'^ 6.^

^UJy.

"J \

J

^

EC

IS TE333LATUS.

THE

NATURALIST;

A POPULAE MONIIILY MAGAZINE,

ANIMAL, VEGETABLE, AND MINERAL
KINGDOMS.

CONDUCTED BY %

BEVERLEY E. MOERIS, ESQ, A. B, M.D., T.C.D.,

\ )

MEMB. WKRN. CLIB.

VOL I. -n

WITH KN'GRAVINGS.

LONDON:
GROOMBEIDGE AIS'D SO^'S, PATERNOSTER ROW.

M. DCCC. LI."

^.

THE NATURALIST.

INTRODUCTION.

In writing a short introduction to the "Naturalist," we do not think it
necessary to combat many of the notions respecting Natural History, that have
at one time or another acted prejudicially on the extended study of it, but we
rather wish to place a few remarks in its favom*, in probably a different light
to that in which most of our readers have been in the habit of viewing the
subject. We imagine that no one, even the most determined utilitarian, can
now object to the study of Natural History, on the score of no practical benefit
resulting from it. If any one is so hardy as to do so, we have only to refer
him to our tradesmen, who will tell him that by the investigations of the
Botanist, the adulterations in various articles of sale may now be absolutely
put a stop to, by those who choose to avail themselves of the discoveries which
have resulted from his studies. We here more particularly allude to the use
of the microscope, by which not only can the adulteration of various articles
of commerce be detected, but even the substances, by which the imposition is
attempted, can be pointed out. Here several advantages are gained; not only
is the purchaser preserved from fraud, but the cheat is exposed to punishment,
to the manifest encouragement of the fair dealer. If he turns to the Agri-
culturist, he will be referred to the benefits conferred upon him by the Botanist,
in telling him what grasses he must sow in order to obtain a useful turf in
the shortest possible period. He will tell him of the help he has received
from the Entomologist in combatting the attacks of injurious insects, by the
knowledge he has imparted to him of their habits and economy. Should he
question the miner he will tell him that the Geologist has saved him money,
labour, and disappointment, by the information he has afi'orded him as to
the best spot for commencing his work. There would be no difficulty in
multiplying examples of this kind, but our object will be, we hope, sufficiently
attained by the few we have selected.

Let us now examine the benefits to be derived from the study of Natural
History, in an aspect in which they have seldom been exhibited, but in one
which we have always endeavoured to place them in, when under the necessity
of taking up the cudgels in defence of our favourite recreation. It is often
asserted that nothing, but a study of mathematics, will give a man accurate
ideas and powers of comparison and combination: this we altogether deny, and
although we ourselves value and appreciate, as highly as any one, the use of

y

INTUOUITCTION.

matheiimtics as an adinirablc mental exercise, independently of its intrinsic value,
we still 'do assert, without hesitation, that similar advantages must result from
the properly directed study of Natural History, and that other benefits are at
the same time secm-ed, which cannot in any way be associated with mathematics.

We shall endeavour now to give a very few examples of the mode in which
a study of Natural History operates beneficially on the mind. Let us take
the case of a person who has studied Entomology, we do not mean in that
cursory way in which a mere collector does, who looks more to the beauty of
the specimens than to their sj)ocific history and individual characteristics, though
even this has its advantages. Let us take, we say, a person who has really
studied Entomology, and become conversant with its details and the principles
on which the classification of the various orders and families depend. Suppose
he has only studied British Entomology, what a vast number of individuals'
are comprised in that term* and yet should any one single insect be presented
to him, he can readily determine its place within certain limits, and eventually
the particular spot it must occupy, and which can be filled by no other creatxire
that is not of the same species. What ideas of order and regularity must not
this man possess; what mental discrimination, to whom the individual charac-
teristics of ten thousand essentially different creatures present no serious
'^difficulties: what powers of combination, to whom these ten thousand creatures,
taken together, present one beautiful and orderly whole — to whom even these
ton thousand creatures as a whole present but the filling in of one small
portion of the entire system of nature, which his mind is able to look upon
with satisfaction, and to understand, even though his particular study has only
taken in the one branch of British Entomology. Thus much for the high
quality of the mental education which rcsidts from a well-regulated study of
Nature.

Let us now turn to another branch of education which is too frequently
overlooked, but which yet is of the utmost importance to man in his social
and domestic relations, and which cannot but be greatly influenced, in a
right direction, by the. judicious use of Natural History as a recreative study;
we allude to what is called the education of the affections. Would it be
possible for a child who had been instructed in the marvellous transformations
of the meanest insect — who was acquainted with the beautiful mechanism
exhibited in its organization — who knew that it had nerves and muscles like
himself — that it had its little pleasures and pains — that it had a definite object
in life — that even in death it besame necessary to support the life of some
other creature; how would it be possible for him to torture this little insect,
as, we regi'et to say, is too often the case with the ignorant, who look upon
the agonizing writhings of the impaled insect as affording them intense delight,
and whose only regret at its death is that their amusement is at an end. We
well remember the horror and indignation we felt, when about nine years of
age, on seeing a boy of our acquaintance catching butterflies and then depriving
th3Ui of their wings, leaving the poor mutilated insects to linger out their

INTRODUCTl'OX. 3

little (lay of life in agony. We ourselves were then in the hahit of collecting
insects to form collections, but we invariably, we are thankful to be able to
say, put them, out of pain quickly, and we trust with as little infliction of
torture as possible; moreover we never could feel comfortable in taking more
specimens than we wanted for our own cabinet, or those of our friends. We
do not think the cause of humanity is served, by asserting, that ^'The poor
beetle that we tread upon, in corporal sufferance, feels a pang as great as when
a giant dies." We do as much harm by stating too much as by stating too
little; the best argument in these cases has always appeared to us to be, that
even admitting sensations of pain to be less acute in the lower classes than
in the higher, few people will be hardy enough to assert that they experience
no pain on being injured, and that we have no right, morally speaking, to
inflict any iinnccessanj pain on any creature, which has as much right to enjoy
the life given to him by his Creator as we have. No one can think he is
doing wrong by resolving to give as little pain as possible to every creature,
however minute or insignificant it may appear to be.

The study of many branches of Natural History cannot however be taxed
with tending to cruelty, and the pursuit of some of these may be carried on
vmder circumstances which would render a study of Zoology extremely difiicult.
Botany, Geology, Mineralogy, and the examination of nature's minute wonders
by aid of the microscope, are all of this class, and are sources of much
pleasure and instruction to all who engage in them.

While touching on the subject of the affections, there is one point of view
in which we wish to place the study of Natural History before our readers; and
as we find it ably handled by the elegant pen of the late Sir James Smith, in
the preface to his "English Flora," we think we cannot do better than give
it in his own words, merely remarking that the beneficial influences which he
there mentions, must, we believe, always be the result of a- rightly-directed study
of Natural History. He says, '^A man who looks no farther than the narrow
bounds of his own profession or science, is sometimes inclined to depreciate
those of other people, especially if any worldly advantage be concerned. Some
studies seem to contract the mind; but such is not the character of Natural
Science; which enlarges the understanding by a perpetual display of the power
and wisdom of God; and encourages our best hopes by sure testimonies of his
goodness. He who feeds the sparrows, and clothes the golden lily of the fields
in a splendour beyond that of Solomon himself, invites us, his rational creatures,
to confide in his promises of Eternal life. The simplest blade of grass, and
the grain of corn to which '^he gives his own body,' are sufficient to convince
us that our trust cannot be in vain. Let those who hope to inherit these
promises, and those who love science for its own sake, cherish the same benevolent
dispositions. Envy and rivalship in one case, are no less censurable than
bigotry and uneharitableness in the other. The former are as incompatible
with the love of nature, as the latter with the love of God; and they altogether
unfit us for the enjoyment of happiness, here or hereafter."

4: INTRODUCTIOX.

One great a;lv:vntage to be derived from a well-arranged study of nature, is
the bar which it places to the indulgence of selfish feelings, which can scarcely
exist in the breast of a true naturalist; for the pursuits he is engaged in are
identified with a constant interchange of ideas and specimens; thus encouraging
kind and friendly feelings between its votaries, whose aim should be, not to
secure a larger number of specimens than their neighbour, but rather to spread
the knowledge they may acquire, as far and widely as possible; the only rivalry
should be as to who should do most for the advancement of the knowledge of
Natural History; by whieh our best feelings and tastes would be fostered and
promoted, and others would be assisted in treading the same useful and agreeable
path, from which we should rejoice, if we have been the means of removing
even a single impediment.

We are quite convinced that Natural History may be studied beneficially, even
by those who are deeply engaged in the ordinary business avocations of life. The
mind will not bear with impunity to be constantly engaged on one subject; it
will have relaxation in one form or another. If it cannot have what is harmleas
or beneficial, it will take what is injurious and bad. In speaking of beneficial
relaxation, wc do not mean cessation from exertion, but merely a change in
the nature of it, which every one who has been accustomed to prolonged
mental occupation knows to be better and more agreeable to the mind than
entire rest. Indeed an active and healthy mind could not be at rest absolutely;
the only rest it can know, is obtained by using a different set of mental muscles,
if wc may be allowed, for the sake of illustration, to make use of such a term.
In the pursuit of most objects of Natural History, this mental relaxation is
obtained at the same time that the body is deriving benefit from the muscular
exertion which necessarily attends all out-of-door occupations. We might pursue
this subject to a much greater length, but we hope we have now said sufficient
to enable each reader of the "Naturalist," to take up firm ground in defending
the proper and healthy study of Natural History.

It will be our endeavour in conducting the "Naturalist," to keep the ideas
expressed in this article before -us constantly ; and we trust we shall receive such
assistance from our correspondents as will enable us to do so efiectually; and
we may then hope to sec our favourite pursuit more generally embraced
throughout the country, and made, as it is quite capable of being, a most
valuable branch of study in the schools for the education of our younger friends,
who we are sure would be largely benefitted in their other studies by the
healthy relaxation thus aiforded them. The head of any school, acting on this
suggestion, will find not only a more healthy moral tone among his pupils,
but will also experience the great advantages of exciting a community of feeling
between himself and those placed in his care, and which cannot but operate
advantageously on the other, and, to children, less interestuig pursuits which
necessarily engage most of their attention during their pupilage.

ON THE POWER THAT CERTAIN

WATER-BIRDS POSSESS, OF REMAINING PARTIALLY

SUBMERGED IN DEEP WATER.

BY BEVERLEY R. MORRIS, M. D.

In watching the habits of some of our water-birds, I have often been greatly
struck by the remarkable power many of them possess of keeping the body
submerged for some time after they have allowed the head and neck to appear,
on coming to the surface after a compulsory dive. As far as my own obser-
vations go, they do not make use of this precautionary measure when entirely
undisturbed, and ignorant of being watched: on such occasions I think they
always come up completely at once, and without any but the necessary interval
between the emergence of the head, and the upper part of the body. After
having noticed this curious and self-preservative power once, it was impossible
that I should not speculate as to the mode in which the bird accomplished this
singular but most useful manoeuvre.

In sea birds, such as the Cormorant, the larger divers, and the Guillemot,
I have often seen them, when emerging from a dive caused by fear, project

the head and neck first out of the
water, the bo,dy remaining completely
out of sight J the bird then looks
round to see if any danger is near;
if it is not satisfied with the appear-
ance of things, it is under water in
an instant, and probably does not
again come up till at a considerable
distance; should, however, all be
secure, after a few seconds, it allows
the usual portion of the body to
appear; and this is evidently dependent on the will of the bird. On other
occasions when not much alarmed, instead of again diving, it will allow the
body to be slightly emerged, and continue swimming for some time in this
state of partial submergence, like a deeply-laden ship. To show how completely
the position of the bird in the water, as to submergence entire or partial, is
under its own control, I will give one or two short extracts from the "^American
Birds" of the talented Audubon. In speaking of the Plotus anhinga, or Snake-
bird, he says, "The Anhinga is in truth the very first of all fresh-water divers;
with the quickness of thought it disappears beneath the surface, and that so
as scarcely to leave a ripple on the spot; and when your anxious eyes seek
around for the bird, you are astonished to find it many hundi-ed yards distant;
the head perhaps merely above water for a moment; or you may chance to
perceive the bill alone gently cutting the water, and producing a line of wake,
not observable beyond the distance of thirty yards from where you are standing.
With habits like these it easily eludes all your efforts to obtain it."

ox TIIF. Srr.MRROF-XCE OF WATEn-BIRPS.

In speaking of the Purple Gallinule, (Gallinula viartinica,) ho says "It runs
with gi*eat speedy and dives with equal address ; often moving off under water
with nothing but the bill above." Again, he says of the Common Moorhen,
(O. Chloropus) "At all other times when raised, they suffer their legs to
dangle, proceed slowly to a short distance, and drop among the reeds, or if
over water, they dive and hide, leaving nothing but the bill projecting above
the surface." One more and I have done. The Clapper Eail, (R. Crepitans,)

^'It dives well, remains a
considerable time under wa-
ter, and in this manner
dexterously eludes its pur-
suers j when hard pressed
it often sinks just below
the surface, keeping the bill
above in order to breathe ;
and in this position, if not
detected, remains for a con-
siderable time; if perceived
and approached, it instantly
dives, and uses its wings to
accelerate its progress, but
rises as soon as it comes to
a place of safety." These extracts all shew a wonderful power of control over
their specific gravity in birds, which are, except the first, only moderately,
aquatic in their habits and conformation, and which one would hardly expect
to exhibit the highest development of diving powers.

Before entering upon the mode in which the bird accomplishes this state
of submergence, it may be well to remark, that birds in addition to the air
contained in the lungs, are also furnished with large cavities called air cells,
in every part of the body, where they do not interfere with the organization of
the part. These air cells communicate with the lungs, but do not appear
to be capable of being emptied of the contained air by the will of the bird.
The bones and the barrels of the feathers are also full of air, so that the
bird is naturally a good deal lighter than water, and cannot sink without
some effort on its own part.

I will now proceed to consider the main subject of inquiry, namely, how the
bird probably may be supposed to alter its buoyancy to such an extent as
to enable, it to maintain the whole of its body just beneath the surface of
the water. It is manifest to any one who is at all conversant with the laws
of hydrostatics, that in deep water this can only be accomplished in one of
the following ways, by either of which the body of the bird might be supposed
to be rendered of, as nearly as possible, the same specific gravity as the water
in which it swims: —

1st. — The bird might expel so much air from its body, as to remove its,

ON TIIF. SUnMERGENCK OF WATER-DIRDS. 7

power of floating on the surface of the water; or^

2nd. — It might so compress its body as to condense the air in the various
cavities to such an extent as to place it in the required condition.

With regard to the first of these suppositions, namely, that the bird might
expel so much air as to remove its power of floating on the surface, although
it is considered by some writers on the subject to be a plausible explanation
of the phenomenon, I cannot think that it is the true one, for in the first
place, we have no evidence at all that the bird has any power, as to expulsion
at least, over the air in the various air cells, which constitute the great bulk
of the air vessels contained in the body of the bird; indeed the general
impression among anatomists is that it has no power at all over it; and even
if it had, I cannot think it would bo possible for the bird to expel it so
quickly as would be necessary to produce such an immediate effect, as does
actually take place; nor would the bird have the power of again taking it in
so rapidly as it manifestly must do, to enable it to float at its ordinary level
in so short a time after partial submergence as it in reality does.

In a paper on this subject, the Bev. J. 0. Atkinson says, "Well, I will
shoot a Moorhen in the act of diving, and will add to its specific gravity
by depositing within its body some twenty or thirty grains of No. 5 shot. Of
course then it will sink; and unless my retriever is a rather uncommon one
I lose the bird. But no such thing; the Moorhen comes to the surface
immediately, and floats almost as buoyantly as ever; and yet whence and how
can the air have been procured, which has been, applied to the replenishing
of the air vessels, and the restoration of the bird's buoyancy." I will endeavour
when considering the second supposition to give what I believe to be the true
explanation of this fact, for it is only as a fact that it is brought forward by
Mr. Atkinson, as being opposed to the idea that the bird expelled the air from
its body before submergence, and which was the hypothesis of his opponent
Mr. Slaney.

I have very little doubt in my own mind that the muscular system of the
bird would enable it so to compress its body, as to expel sufficient air to
make it of the same specific gravity as water, were the various air cavities so
arranged as to allow of free cgi'ess and ingress; but unfortunately for this
theory this is not the case, and I much doubt whether the removal of all air
in the numerous air cells, the bones, and feathers, would be possible even under
an air pump. Another argument also which bears strongly against this idea
is, that were the bird to get rid of the air from the air cavities, it could only
do so through the lungs, which thus must be in the same condition, and the
bird would necessarily become suffocated, for want of the absolutely essential
quantity of air for respiration, and which the bird can do without worse than
any other animal, for its circulation, and consequently its respiration, is very
rapid, and it is this which enables it to keep up its natural heat under cir-
cumstances that would be fatal to animals otherwise constituted. No; every
bird on diving has the power, if it sees reason to exercise it, of arresting its

0 ON THE SUBMERGENCE OF WATEU-BIUDS.

own progress upward, so that it shall at first only show its head and neck,
or only its bill, above water, and it can in this state, take in a fresh supply
of air, and this too in a single second, sufficient to enable it to take a long
dive before again coming up, as every one must often have observed. How
would it be possible for the bird to perform all this if it had gone down with
such a reduced quantity of air as must have been the case, had this been the
mode of accomplishing its purpose.

I will now dismiss this hypothesis, and proceed to consider the second mode.

2nd. — It might so compress its body as to condense the air in the various
cavities to such an extent, as to place it in the required condition.

It is a well-known fact that if you condense a cubic foot of air into a vessel
already containing another cubic foot under the ordinary atmospheric pressure,
you do not increase the buoyancy of the vessel in water by the additional
quantity of air, but the contrary — ^you lessen it, and make it sustain less
weight in the water by somewhere about five hundred and thirty-five grains,
or a little more than thirty-three pounds. Now I cannot help thinking that
here we have the true solution of the difficulty in question. No one, I
imagine, will deny that if the bird has the power of compressing itself to a
sufficient extent, it must sink instead of swim. Let us now see whether it
would be possible for a bird to compress itself to such an extent as to be in
the condition of the vessel with the two cubic feet of air. To establish this
point I will again quote from Audubon's "American Birds." In speaking of
a young bird of the Least* Bittern, (Ardea exilis,) which stood on the table
while he made a drawing of it, he says, "Replacing it on the table, I took
two books and laid them so as to leave before it a passage of an inch and a
half, through which it walked with ease. Bringing the books nearer each
other, so as to reduce the passage to one inch, I tried the Bittern again, and
again it made its way between them, without moving either. When dead its
body measured two inches and a quarter across, from which it is apparent
that this species, as well as the Gallinules and Rails, is enabled to contract
its breath to an extraordinary degree."

Here it is clear that this bird was somewhat in the condition alluded to,
and this too without much apparent inconvenience; and I feel convinced the
amount of compression which evidently existed in this case would be abundantly
sufficient to produce in a water-bird the difference between floating well out
of the water, and being merely suspended in it. In another place Mr. Audubon
says of the Virginian Rail, (JRallus Virginianus,) "Like the two preceding
species (R. Elegans and Crepitans,) the Virginian Rail has the power of con-
tracting its body to enable it to pass with more ease between the stalks of
strong grasses or other plants."

Now if these birds have the power of compressing themselves to so great an
extent to enable them to move easily in their covers, is it at all improbable
that diving birds should have a similar power, and one that would be of such
great value to them in enabling them to preserve themselves in times of

ON THE SUBMERGENCE OF WATER-BIRDS. V

danger. But farther, when a man attempts to dive, he takes a full inspiration
first, and then, when diving, he powerfully exerts all the large muscles round
the body, I have little doubt to produce instinctively the same effect that I
suppose is produced in the diver, namely, to bring the specific gravity of his body
nearer to that of the water, and so make the diving easier. Again, Mr. Atkinson
said that a Moorhen shot when diving, instantly rose to the surface, notwith-
standing the lead he had put into it. But why? simply because the bird
being dead, the act of volition by which it compressed its body was gone,
and the contained air instantly assumed its usual bulk, and the bird its usual
position. So in the case of any bird diving from fear: it rises to the
surface Avith its body in a state of compression; it at first only allows its
head and neck to emerge, but on looking round and seeing no danger, it
suldenly relaxes the effort which it had till then kept up, and its body instantly
resuming its usual state, the bird as quickly assumes its natural position, and
floats buoyantly on the
water. Let, however, -— ^^^^^fck
some slight occui-reiice ^*^^^^|B^

disturb it, ]M| ^^^^flHH^^^^^^^

to make it dive, and :;,^fiujmvm.tim m^^^^^^^Z=,-^^ify-^^^^^B^^si:r-^
it instantly sinks itself ^^^^^^mu^B^l^tiSSl^^^S^^^^-
decper into the water, .T^^^^^^^^^B^^^^^^^^^^^^H^^^^^-
and remains submerged ^^^^Hj^^^^l^l^^^^^^^^^lHllB^^^F^
until it finds that all "^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^bB^^^^^^^^C?

danger has disappeared. - ^^^^ssisr^-'^^^^^SS^^^^^"''^'^"^-^ '^'?^

It runs no risk of being

suffocated, for the condensed air is just as capable of sustaining life as
ordinary air, and will do so just as long as a common inspiration. The bird
too in this compressed state is able to inspire regularly, though, of course, in a
constrained manner.

Let us now take one illustration from another class of Nature's works — I
mean the Paper Nautilus. The shell occupied by this curious animal is of
considerable size, but has only a small portion of its cavity filled by the body
of the animal. The rest of the shell is composed of cells, with the interior
of each of which, however, the animal has a direct communication by means
of what is called the siphuncle or tube. These cells in their natural state
are filled with air or gas of some kind; and it is clear that in this condition
the animal must float on the surface of the water, and cannot while in that
state sink. But there is a very curious provision to obviate this inconvenience,
for as soon as the animal is frightened, or from any other cause, con-
tracts its body within the front part of the shell, water is by this very act
forced down the tube, and so into all the cells, and thus compressing the
air, the buoyancy of the animal is lessened, and it sinks in the water. When
the animal wishes to rise, it protrudes the head, and this opens the com-
munication between the cells and the external water, and the air expanding
forces out the water, and the animal again floats. Here we find an action

VOL. I. C

10

ON THE SUUMEnGENCR OF WATEU-IURDS,

analogous to that of the bird, produced witliout the Kliglitcst deviation fit)ui any

of the known laws of nature.
Tt is true it is executed by
a diiferent application of
the same pt-inciple Avhich I
have supposed to be called
into action in the case of
the bird, but manifestly
only so modified on account
of its peculiar formation, I
mean from its external cov-
ering being rigid. Had it
a power of contracting its
outward covering, that is,
its shell, to one-half its
usual bulk, as I have prov-
ed the bird to have, it would
no doubt exercise it, as
the simplest way of produ-
cing the desired effect. The
water it^takcs in is mani-
festly of no value whatever
as ballast, for water will
not sink in water, and
moreover the water at the
surface is always warmer than that below, and consequently woidd rather tend
to make it float. Its only use therefore must be to compress the air. If it
was intended that the bird should use the same means to alter its specific graA-ity,
would it not be provided with some special apparatus for the purpose, as we
see the Nautilus is? No such provision, however, nor the most distant approach
to it exists in the bird; but its external surface is capable of great compression,
and is abundantly furnished with powerful muscles, whose combined action would
be to compress the body, and they are under the control of the will of the bird.
With the knowledge of all these facts before me, I can come to no other
conclusion than that the bii*d does so compress its body as to condense the
air in its various cavities to such an extent as to render the specific gi'avity
of its body, about the same as that of the water in which it swims.

I have now taken a hasty survey of the whole subject. In the first place
I shewed that diving birds possess a wonderful power over their own specific
gravity in the water, and I brought, as proofs, records of the habits of certain
birds, which had been made without reference to any particular theory, but
simply as facts in the history of the birds. I next considered the explanation
which is generally given of the phenomenon, and then gave what I hope were
satisfactory reasons for considering it insufficient. And lastly, I brought forward

THE CUCKOO FEEDIXG ITS OWN YOUXG. 11

my own theory on the subject, and supported it to the best of my ability, by
such anah)gical reasoning, as I trust will be sufficient to shew that it is in
accordance witli nature's usual mode of operation in similar cases, and I shall
feel much gratification should my readers agree with me, in thinking that it is
the probable explanation of the extraordinary power which has been the subject
of our inquiry.

THE CUCKOO, (CUCULU8 CANORUS,) FEEDING
ITS OWN YOUNG.

BY J. MC' INTOSH, ESQ,

It is generally supposed by Ornithologists that the "Cuckoo" does not feed
its young ; that having deposited its egg in the nest of the Hedge Accentor,
or some other small bird, it leaves it to the care of a foster-mother, » On this
subject I am in possession of proofs to overthrow this long-established belief.

In the summer of 1850, in the month of July, a Hedge Accentor con-
structed its nest in a holly hedge, about two feet from the ground, and about
fourteen from an adjoining garden wall. Immediately on its being finished,
and before the owner of it had time to deposit her second egg, a Cuckoo,
Avhich had for some days past been watching with anxious eye the operations
of the Accentor, took the opportunity, during the temporary absence of the
said Hedge Accentor, and quietly deposited in the nest her egg, which occupied
but a few minutes, and immediately took her departure, uttering at the
SJinie time her well-known cry of ^cuckoo, cuckoo,' in rapid succession, to a
neighbouring elm tree. Of this egg the Hedge Accentor took no notice, but
deposited her four eggs, and connnenced incubation. In due time this important
office was completed, and three Hedge Accentors and the Cuchoo were brought
to life, (or rather light,) the fourth egg of the Accentor proving addled. In
the course of thres days the young Accentors by some means, but by what
means I could not ascertain, took their departure, as did also their mother,
which I never saw again, nor any remains of the young; but the addled egg
I found on the ground immediately beneath the nest. This departure took
place in the evening or early in the morning. On the fourth day seeing the
old Cuckoo frequently fluttering about the hedge which contained the Hedge
Accentor's nest and the young Cuckoo, I was induced to watch her proceedings
with some little care and attention. Taking my stand not at a great distance
from the nest under the wall alluded to, in a few minutes the old Cuckoo
flew over the wall to the nest ; I immediately applied a pocket telescope to
my eye, and very distinctly saw the old bird feed its young. This operation
1 watched some time every day, creeping nearer and nearer till I could see
distinctly the actual feeding of the young without the aid of telescope or
spectacles. I now became anxious to know whence the bird procured its food,
which, I imagined from its frequent visits ,to the nest, was at no great distance,
and of what description it was. Knowing the Cuckoo to be particularly fond

12 THE DIPPER.

of caterpUlars, I walked into the garden, where there were some gooseberry
bushes covered with caterpillars of Abraxas grossvlariata ; thither I bent my
steps, and saw the Cuckoo engaged in clearing the bushes of the caterpillars.
When she had what she considered sufficient for that meal, off she flew in a
direct line over the wallj and as if she had been shot, dropped on the other
side, where the hedge in question was. In this manner the old bird continued
to feed her young as long as a caterpillar remained on the bushes. When
they were finished, she proceeded to a field near in quest of foodj and through
her diligence her progeny got as fat as a London Alderman. This proves
further to me that the Cuckoo lays but one egg; at least this one could have
laid no more; yet I never observed her sitting on the young in the nest, as
other birds do. I have no doubt but some of your readers will ca^il with me
and say I am mistaken, having taken something else for the Cuckoo: but I
say no; and hope before I80I is ended, to be enabled to startle the Ornitho-
logist a little more in the history of this singular bird; and set aside a great
deal that has been in my opinion injudiciously promulgated.

('hannindcr^ Dortn'tj Novemher^ 18;")0.

THE DIPPER, {CINCLUS AQUATICUS.)

BY ROBEKT GUAY, ESQ,

Sc;oTL/VND may be said to be the stronghold in Britain of the Dipper,
as it is found in almost every district, extending even to the Hebrides; and
the author, from whom this remark is taken, also beautifully observes:""^ ''The
solitary and secluded nature of the streams it frequents, and their often wild
character, render it a most, fitting accompaniment — sufficient to break the
solitude, but never obtruding on the calmness of the picture; one of those
beautiftU instances of nature's chaste compositions, where the life of the landscape
combines to harmonize with all around."

Few persons, we apprehend, would imagine the common Water, Crow to
be one of our most pleasing songsters; yet it is so. The angler and the
rambling naturalist know well its musical powers, as they from time to time
have opportunity of listening to its sweet melody, barely heard above the ripple
of the stream. It is a most unusual accomplishment for a bird of its habits;
for, as is well known, it seeks its food at the bottom of pools, or the bed of
the gliding brook, into which it plunges after aquatic insects, shells, and small
fishes. We have seen it hunting for prey in the immediate neighbourhood of
the Kingfisher and the Yellow Wagtail — two more g-aily-coloured members of
the feathered tribes, and must own, our partiality for the 'pyet' suffered noiight
from the comparison. Probably these beautifully descriptive lines by Corrington
were at the time uppermost in oiir thoughts: —

* Sir William Janline, in the "Naturalist's Library."

THE DIPPER. 13

"Tlie biid

Is here, the solitary bird, that makes
The rock his sole companion. Leafy vale,
Green bower, and hedgerow fair, and garden rich
With bud and bloom, delight him not; he bends
No spray, nor roams tlie AvUdeniess of boughs,
"Wliere love and song detain a million wings
Through all the summer mom, — the summer eve;
He has no fellowship with waving woods;
He joins not in their merrj' minstrelsj-,
But flits from ledge to ledge, and through the day
Sings to the liighland waterfall that speaks
To him in strains he loves, and lists
For ever."

Seldom in verse have the habits of any living creature been more truthfully
depicted; for though in like strains the poet often sketches nature^ yet the
accustomed ^license' as often mars the life of the picture.

On one occasion we stood listening to one of these modest-looking songsters
as it poured forth its lays^ just as it had finished a finny meal from a small
minnow, and taken up its position on a stone in the middle of M running
brook, when the want of a skin strongly urged us to shoot it. It was a
cruel act, followed by disappointment and regret; and the readers of the
"Naturalist" may rest assured it will not be repeated by the same hand. On
the shot being fired, the poor bird, to our surprise, remained sitting, and as
we approached we could observe it closing its eyes, while the blood trickled
down its white throat. It then started, flew a short distance, and falling into
the bubbling '^rapids,' was carried off; while its mate (their nest being hard
by,) hurried to and fro, and chirped in sounds of grief not to be mistaken.
The mention of this brings to our recollection a short anecdote communicated
by our friend. Dr. Nelson, of Lytham, who thus, narrates the circumstance as
it occurred to himself: —

^'At the close of winter, or rather early in spring, whilst following the windings
of a small stream in East Lothian with my gun on my arm, I started a
Dipper, and sent a random shot after it. The bird appeared to be hit, but it
flew on and at leng-th settled on a stone about a hundred yards distant from
m6. Favoured by an intervening bank, I approached within a short distance
of the spot; and never shall I forget the sweet warblings of that little throat
as it murmured above the sound of the purling brook. My anxiety to procure
a specimen caused me again to put up the bird, and I killed it on the wing;'
but when I came to examine the stone where it had been sitting, and found
thereon several drops of blood, I was stung with remorse to think I had been
the means of taking its life." Poor little Dipper! it had actually been singing
after receiving a death wound, and thus, as our informant feelingly concludes,
"had, whilst its life's blood trickled on its perch, warbled its last notes in the
haunts of its happy solitude."

This is another of the melancholy cruelties arising from the 'want of a
skin,' but qualified, we trust, as in the other case with as much remorse as

14 AN ACCOUNT OF A LARGE FOSSIL MARINE WORM.

will guarantee a free pass to every Dipper that may hereafter cross our
path.

Southcroft Govan, Glasgoiv, February^ 1851.

AN ACCOUNT OF A LARGE FOSSIL MARINE

WORM OCCURRING IN THE MOUNTAIN LIMESTONE

DISTRICT, IN WENSLEYDALE, YORKSHIRE.

BY EDWARD WOOD, ESQ.

In the course of a series of rambles among the vallies and hills of the
Mountain Limestone district of the north of Yorkshire, undertaken during
short intervals of relaxation, with a view in the first place more especially
to geological subjects; in the second minor degree for the renovation of
health, lost in following more uninviting pursuits, our attention was drawn to
some specimens of flaggy rock, containing large and well-developed fossils, very
curious and hitherto but little noticed: they were brought from a quarry in
Wensleydale, called 'Tale Bank quarry,' to which we soon after contrived to
pay a visit.

The quarryman, an intelligent specimen of his class — the Hugh Miller of
his district — was particularly well-informed on the subject of the local deposits,
and very much pleased to give any information upon them.

The fossils in question, we found were obtained from a cutting carried deep
into the interior of the hill, not quite half way between Wensleybridge, and the
top of Middleham moor, and on the lowest slopes of Penhill: the bed was over
and underlaid by thick limestone deposits, and was apparently equivalent to the
flagstone beds placed by Phillips in his section of the hills about Hawcs, low
down in the middle group of the Yoredale series, and called by him "the
flagstone beds of Hawes." Its composition was a very finely laminated micaceous
sandstone, the superficial colour of each lamina being a dark gray, its fracture
lighter and slightly inclined to yellow; it contained two species of worm like
processes, one about an inch, the other less than a quarter of an inch in
circumference, and stretching in long contorted, but never convoluted folds, to
^a gi-eat length, and laying in a depression in the flag to the depth of four
to five and sometimes more laminae, and impressed both on the upper and
lower surfaces of the beds. Many of the laminae were also marked with the
indentations which denote rain drops. Phillips, in his work on the geology
of the Mountain Limestone, mentions this or a similar bed in Covcrdale, as
having "a carbonaceous surface, impressed with traces of vermicular and ramified
markings."^ — "Often of clearly organic origin and indicating littoral deposition."f
But in the specimens before us, there is evident proof of more than mere

* Page 44. t Pagt' 180.

AN ACCOUNT OF A LAHOR FOSSIL 5IARINF. WORM. 15

worm-like '^^mavkings indicating organic origin/' because if the appearances above
spoken of are but markings only, how could they shew a circular form on both
the upper and lower surfaces? In the case supposed, there would be but the
impression on the surface of one lamina, and a cast taken by the lamina
superposed, not as in these flags, a circular body.

An eminent naturalist, to whom a description only was given, thought that
the appearances in question might possibly be similar to some noticed by himself
on the sea shore, when a strong wind off the land blows the loose sand on
the top of the receding wave at ebb tide, enclosing the water within it,
which, as it escapes, leaves the sand in the form of long, narrow, sinuous,
ridges, depressed along the centre in consequence of the contraction caused by
drying, in a manner similar almost to a spinal process; this, however, will not
account for the specimens before us, and we mention it more for the purpose
of shewing the conjectures that have been made, in order to clear the way for
further explanation or full elucidation of the nature ef such fossiliform appear-
ances— this paper being more for the purpose of exciting inquiry than of
answering the question raised.

A few further remarks occur to us which may help to throw light upon
the subject. The formation in question must have been laid on the shore of
a shallow deeply-indented bay — perhaps

of a salt water lagoon, into which the /f ^--""-x T

tide had entrance. In the fine mud of F / ^ / ' ^ I j

this lake have lived and died the • / \ 1 ^ ] \

creatures whose motions are impressed fj / I / i\ / '

upon the surfticcs, and whose bodies still v-i ^ ^-'' ,

form part of the deposits. They lay in ; .
these beds in long folds in shape as in ^

the engraving, shewing in some cases the appearance of a tail, but in no
instance has any sign of a head been observed, except such a one as would
answer to a species of the lamprey. The whole ridge
is marked at every quarter of an inch with ribs, which (p^^^^'^^^l'T^
have a very strong resemblance to the ribbing of
plants of the equisjtum family. The side view
obtained by cracking off the slate, is as in the following figure; in both instances
shewing a vermiform appearance.

A large specimen is deposited in the York '^"^"'^
Museum.

Bichnond, YorJcsMre, January Wth., I80I.

16

Twenty Lessoiis on British Mosses; or First Steps to a Knowledge of that
beautiful Tribe of Plants, Illustrated hy dried specimens. By William
Gardinter, a. L. S. (Third Edition,) Edinburgh: Mathers.

Twenty Lessons on British Mosses: (Second Series^) By the same Author.
London: Longman and Co.

It is indeed true that —

"Tho lowliest thing
Some lesson of -wortli to the mind can bring;"

and no one is more sensible of the fact than the field naturalist; for his chief
delights are often found in the investigation of the commonest objects that
strew his every-day path. The bulk of the world, however, know not the
secret of obtaining happiness in the contemplation of such things, and can ill
ioin in sympathy with his peculiar feelings. Among the numerous tribes which
compose the vegetable kingdom, no one presents fewer points of attraction to
the ordinary observer, nor appears so utterly unimportant in contributing to
the welfare of mankind, or the support of the lower animals, as the Mosses.
Humbler in their growth than every other tribe of plants; more modest in
their hues; and as deficient in odour as they are in majesty of form and gaiety
of colouring, they indeed possess slender claims upon the attention of the
incurious, and even the scientific botanist is sometimes apt to overlook them
in his enthusiastic admiration of nobler tribes. linnacus in his ingenious class-
ification of the principal families of vegetables into ranks analogous to those
of human society, assigned to the Mosses that of "Servants, plants of the
winter, hungry; occupying in immense numbers all the places relinquished by
the higher tribes." Certainly one who had not inquired into their structure
and habits, would be disposed to assign them even a lower rank than that
which the sagacious father of naturalists gave to them; and were we to rate
them according to their economical value, we should consider them much inferior
to the iodine-yielding sea-weeds, the 'slaves' of vegetation, as Linnocus styles
them ; or even the mushrooms, the '^vagabonds' of the vegetable creation, which,
in the quaint words of the same Naturalist are "barbarous, naked, putrescent,
rapacious, voracious," although, by the by, they form a most important article
of food to southern Europeans of all ranks.

. To the inquiring eye of the Naturalist, however, these tiny fairy plants,
the mosses, are replete with interest; and the investigation of their curious
structure and economy has of late years employed many of the most talented
and ingenious Botanists of Europe. In our own country too the Mosses have
been recently gaining a certain amount of general favour, which is gradually
increasing day by day; and at the present time the taste for collecting and
examining them is by no means confined to the narrow circle of scientific
botanists. To the two little works whose titles are prefixed to this paper, is
due the merit of increasing to a considerable extent, the popular favour for these

REVIEWS. 17

tiny members of the A'^egetable kingdom; for the first series of Mr. Gardiner's
lessons has already run through three editions^ and we learn that there is
every chance of the second series following the same satisfactory course. The
attention of cultivators has likewise been attracted to the Mosses within the
last year or two; and, assuredly, no one has seen a healthy greenhouse collection of
these plants without admiration. The rich verdure of their beautiful tufts, varie-
gated with their curious little capsules, small in size in some cases, but numerous
in proportion, presents a most pleasing appearance, and at once arouses the
curiosity of the observer to obtain some farther acf^uaintance with the history
of this interesting family of vegetable beings. The exertions of the gardener
in the cultivation of the Mosses are likely to prove advantageous to science, in
throwing some new light on the economy of these obscure plants. It is remarked
by a writer on this subject, that "by carefully watching the evolution of the
various organs of particular individuals throughout the entire period of their
existence, many important facts may be brought to light tending to elucidate
some of the obscure points of muscological science, and calculated, in an especial
manner, to give us more accurate views concerning these plants, and much new
information concerning their general history, structm-e, and habits."* It therefore
gives us much gratification to bring this subject before the notice of the readers
of the "Naturalist," in the hope that sonic of them may be induced at this
favourable season of the year, to undertake the culture of a few of the more
interesting Mosses.

The two works of Mr. Gardiner now before us, are chiefly directed to the
younger portion of the community, in the hope of encouraging a taste for
botanical purs-uits, in the rising generation, and calling their attention to the
minute and common things of creation, which are so often passed by unknown,
and despised, for very want of knowledge. Mr. Gardiner is, himself, a most
ardent admirer of these beautiful little plants, and his enthusiasm is continually
fed by an aimual visit to the native haunts of the more interesting species,
on the Clova mountains. He is therefore peculiarly well qualified for writing
on such a subject, and his familiar and enticing style, so well exhibited in
a more scientific work, the "Flora of Forfarshire," cannot fail to secure an
attentive reader in every one who takes his little books in hand. In illustration
of the way in which the subject is handled, we cannot do better than treat
our readers to Lesson First of the first series: —

"My De.vr Youxg Headeiis,

" You have, doubtless, in some of jour rural walks, noticed the

little flosses, that, in the beautiful woods, cover the ground with a fresh green carpet, and adoni
the tops of old walls with theii- lovely verdure. But, perhaps, jou have not examined them
attentively, nor are aware that there are so nuuiy kinds of them, all differuig from one another
in the structure of their various pails. It shall be my object, in these lessons, to lead you to a
better acquaintance with them.

Possibly you may have often passed them by with little more than a heedless glance, tliinking
that because there were plenty of bright-coloured flowers, and stately trees around, to delight your

* G. Lawson, in Gardeners' Magazine of Botany, vol. 1.
VOL. I. D

18 REVIEWS.

eye, the humble Moss was scai'cely worth your atteution. Because tilings arc small or hnnible,
however, they should not be treated with contempt or carelessness. God made the little Moss
as well as the glowing flower and lofty tree, and He has made nothing in vain. We may not
know all the uses for which such tiny things were created, but wo know some of them. We
love what is beautiful, for Gotl has implanted in our minds that love; and in the stnicture of
the Mosses, as well as in that of many others of His smallest works, there is a very great deal
of beauty. We love them, therefore, because it is natural for us to love what is beautiful. This
love yields us true pleasure, which constitutes our earthly happiness, and ought to awaken our
gratitude to the benevolent Ckeator, who has so kindly provided for our pui'cr gratifications.

Mosses are found in all parts of the world; and in Britain, alone, there are about four hundr(>d
dLtt'event kinds. Their places of growth arc as varied as their forms. Some are found in the
deepest valleys, by the sides of lonely streams, or withm the spray-clouds of roaring wateifalls ;
othei's brave the tempests of lofty mountain-summits, or seek shelter among their shelving
rocks; many com-t the shade of the forest, or nestle about the roots of the hedgerows; whilst
various species seek the open fields or the siumy wall tops, or have thek homes in the deep
morass, or dwell on the sandy shores of the mighty ocean."

We reluctantly take leave of* Mr. Gardiner, and his pleasant little volumes,
by quoting a passage from his account of the Tree Feather-Moss, (^HypniDii
dendroides,) in the Second Series of Lessons: —

"Even in the depth of winter, confined to our chamber by the war of the elements, when
we look upon a specimen of tliis humble plant, we feel in a moment transported back to
summer, with all its glories, and trees rise aroimd us in their wonted magnificence — their lich
verdm-e glistening in the Avai-m sunlight, redolent of gi-ateful odoure and manifold hannonies.
The avenue of lindens, with its sweet murmur of bees — the daisied lawn, and its fine old
sycamores, horse-chesnuts, and wabiuts — the orchard,

One boundless blush, one white empurpled shower
Of mingled blossoms, where the raptured eye
Hurries from joy to joy—

The fragrant birch-woods of secluded highland glens— and the lofty pine-forests that clothe the
mountain sides;

Where. the deer rustle through the twining brake, ».„.

And the birds sing concealed—

The gentle labtimum, shaking the dews of May from its golden tresses, over the blossoming
thorns; and the miglity oak — the proud monarch of the woodlands, whose giant form has
battled triumphantly with the stomis of ages, successively lise to our view, and crowd our
minds with the pleasant memories of the past, and glowing anticipations of the futui-e."

The Royal Water-lily of South America, and the Water-lilies of our land —
TJieir History and Cultivation. By Geokoe Lawson, F. B. S. Edhiburgh:
James Hogg. London : R. Groombridge and Sons. 1850. p. p. 108.

Mr. Lawson has given us not only a beautiful book for the drawing-room
table, but he has also introduced to our notice, perhaps, the most elegant
tribe of plants, which can be presented to the scientific eye of the Botanist,
or to the more general observation of the traveller after the picturesque. A
considerable portion of the Avork is occupied, most usefully and agreeably, by
the Victoria Regina, that Botanical wonder of the age; not only is the plant
itself described, but a full and most interesting account is given of the mode
of its first successful cultivation in this country, at Kcav; and afterwards of
the first flowers which rewarded the care and skill of Mr. Paxton, at Chatsworth.

RRVIKWS. 19

Every particular is given tliat can be of use to' intending cultivators of this
truly Royal plant, and the whole is handled in a pleasing style which 'cannot
fail to render the book as welcome to the general reader, as to the scientific
Botanist or the Horticulturist. The following suggestion, at page 78, is so
good, and if carried out would so greatly increase the pleasure of examining tropical
plants in this country, that we cannot resist giving it in the Author's own
words : —

""We venture to suggest that a structure raised for the culture of the Victoria, instead of being
merely a tiink covered in with glass, and containing the solitary plant, might be rendered much
more interesting by an attempt at the imitation of natural sconerj-, and the inti'oduction of a
few other aijuatic plants to form a pleasing contrast with the Koyal LUy. A small waterfall at
one end of the house, verdant with moisture-loving plants, might bo made to supply the pond,
and give to its surface that gentle agitation so necessary for the healthy development of the
Victoria. While the gigantic Lily oceupicd the chief portion of the pond, the shallow margms
might be planted with various small aquatics, suitable for such situations; and if space were
allowed, a few other tropical "VVater-lilies might be introduced into the deeper parts. It mio-ht
obscui-e the light too much to run climbers up the rafters, and hang drooping plants fi-om the
roof, but under favourable circumstances this might be done to some extent, especially in the
summer season, when there is abmidance of sunsliine."

