and went to the planta- tion. I started where the trees are thinly planted, and where there is much white grass, and waving my flag over the plants I walked down the side of the piece, and soon flushed a Short- eared Owl, which flew into a big tree and watched me. When I got near him he flew round, and settled in a big ash near where I started to beat. I find the male is slimmer and lighter in plumage than the female. I turned and took a piece back, and when I turned again for a third beat he left the tree and came circling round over my head, calling “ Keii, keil.” When I had gone about twenty yards further another Owl rose about three yards to my left, and on looking I found a nest at the foot of a small Scotch fir with eight eggs upon a thickish bed of dry grasses. The eggs were not in a cluster, but rather scattered. The nest was nine inches each way and two-and-a- half inches thick. I need hardly say that I was full of delight, for I had never seen the nest and eggs of this bird before, and they are the first ever found in this county. J. WHITAKER EIDERS OFF SOUTH DEVON IN APRIL. On April 22nd, off Bolt Head, and at the entrance of the creek running past Salcombe up to Kingsbridge, South Devon, I noticed a small flock of Eider Ducks (Somateria mollissima). Their presence so far south at this time of year seems rather remarkable. The explanation may be the extraordinary weather we have just been experiencing, of which the birds were the forerunners, as the snow followed next day. The wind had been in the east and north-east, but changed that day to north-west. Keay. Sree. STOCK-DOVE NESTING ON BUILDINGS. Wir reference to the Rev. F. L. Blathwayt’s note on the nesting of the Stock-Dove (C. enas) on Lincoln Minster, it may be of interest to record that during the latter part of March, 1907, I frequently heard a Stock-Dove cooing in the Close at Winchester; and on April 1st I watched a pair of these birds flying about the Cathedral, and twice saw one of them enter a hole in the masonry, high up on the Cathedral wall. In my experience the Stock-Dove is a bird which has of late years become commoner in many localities, and perhaps it is developing that taste for “‘ town life’? which 1s now so noticeable in the Wood-Pigeon. Teese [We think it will be found that Stock-Doves frequently nest on buildings.—EDs. | 32 BRITISH BIRDS. SPOTTED CRAKE IN SUSSEX. A Spotrep CRAKE (Porzana maruetta) was captured at the Royal Sovereign Lightship on May 8th, 1906, and a wing sent for identification. C. B. TicEHURST. KENTISH PLOVER IN CHESHIRE. A sAnpy stretch of the shore of Marbury Mere, near North- wich, Cheshire, is a favourite halting place of passing migratory waders and of wanderers from the neighbouring Mersey Estuary, and on many occasions I have seen there small mixed parties of Dunlins and Ringed Plovers. On April 29th, 1908, I put up eight birds from the edge of the mere; six of these were Dunlins in summer dress, and the other two, at first sight, looked like small pale Ringed Plovers. There was, however, something in the flight or appearance of the birds which specially attracted my attention ; I was sure they were strangers. After a short flight over the water the birds returned to the bank, where they settled and allowed me to approach to within a dozen yards. I then saw that the Plovers lacked the complete pectoral band of A‘gialitis hiaticola or Al. curonica, that they were lighter in colour, and were distinctly smaller than the former, for I was able to compare their size with that.of the Dunlins. The birds were, I con- cluded, a male and female. The male had a short black band above his white forehead, black lores and ear-coverts. and a black patch in front of the wing below the white collar. In the female these black regions, with the exception of the lores, were a dark brown. The rest of the plumage was sandy- grey on the upper part, the female being noticeably paler than the male. The bill and legs of both were black, or so dark that they appeared black even at close quarters and in an excellent light. The black patches on the aural regions and sides of the neck did not cover quite so large an area as is represented in the figure in Yarrell’s ‘ British Birds” (4th Edition, Vol. III., p. 267). In both birds the collar, forehead, stripe above the eye, and underparts were white. In spite of the fact that the Plovers were slightly smaller than the Duniins, they stood a little higher on their legs. I watched them for nearly three hours, making rough sketches of them and noting down the details of plumage, and was perfectly satisfied that they were Kentish Plovers (4g:alitis cantiana), an addition to the Cheshire avifauna. In the West of England this species has only hitherto been recorded from Devon and Cornwall, but it has been met with further north than Cheshire on the East Coast. The birds NOTES. 33 were not noticed by the gamekeeper when he made his rounds. on the 28th, but he saw them on the 30th. On May Ist and 2nd, when I visited the mere again, I could not find them, and a large number of passing migrants of other species, which I saw on April 29th—including many Common Sandpipers, five Common Terns, two White Wagtails, many Yellow Wagtails, and the six Dunlins—had also disappeared. T. A. Cowarp. PURPLE SANDPIPER IN THE CHANNEL ISLANDS. Aw example of the Purple Sandpiper (7'ringa striata) struck Hanois Light, Channel Islands, and a wing was sent for identification on November 15th, 1906. This species, no doubt, has been overlooked in these islands (whose orni- thology is very incompletely known), and is not mentioned in Smith’s “‘ Birds of the Channel Islands.” C. B. TicEHurst. REDSHANK BREEDING IN WARWICKSHIRE. In the spring of last year a pair of Redshanks (T'otanus calidris)—locally called ‘‘ Whistling Plovers’’—nested in a boggy field in the district of Hampton-in-Arden. Four chicks were hatched, one of which was by some means killed; the other three left with their parents in the autumn. This spring, about the beginning of March, three birds, a cock and two hens, returned, and two nests were made near the previous one. Judging by the pieces of eggshell lying near the nest it would appear that in one case the four chicks have been successfully hatched; if this is the case they emerged about April 27th. It is doubtful whether the young birds have survived the floods, not being yet of an age to fly. One egg, which proved to be addled, was taken from the second nest by the gamekeeper, and I think it very probable that the others are infertile, since there appears to be only one cock bird. Last year Redshanks were recorded for the first time as breeding in Warwickshire (vide B.B., Vol. I., pp. 158 and 191), Oxford, eighty miles away, being, so far as I know, the nearest place where they had previously been seen. A. G. Lien. BLACK TERN IN CHESHIRE. On April 29th, 1908, I watched a small party of Terns on Marbury Mere, near Northwich, which consisted of five 34 BRITISH BIRDS. Common and one adult male Black Tern (Hydrochelidon nigra). They were, together with half a dozen or more Black-headed Gulls, feeding on insects which were flying above the surface of the mere. The Common Terns repeatedly dived downwards towards the water but did not strike the surface ; they swooped upwards before they reached the water, evidently having captured their prey. The Black Tern flew with more graceful sweeps and curves, never half closing its wings and shooting downwards, and occasionally just touched the water with its bill as it passed, apparently picking some- thing from the surface. It repeatedly flew to and settled upon a stump which projects above water; when it was standing on the stump I could easily see the black head, and almost black throat, breast and belly, strongly contrasted with the white vent and slate back and wings. On May Ist, when I next visited the mere, I could see neither the Common nor the Black Tern, but on the 2nd I found that there were two mature Black Terns, one, probably a female, being noticeably lighter on the underparts. Black Terns are occasional visitors to Cheshire on both spring and autumn migration. In June, 1900, three birds were seen by Messrs. F. S. Graves and P. Ralfe, and in September, 1903, Mr. C. Oldham and I saw one, and in August, 1905, two birds on this mere. T. A. CowaRD. BIRDS IN NORFOLK IN 1907. Mr. J. H. Gurney contributes to the “ Zoologist ” for April his usual interesting annual report on the ornithology of Norfolk. The most notable events to which reference has not previously been made in our pages were as follow :— DrseRT WHEATEAR (Saxicola deserti)—A male was shot “near the sea”’ on October 3lst. This is only the second recorded occurrence of this southern bird in England, although, curiously enough, three have been obtained in Scotland. FIRE-CRESTED WREN (Regulus ignicapillus)—One was caught in the town of Yarmouth on October 31st. YELLOW-BROWED WARBLER (Phylloscopus swperciliosus).— One was shot at Cley on October 29th. This is its second occurrence in Norfolk. RED-BREASTED FLYCATCHER (Muscicapa parva).—One was identified (not very satisfactorily) by Mr. E. C. Arnold on the coast on September 11th, and another was identified by another observer on October 29th. ROSE-COLOURED STARLING (Pastor roseus)—One at Toftrees in April. NOTES. 35 Nutcracker (Nucifraga caryocatactes)—One was seen at Gunton, near Lowestoft, on November 28th and 30th. BaRn-ow. (Strix flammea).—Mr. Gurney has a good deal to say about the luminous Barn-owls. There is, however, no information as to what causes the luminosity which is the point of real scientific interest, and curiously enough Mr. Gurney thinks it would be a reprehensible deed to shoot one of the birds, although this is obviously the best way of clearing up the mystery. It would certainly do no harm, and might advance scientific knowledge. The chief points of interest in Mr. Gurney’s notes on the subject, are that the evidence that Barn-owls occasionally exhibit luminosity is incontrovertible, -and that the “light ” emitted is very much stronger than one would imagine possible. PureLe Heron (Ardea purpurea)—A young bird was captured in the streets of Kirkley, a suburb of Lowestoft, by a tram conductor on October 9th. SpoonBILL (Platalea leucorodia).—The first seen on Breydon was on April 2lst, and several were subsequently seen at intervals in May and June, and the last on August 6th. Two “‘ very”? young ones were noted on June 4th. None appear to have been shot, we are glad to say. A PLAN FOR MARKING BIRDS. In volume I. of this Magazine several communications were published on this subject. The advantage to students of migration of knowing exactly where birds travel by observa- tions on marked birds is obvious; but the difficulty of the plan is that so few birds which are marked are ever found again. If, however, great numbers were marked, no doubt a large enough percentage would turn up to make the results of value. Mr. C. Hawkins, of ‘“‘ Lyndhurst,” Woodside Road, South Norwood, informs us that he has had made a number of suitable aluminium rings of various sizes, stamped with a registered address (‘‘ Avis, Wye, Kent”), and each bearing a separate number for identification purposes. He is willing to supply these rings to anyone who will undertake to place them on birds, at the price of 5s. per gross, or 6d. per dozen. Mr. Hawkins also undertakes to keep a register of the particulars supplied by his correspondents concerning the birds marked, and to publish the results from time to time. H.F.W MARKED BIRDS. On the same lines as Herr Chr. Mortensen, of Viborg (wde British Birds, Vol. I., page 298), I have this year been marking and liberating a number of birds of various species. The mark employed is an aluminium ring on which is stamped 56 BRITISH BIRDS. ‘ Ticehurst, Tenterden,” and a register number, and the ring is. put round one of the legs. Should any of my birds be met with by any readers of BrrrisH Birps will they kindly return the ring and the leg to me, stating the locality and the date of capture ? P C. B. TickuHurst, Hurstbourne, Tenterden, Kent. % * * A TIMETABLE OF Birp Sone.—Mr. W. Gyngell, in a short article (Nat., 1908, pp. 181-4) gives the result of his observations. on the duration of the song of thirty-six species of birds in the Scarborough district. The results are shown by means of a table of curves, which, however convenient, does not give sufficient detail to make the observations as valuable as they might have been. Comparing this table with the Messrs. Alexander’s observations lately published in this magazine (cf. Vol. I., pp. 367-372) it is interesting to note that Mr. Gyngell generally records a shorter song-period for resident birds in Scarborough than Messrs. Alexander in Kent and Sussex. Summer migrants appear to sing later in the north than they do in the south. According to Mr. Gyngell, also most of the resident birds make a considerable break in their song in the autumn, whereas Messrs. Alexander record occasional singing at this period. SHORT-EARED OWLS IN THE IsLtE oF Man.—In connection with Mr. W. J. Williams’ note (ante Vol. I., p. 358) with regard to the influx of Short-eared Owls (Asio accipitrinus) into Ireland in the autumn of 1907, it is interesting to note that the bird was common in the Isle of Man in the same season, nearly a dozen being put up in one turnip field (cf. P. G. Ralfe, Nat., 1908, p. 169). Honey-Buzzarp IN NortH Watzs.—Mr. C. D. Head records that he has a male Pernis apivorus shot at Abergele on October 15th, 1907 (Zool., 1908, p. 156). BITTERNS IN HAmpsHirRE.—Mr. C. B. Corbin notes that two or three examples of Botaurus stellaris frequented the reed-beds of the Avon in the last winter (Zool., 1908, p. 157). SUPPOSED SPOONBILL IN co. Limerick.—Mr. H. G. O. Bridgeman writes that a local farmer near Foynes described a bird which he had shot on the estuary of the Shannon in the frost of 1905 as being “all white, and had legs long like the crane (i.e., Heron), and had a bill what got bigger as it got out, and flat like” (Irish Nat., 1908, p. 101). We can but agree with Mr. Bridgeman that this sounds like a very honest, if quaint, description of Platalea leucorodia. B. _ MONTHLY. -ONE-SHILLING: NET ___ S26FIGIHOLBORNICNDON wis the Fee | elk Me ‘ff mele: te Beas OF PALAEARCTIC BIRDS. A Work on this subject, illustrated with BEAUTIFULLY | . COLOURED PLATES, is now being issued. - Write for Full Prospectus and a Part ‘ar inspection to WILLIAMS & NORGATE, 1%, Henrietta Street, Covent Garden, London, W.C. DALLMEYER’S Naturalists’ Camera, y 1907, MODEL, Fo: Telephoto or Ordinary LENSES. DALLMEYER’S Lenses are used —_ by the most ie skilled Bird Photographers. The following are spectally recommended : THE STIGMATIC SERIES J. F/6 (Convertible.) THE SERIES D PATENT PORTRAIT LENSES F 6. (A Rapid Long Focus Leus at a Moderate Price.) High or Moderate Power Telephoto Lenses (Original Make). We are Specialists in Cameras and A lpparatus for. Photo- secon CATALOGUES AND ADVICE FREE. J. H. DALLMEYER, Limitep, bdENzIL RD., Showrooms: 25, NEWMAN ca W. NEASDEN. AAHOUK, NW. WATKINS: & DONCASTER, — - Waturalists, And Manufacturers of CABINETS and APPARATUS for Enbaotse gy, Birds? Ege | and Skins, and. all Branches of Natural History. @ LARGE STOCK OF INSECTS, and BIRDS’ EGGS and SKINS. i Speciality: :—Obiects for Nature Study, ‘Drawing Classes, &c, : we api MARMASSE, &e., ‘PRESERVED and MOUNTED by FIRST-CLASS WORKMEN ne TRUE TO NATUR All Books and Publications. on Natural . History supplied. 36, STRAND, LONDON, W.C. (Five Doors from ane Gros.) Vee. Scand (102 pp-) post free. 4 OMe A" see My py ee he Ud Ti fe Poa” ve ae ny . * nN > By ae y fl r PRA ie at > Cae ‘. a i . ak Sing . i] a ee Le | ~~ @ "4 BRITISH BIRDS, Vol. II., Pl. 2. TypicAL FEATHERS FROM Ducks’ NESTs. Nat. size. (Reproduced direct from the feathers.) (For explanation see p. 41.) RED-THROATED DIVER: “She waddled to the Nest.” (From one of Mr. Bahr’s Photographs.) To Messrs. WILHERBY & CO., 326, High Holborn, London, Or Mie tr tual Os Cae Phir fe Wl) Pe RR ek BOOKSELLER, Pleaseusendwime ee i eo (EO Pe creas. of “HE HOME-LIFE OF SOME MARSH - BIRDS,” for which Meicloceree ee re THE HOME-LIFE OF SOME MARSH-BIRDS. Profusely illustrated. Price 2s. 6d. net. SPECIAL PHOTOGRAPHIC NUMBER OF “BRITISH BIRDS.” THE HOME-LIFE MARSH-=-BIRDS PHOTOGRAPHED” AND: DESCRIBED BY EMMA L. TURNER, F.LS., AND P. H. BAHR, B.A., M.B.O.U. THIRTY-TWO FULL PAGE PLATES FINELY REPRODUCED” FROM FIRSI-CEASS Linz PHOTOGRAPHS, FORMING “A. SERIES OF PICTURES OF THE..MOST. INTIMATE INCIDENTS “IN: hie HOME-EIFE, OF* SOME" OF- THE. SHIEST OF BiRDe: SIXTY-FOUR PAGES OF LETTERPRESS. DESCRIPTIVE OF THE POINTS OF INTEREST ILLUSTRATED IN THE PHOTOGRAPHS. MANY TEXT ILLUSTRATIONS FROM: MR:-BAHIR’S;+ CLEVER: ‘SKETCHES: DEMY 8vo. ART LINEN COVERS. 2s. 6d. NET. (CLOTH BOARDS, 3s. NET.) NATURE says: ‘They have set themselves the task of portraying Marsh-Birds in positions and attitudes which will render the pictures of real service to the scientific ornithologist; and we venture to think that the verdict of their readers will be a pronouncement of unqualified success in this respect. The book does not, however, depend entirely on_ its illustrations. . . . the reader will find much of interest in ‘the brightly written biographies which accompany the text.” LONDON : WITHERBY G&G CO., 326, HIGH HOLBORN. DRITDSABIRDS EDITED BY .H. F. WITHERBY, F.Z.S., M.B.O.U. ASSISTED BY W. P. PYCRAFT, A.LS., M.B.0.U. CoNTENTS OF NUMBER 2, Vou. II. Jury 1, 1908. On the Identification of Ducks’ Eggs, by Heatley sky M.B.0.U. (Plate IT.), (continwed trom page 23 Some Early British Ornithologists and their Works, by W. H. Mullens, M.a., Lu.M., M.B.o.U. II.—Richard Carew ; Bs “ns , a On the More Important Additions to our Beings of British Birds since 1899, by H. F. Witherby and N. F. Ticehurst. Part XI. (continwed from page 27) .. Notes :—The Nest and Nestlings of the Bearded Tit (W. P. Pycraft). Nuthatches Breeding at Llandudno (H. E. Forrest). Golden Oriole in Shropshire (H. E. Forrest). Woodchat in Cheshire (J. M. St. John Yates). Hoopoe in Shropshire (H. E. Forrest). Short-eared Owl Breeding in Pembrokeshire (H. E. Forrest). Supposed Wild Swans on Coll (Heatley Noble). Inland Nesting of the Sheld-Duck (T. Southwell). Want of Down in Mallard’s Nests (M. Winzar Compton). Common Crane in Anglesey (Alfred Newstead, Curator). Common Terns on the Holyhead Skerries (Heatley Noble). Abnormal Eggs of Black-Headed Gull (Herbert Trevelyan). Incubation Periods in Sea-Birds (H. F. W.), etc. : : Review :—The British Warblers—A rae with Problems of their Lives ON THE IDENTIFICATION OF DUCKS’ BY HEATLEY NOBLE, M.B.0.v. (Prat IT.) (Continued from page 23.) Page 37 42 58 67 EGGS. TurrteD Duck (f’. cristata).—This species breeds in June, and is very numerous in certain localities. On one ErratumM.—lIn the first instalment of this article (ante p. 19, line 10 from the bottom) Wolferton was printed Wolverton. 38 BRITISH BIRDS. island in a northern loch I once counted nearly one hundred nests, containing from seven to fourteen eggs apiece, the average number being nine (June 12th). Incubation lasts twenty-three days, as proved by eggs placed under a hen. The eggs are smaller than those of the Pochard, or Scaup, and slightly lighter in colour ; the down is dark and compact, without conspicuously light centres; the feathers are greyish-white, and very small (Plate II., Figs. 11, 11). Scaup-Duck (fF. marila).—On June 14th, 1899, Captain Sandeman and I were fortunate enough to find the first authentic nest of this species in Scotland.* I believe another nest was found last year in the Hebrides by a competent ornithologist, who, I fancy, was satisfied with the identification. We have often been blamed for not procuring the female from our nest, but this course seemed to me quite unnecessary, for we had watched the birds (two females and a male) for days, and saw the bird both going to and coming from the nest as we lay in the reeds within a few yards. I had kept these birds in confine- ment, and they were so well-known to me that mistaken identification was impossible. The eggs are much the same colour as those of the Pochard, but slightly smaller. Those with which they are most likely to be confused are Tufted Ducks, but they are much larger; the down is lighter, with more conspicuous light centres, while the feathers are quite distinct, being larger, sometimes slightly speckled, especially towards the tip, and of different markings (Plate II., Figs. 10, 10). GOLDEN-EYE (Clangula glaucion).—This bird has not yet been proved to breed in the British Isles, but there is some evidence of its having done so, and on August Ist, 1887, I shot a young bird in Scotland some considerable distance inland. The eggs when first laid are of a beautiful green, which unfortunately soon fades. For the loan of down and feathers I am indebted to Mr. P. C. Musters, who took the nest from a holein a pine tree in Norway, * See “Ann. Scot. Nat. Hist.,’’ 1899, p. 215. IDENTIFICATION OF DUCKS’ EGGS. 59 on June 19th, 1897. The down is white, as are also the feathers, and should the nest be discovered in Great Britain it could not be mistaken for that of any European duck, with the exception of Barrow’s Golden-eye C. islandica, which breeds in Iceland and Greenland, and has not yet been recorded as visiting this country (Plate IT., Fig. 14). LonG-TAILED Duck (Harelda glacialis).—-This is another species which has never been known to nest in this country, though it may have done so. The eggs are green, rather smaller than those of the Pintail, and more pointed. The down is dense, small, and “ Kider-like ” in texture, quite unlike that of D. acuta, which is the only duck with which it could be confused. It will also be seen that the feathers are very unlike (Plate II., Figs. 12, 12). ErpER Duck (Somateria mollissima).—These eggs could not be mistaken for those of any other British duck. Always green, but varying in shade, there is an * Eiderish ’”’ look about them which would prevent the possibility of error. Howard Saunders gives the number of eggs as from five to eight, but the latter number must be very rare, at least in our islands. I have examined numerous nests in’ Scotland, the Farne Islands, and Orkney, and only once noticed six eggs, far more often the female was sitting on four than five. The well-known down needs no description, but it may be mentioned here that the downs of the three “ British ”’ Eiders are very distinct. That of the Common Eider is light; of the King-Eider darker; and of Steller’s Eider darker still. The eggs also graduate in size, those of the Common Hider being the largest, the King-Eider smaller, and Steller’s Hider smallest (Plate IT., Figs. 13, 13). Common Scoter (Gdemia nigra).—This bird breeds quite commonly in Caithness and Sutherland, more rarely in Ross and Cromarty, and probably Inverness. It is, however, very local in distribution. It has nested in Ireland, and Mr. Ussher kindly sent me an egg, down, and young-in-down, for identification. The nests are 40 BRITISH BIRDS. difficult to find, being often well concealed in rank heather, and at some considerable distance from the loch side, while they are not infrequently on islands. A clutch taken in Sutherland on June 17th consisted of seven eggs, advanced in incubation. They were buffish-white in colour, the down almost black, and the feathers with no distinguishing marks, but the nest and eggs were un- mistakable (Plate II., Figs. 15, 15). VELVET ScoTER (. fusca).—-I spent six weeks in Nor- way in an unsuccessful endeavour to discover the nest of this species. Although plenty of birds were seen, it is doubtful if they were breeding in that particular year, and I was driven away by snow on July llth. There appears to be some evidence that a pair or two have bred in the Highlands of Scotland, but at present proof is wanting. The eggs are larger than those of the Common Scoter, and rather lighter in colour. The down is also lighter and larger. I.am indebted to Mr. Witherby for the loan of a beautiful nest taken in Lapland, and to Mr. Ogilvie-Grant for the feathers depicted (Plate I1., Figs. 16, 16). GOOSANDER (Mergus merganser).—In certain parts of Scotland, especially the Garve district, this bird is not uncommon in the breeding season. Nesting much earlier than the Red-breasted Merganser, the Goosander has its clutch of from nine to twelve, or even fifteen, eggs, generally complete by the first week in May, and on the 28th of that month I have found birds hatched a few days. Any kind of hole seems to suit the nesting require- ments of this duck. In the experience of the writer, nests have been found in holes in trees, clefts in rocks, and under peat hags. The eggs are creamy-white; the down is pearl-grey, and the feathers are white, with a tinge of yellow. The only other duck’s eggs like those of this species are the Sheld-duck’s, but the feathers in two nests are so different as to at once preclude the possibility of mistake (Plate II., Figs. 17, 17). RED-BREASTED MERGANSER (1. serrator)—Much more IDENTIFICATION OF DUCKS’ EGGS. Al widely distributed than the last species, this bird breeds commonly on many rivers and lochs in Scotland, also on the sea coast in Ireland it is common, and in Orkney and the Hebrides numerous. The nest is well concealed, often in high heather, sometimes in dense reeds on an island, often in a rabbit-hole or cleft in a peat bank, but seldom far from water. The eggs, which number up to fifteen, and are not laid before the end of May, are stone-coloured, with just a greenish tinge, the down is dark grey (much darker than that of the Goosander), and the feathers (very much smaller than those of M. merganser) are quite white (Plate II., Fig. 18). EXPLANATION OF PLATE MII. Figs. Feathers from Where When By whom Nest of. taken. taken. taken. 10, 10 .. Scaup-Duck . Scotland .. 14.6.1899 .. H. Noble. 11,11 .. Tufted Duck . Scotland .. 12.6.1898 . Ae 12, 12 .. Long-tailed Duck . Norway .. 4.6.1899 .. Ramperg. 13, 13 .. Eider Duck . Scotland-.. 2.6.1896 .. H. Noble. 14 . Golden-Eye .. Norway .. 19.6.1897 .. P. C. Musters. 15,15 .. CommonScoter.. Scotland .. 17.6.1899 .. H. Noble. 16,16 .. Velvet Scoter .. Petchora,.. 6.7.1875 .. H.Seebohmand Siberia. J. A. Harvie- Brown. 17, 17 .. Goosander . Scotland .. 25.4.1903 .. H. Noble. 18 . Merganser . Scotland .. 6.6.1896 .. na ( 42) SOME EARLY BRITISH ORNITHOLOGISTS AND THEIR WORKS. BY WwW. H. MULLENS, ™.a., 11.m., M:B.0.0- IIl.—RICHARD CAREW (1555—1620). WILLIAM CAMDEN (1551-1623), the celebrated author of “ Britannia”? (London, 1586, 1 vol., 8vo), at the conclusion of the ‘‘ Account of Cornwall,’ contained in that work, wrote as follows :— “But these Matters will be laid open more distinctly and fully, by Richard Carew of Antonie, a Person no less eminent for his honourable Ancestors, than his own Virtue and Learning, who is writing a Description of this Country,* not in little but at large.” Carew’s work duly appeared in 1602, and was entitled “The Survey of Cornwall.” It was dedicated by its author to Sir Walter Raleigh, and in the dedication Carew describes his book as “ This mine ill-husbanded Survey, long since begun, a great while discontinued, lately reviewed, and now hastily finished . . . And in his preface to the reader he informs us that “‘ When [I first composed this Treatise, not minding that it should be published in Print, I caused onely certaine written copies to bee given to some of my friends, and put Prosopopeia into the bookes mouth. But since that time, master Camden’s often mentioning this work, and my friends perswasions, have caused my determination to alter ie * The original Latin word is “‘ regionis,”’ the translation is from James Woodman’s edition of Carew’s ‘‘ Survey of Cornwall.” SOME EARLY BRITISH ORNITHOLOGISTS. 43 Through this fortunate alteration of his original purpose we are indebted to Richard Carew for a book of peculiar and lasting interest. Not only is the “Survey of Cornwall”’ one of the earliest works to deal with the birds of a particular county, but it contains a far fuller and more important description of them than do many of the so- called County Natural Histories, afterwards published in this country. Carew’s observations on Cornish birds have frequently been quoted by later writers, and as the first edition of the “Survey of Cornwall” is an uncommon book, we propose to give them at length.* Our author begins his account of the birds on fol. 24 of the ‘“‘ Survey ”’ as follows :— ‘‘ Among living things on the land, after beastes follow Birds, who seeke harbour on the earth at night, though the ayre bee the greatest place of their haunt by day. ‘“Of tame Birds, Cornwall hath Doves, Geese, Ducks, Peacockes, Ginney Duckes, China geese, Barbarie hennes, and such like. “Of wild, Quaile, Raile, Partridge, Fesant, Plover, Snyte, Wood-dove, Heath cocke,t Powte, etc. ‘“ But amongst all the rest, the Inhabitants are most beholden to the Woodcockes, who (when the season of the yeare affordeth) flocke to them in great aboundance. They arrive first on the North-coast, where almost everie hedge serveth for a Roade, and everie plashoote for Springles to take them. From whence as the moyst places which supplie them food beginne to freeze up, they draw towards those in the South Coast, which are kept more open by the Summers neerer neighbourhood : and when the Summers heate (with the same effect from a contrairie cause) drieth up those plashes, nature and necessitie guide their returne to the Northern wetter soyle again. * Cf. Harting’s edition of Rodd’s “ Birds of Cornwall,’’ Introduction, pp. Xiv.-xviii. + z.e., the Black Grouse and its ‘‘ powte ”’ or young. 44 BRITISH BIRDS. ‘“Of Hawkes there are Marlions, Sparhawkes, Hobbies, and somewhere Lannards.* As for the Sparhawke, though shee serve to flie little above sixe weekes in the yeere, and that only at the Partridge, where the Faulkner and Spanels must also now and then spare her extra- ordinarie assistance; yet both Cornish and Devonshire men employ so much travaile in seeking, watching, taking, manning, nusling, dieting, curing, bathing, carry- ing and mewing them, as it must needs proceede from a greater folly, that they cannot discerne their folly therein. To which you may add, their busie, dangerous, discourteous yea, and sometimes despiteful stealing one from another of the Egges and young ones, who if they were allowed to aire naturally and quietly, there would bee store sufficient to kill not onéely the Partridges but even all the good-huswives Chickens in a Countrie. ‘Of singing Birds they have Lynnets, Goldfinches, Ruddockes,t Canarie birds, Black-birds, Thrushes, and divers other; but of Nightingals, few, or none at all, whether through some natural antipathie betweene them and the soyle (as Plinie writeth that Crete fostereth not any Owles, nor Rhodes Eagles, nor Larius Lacus in Italy Storkes) or rather for that the Country is generally bare of Covert and woods, which they affect, I leave to be discussed by others. “Not long sithence, there came a flock of Birds into Cornwall, about Harvest Season, in bignesse not much exceeding a Sparrow, which made a foule spoyle of the Apples. Their bils were thwarted crossewise at the end, and with these they would cut an Apple in two, at one * It seems doubtful whether the Lanner, Falco lanarius (cf. Newton, Dict. of Birds, p. 503) ever bred in this country. Turner makes no mention of it doing so, and though Merrett (Pinax Rerum London, 1666, 1 vol., 12mo), gives it in his list of British birds as ‘“ Lanarius, the Lanar’”’ and states that it bred in various places in England, he was most probably referring to some other species of Falcon. Willughby also does not include it among the birds found in this country, on the other hand Symon Latham in his “ Falconry,” 1618, distinctly informs us that it did breed in England. (Book II., p. 112). + 7.e., Robins. SOME EARLY BRITISH ORNITHOLOGISTS. 45 snap, eating onely the kernels. It was taken at first for a forboden token, and much admired, but, soone after, notice grew, that Glocestershire, and other apple Countries, have them an over-familiar harme. ‘““In the West parts of Cornwall, during the Winter season, Swallowes are founde sitting in old deepe Tynne- workes, and holes of the sea cliffes: but touching their lurking places, Olaus Magnus* maketh a farre stranger report. For he saith, that.in the North parts of the world, as Summer weareth out, they clap mouth to mouth, wing to wing and legge in legge, and so after a sweete singing, fall downe into certaine great lakes or pooles among the Canes, from whence at the next Spring they receive a new resurrection: and hee addeth for proof hereof, that the Fishermen, who makes holes in the Ice, to dip up such fish with their nets, as resort thither for breathing, doe sometimes light on these Swallowes, congealed in clods, of a slymie substance, and that carrying them home to their Stoves, the warmth restoreth them to life and flight: this I have seen confirmed also by the relation of a Venetian Ambassadour, employed in Poland, and heard avowed by travaylers in those parts: where-through I am induced to give it a place of probabilitie in my mind, and of report in this treatise.” Dealing next in order with fresh and salt water and the fish thereof, Carew comes in due course to the ‘‘ sea-foule,’’ of which he writes as follows :— ‘* Besides these flooting [7.e. floating] burgesses of the Ocean, there are also certaine flying Citizens of the ayre, which prescribe for a corrodiet therein; of whom some serve for food to us, and some but to feed themselves. _ Amongst the first sort, we reckon the Dip-chicke (so named of his diving and littlenesse), Coots, Sanderlings, Sea-Larkes, * Olaus Magnus, Archbishop of Upsala, whose ‘‘ Historia de Gentibus Septentrionalibus ’’ (Romae, 1555, 1 Vol., folio) Carew here quotes. + Corrodie—an allowance, or right of sustenance. M. L.—Corrodium 46 BRITISH BIRDS. Oxen and Kine,* Seapies,f Puffins, Pewets,{ Meawes, Murres,$ Creysers, Curlewes, Teal, Widgeon, Burranets,|| Shags, Ducke, and Mallard, Gull, Wild-goose, Heron, Crane, and Barnacle. These content not the stomacke, all with a like savorinesse, but some carry a rancke taste, and require a former mortification: and some are good to be eaten while they are young, but nothing tooth-some, as they grow elder. The Guls, Pewets, and most of the residue, breed in little desert Islands, border- ing on both Coastes, laying their Egges on the grasse, without making any nests, from whence the owner of the land causeth the young ones to be fetched about Whitsontide, for the first broode, and some weekes after for the second. Some one, but not everie such Rock may yeeld yeere-ly towards thirtie dozen of Guls. They are kept tame and fed fat, but none of the sea kind will breed out of their naturall place: yet at Caryhayes, Master Trevanion’s house, which bordereth on the Cliffe, an old gull did (with an extraordinarie Charitie) accustome, for divers yeares together, to come and feede the young ones (though perhaps none of his alliance) in the Court where they were kept. It is held that the Barnacle breedeth under water on such ships sides, as have been verie long at Sea, hanging there by the Bill, untill his full growth dismisse him to be a perfect fowle : and for proofs hereof, many little things like birds, are ordinarily found in such * Oxen-and-kine was, according to Swainson (Provincial Names of British Birds, p. 195), the name given to the Ruff and Reeve at the end of the sixteenth century. In the present: case, as Carew is here dealing with Sea-fowl, it probably means the “ Oxbird”’ or Dunlin (cf. Harting’s edition of Rodd’s Birds of Cornwall, p. 17). + Oyster-catcher. t+ The Pewit Gull, Larus ridibundus (cf., Plot’s Natural History of Staffordshire, Oxford, 1686, p. 231). Willughby calls it the Pewit or Black-cap. § Murre, the Cornish name of the Common Guillemot, also the Razorbill (cf., Swainson, p. 218). || Probably the Shelldrake. The Shelldrake is called Burgander or Bergander (7.e., Burrow Gander) by Turner. Cf. also Charleton, Onomasticon Zoicon, London, 1668, 1 vol., folio, p. 98. ‘The Bergander or Burrow Duck.’ Willughby says the ‘ Shelldrake or Borough Duck. . . . it is called Burrow-duck from building in Coney, Burrows ”’ (The Ornithology, p i 28), SOME EARLY BRITISH ORNITHOLOGISTS. 47 places, but I cannot heare any man speake of having seen -them ripe. The Puffyn hatcheth in holes of the Cliffe, whose young ones are thence ferretted out, being ex- ceeding fat, kept salted, and reputed for fish, as comming neerest thereto in their taste. The Burranet hath like breeding, and, after her young ones are hatched, shee leadeth them sometimes over-land, the space of a mile or better, into the haven, where such as have leasure to take their pastime, chace them one by one with a boate, and stones, to often diving, untill, through wearinesse, they are taken up at the boates side by hand, carried home, and kept tame with the Ducks : the Egges of divers of these Foules are good to be eaten. “ Sea-fowle not eatable are Ganets, Ospray (Plynyes Halizetos).* “Amongst which Jacke-Daw (the second slaunder of our Countrie) shall passe for companie, as frequenting their haunt, though not their diet: I meane not the common Daw, but one peculiar to Cornwall, and there-through termed a Cornish Chough : his bill is sharpe, long, and red, his legs of the same colour, his feathers blacke, his conditions, when he is kept tame, ungratious, in filching, and hiding of money, and such short ends, and somewhat dangerous in carrying stickes of fire.” The full title of the book is as follows :— “The / Survey of / Cornwall / written by Richard Carew / of Antonie, Esquire. / London / Printed by S. S. for John Jaggard, and are to bee sold / neere Temple-barre, at the signe of the Hand / and Starre. 1602.” 1 vol. £. ¢. 4to. Collation pp. 10 unnumbered + fol. 160 + pp. 6. * Of. “The Ornithology’? of Francis Willughby (London, 1678, 1 Vol., folio). In the account of the Bald-Buzzard, p. 70, occurs the following: ‘‘ At Pensans in Cornwal we saw one that was shot, having a Mullet in its claw: for it preys upon fish, which seems very strange and wonderful, sith it is neither whole-footed nor provided with long legs or neck.” Joshua Childrey, in his “ Britannia Baconia”? (London, 1661, 1 vol., 12mo) in his article on Cornwall observes (p. 20) ‘‘ There are also Sprayes here, the same fowle that Pliny calls Haliaetos, but it is not eatable.”’ THE SVRVEY OF —“g-/ CORNWALL. Hy Written by Richard Carew of Antonie, E/quire. LONDON Printed by S, S. for Iohn Jaggard, and are to bee fold acere Temple-barre, at the figne of the Hand andStarre. 1 6 © 2. SOME EARLY BRITISH ORNITHOLOGISTS., © 49 This, the first edition, which is rare, is described by John Nicholson in his “* Bibliotheca Topographica Britannica’ as “an exact and excellent survey.” A facsimile of the title page is given opposite. This edition was followed by another in 1723, entitled :— “The / Survey / of Cornwall / and / an Epistle concerning the / Excellencies of the / English Tongue. / Now first published from _ the Manuscript. / By Richard Carew, of Antonie, Esq.; / with / The Life of the Author, / By Ee Ce | eq. 5°)’ London,. / Printed for Samuel Chapman, at the Angel in Pallmall; / Daniel Browne jun. at the Black Swan without Temple- / Bar; and James Woodman, at Cambden’s-Head in Bowstreet / Covent-Garden MDCCXXITI.” 1 Vol. f. c. 4to. 7 Collation pp. xx. + pp. 8 unnumbered + fol. 159 + pp. 8, ‘table of contents,’ + pp. 14. The dedication is signed by James Woodman. This edition was reprinted in 1769. And in 1811 appeared that of Thomas Tonkin. 1 vol. 4to. Richard Carew was born at East Antonie “In the Eastern Parts of Cornwall, within some Miles of Plymouth,” in the year 1555 (cf. Wood Athen. Oxon., Vol. I.). He was the son of Thomas Carew, and Elizabeth Edgecomb, daughter of Sir Richard Edgecomb, of Mount- Edgecomb in Devon. In 1566 at the very early age of eleven, Carew “ became a Gentleman Commoner of Christ Church ’’ Oxford, but “had his chamber in Broadgate’s Hall.’’ While at Oxford, Carew (according to Dr. Fuller in his History of the Worthies of England, p. 203) “ being but fourteen years old, and yet three years standing, he was call’d out to dispute eatempore, before the Earls of Leicester and Warwick, with the matchless Sir Philip Sidney.” * * Sir Philip Sidney was born in 1554 and was then, therefore, fifteen years old. 50 BRITISH BIRDS. After leaving Oxford, Carew seems to have proceeded to the Middle Temple, and according to Wood, was three years later “sent with his Uncle (Sir George Carew, as it seems) in his embassage unto the King of Poland ; whom when he came to Dantzick, he found that he had been newly gone from thence into Sweden, whither also he went after him.” Richard Carew mentions his uncle, ‘““Master George Carew,” in his Survey (fol. 61), and refers to the embassy to Poland, but says nothing about accompanying his relative. Carew, in due course, appears to have settled down at his ancestral seat of Antonie, and to have studied agriculture and husbandry to such purpose that “ he was accounted among his Neighbours the greatest Husband and most excellent Manager of Bees in Cornwall.” He became High Sheriff of his County in 1586, and in 1599 was “‘ Colonel of a Regiment consisting of five companies, or 500 Men, armed with 170 Pikes, 300 Musquets and 30 Calivers,* appointed for Causam Bay.”’ In 1589, Carew was elected a member of the College of Antiquities, a Society which at that time was about to apply to Queen Elizabeth for a Royal Charter—* But as fair as the Hopes of this famous College appeared in its Bloom, they were soon blighted by the Death of that ever-memorable Princess”? and all “their applications to his successor, proved vain and unsuccessful. But what else could be expected from a Man . . . whose Genius and taste were as low and mean as his Soul and Inclinations ! ” Richard Carew died on the 6th day of November, 1620, in the 63rd year of his age, and lies buried in the Church of East Antonie among his ancestors. * 7.e., a light hand-gun fired without a rest. ( ol) ON THE MORE IMPORTANT ADDITIONS TO OUR KNOWLEDGE OF BRITISH BIRDS SINCE 1899. BY H. F. WITHERBY anp N. F. TICEHURST. Para XE, (Continued from page 27.) COMMON SHELD-DUCK Tadorna cornuta (S.G.Gm.). S. page 419. NorroLtk.—A satisfactory increase is recorded in the Lynn and Hunstanton districts (J. H. Gurney, Zool., 1903, p. 130). Kent.—Breeds numerously in the marshes adjoining the tidal waters in the north of the county. For interesting details vide T. Hepburn, ‘ Zool.,” 1907, pp. 54 et seq. RUDDY SHELD-DUCK Tadorna casarca (L.). S. page 421. NorFroitk.—An adult female, ‘* believed to have been shot in Norfolk,’ was sent to Mr. Cole for preservation August 18th, 1898 (A. Patterson, Zool., 1900, p. 530). Two (possibly turned out) seen on Foulmere by Mr. W. Clarke, April 13th, 1906 (J. H. Gurney, t.c., 1907, p. 126). GADWALL Anas strepera L. 8S. page 425. Hants.—In 1904 a number of pinioned birds were turned out on Beaulieu Manor (Heatley Noble, Zool., 1904, p. 193). Is supposed to have nested at Beaulieu (J. E. Kelsall and P. W. Munn, B. of Hants., p. 226). CoRNWALL.—Has been procured at least six times, the two latest were a male near Bodmin, in January, 1905, and a female near Land’s End, January 10th, 1907 (J. Clark, Zool., 1907, p. 285). Scitty IstEs.—One was shot at Tresco on January lst, 1900, the first recorded (J. Clark and F. R. Rodd, t.c., 1906, p- 304). SHROPSHIRE.—A drake was seen in Hawkstone Park on December 9th, 1906 (C. Oldham, f.c., 1907, p. 32). MerRIoNETH.—A male was shot at Ynysfor, on December 52 BRITISH BIRDS. 30th, 1890, and a female at the same place on December 14th, 1901 (G. H. Caton Haigh, t.c., 1902, p. 112); while another was shot at the same place on December 20th, 1904 (H. E. Forrest, Vert. Fauna N. Wales, p. 277). Norts.—One was shot at Besthorpe in November, 1906, and a pair at Clumber in December, 1906, and a few have been seen in recent years at Annesley (J. Whitaker, B. of Notts., p. 196). YORKSHIRE.—Three were obtained at the Teesmouth in October, 1896 (T. H. Nelson, B. of Yorks., p. 451). PEEBLESSHIRE.—A pair were reported to have nested near Broughton, and to have reared their brood in 1906 (H. B. Marshall, Field, 28, vir., 06). In spite of its increase in Norfolk, the Gadwall seems, according to all recent accounts, to be still a rather rare visitor to the rest of Great Britain, and especially so in the west. It does not appear to have established itself as a breeding species in any county but Norfolk and Suffolk. IRELAND.—Several were “hot on Lough Key, co. Roscom- mon, in the winters of 1905-7 and 1907-8 (H. G. O. Bridgeman, Trish Nat., 1908, p. 101). The Gadwall is a scarce and irregular winter visitor to Ireland, and has not apparently been recorded from Ros- common previously, although it has occurred from time to time in most counties. SHOVELER Spatula clypeata (L.). S. page 427. LINCOLNSHIRE.—In August, 1902, Mr. Caton Haigh saw a few Shovelers at Tetney, and was told that at least one pair had bred there; on August 14th, 1903, he saw two broods at the same place (G. H. Caton Haigh, Zool., 1903, p. 368 ; 1904, p. 297). NorFroLtk.—Nearly thirty pairs were breeding at Hoveton in 1906 (J. H.« Gumey, 7¢.c;; 1907, p.- 127). SuFFOLK.—Breeds regularly in the north-east of the county (F. C. R. Jourdain, in Witt.). Essex.—Mr. H. M. Wallis has found the nest on the coast, and Mr. Miller Christy has recorded it as breeding (Vict. Hist. Essex). Herts.—Nests regularly at Tring (O. V. Aplin, t.c., 1902, p. 68). Near Tring two or three pairs have bred regularly for at least ten or twelve years (Rothschild and Hartert, Vict. Hist. Bucks., 1., p. 145 (1905)). STAFFORDSHIRE.—Now known to breed regularly in several places in the Cannock district (F. C. R. Jourdain in litt.). ADDITIONS SINCE 1899. 53 BEDFORDSHIRE.—Now known to breed regularly in several places (id.). Kent.—A brood of nine young, with the parents, seen in Romney Marsh May 19th, 1900 (N.F.T., Zool., 1900, p. 279). During the last seven years the birds in this locality have increased, and nests have been found every year (N.F.T.). In the north of the county it breeds numerously in the marshes of the Thames Estuary, cf. Mr. Hepburn’s article (Zool., 1907, pp. 52 et seq.). HampsuHire.—Increasing as a breeding species, especially in the valley of the Avon (J. E. Kelsall and P. W. Munn, B. of Hants., p. 232). Devon.—A pair reared their young at Braunton, in 1904 (J. Cummings, Zool., 1905, p. 112). A pair said to have bred in North Devon for the past three years (B. F. Cummings, me., 1907, p. 22). SHROPSHIRE.—At least one pair nested and reared a brood on the marshes at Minsterley in 1907 (H. E. Forrest, Caradoc F. Club Rep., 1908, p. 30). The Rev. F. C. R. Jourdain informs us that he knows that it has bred also in the following counties not mentioned in the ‘Manual,’ Dorset, SUSSEX, CAMBRIDGESHIRE (locally common) and LANCASHIRE. NorrH Wates.—It breeds regularly in some numbers in Anglesey, and a pair nested in 1896 at Llyn Mynyddlod, in Merioneth (H. E. Forrest, Vert. Fauna N. Wales, p. 278). ScoTLaAND.—It nests not infrequently on the borders of Northumberland, especially on the Scottish side (A. Chapman, Bird-Life Borders, p. 97). Hast Lothian.—Although nesting, is by no means a common bird (H. D. Simpson, Zool., 1904, p. 459). Tay Basin.—Still increasing. Becoming very generally distributed in suitable situations on the shallower and reedier lochs of the east (J. A. Harvie-Brown, Fauna Tay Basin, etc., p. 233). Sutherland.—Colonel Duthie found a nest, and saw three or four birds on Loch Canna, Assynt, in the west of the county (id., Fauna N. W. Highlands, etc., p- 231). Outer Hebrides.—Bred on South Uist (first time _ recorded) in 1903 (zd. op. cit., p. 237). Nest found, and several pairs seen in 1906 (N. B. Kinnear, Ann. S.N.H., 1907, p. 82), and in 1907 “still on the increase,’ and two nests found fee. Bahr, é.c.,;: 1907, p. 213). IRELAND.—Oo. Antrim.—Two nests taken in May, 1901, near Belfast, were first recorded as being those of the Wigeon, but were afterwards proved by Mr. Heatley Noble to be Shovelers’ (R. Patterson, Irish Nat., 1901, p. 147, and 1903, p. 275). Co. Mayo.—Although scarce a few years ago they 54 BRITISH BIRDS now breed on many of the lakes in North Mayo (R. Warren, t.c., 1902, p. 247). Co. Donegal.—Has increased very much ° as a breeding species on Lough Swilly of late years (D. C. Campbell, t.c., 1905, p. 263). The Shoveler is evidently increasing, and extending its range, and ornithologists would do well to take most careful notes from year to year of the numbers of these birds wherever they are nesting, as well as of Pochards, Tufted Ducks, and other increasing species. Sequence of Plumages.—Mr. J. L. Bonhote states that the drakes have an intermediate plumage between that’ of the ‘eclipse’? and the full breeding plumage. This plumage succeeds the “ eclipse’? in September, and the full plumage is attained gradually during the course of the winter (J. L. Bonhote, Bull. B.O.C., XVI., p. 64). PINTAIL Dafila acuta (L.). S. page 429. ScotLanp.—Berwick.—A nest with seven eggs (five hatched out) was found near Hawick on May 17th, 1901 (Ann. S._N.Z., 1902, p. 1383). Selkirk.—A female was flushed from her eggs and watched in the southern part of the county on May 15th, 1901 (W. Renton, ¢.c., 1902, p. 120). Argyll—Four or five were seen (? breeding) on June 4th, 1907, on Loch Tulla (C. H. Alston, t.c., 1908, p. 119). Inverness.—In the British Museum there is a clutch of seven eggs from ‘ Cromlit, Knockie,”’ from the late Edw. Hargitt (F. C. R. Jourdain, in litt.). Outer Hebrides.—Broods were seen in S. Uist in 1902, and the species appears to be increasing as a winter bird in Benbecula (J. A. Harvie-Brown, t.c., 1902, pp. 209-210). Shetland.—A pair with young birds identified June 4th, 1905, at Dunrossness (T. Henderson, Jun., f.c., 1906, p. 53; cf. Harvie-Brown, t.c., 1907, 115). TEAL WNettion crecca (L.). 8S. page 431. OvuteR Hesripes.—Now breeds plentifully in the Uvzsts and Benbecula (N. B. Kinnear and P. H. Bahr, Ann. S.N.Z., 1907, pp. 218 and 820; and J. A. Harvie-Brown, i.c., 1902, p. 209). The first actual record of its nesting on Lewis was made in 1903 (2d., t.c., 1903, p. 245). GARGANEY Querquedula circia (L.). 8S. page 435. DurHAM.—Bred at the Teesmouth between 1880-7 (T. H. Nelson, B. of Yorks, p. 457). NorFoLk.—Nests estimated at two in 1898 in the Broad District (J. H. Gurney, Zool., 1899, p. 115). Kent.—Two nests found in Romney Marsh in May, 1900 ‘ADDITIONS SINCE 1899. 55 (N.F.T., ¢.c.; 1900, p. 279). Seems to be on the increase in Romney Marsh, five pairs seen in 1907 at one locality (N.F.T.). In the North Kent marshes Mr. T. Hepburn believes that it nests, and has seen birds in April and May, but has not as yet been able to confirm the fact (é.c., 1907, p. 48). Hants.—It appears to have nested near Fareham in 1897 (J. E. Kelsall and P. W. Munn, B. of Hants., p. 228). Scitty Istes.—Has been obtained seven times (J. Clark and F. R. Rodd, Zool., 1906, p. 304). ANGLESEY.—An adult male seen April 15th, 1905 (T. A. Coward, t.c., 1905, p. 386). SHETLAND.—A male was shot on April 14th, 1907 (T. E. Saxby, Ann. S.N.H., 1907, p. 182). WIGEON Mareca penelope (L.). S. page 437. CUMBERLAND.—A nest with ten eggs reported to have been found in 1903 (Field, 25, vir., and 1, vimt., 03). Yorxks.—In addition to the nest found near Scarborough in 1897, a pair bred at Malham Tarn in 1901, and in a semi- domesticated state it breeds regularly at Thirkleby Park, and at Scampston (T. H. Nelson, B. of Yorks., p. 460). [NorFroLtk.—A deserted nest, said to have been a Wigeon’s from the appearance of the eggs and down, was found in’ Norfolk in 1904 (J. Whitaker, Field, 18, v1., 04). We believe that this certainly was not the nest of a Widgeon but that of a Gadwall. | Merionetu.—A pair nested on Llyn Mynyddlod in 1898. Two pairs were seen at the same place April 19-30th, 1902, and a young bird was shot there September 30th, 1904 (H. E. Forrest, Vert. Fauna N. Wales, p. 283). Scottanp.—Sutherland.—There is evidence of Wigeon breeding on Loch Assynt in 1901 and 1902, and several pairs were seen around Loch Urigil in 1903. A nest was found at the latter in May, 1903, by Mr. Blathwayt, and is the first authentic record of the Wigeon breeding to the west of the Divide (J. A. Harvie-Brown, Fauna N.W. Highlands, etc., pp. 234, 235.) Roxburgh.—There is a certain amount of evidence that Wigeon have bred near Yetholm from time to time, but absolute proof is still wanting (A. Chapman, Bird-Life Borders, p. 90). Outer Hebrides.—A pair seen several times in June, 1906, but no nest found (N. B. Kinnear, Ann. S.N.H., 1907, p. 82). For some interesting notes as to the first records of the breeding of the Wigeon in Scotland wide ‘‘ Ann. Scott. Nat. Hist.,”’ 1902, p. 200, footnotes. 56 BRITISH BIRDS. AMERICAN WIGEON Mareca americana (J. F. Gm.). S. page 439. An adult male was shot on Benbecula, Outer Hebrides, on January 3rd, 1907, by Mr. E. M. Corbett (R. Bowdler Sharpe, Bull. B.O.C., XIX., p. 57, cf. also Ann. S.N.H., 1907, p. 116). This is the first authentic record of the occurrence of this rare wanderer in Scotland. The bird is now in the British Museum (Natural History). RED-CRESTED POCHARD WNetta rufina (Pall.). S. page 441. YORKSHIRE.—One shot near Redcar, January 20th, 1900 (T. H. Nelson, Zool., 1900, p. 483). Another was shot about February 10th, 1900, at Coatham, near Redcar (J. W. Fawcett, Nat., 1900, p. 304). Norro.tk.—Thirteen appeared on Breydon on September 4th, 1906, and nine of them were killed by a punt gunner named Youngs. A tenth was picked up dead soon after in the neighbouring marshes (A. H. Patterson, t.c., 1906, p. 394). Another pair was shot at Hickling by Alfred Nudd, on Sep- tember 8th (N. H. Smith, Field, 15, 1x., 06); while two others were seen there on the 12th and escaped. They all appear to have been adult birds, the drakes being still in eclipse (J. H. Gurney, Zool., 1907, p. 134). SuFrFoLK.—An adult pair shot at Thorpe Mere by the sea, January 16th, 1904, by Mr. F. G. Garrett (2d., t.c., 1905, p. 90; Bull. B.O.C., XIV., p. 62). COMMON POCHARD Fuligula ferina (L.). S. page 443. DuruHam.—A pair nested successfully in 1903 in the south- east of the county, and attempted to nest again in 1904 (C. E. Milburn, Nat., 1904, p. 216). Norrotk.—Mr. J. H. Gurney describes a female bird in his possession, which was caught in Saham Mere in 1904, and which he believes to be a hybrid with a Tufted Duck (Zool., 1905, p. 268). EssEx.—Has bred since 1886 (M. Christy, Vict. Hist. Essex). Kent.—Mr. T. Hepburn found a nest containing seven eggs, which he believes to have been Pochard’s, in the marshes of north Kent, on April 19th, 1904 (¢.c., 1907, p. 48). In the same locality it has since been found nesting with certainty by Mr. Walpole Bond (in litt.). Herts.—Breeds in increasing numbers at Tring. BERKSHIRE.—At least six pairs nested in Windsor Park in 1907 (Graham W. Kerr, Zool., 1908, p. 139). ADDITIONS SINCE 1899. 57 BEDFORDSHIRE.—Recorded as breeding (Vict. Hist. Beds., Wol. T., p: 126). STAFFORDSHIRE.—Recorded definitely as breeding at Gailey Pools in 1890 (Rep. N. Staffs. F. Club, 1905-6, p. 49). Hants.—Is said by Hart to have nested in the New Forest district since 1880, but has not been found nesting elsewhere in the county (J. E. Kelsall and P. W. Munn, B. of Hants., p. 238). ScotrisH BorpERS.—Twenty to thirty pairs nesting on Hoselaw Loch in 1906. Whitrigg Bog, near St. Boswells, Roxburgh and Hule Moss, on Greenlaw Moor, Berwickshire, are now the only other localities on the borders where the Pochard nests (A. Chapman, bird-Life Borders, p. 90). OvuTER HEBRIDES.—Now far from uncommon (J. A. Harvie- Brown, Ann. S.N.H., 1902, p. 211). FERRUGINOUS DUCK Fuligula nyroca (Gild.). S. page 445. YORKSHIRE.—In the spring of 1903 four birds frequented a sheet of water near Ackworth, and two, an adult male and a female, were shot. The others, which were a pair, remained there till the end of the year (W. B. Arundel, Zool., 1904, p. 33). NorFotk.—In April, 1903, twenty birds in two flocks, frequented Rollesby and Hickling Broads. One _ flock was composed entirely of adult males (J. H. Gurney, t.c., 1904, p. 207). An immature bird was shot on January lst, 1906, on the Broads (M. C. H. Bird, t.c., 1906, p. 75). - Four were seen on the Broads on April 10th, 1906, the day follow- ing a N.E. gale (J. H. Gurney, f.c., 1907, p. 126). =) ee Sy) m to x - The British Warblers—A History, with Problems of their Inves. By H. Eliot Howard, F.Z.S., M.B.0.U. Parts I. and II. Coloured and photogravure plates. (R. H. Porter.) 21s. net per part. THis work promises to be of quite unusual interest and importance on account of the original observations on the habits of many of the birds of which it treats. On this account, and also for the plates depicting various seldom-seen attitudes, it is to be highly commended. The plates—some in colour and some in photogravure—represent the best work we. have yet seen from Mr. Gronvold. Those showing various attitudes assumed during courtship are especially lifelike, and these have been drawn from Mr. Howard’s originals. Part I. is concerned with the Sedge-Warbler and the Grasshopper-Warbler, and Part II. with the Chiffchaff and the Yellow-browed Warbler. The observations on the habits of the first three mentioned species should be read by everyone interested in bionomical questions. To enable him to make such detailed studies as are here set forth on the daily life of these secretive little birds Mr. Howard must be endowed with a patience beyond most men, and it is evident that he must also be a persistently early riser. There are, too, several thoughtful passages on evolutionary subjects—such as sexual selection, and the plasticity of instinct—which deserve careful perusal. We may here draw attention to a few of the points brought out by Mr. Howard’s observations. In the three species mentioned, the males appear to arrive at the breeding place a week or ten days before the females. The area in which the nesting operations are to take place is apparently chosen by the male, and he spends much of his time in guarding this area from all other males of his species. It has often been noted that the same nesting site has been used for many years by a pair of the same species. We believe that this is much more generally the case than is supposed, and in such instances it may be concluded that if either of the pair dies during the winter the survivor brings a new mate to the nesting site the next spring. If only the males choose the nesting territory then it is puzzling how it occurs that the same place is occupied for many years in succession, unless, indeed, the heir returning to the locality of his birth finds his 68 BRITISH BIRDS. father no more and steps into his shoes. Birds are creatures of habit, as Mr. Howard demonstrates, and if the males come back to the same territory then the females do also, and if so, surely the same two birds are mated as long as both live. Would not this account for the apparent absence of choice by the female of any particular male (see Grasshopper- Warbler, p. 14)? Is there always an absence of choice, or has it so happened that Mr. Howard has watched previously mated birds, and not those which have never before been mated ? We hope that Mr. Howard, with his great powers of observa- tion, will give us in a future instalment the result of his observations on this point, for it seems to us most unlikely that birds choose a new mate each spring. We have space only to allude to some of the many other interesting facts so pleasantly recorded in these pages. A curious feature in the courting display of these three species is that the male frequently picks up a leaf or stick and holds it in its beak while following the female. The females do most of the building of the nest and the feeding of the young ; the feces of the young are sometimes swallowed by the parent bird, as they are almost invariably by the Thrushes; the song of the Grasshopper-Warbler almost ceases after pairing is over; the nestlings of the same species leave the nest when only a few days old, and some time before they are able to There is so much that is good in this book that we are somewhat unwilling to criticize. We must, however, express the opinion that the general plan of the work appears to us to be unwise. The descriptions of the plumages are most un- satisfactory in that they add little or nothing to our knowledge, which is a great pity, for we know little of the sequences of the plumages of these birds, and the moults they go through. Then in species such as the Yellow-browed Warbler, with which presumably the author has no acquaintance, no account of habits is given. Thus the work is incomplete, and in no sense a monograph. It seems to us a pity that the author did not confine himself to a description of the habits only (with the plates illustrating them) of those species which he had observed. The work as at present planned is expensive. The valuable original observations ought to have been made accessible to all ornithologists, and might have been so without any loss to science by the omission of what is not valuable. If we may make a further criticism, it is that the parts should appear at shorter intervals. Part I. was pub- lished in February, 1907, Part II. in March, 1908. _ moxm LY -ONE:SHILLING: NET ~ S2SHIIGHTOLBORNIENDON - i FS ’ ~~ i re es ape + 3 lil a é i Lt Ue ee EGGS OF PALEARCTIC BIRDS. — A ‘Work on this ‘subject, illuatrated with BEAUTIFULLY. i COLOURED PLATES, is now being issued, Write for Pall Prospectus and 2a Part for inspection to WILLIAMS & NORGATE, 44, Menrletis ‘Street, Covent Garden, London, W.C. - DALLMEYER’S © Naturalists’ Camera, j to07_ MODEL, F Or Telephoto or Ordinary LENSES. DALLMEYER'S is ~» Lenses are used by the most: ‘oa ae skilled Bird |. Photographers. ° & ; bs The Pollowing na f = ‘ ky spectally recommended : : THE STIGMATIC SERIES Il. F/6 Gone ey: THE SERIES D PATENT PORTRAIT LENSES F 6G. (A Rapid Long Focus Lens at a Moderate Price.) ties or Moderate Power Telephoto Lenses (Original Make). We are. Specialists in Cameras and Apparatus jor Photo- Ornithologists ais CATALOGUES; AND ADVICE FREE. JH. DALLMEYER, Limite, eNzIL RD,, i Showrooms: 25, NEWMAN Bn Ww. NEASDEN, LONDON, NW. , WATKINS & DONCASTER, Waturalists, : And. Manufacturers of CABINETS and APPARATUS for Entomology, Bird! fees and. Skins,’ and all Branches of Natural History. A LARGE STOCK OF INSECTS, and BIRDS’ EGGS and SKINS, 8, Cee Speciality: :-Objects for Nature Study, Drawing Classes, &c. . BIRDS, MAMMALS, &e.; PRESERVED and MOUNTED by SARE REARS WORKMEN d TRUE TO NATUR All Books and Publications on Natural History supplied. 36, STRAND, LONDON, W.C. (Five Doors from Charing Gross.) "Catalogue (102 pp.) post free. ana DRHEHIBIRDS Serre BY HH. F. WITHERBY, F.ZS8., M.B.O.U. feel) BY W. P. PYCRAFT, A.LS., M.B.0.U. ContTENTS OF NUMBER 3, Vor. II. Aveust 1, 1908. The Wood-Pigeon Diphtheria: The Results of the ‘‘ BrrrisH Birps”’ Enquiry, by C. B. Ticehurst, M.A., M.R.C.S., i. B.O.P.,..M.B.0.U., <: « A . Page 69 Variations in the Nests of ‘he Asciie and Conca Teens: by F. B. Kirkman, B.A., oxon. .. 78 On the More Important Additions to our : Renwiodes of British Birds since 1899, by H. F. Witherby and N. F. Ticehurst. Part XII. (continued from page 57) .. Ns 83 Large-billed Reed-Bunting (Emberiza pyrrhuloides palustris) in Kent: a new British Bird, by M. J. Nicoll, M.B.o.v. 88 Notes :—Curious Site for a Robin’s Nest (A. G. Leigh). Grey-headed Wagtail in Sussex (J. H. Gurney). Nesting of the Grey Wagtail in Berkshire (W. Norman May). An Early Recorded Waxwing (H. E. Forrest). Lesser Redpolls Nesting in Surrey (Charles Oldham). Have Starlings Increased Beyond the Capacity of Nesting Sites ? (Fred. A. Herbert). Nutcracker in Kent (Eds.). Climbing Movements of the Green Woodpecker (Col. H. W. Feilden). Marsh-Harriers in Norfolk (W. P. Pycraft). Ducks’ Eggs and Down (Norman Gilroy). Inland Nesting of the Sheld-Duck, and Nesting of Pochard, Shoveler and Teal in Lincolnshire (Rev. F. L. Blathwayt). Nesting of the Shoveler in Staffordshire (W. Wells Bladen). Pochard Nesting in South-west Kent (Major R. Sparrow). Unusual Nesting Sites and Incubation Period of the Tufted Duck (Major H. Trevel- yan). Teal and Pheasant Laying in the Same Nest (C. E. Pearson). Pallas’s Sand-Grouse in England (H. F.W.). Black-tailed Godwit and Spotted Redshank in Kent (Major R. Sparrow). Change of Nesting Sites Through Human Influence (T. Harrison), etc. .. 90 THE WOOD-PIGEON DIPHTHERIA. Tur Resuuts or THE “ British Brrps” ENQUIRY. BY foe LICHHURST, M.A., M.R.C.S., L.R.C.P., M.B.0.U. Durine the past autumn and winter Wood-Pigeons in this country were ravaged by the disease known as ‘““Wood-Pigeon diphtheria.” This disease has been known for some years by gamekeepers and sportsmen 70 BRITISH BIRDS. as occurring during acorn or beech-mast years, though the causa morbi has not been so generally understood. In BritisH Brrps (Vol. I., p. 243) I gave an account of the micro-organism which was responsible for the disease, the naked-eye appearance of birds dead of the disease, and other facts as far as were known. In order to ascertain more facts concerning this matter, at the suggestion of the Editors of BritisH Birps, I drew up a schedule of questions which was sent round to all readers of the Magazine for the purpose of securing help from those who were interested in the subject, and the results of this enquiry I now set forth. I must here express my great indebtedness to all those who filled in schedules, and so kindly supplied the information upon which the following conclusions and suggestions are based. I have thought it better to group the facts under the following headings :— I.—Geographical distribution. II.—Migratory flocks. I1I.—Transmission of the disease. IV.—Duration and course of the disease. V.—Relation to food supply. VI.—Transmission to other animals. VII.—Post-mortem appearances. I.—GEOGRAPHICAL DISTRIBUTION.—From the ac- companying map it will be clear that the reports show that the disease was almost entirely confined to those counties which border the Thames Valley. The only positive returns received from other more distant counties were from Yorkshire, Cumberland, Norfolk, Essex, and doubtfully from Devon. Now, from all these counties the reports seem to show that the disease was local, or confined to isolated birds. For instance, in Norfolk no disease was noted until the first fortnight in February, when only one or two birds with disease are recorded, whilst there is definite evidence that the only occurrences in Essex were those from a C. B. TICEHURST: WOOD-PIGEON DIPHTHERIA. 71 migratory flock which arrived in the last week of January, stayed a week, and in which nearly every bird was diseased. From Cumberland it was reported that there ” GB Positive, many. RR Positive, few. ie Sporadic cases. illlll! Negative. “ps p ~ Notts ;“ Linc? lees a WIth We oe oS Leicester Vang” Bs {J J . : semaweat (Hl :. fim NA. ne) dar as ee! 52) / eee v =_- ) _- Sketch Map to show the distribution of Wood-Pigeon Diphtheria in the Winter of 1907-8, were a few diseased birds, but one would have liked to have had more details on the distribution in this county. 72 BRITISH BIRDS. From Yorkshire the disease was only noted in two places, and those only in single examples, though presumably there must have been others. The counties in which the disease was most prevalent were: Wiltshire, Buckingham- shire (S.), Berkshire (N.), Oxfordshire (8.), and Hampshire ; to a lesser degree in West Sussex, West Kent, and Surrey ; and it seems undeniable that the centre of the disease lay in an area covered by beech wood in the Thames Valley in the counties of Berkshire, Oxfordshire, and Buckinghamshire, and in one place on the borders of these three counties the number of diseased Pigeons reached such extraordinary proportions that 2242 were burnt, and it is estimated that another 2000 were disposed of. From Scotland and Ireland only negative reports were received. II.—Mieratory Fiocxs.—Nearly all observers agreed that the migratory Pigeons arrived at the end of October or beginning of November, that they increased in numbers during November, and decreased towards the end of January, and that by the end of February most of the migratory birds had gone. These migratory flocks probably come from Central Europe, as large migratory flocks appear in Holland in the autumn ; it has been often suggested that these flocks come from Scandinavia, but as this bird is only found in southern Scandinavia, and is not particularly numerous there, this theory is untenable. That the disease occurred mainly in these migratory flocks most observers agreed, some, indeed, asserting that the resident birds were never attacked, but this is very difficult to prove. There is little doubt that the disease was found where there was a great increase of Pigeons in the autumn, and, as a rule, where there were few birds no disease was noted, though in one or two exceptional cases there were large numbers and no disease. III.—TRANSMISSION OF THE DisEASE.—Very little light seems to have been thrown by schedule returns C. B. TICEHURST: WOOD-PIGEON DIPHTHERIA. 73 on the transmission of the disease. It can easily be understood that transmission of a disease from member to member in a vast horde, as in any crowded community, can take place in a number of different ways. For example, the exudation from a diseased bird’s throat may easily be “coughed ”’ out (and, as breathing gets more difficult, it is natural that it should be), and may fall on to the plumage of a neighbouring bird which, in turn, preens itself and takes up, of course, the bacilli. Another way, which I suggested in Britis Birps, was that a diseased Pigeon after eating an acorn re- gurgitated it, and this, being picked up by another Pigeon, transmitted the bacilli of the disease. This suggestion seems to have been quite misunderstood by some people, for one writer in the “ Field” shortly afterwards wrote to say, that “except at the time they are feeding their young, Pigeons do not regurgitate . . . and there is no need to assume regurgitation, or to attribute to them a habit which has not been observed ’’—which is absurd, since if there is any obstruction in the gullet, solid food will be regurgitated immediately that obstruction is reached. Moreover, I have Mr. A. H. Patterson’s evidence that he had a Pigeon sent him by a friend who had shot it, and that on the ground where the bird was sitting there lay an acorn which it had evidently tried to swallow and had regurgitated. Both young and old birds are affected, though the occurrence of the disease in nestlings requires con- firmation. IV.—DvuRATION AND CoURSE OF THE DisEASE.—No definite observations were made on this subject, though it was inferred that from the condition of the birds that the malady sometimes ran a quick course and sometimes a lingering one. Through the kindness of Dr. Eyre and Mr. Leeming, bacteriologists of Guy’s Hospital, I was enabled to have two Pigeons inoculated, and so obtain direct evidence of 74 BRITISH BIRDS. the length and course of the disease. The Pigeons inoculated were a wild Wood-Pigeon and a blue “ racer.” In both, the inside of the throat was pricked, and some ‘“membrane ” from a Pigeon dead of the disease was rubbed on. The next day both had contracted the disease, as manifested by a white spot the size of a pin’s head, the neighbouring parts being reddened. These spots remained apparently of the same size for about five days, the birds feeding and looking well, but at the end of aweek, whereas the patch in the Wood-Pigeon had noticeably in- creased, that in the blue ‘‘racer”’ had noticeably decreased, and by the next day had entirely gone, and the tem- perature of this bird, which had risen from 104.8° F. (normal) to 107° F. during the period of infection, dropped again to its normal. The Wood-Pigeon’s temperature, on the other hand (whose normal temperature is 108°), went up to and remained between 109° and 110° F. At the end of ten days the patch was greatly increased, and by twelve days it had extended across the middle of the throat. The Pigeon still ate peas and corn fairly well, and kept in good feather, but was much thinner. The patch continued to grow, and towards the end of the third week it had almost blocked the gullet, though it left the wind- pipe free. At this time it did not feed so well, and its temperature fell to several degrees below normal, and remained so until it died on the twenty-first day of the disease. The recovery of the blue ‘ racer,” after taking the disease, is worthy of note, though from a single obser- vation it could not be said that the disease cannot be fatal to it, though it suggests that it has a better resisting power than has the Wood-Pigeon. V.—RELATION TO Foop Suppty.—The idea amongst gamekeepers, as well as amongst other people, was that the disease was caused by the food supply. Of course, he of the beech woods said it was due to the excess of beech- mast, whilst he of the oak was equally confident that it was due to the plentiful supply of acorns, and they both C. B. TICEHURST: WOOD-PIGEON DIPHTHERIA. 75 agreed that the disease was prevalent during beech-mast or acorn years. ‘This difference of opinion is strong evidence that the disease is not directly due to the kind of food supply, but due to massing. In any crowded community the incidence of a contagious disease is always high, and where in a less crowded one a disease may be endemic, in a greatly crowded one it will become epidemic. This rule applies in no less degree to Wood-Pigeons, and it is the abundant food supply which accounts for the massing, and the massing which favours the spread of the disease. From the returns it would appear that where there was any disease there was, in most cases, a plentiful supply of either acorns or beech-masts, and in a few cases a _ plentiful supply of either corn or green crops. VI.—TRANSMISSION TO OTHER ANIMALS.—That this particular disease is transmissible to other animals seems certain, for Loffler, in his orginal researches on this micro-organism inoculated, with mild results, fowls and rabbits ; guinea-pigs and rats suffered more severely ; while Wood-Pigeons and Sparrows succumbed. From observations sent in there is little to record. Two observers noted the disease in Stock-Doves, one in a Tawny Owl, and one or two affirm that they have seen it in Pheasants and Partridges. In no case, however, were any of these birds sent in for examination bac- teriologically, and therefore there must always be some doubt as to whether the disease was the same as that under consideration. On the other hand, I have made several enquiries as regards Pheasants and Partridges being affected in quarters where it might be expected, ‘but have always received a negative answer, and on one estate where about 4000 Wood-Pigeons were destroyed last winter, and where 3000 Pheasants are shot every year, no case of “diphtheria”? in Pheasants had ever been known. The only other evidence I have on this matter is of a negative character, namely, that on this same estate 76 BRITISH BIRDS. Rooks, Crows, rats, and ferrets fed largely on the diseased Pigeons without apparently contracting the disease ; also that numbers were eaten by labourers, etc., without any ill effect accruing; but, of course, in the latter case the Pigeons were cooked, and this would kill the micro- organisms. The question has often been asked whether this Pigeon disease is the same as diphtheria in the human subject. This is an intricate bacteriological subject, and a discussion on the pros and cons would be quite out of place here ; suffice it to say that the causative bacilli of the two diseases are different in character, and as yet there is no proof that the characteristics of Bacillus diphtherie columbarum change to the characteristics of Bacillus Klebs-Liffler (human diphtheria bacillus) on transplantation from the Pigeon to the human throat. Dr. Sambon, in an interesting paper in the “ Lancet ” (April 18th, 1908, p. 1143) on the “ Epidemiology of Diphtheria,” in order to account for the increased amount of diphtheria on the eastern seaboard (where, as he says, Pigeons mass together in the autumn and winter) favours the suggestion of the transmissibility of Pigeon diphtheria to the human subject. Unfortunately, he takes only the deaths from the disease, and not the incidence of the disease, which will be found to be quite a different thing. Whatever it may have been in the years in which his statistics were made up (1855-80), this year, at any rate, as I have shown, there was practically no Pigeon disease in those counties, the disease being practically confined to inland counties bordering the Thames—the very counties which he shows to have the lowest diphtheria death-rate. The returns for the last nine months from these counties are not yet made up, so there are not yet any statistics to show whether there has been any corresponding rise in the incidence of human diphtheria. VII.—Post-MorRTEM APPEARANCES.—The most in- variable appearance after death is the presence of a cheesy yellow “false membrane ”’ over the hard palate, C. B. TICEHURST: WOOD-PIGEON DIPHTHERIA. 77 fauces, and base of tongue, and the glands in the neigh- bourhood enlarged. The mass is sometimes so large as to block entirely the gullet, though it is much rarer to find the windpipe pressed on to any extent; the parts around the ‘membrane’ are inflamed. With the formation of this false membrane death of the underlying tissues takes place, even the bones being affected ; thus in advanced cases it was common to find the base of the skull reduced to a cheesy mass. In a few cases the membrane extended down the gullet into the crop, and in one instance it had perforated the proventriculus, and the bird had died from peritonitis which had resulted. In most cases the crop was empty. The condition of the birds varied, some being very wasted, others being in good condition. Those which had contracted a virulent type of the disease, or had a low resisting power, succumbed quickly, and so had not time to waste, while those which had lingered long with the disease, or had the gullet occluded, partially or wholly, were correspondingly thin. ene) VARIATION, IN THE NESIS. OF THE ARCTIG AND COMMON TERNS. BY F. B. KIRKMAN, B.a., oxon. In a recent number of BritisH Brrps* Mr. W. P. Pycraft contributed a highly stimulating paper on the subject of nests, with special reference to those of the Ringed Plover. It dealt not only with variation in site and material, but also with the origin of the nest-building Fic. 1.—Nest of Common Tern. instinct. The present paper supplements his observations on the first of these two subjects. It is based on the examination of some fifty nests of Arctic and Common Terns, and will, it is trusted, help to throw further light on what is a very obscure problem. * Vol. I., pp. 373-380. F. B. KIRKMAN: VARIATION IN NESTS OF TERNS. 79 The Arctic Terns’ nests were found, during the summer of 1905. in the protected area at the south end of Walney Island, off Barrow-in-Furness. I made careful notes of thirty, of which thirteen lay on the patches of bare sand in between the sandhills, eleven in the shingle patches that alternated with the sand, four on the beach, and two among the bent, a rough stringy grass growing abundantly at Walney, and serving to cord up the wind-made shifting sandhills, thus rendering them more or less permanent. Fic. 2.—Pebble-paved Nest of Arctic Tern on Beach. There were four distinct types of nest with intermediate forms. The majority, eighteen in number, representing the first type, were made of varying amounts of bent. Nearly all these nests proclaimed the individuality of their architects. Some consisted of an outer circle of bent, the inside being left bare. One, evidently the work of a bird with a geometrical turn of mind, showed a semi-circle of bent, and a semi-circle of sand, while another was adorned with an oyster-shell and a feather, if not put there, in any case left unremoved. To some 80 BRITISH BIRDS. bits of wood had been added. In half a dozen instances the birds were seemingly content to preserve appear- ances by merely placing or leaving two or three quite useless stalks of bent around or across the nest. None were as complete as the Common Tern’s shown in the first of my photographs (Fig. 1). It marks the highest form of this type of nest. The second type was represented by three nests paved with pebbles (Fig. 2). If the use of these pavements Fig. 3.—Arctic Tern’s Nest in Sand. is to keep the eggs dry by raising them above the level of soil liable to become damp, then we must deny the Terns in question any sense of the meaning of their acts, for their pavements were placed either on loose grit (Fig. 2) or on loose sand, through both of which water would rapidly sink. How unnecessary the pavement was is shown by the third type, represented by two scraped depressions in the bare sand. I kept the one shown in Fig. 3 under close observation in foul weather and fair, and had the pleasure of watching the owner (Fig. 4) hatch out both her young successfully. F. B. KIRKMAN: VARIATION IN NESTS OF TERNS. 81 The fourth type was of a somewhat transitory nature. It was represented by three nests placed on the beach in the high-water mark seaweed, the one photographed (Fig. 5) being enlivened, accidentally, perhaps, with a crab’s claw and a cork. These builders showed more originality than discretion, two of the nests being des- troyed by the sea: one of the eggs, in an unbroken state, going to form part of the stranded drift. Fic. 4.—Arctic Tern sitting on Nest in Sand. The remaining four nests were highly instructive, being a combination of the first two types. They were all paved with pebbles, to which bits of bent (Fig. 6*), and in one case a complete outer circle of bent, were added. It is worth noting that there was no definite relation between site and material, except in respect to the two nests in the bent, which were made of bent, and those in the seaweed. The pebble-paved, the bent nests, and * This figure will appear in the second instalment of this article. 82 BRITISH BIRDS. the bare scraped depressions were to be found both among the shingle and on the sand patches. On referring to the “Manual” of the late Howard Saunders, I find that the Arctic Tern, besides laying ““in- a depression of the sand, or on scanty herbage,” will place its eggs ‘‘ on the bare rock, just out of reach of the waves.’ Here we have, then, a fifth type, which might have been represented at Walney if there had been any rocks, Fie. 5.—Arctic Tern’s Nest in high-water mark drift. The half-dozen nests of the Common Tern that I examined at Walney, were, as already noted, of the type illustrated by Fig. 1. But the late H. A. Macpherson, visiting the place in 1891, has left on record, in his ‘“‘ Fauna of Lakeland,” that some of these birds, building on the upper beach, started a new fashion: their nests being lined with rabbit bones. This innovation appears to have died out, the rabbits presumably not seeing their way to provide the necessary material in adequate quantities. (To be continued.) (aan) ON THE MORE IMPORTANT ADDITIONS TO OUR KNOWLEDGE OF BRITISH BIRDS SINCE 1899. BY H. F. WITHERBY anv N. F. TICHHURST. Pau, XU (Continued from page 57.) TUFTED DUCK Fuligula cristata (Leach). 8S. page 447. SussEx.—Recorded as breeding in the county (J. G. Millais, Vict. Hist. Sussex, Vol. I.). Hampsuire.—First known to nest in the county in 1890, since then its breeding range has rapidly increased, and six or seven localities are enumerated where nests have been found (J. HE. Kelsall and P. W. Munn, B. of Hants, p. 233 et seq.). SomersET.—Nested at Blagdon Reservoir in 1906 (F. L. Blathwayt, Zool., 1908, p. 114). Bucxs.—Breeds at Weston Turville (Rothschild and Hartert, Vict. Hist. Bucks., p. 146). Dersy.—They first began to resort regularly for breeding to Osmaston Manor lake in 8.W. Derbyshire, in 1886. Since then a brood or two have been reared almost every year, and at least two hatched off in 1899. [Now there are seldom fewer than seven or eight pairs to be found there in the breeding season (F.C. R. J., an litt., 1908).] From Osmaston they have spread to neighbouring ponds, where they have bred regularly since about 1888. They were observed on the Ashbourne Hall pond in 1892, and a pair bred at Sturston Mill in 1895 (F. C. R. Jourdain, Zool., 1899, p. 476). They have also established themselves at Bradley, further to the east (id., t.c., 1900, p. 429), and, still more recently, at Norbury m 1907 (id., Derby. N.H.S. Journ., 1908). STAFFORDSHIRE.— Besides the Weston Park colony referred to below, this species first bred at Calwich Abbey in 1906 (F. C. R. Jourdain, in litt.). SHROPSHIRE.—Has bred regularly at Weston Park, on the borders of Shropshire and Staffordshire since 1880. Its numbers have steadily increased, and in 1890 there were 84, BRITISH BIRDS. about twenty pairs nesting on five or six ponds. At Sandford Pool, near Whitchurch, on the Cheshire border, four pairs nested in i891, and have continued to do so since, but have not increased. One or two pairs have bred since 1855, and still do so, at Hatton, near Shifnal (H. E. Forrest, Zool., 1900, pp. 506 ef seq.). NortH Wates.—Breeds in Anglesey, and possibly in Merioneth (H. E. Forrest, Vert. Fauna N. Wales, p. 286). YORKSHIRE.—Increasing as a nesting species (T. H. Nelson, B. of Yorks., p. 467). CUMBERLAND.—First bred in 1888 (Zool., 1888, p. 330). Scottish BorpER.—Within the last twenty years they have begun to nest at nearly every suitable loch, or large sheet of water, on either side of the Border, z.e., in Northumberland, Berwick, and Roxburgh (A. Chapman, Bird-Life Borders, p. 92). ScoTLAND.—The increase and extension of range of the Tufted Duck in Scotland is one of the most interesting events in British ornithology. Mr. J. A. Harvie-Brown has written two admirable papers on the subject (Ann. S.N.H., 1896, pp. 3-22; Proc. Royal Phys. Soc. Edin., Vol. XIII., pp. 144-160), and to these all who are interested in the subject must make reference. Not many records have been published since the date of these papers, but the following may be noted :— Solway.—Has spread through the area since 1887 until now every suitable loch has at least one pair (R. Service, Ann. S.N.H., 1897, p. 222). Ayrshire-—A parent bird with young was seen on Loch Kilbirnie in 1905 (t.c., 1906, 198). Although very common in East Renfrewshire it appears slow in spreading to Ayrshire. West Lothian.—Bred in 1906 and 1907 (S. E. Brock, t.c., 1907, 185); has bred regularly in the eastern part of the district for the last ten years (B. Campbell, f.c., 1907, 249). Tay Basin.—Has increased enormously since the first record of its nesting was reported. Now it is ‘‘ one of the commonest ducks on all suitable lochs throughout the central and east portions, and just outside the S.W. boundary of the area in Forth” (J. A. Harvie-Brown, Vert. Fauna Tay Basin, etc., pp. 240 et seq.). North of latitude 56° it is rare at all seasons on the west coast, but all over the lowlands of Caithness and the extreme east of Sutherland it is exceedingly abundant (dem). Outer Hebrides.—On the increase ; actual nesting took place in South Uist in 1903 (id., Ann. S.N.H., 1903, p. 245). Mac- gillivray states that it was formerly a common bird in the Outer Hebrides, but it is quite certain that they almost en- ADDITIONS SINCE 1899. 85 tirely disappeared for a long time, indeed since he wrote (id., Fauna N.W. Highlands, etc., p. 237). Four pairs seen in 1906, and one in 1907 by N. B. Kinnear and P. H. Bahr (Ann. S.N.H., 1907, pp. 83 and 213). IRELAND.—Several pairs were seen, and a nest found on Lough Conn, co. Mayo, in 1905 (R. Warren, Irish Nat., 1905, p. 165). Ten or twelve broods were observed, a young bird was shot and an egg taken on Lough Mask, co. Galway, in 1906 (A. R. Nichols, t.c., 1907, p. 184). Both these records are extensions of its previously-known breeding range in Ireland. Major A. Trevelyan informs us (7 litt.) that on May 13th last he saw a pair on Lough Derg, co. Donegal, in which county we believe it has not yet been recorded as nesting. SCAUP-DUCK Fuligula marila (L.). 8S. page 449. SUTHERLAND.—A pair of Scaups was watched, and the nest found in rushes five feet from the water, on a small island. in a loch in 1899, by Mr. Heatley Noble. The nest contained three eggs. It was left for a week, and the female bird was then seen to leave the nest and was clearly identified. The: nest now contained nine eggs (J. A. Harvie-Brown, Ann. S.N.H., 1899, p. 215). OvutTER HeEBRipES.—It nested in one of the islands south of the Sound of Harris in 1897, 8, and 9, and three pairs in 1900. Probably also again in 1901, and certainly in 1902 (J. A. Harvie-Brown, t.c., 1902, p. 211). A nest with nine eggs was found on an island in a loch in one of the Uists in 1906, and the bird was seen to leave its nest (N. B. Kinnear, Seton ;y, p. 82;:¢f.. P: H. ‘Bahr, ¢.c:, p. 218). The Rev. F. C. R. Jourdain points out that the first authentic record of the breeding of the Scaup in Scotland was that of the late A. C. Stark, who found a nest with eleven egos at Loch Leven, Fifeshire, in 1880 (cf. Proc. Roy. Phys. Soc. Hdinb., VII., p. 203). The eggs were sold at Stevens’ for £2 7s. 6d. on June 19th, 1902. This record appears to have been overlooked by Howard Saunders. EIDER DUCK Somateria mollissima (L.). 8S. page 459. CHESHIRE.—An immature bird was seen at Leasowe, on December 31st, 1905 (C. Oldham, Zool., 1906, p. 75). It is rare on the north-west coast of England, and has only once before been recorded from Cheshire. Scttty IsLEs.—Six examples are recorded (J. Clark and F. R. Rodd, t.c., 1906, p. 304). ScorLaAND.—Previously unknown on the west coast of 86 BRITISH BIRDS. Sutherland, they were present in large numbers in 1901 and 1902, and perhaps for a few years before in every suitable place from Cape Wrath to Hansa and the Badcall Islands. A large increase is also noted along the eastern side of South Uist. Eider are only now (1904) beginning to push their distribution to any points between Loch Nevis and Badceall (7.e., W. Ross, and parts of Sutherland and Inverness) (J. A. Harvie-Brown, Fauna N.W. Highlands and Skye, pp. 244-248). IRELAND.—A young male was shot in Malahide Estuary, on the Dublin coast, in November, 1902 (E. Williams, [rish Nat., 1903, p. 112). To Ireland the Eider is a rare and irregular winter visitor. KING-EIDER Somateria spectabilis (L.). S. page 461. FIFESHIRE.—A male was shot on a moor in Fifeshire on June 15th, 1899 (B. B. Riviere, Zool., 1902, p. 27). OrkNEY.—An adult female was shot by Mr. 8. Sutherland off Graemsay, on February 21st, 1906 (F. Smalley, ¢.c., 1906, A): 5 Istay.—One was observed by Mr. A. Ross near Kintra on July 25th, 1906 (Ann. S.N.H., 1907, p. 198). IRELAND.—A mature male was shot on November 10th, 1897, in the Foreland Bay, off Donaghadee, co. Down, by Mr. W. H. Shaw (R. Patterson, Jrish Nat., 1901, p. 50). JERSEY.—Mr. H. Mackay states that he examined a female bird, and identified it as a King-Eider, which had been shot at La Roque. He gives no date (H. Mackay, Zool., 1904, p. 380). COMMON SCOTER Cdemia ngra (L.). 8S. page 465. TRELAND.—Major H. Trevelyan communicated to the ‘“« Wield ” (15, vir., 05) an account of the nesting of this bird on one of the larger loughs in Ireland, the exact locality being suppressed. Between June llth and August 18th, 1904, a pair of birds were constantly observed. On May 24th, 1905, the pair were again observed in the same locality, and on June 13th the female was found on the nest under a small bush on an island. There were eight eggs, five of which hatched between June 28th—30th, and the old bird was seen on the lough with the five young ones on July Ist. One of the young was obtained on July 3rd, and afterwards submitted, with an egg and some of the down from the nest, to Dr. Bowdler Sharpe, who confirmed the identification. The egg, down, and feathers from the nest, and the young bird, were also submitted to Mr. Heatley Noble, who likewise confirmed the identification (Irish Nat., 1905, p. 200). It is ADDITIONS: SINCE 1899. 