Farther on, at page 92, when speaking of our own White Water-lily, he
says —

"A "Water-lily pond should always be furnished with a plentiful supply of clear water, and
while tlie supply is constantly kept up, it is equally essential tliat provision be made to run off
the supei-fluous water regularly, at short intervals, in order to preserve the purity of the pond,
which, besides being greatly advantageous to the Lilies, adds considerably to the beauty of the
pond itself; and, on that account alone, repays the trouble and expense. Li these times of
sanitary refonn, a piece of stagnant water should not be accounted the ornament of a pleasure
gi-ound, yet, strange to say, such ornaments are not unfi-equcntlj- found where thcii- existence
might be least expected."

We can safely recommend Mr. Lawson's Water-lilies as an excellent hand-
book, for either the cultivators or lovers of this beautiful tribe of plants.

Natural History of the British Entomostraca. By W. Baird, M. D., F. L. S.
8vo. Ray Society, London, ISoO.

A carefully written monograph, on any subject, is always valuable; but the
Author, who, for the first time, brings together all that is known, and arranges
it systematically in one work, is worthy of a double portion of our gratitude.
This is the case with Dr. Baird, who has, in the beautiful and highly-interesting
volume before us, collected, from various sources, a vast mass of facts, relating to
those Crustacea which are termed Entomostraca, or shelled insects. Of these
facts he has made good use, in the histories which he has given us of the
different species; many of them have been discovered and first described by
him, and many deeply-interesting records of the habits of others, as observed
by himself, are recorded, and give good proof of an untiring zeal in the pursuit
of a favourite study.

The general arrangement of the work is that of ]M. Milne Edwards, and

'20 MISCELLAXEOUS NOTICES.

is well-adapted to the use of the student in this particular branch, who will
have little difficulty in recognizing the Entomodmcan he may find, by the aid
of the adnnrablc descriptions and plates. The work before us cannot fail to
render the study of these interesting creatures much more frequent than it has
hitherto been. Armed with this volume and a good microscope, the student
may find ^endless amusement' and instruction in any locality he may reside
in. Every pond or ditch, or even cistern, will afford him numerous species,
the investigation of whose habits and characters will amply repay him for his
labour in seeking them.

We cordially recommend this work to our readers, not merely as being the
only work which embraces all the species of Entomostraca hitherto discovered
in Britain, but also as being intrinsically good in itself; so that if the observer
should chance to meet with a new species, he will have no difficulty in knowing
that it is so. The study of the Entomostraca has not yet advanced to such
a point as to forbid the hope of new discoveries, and we are sure that no
one would hail the advent of a new Entomostracan with more pleasure, than
the author of the beautiful work which is the subject of our notice.

3Hi3rrllinirnii.3 Untirfs.

Great Black Woodpecker (Picus martius.) Linn. — Tt is generally supposed by
Ornithologists that this beautiful bird is a straggler in Britain. This, however,
is not the case, for I have known it to breed and rear its young in several
instances at C/laremount, in Surrey. On one occasion I was anxious to see the
contents of the nest, which had been bviilt in a hole in a hrick tuall. The
brick had been destroyed, from the effects of frost, and mouldered away. The
bird had so completely replaced one of its own making of clay, with the
exception of a small round hole for its nse, it might have been passed by
without being seen. My hand being much larger than the hole, and the clay
having become so hard, I was obbged to use a knife to make the hole
large enough. Having satisfied myself, I left the eggs. I was now anxious
to see if the old bird, which had been watching my proceedings from the branch
of a large Cedar tree, would forsake the nest or not, from my rough visit;
I watched for a short time. Having made iip its mind, it made a bold dart
to its nest, returning immediately to the Cedar uttering a loud cry, which
brought the male bird. They both visited the nest, and then disappeared: in a
short time they returned, and began repairing the breach made, which was
completed the same day, and hatched their young in quietude after. These birds,
I am almost certain the same pair, made this hole their nest for three years:
during which time I had ample opportunities of watching them. I have also
met with the birds, but not their nests, in Dorsetshire — at Charborough
Park, but in no other part of the county. Kennie is quite wrong when he says
we have no evidence of its breeding, or performing its annual visits to this
country. About five or six years ago, I saw a specimen in the museum at

MIf5CELLANE0US NOTICES, 21

Birrainghani, and was assured that it had been procured in England; and I
dare say that there are many more instances than mine on record. — J. Mc' Intoshj

Charminster, Dorset. Nov. \d., 1850.

On the incubation and rearing of the young of the Moorhen (Gallinula
chloropus.) — In confirmation of a curious anecdote, related by Mr. Yarrell, in
his work on ^^British Birds/' vol. iii, page 33, with regard to the incubation
and rearing of the young of the common Moorhen, I observed the following: —
In the year 1844, and in many subsequent ones, I had a pair of the above
birds located in a small pond near my house; they became so tame, as, frequently,
early in the morning, to be found, when the door had been left open, inside
the hall picking up the crumbs from the floor. Upon being disturbed, they
would quietly run out of the door, stop, look back with regret, and with a
jerk of the tail commence feeding on the grass. They commonly bred three
times in the season; the first brood being hatched early in June or in the
last week in May: two broods followed the parents at the same time, and
were fed by them indiscriminately. Upon the third brood being hatched, the
first was driven away by the parent birds. The fact that I wished more
particularly to mention is, that I constantly observed the young bird of the
former brood, after receiving food from the parent, proceed with it in search
of one of its younger relations, and with the greatest tenderness administer
to its bodily wants, by giving to it the food intended for itself. — Bichard
Pye Alington, Sivinhope Rectory ^ near Market Rasen, Lincolnshire. Feb. 8th., 1851.

Capture of Rare Birds. — On the 19th. of January, 1850, a beautiful specimen
of the young of the Eared Grebe {Podiceps auritus) was captured in the parish
of Thorsway, Lincolnshire : it was found by some labouring men sitting on the
top of a straw stack, at least a mile and a half from any water, and knocked
down with a snow-ball; it lived for two days in the possession of the Eev.
Edward Cove, of Thorsway, and fed upon some barleymeal which was offered
to it: it was found dead on the Tuesday morning. During the same winter,
a female specimen of the Common Scoter (Oidemia nigra) was shot by the
Rev. W. Marsden, of Louth, on a small stream quite in the town, and at
least twelve miles from the sea. The same gentleman also captured a specimen
of the Red-necked Phalarope (Phalaropus hyperboreus) near Louth. The above
specimens are all at present in the possession of Mr. Marsden. Many years
ago, a specimen of the Avocet was shot by Mr. Harneis, of Thorganby
Hall, feeding on the edge of Croxby lake, Lincolnshire; and a specimen of
the Peregrine Falcon was shot by his son, (and now in his possession) in the
parish of Hawerby. (vide page 90, "Morris's British Birds.") I also saw a
specimen of the above noble bird, about six weeks ago, in this neighbourhood.
The Dotterel, (Charadrius morinellus) once so common on the north wolds of
Lincolnshire, is now very rarely seen, though it still continues to visit some
land, newly enclosed by my brother, Mr. Pye, from the sea, in the parish of
North Summercoats, in small numbers, twice a year; going to and returning

22 MISCELLANEOUS XOTICES,

from their breeding ground. A wild Swan located itself on Croxby lake during
the whole of the winter of lS49-oO; and on the same piece of water, I am
told bj a friend, that a remarkably fine specimen of the Northern Diver was
shot in his presence, and preserved. I should doubt his correctness about the
species, but hope to have an opportunity of seeing it in a short time, when
I will forward a more certain account. — Idem.

Early Nesting of the Common Thrush, (Turdus musicus,) near Ripon. — On
the 19th. of March last, and during the severe weather prevalent at that time,
I had brought to me the nest of a Throstle, complete, with two eggs. Its
early production induced me to examine and compare the same with a nest
and eggs taken in the summer time, some years back. I found a considerable
difference, as follows: — The eggs taken on March 19th. measured one inch and
one-sixteenth in length, and six-eighths and one-sixteenth of an inch in diam-
eter. Those taken in the summer measured one inch and a quarter long,
and seven-eighths and one-sixteenth of an inch in diameter. — T. Stuhhs, Ripon,
January 20th., 18ol.

This is a very curious circumstance, and we are much obliged to Mr. Stubbs
for pointing it out. It probably is an instance of checked development, in
consequence of the severity of the weather; an effect which we should not
have expected to have manifested itself in this way. — B. R. M.

Nest of tlie Kingfisher (Alcedo Ispida.) — There have been so many different
opinions respecting the materials of which the nest of this bird is formed,
that the following account cannot but interest your readers: — A highly-
respectable miller residing near Kiveton Park, assures me that he had a nest
last year in his mill-dam, which he unfortunately broke with his spade in
endeavouring to dig it out: it was of an oval form, and composed entirely
of fish bones: — Bewick in vol. ii page 21, states that he had a nest sent
him ^^made entirely of small fish bones, cemented together with a brown
glutinous substance:" — I must say even this does not convince me; for I have
often searched the holes from which I have seen the birds fly, but never could
discover a nest: — Samuel Hannaford Jun., Kiveton Parle, Rotherham, Feb. 1th.,
1851.

A Piping Thrash (TurdiLS Musicus.) — An uncle of mine had a Thrush
which he brought up from the nest, and by constantly playing on the flute
in the room where it was kept, the bird was able in a very few weeks, to
whistle with great accuracy three or four tunes. Unfortunately a cat got at
him one day, and so severely mangled the poor bird, that it died very soon
after; but even whilst dying, it commenced one of the tunes in .imitation
of church bells. — Idem.

A Cuckoo (Cuculus canorus,) attacked by small birds. — Between eight and
nine one evening in June last, I saw a female Cuckoo flying towards a
plantation at Shenriers Bridge, near Totnes, Devonshire, where I had frequently

MISCELLANEOUS NOTICES. 23

heard her fine clear liquid notes, pursued by five or six swallows, which pecked
at her as she flow by; apparently much to her annoyance, for she tried hard
by ascending and descending, to escape from her tormentors. — Idem.

Hooded or Royston Crow, (Corvus cornix.) — October 11th., ISoO, I sjiw a
large flock (say twenty,) in Kiveton Park. — Idem.

Ned of the House Pigeon. — Mr. Rennie in his very interesting little work
on "Bird Architecture," page 119, says that this bird never uses tumjs
in the formation of its nest. I grant it is not common, but last summer I
watched two pairs, very closely, in order to ascertain. They were kept in a
pigeon-house in a farm-yard where hay, straw, and twigs lay scattered about
in great abundance. The hen bird remained in the hole hard at work, whilst
the cock kept her plentifully supplied with miall straight twigs, carefully trying
each with his bill before carrying it to his mate. These he deposited on a
ledge outside the house, for the hen to use at her convenience. Occasionally
the hen would leave the nest, and the cock would walk in and take a survey.
This continued for nearly two hours, without intermission. One thing I
particularly noticed which would seem to disprove Mr. Ronnie's assertion, that
the male bird rejected strmv for twigs; more than once he took a piece of straw
into his bill, but dropped it again immediately. — Idem.

Nesting of Books, (Corvus frugilegus.) — In the work on ^^Bird Architecture,"
page 1G2, Mr. Rennie says, "Schwenekfeldt remarks that they commonly
prefer large trees planted round cemeteries and churchyards; but amongst the
numerous rookeries with which we are acquainted, not one occurs in such a
locality ;" and Mr. Jenyns and Bewick seem to think they prefer noisy places
to more retired ones. Is early all the rookeries I have seen in Devonshire are in
retired places, and very many of them in or near churchyards. I will only mention
a few in my own immediate neighbourhood, as having fallen imder my notice :
Totnes, Devonshire — There was a very large rookery on the elm trees in the
churchyard for many years; Dartington, Devonshire — Close by and in the
churchyard; Follaton, Devonshire — Near catholic chapel; Sharpham, Devonshire
— In a wood overhanging the river Dart, adjoining a heronry. — Idem.

Curious act of the Martin, (Hirundo urbica.) — In the summer of 1849, a
pair of Martins built their nest in an archway at the stables of Woburn
Abbey, Bedfordshire, and -as soon as they finished building it, and had lined
it, a Sparrow took possession of it, and although the Martins tried several
times to eject him, they were unsuccessful, his hard beak being too formidable
an obstacle for the tender beaks of the Martins; but they nothing daunted,
left his lordship (the Sparrow,) in full possession, and then flew to scour the
neighbourhood for help, returning iir a short space of time with about thirty
or forty Martins, who went or rather flew in a body to the Sparrow in the
nest, and having dragged the unfortunate culprit out, took him to the grass-plot
opposite, called the circle ; and there they all fell, pell mell, on him and killed

24 I'ROCEEDINGS OF SOCIETIES. OBITUARY.

him. I have heard of Martins stopping a Sparrow in their nest, but I never
heard of such a circumstance as this before; but this was related to ine by
an eye witness a day or two after the occurrence took place. — Georcje B. Clarke,
Wohum, Beds. January loth., I80I.

^.^rnmMiigs nf fnrirtia

Yorkshire NatKralists' Club, February 5th., 1851. — E. Charlesworth, Esq., in the, chair.

Dr. Morris mentioned the occurrence, in the York market, of several specimens of the Ear-
taih'il God\\it, (Limosa riifa,) and of the Graj' Plover, ( Sqiiatarola cinerca,) wliicli were hrought
from near Perth. They but rarely make their appearance in York.

Mr. Graham exliibited specimens of several of ovu- rarest British birds, which had been sent
to him to mount, from A. Strickland, Esq., of Bridlington.

Mr. CiiARLESWORTH exhibited a fossil Saurian phalangeal bone, from the cabinet of lEr. Ilipley,
of AVTiitby, i-emarkablc as coming from the lias, and yet presenting, in its massive proportions,
more analogy to the coiTCsponding bone in the ten-estrial extinct _Saurian reptiles, than to the
species hitherto known in the lias formation. Mr. C. regarded the discovery of this fossil as a
most important addition to the extinct fauna of Yorkshire;; and he particularly called attention
to the skilful manner in which the intensely hard investing matrix of ironstone liad l)een removed
from the surface of the bone, by Mr. Dew, of the British Museum.

Mr. 0. A. Moore exhibited some fine specimens of minerals from South ^Vmciica, namely, native
copper, in three states, from the north of Chili; native silver; native gold in quartz, from
niapel, in Chilli; and some fine specimens of nearly pure gold from California, one weighing
above one ounce. Mr. Moore then proceeded to read some remarks upon the supposed transmutation
of species, which had been drawn up at the re<iuest of sonu; nuimbers of the club, on the question
being raised by ]Mr. Smallwood at one of the previous meetings. He commenced by disclaiming
anv intention of doing more than giving an abstract of the piincipal evidence on this subject,
deduced from ancient and modern writers. Of these lie gave quotations from Pliny, Virgil,
Plautus, Theophrastus, Galen, ilattliiolus, Thomas Jolinson, Parkinson, Riy, Morison, Olans
Wormius, and others of the older writers; and illustnited the same by the observations of
Dr. "\Veis.scnbom, the Coburg Society, Lord Arthur Ilaiwey, Captain Ilen-ick, Sir R. Plullips,
Mr. Rhodes, of Xawton, the Author of the "Vestiges," and others ui modem times. The experi-
ments of Messrs. Sidebotham and Watson were adduced on the other side as opposed to this theory.
Mr. Moore considered, from a careful examination of all the evidence, that sufficient was adduced,
•with regard, e.g., to the passage of oats into rye or barley, imder a peculiar system of treatment,
which was fully detailed, to warrant further investigation; and that the instances of two kinds
of grain o<-curring on one spike, as shown by T. Jolnison, Wormius, and Captain Herrick, A\ero
singular, and deserving of peculiar attention. — Mr. Brines mentioned a similar case, as quoted by
Dr. Luidley, in a horticultural journal, and a discussion followed, in wlii(;h Messrs. William
Matterson, Chai-lesworth, Smallwood, Dr. Morris, and others took part^ referring not only to tliis
subject, but also the general question of specific distinction. — -At the suggestion of the Chainnan,
a committee, consisting of Messrs. Baincs, Smallwood, William Matterson, Buniett, and Moore,
was appointed to uiquire into the subject, and make experiments, with a view to I'eporting on a
future occasion.

(Dliitnnrg.

Bled Janitary 27th. 1851, John James Audubon. — It is with sincere regi-et that we annomicc
the death of the celebrated Audubon, at the advanced age of seventy-six, at his residence in New
York. His "American Birds" will however remain a perpetual memorial of liis perseverance and
accuracy of observation ; there is a certain freshness in liis desciiptions, that carries you irresistibly
along ^vith hun, and places the object treated of personally before you; to us the whole work
has always had a greater charm than the most piquant novel, from the conviction that it was a
true history, and that the lives of the bu-ds had been noted down hi their o^\^l wild and solitary
haunts. Ornithological science has sustained a severe loss by the death of Audubon.

25
ON THE MOOR-HEN. {GALLINULA CHLOBOPUS.)

TO THE EDITOR OF THE NATURALIST.

Sir,

Although forty years since I was a steady contributor to the
periodicals, for many has the amusing occupation ceased; yet am I now allured
by the seductive aspect of your new publication, and especially by the appear-
ance of one of your 'Miscellaneous Notices/ to yield once more to the propensity
to scrawl. I advert to that on the ^'Incubation and rearing of the young of
the Moor- hen."

Not very distant from my house, and adjoining my lawn, is a pond, which,
were it dignified with the name of a little lake, might receive not an inapplicable
appellation. Its extent is nearly half an acre, and in its widest part is an island,
sheltered on the western side by a dense row of alders, willows, and, rushes;
while on it are laurels and rhododendrons, with some trees of twenty years
growth; at the western extremity is a small dense covert of alders, osiers,
elders, and laurels. It is divided from a small rapid river or mountain stream,
by fertile meadows; while within a few miles lies, on the northern side, the
elevated and bleak district of Dartmoor — a site more propitious to the colon-
ization of waterfowl, more especially from its maritime neighbourhood, and its
close proximity to several other small pieces of water — one indeed in an
adjoining grove of nearly equal size with itself, can scarcely be described. These
ponds are of my own formation; and no sooner were they complete, than a
desire to see them peopled by feathered colonists arose; and not unfrequently
meeting with Moor-hens while Snipe shooting in my meadows, I assimaed they
would be the first occupants. At length I rejoiced in the realization of my
wishes. A pair appeared, built their nest on the sedgy brink of the eastern
side of the island, and were an object of general interest to the passers by.
For three or four years there were regular and undisturbed incubations, but
no increase. By turns the female and male, with his glowing crimson bill,
watchfully peeping over the nest, were the objects of universal admiration;
till an inference arose that the eggs or young were destroyed by rats or
snakes, (natrix torquata,) which I have seen there in pursuit of duck's eggs,
or that some other vermin frustrated my hopes. At length, in the lower
branches of a stunted silver fir, about three feet from the ground, the cautious
pair constructed their 'procreant cradle;' and the eastern embankment being
sufficiently elevated for their inspection, they were anxiously gazed at by the
passers by. That first incubation was productive, and its consequent increase
has been enormous, although its limits are difficult to be determined, by reason
of the numbers annually driven ofl" by their petulant jealously and unceasing
strife. The established colony of some years has consisted of about thirty pairs;
and the number of successive broods have been three; and, I fancy, sometimes
four — the general produce of each being four and sometimes five, although in

26 ON THE MOOR-HEN.

one or two instances I have seen eight."* This, however, is not easily ascer-
tained, as I suspect the broods unite, and I have seen them divided by the
cluck of the respective parents. Though for some years I kept a Zoological
Register, I have unaccountably omitted to note the appearance of the first brood,
which, however, I am disposed to believe, is visible early in April; — not as
your Correspondent states, late in May or early in June. My observations of
the approaching spring shall be communicated to you.

According to this ratio of propagation, the increase, but for some unknown
exterminating cause, would equal that of the most prolific animals; yet the
amount with me seems to have attained its probable maximum. My keeper
keeps a vigilant eye on Hawks, that attack the old, and crows and magpies,
that, I have reason to think assail the young ones; and there cannot be much
spoliation from that source; I therefore conclude that although more are not
f jund in the neighbourhood than formerly, they are not destroyed, but dispersed.
The Redbreast himself is not more instinctively pugnacious; and their belligorant
disposition is not limited to the season of love. My keeper has for years urged
me to destroy the splendid old cocks, but I have regarded the savage proposal
as unnecessary as it is revolting. Nay, so free are they from disturbance, that
the report of a gun in an adjoining rookery, invariably produces the simulta-
neous shriek and splash of alarm.

Their spontaneous domestication appears to exceed that of all feral creatures;
they not only associate with the tame Ducks, but do not seek to avoid the
approach of man; a peculiarity of which I witnessed an extraordinary instance
a few years since at Halberton, a village four miles east of the town of Tiverton.
I there saw them in considerable numbers, in front of a large and respectable
farm-house, within a well-watered court, the Moor-hens and poultry feeding
promiscuously on the distributed grain; and, so far as my memory serves, they
seemed to be regarded as the equally recognised tenants of the pond.

Mine have a few occasional visitors in severe winters, in Wild ])uck.^,
Wigeon, and Teal. Twice in the autumn have a pair of Coots for a few
weeks harmonized with the established occupants of the water: and once T
and some around me fancied we perceived an amicable interposition of the
('oots, to disperse a furious and destructive assemblage of fighting Moor-hens:
that their interference had such effect, I do not doubt; but the pacific ti-ait
seems to have been too rational and benevolent for unreasoning creatures. T
mention this almost incredible occurrence, as Coots are said to be hostile to the
society of Moor-hens, and drive them off.

T^et me add that the sacrifices of kindness are not incompatible with the
impulses of instinct; your correspondent is perfectly correct in his remark,
that the youngest brood is affectionately attended to, and fed by the progeny
immediately preceding, of the same parents. There is a kindness in their
dej)ortment which cannot escape the dullest eye, or the most callous heart.

* Be\vi(:k's infoniiation is neither s>pecilic nor correct.

HABIT OF THE RING-DOVE. 27

Thoir only constant associates are two or three pairs of Dobchicks, or Little
Grrebes, (Podiceps minor,) of Latham, that breed in the island; on which,
should I find at any time your interesting pages experience the Homeric nod,
I may venture to proffer a few observations.

J. C.

Mick J MI, JJevon., 4th. March, 1851.

HABIT OF THE RTXG-DOVE— WOOD PKiEON^.
{COLUMBA PALUMBUS.)

IIY THE REV. RICHARD PYE ALINGTON.

l']vERY person Avho has travelled over the north wolds of Lincolnshire, must
have remarked the vast extent of larch fir plantation that ornaments, or as
some people say, destroys the beauty of that wild and fertile district. Never-
theless, to the ornithologist it presents many attractions. Varieties of birds
here abound— Titmice, Creepers, Gold Crests, Jays, Hawks, and, particularly,
it is the constant abode of that fine species of Dove, the Wood Pigeon,
(Columba palumbus.) But the admirer of the feathered tribe is not alone in his
enjoyment; the entomologist also may find his amusement; various species
of Papilionida9 may be taken flitting over the green sides that intersect
these plantations, and, hanging from the branch of the larch, (frequently at
some height from the ground,) may be seen the nest of a species of wasp, (vespa
horealis,) called in this neighbourhood the ^Scotch wasp.' I have procured this
nest when out of reach, by a simple process — striking the stem of the tree, the
inhabitants fly out, when, shooting off the branch, (beware, for a solitary fly will
sometimes rush upon the intruder,) down comes the nest, leaving the astonished
insects at the top of the tree. But to return to my subject. Early in September
the Ring-Do ve begins to collect, and the flocks keep increasing until Christmas;
at this season, I speak within bounds when I say, thousands may be seen
together; and if a snow-storm or a sharp frost is about to set in, their numbers
become quite astonishing. Early in the morning they leave their roosting-
grounds, and settle upon the young clover lays; and should the barley, as they
say, have been ^clean' raked, do infinite damage to the farmer by destroying
his green crop; but, in the early part of the season, the pigeons feed almost
entirely upon grain picked up from the stubbles — a good handful may be taken
from one bird — and, as I believe they feed three times a day, what an
incredible quantity must be lost by the farmer, to satisfy such vast multitudes!

They are now good for the table, but as winter draws on, they commence
feeding upon the leaves of the turnips, which gives them a rank flavour; but
this may be much obviated by cropping the bird immediately upon its being killed :
the leaves are generally cut into small (three quarters of an inch,) square pieces.
I have met with persons who dispute their feeding upon the bulb of the plant,
but any one, during severe weather, may find the turnips pierced in many places,

28 THE MISSEL THRUSH.

and^ in some instances, scooped out by them; into these holes, when the thaw
commences, the wet settles, and the plant rots; and hundreds of turnips may
be seen in the spring-time destroyed in this way. As soon as twilight com-
mences, the various flocks begin to collect, and settle in numbers upon the
larch firs; when they arrive at their roosting-ground, they not unfrequently
take two or three turns high in the air, and then the whole flock will commence
dropping, with closed wings and a rushing sound, upon the trees: they generally
spend half-an-hour or so on the very topmost branches, their vinous breasts
glittering in the setting sun. As darkness comes on they retire to the lower
branches to roost; as each bird descends, a loud flap of the wing may be
heard — an exciting sound to the expectant gunner — now is the time for him:
the increasing darkness prevents the birds leaving the wood, and many may
be secured during the last half-hour of the lingering light. But during the
day their extreme shyness renders it a most difficult task to get within shot.
In the clear, cold, frosty days in winter, they may be heai'd at a considerable
distance — their wings making a whistling sound. As spring comes on, their num-
bers, in this district, rapidly decrease, and they leave (where they go to I know
not,) to breed — a very few to all appearance remaining here. These now desert
the woods, and very often approach the garden to feed upon the new-sown pea.

Inhabiting, in pairs, the old ashes and elms around dwelling-houses, here
the male may be heard early in the dewy mornings, cooing to his mate; and,
during most part of the day, he may be observed rising with a loud flap of
the wing, several yards above some ancient ash, when spreading his wing, he
will gradually descend until he settles upon the nearest tree. Should one
not be at hand, he will, cooing all the time, continue (a beautiful sight,) rising
and falling several times. During incubation they become very tame: I have
seen the young domesticated and walking about a cottage floor; and an old
dame told me, (upon my doubting that any would continue domesticated,) that
she had kept one several years. They frequently make their slender nest
in the centre of so thick a hawthorn bush, that the old bird when disturbed,
has to make a great fluttering, (to the loss of much of her plumage, for at all
seasons the feather is very loosely attached, particularly the upper tail coverts,)
in her attempts to force her way out.

They lay two eggs, which are white, and delicious eating, so likewise are
the young birds. As soon as the young can fly, they again begin to collect.
They are birds of great power of flight, and pass from one locality to another
at a vast height.

THE MISSEL THRUSH. {TURDUS VISCIVORUS.)

BY THE REV. RICHARD PYE ALINGTON.

Every one is well acquainted with the instinct shewn by various species of
animals for the protection of their young; among others that of many of the
feathered tribe, carrying away from their nests the excrements of theii- ofispring.

CURIOUS HABIT OF THE COMMON LINNET, 29

The fact that I now relate happened some years ago, and from the situation
in which the said Thrush places its nest, and the wildness of the species
itself, I am afraid I am not likely to be favoured again with an opportunity
of so closely observing its manners.

The nest of the Missel Thrush, to which I now allude, was placed in a
lime tree some way from the ground, but so near to the house that I could,
from the upper window, look down into the nest, not six feet from me. When
the parent bird had fed the young, four in number, it invariably sat on the
edge of the nest and received, as deposited, the excrement of each of its young
in turn, and then and there devoured it with the greatest apparent gusto — that
is to say three, for the remaining one was carried away to a neighbouring tree,
always the same, and to the same branch* and I suppose, as I could find no
remains, that it likewise was there disposed of in the same way. When
the other parent bird arrived, (if immediately,) it always remained on the
nest, seemingly half-asleep, until the young again wished to perform the office
of nature. Query? — ^Was this solely for i\\Q protection of the young, or may it
not have rather been a provkion of nature, for the mtstenance of the parents
while they fed their children on the more delicate viands?

Sivinhope Rectory, iiear Market Basen, Feb. 8th., 1851.

CURIOUS HABIT OF
THE COMMON LINNET, (LINOTA GANNABINA.)

BY THE REV. J. PEMRERTON BARTLETT.

The following anecdote respecting a curious habit of the Common Linnet,
which fell under my notice while walking one day on a common, may prove
interesting to the readers of ^'The Naturalist :" —

[ had just passed a low furze bush, when my attention was attracted to
a bird, which fluttered and fell a few feet before me, as if in a fit. My first
impulse was to step quickly forward and pick it up — the former of which I
did; but when within about two feet of it, it rose and fluttered on a few yards
further. Thinking it was wounded, I again attempted to pick it up, when it
again appeared to receive a fresh amount of strength, and made another intox-
icated kind of progress for a few yards further yet. This it did several times,
and I began to doubt if I should catch it after all; when at last, to my great
joy, just as I was near enough to 'pri'-^ some salt on its tail,' it rose up and
flew away, twittering (laughing at me as I found afterwards) like the strongest
and pertest Linnet in the world! At first I was puzzled to account for its
very eccentric behaviour, but it struck me that, possibly, like the Partridge,
it might have performed the antics described, to decoy me from its nest. I
therefore returned and searched the furze bush, where, sure enough, I found
it with five eggs, which were still warm from the heat of that body, which
the faithful little bird had exposed for their preservation, for had I been so

30 ox THE RESUSCITATION OP FROZEN FISH.

disposed, I could without difficulty, have knocked her down with my stick.

I do not know if this trait in the character of the Linnet has been recorded:
it was new to nie, and it delighted me much,

Fordinghridge, Hants, February Srd., 1851.

ON THE EESITSCITATION OF FEOZEN FISH.

TO THE EDITOR OF THE NATURALIST.

Sir,

In that useful and valuable Magazine, "The Annals and
Magazine of Natural History," for the month of November, 1850, appears a
note on the ''Resuscitation of Frozen Fish," by Professor 0. P. Hubbard; and
the January number, for 1851, of the same Magazine, contains another note
by P, L. Simmonds, Esq., on the same subject. That this is no new or
uncommon occurrence, the following quotations from the "rientleman's Magazine"
for 1807 will shew: — The writer, a Dr. Young, says, "While in North America,
I think it was about the year 1757 or 1758, I came to the knowledge of a
very odd phenomenon, which I am not sure is generally known to naturalists.
The fiict is as follows, namely: — If fish are taken alive out from below the
ice, in lake or river, during an intense frost, and thrown upon the ice, or
among the snow, so as to freeze immediately; although they are seemingly
dead, and so stiff as to break short upon trying to bend them, yet you may
bring them to life again, or rather into a state in which they will perform
all their animal motions, as perfectly as before they were frozen; the supposition
is, they are not dead, but the functions of life are only suspended; and this
is done by putting them into cold water. When I was told the fact at Albany,
originally a Dutch settlement, I was rather incredulous, and enquired among
the Dutch people separately, and found that they all agreed in the same story;
however it was not long before I had ocular demonstration of it. Some of
the Mohawk Indians brought some fish to Albany to sell; they were caught
in the Oneida lake. The woman of the house, in which I was quartered,
bought a bunch of them, and hung them up inside of the chimney. I soon
observed those fishes that were next the fire, began to move first, then those
in the middle of the bunch, and those on the outside last of all. The Indians
were three or four days on their journey before they arrived at Albany. The
Dutch people say you may keep fish frozen and seemingly dead, not only a few
days, but weeks; and when you want to bring them to life, put them into
cold water, or into an air where it barely thaws, for, if they are put into
warm water, or brought into too hot an air, they will putrefy." Dr. Young
again says, "I have been told by a gentlemen from Switzerland, that it is a
custom in that country, in changing fish from one pond or lake to another,
to put them into a tub of water, and when the water is frozen, they then
transport them in the greatest safety, without being beaten or bruised one
against the other, or against the side of the vessel."

ON THE ANIMALCULE OCCURRING IN A DROP OF WATER. 31

To this we will add, from our own knowledge, that fish, after having been
frozen so stiff that they might have easily been broken asunder, have, by
immersion in cold water, regained their usual functions.

During our residence on the continent, not far from Paris, during the severe
winter of 1837-38, we had a quantity of Gold-fish (Cyprintis auratics) in small
shallow tanks: the water and fish became one solid mass of ice, which we had
broken up in pieces, so as to injure the fish as little as possible, and placed
in tubs in an out-house to thaw, which was done in the course of two days.
We had, the satisfaction and pleasure of seeing our little pets swimming about,
in what had only a short time before appeared their grave. Some of the
lumps of ice containing a fish we had thawed before the fire, but the change
in all cases proved too sudden, and the death of the animal was the consequence,
after lingering for some time. How long they would have lived in this frozen
state, I do not know, having been more anxious to recover those frozen, than
to ascertain the time they would live.

Gharminster, Dorset, Feb. ISth., 1851. J. MCINTOSH.

SOME REMARKS ON THE ANIMALCULE

OCCURRING IN A DROP OF WATER TAKEN FROM

ASKHAM BOG, NEAR YORK.

BY BEVERLEY R. MORRIS, M. D.

The object which I have in view in the following observations, is, not to
bring forward anything new, or even to place anything already known, in a
new light; but, simply to invite the attention of such of my readers as have
hitherto paid little or no attention to microscopic research, to the extensive
and deeply-interesting world, which the microscope, as now improved, opens
to us. I will not enter on the Subject by going into the details of the classifi-
cation of the Animalculge which I intend to notice, but shall content myself,
in this instance, with shewing, in somewhat of systematic order, the results
of my observations on a single drop of water, taken on the 28th. of June,
1849, from Askham bog, near York. It may not be amiss, for the benefit
of those who are only commencing the use of the microscope, to detail the
steps, usually had recourse to, in examining the water of any stagnant pond.
In selecting the water, it is best to take it from the side of the pond towards
which the wind is blowing, for the simple reason, that any light matter on
which the Animalculac may be feeding, as well as the Animalculae themselves,
are driven there by the wind. At the same time a small portion of duck-
weed, or other water-plant growing on the sm'face, should be placed in the
bottle. If any decaying straw or blade of grass be perceived floating about
in the water, it will be well to secure it, as it is frequently very rich in
microscopic forms. The water should be kept in wide-mouthed bottles^ as a
certain amount of air is necessary to keep the Animalculae alive. I need

da ON THE ANIMALCUL.E OCCURRTNG IN A DROP OF WATER.

scarcely observe, that the corks must be taken out as soon as the water is
brought home. It is best also not to keep the bottles in the full light of
the sun. A label should be affixed to each bottle, with the date and locality
from whence the water was procured. This is very necessary, for each bottle
may aflPord employment for several weeks, and as water from different ponds
will probably be procured, much confusion woxild otherwise result. In preparing
the water for examination by the microscope, the plan I usually adopt is, to
take a piece of flatted window glass, three inches long, by one or one and
a half wide, according to the size of the object to be examined. Having
then placed on the glass a small portion of the duck-weed, or grass, a single
drop of water is to be added, and a piece of paper, having a hole cut in its
centre, being placed on the glass, the whole is to be covered with another
plate of thin glass. These glasses being now placed under the spring clips on
the stage of the microscope, will be kept in position, and the paper will prevent
the glasses crushing the objects. Should the microscope not be provided with
a spring clip, it may be easily added, or some equivalent substituted. It is
seldom that more than a single thickness of paper is required, unless for the
examination of some of the Entomostraca, which, being of considerable size,
often require several thicknesses to prevent crushing. I may just add that the
water is kept in its position by what is called capillary attraction, and is not
touched by the paper.

We now come to the actual investigation of the contents of the drop of
water. In doing this, the best way is to commence with a low power, say an
inch, which will magnify about sixty times, or at most half an inch, which
wiU magnify, say two hundred times. In saying that an object is magnified sixty,
or two hundred times, we do not perhaps obtain a just idea of the fact, which
is, that it is made sixty, or two hundred times longer and broader, or in reality,
that it is magnified three thousand six hundred, and forty thousand times
respectively. This gives you an opportunity of taking a general survey of the
whole field in a short time; and should there be nothing of interest on- the
slide, you can change the drop, and try again. Should, however, any matter
of interest appear, you should move it as near the centre as possible, and
then change the inch power for a higher one, say quarter of an inch. If the
object was fairly in the centre of the field, you will now probably find it
somewhere in sight; if not, you must move the slide about till you find it; a
slight movement will generally be svifficient.

Having thus disposed of these preliminary matters, I will now as briefly as
possible describe the various living forms observed in the Askham bog water
last June; but first, I may remark that the whole of the Infusoria may be
divided into two great classes —

First. — The Polygastrica, from their presenting the appearance of having
numerous small stomachs connected with the intestinal canal. The Animal-
culae of this class are of an apparently less complicated structure than those
which compose the Second division, namely the Botifera, or Wheel Animalculae,

ox THE ANIMALCUL.E OCCURRING IN A DROP OF WATER.

33

so called from their possessing certain appendages, which, when in motion,
give the appearance of wheels turning rapidly round. Many of these creatures
possess eyes, and the teeth even may be shewn distinctly by the microscope,
and present a very curious and interesting sight when the animal is feeding;
the action of grinding the food being easily observed.

With these few general remarks I proceed at once to those of the Polygastrie
division, which are lowest in the scale of animal life, namely, the Ilonads.
Of the more simple forms of monad, innumerable individuals were observed.
These, even with a high magnifying power, such as six hundred diameters,
appear to be exceedingly minute, their usual size not being greater than one-
ten thousandth of an inch in diameter.

The second family, Gryptomonadina, had its representative in Trachelomonas
volvocina; at least if not referrible to this species, I do not know where to place it.

The next observed form was a very
beautiful and curious one, representing
the third family, Volvocina, the Breast-
plate Gonium, (Gonium pectorale.) A-
nother member of this family, the
Pandorina moi'um, was also present. It
will be noticed that these creatures
present the appearance of compound mo-
nads, as if made up of many individuals.

Several forms of the fifth family, the

Glosteiina, were also seen, as were also _ ^

numerous individuals of the tenth, the / j / | \\

Bacillaria. Gonium pectorale.

We next come to family thirteen, Vorticellina: the most imposing of this
flimily, seen in this drop, was a Stentor, but which species I do not know:
the movements of this creature in the water are very remarkable, and well
repay the trouble of an
examination. Three spe-
cies of true Vorticella
were also present. These
little bell-shaped Anlmal-
culae are each provided
with a long stalk, very

transparent, and hollow, which carries inside it a dark muscle, by which the
creature, at its pleasure, (and that is very often) contracts itself in an instant,
and its stalk as well, into a very small compass, so as to escape danger. I
believe we also observed Trichodina tentaculata, but the drawing made at the
time was hardly accurate enough to enable me to decide with any certainty.

The fifteenth family was represented by Tncodiscus Sol. There were two or
three others which I imagine should be referred to this family, but, as in the case
of the last, the drawings were too imperfect to allow me to give them a name.

VOL. I. F

34

ON THE ANIMALCUL.E OCCURRING IN A DROP OF WATER.

In Kolpodea, the twentieth family, the very ciuious Amphileptus fasciola

was observed. Its singu-
V~v^ "" ^ '~'~~~^~^ lar leech-like appearance

and motion are sure to
attract notice.

The last family of this gi'oup, of which an individual was seen, was Oxytrichina,
the twenty-first; of this one specimen of Stylonychia lanceolata was recorded;
making altogether of the Polygastnca, at least fourteen species, belonging to twelve
genera, distributed among eight families, of the twenty-two into which this
class is divided. There were several others whose movements were too quick
to allow a drawing to be made, and which, consequently, have not been recorded.
We now come to the Second Class, the Rotatoria, or Wheel Animalculae.
These creatures, as I before observed, are much more highly organized than
those we have just been considering; but, of course, there are various gradations
in the complexity of their organization, as there was in the Polygastrica, and
we will commence, in this case also, with the consideration of those which
are lowest in the, scale of nature.

The number of species of this class, observed in the Askham bog water,
was, as might be expected, not very numerous; representatives, however, were
present of four out of the eight families into which the Botatona are divided.

The first family, Icthydina, appeared in
the person of Chcetonotus larusi This
curious creature is unprovided with eyes,
and swims by means of the cilia set
round its body.

The next family, of which an individual (probably Floscularia ornata,) was
observed, was the very beavftiful and interesting one of Floscidaria. Its long

Floscularia.

Salpiiia mucronata.

ON THE ANIMALCUL.E OCCURRING IN A DROP OF WATER.

3;)

cilia, set on five or six projecting lobes, spread in the most elegant manner.
It usually has a transparent tubular case attached to the plant on which it
is fixed, but in this case it was not seen. We now come to the more complex
Rotifijrs- and I will first call your attention to the family Euclilanidota, two
genera belonging to which were observed: first, Salpina mucronata. This
creature is provided with a transparent case, within which it is able to draw
itself at pleasure. Like all this family it is very voracious, and its teeth
may be seen constantly in the act of grinding up its food. It is very active.

Mdopid'm lepadella was also present,
and in habits much resembles the
Salpince. The last family observed
was Philodincea, which embraces the
true Wheel Animalculse. They are
all very extraordinary creatures: the
body may be divided into a head and

tail, and a central portions, into which the two former may be more or less
drawn, much as the portions of a telescope slide one within the other. The

only individual of this family present was the Rotifer vulgaris, or common
Wheel Animalcule. The currents of water, set in motion by means of what
are called the wheels, are wonderfully extensive, and are easily visible by the
microscope. The teeth and digestive canal of this Animalcule are readily
seen. Eyes are also present; and even blood vessels have been observed. I
may here mention, that in addition to these Infusoria, a single individual was
present belonging to an altogether difierent order, namely, the Crustacea. It
turned out to be the young of Cyclops quadricornis, referrible to the Enfovws-
tracan division of the Crustacea, The difference between the young and adult
Cyclops is so great, that no one, unacquainted with the strange changes these
creatures undergo, would recognise them as ha\nng the same origin; the only
common point of similarity being their each possessing only one eye.

As I propose, on some future occasion, offering some remarks on tlie
Entomostnica of this district, I will leave what may be said on these most
interesting creatures to that time. I have now shortly touched on the living
creatures observed, on a single occasion, in one drop of water, amounting in
the Polygastrica, as I before stated, to fourteen species, representing twelve

36 ON THE ANIMALCULiE OCCURRING IN A DROP OF WATER.

genera, divided among eight families, out of the whole twenty-two. In the
Eotifera amounting to five species, representing five genera, and four families
out of eight into which the Rotifera are divided; and in addition, as a make
weight, I have thrown in one Entomostracan, making in all twenty minute
creatures, some of them only the representatives of several hundred others of
the same kind existing in the one drop; all endowed with life, some of them
highly organized; all of them capable of entering into all the enjoyments of
their little world, and each performing the part assigned to it by its Almighty
Creator. It is difficult to imagine anything more nearly approaching infinity
in numbers, than when one attempts to compute the probable number of
indi\'idual Infusoria in even a limited space — even a single pond; what then
must be the overwhelming total existing in the whole world? No portion of
the earth or ocean indeed, would seem to be destitute of living subjects for the
microscope; and much may be learned even in situations which would, at first
sight, appear to forbid all idea of the existence of even such minute, though
interesting creatures. The following remarks of the celebrated Ehrenberg
will assist in illustrating my meaning: — "Not only in the polar regions is
there an uninterrupted development of active microscopic life, where larger
animals can no longer exist; but we find that the microscopic animals
collected in the antarctic expedition of Captain James Ross, exhibit a remark-
able abundance of unknown and often most beautiful forms. Even in the
residuum obtained from the melted ice, swimming about in round fragments
in the latitude of 70° 10, there were found upwards of fifty species of
silicious-shelled Polygastrica and coscinodiscce, with their green ovaries, and
therefore living and able to resist the extreme severity of the cold. In the
Gulf of Erebus sixty-eight silicious-shelled Polygastriea and Phytolitharia, and
only one calcareous-shelled Polythalamia were brought up by the lead sunk to
a depth of from one thousand two hundred and forty-two, to one thousand
six hundred and twenty feet." *

These remarks of Ehrenberg's shew a profusion of minute living beings to
exist in even the most inhospitable sea, but they give no idea of the enormous
nmltitudes of the remains of the shelled Animalculae Avhich are found in
certain localities. At Richmond, in Virginia, a bed formed entirely of these
minute forms exists, which is some sixteen feet thick, and extends, I believe,
over some hundred square miles of surface; each cubic inch of this contains
the remains of many millions of Animalculae, probably far outnumbering the
whole human population of the world. In our own country some similar, but
far more limited deposits exist; one at Dolgelly, in Wales, which I have had
an opportunity of examining, is entirely composed of minute organic remains,
but is confined to a small number of species. Having a considerable quantity
of this deposit, I shall be happy to supply any microscopist with some for
examination. Recent silicious-shelled Infusoria also exist in very large numbers

♦ See Ehrenberg's treatise "Ueber das kleinste Leber in Ocean," read before the Academy cf
Scieuce, at Berlin, May 9th., 1844.

FAUNA OF FALMOUTH, 87

in a damp situation near Newcastle, but I have not been fortunate enough
to procure specimens as yet: I understand the earth there is almost entirely
composed of them in a live state. In conclusion, I would only obsers'e, that
no person who is induced to take up the microscope, will ever regret the money
spent on the instrument, or the time devoted to its use. Whatever be the
turn of his mind, he may always find some subject on which this invaluable
instrun^nt will throw light; and if anything can afford, what may be called,
endless atmisement, the study of the microscopic observer may truly be said to
approach it; for there is scarcely a limit to the subjects he may investigate,
and the study of one object leads him on to another by easy and natural
steps, and in addition to the recreation sixpplied by every observation, he is,
at the same time, laying up a fund of useful and practical information, which
will often throw light on matters which were before altogether incomprehensible
by him. To any one wishing to enter on the study of the Infusoria, this is the
best season of the year to commence, for, although many of them may be
procured during the whole of the year, yet the numbers are greatly increased
during the summer months, and it was the knowledge of this fact that led
me to select this occasion for oflfering to my readers these hasty and imperfect
remarks, in the hope that others may be induced to join in the race, where
all may attain the goal, and where every one is sure of receiving a rich and
valuable prize.

CONTRIBUTIONS TO THE FAUNA OF FALMOUTH.

BY W. P. COCKS, ESQ.

CLASS I.— MAMMALIA.

Great Bat, (Vespertilio noctula.) — Out-house, Green Bank; barn in Mr. Jago's
field leading to Trevethan lane: not uncommon.

Common Bat, (Vespertilio pipistrellus.) — Green Bank, summer evenings: not
uncommon.

Notch-eared Bat, (Vespertilio emarginatus.) — Love lane, Panscoth lane, etc. :
not uncommon.

Loncj-eared Bat, (Plecotus auritus.) — Green Bank, Penryn road, etc.: not
uncommon.

Barhastelle, (Barbastellus Daubentonii.) — Found in a cave, west of Mainporth
Bay: rare.

Greater Horse- slioe Bat, (Rhinolophus ferrum-equinum.) — Found in a cave
situated between Swanpool Bay and Pennance Head: not common.

Lesser Horse-shoe Bat, (Rhinolophus hipposideros.) — Found in the same
locality: not common.

Hedgehog, (Erinaceus Europacus.) — Common.

Mole, (Talpa Europaea.) — A piebald specimen was caught on the Triggineny
farm; length, four inches and three-eighths: very common.

38 FAUNA OF FALMOUTH.

Common Shrew, (Sorex araneus.) — Common.

Water Shreiv, (Sorex fodiens.) — Meadow near Uog-Kennel, Panscoth lane:
not common.

Oared Shrew, (Sorex remifer.) — Meadow and boggy ground between Dog-
Kennel and a large enclosed pond, near Captain Bull's residence.

Badger, (Meles taxus.) — Not uncommon.

Otter, (Lutra vulgaris.) — One was shot in a cave near Magazine Point, by
]\lr. G. Copeland, of Pendennis Castle, in 1849, A fine female was shot near
the viaduct, Swanpool, by IMr. Bullock, in March ISSOj length, three feet
six inches: not uncommon.

Common Weasel, (Mustela vulgaris.) — New road, Panscoth lane, Budock:
road, etc.: not uncommon.

Ermine, or Stoat, (Mustela erminea.) — Three, in their winter garb, were
shot on the Furze common, near Pendennis Castle; two in December, 1849,
and one in January, 1850. Fur, yellowish white; tail, tipped with black.
In the spring of 18o0, two were destroyed in Budock bottom; fur dappled with
bright reddish brown and white. Several of the specimens were preserved and
beautifully mounted by our clever taxidermist, Mr. Chapman: not common.

Fitchet Weasel, (Mustela putorius.) — 'An old female was caught in a rat
trap, in Trefusis wood, in the spring of 1845. Two young ones, male and
female, were captured by a farm labourer, in the bottom adjoining the pleasure
grounds of the late G. C. Fox, Esq., and one was shot in College wood, in
August, 1848: not common.

House Cat, (Felis catus domestica.) — Tabby, tortoise-shell, negro, etc.:
common.

Vau. 1. — Tail-less variety is very rare in Faluioutli, but I am infonned it is not uncommon

in some parts of the county.
Var. 2. — Pure white. Fur, coarse ; eyes, light blue ; pupils, dark bottle green : rare.
Vak. 3. — Albino. Fur, short, smooth, and pure white; iris, pale blue; pupils, red: rare.

Dog, (Canis familiaris.) — Common. Most of the different varieties occur
here.

Fox, (Vulpes vulgaris.) — Not uncommon.

Dormouse, (Myoxus avellanarius.) — In particular localities, not uncommon.

Harvest Moxise, (Mus messorius.) — (^orn fields. Corn ricks. Barns, etc.:
common.

Long-tailed Field Moim, (Mus sylvaticus.) — Common. I'he largest and
finest specimen I ever examined, was sent to me by Mr. Andrew, Middle
'J'errace; it measured eight inches and a half from tip of tail to point of nose.

House Mouse, (Mus musculus.) — Common.

Black Rat, (Mus rattus.)— In the neighbourhood of the shipwright's yard,
Bar: not uncommon.

Brown Bat, (Mus decumanus.) — Not common,

Broicn Bat, (Mus intermedius.) Bellamy. — Found a fine (male) specimen
in Trevcthan lane, near Mr. Eddy's slaughter-house. Description: — Head

FAUNA OF FALMOUTH. 39

depressed, deep; neck short, thick; nose, truncated; eyes large, black; body
large, plump, one inch and six-eighths in depth. Four inches and one-eighth
from occiput to root of tail; tail stout at base, attenuated near the tip; four
inches and a quarter long. Fur, dark yellowish brown — very short; armpits
and inguinal regions, bluish grey; abdomen, white; hands and fingers, large;
testes, very large, (evident proof of its being an old one of its tribe;) teeth
much worn, of a dark ochre colour. Whiskers long, strong, and greyish*
nails blunted and worn. The second specimen was a female, not quite so
large; the uterus contained eight fetuses.

Black Water-Vole, (Arvicola ater,) Macg, — Captured one February, 1847,
in a ditch near Prescoweth farm; after a careful and minute examination, I
could not detect any specific difierence in form or size from the a. ampJiibius.
Its fur was as black as jet.

Common Water-Vole, (Arvicola amphibius.) — Embankments near the brook
running through the meadow, near Dog-Kennel, Panscoth lane, etc.: not
uncommon.

Field Vole, (Arvicola agrestis.) — Common.

Bank Vole, (Arvicola pratensis.) — Embankment on Captain Bull's side of
the brook; Panscoth lane.

Common Hare, (Lepus timidus.) — Common. One with a white face was
taken February 3rd., 1851, near Gwyllyn Vase, by Mr. Pope's greyhound.

Babbit, (Lepus cuniculus.) — Common.

Var. 1.- — Angora, or long furred: rar?.

Var. 2. — Ilom-lop and Oar-lop : not uncommon.

Mr. L. Wade killed one that weighed sixteen pounds.

Babbit, (Albino.) — Not uncommon.

Bestless Cavy, (Cavia aperea.) — Domesticated.

Common Hog, (Sus domesticus.) — The old Cornish Pig: long in the legs,
large coarse ear, heavy head, rugged hair, large bone, etc., may be considered
extinct in the neighbourhood of Falmouth; the present varieties are descendants
of the old breed, crossed with the Berkshire, Leicester, Chinese, Neapolitan,
and the improved Essex, etc.

Horse, (Equus caballus.)
Varieties. — Hunter, Coach, and Cart, common. Dartmoor, "Welch, and Shetland ponies, rare.

Ass, (Equus asinus.) — Common.

Ox, (Bos taurus.) — Common.

Goat, (Capra hircus.) — Not Common.

Sheep, (Ovis aries.) — Common.

CLASS II.— AVES.

Pereffrine Falcon, (Falco peregrinus,) Linn. — A fine male bird, in summer
plumage, was shot by Mr. May, near Pendennis Castle, in 184o; I have
examined three specimens, (females,) shot in the neighbourhood.

40 FAUNA OF FALMOUTH.

Kestrel, (Falco tinnunculus,) Penn. — Pennance and Swanpool, in 184G; a
fine male shot by. Master Keed^ Trevissom, January, 1850: rare.

Merlin, (Falco aesalon,) Penn.- -A male shot by Mr. May, November, 9th.,
1849, and preserved by Mr. Chapman: rare; a female shot at Penryn, by the
Rev. Mr. Phillpott's son.

Sparrow Hawk, (Accipiter fringillarius,) Selhy. — Not uncommon.

Kite, (Milvus vulgaris,) Flem. — One at Swanpool, March, 1846; Mr. 8eccombe
met with one in Pennance Bay, in the autumn of the same year: rare.

Common Buzzard, (Buteo vulgaris,) Selhy. — Rare.

Hen Harrier, (Circus cyaneus.) — A female was shot in the marsh Gwyllyn-
Vase, Sept. 3rd., 1850. I observed the male bird in the same locality on the
5th. of the same month.

Long-eared Owl, (Otus vulgaris,) Flem. — A fine specimen of this Owl was
shot by the late Mr. Olive, watchmaker, November 12th., 1846, near Crawgeys
moor. Two fine birds, male and female, shot by Mr. Blee, Treverva, Jan-
uary, 1850, in the possession of Mr. N. Tressider.

Short-eared Owl, (Otus brachyotos,) Selhy. — One specimen in six years, shot
near College wood, winter, 1845.

White or Barn Owl, (Strix flammea,) Penn. — Not uncommon.

Taivny Owl, (Strix stridula,) Penn. — A specimen was shot in Trefusis wood,
1846: rare.

Dipper, (Cinclus aquaticus,) Flem. — College wood stream, Budock bottom :
not common. '

Missel Thrush, (Turdus viscivorus,) Penn. — Market and neighbourhood;
flushed six couples within six hundred yards; January loth., 1850: not
uncommon.

Fieldfare, (Turdus pilaris,) Mont. — Common in winter. _

Song Thrush, (Turdus musicus,) Mont. — Common.

Redwing, (Turdus iliacus,) Mont. — Common in winter and spring.

Blackbird, (Turdus merula,) Mont. — Common. I have examined several
specimens of pied blackbirds. C. BuUmore, Esq., shot one with a pure white
plumage extending from the bill over the breast to between the legs.

Ring Ouzel, (Turdus torquatus,) Mont. — A male, in bright plumage, was
shot by Master Cox, December 1st., 1847, Penryn creek: not common.
October, 1848, Mr. G. Copeland said he had shot one at Pendennis Castle;
and Mr. Chapman purchased a female of Mrs. Dunning, November 3rd., 1849.

Golden Oriole, (Oriolus galbula,) Penn. — Shot at Swanpool, 1845.

Hedge Accentor, (Accentor modularis,) Flem. — Common.

Redbreast, (Erythaca rubecula,) Selhy. — Common.

Blue-throated Warbler, (Phoenicura Suecica,) Gould. — I have some doubt
of the truth of this bird having been shot in the neighbourhood of Falmouth,
although the preserved skin was brought for my inspection.

(To be contiitued.)

41

FURTHER REMARKS ON THE LxiRGE FOSSIL

MARINE WORM OF THE MOUNTAIN LIMESTONE

DISTRICT OF WENSLEYDALE, YORKSHIRE.

i

BY EDWARD WOOD, ESQ.

Every addition to our stock of knowledge, however small, adds to the
chance of solving the great problems of geology, and, looking at the subject
in such a light, I trust your readers will not think their time trespassed
upon, in the endeavour to verify the existence in long past ages — even of a
worm.

In continuation of the subject noticed in your last number, I think that the
following hints and queries may help to a conclusion. — That the fossil in question
is not a marking has been clearly demonstrated; it must therefore be placed,
as an organic being, among the Aimelidce; but to what order the specimen is
referrible, whether it bears any analogy to now existing species, or whether,
like so many fossils, it forms an order of itself, constituting a link between
the orders at present laid down, is not so clear.

Of the Annelidoe, the various species of the order Dorsihraiichiata, seem most
nearly allied to the fossil — those of Eunice and Nereis bearing the greatest
resemblance. The Eunice gir/aiitea, of the tropical seas, attaining a length of
from three to four feet, but an examination of the rings of its body shew a
marked variation. The fossil has articulations jointed like the stalk of a fern —
the Eunice exhibits an even surface throughout its entire length: in the jointings,
the Nereis nuncia and the fossil approximate more closely; but all the living
species of this order have characteristics which cannot be found in the fossil
species; they have, generally, a pair of setse (hair-like appendages) to each
joint — a sort of swimming apparatus. The rings which form the head change,
though not markedly, from those that form the body; the head is, in fact,
distinctly developed: in neither of these instances do the living and the fossil
annelide agree, and they are differences of no small importance, because they
seem to point to a totally different habitat for the two beings. The living
one inhabits the shores of the sea, and the clear water about the coral rocks,
crawling about ^^in the anfractuosities of the madrepores on the rocks, and on
the sand," and in mud; the last, however, bury themselves in holes, and form
tubes out of the ooze, and other substances, while some exude calcareous
matter, which produces a sort of tubular shell. ^^These, of course, have not
much freedom of motion, but the quick-mo'sang species are Very lively, and
swim well, and they creep about in a serpentine manner, fi'om right to left, on
the surface of bodies at the edge of the water." Some of these actions and
faculties may be predicated of the fossil annelide, but not all of them — it has
no swimming apparatus; it could not therefore inhabit deep water, being a red-
blooded worm. If the fossil be the animal itself, it could not have belonged to
any species of that class which construct tubes, or bury themselves in the mud; the
tubes would have been found in the first case, or the burrowing holes in the other.

VOL. I. G

42 FURTHER REMARKS ON A LARGE FOSSIL MARINE WORM.

But there is a well known species of another class — the earthworm^ to which
it seems to bear some analogy; it is asetigerous, so are they; it has no developed
head, the earthworms have not; it even appears, like the earthworm, to burrow,
as it sometimes dips through the stratum, and can be traced some little distance,
as if it had been burying itself in the mud — (not, however, like the Annelides
of the Dorsibranchiate order, who bury half their bodies in a permanent tube,)
probably not to any great depth, as there are no marks of holes burrowed in
the strata, and the greater part of the body is always found on the sm*face
of them; very few are found dipping through the strata.

The only fossil Annelides which appear to have been much noticed are those
found in the lower Silurian flagstones at Lampeter. There are three or four
species, one or two allied to the Gordius; one named by Mr. Mc'Leay, Nemertites
OUivaixtii; the last has the most, but none of them bear much, resemblance to
the Annelide of the Carboniferous system. They are small, the largest is not
thicker than a quill, and appear to have been flattened, or else are only markings;
they are also, at least one is, setigerous — 'the others appear to be so; the setae
of the first are very well marked, but, at the same time, the articulations in
all are exceedingly imperfect. The Annelide of the Carboniferous system has,
on the contrary, the articulations very clearly marked — the setae not at all;
(nor is it probable there were any, because, if the Silurian rocks retained the
impression, it is likely that the Carboniferous would also;) the breadth is five
times greater than that of the largest Silurian; of the length, nothing can be
asserted of either.

During the time when these Spiled up layers of tombs' were first deposited,
at the close of the Devonian period, the whole region must have been grad-
ually sinking; in some places masses of coral had already been formed and
submerged, constituting the floor Of the then sea; some obstacle had then arisen
— some change taken place in the flow of the current, or in the mouth of some
large river, and so a sand bank had been formed, which increased faster than
the bottom of the sea sunk. It rose to the level of the water^ a little above
it perhaps, at lowtide; it then became replete with life, and the worm, now
found fossil, not being capable of swimming, crawled over the sand at ebb tide,
and perhaps buried itself in it as the tide returned; but the bank, not being
raised above the sea level, of course sunk with the sinking land, and as it
sunk, one layer of sand was laid upon another, keeping its surface still at the
same level, while it gradually increased in thickness. The Annelides, few at
first, (for they ate found, though rarely, in the lower beds,) gradually increased,
owing their destruction to the submergence of the bank, or to the fresh water
brought down by some large river during the annual inundations — afresh water
acting like poison upon Marine Annelides.* The gradual sinking of the bottom
of the sea would, imperceptibly, change the zoology of the region; and the bank
having become submerged, the superincumbent strata would have been laid
upon it, to the depth of many hundred feet; and that sea shore, over whose
* Repoi'ts on Zoologj-. Eay Society, 1844, page 504.

MISCELLANEOUS NOTICES. 43

surface had crawled the worms in countless thousands^ knotting and twining
themselves in glistening heaps, shews nothing now but a stony fragment, whose
very existence and former life are disputed.

Richmond, Yorkshire, March IWi., 1851.

Nesting of Books, (Corvus frugilegus.) — I venture to suggest, that, most
probably, Schwenekfeldt should have qualified his remark with the addition of
^'in his vicinity," where probably the largest trees near buildings, were near
cemeteries or churchyards. On reflection, I never remember having seen a
rookery except near a large building. There are very numerous instances in
Gloucestershire, of rookeries in large elm trees, near large, retired houses;
there is one in Brunswick, and also one in Queen Square, Bristol; one in St.
Dunstan's churchyard, near the Custom house, London. There is a single elm
tree, near the corner of Wood Street, Cheapside, in which, for several years,
there have been, usually, three or four nests; and I remember when the first
nest was built, there was no other that year: I have watched them with great
interest on account of the singular locality. Hence I conclude that Rooks
do not dislike either retired or noisy situations; and most often select large
trees near buildings; but, not having had a Rook's education, I am unable to decide
whether they do so from preferring to live near mankind. — Henry TucJcett,
Frenchay, Bristol, 3 mo: 8th., 1851.

Incubation of the BaHridge (Perdix cinerea.) — A few years ago I saw a
paragraph in some periodical, alluding to Jeremiah, xvii. 11, '^^As the Partridge
sitteth on eggs, and hatcheth them not;" and adding, that some highland
shepherds had asserted, to the writer, that the Partridge did not complete the
hatching, but vacated the nest for several hours previously. If that keen
observer of nature, Waterton, or some other, could throw any light on this
question; it would be very interesting. — Idem.

Early appearance of the Cuckoo, (Cuculus canorusj) at Malvern. — I send you
an extract from a letter, which I received the other day from my sister, by
which it appears that the Common Cuckoo was seen at Malvern, as early as
the 12th. of January last. I may mention that my sister, having lived with
me some time, has been in the habit of noticing and paying some attention
to the difierent birds, so that I do not think it probable she would be
mistaken as to the species. The following is the extract : — "I quite forgot to
tell you, that, on Sunday, the 12th. of January, while we were at Malvern,
we heard a Cuckoo : we, that is, Annie and Charles Kenpey, George Gibbes,
and myself, were walking on the hills, and distinctly heard , it. At first we
thought it could not be so, and set it down to Lady Wilmot's parrot imitating
one. On our return home, we were all standing in the Easted's garden;
when Mr. Easted called out, "Why, there flies a Cuckoo!" and we all saw

44 MISCELLANEOUS NOTICES.

it fly across the garden. Is not this a ciirious circumstance? I thought it would
interest you." — F. R. Gihhes, Northallerton, Fehruai-y Idth., 1851.

The Siskin, (Fringilla spinus,) Linn. — The first time I saw any of these
birds, was, while shooting in Fancy-wood, (about five miles from Plymouth,)
in December, 1845, when about half-a-dozen of them were clinging to the
catkins of the alder. I immediately shot at them, and killed a female, but a
spaniel so mutilated it, that it was unfit for being preserved. After that time,
I kept a sharp look out for them, and in the January following saw them;
(I conclude the same birds, as there was the same number) on some alder
trees, about a mile from where I first observed them, on the banks of the
River Plym: I shot them all, and they proved to be three males and three
females. Although I frequently passed these places in 1846, none appeared;
but in the middle of December, 1847, when the ground was covered with snow,
I saw a flock of between forty and fifty pass over my head, as I was
shooting in another part of the same wood; and after this time, I constantly
saw small parties, on the same sort of trees, in the neighbourhood, until the
end of February, 1847, when they disappeared. I once saw an old male alight
on a thistle, and eat the seeds; with the exception of which, I never saw them
feeding on anything but the seeds of the alder tree; clinging in all manner
of attitudes — sometimes with the top of their heads and their backs towards
the ground. While feeding they would allow me to approach very near them,
but on being disturbed, flew a great distance before alighting, in a rather
compact body, uttering a sharp note, somewhat resembling that of the Grey
Linnet, (Fringilla cannahina.) I have not observed any since that time. —
R. A. Julian, Jim., Lara Hotise, Plymouth, March 17th., 1851.

Blade Stati, or Black RedstaH, (Sylvia tithys.) — Not uncommon on the
southern coasts of Devonshire. Arrives here usually the first week in November,
and in one instance as early as the 28th. of October: remains here all the winter,
and departs in March. They usually frequent the rocks on the coast, and the
sides and tops of cliff's; the adult birds are extremely shy, but the young are
easily obtained, and vary much one from another in their plumage. I know
of more than twenty of these birds being killed last year, sixteen by one person,
under Mount Edgcumbe, Plymouth Hoe, and Citadel, and near the Devil's
Point, Devonport. Their note much resembles that of the Wheatear, (Saxicola
cenanthe.) The Redstart, {Sylvia phoenicurus,) is by no means common here, — I
have never seen more than four or five in a season. — Ide7n.

Pigmy Curlew, (Tringa subarquata.) — Are not very rare here in the
months of September and October, and are met with occasionally through the
winter in small numbers, on the Plymouth Breakwater, Shag-rock, Mew§tone,
the Lara, or St. John's lake, and River Tamar; frequently in company with
Dunlins, (Tringa variabilis,) from which they may be distinguished at a great
distance^ while flying, by their larger size and white rumps. There have been

MISCELLANEOUS NOTICES. 45

two or three killed here in their breeding plumage, one of which I have in
my collection. — Idem.

Snoivy Old, (Strix nyctea.) — A bird of this species was seen by a boatman,
sitting on the ground, on the Cornish side of the River Tamar, under St.
Germains, who knocked it down with a stick, in December, 1838. This bird
is now preserved in the Rev. W. Hoar's collection. Stoke, near Plymouth. —
Idem.

Pugnacious disposition of the Robin, (Erythaca rubecula.) — The following fact
came under my own observation last winter, 1849-50: — Having heard of, read,
and seen a great deal of its pugnacious quahties, both with its own species,
and also with other small birds with which it might come in contact, I thought
I would try it with one of its own species stuffed, of which I have a A'ery
fine one. I first of all placed it inside the window, so that the Robin in the
garden could see it, and he immediately flew to the window and commenced
pecking at the glass; but not succeeding in getting at the stuffed bird, he flew
away for about a minute, then returned and commenced pecking again at the
glass, through which he could see the bird. I then placed the stuffed Robin
outside, on the window sill, and went and hid myself, so that I could see what
the Robin would do, now that he could get at it; he very soon returned, and
commenced pecking at the stuffed bird most furi«usly. At last he knocked it
off the sill of the window; he followed it as it fell down, and seemed to be
quite pleased at being victorious, and continued pecking at, and pulling feathers
out of it, while it was lying on the ground. I then came out of my hiding-
place and frightened him away, or else he would soon have spoiled my bird. —
George B. Clarice, Wohiirn, Beds. January IQth., I80I.

The Green Sandpiper, (Totanus ochropus.) — A fine specimen of the young,
of this bird was shot early last August, at Escrick, and was preserved by me. —
David Graham, York, January 6th., 1851.

The Shoveler Duck, (Anas clypeata,) near York. — A fine male specimen of
this very beautiful duck was shot at Riccall, about the 28th. of March, 1850.
It was rather curiously marked, having some dark spots on the usually perfectly
white neck. It is a rare bird in this district. — Idem.

The Fork-tailed Petrel, (Thalassidroma Leachii,) near York. — A specimen of
this rare Petrel was picked up, or rather caught alive, by the late Mr. Christie,
of Kirkhammerton, in an exhausted state, after having been pursued and attacked
by some Rooks, who had at last got it on the ground, and would soon have
made an end of it, had not Mr. Christie come to the rescue. — Idein.

Bar-tailed Godwit, (Limosa rufa.) — Six very fine specimens of this bird,
which is very rarely obtained in this district, were on sale in the York market
on the 2oth. of January, 1851; four of which came into my possession. They
were obtained in the neighbourhood of Perth. — Idem.

46 MISCELLANEOUS NOTICES,

Tlui Turnstone, (Strepsilas interpres,) at Bridlington, in May. — Last June,
Mr. Ixraham shewed nie a pair of Turnstones, shot at Bridlington on the 80th.
of May. In the female were four eggs, as large as a pea, which would seem
to indicate that they had remained in this country to breed. — B. R. M., York,
January 7th., 1851.

Variety of the Common Bunting, (Emberiza miliaria.) — A specimen of a very
pale straw-colour, with a few small brown spots, was shot at Pickering,
about the 10th. of March, last year. I do not remember to have before seen
a similar variety of this bird. — B. R. M.

The NigJdingale, (Sylvia luscinia.) — Some years ago I noticed the capture
of this bird near Beverley. I am not aware that the occurrence of another
specimen at Killingbeck, near Leeds^ early in May, 1849, has been yet put
on record. It was at that time in the possession of Mr. Thomas Russell, of
York Road, Leeds. — B. R. M.

The Opah, or King Fish, (Lampris luna,) tahen at Redcar. — This remark-
ably rare fish was taken At Redcar, by Mr. S. Wrightson, November 17th.,
1850; by whom it has been preserved, and is now in the collection of 0. C
Oxley, Esq., of that place; though by no means so large as that placed in the
British Museum, yet every naturalist must hail with delight the captm*e of a
fish so beautiful, and of such rare occurrence. The colours of this fish are of
the most rich and gorgeous description; and on being taken out of the water,
it might be compared to a large ball of fire. The length was three feet six
inches; depth, two feet six inches; weight, seventy-three pounds. It may be
interesting to state, that this fish is a native of the Japanese seas, and held
sacred by the inhabitants of that coast, who look upon it as an emblem of
happiness. Yarrell records eight. — Daniel Ferguson, Redcar, January 13th., 1851,

A Crab, loith three Oysters attached to its Carapace. — A Crab, apparently full
groAvn, was taken with a hook on East Carr, at Redcar, in July last, having
three good-sized Oysters attached to its shell. It afibrds a very important
inquiry as to the age of the Oyster, or rather, as to the rapidity of its
growth; then again, the Crab is considered by some naturalists to change its
shell annually. If the Crab does change its shell, then of necessity is
the Oyster of very quick- growth. The attention of naturalists, residing near
the habitats of this Bivalve, is invited to the consideration of this subject. —
Jdem.

Plumidaria Falcata. — A beautiful specimen of this Zoophyte was taken at
Redcar, on the 29th. of May, 1849, and then deposited in a bottle of sea-
water; it has since grown two inches, and during that time the water has
not been changed, and only a very little added, on one occasion, to supply
the deficiency caused by evaporation: it required about half a drachm to fill
up the bottle, — Idem.

47

txtnlm.

The Bee-keeper's Manual, or Practical Hints on the Management and Complete
Preservation of the Honey-Bee. By He^ry Taylor. Fourth Edition.
London: R. Groojibbidge and Sons, 1850. p.p. 184.

In order to make the keeping of Bees a source of profit and not of loss,
it is absolutely necessary, that the habits, and, as it were, domestic economy
of the insect, should be thoroughly understood; so that in the management
of our hives and their inmates, we may not be acting in opposition to the
instincts of the Bees, but may rather assist them in carrying them out to the
fullest extent. This knowledge must be either acquired by long and patient
investigation, which few people have time or inclination for; or else, it must
be supplied by those who have, from choice, or necessity, paid the requisite
attention to the habits of these insects. The work before us is, evidently, the
production of one who has not only studied the best authors on his favourite
subject, but has also given a large portion of his time to his Bees; and who
has made excellent use of his opportunities for obtaining practical information
from the best possible source; namely, the Bees themselves.

The whole work appears to us to bear this character; and the facts are
told in such plain and intelligible language, that no one can, we imagine,
misunderstand any of the details given; in addition to this, the whole work
is profusely illustrated with wood-cuts, producing a whole which will be a
most valuable addition to any Bee-keeper's library. The system which Mr.
Taylor recommends, is that which is called "The depriving System," as opposed
to the old plan, by which the Bees were all destroyed, in order to obtain
the honey. This system is not only more humane and rational, but is also
more profitable; and is founded on a knowledge of the natural history of the
Bee, as observed by the most accurate and eminent naturalists.

In speaking of this system at page 14, Mr. Taylor says —

"Opposed to the mode of management in which swanning is systematically encouraged, is
that whereby, under ordinary cii-cumstances, it may be usually prevented. Let us observe the
natural instinct of these little animals, and pro%ide them with such an addition, temporarily, of
storing-room, as will enable them to go on constructing fresh combs, to be filled with honey,
pure and unmixed -v^ith other substances. This being deposited in some separate receptacle, but
communicating with the stock hive, can at pleasure be obtaiacd possession of "with but little
trouble, and without any annoyance or injury to the Bees. The object being obtained, they
return again to their original habitation."

Farther on, at page 16, when speaking of straw depriving hives, he goes on
to say — ■

"The form which I prefer for straw hives on the depriving plan, is a perfectly straight, or
cylindrical one, and quite flat at the top. Mr. Payne recommends them to be twelve inches wide,
and nine inches deep, withinside. Iily own experience leads me to prefer from half to an inch
more of diameter, and an inch less of depth. It may be well if, in this connexion, I introduce
the observations of Gelieu. "One of my cliicf objects" says he, "has been to ascertain what shape
of liivc is the most profitable ; and with this view I have tried all the diffcrcut kinds, and have

48 PROCEEDINGS OF SOCIETIES.

invariably remarked that bees thrive better in low hives than in high ones ; that in gcn(;ral those
which are broad and flat amass more honey, thrive better, and give out stronger and earlier
swjirms than those which are high. A hive thrives only in proportion to the success or per-
fection of its brood-comb in the spring. It is therefore of gi-eat importance to keep up the
necessary degree of heat for the hatching of the brood. If at that time the bees are lodged
in high and roomy hives, they will crowd together in vain, and the heat ascending is lost in
the empty space above. This never happens in low flat hives, where it is more easily
concentrated."

The fact of Mr, Taylor's book having arrived at its fourth edition, is, we
think, a pretty good proof of the practical and useful nature of its contents.

:|^rnrBBHttg3 nf InrittirH.

Yorkshire Naturalists' Club, March oth., 1851. — Tlae President, Pkofessou Phillips, in
the chair.

The following new members were elected: — "W. Richardson, Esq., Stockton-on-Tees; W.
Richardson, Esq., jun., York; John Harris, Esq., York; J. B. Pritchett, Esq., York; Mr. R.
Sunter, York; Mr. M. Slater, Malton; Mr. J. Conroy, York.

A communication from D. Ferguson, Esq., of Redcar, relative to the intention of the Club
to carry on some dredging operations ofi" that coast, having been read, it was proposed by Dr.
Morris, and seconded by E. Smallwood, Esq., "That arrangements be made, as soon as prac-
ticable, for carrying out the proposed dredging operations at Redcar ; the dredging to take place
in September." Carried unanimously.

Some interesting fossils and recent objects from Redcar, were forwarded for exhibition, by
D. Ferguson, Esq. They included an example of an extremely rare British shell, (M'usus
Norvegicus,) taken from a depth of sixty fathoms. A fine specimen of the great spiuey crab
(Cancer Horridus,) taken at Redcar lately, and wliich was remarkable as being greatly infested
by large specimens of the Balanus Scoticus. Also specunens of the cuxular crab (Atelecyclus
Jieterodon,) and the masked crab (Corystes Cassivelaunus.)

Mr. CiiARLESWORTii exhibited some very choice mountain limestone fossils, from the neigh-
bourhood of Settle ; also a large number of fossil sharks' teeth, with fossil car bones of whales,
from tlie crag of SuifFolk, forming part of the collections wliich are being made by the British
Natural History Society, for distribution among its members.

Mr. Baines brought before the Club seventy-nine new species of mosses, which had been
discovered by himself and other botanists since the appearance of liis "Flora of Yorksliire," in
1840. He stated that out of three hundred and sixty-eight species foimd in England, two
hundred and ninety-one had been noticed in Yorkshire. These seventy-nine new mosses would
form part of an appendix to the "Flora of Yorkshire," which he was about to publish. — Several
members expressed a hope that he would open subscription lists for the announced work. All
the new species of mosses were exhibited to the Club, mounted in a new and very convenient
manner; several allied species being placed on cardboard, and covered with a plate of glass,
which enabled them to be handed round and examined by the members.

Mr. "W. Axdersox laid on the table a fine specimen of a large fungus, allied to Lycoperdon,
which he had procured lately near Fulford.

Mr. Smallavood exhibited a very fine specimen of the fossil plant called Stiginaria, procured
from near Knaresborough. — The President remarked that it presented some peculiarities in the
cicatrices, being at one end much approximated, while at the other they were separated con-
siderably.

Mr. Graham exhibited a curiously marked specimen of the Shovclcr (Anas clypcata,) obtained
lately near Goole. He also shewed a stuffed specimen of the Ennine, in its winter dress, taken
at Moreby. — Several zoophytes, which had been dredged off the Dogger Bank, off" Scarborough,
were also exhibited by him; among them, a number of very large specimens of Antoinularia
antennina.

49

Sin (Fiitniiinlngirnl Ikttrli.

THE SCOIXJII ARGUS, (POLYOMMATUS ARTAXERXES.)

BY U, F. LOGAN, ESQ.

1'. Artiixerxes.

P. Agestis.

It is a bright day in June, at the base of one of the sunny slopes of
Arthur's Heat, the lion-couchant hill which overlooks the metropolis of the
North, and is one of its fairest ornaments. The banks are yellow with the
flowers of the Dwarf Cistus, {Helimxthemum vulgare,) whose delicate petals
fall with the sun, intermingled with the more enduring blossoms of the Bird's-
foot Trefoil, (Lotus corniculatus,) whose little scarlet buds pale to a rich yellow
as they unfold; while here and there, the pink blossoms of the Rest-harrow,
(Ononis arvensis,) spread themselves in wild luxuriance on the edge of some
overhanging bank; and the first sprigs of Wild Thyme begin to shed their
perfume, and attract the attentions of the large Moss-carder Bee, as he goes
booming past on rapid wing.

The bright Blue Butterflies, (Polyommatus alexis,) are flitting about — now
flying straight onward with impetuous haste — now lingering round a flowery
knoll, or resting with wings half open on a tuft of Heliantliemum, and anon
starting ofi" again, and sportively buffeting a relation as he passes by, or
bestowing a little of the same rough attention upon one of those dusky little
Butterflies, which are flitting so quietly about, shewing, as they close their
wings for a moment on some spike of grass, an evident relationship with their
more gaily coloured rivals, in the spots and dots which adorn their wings on
the under side. Above, they are almost black, with a central dot of the
purest white on the anterior wings, and a row of reddish spots behind, with
a delicate white fringe encircling all.

These dusky little fellows are, par excellence, the Butterflies of Arthur's Seat.
They are the Polyommatus Ariaxerxes, or Scotch Argus; and, although found,
sparingly, in other parts of Scotland, they have never been seen anywhere in such
numbers as on Arthur's Seat; though, strange to tell, no one knows anything

VOL. I. H

60 THE SCOTCH ARGUS.

of their history — ^where they lay their eggs^ on what the larva feeds, and
where the inactive chrysalis passes the long, cold months of winter, are all a
mystery; and yet every year, as the month of June comes round, the little
dark Buttei-flies make their appearance, and are in great demand among
entomologists, at home, as well as abroad, where the species has never been
seen alive.

The discovery of the caterpillar and chrysalis is a point much to be desired
by lepidopterists, but every attempt to attain it has, hitherto, proved unavailing;
and there is much diversity of opinion as to the rank which the Butterfly
ought to hold among its congeners; the Durham Argus, {P. Salmacis,) found
at Castle Eden Dean, appearing to connect it with the Polyommatus Agestis,
or Brown Argus, of the southern counties, of which some people, therefore,
consider it as merely a variety; while others, with more appearance of truth,
hold it to be a distinct species. The discovery of the caterpillars of each
will probably alone solve the difficulty; or, the occurrence of either in the
district inhabited by the other, would go far to prove them distinct, as the
advocates of the variety theory gi'ound it on difference of soil and latitude,
affecting and modifying the characters of the insect.

As we cannot solve the question, however, merely by reasoning about it,
let us turn our attention again to the little insects before us, and observe
their peculiarities of habit, if they have any. On Arthur's Seat, they are
chiefly found on the south side, at, or near, the base of the hill, and seem
very partial to the patches of gorse which occur here and there on the banks;
not apparently, however, that the Ulex has any particular attraction for them,
but because the grasses grow there more luxuriantly than elsewhere, and they
have more shelter than on the barer portions of the hill. They generally
make their appearance, in ordinary seasons, about the first week in June.
In very early seasons, they have been seen even in the end of May; and in
backward seasons, sometimes not till the end of June, or beginning of July.

Let us now revisit their haunts as the shades of evening are beginning to
fall. The last rays of the setting sun are tinting the western clouds.
Sericoris Ccesjntana is getting active on the banks. Deilcpliila PorceUus, the
small Elephant Hawk Moth, glances at our feet for an instant, with his rosy
hue, and quick, humming wings. The CramU are flitting about where we
saw the Polyommati in the heat of the day; and resting on the culms and
pannicles of the gi-asses, with their wings closed, in a state of perfect repose,
showing, to excellent advantage, the beautiful white and brick- coloured spots,
on the pale brown or fawn-coloured ground, are the said Polyommati; where
they will remain, unless shaken off by the wind, in a state approaching to
torpidity, until warmed into life again by the morning sun; when they will
start, move their antennae up and down, advance a step or two, open their
wings to the sun, and, after basking for a few seconds, launch forth again
to sip the nectar of the fresh opened flowers.

Now a word or two on the localities in which this Butterfly has been found.

ON THE HABITS OF THE ROOK. 61

and we have done. Although most abundant on Arthur's Scat, so that it
was long imagined to be peculiar to that hill, it has occurred in numerous
othci- localities throughout the lowlands of Scotland. On the neighbouring
range of the Pentland hills; at Flisk, in Fifeshire; and along the shores of
the Frith of Forth; in Berwickshire and Dumfriesshire; on the Ochills, in
Stirlingshire; and among the Lammermuirs, in p]ast Lothian; so that it seems
very generally distributed around its centre at Arthur's Seat.

Duddingstone, tiear Edinburgh, March Idth., 1851.

ON THE HABITS OF THE ROOK, (GORVUS FRUGILEGUS.)

BY THE RKV, W. WALDO COOPER.

Few observations have been more frequently, or more justly, made, than
that we have but little certain information of the habits of many of our
most common birds. To others, I leave it to write upon the causes of this
seeming anomaly. I will endeavour to rectify that careless mode of summarily
disposing of a bird with such observations as 'it is only a sparrow,' or 'only
a rook.' That this fault is less prevalent than it was, I observe with pleasure;
but still the fashion, or perhaps rather a false ambition, leads naturalists to
prefer looking for scarce birds, and new species, to studying the habits of the
settled and numerous inhabitants of the country. The greater the means
of observation afforded us, the greater ought to be our knowledge; and I am
induced to offer these remarks by the hope of drawing forth the experience
of others; for, though I cannot flatter myself that I shall add anything to
what is already known of the habits of the Rook, yet, I trust I may succeed
in directing attention to some points, which require further observation and
study. Before, however, commencing my remarks, I must acknowledge my
obligation to my uncle, the Rev. R. P. Alington, of the Rectory, Swinhope,
who has kindly furnished me with many interesting particulars of the Rook,
several of which I have made use of in the following observations.

I will take, as a starting point, the time immediately before the Rook begins
his nest; and then the first question that arises relates to his cotoHsMj) and
mairiage. This point, as far as I know, has been but little treated of;
probably from the difficulty in making observations. The only circumstance, of
which I am aware, that could be supposed to have reference to their pairing,
is, that in the early part of the building season, several parties, each always
consisting of three, may be seen flying round the trees in the Rookeries, tico
alioags pursuing one: the pairing must, however, have taken place long before,
for the nests are already commenced. What are they then doing? My complete
ignorance of the 6xact time and mode of pairing, I am compelled to admit;
I believe, however, that the main difficulty in observing this interesting
ceremony, arises, in a great measure, from Rooks pairing /or life. When I
come to the question, what becomes of the young Rooks, this difficulty will
be scon to be very great.

62 ON THE HABITS OF THE ROOK.

The places which the Eooks generally choose for their nests^ are lofty trees
in the neighbourhood of old mansions, or in extensive woods; the former are,
however, generally preferred. I have sometimes seen nests in hedge-row trees,
at a distance from houses or woods; but this, I believe to be an unfrequent
occurrence. There is also on record, that in the year 1846, two pairs of
Rooks built their nests, and hatched their young, between the chimney-pots
of two houses, in a thickly-populated part of Kingston-upon- Hull. That they
sometimes build in large towns, is well known; I need only instance the nests
on the trees in the Garden of Gray's Inn, London; to which I hear the Rooks
have again returned this spring. The time of beginning to build varies in diiferent
Rookeries in the same district, without, as far as I am aware, any apparent
reason. They will, however, generally be found to commence between the
20th. of February and the 20th. of March, except, perhaps, in cold seasons,
when they may be a few days later. The nests are too well known to need
any description here. The eggs vary from three to five in number; and the
young are generally hatched between the 3rd. and 20th. of April.

At the beginning of May, the Rook-shooter makes a great slaughter. Soon
after this, the Rooks forsake the Rookeries in the open ground, and betake them-
selves to the woods to roost, generally returning every day to the neighbourhood
of the Rookery to feed. I have been unable to ascertain from what distance
they come to the woods to roost; but from the vast numbers I have constantly
seen resort to a wood in this neighbourhood, in the parish of Kingerby, I
suppose them to come from a great distance. On their return in the evening,
they always alight near their chosen wood to feed; and I have frequently
seen large fields almost covered with them. In fine, still weather, they fly
at a great height when returning at night, and when they get over the field
where they intend to sup, they will fall with extreme rapidity, with a zigzag
motion, their wings outstretched, and uttering a peculiar cry, till they come
within a few yards of the ground, when they suddenly throw up their heads,
and resume their ordinary horizontal flight for a short distance before alighting.
They continue very busy on their feeding ground for about an hour, and
then, rising in a body with much clamour, fly oif to the wood, making many
circles over it before alighting, as if to examine it, and discover any danger
that may threaten them. It is generally nearly an hour before the wood becomes
quiet, for on every fresh arrival, the uproar is renewed, till at length it becomes
almost deafening; when, however, the whole party is assembled, the wood is
soon hushed; the chattering of the Magpie, and the hoarse call of the Carrion
Crow having long ceased.

Up to the time when the Rooks begin to visit their nests, for the purpose
of repairing the damage done by the storms of winter, many young birds are
conspicuous in the flocks as they come in to roost; conspicuous, I mean, by
the black feathers at the base of the bill. Most of them then disappear; a
few are, however, still to be seen, and may be easily observed in the
Rookeries; they are generally later in building than the old birds, and have

ON THE HABITS OP THE ROOK. 53

difficulty in getting their nests completed; for the old inhabitahtS invariably
pull their nests to pieces as often as opportunity offers. Occasionally, though
rarely, a bird with the feathers still remaining at the base of the bill, pairs
with what, for the sake of distinction, I will call an old bird. The time
and mode of getting rid of these feathers have been the subject of much
dispute; and, though I do not pretend to settle the question, yet it is, I think,
a fair subject for discussion in a rambling paper on Rooks. First for the
facts.

Many young birds may be seen consorting with the old ones in the
roosting woods in January, and the beginning of February; they then, for the
most part, disappear, though here and there one may still be observed. Go
to the Rookeries in the breeding season, and a few may be seen then engaged
in rearing their offspring. Have the greater part of them at this time lost
the feathers at the base of the bill? I think not: and I account for their
disappearance by supposing a migration; for simultaneously, with the sudden
disappearance of the birds, having the distinguishing mark of young ones, I
note, at least in Kingerby wood, where my observations have been made, that
the number of Rooks coming to roost, is materially diminished. Again, did
they stay in their native neighbourhood, either the old Rookeries must increase
greatly every year, or many new ones must be established. Mr. R. P. Alington
has furnished me with a calculation, that every year there escape from the
Rookery at Swinhope, about one hundred and fifty young Rooks. He has
also furnished me with a list of twelve places, within six miles of his residence,
where there are Rookeries, many of them much larger than the one at
Swinhope. Taking them, however, at the same size, this gives, (supposing there
are three birds to a nest, and allowing three-fourths of the whole number hatched
for the destruction by the Rook-shooter, and other casualities,) no less than
two thousand as the annual increase, in that small district. The fact is,
however, that the old Rookeries do not increase. We are, therefore, driven
to this; either the number of young birds that escape, is not more than
sufficient to fill up the vacancies caused by death among the old ones, and
the above calculation is wrong; or they migrate. I think the latter supposition
is the correct one; for on no other can I account for the sudden and con-
siderable decrease in the birds roosting in Kingerby wood, noticed before; that
decrease taking place, as far as I can observe, entirely among the young, or
black-billed birds. Taking the facts into consideration, I come, therefore, to
the conclusion, that the denudation of the base of the bill does not generally
take place till the birds are at least a year old.

Now for the mode or cause of the denudation. The question on this point
may, I believe, be fairly stated thus: is it caused by abrasion, or is it the
natural state of the adult bird? I incline to the latter opinion, because, first,
though the Rook is a great delver, yet he does not at all seasons dig equally;
and at some seasons so little, as to allow the feathers to grow, at least
partially, were abrasion the sole cause of their absence. Secondly, the mode

54 ON THE HABITS OF THE ROOK.

of his digging is not such as to cause much abrasion. Thirdly, I have never
seen or hoard of a specimoi, not kept in confinement, in which this process
was taking phice; that is, the feathers damaged only by digging. Fourthly,
the operatioa of abrasion must be painful, and it must be continued; so that
the poor bird must be put to torture every time he digs deep after a worm
or a grub; and this I cannot but consider as inconsistent with the universal
tender-kindness of that Almighty Being, who has ordered him to seek so large
a portion of his food below the surface of the earth. Fifthly, the Carrion
Crow, and' the Jackdaw, which are also great diggers, never exhibit, as far
as I know, any signs of abrasion. Sixthly, the exact correspondence of the
line of denudation in all the specimens I have examined, points rather to
natural, than to artificial causes.

We now come to the question, ^'What becomes of the young Rooks?" I have
already stated my belief that the greater part of those which live through
the first winter, leave the Rookeries in which they were reared. The cause
of this migration I suppose to be twofold: — First, instinct prompts them to
leave places already sufficiently occupied by their kind; and, secondly, the sort
of persecution they undergo in the building season (before noticed) from' the
old occupants of the Rookery compels them. These two causes appear to me
sufficient to account for their migration; and if they are admitted, it follows,,
that we must look to places as yet but thinly tenanted by these birds, for
their ultimate destination. I am told that Rooks are increasing in the fens;
but any one acquainted with that district, will at once see that it cannot
receive great additions, owing to the want of trees.