87 much to Major Trevelyan’s credit that he was thus able to authenticate this most interesting discovery of the first nesting of this species in Ireland without the destruction of the parent birds. The birds bred again in 1906 (R. J. Ussher in litt.). In 1907 one male and two females were observed on the lough, but no nest was found. On June 4th, 1908, a nest with eight eggs was found well concealed in a furze bush on an island in the same lough, and this year also there appeared to be a second and solitary female (H. Trevelyan, Field, 4, vit., 08, p. 3). SURF-SCOTER Gdemia perspicillata (L.). 8S. page 469. Scrtty Istes.—Has been obtained twice (J. Clark and F. R. Rodd, Zool., 1906, p. 304). CoRNWALL.—An adult male was killed with two Velvet Scoters on the Helford River on December 16th, 1906 (J. Clark, i.c., 1907; p. 285). ORKNEY.—Young birds are of commoner occurrence than most people suppose, hardly a winter passes without one or more being seen among the Velvet-Scoters when they first arrive. The adult birds are much rarer. An adult male was seen inside Stromness Harbour between December 14th and 21st, 1905 (H. W. Robinson, Field, 17, 11., 06). GOOSANDER Mergus merganser L. S. page 471. ScoTLAND.—A pair was identified off the north end of North Uist on October 31st, 1905 (A. Elfrish, Ann. S.N.A., 1906, p. 53). A male was seen off Barra on May 22nd, 1906 (N. B. Kinnear, ¢.c., 1907, p. 83). The bird is of rare occur- rence in the Outer Hebrides. SMEW WMergus albellus L. 8S. page 475. NorFro.tk.—An adult male was shot on Breydon on January 30th, 1907 (B. Dye, Zool., 1907, p. 111). Adult males are rare. YorRKSHIRE.—An adult was shot at Skelton in the winter ot 1900 (‘T. H. Nelson, Birds of Yorks., p. 486). SHETLAND.—One was shot on February 14th, 1901, at Sconsburgh (Ann. S.N.H., 1902, p. 134). It is a rare visitor to the Shetlands. (To be continued.) ( 88 ) LARGE-BILLED REED-BUNTING (EMBERIZA PYRRHULOIDES PALUSTRIS) IN KENT. A NEW BRITISH BIRD. BY M. J. NICOLL, M.B.0.Uv. At the meeting of the British Ornithologists’ Club, held on June 17th last, I exhibited a male specimen of the South European Large-billed Reed-Bunting (Hmberiza pyrrhulo des palustris). This bird, which is new to the British fauna, was obtained near Lydd, in Kent, on May 26th last. I was away from home at the time it was shot, and was thus unable to see it in the flesh, but I examined it shortly after it was mounted. The occurrence of this Reed-Bunting in the British Islands is of interest, not only on account of its being a new British bird, but also because the commoner and typical H. p. pyrrhuloides is the form one would expect to occur in England, as it has done so on Heligoland. The example obtained in Kent agrees exactly with specimens in the British Museum from South Italy, in which country, as well as in Southern France and Spain, the bird is resident. It may be distinguished at once from the common Reed-Bunting by its large thick bill. The typical form of the Thick-billed Reed-Bunting inhabits the coasts of the Caspian Sea from the foot of the North Caucasus to the Volga, Transcaspia and Turkestan, and has occurred once on Heligoland. In coloration the former is very much paler, the broad white edges to the feathers of the upperparts, and the pale grey rump, give the bird an almost silver-grey appearance: a great contrast to the more sober coloration of the bird obtained in Kent. It is somewhat difficult to account for the appearance of some South European birds in the British Islands. The present species and all other stragglers which have M. J. NICOLL: REED-BUNTING IN KENT. 89 occurred, may have joined parties of other species, and thus found their way to our shores. In the autumn southerly gales may be the cause of the visitation of rare Chats and other birds. But some have occurred in our islands during the height of the Male Large-billed Reed-Bunting obtained near Lydd, Kent, on May 26th, 1908. summer, and these visitations can, I think, only be accounted for by the supposition that these birds had lost their mates, or that their nesting had been interfered with in some way, and that, following the migratory “impulse,” they had pushed northwards and_ thus reached the British Islands, far to the north of their usual limit. CURIOUS SITE FOR A ROBIN’S NEST. Rosins have frequently been recorded as nesting in curious places, but I do not think they have been known to choose such a remarkable site as the following. A pair relined an old Blackbird’s nest, situated in a thorn bush, four feet from the ground, with moss, and were successful in hatching a brood. A. G. LEIGH. [The Rev. F. C. R. Jourdain writes :—‘‘ The habit of breeding in old nests of other species is common in the case of the Pied Wagtail and occasional in the Tits, Spotted Flycatcher, and other birds. The habit is, however, rarely recorded of the Robin. I have a note of one found in an old Swallow’s nest, and one in an old Hedge-Sparrow’s nest is recorded by Mr. J. E. Harting (Birds of Middlesex, p. 38).” In a list of such occurrences published in the “ Zoologist”’ (1905, p. 33), Mr. R. H. Read records a Robin’s nest in a Thrush’s nest, and three nests of the Robin one over the other, the top one containing eggs and the middle one stale eggs of the previous season. Mr. T. T. Mackeith also records (t.c., p. 69) a Robin’s nest built upon a Swallow’s nest of the previous year. Many instances of other birds utilizing the old nests of other species are on record.—EDs. ] GREY-HEADED WAGTAIL IN SUSSEX. In the spring of 1869 or 1870 a Grey-headed Wagtail was shot at Lancing, in Sussex, not far from the sea, which has, I am sorry to say, remained until now unidentified. Having, at the request of Mr. Witherby, submitted it to Mr. N. F. Ticehurst, that gentleman writes: “It is In my opinion undoubtedly M. f. borealis. . .. . It is not nearly white enough on the throat, and is too dark on the head for M. f. cinereicapilla. It is even darker on the head than most of my M. f. borealis, but I take it that is due to wear.” J. H. GURNEY. NESTING OF THE GREY WAGTAIL IN BERKSHIRE. On June 13th I noticed a pair of Grey Wagtails (Motacilla melanope) close to one of the locks on the Kennet and Avon Canal. After a very short search I found their nest (empty, but apparently ready for eggs) in the broken woodwork of the NOTES. 91 side of the lock. On June 18th the nest was visited by the keeper, and found to contain four eggs. On June 24th I again visited the place, but unfortunately a barge had been through the lock in the meantime, and the nest had been swamped and the eggs washed away. A careful search in the hole behind the nest showed one broken shell, while the birds were still near by. The nest was so placed, that when the lock was filled (in order to enable a barge to pass) it must have been quite three feet under water. Mr. Heatley Noble records a nest in the “ Victoria History of Berkshire,” while I believe another one has been found more recently by Mr. F. C. Selous, near Newbury. W. Norman May. AN EARLY RECORDED WAXWING. Tue following extract from a letter which I have lately received from Mr. R. D. Roberts, of St. Asaph, North Wales, should prove of interest because it refers to one of the first Waxwings recorded as visiting this country, and it is re- markable that the specimen, although now 120 years old, should still be in good condition. Mr. Roberts writes: ‘‘ The quotation in your ‘ Vertebrate Fauna of North Wales’ from Pennant’s ‘ British Zoology,’ under the heading ‘ Waxwing ’ (page 130), is interesting to me inasmuch as the bird referred to is in my possession, and though shot in 1788 is in perfect condition. The account on the back of the case being nearly illegible through age I recently had copies printed, and enclose one.” The label reads as follows :— Bohemian Chatterer or Waxwing. (Bombycilla Garrula.) Kill’d during the cold Frost in December, 1788, at Garth- Meilio, in the County of Denbigh, by Mr. William Dod, of Edge, in Cheshire. It was perching in one of the Fir Trees in the Avenue to the House. H. E. Forrest. LESSER REDPOLLS NESTING IN SURREY. DurinG a couple of hours spent among the birch trees on Wimbledon Common on July 12th, I saw a nest of a Lesser Redpoll (Linota rufescens), in a small birch, with four well- fledged young ones, another brood on the wing, and at least five pairs of old birds. Indeed, on this July morning, when but few birds were singing, the Redpolls uttering their characteristic call-notes, as they passed from place to place 92 BRITISH BIRDS. with undecided, wavering flight, high above the tree-tops, were the outstanding feature in the bird-life of the common. CHARLES OLDHAM. [For former records of the Lesser Redpoll nesting on Wimbledon Common and in other places in Surrey, see Vol. L., p. 184.—H. F. W.] HAVE STARLINGS INCREASED BEYOND THE CAPACITY OF NESTING SITES ? Late last year two packs of Starlings of about 1000 each took possession of a young larch plantation near Ross, Herefordshire. Every evening the numbers increased until it was impossible to make any estimate of them, but to give some idea, I saw on one occasion a field of about four acres so covered with them that it was difficult to see any soil at all. Their movements, as night drew near, were a source of great interest to me. At times they would wheel for half-an-hour in the air, each battalion independent of the other ; at others they would settle in high trees and maintain a ceaseless chattering ; while, once or twice, being apparently still hungry, they would settle on ploughed ground and busily search for food. The majority have distributed and paired, but there are still a number of small packs, ten to twenty in each, which pass my house every night on their way to roost, and I have noticed for the last three years that many remained unpaired. These are neither old birds which have done nesting, for as yet (June 7th) I have seen no young birds abroad ; nor are they for the same reason young birds. What, then, is the reason for these bachelor habits ? It cannot be that there are greater numbers of either sex, because Nature’s balance is very even ; nor can it be that they do not breed until the second season. Is it possible that there are not enough suitable nesting places for so many ? FreD. A. HERBERT. NUTCRACKER IN KENT. In Vol. I., p. 388, we referred to a Nutcracker which had been reported by Mr. N. F. Richardson as having been shot in Kent on December 29th, 1907. On page 28 of the present volume Mr. G. M. Beresford-Webb suggested that this might have been a bird which escaped from his aviaries. Mr. Richardson has very kindly submitted the bird, with full particulars, to Mr. Beresford-Webb for examination, and that gentleman NOTES. 93 writes us that “as far as it is possible to see the bird appears to be similar to the one which escaped.” It was shot only six miles from Mr. Beresford-Webb’s house, and three days after his bird had escaped, and little doubt remains that it was in fact his bird and not a wild one.—Eps. CLIMBING MOVEMENTS OF THE GREEN WOODPECKER. THIS season a pair of Green Woodpeckers (Gecinus viridis) made a hole in a decaying cherry tree in the orchard next our garden, in the village of Burwash. I could, from a garden seat, watch them within fifty yards. The hen bird appeared to be sitting by the middle of May. The male bird was constantly bringing his mate food, and would fix himself on the trunk for ten minutes at a time, partly supporting itself by the stiff pointed tail-feathers, his head just level with the orifice opening into the nesting-hole, often uttering his plaintive cry. The female would now and again come up and greet him by putting out her bill through the opening hole. Unfortunately the orchard became the scene of carpet- beating operations, which disturbed the Woodpeckers, and in the intervals of absence a pair of Starlings commenced an attack, and by rapidly throwing in bits of foreign material, made the hole untenantable for the Woodpeckers, who consequently deserted it. The late Professor Newton, in the “History of British Birds” (Vol. II., p. 458), remarks in a footnote that “‘ Selby says he had repeatedly seen it descend trees by moving backward. The editor has not been so fortunate, though he thinks he must have enjoyed more frequent opportunities of observing the bird.” I can confirm this statement of Selby; the male bird of the pair I allude to searched the bark of the decaying cherry tree in which the hole was placed, with great assiduity. On reaching a sufficient elevation it would descend backward with as great rapidity as in its ascension. I was so close to the birds on many occasions, that with the aid of glasses, I saw that during the backward descent the points of the tail-feathers were kept about an inch off the bark of the tree, though the tail and. back retained the curve, associated with the ascending bird. H. W. FEILDEN. MARSH-HARRIERS IN NORFOLK. Durine a short stay in “ Broad-land” recently I had the good fortune to have under observation for some considerable time first a single specimen, and a day or two later a pair, 94. BRITISH BIRDS. of that handsome bird the Marsh-Harrier (Circus wruginosus). I shall never forget the majestic wheeling flight of these birds as they quartered the ground in search of prey. The exact locality it will perhaps not be wise to name for the present, but of the identity of the birds there can be no doubt. W. P. PycraArt. DUCKS’ EGGS AND DOWN. I HAVE read with considerable interest Mr. Noble’s article on Ducks in the June issue of BririsH Brrps. In the main I am in entire agreement with his remarks, especially as regards the futility of attempting to identify by the down alone. I take slight exception, however, to his remarks on the Gadwall. I have observed, perhaps, a dozen nests of this species in Norfolk, and in two cases at least there are numerous white feathers which are indistinguishable from those of the Wigeon, and which, in conjunction with precisely similar down and precisely similar eggs, render identification extremely difficult. I have seen the cream-coloured variety in eggs of the Pintail, but I wonder if Mr. Noble has come across the variety where the eggs are as vivid a green as those of the Golden-eye. As regards downless Pochards’ and Mallards’ nests, my experience of the former is small, being confined to one locality, where the nests are always floating structures, and down is not abundant, but I have found, perhaps, half-a-dozen Mallards’ nests built close to water, and amongst thick sedge, which were without a particle of down. NorMAN GILROY. [The Editors have kindly allowed me a view of the above note from Mr. Norman Gilroy. Doubtless the number of proprietors over whose estates Mr. Gilroy has leave to prosecute his investigations is larger than those who have extended a like permission to myself; in any case, I cannot lay claim to having examined so many nests of the Gadwall as Mr. Gilroy has. I have seen white feathers in Gadwalls’ nests, but in my opinion they are not typical, and as the object of the article was identification, they were excluded. I have not yet seen a nest containing only white feathers, and were I to find such a nest, I should consider it necessary to procure the female bird before identification could be established. Some of the patterned feathers have always been present in the nests I have examined, and it is these feathers which give the key to the solution—HratLEey NOBLE. | NOTES. 95 INLAND NESTING OF THE SHELD-DUCK, AND NESTING OF POCHARD, SHOVELER AND TEAL IN LINCOLNSHIRE. In answer to Mr. Southwell’s question about the Sheld-Ducks on Twig Moor, Lincolnshire (supra, p. 62), I may say with confidence that the birds breed there. On May 22nd, 1907, I saw five or six pairs there, evidently breeding ; and again on June 2nd, 1908, several birds were on the ponds, and a brood of ducklings had just been hatched off. The Sheld-Duck has also nested on the Gull-ponds on Scotton Common, six miles south-west of Twig Moor, and a pair or two perhaps do so every year. I have seen young in all stages there, and on June 22nd, 1903, there was a brood only a few days old, some of which I managed to catch in my hands, but quickly released. This species is very common on the Somerset coast, near Burnham and Weston-super-Mare; in winter I have seen more than five hundred on the sea in one flock, and hundreds nest among the sand dunes in the neighbourhood. The water- bailiff of Blagdon Reservoir, about ten miles from the Somerset coast, states that a pair remained to nest there a few years ago. He is a most intelligent observer, and is not likely to have been mistaken. I may mention also that several pairs of Pochards breed on the Twig Moor Gull-ponds, and I saw quite young broods both in 1907 and 1908. A good number of Teal and Shovelers breed on Scotton Common, a fact which I can state from personal observation, having found their nests and seen their young broods there on several occasions during the last few years. F. L. Buatuwayt. [Mr. Clifford Borrer has also written to us to the same effect as the above.—EDs. | NESTING OF THE SHOVELER IN STAFFORDSHIRE. Earzy in April, 1908, Mr. R. C. Thomas, of Bloxwich, told me that some Shovelers (Spatula clypeata) (at first two drakes and a duck) were on a “‘ swag ’’—a piece of water formed by subsidence of land caused by mining operations— at one of their collieries. The one on which the Shovelers were seen is about an acre in extent, and is adjacent to a coal-pit, which is not now worked. On May 12th Mr. Thomas found the nest, which then contained six eggs, built in a depression, about fifty yards from the “swag.” When on the nest the duck drew towards herself the tall grasses growing near, and thus formed a kind of canopy, a small opening being left at the side nearest the water. There is a footpath near, 96 BRITISH BIRDS. and, at this time, she took no notice of anyone passing by unless they stopped to look at her, when she hurriedly left the nest, ran a few yards, and took flight to the “ swag.” On May 17th the clutch of ten eggs was completed, and on May 28th I accompanied Mr. Thomas to see the b rds and their nest. As we approached the place my friends told me that it was uncertain whether we should see the drake, as he some- times disappeared for a whole day; however, to our great delight, we found the beautiful bird on the water. We had cautiously approached within some forty yards, when he rose and flew behind the “ pit-bank ” at the south side of the “swag.” Our attention was next directed to the duck, which hastily took to flight when we were within a yard of the nest. The grass had grown very much and now completely hid it. There were ten eggs—of a greenish-cream colour, much soiled—laid on dried grasses and down, and not covered—perhaps owing to our arrival at the nest being rather sudden. We then walked on to another “swag,” nearly three acres in extent, and about five hundred yards away. Here men were loading coal from “ pit-tubs”’ into carts, on a wharf, close to which, in company with a number of domestic ducks, were the Shovelers. Although they had apparently taken no notice of the men who were at work, on our arrival they instantly took flight, fortunately only to the other side of the “swag.” Very quietly we walked to the shelter of a tree, from which we watched the birds for a considerable time, during which they left the water and preened their feathers on the opposite bank. On June 9th the ten eggs hatched out safely, after an in- cubation of twenty-four days, and the same day a second drake put in an appearance, but, after a fight, was driven off. The Rev. F. C. R. Jourdain, whom I told of this occur- rence, informs me that a pair of Shovelers had bred at Wyrley Grove, which is two miles from the locality of the nest I have described, in 1906 and 1907; from inquiries I have since made I find there has not been a nest there this year. The best thanks of Staffordshire ornithologists are due to the Messrs. Thomas, who were draining the “swag” when the Shovelers were first noticed, and who instantly stopped operations when they found that they were nesting. They have since taken every precaution that the birds should not be disturbed. W. WELLS BLADEN. POCHARD NESTING IN SOUTH-WEST KENT. On May 16th I was punting with a friend in Romney Marsh NOTES. 97 along a wide dyke, which ran along one side of a bed of high reeds. On nearing anangle of the reed bed I noticed a female Pochard (Fuligula ferina) swimming hurriedly away as if she had just left her nest. I got out of the punt and searched the corner of the reed bed, when I very soon discovered the nest containing seven young Pochards, just hatched, one duckling being not yet dry. While examining and trying to photograph the nest the duck flew round quite close, so I was certain of her identity. The nest was about eighteen inches high, composed of pieces of dry reed, and had practically no down or feathers in it; in fact, except for the ducklings and the broken eggshells, one might have supposed that the nest was that of a Coot. R. Sparrow. UNUSUAL NESTING SITES AND INCUBATION PERIOD OF THE TUFTED DUCK. On June 17th, 1908, I found on a small island rock a nest of a Tufted Duck (Fuligula cristata) in a water-worn crevice, having cover from all sides except the south, with an over- hanging rock giving partial cover from above. The nest was made of dry rush, grass, moss, and a few green fern leaves ; there were five eggs, on which the bird was sitting, but there was little, if any, down. On June 20th, 1908, on a wooded island, I found a Tufted Duck’s nest among bushes, with a dead branch overhanging one side of it. South-west of it was a rock ; north of it a large stone ; east of it a small stone; to the south of it a sallagh, probably Salix caprea. ‘The floor of the nest was made of dead leaves, the sides of it were almost entirely of down, with a very few dead leaves and small dead twigs, and the occur- rence of these two latter may have been accidental. As at the bottom of the nest there was the skin of an egg, it seems probable the site had been used before. There were ten eggs. I have by no means infrequently found the nest of this species under bushes, but I do not remember one placed as this one was, right inside a covert. There is no doubt birds adapt themselves to their surround- ings, but it seems curious that they should select an unusual site without immediately at hand the usual materials for a.’ nest, when plenty of such ground is to be found close by. On May 29th last on a lake island in Ireland I found a nest of the Tufted Duck with eight eggs. I am all but certain I put the bird off it, but the one egg I took from the nest when blown showed no trace of incubation. I replaced, within 98 BRITISH BIRDS. a few minutes, this egg with one of a domestic Duck. At some time subsequent. to this, and prior to June 22nd, I visited the nest and found her sitting on eight eggs, 7.e., seven of her own and the one of the domestic Duck. On July Ist my boatman visited the nest and found her sitting on five eggs only, z.e., two of her own had gone as also the one of the tame Duck. On July 5th, on visiting the nest, he found the eggs had hatched out. Needless to say, I do not consider these observations by any means crucial, but the evidence, such as it is, points in the direction of the incubation period of the Tufted Duck being more than twenty-three days. On June 16th, on a small lake island, I found a Tufted Duck’s nest with sixteen eggs. One egg was on the top of the other fifteen, they were warm and evidently being incubated. H. TREVELYAN. TEAL AND PHEASANT LAYING IN THE SAME NEST. I mer with rather a curious case of a mixed clutch of eggs a few days ago which may be worth recording, viz., a nest with both Teal’s and Pheasant’s eggs. Both birds laid in one nest, but when I saw it the Teal was in possession, sitting very close. CHARLES E. PEARSON. [A number of records show that in the case of Game-birds and Ducks “joint”? clutches of eggs are by no means rare.— H. F.W.] PALLAS’S SAND-GROUSE IN ENGLAND. AN invasion of Pallas’s Sand-Grouse (Syrrhaptes paradoxus) into this country was not unexpected since the bird appeared numerously in European Russia in the latter half of April, and has been reported from several parts of Germany (cf. Orn. Monats., 1908, pp. 100 and 132). The following have been reported in England :—Yorkshire-——Three flying high between Burley and Ilkley on May 20th (“‘ Lichen Grey,” Country Life, 13, v1., 08). Hampshire.—Five, said to be of this species, were seen near East Liss about the middle of April (“ M.I.,” Feld, 20, v1.,08). Five were clearly identified by Mr. A. O. Lyon, near Burley, New Forest, early in August (in litt.). Two were seen flying N.E. over Havant on July 8th (B. Roper, t.c., 18, vu. 08). Berkshire.-—One was picked up near the River Kennet on June 6th (H. D. Astley, t.c., 20, vu., O08). Hssex—A pair was seen several times near Southend-on-Sea in the last week of June (J. Seabrooke, t.c., 4, vir., 08). Surrey.—Three were observed at Holmwood on June 28th (L. Mortimer, l.c.). Norfolk.—Two were seen at Brancaster on June 28th (F. H. Partridge, /.c.).—H. F. W. NOTES. 99 BLACK-TAILED GODWIT AND SPOTTED REDSHANK IN KENT. On May 12th last I was walking alongside a “fleet” in Romney Marsh when a bird which was strange to me rose from the edge of some shallow water. I at once got my binoculars on to it, and by the long straight bill, white wing-bar and white rump and light brown back, I identified it as a Black-tailed Godwit (Limosa belgica), and from its size I should say it was a female. It flew some distance, and I thought I had marked it down, but on going to the spot I failed to flush it again. On the 16th I visited the same ground, but did not see the Godwit, so it had evidently continued its migration. The same evening my attention was called to a strange bird flying overhead by hearing a whistle something like that of a Redshank. For a moment [thought it was a Golden Plover with black breast, but on looking at it through my glasses, I noticed it flew very like a Common Redshank, and had a beak as long as a Redshank, and was black all over, with white speckles. I at once decided it was a male Spotted Redshank (Totanus fuscus) on migration. R. SPARROW. CHANGE OF NESTING SITES THROUGH HUMAN INFLUENCE. Last January the Black-headed Gull was removed from the list of egg-protected birds. As a consequence its regular nesting-places were raided by collectors of eggs for local consumption, or for despatch to London as Plovers’ eggs, and the result was that the birds, seeking fresh quarters, formed two new colonies on Wedholme Flow and Rockliffe Marsh, near Carlisle. The Redshank has been subjected to similar persecution. At one time the commonest of our shore-birds, its numbers suffered such depletion that it was put on the list of egg-protected birds by the Cumberland County Council. On the marshes in North Lancashire its egos have been largely gathered for substitution as Plovers’ eggs in the metropolitan market, and the result has been a notable exodus of the birds to the Yorkshire dales for security, In the neighbourhood of Bentham, as Mr. Murdoch, a capable naturalist, reports, Redshanks have been nesting freely, and in a Yorkshire dale several miles further inland I have noticed a remarkable development. With the sequestered and beautiful dale named Kingsdale, I have been familiar from boyhood, and have fished its trout stream for more than fifty years. I can vouch for it that such a bird as a Redshank 100 BRITISH BIRDS. was never seen in that dale until very recent years. Five years ago there was, to my surprise, a pair of the birds; at the beginning of June this year Redshanks were so numerous and noisy as to produce the illusion that I was on a Cumberland marsh. The addition to the avian life of the dale was very pleasing. T. Harrison. * * LesseR ReppPott Nesting In Mippuesex.—Lt.-Col. H. Meyrick records that he has found two nests of the Lesser Redpoll (Linota rufescens) on Hampstead Heath this year, and that he suspected them of breeding there last year (Zool., 1908, p. 227). LirrLE Ow. IN WILTSHIRE.—An example of Athene noctua was shot near Avebury in November, 1907, and is now in the Marlborough College Museum (Rep. Marl. Coll. N.H. Soc., 1908, p. 76). This may be a forerunner of a still greater extension of this bird in a south-westerly direction from Lilford than has yet been traced (cf. ante, Vol. I., p. 335 et seq.), or it may have been liberated locally. The members of the College Natural History Society would do well to make a search for the Little Owl in the neighbourhood. Scops OwL IN CUMBERLAND.—A specimen of a Scops Owl (Scops giu) is reported by Mr. P. W. Parkin (in whose possession the bird is) to have been shot on November 6th, 1907, at Broomrigg, near Armathwaite, by Captain W. H. Parkin (Field, 13, vi., 08, p. 982). BITTERN IN YORKSHIRE.—A Common Bittern (Botaurus stellaris) was seen by the watcher at Kilnsea, Holderness, Yorkshire, on May 6th last (R. Fortune, Nat., 1908, p. 202). GADWALL IN SOMERSET.—A male was shot near Bridgwater on February 10th, 1908 (H. Whistler, Field, 20, v1., 08,p. 1030). Woop - Picton Nesting oN A Hovse.—TIwo Wood- Pigeons are said by Mr. F. Mansell to have nested and reared their young on a window-sill in Highbury this year (Field, 20, vi., 08, p. 1030). IncREASE OF TERNS NestTING In IRELAND.—Mr. A. Williams writes to the “ Irish Naturalist ”’ (1908, pp. 119-122) that protection has greatly increased the Gulls and Terns in co. Dublin. At Malahide Island the numbers of Common and Arctic Terns nesting is described as being incalculable. This colony a few years ago numbered only a couple of pairs. A rough idea of the number of birds at the present time is given by the fact that Mr. Williams counted 211 nests, but his search was by no means exhaustive. Vol. IL 4 1908. No. 4. i Mogmuly oe sme ‘NET __ "396HIGIHOLBORNICNDON 1 “1 . 7 ~} et ‘ i PA! Bind Poke =e 4 ‘ oT | {3 RECA Se _ EGGS OF PALAARCTIC BIRDS. A Work on this subject, ‘illustrated with BEAUTIFULLY. Tee | | COLOURED PLATES, is now being sprig en | _ Write nie Fult Prospectus and a Part ‘fie inspection to WILLIAMS & NORGATE, 44, Henrietta Street, Covent Garden, London, W. Gu ~~ DALLMEYER'S Natu ralists’ Camera, -4907- MODEL, For thas ih or Oninaly LENSES. oe | a DALLMEYER'S. Lenses are wel ac! by the test ee skilled Bird ‘ i We eat caes Bec —— The fllviher are. : specially recowtneniteds 1 THE STIGMATIC SERIES. ll. F/6 (Convertible) THE SERIES ‘D PATENT PORTRAIT LENSES F 6.. 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ITO Kua QQ \ \ SSesltz "4 oe \ cute) a Nea nC a rll ttiert Saute eet MUAY a et MIN \ “ae . 5 e a. ee co Ss LQ RA ak So 3 = : SEES ul at er et “AND PROTECT WILD BIRDS. _4.By MARTIN HIESEMANN. With an Introduction by Her Grace the DUCHESS of BEDFORD Many Illustrations. Stiff Boards, 1s. 6d. net. NESTING | Nesting Boxes | TO ALL LOVERS OF WILD BIRDS c ens ainox | THIS BOOK WILL APPEAL. -@ It is a practical guide for all who wish to attract the birds to their doors and induce them to nest in their gardens, whether large or small. 3 oy ie q It shows that these birds are most useful in keeping down the insect pests which are so harmful to trees and shrubs. _ @ In this connection also the attention of Municipal and Urban - Councils may be drawn to the advantages which would | | accrue to trees and plants from the use of nesting a 2 for birds in Public Parks and open spaces. ¢: _ @ The methods described are simple but efficient, They are ’ the outcome of a lifetime of study and experiment by one ‘? of the greatest of bird-lovers—the Baron von Berlepsch. died orgs London: WITHERBY & CO., 326, High Holeti, sh AND OF ALL BOOKSELLERS. LAS ar] 3 i | 3 : € ae is G'S 58 ba) mn ies Bes 2 (uewy4ly ‘g ‘yf Aq paydessojoyd) “HSUV], AUNWOY “LSHN' SLI NO NUAT, WILL T '€ ‘Id “1 19A “Sda/d HSILIAd DRHEHBIRDS SorrrED GY" HH: F. WITHERBY, F.Z.5.; M.B.0.U. ASSISTED BY W. P. PYCRAFT, A.LS., M.B.0.U. ConTENTS OF NuMBER 4, Vou. II. SrpremBer 1, 1908. Variation in the Nests of the Arctic and Common Terns, by F. B. Kirkman, B.A., Oxon. ee Ill.) (Continued from page 82) ais «Page: 101 Some Early British Geniwelogists amd eis works: by W. H. Mullens, m.a., LL.M., M.B.0.U. IIL. —Christopher Merrett (16141695) is 109 Bird Roosts and Routes, by Bruce F. Giiminge ae 119 On the More Important Additions to our Knowledge of British Birds since 1899, by H. F. Witherby and N. F. Ticehurst. Part XIII. (continued from page 87) a 125 Notes :—Pied Wagtail Rearing Three Broods (E. G. B. Meade- Waldo). On the British Bullfinch (Dr. Ernst Hartert): How a Cuckoo Deposited her Egg (Owen Ephraim). Tufted Duck in Scotland (Wm. Eagle Clarke). Stark’s Record of the Breeding of the Scaup-Duck at Loch Leven (William Evans). The Distribution of the Common Scoter in Scotland (J. A. Harvie-Brown). Pallas’s Sand-Grouse in Yorkshire and Kent (T. H. Nelson, H. G. Alexander). Green-Backed Gallinule in Norfolk (Rev. M. C. H. Bird). Abnormal Eggs of the Ringed Plover (Major H. Trevelyan). Pebble Nest of a Ringed Plover (Com. H. Lynes, R.N.). Lapwing’s Nest with Five Eggs (Col. R. H. Rattray). Solitary Sandpiper and other Waders in Kent (The Duchess of Bedford). A Hitherto Unrecorded Specimen of the Levantine Shearwater from Kent (N. F. Ticehurst), ete. 130 VARIATION IN THE NESTS OF THE ARCTIC AND COMMON TERNS. BY F. B. KIRKMAN, B.aA., oxon. (erary LIT.) (Continued from page 82.) At Romney Marsh I examined this summer (1908) fifteen Common Terns’ nests. Of these twelve were in the shingle, and three on soil among herbage ; one made of lichen and grass was shaded by a foxglove, and em- bowered in white campion—a charming picture. Only 102 BRITISH BIRDS. one, lying in the shingle, was without lining of any sort. _ The material used in the case of the others consisted of small twigs, chiefly broom, coarse stems, dry grass and lichen. By using one of these materials, or combining two or three, the fourteen birds in question managed to produce seven variations, of which one is shown in Fig. 8. This species, also, according to Mr. Kearton, lays its eggs on bare rock. As in the case of the Arctic Fic. 6.—Arctic Tern’s Nest, with Pebbles and Bent. Terns, no definite relation between site and material could be traced. A word about the Little Tern. The late Howard Saunders stated that it uses no material for its nest. Mr. Fred. Austen, the watcher at Romney Marsh, endorses this, adding that the hen alone constructs the nest, which she does by the simple process of working her body round and round in the pebbles, much like a dog preparing its bed for a nap. But the late H. A. Macpherson des- cribes two nests (t.c., p. 418) one lined with “‘ dry stems of ¥F.B. KIRKMAN: VARIATION IN NESTS OF TERNS. 103 grass,’ the other with “ fine pebbles.”’ While no doubt the species generally dispenses with a lining (Fig. 7), further observation may show that variations are not infrequent. One may note in passing that the preference of the Little Tern for unlined nests may possibly account for the comparative scarcity of this species. Let us turn now to consider the bearing of the above facts, beginning with the variation in sites. It seems reasonable to assume that if there is any truth in the theory of protective coloration the normal (7.e., the safest) nesting site of the Arctic and Common Tern, and, indeed, of all the grey and white Terns and Gulls, is the closely packed shingle such as one finds on the beach or the vast stretches of Romney Marsh. Sitting amid the vague outlines of black, white, and grey stones, a Tern is prac- tically invisible. Something of this correspondence of colour is visible in Plate III, There is no reason to think that the invisibility is necessary to the safety of the Tern itself, for it is the last bird to be caught napping on its nest. But its advantage as a means of protecting eggs and young from discovery is obvious. By placing its eggs among herbage, on the bare sand patches, on rocks, or even in the shingle beds among the sandhills, where the stones are seldom closely packed (Fig. 6), the Tern sacrifices all the advantages to be derived from its coloration. In such sites it is a con- spicuous object. That it should be able to effect the change with comparative impunity seems to argue that the species has no longer many egg-stealing foes to fear. Under any circumstances it would require a bird of no mean courage or strength to pillage the nests of Terns, for they have an unpleasant habit of descending almost vertically, with the velocity of a bolt, upon unwelcome intruders, and striking with the beak. At Walney the young Black-headed Gulls, whose mottled brown plumage evidently caused their identity to be mistaken, suffered severely from this practice, often being struck down in mid-flight, and the more easily as they were 104 BRITISH BIRDS. ignorant of the Corvine device of turning bodily in the air and presenting beak and claws to an assailant from above. Howard Saunders records that a flock of Arctic Terns ‘‘has been seen to mob and drown a Hooded Crow.” On the other hand, it is stated that in the Farne Islands, a Greater Black-backed Gull forced to keep on the ground by a broken wing, relieved the monotony of its existence by prolonged feasting upon eal Mais Fic. 7.—Lesser Tern’s Nest in Shingle at Romney Marsh. the eggs and young of the large colony of Arctic Terns. A mile off one could see the whirling canopy of white wings that marked the spots where the invalid paused for refreshments. No doubt a Raven could also exact heavy toll. But these and other targe egg-eaters are now no longer common. The Arctic Terns of Walney were, however, far from effecting with impunity the change from the normal site. Though they shifted their nesting grounds at least — F.B. KIRKMAN: VARIATION IN NESTS OF TERNS. 105 once, and though they continued laying and re-laying up to the middle of July, it is doubtful whether they hatched out more than a dozen chicks. An almost clean sweep was made of the eggs, the marauder being no other than the humble rat. Traces of these creatures’ feet and tails were to be seen leading from nearly every nest to the nearest tuft of bent, where the broken shells of the eggs told the story of the theft. The deep narrow furrow made in each case by the tail in the sand seemed to show that the rat had used this appendage as a support while it hopped along on its hind legs with the eggs clasped in loving fashion to its breast. That it escaped being murdered by the parents is remarkable. If the Terns had nested in the packed shingle of the beach would their eggs have escaped the rats? Arguing a prior? it is at least clear that they would have been much more difficult to locate. Perhaps some other observer ean throw light on this point. So far I have shown, or attempted to show, that the Arctic Terns are quitting the safer shingle site for others more exposed. I suggest that this has been done with comparative impunity (assuming the rat ravages to be exceptional) owing to the greater scarcity of enemies powerful enough to take advantage of the new conditions. The same applies to a number of other sea-birds. Indeed, it is more than likely that the extermination of the larger birds of prey helps to explain much that is anomalous in the habits of British birds. But to show that the absence of enemies has rendered the change possible is not to explain why it took place. It may be that, owing to the spread of vegetation, or the invasion of sand, it is the nesting sites that are altering their character, and not the birds their choice. But this is mere conjecture. When we quit the subject of variation in site for that of nesting material, we find ourselves face to face with the two questions already put by Mr. Pycraft in respect to the Ringed Plover, the first being: How comes it about that certain individuals of the species provide 106 BRITISH BIRDS. their nests with a lining when other individuals dispense with it altogether? The explanation may lie in the undoubted capacity for imitation that birds possess. This would account for the presence of a lining where it was superfluous, or where, as has been shown to be frequently the case, it is too rudimentary to be of the least use. Imitation, even among human beings, is often quite unintelligent. Or it may be due to a tendency Fic. 8.—Common Tern’s Nest of Broom at Romney Marsh. inherited from some remote ancestor living under different conditions. Before, however, we can balance probabilities, we must decide whether the lined nests are to be regarded as the beginning of an advance, or as a survival, persisting not by virtue of necessity, but simply because it is harmless. The first step towards a solution is to find out whether the mortality among the chicks before or immediately after quitting the egg-shells is due to the absence or presence of a lining. The second question may be stated thus: How comes F.B. KIRKMAN: VARIATION IN NESTS OF TERNS. 107 it that those individuals of the species which line their nests differ in their choice of material? Let us note that this choice is limited by two conditions, the most obvious being the accessibility of the material. But though accessibility limits choice, it does not necessarily determine its direction. The material of the Terns’ nest above described was equally accessible to all. A more striking illustration is, however, provided by the following details of the material used in six Thrushes’ nests, all built in gorse bushes within fifty yards of one another, one only being old: (1) gorse; (2) an old nest of grass, with a small amount of gorse and twigs, and one bit of wool ; (3) grass, moss, stalks ; (4) grass, moss, bracken ; (5) grass, a little wool ; (6) grass, moss, hairs. Obviously, the most accessible material for all was gorse, yet this was utilised by not more than two. The choice of materials in the Terns’ nests described appears to have been limited only by accessibility, but in the vast majority of cases, if not in all, there is a second quite distinct limiting condition which may briefly be called the law of species. For instance, the Thrush, though using a wide variety of materials in the normal construction of the outside of its nest, appears to be debarred from using twigs only. The material of the inside lining is subjected to still greater restrictions, being confined, ‘“‘ freak”? nests apart, to dung or mud studded with bits of rotten wood. This limitation is, no doubt, to be explained, as Mr. Alfred Russel Wallace has pointed out, by some peculiarity in the structure or habits, past or present, of the species. It would be interesting to know what this is in the case of the Thrush. What led it to scorn the Blackbird’s addition of grass, or the wool, hair, feathers, used by other species? Put more generally, the question is one of the origin of specific as distinct from individual variations. Within the limits thus imposed upon it by accessibility and the law of the species, why does one individual select, say, twigs, another pebbles? It may be that the young 108 BRITISH BIRDS. bird constructing its first nest takes the first “lawful ” material that accident places in its way, and so contracts the beginning of a habit that leads it to use normally the same material in the construction of all subsequent nests, even though the search for it demands much more time and labour than taking any other “lawful” material that happens to be near the adopted site. This theory, which would apply equally to cases in which both sexes took part in building, is at first sight plausible enough. It depends, however, upon a question of fact. It should not be difficult either by marking birds or watching their behaviour in captivity to find out whether they tend to continue the use of nesting material once adopted. Perhaps someone already has the facts. If so, let him write and deliver. Facts it is that are wanted, and as far as nests are concerned, it should not be difficult to collect a large number. Those who are prepared to co-operate in this work will at least have the satisfaction of feeling that their time is being put to good use. The question of variation, specific or individual, structural or functional, occupies to-day a place in the foremost rank of scientific problems, because it takes us to the roots of the evolution theory. It has no mere academic importance. Human progress depends upon human control of natural forces. There can be no control of these forces except by under- . standing the laws that govern their operations. And these laws can be reached only through a persevering accumulation of seemingly trivial facts. Jf there is one thing that Darwin, Wallace, and their successors have made clear, it is the immeasurable importance of the unimportant. They have shown us that from the spectacle of the humble Thrush collecting a beakful of rotten wood for its nest there is but one step to the brink of the un- plumbed depths that hide the answer to the riddle of the universe. "109" SOME EARLY BRITISH ORNITHOLOGISTS AND THEIR WORKS. BY Wa HH, MULGLHNS, m.A., olism.) MLB OU. I.—CHRISTOPHER MERRETT (1614—1695). THE first printed list of British Birds is that contained in the ‘“Pinax Rerum . . . Britannicarum”’ of Christopher Merrett, or Merret. This small 8vo work was published in London in 1666, and was, as its name denotes (Pinaz = a list, or index) an attempt on Merrett’s part to catalogue the vegetables, animals, and minerals, of Great Britain. Of the 223 pages of which the book consists, 165 are devoted to botany, 42 to zoology, and the remainder to minerals. In making his list Merrett was content, at any rate as regards the birds, to do little more than enumerate those which he considered he had identified from the descriptions of Ulyses Aldrovandus, whose twelve books on birds, largely founded on the work of Gesner, appeared between 1599 and 1603, and of Johannes Jonstonus, a Scotsman by descent, but by birth a Pole, the first edition of whose “‘ History of Birds” appeared in 1650.* The English names are added in many cases, but the few short notes are rarely original, and Merrett does not seem up to this time to have devoted much personal attention to the observa- tion or study of birds; indeed, the chief object of his book was to replace the “‘ Phytologia’’ (London, 1 vol., 8vo) of William Howe (1620-1656) a ‘“‘ Flora”? which had appeared * Merrett’s references to Gesner and Belon, both, as authors, far more accurate than the two above-mentioned, are, unfortunately, but few. 110 BRITISH BIRDS. in 1650, and speedily passed out of print. Meagre and im- perfect as Merrett’s efforts must now appear, his work was at any rate the first of its kind, and was held in high estimation by his contemporaries. Sir Thomas Browne (1605-1682), the celebrated author of the “ Religio Medici,’ with whom Merrett had entered into correspondence when he was contemplating a new and enlarged edition of the “ Pinax,” thus writes :— * July 13th, 1668. ‘To Dr. Meret. ‘‘most honoured Sir,—I take ye boldnesse to salute you as a person of singular worth and learning and whom I very much respect and honour. ...I should be very glad to serve you by any observations of mine against yr. second edition of your Pinax which I cannot sufficiently commende.” (cf. Southwell’s Notes and Letters on the Natural History of Norfolk, etc.” London, 1902. 1 vol., 8vo, p. 57). Dr. John Fleming, the author of “A History of British Animals ” (Edinburgh, 1828, 1 vol., 8vo) also appreciates the ‘* Pinax,”’ and describes it as ‘“‘ This small work, which, though it claims little more than the merit of a catalogue, exhibits many proofs of great diligence, and rises in importance, when viewed as a first attempt at the construction of a British Fauna,” a far juster criticism than Pulteney’s (Richard Pulteney, 1730-1801, author of “‘ Historical Sketches of the Progress of Botany,” 1790) that it was ‘“‘ extremely superficial.” As regards the book itself, a facsimile of the title page of the first edition (1 Vol., small 8vo) is here given. The Collation is:—pp. 2, Title & Imprimatur, + pp. 7, Epist. Dedicat. + pp. 21, Epist. ad Lect., + pp. 231 + p. 1. This edition (of 1666) is very rare, many copies having presumably been destroyed in the Great Fire of London of that same year, either at the printer’s or at Merrett’s house. In the next year, 1667, there appeared two editions, or re-issues of the “ Pinax,” similar in contents to the original, but with different title pages, as below, one entitled ‘‘ Editio Secunda,”’ as follows :— Pe eN A Rerum Naturalium BRITANNICARUM, CONTINENS VeGETABILIA, ANIMALIA ET voces tr i A: In hac infula repperta in- choatus. AUTHORE Chri fepboro Merrett Mediems Doétore utriufque Societatis Regiz Socio primoque Mufzi Harveani cuftode. Mn To dye MMOUVov AAG €Py@ ATL void Secs TSS (nTedS. Hipp. Londini Impenfis Cave Palleys ad Infigne Rofe in Cameterio Divi Paul, Typis F.& T.Warren, Anno 1666. 112 BRITISH BIRDS. Pinax / Rerum Naturalium / Britannicarum, / continens / Vegetabilia, Animalia, / et / Fossilia, / In hac Insula reperta inchoatus / Editio Secunda. / Auctore / Christophoro Merrett,/ Medicine Doctore utriusque Societatis / Regize Socio primoque Musei Har- / veani Custode. / (quotation from Hippocrates) Londini, / Typis T. Roycroft, Impensis Cave Pulleyn, Prostat apud / Sam Thomson in vico vulgo dicto Duck lane, 1667. / 1 vol., small 8vo. Collation: pp. 2, Title & Imprimatur. + pp. 10, Epist. Dedicat. + pp. 20, Epist. ad Lect. + pp. 223 + p. 1. The other, a mere reprint of the original edition :— Pinax / Rerum Naturalium / Britannicarum, / continens / Vegetabilia, Animalia, / et / Fossilia, / In hac Insula reperta inchoatus. / Auctore / Christoporo Merrett, / Medicine Doctore utriusque Societatis / Regiz Socio promoque Muszi Har- / veani Custode. / (quotation from Hippocrates) Londini, / Typis T. Roycroft, Impensis Cave Pulleyn. / MDCLXVII. 1 vol., small 8vo. Collation as above. It will be noticed that the date of this last edition, unlike that of the first, and the ‘‘ editio secunda,” 1s in Roman, not Arabic, figures. (Engelmann gives an Edition of 1704. N.S.) | Although there appears to be no evidence that Merrett published any edition of the “ Pinax ” later than 1667, he cer- tainly contemplated doing so, and in August, 1668, he writes Sir T. Browne that: “ Besides those mentioned in ye pinax I have 100 to add & ... I doe entreat this favour off yu 39 to inform me fuller off those unknown things .. .” and in response to this request Sir Thomas Browne placed at his disposal the notes which he had prepared “ of many animals in these parts whereof 3 years agoe a learned gentleman of this Country wished me to give him some account, which while I was doing ye gentleman my good friend died.” Christopher Merrett, who, like so many of the earlier ornithologists, was by profession a physician, was born at Winchcomb, in Gloucestershire, on Feb. 16th, 1614. In 1631 he became a member of Gloucester Hall, Oxford, and removed to Oriel College in 1633. He took his B.A. degree in 1635, and then, devoting himself to the study of medicine, SOME EARLY BRITISH ORNITHOLOGISTS. 113 graduated M.B. in 1636, and M.D. in 1643. He afterwards settled in London, became a Fellow of the Royal College of Physicians in 1651, and Gulstonian Lecturer in 1654. Through the influence of his friend, Dr. William Harvey (1578-1657) Merrett became the first librarian of the College. He resided at Amen Corner, and is stated by Wood (Athen. Oxon.) to have acquired a considerable practice. The bulk of the library belonging to the College, and Merrett’s house were, however, destroyed in the Great Fire, and Merrett lost his appointment. He thereupon brought an action against the Royal College of Physicians, in which he claimed that he was entitled to his office for life. In this claim he failed, and was ultimately in 1681 expelled from his Fellowship, nominally for non- attendance. He died at his house in Hatton Garden, August 19th, 1695, and was buried ‘12 feet deep in the church of St. Andrew’s, Holborne.”” (Wood.) Merrett was the author of numerous other works, chiefly on medicine, and he also contributed several papers on ‘“‘ vegetable physiology ”’ to the “Philosophical Transactions.” His name is commemorated in Botany. 8S. F. Gray having in his “‘ Natural Arrangement of British Plants ” (1821), given the name of Merrettia to a group of unicellular Alge. We here print Merrett’s list of birds verbatim, adding, with the assistance of Mr. W. Warde Fowler, a few short explanatory notes, which are placed within thick square brackets. The pages of the original text are enclosed within ordinary square brackets. [Page 170] Aves Britannice. Terrestres Carnivore. Aquila, the Hagle, I. 10, tab. 1. 2. Ald. 110. G. 149. quandog ; huc migrat ex Hibernia ubi abundat. [‘“‘ Migrates out of Ireland where it abounds.” Merrett has here, as elsewhere, availed himself freely of information contained in Giraldus Cambrensis’ (1146-1223) “‘ Topography of Ireland.”’* Giraldus in his ninth chapter, which deals with. * First printed in 1577 (Anderson). 114 BRITISH BIRDS. ““The Eagle and its Nature,” informs us that “ Eagles are as numerous here (7.e., in Ireland) as kites are in other countries.’ ] | Accipiter, the Hawk, I. 20. tab. 7. Ald. 225. 228. G. 3. Haliztus, the Sea Hagle, vel Osprey Turn. Quandog ; conspicitur in Cornubia, I. 12. tab. 2. Ald. 188. 190. G. 177. ‘sine icone. [The Osprey, cf. Turner (Evans’ edition, pp. 35, 37, 193-195).* Giraldus seems to have been responsible for the idea, freely copied by later writers, that “By an extraordinary con- trivance of sportive nature,one of their feet spreads open, armed with talons, and adapted for taking their prey, the other is close, harmless, and only fit for swimming.” Merrett’s statement that it is seen in Cornwall is, no doubt, taken from Carew’s “ Survey of Cornwall” (1602, Fol. 35).] Lanarius, the Lanar, mas vocatur, the Lanaret, Ald. 381.382. I. 24. tab. 9.—in Shirwood Forest, in agro Notinghamensi, and in Dean Forest, in agro Glaucestrensi. [The name “ Lanar”’ has been applied to various species of Falcons (cf. Newton, Dict. Birds, p. 503). It is doubtful if Merrett here means Falco lanarius—probably this bird never bred in the British Isles—but vide Latham’s “ Falconry ” (1618, Book 11, p. 112), and Hollingshead ‘ Description of England ” (1577, Ch. V., p. 227) to the contrary.] Accip. Palumbarius, the Goshawk, mas dicitur the Tassel, Tertiolus, G. 43. [The Goshawk, cf. Willughby (p. 85). “ Tassel,” or Tercel, the term applied by falconers to the male of the Goshawk and Peregrine.] Accip. Fringillarius, & Nisus, the Sparrow-Hawk, I. 22. tab. 8. Ald. 346. 347. G. 44. mas appellatur, the Muschel, In plerisq ; locis sylvaticis. [“‘ The male is called Muschel.” The male of the Sparrow- hawk was termed in falconry the Musket—cf. “ Diary of Master William Silence” (p. 151), and ‘Merry Wives of Windsor ” (3.3.21): “‘ How now, my eyas-musket.’’] Tinnunculus mas & femina, a Stannel, or Stonegall, I. 22. tab. 8. Ald. 358. a Keshrel, or Kastrel, in tractibus Austral. G. 46. [‘‘ Stannel”’ = Kestrel, cf. Swainson “ Provincial Names of British Birds” (p. 140).] * References to Turner are from Mr. A. H. Evans’ edition. Cam- bridge. 1903. I vol. 8vo. SOME EARLY BRITISH ORNITHOLOGISTS. 115 Falco, the Faulcon, I. 30. tab. 12. speciem nescio, in Pem- brook-shire. [The figure in Jonstonus is seemingly that of the Peregrine, cf. Willughby (pp. 76 and 79) for Peregrine.] Coccyx, Cuculus, the Cuckoe, or Guckoe, I. 24. tab. 10. Ald. 414, 416. sub medium Aprilis nos advolat. Lanius, the Butcher, or murdering Bird, I. 24. [Page 171.] tab. 10. Ald. 389. G. 520. vidi juxta Kingsland, zstivo tempore ter. quaterve. Lanius Cinereus Anglicé, a Skreek, G. 520. Laniorum duas alias species observavit nobilis vir D. Willoughby totius nature diligentissimus Callentissimusgq ; scrutator non solum per Britanniam sed maximam partem Europe. [Most probably the Red-backed Shrike, since he saw it in summer. The two other species of Shrike observed by Willughby were (1) “The greater Butcher-Bird, or Matta- gesse, and in the Peak of Derbyshire after the German name Wierangel, or Werangel, Lanius Cinerus Major”; and (2) “The Wood-chat, Lanius Minor Cinereo-ruffus,”’ cf. ‘‘ The Ornithology ” (p. 21). The word ‘“ Shreek” was applied to the Mistle-Thrush and also to the Barn-Owl in old English vocabularies of the eleventh and fifteenth century. Willughby seems to infer that Turner was responsible for the name Shrike, as applied to the Butcher-bird, and John Ray, in ‘“ A Collection of English Words ” (London, 1674, 1 vol., 12mo, p. 83) confirms this.] Milvus, the forked tail’d Kite, I. 24. tab. 11. Ald. 395. G. 549. Turn. a Glede, a Puttock. [Cf. Turner (Evans’ Ed., p. 117) ‘ milvus, in English, a glede, a puttock, a kyte.” ‘The name “ puttock”’ was also applied by Willughby to the Buzzard (p. 70).] Subuteo, the ring-tail’d Kite, I. 24, tab. 9. [The Ringtail was the old name for the female Hen-Harrier. Cf. Willughby (p. 21). Merrett seems to have added Kite by mistake. ] Buteo Triorchis, the Buzzard, Ald 367. [Willughby makes the curious statement (p. 21) that this bird is a great destroyer of conies.] Peronos, the bald Buzzard, or Kite. [Turner applies the name “ Bald-Buzzard ”’ to the Marsh- Harrier, which he says the English call ‘“‘ Balbushard”’ (cf. Evans’ 116 BRITISH BIRDS. Edition, p. 33). Merrett here again wrongly introduces the word Kite.] Noctua, the Night, or little grey Owl, I. 48. tab. 18. Ald. tom. 1. 544. Bubo Turn. a like Fowl. [Turner says “‘bubo, in English alyke foule” (p. 47). It is difficult to determine what Owl Merrett here refers to.. Can it be the Little Owl? The Short-eared Owl is called to this day the “ grey yogle”’ in the Shetlands (cf. Swainson, p- 129). It is not, however, a night Owl. Charleton in his ‘‘Onomasticon Zoicon’”’ (1668, p. 70) calls “‘ Noctua ” “the Common Grey Owl.’’] Ulula, the white hooping Owl, or Owlet, or Howlet, I. tab. 19. Ald. 538. G. 700. [Ulula = the Barn-Owl.] Strix, the Screech, or Screeching Owl, I. tab. 19. Ald. 563. [The Screech Owl = the Tawny Owl (cf. Swainson, p. 129.)] Corvus, the Raven, I. 38. tab. 16, Ald. 694. in ulmetis juxta- zedes nobilium, G. 294. Corvus, I. 38. tab. 16. owr common or Carrion Crow, G. 282. Cornix nigra, Ald. 736. & Cornix simpliciter Turn. Cornix frugilega, spermologus, a Rook, I. 40. tab. 17. Ald. tom. 1. 753. Cornix aquat. Hance videt Turn. apud Morpetenses in ripis fluminum, G. 293. suspicor esse, the mur Cornubiensium. [This is the Water-Ouzel, or Dipper. Merrett has been misled by Turner’s use of the Northumbrian name ‘““ Watercraw’”’ (Evans’ Edition, p. 23), and has placed it among the Corvide. He has further confused the matter by suspecting it to be the Cornish “ Mur.” The word “ murre ” is used in Cornwall to designate the Razor-Bill, called also the Sea-Crow (cf. Swainson, p. 217).] Cornix Cinerea, the Royston Crow, I. ubi supra, Ald. 755. [Formerly also spelt Roiston Crow (cf. Ray, op. cit., p. 83, and Cotgrave’s Dictionary). Willughby (p. 22) says: “Common in Cambridgeshire about Newmarket and Royston.’’] [Page 172.] Graculus vel Monedula, a Jackdaw, a Chough, Turn. a Caddo, a Ka, I. 38. tab. 16. Ald. 771. G. 467. [Jackdaws were sometimes called Choughs (c/. Harting’s Ornithology of Shakespeare, p. 119).] Coracias Arist. the Cornish Chough, I. 38. tab. 16. Ald. 768. In omnibus oris maritimis a Cornubia ad Doroberniam. SOME EARLY BRITISH ORNITHOLOGISTS. 117 [Charleton (op. cit.) says its Cornish name was “the Killegrew ” (cf. Swainson, p. 74).] Pica Glandaria, a Jay, I. 40. tab. 17. Ald. 789. Garrulus avis, G. 634. Pica, the Magpie, Pyot, Py-anet, I. 40. tab. 17. Pica varia seu caudata, Ald. tom. I. 85. G. 628. [Ray (p. 84) has Pianet (cf. Swainson, p. 75).] Pica Marina, the Sea Pye, I. ut supra Ald. tab. 792. 794. [The Oyster-Catcher (cf. Turner, Evans’ Edition, p. 199; and also Swainson, p. 188). The Pica Marina of Aldrovandus is the Roller (cf. also Willughby, p. 132). Ray properly places the “‘ Sea-pie’ among the Waders (p. 80).] Vespertilio, a Bat, Flittermouse, Rearmouse, I. 52. tab. 20. Ald. 574. G. 604. vesperi apparet estate. Hyeme vero latet in cryptis, & rupibus. [Merrett, following the example of Gesner,* Belon,t Aldrovandus,{ Jonstonus,§ and Lovell,|. has placed the Bat in his list of birds. Charleton follows Merrett, and Albin as late as 1738 includes the Bat in his “ History of Birds ” (cf. Linneeus, Fauna Suecica, p. 7). Turner, avoiding this error, makes no mention of the Bat in his “‘ Avium... Historia.” Rearmouse = Reremouse, cf. Bartholomew (de Proprietatibus Rerum, Berthelet’s Edition, 1535, Book XIL., Fo. 38), and Shakespeare (M.N.D., II., 2.4.) :-— “Some war with rere-mice for their leathern wings To make my small elves coats.’’] Loxias, the Shell-Apple, Ald. 2. 877. I. 46. sine Icone in agro Warwic. in Pomaris, Mr. Willoughby. [The Shell-apple = the Crossbill (cf. Carew, Fol. 25,Willughby, p. 248, and Swainson, p. 67).] Caprimulgus, the Goat-sucker, I. 52. tab. 20. Ald. 568. G. 215. Hune ceepit Dominus Cole, in agro Hantoniensi, an. 1664. rara admodum avis. [It is strange that Merrett should describe the Goatsucker as a rare bird. Turner also does not mention it as a British bird, but relates that he made enquiries concerning its habits in Switzerland.] * Conrad Gesner (1516—1561), ‘“‘ De Avibus,” 1555. + Pierre Belon (ob. 1564), ‘‘ L’ Histoire des Oyseaux,”’ 1 { Ulyses Aldrovandus (1522—1605), ‘‘ Ornithologiz,” 1 § Johannes Jonstonus (1603—1675), ‘‘ De Avibus, 1650. || Robert Lovell (1630—1690), ‘‘ History of Animals,” 1661. 5505. 599. 116 BRITISH BIRDS. Aves Granivore non canore. Pavo, the Peacock, I. 52. tab. 22. Ald. 219. G. 594. . . . Fem the Peahen, I. 56. tab. 22. Ald. ib. plo. Gallo pavo, the Turkey-cock, I. 58. tab. 24. Ald. tab. 2. 39. G. 426. Phasianus, the Pheasant, I. ut supra Ald. tom. 2. 49. G. 619. Horum pulli vocantur Pouts, Est albus & alter fuscus. [Page 173.] Urogallus, major Cock of the Wood, I. 60. tab. 25. Urogallus seu Tetrao major Ald. 2. 64. in Hibernia occurrit. [The Capercalzie (also as Capricala, p. 179). Merrett’s statement that it occurs in Ireland is derived from Giraldus Cambrensis’ “Topography of Ireland” (Chapter X.), “ wild peacocks here abound in the woods,” cf. also Willughby (p. 23), ‘ This is not found in England, but in Ireland there be of them,’ and Ussher and Warren, ‘“ Birds of Ireland ”’ (p. 330).] Gallina Coryllorum, the Hasel Hen, Grous, I. 60. tab. 25. Ald. 2. 82. Bonosa Albert, G. 203. [Merrett here differs from Aldrovandus, who figures what is apparently the Francolin, under the title Attagen, and states that it was also called the Hazel Hen. Gallina coryllorum, Aldrovandus calls Rab-hun. There is some con- fusion here, as in many other of Merrett’s statements, the Hazel Hen, as far as we know, never having inhabited Great Britain.] Gall. Africana, the Guiney Hen, I. 58. tab. 24. Gallina Guinea, Ald. tom. 2. 337. meleagris vel Gallus Numidicus, G. 424. Otis, Tarda, Bistarda, the Bustard, I. 62. tab. 26. Ald. 288. G. 430. On Newmarket Heath, & in Campestribus Sarisburiensibus. [Turner (p. 167), “in English a Bustard or a Bistard” (cf. Willughby, p. 178).] Attagen, a Godwit, I. 62, tab. 26. Ald. 275, in agro Lincoln. [Turner’s “‘ Attagen”’ (p. 45) is the Godwit, cf. also Wil- lughby (p. 292).] Perdix Ruffa, the Partridge, I. 62, tab. 27. Ald. 2. 189. G. 606. Coturnix, the Quail, I. 62. tab. 27. Ald. tom. 2. 153. G. 311. (To be continued.) Cites) BIRD ROOSTS AND ROUTES. BY BRUCE F. CUMMINGS. Tue following paper does not pretend to be an exhaustive one, but is the result of my own observations during the past winter in the district of Barnstaple, North Devon. All birds show considerable care in the choice of a secure roosting site, and in order to spare labour in look- ing for a fresh one every night, they frequently return to the same place continuously. A great many of the small species roost in company, “cuddling,” or keeping close together in a bunch for warmth. I have found four Wrens roosting in this way in a hole in a tree, and have disturbed several sleeping in their “ cock ”’ nests, but as far as my notes go, these are generally vacant. On one occasion last summer I noticed several Long-tailed Tits (probably a brood) _ on the top of their nest, which had become quite flattened and was covered with droppings. I expect, therefore, that they returned to the nest every night, and when they got too large, roosted on the top of it. Wrens up to the number of thirty at a time, Long-tailed Tits, and Golden-crested Wrens are recorded as_ roosting together in this “bunching” fashion by Mr. G. A. B. Dewar (in the Birds of Our Wood). One _ night I saw two Blue Tits embracing each other in this way in an apple tree. They looked like one large bird, so close to each other were they. ‘This is not, however, the usual habit of this Tit, for it generally roosts in holes. The Sparrow, as is well known, will occupy an old 120 BRITISH BIRDS. House-Martin’s nest, or will line a hole in a thatch with feathers. Partridges roost on the ground, while Pheasants and fowls prefer to roost in trees. A Hedge-Sparrow which I had under observation, returned every evening last winter with the utmost regularity to a cranny among dead ivy on anelm. When driven out it would return in a few moments, first pitching on a branch of the tree, and then swiftly sneaking into the cranny, so that its return very frequently escaped my notice entirely. Kestrels roost at the same spot, in a quarry for ex- ample, for many consecutive weeks. The Pied Wagtail and the Grey Wagtail in the Barn- staple district collect in some numbers every evening, and roost in reed beds, like the Starlings. They drop in from all directions, but do not come from more than a mile distant. As a rule they collect on the ground, or telegraph wires, near the reed bed, before disappearing into the reeds, calling, and flying short distances in one flock. This flock increases as the birds come up one by one, and finally they drop into the reeds, where they are joined by Robins and Wrens. A great many species of birds roost in company, notably Starlings. Others are: House-sparrows, Carrion Crows (especially in Devon and Somerset), Magpies (which I have observed near Barnstaple), Rooks, and Wood- Pigeons. In North Devon, in the colder months of the year, the Rooks never roost in their rookery during, at all events, the months of November, December, January, February, and part of March, but they collect in large numbers and roost in a wood, perhaps two or three miles away from the rookery. In the morning the roost breaks up, and the members of each community make away, with the utmost regularity, to their respective rookeries. At the rookeries they stand about “ talking,” perhaps till nine o’clock, and then they disperse to feed and meet again in the evening at the roost. If the B. F. CUMMINGS: BIRD ROOSTS AND ROUTES. 121 morning is a frosty one they stay on the rookery trees longer than usual. At Tapely Park, Instow, Jackdaws collect in pro- digious quantities, numbering many thousands (though it is extremely difficult to judge the number), and roost in the beech trees. A roost of Rooks occupies the same group of trees. The interesting feature connected with these Jackdaws is that the birds, in going to and from their roost, always take exactly the same route. A large flock which, during part of its course, is forced to fly over the town of Bideford, always flies across exactly the same part of the town every evening. It was by watching and following up for several days another big flock (numbering 200 or 300), which fed daily in the fields at Braunton (about three and a half miles from the roost) throughout the whole of last winter, that I finally discovered this large roost. Every morning and every evening this flock as regularly as a Royal Mail performs this journey. They follow very carefully the same line of flight, even to the barest detail, but occasionally they fly very high, and they then appear to follow a more direct course, for it is noteworthy that these birds do not, as a rule, make a bee-line by any means. The reason why they sometimes fly at a great height I cannot imagine. I do not think that it has anything whatever to do with wind or weather. Arrived at the roost, the birds “rocket ’? down perpendicularly, dropping like plummets through space, and commence to “chock” for an hour or more before darkness falls. Starlings and Wood- Pigeons when dropping in to roost, ‘“‘ rocket ’’ down in this same eccentric way, and many birds behave similarly at times, when they may be said to be “ at play.” The habit with the roosting birds is, however, a constant one, and takes place every evening. I have found another big Jackdaw roost at Eggesford—in a very wooded district. Far more striking evidence as to the use of flight-lines in these ‘‘ miniature migrations ”’ is to be seen in the 122 BRITISH BIRDS. case of the Starling. A large Starling roost is a very imposing sight, and has attracted the attention of a great many writers. The very remarkable turns of flight displayed by these birds at roosting time constitute, perhaps, one of the most striking phenomena which British bird-life has to show. In the Barnstaple district there are four or five such roosts. I have not discovered the birds travelling more than six miles to and from a roost. I have repeatedly => SS Starlings main route > — Route of lost flock noticed how strictly the birds keep to their arbitrarily prescribed line of flight. The best instance I can give is shown in the accompanying map. The flocks sweep along this main course with astonish- ing regularity every night, flock succeeding flock, and each separate flock pursuing the same course, as a rule dividing at 2, one half going to one roost, and the other half to another roost. They fly high—well above the neighbouring hills and valleys—although it will be noticed that they follow a valley for some distance ; this route, moreover, was not merely roughly followed, but the birds B. F. COMMINGS: BIRD ROOSTS AND ROUTES. 1238 came accurately along a mathematically straight line, as far as @. On February 19th I was at this spot watching the Starlings. I was particularly interested in one flock which never arrived along the usual, main, flight-line, but cut into it at right angles (as indicated in the sketch map). This flock, on this particular evening, however, appeared to have lost its bearings, for it wandered about, as I show in the sketch, as if trying to cross Coddon Hill, which the birds never did at any time ; finally, it seemed to perceive its whereabouts, doubled back and went on, crossing the 400-foot ridge. On the 22nd, this same flock was making for the roost, flying against a heavy westerly gale. Hard weather and frost seems to make no diminution in numbers at the roosts. I may mention here that on every occasion that I have visited a Starling roost last winter (about seven times) there was always a Sparrow-Hawk flying close at hand, and I have repeat- edly seen this Hawk harrying flocks as they came in to roost. Individual flocks, when perhaps three miles away from their roost, and out of the main stream of ‘“ migration,” followed, I found, in the few cases I had under ob- servation, the same route every night. One small flock, for example, always crossed the River Taw at a certain point near a signal box, for several weeks last winter. Routes, however, like these, on the extreme periphery of the system, vary when the particular flock changes its feeding quarters. Possibly some of the foregoing will have to be modified after more prolonged observation, but the main point will hold—the universal use of flight-lines by Starlings in going to and from their roost. Whether birds, with their large semi-circular canals, have a sense of direction or whether their migrations are carried out by the aid of the sun or by the earth’s magnetism or any other power is moot, yet one thing seems certain and that is that they possess a powerful 124. BRITISH BIRDS. memory. I feel sure that however the migrational movement as a whole is effected, the way in which the Swallow returns year after year to the same old beam in the same old barn is simply memory—topographical knowledge of the chief natural features and the general mould of the country in the neighbourhood of its nesting home. ( 125 ) ON THE MORE IMPORTANT ADDITIONS TO OUR KNOWLEDGE OF BRITISH BIRDS SINCE 1899. BY Ho Po WETHERBY anp N; FP. TICHHURS®T. Part X EET: (Continued from page 87.) STOCK-DOVE Columba cenas L. S. page 481. DurHAM.—Two nests in drains underground entered by gargoyles in walls (H. B. Tristram, Vict. Hist. Durham, vol. 1). NORTHUMBERLAND.—First seen in 1878, now a regular resident (A. Chapman, bird-Life of the Borders, p. 31.) ScoTLaAND.—Caithness—A young bird was shot near Castletown, Thurso, on December 4th, 1901. Believed to be the first record for the county (T. E. Buckley, Ann. S.N.H.., 1902, p. 53). Ayrshire—A nest was found near Darvel in May, 1902 (J. Paterson, t.c., 1902, p. 184). Bute.——Nests were found in 1906, (é.c., 1907, p. 199). Shetlands.—One at Halligarth, June 22nd-25th (T. E. Saxby, t.c., 1905, p. 117). ‘“*T cannot consider their appearance anywhere on the west side of the backbone of Scotland (7.e., anywhere north of Clyde) as anything but phenomenal” (J. A. Harvie-Brown, Fauna N.W. Highlands and Skye, p. 260). A very full account of its arrival and spread in the east is given in “Fauna of Tay Basin and Strathmore” (pp. 259-266). IsLE oF Man.—Nests in small numbers (P. Ralfe, B. of Isle of Man, p. 178). TRELAND.—Extending its range. Breeds in Leinster, parts of Ulster and Munster to the Shannon (R. J. Ussher, m litt.). TURTLE-DOVE Turtur communis Selby. SHROPSHIRE.—A marked increase of late years (H. E. Forrest, in litt.). CHESHIRE.—Now steadily increasing in numbers; it was practically unknown in the county about fifty years ago (Coward and Oldham, B. of Cheshire, p. 180). Norto Watzs.—Is spreading westward, especially along 126 BRITISH BIRDS. the north coast, where it breeds as far as Bangor. Has just begun to penetrate to the western side of Montgomery and Merioneth (H. E. Forrest, Vert. F. N. Wales, P. 304). YORKSHIRE.—It is extending northwards. ‘* At the present time its nesting area may be defined as being on the eastern side of a line passing through the centre of the county by Ripon, Harrogate, Leeds and Wakefield, to Sheffield.” The most northerly point at which it is known to have nested with certainty is Scarborough, where a nest was found in June, 1900, and again at Wykeham by Mr. R. Fortune in 1905 (T. H. Nelson, B. of Yorks., pp. 496 and 497). Scottanp.—Shetlands.—One at Lerwick on December 4th, 1905 (Ann. S.N.H., 1906, p. 199). One on May 28th, and a good many in the second and third weeks of June, 1902, were seen at Dunrossness (é.c., 1903, p. 153). Caithness.— One on June 23rd at Barriedale (t.c., 1900, p. 83). Argyll. One seen on August 29th, 1900, at Dhuheartach (f.c., 1901, p- 139). Outer Hebrides—One was shot on the Flannan Isles on September 14th, 1900 (é.c., 1901, p. 139). A young bird appeared at Eoligary on August 18th, 1901, and was caught on September 29th. Another older bird appeared on September 25th (J. A. Harvie-Brown, f.c., 1902, p. 215). N.W. Highlands and Skye.—Only an occasional visitant (id., Fauna N.W. Highlands and Skye, p. 263). Ist or Man.—A rare straggler (P. Ralfe, B. of Isle of Man, p. 183). JRELAND.—A female was shot on May 24th, 1904, near Hillsborough, co. Down. It had eggs in the ovary, and showed no trace of having been in captivity (N. H. Foster, Irish Nat., 1904, p. 155). Messrs. Ussher and Warren record thirty-three occurrences in May and twenty in June, on migration (B. of Ireland, p. 227), so that Mr. Foster’s record cannot be taken as an addition to the breeding records in Ireland, which are only two of many years ago. PALLAS’S SAND-GROUSE Syrrhaptes paradoxus (Pall.). S. page 488. 1899.—From the last week of January to March 23rd, a flock of thirty or so was seen on the north wolds of Lincoln- shire in the same field in which they appeared in 1888. A single bird was seen in the same district on May 19th, and a small flight was observed in the Spurn district (Yorkshire) on May 13th (J. Cordeaux, Ibis, 1899, p. 472). 1904.—A flock of eighteen was observed in the second week of February flying northward over Millington, Yorkshire (T. H. Nelson, B. of Yorks., p. 503). ADDITIONS SINCE 1899. 127 1906.—A flock of six or seven was seen (in May) on some “well-known links” in East Lothian (C. E. S. Chambers, Field, 2, vi., 06, p. 901). A flock of about twenty was. seen by Mr. R. Vincent on June 11th, in Norfolk, and ten were seen by Mr. D. Annison at Somerton on June 17th, while some were reported in Yorkshire in July (J. H. Gurney, Zool., 1907, p. 130). CAPERCAILLIE Tetrao urogallus L. 8. page 491. ScorTLanp.—WMidlothian.—Two were seen in the autumn of 1906 at Bavelaw (H. N. Bonar, Ann. S.N.H., 1907, p. 52). Mr. W. Evans has six records, including one shot in Bavelaw fir-wood nearly “ twenty years ago” (l.c.). Dumfriesshire.— Three were seen in November, 1905, in the: N.N.W. of the county (H. 8S. Gladstone, l.c.). Wigtownshire—Two were shot about 1874 (H. Maxwell, t.c., 1907, p. 116). Ayrshire.— A female was killed on December 14th, 1905, near Tarbolton Moss (H. 8. Gladstone, t.c., 1906, p. 116). Aberdeenshire.— A female in full male plumage was shot in January, 1906, in the north of the county (E. T. Clarke, t.c., 1907, p. 117). Hyprip.—A hybrid between this species and _ the Pheasant was obtained at Stronchullin, Blairmore, Argyllshire, in September, 1897. This bird and the three previously known specimens of such a hybrid are fully described (W. E. Clarke, é.c., 1898, pp. 17-21). BLACK GROUSE Terao tetrix L. 8S. page 493. CorNWALL.—Now almost extinct (J. Clark, Vict. Hist. Cornwall, vol. 1). ITRELAND.—Bones discovered in the Ballynamintra Cave, co. Waterford, prove the former existence of this species in Ireland (G. E. H. Barrett-Hamilton, Irish Nat., 1899, pp. Pieand 37). Hyprips.—Willow Grouse ¢ x Greyhen (P.Z.S., 1904, Vol. I., p. 411, figure). Black Game x Pheasant—Fifty- five specimens in Great Britain recorded (F. C. R. Jourdain, Zool., 1906, pp. 321-330 and 433; Ann. S.N.H., 1906, p. 2a; cf. also Bull. B.O.C., XVI., pp. 54 and 55). “Since these papers were written I have received notes of several Other occurrences” (F. C. R. J. én litt.). Intropuction.—Surrey.—Those introduced in 1875 on Witley Common, and which did good for some time in helping to keep the old stock going, are believed now (1900) to be practically extinct (J. A. Bucknill, Zool., 1901, p. 253). According to Mr. G. W. Swanton, two pairs bred in 1905 in 128 BRITISH BIRDS. “a certain wild tract of country,” and a single Greyhen was seen in the spring of 1906 (L. B. Mouritz, t.c., 1907, p. 93). Norfolk.—The experiment of turning out Black Game at Thetford by Mr. W. Dalziel Mackenzie has been continued, and thirty were turned out in 1900-1901. Broods hatch off regularly, but seem to disappear in some unaccountable manner, and the numbers, in spite of fresh introductions, steadily decrease (Heatley Noble, ¢.c., 1903, p. 155). Herts.— A Greyhen was shot on December Ist, 1906, near Watford— the only record for the county (W. Bickerton, in litt.). Hants. —TIn the New Forest district they are almost extinct (H. F. W.) (A useful article on the distribution of this bird in English counties, by Mr. J. E. Harting, appeared in the Meld for September 8th, 1900, p. 387.) RED GROUSE Lagopus scoticus (Lath.). S. page 495. [CoRNWALL.—One reported to have been shot near Tintagel ‘on December Ist, 1906 (J. Clark, Zool., 1907, p. 286).] Hyprip.—Red Grouse ¢ x Bantam Fowl 2, exhibited by J. G. Millais (Bull. B.O.C., VIII., p. 36). Intropuction.—Shetland.—Some six hundred birds were liberated on the mainland in September, 1901 (T. E. Saxby, Zool., 1902, p. 113). Two were seen at Balta Sound, November 16th, 1902 (2d., ¢.c., 1903, p. 157). Suffolk.iA few brace were turned out about 1903 at Elveden, and they have increased to about 150 birds (“‘ Head Keeper” in lit. to J. Green, February 2nd, 1908). Surrey.—Details regarding early introductions (J. A. Bucknill, Zool., 1902, p. 68). PTARMIGAN Lagopus mutus (Montin). Bones of this species were found amongst others in the Shandon and Ballynamintra Caves, co. Waterford (G. E. H. Barrett-Hamilton, Irish Nat., 1899, p. 17). COMMON PARTRIDGE Perdix cinerea Lath. 8S. page 501. A brood of twelve a few days old was discovered at Stratton Strawless, Norfolk, on January 31st, 1906. They were reduced to two by February 22nd, and these apparently did not long survive (J. H. Gurney, Zool., 1907, p. 123). RED-LEGGED PARTRIDGE Caccabis rufa (L.). 8S. page 503. For some evidence of its migrating to the coast of Norfolk and Yorkshire (cf. A. Patterson, Zool., 1905, p. 186, and W. J. Clarke, t.c., p. 314). ADDITIONS SINCE 1899. ee SPOTTED CRAKE Porzana maruetta. 8S. page 509. ScorLanp.—Argyll.— One was taken in August, 1900, at. Dhuheartach (Ann. S.N.H., 1901, p. 140). Perthshire —One was shot at Murthly on November 2nd, 1903 (a late date for so far north) (T. G. Laidlaw, t.c., 1904, p. 55). Dumfries- shire.-—One was killed on September 3rd, 1903, at Noblehill (R. Service, t.c., 1904, p. 69). Shetland.—One was shot in Spiggie Marsh on September 25th, 1901 (t.c., 1902, p. 135). This may be the same as the bird referred to in the ** Zoologist,” 1901, p. 391. Orkney.—One was shot at. Stornoway on November 24th, 1906 (Field, 1906, p. 908). IRELAND.—One was heard calling several nights early in May, 1900, in a swamp at Cappagh, co. Waterford (R. J. Ussher, Irish Nat., 1900, p. 160); it has twice been recorded as breeding in Ireland. One was shot on October 8th, 1904, near Templepatrick, co. Antrim (W. H. Workman, t.c., 1904, p: 261). CAROLINA CRAKE Porzana carolina (L.). 8S. page 510. A young male, which had completed the autumn moult, was shot by Mr. E. Lort Phillips on October 25th, 1901, when snipe shooting with Mr. F. G. Gunnis in Rounach bog at the - west end of Tiree, Inner Hebrides. The bird was very fat Se b.O-C., XIL., p. 20; Ann..S.N.H.,, 1902, p: 9). The species has been twice previously recorded in this country (Berkshire, 1864, Cardiff, 1888), and since it has been recorded several times in Greenland and breeds far north in North America, we think it should be admitted fully to the British list. LITTLE CRAKE Porzana parva (Scop.). 8S. page 511. SussEx.—One was caught near Rye in June, 1904 (N. F. T.). SHROPSHIRE.—One was shot in November, 1898, at Petton Park, near Shrewsbury (H. E. Forrest, Zool., 1900, p. 280). IRELAND.—One was shot near Rathangan, co. Kildare, on November 12th, 1903 (Williams and Son, Zool., 1903, p- 460). The bird has only once before occurred in Ireland. (l'io be continued.) PIED WAGTAIL REARING THREE BROODS. It may be of interest to record that a pair of Pied Wagtails have this year reared three broods from nests built in some ivy at one end of the house here (Stonewall Park, Edenbridge, Kent). The first brood of four left the nest on May 2nd. The second ‘ brood ”’ consisted of a Cuckoo, which left the nest on June 28th. The third nest contained three young, which fledged on August Ist. The Wagtails continued to feed the young Cuckoo until just before their third brood hatched. K. G. B. MeapE-WALDoO. ON THE BRITISH BULLFINCH. At the meeting of the British Ornithologists’ Club, held on June 17th, 1908, I exhibited a series of Bullfinches, clearly showing that the British race differed from its nearest ally, the Pyrrhula pyrrhula europea, of Central Europe. ‘The differences are, that the British race is slightly smaller, and that the female has the back darker brown, and the under- surface conspicuously darker and browner. The male, on the other hand, does not differ very appreciably in colour, though, if a series is compared, it is evident that the British form has the red of the underside as well as the grey of the upper-surface somewhat less brilliant. At the meeting several members asked if I had compared the British Bullfinch with the great Northern Bullfinch Pyrrhula pyrrhula pyrrhula. To all who know these birds it is needless to remark that a comparison with the latter subspecies was unnecessary, as it is still larger and more briliant than P. pyrrhula europea, the grey of the upperside being purer, and the red of the under-surface brighter. The somewhat darker and duller coloration of our British Bullfinch, and its slightly smaller size, again confirms the general inclination of British forms to be duller or darker, and often smaller than their continental representatives. The name of the British Bullfinch must be— : PYRRHULA PYRRHULA PILEATA. Under this name (Pyrrhula pileata) Macgillivray described it in 1837, in Vol. I., p. 407, of his “‘ History of British Birds.” NOTES. 131 Of its distribution he says :—‘‘ The Bullfinch is generally distributed in Britain, occurring in most of our wooded and cultivated districts, but avoiding bare maritime tracts, as well as the northern islands, which are destitute of wood.” Then, at the end of the article he adds :—‘‘ The Common Bullfinch is said by authors to be of general occurrence in the northern and temperate parts of Europe.” It is thus quite clear that Macgillivray described the British Bullfinch, and that only, for he merely adds that it is “‘ said by authors ”’ to inhabit great parts of Europe besides. The author also says that he has “not observed any remarkable differences between individuals, indicating the existence of two species usually confounded, although I have heard it said that such have been met with.” It follows that Macgillivray never came across the Northern Bullfinch, which occurs, though very rarely, as a straggler in England. The case of the name of the British Bullfinch appears to me to be different from that of the Lesser Spotted Wood- pecker. Macgillivray also bestowed a new name on this species in his work on “ British Birds” (Vol. III., p. 86), calling it Picus striolatus. But then he says that he changed its name to striolatus because this species was by no means the smallest of even the Spotted Woodpeckers, and he regards this bird as “peculiar to Europe,” saying that it is ‘said to be more abundant in the northern parts of Europe than in France and Germany,” while it has not been found in Scotland, nor even in many parts of England. I therefore take it that Macgillivray re-named the “ European ” Linnean Lesser Woodpecker, and consequently I bestowed a new name on the British Lesser Spotted Woodpecker (antea Vol. I., p. 221). On the other hand, I think that we can safely adopt the name pileata for the British Bullfinch, and thus avoid creating a new name for this bird. Ernst HARTERT. HOW A CUCKOO DEPOSITED HER EGG. Mr. G. H. Hiason kindly sends the following note from the huntsman of the Ynysfor Hounds, whom he describes as a very keen and accurate observer :— “On the evening of May 24th I strolled down as far as the marsh to look for some nests, and found a Meadow Pipit’s, with four eggs, quite cold. The little birds were following a Cuckoo close by, so I laid down in the rushes on the side of a ditch, within five yards of the nest, and watched. Presently the Cuckoo alighted near, and walking up to the nest, picked 182 BRITISH BIRDS. up one of the Pipit’s eggs in her beak. This she put aside, about two feet off, and then, walking back, she stooped with her wings half raised, and laid her egg about three or four inches from the side of the nest. She then turned round and pushed the egg most carefully with her beak into the nest. Then she picked up the Pipit’s egg in her beak and flew away, dropping it about twenty yards further on. The Meadow Pipits were there, looking on as if they knew what she was doing, for they stopped there and did not follow the Cuckoo.” ‘“OwEN EPHRAIM.” TUFTED DUCK IN SCOTLAND. In the August number of British Birps, p. 84, some .ad- ditional information is furnished regarding the Tufted Duck as a Scottish bird. Among other items, there is one upon which I, and I am sure others, would welcome further information. I allude to Mr. Harvie-Brown’s averment that ‘“‘ Macgillivray states that it was formerly a common bird in the Outer Hebrides.” This statement is not only of considerable interest but has highly important bearings on the history of this species as a British bird, and I would ask Mr. Harvie-Brown to tell us where Macgillivray published the information. I have failed to find it in that distinguished naturalist’s writings with which I am acquainted, or in any of Mr. Harvie-Brown’s faunal works or papers, except in the “Fauna of the N.W. Highlands” (from which you quote), where, however, the desired reference is not afforded. Wm. EAGLE CLARKE. STARK’S RECORD OF THE BREEDING OF THE SCAUP-DUCK AT LOCH LEVEN. In the August number of this magazine (p. 85) attention is drawn to my old friend, the late Dr. A. C. Stark’s, record of the breeding of the Scaup at Loch Leven in 1880, under the impression that it had been overlooked by Howard Saunders. As a matter of fact, however, Saunders did not overlook the record, with which he was perfectly familiar. He specially cited it, both in the fourth edition of “ Yarrell,’ and in the first edition of his own ‘“‘ Manual” (1889). But a note in the Appendix to the latter foreshadowed its suppression in the second edition. The note is as follows :—‘‘ As regards Mr. A. C. Stark’s very positive and detailed account (Pr. R. Phys. Soc. Edin., VII., p. 203) of the breeding of this species on Loch Leven, Mr. W. Evans informs me that he subsequently accompanied Mr. Stark to that spot several times and they NOTES. 153 failed to identify a single Scaup, though Tufted Ducks were abundant, as they had been for years previously.” In December, 1897, when working at the second edition of the ‘**Manual,”’ Saunders gave me to understand, in a letter now before me, that he was dropping the record, having made up his mind it was a case of “‘ mistaken identification.” During part of the time when Stark was studying medicine in Edinburgh, he and I frequently took ornithological rambles together, and delightful outings they were, for Stark was a most interesting companion. It was in 1882 that he exhibited the “ Scaup’s ”’ nest and eggs to the Royal Physical Society, and the following year I twice accompanied him to Loch Leven in the nesting season. Of course we looked out for Scaups, but could detect none. Tufted Ducks, however, were common, and we found several of their nests. The Tufted Duck, it should be noted, had been proved to breed there eight years before, and had probably done so for a much longer period (cf. my notes on the species in Ann. S.N.H., 1896, pp. 148-155). It seemed strange that Scaups only, that is, as op- posed to Tufted Ducks, were noted by Stark in 1880, and he frankly admitted the possibility of his having made a mistake in identification. I may here say that he frequently com- plained of injury to his eyesight through using the micro- scope. The opinion I then formed, and still hold, is that the nest in question was not a Scaup’s but a Tufted Duck’s. When the nest and eggs were on view in Stevens’ auction rooms in June, 1902, 1 asked Saunders to tell me what he thought of them. His reply was: “I should say Tufted, decidedly.”’ I do not know into whose hands this lot passed at the sale. Perhaps some reader of BritisH Brrps can tell me. WILLIAM EVANS. [Although we much regret having omitted to refer to the first edition of the “ Manual,” we are not altogether sorry to have been instrumental in resuscitating this erroneous record, since it has drawn forth these interesting details from Mr. W. Evans. The original record is a very important one and is very positively stated in the fourth edition of ‘ Yarrell,” and it is only right that all ornithologists should be put in possession of the exact facts with regard to it, so that they can judge for themselves. The details in the Appendix to the first edition of the ““ Manual” miss a very important point, viz., that Stark noted only Scaups in 1880, and the entire suppression of the record in the second edition, coupled with the comment that “‘ assertions respecting the breeding of this species in Scotland lack confirmation,” issomewhat misleading 134 BRITISH BIRDS. to those who do not possess the first edition. We fear that someone bought these eggs as veritable Scaup’s, for they fetched £2 7s. 6d. at the Stark sale in 1902. We have to thank Messrs. A. H. Evans, J. A. Harvie-Brown, and Heatley Noble for having also drawn our attention to this error.— H. F. W. & N.F. T.] THE DISTRIBUTION OF THE COMMON SCOTER IN SCOTLAND. As I have elsewhere pointed out, the distribution of the Common Scoter in Scotland is peculiar, e.g., Caithness and part of North Scotland, or “the Pentland area,” low-lying lochs of the flow-lands; the high-lying mountain lochs of certain remoter portions of Inverness-shire along the direction of the Great Fault of the Caledonian Canal; [the Isle of Tiree, uncertain ?]; and Ireland, as shown above on p. 86. J. A. Harviz-Brown. PALLAS’S SAND-GROUSE IN YORKSHIRE AND KENT. Durine the first week of June last three Sand-Grouse (Syrrhaptes paradoxus) were observed in a field of young corn in the eastern portion of Cleveland. Shortly afterwards one of them was picked up, dead; and I have had an opportunity of examining this specimen, which is a male in excellent plumage. The other two birds were seen at intervals until the middle of June, when they both disappeared. T. H. NELson. On July 4th last I obtained a satisfactory view of three Pallas’s Sand-Grouse on the sand-hills north of Littlestone. H. G. ALEXANDER. GREEN-BACKED GALLINULE IN NORFOLK. On June 19th, and for a fortnight previously, a Green-backed Gallinule (Porphyrio smaragdonotus) was seen at Horsey by three different marshmen, one of whom recognised the bird from having seen a locally killed specimen some years previously, and the other two men’s independent description was unmistakable. M: CC. He-Sigp, ABNORMAL EGGS OF THE RINGED PLOVER. On June 18th, 1908, I found on a lake island in Ireland a clutch of four abnormal eggs of (presumably) the Ringed Plover (4gialitis hiaticola). In colour they were of a light greenish-blue, and without markings. The surface of the shells was somewhat rough, and with only one of them was it NO'TES. 135 necessary to make full use of the drill ; in two of them a slight pressure of the drill only was required to penetrate a black and rotten spot on the shells. In the fourth there was a slight exudation of the contents through a small aperture with black edges. ‘The site, too, of the nest was abnormal, for it was by the side of a small dead shrub, with a ragged robin and another plant close by it. The nest itself was a depression in damp moss. I find on reference to my notebook, that on May 10th, 1906, there were on the same island three Ringed Plover’s eggs (normal) in a depression (lined with dead rushes) in mossy soil—though possibly on this island there is no spot that would give a normal Ringed Plover’s nest, there is a considerable tract on the mainland, some two or three hundred yards off, where these birds nest in normal surroundings, and here in 1906 and 1907 I found very similar eggs to the faulty eggs of this year, it seems to me probable that they were all laid by one and the same bird. H. TREVELYAN. [Major Trevelyan has kindly allowed us to submit the nest and eggs to the Rev. F. C. R. Jourdain, who reports upon them as follows :—‘t The eggs are certainly remarkable. The faint streaks at the end suggest those of Sandpipers, and so does the nest. However, I do not attach much importance to the latter, as from Major Trevelyan’s letter it is clear that the bird only made the depression in the moss and placed one or two straws in it. Measurements in this case give little help, and weights are not of much use. White eggs are usually larger than normally-coloured ones, and these are obviously imperfect and prematurely laid, so that the weight would not be a safe test. I think, however, I have found a good criterion in the colour of the inside of the shell. Ringed Plovers’ eggs, when fresh, show a distinct greenish tint, which fades somewhat, but is generally perceptible. Sandpipers’ eggs I have always found yellowish inside. These eggs show a very distinct green when looked at against the light, and on that account I should ascribe them to the Ringed Plover rather than to the Common Sandpiper. A tendency ‘towards the same aberration occurs also in the case of the Lapwing, Ruff, and Woodcock, but is rare among Limicoline birds on the whole. Dr. Ottosson tells me (in ltt.) that he has a clutch of Ringed Plover’s eggs pale blue in colour, without any markings, and there is an abnormal set in Mr. P. F. Bunyard’s collection with very pale bluish-green ground and a few fine jet-black spots and large underlying dark grey blotches; a clutch of spotless bluish-green Curlew’s eggs is recorded in the ‘Zoologist ’ (1903, p. 352) from Brecon.’’—F. C. R. J.] 156 BRITISH BIRDS. PEBBLE NEST OF A RINGED PLOVER. In reference to Mr. Pycraft’s article on the nest of the Ringed Plover (Vol. I., p. 373), it may be worth while to give details of a somewhat unusual nest which I found with four fresh eggs on July 2nd at Langston Harbour, near Portsmouth. The nest was formed of small pebbles, and a few little pieces of broken shell. It completely filled a rather deep hoof-mark of a cow in sun-baked mud. There were 2000 pebbles, weighing seven ounces, and they must have been collected from a distance of twenty yards. H. Lynzs. LAPWING’S NEST WITH FIVE EGGS. On April 15th I was shown by a gamekeeper a Lapwing’s (Vanellus vulgaris) nest with five eggs. JI examined the eggs carefully, and found incubation had just begun. All the eggs were exactly similar, and looked as if laid by the same bird. The nest was in the middle of a large grass field, and no other Lapwings but the one pair were within half to three- quarters of a mile. The estate is strictly preserved, and no boys had been near to interfere, nor had the keeper any object in placing the fifth egg there. I think all were laid, without doubt, by the same bird, and as the case seems to be a perfectly authentic one I think it may be worth recording. R. H. Rarrray. [The Rev. F. C. R. Jourdain informs us that he has notes of the occurrence of five eggs in one nest in the case of the following species of Limicole :—Golden Plover, Lapwing (numerous instances), Redshank, Snipe, Common Sandpiper, Solitary Sandpiper and Curlew.—Ebs. | SOLITARY SANDPIPER AND OTHER WADERS IN KENT. WHEN walking along the coast of Kent on July 18th last, I put up a Sandpiper which, from its very dark colour, I knew to be something out of the ordinary. I marked the bird down and stalked it behind a sandbank, getting to within seven or eight yards of it. Owing to its very dark greenish- brown plumage and pure white underparts, pale brown throat, and dark Sandpiper bill and legs, I concluded that I had obtained an exceptionally fortunate view of the Green Sandpiper. To make absolutely certain of its identity, I put it up, expecting to see the pure white rump, but, to my surprise, the rump was the same colour as the back, the white only coming up on either side, as in the Common Sandpiper. NOTES. 137 I again stalked it, and put it up once more, and am now perfectly certain that it was a Solitary Sandpiper (Totanus solitarius). The first time I got near the bird I saw that there were two of the same kind, but I was only able to follow the one when they flew off. I am very well acquainted with the Common Sandpiper (Totanus hypoleucus), having had ample opportunities of watching it on the Tay in Scotland, in Devonshire on the Tamar, occasionally at Woburn, and in innumerable other places. Not only does the very dark plumage of Totanus solitarius make it easy to distinguish from T'otanus hypoleucus, but the wing bar, which is so conspicuous in the latter bird in flight, was absent. I may add that I have had: several opportunities of watching Wood-Sandpipers at close quarters this summer, and on one occasion the Green Sandpiper. On July 14th there was a small flock of eight or ten Sanderlings, also on the Kentish coast. On July 18th their numbers had greatly increased, as I first came across a party of thirty-one, then another of thirteen, and later on as the tide went out they were to be seen in small groups all along the shore. Nearly all of them still retained their red throats. On July 20th I saw a Curlew-Sandpiper with very red throat and breast, and small parties of Whimbrel were occasionally seen between the 13th and 21st. M. BEDFORD. [On going to press we learn that a Solitary Sandpiper was shot ~ at Littlestone on August 15th, and this seems confirmatory of the Duchess of Bedford’s most careful observations. Her Grace is to be sincerely congratulated on having succeeded in an identification of such difficulty.—EDs. | A HITHERTO UNRECORDED SPECIMEN OF THE LEVANTINE SHEARWATER FROM KENT. Durine a visit to Canterbury in July last, in order to examine the bird collection there, I found in the Hammond Collection, which was bequeathed to the town in 1903, a specimen of a Petrel which at once attracted my attention. After com- paring it with the Manx Shearwaters in the same case, and noting its points of difference, I consulted Dr. Godman’s “Monograph of the Petrels” on my return home. I have not the slightest hesitation in pronouncing this bird to be a Levantine Shearwater (Puffinus yelkouanus). The birds in the Hammond Collection are admirably housed and cared for, but, like those in almost every local museum that I have seen, urgently require proper labelling, and in 158 BRITISH BIRDS. this collection there are no labels at all except those which were attached by the original owner, and these are so small that it is extremely difficult to read many of them. With regard to the present bird, it has two hanging labels attached to its legs, in the late Mr. Oxenden Hammond’s writing, which read as follows :—*‘ Petrel undescribed, picked up dead at Wingham” [Kent] “‘ about 1865. Considered a new species by Gould ; see his autograph attached. Mr. Howard Saunders has a closely resembling specimen from Gibraltar, but without the rosy breast; he thinks it must be the Mediterranean form of Puffinus anglorum, but does not feel sure.” ‘ Breast rosy, like an adult Goosander.”’ I think we may take it that such a good ornithologist as the late Mr. Oxenden Hammond would not have stated that the bird was picked up at Wingham if he had any doubt on the point, and from his remark on the “ rosy breast,’ which has, of course, now disappeared, the bird must have been very recently dead when it came into his hands. I was not aware that any of the Petrels ever had this rosy tint in life, and I cannot find any mention of it with regard to the present species. Mr. Hammond does not appear to have taken any further steps to have the identification of the bird made certain, and I presume thought that he was not justified in publishing the record, since Saunders expressed some uncertainty. This bird is an example of the darker phase of the Levantine Shearwater in which the yellowish-brown wash on the flanks extends across the belly, and to a rather less extent up the breast. In other respects it exhibits the distinctive features of this species very clearly. It is a little larger than the Manx Shearwater, and the bill and wings are both slightly longer. The back is a deep brown instead of black, the under tail- coverts are brown instead of white, and as has been said above, there is no pure white on the breast and belly, which are everywhere washed with brown, and this is most intense on the flanks. The feathers of the breast also are mottled with dusky-grey. N. F. TickHurst. x % GOLDEN ORIOLE IN FIFESHIRE.—A female Oriolus galbula is reported by the Misses Rintoul and Baxter as having been obtained at Markinch on May 13th, 1908 (Ann. S.N.H., 1908, p- 180). GREAT GREY SHRIKES IN SCOTLAND.—Twenty-two occur- rences of Lanius excubitor are recorded in Mr. John Patterson’s useful ‘‘ Report on Scottish Ornithology for 1907” (Ann. NOTES. 139 S.N.H., p. 137). The following we have not previously referred to :—Mull.—One, March 9th. Pentland Skerries.— One, September 24th. Shetlands——One flew on _ board a boat twenty miles out on September 26th. North Berwick.—One, October 12th. Gilston (Fife)—One, Novem- ber 4th; one, November 28th (another is recorded at this place by the Misses Rintoul and Baxter (t.c., p. 180) on April 22nd, 1908). Colinsburgh.—Two in November. Auch- nasheen.—One, December 2nd. Another recorded in our pages (Vol. I., p. 263) by the Duchess of Bedford, is not referred to. Woopcuat SHRIKE IN SussEx.—Mr. J. A. Clark records that a male Lanius pomeranus was shot near Rye on September 15th, 1907 (Zool., 1908, p. 269). Prep FLycaTcHER NESTING IN AYRSHIRE.—We have omitted to refer to an interesting record of apparently the first breeding of Muscicapa atricapilla in Ayrshire, viz., at Glendoune, in 1907 (cf. M. Young, Ann. S.N.H., 1907, p 247). CANARY SERIN IN ScorLtanp.—Mr. J. A. Harvie-Brown records (Ann. S.N.H., 1908, p. 181) that a specimen of Serinus canarius was captured, in company with Linnets, at Springkerse, near Stirling, at the end of November, 1907. The bird had no appearance of previous confinement, and it was alive and still rather wild on May 29th, 1908. Mr. Harvie-Brown does not actually claim it as a truly wild wanderer, but we wonder if it would be so claimed by anyone less cautious were it to escape again ! ROSE-COLOURED STARLING IN ScoTLAND.—Major_ A. Hughes-Onslow writes that he had an excellent view on July 2nd last of a specimen of Pastor roscus on some sandy ground near Reay, in Caithness (Meld, 11, vi1., 08, p. 91). DomeED Nests or JackpAws.—Mr. T. T. Mackeith records that he found in May, 1907, in West Renfrewshire, some Jackdaws’ nests which were large structures, roofed over with sticks, with a hole large enough to admit the bird. They were built in spruce fir trees (Zool., 1908, p. 232). This reminds us that Mr. W. Wells Bladen has for several years reported the occurrence of similar nests of the Jackdaw in Staffordshire (cf. Trans. N. Staffs. F. Club, 1901). Another domed nest of this bird was found by Mr. C. E. Wright near Kettering (er. Journ. Norths. N.H. Soc., 1899, p. 174). The Rev. 140 BRITISH BIRDS. F. C. R. Jourdain found a colony in Shropshire in 1901 (cf. Eggs of Europ. Birds, p. 16), and other instances have been recorded. | SupposED ALPINE Swirt IN NortH Dervon.—Mr. T. H. Briggs records (Zool., 1908, p. 269) that he saw “recently” a Swift which he identifies as Cypselus melba, flymg low at Lynmouth. His attention was directed to the “size” of the bird—presumably the large size which is, of course, a very striking characteristic of this species; but Mr. Briggs goes on to say that he distinctly ‘‘saw the grey underside” of the bird as it flew over his head. The Alpine Swift looks very white underneath when flying, and the use of the word ‘‘orey”’ in describing this distinctive characteristic makes us doubtful of the identification being correct. There was a sea-fog at the time. Snowy Owl IN THE OvuTER HeEBRIDES.—Mr. J. A. Harvie- Brown records a fine example of Nyctea scandiaca shot on South Uist in October, 1907 (Ann. S.N.H., 1908, p. 182). Scops Own IN FrresHirRE.—A female Scops giw was obtained near Largo. The Scops Owl has been recorded only eight times previously in Scotland. (W. Evans, Ann. S.N.H., 1908, 183). Montacu’s HArRIER IN SuRREY.—Mr. Collingwood Ingram reports (Zool., 1908, pp. 308-311) that a pair of Montagu’s Harriers nested in Surrey this year in the same place as those recorded last year (cf. antea, Vol. I., pp. 237 and 351). Unfortunately the eggs failed to hatch. The nest was carefully protected by a Royal Society for the Protection of Birds’ watcher, but possibly too much attention was paid to the nest by observers and photographers. Common BirreRN IN HADDINGTONSHIRE.—The Rev. H. N. Bonar writes that a specimen of Botaurus stellaris (the third observed in East Lothian this year) was picked up dead on Gullane Links in April (Ann. S.N.H., 1908, p. 183). GADWALL IN ABERDEENSHIRE.—Messrs. L. N. G. Ramsay and A. L. Thomson satisfactorily identified two specimens of Anas strepera (a very rare bird in the district) in the estuary of the Don on September Ist, 1907 (Ann. S.N.H., 1908, p. 184). PINTAILS IN SHETLAND.—A pair of Dafila acuta was found breeding at Dunrossness in 1905 (cf. antea, p.54). Mr. Harvie- Brown now announces that there are four or five pairs there this year (Ann. S.N.H., 1908, p. 184). OCTOBER i 1908, EGGS OF PALEARCTIC BIRDS. 1A Work ‘on this subject, ‘illustrated: with ‘BEAUTIFULLY - COLOURED PLATES, is now being issued. . Write for Full Prospectus and a Part for inspection to WILLIAMS & NORGATE, 14, Henrietta Street, Covent snl London, W.C. -DALLMEYER’S Naturalists’ Camera, 19007, MODEL, For Telephoto or Ordinary: LENSES. ‘DALLMEYER’S Lenses are used Dy the most A skilled Bird Photographers. The following “are—» specially recommended : THE STIGMATIC SERIES Il. F/6 (Convertible.) THE SERIES D PATENT PORTRAIT LENSES F 6. (A Rapid Long Focus Lens at a Moderate Price.) - High or Moderate Power Telephoto Lenses. (Original Make). We are Specialists in Cameras and Apparatus for Photo- Ornithologists. ns -’ CATALOGUES AND ADVICE FREE. J. H. DALLMEYER, Limitep, beNziL rob.. Showrooms: 25, NEWMAN sm, W. “NEASDEN, LONDON, Mt; WATKINS & DONCASTER, Raturalists, | ‘And Manufacturers of CABINETS and APPARATUS for Entomology, Birds’ Eee and Skins, and all Branches of: Natural History. «> A LARGE STOCK OF INSECTS, and BIRDS’ EGGS and ‘SKINS. Speciality: —Objects for Nature Study, Drawing ees &e. BIRDS, MAMMALS, &c., PRESERVED and MOUNTED by FIRST-CLASS WORKMEN, TRUE TO NATURE. All Books: and Publications on ‘Natural History sippliea.- 36, STRAND, LONDON, W.C. (Five Doors from | aa ‘ros,) : Gutslowns eke pp.) post free. BRITISH BIRDS, Vol. /1., Pl. 4. GREEN WOODPECKER. ‘‘ KEEPING AN EYE ON (Photographed by Miss Turner.) THE ENEMY.’ ? ee DRUDSHBIRDS Boeri) BY H.-F. WITHERBY, F-.25., M:B.0.U. eeoislED -BY W. P. PYCRAFT, A.LS, M.B.0.U. ConTENTS OF NuMBER 5, VoL. II. OctTosBER 1, 1908. Green Woodpecker versus Starling, by Emma L. Turner, F.u.S. (Plate IV.) .. ip ee ae a : On the More Important Additions to our Knowledge of British Birds since 1899, by H. F. Witherby and N. F. Ticehurst. Part XIV.—(continued from page 129) is 146 Some Early British Ornithologists and their Works, by W. H. Mullens, M.A., LL.M., M.B.0.u. III.—Christopher Merrett (1614—1695)—(continued from page 118) ee 151 Notes :—Old English Nesting Bottles (E. G. B. Meade- Waldo). Black Redstarts in Merioneth (H. E. Forrest). Black-headed Wagtail in Kent (J. B. Nichols). Great Grey Shrike in Scotland (H. W. Robinson). Two- barred Crossbill in Sussex (J. B. Nichols). Tufted Ducks Nesting in the Outer Hebrides (J. A. Harvie- Brown). Distribution of the Common Scoter in Scotland (H. W. Robinson). Pallas’s Sand-Grouse in Cheshire (T. A. Coward). Supposed Black Grouse and Ptarmigan from Irish Caves (R. J. Ussher). The Oyster- eatcher’s Method of Feeding on the Edible Mussel. Killdeer Plover in Kent (N. F. Ticehurst). Solitary Sandpiper in Kent (N. F. Ticehurst). Late Nests of the Great Crested and Little Grebes (A. G. Leigh), etc. 164 Review :—How to Attract and Protect Wild Birds .. he 172 Page 141 GREEN WOODPECKER versus STARLING. BY EMMA L. TURNER, F.L:s. (PratEH FV.) WHILE wandering about soon after dawn on the morning of May 8th, I came across one of the most amusing incidents connected with bird life which I have ever watched. A pair of Green Woodpeckers, after having for some years enjoyed undisputed possession of a nesting hole in an oak tree, were engaged in a “‘tooth-and-nail”’ encounter with a pair of Starlings which were maliciously en- deavouring to obtain possession of their neighbour’s 142 BRITISH BIRDS. home. The dispute raged continuously till May 14th, when I settled it by putting up a nesting-box for the Starlings; this they immediately annexed, and ultimately both pairs brought off their respective broods in safety and comparative peace. | During the campaign I saw much that was both interesting and amusing in the tactics employed by the opponents. While the Woodpeckers were undoubtedly the more powerful birds, the determination, readiness of wit and general finesse of the active and irrepressible Starlings commanded my respect. The following is an account of what happened on May 9th between 6 a.m. and 3 p.m. and is typical of all the after days of warfare, during which, however, I only watched at odd times for two or three hours at a stretch. When I arrived on the scene the Woodpeckers flew away, being shy and easily alarmed, but soon returned when I hid myself. The moment the Starlings were left to themselves they carried into the hole every available bit of twig and rubbish they could seize, working together with a feverish energy that made me feel tired, so that in five minutes they seemed to have collected ample material for several nests! By-and-by, however, a Woodpecker would return, then one Starling carried on the fight while the other, when possible, continued the nest building with more or less success ; sometimes holding the entrance of the citadel while its rightful owner clung to the outside (see page 144), looking in and out and ali around but not always daring to take possession. For although undoubtedly the stronger, and able to hold her own when once inside the tree, the Woodpecker seemed unable to cope with her smaller and more active opponents at close quarters. If she ventured inside when either or both Starlings were in possession a desperate scuffle could be heard which generally ended in the defeat and ejection of the Wood- pecker, but not always. On one occasion I saw the Woodpecker seize a Starling by the beak and drag it E. L. TURNER: WOODPECKER v. STARLING. 1438 forth, then slipping inside she soon ejected the other, but this was when her mate was near. The male Woodpecker did not take his fair share of the fight while I was watching, and often the hen bird would lean half out of the nest (see Plate 4) and call to him in soft complaining tones, but his answering cry generally came from a long distance off, and she was left for hours to continue the combat alone. The Starlings, on the contrary, worked well together and sometimes a third came to their assistance. How- ever, when once the Woodpecker gained possession of her home the Starlings literally had not a “look in,” but sat disconsolately on a branch near at hand and watched, by no means without protest, while the Wood- pecker slowly and daintily threw out each twig until the ground beneath the tree was strewn with débris. I wish it had beeri possible to obtain photographs of this part of the proceedings because the obvious enjoyment of the Woodpecker as she did this was worth recording. After watching every bit of rubbish till it reached the ground. she looked up at the discomfited pair of Starlings between each act and chuckled softly with her head on one side, while the lookers-on gave vent to sundry long-drawn-out screeches of disapproval. There was a particularly large and dry laurel leaf which one Starling had wrestled with and carried into the hole after great struggles, because its stiffness and length impeded the bird’s flight. When this treasure was thrown out and fell to the ground with a dry rattle, both Starlings whistled so plaintively that I laughed aloud and frightened the Woodpecker so that she fled. Then the Starlings had another “ innings,” and for half an hour did what they pleased and threw out a large quantity of the wooden chips dear to the Woodpecker; but at noon the rightful owners again had full possession until 2.15, when something disturbed them, and the enemy held the citadel till 3 p.m., when I left, after seeing the Wood- peckers once more reinstated. 144 BRITISH BIRDS. A favourite trick of the Starlings was to sit on‘a branch some little distance away and “ yaffle.”’ This at first always lured the Woodpecker from her hole, and during the week of fighting the Starlings became very proficient in ‘“‘ yaffling,” but after a time the Wood- Guarding the Entrance. (Photographed by Miss Turner.) pecker learnt wisdom and was not deceived. So the fight alternated for a week until I began to fear for the ultimate success of the rightful owners of the nesting site, and even went so far as to harden my heart and consult with the powers that be as to the advisability of shooting the robbers. On one occasion, however, there E. L. ‘TURNER: WOODPECKER v STARLING. 145 had been three Starlings and one Woodpecker inside the tree together ; so it seemed more than probable that, if this marauding pair suffered the extreme penalty of the law for their sins, others might carry on the feud. Consequently, the nesting-box was tried first, with happy results ; for the Starlings occupied it the same evening (May 14th), and their young ones were fledged on June 19th, while the young Woodpeckers flew away a week later. Evidently even in wild nature the strongest does not always win, art and science hold their own. This the Starlings seemed to know well when they pitted their wits against mere physical strength ; for it seemed to me they would win finally by mere persistence and cunning. When very agitated, the Green Woodpecker would rapidly ascend the bole of a neighbouring beech, and as rapidly descend backwards in a curiously jerky manner, as if she were climbing hand over hand down a rope. I have never before seen any of the Woodpeckers descend in this manner.* Owing to the height of the nesting hole I was obliged to use a telephoto lens, the slowness of which, added to the darkness of the wood, made it impossible to obtain photographs of the amusing attitudes and fighting tactics of these birds, and, when the young were hatched out, the surrounding foliage had become so dense as to make it practically impossible to get any picture with aslow lens. Out of some fifty plates exposed, the two accompanying photographs (from which part of the background has been taken out) were almost the only result worth mentioning; but the enthusiastic photographer, even if unsuccessful in his art, sees so much of wonder and beauty that he has no cause to srumble if the pictorial results are not always just what he hoped for. * This article was received before the publication of Col. Feilden’s note on this subject (see p. 93).—EDs. ie EY ae ON THE MORE IMPORTANT ADDITIONS TO OUR KNOWLEDGE OF BRITISH BIRDS SINCE 1899. BY H. F. WITHERBY and N.. Ff PICHHUREL Parw XFYV: (Continued from page 129.) BAILLON’S CRAKE Porzana bailloni (Vieill.). EssEx.—One was caught by a dog near Dagenham on October 3rd, 1874, and is now in the museum of the Essex Field Club (Field, 2, 111., 04). - SURREY.—One was caught alive in Church Street, Godal- ming, in 1837, and is in the Charterhouse collection. An adult female was also caught alive between Mitcham and Carshalton about the end of May, 1847 (J. A. Bucknill, B. of Surrey, p. 274). ! Sussex.—One was killed against the telegraph wires on Pett Level in June, 1907 (N.F.T., cf. antea, Vol. 1, p. 359). Kent.—A female was shot by Captain R. Alexander near Lydd, on November 24th, 1906 (R.E.C., Field, 22, xt1., 1906 = .c/ antea; Vol. 4a= p.- 309). HAMPSHIRE.—Four occurrences are noted (Kelsall and Munn, B. of Hants, p. 271). NortH Wates.—A male was caught by a dog in a ditch near Colwyn Bay on November 6th, 1905 (H. E. Forrest, Zool., 1905, p. 465). CHESHIRE.—An adult male was captured alive near Stock- port in May, 1905 (T. A. Coward, t.c., 1906, p. 395). ScoTtanpD.—A female was shot at Thurso in September, 1898 (W. Arkwright, Ann. S.N.H., 1899, p. 50). [ALLEN’S GALLINULE Porphyriola alleni (Thompson). An immature example of this African species alighted on a fishing-boat off Hopton, near Yarmouth, on January lst, 1902, and was captured (J. H. Gurney, Zool., 1902, p. 98). The species has occurred in the winter in Italy and Sicily, and it is possible that this bird was a genuine storm- driven migrant. The specimen is now in the possession of Mr. ADDITIONS SINCE 1899. 147 J. B. Nichols. It may be noted that a bird of this species has been recorded as having been caught at sea 190 miles off the coast of Liberia. | CRANE Grus communis Bechst. 8S. page 521. NorFrotk.—On April 7th, 1898, four were seen by Mr. Pashley near Glaven, and they were afterwards reported at Weybourne, and again at Runton, after which they took their departure (J. H. Gurney, Zool., 1899, p. 119). An immature bird was seen for about three weeks near Great Yarmouth in April, 1906 (J. E. Knights, ¢.c., 1906, p. 194). ScoTLAND.—A young bird appeared at the Pentland Skerries on May Ist, 1903, and was shot two days aiterwards (J. Tomison, Ann. S.N.H., 1903, p. 186). One was seen in North Shetland on May 16th, 1906 ole Hy. Saxby, ¢.c., 1907, p. 50). Qne was shot near Stornoway on May 14th, 1906. The species had not previously been recorded from the Outer Hebrides (N. B. Kinnear, t.c., 1907, p. 84). GREAT BUSTARD Otis tarda L. 8S. page 523. InTRODUCTION.—In 1900 seventeen were imported from Spain and placed by Lord Walsingham on Lord Iveagh’s estate at Elvedon, Norfolk. Fifteen survived the winter (they were feather pinioned), but they then left their secure retreat, where they had a run of some 800 acres, and appear to have dispersed over the country. Several were soon shot, and the whereabouts of four only were known at the end of 1901. By the end of the following year only two remained. They appear to have laid eggs, but no young hatched, and the experiment must be deemed an entire failure. [IRELAND.—Two were seen near Thurles, co. Tip- perary, and one of them was shot on December 20th, 1902 (Williams & Son, Field, 1903, p. 447). There is no previous authentic record of the occurrence of this bird in Ireland, and we think that these examples may have been ‘“‘ escapes.’? We believe that all the intro- duced birds mentioned above have not even yet been accounted for. | [LINCOLNSHIRE.—Two females were killed, one at Weelsby, the other at Tetney, on December 15th and 29th, 1902 (G. H. Caton Haigh, Zool., 1903, p. 368). These are looked upon by Mr. Gurney (t.c., p. 125) as 148 BRITISH BIRDS. genuine migrants, and not part of the Norfolk introduced birds, but there seems no proof for this. ] JERSEY.—Two were shot on King’s Meadow in December, 1899 (H. Mackay, t.c., 1904, p. 378). LITTLE BUSTARD Otis tetrax L. 8S. page 525. Yorxks.—One was shot at Kilnsea on December 7th, 1902 (P. W. Loten, Nat., 1903, p. 61). NorFroutK.—One was shot at Feltwell on Jan. 25th, 1898 (J. H. Gurney, Zool., 1899, p. 118). An ague female was shot at Ludham on Nov. 26th, 1900 (7d., t.c., 1900, p. 138). A male was shot at Caister-by-the-Sea on Dec. 11th, 1902 (7d., ¢.c., 1903, p. 137). SuUFFOLK.—A male in full summer plumage was shot on May 3rd, 1898, at Kessingland, near Lowestoft. This is the first instance of a bird in this plumage having occurred in the Eastern counties (T. Southwell, é.c., 1899, p..- 31; and. 1900, 99° 115): STAFFORD.—One was shot by a keeper at Warslow about 1899, but was not recorded at the time as it was killed during the close season (F. C. R. Jourdain, in litt.) Drrspy.—A female was shot on Middleton Top, near Youlgreave, on May 14th, 1901 (W. Storrs Fox, Zool., 1901, p. 270). KErnt.—One was shot in Thanet on Dec. 20th, 1902 (C. Ingram, ¢.c., 4908, p.. 272). SussEx.—One was shot at Ashburnham on Dec. 23rd, 1900 (G. W. Bradshaw, t.c., 1900, p. 428)—[the date should be Dec. 28th.—N.F.T.]. A female was shot near Burpham on Dec. 16th, 1901 (W. Percival Westell, t.c., 1902, p. 70). A female was killed against telegraph wires at Hollington in February, 1902 (N.F.T.). A female was shot at Westfield on Dec. 26th, 1905 (N.F.T.). SoMERSET.—The Rev. W. Fox reported that a female, previously unrecorded, was shot on Sedgemoor about 1872, and was now in the possession of a small farmer (Fveld,13, vit., 07.) JERSEY.—A female was shot on Feb. 4th, 1902 (H. Mackay, t.c., 1904, p. 378). STONE-CURLEW (Cdicnemus scolopax .(S. G. Gm.). S. page 529. | Kent.—Owing to protection, the numbers annually breeding in the county show a slight increase (N.F.T.). SuRREY.—There is at least one locality in which it may be regularly seen (1898) (J. A. Bucknill, Birds of Surrey, pp. 281-282). ADDITIONS SINCE 1899. 149 MERIONETH.—One was obtained near Towyn on Jan. 6th, 1903 (H. E. Forrest, Vert. F. N. Wales, p. 323). IRELAND.—One was reported to have been shot at Magheragollen, Gweedore, co. Donegal, on Oct. 12th, 1903 (D. C. Campbell, Irish Nat., 1904, p. 119). [It formerly bred in Oxfordshire (Zool., 1903, p. 18; 1899, p-. 487), Buckinghamshire (¢.c., 1903, p. 450), Cambridgeshire (t.c., 1862, p. 8168), Bedfordshire (Vict. Hist. Beds., p. 128), Nottinghamshire (B. of Notts., p. 253)]. PRATINCOLE Glareola pratincola (lL.). 8S. page 531. Kent.—A male was shot by Mr. Southerden at Jury Gap, Romney Marsh, on May 30th, 1903. The specimen, which was the first recorded example from Kent, is in Mr. Fleetwood Ashburnham’s collection (N. F. Micehurst, Bull. B.O.C., XIU., p. 77). An adult pair were shot near the same place on July 19th, 1904 (N.F.T.). ScoTLaAnpD.—A young bird, only the second example of the species which has ever been obtained in Scotland, was shot on the Mill Burn, Rocksands, Montrose, by Mr. Stormond, on Nov. 4th, 1899 (J. A. Harvie-Brown, man. SN .H,, 1900, p: 51). CREAM-COLOURED COURSER Cursorius gallicus (J. F. Gm.). 8S. page 533. One was shot in Bouley Bay, Jersey, on Oct. 19th, 1896 (J. E. Harting, Zool., 1896, p. 435). The Channel Islands are not included by Howard Saunders amongst the places where this bird has occurred. DOTTEREL Ludromias morinellus (L.). 8S. page 535. Nortu Waes.—Four were seen on the top of one of the highest mountains in Merionethshire on May 10th, 1901, and on May 8th, 1902. A search was made in June, 1901, but none were seen (O. V. Aplin, /bzs, 1901, p. 517, and 1903, p. 133). It appears to occur sparingly on the mountains in spring (H. E. Forrest, Vert. F. N. Wales, p. 330). JRELAND.—One was shot from a flock of more than a hundred birds (thought to be of the same species) in Donegal Bay on Nov. 29th, 1905 (A. R. Nichols, Irish Nat., 1906, p. 45). Three females were shot at Athlone on Nov. 10th, 1906 (W. P. Williams, t.c., 1907, p. 183). OvutEeR Hesripes.—A bird-of-the-year was received from Eilean Mor, Flannan Isles, in September, 1906. The species had not been recorded previously from the Outer Hebrides (W. E. Clarke, Ann. S.N.H., 1907, p. 53). 150 BRITISH BIRDS. ScotLAND.—Mr. Harvie-Brown notes an extension south, if not an actual increase in numbers and breeding area, in the Tay district, which began about 1900, suddenly, and was afterwards continued rapidly, especially about 1902-3 (ef. Fauna of Tay Basin, pp. 299-304). RINGED PLOVER Agialitis hiaticola (L.). 8S. page 539. Inland Nesting.—In Worcestershire (D. R. Grubb, Zool., 1902, p. 316) ; in Middlesex (R. B. Lodge, é.c., 1901, p. 389). KENTISH PLOVER Agialitis cantiana (Lath.). 8S. page 543. DurHam.—An adult female was found dead near the North Gare breakwater (Teesmouth) at the end of May, 1904 (C. E. Milburn, Nat., 1904, p. 283). Norts.—One was seen on April 13th, 1904, near Mansfield (J. Whitaker, Birds of Notts., p. 255). Kernt.—Owing to the rigid protection now in force in their breeding area, their numbers are steadily on the increase (Soph: KILLDEER PLOVER Agialitis vocifera (L.). 8S. page 545. A specimen shot at Peterhead by Mr. Andrew Murray, Jun.., in 1867, was labelled ‘‘ Charadrius hiaticula,’ and was dis- covered in the University Museum at Aberdeen and identified as an example of this species by Mr. W. P. Pycraft in July, 1904. This, therefore, is the first British-killed specimen (W. P. Pycraft, Ann. S.N.H., 1904, p. 247). LESSER GOLDEN PLOVER Charadrius dominicus P. L. 8. Miller. S. page 549. SurrEy.—A specimen in the Charterhouse collection was shot on Epsom Racecourse on Noy. 12th, 1870 (J. A. Bucknill, Birds of Surrey, p. 283). EssEx.—One (which was afterwards identified at the British Museum) was shot by Mr. H. Nunn off Shell Haven Point, on the Thames, Aug. 6th, 1896 (H. Nunn, Zool., 1897, p. 330). SOCIABLE PLOVER Vanellus gregarius (Pall.). 8S. page 5b3. IRELAND.—A female was shot on Aug. Ist, 1899, in a turnip field, by a farmer at Robinstown, near Navan, co. Meath (E. Williams, Irish Nat., 1899, p. 233). | [It will be remembered that one was recorded from Kent in 1907, vide antea, Vol. 1., p. 57.] (Lio be continued.) ( 151 ) SOME EARLY BRITISH ORNITHOLOGISTS AND THEIR WORKS. BY VW OE “NUL NS, M.A., LL.M., ieB.O.U- WI.—CHRISTOPHER MERRETT (16141695). (Continued from page 118.) Rusticola minor, the Snipe, or Snite, I. 62. tab. 27. Scolopax, Gallinago minor Ald. tom. 3. 479. Gallinago sive Rusticola minor, G. 448. est altera Hujus species nuncupata, the Jack Snipe. [‘‘ Snite ” is the old form of Snipe. Gesner (p. 483) gives “snyt”? as an English name for the Sandpiper. “Jack Snipe,” cf. Willughby (p. 25).] Rusticola major, Scolopax. Gallinago, I. 88. tab. 31. the Wood-cock, Ald. tom. 3. 473. Rusticola vel Perdix Rustica major, G. 445. Utreq ; Hyeme huc migrant. ex Hibernia. [Neither Turner nor Willughby mention the Woodcock as frequenting Ireland. Merrett’s statement that it migrates hither from that country is derived from Giraldus Cambrensis’ account (Chapter X.), ““ There are immense flights of Snipe (acete) . . . both the larger species of the woods and the smaller of the marshes.’’] Ralla-Anglor, the Rail, or King of the Quails, Ald. 3. 455. [Cf. Willughby (p. 23). Turner (p. 71) states, curiously enough, that he had not seen or heard the Corn Crake ‘anywhere in England, save in Northumberland alone.” ] Upupa, the Hoopee, I. 62. tab. 27. Ald. 2. 704. G. 703. In the New Forest in Hampshire, & in Essexia, sed raro invenitur. [The Hoopoe is still found. occasionally in the New Forest. Merrett describes it as rare, cf. Charleton (p. 92), who calls it a Hoopoop, and states that it rarely visits this country, and that a friend of his killed one near London ‘‘ Hyeme tamen Superiori.”” This bird, however, was not rare in 152 BRITISH BIRDS. Norfolk. Sir Thomas Browne, in his notes says: “ Upupa, or Hoopebird, so named from its note, a gallant marked bird wch I have often seen and ’tis not hard to shoote them ” (cf. Southwell, p. 23).] Pulveratrices domestice. [p. 174] Gallus, a Cock, I. 82. tab. 29. Ald. tom. 2. 200. . . . Hirsutis pedibus, ib. . . . Palustris, a Moor-hen, G. 421, Morenna Angl. Ald. 2. 341. [The Black Grouse. Turner (p. 87) calls it the Morhen (cf. Willughby, p. 173). Aldrovandus (Lib. XIV., Cap. XV.) treats ‘‘De Gallo Scotico Sylvestris & de Morhenna Anglorum,” and informs us that “‘ Scoti in hoc genere marem vocant Ane black cock, id est, Gallum nigram: foeminam . ane grey hen, id est Gallinam fuscam.’’] Gallina Rustica Turn. quam variis de causis Attagenem esse conjicit. [C/. Turner (p. 87). ] Pulveratrices Lavatrices. Fulica, a Coot, I. 88. tab. 31. Ald. 395. G. 344. Ispida, the Kings-fisher, I. 88. tab. 31. Ald. 5. 520. G. 513. Gallina Aq. I. 88. tab. 31. [The figure in Jonstonus is that of the Water-Hen.] Gallina serica, I. 88. tab. 31. sic dicta a splendore, Ald. os. 410) [The figure in Jonstonus is possibly that of the Godwit.] Columba vulg. Livia, the common House-Pidgeon, or Culver, I. 88. tab. 32. Ald. 2. 462. G. 245. Columba Guttorosa perperam dicta Cropper, Ald. 2. 479. Columbe Cypriz, Jacobins, I. 88. tab. 32. Ald. 2. 471. Columbe Turcice, Coloris sunt Betulini, cum oculis rubris, Ald. 481. Columb. Tabellariz, Carriers. Columb. Tremule, Shakers, suntq; vel acuti vel lati caude. Columb. Hirsutis pedibus, rough-footed Pidgeons, I. 88. tab. 32. Ald. 2. 466. Columb. Angl. & Russica, G. 245. inter has majores vocantur, Runts. Columb. Galeatze, Helmets. [P. 175.] Columb. maculis nigris & aliw rubris decorate, Black and red Spots. Columb. Percussores, Smiters. SOME EARLY BRITISH ORNITHOLOGISTS. 153 Columb. Gyratrices, Tumblers, Omnes he Columbe in Columbariis aluntur preterq; has a curiosis educantur Turcice, Barbarice, the Finikin, Cornew, Bastard bill, Light Horsman, Dragoon. Turtur, the Turtle Dove, I. 88. tab. 32. Ald. 2. 509. G. 277. Palumbus major torquatus, a Ring Dove, or Quist, Ald. 2. 4.7. In sylvis, Turn. a Cowshot, a ringed Dove. Oenas seu vinago, a Stock-Dove, or Wood-Pidgeon, Ald. 2. 499. I. 88. tab. 32. Passer domesticus, the House-Sparrow, I. 92. tab. 34. G. 581. Ald. 2. 534. idem quandoq; albus invenitur, I. ibid. Ald. 556. Passer pusillus in Juglandibus degens, I. 96. sine Icone, Aid. 2.563. [A variety of Sparrow, cf. Belon (pp. 363 and 364), who terms this bird “‘Moineau de Noyer,” or “ Friquet.” Charleton (p. 78) calls it the “* Wall-nut Sparrow.’’] Junco, the Reed Sparrow, I. 166. tab. 53. Hujus datur minor species in Arundinetis prope Kingstoniam. [The Reed-Bunting, cf. Turner (p. 103).] Granivare Canore. Carduelis, a Gold-finch, I. 69. tab. 36. Ald. 2. 801. G. 215. Aurivittis Turn. Calandra Ald. 2. 847. est Alaudz persimilis sed ipsa paulo major, Ramis arborum insidet an Passer torquatus G. a Bunting. [Cf. Willughby (p. 208), and Belon (p. 271). Aldrovandus says it is called the “ Challander”’ in England. Emberiza Callandra is the name applied to the Corn Bunting by Linneus, cf. Syst. Nat., Ed. X., 1758.] Coccothraustes, I. 98. tab. 37. Coccothraustes mas Ald. 2. 846. [The Hawfinch. Though Merrett does not give the English name the figure in Aldrovandus is unmistakable (cf. Belon, p. 374).] Fringilla, the Common, or Chaffinch, I. ib. Ald [Page 176.] 2. 817. G. 342. Turn. a Sheld apl. a Spink. Monti-fringilla, the Bramble, or Brambling, I. 96. tab. 33. Ald. 2. 822. G. 3438. fe, 176: | [The derivation of the word Brambling is obscure. Charleton’s attempt is: “The Brambling, or Brier-finch (utpote rubris scepe insidens, eorumg’ fructibus victitans)”’; “rubris ’? = on brambles.] 154 BRITISH BIRDS. Chloris, the Green-finch, I. ib. Ald. 2. 851. G. 226. Turn. Acanthis, Spinus, Ligurinus. Citrinella, the Yellow-hammer, I. 96. tab. 36. Ald. 2. 859. Emberiza flava Turn. a Youlring, G. 591. [Cf. Swainson (p. 69).] Linaria, the Linet, I. 96. tab. 36. and 98. tab. 37. Ald. 2. 824. G. 550. Luteola, a Siskin, rara apud Anglos avis nec uspiam fere alibi quam in caveis cernitur semel in agris Cantabrigianis se vidisse recordatur, Turn. [Merrett’s account of this bird is taken verbatim from Turner (p. 109), “‘ Caveis”” being Turner’s word for cages.] . Alauda, the Lark, I. 98. tab. 37. 38. Ald. 2. 845. G. 67. Turn. Galerita. Alauda pratensis, the tit-Lark, I. ib. Ald. 2. 849. Alauda cristata, the wood- Lark, Gl 72. Ald. 2. 841. I. 98. tab. 37. Rubicilla, a Bull finch, a Hoop, and Bul Spink, a Nope, I. 120. tab. 43. Pyrrhula sive Rubicilla Ald. 2. 745. G. 662. Baccivore. Turdus vulg. the Song-Thrush, I. 98. tab. 37. Ald. 2. 600. & Turn. a Thrussel. Turdus Viscovorus, the Misletoe Thrush, or Saith, I. 102. tab. 39. Ald. 2. 583. G. 688. & Turn. simpliciter, a Thrush. [Willughby (p. 187) calls it the Missel-bird, or Shrite ; and Charleton (p. 83) the Shreitch.] Turdus Illas, the Wind Thrush, I. 102. tab. 39. Turdus minor Ald. 2. 598. Turdus minor [las vel '_Tylas, G. 689. Turn. a Wind Thrush. [The Redwing. Turner does not call it a Wind Thrush, as Merrett states, but a Wyngthrush (p. 173). The name Wind Thrush is applied to the Redwing to this day in Somersetshire (cf. Swainson, p. 5). ] Trichas, the Feldefare, Turdus pilaris Ald. 596. [Page 177.] tantum hyeme apud nos reperitur. [The Fieldfare, cf. Willughby (p. 24).] - Merula, Collyrion Turn. the Black-bird, or black Ousle, I. 104. 140. Ald. 2. 604. G. 543. Sturnus vulg the Stare, or Starling, I. 104. t. 40. Ald. 2. 632. G. 677. cirea turres & altiora edificiorum culmina. Sturnus Cinereus, Ald. 2. 638. I. 104. t. 40. [Probably the immature Starling.] Ceruleo, a Clot Bird, a Smatch, or Arling, a Stone-check, SOME EARLY BRITISH ORNITHOLOGISTS. 155 nidulatur in Cuniculorum foveis, & sub lapide in Anglia Turn. The Wheatear—also on p. 178 as Ginanthe. C/. Turner (p. 53), Clot (bird) =Clod. Clod bird for clodhopper (cf. Swainson, p. 10). The account of the Wheatear’s nesting in rabbit burrows is derived from Turner (p. 53).] Insectivore. Picus viridis, the Green Wood pecker, or Hickwall, I. 110. t. 41. Ald. 1. 849. G. 642. Chlorion, Virio, a Witwoll, Turn. Picus varius major, I. 110. t. 41. Ald. 846. Picus varius minor & mas, I. ib. Ald. 1. 847. Picus murarius, the Creeper, or Wall-Creeper, I. ib. Ald. 1. 852. G. 644. {Merrett distinguishes this bird from the Tree-Creeper, which he refers to as “Certhia, the Ox-eye Creeper.” Willughby (p. 143) says: “ They say it is found in England ; but we have not as yet had the hap to meet with it.”’ Turner does not mention the Wall-Creeper, but there is no reason why Merrett should not be correct in including it in his list of British birds (cf. Saunders’ Manual of British Birds, p. 119, and Gilbert White’s VIIIth letter to Marsham, in Harting’s second edition of the Natural History of Selborne). Charleton (p. 86) calls this bird the ‘‘ Creeper, or Spider Catcher,” which latter name Willughby also adopts.] Picus Cinereus, I. 110. t. 41. Sitta seu Picus Cinereus Ald. 1. 853. [The Nuthatch, cf. Willughby (p. 143). ‘‘ Gaza* retains the same name, calling it ‘in Latina, Sitta. Later writers style it Picus cinereus, v.e., the ash-coloured Woodpecker.” Charleton calls it the “ Nut-breaker,” or “ Nut-jobber.”’]. Juynx, seu Torquilla, the Wryneck, I. 114. t. 42. Ald. 1. 866. G. 515. [Charleton calls this bird the “* Wrynecken,” or “ Emmet- hunter.’’] Certhia, the Ox-eye Creeper, I. 114. t. 42. Ald. 2. 870. Certhia Turn. G. 223. [For explanation of name Creeper cf. Turner (p. 53).] Passer Troglodytes, a Wren, I. ib. Ald. 2. 651. G. 588. Trochilus, Senator, Regulus Turn. Curruca, the Hedge Sparrow, G. 326. Ald. 2. 753. Hypolais seu -Curruca, [.'122. t. 45. * Theodorus Gaza, ob. 1480. The translator of Aristotle’s ‘‘ History of Animals’’ into Latin from the original Greek. 156 BRITISH BIRDS. Hirundo, the House Swallow, I. 114. t. 42. [Page 178.] Ald. 2. 662. G. 492. vivit per Hyemem in mineris stanneis Cor- nubiensibus & in Rupibus marinis. [‘‘ It lives during the winter in the tin mines of Cornwall,” cf. Carew (Fol. 25).] Hirundo Riparia, the Sand Martin, or Shore-bird, I. ib. Ald. 2. 695. a bank Martnet, G. 508. Hirundo agrestis sive Rustica Plinii, a Martin, Ald. 2. 693. I. 114. t. 42. Hirundo apus, a black Martin, or Martlet, Ald. 2. 699. I. 114. t. 42. a Rock or Church Martnet, G. 507. [The Swift, cf. Willughby (p. 214.)] Parus major, the Common Titmouse, I. 120. t. 43. Ald. 2. 713. G. 578. the great Titmouse, vel the great Ox-eye Turn. [Cf. Turner (p. 131), and Swainson (p. 32).] Parus Ceruleus minor, I. 122. t. 44. Ald. 721. G. 579. the less Titmouse, Turn. Parus ater, seu Carbonarius, the Coalmouse, I. ib. Ald. 2. Was. Do: [Cf. Willughby (p. 241) “ Cole-mouse.’’] Parus Caudatus, the least, or long taild Titmouse, I. ib. Ald. 2. 716. G. 580. Motacilla, a Water Wagtail, I. 122. t. 44. Ald. 2. 727. G. 557. Culicilega, a Wag tail, Turn. Motacilla flava rostro longiusculo nigricante, I. 122. t. 44. Ald. 2. 859. G. 559. [Presumably the Yellow Wagtail (M. rai). The epithet Longiusculus—somewhat lengthy, as applied to the beak is, however, more descriptive of the Grey Wagtail (MM. melanope).] Rubetra, the Stone-Chatter, or Blackberry-eater, & Turn. mortetter, I. 122. t. 45. Ald. 2. 740. a Moortiting Aquilonari- bus. [Cf. Turner (p. 159). Charleton also calls the Stone-Chat, the ‘‘ Blackberry-eater, Morteller, or Black-cap.” For this, and Moor-titing, or Moor-titling, cf. Swainson (p. 12).] Rubecula, the Ruddock, Red-breast, and Robin Red-breast, I. ib. Ald. 2. 742. G. 661. Ruticilla, Pheenicurus, the Red-start, I. 120. 43. Ald. 2. '747. a Redtail, G. 663. ex Turn. [Gesner has “ Angli a redetale” (p. 699). According to Charleton (p. 91), this bird possibly hibernated in England.] SOME EARLY BRITISH ORNITHOLOGISTS. 157 Oenanthe, the Wheat ear, or White tail, I. 122. [Page 179.] t. 45. Ald. 2. 763. G. 567. in agro Warwicensi Fallow Smiters. [The Wheatear as Ceruleo (p. 177). Fallow Smiters— Swainson (p. 9) has Fallow Smich; and in Wiltshire it is known as the Horse Smatch, or Snatcher (A. C. Smith, Birds of Wilts). Smiter possibly from Smit, SW. Smet, grease or fat.] Luscinia, Lusciniola, the Nightingale, I. ib. Ald. 2. 777. G. 532. Morinellus, the Dotterel, Ald. 3. 540. G. 554. in agro Lincoln- iensi certo anni tempore capitur jocose, vide Camden. [The account of the taking of this bird given by Camden (who apparently derived it from Caius, cf. Evans’ Turner, p- 203), is as follows :— ‘** Dotterells, so named from their dotish foolishnesse, which being a kind of birds as it were of an apish kind, ready to imitate what they see done, are caught by candle light accord- ing to foulers gesture: if he puts forth an arme, they also stretch out a wing: sets he forward his legge, or holdeth up his head, they likewise doe their: in briefe, whatever the fouler doth, the same also doth this foolish bird, untill it be hidden within the net ’” (Camden, Philemon Holland’s edition, 1610 (p. 548); cf. also Willughby (pp. 309, 310).] Aquatice Palmipides. Cygnus, the Swan, I. 136. t. 48. Ald. 3. 8. G. 321. Anser Domesticus, the Goose, mas vocatur, the Gander, I. 136, t. 48. Ald. 3. 102. G. 125. Chenalopex, vulpanser, a Bergander, nusquam alias vidi nisi in Thamesi fluvio aiunt tamen esse frequentem in insula Tenia (Thanet.) vocaté & illic in scrobibus cuniculorum nidulari, Turn. [The Shelldrake. Turner (p. 25) says “ our people nowadays name it Bergander”’ (7.e., Burrow-gander). Caius, however, suggests quite another derivation for Berg, which he thinks may be from Brend, or Bernd, meaning variegated (cf. Evans’ Turner, p. 195). Ray, apparently using the same idea, calls the Goosander, a Bergander (p. 94).] Anser ferus, I. 136. t. 48. Ald. 3. 150. G. 140. Be rericalca, Capricalze Scotis, Ald. 3. 164. I. 136. t. 48. . 146. [The Capercailzie, also Urogallus (p. 173).] Anseris speciem vidi in Cimelio Tradescanti sub nomine Squeed una cum Ovo ex Insula Scotica Bass dicta, in qua 158 BRITISH BIRDS. quam plurima avium genera stato anni tempore nidificant uti etiam in insula Vecti. [‘‘In Cimelio Tradescanti,” 7.e., the Tradescant Museum, which was the origin and basis of the Ashmolean Museum at Oxford. .‘‘Squeed”’ (?) not the Gannet which is mentioned by Merrett on the same page. Possibly the Hider Duck is meant, a few still breed on the-Bass.] Bernicla Brenta, the Brant Goose, I. 136. t. 48 Ald. 3. 167. . Brenthus, G. 95. Gustarda Avis Scotica Ald. 3. 163. G. 145. [The Great Bustard ; also p. 173. The name Gustard was applied to the Great Bustard by Hector Boethius, or Boece (1465-1536), the author of “‘ Scotorum Historie,” cf. Willughby (p. 178), and Gray’s “‘ Birds of the West of Scotland ” (p. 248) : ‘* Besides these, we have another foule in Mers, more strange and uncouth than all these aforementioned, called a Gustard, fullie so great as a swan, but in colour of feathers and tast of flesh little differing from a Partridge.’’] Anser Bassanus, sive Scoticus, a Soland Goose, G. 145. ex insula Bass non procul Edinburgo. | [Cf. Evans’ Turner (p. 197). Soland Goose=the Gannet, cf. Willughby (328).] Anas Domesticus, the Duck, mas, the Drake, I. 142. t. 49. Ald. 3. 188. Anas cicur, G. 83. [Page 180.] Harle, the black Diver, I. 148. t. 49. a Shell Drake in Norfolcia. [For “ Harle,”’ as applied to the Red-breasted Merganser, cf. Swainson (p. 164): “Shell Drake in Norfolk.” Swainson (p. 163) gives Shell Duck as a name of the Goosander. The figure in Jonstonus is possibly meant for the Merganser. ] Anas fera, I. ib. Ald. 3. 222. G. 101. the Wild Duck. Anas fera fusca, I. 142. t. 49. Ald. 3. 221. in Paludibus Lincolniensibus. [The figure in Jonstonus is possibly meant for the Scoter. Merrett may here have meant the Pochard. Ray gives the English equivalent as “ Pochard” (p. 96), and Charleton, “the Red-headed Widgeon ”’ (p. 99).] Anas Platyrhincus Ald. 231. in paludibus Crowlandiensibus, I. 142. t. 49. [The Shoveller. The figure in Aldrovandus is distinct.] Querquedula, the Teal, I. 142. t. 49. Ald. 3. 549. G. 91. A Gaddel, Ornithopolis nostris sic dictus est magnitudine Anatis, rostrum simillimum rostro Querquedule, sed ali- quanto magis cerulescit. SOME EARLY BRITISH ORNITHOLOGISTS. 159 [The Gadwall, cf. Willughby (p. 374), where the name Gadwall is seemingly used for the first time. The derivation of Gadwall is obscure, cf. Newton “ Dict. Birds” (p. 297).] Penelope major, the Widgeon, Ald. 3. 219. I. 142. t. 49. Penelope fem, Ald. 3. 220. Colymbus major, the great Ducker, I. 136. t. 48. Ald. 3. 252. [The Great Northern Diver, cf. Willughby (p. 342), and Swainson (p. 213).] Colymbus a Norwegis Lumme, a nostratibus, Razor bill, Worm, 304. ex Auctario Clus. pag. 367. Mr. Willoughby. [Cf. “Museum Wormianum” (p. 304), and Willughby (p. 342). The word “ Loom,” or “ Loon,” is applied to the Divers in general (cf. Swainson, p. 213).] Colymbus Cristatus seu Auritus, Worm, ib. sine Icone, idem. [Possibly the Great Crested Grebe.] Colymbus medius, the Dive-dapper, or Arsfoot, I. 136, t. 45. Ald. 3. 258. [Arsfoot, a name given to the Grebes on account of the position of their legs (cf. Swainson, pp. 215, 216). So also the Razorbill and Guillemot are known in Yorkshire as “ feet in Ass.”’] | Colymbus minimus, the Dab Chick. [The Little Grebe (cf. Willughby, p. 340, and Swainson, p. 216).] Mergorum serrati-Rostratorum species major & minor, in fluvio Tame in agro Warwicensi an. 1664. cum rigidissima fuerit hyems, Mr. Willoughby. [Probably the Goosander and Merganser, or the male and female of one of these species (cf. Willughby, p. 27, and Charleton, p. 95).] Mergus Turn. (ut sentio) qui vidit in rupibus marinis nidifi- cantes, juxta Ostium Tine fluvii [Page 181.] in Norfolcia, Hoc me ditavit Doctissimus affinis meus Ds. Jenner Sclopeto transfosso in agro Wiltoniensi. [Turner’s Mergus is the Cormorant (cf. pp. 111, 113).] Corvus aquat. the Cormorant, Ald. 3. 263. I. t. 27. Carbo aquat. G. 121. in Cornubia Shags, Turn. mergus. [The same as the above.] Onocrotalus, sive Pelicanus, the Pelicane, I. 128. t. 46. Ald. 3. 47. [Pelicans were (1660-1670) kept in captivity in the Royal 160 BRITISH BIRDS. Aviary in St. James’s Park (cf. Willughby, p. 327, and Charleton, p. 94). Sir Thomas Browne, writing to Merrett under date September 13th, 1668, says :—‘‘ In your Pinax I find Onocratalus, or Pellican, whether you meane those at St. James or others brought over or such as have been taken or killed heere I knowe not. I have one hangd up in my howse wch was shott in a fenn ten miles of about 4 yeares ago and because it was so rare some conjectured it might bee one of those which belonged unto the King & flewe away ” (cf. Southwell, pp. 64 and 16).] Pelicanus sive Platza, a Shovelard, I. 128. t. 46. ex agro Lincoln. Turn. a Spoon bill. [The Spoonbill, cf. Turner (pp. 151 and 41), and Willughby (p. 288).] Larus major & minor albus, the Sea Mew, I. 126. t. 46. Ald. 3. 65. & simpliciter, Gul, Sea Gul, or Sea Cob. [For “Sea Mew,” as applied to the Common Gull (L. canus), cf. Swainson (p. 207). For “Sea Cob,” cf. Turner (p. 79).] Larus, quem Cornubienses indigitant, a Ganet, forsan detorto nomine a Gavia vel a Gallicorum Gavian quod idem sonat, est par Anseri, palmipes, rostrum rotundum ceruleum, corpus grisei coloris, alte volat alausasq; minores solas captat. [No doubt one of the Skuas, probably the Great Skua (cf. Willughby, p. 348). Merrett states that it catches “ alausas,” by which he means pilchards, cf. p. 185, where the word is spelt “ alosa.’’] Puphinus Anglicus, the Puphin, G. 657. ex Insula Anglesey, & Cornubia, Anas Artica Clusii, & Fraterculus Ald. 3. 230. lin. 13, 14. [C?. Turner, p. 205, and Carew, Fol. 35.] Fissipides Aquatice. Ciconia, the Stork, I. 148. t. 50. Ald. 3. 311. G. 230. raro hue | advolat. (Cf. Willughby (p. 286) for an account of the specimen ‘taken on the coast of Norfolk”? which he received from Sir Thomas Browne. Writing to Merrett September 13th, 1668, Browne states that he had seen two, “ one in a watery marsh 8 miles of, another shott whose case is yet to bee seen.’’] Ardea Cineria, the Ash coloured Heron, or Hern, Hernshaw, I. 148. t. 50. Ald. 3. 378. Ardea pulla sive Cinerea, G. 187. [Cf. Swainson, p. 144.] SOME EARLY BRITISH ORNITHOLOGISTS. 161 mraea alba, G. I. 152. t. 51. Ald. 390. G..189; a Mire Drumble. [This may either mean a white (albino) Heron, or the Spoonbill, which Merrett has already mentioned. (Cf. Turner, p. 39.) Merrett gives it the name “ Mire Drumble,” which was in the form of Mire Drum, or Mire Drumble, com- monly applied to the Bittern (cf. Willughby, p. 25, and Century Dict., Vol. V.). Charleton, apparently following Merrett, calls the Spoonbill a “ Mire-drumbel.”’] Ardea stellaris, the Bittourn, I. ib. Ald. 405. G. 100. [ Bittern, cf. Turner (p. 41), and Willughby (p. 25), where we are told that its common name was “ Night-Raven.” (Cf. Swainson, p. 146.)] [p. 182] Ardea minor, I. tab. 56. quam ad me transmisit Ds. Jenner, ex agro Wiltoniensi. [Possibly the Little Bittern.] Avis pugnax, I. 154. t. 52. a Rough, est tertia in Tab. Avis pugnax, quarta in dicta Tab. a Reev. utreq; ex agro Lincoln. est feemina superioris. Hemantopus mas & fem. Red shanks, I. 154. t. 52. Arquata, seu numenius, the Curliew, Ald. 3. 426. I. 152. mol. G. 197. Arquata congener, a Stone Curliew, huic rostrum breve, accipitrinum, penne milvi, Phasiano par magnitudine, Dilicatissimze avis ex agro Hantoniensi, Ds. Hutchinson Ornithopola Londinensis. [The Stone-Curlew was found in Hampshire (cf. Gilbert White, XVth letter to Pennant), and still breeds in that county.) ] Vannellus, the Lapwing, bastard Plover, or Pewit, insula queedam ab iis nomen fortitur in Essexia : Huc enim migrant precise ad diem Divo Georgio sacrum, vide Fuller, 318. f. 166. t. 53. Ald. 3. 526. G. 692. [Cf. Turner (pp. 77 and 175). For accounts of this migra- tion of the Pewet Gull on St. George’s Day to the promontory of the Ness, or Naze, in Essex, cf. Charlton (p. 108), and Fuller, “ Worthies of England ” (Vol. 1, p. 494) :— “There is an island of some two hundred acres, near Har- wich, in the parish of Little Oakley, in the Manor of Matthew Gilby, esquire, called the Puet island, from Puets [Fuller was, of course, referring to the Black-headed, or Pewet Gull, Larus ridibundus| in effect the sole inhabitants thereof. Some affirm them called in Latin Upupe, whilst others maintain 162 BRITISH BIRDS. that the Roman language doth not reach the name, nor land afford the bird. On Saint George’s Day precisely, they pitch on the island, seldom laying fewer than four or more than Six eggs.” This mention of migration on St. George’s Day, April 23rd, coincides with the fact that this is the day on which cattle in Eastern Europe are shifted from winter to summer pasture. Vannello congener capella vulgari procerior, at Turdo minor, pennis Ceruleis & crista longa, ex Cornubia Ds. Gunthorp. [Smaller than a Thrush . . . with a long crest ? If minor be a misprint for major, this is the Green Plover or Lapwing.] Pluvialis cinerea, the Grey Plover, I. 166. t. 53. Ald. 3. 531. G. 647. Pluvialis flavescens hujus meminit, I. pag. 165. sine Icone. Pluvialis vulg. the Whistling Plover, or green Plover, in Ericeto Lincoln. [This is the Golden Plover (cf. Willughby, p. 308; cf. Southwell, p. 20).] Rallus Itallorum, I. p. 147. Ald. 3. 98. utribique sine icone. [One of the Rails.] [Page 183.] Trynga Ald. 3. 814. I. 166. t. 53. juxta stag. na Ichthyophylatica, & rivulorum margines, in agro War- wicensi, Mr. Willoughby. [The Sandpiper (cf. Willughby, p. 301).j Trynga paulo minor, Ald. 3. 482. I. 166. t. 53. idem. Merulam aquat. vidit volantem in Cumberlandia Ds. Willoughby, Ald. 3. 486. I. 166. t. 53. . [The Dipper, also on p. 171 as Cornix Aquaticus cf. Wil- lughby (p. 149).] Charadrios ab incolis, Sea Lark, in littoribus Cambrobritan- nicis, preesertim in statione Belli Mauritii, I. 166. t. 53. Char- adrios sive Hiatula, Ald. 3. 537. Ds. Willoughby. [‘‘ Sea Lark,” cf. Willughby, p. 310. Probably the Dunlin, or the Ringed Plover—possibly both (cf. Swainson, pp. 182 and 193).] Grus, the Crane, I. 166. t. 45. Ald. 3. 329. G. 474. PCj Purner, p: 497.4 Crex, a Daker Hen, est avis longis cruribus, cetera coturnici, (nisi quod major sit) similis, que in segete & Lino, vere, & in Principio estatis non aliam habet vocem quam crex, hane enim vocem semper ingeminat, quam ego Arist. Crecem esse puto, nusquam in Anglia nisi in sola Northumbria, vidi, & SOME EARLY BRITISH ORNITHOLOGISTS. 163 audivi, & an sit eadem cum Ortygometra superius memorata nescio, suspicor tamen esse Turn, me talem vidisse & audivisse ad Wheatley quing ; Oxonio Milliaribus memini. [Also on p. 73 as Ralla—a Daker Hen. The Landrail, or Corncrake (cf. Turner, p. 71, and Willughby, p. 316). For Daker Hen, cf. Swainson (p. 177). It is still called the ‘“Daker Hen” in Yorkshire and Lincolnshire.] Tres sequentes: aves cum nominibus & breviusculis des- criptionibus mihi communicavit Ds. Hutchinson Ornithopola Lond. quas se vidisse ait in agro Lincoln. [‘‘ Ornithopola,” = a dealer in birds.] Non est avis aquatica querquedula paulo minor Rostrum ei rotundum, tenue & argastum, superius paululum incur- vatum, toto ventre albes- [Page 184.] cit, dorsum nigrum, caput cristatum unde forsan ei nomen, sc. a monacha velata. [“ Non est,” a misprint for “ Nun est,” as it appears in the 1666 edition. Merrett here, no doubt, refers to the Smew (cf. Ray, Collection of English Words, p. 95). It is called the Nun to this day (cf. Yarrell, Vol. IV., p. 499; Swainson, p- 165).] Crickaleel, est priori eequalis, Czerulea in alarum supernis, caput collumq; maculata, ad ingluviem coloris grisei inde deorsum albescit vel contra quoad ventris colorem. [This may be the Garganey. “Crickaleel’’ may be onomato- peic. The Garganey is known as the “Cricket Teal,” cf. Swainson (p. 158), who states that from its cry it is known as Cric Cric (Jura), Criquet (Savoy), Kriechentlein (Germany). Sir T. Browne says :—‘‘ We have a kind of teale which some fowlers call Crackling Teale” (cf. Southwell, p. 83).] Gossander, palmipes & cristata ventre aureo, rostro longo & angusto, caro flavescit & cocta tota facessit in oleum, non est edulis, ex agro Lincoln. videtur esse Puphini species. [Sir Thomas Browne’s comment on this note is:—‘“‘Gossander videtur esse puphini species—worthy Sr that which we call a gossander & is no rare foule among us is a large well colourd & marked diving fowle most answering the Merganser. It may bee like the puffin in fattnesse and Ranknesse butt no foule is I think like the puffin differenced from all others by a peculiar kind of bill” (Letter to Merrett, December 29th, 1668 ; Southwell, p. 72).] OLD ENGLISH NESTING BOTTLES. EARTHENWABRE bottles of the form shown in the accompanying photograph were in common use on the barns and other farm buildings in Kent and Sussex a century ago. They were put up in rows under the eaves, and their object was to facilitate the collection of the eggs and young of the House-Sparrows, which were then universally destroyed, rewards being given for them in every parish. Probably this custom was equally common in other counties. Nesting bottles of this form may be seen depicted on the ends of cottages in some of Morland’s pictures. Some forty years ago they were comparatively common in the part of Kent in which I live, but lately I had some difficulty in finding any that were entire. Only half of the back of the bottle was earthenware, half NOTES. 165 being left open to admit the hand, while a small nick was made in the upper half for the nail on which the bottle hung. EK. G. B. MeapE-WaLpo. BLACK REDSTARTS IN MERIONETH. On August 23rd a pair of Black Redstarts (Ruticilla titys) were seen at Tal-y-llyn, near Towyn, by Mr. H. N. Kirkby, who watched them at close quarters for some time. The hen bird was seen there again on the 30th of the same month. The species is rare in North Wales, but has been recorded three times previously in the same neighbourhood—in each case a single bird (cf. Vert. Fauna N. Wales, p. 82). H. KE. Forrest. BLACK-HEADED WAGTAIL IN KENT. A FINE male Black-headed Wagtail was shot at Fairfield, Lydd, Kent, on June 8rd, 1908. It was taken by me to the Natural History Museum, and identified as Motacilla flava melanocephala. J. B. NicHozs. GREAT GREY SHRIKE IN SCOTLAND. In your last issue you mention twenty-two occurrences of the Great Grey Shrike (Zanius excubitor) in Scotland during the year 1907. Yet another specimen, unrecorded in that list, was shot at Long Hope, in Orkney, in the November of that year. H. W. Rosrnson. [The Duchess of Bedford informs us that a female was shot early in April, 1908, in the valley of the Palnure, two miles from the place where one was seen in the previous autumn, as recorded in Vol. I., p. 263.—Eps.] TWO-BARRED CROSSBILL IN SUSSEX. Ir may be interesting to record that a fine pair of Two- Barred Crossbills (Loxia bifasciata) were shot together at Penhurst, near Ashburnham, Sussex, on March 10th, 1908. The cock is in fine red plumage, the hen in yellow. They were seen in the flesh by Mr. W. R. Butterfield after being sent to Mr. Bristow of St. Leonards. They are now in my collection. J. B. NICHOLS TUFTED DUCKS NESTING IN THE OUTER HEBRIDES. In the references by MS. Marginal Notes in a copy of MacGillivray’s “‘ British Birds,” the statement by Dr. C. 166 BRITISH BIRDS. Gordon is clear enough in itself. Dr. C. Gordon was a personal friend of MacGillivray. The repetition in my “Fauna of the N.W. Highlands and Skye,” as regards their almost com- plete disappearance for some years, is also correct, and was upon the authority of personal investigations, and also upon the authority of Mr. D. Guthrie, who, by the date of the notes in “ The Annals,” 1896, pp. 3-22, had been some seven- teen or eighteen years head-keeper to Sir Reginald Gordon Cathcart, in South Uist. I quoted in the first instance from the annotated copy of MacGillivray’s, which was lent to me, but the second time from memory of the passage. There appears to be little mystery—or none at all—in the sequence of the accounts of the Tufted Ducks in the Outer Hebrides. Dr. C. Gordon as early as 1851, when he dates his marginal notes in the fifth volume of MacGillivray’s “ British Birds,” spoke of the Tufted Duck as “‘ common and plentiful ” in South Uist during the winter (vide Annals S.N. Hist., 1896, pp. 3-22). Mr. D. Guthrie, however, a most careful and capable observer, reported this species as much scarcer in years subsequent to 1892; and he had been resident in South Uist at that time since about 1874. | In 1893 actual record of nesting took place in South Uist, and Mr. Guthrie verified some of his previous statements of its doing so, and sent me an egg taken from a nest by himself. Four pairs were known to breed in 1906, and one pair in 1907, by Bahr and Kinnear. Mr. Guthrie also had spoken of the Tufted Duck having been in unusual numbers in South Uist in the winter of 1902-3. J. A. Harviz-Brown. DISTRIBUTION OF THE COMMON SCOTER IN SCOTLAND. WiruH reference to Mr. Harvie-Brown’s note (antea, p. 134) on. the distribution of the Common Scoter in Scotland, it may be of interest to state that a large flock of Common Scoters was seen off the south end of the island of Graemsay, in Orkney, during the first week in March this year. With one exception, viz., a single adult male seen in com-_ pany with an old Goldeneye drake on the Loch of Harray, among a large and widely scattered flock of Pochard drakes, on the last day of February, 1905, this is the only time I, personally, have come across the Common Scoter in Orkney in winter. Whether they occur on and around the island of Tiree in the Inner Hebrides I cannot say, but I spent the NOTES. 167 greater part of three consecutive winters on this particular island without seeing the species. However, they might easily have been there for all that, as, owing to the local lochmen being unwilling to go more than a quarter of a mile from land, and then only in very calm weather, I was rather handicapped as far as my observations of the sea Ducks were concerned. H. W. Rosinson. PALLAS’S SAND-GROUSE IN CHESHIRE. On or aboat the llth of June, 1908, two Sand-Grouse (Syrrhaptes paradoxus) were observed in a field of roots at Wythenshawe, Cheshire, by Mr. H. V. MacMaster. Their plumage and ‘ pigeon-like”’ heads at once attracted his attention, and he stood for some time at a distance of about thirty-five yards from them watching them feeding. When he approached a little nearer, one of the birds got up and called ‘‘chack, chack,’ and then both flew away with remarkably rapid and strong flight, which reminded him of the flight of the Golden Plover, a bird which is common on the Withenshawe fields in winter. Mr. MacMaster, though he was struck with the long wings and tails of the birds when they rose, is not prepared to say whether they were a male and female. T. A. Cowarp. SUPPOSED BLACK GROUSE AND PTARMIGAN FROM IRISH CAVES. THE mistake over this subject in the ‘Irish Naturalist ’”’ (1899, pp. 17 and 37) has unfortunately been adopted in British Brrps (antea, p. 127). As I pointed out in “ The Birds of Ireland ”’ (p. 231), [had the able assistance of Mr. HE. T. Newton and Dr. Forsyth Major, as well as of Dr. Scharff to determine the humerus from the Ballynamintra Cave, in co. Waterford, of which I was the finder. The conclusion arrived at was that this bone agrees far more closely with that of a common fowl, and as it was found in the superficial stratum, I have no doubt it was brought in by a fox in recent times. It can be seen in the Dublin Museum, where it is labelled Gallus. Among the numerous bones of birds found by me during the past eight years in the caves of Sligo, Clare and Cork, and which Mr. E. T. Newton has kindly determined for us, the Black Grouse is not represented, and I know of no evidence that it: was indigenous in Ireland. As regards the supposed bones of Ptarmigan, these also 168 BRITISH BIRDS. were compared by Dr. Forsyth Major and Dr. Scharff with bones of the several species of Grouse, and they were found to agree better in some respects with those of Red Grouse than with those of Ptarmigan. Some bones from Kish Cave, co. Sligo, have been referred by Mr. E. T. Newton to Red Grouse (?) or Ptarmigan (?). The former is common in Ireland while the latter is unknown. R. J. USSHER. THE OYSTER-CATCHER’S METHOD OF FEEDING ON THE EDIBLE MUSSEL. THE systematic methods adopted by Oyster-catchers in abstracting mussels from their shells are admirably detailed by Mr. J. M. Dewar in the “ Zoologist ’”? for June. It is somewhat surprising to find that no shells larger than 13 inches by % inch were found opened, while shells less than 1 inch by 4 inch were swallowed whole. The larger shells are dealt with in a most methodical manner. No attempt is made to attack them when their valves are closed : hence, those left high and dry by the tide, or in rain- water pools, are always passed over unmolested. The shell must be more or less gaping to arrest attention. As everyone knows who is familiar with mussel-scalps, these molluses assume varied positions, sometimes presenting the ventral, sometimes the dorsal border, uppermost, and sometimes one end of the shell. And of these positions, shells with the dorsal borders uppermost are most sought for, no less than 78 per cent. of the empty shells left by Oyster-catchers having occupied this position at the time of attack. Each mussel is approached in the line of its long axis, and generally, for some inexplicable reason, this approach is made “from the front.” Should the shell be slightly gaping a tentative tap is given, as if to ascertain whether the slit is large enough for the beak to enter. If the experiment is favourable, the beak is thrust home by a series of jerks, forcible and rapid. When the blow is delivered a little to one side, so as to force inwards a portion of one side of a valve, more deliberation is displayed, which suggests that the abstraction of the animal from its case is a matter of certainty, the body being dragged out through the hole made, in spite of the closing of the valves. The author describes, in great detail, a number of methods in the use of the beak as a lever, after it has once been thrust down between the valves. These we cannot repeat, but it should suffice to say that the simplest method employed is NOTES. 169 to shake the beak violently from side to side till the valves are laid open by the fracture of the adductor muscles. Another method is to turn the beak through a quarter of a circle, either by walking round the victim, or turning the head in the neck. In yet another, the head is lowered almost to the ground, and the point of the bill is thrust between the valves ; the bird then moves its head to the left whereby the two valves are forced apart. Only about 9 per cent. of shells are opened through the ventral borders, which may be accounted for by the fact that this border is generally undermost. It is a noteworthy fact indeed that these buried shellfish are found at all; often they are discovered when buried by a layer of sand or mud as much as an inch in depth. In their search for this buried treasure, the bill is used as a sort of divining rod, the ground being tapped here and there, until a victim is found. Some 13 per cent. of shells are opened through their posterior ends. Many buried shells are opened in this fashion. Indeed, the author declares that this can be “ the only route to the interior of the buried shells, the long axes of which are vertical.” This statement, however, requires some qualifi- cation, since he also contends that ‘‘ more mussels are opened by way of the ventral borders when buried than when exposed to view.” Finally, Mr. Dewar contends that he has “‘ brought forward observations which seem to prove that the Oyster-catcher, far from being actuated by blind impulse, on the contrary proceeds deliberately to remove certain structures (the adductor muscles) which hinder the achievement of their desires.”” It may be questioned whether this is not placing to the credit of the Oyster-catcher a degree of intelligence which it does not possess. KILLDEER PLOVER IN KENT. On April 21st, 1908, Mr. Bristow informed me that he had seen the previous day three strange Waders on one of the “ fleets ’’ in Romney Marsh, not far from Lydd. He was not sure of their identity, but was struck by their unusually long tails. The following day all doubt was set at rest by the receipt of one of them, which he at once brought to me in the flesh. It was an adult specimen of the Killdeer Plover (gialitis vocifera), and had been shot by a- shepherd at the place where the three were seen. The second was shot on 170 BRITISH BIRDS. April 21st, and the third on the 22nd, these I did not see until after they had been mounted. These are the first of this common American species that have been killed in Kent, and bring up the British- af ee Eine Ben TS ‘ Killdeer Plover, shot near Lydd, Kent, on April 21st, 1908. taken examples to six. One is now in the collection of Mr. J. B. Nichols, and a second in that of Mr. C. J. Carroll. N. F. Tickwursr [We are much indebted to Mr. J. B. Nichols for the loan of his specimen, and for the permission to reproduce the accompanying photograph of it.—EDs.] . SOLITARY SANDPIPER IN KENT. WirH reference to the Duchess of Bedford’s note in the last number of BririsH Brrps (p. 136), the Solitary Sandpiper was shot by a visitor at Littlestone, and therefore at no great distance from where she saw it on August 15th. Mr. Bristow received it two days later, and kindly brought it to me in the flesh. From its condition it had evidently passed unrecognised, and it looked as though it had been shaken up ina “‘ game” NOTES. 171 bag with other birds: it was soddened with blood and melted fat, sand and sea-water, and so was a very sorry- looking object, but its tail-feathers and axillaries gave unmistakable proof of its identity. I may, perhaps, draw attention here to the great immigration of Waders that tock place on the Kent coast at the end of July, of which the Duchess of Bedford’s notes give evidence. Mr. M. J. Nicoll informs me of Ruffs and other species seen by him about the same time, and on the night of July 23rd, when at Folkestone, I heard large numbers of Waders, chiefly Sanderlings, passing over the town for two hours or more. N. FB. Tiensursr: LATE NESTS OF THE GREAT CRESTED AND LITTLE GREBES. On August 12th I visited, with a friend, one of the Surrey breeding haunts of the Great Crested Grebe, and we were fortunate in discovering a nest containing four eggs, which were only very slightly stained, and certainly had not been incubated more than a week. I think it is somewhat ex- ceptional to find eggs in the nest during August, as this species does not appear to be double-brooded. That the Little Grebe is so is well-known, but I think it worth recording that on July 27th we found a nest with a fresh egg (another was laid the next day) belonging to a pair of birds, which were accom- panied by chicks not more than a day or two old. A. G. LEIGH. MarxkiInG Brirps.—Dr. Otto Herman, Director of the Hungarian Central Bureau for Ornithology, informs us that he has begun marking young Storks, Herons, Gulls and Swallows, by means of an aluminium ring which is fastened around the leg of the bird and bears the inscription “ Budapest,” followed by a number which corresponds to the entry in aregister book. Should anyone capture a bird so marked he is requested to send the ring to the Hungarian Central Bureau for Ornithology, Jozsef-korut, 65, Budapest VIII., Hungary, accompanied by a notice stating the locality, time and particulars of capture. Birp-Lire 1x Dvusiin Bay.— Under this title Mr. Alexander Williams gives an interesting account of the changes in the sea and shore bird-life of the vicinity of Dublin during the last twenty-five years (Irish Nat., 1908, pp. 165-170). 172 REVIEW. How to Attract and Protect Wild Birds. By Martin Hiesemann. Translated by Emma S. Buchheim, with an introduction by Her Grace the Duchess of Bedford. (Witherby & Co.) Illustrated. ls. 6d. net. THE purpose of this little book is to set forth the methods employed by the Baron von Berlepsch to provide suitable nesting-places and food for various birds, and to protect them from their enemies. Wonderful success has attended these methods at Seebach, where exhaustive experiments have been made for many years by Baron von Berlepsch. The statement that “we can only preserve and increase our birds by restoring . .... the opportunities for nesting of which we have robbed them” is perhaps more applic- able in Germany, where high forestry has robbed many birds of nesting-places by the cutting down of decaying trees and undergrowth, than it isin England. At the same time the fact that the number of birds can be actually increased by providing them with suitable nesting- places is a most interesting one, and is sufficiently sub- stantiated by the experiments here described. All our readers are probably well aware of the value of nesting-boxes as means of attracting such birds as Tits, Nuthatches and Wrynecks, but we have never heard of Woodpeckers nesting | in boxes in England as they do in Germany. This may be due to the fact that old timber is much more plentiful in this country, but we are inclined to think that if the Berlepsch box were adopted under the conditions so carefully described in this little book, even Woodpeckers would be induced to nest in them. This nesting-box has been designed and is manufactured with elaborate care. After exhaustive experiments, the Baron made the most in- teresting discovery that all the holes made by the various species of Woodpeckers are formed on a uniform plan. Special machines have at length been constructed to produce “boxes”? which are faithful imitations of the Woodpecker’s nesting hole down to the smallest detail, and the use of these has met with remarkable success. Equally interesting are the methods here described of pruning and growing bushes in various ways to make them attractive to birds for nesting purposes, and also of feeding birds in winter in the most effective way at a minimum of cost. We may hope that the methods here described will be adopted so universally that people will compete as to how many nests they have in their gardens rather than as to how many birds they have caught or killed. ISH RDS -ANTLUSTRATED: MAGAZINE 28 MONTHLY -ONE-SHILLING: NET _- S96FIGIHIOLDORNINDON | ie ¥f' ede, BTS ray é Oy “a i * ~ } re ee Sh Go Pa. } Yosh cy af ene. J “EGGS OF PALAEARCTIC BIRDS. A Work on this. subject, illustrated with BEAUTIFULLY. COLOURED PLATES, is now being issued. Write tor Full Prospectus and a Part for inspection to WILLIAMS & NORGATE, 44, Henrietta Street, Covent Garden, London, W.C. DALLMEYER'S Naturalists’ Camera, to07, MODEL, For Telephoto or Ordinary LENSES. DALLMEYER’S | | Lenses are used: | _ by the most skilled Bird | Photographers. 3 The following eae: ey — Spectally. recomniended : THE STIGMATIC SERIES II. F/6 (Convertible.) THE SERIES D PATENT PORTRAIT LENSES F 6. rN (A Rapid Long Focus Lens at a Moderate Price.) Y ‘High or Moderate Power Telephoto Lenses (Original Make). We are Specialists in Cameras and Apparatus for Photo- Dentohow CATALOGUES AND ADVICE FREE. J. H. DALLMEYER, Limite, Enzi po, Showrooms: a5, NEWMAN ae + We NEASDEN, LONDON, NW. | me) a "WATKINS & DONCASTER, — Waturalists, And Manufacturers of CABINETS and APPARATUS for Entomology, Birds? ce aha (| ~vand. Skins, and all Branches of Natural. History. A LARGE STOCK OF INSECTS, and BIRDS’ EGGS and SKINS, EN SS ; Speciality :—Objects for Nature Study, Drawing Classes, &c. BIRDS, MAMMALS, &c., PRESERVED and MOUNTED by FIRST-CLASS WORKMEN TRUE TO NATURE. All Books and Publications on: Natural History surpliea: - 86, STRAND, LONDON, W.C. (Five Doors from. — cs.) "Catalogue {102 pp.) ‘post Hee: DRI | Sb DS PoOrey BY’ WH. F. WITHERBY, FZ:5.,’ MB.0.U. BoololLED BY W. P. PYCRAFT, ‘A:1.8; M.B.0.U. ConTENTS OF NUMBER 6, Vou. II. NovEmMBER 2, 1908. Some Early British Ornithologists and their Works, by W. H. Mullens, m.a., tu.M., M.B.o.u. IV.—Martin Martin (Ob. 1719) .. ; Page 173 Nesting Habits of the Marsh- Warbler, by Percy Lil Bunyard, F.Z.S., M.B.O.U. 183 On the Down- Plumage and Mouth-Coloration of Some Nestling Birds. by C. B. Ticehurst, M.A., M.R.C.S., LR. 0.P;, M.B.0:U. a 186 On the Mouth-Coloration of Some Nestling Birds, by Annie C, Jackson .. 195 Notes on the Common Cuckoo in India, by Major Eig) AO Magrath, M.B.0.U. .. : : 197 Notes :—Wood-Pigeon “ Diphtheria ” (Editors). “Barred Warblers in Norfolk (E. C. Arnold and F. G. Penrose). Yellow-Browed Warblers, Red-Breasted Flycatchers, Bluethroats and other Birds in Norfolk (F. I. Richards). Yellow-Browed Warblers in Yorkshire (Arthur R. Gale and H. F. Witherby). A Sussex Rufous Warbler (M. J. Nicoll). White Wagtail interbreeding with Pied Wagtail in Devonshire (Amyas W. Champernowne). Lesser Redpoll Nesting in Essex (Leonard Gray). Breeding of the Crossbill in County Dublin (R. Hamilton Hunter). Cirl Bunting Singing in October (Chas. Oldham). Late Nest of the Kingfisher (Graham W. Murdoch). Scops-Owl off Aberdeenshire (EK. R. Paton). Honey-Buzzard in Shropshire (H. E. Forrest). Grey Phalarope in Summer in Devonshire (Amyas W. Champernowne). Nesting of the Common Snipe in Kent (C. B. Ticehurst). Pectoral Sandpipiper and Bartram’s Sandpiper in Kent (M. J. Nicoll). Pectoral Sandpiper in Norfolk (E. C. Arnold). The Levantine Shearwater in British Waters (H. F. Witherby). Short Notes a 199 SOME EARLY BRITISH ORNITHOLOGISTS AND THEIR WORKS. BY W.-H -MULEMNS;) 4.5.6.0. 0.3.0.0; IV.—MARTIN MARTIN (Ob. 1719). Tue islands of the Outer Hebrides have from an early period attracted the attention of the traveller and the 174 BRITISH BIRDS. naturalist. The romantic wildness of their situation, their difficulty of access, and the strange manners and customs of their sequestered population, have all appealed strongly to the curious inquirer, and we thus have a considerable mass of information concerning them and, incidentally, their natural history, compiled at a time when the fauna of far more accessible and perhaps important districts remained neglected and unrecorded. Far out in the wild Atlantic, over one hundred miles from the mainland of Scotland, lies the lonely island of St. Kilda, the ‘“ Hirta” of the ancients. Although mentioned briefly by Joh. de Fordun (0b. circa, 1380) in his ‘‘ Scoti-chronicon,”’ and by Boethius (1465-1536) in the “ Scotorum Historia,” published in 1527, the first detailed account we have of the Island of St. Kilda, and certainly the first made from personal observation, is that dealt with in the present article. It was prepared by Martin Martin, a factor of the Clan Macleod, who in the year 1697, in the summer season and “ to the almost manifest hazard of the author’s life,” visited the island in company with Mr. John Campbell, minister of Hawis.* During Martin’s stay in St. Kilda, which extended over three weeks, he devoted a certain amount of time to the observation of the birds of the island, and amongst them to the Garefowl, or Great Auk, and it is chiefly owing to his description of this extinct and famous bird that Martin’s book—curious and entertaining as it otherwise is —is of such interest to the naturalist of the present day. Of Martin Martin we know but little. He was born, as we are told in the preface to his book, “ A late Voyage to St. Kilda,” “‘in one of the most spacious and fertile isles in the west of Scotland*; and besides his liberal education at the University, had the advantage of seeing foreign places, and the honour of conversing with some * For further particulars as to the early history of St. Kilda, wide Seton’s ‘St. Kilda, past and present.’ Edinburgh, 1 vol., 8vo, MDCCCLX XXIII. + Possibly the Isle of Skye. SOME EARLY BRITISH ORNITHOLOGISTS. 175 ot the Royal Society, who raised his natural curiosity to survey the isles of Scotland more exactly than any other”; . ... Martin took his degree of M.A. at the University of Edinburgh in 1681, and subscribed his name to the customary oath as ‘ Martinus Martin,” and he seems to have died in 1719. In addition to his voyage to St. Kilda, Martin also published a more extensive work entitled “A Description of the Western Islands of Scotland,’ London, 1703, 1 vol., 8vo, which contains several short notices of the birds of the different islands. This book the great Dr. Johnson had studied before he made his tour to the Hebrides with the faithful Boswell in 1773. There is a copy of this work in the Advocates’ Library,* on the title page of which is endorsed the following :— “This very book accompanied Mr. Samuel Johnson and me in our Tour to the Hebrides in Autumn, 1773. Mr. Johnson told me that he had read Martin when he was very young. Martin was a native of the Isle of Sky, where a number of his relations still remain. His book is a very imperfect performance ; and he is erroneous as to many particulars, even some concerning his own island. Yet as it is the only Book upon the subject it is very generally known. I have seen a second edition of it. I cannot but have a kindness for him notwith- standing his defects. 16 April, 1774. JAMES BOSWELL.” In Boswell’s “ Life of Johnson” we are told that the “ great lexicographer ”’ was at first pleased to approve of Martin’s work, but that afterwards he changed his opinion and hurled at the unfortunate author one of his ponderous bolts: ‘“‘ No man now writes so ill as Martin’s ‘Account of the Hebrides’ is written. A man could not write so ill, if he should try.”’ Though surely poor Martin had done his best to disarm hostile criticism by informing us in his Preface that :— “This (t.e., “The Natural History of °em’’) I had a * Cf. Seton’s “‘ St. Kilda,” p. i8. 176 BRITISH BIRDS. particular regard to in the following description, and have everywhere taken notice of the Nature of the Climate and soil, of the Produce of the places by sea and Land . and that in such variety as I hope will make amends for what Defects may be found in my stile and way of Writing; for there’s a Wantonness in Language as well as in other things... .” A second edition of this book was published in London, 1716, “‘ very much corrected.”” To come, however, to his more important work, the full title is as follows :— A late / Voyage / to / St. Kilda, / The Remotest of all the / Hebrides, / or / Western Isles of Scotland. / With / A History of the Island, Natural, Moral, / and Topo- graphical. Wherein is an Account .of their / Customs, Religion, Fish, Fowl, &c. - As also a Rela- / tion of a late Impostor there, pretended to be / Sent by St. John Baptist. / By M. Martin, Gent. / London: / Printed for D. Brown, and T. Goodwin: At the Black Swan and / Bible without Temple-Bar; and at the Queen’s Head against / St. Dunstan’s Church in Fleet Street. MDCXCVIII. 1 Vol. 8vo. Collation: 1 p. Short Title -+ 1 p. Title, reverse of both blank, + pp. 2, Address, -+ pp. 4, Preface, -- pp. 4, Contents, all unnumbered, +- pp. 158, map,* and plate of two birds to face p. 53. This, the first edition, of which a facsimile title page is given opposite, is rare. The second edition is said to have been published in 1716. The fourth and best edition, which was reprinted in Pinkerton’s ‘Collection of Voyages and Travels,” was published in London in 1753. 1 Vol., 8vo. This latter work, according to “The History of the Works of the Learned,” Vol. V., was “ very agreeable to the curious, especially to such as have any true taste for natural and experimental philosophy.” * A fac-simile of the map is reproduced on page 179. AOE ATS VOYAGE Sc KILDA, The ®Remotefe of all the WEBRIDE S; OR Weftern Ifles of ScoTLanp. WITH A Hiftory of the Ifland , Natural , Moral, and Topographical. Wherein is an Account of their Cuitoms , Religion, Fifh, Fowl, Gc. As alfo a Rela- fion ofa late 1MPOS TOR there, pretended to be Sent by St. John Baprs/t. By M. MARTIN, Gent. Peat si aD tO Printed for D Brown, and T. Goodwin: Atcthe Black Swan and Bible without Temple-Bar ; and at the Queen's Head againft St. Dunftan’s Church in Fleerfreet.. MDC XC VIII. 178 BRITISH BIRDS. | The collation of the fourth edition is as follows :— pp. 4 unnumbered -+ pp. 79. The last two wrongly numbered 70 and 63 respectively. Frontispiece (a map and figure of two birds). Martin treats of the birds of St. Kilda in pp. 46-67 of the first edition, and in pp. 26-36 of the fourth, the accounts in both editions being nearly identical. Amongst the land birds he enumerates :— ‘“* Hawks extraordinary good, Eagles, Plovers, Crows, Wrens,* Stone-Chaker, Craker, Cuckoo.” Of the sea fowl, however, as may be expected, he gives us a fuller description ; and he thus commences it with his historic description of the Great Auk :— ‘The Sea-Fowl are, first, Gairfowl, being the stateliest as well as the largest Sort, and above the size of a Solan Goose of a black colour, red about the Eyes, a large white spot under each, a long broad Bill; it stands stately, its whole Body erected, its wings short, flies not at all ; lays its egg upon the bare Rock, which if taken away, she lays no more for that Year; she is whole-footed, and has the hatching Spot upon her Breast, 7.e. a bare spot from which the Feathers have fallen off with the Heat in hatching; its Egg is twice as big as that of a Solan Goose, and is variously spotted Black, Green, and Dark; it comes without regard to any Wind, appears the first of May, and goes away the middle of June.” t | Martin further records the fact that the inhabitants of St. Kilda made use of ‘“‘the Bones, Wings, and Entrails of their sea-fowls”’ to add to the composts of straw and ashes with which they manured their lands, and this and the fact that they consumed the eggs and flesh of the Garefowl may have contributed to its * The list of Land birds is given as it stands, and it will be noted that though Martin mentions the Wren, he does not describe it. 7 This quotation is from the fourth edition, the description of the Gair-fowl in the first edition is almost word for word the same, but a trifle more obscure, and has the amplification, “he is Palmipes, or whole-footed.”’ °F tau v. | ech Ie Zod 7? Fr Se f? a7? g ou De . eH 180 BRITISH BIRDS. extermination (cf. Symington Grieve, The Great Auk, London, 1885, 1 Vol., 4to, pp. 76 and 119). Robert Gray, in his invaluable work, ‘“ The Birds of the West of Scotland ” (Glasgow, MDCCCLXXI., 1 Vol., 8vo), p. 442, says, “It is, I think, doubtful whether Martin ever saw the bird, as in another and larger work entitled, ‘A Description of the Western Islands of Scotland,’ published five years afterwards, and in which he gives a full account of St. Kilda and its birds, he does not even mention it, but it should be noted that the description of the birds in this book is not in any way so complete as that in the same author’s ‘A late Voyage to St. Kilda.’ ”’ In this work Martin gives a considerable account of the Solan Goose, and amongst other curious statements, tells us :— “The Solan Geese are always the surest sign of Her- rings, for where-ever the one is seen, the other is always not far off. There is a Tribe of Barren Solan Geese which have no Nests, and sit upon the bare Rock ; these are not the Young Fowls of an Year old, whose dark colour would soon distinguish them, but old ones, in all things like the rest; these have a Province, as it were, allotted to them, and are in a separated state from the others, having a Rock two hundred Paces distant from all other; neither do they meddle with, or approach to those Hatching, or any other Fowls; they sympathize and Fish together ; this being told me by the Inhabitants, was afterwards confirmed to me several times by my own observation ”’ (Ist ed., p. 52). And of the Fulmar :— ‘And when the young Fulmar is ready to take Wing, he being approached, ejects a quantity of pure Oyl out at his Bill, and will make sure to hit any that attacks him, in the Face, though seven Paces distant . . . . but the Inhabitants take care to prevent this by surprizing the Fowl behind, having for this purpose a wooden dish fixed to the end of their Rods, which they hold before SOME EARLY BRITISH ORNITHOLOGISTS. 181 his Bill as he spouts out the Oyl; they surprize him also from behind by taking hold of his Bill, which they tie with a thread, and upon their return home they untie it with a Dish under to receive the Oil... .” (p. 56, op. cit.). Among his observations on the nesting habits of the sea birds the following passage may be quoted :— “Every Fowl lays an Egg three different times (except the Gair-fowl and Fulmar, which lay but one) ; if the First or Second Egg be taken away, every Fowl lays but one other Egg that Year, except the Sea-Malls, and they ordinarily lay the Third Egg, whether the First and second Eggs be taken away or no ”’ (p. 64, op. czt.). The supply of sea-fowl was of course a most important factor in the life of the island, and Martin computed the consumption of Gannets alone as follows :— ‘We made particular Enquiry after the number of Solan Geese consumed by each Family the Year before we came there, and it amounted to Twenty two thousand five hundred in the whole Island, which they said was less than they ordinarily did, a great many being lost by the badness of the season, and the great Current into which they must be thrown when they take them, the Rock being of such an extraordinary Height, that they cannot reach the boat” (p. 115, op. cit.). Only the briefest notice can here be made of the manners and customs of the inhabitants of St. Kilda, “of their dexterity in climbing,” in which “‘ custom had perfected them, so that it is become familiar to them almost from their cradles ; the young boys of three years old begin to climb the walls of their Houses ”—“‘ of the beauty of their voices and the soundness of their lungs,” to which “‘ the Solan Goose Egg supp’d Raw doth not a little contribute.’’ How they possessed but one steel and tinder-box among a population of one hundred and eighty souls ; and how their native ignorance alone pre- vented them from being the most fortunate of mankind. ‘There is this only wanting to make them the Happiest 182 BRITISH BIRDS. People in this Habitable globe, viz., That they themselves do not know how happy they are, and how much they are above the Avarice and Slavery of the rest of mankind.” Enough perhaps has been quoted to show the nature of this somewhat rare and curious book, the precursor | of many others dealing with St. Kilda and the Scottish Islands. Among which may be mentioned the Rev. A. Buchan’s ‘“ Description of St. Kilda, the most remote Western Isle of Scotland,’ published in Edinburgh, 1741; the Rev. Kenneth Macaulay’s ““ A Voyage to and History of St. Kilda,” London, 1764; an anonymous work entitled “A Voyage to Scotland, the Orkneys and the Western Isles of Scotland,’ London, 1751; and the ‘** Travels in the Western Hebrides: from 1782 to 1790,” London, 1793, by the Rev. John Lane Buchanan [in no way to be confounded with George Buchanan (1506-1582), the Scotch historian], which last work affords us the pleasing statement that :— “The Gare Fowl is four feet long, and supposed to be the pigeon of South America.”’ And so farewell to Martin Martin; would that he had noted more of what he saw in St. Kilda when he set out for that almost “ unknown land,” having, as he tells us, ““embark’d at the Isle of Esay in Hawies the 29th of May, at six in the Afternoon, 1697. The Wind at 8.E.” ce 1854 NESTING HABITS OF THE MARSH-WARBLER. BY PERCY F. BUNYARD, F.z.s., M.B.0.U. Mr. WarDE Fow.er has described* the nesting habits of the Marsh-Warbler (Acrocephalus palustris) so ad- mirably that perhaps little that is new can be added to his observations. Nevertheless, the bird is so rare as a breeding species in this country that a short account of my experiences with two pairs this summer may be of interest. On June 26th I received a telegram from a friend in Somersetshire to say that he had found a nest with eggs, and had also another pair of birds under observation. In the hope of hearing the birds singing we were on the spot where the nest had been located (elevation 500 ft. above sea-level) just after sunrise, but only heard a few notes during a wait of some few minutes. My companion then took me to the nest, which was situated in a broad, rough, overgrown hedge (composed of whitethorn and elder) on the side of a lane, and bordering a field of wheat. The nest was on the field side of the hedge, about three feet from the ground, and was beautifully concealed (a good deal of herbage was removed for the purpose of photographing). The nest was sup- ported by two stems of bracken, and one of stinging nettle, round which the nest had been built. This nest resembled in general appearance that of a Whitethroat much more than that of a Reed-Warbler. It was loosely constructed on the exterior, and the interior was well and evenly lined. The materials used in the exterior were rather coarse grass, two pieces of frayed-out cotton, and one small feather (possibly from one of the birds). Finer grass was used as the linmg was approached, and this was composed of * « Zoologist,’’ 1906, pp. 401-9. 184. BRITISH BIRDS. fine fibrous roots, a single flowering head of grass (still green), and a very little horsehair. The outside measure- ments of the nest were: depth, 34 in.; diameter, 4 in., extending to 5 in. where the nest was built round the stems of the supports, tapering downwards to the centre almost Nest of Marsh-Warbler in Somerset, J une 28th, 1908. to a point ; interior diameter, 2 in.; depth, 14 in. This nest was originally located on June 10th by watching the birds building, and at the time of my visit, June 28th, it contained four eggs in an advanced state of incubation. They are quite typical, and cannot be confused with the | P.F.BUNYARD: NESTING OF MARSH WARBLER. 185 egos of the Reed-Warbler, and indeed I have not yet seen well-authenticated eggs of the Marsh-Warbler which could easily be mistaken for the eggs of the Reed-Warbler. The British-taken eggs of A. palustris appear to me rather larger and less pointed than Continental eggs, and it would be interesting to know if others have noticed this. I re-visited this nest about 11 a.m. for the purpose of taking the photograph here reproduced. The bird was sitting, but slid off quietly on my approach, and although I remained in the vicinity of the nest (in the hope of getting a photograph of the bird itself) for nearly two hours, the alarm-note was only uttered once, and the birds were nowhere to be seen. I was disappointed in not seeing and hearing more of the birds, and their extreme shyness and quietness struck me more than anything in con- nection with this interesting experience. On the evening of the same date we visited a small osier bed (150 ft. above sea-level) in which some other Marsh-Warblers had been previously located, and after watching for some time we saw the birds continually diving down among the rough growth near a large plant of the cow-parsnip, in which we afterwards found a nest containing five newly-hatched young. This nest was supported by three stems of the plant, and was similar to the one just described. The mouths of the young were of a beautiful rich lemon-yellow, and on the back of the tongue were two conspicuous black spots, placed horizontally. ( 186") ON THE DOWN-PLUMAGE AND MOUTH- COLORATION OF SOME NESTLING BIRDS. BY C. B. TICEKHURST, M.A... M:B.C.S., “L:E.C.P:, M:B207u: OF all the books which have been written on British birds not one, as yet, has dealt satisfactorily with the question of the sequence of plumages and, so far as I know, none give even the barest description of the down or natal plumage of even our commonest birds. Mr. Pycraft deplored this fact, and in the course of two excellent articles (vide antea, Vol. 1, pp. 102 and 162) gave a brief outline of the different kinds of down-plumage recognis- able, and made some remarks upon their significance, at the same time suggesting that further investigation into the matter would be valuable. The sequence of plumages is a study which has long interested me; and I am certain that the collection of a large amount of material in reference to this subject, as well as on the coloration of the mouths of nestlings, as suggested by Mr. Pyeraft (cf. Vol. I., p. 129) would, when worked out on comparative lines, yield some important results relating to the question of morphological ornithology. As Mr. Pycraft has already explained (cf. Vol. I., p. 162) the different types of down, I shall here only state that in all the Passerine birds which I have examined, the type of down present is that of the pre-penna, and belongs to the mesoptyle generation. These pre-penne, I need hardly remark, are not distributed all over the body, but are arranged in definite tracts. Further, the development of the pre-penne in these tracts varies considerably in different genera, and even in the different species of the same genus. The inner supra-orbital tracts consist of few pre-pennz which are situated above the eye on each side, and from thence i C. B. TICEHURST: DOWN-PLUMAGE. 187 pass backwards, each tract forming, in most species, a line or crescent of down. It will be noticed that the inner supra- orbital tracts are present in every species which I have examined which has down at all. The outer supra-orbital tracts consist of two or three small, short pre-pennz on each side, situated between the edge of the upper eyelid and the inner supra-orbital tract. They are ‘present in the Mistle-Thrush, Meadow and Red-throated Pipits, Chaffinch, and Brambling. The occipital tracts consist of two or three fairly large, well-developed, pre-penne situated on each side of the occiput. Oufer y supraorbita/. tract 7, S $3 a Eye Oa ¥, =a Inner, » orbital oe ii tract Occipital Se pr act Humeral tract ~.¥ ° wae = ae ve . oa® e . 5 . Nie, ca . oe Piste % Sera mitals A are r oe ree a oe SeKelie), e ESS KS cee *. “a fy ° wae au) “ 2 ane tig ° . 4 -". sept go wets ie on oe i 2 (Yaz) Femoral! Crurat tract Ventra! Crural tract tract Diagram showing the Down-tracts of Nestling Birds. The two tracts usually form a line, or crescent, of down when well developed. They are present in every species examined which has any down. The humeral tracts are usually well developed, and run obliquely downwards and outwards from the base of the neck across each humerus just in front of the shoulder joint. They are replaced by the “scapular” feathers of the juvenile plumage. They are present in all the birds that I have examined which have down, except the Wren (see note under this species). The spinal tract runs down the centre of the dorsum from about the level of the shoulder joint to the end of the sacrum in those species in which it is well developed. The length 188 BRITISH BIRDS. varies in different species, in some the anterior part being slightly developed or absent, in others the posterior part. The breadth is greatest in the lumbar region. This tract is present in all species examined except the Blue Tit (see note under this species). The ulnar tracts consist of small pre-pennze on the ulnar margin of each wing. Each pre-penna is replaced later by the secondaries, and in some cases by the secondary coverts. These tracts are absent in the Wheatear, Robin, all four Tits, and Wren. The femoral tracts are situated laterally on each side just beneath the femur. The pre-penne never seem to be long, and are more closely approximated to each other than in some of the other tracts. This tract is absent in the Thrushes and Robin, the Tits, Swallow, and Sand-Martin. The ventral tract is situated laterally on each side of the abdomen, and runs obliquely from the middle line towards the upper end of the femoral tract. In character it resembles the femoral tract, and is widest posteriorily. This tract is present in the Meadow-Pipit, Starling, and in all the Fringilline examined which have down. The crural tract consists of a few small inconspicuous pre- penne forming a circle round the lower end of the crus, just above the ankle joint. It was noted in the Red-throated Pipit, all the Fringillince examined which have down, and in the Snow-Bunting. I am indebted to my friend, Mr. J. L. Bonhote, for notes or specimens of the Bearded Tit, Red-throated Pipit, Tree- Sparrow, Brambling, Lesser Redpoll, Snow-Bunting, and Kingfisher. MISTLE-THRUSH Twurdus viscivorus L. Down. Colour.—Greyish white, some pre-penne having buffish white tips. Distribution.—Inner and outer supra-orbital, occipital, humeral, spinal and ulnar. In some there is a pre-penna on the bastard wing. The outer supra-orbital tract is not found in the Blackbird or Song-Thrush. COLORATION OF Movutu. Inside, orange; no spots; ex- ternally, flanges lemon-yellow. SONG-THRUSH Turdus musicus L. Down. Colouwr.—Buffish white. Distribution.—Inner supra-orbital, occipital, humeral, spinal and ulnar. CoLoRATION OF Mourn. Inside, orange; no spots; flanges lemon-yellow. —— C. B. TICEHURST : DOWN-PLUMAGE. 189 BLACKBIRD Turdus merula L. Down. Colour.—Greyish white. Distribution.—Inner supra-orbital, occipital, humeral, spinal and ulnar. CoLoRATION OF MoutuH. Inside, orange; no spots. WHEATEAR Sazicola enanthe (L.). Down. Colour.—Dark grey. Character.—Moderate length. Distribution.—Inner supra-orbital, occipital, humeral, spinal and femoral. It will be noted that there is no ulnar tract, and the spinal tract is a very short one, confined to the middle of the dorsum. CoLoRATION OF MoutH. Inside, orange ; no spots. REDBREAST Erithacus rubecula (L.). Down. Colour.—Dull jet-black. Distribution.—Inner supra-orbital, occipital, humeral, and spinal. Here also there is no ulnar tract, and the short spinal tract does not reach the sacrum. CoLORATION OF MoutuH. Inside, orange; no spots. WHITETHROAT Sylvia cinerea Bechst. Down. Absent. CoLORATION OF Movutu. Inside, yellowish orange; one brownish black spot at the base of the tongue on each side. LESSER WHITETHROAT Sylvia curruca (L.). Down. Absent. CoLORATION OF Mourn. Inside, orange. Tongue spots as in S. cinerea. GARDEN-WARBLER Sylvia hortensis (Bechst.). Down. Absent. — CoLoRATION OF Movutu. Inside, deep pink with a violet tinge ; one brownish oval spot on each side of the base of the tongue. N.B.—The absence of down in these three species of the genus Sylvia is noteworthy. HEDGE-SPARROW Accentor modularis (L.). Down. Colour.—Greyish black. Character.—Fairly long, and well developed. Distribution.—Inner supra-orbital, occipital, humeral, spinal, ulnar and femoral. 190 BRITISH BIRDS. CoLoratTion oF Mout. Inside, orange. A _ black spot on each spur of the base of the tongue, and another, brown and more diffuse, situated subterminally. The latter disappears completely 4-5 days after the chick is hatched, which accounts for the fact that it was not noted by Mr. Pycraft (cf. antea, Vol. I., p. 130). BEARDED TITMOUSE Panurus biarmicus (L.). Down. Absent. (N.B.—Spirit specimen.) GREAT TITMOUSE Parus major L. Down. Colour.—Whitish grey. Character.—Moderate in length but scanty, a few pre-pennz only in each tract. Distribution.—Inner_ supra-orbital, occipital, humeral and spinal. CoLoraTION OF Movutu. Inside, lemon-yellow; no tongue spots. COAL-TITMOUSE Parus ater L. Down. Colour.—Greyish. Character.—Moderate in length but very scanty, consist- ing of a few pre-penne only in each tract. Distribution.—Inner supra-orbital, occipital, humeral, and spinal. CoLorATION OF Mouru.—Inside, orange; no tongue spots ; externally, flanges lemon-yellow. MARSH-TITMOUSE Parus palustris I. Down. Colour.—Grey. Character.—Rather short in length, and very scanty, consisting of a few pre-pennz only in each tract. Distribution.—Inner supra-orbital, occipital, humeral, and spinal. CoLORATION OF MoutuH. Inside, orange; no tongue spots. BLUE TITMOUSE Parus ceruleus L. Down. Colour.—White. Character.—Moderate in length but very scanty, consist- ing of a few pre-penne only in each tract. Distribution.—Inner supra-orbital, occipital, and humeral. CoLoRATION OF Mourn. Inside, lemon-yellow; no tongue spots ; externally, flanges lighter yellow. N.B.—It is possible that the scanty pre-penne which form the spinal tract may have been rubbed off in those in- dividuals which I examined; if not, the absence of that tract in this species is worthy of note. C. B. TICEHURST : DOWN-PLUMAGE. 191 WREN Troglodytes parvulus K. L. Koch. Down. Colour.—Greyish black. Character.—Scanty. Distribution.—Inner supra-orbital, occipital and spinal. CoLORATION OF Moutu. Inside, yellow; no tongue spots ; externally, flanges lemon-yellow. N.B.—Since this is the only species in which I have noted the absence of the humeral tract, it is possible that it is slightly developed but had become rubbed off in the nest. PIED WAGTAIL Motacilla lugubris Temm. Down. Colour.—Grey. Character.—Moderate in length. Distribution.—Inner supra-orbital, occipital, humeral, spinal, ulnar and femoral. CoLorATION OF Mourn. Inside, yellow; no tongue spots ; externally, flanges very pale yeliow. MEADOW-PIPIT Anthus pratensis (L.). Down. Colour.—Whitish grey. Character.—Moderate in length. Distribution.—Inner and outer supra-orbital, occipital, humeral, spinal, ulnar, femoral and ventral, the last being very scanty. CoLORATION OF MoutuH. Inside, deep pink ; no tongue spots ; externally, flanges orange. | RED-THROATED PIPIT Anthus cervinus (Pall.). Down. Colour.—Greyish black. Character.—Long ; femoral and crural tracts scanty. Distribution.—Inner and outer supra-orbital, occipital, humeral, spinal, ulnar, femoral and crural. N.B.—As I only had a spirit specimen to examine it is possible that the ventral tract, which in the Meadow-Pipit is only slightly developed, may have been overlooked. » SWALLOW Airundo rustica L. Down. Colour.—Grey. Character.—Fairly long. Tracts scanty. Distribution.—Inner_ supra-orbital, occipital, humeral and Spinal. CoLORATION OF Movutu. Inside, lemon-yellow; no tongue spots; externally, flanges whitish. 192 BRITISH BIRDS. SAND-MARTIN Cotile riparia (L.). Down. Colour.—Gray, rather darker on the humeral tract. Character.—Rather short, scanty. Distribution.—Inner supra-orbital, occipital, humeral, spinal and ulnar. On the last two very scanty. Prepenne of ulnar tract present on the secondary coverts. CoLorATION OF Movutu. Inside, lemon-yellow; no tongue spots; externally, flanges lemon-yellow. GREENFINCH Ligurinus chloris (L.). Down. Colour.—Greyish white. Character.—Medium length, sparse on the crural and ventral tracts. Distribution.—Inner supra-orbital, occipital, humeral, spinal, ulnar, femoral, ventral and crural. CoLoraTION OF Movutu. Inside, deep crimson, no tongue spots ; externally, gape white, beak horn colour with a yellowish tint. HAWFINCH Coccothraustes vulgaris Pall. Down. Colour.—Snow-white. Character.—Long and plentiful. Distribution.—Inner supra-orbital, occipital, humeral, spinal, ulnar, femoral, ventral and crural. CoLorATION OF Mourn. Inside, violet pink; no tongue spots; externally, flanges yellowish orange and whitish at the angles. The bill during the first two days is not markedly large, but it rapidly grows in size. HOUSE-SPARROW Passer domesticus (L.). Down. Absent. CoLORATION OF Movutu. Inside, yellow; no tongue spots ; externally, flanges lighter yellow. TREE-SPARROW Passer montanus (L.). Down. Absent. N.B.—Taking into consideration the development of the down in the other Fringilline the absence of it in the genus Passer is a most remarkable fact. CHAFFINCH Fringilla celebs L. Down. Colour.—Greyish. Character.—Moderate in length and quantity. Distribution. —Inner and outer supra-orbital, occipital, humeral, spinal, ulnar, femoral, ventral and crural. C. B. TICEHURST : DOWN-PLUMAGE. 193 CoLORATION OF MovutH. Inside, violet red, but the hard palate is orange ; no tongue spots ; externally flanges white. BRAMBLING Fringilla montifringilla L. Down. Colour.—White. Character.—Length moderate, well developed, except on the crural tract. Distributton.—Inner and outer supra-orbital, occipital, humeral, spinal, ulnar, ventral, femoral and crural. Pre- penne of the ulnar tract are attached to the secondaries only. Ventral tract well marked at the posterior end. (N.B.—From spirit specimen. ) LESSER REDPOLL Linota rufescens (Vieill.). Down. Colour.—Greyish. Character.—Long ; ventral and crural tracts scanty, pre- penne on the secondaries only make up the ulnar tract. Distribution. — Inner supra-orbital, occipital, humeral, spinal, ulnar, femoral, ventral and crural. CoLoRATION OF MoutH. Inside, carmine; no tongue spots; externally, gape white, a carmine spot at angle of gape due to colour of inside showing through. BULLFINCH Pyrrhula europea Vieill. Down. Colour.—Blackish grey. Character.—Abundant and long. Distribution. — Inner supra-orbital, occipital, humeral, spinal, ulnar, femoral, ventral and crural. Pre-penne of the ulnar tract are present on the secondaries and their coverts. CoLorATION OF Moutu. Inside, violet red, no tongue spots ; externally, flanges whitish. SNOW-BUNTING Plectrophenax nivalis (L.). Down. Colour.—Dark grey. Character.—Fairly long, spinal tract thicker anteriorly than posteriorly, crural very scanty and minute, the other tracts well marked. Distribution. — Inner supra-orbital, occipital, humeral, spinal, ulnar, femora! and crural. CoLoRATION OF Movutu. Inside, not noted; externally, gape yellow ; beak yellow. STARLING Sturnus vulgaris L. Down. Colour.—Greyish white, a shade darker on the head, Character.—Fairly long and plentiful. 194 BRITISH BIRDS. Distribution. — Inner supra-orbital, occipital, humeral, spinal, ulnar, femoral, and ventral. Spinal tract long and well marked. Ventral tract scanty and not well marked. CoLoRATION OF Mout. Inside, orange; flanges very broad and lemon-yellow in colour; no tongue spots; gape huge; externally, flanges lemon-yellow. SKYLARK Alauda arvensis L. Down. Colour.—Light sandy, dark at the base of the pre- penne giving the whole a peculiar “ leveret ” appearance. Character.—Fairly long and abundant. Distribution. — Inner supra-orbital, occipital, humeral, spinal, ulnar, and femoral; spinal tract confined to small area over and just above sacrum. CoLoRATION OF Movutn. Inside, orange-yellow; two oval black spots at base of tongue situated bilaterally, another triangular spot forms the tip of the tongue; externally, flanges whitish. KINGFISHER Alcedo ispida L. Down. Absent. (N.B.—Spirit specimen.) ON THE MOUTH-COLORATION OF SOME NESTLING BIRDS. BY ANNIE C. JACKSON. Havine read, with interest, Mr. Pycraft’s article on the colouring of the inside of the mouths of nestling birds in British Birps for October, 1907, I determined, if possible, to make some observations during the following spring; the more so, as but little material seemed to have been collected on the subject. I now give the results of my observations, which seem to prove that the spotted type of mouth in nestlings is far from common. Unfortunately, I was not able to examine any of the Tit family ; for nesting as they do in crevices and holes it is difficult to reach the young birds. I was struck with the fact that all the downy chicks of the Order ZLimicole which I have had the opportunity of examining, had very in- conspicuously coloured mouths. But before one can draw any conclusions as to the significance of this, it will be necessary to havea complete list of the colouring of the inside of the mouths in nestling birds of the helpless type. MistLEe-THrusH. — Mouth (inside), yellow, vunspotted. Flanges (outside), pale yellow. Nest well lighted. Sone-TuHrRusH. — Mouth (inside), orange-yellow. Flanges not nearly so large and conspicuous as those of the young Starlings. Nest well lighted. WHITETHROAT.— Mouth (inside), yellow, with a dark semi- circular band stretching from one spur of the tongue to the other. The band should rather be called ‘dusky,” than black. — Wittow-Wren.—Mouth (inside), unspotted yellow. Nest well lighted. Wren.—Mouth (inside) and flanges very pale lemon-yellow, unspotted. Nest badly lighted. TREE-CREEPER.— Mouth (inside), yellow, unspotted. The 196 BRITISH BIRDS. nest was situated in the split trunk of a pine tree and was fairly well lighted. Grey WacrTaiLt.—WMouth (inside), yellow, unspotted. Nest placed under a ledge of rock, fairly lighted. Meavow-Prrir.— Mouth (inside), flesh-coloured, rather paler on the spurs of the tongue; unspotted. SpoTttEeD FrycatcHer.—Mouth (inside), yellow, unspotted. Nest well lighted. GREENFINCH.—Mouth (inside). The tongue red, spurs white; palate red, shading into purple. Flanges (inside), purple; (outside), deep red. Nest moderately lighted. CHAFFINCH.—Mouth (inside) purplish red. Flanges (out- side), pale yellow. Nest well lighted. LesseER ReEppoti. — Mouth (inside). The tongue and flanges purplish-red, spurs of tongue white, palate white and horny. Edges of upper mandible, inside, blackish. Flanges (outside), pink. Nest well lighted. BuuuFincH. Mouth (inside), red. Flanges (inside), purple ; (outside), pale yellow. Nest moderately lighted. YELLOW Buntine.—WMouth (inside), purple-red, unspotted. Nest well lighted. STaRLING.—WMouth (inside), yellow, palate bristly. Flanges (outside), light yellow and very large and conspicuous. Nest in a thick yew tree and badly lighted. SKYLARK.—WMouth (inside), yellow, with three black spots on the tongue forming the angles of a triangle, the base of the triangle corresponding to the base of the tongue; also a blackish spot at the tip of the lower and upper mandibles. Nest well lighted. , Woop-Picron.—WMouth (inside), dirty white. Flanges in- conspicuous dark grey. Nest moderately lighted. Lapwine.—WMouth (inside), tongue and palate white, palate having peculiar little roughnesses like tiny teeth running back towards the throat. OysTER-CATCHER.—Mouth (inside), fleshy-pink. Common SANDPIPER.—WMouth (inside), bluish-grey. Common REpsHANK.— Mouth (inside), pale bluish-grey. CuRLEW.—Mouth (inside), pale fleshy-pink. Arctic Trern.— Mouth (inside), fleshy-pink. NOTES ON THE COMMON CUCKOO IN INDIA. BY MAJOR H. A. F. MAGRATH, M.B.0.0. So much has been written on the subject of the Common Cuckoo (Cuculus canorus) that one might suppose nothing more remains to be recorded; yet the following notes, based on observations of this species in the North- Western Himalayas, may be of interest to the readers of British Brrps. In the North-Western Himalayas this bird arrives at its breeding grounds about the middle of April, and from the middle of this month to the middle of June its familiar call is a common sound on the hill-sides ; but once the middle of the month is past it gradually decreases. The latest record I have is July 13th. During the time that the call is uttered, I have noticed that the body is by no means invariably held in the horizontal position with which we are most of us familiar. On the contrary, it sometimes assumes a semi-upright attitude. Further, I have noticed that while the call is being made the body is swayed slightly from side to side, and this swaying motion is especially marked in the tail. In my experience the Cuckoo’s notes do not alter as the season advances, though the contrary is usually held to be the case. The bird is probably more vigorous at the beginning of the season, and the call may then be more prolonged. The typical tri-syllabic call is, I believe, entirely connected with the proximity of the female. The well-known variations of the ordinary call are as likely to be heard at the beginning as at the end of the season. It is strange that no observer seems to have noticed that the Cuckoo, like many, if not all, song-birds, acquires 198 BRITISH BIRDS. his full song only by degrees. I have met with it early in April in the plains, when in the spring passage, and heard the ludicrous attempts to produce the call result, for the first two hours at any rate, in nothing more than a croak- ing sound! The full call is, however, acquired in a day or two, but is very feeble: probably the full compass is not attained till the breeding grounds are reached, that is to say, when the bird has become sexually ripe. As regards the eggs of the Cuckoo in India I can say but little from personal observation. But in the summer of 1907, when in the Thandiani-Hazara district, at an elevation of 9,000 feet, I found three blue Cuckoos’ eggs in nests of the Dark Grey Bush-Chat (Orezcola ferrea) and the Indian Blue-Chat (Larvivora brunnea), and as Cuculus canorus was the only Cuckoo, to my knowledge, frequenting the vicinity of these nests, I could only attribute the eggs to this species. In order to make sure, however, I shot a female Cuckoo, and with great luck took from the oviduct fragments of shell (the egg having been broken) of a beautiful pure blue, which tallied with the egg found in the nest of Larvivora brunnea. The eggs of this bird, it may be remarked, were of a delicate, spotless, blue colour, while those of the Dark Grey Bush- Chat were spotted with a few tiny specks of darker greenish-blue. But the eggs of this last species present some variation, showing different shades of pale bluish- green, speckled more or less densely with chestnut and pale rufous. WOOD-PIGEON “ DIPHTHERIA.” Nort the least of the aims of BririsH Birps is the advance- ment of the Study of Economic Ornithology, and the great interest which was taken in our endeavour to penetrate the mystery surrounding the so-called ‘“ diphtheria” 1 Wood- Pigeons shows that our readers are in entire sympathy with this most important object. The appeal which we made for material met with a most hearty response ; and in the able hands of Dr. C. B. Ticehurst this material was made to yield some most interesting and valuable results. But, as may be seen from his Report, published in our issue for August last, many points require further elucidation; and we feel that, having gone so far it is our bounden duty to go further, till all possible facts have been ascertained. We, therefore, turn again to our readers. for help in providing material which Dr. Ticehurst, once more, has kindly promised to deal with. It has been contended that Wood-Pigeon diphtheria is com- municable to man; but. so far, Dr. Ticehurst’s investigations do not lend much support to this view. It is certainly significant that it appears to be by no means so readily spread among other birds—and notably game-birds—as was supposed. Having regard to the importance of this aspect of the disease, and to the statements which have been made thereon by other workers with regard to the spread of the disease among domesticated animals and man, further research is emphati- cally to be desired. The importance of this enquiry must be perfectly obvious to everyone ; and we may remark that its significance is fully appreciated—as might be expected—by medical men. The ‘Lancet,’ September 5th, 1908, in commenting on Dr. Ticehurst’s paper in our Magazine, expressed a hope that we might be induced to continue what we had begun. And as. Dr. Ticehurst is again willing to place his skill at our disposal we appeal to our readers for help during the coming winter in filling up the schedules issued with this number. And it may be remarked that we shall be as grateful for negative, as for positive evidence. Further copies of the schedule will be sent to any of our readers who may desire to enlist the sympathy of others who, as yet, do not happen to be among our subscribers. THe Epirors. 200 BRITISH BIRDS. BARRED WARBLERS IN NORFOLK. On September llth, Mr. H. A. V. Maynard, shooting with me in the Cley bushes, secured an immature specimen of the Barred Warbler (Sylvia nisoria). Its appearance in the bushes was very light, and it showed no inclination to skulk. The wind was N.W., and it had been raining all the morning, the bird making its appearance just after the clearing shower. K. C. ARNOLD. On September 12th T. Cringle, one of Lord Leicester’s keepers, shot a young female Barred Warbler on the Wells Marshes. Unfortunately it was very badly damaged by the shot. There were only a few birds in the bushes on that day, one Common Whitethroat being the only other warble: recognised, but there was a distinct increase of Meadow- Pipits on the marsh, and I think there were some Rock-Pipits also. F. G. PENROSE. YELLOW - BROWED WARBLERS, RED - BREASTED FLYCATCHERS, BLUETHROATS AND OTHER BIRDS IN NORFOLK. Tue following notes from the neighbourhood of Blakeney of the chief movements of migrants observed during September, 1908, may be of interest. From September 7th to 20th the wind was chiefly westerly, south-westerly and southerly, and practically no migrating small birds were seen until September 18th, when a large number of Pied Flycatchers and a good many Common Redstarts appeared, but by September 21st they had nearly all left. After a wet day with a south-west wind on the 22nd, the weather cleared and the wind veered to the north-east on the 23rd. On the morning of this day I shot an immature Red-breasted Flycatcher (Muscicapa parva). A few Redstarts and Blackcaps and one Ring-Ouzel were the only other migrants seen in the morning, but during the afternoon a large migration setin. Myson (W. R. G. Richards) shot a female Yellow-browed Warbler (Phylloscopus super- ciliosus) and Pinchen (a well-known local fowler) shot a male of the same species. Both birds were very tame. We saw also numbers of Redstarts and a few Pied Flycatchers, Black- caps, Garden-Warblers and Ring-Ouzels, while one Bluethroat (Cyanecula swecica) was also seen and shot. On September 24th Ramm (another well-known local fowler) shot a mature male Red-breasted Flycatcher in very fine plumage, and NOTES. 201 several more Bluethroats were seen and shot. On the 25th the wind went back to the west and the migration con- siderably decreased, but Ramm shot another immature male Red-breasted Flycatcher, and several more Bluethroats were obtained. On the 26th, the wind being south-westerly, the birds had nearly all gone, while on the 27th we saw only one Redstart. Since leaving Norfolk I have had word from Ramm that he shot another Yellow-browed Warbler (a mature male) on October 2nd. F. I. Ricwarps. YELLOW-BROWED WARBLERS IN YORKSHIRE. On September 23rd, 1908, I shot in Holderness, Yorkshire, on the sea coast, a male (apparently adult) of the Yellow- browed Warbler (Phylloscopus superciliosus). The yellow bars on the wings attracted my attention, as the bird fluttered up from some buckthorn bushes, the flight much resembling that of the Willow-Wren. Athick sea-fog prevailed, following a night of heavy rain, the wind being slight, and from the south-east. The bird was identified in the flesh by Mr. H. F. Witherby, who kindly prepared the skin forme. The gizzard was full of small flies and other minute insects. ARTHUR R. GALE. On September 30th I had the good fortune to obtain a Yellow-browed Warbler near the same place as the one recorded above. The weather was (and had been) clear and hot, with a light southerly breeze. There was very little movement of birds apparent, and the Yellow-browed Warbler was quite alone, and was very lively. Its gizzard was full of small flies, and the bird was fat, so that it may well have been travelling down the coast in a leisurely fashion. It was a male and, judging by the texture of the skull, which I have always found an infallible test, an adult. H. F. WirHersy. A SUSSEX RUFOUS WARBLER. Aédon galactodes or A. familiaris ? In Borrer’s ‘‘ Birds of Sussex”? (pp. 63-64), there is an account of the first example of the Rufous Warbler shot in the British Islands. Mr. A. L. Butler has recently called my attention to the fact that the figure of this specimen is undoubtedly drawn from a specimen of Aédon familiaris, the brown central pair of rectrices, which is one of the chief characteristics of this form, being well shown in the plate. 202 BRITISH BIRDS Can any of your readers inform me where the original ‘specimen is? I do not recollect seeing it in the Booth Museum. If this example should prove to be referable to Aédon familiaris—which I strongly suspect—the specimen recorded by Mr. J. B. Nichols in your January number (Vol. I., p. 257) is the second recorded example of this form in the British Islands. M. J. NreoLn. [Borrer states that ae bird was moulting, and that the feathers on the back and tail, ‘especially the “central ones of the latter, are much worn” (Birds of Sussex, p. 64), which may account for the eee of these feathers. If correctly coloured the bird in the plate appears too dark on the back for A. familiaris.—EDs. | WHITE WAGTAIL INTERBREEDING WITH PIED WAGTAIL IN DEVONSHIRE. On April 8th last I noticed a White Wagtail on my lawn (near - Sidmouth). It only stayed a short time, though I was able to get a good view of it. As it did not put in an appearance again I imagined it to be only a traveller, but early in June I met with a bird, which may have been the same one, at the other end of the village. I watched it for some time feeding in a roadside ditch outside some farm buildings, after which I lost it. It was back at the same place about an hour later, this time accompanied by a male Pied Wagtail, with which pairing took place. It was not till June 13th that I was able to find the nest, which was situated in the stump of an old straw rick, and contained six eggs. I took these on the 14th, as the rick was to be thrown down on the following day. ‘They only differ from Pied Wagtails’ eggs with which I have been able to compare them, in having the surface markings brown without any shade of grey, and bolder in character. The bird appeared to me to be less suspicious than the Pied Wagtail usually is, and did not hesitate to go back to its nest while under observation. It may be well to add that I have had opportunities for watching White Wagtails at close quarters in Scotland, and that a pair of Pied Wagtails were nesting in the ivy of my house at the same time as the pair above recorded were nesting in‘the rick, so that I had good opportunities for comparing the hen Pied with the hen White Wagtail. The sharply ‘defined black hood of the latter and the pure grey colour of its back and upper tail-coverts were most distinctive. Amyas W. CHAMPERNOWNE. NOTES. 203 LESSER REDPOLL NESTING IN ESSEX. I po not know whether there are any records of the Lesser Redpoll’s nesting in Essex, but probably, in any case, instances are sufficiently uncommon to be worth noticing. A pair built a nest this year at the very top of a standard pear tree in my garden at Chelmsford. On July 28th the pair of old birds were accompanied by two young ones, and this little family party, a rather noisy one, remained about here for two or three weeks off and on, but have now apparently quite disappeared. The nest, on examination, proved to contain one much decomposed young one, so that apparently the clutch consisted of three eggs. LEONARD GRAY. BREEDING OF THE CROSSBILL IN COUNTY DUBLIN. ALTHouGH the common Crossbill (Loxia curvirostra) has been noticed on several occasions in the Scalp, and elsewhere, in co. Dublin, there is no note of its having bred in the county, and all records of its appearances have been, I think, in June, July, or August, when small flocks usually wander over the country. The following notes of its breeding in co. Dublin this year may therefore be of interest. About mid-June, 1907, Mr. C. V. Stoney and myself saw a flock of fifteen Crossbills in the Scalp. This flock had in- creased to about twenty birds in August. They never left the neighbourhood during September, October, November, December, and in January we commenced to search most carefully for a nest. By March 7th the flock had been reduced to three or four pairs, and still there was no sign of a nest. On March 16th Mr. Stoney heard a Crossbill singing in the fir woods, and while trying to locate the bird he saw another Crossbill a few feet from him in a Scotch fir. Watching it, he saw it run along a dead branch of the tree with head down, and nip off with its bill a twig, and fly with it into a Scotch fir close by. The nest, about 35 feet up, could be distinctly seen with the aid of glasses, and was just commenced, being a mere platform of twigs, with daylight showing through. On March 28th I climbed to the nest and watched the sitting bird from a distance of about 18 in. for a long while. I touched its back with my fingers before it left the nest, and then it stayed quite near me all the time I was in the tree. The nest, which was very compact, was lined with dead grass—no feathers or fur—and it had the usual platform of larch and fir twigs. It contained three eggs, quite different 204 BRITISH BIRDS. to any Crossbill’s eggs I have ever seen, the ground colour being blue, almost as blue as in the egg of a Bullfinch, sparingly spotted with dark brown; one egg had a lilac streak. R. Hamitton HUNTER. CIRL BUNTING SINGING IN OCTOBER. Ar noon on October 18th—a dull, muggy morning—I heard a Cirl Bunting in full song at Heath, near Leighton Buzzard. During the quarter of an hour that I waited at the spot, the bird, which was perched on the top of a thorn hedge, sang persistently at intervals of a few seconds. Is not mid- October a late date for this species to be in song ? | CHAS. OLDHAM. LATE NEST OF THE KINGFISHER. On October 10th, 1908, I was informed that there was a Kingfisher’s nest in the banks of the Wenning, near Bentham, Yorkshire. I went and inspected the nest and found it to contain four young nearly ready to fly. The late date is remarkable, and the very warm weather we have been having may partly account for it. GraHaAmM W. MuRDOcH. SCOPS-OWL OFF ABERDEENSHIRE. Ir may be worth while to put on record that I have in my possession a male Scops-Owl (Scops giu), which was captured on a trawler about twenty-five miles off the coast ot Aberdeenshire in October, 1900. This bird was in an exhausted state, and although the plumage was in fair condition it was much faded. From this arises another question: What is the nautical limit within which a bird may be called “ British ”’ ? HK... R. Faron; HONEY-BUZZARD IN SHROPSHIRE. I RECENTLY examined a fine example of the Honey-Buzzard which had been shot in North Shropshire, about the last day of September, 1908. It appears to be a male in its second year, and belongs to the dark-brown form. The last prior record in the county was in August, 1881, when three are said to have been seen near Ludlow, one of which was caught. H. E. Forrest. GREY PHALAROPE IN SUMMER IN DEVONSHIRE. On the morning of May 14th last I was surprised to find a Grey Phalarope (Phalaropus fulicarius) fluttering on a path in my garden (near Sidmouth). The bird was_ hopelessly NOTES. 205 crippled, having evidently fallen a victim to the heavy gale which had raged during the night. It proved to be a female in summer plumage, the tips of not more than five or six grey feathers showing among the chestnut of the lower breast. I find only two previous occurrences recorded from this county of this species in summer plumage. Amyas W. CHAMPERNOWNE. NESTING OF THE COMMON SNIPE IN KENT. In 1896 my brother and I found a single pair of Snipe nesting in Kent (cf. Zoologist, 1897, p. 271), but since then I have no certain record of any having bred. However, on April 21st of this year, | was walking with a friend along one of the many “levels” which connect up with Romney Marsh, and he told me that there had been several Snipe there for some time, and on that day we saw three or four pairs flying round and uttering their summer note, but we did not hear them ‘“drumming.” I had no time on that day to search for a nest. On June 16th I was again in the same spot, and saw at least two pairs flying round and “ drumming,’ and from their behaviour they evidently had young about, but the state of the grass made a search for them impossible. My friend told me that the Snipe were “ drumming ”’ nearly every day between my two visits, so that I do not think that there can be any doubt that they had bred there. The “ levels ” were unusually wet all through the summer, which probably accounted for Snipe breeding there this year, and I have noticed before that these birds are particularly influenced by the state of a prospective breeding ground, a place which is wet and marshy one year and holding several pairs, will be perhaps too dry another year and the birds will be absent ; the obvious inference being that under one condition the food supply will suffice, and under the other it will not. Cs 6B, TichHuRst:. PECTORAL SANDPIPER AND BARTRAM’S SANDPIPER IN KENT. A PECTORAL SANDPIPER (J'ringa maculata) frequented a piece of marshy ground in Kent for several days during July, 1908. This bird was first noticed by the Duchess of Bedford and myself on July 14th. It was very shy, but by careful stalking I obtained a very good view of it through binoculars at about twenty yards’ distance. Owing to the somewhat worn appearance of the plumage I take it to have been an adult bird. Its flight was somewhat peculiar, and reminded one 206 BRITISH BIRDS. of the “‘ soaring ’”’ breeding flight of a male Redshank. Her Grace informs me that this bird was still in the same place on July 21st. On July 18th a Bartram’s Sandpiper (Bartramia longicau- data) was shot on Romney Marsh, and I examined it in the flesh two days later in Mr. Bristow’s shop at St. Leonards. It was an adult male in good condition, but in somewhat worn breeding plumage. On July 23rd Mr. Bristow informed me that on the previous day (the 22nd) he saw a bird on Pevensey Level which he believes to have been a Bartram’s Sandpiper. The interesting note by the Duchess of Bedford on the Solitary Sandpiper in Kent, in the August number of British Brrps, coupled with the present records, seem to point to an immigration of American sandpipers to England. It would be interesting to know if any of your correspondents have noticed similar arrivals of American species in Britain. With the possible exception of the Scilly Islands, Sussex and Kent can claim to have produced more records of American waders than any other part of Great Britain. Possibly this is owing to the fact that there are more observers in these counties than elsewhere on the south coast. At any rate, there can be no doubt that the tendency of these waders is to follow a west to east line of flight. M. J. NICOLL. PECTORAL SANDPIPER IN NORFOLK. At Cley, between September Ist and 17th, 1908, I repeatedly saw a bird which I judged to be the Pectoral Sandpiper (Tringa maculata). The first time it got up it uttered the note which I remembered hearing at Aldeburgh, some years ago—a double chirp. I watched it once through glasses at about twenty yards, and thought I made out the pectoral band. It was often with Dunlins, and I could always pick it out by its superior size, but for many days it escaped the notice of the other frequenters of the estuary, mainly, I think, because it uttered its note very seldom, and the note when uttered was so low. It was the last wader I saw before I left the place. E. C. ARNOLD. THE LEVANTINE SHEARWATER IN BRITISH WATERS. I HAVE received some very interesting information from Mr. W. J. Clarke (the Scarborough wildfowler) with regard to the occurrence of the Levantine Shearwater (Puffinus NOTES. 207 yelkouanus) off the Yorkshire coast. In his “‘ Monograph of the Petrels,’’ now in course of publication (p. 107), Dr. Godman gives the range of this species as practically confined to the Mediterranean, although its disposition to wander northwards occasionally was evidenced by the fact that it had been re- corded several times from the seas to the south and east of Great Britain. If we exclude the Yorkshire records, these occurrences appear to be as follow: Devon, three; Hamp- shire, one; Kent, one; Northumberland, one. The Yorkshire records up to the date of Mr. Clarke’s most recent observations are as follow :— 1. 1877, autumn, near Redcar (T. H. Nelson, B. of Yorks, p. 760). 2. 1880 (about), Flamborough Do. Do. 3. 1890, Aug. 16th. Flamborough Do. Wo: 4. 1898, Oct., Bridlington (R. B. Sharpe, Bull. B.O.C., X., p. 48). 5. 1899, Feb. 4th, 2 adult, Scarborough (T. H. Nelson, B..of Yorks, ps 76). 6. 1900, Sept. 13th, ? jun., Scarborough Do. Do. 7. 1900, autumn, Scarborough Do. Do. 8. 1902, Sept. Ist, ¢ adult, Scarborough Do. Do. 9. 1904, Sept. 17th, 2, Scarborough (W. J. Clarke, Zool., 1905, p. 74). 10. 1904, Sept. 27th, Scarborough Do. Do. 11. 1907, Sept. 9th, 2, Scarborough (W. J. Clarke, an litt.). 12. 1907, Sept. 19th, ?, Scarborough Do. 13. 1907, Sept. 19th, ¢, Scarborough Do. 14. 1907, Sept. 28th, °, Scarborough Do. 15. 1908, Sept. 4th, 6, Scarborough Do. 16. 1908, Sept. 21st, Scarborough Do. 17. 1908, Sept. 24th, Scarborough Do. Mr. Clarke writes that out of twenty-two Shearwaters which he has had through his hands since 1890, twelve have been specimens of the Levantine species. With one excep- tion, all these were shot from a boat from four to eight miles from land, and most of them in the dusk of the evening. Mr. Clarke, who has himself obtained several of these birds, considers the Levantine to be the com- monest Shearwater off the coast of Yorkshire in the autumn, but in his experience it never approaches near the shore, and must be sought in the dusk. It looks on the wing, he says, distinctly larger and darker than the Manx Shearwater. It would certainly seem by Mr. Clarke’s valuable observations that the Levantine Shearwater migrates regularly northward in, autumn, and if this be the case not only is our knowledge of the distribution of the bird affected, but we have the anomaly of a species migrating north in autumn. Shearwaters are difficult birds to observe, and the Levantine has for many years been confused with the Manx Shearwater, but for those who like to repeat that there is nothing more to be learnt about British birds, and that there is nothing to be learnt from 208 BRITISH BIRDS. the occurrence of “ stragglers,” here is an occasion to think again. We hope that Mr. Clarke’s observations will induce some of our readers, who have opportunities for doing so, to go out in boats in the dusk of the evening and study Shearwaters. With reference to the rosy tint of the breast referred to by Dr. N. F. Ticehurst (antea, p. 138) Mr. Clarke writes as follows :—‘‘I have examined a good many freshly-killed, as well as a couple of living, specimens, and none of them showed the slightest sign of any rosy tint on the breast.” ape eu te H. F. WITHERBY. GoLDEN ORIOLE IN LINCOLNSHIRE.—A specimen of Oriolus galbula, which is a somewhat rare visitor so far north as Lincolnshire, flew against a telegraph wire “recently ” (? August, 1908) at Gainsborough (F. M. Burton, Nat., 1908, p. 399). SwaLtow’s Nest on A Lamp SHapE.—The nest of a Swallow on the shade of an electric-lamp is recorded and a photograph given, with a summary of previously-recorded curious nesting sites for this bird (Feld, 12, 1x., 1908, p. 514). LessER REDPOLL NESTING IN SussEx.—Mr. R. Morris reports that at least one pair of Linota rufescens bred again (cf. antea, Vol. I., p. 183) this year at Maresfield (Zool., 1908, p- 350). CuoucH IN LANCASHIRE.—Mr. E. Bell reports that a specimen of Pyrrhocorax graculus was shot near Wigan in the middle of September last. The Chough has previously occasionally wandered to Lancashire (Field, 26,1x., 1908, p.590). Hoopor IN Ross-SHIRE.—Colonel W. H. E. Murray records that an example of Upupa epops was caught at Geanies on September 9th. The Hoopoe is not often recorded from Scotland (Field, 19, 1x., 1908, p. 547). SAND-GROUSE IN Essex.—‘‘R. M.” reports that an example of Syrrhaptes paradoxus was shot on Great Mollands Farm, South Ockenden, on September Ist, 1908 (fzeld, 12, Ix., 1908, p. 514). RurF In co. CLARE.—A pair of Machetes pugnax, a rare casual visitor to Ireland, were shot on September 4th in co. Clare (H. V. Macnamara, Field, 12, 1x., 1908, p. 514). SABINE’s GuLL IN NorFrotk.—On September Ist, 1908, a Xema sabinit was shot on Breydon (F. A. Arnold, Zool., 1908, p. 352). The bird was an adult in full summer plumage (J. H. Gurney, in litt.). WOOD-PIGEON ENQUIRY. STAMP. tak EDITORS OF CBR TISE: BIRDS,” 326, HIGH HOLBORN, LONDON, W.C. - WOOD-PIGEON ENQUIRY You are urgently requested to answer as many of the questions detailed below as possible, and to the Schedule to the Editors of British Birds by March lst, 1909. It is hoped that the readers of the will thus co-operate and collect a large number of facts. The result of the enquiry will be announced in number, when all the observations have been collated and compared. CGAP DEIN NICETCTUIL EACLE CRS! i, eye here ce akicactccranesnecedincvesniSbvasttvtatcic on ocrasls? a EIEU ee eoet eRe Distret (state County) in which observations. were Madl............0isissisunsomsinsamaunsantelnemutiginnntetiieeiisinchnanss:osckaeqn aa MIGRATORY MOVEMENTS. =< 1. Have they been plentiful ) this winter compared to other years, especially to last year ? 2. When did the flocks arrive ? 3. When did they depart ? searce or plentiful, and of 4. Has the food supply been what has it consisted ? } 1. Have you noticed either TuHRoat DisEAsn. disease, and at what time of year ? Ifnodisease has been met with, please note the fact. FratHer DISEASE. 2. What percentage of indi- viduals has been affected ? 3 Has the food supply been plentiful or scarce, and of what has it consisted at the time when the disease was noticed ? 4. Have you any observa; tions relating to the course and length of either disease? 5. Have you any evidence to | account for the transmis- sion of the diseases ? J ‘isease in any other species 6. If you have observed either “arward specimens. WOOD-PIGEON ENQUIRY. 7HE EDITORS OF Pia) ISrl BURDS,” 326, HIGH HOLBORN, LONDON, W.C. ih # iim ~“WOi ¢ ‘s _ ANILUSTRATED-MAGA DEVOTEDTOTHEBIRDS'ON ‘DECEMBER 1, “Gans - MONTHLY-ONESHILLING-NET S26HIGHHOLBORNICNDON WITHERBY& C2 NAUMANN'S i; BIRDS OF MIDDLE EUROPE.” Z NAUMANN (J. F.). ‘‘ Naturgeschichte der Woge el Mitteleuropas.”’ Neubear- - C ? beitet yon Prof. R._Blasius, W. Blasius, R Carl R. Hennicke. Jubildums-Prachtausgabe. uri und herausgegeben von | _ ; 430. PLATES BEAUTIFULLY REPRODUCED IN COLOUR from drawings by. the «| wel one Bird Painter J. G. Keulemans, Bruno” Geisler, E. de Maes vand others. © 12. Vols. Folio,, Drésden, 18961904. Bound in half cloth, £6°10s. net. Bound in half morocco, £8 8s. net. A copy of this Work'in Sern tcctly. pe: ae at Messrs. Hodgson’ 5 WILLIAMS & NORGATE, 14, Henrietta Street, Covent Garden, London, W.C. NOW READY. THE SPORTSMAN’S- BRITISH BIRD BOOK. By R. LYDEKKER. Beautifully Illustrated with 345 Plates absolutely true | to Nature. es 8vo. 620 pages. 30s. net. A Concise Work on British Birds, accurate and. up to date, free as possible from technicalities, and simple and readable as 1 the circumstances of the case permit. 3 ‘LONDON: ROWLAND WARD, LIMITED. — The si esa 167, Piccadilly. WATKINS & DONCASTER, | Raturalists, hs And Manufacturers of CABINETS and APPARATUS for Entomology, Birds’ Fase mee ~and Skins, and all Branches of Natural History. A LARGE STOCK OF INSECTS, and BIRDS’ EGGS and SKINS. Speciality :—Obiects for Nature Study, Drawing Classes, &e. -BIRDS, MAMMALS, &c., PRESERVED and MOUNTED by FIRST-CLASS. hcg pees 54 if | RUE TO NATURE. All Books and Publications on. Natural History fappien 36, STRAND, LONDON, W.C. (Five Doors from Charing Oras.) sCphelogue (162 pp.) gate free, Fe ag DRDSHBIRDS EPP ED bY oH. F.. WITHERBY,, F-.2Z.S.,, M-B.0.U. peo lED BY -W.. P.- PYCRAFT, A.LS., M.B.0.U. ContTENTS OF NUMBER 7, Vou. II. DECEMBER 1, 1908. On the Nesting of the Scaup-Duck in Scotland, by P. H. Behr, MA] MB., B.C., F)2.8., M.B:O:0. .: Some Early British Ornithologists and their Works, by W. H. Mullens, M.a., LL.M., M.B.o.u. V.—Robert Plot (1641—1696) : On the Song of the Wood- Warbler, by H. W: Mapleton, B.A., M.B.O.U. On the More Important Additions to our ’ ‘Knowledge of British Birds since 1899, by H. F. Witherby and N. F. Ticehurst. Part XV.—(continued from page 150) Pallas’s Grasshopper-Warbler (ZLocustella certhiola) in Ire- land, by R. M. Barrington Notes :—Barred Warbler in Lincolnshire (G. H. Caton Haigh). Goldcrests from East Coast Lighthouses (William Evans). Yellow-Browed Warbler in Lincolnshire (G. H. Caton Haigh). The East European Chiffchaff in the Isle of Wight (J. L. Bonhote). The Northern Race of the Willow-Wren in Great Britain (C. B. Ticehurst). Nesting Habits of the Marsh-Warbler (Norman Gilroy). Aquatic Warbler in Sussex (E. C. Arnold). Blue- Headed Wagtail in Norfolk (F.I. Richards). Autumn and Winter Singing of Buntings (H. G. Alexander, Col. H. Meyrick, C. I. Evans). Little Bunting in Ireland and Norfolk (R. M. Barrington and H. F. Witherby). » The Great Spotted Woodpecker as a Breeding Bird in Scotland (H. F. Witherby). Courting Performance of the Cuckoo (T. Thornton Mackeith). Little Owl in Warwickshire (A. G. Leigh). A Remarkable Variety of the Red-Legged Partridge in Essex (W. P. Pycraft). Grey Phalarope in Co. Wexford (R. C. Banks). Buff-breasted Sandpiper in Lincolnshire (G. H. Caton Haigh). Sabine’s Gull in Lincolnshire (G. H. Caton Haigh). Late Nests of the Great Crested and Little Grebes (W. Mackay Wood). Sooty Shear- waters in Sussex, Kent, and Yorkshire (W. Ruskin Butterfield and H. F. Witherby). Short Notes Reviews :—Report on the Immigrations of Summer Resi- dents in the Spring of 1907. A List of Irish Birds Page 209 218 226 232 247 ON THE NESTING OF THE SCAUP-DUCK IN SCOTLAND. bare. tL. BAR, M-A..M.B., B.C., F:2.58., M.B.0.U. Prruaprs there is no more interesting fact in the history of the modern ornithology of these islands than the 210 BRITISH BIRDS. remarkable spread of the breeding area of many of the duck-tribe during recent years. The causes which made its allies, the Tufted Duck* and Shoveler,t common resident species in Scotland, have also affected the Scaup-Duck. There are several early records of its supposed breeding in Scotland. Under the head of ‘‘ Scaup Pochard ” Selby writes {: “a single female was shot by Sir William Jardine in a small loch between Loch Hope and Eriboll in 1834; she was attended by a young one, which unfortunately escaped among the reeds. This is the first instance of its breeding in Great Britain that I am aware of.” In June, 1868,§ Mr. J. A. Harvie-Brown shot an adult male Scaup in Sutherlandshire, ‘“‘ which had been frequenting the loch for some days; and from its unwillingness to leave the locality, though repeatedly disturbed and fired at, I am fully persuaded that the female was sitting on her eggs at no great distance. With my friend, Mr. W. Jesse, I also in June, 1867, obtained a laying of duck’s eggs, and though failing to identify them, they closely resembled eggs of this species from Lapland.”’ In 1880 the late Dr. A. C. Stark recorded a nest and eggs found on Loch Leven which he considered to be those of a Scaup.|| Full details have recently (antea, p. 132) been given by Mr. W. Evans, which show that these were no doubt the eggs of a Tufted Duck. The records cited above were not accepted by Professor Newton{] as authentic. The first authentic nest appears to have been discovered by Mr. Heatley Noble, and was recorded in the “ Ibis ” for * J. A. Harvie-Brown, ‘‘ Ann. §.N.H.,” 1896, pp, 3-22; “ Proc. Roy, Phys. Soc. Edin.,’’ Vol. XIII., pp. 144-160, + id., “‘Fauna N.W. Highlands,” p. 232; “Ann. S.N.H.,”* 1902, p. 282. t ‘‘ Edin, New Philosph. Journa],’’ XX., p. 293, 1836; wide also Yarrell, 4th ed., Vol, IV.. p, 425. § “Proc. N.H. Soc., Glasgow,” 1875, II., pp. 120 et 121. || A. C. Stark, ‘Proc. Roy. Phys. Soc. Ed,,’’ 1881-83, VII., p. 203. q ‘Dict. Birds,” p, 815. P. H. BAHR: THE SCAUP-DUCK IN SCOTLAND. 211 1899,* and the “ Annals of Scottish Natural History.’’+ The nest was found in Speyside, and was placed in rushes on an island five feet from the water’s edge ; it contained three eggs when found. It was revisited in a week’s time, but the duck was not sitting. Mr. Noble got within ten feet of her and watched her for some time close to the nest. Two days after he watched her leave the nest, which contained nine eggs, and was deep, cup-shaped, and better made than most ducks’ nests. In a recent number of British Birpsft he has described the down and feathers taken from this nest. The Scaup-Duck has also been recorded§ as nesting in the islands south of the Sound of Harris. Mr. Harvie- Brown’s correspondent writes: “‘ They are numerous, and have bred for the last four years. Two pairs to my knowledge in 1897, 1898, and 1899, and three pairs in last season, 1900.” It was believed to have bred again in 1901, and in June, 1902, a young bird still in down, ten days old, was sent to Mr. Harvie-Brown by Guthrie, a keeper in these islands. Finally, the nest figured overleaf (Fig. 1) was discovered on a journey made to these islands with Mr. N. B. Kinnear for this express purpose.|| Professor Newton, with his critical acumen, would not at first accept the record because of the similarity of the eggs to those of the Tufted Duck, but did so after a careful comparison of the down and feathers with those taken from the nest found in 1899 by Mr. Heatley Noble.{ Mr. Kinnear and I spent a fortnight in June, 1906, searching innumerable lochs for signs of nesting Scaup- * H. Saunders, “‘Ibis,’’ 1899, p. 648; ‘Bull, B.O.C.,” VIIL., p. 5. + J. A. Harvie-Brown, ‘“ Ann. §.N.H.,”’ 1899, p. 215. {t Britisu Brrps (Mag.), Vol. IT., p. 38. § J. A, Harvie-Brown, ‘‘Ann, S.N.H.,” 1902, p. 211; vide also Guthrie, ‘“‘ Ann. 8.N.H.,”’ 1903, p. 76. | Kinnear, “Ann. S.N.H.,” 1907, p. 82. q *¢ Qotheca Wolleyana,”’ Vol. II., pp. 591 and 2. 212 BRITISH BIRDS. Ducks. For this purpose we had the owner’s kind permission, and the assistance of his keepers. On June 4th we discovered a solitary old male Scaup Fie. 1.—Nest of Scaup-Duck. June 11, 1906. (Photographed by P. H.. Bahr.) riding asleep on a peculiarly desolate and unpromising- looking loch. He was accompanied by a solitary Tufted drake, and when seen from a distance, even with the aid of glasses, they seemed, when asleep with head tucked Ba Met | Mil head tu t | i i | | ! | IAN Pea aN 1h Sf (Drawn by P. H. Bahr.) | Fie. 2.._Duck and Drake Scaup and Nesting Site. 214 BRITISH BIRDS. under wing, to be indistinguishable. In certain lights the grey feathers on the back of the male Scaup do not show up well, so that these birds can easily be missed when in company with Tufted Ducks. We waded to all the islands, but to no purpose. On the next day, June 5th, we were rewarded by the sight of two pairs, the drakes in each instance floating lazily about, fast asleep, with one leg cocked up in the air, as I have depicted in Fig. 2. No more evidence was forthcoming till the 9th, when I explored a loch famous for its trout and the variety of its bird-life. I was lying for no less than four hours at a stretch on a small islet some twenty feet in diameter, when I became aware that I was being watched by a pair of Scaups, every bit as carefully as I myself was watching some Black-headed Gulls. The duck appeared to be very anxious, and was swimming about, evidently on the quz vive, in the neighbourhood of another rocky islet, while her mate varied his vigil with an occasional “forty winks,” the temptation for which he seemed unable to resist. A search was made, and to my surprise I found that for four hours I had unconsciously been lying within six feet of a duck’s nest, to all appear- ance the very one I was in quest of. It was placed under a boulder, was lined with dark brown down, and contained nine olive-green eggs, which were not covered up. Owing to the trampled-down condition of the surrounding vegetation I had grave doubts as to whether the bird would return. Consequently I retired to another island some quarter-mile away and kept watch. Soon I saw the Scaup duck swim behind the island and disappear, so I resolved not to disturb her, but to return on the following Monday, the 11th, with Kinnear. When the day arrived we rowed up to the island with very anxious hearts. A brown duck flew off, scuttled along the water, and settled in a distant part of the loch, where she was soon joined by an undoubted Tufted drake!!! So a further search was made; on the next island, only some three hundred yards away, a Shoveler’s P.H. BAHR: 'THE SCAUP-DUCK IN SCOTLAND. 215 nest with eleven eggs was found. While I busied myself taking some photographs, Kinnear explored the remaining island of the series. This was also very small, had a rocky base, with large tufts of long grass on top. A brown duck was flushed off a nest, and settled on the water but twenty vards from the shore, and was watched for a quarter of an hour at a stretch through glasses. At the same time a drake Scaup was seen riding out on the loch at some distance from the island, and he, afterwards, Fie. 3.—The Duck Scaup coming off the Nest. (Drawn by P. H. Bahr.) in company with a drake Tufted, flew past me in my hiding-place. Kinnear refrained from investigating any further, but noted that the nest was situated in a deep hollow some nine inches below the level of the ground, and well guarded by large tufts of grass (Fig. 1) ; a trampled pathway led up from the edge of the water to the nest. An hour after he returned with me. On our approach the duck was seen leaving the nest, threading her way, with neck stretched in front of her, through the matted grass. She scuttled into the water (Fig. 3) and remained within thirty yards of the bank. The white patch and 216 BRITISH BIRDS. broad bill were plainly visible, and set aside all doubts of identification, so that we did not deem it necessary to take any further steps. She showed her uneasiness by giving vent to a sort of guttural grunt, splashed the water with her wings, and finally dived out of sight. The nest was almost invisible, so cleverly were the grasses pulled over the top. The eggs were covered with down, Fie, 4.—Nest of Tufted Duck in the same hollow as the Scaup’s nest in Fig. 1. May 28, 1907. (Photographed by P. H. Bahr.) so she had evidently heard us approaching. A quantity of blackish down, amongst which were greyish-white feathers, mixed with much fine grass, lined the nest. The eggs were nine in number, of an olive-green hue, and of the same size as those in the Tufted Duck’s nest we had just discovered. In the bottom of the nest we found a quantity of old eggshells, and it seems that this hollow had done service on several other occasions. The P.H. BAHR: THE SCAUP-DUCK IN SCOTLAND. 217 eggs were hard set, and the young were within three days of hatching. That same evening we saw five more Scaup-Ducks, two drakes and three ducks, on a sea-loch. Towards the end of the same month another nest was found by the keeper on the same loch. In 1907 I returned, and though I searched every likely situation, no trace of a Scaup was seen. The same hollow contained the nest of a Tufted Duck* (Fig. 4), from which the old bird was disturbed on three occasions and identified ; it contained nine eggs, and was to all intents and purposes exactly similar to the Scaup’s of the year before. There was also a Shoveler’s nest in exactly the same position. It is significant that the nests of these three species should be found on contiguous islands, where, not so many years ago, they were unknown. Though essentially a circumpolar species, the Scaup- Duck has been recorded as nesting in north Germany, once by Baldamus in Anhalt, and twice by Blasius in ponds near Brunswick.t * Cf. “Ann. Scot. Nat. Hist.,’’ 1907, p. 213. + Rudolf Blasius, ‘‘ Naumann, Naturgesch. V. Mitteleurop.,’’ new ed., 1896-1904, Vol. X., p. 153; Howard Saunders, ‘‘Man. B.B..’’ 1899, p. 449. ( 218 ) SOME EARLY BRITISH ORNITHOLOGISTS AND THEIR WORKS. BY W:: H- MULBLENS; --4:,. tea. oe V.—ROBERT PLOT (1641—1696) AND SOME EarRLy County NATURAL HISTORIES. In the year 1661, Joshua Childrey (1623—1670), antiquary, schoolmaster, and divine, published in London a_ small duodecimo work entitled “ Britannia Baconia: / or, the Natural / Rarities / of / England, Scotland, & Wales.” This book, although of no particular value in itself, being merely a brief and somewhat imperfect compilation, was nevertheless destined to be of some considerable influence on the literature of natural history in this country. For, according to Wood’s ‘““ Athenee Oxonienses’”’ (p. 339), it inspired Robert Plot (1641—1696), the first keeper of the Ashmolean Museum at Oxford, with the idea of writing the “ Natural History of Oxfordshire,” which appeared in 1677, and which was followed in 1686 by a “ Natural History of Staffordshire,” the work of the same author; who is said to have also contemplated similar histories of Middlesex and Kent. These two works of Robert Plot’s also proved in their turn to be the forerunners of a numerous series of county natural histories by different writers. The full title of the “ Natural History of Oxfordshire ” is as follows :— “The / Natural History / of / Oxford-shire, / being an Essay toward the Natural History / of / England. / By R.P., LL.D. / [quotation from Arat. in Phzenom.] / [engraving] Printed at the Theater in Oxford, and are to be had there: / And in London at Mr. S. Millers, at the Star near the / West-end of SOME EARLY BRITISH ORNITHOLOGISTS. 219 St. Pauls Church-yard. 1677. / The price in sheets at the Press, nine shillings. / To Subscribers, eight shillings. 1 Vol. folio. Collation: pp. 4, Imprimatur & Title. + pp. 8. un. + pp. 358. + pp. 12, Errata & Index. Map & XVI. Plates. A second edition of ‘‘ The Natural History of Oxfordshire ”’ appeared in 1705 “with large additions and corrections : also a short account of the Author, &c.”’ It cannot be said that Plot’s observations on the birds of Oxfordshire contain anything of much interest or value ; he was a somewhat credulous writer, and seems to have been a better authority on plants than on birds, and, indeed, is mentioned by the eminent John Ray, in the latter’s “Synopsis Methodica Stirpium Britannicarum” as ‘*Robertus Plot LL. Doctor, e cujus Historiis Naturalibus lectu sane dignissimis territorii tum Oxoniensis, tum Stafford- iensis, non pauca in Historiam & Synopsin hance nostram transtuli.”” It must not, however, be forgotten that Plot’s book was written at a time when but little was known of British birds, in fact, the ‘“ Natural History of Oxfordshire ”’ was published a year before the appearance of Willughby’s famous “ Ornithology’ (English translation).* Robert Plot dealt with the birds of Oxfordshire on pp. 175—180 of his book, under the head “‘ of Brutes.” It wil! here suffice to state that, having informed his readers that there was but little that he could mention in the way of new matter “‘ since the feathered kingdom has been so lately and so carefully surveyed by the learned and industrious Francis Willughby,” he proceeds to describe, amongst other birds, one “about the bigness of a sparrow, with a blue back, and a reddish breast, a wide mouth and a long bill... . from the noise that it makes commonly called the Wood-cracker,” although this bird, which was undoubtedly the Nuthatch, * The Latin edition of Willughby’s work entitled ‘‘ Ornithologizw Libri tres ’’ appeared in 1676. + Cf. Swainson, p. 35. 220 BRITISH BIRDS. had been duly noticed in Willughby’s Latin edition of the ** Ornithology ” (pp. 19 and 95). Plot’s other work, “The Natural History of Staffordshire,” was published in 1686, and is altogether a more important and far rarer book than the one above mentioned. Its full title is as follows :— The / Natural History / of Stafford-shire / by / Robert Plot, LL.D. / Keeper of the / Ashmolean Museum / and / Professor _ of Chymistry / in the / University / of / Oxford. / Ye shall describe the Land, and bring the Description hither to me. Joshua 8. v. 6. / [Engraving] Oxford / Printed at the Theater, Anno M. DC. LXX XVI. 1 Vol. folio. Collation: pp. 16 un. + pp. 450 + pp. 14, Index, ** Proposalls of the Author,” and list of Subscribers. Map, XXXVII. Plates, and extra Plate of “Armes omitted.” (This last plate is very seldom found in the original state.) Birds are treated of in Chapter VII., pp. 228—236, and though the observations are somewhat fuller than in the same author’s “‘ Natural History of Oxfordshire,’ their principal interest lies in the curious account of the nesting of the Pewit (i.e., the Black-headed Gull, Larus ridibundus). A small portion of this account is given in the fourth edition of Yarrell’s “‘ British Birds” (Vol. III., p. 599).* But as it is of considerable interest we here give it in full, together with a facsimile of the original plate, showing the taking of the young Pewits.T ‘“‘ But the strangest whole-footed water fowle that frequents this county is the Larus Cinereus Ornithologi, the Larus Cinerus tertius Aldrovandi, and the Cepphus of Gesner and Turner ; in some Counties called the black-Cap, in others the Sea or Mire-Crow, here the Pewit; which being of the migratory kind, come annually to certain pooles in the Estate of the right Worshipfull Sr. Charles Skrymsher Knight to * The quotation in ‘“‘ Yarrell’’ is by no means word perfect; it did not appear in the first three editions of that work. {+ Plot uses the spelling, Pewit or Pewet, indifferently. -e SOU Ud 5 eR ar fae ae) ol Aas ek ee ee oF OTe e 00% a ee ee Cs BEd cab Pap ity 4) Nhe r i, a Me o.* ' “s _ a ot i We iava ty a ‘ yews, gi hii z : . ’ : Oe yee ts ae 4 i es PAi i @ ; h Cy ts nd one al 4 Pen, “oe icf # 4 i i~i~i_i hnh»™]™]>"’»=™>»Ba=™— amEpEpEhmhhx™L__ iii ™ {j pABpE=S S|" the Pewets annuall Teftimony of hes My © es tha: MANA paeeee > ‘ GS a it ~ 3 Ty a ae ———= ee SS — = S ASS "Fi 7, ) boy yi — weal “Vj YY iid, ie LE LN “li fy als f rsh iy ig [BRITISH BIRDS, Vol. I1., Pl. 5.) SOME EARLY BRITISH ORNITHOLOGISTS. 221 build and breed, and to no other estate in or neer the County, but of this Family, to which they have belong’d ultra hominum memoriam, and never moved from it, though they have changed their station often. They anciently came to the old Pewit poole above mentioned, [chap. 6. §§. 36, 40, 42] about 4a mile 8.W. of Norbury Church, but it being their strange quality (as the whole Family will tell you, to whom I refer the Reader for the following relation) to be disturb’d and remove upon the death of the head of it, as they did with-in memory, upon the death of James Skrymsher, Esq., to Offley- Moss near Woods-Eves, which Moss though containing two gentlemans land, yet (which is very remarkable) the Pewits did discern betwixt the one and the other, and build only on the land of the next heir John Skrymsher, Esq., so wholy are they addicted to this family. At which Moss they continued about three years, and then removed to the old pewit poole again, where they continued to the death of the said John Skrymsher, Esq.; which happening on the Eve to our Lady-day, the very time when they are laying their Eggs, yet so concerned were they at this gentleman’s death, that notwithstanding this tye of the Law of Nature, which has ever been held to be universal and perpetual, they !eft their nest and Eggs; and though.they made some attempts of laying again at Offley-Moss, yet they were still so disturbed that they bred not at all that year. The next year after they went to Aqualat, to another Gentleman’s Estate of the same family (where though tempted to stay with all the care imaginable) yet continued there but two years, and then returned again to another poole of the next heir of John Skrymsher deceased, called Shebben poole in the parish of high Offley where they continue to this day, and seem to be the propriety as I may say (though a wild-fowle) of the right worshipfull Sr. Charles Skrymsher Knight, their present Lord and master. But being of the migratory kind their first appearance is not till about the latter end of February and then in number scare above six, which come as it were as harbingers to the rest, to see whether the Hasts or Islands in the pooles (upon which they build their neasts) be prepared for them; but these never so much as lighten, but fly over the poole scarce staying an hour : about the sixth of March following, there comes a pretty considerable flight, of a hundred or more, and then they alight on the hasts, and stay all day, but are gon again at night. About our Lady-Day, or sooner in a forward Spring, they come to stay for good, otherwise not till the beginning of April, when they build their nests, which they make not of sticks, but heath and rushes, making them but shallow, and laying 222 BRITISH BIRDS. generally but 4 eggs, 3 and 5 more rarely, which are about the bignes of a small Hen-egg. The Hasts or Islands are prepared for them between Michaelmass and Christmass, by cutting down the reeds and rushes and putting them aside in the nooks and corners of the hasts, and in the valleys to make them level ; for should they be permitted to rot on the Islands, the Pewits would not endure them. ‘“‘ After three weeks sitting the young ones are hatch’t, and about a month after are almost ready to flye, which usually happens on the third of June, when the Proprietor of the poole orders them to be driven and catch’d, the Gentry comeing in from all parts to see the sport ; the manner thus. They pitch a Rabbit-net on the bank-side, in the most con- venient place over against the hasts, the Net in the middle being about ten yards from the side but close at the ends in the manner of a bow; then six or seven men wade into the poole beyond the Pewits, over against the Net, with long staves and drive them from the hasts, whence they all swim to the bank side, and landing run like Lapwings into the Net, where people standing ready, take them up, and put them into two penns made within the bow of the Net, which are built round, about 3 yards Diameter, and a yard high or somewhat better, with small stakes driven into the ground in a circle, and interwoven with broom and other raddles, as in Tab. 19, at the bottom whereof is represented in Sculpture, the poole, and whole method of taking these Pewits ; and Norbury Manor at the top, the seat of the Proprietor, a most generous Encourager of this work. In which manner they have taken off them in one morning 50 dozens at a driving, which at 5s. per dozen (the ancient price of them) comes to twelve pounds ten shillings: but at several drifts that have been anciently made in the same morning, there have been as many taken as have been sold for thirty pounds, so that some years the profit of them has amounted to fifty or three score pounds, besides what the generous Proprietor usually presents his Relations, and the Nobility and Gentry of the County withall, which he constantly does in a plentifull manner, sending them to their houses in Crates alive, so that feeding them with livers, and other entrals of beasts, they may kill them at what distance of time they please, according as occasions present themselves, they being accounted a good dish at the most plentiful tables. But they commonly appoint 3 days of driving them, within fourteen days or thereabout, of the second or third of June ; which while they are doing, some have observed a certain old one that seems to be somewhat more concerned than the rest, being clamorous, and striking down upon the very heads of SOME EARLY BRITISH ORNITHOLOGISYS. 2238 the Men ; which has given ground of suspicion that they have some Government amongst them, and that this is their Prince, that is so much concern’d for its Subjects. And ’tis further observed that when there is great plenty of them, the Lent- Corn of the Country is so much the better, and so the Corn- pastures too, by reason they pick up all the worms, and the Fern-flyes, which though bred in the Fern, yet nip and feed on’ the young corn and grass, and hinder their growth.”’ Robert Plot, as we are informed in “a short account of the Author” appended to the Second Edition of the ‘‘ Natural 9 History of Oxfordshire,’ was the son of Captain Robert Plot, of Borden in Kent, and was born in 1641 at Sutton-Barn in the said parish. He was educated at Magdalene Hall in the University of Oxford, and afterwards at University College there. In the year 1683 he was appointed first Keeper of the Ashmolean Museum, and about the same time was made Professor of Chemistry to the University. In 1694 he was nominated Mowbray Herald, by Henry, Duke of Norfolk, and died at his house, Sutton-Barn, April 30th, 1696. A monument to his memory stands in the Parish Church at Borden. In the year 1700* Charles Leigh (1662—1701), ‘‘ Doctor of Physick,” published in imitation of Plot’s works a worthless ‘Natural History of Lancashire, Cheshire, and the Peak in Derbyshire,” the full title of the book being as follows :— The / Natural History of / Lancashire, Cheshire, / and the / Peak, / in Derbyshire: / with an / Account / of the / British, Pheenician, Armenian, Gr. and Rom. Antiquities / in those / Parts. / By Charles Leigh, / Doctor of Physick. / Oxford : / Printed for the Author, and to be had at Mr. George West’s,/ and Mr. Henry Clement’s, Booksellers there: Mr. Edward Evet’s / at the Green-Dragon, in St. Paul’s Church-yard ; and Mr. John / Nicholson, at the King’s Arms in Little-Britain, London. MDCC. 1 Vol. folio. * In 1684 appeared the “Scotia illustrata sive Prodomus Historie Naturalis,” Edinburgh, 1 vol. folio, of Robert Sibald (1641—1722) which contained some short notes on the birds of Scotland. 224. BRITISH BIRDS. Collation: pp. 20 un. + pp. 4. + pp. 2 un. + pp. 196. (Book IT.) pp. 99. (Book III.) pp. 112 + pp. 33 Index. Portrait, Map & XXIV. Plates. (Numerous mistakes in pagination.) Birds are treated of, pp. 157—164, Book I., but Leigh’s ornithological observations are useless and _ trivial, though he could not well complain of any lack of material, since he informs us on p. 157 that “These Counties afford us great variety of Birds, and in some places, even, clog the Inhabitants with their Plenty.” County Natural Histories now began to appear at frequent intervals, and contained more or less useful notices of the local birds, but it is here only possible to mention some of the rarer or more important of them in their chronological order :— 1709. Robinson (Thomas)— An / Essay / towards a / Natural History / of / Westmoreland / and / Cumberland. /... . By Tho. Robinson, Rector of ; Ousby in Cumberland. / London . . . . 1709. 1 Vol. 8vo. (Contains some worthless remarks on birds, pp. 64—68, and pp. 94—98 of the “ Moral Conclusions,” which form the latter part of the work.) 1712. Morton (John)— The / Natural History / of / Northamptonshire: /... . by John Morton, M.A., / Rector of Oxenden in the same County 25014: A), MAG OnL en Oe 1 Vol. folio. (Birds, pp. 423—438.) 1758. Borlase (William)— The / Natural History / of / Cornwall. /.... By Wiliam Borlase, A.M.F.R.S. / Rector of Ludgvan, and Author of the Antiquities of Cornwall. / Oxford .... MDCCLVIII. 1 Vol. folio. (Birds, pp. 242—248, the information being chiefly derived from Carew’s Survey of Cornwall, 1602.) 1769. Wallis (John)— The / Natural History / and / Antiquities / of Northumber- land: / and so much of the County of / Durham / as lies SOME EARLY BRITISH ORNITHOLOGISIS. 225 between the Rivers Tyne and Tweed : joa. by ‘John Wallis, A.M. / London MDCCLXIX. 2 Vols. 4to. (Birds, pp. 309—346, a considerable account.) 1772. Rutty (John)— An / Essay / towards a / Natural History / of the / County of Dublin, /. . .. By John Rutty, M.D. /... . 1772. 2 Vols. 8vo. (Birds, Vol. I., pp. 295—343, and IV. plates of birds.) 1789. Pilkington (James)— A / view / of / the / Present State / of / Derbyshire; /... . by James Pilkington. /.... London. / MDCCLXXXIX. 2 Vols. 8vo. (Birds, Vol. I., pp. 480—496.) We will conclude our short list with the earliest of the local ornithologies, 7.e. :— 1809. Tucker (Andrew)— Ornithologia Danmoniensis ; / or, / an history of the habits and Economy / of / Devonshire Birds. / Embellished with coloured plates, engraven from accurate and / Beautiful Drawings from Nature: /.... By Andrew G. C. Tucker. / .... London: / Printed for the Author, and published by T. Cadell and / W. Davies, Strand. / 1809. 1 Vol. 4to. “An ambitious work of which not even the whole of the somewhat turgid Introduction was published, but the two parts printed show the author to have been a physiologist, anatomist and outdoor-observer far beyond most men of his time” (cf. Newton’s Dictionary of Birds; introduction, p. 45). ( 226 ) ON THE SONG OF THE WOOD-WARBLER. BY H. W. MAPLETON, B.A., M.B.O.U. In May last, while availing myself of a very good oppor- tunity of observing a Wood-Warbler in full song my attention was called to the fact that this bird has two distinct songs. As I do not remember to have seen this fact recorded in works on British birds, I thought it possible that a few notes on the subject might prove of interest. Of course, everyone knows that in the songs of accomplished vocalists, such as the Nightingale’ and the Song-Thrush, many distinct phrases are utilized in a variety of combinations, but in the case of the Wood- Warbler there are two distinct songs, which bear no resemblance to each other, either in tone or phrasing, and which, when the bird is singing well, are very rarely mixed. The first of these is the ordinary song, which needs no description here. The second song, which is much rarer than the first, varies considerably in different individuals as regards the number of syllables, though the tone is constant. In the case of the first bird I had under observation, on May 16th, it consisted of from 9-12 syllables—the average number in this case being 10. It is sweet, and rather plaintive in tone, falling gradually from F sharp to E flat, or possibly D. [This interval I am not certain about, as I verified it on the pianoforte from memory only.] In character it resembles to a certain extent the ecstatic ‘‘ tail-end ”’ of the full song of the Tree-Pipit. The last and lowest note of this song seems to be the same as that used as a call-note when the young are fledged and flying about in family parties. On May 17th I came across another Wood-Warbler, and. timed the bird, roughly, for ten minutes, during which it sang No. 1—the ordinary song—over fifty times, and No. 2 only about five times. Neither on this, nor on the previous occasion, did I hear these two songs mixed, though once or twice the bird would utter three notes of H. W. MAPLETON: SONG OF WOOD-WARBLER. 227 the prelude of its ordinary song, and then stop, and start afresh on the second. On May 3lst I listened to another bird. This individual differed from the two preceding ones to a certain extent, as it mixed up the two songs occasionally. It was not in very full voice. During the time I stood listening it never sang song No. 2 properly. Several times it sang four syllables of this song, ending up with three notes of the prelude of No. 1, and once, without a break, it began with these four syllables, and ended up with No. 1 in full. But I failed to hear it sing more than four syllables of No. 2 at any time. On June 7th I found a bird singing regularly, but not very fully. This one very seldom made use of song No. 2. Once it started on it and ran into the regular song (No. 1) without a break. I never heard it sing more than four syllables of song No. 2. On June 19th I found a fifth bird in full song, and watched it carefully for 45 minutes, during which time it never moved far away, and never ceased singing. My notes on this occasion corroborated those I took in the first two cases. This bird differed slightly in one respect, as two or three times it sung the prelude to song No. 1 without the trill. In this individual the number of syllables in song No. 2 varied from 7—11—the average number being 8—and it mixed the two songs three times during the period that I had it under observation. It would seem that when the Wood-Warbler is singing well, the number of syllables in its second song varies from 7-12. As regards the musical interval of this song, F sharp to E flat would represent a minor third; and I think that this interval in the song is approximately correct, though I cannot boast a musician’s trained ear. When we consider that the double call of the Cuckoo _ constitutes an interval of a minor third, and that the _ ten-syllabled song of the Wood-Warbler (which is gradually falling in tone all through) represents an interval little, i if at all, larger, it is easy to see that our diatonic scale 1s not well suited for gauging the musical intervals of the songs of birds. (228 4 ON THE MORE IMPORTANT ADDITIONS TO OUR KNOWLEDGE OF BRITISH BIRDS SINCE 1899. BY H. F. WITHERBY anp N. F. TICEHURST. Part XV. (Continued from page 150.) LAPWING Vanellus vulgaris Bechst. 8S. page 555. The wings of the two sexes have been shown by Mr. F. W. Frohawk to be different. Those of the male are rounder and broader than those of the female, a characteristic which may be distinguished in flight. The formule of the primaries are as follows :— & ste" 7th: 2 Ist = 4th. 2nd and 4th, equal. 2nd and 3rd, equal and longest. 3rd, longest. 7th, 8th, and 9th, 14 in. longer than in 9. “In the male the primaries are long and broad, giving a decidedly curved outline, while the secondaries, being con- siderably shorter, add greatly to the rounded appearance of the wing.” Mr. Frohawk also points out that the bill of the female is longer and her crest shorter than in the male (F. W. Frohawk, Ibis, 1904, pp. 446-451, figs. 5-10). AVOCET Recurvirostra avocetta L. 8S. page 561. CoRNWALL.—One was shot in the Cober Valley, Helston, on April 21st, 1900—* the only specimen recorded from Corn- wall during the past twenty-seven years” (J. Clark, Zool., 1907, p. 286). NorFoLK AND KEntT.