I have obtained from my friend, Mr. Martin Curtler, of Browe, near
Worcester, an account of the foundation of a Rookery at Wareslcy, the
seat of the Dean of Worcester. He tells me, that in the year 1848, when
first the Rooks built at Waresley, there were two or three nests; in 1849,
tliere were sixteen or seventeen nests; and last year as many as three times
tliat number. This Rookery must, therefore, have received considerable
additions in each year since its establishment, from sources independent of
itself. But what a little way docs it go towards accounting for the numbers
that annually escape from the small district in the Wolds of Lincolnshire,
before mentioned!

I did not set out with expressing a hope, that I should clear up the
difficulties I was about to state in the history and economy of the Rook; but
a collection of facts, and a comparison of theories, must tend towards that
desirable result. I will, therefore, at once conclude this already too lengthy
paper, by expressing my conviction that we must look to the observations,
not of those, who, like myself, live in a country already thickly tenanted by
the Rook; but of those, who have the opportunity of watching their spread
over districts, where this interesting bird is comparatively a stranger. I hope
that this notice may have the effect of directing the attention of persons in
the latter districts, to the questions relating to the denudation of the bill of

ON THE TIABITS OF THE COMMON CROSSBILL. OO

the Rook, and the ultimate local distribution of the many thousand young
birds, which dp, as I believe, annually leave the northern parts of Lincolnshire.

Medory, West-Rasen, Lincolnshire, March IQth., 1851.

ON THE HABITS OF THE COMMON CROSSBILL,
{LOXIA GURVIROSTRA.)

BY MR. ARTHUR HALL SHUM.

The Crossbill is an occasional, though a very irregular visitor, in this part
of the countryj arriving about the beginning of October. In the year 1849,
a considerable number made their appearance, and took up their quarters in
a fir plantation, near this city. They remained about seven weeks, and then
took their departure; not however till their ranks had been much thinned
by the bird-catching fraternity; their capture being easily effected with the aid
of a call-bird. If, however, the bird-catcher does not possess a call-bird, he
stations himself beneath the trees that the Crossbills are feeding on, just at
day-break, armed with a long slender stick, similar to a fishing-rod, and covered
at the top with birdlime. By imitating their call-note, the poor birds are
allured within reach of the magic wand; which renders their wings powerless,
*and they fall to the ground in their endeavours to escape.

Last autumn, a very small flock arrived about the usual time, but remained
only for a few days: a pair of these that were then caught, I have since kept
caged. For the first few days, they shewed their dislike to this change of life,
in a manner not to be mistaken — beating their wings against the wires of the
cage, and splitting the perches into fragments. They soon, however, began to
appreciate a little kind treatment, and by a plentiful supply of hemp seed, (of
which they are very fond,) together with their natural food, the cones of the
fir tree, they became very tame and affectionate; so much so, that they will
now feed readily from the hand, and are pleased at being noticed. For the
common deal perches, I substituted rosewood ones, which even the powerful
beak of the Crossbill has no effect upon. About the middle of January they
commenced their song, which is very pleasing, consisting of some half-a-dozen
notes, sung in a subdued manner, very similar to the recording of young
Skylarks. When not feeding, they amuse themselves the whole of the day
with singing, and climbing about the cage, in the manner of Parrots. Both
the male and female sing.

Bath, March 15th., 1851.

NEST OF THE KINGFISHER, {ALCEDO ISPIDA.)

BY J. MC'INTOSH, ESQ.

At page 22, of "The Naturalist," S, Hannaford, Esq., Jun., expresses his
doubts as to the Kingfisher constructing its nest of disgorged fish bones. On

66 OnNITHOLOGICAL NOTES.

this subject I beg to make the following remarks: — It is not my intention
to write the history of this interesting and singular bird, but simply to confine
myself to its nest. That this bird does not construct a nest of disgorged
fish bones, we had long ago proved to our satisfaction, but lays its eggs
(from five to seven in number,) on the bare soil of the hole excavated by
itself, (for which purpose, nature has provided it with the most efficient
tool,) which it prefers to that constructed by any other animal; and will breed
and rear its young in the same hole for years, like Rooks in a Rookery, if
not too much molested.

The female, while engaged in the operation of incubation, is regularly fed
by the male with fish. The bones, and other indigestible matter is ejected
in pellets, after the manner of the Owl. These bones, disgorged by the male
and female around them, while feeding their young, and other matters, by
accumulation, become one solid mass, forming a sort of nest, in which the
eggs are, the following season, laid; in which case we have frequently found
them; and if we had not been convinced to the contrary, from personal
observations, we should have been led to have believed otherwise. But we assert,
without fear of contradiction, that this bird constructs the hole itself in pre-
ference to taking possession of any other, never forms a nest of disgorged fish
bones, or anything else; but the first year of occupation, lays its eggs on the
bare ground; and the second and following years, it levels this accumulation
of matter, and lays its eggs on the same, which has given rise to a popular
belief, and produced many conflicting opinions, that it first disgorges the said
fish bones, and then lays its eggs upon them. We have frequently watched
the Kingfisher for days in excavating its habitation in the most secluded nooks
and sheltered spots of rivers — its mate, its only companion; and we have found
them near the habitation of man, rear their young in the greatest confidence.

Charminsier, Dorset , March \(Sth., I80I.

taitjinlngirnl J0ntp5.

BY THE KEV. R. P. ALINGTON.

Common Buzzard, (Buteo vulgaris.) — The Common Buzzard is easily domesti-
cated, and soon becomes an amusing, though sometimes rather a dangerous
companion. Yarrell relates a very remarkable anecdote of one, in his '^British
Birds," vol. i. page 78, sitting upon two eggs, and rearing the young of the
common . barn-door fowl, (vide vignette, page 80.) I, some years ago, had
one confined in the same cage with a Merlin. The lesser Hawk had greatly
the advantage of his more sluggish companion; he invariably took possession
of the higher perch; (perhaps instinct, as the sequel proved, whispered that
it was the safest place,) from hence, he could dash down, and generally be
the first to secure the food. This was the cause of much jealousy; and one
luckless day, the wary little Merlin was found dead, with his head split

ORXITIIOLOGICAL NOTES. 1)7

in two, by his revengeful fellow-prisoner. Some time afterwards, the Buzzard
was allowed his liberty, but he rarely ventured very far away, returning to his
cage during the winter months : his usual abode was in a small wood near to
the house. A straight walk ran through the wood, and when any person entered
this walk, if the Buzzard happened to be at the other end, he would, with fixed
wings, glide, as quietly as an Owl, swiftly down the avenue, about the height of
the eye, and with out-stretched neck, approach so near the intruder, at such a
speed too, that it required some nerve to withstand his attack; but, upon arriving
within a foot of the face, he would gracefully turn away, and settle upon the
nearest tree. One day he came in this way behind my father, and whether he
knocked him down, or only knocked off his hat, I do not remember, but one
or the other, and it sealed his fate : my Buzzard was doomed to be shot, and
died accordingly, as incorrigibly dangerous, the following day.

The Kestrel, (Falco tinnunculus,) and Carrion Cro7o, (Corvus Corone.) — Most
of your readers no doubt have often observed the Crow in pursuit of the Hawk
— his quick and sudden turns to escape his noisy advcrsar}"^; but, perhaps they
may not have seen "the tables turned," and the Hawk become the aggressor.
Last Saturday, the 8th. of March, I was witness to a scene of this kind:
a fine male Kestrel was in full chase after a Carrion Crow. How long the
hunt had continued I do not know, but they came past me near to the
ground. In vain the Crow tried to escape — his piu-suer was always close upon
him — up one side of the hedge, down the other, now high in air, now almost
on the ground. At last the Crow made a dash through a small plantation, and
the Hawk ros.) and settled on the top of one of the trees. The Crow had
something in his bill when he crossed me. It is remarkable that the
Hawk should have been a Kestrel, perhaps one of the most cowardly of the
Hawks; probably the Crow may have stooped down and snatched his prey
from him to make him so valiant.

A White Bohin, (Erythaea rubecula.) — At Mrs. Empson's, of Ravendale, a
parish adjoining Swinhope, may be seen a Robin all but entirely white. It
comes to the window daily to be fed. I am told that it has been observed
two years, and that a labourer saw it last summer sitting upon its nest.
There is no distinction in colour between the breast and other parts; bill
and eyes, the usual colour, and one of the primaries is slightly edged with
brown.

Since writing the above, I have heard of another variety of the Bobin;
namely, one of a pale buff or fawn colour, with the breast of the usual colour.
This has been lately seen in the parish of Swinhope. The peculiar delicacy
of the plumage, sets ofi" the brilliant red of his breast to great advantage.

Greater Blaclc-ladced Gull, (Larus marinus.) — The Black-backed Cull is
not an uncom'.ma species on the coast at the mouth of the Humber. It is a
curious fact, that while the young, commonly called the Wagel, is constantly
seen inland, (indeed a flock of common Gulls, when feeding on the ploughed

VOL. I. I

58 ORNITHOLOGICAL NOTES.

lands, is seldom without one or more in their company,) I am not aware of
ever having observed one in mature dress over the sea-bank. The Wagel
too, while inland, is one of the least shy of the Gulls, but when he dons the
plumage of the black back, he is, decidedly, one of the most wary.

Common Lark, (Alauda arvensis.) — On Tuesday the 20th. of March, 1849,
I was riding with a friend in the neighbourhood of Louth, in Lincolnshire,
when I remarked to him, that a Common Lark was perching on the hedge
by the road-side. I could not be mistaken in the species, as I was close to
it; it rose, flew fifty yards, and again settled upon the hedge; being disturbed
a second time, it lit, (the usual resting-place of the species,) upon the ground.

Swinhope Jiectory, March 18^^., 1851.

cOniitljDlngirEl lihks.

BY R. A. JULIAN, ESQ., JUN.

Occurrence of Honey Buzzard, (Pcrnis apivorus.) — I received in July 1850,
a very fine male bird of this species from Belbin, gamekeeper to the Earl of
Morley. He informs me that he first observed it flying off" a Pheasant's nest, in
the cover adjoining his house, in which there was one egg sucked out, and another
broken; he immediately set some gins, and caught it a few hours afterwards:
on dissection, there was nothing decisive in its crop, but something which had
much the appearance of grass or moss.

Marsh Harrier, (Circus aeruginosus.) — While Snipe-shooting on Dartmoor,
December, 1849, I saw two of these birds; and a warrener there informed me
that many years ago, in a very severe winter, he destroyed eight of them in
one week.

Montagus Harrier, (Circus Montagui.) — T have a pair of these birds that
were caught in a gin at Brushworthy Rabbit-warren, Dartmoor, October,
1889.

Great Gray Shrike, (Lanius excubitor.) — One of these birds was shot,
November, 1849, at Mrs. Walker's, Robourough, near Plymouth, by one of
her servants, who, on seeing it was an unusual bird, immediately procured a
gun and killed it. I never heard of more than one being obtained in this
county before this bird.

Girl Bunting, (Emberiza cirlus.) — These birds are common in this neighbour-
hood (South Devon,) particularly in the vicinities of Yealmpton and Plymstock,
residing with us all the year, and in winter feeding at corn stacks with the
yellow species, which the female bird very nearly resembles. The male will
sit singing on a favourite tree near the nest for hours together: the song
is very similar to the commencement of the Yellow Bunting's, several times
repeated^ and the call note resembles the shrill chirp of the grass mouse. I

ORNITHOLOGICAL NOTES, 59

found a nest in July, 1850, in a steep bank, composed of moss lined with
hair, and containing four eggs, round shaped, with very black streaks.

Nest of Kingfisher, (Alcedo ispida.) — In the month of July, 1847, I dug
out a Kingfisher's nest in the bank under Orcharding wood. River Ernie,
containing seven well-fledged young; the hole had the appearance of a
deserted water-rat's; there was not the least sign of a nest, but merely an
enlargement of the hole, and a small pit scraped out almost three feet
from the entrance, which was nearly filled with their excrements. I discovered
it by the constant chirping the young ones made.

Squacco Heron, (Ardea comata.) — A fine specimen of this bird was shot by
Sir Frederick Roger's gamekeeper, many years ago, on a very large pond, almost
close before his windows, at his seat, Blatchford, near Ivybridge, Devon. He
had it preserved, and a label attached to the case, stating the time it was killed,
which unfortunately had been lost, when I saw the bird.

Occurrence of the Green Sandpiper, (Totanus ochropus.) — My father shot one
of these birds, now in my collection, on the River Erme, August 15th., 1849.
I shot a female bird on Lara, just at the mouth of the River Plym, August
17th., 1850.

Pigmy Curlew, (Tringa subarquata.) — Young birds of this species were not
uncommon at the mouths of rivers in this neighbourhood, in the months of
September and October, 1850. On the River Lynhcr I saw near forty of
these birds in one flock, but they usually keep in company with Purres and
Ring Dotterels, from which they can easily be distinguished when on the wing,
by their white rumps. I obtained six specimens in one morning.

Landrail, (Rallus crex.) — The Pointers found to day, (September 16th.,
1848,) a Landrail in a short thick hedge near Ermington, but all we could
do by brushing and beating the bushes, would not make it fly; it kept running
forward and back, until at last my friend caught it as it was passing him.
Upon examining it, we found it was so very fat that it could not fly, and when
thrown into the air, it came down almost perpendicularly. As I was trying
a clover field for Partridges near Ivybridge, September, 1849, the dogs
flushed a Landrail, which flew up and perched on one of the branches of a
tall oak tree, and screened itself as much as was possible among the leaves,
where it was shot by my friend, the Rev. C. Bulteel.

Occurrence of the Pink-footed Goose, (Anser brachyrynchus,) in Cambridgeshire.
Whilst at Emmanuel College, Cambridge, January 1850, I procured a fine
specimen of this rare species of Goose. It was caught by a labourer on the
banks of the Cam, below Upware, having been wounded by a large-sized
bullet, in the breast.

Occurrence of young Northern Divers, (Colymbus glacialis.) — I shot two of
these birds in Plymouth Sound, December, 1850. There were several others
seen there about the same time.

eo

HERONRIES IN ENGLAND AND SCOTLAND.

Little Auh, (Mergalus alle.) — One of these birds was knocked down by a boy,
with a stone, under Plymouth Hoe, December, 1850. It was taken to
Mr. Bolitho, Bird and Animal Preserver, Plymouth; who has it in his private
collection.

Lara House, Plymouth, March 11th., 1851.

IIERONPvIES IN ENGLAND AND SCOTLAND, WHICH
ARE IN EXISTENCE, OR HAVE EXISTED.

BY J. Mc'iNTOSrr, ESQ.

Our object in offering the following hst of Heronries which are, or have
existed in Great Britain, is to compare, through the pages of "The Naturalist,"
the decrease in numbers of this once noble bird of the chase. At the same
time we are aware that our list is anything but complete, and will therefore
feel thankful for any additional information on this subject through the pages
of "The Naturalist."

1.

Upton House, Poole, ....

Dorset.

2.

Brownsea Island, .....

. Do.

3.

Bryanston Park,

Do.

4.

Admiston Hall, (small one)

. Do.

5.

Dewlish, (not now in existence)

Do.

(J.

Kingston Lacy, .....

. Do.

7.

Sherborne Park, ....

Do.

8.

Didlington Hall,

. Norfolk.

9.

Parham, ......

. , . Sussex.

10.

Hurstmonccaux, (small one)

. Do.

11.

Penhurst Place, .....

Kent,

12.

Cressy Hall, ......

. Lincolnshire.

13.

Swanpool, ......

Do.

14.

Downington-in-HoUand, ....

. Do.

15.

Dunham, near Altrincham, .

Cheshire.

16.

Ilutton, near Beverley, . . . .

Yorkshire.

17.

Swanland, near Hull, .

Do.

18.

Walton Hall, . . . .

Do.

11).

Dallam Tower, . .

Westmorland.

20.

Gobay Park, near Penrith.

21.

Walton-on- Thames, ....

SuiTcy.

22.

Coley Park,

Berks.

23.

Reading, (near to,) ....

. Do.

24.

Windsor Great Park.

25.

Brockley Woods, neaf Bristol.

26.

Picton, (the Seat of Lord Carnarvon.)

. Somerset,

THE PR0GRESSIVENES8 OF INSTINCT. 61

27.

Sharpham, on the River Dart. (See page 23 \
of the Naturalist, No. 1.) . . . i

28. Heron Court, ^ Hampshire.

I believe at ouc time a very large Heronry existed liere.

29. Newport House, . . . . . .' Galway.

30. Findhorn, Morayshire.

31. Dalkeith, near Edinburgh.

32. Craigie, near Kilmarnock, .... Ayrshire.

Although, having lived in the north of Ireland for some time, we are
acquainted with only a single Heronry; perhaps some Irish correspondent will
he kind enough to favour us by recording any others that may exist.

The Heron is not particular as to the trees it selects to construct its habitation
in, as we find them in fir, beech, oak, and elm trees. Mr. Wood, of Admiston
Hall, near Piddletown, Dorset, some time ago informed me, that, having shot a
Snipe, he was walking to pick it up, when a Heron, which he had not
previously seen, pounced upon the Snipe, shook it in his bill, like a dog
with a rat, evidently not satisfied that it had received its death blow, and
was just about to make a mouthful of the said Snipe. When Mr. Wood
approached, he dropt it, and flew off, leaving Mr. W.^ in possession of his
game. They are particularly fond of the Common Rat, {Mus decumanus,)
the Water Vole, {Arvicola ampJdlius, Desmer,) when they can get hold of
one; killing them like a terrier dog, and casting or ejecting the hair and
bones in pellets, like the Owls. To this we may add the following fact related
by Dr. P. Ncill, of Cannonmills, near Edinburgh. This gentleman had a
pair of these birds tame, which he found devoured the young of the Moor-hen,
(Gallirmla chloropus, Lath.) which built and reared their young on an old
willow stump, that had fallen into the pond.

The Heron is not at all particular as to its 'bill of fare' — toads, frogs^
snakes, mice, fish of all sorts and sizes; (we once watched a Heron standing
in a shallow part of a lake, seize and devour, in the short space of half-an-
hour, six good sized carp,) water newts, and the roots of aquatic plants, as
Caltha imlustris, L., also the flowers of Sparganvum, Swn. Anciently the
Heron was held in great estimation as food, (as also the Crane,) being one
of the favourite dishes at the royal and noble tables; and valued at the same
rate as the Peacock, (Pavo cristatus,) and the Pheasant, (Pliasianus coJchicus.}
Some epicures of the present day are said to consider them a rare and dainty dish.

Charminster, Dorset, March 10th., 1851.

THE PROGRESSIVENESS OF INSTINCT.

TO THE EDITOR OF THE NATURALIST.

While preparing my contribution to your last number, on the subject of the
Moor-hen, an old thought recurred, that the construction of the nest in the

62 THE PROGRESSIVENESS OF INSTINCT.

lower branches of a stunted fir, established a questionable point, namely,
the natural progressiveness of instinct. The docility, or the capability of
instruction, of many animals, admits of no doubt; but the advancement
of their powers, by the deductions of experience, and the spontaneous acquire-
ments which destroy the uniformity of instinct, extend the bounds of their
irrational faculties beyond the sphere which is usually assigned them.

Some twenty years since, I remember to have seen in a quarto manuscript
volume of my late father's, a rough sketch which he had made of a row of
young Owls, each successively decreasing in size in regular gradation; with a story
of singular interest regarding a nest of Owls in a neighbour's barn, which I
understood he had seen. I have consequently searched over a large mass of
manuscripts on Zoological subjects in vain. My investigation, however, has not
been wholly without avail; for by it I have met with the original letter,
addressed to him, nearly twenty years since, by a person whom I have known
from his youth upwards. He is an intelligent auctioneer of this neighbour-
hood, and then resided within half a mile of my residence. Those who were
then his father's servants can probably attest its truth. It is dated 10th.
August, 1833.

"The careless nest of the White Owl is generally built on the side wall
of a barn, where it commonly lays three eggs, of which more than two are
seldom hatched, the remaining egg being addled. It may not be extensively
known that the eggs of the barn-door pullet are occasionally hatched under
Owls, the legitimate produce being removed for the purpose. Twice have I
known the experiment tried, and three of each set of eggs hatched. Of the
six chickens four were reared; and as wonderfully illustrative of the provident
habits of the bird, before the progeny was hatched, the expectant parents were
unusually active in catching rats and mice, as provender for their future family.
Immediately afterwards the same Owl laid ten eggs; an aifair that progressed
in the following manner: — When she had laid one egg she began to sit, and
thus she continued laying an egg daily for the first seven days, all which
were hatched at the respective expirations of the incubant period. The
eighth egg was addled, and the ninth and tenth were hatched as before, each
in daily succession. The tenth bird was weak and died." I send you the
writer's name and address with my own.

Such a systematic precaution to protect its natural brood from threatened
extinction, appears to spring from a region of thought far beyond the commonly
prescribed limits of instinct. It was not only a rational contemplation and
dread of its possibility, with a calculating effort to obviate it; but a mysterious
combination of the animal and intellectual faculties usui-ped the simple impulse
to ordinary action. The end was instinctive, but there was a cogitative and
complicated efibrt to attain it.

J. C.

Black Hall, Devon.

63
CONTRIBUTIONS TO THE FAUNA OF FALMOUTH.

BY W. P. COCKS^ ESQ.
(Continued from page 40.^

Redstart, (Phaenicura ruticilla,) Gould. — May 0th., 1849, a male bird on
the naked branch of an oak tree, Game's lane; Mr. May saw two the same
week in a field close to his house; and shot one October 29th., 184(5.
One seen by him on the Pilot Boat Inn, November 22nd., 1846. Shot three
birds within a yard of each other, November 22nd., 1847: not common.

Black BedstaH, (Phaenicura tithys,) Gould. — Shot near Swanpool, in May,
1847: rare.

Stonechat, (Saxicola rubicola,) Flem. — Gwyllyn Vase, Swanpool, Pennance,

etc., not uncommon. December 23rd., 1849, a female bird, Swanpool Beach.

Whinchat, (Saxicola rubetra,) Flem. — Furze downs, near Swanpool and

Pennance. One was shot by F. Passingham, Esq., May, 1846, near Swanpool.

Wheatear, (Saxicola aenanthe,) Selhy. — Not uncommon.

Grasshopper Warbler, (Salicaria locustella,) Selby. — Captain Bull's estate,
Mr. Bullmore's farms. College wood, etc.; not uncommon in summer, but
very difficult to procure.

Sedge Warbler, (Salicaria phragmitis,) Selby. — Peeds or marshy districts.
College wood, Swanpool, Mainporth, etc.: not uncommon.

Beed Warbler, (Salicaria arundinacea,) Selby. — College wood pond, and
Swanpool reeds: rare.

Blackcap Warbler, (Curruca atricapilla,) Flem. — Scarce, A female specimen
was shot at Swanpool, November, 1842.

Garden Warbler, (Cm-ruca hortensis,) Flem. — Hedgerow, near Mr. Selley's
Cottage, Budock: rare.

Whitethroat, (Curruca cinerea,,) Selby. — Common. This year unusually so —
I saw the parents and five young ones, (at the same time,) on the twigs of
a small tree, in a lane leading to Mr. Jago's farm-house.

Lesser Whitethroat, (Curruca sylviella,) Flem. — Two seen in Mr. Selley's
second field leading to Budock Church, March 14th., 1848,

Wood Warbler, (Sylvia sylvicola,) Penn. — One specimen shot in the wood,
Trefusis, near Mylor, 1846.

Willow Warbler, (Sylvia trochilus,) Penn. — College wood. Furze brake,
Budock : scarce.

Chijf Chaff, (Sylvia hippolais,) Penn. — Not common. Mr. May shot one
on December 12th., 1849, The 22ud. of the same month, one was shot
at Swanpool, by Mr. Williams.

Bart ford Warbler, (Melizophilus Dartfordiensis,) Selby. — Rare. May IHth.,
1848, one on the top of a furze bush, Mr. Selley's first field leading to Budock
Church.

Golden-crested Pegulus, (Regulus cristatus,) Flem. — College wood, Harriett
Place, etc.: not imcomnion.

64 FAUNA OF FALMOUTH.

Fire-crested Eeyulus, (Regulus ignicapillus^) Jemjns. — Rare. One shot by a
boy in College wood, January. 1846.

Great Tit, (Panis major,) Penn. — Not uncommon.

Blue Tit, (Parus cjeruleus,) Penn. — Common.

Cole Tit, (Parus ater,) Mont. — College wood, Love lane, etc.: scarce. A
specimen was sent from the parish of Constantino for examination, 1847.

Marsh Tit, (Parus palustris,) Bewick. — College wood, Budock bottoms:
scarce.

Long-tailed Tit, (Parus caudatus,) Penn. — College wood. Love lane, etc.:
not uncommon. December 23rd., 1849, six in a lane, near Boslowack House.

Bohemian Waxwing, (Bombycilla garrula,) Flem. — Shot near Pennance
I^oint, in the winter, 1847.

Pied, Wagtail, (Motacilla Yarrellii,) Gould. — Common.

White Wagtail, (Motacilla alba,) Gould. — Not uncommon. Three procured
in the vicinity of Falmouth, by Mr. J. Trathan, April, 1843. I have procured
specimens in the years 1845-6-7-8-9. Mr. May shot three specimens for me,
(from a flock consisting of more than thirty birds,) in March last, Gwyllyn
Vase. December 23rd., 1849, several on the sands, Swanpool: this season
very common.

Note. — March 23r(l., 184-5, one with the plumage of the back, head, abdomen, etc., pure white;
tips of quill feathers, tail feathers, legs, toes, and bill, black. It had all the locomotive
twitches of its family; and kept at all times at a respectable distance from its companions.

Grey Wagtail, (Motacilla boarula,) Penn. — Not uncommon.

Grey-headed Wagtail, (Motacilla neglecta,) Gould. — Pond, foot of Castle
Hill, College wood: rare. '

Rays Wagtail, (Motacilla flava,) Pe?^?^.— -Mrs. Glasson's stable-yard, Green
bank, 1845, College wood, 1846, Pennance, 1847, Eriscy and Middle Terrace,
August 31st., 1849: rare.

Tree Pipit, (Anthus arborcus,) Sclhy. — Furze patches, east of Pendennis
Castle, April, 1846: rare.

Meadow Pipit, (Anthus pratensis,) Fletn. — Common.

Rock Pipit, (Anthus petrosus,) Fle^n. — Gwyllyn Vase, Swanpool, Pennance,
etc.: common.

Skylark, (Alauda arvensis,) Penn. — Common.

Woodlark, (Alauda arborea,) Penn. — Not uncommon.

Snoio Bunting, ' (Plectrophanes nivalis,) SelJry. — Shot near Falmouth, by
T. Harvey, Esq. Mr. Copeland informed me that he shot one at Pendennis
Castle, October, 1843. Three shot by Mr. May, within the last three years,
between the Castle and Pennance Point.

Common Bunting, (Emberiza miliaria,) Penn. — Common.

Black-headed Bunting, (Emberiza schocniclus,) Sdhg. — Scarce. January
16th., 1850, one at Swanpool.

Yellow Bunting, (Emberiza citrinella,) Penn. — Common.

(To be continued.)

65

lintrs.

BY SAMUEL HANNAFORD, ESQ., JUN.

Anecdotes of Dofjs. — A former residing near Worksop, Nottinghamshire,
had a dog which had formerly been the property of a carrier, and in the
habit of accompanying his master to market with the cart, every Saturday;
but, although he had changed masters, he did not forget his old habits; and
every Friday night, started off to the carrier's residence, to accompany him
on the Saturday. He always returned home on Sunday morning, and generally
brought something in his mouth, as if to satisfy his master as to the cause
of his absence.

A friend of mine has a Spaniel in the habit of accompanying him in his
daily walk; on Sunday mornings, however, as soon as the bell commences for
service, the Dog goes to his master's room, and there remains under the bed,
until his return from church.

A Spaniel suckling a Kitten. — I had a Spaniel bitch, which, with her pups,
was confined in the same apartment with a Cat and her Kitten. The Cat
having absented herself one day rather longer than usual, the Kitten sucked
the bitch, which was sleeping at the time; to this she quietly submitted:
and a friend here in Yorkshire, tells me he reared two Rabbits taken from
a plantation adjoining his house, under a Cat, which tended them with care,
and apparent fondness.

Anecdote of a Sat, (Mus decumanus.) — A relative of mine placed a rush-
light in a basin, on a chair, in the middle of his bed-room, and was awoke
in the night, by a great noise; on turning out, he found that a Rat had
dragged the rush-light, which remained lighted, from the candlestick, under
the bed to his hole, and had already got a portion into it. They are often
so voracious, as to devour one of their own species which has been caught in
a trap; as I have proved very lately.

On a Water Bat, (Arvieola aniphibius.) — The tide happening to overflow the
banks of the River Dart, in Devonshire, I saw a Water Rat convey its
young, one by one, to a place of security, squealing piteously all the while.

On Mice. — All the Crocus roots in our garden have been-^destroyed by Mice,
this winter, (I80O-I.) They appear to have dug down to the very root, as
if that was the favourite part; leaving the flower and stem untouched. I
have found, on dissection, the remains of the lower part of the stem undigested.

Goshawk, (Falco palumbarius.) — Since reading in ^^Morris's British Birds,"
page 136, that there is but one occurrence of this bird on record in Yorkshire,
I have made numerous inquiries on the subject. Several persons have told me
of having seen them, and of their breeding in this neighbom-hood, but I could
place little reliance on their statements. To-day, however, I was informed by

VOL. I. K

66 NOTES.

a man, who was formerly a gamekeeper on the Kiveton estate, that about
five years since, in the spring, he shot a very fine specimen of this bird, at
Anston Stones, (about two miles from where I write.) He was in the act
of shooting a Magpie, which, much to his surprise, remained quite motionless,
and, as he termed it, ^scared.' On looking upwards, he saw a large Hawk
soaring at a great height above himj as it approached him, he -fired and
brought it down; when it proved to be a Goshawk. The Magpie was so
alarmed, that it remained perfectly still on the ground, heedless of the report
of the gun, and consequently met with the same fate as the Goshawk. I
feel sure this may be relied on, as the keeper gave me such an accurate description
of its plumage, etc. There was another Bird of the same kind in company
with the one shot, but it was never seen after. These were the only ones of
the kind he had ever seen in this part.

May not the bird, above referred to, prove to be the Peregrine? It would
be well if the fate of the specimen could be traced, so as to determine the
species with certainty. — B. B. M.

Ash-coloured Harrier, (Circus Montagui.)— Male and female shot 27th. May,
1850; near Alson, Hants. Male, seventeen inches from head to tail; three
feet four inches expanse of wing. Female, nineteen inches from head to tail;
three feet six inches expanse of wing.

<)7i an Otd. — Two of my friends were walking near Sharpham ' Lodge,
"^rotnes, Devonshire, a few years since, when one of them s^aw an C)wlet in the
hedge, which he captured. It immediately set up a loud, shrill cry, when he was
suddenly struck with great force, in the face by the female bird, attracted to
the place by the cries of its young one; and before he had time to recover
his surprise, the attack was repeated; and continued until he dropped the
young bird; and even then the female flew after him for a considerable
distance.

On the KifKjfislier, (Alcedo ispida.) — Rennie, in ^^Bird Architecture," page
28, says "Kingfishers are by no means numerous; there being probably as
many Bank Swallows in one colony, as Kingfishers in the empire." I have,
on a morning, frequently seen a dozen on the banks of the River Dart, in
Devonshire, whilst fishing, and along a mill leat, near Totnes, Devonshire,
about half-a-mile long. A friend writes me they are very plentiful also on
the banks, of the Kennet, in Wiltshire: they are also numerous in this
neighbourhood, (Kiveton Park;) frequenting mill-dams and the banks of the
Chesterfield canal. Several have been shot at a mill near Bcighton, about
four miles from this. I have often noticed, on coming suddenly on a
Kingfisher, that instead of flying off", he, by some means or other, manages
to conceal the more brilliant parts of his plumage, so as almost to escape
detection; and with his bill pointed upwards, remains perfectly motionless,
and can, with difficulty, be got to relinquish his position.

NOTES. 07

On the Jackdaw, (Corvus monedula.) — Rennie, page 41 , of the same work,
questions the assertion of Sonnini, that these birds prefer a church to nestle
in, to any other building. I can only say that I never saw them build
but in churches. In my native place, Totnes, Devonshire, there have been
great numbers of them, as long as I can remember, in the church tower. Bewick,
vol. i. page 76, says "They frequent churches, old towers, and ruins."

Hearing of Cuckoo, (Cuculus canorus.) — There are so many accounts im
record, authenticated by Jenner, White, Willughby, and others, of young
Cuckoos being fed and reared by Hedge Accentors, Titlarks, Wagtails, • etc.,
that T can scarcely look upon the fact recorded by Mr. McTntosh, in No. 1,
of "The Naturalist," as one of general occurrence. I have, myself, (in May
last,) seen a young Cuckoo, just able to fly, attended in its flight and fed by
a Hedge Accentor ; and it is a common thing for the female bird to hover
round the nest, where she has deposited her egg, as if to ensure its safety.
Although she does not hatch her young, it would be wrong to suppose her
void of all parental feeling for them ; and the case in point only proves that
she watches over her young with the same care as any other bird; for the
moment it was deserted by the Hedge Accentor, she was on tlie spot to
take its place, and provide nourishment for her offspring. Although this rare
occurrence must prove highly interesting to ornithologists, yet I am inclined
to think the frequent recurrence of it xarj doubtful.

Nests of House Pigeons. — Referring again to Rennie's assertion, in '4^ird
Architecture," page 118, that this bird "selects hay or straw instead of
twigs;" and page 119, "never uses twigs." On examination of several nests
of last year, in a pigeon cote, I found them all composed of straw and Jir
tvngs, the latter being very -numerous. To obtain these fir twigs, they must
fly to a plantation, several himdred yards from the hovise, whilst hay and
straw might have been obtained close to their cote.

On a Yellow-hammer, (Emberiza citrinella.) — A Yellow-hammer flew to some
friends of mine, who were walking near Todwick, Yorkshire, crying piteously,
much to their astonishment at first, but on looking upwards, they perceived a
fine Sparrow-Hawk hovering in the air. He —

"On his pinions lay,
Like a stooped falcon, ere he takes his prey."

And it was with great difficulty he was driven from his object.

Green Woodpecher, (Picus viridis.) — A very fine specimen shot near Thorpe,
by the gamekeeper; which I have, stuffed, in my possession, ^^'^hen brought
to me, the tongue protruded more than an inch and a half from its mouth.
There is a singular mechanism connected with its tongue, by which it is
enabled to dart it out to a great length in feeding.

The Pariridge, (Perdix cinerea.) — ^Last season there was a nest in the
whin-cover plantation in Kivcton Park. A dog once attacked the female

■68

MISCELLANKOUS NOTICES.

bird, as she sat in her nest with her young. She immediately left the nest
and limped away, as if wounded, to induce the dog to follow her; but as
soon as she found that he still pursued her young, she returned and defended
them so successfully, as quite to repel the dog.

Great, or Solitary Snipe, (Scolopax major.) — A fine specimen was shot
near Dover Castle, on Mr. Prescott's farm, measuring eighteen inches from
tip to tip.

Great Noiihern Diver, (Colymbus glacialis.) — "A specimen, shot at the mouth
of the Spey, was found to have in his pouch no fewer than nineteen flounders
and a salmon-trout." Illustrated London News.

Th-e Cormorant, (Phalacrocorax carbo.) — Mr. Plunkett, son of Lord Plunkett,
fired at one in the county of Mayo, on the wing, with a rifle; and having
shot it in the neck, the bullet cut in two a large eel, which the bird had
in its throat at the time.

Voracity of the Trout. — I have seen a Trout, four pounds weight, seize a
Water Eat. The fish was caught soon after, with the Eat inside.

On the Flounder, (Platessa flesus.) — Mr. Ecnnie, in a note to Izaac Walton,
says, ^'The taking of Flounders with a rod and line, is a thing so accidental,
that it is scarcely worth the mention." I have myself taken very many
with rod and line, baited with a worm; and have seen hundreds caught in
that way.

Artificial Flies. — Th^ere are numerous instances of birds taking the Artificial
Fly. A gentleman, who was fishing at Nethevthorpe, last summer, cauglit
a Swallow on each of his flies; and at every cast of the line he was
surrounded by numbers of them. A friend of mine once caught an Eel with
an Artificial Fly, as he was fishing in shallow water; and I know many
instances of Bats being caught in attempting to seize the fly.

Ivy-leaved Toadflax, (Linaria pilosa.) — Found a specimen, quite white, in
Worksop Manor gardens, in September I80O; similar, in every other respect^
to the pink, so common on old walls in many parts of the country.

Kivdon Park, RotJierham, April 11^^., 1851.

3ffistBliniiraD3 Mniim.

Hare and Eahbit. — In my private ^Naturalist,' I find the following note from
the ^^Perthshire Courier," for 1849; and shall feel obliged if any reader of
this Magazine can record a similar instance, or any knowledge of the same.
We have kept Hares and Eabbits in the same box together, but never knew
them to intermingle; nor can we altogether credit, (we may be wrong) what
follows: — "In 1849, a Hare was shot, apparently a cross between it and a

MISCELLANEOUS NOTICES. 69

Rabbit, the body paiiaJcing most of the Hare, and the head of the Babbit. The flesh
was also of a composite character. It has hitherto been supposed by naturalists
that these races do not intermingle. The specimen is stuffed, and may be
seen at Mr. Ancells." Mr. Bell, in his valuable "History of British Quad-
rupeds," page 350, says, "Every attempt to produce a breed between the
Rabbit and the Hare has hitherto ftiiled." — J. Mc Intosh, Charminster, March
Uih., 1851.

Bearing on the subject of this notice, we may remark that some little time
back, an animal was sent to Mr. D. Graham, of this city, which had very
much the appearance of what you would expect a hybrid bctweon the Hare
and Rabbit to exhibit. Its head and feet, particularly, were like those of
the Hare, while its general character was that of the Rabbit. We had only
opportunity for examining it stuffed, and cannot, therefore, speak as to the
nature of the flesh, or its osteological peculiarities. It was obtained on the
estate of G. Lloyd, Esq., Stockton Hall, near York, in whose possession it
now m.—B. B. M.

I should feel exceedingly obliged to any of your correspondents, who would
forthwith collect together and set forth the different authorities for or against
the admission of the following as British Birds: — Lanius horealis, (Greater
Northern Shrike;) — 3Iuscicapa albicollis, (White-necked Flycatcher j) — Loxia
leucoptera, (American White-winged Crossbill;) — Loxia astrild? — Salicaria
Inscinoides, (Eggs and nidifieation in England, etc.;) — Sylvia hippolais^
Temminck, (Melodious Willow Wren;) — Sylvia aiyhea, (Besides in Yorkshire,
Quaere;) — Anthus spinoldta; — Cettia altisonans, (Cetti Warbler;) — Alauda
rubra, (Red Lark;) — Emberiza vidua, (Red-billed Whidah Bird;) — Euplectcs
ignicolor, (Crimson Weaver Bird;) — Gracula relicjiosa, (Minor Grakle;) Pieus
villosus, (Hairy Woodpecker;) Picm rnedius, (Middle Spotted Woodpecker;)
— Apternus arcticus, (Northern Three-toed Woodpecker;) — Alcedo alcyon,
(Great Belted Kingfisher;) — A new Swallow, (See "Zoologist," page 1550;)
— Acanthylis caudacuta, (Australian Spine-tailed Swallow;) — Lagopus rupestrii
(Rock Grouse. Specific distinctions?) — Perdix Marylandica, (Virginian Colin-)
Otis M'Queenii, (or, Houbara;) Scolopax Brehmi, (Specific distinctions:) —
Cygnus atratus^ (Black Swan;) — Fuligula mariloides, (Vigors;) — Dendronessa
sponsa, (Summer or Tree Duok;) — Erismatura mersa, (White-headed Duck;)
— Phalacrocorax gractdus, (Black Cormorant;) — Sterna velox; — Larus Bossii^
(in Ireland, Qucere, as well as in Yorkshire;) — Pelecanus onocrotalus, (Pelican;)
— Psophia crepitans, (Trumpeter.) — F. 0. Morris, Nafferton Vicarage, Driffield ,
April 8th., 1851.

Occurrence of Bohemian Waxwing, (Bombycilla garrula, Penn.,) near North-
allerton.— Two very fine specimens of the Bohemian Waxwing, were shot
at Swainby, a small village, about twelve miles from Northallerton, on the
10th. of March, 1850. lliree birds were seen, but only two were obtained. —
F. B. Gibbes, NoHhalleHon, March 20th., 1851.

70 * PROCEEDINGS OF SOCIETIES.

The Purple Heron, (Ardea purpurea,) near Leeds. — I am informed by H.
Denny, Esq., of Leeds, that a fine male specimen of this bird was shot on
the 24th. of May last, in a field at Temple Thorpe, near Leeds, by Mr. Henry
Joy, the owner of the farm, who had observed it two or three times the same
day in difierent fields. Mr. Denny saw it the same afternoon. — B. R, M.,
York, March 27th., 1851.

Occurrence of the Gadwall, (iVnas strepera,) in Yorkshire. — Of this extremely
rare Duck, two very beautiful specimens were procured in the York market,
on March 10th., by Mr. D. Graham, and have been admirably mounted by
him. They were obtained from the Humber a day or two previously. The
Gadwall is one of our most elegant Ducks, and its very delicately-marked
plumage is most agreeable to the eye, as is, we believe, its flesh to the palate
of the gourmand. I regret that the sexes were not determined.— Idem.

pxmMwp nf InrntiEs.

Royal Fhy steal Society of Edinburgh, March, 1851. — The monthly meeting of this Society
took place on Wednesday, the 6th. instant, at 6, York Place, — Dii. Coldstream in the chair, —
when the following communications were read: —

I. Professor Goodsir exhibited a specimen and described the structure of a new compound
ascidia, allied to Diazona. This animal was discovered lust autumn i:i the Sound of Skye by
Professor Edward Forbes and the author, in the course of a dredging cruLse with Eobert
Macandi-ew, Esq., of Liverpool, and is the largest species of the group hitherto observed in the
Atlantic.

II. Mr. E. F. Logan read the Eeport of the Entomological Committee on the Order Lepidoptera,
for the year 1850, and prefaced his remarks by requesting the Society to allow anotlu^r season
for the compilation of the list of Scottish Lepidoptera, duruig which it might be made more
accurate and complete, and in every way more satisfactory, than if produced at present. There-
after 'he proceeded briefly to detail the results of the excursions and observations of the
Committee durmg the past season, which was one of the most favourable that the Lepidopterist
has experienced in this part of the kingdom for a series of years, there having been almost a
total absence of wmdy or long-continued wet weather, both of wliich are the most unfavourable
descriptions the entomologist can meet with. In the early spring Larentia multistrigaria was
abundant on Arthur's Seat, flying in numbers at night over the patches of gorse, among \vhi('h
one night a single specimen of Depressaria Ulicetella was also taken, which had, no doubt,
hybernated since the preceding autumn. As early as the middle of March, and just after a
slight fall of snow, which the sun's rays had dissolved, Elachista pulchella was observed skipping
about on the short turf among the rocks on Arthur's Seat, along with its mate, which looks like
a different species, but which is undoubtedly the male of the same, as they always occur
together, the specimens tjpical of Pulchella being all females, while the others are invariably
males. A few specimens of Depressaria Alstrcemeriana occurred about Duddingston, in April,
one of the most beautiful of this most interesting and natural genus, the indigenous species of
which have been nearly doubled within the last four or five years, by the industry and assiduity
of some of the English entomologists; and in the beginning of May, the minute Nepticula
gratiosella was not scarce in whitethorn hedges, flying actively round the twigs in the sunshine.
On the 31st. of May, Mr. Logan paid a visit to ^\Tiittingham, in East Lothian, and the same
evening, in company with Mr. Hepburn, found Emmelesia albularia and Phoxopteryx Lundana
in profusion in the haughs of the Wliittingham Water, among Petasites vulgaris, ^c, where
they also found a single specimen of the singular Elachista testaceclla, ( Lophonotus fasciculcllus,
St.,) and one of the new species of Eupitliecia which Mr. Doubleday has named Palustraria.
On the following day, June Ist., they visited Pressmenan Copse, and IJcuchray Dodwood, on

PROCEEDINGS OP SOCIETIES. 71

the side of the Lainmcrmoors, and on this fine old ground, found the beautiful Lithocolletis
Spinoklla not scarce in some dwarf Sallows, along with GraphoUta campolUiana, and one
specimen of Tinea bktrigolla. Phloaodes frutetana was abundant in the birches, and Tortrix
ministrana, Ephipiphora Scutulana, Neinatopogon Panzerella, Adela viridella, Sgc, ^c, occasional
among the underwood. In the following week a portion of the Committee went by rail to
Tranent, and walked thence to the village of Ormiston. On the way thither, they found
abuiidance of Aicophora quadn'punctella in the wild roses in the hedges, and in a small wood
at the east end of the village, noted besides for producing the beautiful plant called Solomon's
Seal, they found a great variety of interesting species. One of the most beautiful of these was
Tinea luzclla, discovered here some years ago by Mr. Howden, and not recorded as having been
found elsewliere in Scotland. It was some time before they found it, having gone to the wrong
comer of the wood, but in the meantime, in a spot carpeted with Ajuga rejJtans and other
plants, they found the little bronze-coloured Micropteryx Calthella and Adda Fihdella flying in
the sunshine, and presently one specimen, and then another, of the beautiful Luzella, which has
a very striking appearance when on the wing, the bright silver bars shewing distinctly on the
dark purple wings, in consequence of its slow, soft flight. As they proceeded eastward into the
more shady part of the wood, they found it more abundant, risuig from among a profusion of
the young foliage of (Egopodium podagraria and Spircea Uhnaria. They found several Tineidce
likewise on the trunks of the trees, and in the meadow beyond the wood, again met with the
active little Eupithecia palmtraria. Altogether, on this day, about twenty-five or twenty-six
species were taken. The next excursion was on the 15th. of June, to the moorland district near
Kirknewton, where Argyrolepia Baumanniana, Eupithecia Callunaria, and a number of other
species occurred, and Coccyx Hercyitiana was flying in s\^arms round the spruce firs in the
plantations.

Towards the end of June, the beautiful Pyrausta cingidalis, better recognised perhaps, by its
very appropriate English name of Silver-barred Sable, made its appearance on the Helianthemum
and Thyme-covered slopes of Arthur's Scat, along with Pempelia subornatella, which feeds on
Thymus Sopyllum, Scricoris Cespiitana, which feeds on the Dwarf Cistus and Gelechia Artemesiell ',
which, upon Arthur's Seat, has nothing whatever to do with Artcmcsia, but probably feeds on
Helianthemum, or some other low-growing plant. In the month of Jime, Dianthoecia conspersa
and Carpophaga had been taken by Mr. John Nelson, at Kirkland Hill, near the mouth of the
Tyne, East Lothian, both rare insects, and the latter probably new to Scotland.

On the 6th. of July, Toi-wood, in Stirlingshire, was explored, and though the day had been
very wet, shortly after it faired, Argyresthia covjngella appeared flying round the mountain-ash
trees, and Tinea hitarella. var. around the birches. Several specimens of Ornix Scoticiila
occurred, which feeds on the mountain-ash, though it was rather late to meet with it in
perfection. In addition to the foregoing species. Tinea bistrigella occurred again, — a single
specimen. Numbers of Elachista albifrontclla, Coleoj)hora albicosta in the gorse, and Elachista ■
festaliella near brambles. On the 19th. of July, in Glen Clova, Forfarshire, on the mountain
sides carpeted with Alchemilla alpina, and studded in the moister parts with Narthecium
osKifragum, Saxifraga aizoides, SteUaris, and the many other beauties of alpine and subalpine
flora; on large weather-beaten blocks which had descended from the hills, numerous specimens
of Aploccra ccesiaria, Emmelesia Ericetaria, and Coremia Munitaria were resting, flying oflT as
they were approached, frequently to a considerable distance. Botys fuscalis was here in abun-
dance; and in ascending to one of the carries three specimens of the rare Scoptda alpinalis
occurred. The want of sun, however, at the time, was veiy vnifavourable to the appearance of
many of the minute moths, which delight in his wann beams quite as much, apparently, as
the strictly diurnal butterflies, of which not one was seen.

In ascending Corstorpliine Hill one day in the beginning of August, a member of the Committee
found no less than four specimens of the rare Apdccta occulta, resting on the trunks of trees;
and about the same period, while on a visit to the Bass Eock, he found the chrysalis of a
Noctua, under a stone, above the cliff's, which subsequently produced the rare Hadena lutulenta,
an interesting addition to the ins(;cts of Scotland.

On August 10th., in a valley among the Lannnermoors, in East Lothian, Eupithecia Sobrinata
abounded among the juniper bushes, but it was found no easy matter to net a sufficiency of
specimens, from their extreme activity. In this valley a wasted specimen of Polyommatus
Artazcrxes also occurred, which was at one time imagined to be peculiar to Arthur's Seat; and

72 PROCEEDINGS OF SOCIETIES.

at the side of a field near Pressmenan, DicroramplM Petiverana was found in abundance, among
grass and Galium, along with the variety described by Curtis as a different insect, under the
name of Carpocapsa Stdliferana, which was nearly equally common with the typical variety.

In walking along the shore between Grangemouth and Bo'ness, a few days after this, on a
sandy knoll surrounded by salt marsh, near the Dundivan Ironworks, several specimens of
Gehchia instabilcUa were found, discovered some years ago by Mr. Douglas, of London, in similar
situations in the county of Essex,— smce found at the mouth of the Thames, and in Ii-eland,
and now recorded for the first time as Scotch. Subsequently to this, the Committee had several
other excursions, — one to Torwood, where they had their usual accompaniment of plenty of rain,
but found Argyrcsthia Spiniella Zel. in profusion ia the same mountain-ash trees in which they
had found Conjuydla in July. Spiniella was first placed on the British lists in 1849, when it
was discovered by Mr. Stainton, in Torwood, and exliibited at a subsequent meeting of the
Entomological Society of Loudon. During the month of September, numbers of Flutella Dahlia,
and seven specimens of the curious insect, ZeUeria ffisciajieimcUa, were found among heath on the
Pentland Hills, the only locality in which it has yet been found, and a number of larvae of
Achvrontia Atropos (Death's Head Moth,) were found in vaiious parts of the country during the
autumn, so that it appeared to have been proportionately abundant in Scotland, as in England
last season, which was undoubtedly one of its abundant years ; and Mr. Logan wished to direct
the attention of all vv'ho have the prospect of rearing the perfect insect during the ensuing
season, to endeavour to arrive at some more definite conclusion than has yet been attained,
respecting the manner of production of the singular noise which so remarkably distmguishes
the insect. Mr. Logan was highly complimented by Dr. Lowe, Mr. Murray, W. S., and the
other entomologists present, for his able Report, and on the very beautiful manner in which
the specimens were preserved.

III. The next paper was a notice of Silurian fossils, from Canada, by William Rhind, Esq.
The fossils were found chiefly in the basin of the River St. Lawrence, in the vicinity of Montreal
and Quebec. From the lower Silurian were exhibited very perfect specimens of Orthoccra
ludense and pyriforme, corresponding to similar species found in the British Silurian strata, as
figured by Murchison; also, Belkrophon bilobatus, several species of Tvrchratulce , Favositcs,
CyathopthyUum, and other radiata. Specimens of the upper Silurian limestones were also shewn,
and a portion of the limestone which forms the upper rock of Goat Island, Niagara Falls. These
vei-y interesting specimens, illustrative of the geology of the district of Lower Canada, were,
Mr. Rhind stated, collected and brought home by a former pupil, wlio thus contrived to fill up
the leisure of a military life, both profitably and agreeably, by following out the studies of
early youth. In describing the Umestones, Mr. Rhind also took occasion to state a circumstance
illustrative of the practical use of a knowledge of geology. In an extensive district in the north-
west of Pennsylvania, where the Old Red Sandstone entirely covers the surface, there was
experienced by the settlers a great want of limestone, the nearest supply of this article being
from Canada, whence there was a long and expensive land-carriage. It occurred to Mr. Rhind,
on looking in the geological maps of America, that in all probability the Niagara limestone
extended below the Old Red Sandstone into the district in question. He sent a sketch of the
probable position of the strata to a friend, as also small specimens of the limestone uiclosed in
a letter, with directions to make search in the deep ravines of the rivers, where the limestone
was likely to be seen cropping out from below the Red Sandstone. On such seai'ch being made,
abundance of limestone was found, and immediately applied to practical use.

IV, Dr. John A. Smith exhibited a specimen of the common locust, found greedily devouring
a cabbage in a cottager's garden at Longformacus, Berwicksliire, in October, 1849, and mentioned
the occurrence of another at Lauder, the same year. Mr. Hugh Miller stated that locusts had
been several times found, at least as far north as Ross and Cromarty. About five-aud-twenty
years ago, and again only a few years since, there were a few indi^-iduals picked up in the fields
and gardens of the latter place ; and he was told by one of the older inhabitants, now deceased,
who had served under Abercromby in 1801, that, late in the last century, — some time about
the year 1790, — ^he succeeded in catching a large grasshopper-like insect on a house-top in the
eastern part of the town, the character of which he was not entomologist enough at the time
to det(;nnine, but whose family and spe<:ie8 he afterwards recognised in the ncighboiuliood of tlie
Nile, in a locust exceedingly common in Egypt.

73

NOTES OF A BOTANICAL STROLL FROM

PLYMOUTH TO TAMERTON FOLIOTT, RETURNING

THROUGH ST. BUDEAUX.

On Wednesday, the 9th. of April, the morning being dry and fine, but
rather bleak, as an easterly wind blew, I was prompted to take a botanical
ramble— the first this season. I found the following plants in blo&som,
(the Daffodil, hereafter mentioned, was, it should be remarked, only sparingly
to be seen, its season having passed; and the orchis and hyacinth were just
unfolding their petals.) It must not be inferred that the various plants
observed grow only in the localities named. Whilst many of them are
restricted to one habitat; others are met with throughout the circuit described,
and others again only occasionally: —

At Mutley, that beautiful creeping plant, Linaria cymhalaria was adorning
old walls and hedges, at the base of which flourished the less conspicuous
Cardamine hirsuta; the large pods of this small plant are worthy of obser-
vation. From the recesses of the hedges also peeped out a floAver or two of
Geranium Rohertianum. The Ranunculus ficaria too displayed its golden
enamelled stars. Humbly on the gi'ound abode Leontodon Taraxacum; and
•'everywhere' Bellis perennis.

On Townsend Hill appeared Veronica hederacea, with its minute, but
delicately-pencilled blue corolla; Stellaria media; Thlaspi bursa-pastoris, with
its fairy money-purse; Senecio vulgaris; Cochlearia Danica, whitening the hedges;
Veronica polita — its small but bright blue petals cheerfully beaming; Cerastium
glom^ratum; Draba verna — ever a favourite, from its smallness and early
appearance.

We are now on the Tavistock road; and between the summit of Townsend
Hill and the village of Knackersknowle, I found Stellaria Holostea spreading
its delicate petals in abundance; GlecJioma hederacea, hiding in himible nooks,
but whose rich purple flowers are worth searching for; Viola canina (I cannot
forget to call this plant" by its old name, notwithstanding the great botanists
of the day say we have been all along in error, and that this plant is the
V. sylvatica of continental authors;) Potentilla fragariastrum ; Veronica chamcedris,
one of our commonest, but certainly most handsome hedge flowers; Adoxa
moschateUina — a lovely little plant, one of the most graceful that our hedges
produce, and as plentiful this year as I have ever seen it; Sisymbrium
thalianum; Lychnis dioica; Viola odorata — this is indubitably the gem of the
season, from the delicious odour which it exhales, perfuming the air for some
distance around its dwelling; Mercurialis perennis; Lamium album, conspicuous
among the true nettles with which it is frequently associated; Primida vulgaris
— these I found excessively numerous, and of very large size; Fragaria vesca;
Arenaria trinervia — an unpretending but elegant little flower; Pulmonaria
officinalis — interesting from the peculiar maculation of its leaves^, which give them

VOL. I. , L

74 YEW pnuiT.

the appearance of being partially decayed — Lungwort Toeing its English name,
from its attributed virtue in pulmonary complaints j Vinca minor; Saxifmga
umbrosa (this and the two previously-named plants grow in a spot which is
of such a character as to throw doubt on the indigenous origin of its
occupants;) Gratcegus Oxyacantha.

Arrived at Knackersknowle, we cross some fields, in which I saw Luzula
campestris ; and, on the brink of the Plymouth Leat, Oxalis acefosella. What
can be more simple, chaste, and beautiful, than this last-named plant ! On
contemplating it, one may well treat with slight the prouder flowers of the
garden, and exclaim with the poet —

"Ye wildings of nature, I dote upon you."
I afterwards saw the Wood Sorrel in great quantity in a thicket farther on.

Again entering the road, I find between these fields and Tamerton,
Stachys arvensis (rather stunted, it being very early for this plant;) Plant ago
lanceolata; Veronica serpyJlifolia ; Luzula pilosa; Veronica Buxhaumii. I do
not remember being ever more forcibly struck with the beauty of a flower, than I
was on the occasion of meeting with this plant: it grew in a hedge, having
a southern aspect; and with the sunshine falling full upon it, it presented a
most lovely appearance; and to add to the effect, close at hand were furze bushes,
(Ulex Europoeus,) laden with their blossoms of 'vegetable gold,' and the White
Thorn decked with its snow-white bloom. Tussilago Farfara — this is one of
our vegetable curiosities, producing flowers before the leaves appear, Agmpliis
nutans; Nasturtium officinale.

Returning, I found between Tamerton and St. Budeaux, Chrysosplenium
oppodtifolium — a charming plant, appropriately called the Golden Saxifrage;
for, with its clustered flowers, it imparts a lively golden tint to the dark and
retired spots in which it is usually found. Orchis mascula; Viola hirta;
Litzula Forsteri; Narcissus Pseudo-narsissus; Euphorbia aniygdaloides.

Between St. Budeaux and Weston Mills, I found nothing unseen before.
Hereabouts 1 saw Geranium luciduni, which is the last plant on my list of
about fifty, noticed during a walk of four or five hours.

The foregoing sketch is written currente calarno, and amid the interruptions
of business: its faults and deficiencies must, therefore, be excused. If I shall
sueqeed in awakening some, however few, to an appreciation of our too much
neglected wild flowers, and in inducing only one to take up the study of
botany, which is too generally, and indeed erroneously, regarded as difficult
and dry; I shall not have scribbled in vain.

Isaiah W. N. Keys.

9, Bilbury St., Plymouth, April 10th., 1851.

YEW FRUIT, (TAXUS :B AGE ATA.)

It is surprising that there are so many different opinions as to the poisonous
or nc»n-poisono;vs properties of the fiaiit of the Common and Irish Yew trees;

OBSERVATIONS ON FI.OKAL CHANGES. lO

Sir J. E. Smith, in his "English Flora/' long ago pointed out that these
berries might be eaten without danger; yet we find many of our scientific
botanists of a different opinion. Now, on this subject, we can only say, that
we are particularly fond of them, and have frequently (and no doubt many
others have done the same thing,) swallowed the stones or seeds, without expe-
riencing the slightest ill effects; and from repeated observations, we can assert
that Blackbirds and ThrusJies, and also the Redbreast, eat them greedily. As
these are points on which some of our would be 'knowing ones' are at
variance, I hope they may stumble over these few lines, and record their
observations in the pages of "The Natm*alist."

J. Mc'Intosh.
Cha7ininster, Dorset.

We can confirm the above statement of the innocuous properties of the
Yew fruit, having in our school-boy days eaten the berries with impunity,
and seen many others do the same. The leaves of the Yew, are, we have
always understood, poisonous to cattle. — B. B. M.

OBSERVATIONS ON THE
FLORAL CHANGES OF THE PRESENT DAY.

BY GEOROE LAWSON, ESQ., F. R. P. S., F. B. S. E.
Read before the Geologioal Society of Edinbm-gh, April 17th., 18-51.

The intimate relation which Geology bears to the sciences of Zoology and
Botany, does not, I presume, require to be urged upon the members of this
Society, although on the present occasion I venture to refer to that connection,
by way of apology, for occupying the attention of a body engaged in a field
of research, which I, as yet, only feel a desire to enter.

It is the peculiar province of Geology to investigate the past history of our
globe, and the changes which have influenced its animal and ^vegetable
inhabitants; but the geologist finds it useful for the elucidation of the earth's
former history, to refer to changes at present going on around us, and
thus intimately connects the past with the present, and exhibits a harmony
of action in the operations of nature, which leads to correct views in the
explanation of otherwise unaccountable facts and phenomena. It will, therefore,.
I think, not be altogether out of place to draw your attention shortly to a
subject, which, although I can only venture to bring it before you in its
botanical bearings, has some geological relations, which I trust may be brought
into notice by some of our members. Geology and Botany have mutually
benefited each other, and I would fain hope that the former would help the
Floral science out of this difficulty.

The geologist is well aware of the numerous important and remote changes
which have taken place in the Flora of the globe; and although the obser-
vations I have to make, relate to the British Flora alone, I need not refer
particularly to the remarkable changes which that Flora has suffered frouk

76 OBSERVATIONS ON FLORAL CHANGES.

time to time, previous to the period of our island being inhabited, and becoming
subject to the modifying influences of civilization; as these changes are
sufficiently familiar to the geologist, and have likewise been traced by those
botanists, who have given the subject their attention in the peculiar character
which the present existing vegetation presents. Nor need I refer to the
various ingenious theories which have been advanced, in connection with this
department of the subject, to account for the manner in which the population
of our island with its present Flora has been eifected, as my remarks have
reference solely to changes of a difiPerent character.

In the early condition of our island, when the wild flowers and plants
enjoyed the shade and shelter of widely-spreading forests, and before the soil
was marked by spade or plough, or otherwise interfered with by civilized man,
the Flora of Britain must have been very different from what it is in the
present time of universal cultivation. It may be considered to have then been in
its most pure and natural condition, unaffected and unchanged by the commerce
and operations of mankind. When cultivation began, however, and was grad-
ually extended, and the nature of the soil changed, then, in like proportion,
would the character of the Flora change. Many of the aboriginal inhabitants
of our primeval forests would decrease in numbers, and some of the rarer
species that were confined to a small area, might be exterminated altogether.
In place of these, other plants to which the changed conditions of the soil
and climate were suitable, would spring up from the seeds carried there by
mankind and other causes; and thus would arise an important change in our
country's Flora, a change, moreover, which we are inclined to believe bears
more of the character of a natural one, than botanists generally feel called
upon to allow. Many of the weeds of cultivated ground, and other Agrarian
plants, are universally acknowledged in botanical books as true natives; yet
there are few, if there indeed be any, of them, but have had their
origin as British plants in the manner we have indicated. In its primeval
condition, the "land of brown heath and shaggy wood" must have been ill
fitted indeed for the growth of such plants as the bright blue Centaurea
cyanus and the golden Sinapis, which are now universal ornaments of our
corn fields; notwithstanding which, even at the present time, when their
seeds are everywhere distributed, these plants are never seen except on culti-
vated land.

However, on taking up any one of the numerous F'loras of Great Britain
and Ireland, which have been written, or the "Ci/bde Britannica" of Mr. Watson,
(where it is more clearly shewn,) we find in the enumeration of indigenous
plants a certain number of ^starred' and ^daggered' species, whose admission
into the lists is only tolerated by way of favour — species which are on all
hands condemned as intruders — having no natural I'ight to a place in our lists
of native productions, and which are, consequently, not admitted in the botanists'
considerations — are in fact deemed imworthy of science. The number of such
plants differs according to the enumerations of different botanists; but.

OBSERVATIONS ON FLORAL CHANGES. 77

beginning with the earliest records of the British Flora, and tracing its history
up to the present time, we find that there has been a gradual and steady increase
in the number of such interlopers. At the present time a very considerable
portion of our Flora consists of such plants — species which are supposed to
have originally belonged to distant countries, but which the commerce and
agricultural operations of mankind have been the means of introducing to
Britain, and thus extending, in some cases in a very remarkable manner, their
geographical range. Some of these plants, such as Mimidus luteus, for instance,
are clearly known to have been directly introduced to this country by the
hand of man, although now perfectly naturalized with us; while a considerable
number cannot be so distinctly shewn to owe their introduction to mankind.
The Anacharis Alsinastnim, a plant which has been discovered of late years
in this country, belongs to the latter class; and although the great abundance
in which it was found in many widely-separated localities, led botanists at first
to accord to it an undisputed place in the British Flora, yet the more we
learn of this interesting aquatic, the more probable does it seem to be an
exotic importation.

It is sufficiently ungrateful for the generality of the botanists of the present
day to discard, in the manner they do, all plants which have recently appeared
in our land under such suspicious circumstances, as well as a number of others,
which in the earlier days of our science, were implicitly regarded by the
unsuspecting recorders of our Flora as indigenous productions. It is diflicult
to say how far botanists are right in so doing; for my own part, I do
not readily accede to this strong disposition to regard many of our most
beautiful native flowers as aliens — a disposition by no means evinced in the
same degree by the botanists of any other age or country. Bromfield, in
speaking on this subject, has some very judicious remarks: — "\ do not," he
S£iys, "on the perusal of the writers of Continental Floras, (an extensive
collection of which, old and new, I am much in the habit of consulting,)
find the same disposition to doubt the origin of species, which seems so
peculiarly to characterize the botanists of this country, that they must needs
have recourse to the hypothetical agency of birds, monachism, garden escapes,
and other problematical and unproved operative causes, to account for the
dissemination of half the plants of our country, whose flowers are a little more
specious in appearance than ordinary, without considering that Nature, in her
beneficence, has not left the most hyperborean regions, or the most sterile
wastes, unadorned by some rare and lovely floral productions, to gladden the
general desolation; while she scatters with a yet more unsparing hand her
richest gems over temperate and fertile countries. Cast a glance over the
inhospitable and frigid Siberia, or the Altaic chain of mountains, and the
vast plains at their feet, where the mean temperature of the interior of the
earth's crust is but little above the freezing point the year through, yet what
an array of even southern types of vegetation does the short and not very
warm summer, of some five months duration at most, unfold to the botanical

78 OBSEnVATIONS ON FLOUAL CHANGES.

traveller, in the various species of Zygoj)Jiyllaceai, Butaccoe, AraarylUJacece,
Liliacece, Tamaricacecs, and even of arborescent Leguminosce in Halodendron,
Caragana, etc. — a proof that Nature is not easily repressed in her efforts to
decorate this world of ours with all that is fair and lovely, even where climate
is most opposed to her benign endeavours! And shall not our happy island
of Great Britain possess some floral beauties truly her own, when the same
have been so lavishly bestowed on rude Siberia's ice-bound hills and deserts?
May not the lime and beech clothe our slopes as well as those of France and
Germany; our woods be carpeted with Periwinkle and ^Violets dim,' festooned
with the wild Hop-vine, or made radiant with spring Daffodils, as well as those
of our neighbours across the Channel,- without having our faith in the rightful
possession of these gifts of Flora shaken or pvit to flight by eternally hearing
from the lips of some botanical infidel or other the ungracious exclamation —
*Vix ea nostra voco?'"

Taking a somewhat different view of the subject from that adopted by
Dr. Bromfield, we are free to allow that most of the plants stigmatized by
botanists in these days as aliens, are in reality introductions from other lands,
which, finding suitable soil and climate, have taken up their abode in our
island. But why regard them as unworthy of the attention of the British
botanist? This is a question which has not, as yet, been answered to our
satisfaction; and we are entitled to hold our opinions on the subject until a
satisfactory reply is offered.

If Botany is still to continue the investigation of the recent, and not
entirely of the Fossil Flora, then we are not entitled to place limits to the
Floras of certain countries and districts, and blind ourselves to the changes
which they are undergoing before our very eyes. It has been clearly shewn that
the vegetation of Britain has at one time or other, been entirely derived from
continental Europe,^ introduced, it may be, at a remote period. The British
Isles cannot, therefore, as has been remarked, be considered as a centre of
vegetation; and seeing that our British Flora is entirely made up of stragglers
from other lands, I cannot imagine how a difference of period in the intro-
duction of a species should affect the validity of that introduction; how the
mere circumstance of precedence in point of time should give, to certain plants,
a right to be considered the indigenous productions of the land, to the
exclusion of others which have arrived upon our shores in a somewhat similar
manner, as colonists at a later period. The circumstance that our knowledge
of the introduction of the former is arrived at by means of theoretical
reasoning; of the latter, by the direct evidences of our own senses, ought not
to lead us to such a conclusion.

Let us see how far the changes at present going on in our Flora, are
analogous to those of earlier date, which are considered by the botanists of
the present day, to be the only legitimate changes which we ought to discern.

* One exception occurs in the case of Unoeaulon septangulare, whicli is not laiown on the
European continent; but this is no evidence tliat it never existed there.

OBSERVATIONS ON FLORAL CHANGES.

79

In taking even a cursory survey of the vegetation of the globe, no one
can fail to discern many of the grand purposes for which the all-wise Creator
has adorned the earth with so rich a profusion of plants, varying in form and
habits to suit all the circumstances of soil and climate which occur in the
natural course of things. One of these purposes we often see beautifully
exemplified in the manner in which an island or tract of country suffering
change in circumstances affecting vegetable life, becomes speedily inhabited by
races of plants suited to the new conditions. An island rises from the bosom
of the waters: how soon does it exchange its clothing of sea-weeds for one of
green herbage and flowers! a mountain side loses its dense forest; how soon
do the hardy mountain plants occupy the places of those which luxuriated in
the nursing shade and shelter of the forest boughs! a barren sandy desert is
overflown by springs; how soon is their fertilizing influence indicated by a
rich growth of luxuriant vegetation, exhibiting forms which were wholly absent
before!

Without referring to the results of geological research, we can readily trace
constant changes of a truly natural character going on in every land, resulting
from the modifying influences of soil, climate, physical character, and other
circumstances. The animal creation has likewise powerful influences on the
vegetation of a country; and we can easily see some of these influences without
referring to such notions as those which regard the feathered tribes as guided
by instinct, to propagate particular plants which afford them food. In a
country like ours, universally cultivated, and bearing every characteristic of a
high degree of civilization, the floral changes resulting from the operations of
man strike us as infinitely greater than those caused by the lower animals,
whose influences, moreover, are in such a case greatly weakened; and hence,
undoubtedly, arises the disposition to regard changes brought about by man's
presence, as really distinct in character from those arising from other operative
natural causes. We cannot, however, see upon what principle man's physical
influences can be held to be at variance with the order of nature — as if,
forsooth, he were an intruder upon this earth of ours, holding no title to play
his important part in physical changes, which are even participated in, and
influenced by, the most minute and simple organisms which the microscope
has made known to us.

Sir Charles LycU, in his "Principles of Geology," offers some excellent
observations in point, in reference to the animal kingdom, which apply with
equal force to the case of vegetables. ,He says, ^'The modifications in the
system of which man is the instrument, do not, in all probability, constitute
so great a deviation from analogy as we usually imagine; we often, for example,
form an exaggerated estimate of the extent of the power displayed by man
in extirpating some of the inferior animals, and causing others to multiply;
a power which is circumscribed within certain limits, and which, in all like-
lihood, is by no means exclusively exerted by our species. The growth of
human population cannot take place without diminishing the numbers, or

80 OBSERVATIONS ON FLORAL CHANGES.

causing the entire destruction of many animals. The larger carnivorous species
give way before us, but other quadrupeds of smaller size, and innumerable
birds, insects, and plants, which are inimical to our interests, increase in spite
of us, some attacking our food, others our raiment and persons, and others
interfering with our agricultural and horticultural labours. We force the ox
and the horse to labour for our advantage, and we deprive the bee of his
store; but, on the other hand, we raise the rich harvest with the sweat of
our brow, and behold it devoured by myriads of insects, and we are often as
incapable of arresting their depredations, as of staying the shock of an earth-
quake, or the course of a stream of burning lava. The changes caused by
other species, as they gi'adually diffuse themselves over the globe, are inferior
probably, in magnitude, but are yet extremely analogous to those which we
occasion. The lion, for example, and the migratory locust, 'must necessarily,
when they first made their way into districts now occupied by them, have
committed immense havoc amongst the animals and plants which became their
prey. They may have caused many species to diminish, perhaps wholly to
disappear; but they must also have enabled some others greatly to augment
in number, by removing the natural enemies by which they had been previously
kept down. It is probable from these and many other considerations, that as
we enlarge our knowledge of the system, we shall become more and more
convinced, that the alterations caused by the interference of man, deviate far
less from the analogy of those effected by other animals than we usually
suppose. We are often misled, when we institute such comparisons, by our
knowledge of the wide distinction between the instincts of animals, and the
reasoning power of man; and we are apt hastily to infer, that the effects of
a rational and an irrational species, considered merely as physical arjents, will
differ almost as much as the faculties by which their actions are directed.
A great philosopher has observed, that we can only command nature by
obeying her laws, and this principle is true, even in regard to the astonishing
changes which are superinduced in the qualities of certain animals and plants,
by domestication and garden culture. We can only effect such surprising
alterations by assisting the development of certain instincts, or by availing
ourselves of that mysterious law of their organization, by which individual
peculiarities, are transmissible from one generation to another." The dis-
tinctness, however, of the human from all other species, considered merely
as an efficient cause in the physical world, is real, for we stand in a
relation to contemporary species of animals and plants, widely different from
that which irrational animals can ever be supposed to have held to each
other. We modify their instincts, relative numbers, and geographical distri-
bution in a manner superior in degree, and, in some respects, very different in
kind from that in which any other species can affect the rest."

Mr. Landsborough, in his delightful treatise on sea-weeds, puts forth an
apology for naturalized plants; in treating of the two species of Sargassum,
he suys, "they have no just claim to take rank in our British Flora. But

OBSERVATIONS ON FLORAL CHANGES. 81

though they come to us like shipwrecked marinei-s of another country, who
could feel in his heart to cast them out? If we lay hold of them, it is not
to treat them roughly, as intrusive aliens, but to give them a kindly welcome
as interesting strangers. We treat them in the same manner as our ornitho-
logists treat a rare and beautiful straggler, which in some of its long migratory
flights, has been driven by stress of weather, to make our isle a temporary
resting-place." Although strongly inclined to subscribe to this generous apology
on behalf of Sargassum, we certainly do not adopt such a view in regard to
the land plants more especially under consideration, for while the Sargassum
is only floated to our shores by accidental circumstances, the land plants
have in reality taken up their abode with us, and are permanently naturalized.

It is not in Britain alone, that the influences of the human family in
modifying the character of vegetation are observable. History traces the
introduction to the Indian Peninsula, and indeed to many of the British
colonies, of many plants which cannot be considered true natives, although now ,
abundantly diffused, and ministering to the wants of mankind. The Creator
has assigned to every species certain powers of diff"usion, whereb}^ it is enabled
to resist the climatic conditions of the lands which it is destined to adorn,
with its beauty; and to whose animal inhabitants it affords a suitable food.

We find nothing superfluoas in nature, and we cannot well conceive, how
to certain plants, more than others, has been given the capability of enduring
great extremes of heat and cold, drought and humidity, if we are not io
suppose that such plants were originally intended to become diffused throughout
the world, to a corresponding extent. The ingenuity of man often carries the
fruits and flowers of the tropics to inhospitable regions, and by imitating the
natural conditions under which they flourish in their native localities, is enabled
to develop them successfully, and to reap the benefits of his industry; but no.
sooner does his nursing hand leave them, than they disappear. Not so with
the plants to which we have called attention. They may, in many cases,.
have been originally introduced, through the instrumentality of mankind, to
a country or district, (and we know many that have been,) but once intro-
duced, and finding the climatic and physical conditions which are favourable
for their growth, they have taken firm hold of the soil; and not only do
not depend upon man's aid, for their continued existence in their new habitats,
but, in numerous instances, bid defiance to his strenuous efforts to extirpate
them.

I may, on some future occasion, trouble the Society with a continuation of
my remarks on this subject, and shall then exhibit a series of specimens in
illustration.

VOL. 1.

82

NOTES ON THE LEPIDOPTERA OF
THE WEST OF SCOTLAND AND FIFESHIRE.

BY JOHN GRAY, ESQ.

As a field of interesting research, Scotland undoubtedly possesses many
enticing features for the naturalist. The diversified natui'e of the country, with
its rocky heights, sequestei-ed glens, and moorland districts, in common with
its shores and fertile friths, presents an appearance of no common interest,
and oifers abundant scope for the labours and investigations of geologist,
botanist, and zoologist, alike. Perhaps no part of the country excels the West
of Scotland, in this respect, which, with the fertile shores and islands of the
Frith of Clyde, has been long known to all classes of naturalists, for the
richness and beauty of its marine, and other pi'oductions; adding, as it has
done, many rarities to our lists of native feuna. Its entomological features
alone, in common with those of Scotland genei'ally, do not seem to have
hitherto* engaged much attention on the part of writers on that subject;
possessing, though it does, many species which have been generally represented
as occurring in more southern districts.

This partiality in recording English localities may be, in part, attributed to
the much greater abundance of insect life in the balmier south ; this indeed appears
to be sufficiently obvious in many instances of rare Scottish species, that occur
in considerable plenty throughout many of the English districts. Sometimes,
however, the reverse is the case; though, even then, it is not uncommon to
find their northern distribution entirely omitted, or, quietly described as 'widely
dispersed.'

Another reason seems to be that apparent apathy, perhaps not unmingled
with petty jealousy, on the part of Scottish entomologists towards the working
out of a general catalogue of northern species, which has called forth
upon them such a curiously presumptive statement, from the pen of a recent
writer on the subject — an unconcern which they evince in not making their
captures more generally known, in a connected form, by recording "them in
the pages of a journal, the conductor of which seems to consider an 'enter-
prising Enghshman' as the best qualified party for investigating the natural
history of Scotland.

It must be borne in mind, too. that this department of natural history,
perhaps more than any other, abounds in mere collectors — those whose sole
delight appears to consist in the acquisition of beautiful objects, whilst their
economy and habits seem to present to them but slight grounds of interest.

With a view, then, to illustrate, in however partial a manner, the
entomological features of Scotland, we have been induced to put together the
following notes on the Western and Fifeshire Lepidoptera; in the hope that
it may tend towards a more ' accurate knowledge of Scottish productions, and
pi-event species which have be(!n taken elsewhere long before, from being styled
'new to Scotland,' in the proceedings of local societies, by those members who

NOTES ON LEPIDOPTERA. 83

have only noticed them in their own districts; and, if possible, to reduce to
a more equitable level that undue importance so often attached to English
localities, to which we have just alluded.

Our original intention was to have illustrated, in this paper, the geographical
distribution of Scottish liopidoptera, and we had already got together considerable
materials for that purpose; but finding that several of the highland and northern
counties could hardly be represented at all, we perceived that such an attempt
could not fail to prove very unsatisfactory; and as we have since learned that
Mr. Logan, of Duddingstone, is at pi-esent engaged on a list of the species of
some of the eastern counties of Scotland, we have thought it better for the
present, without abandoning the hope of embi'acing some future opportunity of
following out our original design, to confine our remarks to the species of the
before-mentioned districts, trusting that they may be found useful in forming
a more complete catalogue of Northern Lepidoptera, than might otherAvise
have been obtained.

We have to express our obligations to the kindness of various collectors,
for several notices of interesting captures; particularly to our friend, Mr. R. Gray,
late of Dunbar, from whom we have received every assistance.

With one or two exceptions, the Diurna of this district are all comparatively
common and well-known species. Without further noticing the everywhere
common species of Pontia, we may observe that the pale variety of P. rapoe,
called by Stephens, P. metra, occurs not uncommonly in Lanarkshire, in the
beginning of May.

The lovely Orange-tip, Aniliochans cardamines , occurs in considerable abun-
dance in glens and woody places, throughout the Avhole district, during the
same month.

Argynnis aglaia and Euphrosyne appear to be generally distributed during
the summer months, in heathy places near Glasgow, on both sides of the
Frith of Clyde, and in Fife. A. selene also occurs, biit much more sparingly.

3felitoea artemis occurs a few miles from Glasgow; it appears to be very
local, as we have not heard of its .occurrence elsewhere in this district. This
species is one of the most interesting, having been noticed^ we believe, for the
first time in Scotland, in this locality, many years ago.

3Iel'd(jea cinxia, the Glanville Fritillary: this is another very interesting
Scottish Butterfly, apparently rare, as the only locality with which we are
acquainted, in which it occm-s, is in the vicinity of P"'alkland, Fifeshire. It
is somewhat irregular in its appearance, occurring in some seasons, sparingly,
and in others, it is never met with.

Vanessa cardui and Atalanta are not uncommon in many places in Ayr,
Dumbarton, Argyle, and Fife; the latter sometimes appearing near Lanark,
as early as the end of June, or beginning of July.

Hipparchia semele, Megoera, Janira, Hyperanthus, Davus, and Pamphilus,
are common in many localities: H. blandina has not been observed in any
other spot in this district, out of its well-known locality in the island of Arran^

84 NOTES ON LEPIDOPTEUA.

where it is taken in great profusion in the month of August^ near Brodick.
H. jE(jena is of rather local habits, preferring open woody places.

The.cla ruhi is plentiful near Greenock, Arran, and other places in the
vicinity of the Frith of Clyde, also in Fifeshirej flying low and often settling
on -the flowers of Senecio vulgaris.

Polyommatus alsus occurs in many parts of Ayr, Dumbarton, and Fife.
P. Artaxerxes is also abundant in several parts of Fifeshire.

Thyniele alveolus and Tages seem to be generally distributed in heathy places.

Of the Sphinges, by far the most abundant is Smerinthus popidi, occurring
very commonly in the larva state, wherever its appropriate food is found.

AcJierontia atropos appears to be dispersed very generally over all this district j
scarcely a season passing in which we do not hear of its capture; it has
recently been taken at Greenock, and in the vicinity of Ayr,

Sphinx liyustri: a single specimen of this insect was taken about five years
aco, near Glasgow, but was much spoiled in the capturing, before we had an
opportunity of seeing it.

Sphinx convolvuli: this species has been taken in Renfrewshire; but not
common.

DeilephUa porcellus occurs sparingly on the coast near Ayr; taken generally
in the caterpillar state feeding on the Galium verum. It is also found rather
plentifully in Fife.

Deilephila lineata: a single specimen of this rare insect was taken within
a mile of Glasgow, four or five years ago.

Zijgcoia Jlh'pcndulce is not uncommon near Ayr, and in the Isle of Cumbray,
Frith of Clyde. Z. loti is also found, but much more sparingly.
. Sesia apiformis occurs rarely near Glasgow, and, with Trochilium
tipuliforme, which is common enough in gardens, is the only species of
clear-wing that has come under our notice "in this district.

All the native species of Hepialus are indigenous to the West of Scotland.
With the exception, perhaps, of the common H. humuli, they appear to be
all more or less local in their habits, occurring, as we have frequently observed,
in certain isolated spots in the greatest profusion, while • hardly a solitary
specimen could be seen for miles round. This characteristic feature of the
genus we have observed more obviously in the habits of H. sylvinus. In the
month of September, we have taken this species in a retired dell, a few miles
from I^anark, in extreme abundance; the males darting about with great
rapidity, and the females vibrating their wings, and crawling up the long stalks
of grass, or concealing themselves behind the leaves of low-growing plants;
while we have met with it nowhere else in this district. H. lupuUnus and
Rectus occur in various spots near Glasgow, and elsewhere; though they can hardly
be called common. H. velleda, in its distribution, partakes much of the same
local character, though its localities are so much more numerous, as to make
it, with hardly the exception of //. humuli, by far the most abundant species
of the genua in Lanarkshire. Some of the varieties of this insect are very

NOTES ON LEPIDOPTERA. ' 85

beautiful; occurring in all the intermediate markings, from dark and boldly
mottled to those of a nearly uniform red colour, figured by Wood, in his
^'Index Entoraologicus," under the name of H. carnus. In many other counties,
however, this species does not appear in the same abundance; and in Fife, we
are not aware of its occurrence.

Euchelia Jacohwm is common in the neighbourhood of Falkland, in Fife, and
other places in the same county, flying, in the day-time, over white-thorn hedges.

TAtliosia rubricollis occurs not uiifrequently near Inverary, and in Fifeshire.

Nudaria munJ/ina is taken in many places, near marshy spots on the Frith
of Clyde.

Eidhemonia riissula is by no means common, but- occurs on heaths in the
island of Mull, and near Dunoon, on the Frith of Clyde.

N^emeopliila plantagmis is by no means rare in woody places, in the vicinity
of heaths, etc., throughout all this district — frequently seen on the wing during
the day.

Phragmatohia fidigimsa is also generally distributed throughout the West of
Scotland and Fifeshire.

Demos coryli is common near Falkland, in Fife; it also occurs in the
neighbourhood of Glasgow.

Eriogaster lanestris occurs in various places on the Frith of Clyde.

Poecilocampa popuU occurs near Ayr, but is rather scarce.

Lasiocampa rubi and quercus are both very abundant in the larva state
on heaths throughout the whole district.

Odoiiestis potatoria occurs near Ayr, and at Dunoon, but apparently not
plentiful.

The following species of Notodonta are generally distributed throughout
Lanark and Renfrew: — N. zic-zac, Dromedarim, Dictcea, and Camelina. Of
these four, the last is the only one which may be termed common, being
equally so in Fife. It flies low, and with great rapidity, much like the flight
of Hepialus velleda; indeed we have often taken it in company with that
species in the neighbourhood of Glasgow.

Saturnia Pavonia minor is very abundant in the larva state, on all heaths of
any extent in this district; it is likewise frequently met with on the wing during
the heat of the day, flying very rapidly, and not easily caught; sometimes,
however, approaching the ground, fluttering and whirring along with a curious
gyrating motion. A remarkable variety of this beautiful moth is in our pos-
session, reared last season from the caterpillar, in which the characteristic
features of the two sexes are so commingled, as to make it a matter of some
difiiculty whether to pronounce it male or female. The form, size, and markings
of the wings are those of a male, the colour is partly that of both sexes, the
body and abdomen are small, and the aintennge simple.

Cerura vinula is common at Carmichiel, and elsewhere throughout the district,
G. furcvZa is also met with in Lanark, Renfrew, and Fife, but much more
sparingly.

86 LIST OF SUMMEK BIRDS OF PASSAGE.

Pygoera bucephala is not unfrequeut in many places, the caterpillar sometimes
appearing in incredible profusion.

37, Monteith Bow, Glasgow , April 2iiid., 18ul.

(To be Continued.)

LIST OF THE SUMMER BIRDS OF PASSAGE,

ARRANGED IN THE ORDER THEY USUALLY APPEAR IN,

THE LOCALITY OF PLYMOUTH, DEVON.

BY R. A. JULIAN^, ESQ., JUN.

. Chiff Gliaff, (Sylvia hippolais,) 8dhy. — Very common. Arrived in the year

1848, on March 23rd.; and in 1849, on March 18th. On their first arrival
they much frequent sallow bushes.

Sand Martin, (Hirundo riparia,) hinn. — Common. Arrived in 1849, on
March 24th. They breed in small parties, in the banks of the River Erme,
below Ermington; on the Meavy, near Roborough down; and Borough island,
at the mouth of the Yealm.

Wheatear, (Saxicola oenanthe.) — Common. iVrrived in 1849, on March
24th. These birds are plentiful on Dartmoor, Shaughmoor, at Pyles on
Harfordmoor, and on the sea coast.

Chimney Swallow, (Hirundo rustica,) Linn. — ^Very common. Arrived in

1849, on April 8th.; on the following days the weather becoming very rough,
I did not observe any again until April 18th.

Willow Wren, (Sylvia trochilus,) Selhy. — Very common. Arrived in 1848,
on April 5th.; and in 1849, on April 9th.

Blac]cca.p, (Curruca atricapilla.) — Arrived in 184-9, on April 9th. Out
of the throat of one I once took two large ivyberries, which it had just
swallowed.

Bing Ouzel, (Turdus torquatus,) Linn. — Not uncommon on Dartmoor,
Trowlsworthy rabbit-warren, Shaughmoor, and Pyles, on Harfordmoor. Arrived
in 1849, on April 9th, and on the following day I procured five specimens.
They sing much on their arrival, somewhat similar to a Missel Thrush, and
their alarm note diflFers from that of the Blackbird, by being more shai"p and
shrill. The nest is usually placed in a bank near a stream, or on a "ledge of
rock in a tor; it is composed of pieces of dead fern or heath, and then a
layer of mud, completed with a lining of fine dry grass. The eggs arc
usually four, but never more than five in number. On their departure, they
are occasionally seen in the cultivated and wooded lands of Mount Edgcumbe
and Manadon — places contrary to their usual habitats.

Bedstart, (Phaenicura ruticilla.) — Uncommon. I saw a pair in Bickleigh
vale, April 1.0th., 1849. There are one or two pairs which breed annually

LIST OF SUMMER BIRDS OF PASSAGE. 87

at Mount Edgcumbe* I saw young there until the 20th. of September, in 1849.

Yellow Wagtaily (Motacilla flava,) Linii. — Common. Arrived in 1849, on
April 17th., and remained until the 9th. of October. They much frequent
the Lines, Devonport, and the marshes at Lara.

Grasshopper Warbler, (Salicaria locustella.) — Very rare. Four specimens
have been obtained in the months of April and May, near Stoke. I heard
and saw one in Fancy wood, April 19th., ]849.

Sedge Warbler, (Salicaria phragmitis.) — Common in EfFord marsh, Buckland
meadows, and the banks of the River Erme, below Ermington. Appeared
on April 24th-, 1849.

Tree Pipit, (Anthus arboreus,) Jardine. — Common. Arrived in 1849, on
April 25th., and I saw it as late as September 27th., in 1850.

Wood Warbler, (Sylvia Sibilatrix.) — Arrived in the year 1849, on April 28th.
Common in Bickleigh vale, and all large woods with tall trees* is very rarely
seen in brushwood.

Martin, (Hiruiido urbica,) Linn. — Very common. Arrived in 1849, on
April 29th., and departed about the middle of October. In May, 1848, I
saw a quantity building their nests against the sides of the clifts at the mouth
of the Yealiu River.

Whitethroat, (Curruca ciiierea.) — Very common. Arrived in 1849, on
April 30th.

Lesser WhitetJtroat, (Curruca sylviella.) — Very rare. One of these birds
was shot at Mutley several years ago, the only one I can discover that has
ever been obtained here.

Land Bail, (Crex pratensis.) — Common. Arrives in the end of April,
and departs about the middle of October j in the latter month they were once
found congi-egated by a farmer, residing near Modbury, in one of his potato
fields, not far from the sea coast, who informs me he saw upwards of forty
and killed seventeen; on going to try for them again on the following day
they had all disappeared.

Spotted Bail, (Crex porzana.) — Very rare. Is occasionally seen in the
months of September and October, in Efford marsh, where one specimen was
obtained. The Rev, C. Bulteel also has a specimen in his collection which he
shot near Ei'mington.

Cuckoo, (Cuculus canorus,) Linn. — Common. Arrived in 1849, on April
28th. It much frequents the clifts at Bovisand. In the latter end of May,
1848, I took an egg out of a nest of the Yellow Bunting. {Emberiza
citrinella, Linn.)

Whinclmt, (Saxicola rubetra.) — Uncommon. I am informed it was formerly
very numerous. One or two pairs annually breed near Cadworthy Bridge,
on Shaughmoor, and on Harfordmoor.

Greyheaded Wagtail, (Motacilla neglecta,) Gould. — Very rare. A pair was
obtained on the Lara marshes, May 1st., 1850, by J. Gatcombe, Esq., Plymouth.
He informs me their note was sharper than that of the Yellow Wagtail, and

88 NATURALIZATION OF FOREIGN BIRDS.

that they more frequented the cuttings made for draining off the water.