—They still visit these counties with fair regularity every year in May or June. Essex.—An immature female was shot at Leigh-on-the- Sea in November, 1908, and another was shot near the same place in August, 1901 (F. Cooper, Field, 1908, p. 888.) NortH WaA.LES.—One seen and identified by Capt. Bailey — on a marsh near Llanelltyd in 1901 (H. E. Forrest, Vert. F. N. Wales, p. 338). BLACK-WINGED STILT AHimantopus candidus Bonn. S. page 563. CHESHIRE.—An adult male was obtained on the Mersey at Latchford, but the date is unknown (Coward and Oldham, B. of Cheshire, p. 207). ADDITIONS SINCE 1899. 299 YORKSHIRE.—A third specimen for the county was shot at Kilnsea in Holderness “‘many years ago” (T. Nelson, iB. of Yorks..sp: 591). NorFotk.—Two were on the Broads on May 28th, 1905, and one on April 29th, 1906 (J. H. Gurney, Zool., 1906, p. 127, and. 1907, jp. 127). GREY PHALAROPE Phalaropus fulicarius (L.). S. page 565. ScoTLanD.—One or two have occurred almost every year since 1899, and the following have been recorded from the Outer Hebrides :—Two on November 3rd, 1901, at Island Glass (Ann. S.N.H., 1902, p. 193); and one at the Flannans on May 18th, and two on May 19th, 1906 (é.c., 1907, p. 201). Sule-Skerry :—one on February 15th, 1903 (é.c., 1904, p. 214). IRELAND.—A male was shot on September 28th, 1899, near Logan, co. Armagh (A. W. Marsden, Zool., 1899, p. 477). RED-NECKED PHALAROPE Phalaropus hyperboreus (L.). S. page 567. NortH WaALEs.—One was obtained in Merioneth, and one was watched in Anglesea in 1902 (H. E. Forrest, Vert. F. N. Wales, p. 340). IRELAND.—Breeding colony in the west discovered (cf. Irish Nat., 1903, pp. 41 and 96; Zool., 1903, p. 116; B. B., Wol..f., p..174). WOODCOCK Scolopax rusticula L. 8. page 569. ScotLaANpD.—Unusual numbers nesting in 1902, 1904, and 1908 (cf. J. A. Harvie-Brown, Ann. S.N.H., 1904, pp. 191 and 245, and 1908, p. 142). Weight—Records of weights up to 17 oz., a few of 16 oz., and many of 15 to 154 oz., in Shetland (R. C. Haldane, Ann. S.VH., 1906, p. 54). GREAT SNIPE Gallinago major (J. F. Gm.) 8. page 571. ScoTLanp.—1901.—Sept. 25th, two Orkney; Sept. 26th, one Shetland; autumn, one Castle Douglas (Ann. S.N.H., 1902, p. 54). [One Shetland Sept. 20th, 1904 (é.c., 1905, p. 54)]. 1905—One Aberdeen Sept. 5th (Zool., 1905, p. 466). One Orkney Sept. 12th (Ann. S.N.H., 1906, p. 54). 1906— One Fair Isle Sept. 5th (¢.c., 1907, p. 79). IRELAND.—Mr. R. J. Ussher gives thirteen records (List of Irish B., p. 43.). W eight.—Average of forty-three adult birds shot in August and September, 7 oz. 5 drs. Three were over 9 oz., and fifteen over 8 oz., the largest was 1 dram short of 11 oz. ea-8.T., Preld, 13, v., 99). ( 230 ) PALLAS’S GRASSHOPPER - WARBLER (LOCUS- TELLA CERTHIOLA) IN IRELAND. A NEW BRITISH BIRD. BY R. M. BARRINGTON, M.B.o.v. AN immature example of Pallas’s Grasshopper-Warbler was picked up dead at the Rockabill Lighthouse (five Pallas’s Grasshopper-Warbler, picked up dead at the Rockabill Lighthouse (Co. Dublin), on September 28, 1908. miles off the coast of co. Dublin) on September 28th, 1908, by the assistant light-keeper—Martin Kennedy. ‘This is the first recorded occurrence of this bird in the British Isles, and so far as I can ascertain, it has only once before been obtained in Europe, viz., by the late Heinrich Gatke, in Heligoland, where a young bird was caught PALLAS’S WARBLER IN IRELAND. 231 at the lighthouse lantern on the night of August 12th— 13th, 1856. In 1858, Blasius, when on a visit to this island, examined the specimen, and called it “‘ the jewel ”’ of Gatke’s collection (cf. H. Gatke, Heligoland, Eng. Ed., pp. 310 and 312). The breeding range of this bird appears to extend over Siberia, east of the Yenesei, to the Pacific, and southwards to the Altai Mountains and the Amur River, while it occurs in China on passage, and winters in Burma, India, and the Malay Archipelago. In habits it seems to be much the same as our Grasshopper- Warbler, and in appearance it is somewhat similar. A friend said it resembled a cross between a Hedge-Sparrow and a Grasshopper-Warbler, but it is markedly larger than the latter bird, and is of a reddish-brown on the upper side, the feathers being striped with black, while the tail- feathers are tipped with greyish-white. The bird was in plump condition, and was no: “wind-driven,” half-starved, specimen. Judging by lighthouse specimens it is probable that many inconspicuous birds visit our shores more frequently than other records would lead us to suppose. In this case, however, the rarity of the species in Europe scarcely suggests this possibility. The specimen was exhibited on my behalf by Mr. W. R. Ogilvie-Grant at the meeting of the British Ornith- ologists’ Club held on October 21st last, and it was shown by me at the scientific meeting of the Royal Dublin Society on November 24th. Mr. Pycraft dissected _ the body and it proved to be a male. BARRED WARBLER IN LINCOLNSHIRE. I rinp I have omitted to place on record the occurrence of the Barred Warbler (Sylvia nisoria) in Lincolnshire in 1905. On September 4th in that year I shot an immature specimen of this species in a hedge near the coast at North Cotes. It is a shy and wild bird, and takes wing more readily than any of the other warblers. G. H. Caton Haren. [This example is referred to in Vol. I., p. 56, of this Magazine, but as only the bare record was given by Mr. Gurney in the ** Zoologist,’’ from which the occurrence was taken, we are very glad to publish the details above.—EDs. | GOLDCRESTS FROM EAST COAST LIGHTHOUSES. Dr. Harrert regards the British-bred Goldcrest as sub- specifically distinct from the typical Regulus regulus of Continental Europe, and has described it under the name of Regulus requlus anglorum (cf. Vol. I., p. 218). This insular race he regards as resident (/.c., p. 209). The North European form, he remarks, frequently crosses over to Great Britain in flocks in autumn and winter (l.c., p. 218). If the above views be correct, Goldcrests occurring at lighthouses on our east coast during the migration seasons ought to belong to the Continental form and be recognisable as such. To test this, I recently examined a number of specimens obtained at the Isle of May and Barnsness light- houses, at the mouth of the Firth of Forth, and could see no difference between them and examples from inland woods —in the north as well as in the south of Scotland—where the species breeds commonly, and is present all the year round. But to make sure I have submitted my specimens to Dr. Hartert for comparison with the series in the Tring Museum, and he writes me that he is unable to distinguish any of them from the British race; “they are,’ he repeats, “‘ exactly like British birds, their colour being darker than in Continental specimens.” The specimens submitted included ten from the lighthouses as under :— 6, Isle of May, September 17th, 1885; taken by myself at the lantern, with other migrants, about 1l pm. A good many were seen in the course of the night. NOTES. 233, 2, Isle of May, September 4th, 1908. (For this and sub- sequent specimens from the May, I am indebted to Mr. Ross, superintendent of the lighthouse.) ¢ , Barnsness, night of October 1st, 1908 ; along with Larks, Starlings, etc. (For the Barnsness specimens I have to thank the lighthouse keepers and Mr. Pow.) 3 oo and one @, Isle of May, night of October 7th. ?, Barnsness, night of October 7th; several with other migrants. ¢ and 2, Isleof May, night of October 31st, during a great rush of migrants, including besides Goldcrests, Redwings (very many), Fieldfares, Ring-Ousels, Owls, Woodcock, ete. Thus it would seem either that many of our British Goldcrests - do migrate, or that there are in some part of North Europe birds which in autumn plumage are indistinguishable from them. I have long regarded our British Goldcrests as in the main resident, and the flocks observed at our light stations in October as coming from Scandinavia or the adjacent parts of the continent ; and I still incline to this view. The subject, however, needs further investigation. An examination of specimens from stations in Orkney and Shetland, for instance, would be most interesting. WILLIAM EVANS. [In September, 1905, I obtained two examples of un- doubtedly migrating Goldcrests in Norfolk which clearly belong to the typical and not to the English race. There is much to be learnt regarding migration in conjunction with the study of local races.—H. F. W.] ~YELLOW-BROWED WARBLER IN LINCOLNSHIRE. On October 19th last I found a Yellow-browed Warbler _(Phylloscopus superciliosus) dead in a hedge near the sea-bank at North Cotes. There was a great migration of birds in progress at the time. There were Song-Thrushes in thousands, hundreds of Robins and Goldcrests, and in less numbers Red- - wings, Blackbirds, Ring-Ousels, Grey Crows, Chaffinches, Greenfinches, and Twites, with a few Bramblings, Wheatears, Rock-Pipits, Woodecocks, Merlins, and Black Redstarts. This is the second appearance of the Yellow-browed Warbler in the county. G. H. Caron Haicu. THE EAST EUROPEAN CHIFFCHAFF IN THE ISLE OF WIGHT. | On April 15th, 1907, I received from the lighthouse at _Niton, Isle of Wight, a single example of Phylloscopus 234 BRITISH BIRDS. collybita abietina (Nilss.)—the Eastern form of our Chiffchaff. According to Dr. Hartert, this form breeds in Scandinavia, East Prussia, Austria, and Hungary, southwards to Bosnia and Montenegro, and in Russia, south of 65° N. It winters in Greece, Asia Minor, and North-East and East Africa, but its migration route and western boundary are still uncertain. It may be distinguished from our native bird by its slightly larger size, paler coloration, and longer wing measurements, which are about 2.5 inches in the male, and 2.25 inches in the female. This is the first recorded example from this country, but it seems likely that solitary individuals may occur yearly in this country on migration, as it would be impossible to distinguish them from the common Chiffchaff unless they were obtained. J. L. BoNnHOTE. THE NORTHERN RACE OF THE WILLOW-WREN IN GREAT BRITAIN. Dvurine the last two years, whilst examining birds and wings sent from the lighthouses and lightships on the south coast, I was struck by the fact that there frequently occurred a Willow-Wren which, though like our breeding Willow-Wrens superficially, was easily distinguishable from them. On going into the matter more carefully I found that these birds in spring differed from ours in the following characters :— 1. The colour of the dorsal parts has a greyish instead of a yellowish green tint, thus giving the bird a paler appearance. 2. Underparts almost entirely without the yellow which is seen on our birds in spring plumage, and much paler. | 3. The superciliary stripe usually quite white, and not yellowish. Further, I found that these birds do not begin to arrive in the south of England before the end of April, and that the majority pass through during the first two weeks of May— at a time when our own birds are busy breeding. The race to which these birds evidently belong has been recognised by Dr. Hartert, and I think quite rightly, under the name of Phylloscopus trochilus eversmanni (Bonaparte) [in no way to be confounded with Eversman’s Warbler], and the distribution which he gives (Die Vég. pal. Faun., p. 509) is :—the breeding range begins in north Russia, east of Timan Hills, and extends south to the eastern parts of Perm and Orenburg ; eastward it is the breeding form of the Ob and Yenesei, and extends to the mouths of the Lena and Kolyma; passing through Roumania and Egypt on migration, it winters in South Africa. I have examined about a dozen examples NOTES. 235 obtained in Hampshire and Sussex, and half-a-dozen from the Shetlands, all obtained on the spring migration. Thus it seems certain that this form of the Willow-Wren occurs regularly on migration through England and Scotland, and since I have examples from Finmarken and have seen others from north Norway obtained in the breeding season, it seems that the breeding range must be extended further westward than Dr. Hartert states. That this subspecies occurs also on the return migration in autumn is probable, but I know no certain way of differentiating them from our own birds in autumn plumage. It is not surprising that it should have hitherto been over- looked in Great Britain, since it arrives when the leaf is out and when our birds are nesting, and consequently at a time when few examples are obtainable for examination. This is the species described by H. Seebohm as Phylloscopus gaetker (Ibis, 1877, p. 92). Six specimens were shown by me at the October meeting of the British Ornithologists’ Club, all obtained from Hampshire. C. B. TicEHURST. NESTING HABITS OF THE MARSH-WARBLER. I Am interested in Mr. Bunyard’s notes on the Marsh-Warbler in the November issue. I have had considerable experience with this species during the last three years in Gloucestershire. —and as regards the nest, its situation and construction, my observations confirm those of Mr. Bunyard. The nests I have seen have been in willow-herb, wormwood, figwort, meadow-sweet, and nettles, and the clutch generally consists of five eggs, occasionally only four. The 18th to 24th June I have found to be the best average date for fresh eggs. I have, however, failed to notice the “‘ extreme shyness ”’ commented on by Mr. Bunyard. The sitting birds almost invariably allowed of close observation, and when building or feeding young were quite unusually careless. The song is freely uttered throughout the day, although certainly more so in the late afternoon, and is extraordinarily rich and melodious. The singing bird generally perches near the top of a low bush, frequently on the branch of a willow-tree, and seldom amongst the undergrowth, like the Reed-Warbler. The eggs are certainly larger than Continental specimens, and present two distinct types, viz.: (1) the usual and well- known one; (2) that in which the markings are uniformly brown. Neither type can possibly be mistaken for eggs of any other British species. NorRMAN GILROY. 236 BRITISH BIRDS. AQUATIC WARBLER IN SUSSEX. ‘ On October 7th last I had the good fortune to shoot an Aquatic Warbler (Acrocephalus aquaticus) on the Eastbourne Crumbles. I have for the last fifteen years examined every Sedge-Warbler I have seen in the hopes of finding an Aquatic. Aquatic Warbler, Eastbourne, Sussex, October 7, 1908. (Drawn by E. C. Arnold.) This bird put its head out of a single tamarisk bush on the shingle, and I at once felt sure it was a rarity, the eyestripe being most pronounced. The sketch which I made of it shows the wedge-shaped character of the tail, which seems to me a NOTES. 237 striking feature of the species. I judge the bird to be immature, and the legs were of a very light flesh-colour. The wind at the time was south-east, and the weather fine and hot. K. C. ARNOLD. BLUE-HEADED WAGTAIL IN NORFOLK. On September 23rd, 1908, one of the wildfowlers of Cley, Norfolk, shot, at that place, an adult male Blue-headed Wagtail (Motacilla flava flava). The bird was examined by Mr. Witherby, and exhibited by him on my behalf at the meeting of the British Ornithologists’ Club, held on November 18th last. F. I. Ricwarps. AUTUMN AND WINTER SINGING OF BUNTINGS. Wits regard to Mr. Oldham’s note on the singing of a Cirl Bunting in October, it was recorded some years ago in the ** Zoologist ’ by Professor Salter, that this species sings from time to time throughout the winter in Wales. My brother and I heard one at Reigate on October 31st this year, singing in the morning and afternoon at the same place. The follow- ing day I heard another. Between October 10th and 15th on very warm days I heard several Yellowhammers, one of them in full song, near Tunbridge Wells, and my brother heard a Corn-Bunting singing in Romney Marsh on October 13th. We had not previously heard either of these two species singing after the moult, and I think in the case of the Yellowhammer at any rate, it is abnormal. We have not heard any Reed-Buntings singing, however. As far as we have observed, all the Corn-Buntings leave this part of the country for the winter, so that there is no chance of hearing them; Yellowhammers are also a good deal less common, and begin to sing as soon as they return in February. Between November 12th and 20th, while staying in Hayling Island, Hants. I have heard Cirl and Corn-Buntings singing a good deal, even on cool and sunless days. aie cat eee WirH reference to a note on a Cirl Bunting singing in October (antea, p. 204), I find by my notes kept over some years at Clevedon, in Somerset, that I have records of this bird’s song in every month in the year, my earliest date being January 8th, and my latest December 18th. ie Mian In the Mendip district of Somerset the Cirl Bunting sings intermittently throughout the winter. One has been singing here at Winscombe on more days than it has been silent 238 BRITISH BIRDS. during the last four weeks (1 write on November 17th). I see that I noted it as singing on November 16th last year, and in January, 1907, I heard two birds in full song near Glastonbury. In my experience the Cir! Bunting does not sing in winter unless the weather is both still and mild—as an instance, the bird here was silent during the week of colder weather earlier in the month. The Corn-Bunting, on the contrary, may be tempted into song on a very cold frosty morning, provided there is bright sunlight. C. I. Evans. LITTLE BUNTINGS IN IRELAND AND NORFOLK. On October 2nd, 1908, a female specimen of the Little Bunting (Emberiza pusilla) was picked up at the Rockabill Lighthouse (off the coast of co. Dublin) and forwarded to me. The bird was exhibited on my behalf by Mr. W. R. Ogilvie-Grant at the meeting of the British Ornithologists’ Club held on October 21st last. The Little Bunting has not previously been recorded from Ireland. R. M. BaRRIneTOoN. Mr. H. N. Pasuuey, the well-known taxidermist of Cley-next-_ the Sea, Norfolk, has sent me an adult female example of the Little Bunting (Hmberiza pusilla), which was brought to him on October 19th by a local gunner, who had shot the bird ~ that day. Five examples of this bird have been previously recorded as occurring in England, thirteen in Scotland, and one in Ireland (cf. antea, Vol. L., pp. 249, 291, 383, 385, and above). This appears to be the first record for Norfolk. Nine years ago, when Howard Saunders published the second edition of his “ Manual,” only one example of this species was known to have occurred in this country. Mr. Eagle Clarke, I may remind my readers, found on Fair Isle, the Little Bunting in some numbers amongst flocks of Twites, and it thus may very easily escape notice. I had the pleasure of exhibiting the bird at the meeting of the British Ornithologists’ Club, held on November 18th last. H. F. WIrHERBY. THE GREAT SPOTTED WOODPECKER AS A BREEDING BIRD IN SCOTLAND. WE have already referred to the interesting spread of the Great Spotted Woodpecker in Scotland (cf. Vol. I., p. 280). Mr. J. A. Harvie-Brown* now provides a valuable paper on * «Ann. §.N.H.,’’ 1908, pp. 209—216 (with map). NOTIES. 239 the subject, while Mr. W. Evans* discusses the very interesting question as to whether the birds, which are now thoroughly established in the south-eastern half of Scotland, owe their origin to England or Scandinavia. At one time nesting in the faunal area of Moray, the Great Spotted Woodpecker became extinct asa breeding species in Scotland between 1841 and 1851. Since that date there have been a number of autumn- winter irruptions, chiefly on the east coast, of presumably Scandinavian birds. In 1887 the first brood since the ex- tinction of the bird as a nester was found, and this at Duns Castle woods, in Berwickshire. From that date it gradually extended, and its breeding range now embraces practically the whole of the south-eastern half of Scotland, although it seems strangely absent from Fife and Kinross. All this is well traced by Mr. Harvie-Brown, who illustrates his paper with an excellent map. It may be noted that a breeding record for Aberdeen (cf. antea, Vol. I., p. 281) is omitted. Dr. Hartert has lately} shown us that the English Great Spotted Woodpecker (D. major anglicus) differs from the Scandinavian bird chiefly by its smaller and more slender bill and shorter wing, and Mr. Evans finds that three of these Scottish breeding birds belong to the English race. This fact points to the conclusion that Scotland is being repopulated from England, and not by the Scandinavian visitants, and it is hoped that more specimens may be examined to prove the contention conclusively. | The study of geographical races has only just begun in this country, but many of us have long been confident that a thorough appreciation of geographical forms would teach us very much (and notably in connection with migration problems) which is unknown, and even unsuspected, concerning the avifauna of the British Isles. Mr. Evans’ observations are, therefore, very welcome. H. F. WitruHersy. COURTING PERFORMANCE OF THE CUCKOO. In his interesting notes on the Common Cuckoo in India, in your issue of November, Major Magrath calls attention to “a semi-upright attitude” assumed when uttering the call- note. ‘The following note in my diary may be of interest :— “May 12th, 1905.—Two Cuckoos alighted in one of the trees beside the lawn where I was sitting, a third alighting a little way off. Two of the birds I judged males from their behaviour. The one nearest me became very excited, uttering * t.c., 216—218. {+ BririsH Birps, Vol. I., p. 221. 240 BRITISH BIRDS. the ordinary as well as the three-syllable call-note all the time. His movements reminded me of the domestic male Pigeon paying court to his female. He kept raising his body to an upright position, spreading out his feathers, especially those of the tail, and spinning round on his perch, exactly as does the Pigeon. During this exhibition the female remained silent. Thereafter all three birds flew away.” T. THoRNTON MACKEITH. LITTLE OWL IN WARWICKSHIRE. In connection with the spread of the Little Owl (Athene noctua) which formed the subject of an article in a recent number of this Magazine (wde Bb. B., Vol. I., p. 335), it is interesting to note that these birds have now reached Warwickshire. Messrs. Spicer & Son, taxidermists, Bir- mingham, now have in their possession a specimen which was killed at Sutton Coldfield quite recently, though I am un- fortunately unable to give the exact date. A. G. LEIGH. A REMARKABLE VARIETY OF THE RED-LEGGED PARTRIDGE IN ESSEX. THROUGH the generosity of Mr. Ruggles Brise, the British Museum of Natural History has just acquired a very remark- able variety of the Red-legged Partridge (Caccabis rufa) killed at Braintree on October 20th. This bird, a male, has the crown, sides of the head and throat, dull black. The upper part normal. The neck, breast and flanks, however, are of a uniform rich dark brown, but show faint traces of the characteristic barring of the flanks when held in certain lights. On the breast is a white patch, recalling the horseshoe of the English Partridge. No similar variety has, we believe, ever been recorded, though white specimens have several times been met with. A bird “ with a white breast-band,’ according to Yarrell’s ‘“ British Birds,” was obtained in the Haute Garonne in November, 1872, and similar varieties, it is interesting to note, ‘“‘ were captured at the same season in the years 1873 and 1874.” W. P. Pycorary GREY PHALAROPE IN CO. WEXFORD. On November 11th I was duck shooting with a friend on the south side of Wexford Harbour and saw a bird which I identified as a Grey Phalarope. We were by the side of a “pill? (an inlet from the sea containing brackish water, as it receives the drainage from the marshes) when a small NOTES. 241 bird flew past and alighted upon the water about thirty yards away. It then slightly lowered one wing, inclined its head to that side, bobbed, or ducked, two or three times, and turned partly around. I thought it was wounded, and so did our retriever, who dashed in to get it, and disturbed it before it completed the turning movement. The bird would fly about thirty yards and alight upon the water, swimming easily and lightly, and made six or seven flights, always within gunshot, during nearly ten minutes. It twice more started to turn and bob, causing the dog to rush at it, and once allowed the dog to get within a yard before rising. The bird was in a foot to fifteen inches of water. I was much struck with the compact, neat, and graceful appearance of the bird, while its tameness was in marked contrast to the wildness of the various other kinds of Plovers we saw. It was blue-grey above, and very pure white upon head and breast. Un- fortunately I had not got my Goerz glasses with me, but I noted its two most conspicuous markings—a black patch on the nape of the neck extending partly forward with spots or a faint line, and, when flying, two rows, or one broad row, of light feathers across the secondaries (I could not notice whether the primaries were marked so) giving the appearance almost as if this portion of the wing was cut out. R. C. BANnKs. [In his “ List of Irish Birds”? Mr. R. J. Ussher refers to this species as an “irregular visitor in autumn and early winter, chiefly in October and in bad weather.’’——-H.F.W. | BUFF-BREASTED SANDPIPER IN LINCOLNSHIRE. THouGH somewhat late to do so, it may be as well to place on record the occurrence of the Buff-breasted Sandpiper (Tringites rufescens) in Lincolnshire. I shot an example of this American species on the foreshore at North Cotes on September 20th, 1906. The bird singularly resembled a Reeve both in appearance and flight, and but for its small size I should have paid little attention to it. It was by no means shy, and allowed me to approach it within thirty yards on the open saltings. This is, I believe, the first appearance of this species in the county. G. H. Caton Haten. SABINE’S GULL IN LINCOLNSHIRE. On September 28th last I shot an example of Sabine’s Gull (Xema sabinit) off Gramthorpe Haven. It was a young bird, in the plumage in which this species usually occurs in this country. It was sitting alone on a sandbank, though 242 BRITISH BIRDS. there were large flocks of other Gulls in the immediate neighbourhood. Its note was singularly like that of the Arctic Tern. During the latter part of September and the beginning of October considerable numbers of Skuas, Gannets, Divers, and Shearwaters passed along the Lincolnshire coast. G. H. Caton Haiacu. LATE NESTS OF THE GREAT CRESTED AND LITTLE GREBES. Wirth reference to Mr. A. G. Leigh’s note on the late nesting of Grebes (antea, p. 171), on searching my note-book I find the following entries : ‘‘ Sept. 7th, 07, Roddlesworth Reservoir (Brinscall, Lancs.), a nest of the Little Grebe (Podicipes fluvi- atilis) containing four eggs; the bird left her eggs uncovered, but I was unable to ascertain how much they were incubated because of several feet of deep water intervening.” ‘“‘ Sept. 8th, 07, in a pond close by my house I discovered another nest of the Little Grebe with two eggs; these eggs were not incubated and no more were laid; they hatched safely.” Even allowing that these were second, or possibly third nests, they were, I think, remarkably late for a moorland district. W. Mackay Woop. [In reference to Mr. Leigh’s expression of doubt as_ to whether the Great Crested Grebe is double-brooded, the Rev. F. C. R. Jourdain writes that he has tolerably conclusive evidence of one case where two broods were reared by one pair of Great Crested Grebes. In 1907 a pair had large young on June 13that Osmaston. On October 6th Mr. J. Henderson reported a pair on the same pond accompanied by four young in down, which looked not much larger than Dabchicks. Mr, Jourdain adds that the eggs of this bird have been taken from April to September, which is strong, though not con- clusive, evidence—since late nests may be the result of the destruction of previous eggs or broods—of their being double-brooded. Mr. Jourdain gives the following references :— Karly dates—April 13th, 1888, 1 egg (C. R. Gawen, Zool., 1889, p- 19); April 26th, 1881, 2 eggs (J. H. Gurney, t.c., 1881), Late dates—July 22nd, 1898, nests with 3, 4, and 5 eggs in North Ireland, and other nests with eggs on September Ist (C. B. Horsburgh, Field, October 29th, 1898). More recent records of late nesting were on September 18th, 1904, when Mr. C. Oldham saw downy young ones (Zool., 1905, p. 37), and this year, on October 10th, when Mr. O. V. Aplin saw an old bird in ‘‘ practically full summer plumage,” with two half-grown NOTES. 243 young (t.c., 1908, p. 407). Howard Saunders does not appear to ai this bind as double-brooded, and perhaps it is only so when certain favourable conditions prevail.—H.F.W.] SOOTY SHEARWATERS IN SUSSEX, KENT, AND YORKSHIRE. Durine September and October three specimens of the Sooty Shearwater (Puffinus griseus) were shot on the coast of Sussex and Kent, and, as I was enabled to examine each of them in the flesh, I venture to place the occurrences on record. The particulars are as follows: (1) a 3. East Bay, Dungeness, September 26th, 1908; (2) a 9, Cliff End, Pett, near Winchelsea, October 14th, 1908; and (3) a ¢@, off Bexhill, October 21st, 1908. W. Ruskin BUTTERFIELD. I have a note from Mr. W. J. Clarke, of Scarborough, of one of these birds obtained some miles off the coast of Yorkshire on October 6th last.—H. F. WirHeErsy. an Guards LESSER WHITETHROAT NESTING IN Forrar.—A correction. —In reference to the supposed nesting of this bird in Forfar in June, 1907 (antea, Vol. I., p. 126) Mr. T. L. Dewar has submitted one of the eggs to Mr. Eagle Clarke, who pronounces it to be that of a Common Whitethroat (cf: Ann. S.N.Z., 1908, p. 254). PROBABLE NESTING OF WHITE WAGTAIL IN SCOTLAND.— Two were seen in the middle of July at Killilan, North-west Highlands, and one had food in its bill (P. Anderson, Ann. S.N.H., 1908, p. 253). PROBABLE NESTING OF BLUE-HEADED WAGTAIL NEAR ABERDEEN.—Between May 19th—July 31st a pair of Motacilla flava flava was often observed frequenting the banks of a burn on the links near Aberdeen. On July 8th the female was carrying food, and the behaviour of the birds always seemed to show that they had a nest, although this was not found. An accurate description of the birds is given (L. N. G. Ramsay, Ann. S.N.H., 1908, p. 253). Hawsincuns IN ScoTLaAnD.—An old bird and a young one were seen at Lauder, Berwickshire, in August, 1908 (W. M’Conachie). A female was accidentally captured on April 9th, 1908, at Grove Gardens, Galloway, in which county the bird has been recorded from time to time for many years (R. Service, Ann. S.N.H., 1908, pp. 252 and 253). Q44, ' BRITISH BIRDS RosE-COLOURED STARLING IN CArrHNEss.—A specimen of Pastor roseus was shot at Dunbeath on July 11th, 1907 (Ann. S.N.H., 1908, p. 195). NicutsARS BREEDING IN Capriviry.—An extraordinary case of a pair of Nightjars breeding in captivity is recorded by Mrs. Heinroth, wife of Dr. O. Heinroth, of the Berlin Zoological Gardens. In November, 1906, a male bird was obtained, and was kept with great care through the winter. In the following spring a mate was procured, and pairing took place at the end of May. The male made a nesting place by scraping in a peccary-skin rug in the dining room. An egg was laid on June 2nd and another on the 4th. The hen bird did most of the sitting; but the male occasionally relieved her. On June 18th the first egg was chipped, and hatched on the morning of the 20th, while the second egg hatched on the afternoon of the same day. The young fed at first by taking the parents’ beaks as far as the nostrils into theirown. On June 24th the old birds again paired, and on July 3rd and 5th eggs were laid in the same spot upon the rug. Incubation in this case lasted eighteen days as against sixteen anda quarter in the first case, the longer time being accounted for by the fact that the old bird allowed the eggs to cool several times. The tameness of these Nightjars is described as extraordinary—the six birds flying about the room, taking no notice of strangers, and being quite ready to settle on the shoulder or take food from the hand (Die Gefiedeste Welt, xxxvii., 29-31, 33-4, and wield, Mite, "O8.qy, 717). RED-FOOTED Fatcon 1n NorroLtK.—The Rev. Julian G. Tuck records the occurrence of a female Falco vespertinus, which was shot near Sandringham about the middle of June last (Zool., 1908, p. 394). ScorTish HEeronries.—Mr. H. Boyd Watt gives a list of 230 Scottish breeding places of the Heron, but of these he marks forty-five as now not occupied, while many others appear to be tenanted by only a pair or two. (Ann. S.N.H., 1908, pp. 218-223). PurrPLE Heron In CalTHNEss.—A young male Ardea purpurea is reported on the Thrumster Estate on September 16th, 1907 (Ann. S.N.H., 1908, p. 199). GLossy Isises IN NORTHUMBERLAND AND CORNWALL.—A party of five Plegudis falcinellus arrived near Alnmouth on August 30th. Four (two of which are said to be in immature plumage) were secured during the following ten NOTES. 245 days (E. L. Gill, Zool., 1908, p. 394). One was ‘lately’ shot near Land’s End (H. Welch, Field, 24, x., 08, p. 721). _ Matiarp Hatcnine In Ocroser.—A Wild Duck hatched out thirteen young in the middle of October at Thames Ditton (R. Porter, Feld; 24, x., 08, p. 721). PROBABLE NESTING OF THE GADWALL IN SCOTLAND.—I'wo pairs of Anas strepera were under observation in a certain loch in the east of Scotland this year from the middle of May until the end of June, and they were doubtless nesting there (W. Evans, Ann. S.N.H., 1908, p. 254). INCREASE OF. SHOVELERS IN ‘TIREE. — Reported to be increasing yearly as a breeding species (P. Anderson, Ann. Nua, 1908, p. 252). MarkED TEAu.—A hand-reared Teal marked at Netherby, Cumberland, this year, was shot on Lough Derg on September 28th (R. Graham, Field, 24, x., 08, p. 745). GARGANEY IN SHETLAND.—A male Querquedula circia is reported from Baltasound on April 14th, 1907 (Ann. S.N.H., 1908, p. 200). PaLLAs’s SAND-GROUSE IN YORKSHIRE.—Two records of a few birds each have been reported (antea, pp. 98 and 134) of Syrrhaptes paradoxus in Yorkshire during the recent irruption of this bird. Mr. W. H. St. Quintin now records (Naturalist, 1908, p. 420) that a flock of 30 to 40 was noticed early in June near Knapton. A considerable number remained at any rate until the beginning of October. The flock appears never to have broken up into pairs, although it certainly decreased, and there is no evidence that the birds ever attempted to breed. PRATINCOLE AT THE FLANNAN IsLANDS.—An adult female Glareola pratincola was obtained on July 13th, 1908, at this out-of-the-way spot. It is the third example of the species obtained in Scotland (W. Eagle Clarke, Ann. S.N.H., 1908, p- 256). THE POSITION OF THE EAR IN THE Woopcock.—In the October issue of the “Ibis” Mr. W. P. Pycraft contributes a short paper on the position of the ear in the Woodcock, in the course of which he controverts the contention of Professor D’ Arcy Thomson, that the peculiar conditions which prevail in the matter of the position of the ear in the Scolo- pacide are due to the shifting of the beak in relation to the base of the skull. Mr. Pycraft now shows that the matter is not thus to be explained ; but, on the contrary, is due to the shortening of the base of the skull, which has had the 246 BRITISH BIRDS. effect of drawing the hinder part of the skull, and with it the aperture of the ear, downwards and forwards, and this point is demonstrated by means of a series of diagrams. MarkED Woopcock.—Mr. John Hamilton has for four seasons marked young Woodcock at Baron’s Court, co. Tyrone, with a nickel ring engraved “ B.C.,” with the year in figures. The results, as far as known, are as follows, but, unfortunately, the dates of the captures are not given :— Number accounted for. Ss = — Breeding Number In first In second In third Not season. marked. season. Place. season. Place. season. traced. 1905 15 1 Home i Home Nil 13 3D Home 1906 68 1 Home 1 Cornwall} — 60 L Harrow 1907 65 _ — -- os — 65 : Near ) ; 1908 ei 1 { Inverness __ = 7: 62 Total 211 200 (Field, 17, x., 08, p. 717, and 24, x., 08, p. 745). SABINE’S GULL IN THE INNER HEBRIDES.—A specimen of Xema sabinii is recorded from Skerryvore on November 30th, 1907 (Ann. S.N.H., 1908, p. 205). GREAT CRESTED GREBE IN SHETLAND.—An example of Podicipes cristatus was seen at Spiggie on January 11th, 1907 (Ann, SN... 1908; p. 207). =) ia) SN ‘Nan ‘We og STEWS Report on the Immigrations of Summer Residents in the Spring of 1907: also Notes on the Migratory Movements during the Autumn of 1906. By the Committee appointed by the British Ornithologists’ Club. (Forming Vol. XXIL., Bull. B.O.C. Edited by W. R. Ogilvie-Grant). 31 Maps. Witherby & Co. 6s. Tuis, the third Annual Report of the B.O.C. Migration Com- mittee, although drawn up in the same form as previous reports, is rather more ambitious in that it includes some notes on autumn movements. These are too incomplete, however, to have much value, but we welcome the promise of a more elaborate record of autumn movements in the next report. In our notice (antea, Vol. I., p. 30) of the second ‘“‘ Report,’ we questioned the accuracy of the table which shows the areas of the arrival of the various species, and curiously enough in the present ‘“‘ Report” this table (p. 11) is not free from blemish, the White Wagtail being entered as arriving solely in the western half of the south coast, whereas in the detailed summary on page 107, as well as in the map, it is shown to have been reported first in Kent, and similarly the table does not tally with the summaries and maps in the cases of the House-Martin and Common Sandpiper. It would be as well, perhaps, to omit this table in future, or it may become permanently misleading, since even when it is corrected it is obvious by a comparison of the three “‘ Reports’ that the points of non-arrival-seem due in a great measure to want of observation. ach successive ** Report,’ indeed, makes one realise more and more how little even the best observer is able accurately to record of the movements of migrants, and only an average of the results taken over a long period, as the Committee have from the first insisted, can lead to any reliable conclusions. Some interesting points recorded in this volume may here be summarized. March, 1907, was brilliantly fine, but the whole of April was wintry; the effect being that stragglers arrived at early dates, but the main body of birds was delayed, with the result that the “ waves” of immigrants were less marked, and the period of migration was extended. The Blackcap was noted by many observers to be less numerous than usual in 1907. Chiffchaffs were seen at Penzance throughout the winter. The Cuckoo was reported on March 26th (Gloucester), 29th (Hereford), 30th—31st 248 BRITISH BIRDS. (Wilts.), 31st (Dorset, Hants., Gloucester). The Land-Rail was neither heard nor seen in 1907 by observers in Hants., Sussex, Middlesex, Essex, Bucks., Herts., or Suffolk, and only once in Kent, twice in Berks. and Lincoln, and thrice in Norfolk. It seemed practically confined during the year under notice to the western counties. A specimen of the Continental Robin (Hrithacus rubecula rubecula), which is common on migration on the east coast, was taken on April 7th at St. Catherine’s Point, Isle of Wight. On page 180 the curious statement is made that the Dartford Warbler is rarely seen in winter in Hampshire! In conclusion, we can unreservedly recommend the present and the two previous “ Reports’ to every student of migra- tion, and we may add that the B.O.C. Committee and its many helpers all over the country by no means labour in vain. A Last of Irish Birds. By BR. J. Ussher, M.R.I.A., M.B.0.U. Dublin: A. Thom & Co. 4d. Tus is a very useful up-to-date “ abbreviated text book ” on Irish birds. Mr. Ussher has placed within square brackets those American land birds which have been recorded from Ireland, and, on the whole, this is perhaps wise, although in a case suchas the Yellow-billed Cuckoo, which has now occurred so many times in England, although seldom in Ireland, the rule might, perhaps, have been relaxed. Amongst other birds placed within square brackets we may mention the Noddy Tern, which has long been accorded a_ regular place upon the British list on the basis of two examples recorded by Thompson as having been obtained between the Tuskar Lighthouse and the Bay of Dublin about 1830. The birds were brought into port skinned, and we think that Mr. Ussher is perfectly right in not admitting them, more especially as the taxidermist who was responsible for the record was proved to have been unreliable in the case of two Belted Kingfishers supposed to have been shot a few years later. Of positive information additional to that given in the author’s well- known ‘ Birds of Ireland,” there is very little, but we note the following, which do not appear to have been recorded elsewhere :—Five occurrences (against three in Saunders’ Manual) of the Red-breasted Flycatcher are noted, but no dates are given; an example of the Serin Finch, the second for Ireland, was taken on January 3lst, 1907; a third specimen of the Lapland Bunting was taken alive at Kilbarrack on December 12th, 1907 ; the Jay is extending its range, and has spread into Kildare and Meath ; a pair of Pochards, with their young, were identified by Mr. R. Patterson in June, 1907, in Monaghan. H.W : RITISH DIRDS ANILUSTRATED-MAGAZINE. DEVOTEDTOTHEBIRDS ON => THE BRIT LST © JANUARY 1, Ae Vol. I. 1909. ie No. 8. -MONTHLY- ONE:SHILLING- NET S2OHIGIHOLBOPNICS { NAUMANN'S “BIRDS OF MIDDLE EUROPE.” | NAUMANN (J. F.). “N aturgeschichte der Vogel Mitteleuropas. » Neubear- beitet von Prof. R. Blasius, W. Blasius, R. Buri und herausgegeben von Carl R. Hennicke. Jubitdums-Prachtausgabe. 430 PLATES BEAUTIFULLY REPRODUCED IN COLOUR from drawings by the well-known Bird Painter J. G. Keulemans, Bruno Geisler, E. de Maes » . and others. 12 Vols. Folio, Dresden, 1896—1904. nen Bound in half cloth, £6 10s. net. Bound in half morocco, £8. 8s._ net. a ha | copy of this Work in cloth was ney ats By ae eeen at Messrs. Hodgson’s : Salerooms for s. WILLIAMS & NORGATE, 14, Henrietta Street, Covent Garden, London, W. C. DALLMEYER'S Naturalists’ Camera, 1907. MODEL, For Telephoto or: Ordinary LENSES. DALLMEYER’S Lenses are used by the most | skilled Bird Photographers. The following are specially | recommended THE STIGMATIC. SERIES Il. F/6 (Convertible.) THE SERIES D PATENT PORTRAIT LENSES F 6. ae (A. Rapid Long Focus Lens ata Moderate Price.) . Ht sec | High or Moderate Power Telephoto Lenses (Original Make). : Monee: We are Specialists in Cameras and Apparatus for Photo-Ornithlogsts : ‘o CATALOGUES AND ADVICE FREE. J. H. DALLMEYER, LIMITED, DENZIL RD., Showrooms: 25, NEWMAN ade WwW. NEASDEN, LONDON, NW. ¥ : 1. WATKINS & DONCASTER, Waturalists, ye And maiatienurars of CABINETS and APPARATUS for Entomology, Birds’ Fees ah ins and Skins, and all Branches of Natural-History. | | ee A LARGE ‘STOCK OF INSECTS, and BIRDS’ EGGS and SKINS. a Speciality: -—Obiects for Nature Study, Drawing Classes, &. > . BIRDS, MAMMALS, &c.; PRESERVED and MOUNTED by FIRST-CLASS WORKMEN Hews 3 TRUE TO NATURE. Se Une § All Books and Publications on Natural History vophlied, 36, STRAND, LONDON, W.C. (Five Doors from Charing ts) . a Catalogue (ipa pp.) Post: ® free. DNITESABIRDS TATE ED BY. oH. F. WITHERBY, .F.ZS, M:B.0.U. Palate BY: W. P. PYCRAFT, ALS, MB.O.U. CoNTENTS OF NuMBER 8, Vou. II. January 1, 1909. A Tame Snipe and its Habits, by Hugh Wormald. .. Page 249 Some Early British Ornithologists and their Works, by W. H. Mullens, m.a., Lu.M., m.B.0.U. VI.—Thomas Pennant (1726-1798). Mr iM 259 On the More Important Additions to our enemas of British Birds since 1899, by H. F. Witherby and N. F. Ticehurst. Part XVI.—(continued from page 229) .. 267 The Greenland Wheatear (Sazicola enanthe leucorr a Py C. B. Ticehurst, M.A., M.R.C.S., M.B.0.U. .. 271 Notes :—The Jubilee of the British patton oe (Eds.). The British Ornithologists’ Union and Rare Breeding Birds (Eds.). Irish Birds (H.F.W.). Rare Birds in Ireland (W. J. Williams). Albinistic Variety of the Redwing (Evelyn V. Baxter and Leonora Jeffrey Rintoul). The Northern Marsh-Titmouse in England (W. R. Ogilvie-Grant). The First British Example of the Red-throated Pipit (M. J. Nicoll and N. F. Tice- hurst). Richard’s Pipit in Norfolk (H. F. Witherby). Some Sussex Ravens (Lt.-Col. H. W. Feilden). Little Owl in North-West Oxfordshire (W. Warde Fowler). Scaup- Ducks in Nottinghamshire in the Spring and Summer of 1908 (J. Whitaker). Amputation of Lapwing’s Toes by Means of Wool (Henry B. Elton). Black-necked Grebes in North Lancashire (H. W. Robinson). Leach’s Fork-tailed Petrels in Cumberland and _ Lancashire (Ea W.. ore Bulwer’s Petrelin Sussex - F.W.). Short Notes. : y 274 Review :—Bird- Hea iiponal Wild neces He nie 284 A TAME SNIPE AND ITS HABITS. BY HUGH WORMALD. Havine been asked to write a few notes on my tame Snipe for BritisH Brirps, I cannot do better than relate his history from the beginning. He was hatched in my incubator on May 11th, 1908, incubation having lasted 250 BRITISH BIRDS. twenty days, at a temperature of 102° Fah. He remained in the incubator for twenty-four hours or so, drying off, before he had his first meal. There is no prettier young bird than a Snipe in down, the colour of which is a rich reddish-brown, speckled with black, and here and there tipped with white. Unfortunately a pen and ink drawing (Fig. 1) cannot do justice to the bird at this stage. The combination of colours renders the chick extremely difficult to find in its natural surroundings, even when one knows to within a foot or so where it is hiding, and I may mention that a spaniel is a very Fic. 1.—A day old. (Drawn by H. Wormald.) ‘useful aid in searching for both eggs and young of Plover, Redshank, and Snipe. For the first two days of his existence my young Snipe ran backwards instead of forwards. I believe this is the case in a wild state. The young do not pick up food for themselves, like most young waders, but the parents feed them from the bill. I had for some time believed this to be the case, and was glad to have my opinion verified a short time ago by Mr. Richard Kearton, who informed me that he had watched a male Snipe feeding his offspring in this way. In consequence of this habit, I had to feed my young Snipe entirely by hand for the H. WORMALD:.A SNIPE AND ITS HABITS. 251 first: fortnight, the food then consisting of small worms, of which he devoured an enormous quantity. As soon, however, as he had learnt to feed himself he took to maggots, and any small animacule that he could find while probing at the edge of a pond, or in mud which I dug up and gave to him in a pan. The first signs of feathers appeared on the shoulders on May 17th. The feathering was very rapid, the feathers of the tail and the back of the neck being the last to appear. Fig. 2 shows the bird at this stage of develop- ment. By the beginning of July he was quite grown up < Fic. 2.—As he appeared at the end of May. (Drawn by H. Wormald.) and fully feathered. During the last week in September he commenced his first moult by losing his tail-feathers, the two outer ones being the last to fall. The moult was completed about a month later. On October 18th my brother winged a Common Snipe, which I took home alive, and this bird I take to be also a bird of the year, owing to the facé that it (I do not know the sex) was in exactly the same state of moult as my hand-reared bird. Adults begin to moult during the end of July, and I have constantly seen them during the first week in August with their wing-feathers in full moult, but immature birds, 252 BRITISH BIRDS. as is commonly the case with waders, do not moult their primaries at all in their first autumn. ‘‘ John ” (as my tame Snipe is christened) is exceedingly sluggish, and I believe that all Snipe are naturally so when undisturbed. He lives in a cage in the smoking- room, and sits every evening on a board in front of the fire. On being taken out of his cage and placed Fie. 3.—Preening his Feathers. (Photographed by P. H. Bahr.) on the board his usual procedure is to give himself a shake (this he always does after being handled), and then eat two or three worms, after which he retires as near the fire as he can get, and ‘suns ” himself for some little time. He then has another worm or two, preens his feathers (Fig. 3), and rests, either standing on one leg or squatting down on the board. Occasionally he varies this procedure by taking a bath, H. WORMALD: A SNIPE AND ITS HABITS. 2538 and very rarely he will hover round the room. His attitudes while sunning himself are very extravagant. He leans right over to one side and spreads his tail out into a fan, the outside tail-feathers nearest the fire only being extended beyond the rest. This is curious, for while bleating both outer tail-feathers are extended far beyond Fic. 4.—Giving his Feathers a shake. (Photographed by P. H. Bahr.) the rest. He also raises the wing nearest the fire to get all the heat possible under the feathers. He continues in this attitude for a few minutes, then gives his feathers a shake (Fig. 4), turns round, and “suns” the other side. The bill of the Snipe is known to be extraordinarily 254 BRITISH BIRDS. flexible, and this is well shown as the bird yawns, when the last inch or so of the upper mandible is raised upwards. This movement is thought to be effected by the endotympanic muscle first described in 1748 by Hérissant* who, however, did not realise its function. Later the movement of the bill was described and figured in Bronn’s ‘Thier Reich” (Taf IV.,fig.1). Mr. Pycraftt has observed the same thing in the Dunlin, and Dr. R. W. Shufeld,t in Wilson’s Snipe and the American Woodcock. It would appear that in all the T'rochili and Scolopacide the anterior part only of the upper mandible is movable.§ Mr. W. H. Workman|) has written a paper on this subject, and has proved the endotympanic to be especially well developed in this species, and suggests that it acts by pulling the quadrate and maxillary bones forward, thus tilting the premaxillary upwards, which then gives at its most flexible portion, situated one inch from the tip of the bill. The use of this movement is obvious, in that it enables the bird when probing to grasp a worm underground, without even opening its bill, so that the tongue can draw the prey into the mouth. The flexibility of ‘‘ John’s ” bill can also be noticed when he is trying to take a worm off a: hard flat surface, for then the tip of the upper mandible bends downwards. His food, now that maggots are not procurable, consists entirely of worms, though I am _ endeavour- ing to teach him to eat raw liver, for worms will be very difficult to obtain during prolonged frost. He feeds entirely by “ feel,” being unable to see a worm right under him, but if one is placed two or three inches in front of him, he catches sight of it at once and walks up to it, then feels about with his bill until he touches it, when it is instantly swallowed. This shows the sensibility of the bill. He can also instantly distinguish between raw liver and a worm as soon as they come in contact with his * « Histoire de l’ Academie des Sciences,” 1748, pp. 345-386. T “"Tbis,’1803. p: 361. t “Ibis,” 1893, p. 563. § Gadow, “ Dict. Birds,” p. 877. [| ** Ibis,” 1907, p. 614. H. WORMALD: A SNIPE AND ITS HABITS. 255 ‘bill, but this is not so surprising when one realises that the last inch or so of the bill is a mass of nerves. Fig. 5 shows him toying with a worm held in front of him. He feeds at intervals throughout the whole day and night, and eats a large quantity of grit and small pebbles, which Fig. 5,—Toying with a Worm. (Photographed by P. H. Bahr.) can be heard grinding in his gizzard quite distinctly at a distance of several feet, especially immediately after feeding; the gizzard grinds twelve times to the minute. The digestion is wonderfully rapid, so much so that I do not think a worm stays in the bird for more than ten minutes. His hearing is very acute, and I have seen him listen like a Thrush, then drive his bill into the 256 BRITISH BIRDS. turf and bring out a worm, which is sucked down with no apparent exertion, and the bird does not throw back his head as one constantly sees depicted, but rather stretches out his neck, the bill pointing downwards. Fig. 6 shows him in the act of swallowing a worm. If the worm is too large to be swallowed whole, it is hammered and pinched until broken up, when the pieces are swallowed separately. He will eat any kind of worm except brandlings, and is very fond of the grubs of Fic. 6.—In the act of Swallowing a Worm. (Photographed by P. H. Bahr.) daddy long-legs. While feeding he keeps up a perpetuan twitter. ‘ John ”’ is not so large as a wild Snipe, nor is his bill so long as it should be, and I put both these defects down to his being hand-reared. He is exceedingly tame, and will let me do anything with him (cf. Fig. 7). He will even “‘ display ’ to me, walking round and round my hand, uttering the spring note, with his tail spread out in H. WORMALD: A SNIPE AND ITS HABITS. 257 a fan, gently poking my hand with his bill. Then he squats down flat on the ground with his neck stretched out, which makes me wonder whether “he” is not really a female. Mr. Bahr’s photographs are the best proof that could be given of his tameness to anyone who has not seen him, for they were taken almost on the window sill, the window being wide open, with the camera held three feet from the bird, which did not even flinch at the click of the shutter. Fig. 8 Fic. 7.—A Proof of his Tameness. (Photographed by P. H. Bahr.) depicts him looking out of the open window at a passing Rook. When at rest he almost invariably stands on one leg, hopping about, and even feeding in this attitude, a habit common with most waders. Constantly he will play by himself, commencing by standing bolt upright and then squatting down flat, with his tail raised and spread out into a fan (the two outer tail-feathers not extended beyond the others). Then he will suddenly take two or three jumps to either side with wings closed. After 258 BRITISH BIRDS. going through this performance perhaps _ half-a-dozen times he strolls leisurely off. As far as I can judge his eyesight is about equal during day and night. I have been asked how weather affects him, but this I am unable to answer, because he lives, Fre. 8.—Looking at a passing Rook, (Photographed by P. H. Bahr.) as before stated, in my smoking-room, out of the reach of weather. It should be stated that “John” is in perfect health and plumage. So many so-called tame birds are really ill, which is the cause of their tameness, but I think the illustrations show that my Snipe’s tameness is not caused through ill-health. ( 259) SOME EARLY BRITISH ORNITHOLOGISTS AND THEIR WORKS. SANG Wee Bee LHINS:) M.A., La.Mi, > MB.0.U. VI—THOMAS PENNANT (1726—1798). ALTHOUGH the fame of Thomas Pennant both as a naturalist and as an author, has suffered somewhat by the lapse of time, he nevertheless must ever hold a some- what prominent position amongst the British ornitholo- gists of the past. This he would, perhaps, be entitled to by reason of his being the author of the first important history of British birds, which was illustrated with coloured plates* (7.e., The British Zoology, London, 1766, one vol., folio). But this point, interesting as it is, is quite overshadowed by the fact that it was owing to Pennant’s undoubted position as the leading British zoologist of his time that Gilbert White was led to address to him, in the shape of letters, those notes and observations which afterwards formed part of the immortal ‘“‘ Natural History of Selborne.” The numerous zoological works of Pennant had, moreover, a very marked effect on the production of ornithological literature in Great Britain. The period which had elapsed from the death of the celebrated John Ray in 1705, till the publication of Pennant’s “ British Zoology ”’ in 1766 is among the leanest in the history of British ornithology, but the publication of Pennant’s works seems to have given an impetus to the production of such literature, and though many of the books that followed his “‘ British Zoology,” in quick succession, such as John Berkenhout’s ‘‘ Outlines of the Natural History of Great Britain’ (London, 1769, three vols., 8vo); William Hayes’ “ Natural History of * The first book treating of British birds, illustrated with coloured plates, would appear to be “A Natural History of English Song Birds,” by Eleazar Albin, London, 1737, 1 vol., 8vo. é 260 BRITISH BIRDS. British Birds ” (London, 1775, one vol., imp. folio) ; John Walcott’s ““Synopsis of British Birds”? (London, 1789, two vols., 4to); William Lewin’s “Birds of Great Britain ”” (London, 1789, seven vols., imp. 4to); Thomas Lord’s “Entire New System of Ornithology, or Ccumenical History of British Birds ” (London, 1791, 1 vol., folio); Bolton’s *‘ Harmonia Ruralis’ (London, 1794, two vols., folio); and Edward Donovan’s “ Natural History of British Birds ”? (London, 1794, ten vols., 8vo); were litile more than compilations, and of no particular interest save to the collector and bibliographer. Exception must be made in favour of such valuable works as John Legg’s *“‘ Discourse on the Emigration of British Birds ” (one vol., 8vo), anonymously published at Salisbury in 1780, and afterwards erroneously attributed to George Edwards ; Tunstall’s “‘ Ornithologia Britannica,’* which also appeared anonymously in 1771 (London, one vol., folio); the well-known ‘“‘General Synopsis of Birds,” by John Latham (London, 1781), which contained in the second volume of its supplement “ A List of the Birds of Great Britain,” and the still more famous ‘‘ History of British Birds,” by Thomas Bewick, the first volume of which appeared in 1797. Thomas Pennant, the son of a country gentleman, was born at Downing, in Flintshire, in the year 1726, and was educated at Queen’s College, Oxford. Our principal source of information for the particulars of Pennant’s life is his own work :— “The / Literary Life / of the late / Thomas Pennant, Esq. / By Himself. / [Latin quotation] London: / Sold by Benjamin & John White, Fleet-Street, / and Robert Faulder, New Bond-Street. / MDCCXCIII. 1 vol., 4to, pp. 144 & IV. Plates. From this quaint and somewhat self-laudatory work we learn that Pennant having received as a present from a kinsman, when twelve years old, a copy of the * A similar but much rarer work by Charles Fothergill was published at York in 1799. SOME EARLY BRITISH ORNITHOLOGISTS. 261 “Ornithology of Francis Willughby,” early developed a “‘ taste for that study, and incidentally a love for that of natural history in general, which I have since pursued with my constitutional ardor.’ Pennant began the first of his many “ Tours,” his accounts of which from their topographical interest are more read at the present day than his other writings, from Oxford in 1747. His first literary work, an extract from a letter written to his uncle, James Mytton, concerning an earthquake at Downing in 1750, appears in the 10th volume of the ‘“‘ Abridgement of the Philosophical Transactions,’ and thenceforward his active pen knew no rest until the time of his death, when he was engaged on an ambitious work entitled ** Outlines of the Globe,” of which he had projected some fifteen quarto volumes, only four of which would seem to have been published. It is here only possible to deal with a few of the zoological books of this prolific author, but it may afford some idea of the vast output of his writings if we mention that the number of plates engraved for his several works totals no less than eight hundred and two (cf. Literary Life, p. 38). In 1755 Pennant commenced a correspondence with the great Linnzus, and in 1757, as he tells us, received “ the first and greatest of my Literary honors,” being elected “at the instance of Linneus himself,” a member of the Royal Society of Upsal. In 1761 Pennant began to publish his “‘ British Zoology,” which, when completed in 1776, contained one hundred and thirty-two coloured plates, engraved by Peter Mazel, and coloured by Peter Pallou, ‘“ an excellent artist, but too fond of giving gaudy colours to his subjects.” This work which, as Pennant himself observes, would have been more useful in quarto size, he produced chiefly at his own expense, devoting the proceeds to the “ benefit of the Welch Charity-School on Clerkenwell Green” (cf. adv. to the second edition of The British Zoology, 1768). The publication of the first edition of the “ British Zoology ” had been delayed by a journey, which Pennant made to the continent in 262 BRITISH BIRDS. 1765. In the course of his travels he visited Buffon (1707-1787) at Paris, and informs us that “‘ the celebrated naturalist was satisfied with my proficiency in natural history, and publickly acknowledged his favourable sentiments of my studies in the fifteenth volume of his ‘Histoire Naturelle.’ Unfortunately long before I had any thoughts of enjoying the honour of his acquaintance I had in my ‘ British Zoology ’ made a comparison between the free-thinking philosopher and our great and religious countryman, Mr. Ray, much to the advantage of the lather 27.2.0 but such was his irritability, that in the first volume of his ‘ Histoire Naturelle des Oiseaux,’ he fell on me most unmercifully, but happily often without reason.”’ From France, Pennant passed on to Germany and Holland, and at The Hague met Pallas (1741-1811), the famous traveller, ““a momentous affair, for it gave rise to my ‘Synopsis of Quadrupeds,’ * and the second edition, under the name of the * History of Quadrupeds,’ fT a work received by the naturalists of different parts of Europe in a manner uncommonly favourable.” To return to the “ British Zoology,” the full title is as follows :— “The / British Zoology / Class I. Quadrupeds. / II. Birds. / Published under the Inspection of the / Cymmorodorion Society, / Instituted for the / Promoting Useful Charities and the knowledge of / Nature among the Descendants of the / Ancient Britons. / [lustrated with / one hundred and seven Copper Plates. / London : / Printed by J. & J. March, on the Tower Hill, for the Society : / and sold for the Benefit of the British Charity School on / Clerkenwell-Green. MDCCLXVI. 1 vol., imp. folio. Collation: pp. 14, un. -+ pp. 162 = pp. 4, Index and list of “‘ Encouragers to this Under- taking,” + CXXXII. Plates. (A fifth part containing twenty-five plates was added to the one hundred and seven enumerated in the above title, thus making one _ * Chester, 1771, 1 vol., 8vo. + London, 1781, 2 vols., 4to. SOME EARLY BRITISH ORNITHOLOGISTS. 263 hundred and thirty-two in all, viz., eleven of quadrupeds and one hundred and twenty-one of birds.) In 1768 appeared the second edition of the above. This was published in two volumes by Benjamin White (brother of Gilbert White, the naturalist), who paid Pennant £100 for the right of publication. In 1770 an octavo volume was published of ninety-six pages, “including a list of European Birds extra Britannic,’ and CII. Plates. This must rank as the third edition of the “ British Zoology ’’—it was incor- porated in the fourth edition, published in 1776, four volumes 4to and 8vo. This edition was printed at Warrington for Benjamin White, and is sometimes found with the plates coloured. A fifth edition, also in four volumes, 4to and 8vo, appeared in 1812. It may here be mentioned that the folio edition of the ‘“ British Zoology ”’ had been translated into German and Latin by “‘M. de Murre, of Nurenbergh,” and published in the same size as the original, hut the colouring of the plates is an improvement on that in the English edition. The summer of the year following the publication of the ‘‘ British Zoology,” viz., August, 1767, saw the com- mencement of the celebrated correspondence between Gilbert White and Thomas Pennant; White’s share of which (Pennant’s is lost) was afterwards published in his “ Natural History of Selborne.” This correspondence continued down to November, 1780, and consisted in all of forty-four letters, the first actually addressed to Pennant by White being numbered ten in the series, the preceding nine being added for the sake of uniformity when White published his book in 1789. The correspondence was commenced by White, who was prompted to address his observations to Pennant both on account of the latter’s leading position as a naturalist, and also because “ of your repeated mention of me in some late letters to my brother ” (i.e., Benjamin White, Pennant’s publisher). _ There does not seem to have been any great friendship | between White and Pennant—Gilbert White appears to 264 BRITISH BIRDS. have been hurt at Pennant’s making full use of the material contained in White’s letters for his second and subsequent editions of the “ British Zoology,” without due acknowledgment ;* and Pennant makes no mention of the Selborne naturalist in his “ Literary Life.” ‘* Little did he anticipate,” says Professor Bell, .... “that his correspondent would be commemorated with ever-increasing admiration and esteem, while his own more pretentious book is only regarded of value because, at the time of its publication, it filled a gap in British Natural Science, and contained some matter of import- ance, the best of which was really not his own.” It was, however, probably to Pennant that White owed his first introduction to Daines Barrington, his other correspondent ; and to whom the remaining sixty-six letters of the “‘ Natural History of Selborne”’ were addressed. Writing to Pennant in 1768, White says, ‘““T have received from your friend Mr. Barrington one of the naturalist’s journals, which I shall endeavour to fill up in the course of the year.” In 1766 Pennant made the acquaintance of another very eminent man, Sir Joseph Banks (1743-1820), the zoologist, and companion of Cook in his circumnavigation of the globe. The commencement of Pennant’s friendship with Sir Joseph Banks was signalised by a gift from the latter of a copy of Turner’s “ Avium Historia,” a book which even at that time was described as scarce. From Sir Joseph Banks, Pennant received much kindness and help, notably in the case of his “Arctic Zoology,” published in 1785 (three volumes and supplement, 4to), which, although mainly a compilation, proved to be by far the most valuable of Pennant’s zoological works, and which was translated into German, French, and Swedish. Of Pennant’s contributions to natural history there is but little to be said; they derived their great * But such acknowledgment was rare at that time, and Pennant does refer to the help he received from White, p. xiii., preface, and p- 498, appendix to the 1768 edition of the “‘ British Zoology.” (From THOMAS PENNANT. i265 1798. the Engraving by J. Romney, after the Painting by eee T. Gainsborough.) 266 BRITISH BIRDS. popularity partly from their very brief and formal descriptions, and partly from the lack of standard works available both at that time, and for many years to come. The charm of Gilbert White had yet to be discovered, and though the woodcuts of Thomas Bewick proved a oreat incentive to the study of ornithology, it was not until the genius of George Montagu produced in 1802 the ‘ Ornithological Dictionary” that the work which had been begun by Willughby and Ray, was properly continued. The very productiveness of Pennant’s work no doubt also detracted from its utility—as he himself tells us, “I am often astonished at the multiplicity of my publications, especially when I reflect on the various duties it has fallen to my lot to discharge, as a father of a family, landlord of a small but very numerous tenantry, and a not inactive magistrate.” * Towards the close of Pennant’s active life he was confined to his ancestral seat at Downing by an accident which broke the patella of his knee, but he continued to work with unabated energy at the revision of his “‘ Outlines of the Globe,” but his health was rapidly failing, and he passed away on December 16th, 1798, at the advanced age of seventy-two. * Besides the Zoological works already mentioned, Pennant wrote *“Indian Zoology,’ 1769-179G; ‘‘Genera of Birds,’ Edinburgh, 1773, and London, 1781; ‘‘ Indexes to the Ornithologie of the Comte de Buffon,” 1786, while the observations on natural history contained in the various Tours, notably in ‘‘ The Tour to Scotland,” 3 vols., 1776, and that ‘‘in Wales,” 3 vols., 1810, are of considerable interest, and this principally from the fact that they were jotted down without any attempt at scientific treatment. ON THE MORE IMPORTANT ADDITIONS TO OUR KNOWLEDGE OF BRITISH BIRDS SINCE 1899. BY Hof: WITHBERBY snp NB TICHRURST. Parr, XE (Continued from page 229.) COMMON SNIPE Gallinago celestis (Frenzel). S. page 573. Weight.—Ninety shot in Shetland averaged 5.78 oz. Have been killed up to 7? oz. (Ann. S.N.H., 1906, p. 53, and 1905, DD: D0). “ Sabine’s Snipe.”’—Some examples regarded as mutations or discontinuous variations and not melanoid varieties (W. P. Pycraft, I6vs, 1905; p. 289). BROAD-BILLED SANDPIPER Limicola platyrhyncha (Temm.). °S: page 577. Kent.—An immature female was procured near Littlestone- on-Sea, on August 3lst, 1901 (L. A. Curtis Edwards, Zool., 1901, p. 390). SussEx.—An immature female was shot at Rye on August 29th, 1904 (M. J. Nicoll, Bull. B.O.C., XV., p..12). AMERICAN PECTORAL SANDPIPER Tringa maculata Vieill. S. page 579. SUFFOLK.—One was shot at Aldeburgh on September 13th, 1900 (EK. C. Arnold, Zool., 1900, p. 521). [A “ Pectoral Sand- piper’ was reported in the “Field” to have been shot at Southwold on September 2nd, 1904 (J. H. Gurney, f.c., 1905, p- 96).] CoRNWALL.—Two have been obtained on the mainland of the county, the last at Porthgwarra on April 30th, 1906 (J. Clark, i.c., 1907, p. 286). Scitty Istes.—Ten are recorded in place of four mentioned in the ‘“ Manual.” The last was shot by Captain Dorrien- Smith in September, 1891 (J. Clark and F. R. Rodd, t.c., 1906, p. 339). TRELAND.—A young bird in full autumn plumage was shot at Belmullet, co. Mayo, early in October, 1900 (H. Saunders, Bull.B.O.C., XT1., p. 34), and another was shot near the same place in September, 1900 (R. J. Ussher, List of Irish Birds, p. 44). 268 BRITISH BIRDS. CHANNEL IsLANDS.—J/ersey.—One in Mr. Romeril’s collection was shot from a party of four about thirty years ago (A. Mackay, Zool., 1904, p. 379). AMERICAN STINT Tringa minutilla Vieill. 8S. page 587. CoRNWALL.—One “ was killed bya fisherman near Mousehole in September, 1890, and was bought in the flesh by W. E. Baily, of Paull, in whose collection the writer saw it in Feb- ruary, 1902, incorrectly labelled ‘ Tringa minuta’”’ (J. Clark, Zool., 1907, p. 286). CURLEW-SANDPIPER Tinga subarquata (Gild.). S. page 591. Nestine.—Found nesting numerously in June, 1901, by the late Dr. H. Walter in the Taimyr Peninsula (H. E. Dresser, Ibis, 1904, p. 231). KNOT Tringa canutus L. 8S. page 595. Nestinc.—Found nesting in June, 1901, by the late Dr. H. Walter in the Taimyr Peninsula. The eggs vary greatly in form, size, and coloration; the nests—depressions lined with a few dry grass-bents and white tangle—were placed in grassy places on the Tundra; the incubating male (or female) did not leave the nest until almost trodden on, when it puffed out its feathers until it appeared almost double its normal size ; the male was most careful of the young, but the female appeared as an uninterested spectator (H. E. Dresser, /bis, 1904, p. 232). A clutch of eggs was taken in Hrisey, in the north of Iceland, on June 17th, 1898, and the bird belonging to it is stated to have been watched at a few yards’ distance by a competent observer—E. Moller, a collector in Iceland, now dead (Otto Ottosson, f.c., 1905, p. 105). DiIsTRIBUTION.—7". canutus is an irregular visitor to India on migration as well as 7’. crassirostris (F. Finn, t.c., p. 351). Dr. V. Bianchi has informed us that 7’. canutus is common on the Yenesei and Lena Rivers. RUFF Machetes pugnax (L.). 8. page 599. DurHAM.—Nested in 1901, 2 and 3 near the mouth of the Tees, and not on the Yorkshire side as stated antea Vol. I., p. 68 (T. H. Nelson, /bis, 1906, p. 735 and in litt.). HeEBRIDES.—Six records for the Outer Hebrides are detailed (J. A. Harvie-Brown, Ann. S.N.H., 1903, p. 13). South Harris. —A male, autumn, 1906 (Field, 29, rx., 06, p. 580). Coll.— One about September 16th, 1905 (t.c., 1906, p. 201). ADDITIONS SINCE 1899. 269 IRELAND.—For a detailed account of the various occurrences cf. C. J. Patten, “ Irish Nat.,” 1900, p. 187. BUFF-BREASTED SANDPIPER Tringites rufescens (Vieill.). S. page 601. NorFrotk.—An immature male was shot near Wells, on September 7th, 1899 (KE. C. Arnold, Zool., 1899, p. 475). BARTRAMW’S SANDPIPER Bartramia longicauda (Bechst.). S. page 603. CoRNWALL.—One was found hanging in a poulterer’s shop at Falmouth in October, 1903, by Dr. Owen (J. Clark, Zool., 1907, p. 286). SPOTTED SANDPIPER Totanus macularius (I..). S. page 605.* Kent.—A pair were shot on May 5th, 1904, in a ditch between Lydd and Brookland, in Romney Marsh (J. L. Bonhote, Bull. BOC:, SEV :p. 84): WOOD-SANDPIPER Totanus glareola (J. F. Gm.). S. page 607. TRELAND.—One was obtained on August 26th, 1899, by Mr. J. F. Knox, on the Black Strand, Trancore, co. Waterford (EK. Williams, Jrish Nat., 1899, p. 231). One was shot on August 19th, 1901, near Sutton, co. Dublin (W. J. Williams, men, 1901.) p. 205). ORKNEY.—One was shot on Eday on September Ist, 1902 (C. S. Buxton, Zool., 1902, p. 391). GREEN SANDPIPER Totanus ochropus (L.). S. page 609. ScoTLAND.—South Uist—One was obtained in the autumn of 1901, and was the first recorded for the Outer Hebrides (J. MacRury, Ann. S.N.H., 1902, p.55). Fair Isle (Shetlands.) —One or two (the first for the Shetlands or Orkneys) were seen in early September, 1905 and 1906 (W. E. Clarke, t.c., 1906, p. 76, and 1907, p. 79). IRELAND.—A solitary bird was shot at Foxford, co. Mayo, on June 30th, 1903 (G. Knox, Jrish Nat., 1903, p. 248), and another at Malahide, co. Dublin, on April 28th, 1906. The species is chiefly known in Ireland as a casual autumn and winter visitor (R. J. Ussher, List of Irish Birds, p. 46). SOLITARY SANDPIPER. Totanus solitarius (Wilson). S. page 611. SussEx.—One was shot at Rye Harbour on August 7th, 1904 (C. B. Ticehurst, Bull. B.O.C., XV., p. 12). 270 BRITISH BIRDS. Nestinc.—The eggs were first taken in 1903, and again in 1904 in Northern Alberta by Mr. Evan Thompson. — They are described as being like those of the Green Sandpiper, but considerably smaller, and like that bird, this species lays in the old nests of other birds. One set of eggs was found on June 16th, 1903, in the old nest of an American Robin, some fifteen feet from the ground ; another on June 9th, 1904, in a Bronzed Grackle’s nest, in a similar position, and another on June 24th, 1904, in the old nest of a Cedar-Waxwing (ef. F. C.. R. Jourdain, Jéis, 1905, p. 158, and “1907, p. aby, Pl. XI, Wigs 4,4). SPOTTED .REDSHANK Totanus fuscus (L.). S. page 617. ScoTLaAND.—LHast Renfrewshire-—One was seen in October, 1898, and a pair in September, 1899 (Ann. S.N.H., 1899, p- 51, 1900; p. 51). Dumfriesshire.-—One was shot on Feb- ruary 13th, 1899, on the Solway (t.c., 1899, p. 112). One was seen in October, 1903, at Carsethorn (t.c., 1904, p. 216). NortaH WateEs.—Very rare, only occurred three or four times—the last on the Dovey Estuary in September, 1899 (H. KE. Forrest, Vert. F. N. Wales, p. 362). Nestina.—Nests found by the late 8. A. Davies and Mr. J. Stares on the River Muonio (Lapland) were always in the marshes (bis, 1905, p. 84). : RED-BREASTED SNIPE Macrorhamphus griseus (J. F..Gm.). S. page 621. YORKSHIRE.—One shot in September, 1864, on Norland Moor has been examined by Messrs. Eagle Clarke and Nelson (B. of Yorks., p. 638). HaAmpsHIRE.—Iwo, said to have been got in the county, are in Mr. Hart’s collection, one being dated September, 1872, and the other October, 1902 (J. E. Kelsall and P. W. Munn, B. of Hanis., p. 320). BLACK-TAILED GODWIT Limosa belgica (J. F. Gm.). S. page 625. ScoTLanp.—Outer Hebrides —Two have apparently been obtained (cf. J. A. Harvie-Brown, Ann. S.N.H., 1903, p. 14). Lanarkshire.—Three were identified near Lenzie on May 4th, 1907 (J. Paterson, f.c., 1907, p. 184). COMMON CURLEW Numenius arquata (L.). 8S. page 627. SurREy.—A nest was found and two eggs taken on Chob- ham Common in 1897 (H. Saunders, Bull. B.O.C., XI., p. 34). (To be continued.) ( OTres) THE GREENLAND WHEATEAR SAXICOLA GNANTHE LHUCORRHOA (GMELIN). BY Cr Be LVICHHURST, M.A... M.Re8., M.B.O.U.. IT is curious that so little attention should have been paid to this bird of late years, and that its migrations through Great Britain should be so little known. Gould, in his *‘ Birds of Great Britain,’’ seems to have noted the occurrence of this large Wheatear, but it was not until 1879 that Lord Clifton (now the Earl of Darnley) pointed out that this race did not arrive on the Kent and Sussex shores till May and, besides being larger, differed from the small race in having a deeper reddish buff throat and breast; further, he did not know of its occurrence west of Sussex (Lb7s, 1879, pp. 256-7). As far as I have been able to ascertain no one, since Lord Clifton wrote on the subject, has described its range in Great Britain. JI have examined 460 Wheatears or Wheatears’ wings, obtained in various parts of Great Britain, and in many other parts of the world, and I[ think that it can be said with certainty that the Greenland Wheatear passes through the whole of Great Britain on migration, for I have seen specimens of it from Yorkshire, Suffolk, Norfolk, Kent, Sussex, Hants, Middlesex, Corn- wall, Scilly Isles, Channel Isles, Pembrokeshire, co. Wexford, and Shetland, whilst Mr. Barrington (Migration of Birds at Irish Lnghts) records Wheatears with large wings from cos. Cork, Donegal, Antrim, Dublin, and Wicklow, which evidently belong to this race. It usually arrives in the south of England during the last week in April, and the first week in May, and continues passing through till the end of that month ; a few early ones may sometimes be seen migrating with the small race in the second and third weeks of April, and the earliest record I have is April 15th. The return journey takes place usually during the latter half of September, though a few examples are recorded during 272 “BRITISH BIRDS. the last week in August, and the first part of September ; they continue to pass during October, and the latest date of which I have a record is October 31st. Of the distribution of this Wheatear outside Great Britain more is known, for Herr Stejneger, in reviewing the whole subject (Proc. U.S. Nat. Mus., Vol. XXIIL., No. 1220) states that it migrates via France, Great Britain, Shetlands, and Faroe Islands, to Greenland and the opposite portions of North America, as well as to Iceland, where it is the breeding species, whilst the western part of North America is inhabited by the small (typical) race, which reaches these parts via the Asiatic continent. Exactly where the Greenland Wheatear passes the winter is not yet completely known. Hitherto it has been supposed to have been more or less confined to the western part of North Africa, Senegal (where probably the original type specimen was obtained), and Gambia districts, but I have seen undoubted specimens from Khartoum, Nubia, and Fashoda; so that, although the majority may winter in West Africa, some at least spread as far east as the Nile Valley. It apparently passes through the Azores on migration. The first Wheatears arrive in Greenland, according to Herr Winge (Groenland’s Fuglefauna) about the end of the first week of May; in early years it may be seen in the first few days of May, in late years not till the third week. The return migration lasts from mid-August to mid-September, and few are seen by the end of that month ; it has frequently been met with flying over the open sea south-west of Iceland. Whether this race breeds in the Faroe Islands or not must, I think, at present remain doubtful. Taking into consideration the difference in coloration and size, migration, and breeding area, I have not the slightest hesitation in agreeing with Lord Clifton and Herr Stejneger as to the distinctness of the Greenland race. The following diagrams give the results of my measurements of 450 Wheatears’ wings :— Number measured. Number measured. C. B. TICEHURST: GREENLAND WHEATEAR. 2738 Length of Wings of Males in millimétres. [a8 [69 20] 91 [oz] 939 [95 | 96 | 07 | 98] 99 [100] 101 [102 [103] 104 | 105 [106 107 | 108] Li) 2 a SD a es 182 males of Saxicola enanthe enanthe. — — 61 males of Sazicola enanthe leucorrhoa. Length of Wings of Females in millimétres. —— 137 females of Saxicola enanthe cnanthe. — — 34 females of Saxicola enanthe leucorrhoa. It will be seen that there is some slight overlapping in measurements, but I find that this does not amount to more than 2 per cent. of individuals—which agrees exactly with Herr Stejneger’s results. Herr Winge states that no Wheatears from Greenland which he has examined measure less than 100 mm. in the wing, with which state- ment I can quite agree (the two or three females of 99 mm. which [ measured probably being rather worn specimens) ; moreover, I have not been able to find any Wheatears shot outside the range of the Greenland Wheatear which do not conform in mane measurement to the small race. All these birds were measured by myself, and only those with which full data were recorded have been utilised. THE JUBILEE OF THE BRITISH ORNITHOLOGISTS’ UNION. THE meeting to celebrate the Jubilee of the foundation of the B.O.U. in 1858 was held at 3, Hanover Square, on December 9th, 1908. Dr. F. Du Cane Godman, the President, was in the chair, and the proceedings commenced by the reading of a number of congratulatory messages from other Ornithologists’ Unions. Dr. Godman then gave a_ short address, which showed how intimate had been the relation between the progress of ornithology and the progress of the B.O.U. Dr. P. L. Sclater gave a history of the Union, its journal, the “ Ibis,” of which he has for so many years been editor, and its founders, chief amongst whom was the much-lamented Alfred Newton. Mr. A. H. Evans spoke very briefly of the life and work of some of the founders. Mr. Henry Upcher, as the earliest (surviving) elected member (1864), then took the chair, and presented on the _ behalf of the members of the Union, a gold medal to each of the four (surviving) founders, viz., Dr. F. Du Cane Godman, Dr. P. L. Sclater, Mr. Percy Godman, and Mr. W. H. Hudleston. The medal bears on the obverse the well-known figure of the Ibis, on the reverse the name of the recipient. A facsimile of the original list of the twenty founders, written by Newton and corrected by Dr. Sclater in 1859, was handed round. Amongst the names famous in ornithology, besides those already mentioned, may be noted Lieut.-Col. H. M. Drummond (first President), T. C. Eyton, J. H. Gurney (Senr.), Hon. T. Lyttleton Powys (afterwards Lord Lilford), Osbert Salvin, Rev. (afterwards Canon) H. B. Tristram, and John Wolley. In the evening a largely attended commemorative dinner was held. A special volume of the “ Ibis ” commemorating the Jubilee and containing a history of the Union, with lives of the founders and principal members, together with portraits, will be published shortly. THE BRITISH ORNITHOLOGISTS’ UNION AND. RARE BREEDING BIRDS. At the annual meeting of the British Ornithologists’ Union, held in May last, H. F. Witherby proposed a new rule, the NOTES. 275 effect of which was to exclude from the Union any member who took or connived at the taking of any bird or egg of certain species which were extremely rare as breeding birds in the British Isles. The proposer explained that his rule was founded on purely scientific grounds, his opinion being that it was unscientific, and, therefore, directly contrary to the interests of the premier Ornithologists’ Union of the world, to exterminate or risk the extermination of any bird in any particular portion of its breeding area, and so alter its natural | geographical distribution. The details of the rule were much criticized, and it was generally thought to be too drastic in character, although the majority at a largely attended meeting were without doubt in favour of the “ spirit’ of the proposed rule. It was decided to refer the matter to the Committee for consideration. At a Special General Meeting of the Union held on De- cember 10th Dr. F. Du Cane Godman, the President, being in the chair, the Commitee communicated their report, and submitted a new rule for the consideration of the members. The proposal to adopt the new rule was seconded by H. F. Witherby, who withdrew his proposed rule. Amendments moved by the Hon. Walter Rothschild and Dr. J. Wiglesworth were carried, and amongst others who took part in an exhaustive discussion were the following :—Messrs. R. M. Barrington, W. Bickerton, P. F. Bunyard, W. Eagle Clarke, Dr. F. D. Drewitt, Messrs. J. Gerrard, N. Gilroy, A. F. Griffith, Dr. E. Hartert, Sir T. Digby Pigott, Mr. A. Trevor-Battye, Lt.-Col. R. G. Wardlaw-Ramsay, and the Honorary Secretary, Mr. J. L. Bonhote. The rule as amended was then put to the meeting and was carried unanimously. The new rule will require con- firmation at the next annual meeting of the Union. As finally amended it reads as follows :— “If, in the opinion of the Committee, any member shall have: acted in a manner injurious to the interests of or good name of the Union, or shall have personally assisted in, or connived at,, the capture or destruction of any bird, nest or eggs in the British Isles, by purchase or otherwise, likely, in the opinion of the- ‘Committee, to lead to the extermination or serious diminution of that species as a British bird, the Secretary shall be directed to send a registered letter to the member, stating the facts brought before the Committee, and asking for an explanation of the same, but without mentioning the source from which such information was obtained. After allowing a reasonable time (not less than a clear fortnight after the receipt of the Secretary’s letter) for reply, or for appearing in person before the Committee if he so desire, the Committee, provided that not less than four are agreed, shall have power to remove that gentleman’s name from the List of 276 | BRITISH BIRDS. Members without assigning any reason. Such member may, if he so desire, stand for re-election by ballot at the next Annual Meeting, and in the event of his re-election, no fee for re-admission shall be required.”’ The action of the British Ornithologists’ Union in condemn- ing in such unhesitating fashion the practice of collecting the birds and eggs of rare British breeding species will be received with the most intense satisfaction by all who have the science of Ornithology at heart.—Ebs. IRISH BIRDS. In noticing Mr. Ussher’s “ List of Irish Birds” in the last number of this Magazine, I much regret to have done an injustice to Irish ornithologists—quite unintentionally—by stating that little information had been added since the publication of Messrs. Ussher and Warren’s “ Birds of Treland.” I fully intended to add, “ which had not already been referred to in these pages.” Mr. Ussher has very kindly supplied me with particulars of the information additional to that in the ‘“ Birds of Ireland” contained in his ‘ List,” and I am glad to be able to draw attention to the following records which have not already been mentioned in BritisH BrrpDs :— WateEr-Prrit.—A specimen shot by the late Canon Tristram on Rockabill, co. Dublin, in June, 1861, has hitherto been unrecorded. This, the first and only Irish specimen, is now in the Dublin Museum. Honey-Buzzarp.—One was shot in King’s County, on September 28th, 1903. AMERICAN BitTERN.—Has now occurred fifteen times, as against eleven given in the “ Birds of Ireland.” SPOONBILL.—Has occurred in thirty-five instances, while only thirty-three were mentioned in the “ Birds of Ireland.” CRANE.—In the “Catacombs” cave at Edenvale, co. Clare, several bones of Crane have been discovered. There is also additional information with regard to some of the Terns and Shearwaters and other birds which will be noticed in the articles on “ Additions.” Mr. Ussher also points out that in the case of the Rose-coloured Starling he made a slip in stating that only about twenty had been recorded—the number should have been twenty-eight. H.F.W. RARE BIRDS IN IRELAND. Buack Repstart (Ruticilla titys). One was shot near Mountrath, Queen’s co., on November 4th, 1908. NOTES. 277 Honety-Buzzarp (Pernis apivorus). An immature male was shot near Ardee, co. Louth, on October 13th, 1908, and, being only winged, was forwarded by its captor to the Dublin Zoological Gardens where, however, it died within a week of its arrival. OspREY (Pandion haliactus). On November Ist, 1908, a bird in immature plumage flew on board a fishing-boat coming to Wexford, and was captured, but died soon after reaching the shore. I examined the bird and found it thin, although the plumage was in good order. BuFFON’S SKUA (Stercorarius parasiticus). A bird in first year’s plumage was shot in a wood bordering Lough Neagh, co. Antrim, on November 18th, 1908. GREAT NORTHERN DIVER IN SUMMER PLUMAGE IN OCTOBER. A very large specimen of Colymbus glacialis in full summer plumage was shot on the River Moy, co. Sligo, on October 31st, 1908. The bird showed no trace whatever of winter plumage, and was in fact in better plumage than birds I have examined in the month of May. W. J. WILLIAMS. ALBINISTIC VARIETY OF THE REDWING. Earzty in November we received from Filey, Yorkshire, an albinistic variety of the Redwing. This bird was pale cream- coloured all over, the bases of the feathers being, however, grey. Its beak was yellowish, and the legs and feet were very pale brown. We sent it to Mr. Eagle Clarke, who identified it as Turdus iliacus, and we have presented the bird to the Royal Scottish Museum. Evetyn V. BAxtTER AND LEONORA JEFFREY RINTOUL. THE NORTHERN MARSH-TITMOUSE IN ENGLAND. A NEW BRITISH BIRD. An undoubted example of the Northern Marsh-Tit (Parus borealis De Selys) was shot at Tetbury, Gloucestershire, in March, 1907, by Mr. J. H. Paddock, who presented it to the British Museum. I had the pleasure of exhibiting this bird at the meeting of the British Ornithologists’ Club held on November 18th, 1908 (cf. Bull. B.O.C., XXIII., p. 34). In January, 1908, I observed a small lot of four or five Marsh- Tits, undoubtedly of this species, at Welwyn, Herts. My attention was first attracted by their Linnet-like song, com- posed of a number of broken ascending notes, entirely different to the call of the common Marsh-Tit. I watched the birds at very close range, and had no doubt in my own mind that, they were Scandinavian Marsh-Tits, the white sides of the % 278 BRITISH BIRDS. face and the pale upper-parts being very conspicuous. Iwas, however, unable to procure a specimen; and, although I wrote to Mr. H. F. Witherby, describing my experience, I did not venture to place my observations on record until receiving this undoubted example of P. borealis from Mr. Paddock. Itis difficult to account for the appearance of this North-west European Titmouse in Great Britain, for, so far as is at present known, it is not a migratory species. It must now, however, be added to the list of our accidental visitors. 7 W. R. OGILviz-GRANT. THE FIRST BRITISH EXAMPLE OF THE RED-THROATED PIPIT. THE first recorded “ British’? example of the Red-throated Pipit (Anthus cervinus) is said to have been obtained near Brighton on March 13th, 1884.* This example went into the ‘Monk ”’ Collection, and finally passed into the Booth Museum at Brighton. A few months ago I had the opportunity of examining the specimen in question, and I have no hesitation in saying that it is not a Red-throated Pipit at all, but merely a brightly- coloured example of the Meadow-Pipit (Anthus pratensis). During the spring (March and April) large flocks of Meadow- Pipits arrive on the coast of Sussex, and all the males of these immigrants are very brightly coloured—in some the coloration of the throat and upper breast is almost as red as in some examples of Anthus cervinus—and it is undoubtedly owing to this fact that the bird in question has been wrongly identified. If we exclude the Red-throated Pipit which was formerly in the collection of the late Mr. Bond, labelled “‘ Unst, May 4th, 1854” (Saunders’ Manual, p. 135), the first British example is either the bird obtained by Mr. Prentis at Rainham, Kent, in April, 1880, or the undoubted example of A. cervinus shot near St. Leonards, Sussex, on November 13th, 1895 (cf. Zool., 1896, p. 101). The Red-throated Pipit may be readily identified at all stages of plumage—except, perhaps, that of the nestling— by the clear black marking to the centre of the feathers of the rump and upper tail-coverts. The dark streaks on the longest pair of under tail-coverts are not a reliable feature, as these markings are frequently absent in Anthus cervinus and often present in Anthus pratensis. While on the subject of Pipits, I should like to point out * Borrer, “Birds of Sussex,” p. 101; and Saunders, “* Manual,” p. 135, 2nd ed. NOTES. 279 that ail the examples of red-breasted Rock-Pipits in Case 16 in the Booth Museum are “Scandinavian” Rock-Pipits (Anthus rupestris Nilss.); none of them are Water-Pipits (Anthus spipoletta), as has been formerly suggested. M. J. NICOLL. During the past summer I paid a visit to the Rochester Museum,which contains the admirable and excellently-cared for collection of the late Mr. Walter Prentis, of Rainham, and at Mr. Nicoll’s request carefully examined the bird to which he refers in the above letter. With much regret I came to the same conclusion with regard to it, as he has done with regard to the Sussex specimen : it is undoubtedly nothing more than an unusually bright Meadow-Pipit (A. pratensis). The breast is pinkish-yellow, notred, and the rump and upper tail-coverts are entirely devoid of the large black centres to the feathers, which are such a characteristic feature of A. cervinus. N. F. TicEHurst. RICHARD’S PIPIT IN NORFOLK. Tus bird is a not infrequent autumn visitor to Norfolk, but it is worthy of record that a female was obtained at Cley on October 3lst, and another on November 18th last, as I am informed by Mr. H. N. Pashley. H. F. WITHERBY. SOME SUSSEX RAVENS. I am indebted to Mr. Walter Hewett, who was then game- keeper to the lessees of Heathfield Park, for the following interesting account of the nesting-places of the Raven on that picturesque estate during the seventies of last centary. There were two nesting sites used alternately by a pair of Ravens in the park itself ; the one in a clump of old Scotch firs on the Tower plain, the other in the Gravel Pit clump, also ancient Scotch firs. This pair of Ravens were so destructive to lambs and ewes during the lambing season—at times destroy- ing the mother, during parturition—that deadly war was waged against them. The old Ravens were so wary that it was difficult to shoot them, but when the young were nearly ready to fly the nest was riddled with bullets, and the brood destroyed annually. In 1876 the Ravens deserted Heathfield Park and built their nest a mile or so away, in a group of Scotch firs, called the Mare and Foal, a very prominent object in the landscape, situated on the ridge that runs from Pun- nett’s Town, overlooking Cade Street. In April, 1876, Hewett took up his position in Slaughter Lane, on the south side of the Mare and Foal clump, sending a companion to the nest to disturb the birds. The male Raven fell to Hewett’s gun, 280 BRITISH BIRDS. but, being only winged, recovered, and lived for many years in the Devonshire Park, Eastbourne. The next day, taking advantage of a fog, Hewett shot the female from her nest. This closes the history of the Heathfield Park Ravens, doubtless descendants of those that feasted on the bodies of Cade and his followers who perished near the same spot— ** Leaving thy trunk forcrows tofeed upon.” —Henry VI., ActIV. H. W. FEILDEN. LITTLE OWL IN NORTH-WEST OXFORDSHIRE. A parr of Little Owls established themselves at Kingham, Chipping Norton, last spring, and continued with us all the summer, attracting much attention by their loud cries, uttered repeatedly while hunting after sunset and during the early part of the night. I may mention that I have had great difficulty in finding a good description of this cry in English ornithological works ; but in Fatio’s “ Oiseaux de la Suisse ” I have at last found an excellent one. Professor Fatio is gifted with a very keen ear for the utterances of birds, and has had the experience of a long life among them. He writes (Vol. I., p. 194): “Son cri, souvent répété, et qui passe volontiers pour un mauvais présage, peut etre traduit de diverses manieres, selon les circonstances et les appréciations ; e’est souvent: kwitt ou kuwitt, parfois kuick ou kouuk, ou keuw-keuw ou encore powpou-poupou.’ The second of these descriptions agrees almost exactly with the way in which I attempted to syllable the cry myself last summer. No doubt the birds bred here, but we thought it advisable to refrain from making an elaborate search. As we are on the borders of Gloucestershire, I think their appearance here marks the farthest point to the west that the birds have as yet reached. W. WARDE FOWLER. [In western counties the Little Owl has previously been reported from Goring and Henley, in Oxfordshire (B. B., Vol. I., p. 338), Fairford, Willey, and Shrewsbury, in Shropshire (Vol. I., pp. 388 and 339), Avebury, in Wiltshire (Vol. IL., p. 100), and Sutton Coldfield, in Warwickshire (Vol. II., p. 240).—H.F.W.] 7 SCAUP-DUCKS IN NOTTINGHAMSHIRE IN THE SPRING AND SUMMER OF 1908. On March 21st, when fishing in the large lake in Thoresby Park (this piece of water is over ninety ‘acres, and is situated in the middle of a 2000 acre deer park) I saw one male and three female Scaups. I had my binoculars, and got pretty near to them in the boat. On May 2nd Mr. H. E. Forrest and I NOTES. 281 saw three, and on August 14th the Rev. B. D. Aplin and I saw two females. Of course I cannot say if they nested, but I may mention that the lake is full of pike, and very few ducks rear many young ones. On all three dates I also saw a pair of Pochards, and one solitary male Goosander. Even the female Scaup, when once known, cannot be mistaken. It is much coarser about the head and bill than the Tufted, and shows the white, or pale yellow, face very distinctly. J. WHITAKER. AMPUTATION OF LAPWING’S TOES BY MEANS OF WOOL. A FRIEND of mine shot a Lapwing (in good condition) on September 28th in Wigtownshire, N.B., which, when we picked it up, was found to have the following condition of its feet :— Right foot—Amputation of inner two digits at the metatarso- phalangeal joints. Left foot—Amputation of internal digit at metatarso-phalangeal joints, and a tight constriction, caused by sheep’s wool, round the tarsus, just distal to the - “4 ,/ ribUre emf / seller, ea A ae 4 . THE’ BRITISH! FEBRUARY 1, : Vol. Hl. 1909. ar if No. 9. > ie NAUMANN’S “BIRDS OF MIDDLE EUROPE,” | NAUMANN (J. F.). “ Naturgeschichte der Vogel Mitteleuropas. a Neubear- ia beitet von Prof. R. Blasius, W. Blasius, R. Buri und herausgegeben yon Carl R. Hennicke. Tubilaums-Prachtaysgabe. ; 430. PLATES BEAUTIFULLY REPRODUCED IN COLOUR from drawings by the} well-known Bird Painter J. G. Keulemans, Bruno Geisler, E. de en and others. 12 Vols.. Folio, Dresden, 1896—1904. Bound in half cloth, £6 10s. net. Bound in half morocco, £8 8s. net. A copy of this Werk in cloth was aes ly sole ace bys Auction at Messrs. Hodgsen's alerocoms for WILLIAMS & NORGATE, 14, Tae ‘Street, Covent Garden, London, W.C: - DALLMEYER’S Naturalists’ Camera, 1907, MODEL, far Telephoto. or Oneary LENSES. DALLMEYER’S Lenses are used by the most skilled Bird Photographers: The following ave Specially recommended : THE STIGMATIC SERIES Il. F/6 (Convertible. THE SERIES D PATENT PORTRAIT LENSES F 6. (A Rapid Long Focus Lens at a Moderate Price.) High or Moderate Power Telephoto Lenses (Original Make). We are Specialists in Cameras and Apparatus for Photo- sire A CATALOGUES AND ADVICE FREE. J. H. DALLMEYER, Limitep, beNziL ap., Showrooms: 25, NEWMAN Sm, we. NEASDEN, LONDON, NW, _ STEVENS AUCTION ROOMS. Established 1 760. SALE OF EGGS AND. BIRDS, oy Ineluding a fine Specimen of a GREAT AUK’S EGG, a On TUESDAY, FEBRUARY Sth, acne Catalogue and all Particulars of “J. C. STEVENS, 38, King Street, Covent Garden, Landon ie DRTDABIRDS PeeeeD BY HH. F. WITHERBY, F.Z5.,, M.B.O.U. peeIsSlTED BY W. P. PYCRAFT, A.LS., M.B.0.U. ContTENTS OF NuMBER 9, VoL. II. FEBRUARY 1, 1909. Field Notes on the ‘‘ Powder-Down” ot the Heron, by J. M. Dewar : .. Page 285 Some Early British Ornithologists and their Wor ks, by Mow. Mullens, MA, LEM; M.B.0o.0. — VIT. —John Ray (1627—1705) and Francis Willughby (1635—1672). (Plate VI.) . on a Pe 290 Bird-Life in a Spring Snowstorm, by the Rev. A. Ellison, M.A., B.D., M.B.O.U, 301 On the More Important Additions to our - Knowledge of British Birds since 1899, by H. F. Witherby and N. F. Ticehurst. Part XVII.—(continued from page 270) .. 305 Notes :—Wood-Pigeon Diphtheria (Eds.). Unusual Birds in Hertfordshire (Hon. L. W. Rothschild, Ph.D., M.P.). Song-Thrush’s Nest in December (H. W. Robinson). Eversmann’s Warbler (Phylloscopus borealis) at Fair Isle (H. F, W.). Little Owl in Hampshire (A. W. Marriage). Montagu’s Harrier in Ireland (R. J. Ussher). Iceland Falcon in Scotland (Fred. Smalley). Food of the Red-Breasted Merganser (H, W. Robinson), Smew in Montgomeryshire (H. E. Forrest). Red Variety (P. montana) of the Common Partridge (C. Ingram). The Average Weight of Snipe (Rev. Maurice C. H. Bird). Pomatorhine Skua in Lancashire (Fred. Smalley). Two Norfolk Levantine Shearwaters (H. F. Witherby). Short Notes .. Az see a 309 Review :—The Food of Some British Birds ¥ fe 315 FIEL D NOTES ON THE: “POWDER-DOWN” OF THE HERON. BY J. M. DEWAR. THE Heron preens its plumage comparatively seldom, and in this respect it differs from the majority of British birds, which may be seen to do so at least once every day. A summary is here given of observations which were made in the autumn of 1907, after I had been on the look-out during some half-a-dozen years for a Heron in the act of attending to its plumage. September 20th—a calm, sunny day. Two Herons perched on a log-fence, and a third near them on grass 286 BRITISH BIRDS. at the edge of a meadow. They faced the south and were preening their feathers at 10 a.m., when first I saw them. From the shelter of a wood about fifty yards away I could see the bird on the grass, but not the other two without risk of exposure. Ruffling out its plumage, the Heron separated the right wing from the body and insinuated the bill under the feathers in, as nearly as I could judge, the position of the right breast powder-patch, where it rubbed the bill slowly up and down, applying the sides, the upper and the lower surfaces. It withdrew the bill and preened the breast in the ordinary way, leisurely drawing the bill among the feathers, biting at their bases, and brushing them on both surfaces. With intervals of rest and watching for signs of danger, it preened its plumage, and had frequent recourse to the areas of the powder-downs, where the movements of the bill were always of the nature of a gentle to and fro rubbing, directed to the whole surface of the bill. Occasionally after preening it rubbed the bill by applying the adjacent surfaces of two toes, and drawing them slowly downwards over the bill. Before beginning to preen again it rubbed the bill in one of the powder-downs. The neck, breast, and ventral feathers received the most attention, and the Heron spread the wings one at a time and drew the bill downwards between each pair of remiges. Then I noticed for the first time that the bill was coloured pale blue, and had a dull appearance. On looking up cautiously at the Herons on the fence I saw that their bills were blue also, while the bill of a Heron which was watching for food in sedge behind the three had a yellow- ish colour. When the preening was finished the plumage was fluffed out very much, and the bird stood erect with its neck fully outstretched. The feathers hung loosely in frills round the neck, across the breast, and encircling each leg. The wings were allowed to fall downwards and outwards from the shoulders, while the tips remained crossed over the tail. Having completed its arrange- ments it indulged in an unmistakable yawn. It stood THE “POWDER-DOWN ” OF THE HERON. 287 thus for fully half-an-hour, in the warm sunshine, without a movement except the occasional turning of its head, as it surveyed the neighbourhood. About noon a pony which, as I thought, had been watching the Herons for some time ran across the field and drove them away. Before they went I noticed that their bills were still bluish in colour. October Ist—mild, sunny weather. Six Herons in the sedge. Two came into the meadow and for a while preened desultorily. The bill of each bird was yellowish in colour. One bird stood in the usual attitude, without shaking out its plumage, and at intervals smoothed feathers here and there without having recourse to the powder-downs. Its bill remained yellow. The second bird began by shaking out its plumage to a marked degree of fulness. Then it pressed its bill into the region of the right breast powder-down and rubbed the bill up and down gently. After preening a few feathers on the breast it devoted its attention to the right wing, where it preened the coverts, especially the lower, and drew its bill over and among the remiges of the half-opened wing. The left wing was preened less carefully. It was sunny then, and at intervals the Heron held out its wings horizontally, as Cormorants do. The wings trembled visibly at these times, and the bird soon let them fall, as if tired. When the bill was lifted from the powder-down the lower mandible alone was of a bluish colour and, in the case of the under coverts which were turned towards me, the bill was introduced below each feather at the outer border and drawn to the tip, so that the under-surface of the bill came into contact with the under-surface of each feather. This bird shook its bill vigorously sidewise at times as if to get rid of something. October 4th—a calm, sunny day. A Heron which had been watching for food in the estuary stepped out of the water and walked slowly some way over the sands. There it shook itself so as to fluff out the plumage. At that time the bill had a shining appearance, and was of a straw- yellow colour. The Heron pressed its bill into the region 288 BRITISH BIRDS. of the breast powder-downs and rubbed it gently up and down. When the bill was withdrawn the lower mandible was seen to have a dull bluish-white appearance against the dark background of muddy sand. It preened the feathers of the foreneck and breast, drawing out each long feather by a slow movement of the bill from base to apex and arranging the feathers parallel to one another. It smoothed the anterior margins of the wings, and went gradually over the whole of the lower plumage, the shoulders and the wing coverts. During this lengthy operation it had frequent recourse to the breast powder- downs and to the inguinal areas latterly. The bill gradually became yellow and glistening during the preen- ing of the feathers, and after being in the region of a powder-down a bluish-white colour appeared by contrast. At the end of the general preening the Heron pressed the bill into the region of the right breast powder-patch, and rubbed the bill slowly up and down about twenty times, the greatest number of times I had seen yet at a single application. When the bill emerged its dull, blue- white appearance was plain. Thus dusted, the Heron applied its fore-neck and under mandible to the outer surface of the right wing, beginning at the shoulder and drawing the neck and bill gently over the coverts towards the remiges four or five times. When this was done the bill was bright yellow in colour and glistening in appear- ance. After some further arranging of the feathers on the anterior margin of the right wing, the Heron drew in its plumage and walked back to the channel. October 25th—mild and sunny. Two Herons alighted in a pool on the shore and, in a little while, began to preen. Their actions were similar to those already described. Several times one of them reached over to the area of the right femoral powder-patch and rubbed its bill there. Once or twice they dipped their bills in the sea-water before preening the feathers. They spent about half-an- hour at this occupation and then went inland. Their bills were yellowish in colour when they came. During THE “POW DER-DOWN” OF THE HERON. 289 their stay the bill of the bird which had been applied to the powder-patches so much became light blue in colour, and remained so, while the other’s bill was yellowish in colour, streaked at times with blue. November 18th—a calm sunny day. A Heron perched on the same fence, facing the south and with a fairly warm sun shining on it. For about half-an-hour it preened in a leisurely manner. At first the bill was yellow, and yellow it remained. The Heron attended to the plumage on the breast, the legs, the shoulders, and especially the neck. It worked with the point of the bil) at the bases of the feathers, and then drew it among them to their tips. At no time was the flat of the bill used, nor did “rubbing ” occur, and I did not see the bill once in the areas of the powder-downs. I had in mind two sources of error in these observations : first, in determining the colour of the bill, and, secondly, in estimating the relative importance of the powder-downs to the general toilet.. The colours remained constant when the light was reflected from the bill at various angles, and at equal and different distances from two or more birds. Lately I had an opportunity of examining a Heron not long dead, and found that the bill was coated readily with the powder, and while the blue colour was not displayed prominently with the bird in the hand, it became much more distinct when looked at from any distance within reasonable limits. ‘“‘ Rubbing ” may be the ordinary way of treating the powder-down patches. On this point more observation is necessary, but con- sidering the sequence of events as I have outlined them, we may suppose that the powder is carried to other parts of the body by means of the bill. On the dead bird, after making some of the wing feathers ragged, I found it easier to mat the rami with the aid of the powder than without such help, and the powder has the further merit of rendering the plumage highly waterproof, which is no small advantage to a wading bird, whose plumes, in the absence of powder, easily become draggled with wet. ( 290 ) SOME EARLY BRITISH ORNITHOLOGISTS AND THEIR WORKS. BY, W. HE. MULLENS) (i:4:; nae, a eae VII.—JOHN RAY (1627—1705) AND FRANCIS WILLUGHBY (1685—1672). (PratTE Vi.) THE names of John Ray and Francis Willughby, the founders of scientific ornithology in this country, must ever be held in equal honour and esteem. Of very different origin—Willughby being a country gentleman of means, descended from a long line of illustrious ancestors, and Ray the poor son of a village blacksmith— a common devotion to the study of natural history made them close friends and zealous fellow workers. ‘Together they studied, together they travelled, and together they collected.”’ To separate their joint work or to credit one with a greater share in devising the scientific classi- fication of the subjects they studied, is as impossible as it is invidious. The misfortune of Willughby’s pre- mature death, and the fact that his posthumous works were edited by his friend, and that the latter became not only an eminent ornithologist, but also world-famous as a botanist, have undoubtedly tended to obscure Willughby’s claim to an equal recognition. Had he, however, been spared to accomplish his allotted share of their joint labours he would undoubtedly have achieved as great a reputation as his famous friend. In the course of their investigations these two eminent men having become “ dissatisfied with the status of natural history, agreed to attempt a systematic description of the whole organic world,” in which their different parts were apportioned according to the following method, as is detailed by Dr. Derham from information he received when he visited John Ray at Black Notley in May, 1704 (Memorials of Ray, p. 33): ‘‘ For these two gentlemen, SOME EARLY BRITISH ORNITHOLOGISTS. 291 finding the ‘ History of Nature’ very imperfect, had agreed between themselves, before their travels beyond sea, to reduce the several tribes of things to a method ; and to give accurate descriptions of the several species, from a strict view of them. And forasmuch as Mr. Willughby’s genius lay chiefly to animals, therefore he undertook the birds, beasts, fishes, and insects, as Mr. Ray did the vegetables. And how each of these two great men discharged his province, the world hath seen in their works ; which show that Mr. Ray lived to bring his part to great perfection ; and that Mr. Willughby carried his as far as the utmost application and diligence of a short life could enable him.” The period in which Ray and Willughby flourished is justly described by Linnzeus as the dawn of the golden age in natural history. Before their great work was undertaken, ornithology as a science could scarcely be said to exist. It is true that an Englishman, Edward Wootton (1492-1555), had in a folio work entitled :— Edoardi Wotto- / ni Oxoniensis de / Differentis Ani- / malium Libri / Decem. / Ad Sereniss. Angliae Regem / Edoardum VI. / ... . itemque singulae eorum partes recensentur, . . . . Lutetiae Parisiorum / apud Vascosanum. / M.D.LII. / Cum privilegio Regis. made some attempt at a systematic arrangement of birds, but he did not profess to do more than give a compilation from the classical authors, while the standard authorities of the day, Gesner and Aldrovandus, were full of obscurity and mistakes. In England itself the study of zoology had hitherto received but scant attention, hence “ observing in this busie and inquisitive age the History of Animals alone to have been in a great measure neglected by English men (for that since Turner* and Mouffett none that I know of have performed anything worthy of commendation). ... . Our main design was to illustrate the History of * William Turner (1500-1568), author of ‘* Avium Historia.” + Thomas Mouffet (1553-1604), author of ‘ Insectorum Theatrum.”’ 292 BRITISH BIRDS. Birds, which is (as we said before of Animals in general) in many particulars confused and obscure, by so accurately describing each kind, and observing their Characteristics and distinctive notes, that the Reader might be sure of our meaning, and upon comparing any Bird with our description not fail in discerning whether it be the described or no. Nor will it be difficult to find out any unknown Bird that shall be offered: for Com- paring it with the Tables first the Characteristic notes of the genus’s from the highest or first downward will easily guide him to the lowest genus ; among the species whereof, being not many, by comparing it also with the several descriptions the Bird may soon be found” (Preface to the Ornithology). John Ray, the son of Roger and Elizabeth Ray, was born in the parish of Black Notley, in Essex, in the autumn of 1627, possibly on November 29th; and was baptized on December 6th of that same year. The date of Ray’s birth and baptism have proved a stumbling block to most of his biographers. This arises from the coincidence that on the same page of the parish register at Black Notley are recorded the baptisms of two John Rays, in the successive years of 1627 and 1628, as will be seen from the reproduction of these entries here ae They run as follows :— (1627) John [son] of Roger and Elizabeth Ray Decem- ber 6. (1628) John son of Thomas and Dorothie Wray bapt. June 29:7 The latter of these two entries has apparently been mistaken as referring to John Ray the naturalist. William Derham, in his ‘Select Remains and Life of Ray” * gives the date of Ray’s birth as November 29th, 1628, and then in a footnote informs us that on “‘ searching the parish registers”? it was discovered that “he was baptized on the 29th of June, 1628; consequently the * Included in the “Memorials of John Ray.’? London, 1846, 1 vol., 8vo. THE ORNITHOLOGY Pen CTS Were Oe est OrF Middleton n the County of Warwick F{g; Fellow of the Royvaz Socrery. Ju Thee Books. Wherein All the BIR ODS BIPHER TO KNOWN; Being reduced into a Mert uo futable to their Natures, are accurately defcribed. The Defcriptions illuftrated by moft ai FEDS nearly refembling the live Bi R Ds, Engraven in LXXVIII Copper Plates. Tranflated into Englifh, and enlarged with many Additions throughout the whole Work. To which are added, Three Confiderable DISCOURSES, fT, Ofthe Artof Fowtinc: Witha Defcription of feveral Ne rs intwo large Copper Plates. “II. OF the Ordering of Stncine Birops. Of Fatrconry. BY FOHN_RAY, Fellow of the Royvar Socrery. Pfalm 104. 24. How manifold are thy works,O Lord? In wifdom haft thon made them all : The Earth is full of thy riobes. LONDON: Printed by A.C. for Jobn Martyn, Printer to the Royal Society, at the Bell in St. Paxls Church-Yard, MDCLXXVIIL a ad #4) a A = 2 ~*~ me 2, Fe. ae | = es aa od A M - af a SOME EARLY BRITISH ORNITHOLOGISTS. 293 above date, as the supposed one of his birth, is incorrect.” Acting on this ingenious hypothesis, Ray’s subsequent biographers have fixed his birth on November 29th, 1627, and his baptism on June 29th, 1628.* Ray was the son of the village blacksmith, and the house which now stands opposite the forge in Black Notley is said to have been his birthplace. Although of humble origin. he received an excellent education : first at the Grammar School in the neighbouring town of Braintree, and afterwards at St. Catherine’s Hall (where he only remained for a short time), and Trinity College, Cambridge. At Trinity he obtained a fellowship in 1649, and afterwards filled many important offices in his College. Ray remained at Cambridge for several years. From the University he commenced his earlier “ Itineraries,” journeys which he undertook for the sake of observation and the collection of plants, and of which he kept an account. The first of these he undertook alone in 1658, but in many of the subsequent ones he was accompanied by Francis Willughby, proceeding on different occasions as far as Scotland and Cornwall. At Cambridge, Ray published the first of his numerous works, a small 8vo volume entitled ‘“‘Catalogus Plantarum Circa Canta- brigiam nascentium.’” This appeared in 1660, and in the same year Ray entered into holy orders. T'wo years later his connection with his College came to an end. Refusing to subscribe to the “ Act of Uniformity ” of 1662, he resigned his fellowship, and being now at greater liberty he resolved to pursue his studies in Natural history still more ardently, and for that purpose to extend his travels beyond the confines of his own country. Accordingly in the spring of 1663, Ray, with two oi his pupils,t and accompanied by Willughby, left England for France, and after ‘‘ passing through divers parts of * Vide art. ‘“‘ Dict. Nat. Biogr.” ‘Ray, John (1627-1705), naturalist, was born at Black Notley, near Braintree, Es-ex, probably on 29th Nov., 1627. He was baptized on 29th June, 1628.” + Mr. Skippon (afterwards Sir Philip) and Mr. N. Bacon. 294, BRITISH BIRDS. Europe ”’ returned to this country in 1665, having parted company from Willughby during the latter part of the journey. On his return to his native country, Ray devoted his serious attention (as he wrote to Dr. Martin Lister) to “ gathering up into a catalogue all such plants as I had found at any time growing wild in England . . . . possibly one day they may see the light : at present the world is glutted with Dr. Merrett’s bungling ‘ Pinax.’ * [ resolve never to put out anything which is not as perfect as it is possible for me to make it.”’ These labours bore fruit in after years, when Ray published his “‘ Catalogus Plantarum Angliae,’ and his yet more famous “Synopsis Methodica Stirpium Britannicarum,” the second edition of which, published in 1696, set the seal on his fame as a botanist. In 1667 Ray was persuaded to become a Fellow of the Royal Society, and in 1670 he changed the spelling of his name, which he had hitherto written Wray, by dropping the initial “* W,” thus return- ing, as he informed his correspondent Martin Lister, in a letter written August 22nd, 1670, to the style used by his ancestors. In 1672 Ray suffered a great blow by the death of his intimate friend and companion, Francis Willughby, who died in this year “‘to the infinite and unspeakable loss and grief of myself, his friends, and all good men.” To Ray’s guardianship Willughby com- mitted his two sons, and further left. him an annuity of sixty pounds, which formed his chief means of support during the remainder of his life. Faithful to his trust, Ray now took up his residence at Middleton Hall, the Warwickshire seat of his late benefactor, and in 1673 he was married to Margaret Oakley, in Middleton Church. The year 1674 saw the publication of Ray’s first contri- bution to ornithology, entitled :— A / Collection of English Words / not generally used .... / and catalogues of English Birds / and Fishes i. / London... 1674-4 vol” ane * «Pinax Rerum,” by Christopher Merrett. London, 1666, 1 vol., 8vo. JOHN Ray. (From the Engraving by H. Meyer, after a Picture in the British Museum.) {‘ oF oe Kaede phd ee is cs shen Ke. cor 4 » the” eee f r a tan . “eh, we ee oe {é@ . ied ft ‘of Linky a oh on oe , Mins sn opps ae oe 9 oe of {lei 07 af rit, a as i i Dy ie ee : Clay ¢ Eas ct vy saat hy Gul | ge Y Vary Long. Soop. ‘ Nar hishiade Y- ‘A. 3. Ui 1g Se Pocket A ect ‘ay Vee 2B Aagio” £, Ame Sofas bs Aig: 26. oF Cag Y yy fe pote ge 9 a se Llop J3 Fe sie 1> Gh rh tye : sh, none aces if M imit fad Dufre ot ee | Bast Raven Ray Ea) eta « o ‘ “Sh i Mee ee ’ oes a. 7% (he © Frannie Serco E nae Pog pongo login Mealy ae i Digs gs aS | woe rp x. Ss ate fe oe hi r fi Cera © yee is “augln e re ad De. 4 Wat Lets. ca é& . oh “ur he. Ce pf o & ese Wares; 30 Mire " t GBoehopl: § ng a t Wid lees «ieee yom fi PORE CT ey g ' [nf Sam06 6 Sans Puybe he. “fee Sony sin [Ae ee ee ee Poitier, 6p po ting wit La : ! evi oy ie oe Re as, Sr go tik Shi Lome does op isha! efoF Re oF osx hae ery) £ Tagan ss e > sb of A ©. els, ‘in +4 « nts Prrea we Ot nr - * § trod buy Av? fos bv. My, Se Mie, Me a “ a Thi ‘ wh, 7% -a weirs N N\ 7 aA B PZ Wasi Z| “4a A Se ba 2 \ —— \ Map SHEWING SOME OF THE MIGRANTS IN PART OF THE BorouGH oF TUNBRIDGE WELLS. (Six inches equals one mile). 526 BRITISH BIRDS. this article we have given some of the results, as well as an idea of what may be the outcome of more complete observations on these lines. TABLE showing the difference in number of pairs of certain migrants at Tunbridge Wells between 1907 and 1908, and the total number of pairs of migrants mapped in a larger district at Tunbridge Wells and in a district at Wye in 1908. Number of | pairs in 1907. Wheatear Q-; Whinchat 0 Stonechat 3 Nightingale + Whitethroat ells 2 Lesser Whitethroat) 15 Blackeap .. Par Ve Garden-Warbler..| 13 Chiffchaff . . ; 42 Willow-Wren |. 123 Wood-Wren | Grey Wagtail 0 Tree- Pipit 38 Red-backed Shrike. 7 Spotted Balad 18 Wryneck . be 9 BO Corncrake | 0 Difference in 1908. 0 0 ea —!] —3 419-4 so —4 om ees ee iy | 0) | 4] a ee Bes: me pee: 8p Be | Number of pairs in 8 sq. miles at Tunbridge Wells (1908). Number of pairs in 4 sq. miles at Wye (1908). * Not present in 1907. ON THE MORE IMPORTANT ADDITIONS TO OUR KNOWLEDGE OF BRITISH BIRDS SINCE 1899. BY Peat “WITHERBY anpwN. FF) TICHAURST. Part XVIII. (Continued from page 308.) SABINE’S GULL Xema sabinii (Sab.). 8S. page 657. Immature birds appear to occur almost regularly in autumn on the Norfolk coast, while occurrences have been recorded of recent years from Cornwall, Somerset, Yorkshire, Derby, and Hants. An adult bird was shot near Rye, Sussex, on October 20th, 1891. (N. F. T.) ScoTLanp.—Skerryvore.—One immature bird on February 10th, 1905, and one on November 30th, 1907 (Ann. S.N.H., 1906, p. 202, and 1908, p. 205). Argyllshire —An immature bird received for preservation on October 30th, 1903, from Easdale (C. H. Bisshop, t.c., 1904, p. 57). The breeding of this species on Spitzbergen has now been proved beyond doubt by the discovery in 1907 by Professor Konig’s expedition of a nest with two eggs, from which the parent birds were shot (F. C. R. Jourdain in litt.). WEDGE-TAILED GULL Shodostethia rosea Macgill. S. page 659. Nesting Habits—In the delta of the Kolyma River, N.E. Siberia, it was found breeding numerously by Mr. 8. A. Buturlin in 1905. Though snow was still deep, and the ice had only just broken up on the river, incubated eggs were found on June 13th. The birds nest in small colonies of ten to fifteen pairs. Early in July young in down were found. The eggs, young in down, and young in first plumage, are fully described (Ibis, 1906, pp. 131-139, 333-337, 610, and Pl. XX. (egos), 661-666, 1907, Pl. XII. (young in down)). LITTLE GULL Larus minutus Pall. 8S. page 663. This species being of fairly regular occurrence on the east. and south-east coasts of England, and especially so on the Norfolk coast and the east coast of Scotland in autumn and winter, we have not quoted the records. 328 BRITISH BIRDS. Scitty IsLEs.—One was shot on St. Mary’s in December, 1905 (J. Clark, Zool., 1906, p. 343). CoRNWALL.—One was obtained at Swan Cove in November, 1904 (J. Clark, ¢.c., 1907, p. 287). CHESHIRE. — One (apparently adult) seen on December 26th, 1902, on the Manchester Ship Canal (T. A. Coward, t.c., 1903, p. 172). One seen flying round the ‘“ Conway,” on December 16th, 1903 (F. C. R. Jourdain, t.c., 1904, p. 193). NortH WaeEs.—One in 1898 and two in 1901 are mentioned (H. EK. Forrest, Vert. F. N. Wales, p. 379). SHETLAND.—One at Nyra Sound, May 3rd, 1904 (T. E. Saxby, é.c., 1904, p. 230). [IRELAND.—One was seen by “G. W.” on the coast of Connaught on several days between July 13th and August 25th, 1906, in company with a number of Black-headed Gulls (Field, 13, x., 06, p. 650).] Has recently been found breeding in the Ringkjébing Fjord, Denmark (vide Field, 17, x11., 04, and 23, xmz., 05; and Vid. Med. nat. For. Kbhvn., 1905, p. 245), and also at Rossitten in Kast Prussia (J.f.0., 1903, p. 186), thus it seems to be extending its range westw ard. MEDITERRANEAN BLACK-HEADED GULL Larus melanocephalus Natt. 8S. page 667. YORKSHIRE.—An adult in winter plumage was obtained on the Yorkshire coast in November, 1895. No further details are permitted by the owner (T. H. Nelson, birds of Yorks., p. 675). [CoRNWALL.—Iwo examples, stated in a manuscript cata- logue by Harry Shaw to have been killed near Falmouth in March, 1851, are now in the possession of Mr. Beville Stanier, of Peplow Hall, Salop (H. E. Forrest, Zool., 1907, p. 33).] YELLOW-LEGGED HERRING-GULL Larus cachinnans Pall. S. page 674. [One was seen in Dover Harbour on April 18th, 1904, amongst some other Herring-Gulls, and came close enough for its orange-coloured legs to be noticed (N. C. Rothschild, Bull. BOG, DAV. pas GLAUCOUS GULL Larus glaucus O. Fab. S. page 679. This species occurs so frequently in Scotland and on the coasts of England as not to require special mention. IRELAND.—One seen on January Ist, 1901, and an immature bird obtained on February 14th, 1905, at Moyview, co. Sligo ADDITIONS SINCE 1899. 329 (R. Warren, Irish Nat., 1905, p. 71), and an immature bird was shot on Rathlin Island on February 19th, 1907 (W. C. Wright, t.c., 1907, p. 224). One was found dead at Bartragh Island on December 8th, 1906 (R. Warren, Zool., 1907, p. 73). OrKNEY.—December 25th—26th, 1901, “ over fifty, mostly adult birds; never saw more than four at a time before ”’ (AnnoOs.N ., 1902, p: 197). ICELAND GULL Larus leucopterus Faber. S. page 681. Winter occurrences of this species are too frequent to require special notice. Late Dates——One was seen from April 30th to May 2nd, 1903, and another on May 17th, 1904, in Mull (D. Macdonald, Ann. S.N.H., 1904, p. 247). One was seen on April 7th, 1902, at Londonderry (D. C. Campbell, Irish Nat., 1902, p. 151). One was shot on April 26th, 1905, in the Moy Estuary (R. Warren, t.c., 1905, p. 135). IVORY GULL Pagophila eburnea (Phipps). S. page 685 YORKSHIRE.—One was seen at Flamborough on April 5th, 1904, and was ultimately obtained (T. H. Nelson, Birds of Yorks., p. 694). NoRTHAMPTONSHIRE.—A bird in immature plumage was shot at Weston-by-Weedon on or about February 7th, 1901 (O. V. Aplin, /bzs, 1901, p. 517). CoRNWALL.—I'wo were seen, and one (adult male) was shot in the Hayle Estuary on January 24th, 1907 (J. Clark, Zool., 1907; p. 287): ScortanpD.—In January, 1890, the first from the Outer Hebrides was obtained at Stornoway (J. A. Harvie-Brown, Ann. S.N.H., 1903, p. 16). Early in February, 1901, one was obtained at Broadford, Skye (T. E. Buckley, ¢.c., 1901, p- 116). One was identified on a close view at Largo Bay, Fifeshire, on September 14th, 1904 (L. J. Rintoul and E. V. Baxter, t.c., 1905, p. 53). One was seen “lately” (spring, 1906) in North Uist (N. B. Kinnear, t.c., 1907, p. 85). IRELAND.—The third specimen for Ireland was shot at Belmullet on March 27th, 1905 (R. J. Ussher, List of Irish Birds, p. 50). GREAT SKUA WMegalestris catarrhactes (L.). S. page 687. Hants.—One was picked up dead at Lainston, in March, 1904 (Birds of Hants, p. 339). Kent.—A female was shot on Dungeness on October 4th, 1900 (W. R. Butterfield, Zool., 1900, p. 521). 330 BRITISH BIRDS. NorFoLtk.—Five were seen on the coast by Mr. Long on August 31st, 1899. Only once before been seen so early, October being the usual time (J. H. Gurney, t.c., 1900, o. 109). LINCOLNSHIRE.—A bird, probably of this species, was seen off Donna Nook, on September 21st, 1901 (G. H. Caton Haigh, bc., VOOZ, qo. daz): Yorxks.—One was shot near Robin Hood’s Bay on June 29th, 1904 (W. J. Clarke, t.c., 1905, p. 74). One was obtained at Bridlington in the autumn of 1904 (Birds of Yorks., p. 696). ScotLanp.—Fair Isle-—The natives assured Mr. W. Eagle Clarke that they had it from their fathers that the “ Bonxie”’ long ago bred on the island (Ann. S.N.H., 1906, p. 78). Shetland.—* Has increased in numbers... . there being at least eighty-four birds on this island ”’ [Unst] (T. E. Saxby, Zool., 1901, p. 391). Twenty-one nests at Hermaness in 1901 (Ann. S.N.H., 1902, p. 197). At least thirty-four nests with egos in June, 1905, one new colony started (f.c., 1905, p. 182). Forty-two nests in 1907 (Duchess of Bedford, t#.c., 1908, p. 4). A pair breeding on Burrafirth Voe had their eggs taken by the Rev. Sorby in 1904, and another pair breeding on Hascasay were robbed by Major Stirling in 1907. These records seem to show that the bird has now a tendency to form new colonies, as is the case with the Fulmar. Owter Hebrides.—One was shot in North Harris on January 8th, 1894, the first for the Outer Hebrides (J. A. Harvie-Brown, t.c., 1903, p. 17). Ayr.—One was seen on October 22nd, 1907, near Lendalfoot, the first for the Clyde area (t.c., 1908, p. 206). IsLE OF Man.—One was caught at Douglas in the late autumn of 1903 (P. Ralfe, Zool., 1904, p. 33). IRELAND.—One was seen in Holyhead Harbour on July 20th, 1903 (C. J. Patten, ¢.c., 1904, p. 75). Mr. G. P. Farran has on six occasions at various seasons and at from 30-70 miles off the isles of Kerry observed these Skuas (R. J. Ussher, Inst of Irish Birds, p. 50; Irish Nat., 1907, p. 184). POMATORHINE SKUA Stercorarius pomatorhinus (Temm.). S. page 689. This species has been recorded from all the east coast counties except Essex of recent years. IrELAND.—A bird in entirely brown plumage with twisted tail-feathers was shot on May 6th, 1902, on Inniskeal Island, co. Donegal (D. C. Campbell, Zrish Nat., 1902, p. 187). One was picked up dead at Lough Kiltooris, co. Donegal, on May ADDITIONS SINCE 1899. 331 29th, 1902 (J. Steele-Elliott, Zool., 1906, p. 154). One was shot on June 6th, 1906, at Loop Head, co. Clare (R. M. Bar- rington, Jrish Nat., 1906, p. 193). The followmg were seen in 1906 by Mr. G. P. Farran, of the Fisheries Board, while 20-30 miles off the south-west coast :—One on October 16th off Drogheda ; four on November 6th off Tearaght, co. Kerry ; also seen in May (R. J. Ussher, t.c., 1907, pp. 163 and 184). LONG-TAILED SKUA_ Stercorarius parasiticus (L.). S. page 693. SoMERSET.—One was shot on October 19th, 1903, at Axbridge (S. Lewis, Zool., 1904, p. 461) ; said to be the fourth for Somerset (F. L. Blathwayt, t.c., 1905, p. 36). TrELAND.—An adult was caught on Clare Island, co. Mayo, on June 14th, 1906 (R. M. Barrington, Irish Nat., 1906, p. 193). GREAT AUK Alca impennis L. 8. page 697. The late Professor Newton in an interesting article on the ‘“* Orcadian Home of the Garefowl ”’ (Jbis, 1898, pp. 587-592) explains that the breeding place of the Great Auk was on the Holm of Papa Westray, and not in Papa Westray itself. Professor Newton, in company with the late Henry Evans, Colonel Bolland, and Mr. Joseph Whitaker, landed on the Holm on June 27th, 1898, and visited the very spot which he thought must have been the “true home of the species whose extirpation, so far as Orkney is concerned, was compassed in 1813 by Bullock.” Bones of this species have been found in Antrim, Donegal, and Clare, in addition to Waterford (R. J. Ussher, List of Irish Birds, p..51, and Irish Nat., 1899, pp. 1-4, 1902, p. 188). BRUNNICH’S GUILLEMOT Uria bruennichi E. Sabine. S. page 701. YORKSHIRE.—One was procured near Flamborough Head in November, 1899, and one was shot about two miles off Castle Foot on October 28th, 1902 (T. H. Nelson, Birds of Yorks., p. 725). [On June 14th, 1908, when off the Pinnacle Rocks, Farne Islands, in a boat, Messrs. H. B. Booth and Riley Fortune saw a bird which they identified as an example of this species. ‘* . .. it was not in full summer plumage, and it was the fact of having more white upon its neck and lower throat in contrast to its companions, the Common Guillemots, that first drew my attention to it, and it was rather darker on the 352 BRITISH BIRDS. upperparts... . . Its thicker, slightly shorter, and differently- shaped beak was quite distinct from that of the Common Guillemot." = 22.5 I could distinctly see (through my field- glasses} the white line along the edge of the basal half of the upper mandible” (H. B. Booth, Nat., 1908, p. 289).] BLACK GUILLEMOT Uma grylle (L.). 8S. page 703. CoRNWALL.—One was picked up dead near the St. Anthony Lighthouse, Falmouth, on March 12th, 1905, during’ very stormy weather. One of the rarest casuals in Cornwall (J. Clark, Zool., 1907, p. 287). Norrotk.—I'wo were seen near Wells by Mr. C. Hamond, on January 8th, 1898 (J. H. Gurney, ¢.c., 1899, p. 118). LITTLE AUK Mergulus alle (L.). 8. page 705. A great irruption of Little Auks occurred during February and March, 1900, when numbers were washed up chiefly on the Norfolk coast, and many in Suffolk. Compared to the ‘‘ invasion ”’ in 1895 there were more if anything on this coast in 1900, but “‘the incursion expended itself in a space of about fifty miles extending from the Wash to Lowestoft, and reaching its maximum at Cley.” Not so many were found inland as in 1895, and although the numbers were large, there appeared to be fewer on the Yorkshire and Lincolnshire coasts. Norfolk appears to have recorded five great irruptions of this bird, viz., October, 1841 (probably the greatest) ; December, 1848; November, 1861; January, 1895; February, 1900 (J. H. Gurney, Zool., 1901, pp. 124-126; cf. also T..H. Nelson, Birds of Yorks., p. 731). One bird recorded ‘‘ about mid-winter, 1900,” on St. Agnes, Scilly Isles (J. Clark and F. R. Rodd, t.c., 1906, p. 345), perhaps was a straggler from this horde. On January 4th, 1900, a great number were reported from North Uist, and in February many along the Aberdeen coast and several in the Forth area (Ann. S.N.H., 1901, p. 144). In the latter half of February, 1901, also over fifty were reported on the Norfolk coast (J. H. .Gurney, Zool., 1902, p. 87). WHITE-BILLED NORTHERN DIVER Colymbus adamsi G,. BR. Gray. 8. page 711. [On December 31st, 1901, a Diver with the whole of lower and about two-thirds of upper mandibles white, was picked up at Caister, Norfolk, but Mr. Gurney does not think the bill was sufficiently upturned for this species. Nor does he ADDITIONS SINCE’ 1899. 339 consider the specimen figured in Babington’s “ Birds of Suffolk ” a true C. adamsi (J. H. Gurney, Zool., 1902, p. 99; cf. also W. R. Ogilvie-Grant, antea, Vol. I., p. 295).] BLACK-THROATED DIVER Colymbus arcticus L. S. page 713. NortH WaALEs.—One seen by Mr. T. A. Coward in Aberffraw Bay, Anglesey, on April 21st, 1905, was in summer plumage (H. E. Forrest, Vert. F. N. Wales, p. 406). RED-THROATED DIVER Colymbus septentrionalis L. S. page 715. Moult.—At the end of September and beginning of October, 1898, Mr. W. Farren had several examples of this species sent to him, and the majority of the adults were entirely devoid of flight feathers, both primaries and secondaries being shed en masse (Ann. S.N.H., 1899, p. 114). GREAT CRESTED GREBE Podicipes cristatus (L.). Oo pace arta. ScoTLAND.—T'iree.—Two pairs in breeding plumage on a loch on May 22nd, 1900, were reported (Ann. S.N.H., 1901, p. 145). ‘Is now (1904) a rapidly extending species in the nesting season, and nests freely in many parts both south and north of Forth and Clyde. One was seen on May 7th, 1903, in Assynt by Mr. F. L. Blathwayt, the first record for Sutherlandshire”’ (J. A. Harvie-Brown, A Fauna of N.W. Highlands and Skye, pp. 345-346). Three pairs nesting on Lake of Menteith (Perth), in 1905. Breeding range still slowly but surely extending (T. T. Mackeith, Zool., 1905, p. 314). From the published records there seems to be no doubt that in England the nesting birds are still increasing in numbers. This increase is very noticeable in the Midlands. Records of breeding from the northern counties (Cumberland, Durham, Northumberland, etc.) seem to be lacking, however. RED-NECKED GREBE Podicipes griseigena (Bodd.). S. page 719. This species is rare on the west side of Great Britain and on the south coast of England. JERSEY.—One is recorded without date (H. Mackay, Zool., 1904, p. 382). Sark.—One was seen in March, 1902 (H. E. Howard, t.c., 1902, p. 422). 534 BRITISH BIRDS. Surrey.—The adult male picked up on Farthing Down in 1890 (Birds of Surrey, p. 346) was in full breeding plumage (J. A. Bucknill, Zool., 1901, p. 254). Kent.—A male in full summer plumage was shot at sea off Dungeness on April 14th, 1907. (N. F. T.) Mip-Wa.xEs.—A pair was seen on the Dovey in October and November, 1899 (J. H. Salter, t.c., 1902, p. 1). ScoTLanD.—One was shot at Portmary on February 20th, 1900 (R. Service, Ann. S.N.H., 1900, p. 120). Another was shot at Glencaple on October 6th, 1903 (é.c., 1904, p. 217). One was shot on Spiggie on November 14th, 1901 (Ann. S.N.H., 1902, p. 198), and another on Baltasound (Shetlands) on December 30th, 1901 (T. E. Saxby, Zool., 1902, p. 113). IRELAND.—Eleven or twelve have been taken at long in- tervals on or near the coasts (R. J. Ussher, List of Irish Birds, p. 52). SLAVONIAN GREBE Podicipes auritus (L.). S. page 721. Saunders says “its occurrence on the southern and western shores of England seems to be irregular even in winter.” JERSEY.—Frequent (H. Mackay, t.c., 1904, p. 382). Scitty Isites.—An autumn and winter casual chiefly on Tresco, by no means rare. The last was recorded in November, 1902 (J. Clark and F. R. Rodd, Zool., 1906, p. 345). Drvon.—“ I have noticed one or two on the river [? Taw] for the past two winters, and I am inclined to think that they are regular winter visitors”? (B. F. Cummings, é.c., 1905, p. 469). OxFORDSHIRE.—Mr. O. V. Aplin gives particulars of six winter occurrences previously unrecorded (t.c., 1899, p. 441), and of a seventh (é.c., 1907, p. 331). NortH Wa.LEs.—Occurs frequently in winter on the Meri- oneth coast (H. E. Forrest, Vert. F. N. Wales, p. 409). ScoTLaANnD.—There is considerable but not conclusive evidence of its having bred in Benbecula (Outer Hebrides) in 1893. Two were shot in full summer plumage in April, 1898, in Barra (J. A. Harvie-Brown, Ann. S.N.H., 1903, pp. 21-22). One at Arisaig (Inverness) in full summer plumage on May 13th, 1907 (é.c., 1908, p. 207). Food.—In the stomach of one shot in the winter were besides feathers, elytra of water-beetles and numbers of larve of the Crane-fly (T7pula oleracea) (O. Grabham, Zool., 1899, p- 32).. One examin ed by G. Sim from Bruckley Castle, Dee area, contained flies, beetles, grubs, and stickle-backs (Vert. Fauna of Dee, p. 190). (To be continued.) ( 835 ) ON THE EGGS OF THE.TREE-PIPIT. BY PERCY F. BUNYARD, F.z.s., M.B.0.v. Ir is surely a little surprising that no one has yet seriously attempted to analyse and systematise the marvellous range of variation which the eggs of the Tree-Pipit (Anthus trivialis) present, in the matter of colour and arrangement of markings. How great is this range may be gathered from the extremely divergent descriptions which have from time to time been published by the various authors who have had occasion to refer to this subject. It has been contended indeed that it is impossible to define the limits of this variation. But with this view I cannot agree. On the contrary, as I propose to show, the apparent medley of colour and markings here presented can be reduced to an orderly system comprising no less than seven distinct types. This result, I need hardly say, could never have been arrived at if I had not, through the kindness of many friends, been enabled to examine a very large number of specimens. ‘These seven types (not varieties, be it noted) are, in my opinion, of sufficiently frequent occurrence, and so constant and well-defined as to justify this classification. They may be divided into two classes, namely, mottled, and spotted. I recognise three types of mottled eggs, two of which are very distinct; while in the spotted eggs I can distinguish four types, three of which have very strongly marked characteristics. It will be observed that I have endeavoured to describe the extreme, and less modified, forms of each of these; varieties I have not in this paper attempted to deal with; though they are of frequent occurrence they may, with a keen eye, and a little trouble, be traced to one or other of the types just referred to. A few words in regard to the system upon which I have worked to obtain these results may be of interest, though I do not pretend that this system would be applicable to the eggs of all species. The work of most importance is the separation of the clutches into their respective types (by no means a difficult operation), keeping them separate by placing each type in a separate tray upon which white cotton wool has been carefully and evenly spread ; if glass-lid boxes are used the lids should be removed before attempting to dis- tinguish the colours; always use a magnifying glass of low power, which assists very materially in obtaining accuracy 536 BRITISH BIRDS in regard to oe shape, formation of the markings, texture of shell, etc. ; the stronger the light the better; I prefer sun- light, but of course not direct sun- light. As each point is determined, it should at once be carefully noted down, thus : ground colour, colour of markings, position and arrangement of markings, shape, and, finally, the texture of the shell. In the following descriptions it should be remarked that I have referred to “ Eggs of the Birds of Europe,” by H. E. Dresser, Parts VII. and VIII., plate 4, and also to “ Eggs of British Birds,’ by Henry Seebohm, plate 58.* Mr. Dresser figures six types, Mr. Seebohm four only, and, curiously, the one type not figured by Mr. Dresser. To have done full justice to this article I should have preferred to have had plates specially drawn, however, I trust that I have made myself as clear as possible in referring to those mentioned. Some interesting points have been brought to light in connection with the description of these various types. Most noticeable among them is the slight variation in the thickness and texture of the shell. A fact which I think is pretty generally known is that some types occur much less frequently than others, as is also the case with the eggs of the Red-backed Shrike and others. Locality, or climatic conditions have apparently nothing whatever to do with these variations. I have received the whole seven distinct types, from as many different localities ; continental eggs exhibited precisely the same types. MorttieD Type (No. 1)—Brick-red, very distinct. GROUND coLouR.—White. The markings are so close as almost to obliterate the ground colour, though there is generally one or more eggs in a clutch in w hich the ground colour is fairly conspicuous. MarkKINGsS, normal.— Rich brick-red to light red (Dresser, pl. 4, No. 15), mottlings very close. Haxtreme type—Mottlings obliterate ground colour. Modified type—Markings well defined, ground colour conspicuous, shell markings more or less absent (Dresser, pl. 4, No. 13). A rare variety of this type occurs in which the markings are bold and well defined (Dresser, pl. 4, No. 22) which is intermediate between the red mottled type (No. 1) and the red spotted, or blotched, type (No. 4). This variety has also a slight suspicion of shell markings of purplish grey. Fine hair-like scrollings at the broad end occur in this type. * These works will throughout the rest of this paper be quoted simply as ‘‘ Dresser, pl. 4, No. —,”’ and ‘‘ Seebohm, pl. 58.” ON THE EGGS OF THE TREE-PIPIT. 3837 SHAPE.—Normal, a short conical oval, sometimes fully rounded. Narrow pointed ovals occur less frequently. SHELL.—Finely grained, glossy, sometimes dull, fairly thick and strong for the size. Morttep Tyre (No. 2)—Purplish-red, distinct. GROUND CoLouR.—White. The markings do not obliterate the ground colour so much as in type No. 1. Markines.—In general appearance similar to the mottled brick-red type (No. 1). The purplish tint is caused by the presence of minute purplish-grey shell markings, which are conspicuous, though the pigment markings are distinctly purplish in tinge. Very little variation occurs in this type, which is constant and well set, the fine hair-like scrollings do not occur so frequently as in No. 1 (Dresser, pl. 4, No. 14). SHAPE.—Similar to No. 1, but the full rounded shape is more frequent. Narrow pointed ovals occur. SHELL.—Similar in every respect to No. 1, except that there is less gloss. MotrLeD Tyres (No. 3)—Sepia-brown, very distinct. GROUND CoLoUR.—Greyish-white to white; sometimes dis- tinctly pale greenish blue. Compared with the two other mottled types, the ground colour is conspicuous, except in the extreme type in which the mottlings are so close as almost to obliterate it. Marxkines.—Precisely the same in general arrangement as in types Nos. land 2. Normal—Mottled rich sepia-brown, shell markings brownish-grey, very inconspicuous, but in some cases sufficiently present to alter the general appearance to a greyish purple-brown (Dresser, pl. 4, Nos. 17 and 18). Extreme type—Appearance entirely altered by the running together of the mottlings, which form dark patches of colour, giving this type an intermediate appearance between the normal of this and the brown spotted, or blotched, type No. 5. Modified type—Precisely the same in appearance, but several shades paler in colour; fine hair-like markings occur, as in types 1 and 2. The normal of this type is often confused with the egg of the Meadow-Pipit, and in general appearance it somewhat resembles the egg of that species, except in shape, size, and texture. The eggs of the Meadow-Pipit, as a rule, do not show so much gloss. SHELL.—Similar in every respect to type No. 1. SHaPE.—Goes through the same variation as type No. 1. 338 BRITISH BIRDS. SPOTTED, or BLoTCHED, TypxE (No. 4)—Red, very distinct. ~ GrouNnD CoLour.—Varies considerably from palest grey and red, to white tinged with purple or mauve. This great variation is brought about by very minute shell markings, spots, and cloudings of varying shades of red, purple, and reddish-brown, so closely conglomerated as to alter the entire appearance of the actual ground colour. Marxkines.—The variation in the markings is even - more marked than in the ground colour. Normal—Rich reddish- brown cloudings, evenly distributed spots with very dark centres, marginated with paler shades with eye-spots of very dark brown, a few hair-like lines of the same colour as the margins of the eye-spots, shell markings few and very in- conspicuous (Dresser, pl. 4, Nos. 19 and 20). Modified type —Markings more or less confined to the broad ends, similar in arrangement, except that the shell markings are more conspicuous, and of a purplish tinge (Dresser, pl. 4, No. 21). Extreme type—Markings take the form of short scrollings and cloudings. Other markings are present, but to a very slight extent, and are small and inconspicuous (Dresser, pl. 4, No. 16). This type is much more subject to variation than the others. SHAPE.—Inclined towards pointed ovals, rather more than in the other six types. SHELL.—Fragile compared with the mottled types, finely grained, moderately glossy, sometimes glossless. SPOTTED, or BLOTCHED, TyPE (No. 5)—Brown, very distinct. GROUND coLouR.—From palest brown to brownish-grey. In some cases there is a slight suspicion of purplish-grey. In the modified type the ground colour is conspicuous, in the normal and extreme types it is almost obliterated by the markings. Markines.—Precisely the same in arrangement as in type No. 4 except that there is a tendency to form dark caps. Normal—Clouded rich brown, eye-spots black-brown, mar- ginated with paler brown, small fine short scrollings of the same colour as the eye-spots. Shell-markings, rich brown- grey, inconspicuous. Hatreme type—Rich brown spots and cloudings, ground colour almost obliterated ; shell-markings inconspicuous or totally absent. Modified type—Finely dotted and ‘“ short-scrolled’’ with rich brown; ground colour con- spicuous (Dresser, pl. 4, No. 23). This type is constant, well set, and subject to little variation. SHAPE.—Broad ovals, sometimes slightly pointed. ON THE EGGS OF THE TREE-PIPIT. 339 SHELL.—Very fragile, finely grained, displaying more gloss than in the other types. SPOTTED, or BLOTCHED, Tyre (No. 6)—Purplish brown, very distinct. GROUND coLouR.—Purplish-grey, giving the whole egg a distinctly purplish appearance. The ground colour in this type is very conspicuous and seldom obliterated by the markings. MarRKINGS.—Similar in arrangement and appearance to types Nos. 4 and 5, except that the markings are more pro- minent and better defined. Normal—EKye-spots and short scrollings, rich purplish-brown, marginated with paler shades, cloudings pale purple-grey ; shell markings, dark purplish- grey, few. Hatreme type—Markings more abundant and richer in colour, ground colour is also darker by several shades. Shell markings almost absent. Modified type—Similar in general appearance, but the ground colour more conspicuous. Markings form zones, or caps; shell-markings conspicuous (Dresser, pl. 4, No. 24). This type is constant, well fixed, and subject to less variation than No. 4. SHAPE.—Goes through precisely the same variations as in types Nos. 4 and 5. SHELI..—Thin and fragile, but less so than in types Nos. 4 and 5. SPOTTED, or BLotcHED, TyPsE (No. 7)—Green ground, distinct. GROUND COoLOUR.—Very conspicuous, and distinctly green- ish, giving the whole egg a green appearance, which separates it from types Nos. 4, 5 and 6. Markincs.—In appearance similar to types Nos. 4, 5 and 6, but as a rule more evenly distributed and better defined. Normal—Kye-spots and short scrollings, rich umber to sepia- brown, marginated with paler shades, cloudings pale brown ; shell markings pale purplish-brown (Seebohm, pl. 58a, third from right). Hxtreme type—Eye-spots very dark brown, less marginated than in the normal; ground colour inclined towards olive-brown; shell markings almost absent. The markings sometimes form caps and zones, giving the egg a very rich appearance. Modified type—Similar, except that the short scrollings predominate; ground colour more conspicuous ; shell markings dark grey-brown, few, sometimes quite absent. This type occurs much less frequently than any of the other six types, but is distinct and well fixed. SHAPE.—Similar to that in types Nos. 4, 5 and 6, but there is a tendency towards a smaller size. SHELL.—Very thin and fragile, rather more gloss than in the other types. THE BIBLIOGRAPHY OF BRITISH BIRDS. To compile a complete bibliography of a subject which has attracted so much attention for so many years as the orni- thology of this country would be a task of great magnitude, and so far as we know no such bibliography has been attempted, although we have had most useful papers on the subject by Dr. Elliott Coues in the ‘‘ Proceedings of the U.S. Museum ”’ (1880), and in Mr. Miller Christy’s ‘‘ Catalogue of Local Lists ”’ (1891), as well as by the late Professor Newton in the ‘“‘ Dictionary of Birds.” A valuable contribution towards the subject has just reached us in the form of a pamphlet entitled ‘A List of Books relating to British Birds published before the Year 1815.” These are from the hbrary of our contributor, Mr. W. H. Mullens, and the pamphlet forms an “ Occasional Publication No. 3,” of the Hastings and St. Leonards Natural History Society. Seven plates giving facsimiles of rare and notable editions will be much appreciated, while the extremely carefully drawn up details of the works themselves cannot fail to be of the greatest value. We are glad to see the words “to be continued ” at the end of the pamphlet, and we would suggest that if those who possess valuable ornithological libraries would co-operate with Mr. Mullens the task of forming a bibliography of British birds might be accomplished. EDs.. COMPARATIVE LEGISLATION FOR THE PROTECTION OF BIRDS. In Vol. I., page 354, we called attention to an offer by the Royal Society for the Protection of Birds of a gold medal and a prize of twenty guineas for the best essay on the subject of “*Comparative Legislation for the Protection of Birds.” This prize has been awarded to Mr. A. H. Macpherson, while a second prize of ten guineas has been given to Lieut.-Colonel G. A. Momber.—Eps. THE BRITISH SONG-THRUSH AND DARTFORD WARBLER. Dr. Ernst Hartrert has already described in these pages (Vol. I., pp. 208-222, Vol. II., pp. 130-131) a number of geographical races of birds which are peculiar to the British Islands. At the meeting of the British Ornithologists’ Club held on January 20th last, he called attention to the differ- NOTES. 341 ences between British and Continental examples of the Song- Thrush. He pointed out that the non-migratory race breeding in Great Britain and Ireland differed in the warmer, more rufous, colour of the upper surface, especially the rump. These parts are more olive-brown, generally paler, and with a faint greenish tinge, in the birds breeding on the Continent and migrating to the Mediterranean countries in winter. The underside of the British race was often more heavily spotted, and this was especially conspicuous in specimens from the Hebrides, while others from the same islands were in every way similar to English examples. For this reason Dr. Hartert did not, for the present, distinguish more than one British race, which he proposed to call Turpus PHILOMELOS CLARKEI, in honour of Mr. Eagle Clarke, who had first called his attention to the dark coloration of the British race. ‘The difference had also been noticed by other British ornithologists. Dr. Hartert mentioned that the correct name of the Song-Thrush was T'urdus philomelos, the first description of 7’. musicus undoubtedly referring to the Redwing ; while the name 7’. cliacus was not available at all, as in the first instance it referred to three distinct species, viz., the Song-Thrush, Mistle-Thrush, and Redwing. While we thoroughly agree with Dr. Hartert in his separation of these races, and applaud his good work, we think it only right to state that we cannot agree with him in abolishing old and well-known names and substituting for them names which are quite unknown to the average ornithologist. Dr. Hartert adheres most strictly to certain rules in order to secure stability in nomenclature, but in many cases, such for instance as the present, these rules act in our opinion in a directly opposite way to that which was intended, in that they disrupt the past. The Song-Thrush has been called “Turdus musicus”’ in countless books and papers, and if we now alter that name surely we show no regard for the past, while to the future ornithologist the innumerable references to this bird under the name of 7’. musicus will be obscured. With no wish to argue such an intricate question in these pages we can but state our firm conviction that to adhere strictly to a rule in such a case as this amounts to making the rule a fetish. Having no wish to be the blind slave of any rule, we are determined to call the British Song-Thrush T'urdus musicus clarke. In part V. of Dr. Hartert’s work (Die Vog. der pal. Fauna, p. 601) we note that he separates the Dartford Warbler of England and North-west France from the typical bird of 342 BRITISH BIRDS. the continent under the name of Sylvia undata dartfordiensis of Latham, by reason of its slightly smaller size, its dull, chocolate-brown, instead of slaty-grey, upperside, and by the flanks being washed with brown instead of grey.—EDs. NORTHERN WILLOW-WREN IN NORFOLK. Ir may be of interest to record that a specimen of Phylloscopus trochilus eversmanni (cf. antea, Vol. II., p. 234) was shot on the Norfolk coast during the second week of May, 1908. Another specimen shot in the same locality during the month of September is of greater interest, because Dr. C. B. Ticehurst had not detected this bird in the autumn. Both specimens have been examined by Dr. Ticehurst, and the autumn bird exhibits in its plumage practically none of the green and yellow characteristic of the typical Willow-Wren. CLIFFORD BoRRER. Another example of this race shot at Cley, Norfolk, in October, 1901, has been very kindly submitted to me by Mr. Ernest M. Connop, of Wroxham, in whose collection it now is. The bird, which has been examined by Dr. Ticehurst and myself, is greyish-brown on the upperside and greyish-white on the underside and has no green or yellow (except in the axillaries) in its plumage. The eyestripe is white. An additional interest attaches to this specimen in that it was examined by Howard Saunders, and I am indebted to Mr. Connop for a view of a letter regarding the bird which Howard Saunders wrote to Mr. Pashley, of Cley. Although it was not his practice to distinguish very closely allied forms by name, and although he makes no reference to this race in his ‘* Manual,” it is clear from the letter that Howard Saunders fully recognised its characteristics. “* Your bird,” he wrote to Mr. Pashley, “is (in my opinion, of course) simply a Willow- Wren Ph. trochilus, but it is a very interesting example—and quite an old bird—of the northern form, which, as Seebohm says (Cat. Birds B. M., V., p. 58) ‘ occasionally in high northern latitudes has all the green and yellow abraded and the general plumage earthy-brown, the eyestripe having faded to greyish- white and the underparts also to white.’ The wing-formula is absolutely that of the Willow-Wren, and one of Seebohm’s specimens from the Yenesei, Siberia, matches your bird exactly.”’ Seebohm’s opinion that the brown and grey colouring was produced. by fading and abrasion is now, of course, proved to be an error, since spring specimens exhibit the same characteristics. NOTES. 343 As some confusion still exists in the minds of some of my correspondents with regard to the various races of Willow- Wrens and Chiffchaffs which have now been detected as occurring in this country, it may be well to summarise the information. THe TypicaL WILLOw-WREN (P. trochilus trochilus). THE NORTHERN WILLOW-WREN (P. trochilus eversmannt).— Now found to occur both on the autumn and spring passage, but apparently much more frequently in the spring. Breeds in Northern Russia, from the Kolyma westwards to the Timan Hills, and possibly to Norway (c/. supra, p. 234). Except in the axillaries there is practically no green or yellow in its plumage. THe TypicaL CuHirrcHarF (P. rufus rufus). THe East EvRopEAN CHIFFCHAFF (P. rujus abietina).— So far has only once been detected in this country (cf. supra, p. 233). Breeds in Scandinavia, Russia (south of 65°), East Prussia, Austria, and the Balkans. It is of slightly larger size and paler coloration than the typical form. THE SIBERIAN CHIFFCHAFF (P. rufus tristis)—Has been found on several occasions in winter in the Orkney and Shetland groups (cf. Vol. I., pp. 8 and 382). Breeds in Siberia from the Petchora to Lake Baikal. LEasily distinguishable by its very brown upperside, grey underside, brownish flanks, and bright golden axillaries. H. F. WIrHERBY. LESSER SPOTTED WOODPECKER BREEDING IN MERIONETH. Mr. R. J. Luoyp-Pricst, of Rhiwlas, Bala, informs me that last year a pair of Lesser Spotted Woodpeckers (Dendrocopus minor) nested in an oak-tree close to his head-keeper’s house. They hatched and reared the young, but all left before winter. This is the first recorded instance of the species breeding in North Wales so far to the west as Merioneth, where, indeed, it has hitherto been met with only occasionally. H. E. Forrest. HOOPOE IN MERIONETH. Mr. Liuoyp-PricE writes me that a Hoopoe (Upwpa epops) appeared on the lawn at Rhiwlas, Bala, one day in August, 1907. He watched it for a considerable time walking about, and every now and then erecting its crest. The Hoopoe is very rare in Wales, and has only once before been recorded in Merioneth. H. E. Forrest. 344. BRITISH BIRDS. LITTLE OWL IN WARWICKSHIRE AND WORCESTERSHIRE. Aw adult female specimen of the Little Owl (Athene noctua) was shot at Barston, Warwickshire, on November 15th or 16th, 1908, by Mr. Russell. It is not the Sutton Coldfield specimen already recorded (antea, Vol. II.,p. 240). The distance between the two places would be fifteen to twenty miles. No other specimen has been seen by Mr. Russell. Another example was shot at King’s Norton, Worcester- shire, on October 14th, 1907. This bird rose from a ditch, and the gentleman who shot it mistook it for a Woodcock ! Another has been seen there since, and I have urged the gentleman not to shoot it. Both my specimens are adult females. F. CoBuRN. THE FOOD OF THE COMMON EIDER. THat the Common Eider (Somateria molissima) feeds mainly on shell-fish is well known, yet the following summary of the results of a number of dissections which I have made may be of interest to the readers of BririsH Brrps. On one occasion I found the remains of a crab in the gizzard, and of a crab and starfish in the crop. ‘“‘ Periwinkles ’’? seem to be very commonly eaten. I have taken as many as twenty of their shells from a single gizzard. In many Eiders a bulge in the throat may often be seen, and on examination this proves to be caused by a “ Razor- sheil ” (Hnsis siliqua), locally known as the “‘ Spute-fish,” and used by the fishermen as a bait. Sometimes one valve of the shell is missing. Examples as long as eight inches are some- times swallowed, and often one end of the shell is broken, leaving a jagged edge. The dissolution of the contained animal evidently takes place in the crop, and the shell is, we may assume, ejected, as other birds eject pellets, since it could never pass through the intestines. It is curious that Razor- shells are never found in birds killed in the early morning. The shells of univalves are disintegrated, partly, apparently by the action of the gastric juices, and partly by the trituration of the gizzard. The Eider is aiso fond of limpets. My boatman once reared an Kider drake, which was the terror of the limpet-pickers on the island, for it would steal the limpets as fast as they were detached from the rocks, and would attack the pickers with great spirit, using beak, wings, and feet, should they object to the levying of this toll! H. W. Rosinson. NOTES. 345 VELVET-SCOTER IN SHROPSHIRE. HirHerRTO the only known instance of the occurrence of (Hdemia fusca in Shropshire was an adult male found exhausted near Whitchurch on November 23rd, 1866. It was preserved by John Shaw, of Shrewsbury, who recorded it at the time in the “Field.” Mr. F. Coburn, of Birmingham, recently informed me of a second example which came into his hands—an immature female shot on December 12th, 1890, at Clungunford, near Ludlow, by Mr. Graham Williams. H. E. Forrest. INCREASE OF WOOD-PIGEONS IN ORKNEY. Ir is recorded in Howard Saunders’ ‘‘Manual” that the Wood-Pigeon is pushing northwards, and breeds locally and sparingly in the Orkney Islands. It may be interesting to note that during the last two years—1907-08—I have found the bird breeding in increasing numbers in the Island of Shapinshay, Orkney Islands. I noticed in 1907 at least two pairs in the trees round Balfour Castle, and last year I shot two and picked up one young bird dead in the garden of Balfour Castle, and frequently saw eight or nine birds on the grass opposite the castle. I may add the bird is most destructive in the garden at Balfour, and already the damage done is considerable to the kitchen garden crops. JAMES R. HALE. RED VARIETY (P. MONTANA) OF THE COMMON PARTRIDGE. As the note in the last number of BririsH Brrps (p. 311) conveys the impression that Lord Forester’s specimens are the only examples of the rufous form of Partridge obtained in Shropshire, it may be of interest to state that it has been met with in several places. There is a specimen in the British Museum from Acton Reynald, near Shrewsbury. An example described in the “ Field,’ November, 1902, was shot at Farmcote, near Bridgnorth. arlier in the same year Mr. H. L. Horsfall obtained four Partridges at Gatacre Park, Bridgnorth, one of which he sent me for examination. It was of the same dark red hue as P. montana beneath, but the back was beautifully spangled with creamy-white, on adark ground. It closely resembled the variety figured by Mr. Frohawk in the “ Field,” February 13th, 1897. A similar bird in the museum at Whitchurch, Salop, was shot near that place in the autumn of 1902, by Mr. J. M. Etches, who informed me that there 546 BRITISH BIRDS. were several others like it in the covey. Three examples of the typical P. montana were shot at Albrighton, near Shrewsbury, on October 6th, 1905. H. E. Forrest. [Mr. J. R. B. Masefield kindly sends us a copy of a paper on a number of occurrences of this variety in Staffordshire which he contributed to the “Transactions of the North Staffordshire Field Club” (1902, pp. 65-68, with Plate), and he tells us that he has examined from time to time examples showing almost every possible gradation between what may be termed the true P. montana and the normal P. cinerea. The erythristic variety of the Partridge, as is well-known, constantly occurs and recurs in many parts of this country, and the subject is of considerable interest in that no satis- factory reason, so far as we know, has as yet been adduced to explain the much more persistent nature of erythrism in this, than in apparently in any other, species.—EDs. | RaRE BrirRDs ON THE ISLE oF May (FirtH oF FortTH).—We referred in our last volume (p. 295) to the results of a visit to this island in 1907 by two energetic lady ornithologists. In 1908 the island was again visited by Miss Evelyn V. Baxter, from September 10th to October 9th, and we extract the most important results from her paper in the “ Annals of Scottish Natural History’ (1909, pp. 5-20). ReEp-sporrED BLUE- THROAT (Cyanecula suecica).—Single birds were seen on September 22nd and 23rd, two on the 24th, and several on the 25th, and one on October 5th. YELLOW-BROWED WARBLER (Phylloscopus swperciliosus)—One on September 22nd, one on the 24th, one on the 25th, and another on October 3rd. British Coau Tir (Parus ater britannicus).—One _ pro- cured October Ist. British BiuE Tit (Parus ceruleus obscurus).—One on September 30th. [Both these records are interesting as there is little proof that Tits are wanderers. Waite Wagcrtait (Motacilla alba).—Four or five adults on September 20th. GrEeAT GREY SHRIKE (Lanius excubitor).— One on October 25th. ScarLter GrRosBEak (Pyrrhula ery- thrina).—An adult female on September 12th. Miss Baxter also kindly informs us that the Ropins and GOLDCRESTS which she obtained have been examined at the Royal Scottish Museum and pronounced to be of the British race. Buack REDSTARTS IN CO. WATERFORD.—Mr. R. J. Ussher caught a female or immature male Ruticilla titys at Cappagh NOTES. 347 House, on November 4th, 1908, and before liberating it he saw another on the window sill. On the same date in 1907 he caught one in his bedroom, and on November 2nd of that year he saw another, while two were caught in his house in 1895, on October 29th and November 2nd (Irish Nat., 1909, p. 26). Woop-WREN IN HEREFORDSHIRE IN WintER.—A Warbler seen at close range by Mr. A. B. Farn near the River Wye on January 9th last, is said by him to have been without. doubt an example of Phylloscopus sibilatrix (Zool., 1909, Pp. 25): DrerER IN Kent.—Mr. A. H. Hardy writes to the “ Field ” (19, xir., 08, p. 1103) that he saw a Dipper (Cinclus aquaticus) on the River Stour on December 11th, 1908. The species is a rare straggler to Kent. Dr. N. F. Ticehurst tells us that he has notes of some dozen occurrences, and adds that: the bird is supposed to have nested on one occasion at Chart- ham, not far from the locality of the present record. SCARCITY OF THE LONG-TAILED TIT IN A YORKSHIRE District.—Mr. H. B. Booth records the scarcity of the Long-tailed Tit in Upper Airedale and Upper Wharfedale (West Yorkshire). Only three occurrences of the bird in the breeding season are known during the last fifteen years, although a few years before it nested annually in these districts, and does so commonly in adjoining districts. No reason can be assigned for the desertion of the neighbourhood by the bird (Nat., 1909, pp. 55-57). CoaL-TITMOUSE ON THE Bass Rockx.—Mr. W. Evans reports that two Parus ater occurred on the Bass Rock on September 28th, 1908. Only a wing and leg were sent to him, so that he could not say whether the birds were British or Continental (Ann. S.N.H., 1909, p. 49). Late Stay oF SwaALLtow IN IRELAND.—An immature Hirundo rustica was seen (and unfortunately shot) on December 9th, 1908, near Clondalkin, co. Dublin (W. J. Williams, Jrish Nat., 1909, p. 56): BRAMBLING IN WEST SUTHERLAND.—A number of Bramb- lings (Fringilla montifringilla) were seen on October 25th, 1908, at Inchnadamph. The bird has not hitherto been identified in this area (J. T. Henderson, Ann. S.N.H., 1909, p: 47). 348 BRITISH BIRDS. SNow-GEESE IN co. Mayo.—A flock of four Chen hyperboreus were seen flying over Bartragh Island by Mr. Claud Kirkwood ‘“‘a day or so after December 29th, 1908.” They were easily recognised by their snow-white plumage and black-tipped wings (R. Warren, Zool., 1909, p. 77). For previous records of this species in the same district see page 27 of the present volume. GADWALL IN FirEesHiIRE.—A young male Chaulelasmus streperus was shot near Tayport on November 14th, 1908. The bird is of irregular occurrence on the east coast of Scotland (W. Berry, Ann. S.N.H., 1909, p. 49). GARGANEY BREEDING IN East YorRKSHIRE.—Mr. W. H. St. Quintin, of Scampston, East Yorkshire, writes to the ‘“‘ Naturalist ” (1909, p. 38) that an entirely wild pair of Garganey (Querquedula circia) made a nest in May, 1908, near the River Derwent, the female laying some eight eggs. These, being in a dangerous place, were taken, and from them four drake and two duck Garganeys were reared. ApuLt Lone-TaILeD Duck INLAND.—An adult female Harelda glacialis was shot on the Spey forty miles from the sea in October, 1908 (J. R. Pelham Burn, Ann. S.N.H., 1909, p- 49). TurTLE-DovE In co. DoNnEGAL IN WinTER.—An adult male T'urtur communis (scarce at any time in Ireland) was shot among some Wood-Pigeons near Muff, co. Donegal, on November 30th, 1908 (D. C. Campbell, Irish Nat., 1909, p- 96). SUPPOSED GREAT BuSTARD IN YORKSHIRE.—Mr. J. Morley records in the ‘‘ Zoologist”’ (1909, p. 78) that a Mr. Bennett shot a Great Bustard near Scarborough ‘ about last Christmas- time,’ which he had cooked and found superior in delicacy to a Turkey! Although the skin was not preserved, we find on enquiry that two of the tail-feathers were, and Mr. Oxley Grabham informs us that these have been positively identified as those of a female Silver-Pheasant! It is well to make sure of the facts before putting into print the record of a rarity. Erratum.—We regret that in the last number, on p. 310, the scientific name of Montagu’s Harrier was given by a slip as Circus ceruginosus instead of C. cineraceus.—EDs. - DEVOTEDTOTHEBIRDS'ON - >. THEBRTISHIUST MONTHLY: gesmunre ‘NET _ S2SHIGITOLDORNIENDON ~_ WITHERBY & C2 Ey, j DALLMEYER 5. Naturalists’ Cane , For Telephoto. or Ordinary LENSES. Positive Lens Works at f/4. DALUMEYER’S Lenses are used _. by the most — | skilled Bird Photographers. The RA are specially recommended :» THE STIGMATIC SERIES I. F/6 (Convertible) ‘THE SERIES D PATENT PORTRAIT LENSES F 6. (A Rapid Long Focus Lens at a Moderate Price.) High or Moderate Power Telephoto Lenses (Original Make). 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BIRDS, MAMMALS, &c., PRESERVED and MOUNTED by ETRST-OLASS WORKMER TRUE TO NATURE All Books and Publications on pana iioeine keiniien., 36, STRAND, LONDON, W.G. ve Doors tum Charing Gross.) Catalogue (102 PP.) post frees if ‘ ae tei Eee pl od Lah ture 1¢ F. Bacon, after the pi ny b Ramsay ing from the engrav by James ICK, r THOMAS BEW oe DRIESIBIRDS POE > BY ~H. Fe WITHERBY,--F.Z.S.;° M.B.0:U. Rosier) BY: W. P. PYCRAFY, A.LS., M.B.0.U. ConTENTS OF NuMBER I11, Vou. II. Aprit 1, 1909. Some Early British Ornithologists and their Works, by W. H. Mullens, mM.a., Lu.mM., M.B.o.u.. WVIIJI.—Thomas Bewick (1753—1828) and George Montagu (1751—1815). Page 351 Marking Birds: Notes on the Work at the Rossitten Station, by A. Landsborough Thomson 362 On the More Important Additions to our Ruowindes of British Birds since 1899, by H. F. Witherby and N. F. Ticehurst. Part XIX.—(continued from page 334) .. 368 Notes :—Notes from Sussex (J. Walpole-Bond). Rare Birds in Pembrokeshire (W. Maitland Congreve, Lieut. R.A.). Bird Protection in Yorkshire (Eds.) The Birds of Kent (Eds.) Black-throated Thrush in Kent (Thomas Parkin). Curious Nesting Site of a Wood-Warbler (W. S. Medlicott), Chaffinch Breeding in Winter (H. E. Forrest). Alpine Swift in Pembrokeshire (Charles J. P. Cave). Downy Woodpecker (Dendrocopus pubescens) in Gloucestershire (Wm. A.Smalleombe). White-tailed Eagle in Essex (Christopher J. H. Tower). Osprey in Essex (Christopher J. H. Tower). Pochard Nesting in North Kent (J. Walpole-Bond). The Food of the Eider (Eds.). Goosander in Bedfordshire (The Duchess of Bedford). Red Grouse and Black Grouse Hybrids (J. G. Millais and W. R. Ogilvie-Grant). The Bill of the Great Northern Diver (The Duchess of Bedford). Fulmar Petrel in Lancashire (H. W. area Little Ringed Plover in North Uist au ; = ae 376 SOME EARLY BRITISH ORNITHOLOGISTS AND THEIR WORKS. BY W. H. MULLENS, m.a., LL.M., M.B.O.U. VIII—THOMAS BEWICK (1753—1828) anp GEORGE MONTAGU (1751—1815). It is difficult to determine what position Thomas Bewick holds among the principal British ornithologists; it is difficult indeed to determine whether he was, in the strict sense of the word, an ornithologist at all. It was by a series of entirely unforeseen events that Bewick 02 BRITISH BIRDS. found himself called upon to write even a portion of the famous “ History of British Birds ” that bears his name, and it certainly cannot be said that the text of that work contains anything of much originality or importance. “Tt is respectable but no more,” and would by itself, founded as it was on the style of Pennant, and admittedly deriving most of its information from his works,* in all probability have attracted but scant and passing attention. And yet this work of Bewick has met with extraordinary success, it has passed through edition after edition; it has instructed and delighted thousands upon thousands of readers, and has in the opinion of onet who was fully competent to judge, done more than any other work in existence, Gilbert White’s ‘‘ Natural History of Selborne ” alone excepted, to promote the study and pursuit of ornithology in this country. This great popularity and widespread influence of Bewick’s “ History of British Birds” arose solely from the brilliance and fidelity of the wood-cuts, with which he was able to illustrate that work. What Bewick and his fellow-author together entirely failed to do with the pen, he alone most successfully accomplished with the burin and the graver. Such was Bewick’s skill, and so wonderful his power of transferring his impressions to paper, that his engravings of birds, especially of those which he was enabled to draw from life, or from freshly-killed specimens, remain even to this day amongst the finest black and white illustrations of the kind which we possess. Their effect therefore at the time of their appearance,{ and for many years after- wards, may be easily understood, and this, coupled with the fact of Bewick’s general renown as an artist and with the charm of the curious and often beautiful tail-pieces with which he and his pupils adorned his work, made * «* Memoir of Thomas Bewick,”’ p. 162. + Newton, “ Dict. of Birds,” Introd., p. 19. { Pennant’s fourth edition of the “ British Zoology,” which appeared in 1776, contained numerous plates of birds, but they were not very successful. SOME EARLY BRITISH ORNITHOLOGISTS. 355 his name one to be ever associated with the study of British ornithology. Claims to be considered a scientific naturalist he had none, and yet his works will be remembered and revered, when those of far more erudite and accomplished writers have passed away. Many books have been written about Thomas Bewick, his art, and his “life and times,” but by far the best account of the artist and his work is to be derived from the “ Memoir” which he compiled between the years 1822 and 1828, and on which he was still engaged at the time of his death.* It was written for the information of his daughter Jane and her brother and sisters, and is a bulky volume of some 316 pages. From it we learn that Thomas Bewick was born in August, 1753,+ at his father’s house of Cherryburn, near Eltringham, in Northumberland, and was baptized at the neighbouring church of Ovingham, on August 19th of that same year. Thomas was the eldest son of John Bewick, who farmed some eight acres of land at Cherryburn, and leased a small colliery at Mickley Bank. Of Bewick’s somewhat tempestuous youth it is here necessary to say but little; he was educated first at Mickley School, and afterwards by the Rev. C. Gregson, of Ovingdean. At a very early age he developed a taste for drawing, and in spite of constant reproof for ‘“misspending ”’ his time, he tells us that “many of my evenings at home were spent in filling the flags of the floor and the hearthstone with my chalky designs.” From this the transition to pen and ink, and brush and colour, was rapid ; and the young artist soon commenced to decorate the walls of his neighbours’ houses with rude pictures, chiefly consisting of hunting scenes. At the age of fourteen young Bewick was apprenticed to Ralph Beilby, of Newcastle, an engraver i'n a considerable way of business. Under Beilby’s tuition Bewick soon began * The ‘“‘ Memoir” was first published in 1862 and again in 1887. + Bewick kept his birthday on August 12th, but there is a doubt about the exact date. 354 BRITISH BIRDS. to excel as an engraver, and the firm having been “ applied to by printers to execute wood-cuts for them,’’* Beilby, who had no liking for this branch of engraving, entrusted the execution of the blocks to Bewick, who made so good a job of it that henceforward orders for this particular sort of work increased rapidly. Bewick’s progress in engraving was so rapid, and was so well thought of by his master, that he sent some of his apprentice’s cuts, executed for “Select Fables,’ to the “Society for the Encouragement of Arts,’ and for these Bewick received a premium of seven guineas. In 1774 Bewick’s apprentice- ship came to an end, and he commenced to work on his own account, chiefly for Newcastle printers, till the middle of 1776. In the summer of that year he made an ex- pedition to Scotland, travelling on foot, and afterwards went to London, where he arrived in October, 1776. Bewick disliked the Metropolis, and returning to Newcastle next year, entered into partnership with his former master, Ralph Beilby. For some years Bewick continued to busy himself with the ordinary work of his profession, but at length having come to the conclusion that the figures of animals, as they were represented in the children’s books then available, were very inferior, he resolved to try what he could do in that direction, and on the advice of his friend, Solomon Hodgson, book- seller and editor of the ‘‘ Newcastle Chronicle,’ he commenced on November 15th, 1785, to cut the figure of the dromedary,f the first of a series of wood-cuts for the ‘“ History of Quadrupeds,” which was published in 1790.£ While Bewick was engaged in drawing and cutting the figures for the “‘ History of Quadrupeds ”’ his partner, who was of “a bookish or reading turn, proposed to write or compile the descriptions, but not knowing much about natural history we got books on that subject to enable / * Memoir,’ p. 59: + Those animals which were not familiar to Bewick were copied from Dr. Smellie’s ‘‘ Abridgment of Buffon.” t It reached an eighth edition in 1824. HISTORY OF BRITISH BIRDS. THE FIGURES ENGRAVED ON WOOD BY T. BEWICK. ———— EE, ee VOEF: CONTAINING THE HISTORY AND DESCRIPTION OF LAND BIRDS. $$ Oo 8 RS SoA oF TS BES 280, N a Aiea Salts Sia Aes He Nay Me. oS a tah = ‘ ALN eee a ie Se Se er a ? ND YS SA aie Oo cher od BO. Rb Be iAP 9) Goa NEWCASTLE: PRINTED BY §0L. HODGSON, FOR BEILBY & BEWICK?: SOLD BY THEM, AND c. Gc. & J). ROBINSON, LONDON. {Price il. 1s. in Boards.) 3797- GEORGE MONTAGU, from the Original Miniature in the possession of the Linnzan Society, London. SOME EARLY BRITISH ORNITHOLOGISTS. 357 him to form a better notion of these matters.” These descriptions Bewick helped to revise and correct. When, however, the title page was in preparation, Beilby wished to appear as the author, and desired the book to be announced as being “ by R. Beilby ” ;- but although this idea was abandoned through the influence of Mr. Hodgson, the foundation of the quarrel between Bewick and Beilby was commenced, which finally led to the dissolution of their partnership. The ‘History of Quadrupeds ”’ proved so great a success, being appreciated by young and old alike, that Bewick began to turn his thoughts to a “History of British Birds.”* For this purpose he commenced to study various works on the subject, and informs us that ‘“‘in addition to Pennant’s works, [he] perused ‘ Albin’s History of Birds,’ Belon’s very old book,+ Willoughby and Ray, ete. Mr. John Rotherham gave me ‘ Gesner’s Natural History,’ with some of these I was in raptures. Willoughby and Ray struck me as having led the way to truth and to British Ornithology. .... 1 was much pleased with ‘ White’s History of Selborne.’ Pennant, however, opened out the largest field of information, and on his works I bestowed the most attention. The last of our ornithologists, and one of the most indefatigible, was the late Col. George Montagu, author of the ‘ Ornithological Dictionary ’”’ (Memoir, pp. 161, 162.) In addition to the time he devoted to the works above mentioned, Bewick, who at the beginning of his undertaking had made up his mind “to copy nothing from the works of others, but to stick to Nature as closely as I could,” availed himself of an invitation from Mr. Constable, the owner of ‘‘ Wycliffe,” * This project was, however, in full consideration in 1790, vide letter from John Bewick (1760-1795). Robinson’s ‘‘ Thomas Bewick : his Life and Times,”’ p. 94. + L’Histoire de la Nature des Oyseaux, avec leurs descriptions, & naifs portraicts. . . . Par Pierre Belon du Mans, Paris, 1555. 1 vol. folio. This work of Belon’s, though not so diffuse as Conrad Gesner’s ‘*‘ Historia Avium ”’ of the same date, is nevertheless the most trustworthy authority of that period. 358 BRITISH BIRDS. to visit the museum there, which contained the collection of birds formed by Marmaduke Tunstall.* For nearly two months Bewick remained at ‘ Wycliffe,” making drawings from the specimens there (some of these being in water-colour) and commenced to engrave from them as soon as he returned to Newcastle. Finding, however, “the very great difference between preserved specimens and those from Nature ... . I never felt satisfied with them ... . and was driven to wait for birds newly shot or brought to me alive.” All this, of course, involved considerable delay, but “‘ after working many a late hour upon the cuts” the first volume of “ British Birds,” entitled “‘ Land Birds,”’ appeared in 1797. “ Mr. Beilby,” as Bewick tells us (Memoir, p. 171), “ undertook the writing or compilation of this (the first) volume, in which I assisted him a great deal more than I had done with the * Quadrupeds.’”’ Bewick was therefore surprised to find that Beilby was determined on being recognised as the sole author of the book. To this claim Bewick strongly objected, and although through the intervention of mutual friends, the title-page of the first volume merely bore the legend ‘ Printed ... for Beilby and Bewick,” neither of them being named as authors,t they found it impossible to work in harmony any longer, and their partnership was dissolved, Bewick buying up Beilby’s share in the “‘ Quadrupeds ”’ and the first volume of the ~ Birds.” Bewick was now thrown upon his own resources as an author, and by consulting all the available authorities, and making use of his own knowledge and observations, he composed the text of the second volume, entitled ‘ Water-Birds.” This appeared in 1804, and in the preface Bewick states that ‘“‘ owing to a separation of * Marmaduke Tunstall (1743-1790), the anonymous author of ,the ‘* Ornithologica Britannica,’’ London, 1771, 1 vol. folio. For an account ot his life, vide Fox’s ‘“‘Synopsis of the Newcastle Museum,”’ where his collection now is. It was for this same Marmaduke Tunstall that ipl had in 1789 executed his famous wood-cut of the ‘‘ Chillingham u bah tT cf. conclusion of Preface to Ist vol. ‘‘ British Birds.”’ SOME EARLY BRITISH ORNITHOLOGISTS.: 359 interests between the editors .... the compilation and completion of the present work devolved upon one alone.’ He also acknowledges his obligations to the Rev. H. Coates, the vicar of Bedlington, for “ literary corrections.” A facsimile title-page of the first volume of the first edition of ‘“ British Birds” is here given, that of the second volume is somewhat similar, but Beilby’s name does not appear in it. The collation of the book is as follows :— Vol. 1; pp. XXX., title, preface, introduction and contents, + pp. 335, -+ 117 figures of birds, and 91 tail- pieces. Vol. 2; pp. XX. -+ pp. 400, -+ 101 figures of birds, and 139 vignettes. The first edition was printed on paper of three different sizes, viz., imperial, royal, and demy 8vo, that of the latter size being of two qualities, thick and thin. The publishing prices were 21s., 18s., 13s., and 10s. 6d. respectively, and of the imperial paper copies (of the first issue) only twenty-four were printed. The prices of the second volume being 24s., 18s., and 12s. Of the first volume of the ‘“‘ British Birds’? there were two issues, both bearing the same date, viz., 1797; the second issue being, thowever, printed in 1798. The first issue may be determined from the fact that on the reverse of page 335 the third edition of ‘‘ Bewick’s Quadrupeds ” is announced, while in the second, the fourth is advertised.* The success of the “ History of British Birds ”’ was immediate and complete, six editions were issued in Bewick’s lifetime, and in the year 1847, an eighth,f edited by John Hancock with great skill, and containing some twenty extra tail-pieces, which Bewick had executed for a projected “ History of British Fishes,” * For further particulars, cf. Newton, ‘* Dict. Birds,”’ Introd., p. 20. + Dates of the eight editions of Bewick’s ‘‘ Birds” are as follows :— Ist, 1797-1804; 2nd, 1805; 3rd, 1809; 4th, 1816; 5th, 1821 (with Supplement); 6th, 1826; 7th, 1832; 8th and last, 1847. 360 BRITISH BIRDS. appeared, this edition being in many respects the best. The “ Birds ” marked Bewick’s high-water mark as an artist, the only book of any real importance which he subsequently produced being ‘“‘ Aisop’s Fables,” in 1818. As has above been mentioned, the value of the ‘“* History of British Birds ” rests on its wood-cuts alone, and although it has been frequently stated that Bewick had from his youth upwards a great leaning towards the study of birds, a careful investigation seems to show that he only possessed the ordinary interest in Nature common to most intelligent boys brought up in the country; indeed, on his own showing his chief delight as a youth consisted in joining the local “‘ hunting parties,”’ and in observing the habits of the various “ beasts of the chase.” It is true that in his ‘“‘ Memoir” he makes some not infrequent mentions of his early observations and interest in orni- thology, and he further enlarges on this subject in the preface to the sixth edition of his “ Birds”; but it was only in human nature that a man who had seen edition after edition of his ornithological writings eagerly absorbed by the public, should come to consider himself as a zoologist, both by inclination as well as study. Be this as it may, the excellence of his wood-cuts* stands out beyond all doubt or question, and the debt we owe to the memory of Thomas Bewick is great and lasting. Of the remainder of Thomas Bewick’s life we can here make but the briefest mention. His wife (Isabella Elhot, of Ovingdean), whom he had married in 1786, died in 1826, and in November, 1828, at the ripe old age of seventy-five, he followed her to the grave, and lies buried by her side in Ovingham churchyard, ‘“ at the west end of the church near the steeple.” He continued working * Although Bewick seems to have been the first engraver to use wood-blocks for the representation of birds with any signal success, the process had, of course, been made use of on the Continent for that purpose, while in this country it had already been employed in 1743 to illustrate a work entitled ‘Ornithologia Nova: or a new General History of Birds,” a second edition of which, with a somewhat different title, appeared in 1745. SOME EARLY BRITISH ORNITHOLOGISTS. 361 to the close of his busy life, and when seized with his. fatal illness was engaged on a large block entitled, ‘‘ The Old Horse waiting for Death.” George Montagu, whose *“ Ornithological Dictionary ” has already been referred to, as having been issued while Bewick was engaged on the compilation of the second volume of his “ Birds,” was born at lLackham, in Wiltshire, in 1751. He entered the army at an early age, and served as a captain in the 15th Regiment of Foot during the American War. He afterwards settled down at Easton Grey, in Wilts, and became acting colonel of the County Militia. He died at Kingsbridge, in Devonshire, in August, 1815. Montagu was a. prolific writer,* but his reputation rests on his ‘‘ Ornithological Dictionary,” a work so able and so well-known that it is only necessary to say that its merits have been as widely acknowledged abroad as at home; and to quote Coues’ dictum “‘It is one of the most notable treatises on British Birds, as a vade mecum which has held its place at: a thousand elbows for three-quarters of a century.” The full title of the book is as follows :— Ornithological Dictionary; / or, / Alphabetical Synopsis / of / British Birds. / By / George Montagu, F.L.S. / In two volumes, / Vol. I. [Vol. II.]. London: / Printed for J. White, Fleet Street, / by T. Bensly, Bolt Court. / 1802. Two Vols. 8vo. Collation: Vol. I. pp. 2 un. + pp. XLIII., -+ pp. un. (being sheets B-Y) + Slip of Errata. Plate of Cirl Bunting. Vol. II., Title -- pp. un. (sheets. B-Y) + Slip of Errata. A supplement (unpaged) exceeding in bulk the two volumes of the original edition, with 24 plates, was issued by Col. Montagu in 1813; and there were numerous editions and re-issues after his death. * For alist of his works on Natural History vide *‘ Agassiz,’’ Vol. III.,. p. 614. ( 362 ) MARKING BIRDS: NOTES ON THE WORK AT THE ROSSITTEN STATION. 154 A. LANDSBOROUGH THOMSON. From time to time references have been made in the pages of British Brrps * to the work of the various investigators who are endeavouring to obtain fuller and more accurate data with regard to migration, by liberating birds marked with metal foot-rings. It may be of in- terest, however, to give a fuller account of the methods employed, and of these I was able to gain some knowledge during a couple of weeks’ stay last autumn (1908) at Rossitten, on the Baltic. Some details of the results cbtained there may indicate what may be looked for by following similar lines of research. A word about the situation of Rossitten: at the very south-eastern corner of the Baltic, the River Niemen (or Memel) flows through many mouths into a large lagoon—the Kurisches Haff. This lagoon is connected with the sea by a narrow channel at one end, and for the remainder of its length is separated only by a tongue of land, or Nehrung, about sixty miles long by from less than half a mile to more than two miles broad. It is among the “ wandering ”’ dunes—the highest in Kurope— on the Kurische Nehrung, that the little out-of-the-way fishing village of Rossitten lies. And it is there that the German Ornithological Society has established its per- manent Vogelwarte, or ornithological station. Lying in the midst of a large tract of uninviting country, the neighbourhood of Rossitten, combining as it does within a small area, examples of many different types of country —woods, meadows, sandy wastes, ponds, marshes, reed- beds, open shore, and cultivated land—may be regarded as a sort of oasis where vast numbers of resting mi- * Vol. I., pp. 58, 298, 326; Vol. II., pp. 35, 171, 245, and 246, A. L. THOMSON: MARKING BIRDS. 363 grants of widely different needs and habits congregate. So great is the number of migrants passing along the Nehrung, and so large the proportion that break their journey at Rossitten, that, as a station from which to observe migration, it is now regarded as rivalling, if not sur- passing, the more famous Heligoland, being inferior only in that it is less easily searched. For five years now Dr. Thienemann, director of the Vogelwarte, has been actively engaged in marking birds at Rossitten. The mark employed consists of a strip of aluminium bent into the form of a ring, with the two ends pro- jecting outwards together where they meet, and fastened by folding one of these ends over the other. The inscription engraved on these rings varies with the size of the ring. On the Crow and Gull sizes it reads : “ Vogelwarte, Rossitten,” followed by a number. On the larger sizes, for Storks, etc., ‘“‘ Germania,’ or even ‘** Ost-Preussen Germania,” is added. On the smaller sizes, for Terns, small Waders, small Passerine birds, etc., there is no room for anything except the number, and consequently very little success has been obtained with these birds. The difficulty lies entirely with the finder of the bird—once sent in to the Vogelwarte it is easy to tell whether the ring is a Rossitten one or not. This indicates the need for a new pattern of ring for small birds. Dr. Thienemann has rejected the idea of a metal label attached to the ring; such a label would interfere with the bird too much, and would create a doubt as to whether results thus obtained could be regarded as normal. Birds are procured for marking at Rossitten in two ways. A large number of birds are marked as nestlings, not only at Rossitten, but also in other parts of East Prussia. The other method is to capture resting ‘migrants, mark them, and then let them continue their journey. Large numbers of Hooded Crows are 564 BRITISH BIRDS. marked in this way every autumn. Huge flocks of these birds pass along the Nehrung at this season, and large numbers are ingeniously netted—and bitten to death (!)— by the Rossitten natives, who preserve them for winter food. Many of the birds thus caught uninjured are not killed, but are sold alive to the Vogelwarte for marking and liberation. About 8 per cent. of these marked Crows are killed or recaptured by persons who send them, or the rings and feet, or at least notice of the capture, to Rossitten. This proportion of returns is far larger than was originally expected, and it will probably come as a surprise to many. The only other figures I have seen are those quoted on p. 246 of this volume of BritisH Brrps: the returns for a species so much shot as the Woodcock are shown to be scarcely more than 5 per cent. The insufficient “‘ address ” given on the rings in that case must, however, be taken into account. It must also be remembered that on the Continent the Hooded Crow has almost the status of a ‘‘ game bird,” shooting Crows decoyed by a captive Eagle-Owl being a recognised and popular form of sport. To show the value of bird-marking I conclude by giving short summaries of the results obtained at Rossitten in the case of a few species, beginning with the Hooded Crow (Corvus cornix). The places from which these Crows, marked while stopping on migration at Rossitten, have been again recorded, lie within a broad belt of country extending from southern Finland and the St. Petersburg district of Russia, southwards through Livonia and Courland to Rossitten, and then westwards, still bounded on one side by the Baltic, through northern Germany, and _ ter- minating in the north-eastern corner of France (Solesmes). The most northerly point from which one of these marked birds has been recorded is Wiisala, in the Government of St. Michel, Finland (April 20th, 1907: liberated October 12th, 1905). From a large number of records I select, as fairly representative of the whole series, those Pa~ A. L. THOMSON: MARKING BIRDS. 365 of birds which were liberated—along with nearly a hundred others not heard of again—at Rossitten on the same day, October 4th, 1906. DATE AND PLACE OF RECAPTURE. Feb., 1907. Friedland, Mecklenburg-Strelitz, 9th April, 1907. Agilla, East Prussia. 12th April, 1907. Lalendorf, Mecklenburg-Schwerin. 14th May, 1907. Watnoden, Courland. 9th June, 1907. Rossitten. 12th Oct., 1907. Pernau, Livonia. 7th Dec., 1907. Crefeld, Rheinland. There are some interesting records of birds marked about the same time and again recorded about the same time from the same place :— MARKED AT ROSSITTEN. RECORDED AT AGILLA, FAST PRUSSIA, 4th Oct., 1906. 9th April, 1907. 8th Oct., 1906. 14th April, 1907. RECORDED AT SARKAU, KURISCHE NEHRUNG. 9th Oct., 1904. 12th Oct., 1905. 20th Oct., 1904. 16th Oct., 1905. The second couple of these records also shows that the birds passed along the Nehrung at almost the same time in the autumn of 1905 as in the previous season. Three records which bear upon the time taken upon migration, give rather different results :— MARKED AT ROSSITTEN. DaTE AND PLACE OF RECAPTURE. 28th March, 1904. 31st March, 1904, Pillkoppen, Kur. Neh. 16th April, 1904. 17th April, 1904 (morning), Pillkoppen (6.30 p.m.) (ca. six miles north-easterly from Rossitten. ) 18th April, 1904. 26th April, 1904, Peterhof, St. Petersb. The fact that it was later in the season may account for the much greater distance in proportion to the time, in the last case than in the first. 566 BRITISH BIRDS. The longest time, so far, between the liberation of a marked Crow and its recapture, is four years and a week : liberated at Rossitten, October 12th, 1903; shot at the mouth of the Vistula, October 20th, 1907. The proportion of marked birds again recorded is even greater among the Gulls than among the Crows, but this is partly explained by the commonness of gull-shooting as a form of “sport”? on .the Continent. Moreover, one of these larger-sized rings would be visible on a bird at some distance. The proportions, as reckoned about eighteen months ago, were 12.5 per cent. and 16.6 per cent. for Herring-Gulls (Larus argentatus), and Common Gulls (L. canus) respectively. One of the latter species marked at Rossitten was obtained in the Far6es, so that it is probable that some Rossitten birds may reach the British Isles. Although the proportion is smaller among the Black- headed Gulls (L. ridibundus) the total number of returns is greater as these birds are marked in large numbers as nestlings in a colony at Rossitten. The records have shown that, on the approach of winter the birds of this colony cross Europe by two routes. One leads south- wards, following the Vistula at first it is supposed, over Vienna and Trieste to the Adriatic, where quite a number have been recorded near the mouth of the Po. One, also, has been obtained in the south of Italy, and a bird marked on July 26th, 1907, was obtained near Tunis on January 12th, 1908. The other route follows the Baltic coast westwards, crosses to the North Sea, follows the Rhine upwards, and reaches the Mediterranean by the Lake of Geneva and the valley of the Rhone. Storks (Ciconia alba) have been marked in considerable numbers, as nestlings, in East Prussia and elsewhere. Among those returned are a few from different parts of Africa. These include one of a brood of three marked by Dr. Thienemann near Konigsberg on June 21st, 1906, and one of a brood of three marked near KoOslin, in Pomerania, on July 5th, 1907. The ringed foot of A. L. THOMSON: MARKING BIRDS. 367 the first of these was brought by a native to a French officer near Lake Chad in October, 1906. The other, having left for the south on the 25th or 26th of August, when it had been about a fortnight out of the nest, was obtained that winter near Fort Jameson, in north-eastern Rhodesia: the record came to Dr. Thienemann’s notice through a note in the “ Field” for January 25th, 1908 (p. 150). For reasons already explained the returns for the smaller species are disappointing, but there are a few isolated records of interest. A Dunlin (Tringa alpina), for instance, was marked at Rossitten on September 5th, 1904, and recorded on the 22nd of the same month, from the Arenholzer See in Schleswig- Holstein. The director of the Vogelwarte earnestly requests that anyone finding one of his marked birds, will send him the ring and foot, or at least the ring, with full particulars as to date and place of capture.* * The Editors will be glad to forward any information - to Dr. Thienemann, and to publish in these pages the data relating to the capture of any marked birds in the British Islands. ( 368 ) ON THE MORE IMPORTANT ADDITIONS TO OUR KNOWLEDGE OF BRITISH BIRDS SINCE 1899. BY H. F. WITHERBY ann N. F. TICEHURST. Parr XIX. (Continued from page 334.) BLACK-NECKED GREBE Podicipes nigricollis C. L. Brehm. S. page 723. OXFORDSHIRE.—A pair shot on a large pond near Bloxham on September 19th, 1899, were thought to have bred, or attempted to breed, somewhere in the district (O. V. Aplin, Ibis, 1902, p. 165, and Zool., 1903, p. 10). It was reported by Mr. Aplin in 1904 that some well-known ornithologists, who wished to remain anonymous, had discovered that several pairs of these birds nested and reared their young that year in Britain. The birds were on a shallow lake surrounded with marshy ground. Early in June four pairs were seen with one, two, two, and three young respec- tively, in one part of the lake, while further off was a fifth pair with rather larger young and two unattached adults (O. V. Aplin, Zool., 1904, pp. 417-420). In 1906 Mr. Aplin announced that he had himself been able to pay a visit to the place, and had seen four or five adult birds in full breeding plumage, but they had not at that time, he thought, yet hatched their young (t.c., 1906, p. 315). MirppLesex.—The plate in Sowerby’s “ British Miscellany ” of a male and female Grebe with nest and eggs taken on a pond on Chelsea Common in 1805, and ascribed by Mr. Harting (Birds of Middlesex, p. 244, and Handbook, p. 269) to this species, is stated by Mr. Aplin to represent Little Grebes in summer plumage (Zool., 1904, p. 266). CHESHIRE.—One was shot on Dee Marshes, near Chester, in November, 1906 (A. Newstead, f.c., 1907, p. 153). LaNcASHIRE.—An adult male in full summer plumage was caught alive on a pond at Middleton, near Lancaster, on July 28th, 1904 (H. W. Robinson, t.c., 1904, p. 350). NortTHUMBERLAND.—Two seen in the middle of June were in winter plumage (A. Chapman, birdlife of the Borders, 2nd ed., p- 94). ADDITIONS SINCE 1899. 369 ScoTLaND.—One was shot at Lendalfoot (Ayr) on January 27th, 1906. The species had not previously been recorded in the Clyde area (Ann. S.N.H., 1907, p. 207). IRELAND.—A male “coming into summer plumage” was shot on Belfast Lough on February 28th, 1907 (W. H. Work- man, Zool., 1907, p. 111). Has been obtained in twenty- four instances (R. J. Ussher, List of Irish Birds, p. 53). Food.—In the stomach of one shot March 2nd, 1898, at Strathbeg (Dee area), were found many feathers, amongst which were numbers of a _ stalk-eyed crustacean | (ysis vulgaris), showing that though killed on a loch, it had shortly before been feeding in the sea (G. Sim, Vert. Fauna of Dee, p..) 190). STORM-PETREL Procellaria pelagica L. S. page 727. BREEDING ON THE East Coast.—A pair, at first thought to be Fork-tailed Petrels, but afterwards identified as of this species, were found breeding on the Bass Rock in 1904 (H.N. Bonar, Field, 1904, pp. 908 and 983; W. E. Clarke, Ann. S.N.H., 1905, p. 55). LEACH’S FORK-TAILED PETREL Oceanodroma leucorrhoa (Viedll.). S. page 729. Fuannan Isitanps (OuTER HEBRIDES).—Regarded as the chief breeding stations of the species in the British Isles. On Eilean Mor they are more plentiful than the Storm-Petrel. They lay earlier—the first eggs being found on May 29th, but their nesting habits are similar. The chicks are sooty- black and much darker than those of the Storm-Petrel (W. Eagle Clarke, Ann. S.N.H., 1905, p. 86). IRELAND.—A very few have been found breeding on islands off Mayo and Kerry (R. J. Ussher, List of I. Birds, p. 53). MADEIRAN FORK-TAILED PETREL Oceanodroma castro (Harcourt). S. page 731. A female (the second British example) was shot near Hythe, Kent, on November 8th, 1906, while flitting along the shore in a tired manner after a heavy south-westerly gale (N. F. Ticehurst, Bull. B.O.C., XIX., p. 20). WILSON’S PETREL Oceanites oceanicus (Kuhl). S. page 733. [Surrey.—Four specimens in the Charterhouse Collection are said to have been killed on Godalming Pease Marsh, after 370 BRITISH BIRDS. a very severe storm, but no dates are given, and Mr. Bucknill does not consider them to be sufficiently authenticated (J. A. Bucknill, B. of Surrey, p. 352).] GREAT SHEARWATER Puffinus gravis (O'Reilly). S. page 737. Scitty Istus.—A fairly regular visitor in flocks during autumn and winter to the seas around the islands. Never seen among the islands (J. Clark and F. R. Rodd, f.c., 1906, p. 346). SuFFOLK.—One was obtained off Lowestoft in November, 1898 (T. Southwell, Knowledge, 1899, p. 41). LINCOLNSHIRE.—About November 27th, 1902, a male was shot near the mouth of the River Welland (F. L. Blathwayt, Zool., 1903, p. 30). YORKSHIRE.—Autumn, 1904, a female at Scarborough. A number of examples obtained prior to 1899 are also detailed (T. H. Nelson, B. of Yorks., p. 754). ScorLanp.—On June 27th, 1894, between the Butt of Lewis and North Rona forty to sixty pairs were seen, “ nearly each pair sitting [on the water] lovingly together.”” On June 24th, 1895, between Barra Head and St. Kilda over fifty pairs were seen sitting on the sea in pairs. A specimen was killed by a fisherman on August 7th, 1897, and two others in the fourth week of July, 1899, near St. Kilda (Alfred Newton, Ann. S.N.H., 1900, pp. 142-147). One was obtained from a small flock in the Summer Islands, Loch Broom,on October 31st, 1897 (J. T. Henderson, f.c., 1906, p. 114). A few were seen off the Flannans on September 21st, 1904 (W. E. Clarke, t.c., 1905, p. 86). TRELAND.—In September, 1900, when cruising off the coasts of Kerry, Cork, and Waterford, Mr. H. Becher found this species surprisingly numerous ; on several days he saw eight or ten (R. J. Ussher, J. Nat., 1901, pp. 42-43). On September 9th, 1901, the same observer sailed into a flock of two to three hundred of these birds between Cape Clear and Mizen Head and shot four. On September 13th he again saw large numbers, both off Valentia and between the Blaskets and Skelligs (id., t.c., 1905, p. 48). In 1906 Mr. G. P. Farran saw many in August off co. Kerry, and on November Ist off co. Cork ; and several on November 6th off co. Kerry (id., t.c., 1907, pp. 163 and 184). In 1907 the same observer saw off the same coast many in August, a few in September, several in November, and in 1908 two in August and many in November (id., t.¢., 1909, p. 80). ADDITIONS SINCE 1899. 371 Moult and Habits.—In the specimens recorded above under Scotland, as taken in July and August, Professor Newton found that the primaries were all new and only partially grown, and he concludes that the birds were practically incapable of flight (loc. cit.). The birds observed in June, 1894, were subsequently seen by Mr. H. L. Popham, who reports that “there were no young birds amongst them, but the old birds could scarcely fly, having apparently moulted out their primaries ”’ (cf. Trans. Roy. Irish Acad., XX XI., Pt. III., p. 72). Howard Saunders, in replying to a question of Newton’s as to the statement in the “‘ Manual” that this bird strikes the water with great violence on alighting, gives as his authority Captain J. W. Collins, who had had remarkable opportunities for observing this species on the American fishing banks. The habit had also been observed by Mr. R. Warren (cf. Zool., 1894, p. 22). Mr. Saunders further remarks that Captain Collins stated that the primaries and other flight-feathers of this species were shed and renewed somewhat abruptly from the end of June to the latter part of July, and that Baron d’Hamonville had drawn attention to the rapid moult of the flight-feathers in the Manx Shearwater (Howard Saunders, t.c., 1901, pp. 15-18). SOOTY SHEARWATER Puffinus griseus (J. F. Gm.). S. page 739. CoRNWALL.—One was shot near Looe on August 21st, 1899 (J. Clark, Zool., 1907, p. 287). YORKSHIRE.—*‘ Now known to be a fairly regular visitant to the Yorkshire coast in autumn and winter” (T. H. Nelson, B. of Yorks., p. 756). Records since 1899 :—A male and female October 2nd, 1901, one October Ist, one October 4th, 1904, all off Scarborough (W. J. Clarke, Zool., 1901, p. 477, 1905, p. 74). Others reported in 1904 off Flamborough and Bridlington (T. H. Nelson, t.c., p. 758). Mr. Clarke also in- forms us that he obtained another example also off the coast of Scarborough on October 6th, 1908. KENT AND SUSSEX, cf. supra, p. 243.—Three recent occur- rences. ScoTLAND.—A female was captured in Stromness Harbour on October 16th, 1902. Of extreme rareness in Scottish seas, this bird is new to the fauna of the Orkneys (W. E. Clarke, Ann. S.N.H., 1903, p. 25). In the mouth of the Firth of Forth Mr. William Evans is disposed to consider it “a fairly regular, though usually far from common, autumn visitant.”’ It appears that only two specimens have been preserved, but 372 BRITISH BIRDS. Mr. Evans bases his opinion on his own personal observations and those of fishermen who know the bird well, and have frequently seen it, though usually in small numbers. In 1902 it appears to have been specially numerous, about a dozen being seen at one time (W. Evans, f.c., 1903, pp. 26-28). IRELAND.—A good many were seen during September, 1900, by Mr. H. Becher when cruising off the coasts of Kerry, Cork, and Waterford (R. J. Ussher, J. Nat., 1901, pp. 42-43). Great numbers were seen by the same observer in September, 1901, and four were shot. ‘‘ The observations of Mr. Becher in 1892, 1899, 1900 and 1901, go to show that both [Great and Sooty] these oceanic species may be met with in August and September off the south-west extremity of Ireland, and some- times in considerable numbers.’”’ One was shot off Achill Island on May 22nd, 1901 (2d., t.c., 1905, p. 43). MANX SHEARWATER Puffinus anglorum (Temm.). S. page 741. Scitty Istanps.—Breeds on Annett in “ prodigious numbers ” (J. Clark and F. R. Rodd, Zool., 1906, p. 346). NortH Wa.eEs.—Bardsey Island.—Mr. O. V. Aplin in 1901 found a considerable breeding colony on the north-east end of the island (f.c., 1902, p. 16), and they undoubtedly breed on the mainland of West Carnarvonshire (idem, t.c., 1900, p- 505). IRELAND.—On June 18th, 1904,when crossing from Liverpool to Belfast, Mr. R. Lloyd Patterson saw a large assemblage of between 150 and 200 in the early morning a few miles off the Skullmartin Lightship, near the coast of co. Down (Irish Nat., 1904, p. 171). The September migrations of this species are deserving of closer study than they appear to have received. There are a number of scattered records referring to these migrations but they are not sufficiently continuous to allow of any conclusion being drawn from them. LEVANTINE SHEARWATER Puffinus yelkouanus (Acerbi). S. page 741. The occurrences of this species have already been dealt with (antea, pp. 138, 206-208, 313). Mr. T. H. Nelson points out that in the ‘‘ Birds of Yorkshire’ it is recorded that three examples were obtained in 1904 (only two were mentioned on p. 207), but no details are given. MDDIFIONS-~ SINCE “1899: 373 LITTLE DUSKY SHEARWATER Puffinus assimilis Gould. S. page 743. Puffinus obscurus bailloni, Bp., Rothschild and Hartert, Nov. Zool., VI. (1899), p. 196. Puffinus baillont, Bp., Godman, Monograph Petrels, pp. 138-141. Messrs. Rothschild and Hartert separate the Australian form P. assimilis from the African form P. bailloni, and Dr. Godman, who coincides in this view, states that in the latter bird the quill-lining is greyish, or ashy-white, and not of such a pure white as in P. assimilis, while the lateral feathers of the under tail-coverts are more or less black along their outer webs and not entirely white as in P. assimilis. Dr. Godman considers that the British examples are referable to the Madeiran form. The third British example was a female picked up exhausted on the beach near Bexhill during the severe gale from the W.S.W. on December 28th, 1900. The bird was shown to belong to the form P. obscurus bailloni (W. R. Butterfield, Bull B:0:C., Xl», p. 45). The fourth example—a male—was caught alive near Lydd, Kent, after the disastrous south-westerly gale of November 26th—-27th, 1905 (N. F. Ticehurst, t.c., XVI., p. 38). BULWER’S PETREL Bulweria bulweri (Jard. and Selby). S. page 749. The second British example was picked up dead near Beachy Head, Sussex, on February 3rd, 1903, after a succession of strong south-westerly gales (N. F. Ticehurst, Bull. B.O.C., XW po). The third—a female—was found dead on the shore near St. Leonard’s-on-Sea, Sussex, on February 4th, 1904, also after prolonged south-westerly gales (W. R. Butterfield, t.c., XV: p: 49). The fourth, vide antea, p. 282. FULMAR Fulmarus glacialis (L.). S. page 751. Breeding Stations. FLannAN Is_es.—Reported as breeding (J. A. Harvie- Brown, Ann. S.N.H., 1903, p. 19). A few pairs have bred on the outer islands for several years, and in 1904 two couples had nests on Eilean Mor (W. E. Clarke, #.c., 1905, p. 86). 374 BRITISH BIRDS. Barra.—Birds were seen in 1899, and in 1902 eggs were actually seen, while in 1906 there were from eight to twelve pairs breeding (N. B. Kinnear, f.c., 1907, p. 85). SUTHERLANDSHIRE.—In 1897 Fulmars were seen on June 19th and 30th by Mr. Eagle Clarke about a mile to the east of Cape Wrath, and again at the same place on July 10th, 1900, by Mr. Howard Saunders, and they both considered that the birds were then nesting there (Ann. S.N.H., 1897, p. 254, 1901, p. 50). A colony was established during 1901 (or possibly a year sooner 7), 1902, and 1903 on Handa (ef. J. A. Harvie-Brown, Fauna N.W. Highlands and Skye, pp. 355-361, where a very full account of the extension of this bird’s range in Scotland and its status up till 1904 will be found). CaITHNESS.—First observed at Dunnet Head in 1900. Have gradually increased in numbers since. About thirty pairs there now (J. A. Harvie-Brown, Ann. S.N.H., 1907, pits): SHETLANDS.—In 1903 there were eight or nine actually occupied nesting sites (J. A. Harvie-Brown, Fauna N.W. Highlands and Skye, p. 359). Fair Isle-—In 1902 it was present during the summer: in 1903 about a dozen pairs bred, since which it has thoroughly established itself (W. E. Clarke, t.c., 1906, p. 80). Whalsay and Yell.—Found breeding in 1906 (J. S. Tulloch, t.c., 1906, p. 240). Futful Head.—A pair or two first seen in 1900, now (1905) about thirty pairs nesting (N. B. Kinnear, t.c., 1905, p. 246). OrKNEyS.—A number building nests June 8th, 1901 (t.c., 1902, p. 199). Since 1891 two localities in Orkney, one of which is Hoy Head, have been occupied (J. A. Harvie- Brown, Fauna N.W. Highlands and Skye). Thirty or forty nests in 1901 at Hoy Head; over fifty in 1902 (Ann. S.N.H., 1904, p. 94). Several pairs were discovered during the summer of 1907 frequenting the cliffs between Stromness and the Bay of Skaill, in Orkney. This is believed to be the first record from this locality (J. Walpole-Bond, Country Side, 7, 5 ai Gr LTR In connection with the very marked and steady increase of this bird as a breeding species in Scotland, it should be remarked that a great increase has taken place in its numbers in the St. Kilda group, and this may partly account for the establishing of new nesting colonies (cf. J. A. Harvie-Brown, Ann. 8.N.H., 1903, p. 19): . ITRELAND.—“‘ Frequently met with at all seasons on the Atlantic . . . . rarely comes to land” (R. J. Ussher, last ADDITIONS SINCE 1899. 375 of I. Birds, p. 54). In 1906 Mr. G. P. Farran saw a few off co. Cork on November Ist, off co. Kerry on November 6th (id., t.c., 1907, p. 163), while he also noticed them in May and August of the same year, and in 1907 in February (i.c., p. 184), May (a few), August (many), September (a few), November (many), and in 1908, in January and February (many), August (many), November (a few), (é.c., 1909, p. 80). x *, This instalment takes us to the end of the “‘ Manual,” and our task of collecting the more important additions to the second edition will be completed next month by an article detailing the omissions from, and corrections of, our ‘“‘additions.”’ We shall be extremely obliged for notes of such omissions and corrections which may have been detected by our readers, and these should be sent in net later than April 12th. (To be continued.) NOTES FROM SUSSEX. GREY WacraiL (Motacilla melanope).—This species nests regularly in north and west Sussex, probably in the east of the county, where Dr. C. B. Ticehurst found a brood in 1906, and probably also in other parts of Sussex, though very locally, and in no great numbers. For three years in suc- cession, 1906-07-08, I have found the nest (two in 1908) in the two former areas. Hopsy (Falco subbuteo).—Twice certainly within the past few years has the Hobby bred in Sussex. At the time of writing “‘ Sussex Hobbies,” which was published in ‘‘ Country Side” on February Ist, 1908, detailing the finding of an eyrie on June 15th of the previous year, I was under the impression that this was actually the first record. So it is as far as the notifying of the fact goes, but careful inquiries have elicited the information that in 1906 a brood was taken off in a totally different part of the county to where I found my eyrie. In 1907 (the year in which I found it) I also located a second pair, but both birds vanished entirely from the wood they were frequenting. Probably they were destroyed. In 1906 a pair meant settling down in a Heron’s old nest, but before the eggs were laid the male was mercilessly shot. On June 17th, 1908, I saw a single bird in a certain district in the north of the county. Common SHELD-Dvuck (Tadorna cornuta).—The Sheld-Duck nests in one spot in Sussex for certain, in the extreme south- west coast corner of the county. I visited the place on May 6th, 1908, and saw one pair of birds. The young were seen in 1906 and 1907 by Mr. Padwick—a capital observer. SHOVELER (Spatula clypeata)—On April 18th, 1908, I discovered the Shoveler’s nest in the north of Sussex. This is the first record for the county. The following is an extract from my diary for that day :—‘ As I left a withy bed at the tail of the big mill-pond a pair of Shovelers, easily recognised as such by the drake’s plumage. chanced to be flying towards me over the water. This was the first year I had ever seen them here. Making a circuit they both settled by the second withy bed, half-way up the reach, where, by the aid of glasses and a careful stalk, I could study them to perfection.* * A full description of the birds, both in flight and at rest, here follows but has been omitted for want of space. — Eps. NOTES. 377 ‘“ Knlisting the services of the keeper I proceeded to hunt for the nest, which I was confident was somewhere near. The area of this mill-pond is a wide one, and there is much possible ground encircling it. But bearing in mind my experiences of the Shoveler in the north Kent marshes, where I had studied it very closely, I at once looked upon a stretch of rough grass adjoining the water and lying between the two withy beds as the most likely place for success. Taking the piece in beats the keeper and myself worked the place care- fully. Suddenly the keeper stopped and held up his hand. I knew he had something ; and he had—the Shoveler’s nest. It was about thirty paces from the margin of the pond, and placed between three tufts of ordinary grass, and then only held two eggs partially covered with bits of grass. As it happens so often at this stage of laying, there was not a shred of down, though of course the size and colour of the eggs, as well as the size of the nest, betokened the Shoveler.”’ Five days later, however, there was down in the nest, and this with the feathers amongst it set the matter beyond dispute. Thirteen eggs were ultimately laid, but unfortunately they were deserted owing to the heavy snowstorm at the end of April. Ferrucinous Duck (Fuligula nyroca).—For nearly the whole afternoon of March 20th, 1908, I watched three Ferruginous Ducks on a certain mill-pond in the north of Sussex. Luck is with me over this species, because in 1903, on April 19th, Mr. Gwynne-Vaughan and myself identified three on the Wye at Builth Wells, Breconshire, at really close quarters. J. WALPOLE-Bonp. RARE BIRDS IN PEMBROKESHIRE. GREY PHALAROPE (Phalaropus fulicarius).—I shot a bird of this species that was swimming about a duck-pond within fifty yards of a private house in the neighbourhood of Haverfordwest on December 6th, 1908. The pond is about one and a half miles from the sea, and there are no sand or mud-flats within about ten miles. This is quite an uncommon bird in this county, and I[ only know of two stuffed specimens. Common Birrern (Botaurus stellaris).—Mr. Jeffery, taxider- mist, of Haverfordwest, informs me that he had one to stuff this winter, shot near St. David’s. On January 23rd I was one of a party of seven guns who had a splendid view of a Bittern standing quite motionless, with head and beak at an angle of about 45°, in some tall 378 BRITISH BIRDS. yellow rushes on the lake at Stackpole Court, a residence of Earl Cawdor. The head-keeper there informed me that one or two appear regularly every winter. > Nutuatcu (Sitta cesia).—This bird is reputed to be ex- ceedingly rare in this county, but has either been overlooked or has lately become commoner. At the end of November I saw a bird of this species in the grounds of Picton Castle, and on March 7th I saw one in the grounds of Hean Castle, Saundersfoot. At both of these places there are a good number of old and large trees, the exception in this exposed and windswept county. W. MairLtanp CONGREVE. BIRD PROTECTION IN YORKSHIRE. THe Wild Birds and Eggs Protection Committee of the Yorkshire Naturalists’ Union are this season placing a special watcher at Hornsea Mere to protect the rarer birds nesting there. They have for several years employed a watcher on - Spurn Point during the nesting season, with good effect, as was shown in Mr. Oxley Grabham’s article in our last number. —Ebs. THE BIRDS OF KENT. As some of our readers may be aware Dr. Norman F. Ticehurst has for many years been studying the birds of Kent with a view to writing a history of the avifauna of the county. Dr. Ticehurst informs us that his manuscript is now complete, and that he intends to publish the work forthwith. The book is to be offered to subscribers, and the edition is to be limited. For many reasons Kent is an extremely important county ornithologically, and an adequate history of the Kent avifauna has long been needed. We have every confidence that Dr. Ticehurst’s work will be one of exceptional merit, and will take an honourable place in the splendid roll of the local avifaunas of our islands.—EDs. BLACK-THROATED THRUSH IN KENT. On February Ist, 1909, Mr. G. Bristow, taxidermist, of St. Leonard’s-on-Sea, brought to me in the flesh a male specimen of the Black-throated Thrush (Z'urdus atrigularis Temm.), which had been shot by a man named Fuller on the previous Saturday (January 30th) at Newenden,in Kent. The bird was killed on the Kentish side of the River Rother, which separates NOTES. _ 379 the two counties of Kent and Sussex. This, so far as we know, is the third example of this Siberian Thrush which has been obtained in Great Britain. The first was killed near Lewes, in Sussex, on December 23rd, 1869, and was bought by the late Mr. T. J. Monk from the man, a bricklayer, who had just shot it, and was at the time Mr. Monk met him, carrying the bird in his hand. I have often had the story from Mr. Monk’s own lips. After Male Black-throated Thrush shot at Newenden, Kent, on January 30th, 1909. Mr. Monk’s death, the rarest of the birds in his collection were, through Mr. A. F. Griffith, obtained for the Booth Museum at Brighton, and amongst them was this specimen of 7’. atrigularis. For the second recorded specimen obtained in Great Britain, Mr. J. A. Harvie-Brown kindly draws my attention to the one now in the Perth Museum, which was shot in February, 1879, on the banks of the Tay, and originally recorded by Col. 380 BRITISH BIRDS. Drummond-Hay (cf. Trans. Perth Soc. Nat. Sciences, Vol. L., pp. 185-138 ; see also bis, 1889, p. 579). Mr. H. E. Dresser in his “ Manual of Palearctic Birds ” gives the habitat of this species as Asia, north to the Obi and northern Yenesej, south to the Altai and Turkestan, east to Lake Baikal; in winter migrating south to Assam, northern India, Baluchistan, and Afghanistan ; has occurred in Europe as a rare straggler in the Caucasus, Hungary, Austria, Germany, Denmark, Belgium, and France and Great Britain. Mr. Dresser also informs us that “it has been found breeding in the Altai Range, and at Imbatskaya, on the Yenesei River,” and that it lays four to six eggs, which vary considerably, some resembling the ordinary type of the Blackbird, whereas others more resemble those of the Mistle- Thrush, but have the ground-colour of a deeper blue. THOMAS PARKIN. CURIOUS NESTING SITE OF A WOOD-WARBLER. WHILE walking along a road on June 5th, 1908, I saw a Wood- Warbler (Phylloscopus sibilatrix) with a mouthful of green grass. Being curious to know what it would do with it, I watched a few seconds. While looking, another Wood- Warbler came up with a white insect in its beak and, strange to say, entered a rabbit-hole on a perpendicular bank, not five yards from me, and in full view. It remained in the hole out of sight for several seconds, and then came out without the insect. I went nearer to see into the rabbit-hole, when both birds flew within a foot of my head, fluttering and tumbling about, and uttering the usual alarm note. On looking into the hole I could see nothing, so put in my hand, and out flew six little Wood-Warblers and joined their parents. The nest was exactly twelve inches down the hole, and was quite invisible from its mouth. The nest was not domed as usual. It may be interesting to note also that this particular bird was first heard by me near the spot where I subsequently found the nest, on May 6th, and I think it arrived on that day. The young flew out of the nest on June 8th: this seems quick work. Another peculiarity about this pair of birds was that the cock omitted the preliminary “chit, chit,’ and uttered only the second part of the ordinary shivering song—the trill, which was very loud and very prolonged, in some cases lasting fifteen seconds. Subsequent observation revealed the fact that the bird with the mouthful of grass referred to above was building a ai NOTES. 381 second nest, while the other bird of the pair was feeding six young in the first nest. The second nest was also in the hole, not so far in as the first (only about six inches), but quite invisible when one looked on to the face of the bank. This nest was also not domed. W. 8S. MEDLIcorTT. [Mr. Medlicott very kindly sent us the nest in question, and we have submitted it and the note to the Rev. F. C. R. Jourdain, who mentions the following abnormal sites :— Nest under shelter of a root of a tree (cf. Zool., 1896, p. 375). Nest in a diagonal cleft in the perpendicular face of a big square boulder found in North Wales, May 21st, 1904 (O. V. Aplin, in litt. to F. C. R. J.). Mr. Jourdain adds :—*‘ The date (June 5th) is a very early one for young to be able to leave the nest. The eggs are usually laid about May 16th to 26th, often not till the end of May. This record seems to imply that the birds would have reared a second brood. Of this I have no previous evidence, and should consider it unlikely, as the Wood- Warbler is a late breeder.”—EDs. | CHAFFINCH BREEDING IN WINTER. I was surprised to hear that a pair of Chaffinches (Fringilla celebs) had nested and reared a brood during the past winter at Churchstoke, Montgomeryshire. Being sceptical I in- quired into the matter. I found the report quite correct ; the nest—undoubtedly a Chaffinch’s—being now in my possession. It was in a sycamore, twelve feet above the ground, and is made mainly of wool, with a few bits of lichen outside. The Chaffinches built during the mild weather, in December, and both parents were seen repeatedly at or about the nest, and were observed feeding the young on February 20th. Mr. G. Mountford, the master, and one of the boys in Church- stoke School, kindly furnished me with the above details. H. E. Forrest. ALPINE SWIFT IN PEMBROKESHIRE. An Alpine Swift (Cypselus melba) was shot on November 20th, 1908, on the land of Colonel Mirehouse on the east side of Angle Bay, Pembrokeshire. The gamekeeper said that he had seen a pair of them in the neighbourhood for some time previously. CHARLES J. P. CAVE. 582 BRITISH BIRDS [In connection with the above record we have received further interesting particulars from Lieut. W. Maitland Congreve, R.A., who writes as follows :—‘ The bird was shot by one of a number of guns (who nearly all fired at the bird, thinking it was a Hawk), the guests of Colonel Mirehouse. The bird was sent to Mr. W. E. de Winton, of Orielton, who at once pronounced it to be an Alpine Swift. It is now stuffed and in the possession of Colonel Mirehouse, and I saw it some weeks ago. The bird is particularly remarkable for the enormous span of the wings. The back is of a dull brown colour; throat white, then a brown band and belly white. It is not in the least like an ordinary Swift, owing to the white, its size, and the span of its wings.’”’—Eps. | DOWNY WOODPECKER (DEN DROCOPUS PUBESCENS) IN GLOUCESTERSHIRE. On January 14th, 1908, a friend who occasionally shoots birds for me brought me in a little Woodpecker that he had shot that day at Frampton Cotterel, near Bristol. It was climbing up the trunk of an old apple tree some five feet from the ground when shot. I supposed it to be simply a Lesser Spotted Wcodpecker, and so labelled it, and it was only after sending the skin to Mr. Marsden, of Tunbridge Wells, last month, that the bird was discovered to be a specimen of the North American Downy Woodpecker (D. pubescens). Won. A. SMALLCOMBE. [In connection with this record we have received the follow- ing letter from Mr. H. W. Marsden :—‘** Amongst some Wood- peckers I received from Mr. Smallcombe there were a male and female, supposed to be Dendrocopus minor. The day I got them I was very busy, and sent on the two skins to the Hon. N. C. Rothschild. He handed them, without examina- tion, to Messrs. Rowland Ward, to be remade, and it was by them the bird was identified as Dendrocopus pubescens. Mr. Smallcombe is quite a young ornithologist, and had probably never seen a foreign skin of D. pubescens.” Both Mr. Marsden and Messrs. Rowland Ward have satistied us that this skin was undoubtedly not of American origin (we had suggested that the label might have been inadvertently changed), and that the bird was in fact shot in Gloucester- shire. The record is an interesting one, but we cannot believe that this North American Woodpecker crossed the Atlantic unaided, and we think that the bird must have escaped from captivity.—Eps]. NOTES. 385 WHITE-TAILED EAGLE IN ESSEX. We could distinctly notice a White-tailed or Sea-Eagle (Halactus albicilla) soaring over this park (Weald Hall, Brentwood) at midday on Saturday, February 6th. It was high up and being mobbed by a smaller bird, which I could not distinguish. I could see the Kagle quite clearly through field-glasses. It kept wheeling quietly round for nearly half- an-hour, and then disappeared. CHRISTOPHER J. H. Towrr. OSPREY IN ESSEX. AN Osprey (Pandion haliactus) appeared in this park (Weald Hall, Brentwood) from October 11th till the 24th, 1903. When it first came it was very tame, coming and taking some golden carp out of a pond in the garden, where some gardeners were at work. Afterwards it generally took up a position on the dead bough of a tree on an island in the lake, where it was generally mobbed by rooks, for whom, however, it seemed to have a supreme contempt. There is absolutely no doubt about its identity. It was of course protected, and notice was given about so that it should not be shot. An Osprey, presumably the same bird with more mature plumage, came again the following year, staying about a week. CHRISTOPHER J. H. Tower. POCHARD NESTING IN NORTH KENT. On April 29th, 1907, I found a nest of the Pochard (Puligula ferina) on the marshes in the north of Kent, in a’ district which need not be precisely specified. This is the first authenticated nest found in the county, and the only other that I am aware of was discovered a year afterwards by Major R. Sparrow in the south-west of Kent (cf. antea, p. 96). For several days before the actual discovery of the nest [had seen and watched closely two pairs of Pochards. One afternoon as a small tongue of rough ground infringing on one of the “ fleets ” (as all dykes are termed in Kent) was being worked for a Shoveler’s nest, a duck Pochard clattered cumbrously from a thick screen of reeds. The fact that she was alone suggested the possibility of a nest; and next morning on wading into the reed-bed, a duck Pochard again rose, not more than ten paces from the bank, from a swampy ridge of soil plastered with aquatic plants partitioning the “ fleet.” On 584 BRITISH BIRDS. this natural groyne was the nest, which, although very exposed, was not visible from the “ mainland,’ but I marvelled greatly that it had escaped the prying eyes of the Crows. Facing the reeds growing in the deep backwater opposite, it was secured under the lea of a large spread-eagled tuft of extremely coarse sword-like grass, and was built up from the ooze beneath to a height of five inches. It was a moist affair of freshly-plucked green grass, flat shreds of dried grass, fragments of reed, sedge and water-weeds, finished off with a few wisps of green grass. To some extent it resembled a Coot’s nest, though it was not so utterly exposed as most nests of that species. There was a well-trodden sloping platform, or “slide,” of vegetation about a foot long and seven inches wide leading up to the nest from the water. It was then, as above cited, only April 29th, far too early for a full clutch of Pochard’s eggs, and there were but two in the nest. These were uncovered and cold, for, of course, their owner had merely been standing by them. But their shape, size, and coloration, not to mention the presence of the bird, the disposition of the nest, and a few tufts of down, settled their identity beyond quibble. J. WALPOLE-BOND. THE FOOD OF THE EIDER. In a note in our last issue (p. 344) on this subject we made Mr. Robinson say that it was curious that Razor-shells were never found in birds killed in the early morning. Mr. Robinson points out that he wrote that these shells ‘‘ may often be found in Eiders shot at any time except early morning.” By this, he now tells us, he merely meant that the shells were not present before the birds had breakfasted, and not, as we inferred, that the birds do not feed on these shell-fish in the early morning.—Ebs. GOOSANDER IN BEDFORDSHIRE. On February 27th, 1909, I saw a female Goosander (Mergus merganser) amongst the ducks on one of our ponds at Woburn. The bird has often been recorded in Bedfordshire, but it is perhaps sufficiently rare to be worthy of mention. M. BEDFORD. RED GROUSE AND BLACK GROUSE HYBRIDS. Ir would be natural to suppose that species which are closely allied and which frequent the same ground would often interbreed ; but such is not the case. It is well known that “STRIITIN °D “f JO UOTZDeT[OD 8Y} UT MON qsnsny ‘seTeA\ YON ‘“epeg azeou yoys ‘pruqAH{ esnory poy pue Yyowlg olvewuoey omyeuruy <¢. . ¢ AS $32 ee 5386 BRITISH BIRDS. Black Grouse and Capercaillie frequently interbreed, and there are four or more known instances of hybrids between such diverse species as the Pheasant and the Capercaillie, but crosses between Black Grouse and Red Grouse, or Red Grouse and Ptarmigan, are extremely rare. Mr. J. A. Jones spoke to me one day concerning some Grouse which he and his son had killed at Llanerch bog, near Bala, North Wales, in August, 1908. On examination they proved to be undoubted hybrids between Black and Red Grouse. All the seven young birds in the covey were killed, but only two were preserved; these exhibit very clearly the characteristics of both parents. The back, wings, and _ scapulars are similar to those of the immature Black Grouse, whilst the new plumage, coming in on the breast and flanks, is like that of the *‘ White’ form of the Red Grouse, being deep chestnut and black widely tipped with white. ‘The feet, legs, and forked tail are similar to those of the larger parent. Neither of the parent birds was seen. It seems a great pity that the whole covey was destroyed, for had any reached maturity they would have been very beautiful and interesting birds, quite dissimilar to the other specimens of this hybrid that I have seen. Mr. H. E. Forrest, in ‘‘ The Vertebrate Fauna of North Wales,” states (p. 107) that he has seen what appears to be a hybrid between the Black and the Red Grouse in the posses- sion of Mr. Foster of Bettws-y-Coed; the specimen was shot at Yspythy Moor on the 20th of November, 1897. Mr. Foster also procured a similar specimen on the 9th of December, 1895. By the kindness of Mr. J. A. Jones I was enabled to exhibit the two specimens referred to above—a male and female—at the meeting of the British Ornithologists’ Club, held on January 20th last. . J. G. Mitats. AN immature male of the hybrid between the Red Grouse and Black Grouse was killed on October 6th, 1908, by Mr. F. W. Stobart, in Glen Troot, Kirkcudbrightshire, where Black Grouse are extremely plentiful. It was shot during a drive when flying in company with four Red Grouse. The bird is exactly of the same type as the two adult males already in the British Museum (one of these was one of two adult males killed at Millden, Forfarshire, on October Ist, 1900, by Mr. J. L. Cadwalader, while the other, presented by Lord Tweedmouth, bears no particulars regarding its capture), but it still retains NOTES. 387 a considerable amount of the first plumage, particularly on the sides of the head and neck, where the feathers are mostly light reddish-buff barred with black. The bill is large and rather coarse, and the basal portions of the toes are feathered as in the Red Grouse, while the terminal portions are naked and pectinate on the sides as in the Black Grouse. Mr. Stobart has kindly presented the specimen to the British Museum, and I had the pleasure of exhibiting it at the February meeting of the British Ornithologists’ Club. I havea further communica- tion from Mr. Stobart saying that his keeper in Kirkcud- bright has examined at close range a second example of this hybrid on the same ground with some Red Grouse. Another male example of this rare hybrid has also been offered to the British Museum by Mr. G. Ashley Dodd, but has not yet been received. W. R. OGILVIE-GRANT. THE BILL OF THE GREAT NORTHERN DIVER. In the March number of Bririsu Brrps there is a reference to the White-billed Northern Diver. For the last three years I have had opportunities of watching large numbers of Great Northern Divers (Colymbus glacialis) in the Outer Hebrides in the end of October and beginning of November. At that time none of the birds had attained their full winter plumage, and the neck bands were in every case easily detected, but in nearly the whole of them the lower mandible was ivory- coloured, and the upper mandible partially so. The bill of C. adamsi is so remarkably “ up-turned”’ that it would be a far safer guide in winter than the colour. M. BEDFORD. [The plumages of the Great Northern Diver are very little known, but it would seem from the Duchess of Bedford’s observations that it is not only the young that have light- coloured bills in autumn. Mr. Ogilvie-Grant has noted (Vol. I., p. 295) that in the young C. adamsi the up-curved character of the lower mandible is much less marked, and “mistakes may easily be made,” but by the end of October it is possible that birds of the year would have attained this characteristic. We fancy that the purer white colour of the bill of C. adamsi would make it distinguishable even at a distance from C. glacialis.—EDs. | 388 BRITISH BIRDS. . FULMAR PETREL IN LANCASHIRE. As Mitchell, in his “ Birds of Lancashire,’ only mentions the Fulmar Petrel (Fulmarus glacialis) as having occurred four times in Lancashire, perhaps the occurrence of a fifth example at Galgate, near Lancaster, on April 3rd, 1904, may be of interest, especially as it was picked up alive in a field quite three miles from the sea. H. W. Rosinson. wee ae LitTtLE Rincep PLover In Nort Uist.—Mr. J. E. Harting reports in the ‘“ Field” (20, x1., 09, p. 329), that he has received word from Mr. H. E. Beveridge, of Kelso, of a small Plover which he shot in North Uist, in October, 1908. By means of a sketch, drawn to the natural size, and a description of the bird, Mr. Harting comes to the conclusion that it was undoubtedly a specimen of Agia’itis curonica. So far as we know an authenticated example of the Little Ringed Plover has not been obtained in this country for very many years, and the bird has never before been recorded for Scotland. Mypen 3 eftd Recurvirostra avoc AN ILUSTRATED: MAGAZINE DEVOITDTOTHEBIRDS ON | SS. THE: BRISHUST MONTHLY ONE. SHILLING: NET — S2QHIGHTHOLDORN pee lie WITHER BY &- DALLMEVER'S Naturalists’ Camera, For Telephoto or Ordinary LENSES. ‘ Positive Lens. Works at sili DALLMRYER’S. : ) Lenses are used by the most skilled Bird . Photographers. The following are specially recommended : THE STIGMATIC SERIES Il. F/6 (Convertible.) THE SERIES D PATENT PORTRAIT LENSES F 6. (A Rapid Long Focus Lens at a Moderate Price.) High or Moderate Power Telephoto Lenses (Original Make). We are Specialists in Cameras and A Lpparatus Jor Photo- Ornithologists. | CATALOGUES AND ADVICE FREE. | J. H. DALLMEYER, Limitep, DENZIL RD., Ghowronole: ab NAWMAN- BF, we NEASDEN. LONDON, N.W. | JUST RECEIVED. An extremely interesting collection of Birdskins from the high mountains of Formosa, including many rarities and. recently described species, in first-class condition. For List apply to— W. F. H. ROSENBERG, Naturalist and Importer of Zoological Collections, 1 57, HAVERSTOCK HILL, LONDON, N.W. ‘ Price Lists of Birdskins, Eggs, Mammals, Reptiles, Batrachians, aicmuetice Cabinets, Apparatus, etc., post free on Application. WATKINS & DONCASTER, Waturalists, | Sh And Manufacturers of CABINETS and APPARATUS for Entomology, Binds gs Uys and: Skins, and all Branches of Natural. History. uae A LARGE STOCK OF INSECTS, and BIRDS’ EGGS and SKINS. | x . Speciality :~Objects for Nature Study, Drawing Classes, &c. BIRDS, MAMMALS, &., PRESERVED and MOUNTED by FIRST-CLASS WORKMEN | fit: TRUE TO NATURE. All Books and Publications on Natural History supplied. Ne ne : 36, STRAND, LONDON, W.C. (Five Doors from Charing Coss.) i Catslogue {102 pp.) post DRUDSHIBIRDS Pere BY i. EF) WITHERBY, -F.2Z:5,,.) MBO, Rooke: bY WW: P. PYCRAFT, A.LS;, M.5-0.U. ConTENTS OF NuMBER 12, Vor. II. May 1, 1909. Some Early British Ornithologists and their Works, by W. H. Mullens, m.a., tu.M., M.B.o.u. IX.—William Macgillivray (1796—1852) and William Yarrell ioe 1853) . Page 389 Notes on the Nesting of ihe Goadandee by N orman Gilroy: M.B.O.U. ie 400 On the More Important Additions te our t icnoplades of British Birds since 1899, by H. F. Witherby and N. F. Ticehurst. Part XX.—(continued from page 375) a 406 Notes :—Life of the late Professor Alfred Newton (A. F. R. Wollaston). The Birds of Fair Isle (Eds.). Eggs of the Cuckoo (C. W. Colthrup). Chaffinch Nesting in Winter (H. E. Forrest). Red Grouse and Black Grouse Hybrids (Hugh 8. Gladstone). Nesting Records of the Kittiwake in the Isle of Wight (Rev. J. E. Kelsall). Briinnich’s Guillemot in the Firth of Forth (Eds.). Slavonian Grebe and Black-Necked Grebe in Hertford- shire (Chas. Oldham). Short Notes Se ; 422 Review :—The Hastings and East Sussex Naturalist Fy. 427 SOME EARLY BRITISH ORNITHOLOGISTS AND THEIR WORKS. BY W. H. MULLENS, m.a., Lu.m., M.B.0.U. IX.—WILLIAM MACGILLIVRAY (1796—1852) anp WILLIAM YARRELL (1784—1853). AmoneG the many famous names which adorn the long roll of British ornithologists, that of William Macgillivray stands forth as facile princeps. His work was not only far superior to that of his predecessors and contemporaries, but it remains to this day with but few, if any, serious rivals, and will:probably continue to do so for many years to come. Macgillivray’s great book, “The History of British A 590 BRITISH BIRDS. Birds,” which was completed in 1852, has nevertheless failed to receive the appreciation which it deserves, and although it is probably far more widely read to-day than it has been hitherto, it has taken upwards of sixty years for the student and compiler to recognise its transcendent merit. The causes of this neglect are somewhat difficult to understand ; and probably they arose from a variety of circumstances. Macgillivray’s personal character was no doubt an obstacle to his success. One of his warmest admirers, the great American bibliographer and naturalist, Elliott Coues, describes him in these words :— ‘““ Macgillivray appears to have been of an irritable, highly sensitized temperament, fired with enthusiasm and ambition, yet contending, for some time at least, with poverty; ill-health and a perhaps not well-founded, though not therefore the less acutely-felt, sense of neglect ; thus ceaselessly nerved to accomplish yet as continually haunted with the dread of failure. . . . . This author was undoubtedly unwise in his frankness; but diplomacy is a stranger to such characters. If he never hesitated to differ sharply with yee or to express his own views pointedly—if he scarcely dis- guised his contempt for triflers, blockheads, pedants, compilers and theorizers . . . . he was nevertheless a lover of Nature, an original thinker, a hard student, and finally an ornithologist of large practical experience, who wrote down what he knew or believed to be true with great regard for accuracy of statement and in a very agreeable manner.” To this must be added the curious coincidence that in the same year as the first volume of Macgillivray’s ‘“ History of British Birds ’’ was published (that is in 1837), another very famous work on the same subject, and bearing a precisely similar title, made its appearance. This was the well-known work of William: Yarrell, which, from the clearness of its descriptions, the skill of its illus- trations and the useful conciseness of its information, i — “SOME EARLY BRITISH ORNITHOLOGISTS. 391 speedily became recognised as the standard authority on British ornithology. The success of Macgillivray’s master- piece was undoubtedly retarded by the simultaneous appearance of Yarrell’s work, and it was further hampered by the fact that while Yarrell completed his task in 1843, it was not until nine years later that Macgillivray’s was brought to a conclusion, twelve years having been allowed to elapse between the publication of the first three and the last two volumes. The matter of nationality had also perhaps some bearing on the question; the English public naturally preferring the work of a fellow country- man to that of a Scotsman, however able.* But all these circumstances, much as they tended to prevent the due appreciation of Macgillivray’s labours, were but trivial in comparison with the predominating cause of his com- parative failure. The failure of the “ History of British Birds ”’ lay in the intrinsic value of the book itself. To understand how this arose it is necessary to consider not only the scope of Macgillivray’s book itself, but also the state and condition of ornithology in this country at that time. The increasing study of ornithology had produced in that science, in common with many others, specialists; 7.e., students and writers who devoted them- selves to some particular department or branch of their favourite science. These had gradually formed them- selves into three distinct groups: the anatomists or morphologists, the chamber-naturalists, and the field- naturalists. The first named carried out their work in the dissecting room and the laboratory, the second devoted their attention to the study of the skins of birds in the museum, and of the labours of others in the ornitho- logical library ; the third gave their time to the observa- tion and study of living birds in their natural surroundings. The labours of the chamber-naturalists were chiefly * In much the same way—to compare small things to great—the undoubted merit of Fleming’s ‘‘ History of British Animals,’ 1828, had been injuriously affected by the greater popularity accorded to a similar undertaking by an Englishman, viz., Jenyns’ ‘“‘ Manual of British Vertebrate Animals,” which appeared in 1830. 392 BRITISH BIRDS. directed towards the manufacture of new genera and the subdivision of existing ones; to proclaiming the superiority of one system of nomenclature over another ; to the endless alteration and confusion of the classification of species, to the disparagement of each other’s labours and the laudation of their own. On one point and on one only were they agreed, much and bitterly as they differed on most other matters: they united in a common hatred and contempt for the field-naturalists. | In the opinion of the chamber-naturalists the existence of this third group of ornithologists was only justified by the fact that their observations and investigations provided fresh material for the use and advancement of the very men who decried their labours. It is true that most of the really important contributions to the literature of ornithology had come from the pen of the field- naturalists, but these works were not deemed “ scientific ”’ and the chamber-naturalist regarded them as but of small account. And now suddenly all this was changed, the pedants and the pundits were threatened with a new and uncon- sidered danger and driven by it to seek their common safety in united action. A Scotsman who had spent his youth in observing and collecting birds, both in the distant islands of the Hebrides and on the mainland of his native country, had in due course of time become professor of Civil and Natural History in a northern university, had devoted his acute and highly trained intellect to the study, not of a single branch but of the whole science of ornitho- logy, and had produced a book which not only recorded the most careful and accurate investigations in the field, but also proposed to create a new scientific classification of birds, founded on the consideration of their digestive organs, which, from the fact that his skill as an anatomist was unassailable and that the proposed scheme of classifi- cation had the further disadvantage of being original, constituted in the opinion of the chamber-naturalists a pressing and immediate peril. Presumption combined LEE: LZ EZ cs I p Mt i Wi NOR, mr 17 Wilh i) WILLIAM MACGILLIVRAY, from the engraving in “A Vertebrate Fauna of the Outer Hebrides,’ by J. A. Harvie-Brown and T. E. Buckley, 1888. (By permission of Messrs. Harvie-Brown and David Douglas.) WILLIAM YARRELL, after the frontispiece by F. A. Heath, to the Third Edition of Yarrell’s ‘‘ History of British Fishes,” 1859. SOME EARLY BRITISH ORNITHOLOGISTS. 395 with merit must be crushed, and crushed it was in a speedy and most effective manner. The word went forth that Macgillivray’s work was “choked with anatomical details.””. The half-truth repelled the public, the ‘‘ History of British Birds ” was doomed to oblivion and the chamber- naturalists returned to their discussions in triumph. That they had incidentally broken the heart of the greatest ornithologist this country has ever possessed, that they had nearly prevented the completion of one of the greatest books on British birds, was to them of course, not a matter of the least importance. Fortunate indeed it is that at the present day all this is changed, and that the “ chamber-naturalist ’ is now as able in the field as in the museum. From this combination of adverse circumstances Macgillivray’s work has never completely recovered, and probably never will. Although the copyright has long expired and it now commands a price in the auction rooms which places it beyond the reach of many who would gladly possess it, yet the fact remains that in these days of constant re-issues and new editions of ornithological books, many of which are more or less worthless, Mac- gillivray’s great work has never been reprinted and brought up to date. No adequate account of the life and work of William Macgillivray has yet been published; some knowledge of his character and career can however be derived from a privately printed book, written by a namesake of the great ornithologist, and entitled “‘ A Memorial Tribute to William Macgillivray”’ (Edinburgh, 1901, 1 vol., 4to). The preface to Macgillivray’s ‘‘ Rapacious Birds of Great Britain ’” and that to the fourth volume of his “ British Birds ”’ may also be consulted to advantage. William Macgillivray was born in Old Aberdeen in 1796. He left Aberdeen when a child of three, and lived with his two uncles in the island of Harris—his father, who was an army surgeon, being absent with his regiment—till he was eleven years of age, when he returned to Aberdeen to 596 BRITISH BIRDS. complete his education. At the age of twelve Macgillivray entered King’s College, and one year later, in 1809, lost his father, who fell on the stricken field of Corufia. Macgillivray, as he himself informs us,* ‘Commenced the study of zoology in 1817 while qualifying for the medical profession.” . . . . “‘My only guides were Linnezus and Pennant,” but a fellow student, William Craigie, evinced an equal interest in Nature, and the two together undertook a series of “ pleasant and successful excursions in quest of plants and animals” . . . . “and most zealously strove to add to our common store of knowledge both in zoology and botany.” . . . . “ The fascina- tions of these pursuits were such that, after studying medicine for nearly five years, during part of which time I officiated as dissector to the lecturer on anatomy at Marischal College, I resolved to relinquish it and devote my attention exclusively to natural history.” In pur- suance of the project Macgillivray now commenced to wander over most parts of Scotland; he explored the “desolate isles of the west” and walked from Aberdeen to London for the purpose of visiting the British Museum. He afterwards went to Edinburgh and attended Professor Jameson’s natural history lectures. He then again betook himself to the Outer Hebrides, ‘where he hammered at the gneiss rocks, gathered gulls’ eggs and shot plovers and pigeons” till finding this dull he returned to the mainland and became assistant and secretary to Professor — Jameson, under whose supervision he took charge of the museum at Edinburgh University. Having held this post for several years he retired, and renewed his “‘ observa- tions in the fields,” supporting himself meanwhile by his labours with the pen. In 1830-1831 he was unanimously elected as Conservator of the museum of the Edinburgh College of Surgeons, and this position he held till 1841, but meanwhile he in no way relaxed his ornitho- logical labours, save, as he writes, for “‘ about a year when hope seemed almost to have deserted me.” * Preface to ‘‘ Rapacious Birds,” p. 2. SOME EARLY BRITISH ORNITHOLOGISTS. 397 In 1833, with a view to re-arranging the catalogue of his museum, he paid a series of visits to some of the more notable collections in this country, including the museums of Glasgow, Liverpool, Dublin, Bristol and London. In 1834 Macgillivray commenced to give lectures on natural history, and in 1835 he finished the new catalogue. In 1841 his connection with the museum came to an end, he having been appointed to the professorship of ‘ Civil and Natural History’ in Marischal College, Aberdeen. During the ten years he was at Edinburgh, Macgillivray in addition to his other work, published in 1836 * Descrip- tions of the Rapacious Birds of Great Britain”’ (1 vol., 8vo), the first volume of the first edition of “A Manual of British Ornithology ” (2 vols., 8vo, London, 1840-1842 : the second edition appeared in 1846), and the first three volumes of his ‘‘ Great Work,” as he rightly termed it, ‘“‘ A History of British Birds, Indigenous and Migratory.” Besides the above he contributed a “‘ History of British Quadrupeds ” to Jardine’s ‘“‘ Naturalist’s Library” (40 vols., 1838-1843; 2nd edition, 1844-1855), and compiled the scientific part of Audubon’s “‘ Ornithological Biographies.”’ There is no need to deal at any length with Macgillivray’s “Great Work ”’ here, his object in writing it was “to lay before the public, descriptions of the birds of Great Britain, more extended and if possible more correct than any previously offered,” and this he most ably succeeded in doing, but the illustrations, the anatomical plates excepted, can hardly be called worthy of the text. Mac- gillivray occupied his chair at Marischal College for eleven - years, but in 1850-1851 he was attacked by a serious illness, the result it is said of a pedestrian excursion undertaken in the Upper Valley of the Dee, to study that locality for his last written and posthumously printed book, ‘‘ The Natural History of Deeside and Braemar ”’ (1 vol., 8vo, 1855). In the autumn of 1851 he removed to the milder climate of Torquay, and while still at that place he in March, 1852, published the fourth volume of his “Great Work.” The fifth appeared in July after his return to 598 BRITISH BIRDS. Aberdeen, and on September the 8th of that same year he died at his residence in Crown Street in that city. In the pathetic “Conclusion” to the fifth volume he states, “I have finished one of the many difficult and laborious tasks which I had imposed on myself.” ‘*Commenced in hope and carried on with zeal, though ended in sorrow and sickness, I can look upon my work without much regard to the opinions which contemporary writers may form of it, assured that what is useful in it will not be forgotten . . . . and knowing that it will powerfully influence the next generation of our home-ornithologists.”’ If Macgillivray was not “ the most eminent ornithologist in Europe,” as he has been designated by his admirers, and perhaps that description better applies to Naumann, he certainly was by far the greatest ornithological genius that this island has produced, and as such we have every reason to honour his memory. William Yarrell, Macgillivray’s great contemporary, was born on the 3rd of June, 1784, in the parish of St. James’, London. His father carried on the trade of a newspaper agent in Duke Street, and to this business Yarrell succeeded in due course. He was educated at Ealing, and in his eighteenth year entered the banking- house of Herries, Farquhar & Co., as a clerk, but soon left to assist his father in business. Yarrell seems to have turned his attention to the study of ornithology while engaged on the fishing and shooting expeditions with which he varied the monotony of business. As he neared middle age his love for natural history increased, and he abandoned field sports, and henceforward devoted himself to the systematic study of zoology. In 1823 he commenced to note the appearance of rare and interest- ing birds, and is said to have aided Bewick by sending him rare specimens. He became a fellow of the Linnean Society in 1825, and was one of the original members of the Zoological Society. In 1836 he completed a “ History SOME EARLY “BRITISH ORNITHOLOGISTS. 399 of British Fishes,’ and in July, 1837, published the first part of his well-known “ History of British Birds.” This was completed in May, 1843, and the first supplement was printed in 1845. The “ History of British Birds,” which originally appeared in three volumes, proved a great success. Yarrell, besides being an accomplished ornitho- logist, knew exactly what the general public wanted in a popular text-book, and, moreover, possessed the skill of presenting his knowledge in a concise and agreeable manner. A second edition of the book appeared in 1845, and a third, incorporating the second supplement, in 1856. In 1871 a fourth edition was commenced; this was finished in 1885, and consisted of four volumes, the original text being almost entirely rewritten, Professor Newton undertaking that of the first two volumes and Mr. Howard Saunders that of the remainder; the latter of these two—both, alas, recently deceased—further con- densed the whole into a single volume, illustrated with the same figures as the larger work, and entitled “An Illustrated Manual of British Birds” (1st edition, 1889 ; Ind, 1899). Yarrell was a man of unbounded energy, and in addition to his business labours was the author of many and various writings on natural history.* He was also a zealous supporter of several learned societies. After a long and busy life he was seized with a sudden illness while on a visit to Yarmouth, where he died on September Ist, 1853. He was buried at Bayford in Hertfordshire in a spot which had been selected by himself, and a medallion tablet at the west end of the south aisle in St. James’ Church records his memory in his native parish. * For a list of these, 81 in number, cf. ‘‘Memoir,” third edition, ‘¢ British Fishes.”’ ( 400 ) NOTES ON THE NESTING OF THE GOOSANDER. BY NORMAN GILROY, m.B.0.v. For the last eight years or so it has been my custom to spend a portion of the spring in a remote part of Sutherlandshire, and although each May I have observed a duck Goosander (Mergus merganser) with a brood of newly-hatched young ones on the large loch near which I stayed, it was not until the spring of 1908 that I actually came across the nesting site, or rather, sites, for the main object of these notes is to show that with the Goosander there is a slight inclination to sociability. My previous experience of the Goosander as a nesting species had been slight—confined, in fact, to the finding, or rather, to the assisted discovery of a nest on April 21st, 1905, in a deep cavity on the steep, rocky, and sparsely-wooded bank of a river in Ross-shire (the sides of the ravine were in places almost inaccessible), and to the discovery, after a long and interesting watch, on April 25th of the same year, of a second nest on a wooded hillside in Sutherlandshire. In the first-mentioned case I saw little of the sitting bird, for she at once scuttled out of the cavity containing the nest, and flew rapidly down the gorge to the main » river. There were thirteen eggs anda profusion of down, and incubation had commenced, although at the time the ground was white with snow. I saw no sign of the drake anywhere, and I am credibly informed that as soon as the clutch is complete the male Goosanders leave the neighbourhood and repair probably to the sea. My subsequent observations tended to confirm this. My experience with the second pair was considerably more interesting. I was sitting in a sheltered spot on the wooded hillside above mentioned (which overlooks a loch of considerable size) watching a couple of Eagles hunting, when my attention was arrested by the movements of a NORMAN GILROY: THE GOOSANDER. 401 pair of ducks, which suddenly rose from the loch and flew rapidly towards me. I was at first unable to determine accurately the species. But fortunately the sun was shining brightly ; still more fortunately the birds came quite close to me before they turned, so that the charac- teristic plumage of the male was easily discernible. After turning once they flew round at varying heights in wide ellipses, the duck leading, whilst both birds uttered a curiously muffled, but harsh, quacking noise. I noticed that the duck invariably dived down over a particular spot on the hillside, and it at once struck me that the nest was not far from this point, so that when they finally flew down to the loch again I started to explore the hill- side carefully in the immediate neighbourhood of the spot. mentioned. The ground was sparingly strewn with boulders of considerable size, most of them half buried in the soil, but at the base of the second one, which I examined, was a wide dry cavity containing a lot of withered grass which had evidently not been blown there by the wind. I could not possibly reach it or get at it from the front in any way, but found that by the removal of some small stones from behind the whole cavity could be comfortably examined, and in it was the Goosander’s nest, containing one fresh egg. The nest itself was com- posed of masses of white, withered grass, and at this time I saw only one or two down tufts. I visited the nest twice afterwards, but had no opportunity of seeing the duck sitting, as I had to come south before the clutch was completed. An egg appeared to be laid every other day, and I afterwards heard from a gillie, to whom I showed the nest, that this bird ultimately laid eight. I had no further experience of the Goosander until 1908; for, although each spring up till then I carefully. searched a heavily wooded hillside hanging right over a Sutherland loch, I could never discover a nest, in spite of the fact that after perhaps a fortnight’s hunting I in- variably saw the duck Goosander with her young on the water. 4.02 BRITISH BIRDS. That year I arrived in Sutherlandshire on May 12th. The weather was beautifully fine and warm, but this was only of recent occurrence, as apparently the heavy snows of late April had but just melted away. On the evening of my arrival I had a short conversation with the keeper, in the course of which I asked him if he had seen anything of the Goosander. He at once replied that a few mornings previously as he was coming down the road which runs parallel with a small stream that flows from the hills through a deep gorge down into the loch, he had seen a Goosander flying rapidly up-stream, and that at a certain point it had appeared to dive into the bank. There was of course no doubt in my mind then that I was at last on the right track and that the explanation of my previous years’ fruitless search was at hand. The keeper had described the spot where he had seen the Goosander disappear so fully that I did not think it necessary to take him with me next morning, and I ac- cordingly started away at an early hour to explore the gorge, the banks of which are in places very steep and rocky—in others less precipitous, but thickly grown with heather, with here and there a mountain ash, or birch, or an aspen, now just bursting into leaf. Although I was perfectly familiar with the stream, having often tramped it from mouth to source in search of the Ring-Ousel, curiously enough it had never struck me before as an ideal place for the nest haunt of the Goosander, and I naturally was full of excitement at the prospect before me. On reaching the spot which I imagined the keeper to have described—a high and somewhat bare hummock, forming almost an island in the stream, with a solitary tree and thin growth of heather on the top, the whole overlooking a beautiful waterfall, I at once commenced searching the holes and rifts in the peat, some of which are fringed with heather. In about ten minutes I came across a deepish cavity with a well-worn track leading in to it, and two tell-tale down-tufts clinging to the heather at the entrance. I could by no means reach the NORMAN GILROY: THE GOOSANDER. 403 nest, and as I was anxious to catch the sitting duck if possible I broke away a piece of the bank. As soon as I did so, however, the duck escaped by another hole which I had not previously noticed, and flew down towards the loch. Her plumage was very bright, and she appeared to be in perfect condition. The nest was perhaps four feet from the entrance—the cavity being dry and warm— and it contained ten eggs and a profusion of down mixed with good-sized bunches of heather, and a very few birch leaves, evidently taken there by the bird. The site had A Nesting Haunt of the Goosander. been used before as was amply demonstrated by the presence of old eggshells. The eggs were in an advanced state of incubation, and should have hatched out in a week or less. Both entrances to the nest were quite open and unprotected, and both were apparently used regularly. I told the keeper on my return that I had found the Goosander’s nest and the matter dropped. But on the 21st I happened to be rambling along the same stream early in the morning looking at a Kestrel’s eyrie, when 4.04 BRITISH BIRDS. to my astonishment, on suddenly turning a corner, I saw a Goosander flying rapidly towards me. I concealed myself hurriedly, and the duck passed me at a distance of a few feet. She was quacking in the same harsh but curiously muffled way as I have before mentioned, but unfortunately she disappeared before I could gain a spot commanding a view of the entire gorge. This place was only about three hundred yards from the nest described above; but I could not think that the duck belonging to that one would be here alone after her eggs had been taken, so I determined to come out at four o’clock on the following morning and take up a suitable position to watch for her. A wait of five hours, however, was unavailing ; I saw no sign of the Goosander at all. My search of the banks, a very difficult matter at this point, seeing that they were heavily fringed with heather, and that the rocks were very sheer, proved equally fruitless. I got back almost exhausted, but arranged to go out with the keeper early next morning to clear up the mystery. The morning broke bright and clear, and we started off at 4.30. On reaching the point at which I had taken the Goosander’s nest a few days previously, the keeper passed it unconcernedly, so I at once knew there was a second nest close by. We crossed the stream almost exactly where I had seen my bird disappear, and the keeper then remarked, “‘ This is the spot.” We climbed up the bank with considerable difficulty, but after a short search came upon a large and very deep hole almost concealed by a heavy fringe of heather. There were half-a-dozen pieces of down scattered about, and im- mediately I raised the heather fringe I heard the Goosander hissing inside. The nest itself was about seven feet in, and I caught the sitting duck, which was in perfect plumage and condition, although the ten eggs were within a few days of hatching, and the quantity of down was considerable. The nesting hole was damp and filthy, and had evidently been used for years, so that I was surprised to find the duck so beautifully clean, the NORMAN GILROY: THE GOOSANDER. 405 rose tints being particularly fine. She was very fat, but did not struggle much, and when I released her, flew off down the stream quacking quietly. I was, of course, greatly astonished to find two Goosanders nesting in such close proximity ; and the fact that they must have been for years inhabiting a stream with which I was perfectly familiar goes far to prove how easily the species may be overlooked. I saw no sign of the drakes during the whole of this, or any previous, visit to the district. nN { Gg j , \ : A gquataro! ( 406 ) ON THE MORE IMPORTANT ADDITIONS TO OUR KNOWLEDGE OF BRITISH BIRDS SINCE 1899. BY H. F. WITHERBY anv N. F. TICEHURST. Part XX. (Continued from page 375.) Corrigenda et Addenda. In concluding this series of articles we would express our great indebtedness to the Rev. F. C. R. Jourdain, who has given us generous and continual assistance; to Mr. R. J. Ussher, who has taken the greatest pains to make our record of Irish birds complete, and has added much new information; to Mr. H. E. Forrest, who has given us much help in Welsh and Shropshire records; to Mr. T. H. Nelson, who has most kindly assisted us in Yorkshire records; and to Messrs. W. Evans and J. A. Harvie-Brown, who have given us much advice in Scottish records. In making use of this series of articles on the additions to the second edition of Howard Saunders’ ‘‘ Manual,” the reader is warned that it is necessary to consult also the indices of the two volumes of the Magazine now complete, since many observations have been recorded while these articles have been in progress.* Wuite’s THrus# (Vol. I., p. 53).—Saunders describes it as ‘“‘ probably ”’ breeding in Japan, and also describes Swinhoe’s egos. These are now known to have belonged to some other species. Many authenticated nests and eggs have now been taken in Japan (cf. Heatley Noble, Bull. B.O.C., X., p. 47, Collingwood Ingram, Ibis, 1908, pp. 132 and 386, Plate IV., figs. 2 and 3 (eggs)). Repstart (Vol. I., p. 54).—Scotland.—Quoting from the “Manual” we stated that this bird had not previously been recorded from the ‘‘ Hebrides.’’ Mr. D. Macdonald, of Tober- mory, kindly writes that this should read Outer Hebrides, as the Redstart is common in Mull. Moreover, Mr. Harvie- Brown has noted (Ann. S.N.H., 1902, p. 140) that it was met with once by Finlayson, of Mingulay, on August 6th, 1889, * Some corrections of Irish records not mentioned in this article are made on pp. 248 and 276 of this volume. ADDITIONS SINCE 1899. 