Swift, (Hirundo apus,) Linn. — Common. Arrived in 1849, on May 4th.,
and I saw it as late as August 13th., 1847, August 16th., 1848, and
August 18th., 1849.

Passerine, or Garden Warbler, (Curruca hortensis,) Bechst. — Not uncommon.
Arrived at Bickleigh vale in 1849, on May 7th. When all is quiet, these
birds will frequently sit singing in a conspicuous situation, but on the least
disturbance, drop down like stones into the undergrowth, • and there continue
their warbling in security. Early on May mornings I have frequently seen
them hopping about on the grass adjoining the Dartmoor railway. Their song
is clearer than that of the Whitethroat, and more mellow than that of the
Blackcap. I have occasionally shot them whilst feeding on cherries.

Spotted Flycatcher, (Muscicapa gi'isola,) Linn. — Very common. An-ived in
1849, on May 9th.

Fied Flycatcher, (Muscicapa atrieapilla,) Linn.- — Very rare. A male bird
was obtained at Mount Edgcumbe, several years ago, in the end of April, and
is now preserved in Mr. Bolitho's collection. Taxidermist, Plymouth.

Nightjar, (Caprimulgus Europoeus,) Linn. — Common. Arrived in 1849, on
May 8th. It much frequents the outskirts of Dartmoor, and is occasionally
seen in the months of August and September, in thick turnip or potato
fields.

Fed-backed Shrike, (Lanius collurio,) Linn. — Not uncommon. Is found at
Mount Gold and Five-fields, near Plymouth, and also at INIount Edgcumbe.
Arrives in the beginning of May, and departs in September.

Hobby Hawk, (Falco subbuteo,) Linn. — Hare. I obtained a fine specimen
in Bickleigh vale, in May, 1846; I have seen young birds here until the
beginning of October.

Common Sandpiper, (Tringa hypoleucos,) Temm.— Common. Frequents all
the streams on Dartmoor; in August it repairs with its young to the sea
coasts, and takes its departure in the beginning of October.

Turtle Dove, (Columba turtur,) Unn. — Rare. Is most frequently seen in
the months of May and September; and from a very young bird obtained at
Gnaton, August, 1850, I think they occasionally breed here.

I have never observed either the Nightingale or Reed Warbler in Devonshire,
although I have seen them both tolerably numerous in nearly all our Midland
counties.

Lara House, Flymouth, Apnil, 1851.

89

NATURALIZATION OF FOREIGN BIRDS
IN THIS COUNTRY.

TO THE EDITOR OF THE NATURALIST.

I know not how far it falls in with the design of your very interesting
Publication, to receive the suggestions of correspondents; but I am induced,
if not inconvenient, to solicit a brief space, with a view of calling the
attention of some of your readers to a subject of another kind. Every lover
of Nature must regret, if not the total destruction, yet the increasing rarity
of many species of birds, formerly plentiful in this country. It is true we
have occasionally introduced a new variety, but it has been chiefly with a
view to our game preserves. Our gardens and woods are annually enriched
by the exotics of all climes. Is there nothing to be done of the same kind,
as regards the songsters of other countries, some of which, doubtless, would
readily become naturalized with us?

I will confine myself, at present, to naming the Loxia cardinalis, commonly
termed amongst English bird-fanciers, the Virginian Nightingale, or Cardinal
Grosbeak. Many of your readers need hardly be informed that this beautiful
scarlet bird is about the size of our Blackbird, possessing an excellent song;
and I doubt not is, or would become, quite hardy enough to bear our winters.
Indeed, as we are told by Miss Cooper, it is often seen in the cold latitudes
of the smaller lakes, in the north-western parts of the State of New York.
In my own (cold) conservatory, a male specimen has been in uniform good health
for the last three years, remaining in song about eight months annually; feeding
on almost any kind of seeds, corn, (chiefly oats,) fruit, insects, snails, etc. It
is only recently that I succeeded in procuring a female, of a browner shade
than the male bird, but equally graceful in form and action; moreover, what
I was not prepared to expect, quite equal in point of song to her mate;
perhaps in some respects even a little superior.

Not to occujiy your columns, why might not these elegant and shewy
songsters be bred in our larger parks and preserved grounds? We want the
variety of a scarlet bird to enliven our woods. I lately took the opinion, on
this point, of one of our principal importers of foreign birds, (Mr. W. J.
Marrott, 54, King William Street, near London Bridge, London;) who coincides
with me in thinking that these beautiful creatures would readily adapt them-
selves to our climate, if turned out to breed at the present season of the
year, in localities free from molestation. I am not myself fortunate in this
respect, or I would gladly embrace the facilities afforded by Mr. Marrott, for
the importation of twenty or thirty pairs, as an experiment. I should rejoice
to know that my idea had been adopted by others more favourably located.

Henry Taylor.
April Tlnd., 1851.

VOL. L

90

I readily respond to the request in the "Notices to Correspondents" in
^'The Naturalist" for this month, to be informed of the arrival of the Spring
migratory birds; a subject, to the lovers of Nature, of great and recurring
interest.

The Swallow, {Hirundo nidica,) has been noticed this year to be a shade later
than usual. In the majority of ten years, it has been observed at this place
within a day, sooner or later, of the 11th. This year the first visible was
on the 14th., when, at nine, a.m., three were skimming over my pond. A
friend, resident at Brixham, on the coast of Torbay, to whom I had written,
informs me that a well-known ornithologist, residing there, and his two sons
remarked one on the 10th. which appeared to ^come over the sea.' On Friday
last, the 11th., Arthur Wakeham, of South Brent, one of the most elevated
parishes in the southern district of this county, saw a Swallow there, and on
the following day, a Woodcock.

On the 8th., while travelling eastward by train to Exeter, I observed a
Bank Martin, (H. riparia,) near the Newton station. In my journey thence
to Exeter, on the banks of the beautiful Eiver Teign — ^from Teignmouth to
the mouth of the Exe, on the very margin of the shore, and thence, ou
the banks of the Exe, to the city, twenty of the most genial miles in
England, not an Hirundo presented itself.

The season has been rather favourable than otherwise for the migration,
yet none of the friends, to whom I have written, have announced the arrival
of the vernal voyagers; but one, who resides at Exeter, informs me by this
morning's post, that "There are no Swallows yet." From this we may
reasonably infer that their arrival is not, like their departure, in flights, or
that they spread by simultaneous dispersion.

The Chiff Chaff, {Sylvia hippolais,) is commonly heard here between the
2oth. and 29th. of March. Within the last ten years I have recognised his
first well-known notes twice on the 27th. of March, and once on the 29th.,
precisely at the same spots in a wood adjoining my house. Though tolerably
vigilant when there this year, the welcome announcement escaped me till
the 4th. instant, when within ten minutes I heard it in two distant parts.
— J. C, Black Hall, Devon, April 15th., 1851.

TABLE OF THE ARRIVAL, ETC, OF THE HIRUNDINES AND OTHER BIRDS;
KEPT AT MINEHEAD, SOMERSET, BY CAPTAIN GIFFORD.

ARRIVAL. DEPARTURE.

1849. 1850. 1851. 1849. 1850.
Swallow, (Hirundo rustica,) Apr.l4. Apr. 16. Apr. 13. Oct. 23. Aug. 6.
Martin, {Hirundo urhica,) Apr.26. May6&7. Apr.22. Do. Nov. 25.

Swift, {Cypselus apm,) May 3, May 1. May 7.

Cuckoo, {Guculus canorus,) Apr. 29. Apr. 25, Apr. 20.

Nightingale, {Philomela luscinia, )M-dy 2. Apr. 22. x\pr, 20.

SPRING ARRIVALS. 91

Remarks. — The 6th. and 7th. of May, I80O, were two very wet and cold
days, wind east and by north: the Martins took refuge under the sheltered
ends of houses. Six were found dead the next day; and in the neighbourhood
of Bristol, great numbers perished from the severity of the weather. As late
as November 25th., 1850, I saw three Martins flying over a field in front of
my house, catching flies in the usual manner.

May Uth., 1851.

Earli/ Incubation of the Cuckoo. — A lad, living in the hamlet of Lakenhara,
obtained from the nest of a Hedge Accentor, the egg of a Cuckoo, on
Saturday, April 5th. — S. O.Harper, Norwich, April 12th., 1851.

Early arrival of the Hirundinidts. — April 5th., a solitary Martin, (H.
urhica,) was seen by a friend of mine, a naturalist, skimming the river at
Heigham, near this city. According to my journal, this family arrived,
(except the Swift,) in 1848, April 13th.; 1849, April 19th.; 1850, April 18th.
— Idem.

Cuckoo on April Wth., in Devon. — I was walking on Friday last, (11th.
inst.,) on the road leading to the old Barracks, about half-a-mile from the
town, and my attention was arrested by hearing a fluttering in a tree over-
hanging the road. On getting nearer, a bird flew out, which I recognised at
once as a Cuckoo, (Cuculus canorus.) But, to make sure, I followed, and
with the aid of a pocket glass, saw it very distinctly several times. I was
pleased, after waiting some time, to hear it utter its usual weak cry at this
early season; which was scarcely more than 'kook, kook,' as I felt more con-
vinced on the matter. I hear that another was seen on Saturday, about two
miles from the place that I mention. The neighbourhood is very sheltered,
and much wooded, and about five miles from the sea. The wind for the last
week has been east and north-east. Yesterday, I saw a male Black-cap,
{Cuiruca atricapilla,) near Dartington, Devon. — S. Hannaford, Jun., Totnes,
Devon, April 14:fh., 1851.

Arrival of Swallows in Wiltshire. — I have much pleasure in acquainting
you with the first arrival, in this neighbourhood, this season, of those inter-
esting little harbingers of spring, the Swallows, (Hirundo rustica.) On the
13th. instant I was walking near a wood which crowns one of the hills, about half-
a-mile from this town, about six o'clock in the evening, when one of them
passed over me. Having requested several persons about here to let me know
when they had seen the first Swallow, I find, on inquiry, this has been the
first in this neighbourhood : the same day a friend of mine, living three miles from
me, also saw one. On the 1 4th., I saw three more, which fully confirmed the
above fact. These, I believe to be the first instances of their being seen about
here. This town is pleasantly situated in a hollow, about three miles on the
Marlborough side of the Wiltshire Downs: the country is hilly, and in some
parts well wooded. The soil, chalk; the Kennet and Avon Canal skirts this

92 SPRING ARRIVALS.

town; and it is the highest point between London and Bristol. The prevailing
wind, for the last fortnight, has been north-east; cold, with occasional gleams
of sunshine. The Cuckoo has not yet made its appearance. — S. W. Lukis,
Great Bedwin, near Marlborough, Ajpnl 15th., 1851.

Dates of arrival of the Swallow, (Hirundo rustica,) at Falmouth. — These
birds appear to manage time exceedingly well, when about to visit this locality;
that is, as far as their visits are known to me. I speak from personal
investigation, and not from 'hear say.' They arrived on April 15th., 1845;
on April 4th., 1846; on April 15th., 1847; on April 21st., 1848; on April
16th., 1849; and on April 10th., 1850. At eleven o'clock, a.m., a flock
consisting of twenty birds, crossed the bay to the pool; they appeared
exhausted, a stiff breeze from the south-east at the time. They have not yet
made their appearance this year. — W. P. Cocks, Falmouth, April 3rd., 1851.

The Hirundo urhica arrived (two,) on Monday the 21st. of this month,
at Swanpool; wind south-west, with showers. On the 23rd., a large flock
was floating over the pool, — Idem, April 23rd., 1851.

The Wryneck, (Yima; torquilla,) was heard on the 31st. of March, at
Oakley Beds, w^hich locality is interspersed with woods and young plantations:
wind in the west. — G. B. Clarke, Wohurn, Beds., April 10th., 1851.

The Little Willow Wren, or Chiff Chaff, (Sylvia hippolais.) — On April 3rd.,
in Woburn Park, Beds., the wind at the time in the south-west : this locality
is, I think, too well known to need description. Suffice it to say, it is a mass of
evergreen throughout the winter, and in the summer, very few places can vie
with it, as the walks and drives about it are delightful. It is a most beautiful
sip"ht in the months of May and June, to see the Ehododendrons and other
flowering shrubs in full bloom, there being such immense quantities of them
among the evergreens. — Idem.

A Swallow seen on April 15th. — A Swallow, (Hirundo rustica,) was seen
by me this morning, sporting over the surface of a piece of water, in Woburn
Park, called ''Big Braekelow:" wind east. On the 17th. and 18th. they
were plentiful in this neighbourhood, the wind having shifted into the south
on the 16th., and the south-west on the 17th., where it remains now. On
the 18th., the Nightingale and Cuckoo were both heard here. — Idem,
April Idth., 1851.

Arrival of the Swallow at Totnes. — The Swallow, [Hirundo rustica,) made
its first appearance in this part yesterday, the IGth. I was fishing on the
Dart, about 11 o'clock, and saw one fly over my head, and a few minutes
after saw two more. Wind south-east by east; weather showery and mild;
indeed the 16th. was the first mild day we have had here for a fortnight.
The Sand Martin, {H. riparia^ arrived here on the 14th. inst.; and the
Redstart, (Phcenicura ruticilla,) on the 17th. — S. Hannaford, Jun., Totnes,
Devon, April, 18th., 1851.

MISCELLANEOUS NOTICES. 98

Arrival of Swallows in Lancashire. — The following are the dates of their
arrival here this year; — April 16th. Swallow, (Ilii-undo rustiea,) and Sand
Martin, (i/", riparia.) I observed only a pair of Swallows, and a single
Sand Martin; I first saw them about two, p.m., flying over the Leeds and
Liverpool canal: wind north-west; situation exposed to the north. On the 21st.
the House Martin, {S. urbica,) made its appearance on the eastern side of
the valley: wind still north-west. — Wm. Naylor, Evfield House, Accrington,
Lancashire, April 21s^., 1851.

As our delightful companion, Gilbert White, remarks, (letter 23,) ^^If ever
I saw anything like actual migration, it was" last Monday, April 14th., while
travelling, in the afternoon, on the railway from Boulogne to Paris. I had
not previously observed any Hirundines in England; the weather being there
cold and wintry; but coming on to the continent, was like stepping suddenly
from March into Jime. The afternoon was delightful, and my observation
was as follows: — Every five or ten minutes we met a party of thirty or forty,
or more, Martins, (Jfirundines urhicce,) flying in a north-westerly direction,
namely, towards the Straits of Dover; in search, I suppose, of the narrowest
passage across to England; for, I believe, it is allowed that the Swallow tribe
are x&cy sparing of their pains in crossing the sea. It was remarkable how
steadily the most of these parties kept on their course, as though they had
an object in view, and the few exceptions to this rule happened at villages,
when some were engaged in hawking for insects, and enjoying the beauty
of the declining day. I may remark, in confirmation of my view, that, although
I watched them carefully, I did not detect a single one flying in a contrary
direction. I am aware that this would be early for Martins in England; but,
perhaps they would not immediately cross the channel, but wait a few days,
until a more genial climate invited them. — Cuthbert Collingwood, Paris,
April 20fh., 18ol.

SHisnllnHpniiH fintirri

Earliness of the present "Spring. — As some proof, if any is wanting, of
the earliness of the season, I found in this neighbourhood, Potentilla
fragariastrum in flower on February 24th. On the same day, Ficaria verna;
a week later, Veronica hederifolia; also Alyssum maritimum. On the first of
March, Frogs made their first appearance, and spawn was plentiful in the
ditches by the 4th. The Sand Lizard, {Lacerta agilis,) I first saw on the
16th., much earlier than usual in this place. I have seen a paragraph in
the papers, calling attention to the fact, that this year the Common Primrose,
{Primula vulgaris,) was very backward, while on the contrary, the same
flower in the gardens was more than usually forward and luxuriant. As far
as this neighbourhood is concerned, I believe that the Primrose is not as
plentiful as usual, although I do not perceive any diflference in the garden
variety. — J. A. Robinson, Southport, Lancashire, March 17th., 1851.

94; MISCELLANEOUS NOTICES.

Tncuhation of the Partndge. (See page 48.) — In reference to the notice
on the "Incubation of the Partridge," by Mr. Henry Tuckett, in the number
of "The Naturalist" for this month, referring to a paragraph in some periodical,
alluding to Jeremiah, xvii. 11, ^^As the Partridge sitteth on eggs and hatcheth
them not," I cannot help observing, that I do not think the writer of that
paragraph understood the passage he quoted. The Prophet, I conceive, in his
beautiful simile refers to the case of a Partridge whose eggs are addled, and
can produce nothing, and whose endeavours to hatch them are therefore vain,
and not, as to a well-known fact, that those birds sit on their eggs without
hatching them. By adopting this common sense, and (to me,) obvious meaning
of this passage, we avoid the dilemma from which the writer sees no other
way of escaping, than by availing himself of the very dubious assertion of the
Highland shepherd's ^'that the Partridge does not complete the hatching, but
vacates the nest several hours previously;" for, even supposing this to be the
case, it is difficult to understand how it can be said that "the Partridge
sitteth on eggs and hatcheth them not" merely because she is not present
at the precise time when the young birds leave the shell. — E. K. Bridyer,
Princess Place, Kennington Road, April 1st. 1851.

Waxen Chatterer, (Bombycilla garrula,) near Edinburgh. — A beautiful male
specimen of this bird was shot on the 30th. ult., by Charles Cobbold, Esq.,
at his residence, Broughton Park, Ediijiburgh. This is the second or third
time I have seen accounts of the capture of this occasional visitant during
the past winter. From the rarity of this and other foreign species, we are
naturally led to seize any opportunity of adding them to our cabinets, but I
think this system of monopoly cannot but be regi-etted by ornithologists,
inasmuch as we thus deprive ourselves, not only of the opportunity of studying
the instincts and habits of such birds, but, at the same time, we effectually
put a stop to their becoming naturalized in our own country, which would, in
many instances, undoubtedly happen. In confirmation of this latter statement,
I may add, that the female of the bird now referred to, was perched
on a hawthorn bush a few paces from its mate, at the time it was shot. —
Spencer Cohhold, F.B.S., 20, Dublin Street, Edinburgh, April 1st., 1851.

Waxen Chatterer, (Bombycilla garrula.) — A splendid cock bird of this species
was shot on the 12th. of January, 1850, a short distance from the south
gates of this town: it is now in the Lynn Museum. A few days previous,
one of these birds was shot by a gentleman at Walpole. The Pink-footed Goose,
(Anser hrachyrhynchvs,) occurred here frequently last winter, (1849-50.) —
T. S., Lynn, Norfolk, Apnl dth., 1851.

Waxen Chatterer, (Bombycilla garrula,) in Aberdeenshire. — Since -WTiting
to you last night, I have learned that my father's gardener, Mr. William
Wallace, shot, last week, in our garden, Kinmundy, near Peterhead, Aberdeen-
shire, a very beautiful specimen of the Bohemian Waxwing: he has stuffed

MISCELLANEOUS NOTICES.

95

the bird, and now has it. I have not seen it, but should hardly fancy there
could be any mistake in naming it; I will, however, make particular inquiries
respecting it, and communicate the result to you. — W. Ferguson, in a letter
to the Editor; Glasgow, April 12th., 1851.

Waxen Chatterer, near Northallerton. — On the 6th. of this month, a flock
of eight or ten of these birds, was seen at BuUamoor, about a mile from
Northallerton, by a person of the name of Flower; thinking they were curious
birds, he borrowed a gun at a farm-house, and obtained one of them. This
bird is now in my possession, and is a tolerably fair specimen. Although I
have been to the spot where they were seen, two or three times, I have not
been able to meet with any traces of them, and so conclude they have left
the neighbourhood. — F. R. Gibhes, in a letter to the Editor; Noiihalleiion,
April ^bth., 1851.

The mildness of the late winter would seem to indicate, that other causes
than the severity of the weather brought these birds to our shores. — B. R. M.

Note on a White-winged Rook, (Corvus frugilegus.)-— The Rook has always
been considered to be one of the most sociable of aU our British Birds, and
one which was fond, not only of the society of its own species, but also of
that of Jackdaws, Starlings, and Sparrows. In the autumn of last year,
however, I witnessed a circumstance, which seems to deprive the Rook
generally, or at any rate the Rooks ' in this neighbourhood, of the credit of
possessing such an amiable disposition. I noticed a solitary bird of this species
wandering about in the fields in the immediate vicinity of my residence, and
seeing it day after day in the same locality, I concluded that it had been
disabled by a gunshot wound, or was unable to fly from some other cause.
I was, however, mistaken in both these conjectures, for when I approached
it, it rose, flew thirty or forty yards, and then alighting again, continued to
walk about, silent and solitary. I saw, however, to my surprise, that the
feathers of one of its wings were entirely white, and from this I conjectured,
rightly, as it turned out, that it had been deserted by its species. A few
days after this, a large flock of Rooks alighting in the field in which the
solitary bird was, avoided it, and gradually flying off", left the white-winged
unfortunate to itself. I have, at times, met with other strangely-marked
or coloured birds; but in no case have I seen them neglected and avoided
by their own species. Thus, for instance, last year, a pair of Sparrows reared
a brood of young ones in some ivy at the back of the house in which I
live. Of the four young Sparrows, one was entirely white, two others had
white wings and tails, and the remaining bird possessed the ordinary plumage
of its species. All four grew up, and the curiously-marked birds were not
molested or deserted by their comrades; nor have they left their native locality,
as I have seen them all lately, and the white one only yesterday, (March
2nd.) in company with other Sparrows. The only way in which I can account
for the desertion of the Rook, which I have mentioned, seems to be this: —

96 MISCELLANEOUS NOTICES,

We must remember that an entirely, or partially, white Eook, is a rare bird,
much rarer than a white Sparrow; we may suppose that birds of the latter
species are accustomed to varieties in the plumage of their brethren, and that
they do not consider those Sparrows, which are strangely marked or coloured,
as intruders or strangers; and, on the other hand, we may conjecture, that
Rooks look upon whiie birds with suspicion, and either desert them, or exclude
them from the benefits arising from a residence in the Rookery. — R. P.

White or light-coloured varieties of the Rook, though not common, are by
no means very rare; several cream-coloured birds have occurred in the neigh-
bourhood of Yorfc, within the last few months, and we never heard that they
were avoided by their confreres; and on several occasions we have seen white-
winged Rooks feeding quietly among their sable brethren. We fancy, that in
this case, the bird must have been in a weak or debilitated condition, and
from choice separated himself from the others of his species, perhaps, as
feeling himself unequal to the rough usage he might expect to receive in
fighting his way in his little world; for in Rookeries, as in other communities,
the weakest goes to the wall. This we think a more probable solution of
the cause of his solitary state, than that the other Rooks avoided him on
account of his difiering from them. Albinism too is always indicative of
debility.— 5. B. M.

Nesting of the Domestic Pigeon. — I beg to state, in confirmation of a com-
munication from Mr, Hannaford, Jun., to "The Naturalist," respecting the nest
of the Domestic Pigeon, that a pair of Pigeons, of a variety called the Silver
Shaker, (I believe,) or Fantail, in my possession, built a nest this year of
"small and straight twigs" in preference to either hay or straw, of both of
which there was an abundance at their disposal. I enclose two of the pieces
which formed part of the nest; they are of lilac, and from three to eight
inches in length. I noticed that there was no straw in the nest, but that it
was composed entirely of a number of small twigs. My attention was called
to it by reading the passage referred to. These Pigeons began to sit as early
as the 21st. of January. — T. S., Lynn, Norfolk, Apnl \Q>th., 1851.

The sticks forwarded to us by T. S. are, as he states, quite straight and
thin.— J5. R. M.

Curious situation for a House Sparrow's nest. — A common Sparrow-Hawk's
nest was discovered near the top of a very tall silver-fir, in one of our meadows.
Our gardener having climbed up to examine it, did not notice anything par-
ticular about it, except that it was ready for an egg. When we wont
some time afterwards to take the young ones, we found, attached to the nest,
(built, as it were, into it,) a House Sparrow's nest, with two eggs, and two
young birds. Whether the Hawk was keeping them till they increased in
size, or whether he had come to terms of peace with them, I do not know. —
Claude A. Lillingston, April, 1851.

97

NOTES ON THE GEOLOGY OF DUNBAR SHORE.

BY W. FERGUSON^ ESQ.

Bass Rock
CTrap.}

Tantallon.

Traprainlaw

Slates, probably equivalent to Silurian Rocks.
These extend rig:ht across the country to Wijjton,
and yield graptolites, etc.

-The dotted lines mark the boundaries of the different formations.
indicate division of counties.

Lines marked thus

I had lately, along with n)y friend, Mr. Gray, to whose notes on the
Zoology of Dunbar shore, the present article is introductory, an opportunity
of examining, though somewhat hurriedly, the interesting rocky features of this
coast; and I propose to sketch shortly, what then came under oiir notice,
supplemented by information obtained since, much in the order in which our

VOL. I. 0

98 NOTES ON THE GEOLOGY OF DUNBAR SHORE.

observations were made in the course of a single day's excursion. This plan
will have the advantage of being a useful guide to any one who may be
desirous, with limited time, to examine for himself this portion of our coast.

It was a clear cold February morning, on which about seven o'clock, we
commenced our perambulations. Passing along by the western side of Dunbar
House and Park, we came down upon the shore at a little hollow immediately
to the west of the castle. At this particular point, the rocks consist of Red
Sandstone, which reach the beach here, in a narrow strip between the trap
rocks of the castle, and another development of similar rocks farther west.

By referring to the map herewith, it will be seen that the coast at this
point extends considerably out, and that it consists of three masses of Trap;
'Dunbar castle being situated on the eastmost, and the others bearing respec-
tively the names of Knockinghair and Wilkiehaugh. The point where we
approached the shore, is the narrow tongue of Sandstone, west of the castle
rock, and from this we held a westward direction. The cliflfs are of consi-
derable perpendicular height, reaching from forty to eighty feet above high
water. At their base, uncovered at low water, is a considerable platform of
flattish rocks, and a pathway leads along by the foot of the cliffs towards
Belhaven. Right in front an isla^nd at highwater, but at low tide approachable,
a conical mass of Trap, bearing the name of the Doo-rock, bursts through
the Sandstone, and rises thirty feet above high water; a model in diminutive
proportions, of the more imposing rocks of analogous character out in the Frith,
the Bass, and the May.

Following the westward course of the pathway, we soon qixitted the
Sandstone, and entered on a tract of lied- coloured Trap tuff. The outline
of these cliffs is very sinuous, and some of the bays arc of considerable depth.
When within the recess of one of them, the scene, though in the immediate
neighbourhood of a town, is not a little wild. The precipitous rock raises its
dark red slabs all around; in front, seen out betwixt the perpendicular walls,
the German Ocean rolls its waves to meet the watere of the Forth, No
sight or sound of human life is near; the hoarse voice of the ocean alone is
heard; the loneness and the sound of the sea are peculiarly impressive. All
along this shore masses of cliff have been isolated by the abrading power
of the waves, and stand out islets of rock at high water, but easily accessible
at low tide.

Among the flat nocks which, at low tide, are seen to extend a considerable
distance from the base of the cliffs, there ai'c many curious chasms and crevices.
These ai'e in I'cality rents in a submerged cliff, of which the flat platform is
the upper sm'face. At low water the edge of the perpendicular face of this
nethercliff is seen, and there is then four fathoms of water in its immediate
neighbourhood. One of these chasms bears the graphic cognomen of "The
Sucking-in Goat," It is a rent of some length, deep and narrow, opening,
in its nether extremity, far out in the ocean. Even in calm weather, there
is a perpetual rush of water in this narrow gorge. Beat into the purest foam

NOTES ON THE GEOT-OGY OF DUNBAU SHORE, 99

in its passage up the jagged aperture, the spray is often thrown high, and
far beyond the apparent limit of the tidal force, enveloping the unwary
onlooker in a briny shower; and the reflux, equally powerful, will carry
back any comparatively light body coming within the reach of its influence:
hence the characteristic local name.

'^The Tufa," says Mr. Cunningham,""" ^^which occurs in such abundance on
this part of the coast, is composed of fragments of various Trap rocks, of
Sandstohe, Limestone, Ironstone, and Shale, all of which vary in size, from
the smallest magnitude to one or two feet; and are embedded in a base of
red weckacious clay; which, in some instances, without containing the usual
fragments, occurs for a considerable extent, and throughout exhibits a more
or less stratified arrangement."

In the course of our walk, the lines of stratification in these tufaceous cliffs
attracted particular attention. They assume the most fantastic forms; now
beautifully extended in waving folds, and anon angularly broken and twisted
up and down. They vary too in the shades of colour, and this adds to the
picturesque beauty of their diversified appearance.

The cliff's of Tufa are succeeded by others of Sandstone, These are low,
indeed scarcely deserve the name; they are rather ledges: they exhibit numerous
layers of different colours, and include Sandstone^ Ironstone, and Shale: they
have likely been once of greater height, but have suffered denudation. The
mass of Trap already referred to, as occurring at Wilkiehaugh, bursts through
the Sandstone at the point, immediately beyond which the shore recedes rapidly,
with a sandy beach, forming Belhaven Bay. Belton Burn joins the sea here,
and beyond it stretch the broad flat sands of Tyne.

Upon the sands to the east of the embouchure of Belton Water, there is a
little tower, built over a mineral well. It forms a good record of the changes
contimially taking place on such an exposed coast: it used to be approached
from the higher beach by a gangway, underneath which a pedestrian might
easily pass. On the occasion of our visit, the gangway and half the toAver
were buried in the sand. A little way on, we have a record of a different
kind. The constant action of wind and tide has laid open in the sand cliff"
above the beach, several (I counted six,) stone-built coffins containing human
bones: history speaks not of their occupants, and even tradition is silent
respecting them. The shifting sand — the most recent of all the geologic rocks,
has held them for a thousand years. ' Who shall write the chronology of the
framework beneath, against which the gravelly matrix of these tombs had
accumulated, ages before the first of the last ten centuries had begun its course.

We turned up the side of Belton Water, and gained the road from Haddington,
by which we returned to the town, along the side of a trough-like valley,
sloping away, on the one hand, to the Lammermuir hills, and on the other,
ascending by a considerable acclivity, especially in the Trap eminence called
Knockinghair, to the verge of the cliff's, whose perpendicular front is the ocean

* "Wemerian Transactions," vii., 9.5.

100

NOTES ON THE GEOLOGY OF DUNBAR SHORE.

barrier. From this hollow, when you come near to the town, the ascent is
somewhat abrupt, for the situation of Dunbar is high and commanding. From
this point of view, as well as from the shore to the south, it presents a fine
appearance.

The forenoon of the same day we devoted to an examination of the rocks
at the harbour and castle.

The new harbour of Dunbar is formed by connecting the shore with an
outlying basaltic mass, the site of the battery, and further connectfng that
mass of rock by a pier and sea wall with the Trap rocks, on which are the
ruins of the old castle of Dunbar. These rise vertically through the strata
of Sandstone, which at the point of contact are highly indurated: portions of
it are enclosed in the Trap. Mr. Cunningham* says, "That the Trap on which
the castle of Dunbar is built, differs in different parts; in some places being
composed of Red Basaltic Greenstone, and in others of Tufa; and in one place
where the sea has formed an arch, masses of indurated Sandstone of many
yards extent, are entangled in the Trap rock." Professor Jamieson says,
"They are composed of Red-coloured Trap-tuff, Amygdaloid, and of a basalt
which contains Red Diallage and Olivnie, which, by the action of the weather,
has acquired a red colour. They form one inclined bed of great thickness,
which rises above the lower superincumbent and subjacent Red Sandstone."
These cliffs, with their capping of ruins, are extremely picturesque: they run out
boldly to some distance. '^The softer rocks," says the Rev. Mr. Jeffrey, ^'have
yielded to the perpetual motion of the waters, while the more compact remain;
forming large caverns, and rugged arches, through which the tide' rvishes with
impetuous fury; presenting a grand spectacle at all times, but awfully sublime
during a storm." The entrance to the new harbour has been cut right through
these rocks, detracting much from their interest, so far as the picturesque is
concerned; but thereby a fine section of the mass has been laid bare. It is
rent into chasms in various places, and some of the smaller veins are filled
with crystals of quartz and other minerals.

The greatest point of attraction, however, will be found at the battery,
where the basalt assumes a beautifully columnar form. This was very finely
seen previous to the commencement of the new harbour operations. The islet
then presented the appearance exhibited in the annexed illustration.

NOTES OK THE GEOLOGY OF DUNBAR SHORE. 101

In forming the new harbour works, many of the finest columns have been
cut away. To get an adequate idea of them now, it is necessary to get upon
the sea wall of the new pier, and view them on the west side of the island,
beyond the wall. From this you look down upon the ends of the columns,
and by going a little westward along the wall, if it is low water, a consider-
able portion of the pillars may be seen in their length. The columns are of
various shapes, of three, four, and six sides; these however, arc not equal, nor
is their form always regularly defined, or their jointings very apparent. In
some instances these joints are fifteen feet in length. They seem to be formed
of concentric circles, which appear, when they become decomposed from exposure
to weather, and they are traversed by a perfect net-work of small veins of jasper
and quartz. The rock forms a noble breast-work to the harbour, and it would
have been well had the engineers who constructed the new works, had more
of the same sort of assistance. The long sea wall betwixt the battery and the
castle rock, although of considerable height, is not security enough against the
huge waves of the German Ocean, which, in a storm from the north-east,
break forty feet above it; the spray falling amid a profusion of rainbow tints
into the basin within. Beneath these pillars, it is stated, is a bed of Red-
coloured Trap-tufF, resting upon the Sandstone, through which, as we have
already mentioned, the castle rocks protrude. The position of these basaltic
columns is not quite vertical, sloping from south-east towards north-west.
Their colour, when fractured, is a bright red; where, exposed to the continuous
action of the sea, they are more yellowish, and wear away roundedly at the
apex; presenting, when looked down upon, an appearance somewhat resembling
a gigantic honey-comb, at the early part of the season^ when the larvae are
yet protruding from the waxen cells.

Dr. Mc'CuUoch, in his Geology, published in 1831, vol. 1, page 172, has
well described these rocks, although, as pointed out by Mr. Cunningham, he
falls into the grave error of supposing them to be Sandstone columnarized
by heat; he says, ^^the columns are limited to a small space, but are of
considerable dimensions; attaining two feet or more of diameter, and a length
of fifteen feet or upwards. Where this columnar structure occurs, the
character of the rock is changed in a greater or less degree, becoming more
compact, harder, and in some places, passing into a perfect but coarse jasper; in
addition to this, it presents the indications of an internal concretionary structure.
The transverse sections of each prism are marked by concentric lines, of
different colours, whitish or reddish, which conform accurately to the sides
and angles towards the exterior, but become gradually curved as they
approach the centre; indicating the probable existence of a spheroidal nucleus."

Beyond the shore rocks, there is a remarkable line of rocky islets, com-
mencing directly north from the Battery, at the distance of two hundred and
ten yards, and running westward in a curved line, till they approach the shore
at the Table rocks, referred to already. There are, at least thirteen of these,
varying in height from eight to thirty feet above low water. This chain of

102 NOTES ON THE CJEOLOOY OF DUNBAR SHORE.

islets presents a striking analogy to those 'circles of volcanic rocks^ which are
so common among the coral-crowned islands of the Pacific.

Passing eastward from the harbour and town of Dunbar, a series of fine
surface sections are obtained on the shore, between high and low water.
Immediately beyond the extreme verge of the tide, the ground rises abruptly,
and then retires with considerable diversity of hill and hollow towards the
interior. The abrupt declivity presents no view of the rocks, being covered
with a deep deposit of red clay, but along the shore we have a fine sequence
of the strata laid bare.

For a considerable distance the explorer passes over a series of beds belonging
to the old Eed Sandstone group. Immediately at the back of the harbour,
we meet (as described by Professor Jamieson,) ^^with a red conglomerated
Sandstone, extending north-east and south-west, and dipping, like the Trap of
the harbour, to the south-east. It is succeeded by a bed of red-coloured Trap-
tufa, having the same direction and dip. The next bed is a conglomerated-
like Sandstone; it is of a reddish colour, and embedded in it are patches
and spots of a white-coloured Sandstone. A greenstone rock, partly porphyritic,
partly tufaceous follows. It is much intermixed with the red conglomerated
Sandstone, and is traversed by veins, several inches wide, of white quartzy
Sandstone."

Beyond the cottages is a long level tract of Red Sandstone Rocks, with a
south-west and north-east direction, and dipping at about 20° east-south-east.
The inclination at first is very slight, and the edges of the strata run out
with a regularity which cannot fail to strike the explorer, especially if looked
down upon from the road on the high ground above. They look indeed like
the ridges of a ploughed field on a gigantic scale. The beds are thin, and
for the most part of a deep red colour. It is everywhere marked by circiilar
or oval spots, of a bright green colour, called by Professor Jamieson, moun-
tain green, or celandine. On examination, I found that the colours did not
go into the stone; a blow or two with the sharp edge of the hammer being
always sufficient to cut them out. In many places green-coloured clayey layers
are interstratified with the red sandy rock.

As you pass eastward, the strata become still more inclined, then entirely
vertical. They lose their red colour, and assume a greyish tinge, and a
highly indurated appeara,nce; their jagged and serrated edges project in
confused variety of ruggedness. Immediately their dip is reversed, and they
are found lying against a dyke of Greenstone. This is immediately below
the west end of Broxmouth Park. The Greenstone dyke runs out a
considerable way into the sea, and its dark colour has obtained for it the
name of the Black Rocks. In its neighbourhood small veins may be noticed
running from it through the Sandstone. The following diagram represents
this section. Its position is marked on the Map by the letters A B. The
normal inclination of the strata is seen in the diagram, from a to /;. It
changes at c, the reversed direction being marked from c to <l; the strata

NOTES ON THE GEOLOGY OF DUNBAR SHORE, 103

Trap Dyke Sandstone Strata

b

E Section exhibiting reversal in lie of Strata, from upburst of Trap.

A to B on Map.

lying against the Trap Dyke e.

Several huge boulders of Trap are to be found on the shore. There is
one of these a little eastward of Broxmouth burn^ considerably upwards of
eight feet high: it is visible at a great distance.

Continuing our walk^ we suddenly discover that we have quitted the
red and grey non-fossiliferous Sandstones of the old Red series, and we
now tread over the ruins of an ancient forest. Flat masses of yellowish
Sandstone pave the shore, in horizontal slabs, and are full of the remains of
Calamitesy SigillaricB, StiginarioB, Lepidodendra, etc. Many of these are mere
impressions, and form alone guides to their recognition. Many however,
retain the coaly matter into which their cortices have been converted, and
attract by the contrast of colour, as well as form. They are there in myriads,
and are of every shape and size, from the graceful Calamite, to the more
sturdy Sigillaria. I may here remark, that in 1815^ even Professor Jamieson,
could thus write of these organic remains: — "In the Sandstone there are
numerous supposed vegetable moulds, and some varieties of the Sandstone
are entirely composed of them. This latter fact would intimate, that these
are crystallizations of the Sandstone, and not true casts of organic bodies."
So long was the very existence of organic remains questioned, by gQ(?logists
of the Plutonic school. '

Among the layers of Sandstone, we meet with Limestone beds, the burning
of which, for agricultural purposes, was long carried on here, and led on
more than one occasion, to shipwreck, the fires of the kilns being mistaken
for signal lights. A memorable instance of this occurred in the destruction
of the Pallas and Nymph frigates, in 1810.

At one point, near some houses called the Vault, the superincumbent beds
of Fossiliferous Sandstone have been removed, and you descend over their
edges, eccentrically carved by the waves, into all sorts of grotesque and
varied form of pillar and capital, to a lower platform of Calcareous Sandstone,
containing worn fragments of encrinites, and from that again, to a still
lower series of beds of Black Shale, full of the stems and plates of encrinites,
and containing also, numerous nodules of Ironstone, with remains of productus,
spirifer, terehratulce, etc. From the Calcareous beds, I obtained specimens
of portions of encrinites, as stated, in a water- worn condition; and the idea
has suggested itself, that this bed may have been formed from the debris of
a portion of the lower one, broken and washed up by the force of the waves of the
sea in which the encrinites of the Shale beds flourished in such abundance. I

104 NOTES ON THE GEOLOGY OF DUNBAR SHORE.

think that this notion is borne out by the circumstance^ that in two
specimens I examined^ the lamince of ^ the Sandstone were bent round
underneath the portion of the fossil embedded in them, as if it had been
impressed upon an already deposited bed of some coherency, rather than
been silted up, where it grew in a gradually accumulating deposit. Some of
these beds are farther marked by curious hollows, ^^as if" says Mr. James
Miller, "pitted with small-pox of no ordinary dimensions."

Beyond this point. Limestone occurs to a considerable extent* it is of a
bluish grey colour, and fuU of organic remains. These are well seen at
Catcraig, where one portion to the east of the harbour is characterised by
shells, and another to the west by corals. These patches of Limestone seem
to be repeated all along the coast, at least, so far as the county of Haddington
extends.

A glance at the map will show that the Carboniferous rocks in this
district, are a patch isolated from the great Coal-field, extending between
the Friths of Forth and Clyde. It may be all that remains on this side
the great escarpment of the old Eed Sandstone of the Lammermuirs, of what
was once continuous with the great Coal-field. It occupies a hollow in the old
lied system, which extends considerably into the interior, and is in turn flanked
by the Slates, which cross in an unbroken line, from St. Abb's Head on
the east, to Port Patrick on the west coast, and are regarded as the
equivalent of the lower Silurian group of the south. Further on, at Siccar,
may be seen the junction of the stratified with the unstratified rocks — the
quiet children of ocean, with the more rugged children of fire. But the
present sketch does not pass beyond the boundary of East Lothian: and
I only add farther, that to any visitor, this shore abounds with attractions
of no mean merit. The form of the rocks, urged, as it were, to bold defiance
of the waves, by the upheaving and indurating influences of fire, yet battered
and broken by the aqueous power, eventually triumphant over its more
energetic, but less sustained brother, are worthy of the study of those who
love variety combined with wildness. The pools foliaged with thickets of
purple and green and white corallines, and with zoophytes and algae, and
peopled by the wondrous races of ocean life ; may well hold the lover of the
beautiful, as well as the student of Marine Zoology, entranced in ardent
admiration. While the broad expanse of ocean itself, ever changeful, yet
ever unchanged, greets the view and gratifies endlessly the gaze, an object
the more looked at, the more admired, whether lashed into the wild
magnificence of tempest, or hushed into the gleaming quietude of repose.

"Tlierc is society where none intrude,
By the deep sea, and music in its roar."

******

"ilnd I have loved thee, Ocean."
Glasfjuw, April 28th., 1851.

105

NOTES FROM THE ROCKS.

ON THE NATURAL HISTORY OF DUNBAR SHORE

BY ROIJEKT GIIAV^ ESQ.

DUNBAR CASTI.E AND ROCKS.

"Monosraphoi-s, come from whonc(> thoy mny, have, I think, fair prctoTiPp to ohalleng'P some
l-e^ard and approlwtion from the lov(n-s of Natural History; for, as no man ran alone investigate
all the works of Nature, these partial writei-s may, eaoh in his department, be more aeenrate
in their discoveries, and freer from eiTors, than more general ^^Titers, and so by degrees may pave
the way to an univei-sal con-ect Natural History. "^Gilbert White.

"Who can old Ocean's pathle.ss bed explore,
• And count her tribes that people o\ery shore."

A nitmber of years have now elapsed since, nnder the guidance of our
much-vahied friend, Mr. A. Hepburn, of Whittinghame, we undertook to be
Faunist of the sea-shore at Dunbar; and though, for many more previous to
that, we had followed the pursuit of Natural History for our own
amusement, and had amassed a well-furnished museum of objects, no trouble
was ever taken to record the observations made in our rambles. Like too
many obscure field observers, we had plodded on imder the impression that
what we were engaged in was likely to interest no other person; and so far
indeed as our judgment had been swayed by the mock sympathy of our
neighbours, we were not likely soon to entertain a different notion. One who
spends so many hours a day perched on a rock by the sea-side, or wanders
out in the evenings of winter to recline on a bed of old Red Sandstone, and
watch the feathered tribes as they return from the fields, cannot possibly

VOL. I. P

106 NOTES FROM THE ROCKS. ^

expect to meet with kindred associates; nor did we, who indulged in these
habits from year to year, ever meet with any who would countenance our
pursuits. To some minds of a more sociable disposition, this might have been
a serious obstacle to the accomplishment of such a design as we attempted
to execute; but we must own, (and that without charging ourselves with being
non-gregarian,-) that our happiest hours, while studying Nature, have been
spent alone. Yet not so,

"To sit on rocks, to muse o'er flood and fell:"
"This is not solitude; 'tis but to hold
Converse with Nature's charms, and view her stores unrolled."

And there are many students who would live content with the signs of life
around them there; — the lowly Actinia in the pools, contrasting in its yet
brighter hues with the painted corallines spreading their branches around it;
the gliding Gobies, and the almost motionless Cottus, basking on the sand
streaks here and there visible; and various Blennies peeping from under the
broad-leaved Fuci, which protect them from their foes. Birds on every side
make known their presence; the cries of the Totani and Curlews, the laughing
of the Gulls overhead, and the wailing of the Lapwing and the Plover, are
their best known sounds; and even should these be wanting, there is the
broad-breasted ocean before them;

"And thou majestic main,
A secret world of wonders in thyself."

Before oflfering to our readers the Notes on our favourite pursuits, whieh
we had accumulated in several Journals, it was our intention to describe the
geological features of the spot which gave them birth; but this we could not
have so successfully accomplished as has been already done by our friend,
Mr. W. Ferguson, whose monography we cordially recommend for its correct-
ness and excellence. Indeed, to speak the truth, our knowledge of geological
science was, in the locality we speak of, almost entirely confined to those
points which affected our convenience. We knew of the existence of the flat
shelves of fossil-covered Sandstone, with their deep intersecting pools; of the
upright ledges of ^old Bed,' and the porphyritic dyke of Basaltic Greenstone;
and of the large boulders deposited on the flats, which are visible at a mile's
distance.