407 and another was recorded at Barra Head on May 15th, 1894. Saunders says: ‘“‘In Scotland it has of late years spread northwards ; now breeding freely in the Moray basin, and only less so in Sutherland, Caithness and West Ross.” But, as far back as 1839 Jardine (Brit. Birds, Vol. II., p. 119) wrote, ‘‘ It extends, . . . , to the northern parts of Scotland.” In the sixties, Booth noted their abundance in the Highlands : in the Catalogue of the Cases in his Museum, at Brighton (p. 121), he says: ‘I have noticed them particularly abundant in the wooded glens in the Highlands, where the old stone dykes and rugged, weather-beaten trees afford ample choice for the selection of a nursery.”’ Was also noted in Moidart prior to 1865 (Mrs. Blackburn, Birds drawn from Nature), and in Ross-shire prior to 1872 (Bateson, Proc. Glasgow N. H. Soc., II., p. 182) (W. Evans, in litt.). Buack RepstarrT (Vol. I., p. 54).—Jreland.—One was seen near Courtown Harbour, co. Wexford, in February, 1909 (M. D. Haviland, Field, 27, 1., 09). February is an unusual month for its occurrence in Ireland, October and November being the usual months. NIGHTINGALE (Vol. I., p. 55).—We omitted some information with regard to its range in Yorkshire, but this is not now in- cluded as it has been decided to open an inquiry into the exact range of the Nightingale in England. This inquiry will be organised by the Rev. F. C. R. Jourdain and N. F. Ticehurst, and will commence in the next volume. Meanwhile those who are able to make observations at any point on the outskirts of the normal range of the Nightingale, would greatly assist the inquiry by keeping full and careful notes of occurrences, and especially of instances of nesting which come under their notice. Wuireturoat (Vol. I., p. 55).—Scotland.—One was shot in June, 1897, and a pair nested at Eoligary, Barra, in 1900. They had been seen at Barra in May for several years (J. A. Harvie-Brown, Ann. S.N.H., 1902, p. 140). LEssER WHITETHROAT (Vol. I., p. 55).—Scotland.—One was shot on October 24th, 1898, on Barra (W. E. Clarke, Ann. S.N.H., 1899, p. 109). An adult male was killed at the Suleskerry Lighthouse on September 17th, 1902 (id., t.c., 1903, p. 24). Both this and the Common Whitethroat were observed by Dr. Hamilton at Traigh, Loch Morar, in autumn of 1880 (cf. Zool., 1880, p. 503) (W. Evans, in litt.). Ireland.—The second example was taken on October 10th, 1899, at the Innishtrahull Lighthouse (most northerly Irish light) (R. M. Barrington, Mig. B. Irish Lt. Stations, p. 72). 408 BRITISH BIRDS. GARDEN-WARBLER (Vol. I., p. 56).—Scotland.—One was shot at Barra on October 24th, 1898 (W. E. Clarke, Ann. S.N.H., 1899, p. 110). It is, in my experience, more plentiful and more generally distributed than the Blackcap in the Forth District, and also in Perthshire (W. Evans, 7n litt.). Woop-WreEN (Vol. I., p. 83).—Scotland.—Saunders says : “In Scotland it is fairly distributed, and has apparently spread northward of late years, being recorded by Messrs. Harvie-Brown and Buckley as breeding in the north-east of Sutherlandshire, and as having been identified at Dunbeath, in Caithness, and in West Ross.” According to Booth (Cata- logue, p. 107), it was abundant in the north of Scotland in the sixties. ‘‘I have,” he says, ‘‘ noticed this bird as being particularly numerous in the wildest glens of Perthshire, Ross- shire, and Caithness.”’ Was also noted in Moidart prior to 1865 as seemingly a regular summer visitor, but ‘“‘ less common with us than the Willow-Warbler”’ (Mrs. Blackburn, t.c.). ‘Tt is of general diffusion through the kingdom” (Selby, Brit. Ornithology, Vol. I., Ist ed., 1825, p. 189) (W. Evans, in litt.). GREENISH WILLOW-WARBLER (Vol. I., p. 82).—The speci- men taken at the Suleskerry Lighthouse in 1902 now proves to be an example of Eversmann’s Warbler (Phylloscopus borealis). Mr. Eagle Clarke obtained a similar bird on Fair Isle in 1908, and found that, although it only had a single wing-bar, it was a specimen of P. borealis. The fact that this species sometimes exhibited this character had escaped the attention of Mr. Howard Saunders and himself when they identified the Sule- skerry bird. It is possible that the only other British record for P. viridanus may also prove an error, and that the species may have to come off the British list (W. Eagle Clarke, Ann. iS: V7... 1909) p. 114). Hypouais ? sp. (Vol. I., p. 83).—Mr. F. C. Selous writes : ‘““My friend Major Mangles when at school in Croydon took a nest with four eggs in an osier-bed in 1884. Two of these eggs were broken and the other two I have in my collection. They are undoubtedly eggs of either the Melodious or the Icterine Warbler. Howard Saunders and Mr. E. Bidwell both thought they belonged to the former species.” ReED-WARBLER (Vol. I., p. 84).—The first authentic example for Ireland was killed by striking the Rockabill Lighthouse on October 20th, 1908. Mr. A. H. Evans stated that he heard this species singing in a reed-bed on the Shannon, near Portumna, on July 23rd, 1904 (R. M. Barrington, Scient. Proc. Rk. Dublin So¢.;,.e1t.5p; 19); GREAT REED-WARBLER (Vol. I., p. 84).—One was shot in a ADDITIONS SINCE 1899. 4.09 reed-bed at one of the meres at Ellesmere, in Shropshire, about 1886. It had been noticed singing, and was supposed to be a Nightingale. It was stuffed by C. W. Lloyd, and purchased by H. Shaw; subsequently it passed through the hands of G. Cooke and G. F. Fox, and is now in Mr. W. S. Brocklehurst’s collection. It was examined by Mr. Forrest soon after Cooke bought it (H. E. Forrest, in litt., and Fauna of Shropshire, p. 111). GRASSHOPPER- WARBLER (S. page 89).—Scotland.—Breeding in Morayshire (near Elgin) in 1896—7-8, and not included in Messrs. Harvie-Brown and Buckley’s “‘ Fauna of Moray ”’ (R. H. Mackessach, Ann. S.N.H., 1900, p. 48). ALPINE ACCENTOR (Vol. I., p. 109).—One was shot ‘“‘a few years since” (1904) at Ettington, near Stratford-on-Avon, on the borders of Warwick and Worcester (R. F. Tomes, Vict. Tost. Warwick, 1.,.p: 191). BEARDED Titmouse (Vol. I., p. 109).—One was seen by Captain Henneker, who knew the bird well, in a reed-bed near Sudbury, Derbyshire, in the summer of 1896 (F. C. R. Jourdain, Vict. Hist. Derby, Vol. I., p. 126). CrESTED Titmouse (Vol. I., p. 110).—The bird observed by Baron von Higel was at Torquay, as already pointed out by Mr. W.S. M. D’ Urban (Vict. Hist. Devon, p. 301). Tree- Prerr (Vol. I., p. 112).—Scotland.—Booth (Catalogue, p. 17) says: ‘‘ Forest of Glenmore, in Inverness-shire, where in the summer of 1869 I found it breeding in considerable numbers ”’ (W. Evans, 7n Jitt.). Warter-Pirrt (Vol. I., p. 113).—Mr. O. V. Aplin writes that the square brackets enclosing his Oxfordshire record should be removed. Our only reason for inserting them was because Mr. Aplin considers there is no distinction between A. s. spipoletta and A. s. rupestris, but we consider that the two forms are quite distinct, and did not know to which his record referred. A third example from Merioneth was obtained by Mr. Caton Haigh on February 21st, 1898 (H. E. Forrest, Vert. Fauna N. Wales, p. 123). GOLDEN ORIOLE (S. page 145).—Jreland.—A female was found dead at the Skelligs Lighthouse, co. Kerry, on May 23rd, 1899 (R. M. Barrington, Mig. B. Irish Lt. Stations, p. 11). RED-BACKED SHRIKE (Vol. I., p. 148).—Jreland.—An im- mature bird (the second Irish specimen) was received by Mr. R. M. Barrington from the Wicklow Head Lighthouse, where 410 BRITISH BIRDS. it had been caught at the lantern on the night of September Ist, 1908 (R. M. Barrington, in litt.). Scotland.—Saunders says: ‘‘In the south-east of Scotland it has occasionally been known to breed, as well as at Cambuslang, Lanarkshire, in 1893 [1892 in Ann. S.N.H., 1893, p. 182]; but beyond the Forth it is rare,’ etc. The first part of the above statement is too strong, no nesting having ever been proved; only birds seen in ‘“‘ the breeding season,’ which may have been passing migrants, while the Cambuslang record is apparently of doubtful value ; Mr. J. Paterson, who sent it to the ‘“‘ Annals,” refers to it in his list of Clyde birds (Brit. Assocn. Handbook Fauna, etc., Clyde Area, 1901, p. 161) thus: ‘‘ Red-backed Shrike; recorded by the writer as having nested in Lanark (Ann. S.N.H., 1893, p. 183), but I fear deception somewhere ” (W. Evans, in litt.). Waxwine (Vol. I., p. 148).—Scotland.—In connection with the occurrence of the example in Unst in November, 1903, it is of interest to note that many were obtained in the south- east of Scotland (and elsewhere) about the same time (W. Evans, Ann. S.N.H., 1904, p. 54, etc.). Prep FiycatTcHer (Vol. I., p. 148).—Jreland.—The eighth Trish specimen was obtained at the Fastnet, co. Cork, on October 9th, 1899 (R. M. Barrington, Mig. B. Irish Lt. Stations, p. 11), and the ninth at the Tuskar Rock on September 11th, 1901 (2d., in latt.). Scotland.—To the counties in which it has nested should be added Midlothian (W. Evans, in litt.). RED-BREASTED FrycarcHer (Vol. I., p. 149).—Ireland.— The data of the two last Irish specimens (cf. swpra, p. 248) are: Leg and wing sent from the Blackwater Bank Lightship, co. Wexford, on September 24th, 1898 (R. M. Barrington, t.c., p. 10); a female, or immature bird, was obtained on the Bull Rock, co. Cork, on November 18th, 1903, and is now in Mr. Barrington’s collection (R. M. Barrington, in Witt.). Hawrincu (Vol. I., p. 152).—North Wales——One was shot in a garden at Trescawen in June, 1906--the first record for the county (H. E. Forrest, in ltt.). Ireland.—The following have been taken at Irish lights: Hook Tower, co. Wexford, one, October 25th, 1897, and one, November 4th, 1897; Tuskar, co. Wexford, one, November Ist, 1897; Mine Head, co. Waterford, one, November 10th, 1898 (R. M. Barrington, t.c., p. 127). Scotland.—‘ So many occurrences of both old and young birds in the south-east of Scotland have of late come to my knowledge, that I now regard the species as widely distributed, and not rare in the district’? (W. Evans, im litt.). ADDITIONS SINCE = 1899. 41] Siskin (Vol. I., p. 180).—The record of its breeding in Derbyshire should be enclosed by square brackets. TREE-SpARROW (Vol. I., p. 181).— Scotland.—To the counties in which it is now known to nest, add Linlithgowshire. (W. Evans, on litt.). [NoRTHERN Buuirincny (Vol. I., p. 246).—One was shot on Caister Denes, Norfolk, on January 22nd, 1893 (cf. Zool., 1894, p. 85). Mr. J. H. Fleming, of Toronto, has kindly sent for our inspection two skins (collectors unknown, but the labels seem quite genuine), a male taken at Bolton on June 18th, 1894, and a female at Gloucester on May Ist, 1889.] CrossBILL (Vol. I., p. 247)—‘“I have recently got satis- factory evidence that several pairs nested on the borders of Shropshire and Herefordshire in the spring of 1895. Crossbills were remarkably numerous here at that time ”’ (H. E. Forrest, in litt.). Ireland.—In 1907 Mr. C. Langham reported that he had Crossbills in several places at Tempo Manor, co. Fermanagh. They had been scarce for a year or two (R. J. Ussher, in litt.). A nest was found with fresh eggs on April 17th, 1907, in co. Wicklow (R. Hamilton-Hunter, Jrish Nat., 1907, p. 208). Snow-Buntine (Vol. I., p. 250).—Jreland.—An adult male was sent to Mr. Barrington from Aranmore, co. Donegal, on July 28th, 1898 (Birds of Ireland, p. 78). NutcraAcKER (Vol. I., p. 254).—One was seen near Scotton Common, Lincolnshire, on August 14th, 1900 (F. M. Burton, Nat., 1900, p. 319). KineFrisHerR (S. page 279)—One on River Broom, West Ross, September, 1898 (Ann. S.NV.H., 1899, p. 47). Wryneck (Vol. I., p. 280).—Jreland.—One was found dead on the Fastnet, co. Cork, on September 17th, 1898 (R. M. Barrington, Mig. B. Irish Lt. Stations, p. 181). GREAT SpoTTED WooDPECKER (Vol. I., p. 281).—Scotland. —The Wells and Minto woods are in Roxburghshire. Jreland. —Two bones found by Mr. Ussher in separate caves in co. Clare and identified by Mr. E. T. Newton as belonging to this species, point to its being formerly a resident in Ireland (cf. List of I. Birds, p. 24). Rouuer (Vol. I., p. 281).—Jreland.—Ten have been obtained —the last in co. Donegal on October 10th, 1891 (R. J. Ussher, Inst of I. Birds, p. 24). Brsz-Eater (Vol. I., p. 282).—The Yorkshire record should 412 BRITISH BIRDS. have been ascribed to Mr. G. W. Murdoch (cf. Birds of Yorks., p. 284, and Yorks. Weekly Post, 23, 1x., 05). Hoorort (Vol. I., p. 282).—One shot near Brackley, Northampton, in May, 1908 (O. V. Aplin, Zool., 1908, p. 312). Litre Owt (Vol. I., pp. 315 and 335).—Several were seen in the summer of 1908, and five were liberated in Essex (A. W.,” Feeld, 15, vut., 08). One was shot early in 1909 at Burton-on-Trent (F.C. R. Jourdain, in litt.). Of the one recorded from Scotland (p. 315) Mr. G. Sim stated that he had since heard of facts which led him to suspect that the bird was an escape (Vert. Fauna Dee, addenda). Snowy Owt (Vol. I., p. 315).—Jreland.—One was seen by Captain Kirkwood in December, 1906, at Bartragh, co. Mayo (R. Warren, Zool., 1907, p. 73). An immature female was obtained in co. Mayo about the beginning of December, 1906, and an immature male (?) was shot near Ardagh, co. Kerry, and was received on March 6th, 1907 (R. J. Ussher (fide W. J. Williams), Zrish Nat.,“ 1909, p. 100). MarsH-HarrierR (Vol. I., p. 316).—The following have been shot at Hickling, Norfolk :—Adult ¢ May 9th, 1905; adult ¢ May 17th, 1906; and adult ? June 25th, 1906 (F. Smalley, in litt.). Montacu’s Harrier (Vol. I., p. 317).—The following have been shot in Norfolk :—Adult female, Hickling, May 11th, 1906; adult female, June Ist, and adult male, June 17th, 1907, near Lynn (F. Smalley, in litt.). All these records point to the fact that the birds would have bred in these districts had they not been shot. No words are too strong to condemn this wanton destruction, and it may be pointed out (since it is not generally realised) that, as long as keepers know that they can dispose of such birds, the more inclined will they be to destroy them. ROUGH-LEGGED Buzzarp (Vol. I., p. 319).—Jreland.—Only twelve (eleven obtained, one seen) are recorded in the “ Birds of Ireland,” and of these the one shot on October 4th, 1899, is mentioned in the Appendix. The second example referred to (p. 319) was received by Mr. Williams on November 5th, 1902, and not “in the early part of 1903,” as recorded in the “Trish Naturalist.” Of the two seen in December, 1906, the second—a female—frequented the moors during the winter, and was eventually poisoned and received by Mr. Williams on February 26th, 1907 (R. J. Ussher, in litt., and Irish Nat., 1909, p. 100). There are thus seventeen records from Ireland, sixteen obtained, and one seen. ADDITIONS SINCE 1899. 413 Buack Kite (Vol. I., p. 319).—The date given for the Aberdeen specimen in Sim’s ‘Vert. Fauna of Dee” is April 18th, 1901; and he says it was shot within the city boundary (W. Evans, in litt.). GREENLAND Fatcon (Vol. IL, p. 320).—North Wales.— Mr. A. Heneage Cox writes that there is a specimen at Voelas Hall, Denbighshire, which was trapped by the keeper there. This is the second record for North Wales (H. E. Forrest, on liit.).—Ireland.Several mistakes occur in this summary, and several more birds have been obtained and not recorded. Mr. Ussher provides us with the following list, which it seems better to print in full, and it must be taken to cancel that on p. 320 :— juv., Horn Head, Donegal, shot end December, 1903 (Zool., 1904, ps its), ? juv., Horn Head, Donegal, trapped March 21st, 1905 (I. Nat., | 1905, ps 119). & ) one, Owey Island, Donegal, seen March 14th, 1905 (J. Nat., 1905, n | p. 201). 5 6 Glenties, Donegal, shot October 25th, 1905 (J. Nat., 1905, p. 263). | ¢ Carrickfergus, Antrim, shot February 12th, 1906 (I. Nat., 1906, Pp. 7h0). ? nearly adult, Crossmolina, Mayo, trapped April 9th, 1905 (f. Nats;, W905: 202). one, Clare Island, Mayo, seen March 10th, 1905 (I. Nat., 1905, p: 201): ? juv., Belmullet, Mayo, shot March 29th, 1905 (I. Nat., 1905, p- 201). adult (?) Belmullet, Mayo, shot March 31st, 1905 (I. Nat., 1905, gi po.’ 207). = | adult (?) Belmullet, Mayo, shot April 2nd, 1905 (I. Nat., 1905, py p- 201). - S < one Belmullet, Mayo, captured and escaped, March 28th, 1905 A (I. Nat., 1905, p. 202). © | two, Belmullet, Mayo, seen March and April, 1905 (G. Wallace, on ltt.). $ juv., Castlegore, Mayo, shot March 30th, 1906 (in coll. of C. J. Carroll). ? juv., Ballysodare, Sligo, shot December 29th-30th, 1906 (fide Williams and Sons), $ juv., Westport, Mayo, shot April 10th-12th, 1907 (fide Williams and Sons). ? juv., Mizen Head, Cork, shot March, 1905 (I. Nat., 1905, p. 202). =< g Skelligs, Kerry, shot March, 1905 (I. Naé, 1905, p. 202). g very white, Skelligs, Kerry, shot March, 1905 (J. Naét., 1905, p. 202). g juv., Skelligs, Kerry, shot March, 1905 (I. Nat., 1905, p. 202). MuUNSTER. 414, BRITISH BIRDS. This list comprises details of fifteen birds preserved, a six- teenth caught and escaped, and four or more others seen between 1903 and 1907. The Greenland Falcon seems to visit Ireland more frequently in March and April than any other months. IcELAND Fatcon (Vol. I., p. 321).—Jreland._The examples recorded were seen and both obtained in the early part of 1905 (see R. J. Ussher, List of I. Birds, p. 29). Hospsy (Vol. I., p. 321).—Found breeding in June, 1894, near Goyts Bridge, on the Derbyshire side of the River Goyt (Coward and Oldham, B. of Cheshire, p. 255). Ireland.—The tenth example from Ireland was picked up under a telephone wire at Loftus Hall, Fethard, co. Wexford, on April 16th, 1899 (R. M. Barrington, Mig. B. Irish Lt. Stations, p. 3). The eleventh included in Mr. Ussher’s ‘‘ List of Irish Birds”’ rests upon insufficient evidence (R. J. Ussher, 7n litt.). Osprey (S. p. 359).—We did not mention the visits of this species to Great Britain owing to their regularity, but the following records from Ireland may be noted :—One, co. Sligo, May 3rd, 1901; ¢ juv., co. Kerry, September 30th, 1903; ¢ ad., co. Louth, end of April, 1907; ¢ juv.andone juv., co. Sligo, October 15th and 29th, 1907 (R. J. Ussher, an litt.). The two last have already been referred to (cf. Vol. I., p. 327), but the month was wrongly given as November. Nicut-Hsron (Vol. I., p. 348).—Jreland.—An adult female was obtained at Ardee, co. Louth, on May 10th, 1900 (R. J. Ussher, fide Williams and Sons, in litt.) Animmature bird taken on the Dodder, co. Dublin, on March 31st, 1904, is in the National Museum, Dublin (7d.). At the Belfast Nat. Field Club meeting on October 25th, 1907, Mr. S. M. Stears exhibited a specimen of this bird (J7ish Nat., 1908, p. 65). Twenty-four records since 1834 (R. J. Ussher, List of J. Birds, p. 31). LirrLe Birrern (Vol. I., p. 349).—An adult male shot at Claverley, near Bridgnorth, in September, 1897, is the fifth record for Shropshire (H. E. Forrest, in litt.). Ireland.— About thirty have been obtained (R.*J. Ussher, List of J. Birds, p. 31). AMERICAN BritrerN (Vol. I., p. 349).—Jreland.—The four obtained since the publication of the “ Birds of Ireland ” (cf. antea, Vol. II., p. 276) are as follows :—Tralee, co. Kerry, November 2nd, 1901; Carlow, January, 1902; Moorstown, co. Tipperary, November 30th, 1904; near Colligan, co. Waterford, December 24th, 1904 (R. J. Ussher, in litt.). ADDITIONS SINCE 1899. 415 Gtossy Isis (Vol. I., p. 350).—Jreland.—The ‘‘ Manual ” gives twenty from Ireland, the “ Birds of Ireland” twenty- two, “* List of Irish Birds ” (1908), thirty-six. Of the fourteen extra to the “ Birds of Ireland ”’ three were obtained in each of the counties of Cork, Waterford, and Wexford, two in Clare, and one each in Dublin, Down, and Galway. Seven of these occurred in September, five in October, and one in November (R. J. Ussher, in litt.). SPOONBILL (Vol. I., p. 350).—Jreland.—One was obtained in co. Galway on December 16th, 1890 (R. J. Ussher, fide Williams and Sons, in litt.). One was obtained at Tralee, co. Kerry, in September or October, 1904 (id., fide Rohu and Sons). Grey Lac-Gooss (Vol. II., p. 24).—With reference to the young bird obtained in the Tay area in 1906 Mr. Harvie-Brown writes :—‘‘ Semi-domesticated Grey Lags have bred for some years close to and even within the watershed of Tay, near the southern boundaries, and truly wild Grey Lags have never been recorded as nesting anywhere within forty miles of the north-west boundary of the Tay area.” [Ruppy SHELD-Duck (Vol. II., p. 51).—A pair was shot on the Essex coast early in January, 1908 (J. C. F. Fryer, Field, 1, me. 08); | GADWALL (Vol. II., p. 52).—Jreland.—One, of a pair, shot on the Barrow, near Stradbally, Queens co., February 7th, 1908 (John W. Young, Field, 15, 11.,08). One was shot in November, 1907, near Wexford Harbour (W. Rocke, Field, 22, 11., 08). Notso rare in Ireland (Sligo, Roscommon and Leitrim) as might be supposed from records given. It is a regular visitor in small numbers to Lough Arrow: three or four couples were on the lough during the first half of April, 1909. This information comes to me from Messrs. J. Henderson, senr. and junr., both of whom are well acquainted with the bird (F. C: R. Jourdain, in litt.). SHOVELER (Vol. II., p. 52).—A few pairs are said to breed on the moors of Somersetshire (F. L. Blathwayt, Vict. Hist. ‘Somerset, Vol. I., p. 155). A brood was hatched both in 1904 and 1905 ona pool at Patshull, Staffs. (Lord Dartmouth, Field, 15, vitt., 08). Lreland.—Increasing as a breeding species in all the provinces (R. J. Ussher, 2n litt.). Pinrart (Vol. IIL., p. 54).—Hawick is in Roxburgh, not Berwick. But the lochs at which both nests are said to have been found are in Selkirk (W. Evans, in Iitt.). GARGANEY (Vol. II., p. 54).—A pair was seen on Ellesmere, Shropshire, in April, 1906 (H. E. Forrest, in litt.). Ireland.— 416 BRITISH BIRDS. One was shot near the Curragh of Kildare on September 21st, 1899 (R. J. Ussher, List of I. Birds, p. 34). Scotland.— Seven killed at Pitfour, Aberdeenshire, October 22nd, 1898 (Ann S.N.H., 1899, p. 50). WicrEon and Pocuarp (Vol. II., pp. 55, 56.—Scotland.— ‘The Wigeon and Pochard have both been found nesting in Ross-shire [Gairloch (?) ], and the eggs obtained’ (Bateson, 1872, Proc. N. H. Soc., Glasgow, II., p. 182). In the last line of page 55 (swpra) for ‘‘ 1902” read “ 1899.” RED-CRESTED PocuarD (Vol. II., p. 56).—The second record mentioned under Yorkshire refers to the same bird as the first, and is wrongly dated (see Nat., 1900, p. 322). Frerrucinous Duck (Vol. II., p. 57).—Ireland.—“ Mr. F. Dyer, of Ramsgate, preserved one of two shot at Cruiserath, co. Meath, in December, 1889, as I am informed by Mr. J. K. Harting, in litt.”” (R. J. Ussher, in litt.). TurrED Duck (Vol. II., p. 83).—WScotland.—Along with Mr. Harvie-Brown’s two papers in the “ Ann. S.N.H.” and ‘“‘ Proceedings of the Royal Physical Society ”’ should be read Mr. W. Evans’ paper in ‘Ann. S.N.H.,” 1896, pp. 148 to 155. Scaup-Duck (Vol. II., p. 85).—Jreland.—“I have seen several on a lake near the coast in Mayo in June, 1907” (R. J. Ussher, 2n litt.). Scotland.—For correction of Stark’s nesting record see Vol. II., p. 132. GOLDEN-EYE (S. page 451).—Flocks, partly composed of males in adult plumage, seen on two lochs in the Forth area in summer of 1908 (W. Evans, Ann. S.N.H., 1909, p. 49). LONG-TAILED Duck (S. page 455).—Jreland.—Occurs in winter on the north and west coasts down to Kerry (Zool., 1907, p. 159). Several have been met with on Lough Corrib, and one of them (a male in breeding plumage) was shot in April, 1900, and is in the Nat. Museum in Dublin. A flock of five was seen on Lough Beg, and specimens were obtained (Brit. Assoc. Guide to Belfast, 1902). Three mature birds in Belfast Lough in May, 1898 (ibid.) (R. J. Ussher, in litt.). Eiper Duck (Vol. II., p. 86).—Line 3, for ‘‘ Hansa”’ read “« Handa.” GoosaANDER (Vol. II., p. 87).—IJreland.—“‘ On January 16th, 1909, W. J. Williams wrote ‘ Adult male Goosander from Wicklow. I have not handled one for at least seven years’ ”’ (R. J. Ussher, in liit.). Stock-Dove (Vol. II., p. 125).—Scotland.—An old record for the south-west of Scotland (Ecclefechan, 1858) is given in ADDITIONS SINCE 1899. 417 the ‘‘ Zoologist ’’ for 1859 (p. 6378), as pointed out in my note in “ Ann. §.N.H.,” 1896, p. 254 (W. Evans, in liit.). TurtLe-Dove (Vol. IL., p. 126).—Yorkshire.—Nests annually, and is by no means rare in the Scarborough district. Also found at Wetherby, and nests regularly near Harrogate and Driffield (W. Gyngell, Nat., 1908, p. 464). Buack Grouse (Vol. II., p. 127).—Two hybrids, apparently between Black and Red Grouse, were shot by Mr. A. Foster, of Bettws-y-coed, one on December 9th, 1895, and the other on November 20th, 1897, on Yspytty Moor, Carnarvon (H. E. Forrest, Vert. Faun. N. Wales, p. 307). Ireland.—Note the correction, Vol. IT., p. 167. PrarRMIGAN (Vol. ITI., p. 128).—Note the correction Vol. II., Da, 167. SporreD Crake (Vol. IL., p. 129).—Jreland.—In addition to those mentioned Mr. R. J. Ussher provides us with par- ticulars of the following examples :—One, Castlerea, co. Roscommon, October 20th, 1900; two, King’s co., October 7th, 1904; one, co. Fermanagh, October 13th, 1904; one, Balbriggan, co. Dublin, November 26th, 1906 ; one, Drogheda, co. Louth, December 4th, 1906 (fide Williams and Sons) ; one, co. Dublin, October 6th, 1902 (fide R. M. Barrington) ; one, Buttevant, co. Cork, January 4th, 1904 (Rohu and Son, J. Nat., 1904, p. 98). [Crane (Vol. II., p. 147).—Two were shot on December Ist, 1903, at Knowle, Warwickshire, and were exhibited at a meeting of the Birmingham Nat. Hist. and Phil. Society (A. H. Duncalfe, on litt.). These seem likely to have been escaped birds. | TURNSTONE (S. p. 557).—Has now been definitely recorded for Derbyshire (F. C. R. Jourdain, Zool., 1909, p. 111) and also Staffordshire (J. R. B. Masefield, R. and Tr. N. Staffs. F. Club, 1909). Jreland.—Found regularly throughout the year along the Dublin coast. A female with ripe ova was. obtained on July 18th, 1900, but was without a mate (C.J. Patten, Nat., 1909, p. 51). Avocet (Vol. II., p. 228).—The east Sussex coast should have been included after Kent, as it forms a continuous coastline, but the records seem to be few. Mr. H. G. Alexander reminds us that one was seen on several days in March, 1906, by his brother and himself (cf. Zool., 1906, p. 152). Grey PHaLarope (Vol. II., p. 229).—Five are recorded from the Isle of Man (P. G. Ralfe, Birds I. of M., p. 213). 418 BRITISH BIRDS. One was shot at Carno, Montgomeryshire, on October 25th, 1907 (H. E. Forrest, in litt.) One was shot near Hilbre Island in November, 1898 (Coward and Oldham, B. of Cheshire, p. 256). Ireland.—One was shot on Lough Foyle, near Eglinton, co. Londonderry, on September 18th, 1899 (D. C. Campbell, J. Nat., 1900, p. 81). Mr. Ussher informs us of two others—one near Fethard, co. Tipperary, on November 30th, 1906 (fide C. J. Carroll), and one at Moy- vally, co. Meath, on October 21st, 1902 (fide Williams and Sons). RED-NECKED PHALAROPE (Vol. II., p. 229).—An adult in winter plumage (the first authentic record for Shropshire) was shot near Shrewsbury on November Ist, 1904 (H. E. Forrest, in litt.). GREAT SNIPE (Vol. II., p. 229).—Jreland.—The thirteenth for Ireland was a male obtained in co. Antrim in October, 1901, and is inthe National Museum, Dublin (R. J. Ussher, in litt.). Scotland.—One shot near Elgin, October 15th, 1898 (Ann. S_N.H., 1899, p. 51). LirtLe Srint (8. p. 585).—The third recorded specimen for Derbyshire was shot out of a trip of a dozen on the sewage farm at Egginton, September 26th, 1908, and is now in the possession of Mr. T. E. Auden (F. C. R. Jourdain, in litt.). CURLEW-SANDPIPER (Vol. II., p. 268).—Recorded for the first time for Derbyshire (Zool., 1906, p. 141). reland.—Flocks of considerable size (as many as 200 to 300) have been seen exceptionally in autumn on the Dublin coast (C. J. Patten, Aquatic Birds, p. 302). PURPLE SANDPIPER (S. p. 593).—Jreland.—Frequently seen on the Dublin coast in nuptial plumage as late as the middle of May (C. J. Patten, Aquatic Birds, p. 306). A pair found by Witherby on a small island off the coast of Galway on May 30th, 1895, although in nuptial plumage had the sexual organs still undeveloped. Kwort (Vol. IL., p. 268).—Jreland.—One in summer plumage taken in July, 1904, at Belmullet, co. Mayo, is in the National Museum, Dublin (R. J. Ussher, in litt.). SANDERLING (S. p. 597).—Ireland.—Has been observed on the Dublin coast in every month of the year. Even in July flocks of fifty have been seen, but the condition of their genital organs has not been examined (C. J. Patten, Nat., pp. 83-85). A large flock was observed by Mr. Ussher on the shore at Cross, — co. Mayo, on June 3rd, 1907, and one was shot there in the beginning of August, 1907 (in litt.). ‘ADDITIONS SINCE 1899. 419 Rurr (Vol. II., p. 269).—Jreland.—Mr. Ussher sends us a list of eighteen occurrences, briefly as follows :—1901, May, a male in breeding dress, co. Down ; one, August, co. Wexford ; one, September, co. Wicklow ; 1902, one, August, co. Mayo ; one, September, co. Donegal; 1904, one, September, co. Westmeath ; one, October, co. Wexford ; 1905, two, August, and three September, co. Kildare; two, September, King’s co.; one, October, co. Cavan; 1908, two, September, co. Clare ; one from co. Limerick, date unknown. Woop-SANDPIPER (Vol. II., p. 269).—Only three appear to be recorded for North Wales, the last being shot by Mr. Caton Haigh on May 3rd, 1898, in Carnarvonshire (H. E. Forrest, Vert. F. N. Wales, p. 358). SportEeD REDSHANK (Vol. II., p. 270).—Jreland.—An im- mature female was obtained on Great Island, Cork Harbour, on December 26th, 1898 (W. B. Barrington, in litt., to R. J. Ussher). Bar-TAILED Gopwit (S. p. 623).—Ireland.—Flock of several hundred on Dublin coast on June 7th, 1899 (C. J. Patten, Aquatic Birds). BLACK-TAILED Gopwit (Vol. II., p. 270).—Scotland.—In “Forth” (Ann. S.N.H., 1903, p. 22, and 1904, p. 57), and Tiree (Ibis, 1903; p. 50). Biack TERN (Vol. II., p. 305).—An immature bird was shot near Broseley, Shropshire, on September 18th, 1901. In 1904 a pair visited Ellesmere from June 8th—llth, and two immature birds were seen on September Ist, 1904 (H. E. Forrest, in litt.). Under Derby, for “ Etwell,’” read “‘ Etwall.” Ireland.—Mr. Ussher gives us information of the following from Messrs. Williams and Sons’ books :—One, co. Limerick, September 30th, 1901 (in National Museum); one (immature), Athlone, September 28th, 1903; one (immature), co. Cavan, October 7th, 1903. WHITE-WINGED BiAck TERN (Vol. II., p. 306).—Ireland.— Six are recorded in the “ Birds of Ireland” (p. 213) against five in the “‘ Manual.” SanpwicH TERN (Vol. II., p. 306).—A male (the first re- corded for Shropshire) was found dead near Shrewsbury in August, 1897 (H. E. Forrest, in litt.). Lirtte TrErRN (Vol. II., p. 308).—WScotland.—A few pairs have again nested in the Forth area for a year or two past. This is of some importance in view of Saunders’ statement that this Tern had ceased to nest in Haddingtonshire, which was quite correct (W. Evans, in litt.). 420 BRITISH BIRDS. Sooty Tern (Vol. If., p. 308)—The specimen figured in the ‘‘ Manual ”’ was not shot as there stated (p. 653) but killed with a stone (F. C. R. Jourdain, in litt.). LittLe Guu (Vol. I1., p. 328).—/reland.—An adult in winter plumage was killed about March 7th, 1909, near Laytown, co. Meath (R. M. Barrington, [rish Nat., 1909, p. 99). GREAT AND LeEssER BLACK-BACKED GULLS (S. pages 675 and 677).—Scotland.—Mr. Evans brings forward much evi- dence to prove that the naturalists who visited the Bass Rock during the first half of last century were unanimous in regarding the Black-backs that then bred there as Larus marinus, and that since about 1860, L. fuscus alone has been ascertained to nest there. The early ornithologists, however, left behind no conclusive evidence that their identification was correct (W. Evans, Proc. R. Phys. Soc. Edin., Vol. XVI., pp. 42-51). Guaucous Guu (Vol. II., p. 328).—Ireland.—In addition to those mentioned, the following occurrences supplied by Mr. Ussher do not appear to have been recorded :—1900, November 16th, co. Kerry; 1901; March 19th, co. Mayo; April 2nd, co. Kerry; 1904, January 25th, co. Donegal ; February 9th, co. Wicklow ; March 3rd, co. Donegal; March 15th, co. Donegal ; December 2nd, co. Mayo ; 1905, December 15th, co. Mayo; 1906, December 27th, locality uncertain (fide Williams and Sons) ; 1907, March 31st, co. Donegal (fide W. A. Hamilton); January llth, co. Mayo (in National Museum). This last may be the same bird as that recorded from Bartragh on December 8th, 1906 (cf. supra, p. 329), since the date here given is the date of the Museum register. IcELAND-GULL (Vol. II., p. 329).—Jreland.—Mr. Ussher gives us particulars of eleven obtained (many others have been seen), and amongst them we may note one from co. Galway on April 21st, 1906, and one from co. Londonderry on April 20th, 1903 (J. Nat., 1903, p. 198), in addition to the late occurrences already mentioned. KITTIWAKE GULL (S. page 683).—Scotland.—There are now considerably over 100 pairs breeding on the St. Abb’s Cliffs. First noticed there about a dozen years ago (W. Evans, in litt.). GreAT SKvua (Vol. II., p. 330).—Holyhead record should have been under North Wales, not Ireland. An adult obtained on the River Shannon at Portumna, in October, 1906, is in Mr. C. J. Carroll’s collection (R. J. Ussher, in litt.). ADDITIONS SINCE 1899.» 421 PoMATORHINE SkKvaA (Vol. II., p. 330).—Jreland.—In addi- tion to those mentioned, Mr. Ussher informs us of the following unrecorded examples :—Ballynakill, co. Galway, Septemk rc 16th, 1902 ; co. Tipperary, September 19th, 1902 (fide Williams and Sons); off Cork Harbour, November 9th, 1903; off co. Galway, May 9th, 1904; off south-west coast, May, 1904. LonG-TAILED Skva (Vol. IL., p. 331).—Jreland._September 22nd, 1899 (? locality) ; co. Mayo, August 22nd, 1903 (R. J. Ussher, in litt., fide Williams and Sons). The following were seen by Mr. G. P. Farran: one fifty miles west of Tearaght, August 7th, 1906; one forty-five miles west of Skelligs, August 8th, 1906; one sixty-two miles south-west by west of Bull Rock, September 11th, 1907 (td., in hit.). BLACK-THROATED Diver (Vol. II., p. 333).—Ireland.— An adult and an immature bird are recorded in Williams and Sons’ books for July 28th, 1906 (R. J. Ussher, an litt.). GREAT-CRESTED GREBE (Vol. II., p. 333).—Scotland.—It may be recalled that Selby in 1838 (British Ornithology, Vol. II., p. 394) stated that it bred annually on a few of the northern Scottish lakes (W. Evans, in litt.). SLAVONIAN GREBE (Vol. II., p. 334).—Jreland.—One in summer plumage was obtained at Belmullet, co. Mayo, in April, 1907 (R. J. Ussher, in lit.). BLACK-NECKED GREBE (Vol. II., p. 369).—Jreland.—Three have been obtained since the publication of the “ Birds of Ireland” ; one has been mentioned, the other two Mr. Ussher informs us are: Mullingar, December 30th, 1901 (fide Williams and Sons) ; King’s co., July 4th, 1907 (H. E. Joly, in litt.). Manx SHEARWATER (Vol. II., p. 372).—Scotland.—Present in the Firth of Forth every year from May to October; at first, only a few, but in hundreds during August and Sep- tember. Odd birds have occasionally been seen at other times (February, etc.), (W. Evans, in litt.). Futmar (Vol. II., p. 373).—One was shot by Mr. Wise on February 23rd, 1908, off Kingsgate, Thanet, Kent (C. Ingram, Zool., 1908, p. 272). One was picked up dead at Canty Bay, near North Berwick, on July 16th, 1908. A pair is said by the lighthouse-keepers on the Bass Rock to have nested there in 1906 (W. and T. Malloch, ¢.c., 1908, p. 396), but we can give no credence to this last statement. Mr. W. Evans writes :—‘‘ The principal lighthouse-keeper on the Bass tells me he never heard it suggested that the Fulmar had bred on the Rock. He has no doubt the recorded nesting of the Storm- Petrel there in June, 1904, is what is meant.”’ Cc LIFE OF THE LATE PROFESSOR ALFRED NEWTON. I HAVE been invited to write a Life of the late Professor Alfred Newton. If any of your readers who have letters or reminiscences, or any other interesting information about Professor Newton, will be kind enough to communicate with me at the Savile Club, 107, Piccadilly, W., I shall be exceedingly grateful. I will, of course, undertake to return all letters, etc., to the senders. A. F. R. Wo.LuLaston. THE BIRDS OF FAIR ISLE. In the last issue of ‘‘ The Annals of Scottish Natural History ” (1909, pp. 69-75) Mr. W. Eagle Clarke gives a report on the observations made on this now well-known island during 1908. The results are even more extraordinary than in previous years (cf. Vol. I., pp. 233 and 381), and this may be due to the fact that by the generosity of friends Mr. Clarke has been enabled to instal a regular observer in the person of xeorge Stout, a youthful inhabitant of the island, who had already shown himself an apt pupil. Beyond this important arrangement Mr. Clarke himself spent six weeks on the island in the autumn. Mr. Clarke’s report is this year confined to those species which are additions to the fauna of the island, and he tells us that a great mass of information is reserved for publication in a further contribution. In those occurrences which are referred to, however, there is a most unfortunate lack of detail, which greatly lessens their interest. The list of Fair Island birds is now brought up to the remarkable total of 185. We learn that Mr. Eagle Clarke has had the good fortune to secure the interest of the proprietor of the island in the investigations, and we understand that Mr. Clarke has now been granted the sole right to shoot on the island. The following is a brief summary of the most notable items :— BaRRED WARBLER (Sylvia nisoria).—Several occurred in autumn and were identified beyond doubt. SUBALPINE WARBLER (Sylvia subalpina).—This is one of the most interesting of these remarkable records, but only the bare fact that a bird of this species occurred during the year is chronicled. It will be remembered that the only other known occurrence of this species was at St. Kilda on June 13th and 14th, 1894 (cf. Saunders’ Manual, p. 53). Now NOTES. 425 that Dr. Hartert has distinguished between the various races of this species (Vog. pal. Fauna, pp. 596-7), it would be interesting to discover the region of the origin of this specimen (we presume the bird-was secured) by a careful comparison. IcTERINE WARBLER (Hypolais icterina).—The occurrence of this species can only be inferred by its inclusion in the list and by the remark that it has not been previously recorded from Scotland ! Savr’s WarRBLER (Locustella luscinioides).—The occurrence of this species in the spring is truly, as Mr. Clarke says, one of the most interesting events in British ornithology for many years. Since it became extinct as a breeding species in 1856 it has never been identified with certainty in England, and it has never before been known to visit Scotland. ALPINE ACCENTOR (Accentor collaris)—One was seen at close quarters by Mr. Clarke in the autumn resting on the face of one of the great cliffs on the west side of the island. This Species is new to Scotland. BuLuE-HEADED WaaraiL (Motacilla flava).—This species occurred, but no details are given. ReED-THROATED Preir (Anthus cervinus).—This species occurred on two occasions during Mr. Clarke’s visit in the autumn. Mr. Nicoll has shown (antea, p. 278) that there are very few reliable records of this bird’s occurrence in the British Isles. Ricuarp’s Prerr (Anthus richardi).—Several appeared in the autumn. Only once before recorded for Scotland. GOLDEN ORIOLE (Oriolus galbula).—Observed both in spring and autumn. Hawrincu (Coccothraustes vulgaris)—A male in spring. There being no trees or shrubs it lived on the ground and fed on the dung of ponies. Two-BARRED CrossBILL (Loxia bifasciata).—One in spring ; lived much the same as the Hawfinch. Only once previously recorded for Scotland. Rustic Buntine (Hmberiza rustica).—Single birds on both passages. Mr. Clarke remarks that it has only once before been known to visit Scotland, but we may remind him that besides the bird recorded by himself from Cape Wrath on May 11th, 1906, a pair was reported as obtained at Torphins, Aberdeenshire, in March, 1905 (cf. Vol. I., p. 249). RosE-COLOURED STARLING (Pastor roseus).—An adult male in spring. A similar bird was reported on good evidence in 1907. Turrep Duck (Fuligula cristata).—One or two appeared on migration, but whether in spring or autumn is not stated. 424, BRITISH BIRDS. Temmincre’s Stintr (Lringa temmincki).—Occurred in autumn ; very rare visitor to Scotland. Woop-SanpDpPrreR (Z'otanus glareola).—This bird also occurred, but no details are given. It seems curiously rare in Orkney and Shetland. BLACK-TAILED Gopwit (Limosa belgica).—One visited the island in mid-winter. EGGS OF THE CUCKOO. Ir may be of interest to put on record the following particulars of Cuckoos’ eggs which I had the good fortune to find last year :— Date. Place. Foster Parent. Cuckoo’s Egg. May 18th. Sussex. Robin, 3 eggs. (No. 1.) Colour like Robin’s egg. May 30th. Surrey. Tree-Pipit, (No. 2.) Dark grey-brown. 4 eggs, red spotted form. June Ist. Same Tree-Pipit, (No. 3.) Pale pink - brown, place. 3 eggs, grey similar to a Robin’s egg. blotched form. Found six inches from the cup of the nest, on the ‘* platform.” June 7th. Same Tree-Pipit, (No. “ Pale pink-brown, like place. 1 egg, red No. 3. spotted form. (No. 5.) Another egg outside the nest on the *‘ platform.” This one larger than No. 4, and grey-brown like No. 2. This egg had a small hole in it, and the two in the nest were stuck together by the contents of another egg, which had probably been eaten. No more eggs laid, and the nest deserted. June 15th. Hamp- Meadow-Pipit, (No. 6.) Green-yellow. shire. 4 eggs. June 24th. Surrey. Hedge-Sparrow, (No. 7.) Like a Pied-Wagtail’s 3 eggs. egg. July 3rd. Same Hedge-Sparrow, (No. 8.) As No. 7. place. 2 eggs. C. W. CoLTHRUP. CHAFFINCH NESTING IN WINTER. WirH reference to the nest described in British Brrps (antea, p. 381), I regret to say that on further investigation I found that the statement that the birds were seen feeding the young was incorrect. The position of the nest did not permit a view of its contents, and the nest itself contains no evidence of its having contained young. It can be proved NOTES. 425 that the Chaffinches built the nest in December, and were constantly about it during January and February, and that the hen brooded upon it. Beyond that nothing is certainly known, and it is extremely doubtful if a brood could have been reared successfully for lack of suitable food. H. E. Forrest. RED GROUSE AND BLACK GROUSE HYBRIDS. In the third line of Mr. Ogilvie-Grant’s note on this subject (swpra, p. 386) the name “Glen Troot” should be “Glen Trool.”” Two specimens of a similar hybrid obtained on the borders of Dumfriesshire and Kirkcudbrightshire, recorded in the “‘ Field” at the time, may be seen in the Tullie House Museum, Carlisle. Another specimen, obtained near Kirk- connel (Dumfriesshire), is in the possession of the gentleman who shot it, and is now in Glasgow. These examples will be duly referred to in my book on the “ Birds of Dumtries- shire,” which it is hoped will shortly be published. Huau 8S. GLADSTONE. NESTING RECORDS OF THE KITTIWAKE IN THE ISLE OF WIGHT. Mr. P. W. Muwn and I, in our “ Birds of Hampshire,” recorded a Kittiwake’s egg, as picked up under the Culver Cliffs, Isle of Wight, in 1903. Mr. R. H. Fox, of Shanklin, now writes to me that Mr. G. T. Woods, the finder of the egg, after con- sultation with Mr. H. F. Poole, considers it to be a dwarfed egg of the Herring-Gull. This puts back the nesting of the Kittiwake in the Isle of Wight for many years, and it would be interesting to know the date of any authentic specimens in local collections. J. E. KELSALL. BRUNNICH’S GUILLEMOT IN THE FIRTH OF FORTH. A FEMALE specimen of Brimnich’s Guillemot (Uria bruennicht) was picked up dead on the shore at Craigielaw Point, on the Haddingtonshire coast of the Firth of Forth, on December 11th, 1908, and was sent to the Royal Scottish Museum by Mr. Valentine Knight. Judging by the size of the bill, which measures along the curve of the culmen only 1-2 inches, Mr. Clarke considers the specimen a bird of the year (W. Eagle Clarke, Ann. S.N.H., 1909, pp. 75 and 76). Mr. Clarke is, however, mistaken in stating that since 1895 ‘no other specimen has been detected either in British waters or on our shores,” for two have since been procured off the Yorkshire coast, and another, if correctly identified, has been seen off the Farne Islands (cf. swpra, p. 331). 4.26 BRITISH BIRDS. SLAVONIAN GREBE AND BLACK-NECKED GREBE IN HERTFORDSHIRE. On the 14th, and again on the 2lst of March, I watched a Slavonian Grebe (Podicipes auritus) on Wilstone Reservoir, near Tring. The bird was in winter plumage, but the approaching change into breeding dress was heralded by a rufous tinge on the feathers of the flanks. On April 18th there was a Black- necked Grebe (Podicipes nigricollis) in full summer plumage on the same water. The slender, slightly recurved bill of this bird was in striking contrast with the thick, straight bill of the Slavonian Grebe. CHas. OLDHAM. Earty ARRIVAL OF THE Swirt IN IRELAND.—Mr. Nevin H. Foster writes to us from Hillsborough, co. Down, Ireland, that he saw a Swift (Cypselus apus) on April 20th—a very early date for the appearance of the bird in that locality. ROLLER IN CUMBERLAND.—An adult Coracias garrulus is recorded as having been shot by a keeper at Knorren, near Brampton, on June 17th, 1907 (L. E. Hope, Zool., 1909, p. 156). LONG-EARED OwL IN SHETLAND.—Three Asio otus were seen at Hayfield, near Lerwick, in February, 1909 (J. S. Tulloch, Ann. S.N.H., 1909, p. 115). Litre Ow. in NorrinGHAMSHIRE.—An example of Athene noctua is recorded at Widmerpool on December 10th, 1907, and another near Clifton Grove on March 14th, 1908 (J. W. Carr, Zool., 1909, p. 113). GADWALLS IN FIFESHIRE AND ORKNEY.—A pair of Anas strepera was seen and one obtained on January 25th, 1909, on Morton Loch, near Tayport, and on the 29th a flock of thirty, of which three were shot and proved to be of this species, appeared on the same loch (W. Berry, Ann. S.N.H., 1909, p. 116; cf. also supra, p. 348). An adult drake was shot out of a pack of Wigeon on March 8th, 1904, on Loch Stenness. Two days afterwards a female was seen on the same loch, and an adult male was seen on December 14th, 1906 (H. W. Robinson, loc. cit.). Stock-DovE NESTING IN LANARKSHIRE.—In connection with the spread of the Stock-Dove (Columba nas) as a breeding Species in Scotland it is interesting to note that it “‘is now becoming quite established as a breeding species’? in the Blantyre district of the Clyde Valley (W. Stewart, Ann. S.N.H., 1909, p. 115). i nm ay =) | EE Lo. yd So yy The Hastings and East Sussex Naturalist (Vol. I., No. 4, February 25th, 1909). THIs number of the Journal of the Hastings and St. Leonards. Natural History Society contains plenty to interest the ornithologist. The Society is much to be congratulated upon its vigour, and especially upon its strength in energetic and capable ornithological members—we believe it can boast of more M.B.O.U.’s among its members than any other local natural history society. The most important paper (pp. 153-173, plates XVIII.-X XIV.) in this number is one by our own contributor, Mr. W. H. Mullens, on ‘“ Gilbert White and Sussex.”” In this paper, which originally took the form of a lecture delivered before the 12th Congress of the South- Kastern Union of Scientific Societies, Mr. Mullens traces, with great care and thoroughness, Gilbert White’s intimate connec- tion with Sussex, and especially with the villages of Harting, near Petersfield, and Ringmer, near Lewes. He used to. journey into Sussex frequently, and he greatly loved the Downs, of which he wrote: “I still investigate that chain of majestic mountains with fresh admiration every time I traverse: it.” There hesaw Great Bustards and Kites, while along the chalky cliffs of the Sussex shore ‘“‘ the Cornish Chough builds, I know,” he writes to Barrington. A careful paper is that by Mr. M. J. Nicoll on the Pipits which occur in the Hastings district. Here is recorded the fact, which we do not remember to have seen in print before, that a pair of Tawny Pipits ‘‘ undoubtedly bred in Sussex in 1905, and: again, possibly, the following year,” while in 1906 Mr. Nicoll saw an adult bird collecting nesting materials (p. 183). Amongst the ‘‘ Annual Notes,” by the Rev. E. N. Bloomfield, we may note the following interesting records, which we do not think have been previously referred to :—Red-footed Falcon, Ashford, June 10th, 1908; Night-Heron, Lydd, October 3rd, 1906 ;. Spoonbill, two, Romney Marsh, April Ist, 1908 (p. 187). ( 429) INDEX. abietina, Phylloscopus collybita. See Chiffchaff, East European. Accentor, Alpine (additions), 409 ; at Fair Isle, 423. —— Hedge. See Sparrow, Hedge. accipitrinus, Asio. See Owl, Short- eared. acuta, Dafila. adamsi, Colymbus. White-billed. Additions to our Knowledge of British Birds since 1899, 24, 51, 83, 125, 146, 228, 267, 305, 327, 368, 406. alba, Ciconia. albellus, Mergus. albicilla, Haliaztus. White-tailed. albifrons, Anser. fronted. ALEXANDER, H. G., Notes on Pallas’s Sand-Grouse in Kent, 134; Autumn and Winter Singing of Buntings, 237. ee na oe, On an lan Of Mapping Migratory Birds in their Nesting Areas, 322. alle, Mergulus. See Auk, Little. allent, Porphyriola. See Gallinule, Allen’s. alpina, Tringa. americana, Mareca.” American. Amputation of Lapwing’s Toes by means of Wool, 281. anglicus, Dendrocopus major. See Woodpecker, Great Spotted. anglorum, Puffinus. See Shear- water, Manx. —— Regulus regulus. Golden-crested. apiaster, Merops. See Bee-Eater. apivorus, Pernis. See Buzzard, Honey. apus, Cypselus. aquaticus, Acrocephalus. bler, Aquatic. See Pintail. See Diver, See Stork. See Smew. See Eagle, See Goose, White- See Dunlin. See Wigeon, See Wren, See Swift. See War- | aquaticus, Cinclus. | arenaria, Calidris. | bailloni, See Dipper. See Puffin. See Diver, arctica, Fratercula. arcticus, Colymbus. Black-throated. See Sanderling. argentatus, Larus. See Gull, Her- ring. ARNOLD, E. C., Notes on Barred Warbler in Norfolk, 200; Pec- toral Sandpiper in Norfolk, 206; Aquatic Warbler in Sussex, 236. arquata, Numenius. See Curlew. arvensis, Alauda. See Lark, Sky. —— Anser. See Goose, Bean. assimilis, Puffinus. See Shearwater, Little Dusky. ater, Parus. See Titmouse, Coal. atricapilla, Muscicapa. See Fly- catcher, Pied. atrigularis, .Turdus. Black-throated. Auk, Great (additions), 331. Little (additions), 332. auritus, Podicipes. See Slavonian. Avocet (additions), 228, 417. ; avocetta, Recurvirostra. See Avocet. See Thrush, Grebe, _ Baur, P. H., On the Nesting of the Seaup-Duck in Scotland, 209. Porzana. See Crake, Baillon’s. Banks, R. C., Note on Grey Phala- rope in co. Wexford, 240. BARRINGTON, R. M., Pallas’s Grass- hopper-Warbler in __ Ireland, 230; Note on Little Bunting in Ireland, 238. BAxTER, EVELYN V., and LEONORA J. Rrytout, Note on Albinistic Variety of the Redwing, 277. | Bee-Eater (additions), 411. GRACE THE Notes on the BEDFORD, HER DUCHESS OF, 430 Solitary Sandpiper and other Waders in Kent, 156% Goosander in Bedfordshire, 384; the Bill of the Great Northern Diver, 387. belgica, Limosa. See Godwit, Black- tailed. BERESFORD-WEBB, G. M., Note on an Escaped Nutcracker, 28. biarmicus, Panurus. See Titmouse, Bearded. Bibliography of British Birds Notieed, 340. bifasciata, Loxia. See Crossbill, Two-barred. Brrp, Rev. M:. C.. H.,. Notes on Green-backed Gallinule in Nor- folk, 134; The Average Weight of Snipe, 312. Bird-Hunting in Wild Europe, Re- viewed, 284. BRITISH BIRDS. brachyrhyncus, Anser. Pink-footed. Brambling (nestling), 193; in West Sutherland, 347. brenta, Bernicla. See Goose, Brent. British Ornithologists’ Union, the Jubilee of the, 274; and Rare Breeding Birds, 274. bruennicht, Uria. See Guillemot. Briinnich’s. Bullfinech, British, 130; 193, 196. —— Northern (additions), 411. bulwert, Bulweria. See Petrel, Bulwer’s. Bunting, Lapland, in Ireland, 248. —— lLarge-billed Reed, in Kent, 88. See Goose, (nestling), ric Stee Little, in Ireland and Norfolk, Birds, How to Attract and Protect | Wild, Reviewed, 172. Bittern, in Hampshire, Yorkshire,, 100 ; OG =) SER: in Hadding- tonshire, 140; in MHertford- shire, 309; in Pembrokeshire, ati: —— American, in Ireland, 276; (additions), 414. —— Little (additions), 414. Blackbird (nestling), 189. BLADEN, W. WEtLs, Note on Nesting of the Shoveler in Staffordshire, 95. BLATHWAYT, Rev. F. L., Note on Inland Nesting of the Sheld- Duck and Nesting of Pochard, Shoveler and Teal in Lincoln- shire, 95. Bluethroat in Norfolk, 200; on the Isle of May, 346. BonuoTe, J. L., Note on the East European Chiffchaff in the Isle of Wight, 233. borealis, Motacilla. See Wagtail, Grey-headed. —— Parus. See Titmouse, thern Marsh. —— Phylloscopus. Eversmann’s. BoRRER, CLIFFORD, Note on the Northern Willow-Wren in Nor- folk, 342. boscas, Anas. Nor- See Warbler, See Mallard. 238; at Sule-Skerry, 314. —— Rustic, at Fair Isle, 423. —— Snow (nestling), 193; tions), 411. —— Yellow (nestling), 196. (addi- Buntings, Autumn and Winter Singing of, 204, 237. | Bunyarp, Percy F., Nesting Habits of the Marsh-Warbler, 183; On the Eggs of the Tree- Pipit, 335. Bustard, Great (additions), 147. Little (additions), 148. BUTTERFIELD, W. Ruskin, Note on Sooty Shearwaters in Sussex and Kent, 243. Buzzard, Honey, in North Wales, 36; in Shropshire, 204; in Ireland, 276, 277; in England, 283, 314. —— Rough - legged 4 © hee (additions), cachinnans, Larus. See Yellow-legged Herring. calidris, Totanus. See Redshank. Gull, campestris, Anthus. See Pipit, Tawny. canartius, Serinus. See Serin, Canary. candicans, Falco. See Falcon, Greenland. candidus, Himantopus. Black-winged. canorus, Cuculus. See Stilt, See Cuckoo. INDEX. cantiaca, Sterna. See Tern, Sand- wich. cantiana, Afgialitis. Kentish. » canutus, Tringa. See Knot. Capercaillie (additions), 127. See Plover, carolina, Porzana. See Crake, Carolina. caryocatactes, Nucifraga. See Nut- eracker. casarca, Tadorna. See Sheld-Duck, Ruddy. caspia, Sterna. See Tern, Caspian. castro, Oceanodroma. See Petrel, Madeiran Fork-tailed. caudata, Acredula. See Titmouse, Long-tailed. Cave, CuHarutes J. P., Note on Alpine Swift in Pembrokeshire, 381. certhiola, Locustella. See Warbler, Pallas’s Grasshopper. cervinus, Anthus. See Pipit, Red- throated. Chaffinch (nestling), 192, 196; Breeding in Winter, 381, 424. CHAMPERNOWNE, A. W., Notes on White Wagtail interbreeding with Pied Wagtail, 202; Grey Phalarope in Summer in Devonshire, 204. Chiffchaff, throughout the Winter at Penzance, 247; Geogra- phical forms of, 343. —— The East European, in the Isle of Wight, 233. chloris, Ligurinus. See Greenfinch. Chough in Lancashire, 208. cineraceus, Circus. See Harrier, Montagu’s. cinerea, Ardea. See Heron, Common. cinerea, Sylvia. See Whitethroat, Common. cinereus, Anser. - See Goose, Grey Lag. circia, Querquedula. See Garganey. cirlus, Emberiza. See Bunting, Cirl. citrinella, Emberiza. See Bunting, Yellow. CLARKE, W. Eactuz, Note on Tufted Duck in Scotland, 132. clarkei, Turdus musicus. Thrush, British Song. clypeata, Spatula. See Shoveler. See 431 CosurNn, F., Note on Little Owl in Warwickshire and Worcester- shire, 344. celebs, Fringilla. See Chaffinch. celestis, Gallinago. See Snipe, Common. ceruleus, Parus. See Titmouse, Blue. cesia, Sitta. See Nuthatch. collaris, Accentor. See Accentor, Alpine. collurio, Lantus. backed. CottrHRuP, C. W., Note on Eggs of the Cuckoo, 424. See Shrike, Red- | communis, Grus. See Crane, Common. —— Turtur. See Dove, Turtle Compton, M. Wtinzar, Note on Want of Down in Mallards’ Nests, 62. CONGREVE, W. MarIrLANnpb, Note on Rare Birds in Pembrokeshire, Dil: corax, Corvus. See Raven. cornix, Corvus. See Crow, Hooded. cornuta, Tadorna. See Sheld-Duck, Common. Courser, Cream-coloured (additions), 149. CowaRrb,. Ts A, See Newstead, Robert. —— Notes on Kentish Plover in Cheshire, 32; Black Tern in Cheshire, 33; Pallas’s Sand- Grouse in Cheshire, 167. Crake, Baillon’s (additions), 146. —— Carolina (additions), 129. —— Corn, Absence in Certain Counties in 1907, 248. —— Little (additions), 129. —— Spotted, in Sussex, 32; (addi- tions), 129, 417. Crane, Common, in Anglesey, 62 ; (additions), 147,417; Bones of, in Ireland, 276. crecca, Nettton. See Teal. Creeper, Tree (nestling), 195. | cristata, Fuligula. See Duck, Tufted. cristatus, Parus. See Titmouse, Crested. Crossbill, Breeding in co. Dublin, 203; (additions), 411. —— Two-barred, in Sussex, at Fair Isle, 423. Loa: 432 BRITISH Crow, Hooded, Marking, 364. Cuckoo, Habits of the, 66; Method of Depositing Egg, 131; Notes on, in India, 197; Courting | Performance of the, 239; Arrival in March, 247; Eggs of, 424. CumMMINGS, Bruce F., Bird Roosts and Routes, 119. Curlew, Common, Nest with Five © Eggs, 136; (nestling), 196; (additions), 270. —— Stone (additions), 148; in Yorkshire, 314. curonica, Algialitis. Little Ringed. curruca, Sylvia. Lesser. curvirostra, Loxia. See Plover, See Whitethroat, See Crossbill. dartfordiensis, datus. Dartford. deserti, Saxicola. Desert. Dewar, J. M., Field Notes on the Melizophilus un- See Warbler, British See Wheatear, Powder-down of the Heron, 285. Dipper in Kent, 347. Diver, Black-throated (additions), 333, 421. —— Great Northern, Plumage of, 277 3, Dil of; 387. —— Red-throated (additions), 333 —— White-billed (additions), 332. domesticus, Passer. See Sparrow, House. dominicus, Charadrius. Lesser Golden. Dotterel (additions), 149. dougalli, Sterna. See Tern, Roseate. Dove, Stock, Nesting on Buildings, 31; (additions), 125, 416; Nesting in Lanarkshire, 426. —— Turtle (additions), 125, 417; in co. Donegal in Winter, 348. Dublin Bay, Bird-life in, 171. Duck, Ferruginous (additions), 57, 416; in Sussex and Brecon- shire, 377. —— Long-tailed (Noble), Hertfordshire, 309 ; land, 348 ; See Plover, Soe” an Adult In- (additions), 416. | Duck, Tufted (Noble), 37; BIRDS. (addi- tions), 83, 416; Unusual Nest- ing Site and Incubation Period of, 97; in + Scotland,” 152% Nesting in the Outer Hebrides, 165; at Fair Isle, 423. Ducks. See Eider, Gadwall, Gar- ganey, Golden-Eye, Goosander, Mallard, Merganser, Pintail, Pochard, Scaup, Scoter, - Sheld-Duck; Shoveler, Smew, Teal, Wigeon. Ducks’ Eggs, On the Identification of, 18, 37, 94. Dunlin, A Marked, 367. Eagle, White-tailed, in Hereford, 314; in Essex, 383. eburnea, Pagophila. Ivory. Editorial, 1. Eider Duck (Noble), 39; off South Devon in April, 31; Incuba- tion-period of, 65; (additions), 85, 416; Food of, 344, 384. See Gull, _ —— King (additions), 86. erythrina, Pyrrhula. | europeus, Caprimulgus. Evuison, Rev. A., Bird-life in a Spring Snowstorm, 301. Exton, Henry B., Note on Ampu- tation of Lapwing’s Toes by means of Wool, 281. epops, Upupa. See Hoopoe. See Grosbeak, | Scarlet. erythropus, Anser. See Goose, Lesser White-fronted. See Night- jar | Evans, C. I., Note on Autumn and Winter Singing of Buntings, 237. —— WiLtLiAmM, Notes on Stark’s Record of the Breeding of the Scaup-Duck at Loch Leven, 132; Goldecrests from East Coast Lighthouses, 232. eversmanni, Phylloscopus trochilus. See Wren, Willow, Northern Race. excubitor, Lanius. Great Grey. See Shrike, Fair Isle, The Birds of, 422. falcinellus, Plegadis. See Glossy. Ibis, INDEX. 433 Falcon, Greenland (additions), 413. | fulicarius, Phalaropus. See Phala- ——TIceland, in Scotland, 310; rope, Grey. (additions), 414. —— Red-footed, in Norfolk, 244; in Kent, 427. familiaris, Certhia. Tree. FEILDEN, Cot. H. W., Notes on Climbing Movements See Creeper, or) the. | Green Woodpecker, 93; Some © Sussex Ravens, 279. ferina, Fuligula. See Pochard, Common. Finch. See Bullfinch, Chaffinch, Greenfinch, Hawfinch, Serin. Flamingo (additions), 24. flammea, Strix. See Owl, Barn. flava, Motacilla. See Wagtail, Blue- headed. fluviatilis, Sterna. Common. See Tern, fuliginosa, Sterna. See Tern, Sooty. Fulmar. See Petrel. fusca, Gidemia. See Scoter, Velvet. fuscus, Larus. See Gull, Lesser Black-backed. | —— Totanus. See Redshank, Spotted. Gadwall (Noble), 20, 94; (addi- tions), 51, 415; in Somerset, | galactodes, Aedon. Flycatcher, Pied, Nesting in Ayr- | shire, 139; (additions), 410. — — Red-breasted, in Norfolk, 34, 200; Irish Records of, 248, _ 410; in Barra and at the Butt of Lewis, 313; (additions), 410. —— Spotted (nestling), 196. Food of some British Birds, The, reviewed, 315. ——of Red-breasted Merganser, 311; of Eider Duck, 344, 384, Forrest, H. E., Notes on Nut- hatches breeding at Llan- dudno, 59; Golden Oriole in Shropshire, 59; Hoopoe in Shropshire, 60; Short-eared Owl Breeding in Pembroke- shire, 60; An Early Recorded Waxwing in Wales, 91; Black Redstarts in Merioneth, 165; Honey-Buzzard in Shropshire, 204; Smew in Montgomery, 311; Lesser Spotted Wood- pecker in Merioneth, 343; Hoopoe in Merioneth, 343; Velvet Scoter in Shropshire, 345; Red Variety of the Common Partridge, 345; Chaf- finch Breeding in Winter, 381, 424, Fow.LeER, W. WaArRDE, Note on Little Owl in North-west Oxfordshire, 280. 100; in Aberdeenshire, 140; Probable Nesting in Scotland, 245; in Fifeshire, 348, 426; in Orkney, 426. See Warbler, Rufous. galbula, Oriolus. See Oriole, Golden. Gate, A. R., Note on Yellow- browed Warbler in Yorkshire, 201. gallicus, Cursorius. Cream-coloured. Gallinule, Allen’s (additions), 146. —— Green-backed, in Norfolk, 134. gambeli, Anser. See Goose, White- fronted. Garganey (Noble), 22; (additions), 54, 415; in Shetland, 245; Breeding in East Yorkshire, 348. garrulus, Ampelis. See Waxwing. Coracias. See Roller. Gitroy, Norman, Notes on Ducks’ Eggs and Down, 94; Nesting Habits of the Marsh-Warbler, See Courser, 235; On the Nesting of the Goosander, 400. giu, Scops. See Owl, Scops. glacialis, Colymbus. See Diver, Great Northern. —— Fulmarus. See Petrel, Ful- mar. —— Harelda. See Duck, Long- tailed. GLADSTONE, Hues S8., Note on Red Grouse and Black Grouse Hy- brids, 425. glandarius, Garrulus. glareola, Totanus. Wood. See Jay. See Sandpiper, 454. glaucion, Clangula. See Golden- Kye. glaucus, Larus. See Gull, Glaucous. Godwit, Bar-tailed (additions), 419. — — Black-tailed, in Kent, (additions), 270, 419; at Fair Isle, 424. | Goldcrest. See Wren, Golden- crested. Golden-Eye (Noble), 38; (addi- tions), 416. Goosander (Noble), 40; (additions), 87, 416; in Bedfordshire, 384 ; Notes on the Nesting of the, 400. Goose, Bean (additions), 25. —— Brent (additions), 27. —— Greater Snow (additions), 27. —— Grey Lag (additions), 24, 415. —— Lesser White-fronted (addi- tions), 25. —— Pink-footed (additions), 26. —— Snow (additions), 27; in co. Mayo, 348. White-fronted (additions), 25. GRABHAM, OxLEy, The Colony of | Little Terns at Spurn Point, Yorkshire, 317. graculus, Phalacrocorax. See Shag. —— Pyrrhocorax. See Chough. gravis, Puffinus. See Shearwater, Great. Gray, LEoNARD, Note on Lesser Redpoll Nesting in Essex, 203. Grebe, Black-necked, Laneashire, 282; in Hertford- shire, 309, 426; on the Solway, 314; (additions), 368, 421. —— Great Crested, Late Nests of, 171, 242; in Scotland, 246; (additions), 333, 421. —— Little, Late Nests of, 171, 242. —— Red-necked (additions), 333. —— Slavonian (additions), 334, 421; in Hertfordshire, 426. Greenfinch (nestling), 192, 196. gregarius, Vanellus. See Plover, Sociable. griseigena, Podicipes. See Grebe, Red-necked. griseus, Macrorhamphus. See Snipe, Red-breasted. —— Nycticorax. See Heron, Night. —— Puffinus. See Shearwater, Sooty. 99; | in North. | —— Common, |- —_— ——— Mediterranean | grylle, Uria. BRITISH BIRDS. grisola, Muscicapa. See Flycatcher, Spotted. Grosbeak, Scarlet, on the Isle of May, 346. Grouse, Black (additions), 127, 417; Supposed from _ Irish Caves, 167. —— Red (additions), 128; and Black Grouse Hybrids, 384, 425. —— Sand. See Sand-Grouse. See Guillemot, Black. Guillemot, Black (additions), 332. — — Briinnich’s (additions), 331; in the Firth of Forth, 425. Incubation period of, 65. Gull, Black-headed, Abnormal Eggs of, 64; Food of, 316. (addi- tions), 328. | —— Glaucous (additions), 328, 420. | —— Great Black-backed (addi- tions), 420. —— Herring, Incubation Period of, 65. — Yellow-legged tions), 328. —— Iceland (additions), 329, 420. (addi- _ —— Ivory (additions), 329. —— Kittiwake (additions), 420; Nesting Records of, in the Isle of Wight, 425. —— Lesser Black-backed, Incuba- tion Period of, 65; (additions), 420. ; —— Little (additions), 327, 420. —— Sabine’s, in Norfolk, 208; in Lincolnshire, 241; in the Inner Hebrides, 246; (additions), 327. —— Wedge-tailed (additions), 327. Gulls, Marking, 366. GuRNEY, J. H., Note on Grey- headed Wagtail in Sussex, 90. Haicu, G. H. Caton, Notes on Barred Warbler in Lincoln- shire, 232; Yellow-browed Warbler in Lincolnshire, 233 ; Buff-breasted Sandpiper in Lincolnshire, 241; Sabine’s Gull in Lincolnshire, 241. Hate, Rev. J. R., Note on Increase of Wood-Pigeons in Orkney, 345. INDEX. haliaetus, Pandion. See Osprey. Harrier, Marsh, in Norfolk, 93; (additions), 412. —— Montagu’s, in Surrey, im) Ireland, 310: 412. Harrison, T., Note on Change of Nesting Sites through Human Influence, 99. 140; (additions), HARTERT, Dr. Ernst, On the British Bullfineh, 130. HarviE-Brown, J. A., Notes on the Distribution of the Common Scoter in Secotland, 134; . Tufted Ducks Nesting in the Outer Hebrides, 165. Hastings and East Sussex Naturalist, Reviewed, 427. Hawfinch (nestling), 192; in Scot- land, 243; in Summer in East Lothian, 314; (additions), 410; at Fair Isle, 423. HERBERT, F. A., Have Starlings increased beyond the Capacity of Nesting Sites, 92. Heron, Common, Field Notes on the Powder-Down of __ the, 285. —— Night (additions), 414; in Kent, 427. —— Purple, in Norfolk, 35; in Caithness, 244. Heronries, Scottish, 244; Lincoln- shire and Somersetshire, 283. hiaticula, Mgialitis. See Plover, Ringed. Hobby Nesting in Sussex, (additions), 414. Hoopoe in Shropshire, 60; in Ross- shire, 208; in Merioneth, 343 ; (additions), 412. 376 : hortensis, Sylvia. See Warbler, Garden. Hunter, R. Hamitton, Note on Crossbill Breeding in co. Dublin, 203. hybrida, Hydrochelidon. See Tern, Whiskered. hyperboreus, Chen. See Goose, Snow. —— Phalaropus. See Phalarope, Red-necked. Hypolais sp. See Warbler, Icterine. hypoleucus, Totanus. See Sand- piper, Common. _ interpres, Strepsilas. ADS Ibis, Glossy, in Northumberland and Cornwall, 244 ; (additions), 415. egnicapillus, Regulus. Fire-crested. tliacus, Turdys. See Redwing. impennis, Alca. See Auk, Great. Incubation Periods, 64, 97. INGRAM, COLLINGWooD, Note on Red Variety of the Common Partridge, 311. See Wren, See Turnstone. Ireland, Rare Birds in, 276. Irish Birds, 276. A List of, reviewed, 248. Falco. See Falcon, tslandicus, Iceland. espida, Alcedo. See Kingfisher. Jackdaw, Domed Nests of, 139. JACKSON, ANNIE C., on the Mouth- coloration of some Nestling Birds, 195. _ Jay in Ireland, 248. | lapponicus, Calcarius. Kersarn, Rev; J ses “Notes son Nesting Records of the Kitti- wake in the Isle of Wight, 425. Kent, The Birds of, 378. Kingfisher (nestling), 194; Late Nest of, 204; (additions), 411. KirKMAN, F. B., Variation in the Nests of the Arctic and Common Terns, 78, 101. Kite, Black (additions), 413. _ Knot (additions), 268, 418. lagopus, Buteo. See Buzzard, Rough-legged. lapponica, Limosa. Bar-tailed. See Godwit, See Bunting, Lapland. Lapwing, Nest with Five Eggs, 136 ; (nestling),196; (additions), 228; Amputation of Toes by Means of Wool, 281; Eggs Hatching after a Snowstorm, 302. Lark, Sky (nestling), 194, 196. 456 Leiau, A. G., Notes on Redshank Breeding in Warwickshire, 33 ; Curious Site for a Robin’s Nest, 90; Late Nests of the Great Crested and Little Grebes, 171; Little Owl,in Warwick- shire, 240. lentiginosus, Botaurus. See Bittern, American. leucoptera, Hydrochelidon. See Tern, White-winged Black. leucopterus, Larus. See Gull, Iceland. See Spoonbill. See Petrel, leucorodia, Platalea. leucorrhoa, Procellaria. Leach’s Fork-tailed. —— Saxicola enanthe. ear, Greenland. longicaudata, Bartramia. piper, Bartram’s. lugubris, Motacilla. Pied. luscinia, Daulias. See Wheat- See Sand- See Wagtail, See Nightingale. luscinioides, Locustella. See War- bler, Savi’s. LynEs, Com. H., z.n., Note on Pebble Nest of a Ringed Plover, 136. MacxkeitH, T. THornton, Note on the Courting Performance of the Cuckoo, 239. macrura, Sterna. See Tern, Arctic. macularius, Totanus. See Sand- piper, Spotted. maculata, Tringa. Pectoral. MacratH, Mayor H. A. F., Notes on the Common Cuckoo in India, 197. major, Dendrocopus. See Wood- pecker, Great Spotted. —— Gallinago. See Snipe, Great. Parus. See Titmouse, Great. Mallard (Noble), 20; Want of Down in Nests of, 62; Hatch- ing in October, 245. MapuetTon, H. W., on the Song of the Wood-Warbler, 226. Mapping Migratory Birds in their Nesting Areas, On a Plan of, Bue. marila, Fuligula. martius, Picus. Black. See Sandpiper, See Scaup-Duck. See Woodpecker, BRITISH BIRDS. maruetta, Porzana. See Crake, Spotted. marinus, Larus. Black-backed. Marked Birds, 35, 171, 245, 246. Marking Birds, A Plan for, 35. Notes on the Work at the Rossitten Station, 362. MarrRiaGE, A. W., Note on Little Owl in Hampshire, 310. Martin, Sand (nestling), 192. May, Isle of, Rare Birds on the, 346. May, W. Norman, Note on Grey Wagtail Nesting in Berkshire, 90. MEADE-WALDo, E. G. B., Notes on Pied Wagtail Rearing Three Broods, 130; Old English Nesting Bottles, 164. Mep.uicott, W. 8., Note on Curious Site of a Wood-Warbler’s Nest, 380. See Gull, Great melanocephala, Motacilla. See Wag- tail, Black-headed. mclanocephalus, Larus. See Gull, Mediterranean Black-headed. melanope, Motacilla. See Wagtail, Grey. melba, Cypselus. merganser, Mergus. Merganser, Red-breasted 40; Food of, 311. merula, Turdus. See Blackbird. Meyrick, Cou. H., Note on Autumn and Winter Singing of Buntings, 237. migrans, Milvus. See Kite, Black. (Migration) ‘“‘ Report on the Immi- grations of Summer Residents in the Spring of 1907,” Re- viewed, 247. —— On a Plan of Mapping Mi- gratory Birds in their Nesting Areas, 322. Minas, J. G., Note on Red Grouse and Black Grouse Hybrids, 384. minor, Dendrocopus. See Wood- pecker, Lesser Spotted. minuta, Ardetta. See Bittern, Little. Sterna. See Tern, Little. —— Tringa. See Stint, Little. minutilla, Tringa. See Stint, American. minutus, Larus. modularis, Accentor. Hedge. See Swift, Alpine. See Goosander. (Noble), See Gull, Little. See Sparrow, INDEX. 437 mollissima, Somateria. See Eider | Nicuoxts, J. B., Notes on Black- Duck. headed Wagtail in Kent, 165 ; monedula, Corvus. See Jackdaw. Two-barred Crossbill in Sussex, montana, Perdix. See Partridge, 165. Common. Nicott, M. J., The Large-billed montanus, Passer. See Sparrow, Reed-Bunting in Kent, 88; Tree. Notes on a Sussex Rufous montifringilla, Fringilla. See Warbler, 201; Pectoral Sand- Brambling. piper and Bartram’s Sandpiper morinellus, Eudromias. See in Kent; 205°: The, First Dotterel. British Example of the Red-_ Mutitens, W. H., Some _ Early throated Pipit, 278. British Ornithologists and their Nightingale in Derbyshire, 66; Works :—I. William ‘Turner, (additions), 407. 5; .1T: Richard Carew, 42; Ill. Christopher Merrett, 109 and 151; IV. Martin Martin, Las. Ve Robert: Plot; 21s’; VI. Thomas Pennant, 259; VII. John Ray and Francis Willughby, 290; VIII. Thomas Bewick and George Montagu, Si: dt William Mac- gillivray and William Yarrell, 389. Murpocu, G. W., Note on a Late Nest of the Kingfisher, 204. musicus, Turdus. See Thrush, Song. mutus, Lagopus. See Ptarmigan. neevia, Locustella. See Warbler, Grasshopper. neglecta, CU strelata. Schlegel’s. neglectus, Anser. See Goose, Bean. Netson, T. H., Note on Pallas’s Sand-Grouse in Yorkshire, 134. Nesting Bottles, Old English, 164. —— Sites, Change of, through Human Influence, 99. Nestlings, The Down-plumage and Mouth-coloration of some, See Petrel, 186; the Mouth-coloration of some, 195. Nests, Variation in the, of the Arctic and Common Terns, 78, 101. NEWSTEAD, ALFRED, Note on Common Crane in Anglesey, 62. —— RoseEert, and T. A. Cowarp, On the Occurrence of Schlegel’s Petrel in Cheshire, 14. Newton, Life of the late Prof. ALFRED, 422. Nightjar Breeding in Captivity, 244. nigra, CUdemia. See Scoter, Common, —— Hydrochelidon. See Tern, Black. nigricollis, Podicipes. See Grebe, Black-necked. nisoria, Sylvia. See Warbler, Barred. nivalis, Chen. See Goose, Greater Snow. —— Plectrophenax. See Bunting, Snow. Nosie, HEATLEY, On the "Tdenti- fication of Ducks’ Eggs, 18, 37, 94; Notes on Supposed Wild Swans on Coll, 61; Common Terns on the Holyhead Sker- ries, 64, noctua, Athene. See Owl, Little. Norfolk, Birds in, in 1907, 34. Nutcracker, An Escaped, 28, 92; in Norfolk, 35 ; (additions), 411. Nuthatch: Breeding at Llandudno, 59; in Pembrokeshire, 378. nyroca, Fuligula. See Duck, Ferruginous. oceanicus, Oceanites. See Petrel, Wilson’s. ochropus. Totanus. Green. enanthe, Saxicola. Common. aenas, Columba. eruginosus, Circus. Marsh. OGILVIE-GRANT, W. R., Notes on the Northern Marsh-Titmouse in England, 277; Red Grouse and Black Grouse Hybrids, 386. See Sandpiper, See Wheatear, See Dove, Stock. See Harrier, 438 OLDHAM, CHARLES, Notes on Lesser Redpoll Nesting in Surrey, 91 ; Cirl Bunting Singing in October, 204; Slavonian and _ Black- necked Grebes in Hertford- shire, 426. Oriole, Golden, in Shropshire, 59 ; in Fifeshire, 138; in Lincoln- shire, 208; (additions), 409; at Fair Isle, 423. Ornithologists, Some Early British. and their Works :—I. William Turner, 5; II. Richard Carew, 42; III. Christopher Merrett. 109. and) Voh: » FVe Martin Martin, 173; V. Robert Plot, 218; VI... Thomas 259; VII. John Ray and Francis Willughby, 290; VIII. Thomas Bewick and George Montagu, 351; IX. William Macgillivray and William Yarrell, 389. Osprey in Ireland, 277; 383 ; (additions), 414. ostralegus, Hamatopus. See Oyster- Catcher. otus, Asio. See Owl, Long-eared. Owl, Barn (Luminous), 35. —— Little, in Wiltshire, 100; in Warwickshire, 240, 344; in North-west Oxfordshire, 280; in Hampshire, 310; in Wor- cestershire, 344; (additions), 412. —-— Long-eared, in Shetland, 426. —— Scops, in Cumberland, 100; in Fifeshire, 140; off Aberdeen- shire, 204. — — Short-eared, Breeding in Not- tinghamshire, 30; in the Isle of Man, 36; Breeding in Pembrokeshire, 60. —— Snowy, in the Outer Hebrides, 140; (additions), 412. Oyster-Catcher, Incubation Period of, 65; Method of Feeding on the Edible Mussel, 168; (nest- ling), 196. in Essex, paludosus, Anser. See Goose, Bean. palumbus, Columba. See Pigeon, Wood. palustris, Emberiza pyrrhuloides. See Bunting, Large-billed Reed. Pennant,: | —— Fulmar (additions), _ Phalarope, — phenicurus, Ruticilla. BRITISH BIRDS. | palustris, Parus. See Titmouse, Marsh. | paradoxus, Syrrhaptes. See Sand- Grouse, Pallas’s. parasiticus, Stercorarius. See Skua, Buftfon’s. ParRKIN, THomaAs, Note on the Black-throated Thrush in Kent, 315s Partridge, Common (additions), 128; Red Variety of the, 311, 345. —— Red-legged (additions), 128; Remarkable Variety of, 240. parva, Muscicapa. See Flycatcher, Red-breasted. —— Porzana. See Crake, Little. parvulus, Troglodytes. See Wren, Common. Pastor. See Starling, Rose-coloured. Paton, E. R., Note on Scops Owl off Aberdeenshire, 204. Prarson, C. E., Note on Pheasant and Teal Laying in the same Nest, 98. pelagica, Procellaria. See Petrel, Storm. Pembrokeshire, Rare Birds in, 377. penelope, Mareca. See Wigeon. PENROSE, Dr. F. G., Note on Barred Warbler in Norfolk, 200. perspicillata, Gdemia. See Scoter, Surf. Petrel, Bulwer’s, in Sussex, 282; (additions), 373. 31a, a2 in Lancashire, 388. —— Leach’s Fork-tailed, in Cum- berland and Laneashire, 282; (additions), 369. —— Madeiran Fork-tailed tions), 369. —-— Schlegel’s, in Cheshire, 14. (addi- _ —— Storm (additions), 369. Wilson’s (additions), 369. Grey, in Summer in Devonshire, 204; (additions), 229, 417; in co. Wexford, 240; in Pembrokeshire, 377. Red-necked (acini: - 418. 229, | Pheasant and Teal ania in same Nest, 98. See Red- start, Common. INDEX. Pigeon, Wood, Nesting on a House, 100; (nestling), 196; Diph- theria, the Results of the * British Birds ’’ Inquiry, 69 ; Renewed Inquiry, 199, 309; Increase of, in Orkney, 345. pileata, Pyrrhula pyrrhula. See Bullfineh, British. Pintail (Noble), 21; (additions), 54, 415; in Shetland, 140. Pipit, Meadow (nestling), 191, 196. —— Red-throated (nestling), 191; the First British Example, 278 ; at Fair Isle, 423. —— Richard’s, in Norfolk, 279; at Fair Isle, 423. —— Tawny, nesting in Sussex, 427. —— Tree, On the Eggs of, 335; (additions), 409. —— Water, in Ireland, 276; (addi- tions), 409. platyrhyncha, Limicola. See Sand- piper, Broad-billed. Plover, Golden, Nest with Five Eggs, 136. —— Kentish, in Cheshire, 32; (additions), 150. —— Killdeer (additions), 150 ; Kent, 169. —-— Lesser Golden (additions), 150. —— Little Ringed, in North Uist, 388. —— Ringed, Incubation Period of, 65; Abnormal Eggs of, 134 ; Pebble Nest of, 136; (addi- tions), 150. —— Sociable (additions), 150. , Pochard, Common (Noble), 23; (additions), 56, 416; Nesting in Lincolnshire, 95; Nesting in South-west Kent, 96; Nesting in Ireland, 248; Nesting in North Kent, 383. in — — Red-crested (additions), 56, 416. pomatorhinus, Stercorarius. See Skua, Pomatorhine. pomeranus, Lanius. See Shrike, Woodchat. Powder-Down of the Heron, Field Notes on the, 285. pratensis, Anthus. See Pipit, Meadow. —— OCrex. See Crake, Corn. pratincola, Glareola. See Pratin- cole. _ pusilla, Emberiza. | Rail, Land. Pratineole (additions), 149; at the Flannan Islands, 245. | Protection of Birds, Comparative Legislation for the, 340; in Yorkshire, 378. Ptarmigan (additions), 128, 417; supposed, from Irish Caves, 167. pubescens, Dendrocopus. Wood- pecker, Downy. | Puffin, Incubation Period of, 65. | pugnax, Machetes. See Ruff. | purpurea, Ardea. See Heron, Purple, 35. See Bunting, Little. PycraFrr, W. P., Notes on Nest and Nestlings of the Bearded Tit, 58; Marsh-Harrier in Norfolk, 93; A Remarkable Variety of the Red-legged Partridge in Essex, 240. pyrrhula, Pyrrhula. See Bullfinch, Northern. See Crake, Corn. _ Ravens, Some Sussex, 279. Razorbill, Incubation Period of, 65. RATTRAY; Cor. R. H., Note on Lapwing’s Nest with Five Eggs, 136. Redbreast. See Robin. Redpoll, Lesser, Nesting in Surrey, 91; Nesting in Middlesex, 100 ; (nestling), 193, 196; Nesting in Essex, 203; Nesting in Sussex, 208. Redshank Breeding in Warwick- shire, 33: Inland Nesting of, 99; Nest with Five Eggs, 136 ; (nestling), 196. ——~ Spotted, in Kent, 99; tions), 270, 419. Redstart, Black, in Merioneth, 165 ; in Ireland, 276; in the Outer Hebrides and Fife, 313; in co. Waterford, 346; (additions), 407. —— Common (additions), 406. Redwing, Albinistic Variety of, 277. richardi, Anthus. See Pipit, Richard’s. Ricuarps, F. I., Notes on Yellow- browed Warblers, Red-breasted Flycatchers, ete., in Norfolk, 200; Blue-headed Wagtail in Norfolk, 237. (addi- 440 ridibundus, Larus. See Gull, Black- headed. Rintour, LEonorA J. See BAXTER, EVELYN V. riparia, Cotile. See Martin, Sand. RIvVIERE, B. B., Note on Stock- Dove Nesting on Buildings, 31. Robin, Curious Site for a Nest, 90; | (nestling), 189; Continental, in © Isle of Wight, 248; Eggs Hatching after a Snowstorm, 303; British. on the Isle of May, 346. Rositnson, H. W., Notes on Great Grey Shrike in Scotland, 165 ; Distribution of the Common Scoter in Scotland, 166; Black- necked Grebes in North Laneca- | shire, 282; lLeach’s’ Fork- tailed Petrel in Cumberland and Lancashire, 282; Song- Thrush’s Nest in December, 309; Food of the Red- breasted Merganser, Shi Be Food of the Eider Duck, 344; Fulmar Petrel in Lancashire, | 388. Roller (additions), 411; in Cumber- land, 426. Roosts and Routes, Bird, 119. rosea, Rhodostethia. See Wedge-tailed. roseus, Pastor. See Starling, Rose- Gull, coloured. —— Phenicopterus. See Flamingo. ROTHSCHILD, THE Hon. L. W., Note on Unusual Birds in Hertfordshire, 309. rubecula, Erithacus. See Robin. rubrirostris, Anser. See Goose, Grey Lag. rufa, Caccabis. See Partridge, Red- legged. rujfescens, Linota. See Redpoll, Lesser. —— Tringites. See Sandpiper, Buff-breasted. Ruff in co. Clare, 208; (additions), 268, 419. | rufina, Netta. See Pochard, Red- | crested. rustica, Hmberiza. See Bunting, | Rustic. —— Hirundo. See Swallow. rusticula, Scolopax. See Woodcock. | scoticus, Lagopus. | serrator, Mergus. BRITISH BIRDS. sabinii, Xema. See Gull, Sabine’s. Sanderling in Kent in July, 137; (additions), 418. Sand-Grouse, Pallas’s, in England, 98; (additions), 126; in York- shire and Kent, 134; in Cheshire, 167; in Essex, 208 : in Yorkshire, 245; in Hert- fordshire, 309. Sandpiper, Bartram’s, in Kent, 205; (additions), 269. —— Broad-billed (additions), 267. — — Buff-breasted, in Lincolnshire, 241; (additions), 269. —— Common, Nest with Five Eggs, 136; (nestling), 196. —— Curlew, in Kent in July, 137; (additions), 268, 418. —— Green (additions), 269. —— Pectoral, in Kent, 205; im Norfolk, 206; (additions), 267. —— Purple, in the Channel Islands, 33; (additions), 418. —— Solitary, Nest with Five Eggs, 136; ‘in Kent, © tate Sia (additions), 269. | —— Spotted (additions), 269. | —— Wood (additions), 269, 419; at Fair Isle, 424. scandiaca, Nyctea. See Owl, Snowy. Scaup-Duck (Noble), 38; (addi- tions), 85, 416; Stark’s Record of the Breeding of, at Loch Leven, 132; On the Nesting of, in Scotland, 209 ; Correction, 283; in Nottinghamshire, 280. scolopax, Gidicnemus. See Curlew, Stone. Seoter, Common (Noble), 39 ; (addi- tions), 86; Distribution of, in Scotland, 134, 166. —— Surf (additions), 87. —— Velvet (Noble), 40; in Shrop- shire, 345. See Grouse, Red. segetum, Anser. See Goose, Bean. septentrionalis, Colymbus. See Diver, Red-throated. | Serin in Ireland, 248. Canary, in Scotland, 139. See Merganser, Red-breasted. _ Shag in Hertfordshire, 309. Shearwater, Great (additions), 370. —— Levantine, an Unrecorded Specimen from Kent, 137; in INDEX. British Waters, 206; in Nor- folk, 313; (additions), 372. Shearwater, Little Dusky (addi- tions), 373. —— Manx (additions), 372, 421. —— Sooty, in Sussex, Kent, and Yorkshire, 243; (additions), 371. Sheld-Duck, Common (Noble), 19; (additions), 51; Inland Nesting of, 61, 95; Nesting in Sussex, 376. —— Ruddy (additions), 51, 415. Shoveler (Noble), 20; (additions), 52, 415; Nesting in Lincoln- shire, 95; Nesting in Stafford- shire, 95; Increase in Tiree, 245; Nesting in Sussex, 376. Shrike, Great Grey, in Scotland, 138, 165; On the Isle of May, 346. — — Red-backed (additions), 409. —— Woodchat, in Cheshire, 60; Supposed, in Cornwall, 66; in Sussex, 139. Siskin (additions), 411. Skua, Buffon’s, in Ireland, 277; (additions), 331, 421. —— Great (additions), 329, 420. —— Long-tailed. See Buffon’s. —— Pomatorhine, in Lancashire, 313; (additions), 330, 421. SMALLCOMBE, W. A., Note on Downy Woodpecker in Gloucestershire, 382. SMALLEY, FRED., Notes on Iceland Falcon in Scotland, 310 ; Poma- torhine Skua in Lancashire, 313. smaragdonotus, Porphyrio. See Gallinules Green-backed. Smew (additions), 87; in Mont- gomery, 311. SmirH, K. S., Note on Eiders off South Devon in April, 31. Snipe, Common, Nest with Five Eggs, 136; Nesting in Kent, 205; (additions), 267; Weight of, o127;, Food of; 316, ——— ==. A Tame, and.its Habits, 249. —— Great (additions), 229, 418. —— Red-breasted (additions), 270. Snowstorm, Bird-Life in a Spring, 301. 441 solitarius, Totanus. Solitary. Song, A Timetable of Bird-, 36; of the Wood-Warbler, 226. SOUTHWELL, THos., Notes on the Black Woodpecker in England, 29; Inland Nesting of the Sheld-Duck, 61. Sparrow, Hedge (nestling), 189. —— House (nestling), 192. —— Tree (nestling), 192; tions), 411. Sparrow, Masor R., Notes Pochard Nesting in South- west Kent, 96; Black-tailed Godwit and Spotted Redshank in Kent, 99. spectabilis, Somateria. King. spinus, Chrysomitris. See Siskin. sptpoletta, Anthus. See Pipit, Water. Spoonbill in Norfolk, 35 ; Supposed, in co. Limerick, 36; in Ireland, 276; (additions), 415; in Kent, 427. Starling, Increase of, in Relation to Nesting Sites, 92; Routes and Roosts of, 119; versus Green Woodpecker, 141; (nestling), 193, 196: —— Rose-coloured, in Norfolk, 34; See Sandpiper, (addi- on See Eider, in. Scotland, 139, 244: in Ireland, 276: at ‘Fair Isle, 423. stellaris, Botaurus. See Bittern. Stilt, Black-winged (additions), 228. Stint, American (additions), 268. —— Little (additions), 418. —— Temminck’s, sat Fair 424, Stone-Curlew. See Curlew, Stone. Stork, Marking, 366. strepera, Anas. See Gadwall. Isle, streperus, Acrocephalus. See Warbler. Reed. striata, Tringa. See Sandpiper, Purple. subalpina, Sylvia. See Warbler, Subalpine. subarquata, Tringa. See Sandpiper, Curlew. subbuteo, Falco. See Hobby. suecica, Cyanecula. See Bluethroat. superciliosus, Phylloscopus. See Warbler, Yellow-browed. | Sussex, Notes from, 376. 442 BRITISH Swallow (nestling), 191; Nest on a Lamp Shade, 208; Late Stay of, in Ireland, 347. Swans, Supposed Wild, on Coll, 61. | Swift, Early arrival of, in Ireland, | 426. —— Alpine, Supposed, in North Devon, 140; in Pembroke- shire, 381. | See Bustard, Great. Teal (Noble), 22; (additions), 54; Nesting in Lincolnshire, 95; and Pheasant laying in same Nest, 98; a Marked, 245. | temmincki, Tringa. See Stint, Temminck’s. | Tern, Arctic, Incubation Period of, | 65; Variation in the Nests of, | 78, 101; Increase of, in Ireland, 100; (nestling), 196. —— Black, in Cheshire, 33; (addi- tions), 305, 419. —— Caspian (additions), 306. ——Common, on the Holyhead Skerries, 64; Variation in the Nests of, 78, 101; Increase of, tarda, Otis. in Ireland, 100; (additions), 307. —— Little (additions), 308, 419; the Colony of, at Spurn Point, Yorkshire, 317. —— Noddy, Doubtful Origin of | the British Specimens, 248 ; (additions), 308. —— Roseate (additions), 307. —— Sandwich, Incubation Period of, 65; (additions), 306, 419. —— Sooty (additions), 308, 420. —— Whiskered (additions), 306. —— White-winged Black (addi- tions), 306, 419. tetrax, Otis. See Bustard, Little. tetrix, Tetrao. See Grouse, Black. Tuomson, A. LANDSBOROUGH, Mark- ing Birds: Notes on _ the Work at the Rossitten Station, 302. Thrush, Black-throated in Kent, 378. —— Mistle (nestling), 188, 195. —— Song (nestling), 188, 195; Nest in December, 309; The British, 340. BIRDS. Thrush, White’s (additions), 406. TicenurRstT, C. B., The Wood-Pigeon Diphtheria, 69; The Down- Plumage and Mouth Colora- tion of some Nestling Birds, 186; The Greenland Wheat- ear, 271; Notes on Aquatic Warbler in Cornwall, 28; White Wagtail in Cornwall, 28; Spotted Crake in Sussex, 32; Purple Sandpiper in the Channel Islands, 33; Marked Birds, 35; Nesting of the Common Snipe in Kent, 205; The Northern Race of the Willow-Wren in Great Britain, a4. ——N. F. See WITHERBY. —— Notes on a hitherto Un- recorded Specimen of Levantine Shearwater from Kent, 137: Killdeer Plover in Kent, 169; Solitary Sandpiper in Kent, 170; a Kent Specimen of a Supposed Red-throated Pipit, 279. Titmouse, Bearded, Mouth-mark- ings of Nestlings, 58; (nest- ling), 190; (additions), 409. —— Blue (nestling), 190; on the Isle of May, 346. —— Coal (nestling), 190; on the Isle of May, 346; on the Bass Rock, 347. — Crested (additions), 409. —— Great (nestling), 190. —— Long-tailed, Scarcity of, in a Yorkshire District, 347. — — Marsh (nestling), 190. —— Northern Marsh, in England, el ts Ruticilla. Black. torda, Alcea. See Razorbill. torquilla, Iynx. See Wryneck. TOWER, CHRISTOPHER, J. H., Notes titys, See Redstart, on White-tailed Eagle and Osprey in Essex, 383. TREVELYAN, Mason HERBERT, Notes on Abnormal Eggs of the Black-headed Gull, 64; Un- usual Nesting Site and In- cubation Period of Tufted Duck, 97; Abnormal Eggs of the Ringed Plover, 134. trivialis, Anthus. See Pipit, Tree. INDEX. trochilus, Phylloscopus. See Wren, Willow. troile, Uria. See Guillemot, Common. turdoides, Acrocephalus. See Warbler, Great Reed. TuRNER, Emma L., Green Wood- pecker versus Starling, 141. Turnstone (additions), 417. urogallus, Tetrao. See Capercaillie. UssHer, R. J., Notes on Supposed Black Grouse and Ptarmigan | from Irish Caves, 167; Mon- tagu’s Harrier in Ireland, 310. varius, Turdus. See Thrush, White’s. vespertinus, Falco. See Falcon, Red-footed. viridanus, Phylloscopus. See Warbler. Greenish Willow. viridis, Gecinus. See Woodpecker, Green. aiscivorus, Turdus. See Thrush, Mistle. vocifera, Algialztis. See Plover, Killdeer. vulgaris, Coccothraustes. See Haw- finch. —— Sturnus. See Starling. —— Vanellus. See Lapwing. Wagetail, Black-headed, in Kent, 165. —— Blue-headed, in Nottingham- shire, 28:3, mm" Norfolk, 237 : Probable Nesting near Aber- deen, 243; at Fair Isle, 423. —— Grey-headed, in Sussex, 90. Grey, Nesting in Berkshire, 90; (nestling), 196; Nesting in Sussex, 376. —— Pied, Rearing Three Broods, 130; (nestling), 191; Inter- breeding with White Wagtail, 202. —— White. See Pied; Probable Nesting in Scotland, 243; on the Isle of May, 346. | | | | | 443 WALPOLE-BonpbD, J., Notes on Sussex Birds, 376; Pochard Nesting in North Kent, 383. Warbler, Aquatic, in Cornwall, 28 ; in Sussex, 236. —— Barred, in Norfolk, 200; in Lincolnshire, 232; at Fair Isle, 422. —— Dartford, British, 340. —— Hversmann’s, at Fair 310; (additions), 408. —— Garden (nestling), Sule-Skerry, 313; 408. —— Grasshopper (additions), 409. —— Great Reed (additions), 408. —— Greenish Willow (additions), 408. —— Icterine (additions), 408; Fair Isle, 423. —— Marsh, Nesting Habits of, 183, 23s —— Melodious (additions), 408. —— Pallas’s Grasshopper, in Ire- land, 230. —— Reed (additions), 408. —— Rufous, A Sussex, 201. —— Savi’s, at Fair Isle, 423. —— Subalpine, at Fair Isle, 422. - —— Willow. See Wren. —— Wood. See Wren. —— Yellow-browed, in Norfolk, 34, 200; in Yorkshire, 201; in Lincolnshire, 233; on the Isle of May, 346. Warblers, The British, A History with Problems of their Lives, Review, 67. Waxwing, An Early Recorded, in Wales, 91; (additions), 410. Wheatear, Common (nestling), 189. —— Desert, in Norfolk, 34. —— Greenland, 271. WHITAKER, J., Notes on Blue- headed Wagtail in Notting- hamshire, 28 ;. Short-eared Owl Breeding in Nottinghamshire, 30; Scaup-Ducks in Notting- hamshire, 280. Whitethroat, Common (nestling), 189, 195; (additions), 407. —— Lesser (nestling), 189; Sup- posed Nesting in Forfar, 243; (additions), 407. Wigeon (Noble), 22; . 55, 416. Isle, 1895: ab (additions), at (additions), 444 Wigeon, American (additions), 56. WILLIAMS, W. J., Notes on Rare Irish Birds, 276. WITHERBY, H. F., and TICEHURST, N. F., On the More important Additions to our Knowledge of British Birds since 1899, 24, 51, 83, 125, 146, 228, 267, 305, 327, 368, 406. —— Notes on Yellow-browed Warbler in Norfolk, 201; the Levantine Shearwater in British Waters, 206; Little Bunting in Norfolk, 238; the | Great Spotted Woodpecker as a Breeding Bird in Scotland, 238; Sooty Shearwater in Yorkshire, “243 ; Pipit in Norfolk, 279; Norfolk Levantine waters, 313; the Willow-Wren in Norfolk, 342. Wo.taston, A. F. R., Note on a Life of the late Prof. Alfred Newton, 422. Woop, W. Mackay, Note on Late Nests of the Great Crested and Little Grebes, 242. Woodchat. See Shrike. Woodcock (additions), 2293 Position of the Ear in, 245; Marked, 246; Weight of, 312. Woodpecker, Black, in England, 29. Two Richard’s | Shear- | Northern | | ——>, Green, BRITISH BIRDS. Woodpecker, Downy, in Gloucester- shire, 382. —— Great Spotted as a Breeding Bird in Scotland, 238; (addi- tions), 411. Climbing Movements of, 93; versus Starling, 141. —— Lesser Spotted, Breeding in _ Merioneth, 343. WorMALD, Hucu, A Tame Snipe and its Habits, 249. Wren, Common (nestling), 191, 195. — — Fire-crested, in Norfolk, 34. —— Golden-crested, from East Coast Lighthouses, 232; on the Isle of May, 346. ——- Willow (nestling), 195. —— —— Northern Race of the, in Great Britain, 234, 242. —— Wood, On the Song of, 226; in Herefordshire in Winter, 347; Curious Nesting Site of a, 380 ; (additions), 408. Wryneck in North Lancashire, 283; (additions), 411. Yates, J. M. Sr. Joun, Note on Woodchat in Cheshire, 60. yelkouanus, Puffinus. See Shear- water, Levantine. i = FOR NATURAL ‘HIST! ORY PHOTOGRAPHERS. “THE BIRDLAND GAMERA. AK thoroughly practical. Camera, combining all points . essential to taKing successful Animal and Bird Pictures. ; Made to the pr er ieanen of Mr. Oliver Illustrated Lists on Application. IMPROVED FINDER. 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