They afforded us excellent shelter when out shooting wild- fowl, and we
gratefully acknowledge their services as screens, passing by all speculation
about their origin. Often have we crouched under covert of their Hsroad bare
backs,' and arrested the course of the busy Tringje, and the Plovers as they
skimmed past, while now and then some unlucky 'whaup' would increase our 'head
of game.' And this, we are sorry to confess, is all we could have said in
their favour; for, though we had set foot on almost every stone in the district,
we could, previous to our last visit with our friend, have almost been brought
to believe that there existed in our old haunts.

KOTE8 FROM THE ROCKS. 107

"Eocks rich iii gems, <ind mountains big with mmcsl"

Nor, with regard to fossils^ could we more creditably have entertained the
palaeontologist; our records comprehending nothing more than a bare allusion
to the stone book of the parish. In the Carboniferous Sandstone beds^ as
mentioned by Mr. Ferguson, myriads of vegetable remains are conspicuous; and
on the beach, at some distance to the south, broken fragments of a Sigillaria
are scattered about in profusion, having obviously been washed out of these
beds. Corals abound in huge masses, and the disjointed stalks of Encrinites
moniliformis are strewn thickly in a bed of shale; the heads of the latter are,
however, very scarce. Bat intensely interesting though the study of fossiliferous
rocks is, we must not dwell on it, being somewhat out of our province'; we
therefore leave the geologist to decipher these ancient lithographs in a manner
suitable to their claims. We believe there are ^sermons in stones,' though in
Nature's volumes some of these are hard to understand, and we shall always
look back with pleasure to our short ^meditations among the tombs' of Earth's
first tenants, seen in the neighbourhood already described; yet without dis-
paraging these, or the pursuits of any follower of the science, we have greater
pleasure in inviting our readers to other parts of the same work;

"Let us read
The living page, whose every character
Delights and gives us wisdom."

It is our purpose then, in laying before the readers of "The Naturalist"
these 'Notes from the Eocks,' to give first a few notes on the Ornithology of
the district, which may be considered applicable to the coast of East Lothian
in general, and afterwards to continue the observations in other departments
of Zoology as opportunity may offer. These, it may be observed, are honA
file, written at the time of observation; the earliest corroborated by the expe-
rience of after years; and the whole undertaken with a certain amount of
enthusiasm, which those who find pleasure in studying Nature in the fields can
best appreciate. No apology is offered for the want of classified sequence:
we believe it would serve no great end in so small a matter; and we therefore
take up at random one of our re-written sheets which treats of

FuLiGULiis^E, on. Scaup Ducks.

A family of birds which are, for the most part, maritime in their habits,
and distinguished from the Anatinas, or true Ducks, by their ample feet,
fuller and more depressed bodies; besides having a large membranous lobe
appended to their hind toe. They are all excellent swimmers and divers,
have a strong and rapid flight, and are somewhat wild in their habits.
Many of them are merely winter visitants, appearing in the end of autumn,
and retiring early in April. In rough weather various species may be seen
hurrying along by the water's edge, slackening their speed occasionally, to
look for a place of shelter ; of these the Oidemiixs are very conspicuous, their

108 NOTES FROM THE ROCKS.

raveu-blaek plumage contrasting in a remarkable degree with the white foamino-
waves. The shore of Dunbar is frequented by eight or nine members of the
family, all of which are familiar to us; we have even identified the different
individuals, by the aid of a telescope, when collected in large flocks during the
day-time in calm weather, and floating at no great distance from the shore.
These congregations are often very numerous, comprising at a moderate estimate,
several hundred birds. On being watched for a time, a score of them are seen
to disappear at once, and on their emerging above water, down goes another
party to hunt for prey. Now and then a few will rise on wing, but soon
settle on nearly the same spot 'mid their companions; and as each heaving wave
lifts its head, a long train of birds come in sight, and then sink on the other
side. A ball from our rifle has often been the means of dispersing such like
communities; evei-y Duck hid itself immediately as it hissed in the middle
of a flock, or whizzed over their heads; and when they reappeared on the
surface, scarcely two were in company; then they would take flight, and,
after collecting, would settle out of harm's reach, and begin again their
fishing operations. Towards evening they break up into small flocks, and
betake themselves, some by flight, and others by swimming, to estuaries and
other level parts of the shore, to search for food. We are doubtful, however,
if all are night-feeders; during the course of our shooting experience we never
met with the Ice Duck, (Ilarclda (jlucialis,) nor the Eider, {Sovialeria
moUssinia,) at night, in situations where others were abundant; but, we must
add, the loud cry oi' the former is often heard after dusk, especially in
stormy weather.

Most of the species can dive to a great depth in search of their prey, and
are consequently not so dependent on shallow water as some others of a
diiferent family, which only immerge the head and neck. They may be seen
fishing a long way off shore in the day-time, for crabs and moUusca, which
they swallow on reaching the surface, and when so employed in small parties,
the sportsman may frequently get within shot, as they are slow to get on
wing, and will rather attempt to escape by diving.

We remember noticing, one afternoon, a large flock of Ducks swinnning
quite close to the beach, in a very retired situation; and seeing one or two
well-known forms of the Fuligulinuc amongst them, we at first imagined they
all belonged to that family, but, on using a telescope, we discovered the
majority to be grain-feeding species, the Mallard,.^ Teal, Widgeon, etc.
The cause of their meeting was soon explained; — a schooner, laden with
barley, had been wrecked near the spot a few days previously, and its cargo
strewn aroimd, which had furnished a very opportune meal. It is probable
the Pochards had been drawn into their society while passing, as birds both
at sea and on the beach will often stop short in their flight to join
others, though not of the same species.

(To be continued.)

109

NOTES OF A BOTANICAL

STROLL FROM PLYMOUTH TO BICKLEIGH VALE, GOING

AND RETURNING BY DIFFERENT ROUTES.

KO. II.

On Tuesday, April 15th., according to appointment with an ornithological
friendj (a correspondent of yours,) who is desirous to have an insight into
Botany, I started with him on a ramble through our renowned Biekleigh
Vale. The morning was black and windy, threatening rain: nevertheless,
nothing daunted, we pursued the 'even tenour of our way 5' and a most
delio-htfal day's excursion we had, notwithstanding the 7iimhi did discharge their
watery treasures around us. Although at the risk of trespassing upon your
space, I cannot resist the temptation to remark how great is the pleasure
which the naturalist enjoys during his walk, compared with that of the listless,
objectless saunterer, who merely creeps out of his domicile to banish ennui,
and escape from himself, as it were. At this season, for example, when the
sun only sheds its beams aslant upon the earth, and the woods are brown and
diUl to the eye, what delight could it afford the man who is able to appre-
ciate only the glowing sunshine of the summer months, and the gorgeous
drapery which then invests the trees, to stroll forth in their silent arcades, and
gaze upon their denuded denizens? None! He is unacquainted with the
inherent beauties of Nature, and therefore courts her not, except when arrayed
in her carnival attire. Let us, then, who have been 'within the veil,' and

know how refining — how elevating — how subjugatory of the passions is inter-
course with Nature, strive to win votaries to her shrine, by showing to such

as have hitherto kept aloof from her temple, that at all times and all seasons,

she has charms for her true and fervent worshippers. But to proceed; and
here I would state, th:it in this series of papers I shall, (except under special

circumstances) omit the name of any plant noticed, if previously recorded.

For instance, comparatively few plants will be mentioned in these notes, owing

to the majority of those seen this day being included in our first paper.
Crossing the Laira embankment, we found, profusely scattered on both sides

of us, Barharea prcccox. This plant is not common throughout England.

Babington particularly points out in his "Manual," "waste places in Devonshire,"

as the locality of this plant.

On the line of the Dartmoor Railway, Sarofhamnus scoparius had donned

its vesture of 'vegetable gold.' It was early for this shrub to be in blossom.

Indeed, if your readers will consult their books, they will find that our

plants are generally precocious — a circumstance attributable to the geniality of

our climate, and low, sheltered position.

Shortly after' entering the Vale, we discovered in abundance Anemone

nemorosa, dotting the ground with its pure white flowers, and filling one with

ecstacy at the thought of so much life and energy prevailing in the midst of

seeming decrepitude and death. Of Ajvga reptans, one specimen was collected.

110 NOTES OF A BOTANICAL STROLL.

Ij'izula sijlvatim, which, during the summer, fringes the banks of the River
Plym, (which, for the information of those to whom the place is unknown, it
may, perhaps, be stated, flows through this Vale,) was beginning to rear
its spreading headsj and in sheltered spots, near the waters' brink, Veronica
montana was modestly unfolding her pencilled petals of blue and white.
Suffer me here to remark that the specific name of this plant is quite a mis-
nomer;— Montana! why we find it only in warm valleys. Anthoxantimm odoratam
(the Sweet Vernal Grass) was in many spots in flower. Here and there a
sprig or two of Calluna vulgaiis was decked with its heath-like bloom; and
u solitary example of Cardamine pratensis was found in flower in a plot of
moist ground. Vaccinium Myi'tillus, (Wortle-berry — "Urts" they are locally
called,) was sparingly in bloom; and a sweet thing it is with its nodding flowers
of greenish hue, tinged with a delicate red. Lastly, in the vale flashed boldly
on our gaze, from a stagnant pond, the flaunting Caltha palustris, (Marsh
Marigold.)

Ascending from the Vale through the woods on the western side, we passed
a farm named Colwell, in a lane approaching which Viola hirta was very
plentiful. Passing onward through some narrow and unfrequented lanes, we
found Aram maculatum, with many other plants recorded in the first paper,
but more fully expanded and more numerous. I might dilate on the grati-
fication experienced from the information which I derived from my companion,
on the various birds we saw during the day; but I forbear.

On Good-Friday, I found at Maker, Cornwall, Moenchia erecta and
Teesdalia nudicaulis — both in flower, but rather small. I was highly pleased
at finding the latter plant so near home; for the only habitat previously known
to me was at Shaugh Bridge, some six or seven miles hence. These are good
plants; and should they be desiderata with any of your readers, it would afford
me pleasure to furnish them with specimens in exchange for any that I may
be wanting.

On Monday, 21st., I collected on the Hoe, Plymouth, Foa Indhosa,
Hmyrnlum oluaatrum, Erodium moschatum, (small and prostrate, but with its
long and pointed seed-vessels standing erect — a miniature cheoawx, de frize,) and
Plantaijo coi'onojms. I have since seen Selene maritima gathered at Bovisand.

April 29th. — Went to Maker Heights, with the view of procuring better
specimens of MoencJiia erecta and Teesdalia nudicaulis than I saw on Goodr
Friday; but, owing to the cold which has prevailed since that day, their
stature had not increased. Noticed in flower, Ornithopus perpusillus, Myosotis
versicolor, just unfolding its minute and delicate cream-coloured corollas, (which,
as implied by its name, soon assume a different hue,) M. arvensis, Bumex
acetosella, Geranium molle, Sherardia arvensis — sparingly in bloom, but I
mention it now lest it should hereafter be overlooked; Cardamine sylvatica,
Chcerophyllum temulentum, Poa annua, Unjsimum alliaria, Luzula multlflora.

May 1st. — Centrardhm ruher coming into flower (many clusters quite open)
on a wall at Stoke, near Dcvonport. In similar situations the Wallflower, the

NOTES OF A BOTANICAI, STUOLL. ' 111

pet of the poets^ has been for some time past shedding its agreeable perfume.

May 3rd. — In bloom, the common Fumitory, (Fumaria officinalis,) whose
■wax-like flowers are ever objects of beauty; and the Hearts-ease, (Viola tricolor,)
it is the variety arvensis, with the petals shorter than the calyx, which I
have seen.

May 12th. — The season has, up to this time, been very cold, and vegetation
is generally backward. Took a ramble this afternoon over Staddon Heights
as far as Bovisand. On walls in the outskirts of Plymouth, Arenaria
serpyllifolia was in flower. In the hedges of the road passing through Catdown
limestone quarries I noted, as in flower. Geranium rotundifolium,^ Medicago
maculata, Sisymbnum officinale, Parietaria officinalis. Taking a boat at the
margin of the quarries, and crossing Catwater, I landed at the village of
"Turnchapel, whence my tract lay across steep fields overlooking the Sound;
and a glorious prospect is presented from these fields — such a panorama of
land and water, of hill and dale, of crowded towns and deserted wastes, one
would travel far to match. Here I found Ranunculus parviflorus in abun-
dance, but as yet rather small and unbranehed; Sinapis arvensis; Medicago
lupulina; Trifolium procumhens; T. arvense; Anagallis arvensis, sparingly;
Stachys arvensis, few and immature; on the old stone hedges, Myosotis colUna,-\
with its small but rich blue petals, rivalling the turquoise — truly a most
exquisite gem. Armeria maritima, on the ledges of the precipice, with its
roseate tints, was smiling on the dark gulph of waters beneath, or, if I may
indulge in figures, the Sea Pinks were standing on their unapproachable
pedestals, like blushing vestals separated from the giddy world, and deprecating
communion therewith; for, really, he who would venture to rifle their charms,
must have no fear of the "facilis descensus Averni" before his eyes. Associated
with the last-named plant were Anthyllis vulnerana and Lotus cornicidatus; and
near at hand Chrysanthemum leucanthemum, with golden disk and silver rays,
was, as it were, just peeping above the floral horizon — its flowers not being yet
fully expanded. Whilst gazing in delight upon this galaxy of littoral beauty,
which was still more enhanced, and rendered even gorgeous by one vast mantle
of golden furze, which covered the slopes, emitting a luscious perfume that was
gratefully subdued by the sea-breeze; the Cuckoo blent his monotonous note
with the murmuring soa below, and heightened my enjoyment almost to ecstacy.
Oh! for the poet's utterance to express my sentiments!

Arum maculatum was bursting from its pent-house^ and wielding its club-like

* This plant is plentiful in this neighbourhood. Some of j'our readers in the midland counties,
where I understand it is rare, may be pri-atificd to know this. Should any of them want spe-
cimens, I shall feel a pleasure in supplying them.

t Although this genus of plants is difficult to distinguish when dried, yet they are not so
gro\ving; they present very marked differences. Young Students find the written descriptions
insufficient; but let them have the living plants once pointed out to them, and they will not
err aftcrwai-ds. I would earnestly recommend any one about to take up Botany, to endeavour
to form acquaintance with some one who has made progress in the study. Scientific men are
generally accessible.

112 FAUNA OF FALMOUTH.

iaflorescence to awe intruders upon its privacy. Potcriim sanfjuisorha partially
unfolded. Pohjgala vulgaris — one specimen dn bloom. This is a beautiful
flower, and when seen in large clusters, as it is here in the summer-time, is
remarkably attractive. In a rivulet, JVasturtium officinale.

Having reached my boundary, Bovisand, which overlooks the Breakwater, I
find there Selene maritima, and an immense patch of Mocnchia erecta — men-
tioned before, but worthy, from its abundance here, of being named again. I
must not trespass further upon your space, than to say that on my homeward
walk, I added to my collection Specularia hyhnda and Linum catliarticum ;
and that, while scudding hastily along, my attention was arrested by a small
bed of Myosotis, which should be versicolor by its form, but the corollas were
perfectly white, and the plants of a much paler green than usual — a variety
unnoticed by me before.

IsAiAii W. N. Keys.

riijmoutJi, May lUJi., I80I.

CONTRIBUTIONS TO THE FAUNA OF FALMOUTH.

BY W. r. COCKS, ESQ.
(Cnntlmied from page &\i.)

Girl Bunting, (Emberiza cirlus,) Mont. — Not uncommon.

Chaffinch, (Fi'ingilla coelebs,) Fenn. — Common.

Mountain Finch, (Fringilla montifringlUa,) Fenn. — Two shot in the neigh-
bourhood of Falmouth, February, 1847; in the possession of Mr. N. Tresidder.
Several at Pennance Point in the winter of 184G and 1847. March 19th.,
1849, a fine male specimen on a branch of the black thorn, leading to the
Furze common, Swanpool.

Tree Sparrow, (Passer montanus,) Selhy. — Pennance and Swanpool, January,
1850: rare.

House Sparrow, (Passer domesticus,) Selhy. — Common.

Gre^7ifinr]i, (Coccothraustes chloris,) Fleni. — Woodlane Terrace; three in
old Penryn road, November, 1849: scarce.

Harofinch, (Coccothraustes vulgaris,) Flem. — Woodlane, Trefusis, etc.: scarce.

Goldfinch, (Carduelis elegans,) Selby. — Common.

Siskin, (Carduelis spinus,) Selhy. — Rare. I examined the two that were
shot in the neighbourhood in 1847. Male and female on a blackberry branch,
old Penryn road, November 30th., 1849; one near Penryn road, January
10th., 1850.

Common Linnet, (Linota cannabina,) Yar. — Common.

Mealy Redpole, (Linota canescens,) Qould. — Fields near Pennance: rare.

Lesser Redpole, (Linota linaria,) Yar. — In the same locality: scarce.

Bullfinch, (Pyrrhula vulgaris,) Fhm. — Not common.

Common Crossbill, (Loxia curvirostra,) Fenn. — One was shot in the Orchard,
Grove hill, Woodlane, by Mr. T. S. Skinner. The specimen was preserved.

FAUNA OF FALMOUTH. 113

and in Ihe possession of Mr. N. Tresidder for some time. Three shot at
Carclew, April, 1850: very rare.

Starling, (Sturnus vulgaris,) Penn. — In winter and spring, common.

Chough, (Fregilus graculus.) — One shot in the neighbourhood, November
26th., 1850: rare.

Raven, (Corvus corax,) Mont. — Swanpool, Pennance, etc.: not uncommon.

Carrion Crow, (Corvus corone,) Mont. — Common.

Rook, (Corvus frugilegus,) Penn. — Common.

Jackdaw, (Corvus monedula,) Penn. — Common.

Magpie, (Pica caudata,) Gould. — Common.

Creeper, (Certhia familiaris,) Penn. — Not uncommon.

Wren, (Troglodytes vulgaris,) Flem. — Common.

Hoopoe, (Upupa epops,) Linn. — Two shot (male and female) by Mr. Gill,
Mendon bottom, neat Mainporth; presented to the Truro Museum.

Cuckoo, (Cuculus canorus,) Penn. — Not uncommon. Dr. Williams' Son shot
a beautifully-marked specimen in his garden. Middle Terrace, 1849.

Kingfislier, (Alcedo ispida,) Penn. — Gwyllyn Vase, Swanpool, etc.: not
uncommon.

Swallow, (Hirundo rustica,) Penn. — In summer, common.

Martin, (Hirundo urbica,) Mont. — •In summer, common.

Sivifi, (Cypselus apus,) Mont. — In summer, not uncommon.

Nightjar, (Caprimulgus Europasus.) — Not uncommon.

Ring-Dove, (Columba palumbus,) Penn. — Domesticated.

Stock-Dove, (Columba aenas,) Penn. — Domesticated.

Rock-Dove, (Columba livia,) Selby. — Domesticated.

Turtle-Dove, (Columba turtur,) Penn. — Domesticated.

Pheasant, (Phasianus Colchicus,) Mont. — In the season, shops and markets,
common.

Turkey, (Meleagris gallopavo,) Limi. — Domesticated.

PeacocJc, (Pavo cristatus,) Linn. — Domesticated.

Cock, (Gallus domesticus,) Briss. — And varieties.

Guinea fowl, (Numida Mealeagris,) Linn. — Domesticated.

Partridge, (Perdix cinerea,) Penn. — In the season, not uncommon.

Quail, (Coturnix vulgaris.) — One was taken alive on board a Pilot boat
by Mr. B. Lowry, six leagues from the harbour. May 10th., 1850; now in
the possession of Mr. Runnell, Hair-dresser. Two shot in the neighbourhood,
September, 1850; in the possession of Mr. Tresidder.

Great Plover, (ffidicnemus crepitans,) Selby. — Gwyllyn Vase, .Swanpool: rare.

Golden Plover, (Charadrius pluvialis,) Penn. — Gwyllyn Vase, Swanpool,
etc.: not uncommon.

Dotterel, (Charadrius morinellus,) Mont. — Bar Point, Gwyllyn Vase, etc.:
rare.

Ringed Plover, (Charadrius hiaticula,) Penn. — Pennance, Swanpool, etc.:
not uncommon.

VOL. I. Q

114

SPRING ARRIVALS,

Grey Plover, (Sqiiatarola cinerea,) Flem. — Rare.

Peewit, (Vanellus cristatus,) Flem. — Gwyllyn Vase, Swanpool: not uncommon.
January 17th., 1850, flushed a covey consisting of seventeen birds, on Mr.
G. 0. Fox's estate, Pennance.

Turnstone, (Strepsilas interpres,) Flem. — Scarce.

Sanderling, (CaUdris arenaria,) Flem. — Not common.

Heron, (Ardea cinerea,) Penn. — Penryn Creek, low water: not common.

Bittern, (Botaurus stellaris,) Sdby. — Penryn Creek, College wood, market:
not common.

Curlew, (Numenius arquata,) Penn. — Gwyllyn Vase, Swanpool: not common.

Whimbrel, (Numenius phaeopus^) Penn. — Gwyllyn Vase, Swanpool, Pennance^
etc.: not common.

Redshank, (Totanus calidris,) Flem. — Gwyllyn Vase: rare.

Sandpiper, (Totanus hypoleucos,) Selby. — Gwyllyn Vase, Swanpool, etc.:
not uncommon. Dr. Williams' Son shot a fine specimen (October, 1849,) at
Swanpool.

GreenshanJc, (Totanus glottis,) Flem. — One specimon shot at Swanpool,
winter of 1845: very rare.

Wood Sandpiper, (Totanus glareola,) Flem. — Shot by T. Passingham, Esq.,
Swanpool, AugTLst 28th., 1847.

Green Sandpiper, (Totanus ochropus,) Flem. — Shot by T. Passingham, Esq.,
August 28th., 1847.

Avocet, (Recurvirostra avocetta,) Penn. — Shot at Swanpool, November,
1845. The second bird shot in the locality within the last ten years.

Blach-winged Stilt, (Hiraantopus melanopterus,) Sdby.— ^hot at Swanpool
by Mr. J. Genu, Silversmith.

Black-tailed Godwit, (Limosa melanura,) Selby. — Shot by Mr. May, at
Swanpool, December 12th., 1846.

Woodcock, (Scolopax rusticola,) Penn. — Common in winter.

(To he continued.)

Ijiritig :Jlrrinnk

Early appearance of the Ouckno. — In corroboration of the fact, that the
Cuckoo, at least occasionally, makes its appearance during the winter months^
as noticed in No. 2, of "I'he Naturalist," I send you an extract from my
"Journal of Natural History," dated Ormskirk, December 28th., 1833. ^'During
a walk with my friend R. C, I saw a Cuckoo flying across the fields below the
church. Having pointed it out to him, ho told me he had heard one calling
only a few minutes before, but did not mention the circumstance, fearing I
should laugh at the idea of his hearing the Cuckoo in the depth of winter. The
day was remarkably mild, which was quite a treat, the weather having been
very stormy and unsettled for a long time." The following notice is appended

SPRING ARRIVALS. 115

to the entry in my Journal, as a note: — The Liverpool Courier, of January
1st., 1834, contained a paragraph stating that the Cuckoo had been heard
in Rutlandshire, during the preceding week.

I shall keep a good look out for the Hirundines, and note their arrival.
One of my boys told me on the third instant, that he saw three Swallows
fly over the town between eight and nine in the morning. I mention this
as it was noticed to me; there may have been some mistake, as we have
not seen any since. I certainly ought not to doubt its accuracy, for my
children are keen observers in the diiFerent departments of Natural Histoi-y.
~W.B w, M.R.C.P., Fleehvood, April 10th., 1851.

The Cuckoo, (Ouculus canorus,) was heard on the 20th. of March, and the
Swallow, (Hirundo rustica,) on the 28th., both unusually early here. The
Corncrake, [Crex pratensis,) I heard on the 7th. instant, for the- first time
this year. — John Garland, Dorchester, Dorset, May dth., 1851.

Arrival of Sand Martins, (Hirundo riparia,) in Northumherland. — While
out trout-fishing near the source of the River Till, which takes its rise
amongst the Cheviot Hills, on Saturday, April 19th., I observed for the first
time a couple of Sand Martins, The locality is mountainous. Wind west,
and blowing high. — A. S. Moffat, Bewick Folly, Eglingham, Northumberland,
April 2oth., 1851.

I saw a Swallow, (TL rustica,) to day at Upper Ilelmsley, near York.
A gentleman, with me at the time, said he saw one on April 20th, at
8ke\ton.—B. B. M.— York, May 1st., 1851.

OBSERVATIONS THIS SPRING OX THR ARRIVAL OF THE HIRUNDINID^E IN NORFOLK.

Chimney Swallow, (H. riistlca,) April 18th. — 'Weather — mild. "Wind — south.

Sand Martin, (7f. riparia,) April 19th. do. Wind— varying from south-west

to south-east.

Window Martin, {H. urbica,) ilay 2nd. do. Wind — vai-}ing west by north-

west.

Swift, {Cijpsclm apm,) May 7th. — Weather — milder than the throe previous days.

Wind — west.
S. 0. Harper, Norwich, May 1th., 1851.

In tlie heginninj of the month of February of this year, I obtained fresh
from the nest. Eggs of the Blackbird, Hedge Accentor, and Redbreast ; found in
the outskirts of this city. — Idem,.

The Blackcap Warbler, {Gurruqa atricapilla,) Whitethroat, (Curruca cinerea,)
Haybird, (Sylvia trochilus,) Whinchat, (Saxicola ruhetra,) and Redstart,
(Phcenicura ruticilla,) made their appearance in this neighbourhood at the same
time as the Swallows. The Swift, (Cypselus apxis,) was seen here on the
8th. of May; wind in the south, into which quarter it had only shifted the
day before. — G. B. Clarke, Wohurn, Beds., June 12th., 1'851.

Saw the first Swallow on Thursday, April 17th. A few young Crows
hatched on April 7th., but the generality of them not until a week later

116

MISCELT.ANEOUS NOTICRS,

They appear to me to be some days forwarder in this county — Bedfordshire,
than in Lincolnshire. — R. P. Alington, Dunstable, April 2dth., I80I.

BlisrHlnntntts Untirrs.

Hare and Babbit. — In reply to Mr. Mc'Intosh's inquiry in No. ?>, I may
state that a neighbour of mine has an animal stuffed, which was caught in
Somersetshire, which is apparently a cross between a Hare and a Eabbit; the
body resembling in form and colour the Hare, and the head and ears the
Rabbit. Hares would be very unlikely to breed if kept in Rabbit hutches.
— Henry Tuckett, Frencliay, Bristol.

Waxen Chatterer, at Devizes. — A notice of the occurrence of a specimen of
the Waxen Chatterer last February, and which was shot on the Five-lanes
farm, and was preserved by Mr. Dangerfield, of Devizes, has been obligingly
forwarded to us by Charles 0. Hyde, Esq., Highgatc. — B. B. M., May 1th.,
1851.

Waxen Chatterer, at Devizes. — A splendid specimen of this bird was shot
at Worton, near Devizes, in the month of February last. A fine specimen
of the same species, was also shot in the same village, in February, I80O. —
B. Maysmor, Devizes, May 2S)th., 1851.

In two sand banks on Aspley Heath, about two miles from here, the holes
of the Sand Martin, [Hirundo riparia,) have been taken possession of by
between fifty and sixty pairs of Starlings, (Sturnus vulgaris,) which have built
and reared (or nearly so) their first brood there, and I have no doubt but
what they will the second. If the poor Sand Martins, who have been so
unceremoniously deprived of their holes, intend building there, which they
probably will, as there is plenty of space still left, they must at once set
to work and scrape out some fresh holes, as I believe the Starlings will
keep possession of those they now have. — G. B. Clarke, Wohum, Beds., May
12th., 1851.

One of the common Wild Ducks, in Woburn Park, last year, laid her eggs
and hatched them on a piece of a branch of an oak, about twenty inches in
length from the trunk; the remains of a branch which had been broken off
by a storm some time before; which projected over a pond, and about twelve
feet from the bottom of the tree. When the person who climbed the branch
reached the nest, the young ones, (with the exception of three, which he
caught,) tumbled, in their hurry to escape, headlong into the water below. —
Idem.

Albino Meadoio Pipit, (Anthus pratensis.) — An Albino variety of this bird
occurred some time ago in this vicinity. It was found by a country lad, in
a nest of three or four fully-fledged young, of the usual colour and markings,
about four miles from Glasgow. On being disturbed, the young birds left the

MISCELLAN'KOUS NOTICES. 117

nest and attempted to escape, but, the white one catching his eye, its strange
appearance led him to capture it, and bring it home alive. He fed it for a
few days, when it died. I did not get an opportunity of examining it till
after it had been stuffed. The colour was of an uniform creamy white, more
intense on the strong wing feathers and tail; the bill, legs, feet, and claws,
were of the same colour: the eyes were red when the bird was alive. —
John Gray, Glasgow, May 8th., 1851.

Calendar from January 26th, to February 28th., 1851.

JANUARY, 1851.

26 Leontodon taraxacum. Daudelion Commenced flowering in

Yorkshire.
31 Primroses, White Violets, Buttercups, and Daisies, are in flower in Devonshire at this date.

FEBRUAEY.

2 Leontodon taraxacum .... Dandelion Commenced flowering in

Devonshire.

3 Perdix cinerea Partridge Commenced pairing in

Yorkshii-e.

5 Geranium dissectum. Wild or jagged-leaved Geranium. Commenced flowering in

Devonshire.

6 Primula vulgaris Primrose, (Common.) Do. Yorkshire.

8 Potentilla fragaria-struin.. Strawberry-leaved Cinquefoil Do. Do.

9 Geranium rotundifolium.. Round-leaved Geranium Do. Devonshire.

12 Myosotis palustris Forget-me-not Do. Yorkshii-e,

in gardens.

13 Motacilla alba Water or Pied Wagtail First seen in Yorkshire,

(Kiveton park,) and a few days later in great numbei-s. This bird is common in
Devonshire both in summer and winter; — it is called there the 'Ditch washer.'

18 Narcissus pseudo narcissus. Common Daffodil Commenced flowering in

Devonshire.

20 \lola canina Dog Violet Do. Do.

Riinuuculus ficaria Pile wort Crowfoot, or lesser Celandine Do. Yorkshire.

22 Caltha palustris , Common Marsh Marygold Do. Nottingham-

shire ; Marsh, near Blyth.

23 Bollis peronnis Common Daisy Commenced flowering in

Yorkshii'e.

28 Yinca minor Lesser Periwinkle Do. Do.

Flowers much earlier
in Devonshire.
S. Hannaford, Jim., Kiveton Fork, Rotherham, May 1th., 1851.

A few remai'Jcs on "Tlie Fauna of Falmouth," by W. P. Cocks, Esq. (See
page 37.) — I was surprised to see in the above mentioned interesting commu-
nication, a statement, that the Notch-eared Bat, {Vespertilio emarginatxis,) is
^^not uncommon" in the neighbourhood of Falmouth, as I had always
understood that it was one of the rarest of our British Bats, only a very
few specimens having been obtained in this country. In "The Naturalist's
Library," by Sir W. Jardine, I find the following notice : — "I have been fortu-
nate in procuring a specimen of this very rare species, from a gentleman, who
procured it at Winchester. The species was first found at Abberville, by

lis MISCKLLANEOUS NOTICES.

M. Baillon, and by Mr. GeofFry, in the excavations at Charlemont. The
latter, in describing it, states that he received a specimen from M. A. Brogniart,
who found it in the neighbourhood of Dover." Now, as the notcJied ear
is not 'peculiar to this Bat, is it not possible that some other species may
have been taken for it. Bell states, that after a careful examination of
several specimens of the species described by Jenyns, as F. emarginatus , he
has been convinced of its identity with the V. Dauhentonii, of Kuhl and
Desmarest, which is by no means so rare as the true V. emarginatus. If
Mr. Cocks would send a description of a specimen to ^'The Naturalist" it
would doubtless be gratifying to many readers. I was not less siirprised at
his mentioning six different examples of the genus Mus, one of which he
calls ^^Brown Rat," {Mus intermedins.") Does he consider it merely a variety
of the 31. decumanus, or, as a distinct species. Sir W. Jardine, (and, I
believe, Bell also,) only mentions five species belonging to this genus, as
indigenous in Britain, ^ome further account of the M. intermedius, would
therefore be satisfactory. — Henry Ferns, 22, Briggate, Leeds, ^mo: 8tli., 1851.

Nesting of tlie Domestic Pigeon. — I am enabled to confirm the statement of
your correspondent, in No. 1. of "The Naturalist," respecting the nest of the
common House-Pigeon. A pair of my Pigeons have recently built, and their
nest was composed principally, though not altogether, of twigs. I should estimate
that seven or eight-tenths were twigs j and what renders the circumstance more
remarkable, is, that we live where it would have been far more easy for the
birds to procure straw than twigs. One very curious article which formed
part of the nest, was a broken comb, which, I presume, had been found on
a neighbouring ash-heap. I observed also that, in the case of this pair, the
cock bird brought nearly all the materials, while the hen constructed the nest.
I think in most cases it will be found that the cock Pigeon sits during the
day, leaving the nest towards five o'clock in the evening, and that his mate
sits after that hour through the night. The passage quoted from "The
Architecture of Birds," is at page 159, and not at page 119, as printed in
"The Naturalist."— TF.Z>. 5., FUetwood, April llth., 1851.

Greater BlacJc-hacked Gidl, (Larus marinus,) in Bedfordshire. — The Rev.
R. P. Alington, in ^^The Naturalist," page 58, says, "that he is not aware
of ever having observed one of the Greater Black-backed Gulls, (Larns marinus,)
in mature dress, over the sea-bank." I had one in the spring of 1849,
which was shot at Hockliffe, about four miles from Woburn, Beds., which
you are aware is a great many miles from the sea. — G. B. Clarke, Wohurn,
Beds., May I'M., 1851.

The Great NoHliern Diver, (Colymbus glacialis,) taken near Fordingbridr/e. —
A few weeks since, a fine specimen of the Great Northern Diver was killed
by a man, in the forest, not far from here. He was walking past some low
furze and heath, when, much to his astonishment, this visitor from the north
ran out from his hiding-place, and fiercely attacked the man's legs; who, by
a sharp knock on the head with a stick he had in his hand, quickly put an

REVIEW. 119

cad to his asSciult^ and his life. I saw the bird soon afterwards^ and it appeared
to have no other wound than the recent fracture of its skull. It was a male
in fine plumage. — J, Pemher'ton Barllett, Fordinghridge.y Hants., February ^rd.,
1851.

Change of plumage in the Blackhird, (Turdus merula,) on moulting. — I have
now a Blackbird, which has been a prisoner from the nest, and which has
tenanted a large room about six years. In his autumnal moult, the year
before last, both his wings became white, while the rest of his body was as
jetty as ever. In moulting last autumn, his plumage, (much to my disap-
pointment,) returnad to its usual sombre hue. There was no change of diet, or
anything that I could dis30ver, to cause this curious freak. — Idem.

Occurrence of the Short Sun Fish, (Orthagoriscus mola,) at Lynn. — A fine
specimen of this fish was taken by some fisherman near Lynn, on the oth. of
November last. Its dimensions were four feet two inches long, two feet one
inch deep, and about fifteen inches thick. — T. S., Lynn, Norfolk, April dth.,
1851.

t\nm,

A Popular History of British Sea-ioeeds, containing their structure, fructi-
fication, specific characters, arrangement, and general distribution, toith notices
of some of the Fresh-water Algce. By the Kev. D. Landsborough, A. L. S.,
Memb: Wern: Soc: Elin: and Author of "Excursions to the Isle of
Arran." London: Rekvk, Benham, and Heeve, 1831, 1 vol., Royal IGmo.,
Second Edition. With numerous coloured plates.

To those who, in visiting the sea-side, wish to spend their time, profitably
and agreeably, in preserving and arranging specimens of the various Sea-weeds
which they may find in their rambles on the shore, the above unpretending
little volume will be a most useful and pleasant assistant.

The first portion of the work is occupied with a very interesting description
of the structure, colour, growth, and fructification of Sea-weeds, together with
their distribution and uses. The whole of this "Introduction" is written in an
easy and pleasant style, and will prepare the reader for the more technical
part which follows. This commences with a list of all the British Sea-
weeds; next to which, we find a concise and accurate description of the plants
themselves, their families, genera, and species, interspersed with valuable and
extremely interesting remarks, both on the plants treated of, and also on the
various other marine productions commonly found with them, such as Zoophytes,
or some of the numerous molluscous animals with which Sea-plants are so often
infested. This portion of the work will enable any one readily to determine
any of the Sea-weeds found on our coasts; and the portable size of the volume
will allow of its being carried in the pocket to the rocks, where many of these
very attractive objects may be examined in all their native beauty.

We next have a similar outline of the more remarkable of our Fresh-water

120 PROCEEDINGS OF SOCIETIES.

Algae, and then comes a chapter of instructions for the preservation and
arrangement of the specimens procured, which will be most useful to those who
wish to have their spolia opirna in a condition to exhibit to their friends, in
somewhat of their pristine elegance and beauty: few botanical collections are
more attractive than one of nicely prepared sea-weeds; and those who follow
Mr. Landsborough's directions will find little difficulty in rendering their marine
herbarium an object of interest as well as beauty. Those who wish to encourage
a taste for such pursuits in any of their young friends going to the sea- side,
cannot lay out half-a-guinea better than in making them a present of this very
useful little work, and if they are themselves bound on a similar journey, they
will not regret purchasing it for their own use.

^.^rntwMngs nf Inrktirs.

YorJcshire Naturalists' Club. — The monthly meeting was held, iis usual, at Mr. Graham's, m
Jubber"-ate, on Wednesday evening, May 7tli., when there was a full attendance of members.
"William Gbay, Esq. occupied the diaii-.

Several interesting objects were exhibited by Mr. T. Stuubs, of Kipon. Among them the
windpipe of the Velvet Scoter, (Oidemia ftisca;) a fine specimen of the nest of the Ves2)a
Britannica; the skull and portion of the skin of the Walrus, (Tricliechm Rosmarus;) several
pieces of Ash wood, obtained last year, on which the excavations of a small beetle, (Anoblum,)
of a cliiss exceedingly destructive to timber, were beautifully shown; also several specimens of
the beetle itself, etc.

Dr. Morris exhibited a fine specimen of the Old English Black lljit, (Mas ratttts,) for which
he was indebted to the kindness of W. Richardson, Esq., of Stockton-on-Tees, where it was cap-
tured recently. He also exhibited several fine specimens of the Stoat, or Ermme, (Mustcla
erminea,) in its white winter fur, and called the attention of the club to the large number of
these animals, which had been procured in this state during the past winter, notwithstanding
its extreme mildness ; showing that the change in colour of tht\ fur must be dependent on other
causes than mere severity of cold.

Mr. Graham exhibited two splendid adult specimens of the "Wliite-tailed Eagle, ( Ilalimctics
albicilla,) which had been procured in Sutherlandshire ; also the male and female of Stcllers
Western Duck, (Somateria dispar;) all of which he had recently mounted for W. M. E. Milner,
Esq., M. P. He also produced a specimen of the Fifteen-spined Stickleback, ( Gasterosteiis
spinaehia,) which he had received from Scarborough.

Dr. Morris exhibited several interesting sections of wood by the microscope, particularly one
of the Indian Wood, called Phytocrene. "In this curious production the wood consists of plates
containing vessels and woody tissue, having no connexion with each other, and separated at very
considerable inten-als by a largo mass of prosenchjTiiatous cellular tissue, filled with vasifonn
tissue, and representing medullary rays. When the stem is dry, the woody plates separate fi-om
the other tissue, in which they finally lie loose." — Lindley. Dr. Morris also exhibited, by the
microscope, some specimens of Marine Alga.

The Eev. D. LANDsnoROUGH, whose interesting little work on Sea-weeds, should be in the
hands of every Algologist, was present as a visitor, and exhibited a fine series of most beauti-
fully preserved Sea- weeds, many of them of considerable rarity; after which he kindly gave the
members present a very clear, interesting, and useful account of the best methods of mounting
and preserving specimens of Marine Alffce, and by which, in fact, all the specimens on the table
had been so beautifully preserved, as to appear rather like elegant and highly-finished drawings,
than specimens of "worthless Sca-wecd." Tlie account was received with great interest by the
members.

The following new members were admitted: — Capt. C. J. Fcatherstone, E. N., Eipon; and the
Eev, J. Overton, Sessay.

121

NOTES FROM THE ROCKS.

ON THE NATURAL HISTORY OF DUNBAR SHORE.

BY ROBERT GRAY, EHQ.
(^Continued from page 108.) ■

NORTHERN HARELD.

There is every variety of plumage in the birds of the Fuligula family; — the
deep velvet black of the Scoters, relieved in one of the species by a pure white
bar in the wing; the showy dress of the Eider, young individuals of which
exhibit a piebald coat; the rich glossy green and other contrasting colours
of the beautiful Grolden Eye; the purple and black crest of the Tufted
Scaup, [Fidigula cristata;) and the pheasant-like tail of the Northern
Hareld, {Harelda glacialis,) are well-known examples.

Two species, which may be considered the types of the Fuligulinae, are
very common, — the Broad-billed Scaup, {F. marila,) and the Red-headed
Pochard, (F. ferina;) of the latter great numbers frequent the estuary of
the River Tyne, where, in moonlight evenings, we have seen it shot by our
friend, Mr. J. Nelson, of Kirklandhill. According to the observations of that
gentleman, it and the ^'^^idgeon, (Mareca penelope,) are the two commonest
Ducks in the bay throughout winter. However expert it may be at diving,
it certainly, like its congeners, gives a preference to shallow running streams at
nightfall; and, during the entire day, it is never absent from the bay, though
always a long way out. Both of these birds, {ferina and marila^ associate freely
with the other Anatinas night and day; but others, as the Long-tailed Duck,
(Zf. glacialis,) fish exclusively by themselves. The last-named species is a very
interesthig bird, which visits the shores of East Lothian in winter. In the
northern regions it assembles in large flocks previous to migrating; and '^in

VOL. I. R

122 NOTES FROM THE ROCKS,

the latter end of August, when a thin crust of ice forms during the night
on the Arctic sea, the female may be often seen breaking a way with her
wings for her young brood/'*

The habits of this beautiful bird, in common with many others, may easily
be studied with a good pocket telescope, an instrument of great service to
every sea-side ornithologist, and one which ought in many cases to supersede
the deadly fowling-piece. Many a time and oft, have both been levelled
at the species now under notice, by the hand that pens this hint 5 but, it
must candidly be admitted, that the former serves every purpose for the
student whose pursuits do not embrace anatomical details, or whose cabinet
is not in want of a specimen.

In fine weather the Northern Hareld may be seen in small bands, (generally
a male and two or three females,) floating over the sand-banks in various
parts of the Frith of Forth, where they procure their food by diving. When
the naturalist has discovered them at this employment, let him use his glass,
and he will see the whole disappear at intervals under the water, with the
exception of one which does the duty of sentinel, when they are fishing in
dangerous proximity to the shore. I have watched them when so engaged,
at a distance of about one hundred yards: they were diving for shells and
Crustacea to a depth of eighteen or twenty feet, — a good performance when
it is considered they had only the resistance of the water to act upon without
the impetus of a plunge. On this occasion I could see the long tail feathers
of the male jerked upwards when he dived, and when the party approached
nearer my place of concealment, it was interesting to notice them reappearing
at the surface, and devouring what they had caught. It is seldom, however,
an opportunity can be had of seeing them feeding; they seem indeed rather
shy in approaching land. Like the Corn-crake it is oftener heard than seen;
and though the bird is well known to fishermen and others frequenting the
sea-shore, by its loud and clangulous cry of 'calloo,' few of them could identify
a specimen in the hand. The 'calloo' is often heard in stormy weather, and
has a wild eiFect when heard above the sound of the waves; it gives rise to
the name of ^coal and candle light,' amongst Scottish rustics. I have found it
a difficult matter to get a specimen of this Fuligula, though it is tolerably
common in Dunbar bay throughout the winter; the best plan is for the
sportsman to go a little way out to sea in a small boat, by which means it
may be easily approached.

We have on the table before us a beautiful male bird of this species; and
by its side are lying a pair of Broad-billed Scaups, the acquisition of which
cost us a little .trouble at the time, and many days and nights of it afterwards;
and with the following extracts from one of our Journals, we conclude our
present chapter: —

One stormy evening in January, 1848, we set out with a companion in
search of Scaups for our museum; and having arrived at a suitable place where

* Faun: Bor: Amer: p. 438.

KOTES FROM THE ROCKS.

123

a rivulet joins the sea, we proceeded to pile up a screen of large stones,
behind which we squatted, without either ease or dignity, to await the arrival
of some unfortunate victim. Snow had fallen to the depth of two or three
inches since the recedal of the tide, and had covered the broad field of rocks
with a heavy mantle; and we soon besprinkled our wall with several haridfuls,
the better to hide our whereabouts. We had no sooner withdrawn our guns
from their covers, than we observed three ducks, at a distance of two hundred
yards, silently approaching a passage between two ledges of rocks, which stood
like guards at the mouth of the stream. Their extraordinary speed of swim-
ming soon realized our suspicions of their being Pochards, as no other than
the broad paddles of a Fuligula could have reached us so soon."^' In a few
moments they were opposite our place of concealment, and we had leisure to
watch their movements. After traversing the large sheet of water, and not
finding a suitable feeding-place, they again made for the passage opening to
the sea; but a Mallard at this moment alighted on a rock a few yards behind,
and attracted their attention. Then came others flying about us, some even
alighting in pools within three or four yards distance. The snow shower had
passed off, and all was still for a time, the only sounds, besides the hollow
noise of the waves, being the whewing of the Widgeons as they flew over
our heads. The Scaups were paddling before us in a kind of bewilderment,
and they came nearer and nearer, as if inviting the Mallard to join them ; but
he seemed more intent on preparing his feathers for the water, than on
receiving the addresses of his less elegant neighbours. What were our own
feelings? We had a longing eye to them all, but what were we to do?
There was a heavy tier of pitchy clouds away towards the north, and though
the Ducks were distinctly visible on the water, it was not unlikely we should
lose sight of them in the darkness if they took wing. We threw into each
barrel a few pieces of slug, and cast one look at the single bird, and another
at the trio; but, unfortunately for the latter, the Fuligulinas were the class
of coast birds which at that time occupied our studies; and without further
reflection on the comparative value of one handsome Mallard, and, it might be,
three clumsy Scaups, we aimed at the majority. Our companion firfed, and
two of the birds lay dead on the rippling pool, while the third never attempted
to leave them. It paddled from one to the other in mute wonder, exhibiting
the same affection as many other birds in a like bereavement. Being without
a water-dog, and unwilling to lose our ill-gotten prey, we plunged in and
struck out for the floating prize. The live Duck tarried by its dead companions
till we nearly laid hold of it; and when at last it took flight, it uttered a
stifled croak and flew round and round the spot; for, although the night was
dark, we could sometimes see it dip towards the water, and we heard the

* Naturalists or sportsmen, in soareh for these birds, would do weU to take up their position
close to the edge of the sea, near any opening in the rocks leading to smooth water, behind, aa
they very frequently form into swimming companies of six or s-iven, and tra\el in this way to
their feading ground.

124 AN ACCOUNT OP A DAv's EXCURSION TO BUTE.

whistling of its wings overhead as we picked up the shot specimens. They
proved to be the White-fronted, or Broad-billed Scaup, {F. marila,) male and
female in immature plumage; and the other bird which displayed such faith-
fulness to its unfortunate fellow-travellers, appeared to be of the same species.
After a little while it returned, and, on alighting, resumed its sorrowful
mutterings; but, although several stones were thrown at it, we could not
compel it to leave the place.

(To be continued.)

AN ACCOUNT OP A DAY'S EXCURSION TO BUTE.

BY JAMES P. FRASER, ESQ.

The dreary season of winter has taken its departure at last, and spring,
with all its beauty and freshness, has burst upon us; gradually have the trees
been unfolding their beauty, and the sun revealing himself in his power.

We have completed our first trip this year to the Frith of Clyde — that
huge inland lake — that mighty estuary, subdividing itself into numerous smaller
ones, which lies between the lobster-like claws of the Mull of Cantyre and the
Ayrshire coast. Girdled in by giant mountains, its very storms impress us
with a feeling of security. It extends its glassy surface amid these watchful
guardians, a wayward and happy thing, never for a moment the same.

Having entered the boat, we felt somewhat tired and languid, but the
morning air refreshed us, and the sea-breeze increased our appetite, so that
we began to long for the breakfast-hour: it did at length amve, and after
effecting a compromise with, and satisfying the demands of, the inner man,
we felt ourselves vastly comfortable, and again ready for deck.

Once more above. The coldness of the morning air is yielding to the
genial heat of the growing sunshine, yet the morning seems scarcely awake.
Nature has a thousand moods — a thousand varying aspects; and in each of
these there is something on which the eye may rest itself with delight, and which
the mind may contemplate with profit.

We find we have travelled some distance since we last left the deck; we
have passed Gourock upon our larboard, and are now dashing over and onward
to Dunoon. Upon our right the mountains of the Holy Loch are towering
in all their grandeur. This lovely little Loch is but a portion of Clyde
sideling inland, as if delighting to linger in the bosom of these lofty moimtains.

Dunoon lies right before us; it is the nucleus of a long tail of beautiful
cottages, which extends to the mouth of the Holy Loch. It is adorned
with a number of dark trees, chiefly firs; but the mountain behind is sterile
to the top. The whole district, for some miles, consists of the mica slate
and clay slate system, which stretches across the breadth of Scotland, from
Kincardineshire on the east, to Argyleshire, Bute, and Arran, on the west. The

AN ACCOUNT OF A DAT's EXCtESlON TO B0TE. 126

mica slate is highly indurated, and in walking along the shore, one is naturally
struck with its contorted and curved appearance, and the variety of form which
it occasionally assumes. It is beautifully traversed, here and there, by veins
of compact quartz. This slate is sometimes used by the inhabitants for economic
purposes; many houses of an inferior grade being roofed with it.

The parish church, towers pre-eminently from the centre of the village,
and forms a beautiful feature in the landscape. It is connected to the Castle-
hill by a mass of foliage, through which rises the elegant summer residence
of Mr. Eglinton. The Castle-hill is a green knoll formed of a very dark
greenstone, and a section of it is laid bare on the shore, where the protrusion
of the igneous rock through the clay slate is exhibited; the disturbance and
crystallization of the latter by the former, being perfectly manifest at the
point of contact, to the most careless observer. It is beautifully clothed with
verdure, and on the summit a small part of the ruin is still standing. As
we proceed southwards, the long range of clay slate mountains is discovered to
be nicely variegated with hill and valley, and Dunoon is observed to stand
upon a point of considerable prominence. There have been a great number
of stone coffins discovered here with the bones in a fine state of preservation,
each in its proper place: in other respects also, the district is not wanting in
antiquities of interest.

Creeping along by the Cowal shore, we sail so near, that the mica slate
can be distinctly seen ranging from north north-east to south south-east,
with a dip to the south at an angle nearly vertical. It is amusing to contrast
the dingy little huts lying snugly in some sheltered spot half-way up the hill,
with the beautiful white-washed cottages at its base: they look like the dark
aborigines of America looking down upon the fair Europeans, who have taken
possession of their shores, and driven them far off into the back woods. On the
other side of the Frith, a new line of coast comes into sight, beyond the Cloch
lighthouse. Right in front lie the islands of the Great and Little Cumbrey,
but obscured by the thick ground haze, while the small coasting vessels are
looming in the distance, on the farthest verge of the horizon.

Upon our right, we find we have now left the slaty region, and have come
upon the old red sandstone, which may be seen at the water's edge; the
colour of the houses," too, is altered; the white-washed greenstone having given
place to the dark red-colour of the sandstone, imposing a sombre look upon
the landscape; the very hill has changed its aspect, it no longer wears the
sharp and angular summit, and rugged side, but has acquired the gentle slope,
and rounded top; the barren and sterile rock, with the brown and dingy look
of the heather, have yielded to a richer soil, and a beautiful carpet of verdure.
We have now arrived at Toward lighthouse, which is situated upon the point
of a low peninsula, composed of a conglomerate of the old red; and immedi-
ately beyond, the lovely island of Bute lies luxuriating in the morning mist.
On rounding Toward point, the noble seat of the late Kirkman Finlay, Esq.,
is seen rising over the bend of the hill; and just underneath the house, dykes

126 AN ACCOUNT OF A DAY's EXCURSION TO BUTE.

of porphyry may be seen traversing the sandstone^ and at some points crossing
each other.

In crossing from this point to Bute, we perceive a most beautifully-defined
ancient sea margin upon the east point of the island, and a corresponding
one upon the west side of the Curabrey, which lies immediately opposite. A
stretch of three miles across the entry to the Kyles, places us at the quay
of Rothesay. This town is beautifully and snugly situated in a deep bay,
and stretches out its lovely arms on both sides, as if to welcome the delighted
visitor. In sailing along the eastern arm of this bay, and just before arriving
at the quay, the old red sandstone conglomerate is again laid bare upon the
shore, and forms the entire beach at this part of the coast.

Rothesay was formerly frequented by herring-fishing boats, but it is now
a favourite watering place; and in the summer months, presents a gay and
lively scene, being resorted to by people from all parts of Great Britain. To
the south and east of Rothesay, the island is composed of the old red sand-
stone, while to the north and west it consists of mica slate and clay slate,
traversed by trap and quartz veins. There is a large quarry of greenstone in
the immediate neighbourhood of the town, out of which most of the houses have
been built. We understand beds of coral and shells, of considerable thickness,
are found in many places, half-a mile inland; but having never visited them
personally, we are quite unable to state anything particular regarding them.
There are also some beds of limestone, and one or two thin seams of very
indifferent coal met with, to the south-east of the town. It may be inter-
esting to state that the island is divided into four portions by three
beautiful valleys, which terminate in large bays on each side of the island.
There can be no doubt that these valleys formed, at one time, three arms
of the sea, dividing what is now one island into four: it is further worthy of
notice that the entire coast road runs along a level terrace, which has
been the former beach; for the cliffs, which, in many parts, rise above the
road, are here and there worn into caves, and bear other marks of the action
of water.

But we must to the shore, and examine its zoology, which was the principal
object we had in view, in this short but very pleasant excursion.

On landing, we found ourselves somewhat stiff", after a sail of three hours
and a half; but after ascertaining our last opportunity of return home, we
started at a sharp pace to reach our ground, and make the most of our
time. After walking about a mile and a half, one of our party suddenly
disappeared into one of the houses, which lay upon our left; we found he
had formed the resolution to remain here till the following day, and that he
escaped into his residence for the night, to make preparations for collecting.
Upon his reappearance, we bounded across the fence in a body, all eager for
the work.

Having arrived on the ground, we found the slate rocks very thickly
clothed with a species of knotty fucuSj under which dwelt the various animals

AN ACCOUNT OF A DAY's EXCURSION TO BUTE. 127

which will be noticed in the remaining part of this sketch. On walking over
this external covering of the rocks, we found it not to be very sure-footing;
for one was slipping and making a narrow escape from a tumble; another
with boots not wholly impervious to water, was stepping into some concealed
pool, and extracting his foot a degree or two cooler, and with a little addi-
tional moisture; we found all the pools concealed, in fact completely covered,
with this sea-weed. Many of the shells, in consequence of this protection, are
in beautiful condition; even some of the specimens which we picked up of the
common limpet, (Patella vulgata,) were very fine. Patella (Lottia) testudinalis,
Miiller — a shell which has hitherto been considered rare or local in its
distribution, we found in great abundance; on almost eveiy stone we took up
there were, at least, two; but from one stone in particular, about a foot
square, we detached thirty specimens. Many were of large size, and beautifully
marked. There is a good figure of this shell in ^-'Thorpe's British Marine
Conchology," (Frontispiece, figure 103.) One of our party found a remarkably
fine specimen, having the entire inside of a dark brown colour, approaching to
black; and others were obtained, with markings of an opposite character, the
inside being of a dull white, without the dark brown on the muscular
impression.* We did not observe Lottia virginea, though in some parts of
the Frith it is common.

Chiton marginatus and C. levis occurred but sparingly, and the specimens
we got were small; they are much more plentiful in the east of Scotland. The
game may be said of Trochus cinereus. The state of the tide precluded our
getting at the ground where Pholas Candida is very abundant; but we were
not much too late; for one of our party, who, in his enthusiasm had rushed
into the water, said he was standing on the bank which contained them.
This molusk burrows in stifi" clay, in this locality, and can with difficulty be
dislodged. Modiola xmlgaris, old and young, we found in great numbers, in
company with Echini and Star- fishes, in fissures of the rocks clad with sea- weed. -
Occasionally we met with a few Myae or Gapers in the wet sand, protruding
an inch or so above the surface, but it was extremely difficult to get a
specimen without breaking it, on account of the rapidity of the movements
of the animal downwards.

Of the Echinodermata, we procured a few good specimens. Opliiocoma
hell is, we found in company with Asterias rubens; the latter occurred in
profusion, and all were of a deep purple colour, with the exception of one
or two gigantic individuals, which displayed the usual hues, and measured
nearly a foot across. One of our party, an experienced collector, who had
taken the precaution to furnish himself with the proper apparatus and

* This species is the Patella Clealandi of Sowerby, and the F. Clypeus of Bro\sni. It does
not appear to be found on the east coast of Scotland, the only localities citjed by authors being
Bangor in "Wales, and the Isle of Man. In Scotland it occurs at Gourock, besides the locality
we have mentioned. Its measurement, from the anterior to the posterior margin, is usually from
half an inch to an inch in diameter. One large and beautiful specimen, in the cabinet of
'ilr. J. Gray, measures one inch and three-eighths.

128 AN ACCOUNT OP A DAy's EXCURSION TO BUTE.

accoutrements, waded a little distance off shore, and picked up a fine
specimen of Solaster papposa, as large as the crown of a man's hat.

The Purple-tipped Urchin, (Echinus miliaris,) was very abundant, and we
all supplied ourselves with a fine series of specimens. These we found
moored by their suckers to old valves of Modiola vulgaris, bits of earthenware,
and flat stones; sometimes occurring in clusters underneath the sea-weed, on
the sea-weed itself, and at the bottom of those concealed pools, which rendered
some of our party not very comfortable. We saw some pretty large specimens
of the Common Egg Urchin, {Echinus sphoera,) which had been denuded of
their spines, and in other instances they had been partially destroyed, but
they were again growing; we observed that the young spines, as well as
the old, were much blunted, and all of a dirty white colour.

Our experienced and enthusiastic friend, of whom we have already spoken,
had no sooner completed his preliminaries, than we saw him describe, what
appeared to us, some cabalistic signs on the wet sand. On rushing up and
watching his motions, we perceived him describe a circle with his two fore-
fingers, and cunningly insert them to some depth; then he brought to light
a beautiful specimen of what we, in our ignorance, took for a ripe and yellow
plum; this was Amphidotus cordutus; and having in another case watched his
motions, we proceeded to practise by searching for little holes in the sand,
then digging round them till we reached the urchin, which was generally buried
from two to three inches deep; the specimens we got were all in beautiful
condition. We noticed that when put into fresh water, some of them assupied
a purple tinge, while others became greyish white; in the former case the
yellow had disappeared without colouring the water; and in the latter, the
water was changed to a bright yellow. The shell of the creature is somewhat
fragile. Brissus lyrifer is found in the bay.

The only crustacean worth noticing was a species of Ligia, of a pea-green
colour, and differing in many respects from Ligia oceaniea. Only one of our
party took an interest in these creatures; and we noticed him deposit his
capture carefully in a piU box; but we have not since had an opportunity
of determining the species.

On lifting the weed from one of the pools, we descried something dart off
to the side and vanish beneath a stone; the person who discovered it, imme-
diately sounded the alarm, and the whole of our party might be seen stooping
over the prey, each seizing, but in turn losing it, owing to the slippery nature
of the material. At length, after some scratches from the rocks, and from
the nails of our friends, we succeeded in securing our victim, and depositing
him safely in a bottle. We had a similar adventure at another pool not
far distant; these individuals were, the one a specimen of Blennius guttata,
the other of C^tiias scorpius. Arenicola piscatorum — the common sandworm,
appeared to be very abundant. The bay of Rothesay abounds in varieties,
which can, however, only be brought to light by means of a dredge; and if
we can manage to make out an excursion this season, we hope to lay before

THE SKY- LARK 129

our readers some account of it.

Our time being now quite exhausted, we had to retrace our steps to the
quay, and thus, to our regret, brought to a conclusion our first excursion for
the season.

Olasgow, May Qth., 1851.

THE SKY-LARK, (ALAUDA ARVENSIS.)

BY J. Mc'iNTOSH, ESQ.

"The Laverock in the morning he'll rise frae his nest,
And mount to the air wi' the dew on his breast."

The Sky-lark or Laverock, by which latter name it is generally known in
Scotland, and especially by its poets, is truly the bird of the morning. It
is not merely the herald, but the awakener of the dawn, and is thus described
by the old dramatist, Lilly: —

"Brave prick-song! who is't now we hear?
None but the Lark, so shrill and clear.
Now at heaven's gate she claps her wings,
And morn not wakens till she sings."

How delightful it is to catch the first glimpse of that glorious orb of day
peeriiig over the eastern hills, and to watch the Sky- lark soaring and soaring,
till it becomes a mere speck, or is altogether lost to our sight in that vast
and beautiful expanse of sky, while its thrilling notes still fall upon our ears.
When at its greatest height, should a bird of prey make its appearance, it
closes its wings, and drops like a stone to the ground, and should the
intruder continue to hover near, the Sky-lark lies motionless* its colour or
markings so much resemble the colour of the earth that it in general escapes
the talons of its enemy. But when descending in its own joyous manner, it
comes down by repeated falls, as it were, fluttering and singing till it arrives
near the ground, when it becomes mute. It appears to me not to be
geaarally knowa that the Sky-lark has two broods in the year, at least it
is the case in the southern counties. The first is fledged in the beginning of
.Tune, and the second in August, at which time we have frequently found
their nests in valleys and high chalky corn-fields. In the more northern
counties, where the snow remains longer on the ground, and the springs are
later, we have never met with more than one brood, which is generally
fledged about the end of July. It is also usually supposed that the Sky-
lark does not settle or perch on trees ; this is however, a mistake ; we have
frequently seen and shot them from off the twigs of trees, wl\ere they await
for the passing insect, on which they dart, and having secured their prize return
to the bough. Their nests are generally composed of dried roots and grass,
also of leaves, with finer materials of the same for a lining, placed on the

VOL. I. s

130 THE SKY-LARK.

ground by the side of a tuft of grass, or a turf, in which will be found
from three to five eggs. White and dun-coloured varieties of this species of
Lark are frequently met with.

Notwithstanding all the casualties to which the eggs of this, and other
ground-nesting birds are exposed, as also the adult birds of this species, their
numbers do not diminish to any extent. It is not only in England that
the Sky-lark is destroyed for the sake of its flesh, to satisfy the gormandizing
epicure, but all over the European continent. We are informed that in Germany
they are made the source of national revenue, being subject to an excise
duty; and on the plains by which Rome is encompassed on the east and
south, vast flocks of Sky-larks assemble in autumn; and it is the custom of
the gentlemen, and the ladies, too ! of the eternal city, to go forth to enjoy the
sport of Lark-shooting! The destruction of these birds is to a certain
extent just and necessary, for the protection of wheat, barley, oats, peas, and
vetch crops, on all of which they commit sad havoc, just as the young grain
is peeping through the surface of the soil, and any naturalist may easily con-
vince himself of the fact in a corn county, by the use of a telescope and dissection,
or by a walk across a field of spring-sown corn etc., he will there find heaps of
the husks of the grain in question, and flocks of Sky-larks arising from their
plunder at his approach. Let it be here understood, that I am not signing
their death warrant, on the contrary, I am fully aware of the many and
important services rendered to the husbandman by these interesting little warblers
who sing

"Their songs of welcome to the gladsome spring,"

in the destruction of countless thousands of his insect enemies; and to those
who are, and may be inclined to act on the defensive side of the question,
let them pause and read the poet Thomson's humane appeal in behalf of
birds in general: —

"Oh! let not, aim'd from some inhuman eye,
Th€ gun, the music of the coming year
Destroy; and harmless, unsuspecting harm.
Lay the weak tribes, a miserable prey.
In mingled murder, fluttering on the ground."

It is the duty of the naturalist to point out, without favour or prejudice,
the good and the bad qualities of the animals he attempts to describe, for
the benefit of the cultivators of the soil, who are in general, but indifierent
observers of the wonderful and beautiful works of the Great Almighty, so
that they may be enabled to distinguish their enemies from their friends, and
not, as we too often see them, dealing death and destruction around them : they
should bear in mind, —

"That all things have an equal right to Uve."

1 will add one more note with respect to the gay and cheerful Sky-lark,

THE COMMON PARTRIDGE. 131

and have done. Mr Jesse, author of the ^^Gleanings in Natural History/'
says at p. p. 22 and 23, with respect to the claws of the Sky-lark, which
are particularly long, that they are used by the birds to remove their eggs
and young to a place of greater security, when they are threatened with
injury or destruction. Having paid close attention for years to the habits
of this bird, I have never been fortunate enough to meet with the like
occurrence; perhaps some more acute observer may have? and if so, I, and I
have no doubt others of your numerous readers, would be glad if they would
favour us with their observations on this very singular habit of the Sky-
lark. In conclusion, I cannot refrain from adding to my already lengthy notes,
the following beautiful lines from the poet Milton: —

"Hark! hark! the Lark sings 'mid the silvery blue!

Behold her flight, proud man, and lowly bow;
She seems the first that does for pardon sue.

As though the guilty stain which lurks below
Had touched the flowers which droop' d above her brow,

When she all night slept by the daisies' side;
And now she soars where purity doth flow.

Where new-bom light is to no sin allied.

And pointing with her wings, heavenward our thoughts would guide."

THE COMMON PARTRIDGE, {PEBDIX CINEREA.)

BY J. Mc'iNTOSH, ESQ.

Your correspondent, Mr. Henry Tuckett, requests information on the
incubation of the Common Partridge, perhaps the following notes may prove
interesting to that gentleman and others, although not from the pen of a
Waterton. In the quotation from the sacred book a query arises. The
prophet says "sitteth on eggs;" are we to understand from this, that the
eggs were of a different species, or actually the eggs of the Partridge; will
some of your clerical ornithological correspondents enlighten our darkness on
this subject?

The Partridge manifests the greatest caution in choosing the place of
nidification, (of course there are exceptions to the rule,) and may be observed
for a week or ten days, in pairs, near the spot, with a view to ascertain
if there should be any enemies in the immediate neighbourhood, that might
molest or prove destructive to them or their eggs; and if their suspicion is
aroused, they betake themselves off in search of a fresh spot, which is
generally in the open corn or grass fields; yet their nests, which are composed
of a few pieces of grass and leaves scraped carelessly together, may be
found in sn^ll strips of plantation, which are so common in agricultural
counties, for the purpose of shelter, in hedge-rows, and on heathy moors, bordering

132 THE COMMON PARTRIDGE.

on cultivated districts, on the top of hay-stacks, and we have even found them
in holes of decayed trees in hedge-rows, about four feet from the ground.

During the time of incubation, and in fact till that operation is completed,
the hen will, and always does, remain upon her eggs till hatched, with a
pertinacity unequalled by almost any other bird; we have seen this strikingly
exemplified, in many instances even ending in the death of the bird, and
it yearly occurs in the operation of mowing for hay, when many birds meet
with their death by the accidental blow from the scythe of the mower, rather
than leave their eggs exposed. We have frequently captured the hen while
sitting on her eggs, and have passed our hand down her back without her
moving or showing the least fear; but if we touched the eggs, she would
immediately peck at our hand in a fierce manner, as much as to say, you
have no business there. Montagu records an instance of one which allowed
itself and eggs to be deposited and carried into captivity in a hat, and
brought forth her young. The time of incubation is from three to four weeks,
and sometimes less. They begin to pair in February, and commence laying
in May and June.

The affection for her young is peculiarly strong: in carrying out which
she is greatly assisted by her companion : they lead them out, and call them
together to feed, which food, while young, consists principally of the larvae of
ants, with flies, and other small insects. In the case of danger, if not too
near, the hen will hide her young under her wings, and the male will
flutter along, as if its wing were broken, to allure the approaching enemy to
a considerable distance, will then suddenly drop, as if quite dead, then by a
circuitous route, will hasten to the spot lately occupied by itself, partner, and
young, to announce that the danger is past.

The sensual ardour of the male has been the theme of many writers, and
there are instances out of number in which the parental solicitude of the
female has justly called forth their eulogistic admiration. Partridges are
frequently hatched under the care of the Domestic Hen, and, when able to
feed themselves, let loose in the preserves of gentlemen. They are easily
tamed, and will breed in confinement; we have had them so tame as to peck
crumbs from the hands of strangers with a degree of familiarity not surpassed by
the common domestic fowls of the farm-yard. On this taming subject we
shall perhaps be quoted by some sage zoologist, as we have been with respect
to the Cu:jkoo and Black Woodpecker; should it not meet with that scientific
gentleman's approbation, he will, I hope, refrain from inserting any portion of
it in his pages, however greater the publicity it may obtain in his pages, over
those of our juvenile "Naturalist."

Charminster, Dorset, April 24:th, 1851,

133

NOTES ON THE LEPIDOPTERA OF
THE WEST OP SCOTLAND AND FIFESHIRE.

BY J. GRAY, ESQ.
( Continued from page 86.^

Leaving off in our last paper with the Bombyces, we now proceed to notice
the more interesting species of the Scottish Noctuce that have come under our
notice in this district; a group of much interest to the entomologist, whether as
regards the economy and curious habits of many of the species, or the beautiful
and often delicate markings with which they are adorned; some of them indeed,
possessing more allurements in that respect, than many of the more highly
coloured Diurna; a quality which even in the eye of a strictly scientific naturalist,
is as much admired, and far better appreciated, than by those with whom it is
the only point of interest.

Even to the entomologist who has been accustomed to confine his attention
exclusively to British species, this remark cannot fail to prove sufficiently obvious;
but its full force can only be felt on examining the luxurious productions of
warmer cUmes, whose interesting forms and structure, combined with the exqui-
site loveliness of their markings, render this section of the insect world a field
which can hardly be trod without peculiar delight.

Though these few notes on our native Lepidoptera have been called forth
solely by a desire of recording some portion of the Scottish productions, and of
illustrating the more general distribution of species; and though any attempt at
an arrangement has been studiously avoided, still we cannot help remarking the
propensity for the making of genera which this order of insects exhibits; not a
few species having been separated from their congeners under a distinct generic
title, on some ground or difference purely specific. One cause of this seems to us
to lie in the undue weight attached by some entomologists, to the characters of
the insect as exhibited in the caterpillar state. These we have always considered
to be much subordinate in value to those of the perfect insect, as partaking, in
some degree, of its own transitory nature at that stage, destined, as it is ere
long, to merge into a completely developed structure; the permanent characters
of which surely afford a much more obvious ground, and induce safer conclusions
for generic distinction.

The exclusive partiality so often exhibited by British entomologists for native
species, which of themselves are totally inadequate for forming correct views
on the subject, is doubtless another reason why the generic divisions of our
native insects have been so frequently based upon such nice distinctions; a
partiality which can only result in the most narrow-minded views of the syste-
matic arrangement of one of the most numerous and interesting divisions of
the animal kingdom.

In the following notes on the Noctum, we have only introduced such
species as have, fallen under our own observation, purposely omitting any notices
of the occurrence of those with which we have not been personally conversant;

134 NOTES ON LEPIDOPTERA.

our object being to present a general view of the productions of this district,
rather than to compile a list of rare captures.

Of the genus Triphcena, three species are distributed very generally throughout
the West of Scotland; namely, T. orhona, pronuha, and Janthma. T. pronuba,.
though common enough everywhere, seems to have a particular liking for
stack-yards, often appearing in hundreds, when a quantity of hay is being
removed. It is also frequently observed during the summer nights in the
streets of towns, probably attracted by the lights. T. orhona occurs in the
same localities, but is not nearly so common. T. Janthina, though generally
esteemed a scarce species, was particularly abundant last season throughout
Scotland, and was taken in great profusion at Govan, and elsewhere near
Glasgow, flying swiftly over the ivy, in the beginning of August,

Charoeas graminis is very common in the month of August, during the
day-time, at Netherton, near Lanark, and at Kirkintilloch. The peculiar
habits of this insect, and its irregular period of flight, have been often noticed.
We have generally found it on the wing in the morning and afternoon,
hovering over the flowers of the ragwort or thistle, and sometimes appearing
to suspend itself by ^its sucker; during the heat of the day, however, we
have almost invariably taken it in a sort of dormant state, settled on the
flowers of the above plants; on being alarmed it would immediately attempt
to escape by tumbling down amongst the grass, and wriggling itself head
foremost ' into the roots.

Garadrina cubicularis, Agrotis exdamationis, and A. Tritici, congregate
together in out-houses during the day, often in considerable numbers.

Noctua plecta and N. Augur, are very plentiful in hedge-rows and woody
places everywhere; N. Dahlii, haja, hrunnea, and G. nigrum, though generally
distributed, are much less frequently met with.

Rusina tenebrosa appears to be a scarce species in this district, as we are
only aware of its occurring a few miles from Glasgow.

The more common species of Hadena, are H. Pisi, Ghenopodii, Brassicce,
hasilinea, and Oleracea, which are met with in abundance in many places;
IT. ihalassina and testacea, though far from rare, are still not very frequently
observed, while H. Protea, glauca, Gucubali, and adusta, might almost be
termed scarce. The two last species, indeed, we have only taken in the Carmi-
chael woods, near Lanark, towards the end of June. S. contigua also occurs in
the same locality, at the end of May. It is pretty common in the larva
state, feeding on the birch and various other shrubs in July.

Scotophila Porphyrea and Anarta Myrtilli, are common on heaths everywhere.

Gosmia trapetzina, Pyrophila Tragopoginis, Segetia Xanthographa, Orthosia
stahilis, 0. gothica, and O. instabilis, are very generally distributed; 0. Litura
also occurs in various places in Lanark and Renfrewshire, but is much
scarcer.

Euplexia lucipara is found sparingly on the Frith of Clyde, in Argyleshire.
Thyatira Batis occurs also on the Frith of Clyde, in various localities, but

NOTES ON LEPIDOPTERA, 135

is not at all common.

Ncenia typica, Xylophasia rurea, X. polyodon, and X. lithoxylea are abundant
near Glasgow and elsewhere.

Actehia Prcecox appears to be altogether a coast insect^ and is very
generally distributed along the west coast of Scotland, in Ayrshire.

Calocampa exoleta is fouud near Ayr^ G. vetusta also occurs in this district^
but is much less common.

Tethea duplaiis is not uncommon near Lanark, at the end of June, flying
over whitethorn hedges^ in the twilight. T. Or is found sparingly near
Glasgow,

Scoliopteryx lihatrix and Polia Chi are not at all common, though occurring
sparingly in Renfrewshire and Fife.

The two beautiful species of Miselia, aprilina and oxyacanthce are found
sparingly near Glasgow and Hamilton.

Mormo Maura is rare in this district, occurring, however, in the vicinity
of Glasgow, and in Ayrshire. It is generally found near some stream, much
resembling in its flight the fluttering jerks of bats.

Achatea spreta is found in fir plantations in Renfrewshire, not unfrequently.
CucuUia umhratica is rare, and is the only species of the genus we have
noticed in this part of the country. It occurs in Renfrewshire, and near
the Frith of Clyde, in Argyleshire.

The following species, though not very common, yet seem to be very generally
distributed in many localities through the whole district: — Gelcena IlawoHhii,
Miana arcuosa, Xanthia flavago, X. fulvcujo, Apamea nictitans, Ahrostola
UrticcB, Euclidia Mi, and E. glyphica. The last species is however rare.

Plusia interroyationis is found in heathy places, and is particularly plentiful
in the Isle of Arran. P.festucce is generally found in the vicinity of moist
places, but does not appear to be very plentiful. P. hractea occurs at
Netherton, near Lanark, hovering in the twilight, over the flowers of the
honeysuckle, but it is by far the rarest of the genus. P. Gamma and P.
chrysitis are common throughout the whole district. P. Iota occurs in open
woody places near Glasgow, and elsewhere, often in company with P. percontati-
onis, though we have generally observed that a locality that abounded with
one of these species, seldom produced above a few specimens of the other.

Phlogophora meticulosa appears in two broods, in June, and again in
September, and is common through all this district* it is frequently observed
during the day, sitting on garden walls. '

Apamea oculea in many varieties, Gortyna micacea, Miana fasciuncula,
Acronyda Psi, and A. Rumicis, are all common through the district.

Leucania pallens, L. impura, and L. pygmina are also common, the latter,
contrary to the habits of its congeners, we have always taken on the wing,
in the day-time. Leucania pudorina also occurs sparingly.

Many species of Noduce apparently survive the winter, as they are often
seen flying in ditches near hedge-rows, early in the spring. Noctua plecta.

136 INSTINCT OF THE HOUSE SPIDER.

haja, hrunnea, hasilineaj G. nigrum, Plusia Gamma, etc., are amongst the
number.

(To be continued.)

INSTINCT OF THE HOUSE SPIDER.

BY A. S. MOPFATj ESQ.

One afternoon last summer, I offered, to a very small House Spider which
had hung its web upon a plant in my sitting-room window, a Fly somewhat
larger than itself; on the Fly struggling in the web, I observed the Spider first
to examine it attentively for a short time, when, I suppose, conceiving it too
powerful to encounter oif hand, it at once deliberately commenced to envelope the
Fly with cords, so as to bind it completely, and render escape impossible; this
it accomplished by running round the Fly in every direction, a thread at the
same time issuing from its spinnerets, so as to effectually enfold it in toils. After
this precautionary measure, the Spider approached its victim cautiously, and
struck it repeatedly with its venomous forceps, retreating quickly after each
stroke. Here was certainly a very extraordinary instance of a remarkable
instinct, a pseudo intelligence, in this little creature ! On examining the Fly,
it doubtless considered it too powerful to contend with so long as it remained
unbound, while at the same time every probability existed of its being strong
enough to shatter the tiny web in pieces, to guard against which, it immediately
thought of, (if I may use the expression,) surrounding it with cords, so as to
trammel its legs, and render its escape futile. The creature seemed also aware
of the fatal effects of its poisonous fangs, as it patiently awaited the issue, after
a few strokes were given, darting back after each encounter, in order to avoid
the clutches of the Fly. What more could the lord of creation have done in
similar circumstances? Truly the most humble and insignificant of the Creator's
works, manifest the impress of the finger of God !

In order to discover if this was the usual manner of despatching their victims,
I offered a similar Fly to a Geometric Spider, which had hung its net in the
corner of a garden door-frame, but in place of using any precautionary measures,
the Spider conceiving itself perfect master of its antagonist, at once darted upon
its game, and despatched it with its mandibles.

I observe that Spiders continue to entertain themselves at their meals, for a
longer period than may be generally supposed. One morning about eight o'clock,
I gave a Geometric Spider a middle-sized Fly, which it immediately seized; I
observed it again several times during the day, and for the whole time until five
o'clock in the evening, it was engaged with its repast. It appeared only to suck
the fluids from the body.

The leg of the Harvestman Spider, (Phalangium Gornutum,) is divided below
the last joint into numerous articulations, and terminates at the foot in a
hooked claw; it also contains an internal tube, full of fluid, which I consider may

FAUKA OP FALMOUTH.

137

be the apparatus for extending the leg and foot; for on compressing the lapper
part of the tube, . the fluid is propelled from that portion of the limb towards the
lower extremity, so as to extend the limb in a straight line, or even to cause it
to curve in the reverse direction, while, on the pressure being removed, the lower
part of the limb returns, by its own elasticity, into a sort of inward coil. It may be
that this elasticity of the articulated portion of the lower limbs, and its disposition
to coil inwards, when the compression of the muscles upon the upper part of
the tube is withdrawn, is enough to propel the body of the Spider forwards.
The Star-fish has limbs similarly moved.

Bewick Folly, June 2Sth, 1851.

CONTRIBUTIONS TO THE FAUNA OP FALMOUTH.

BY W. P. COCKS, ESQ.
(Continued from page 114.^
Great Snipe, (Scolopax major,) Penn. — One shot in the Marsh, Gwyllyn
Vase, December, 1818: rare.

Common Snipe, (Scolopax gallinago,) Penn. — Common. Mr. N. Tresidder
has one in his possession of a cream- colour.

Jacli Snipe, (Scolopax gallinula,) Penn. — Not uncommon.
Curlew Sandpiper, (Tringa subarquata,) Flem. — Gwyllyn Vase, Swanpool:
not common.

Knot, (Tringa canutus,) Mont. — Bar point, Grwyllyn Vase, Swanpool: not
uncommon.

Little Stint, (Tringa minuta,) Flem. — Bar point, Gwyllyn Vase, Swanpool,
Pennance: not uncommon.

Pectoral Sandpiper, (Tringa pectoralis,) t/ewyns. — Gwyllyn Vase, east: rare.

Dunlin, (Tringa variabilis,) Selhj. — Gwyllyn Vase, Swanpool: not uncommon.

Purple Sandpiper, (Tringa maritima,) Penn. — Bar point, Gwyllyn Vase,

Swanpool, etc.: not common. November 22nd., 1846, one shot by Mr, Pascoe;

1817, one by T, Passingham, Esq., Swanpool; 1848, one by Mr. G. Copeland,

Pendennis Castle,'

Landrail, (Crex pratensis,) Sellnj. — In the market: rare.
Spotted Crake, (Crex porzana,) Selhy. — November 1848, a specimen in the
market, but so mutilated as to be not worth preserving. October 1849, one
was shot by Mr. May, at Swanpool: now in the possession of Mr. Chapman.
Water-rail, (Rallus aquaticus,) Penn. — Swanpool, market, etc.: not uncommon.
Moorhen, (Gallinula chloropus,) Penn. — Swanpool, etc.: not uncommon.
Coot, (Fulica atra,) Penn. — Swanpool, etc.: not uncommon.
Grey Phalarope, (Phalaropus lobatus,) Bew. — October 0th., 1846, a fine
male bird, in full summer plumage, was captured alive by a miner: it is in the
possession of Mr. N. Tresidder. Mr. May, on the 12th of the same mouth,
shot four at Swanpool, and I examined upwards of thirty that season.

VOL. I. T

138 FAUNA OF FALMOUTH.

Red-necked Phalarope, (Phalaropus hyperboreus,) Penn. — Scarce.

Grey-legged Goose, (Anser ferus,) Jenyns. — In winter and spring rare.

White-fronted Goose, (Anser albifrons,) Jenym. — December 19th., 1849, six
seen in Looe river, Helford: two shot, one in the possession of Mr. Chard,
Grocer, 2Gth. of the same month.

Brent Goose, (Anser torquatus,) Jenyns. — J'ound dead upon the sand, Gwyllyn
Vase, December 1846.

Egyptian Goose, (Anser Egyptiacus,) — One was shot at Helford, in the
autumn of 1849, by Mr. Veal, ferryman.

Hooper, (Cygnus ferus,) Flem. — A flock containing six Swans, alighted in
the Carrack road, near St. Just, January 1830. Two were shot* one was
preserved by Mr. N. Tresidder, for Mr. Drew. From the description in his
note book, I am convinced it must have been the 'Cygnus Bewickii,' Yarrell.

Shelldrake, (Tadorna vulpanser,) • i^Zeni.-^Gwyllyn Vase, Swanpool, etc.:
rare.

Shoveler, (Anas clypeata,) Penn. — Shot, Carrack road, near Mylor creek:
rare. One purchased at Mrs. Dunning's, by Mr. Chapman, October 25th.,
1849. January 19th., 1850, in the market common, (males and fejnales.)

Gadwall, (Anas strepera,) Mo'nt. — Gwyllyn Vase bay: rare.

Pintail Duck, (Anas acuta,) Penn. — One shot by Mr. May, Pennance point,
1845. A second specimen was shot at Swanpool, 1847: rare.

Wild Duck, (Anas boschas,) Mont. — Swanpool, Gwyllyn Vase, etc.: in
winter not uncommon.

Garganey Duck, (Anas querquedula,) Mont. — Shot in the pool, Swanpool,
by a quarryman, March, 1846: rare. A second specimen was in the posses-
sion of Mr. N. Tresidder.

Summer Duck, (Dendronessa galericulata,) Sivain. — One was shot near the
Noir, Helford, in the summer of 1848.

Teal, (Anas' crecca,) Penn. — Penryn creek, Gwyllyn Vase, Swanpool, etc.:
not uncommon.

Wigeon, (Anas penelope,) Penn. — Penryn creek, Mylor creek, Gwyllyn Vase,
Swanpool: not uncommon.

Velvet Scoter, (Oidemia fusca,) Flem. — Truro river, Carrack road: rare. A
young female was shot by Mr. G. Pender, Helford, December 4th., 1850.

Common Scoter, (Oidemia nigra,) Flem. — Truro river, Carrack road, etc.:
rare. Found one on the beach. Flushing.

Surf Scoter, (Oidemia perspicillata,) Flem. — In the winter, 1845, found a
mutilated specimen on the beach, near the magazine, Pendennis Castle: rare.

Bed-crested Whistling Duck, (Fuligula rufina,) Selhy. — This rare bird was
shot at Swanpool, February 1845, and sold in the market for sixpence: very
rare.

Scaup Duck, (Fuligula marila,) Selhy. — January 19tlj.,.; 1850, an old female
(market,) shot at St. Keverne. Bill, dark lead-colour; nail, black; head and
neck, blackish brown; the lower parts of the neck and breast, darker; belly

FAUNA OF FALMOUTH. 130

and snout, white j base of bill, encircled with a broad white line* legs and feet,
lead-colour; web, darker.

Pochard, (Fuligula ferina,) Selhy. — January 19th., 1850; market, common.

Golden Eye, (Fuligula clangula,) Yar. — Gwyllyn Vase bay, Swanpool: scarce.
One shot in the pool, January 29th., 1848, by Mr. Street.

Smew, (Mergus albellus,) Mord. — Shot in Truro river, January, 1845; a
second in the Fisherman's cove, Penryn creek, February 1846; a third speci-
men was wounded by some young gunners, Penryn creek, December, 1848.

Red-hreasted Merganser, (Mergus serrator,) Penn. — One shot at Fisherman's
cove, Penryn creek, December, 1846; and in November, 1847, a second specimen
was procured; Truro river and its branches: not uncommon.

Goosander, (Mergus merganser,) Penn. — Several have been shot in the
Penryn creek, since 1844.

Eared Grebe, (Podiceps auritus,) Lath. — Two fine specimens were shot
(1847,) by T. Passingham, Esq., near Pennance point, Swanpool; several have
been seen this year, (1849,) Gwyllyn Vase and Swanpool. One shot at
Swanpool, January 15th., 1851, by Mr. Gill.

Little Grebe, (Podiceps minor,) Penn. — Swanpool: common. October lOth.,
1849, I observed ten or twelve young ones, certainly not more than three or
four days old, with their parents in the Swanpool; December 1st., same year,
between two and three dozen full-grown \h the pool.

Great Nortliern Diver, (Colymbus glacialis,) Penn. — A splendid male shot
in Carrack road, March 1845, by a black cook; January, 1846, one was shot
in the same locality; December, 1847, one in Gwyllyn Vase bay; December
26th., 1848, two seen in the bay. Mr. Johns states that an old male bird
has visited the bay every May month, for the last six or seven years.

Black-throated Diver, (Colymbus arcticus,) Penn. — Shot in Carrack road,
January 1846: very rare.

Red-throated Diver, (Colymbus septentrionalis,) Penn. — Shot near Pennance,
February 2nd., 1845.

Yoxmg of Red-throated Diver, (Colymbus stellatus,) Gmel. — (Young of the
G. Septentrio7ialis,) Gwyllyn Vase bay, Pennance, etc.: not uncommon. Mr. N.
Tresidder took from the stomach of one shot near Pennance point, more than
twenty of the Ammodytes lancea, from six and a half to eight inches in length. ,

Common Guillemot, (Uria troile,) Penn. — Gwyllyn Vase, Swanpool bay,
Pennance, etc.: not uncommon.

Black Guillemot, (Uria grylle,) Mont. — Gwyllyn Vase bay.: scarce

Little Aide, (Mergulus alle,) Linn. — Found a dead bird on the sands,
Pennance, December 19th., 1846; mutilated remains of one. Bream bay sands,
March 7th., 1847. Mr. Devonshire found one on the sands, Gwyllyn Vase:
in the possession of Mr. N. Tresidder.

Razor-hill, (Alca torda,) Mont. — Gwyllyn Vase, Swanpool bay, etc.: not
uncommon. Found a recent (dead) specimen on the sands, Gwyllyn Vase,
January 3rd., 1849. Mr. May shot a young bird in the same locality.

140 FATIVA OP FALMOUTH,

January 9th., 1849.

Puffin, (Fratercula arctica,) Flem. — Gwyllyn Vase bay, Swanpool, etc.: not
common. One on the beach January 27th., 18a0.

Connormit, (Phalacrocorax carbo,) Flem. — Gwyllyn Vase, Swanpool, Main-
porth, Pennance harbour, etc.: common.

Green Cormorant, (Phalacrocorax graculus,) Flem. — Same localities, and
equally common.

Gannet, (Sula alba,) Flem. — Gwyllyn Vase, Swanpool, harbour, etc.: not
common.

Sandwich Tern, (Sterna Boysii,) Fenn. — Bar point, Swanpool: rare.

Roseate Tern, (Sterna Dougallii,) Mont. — Mr. May shot one at Swanpool,
October 1st., 1846.

Common Tern, (Sterna hirundo,) Penn. — Winter and spring, Gwyllyn Vase,
Swanpool, etc.: not common.

Black Tern, (Sterna fissipes,) Penn. — Six were shot in the pool, (Swanpool,)
by the Messrs. Jones, Cornish, and Williams, October 1849; three preserved
by Mr. Chapman.

Little Gull, (Larus minutus,) Mont. — Two were shot by T. Passingham,
Esq., at Swanpool, January 1847. In the same month Mr. Lanyon captured
one alive at Ponsnooth: preserved by Mr. Chapman.

Black-headed Gull, (Larus ridibundus,) Penn. — Harbour, Penryn river: not
uncommon. Master Cox shot the largest and finest I ever examined, Novem-
ber 1847.

Kittiwalce Gidl, (Larus tridactylus,) Penn. — Harbour, Gwyllyn Vase, Swan-
pool: not uncommon.

Common Gull, (Larus canus,) Mont. — Harbour, Penryn river, etc.: common.

Lesser Blaclc-haclced Gull, (Larus fuscus,) Penn. — Harbour, Penryn river,
Gwyllyn Vase, Swanpool: not uncommon.

Herring Gull, (Larus argentatus,) Penn. — Harbour, Penryn river, etc. : not
uncommon.

Great Black-bached Gull, (Larus marinus,) Penn. — Harbour, Penryn river,
etc.: not uncommon.

Ivory Gull, (Larus eburneus,) Bev). — Bar point, extreme low water, Feb-
ruary 13th., 1847. Mr Spence, a gentleman from the north of England, was
present when the bird took wing and directed its course seaward. The Monday
following, one was shot at Penzance, by Michael Roberts. Query, Same bird?

Slcua, (Lestris catarractes,) Jenyns. — Harbour, Penryn river, etc.: not common.

Fulmar Petrel, (Procellaria glacialis,) Penn. — Harbour, Penryn river,
Gwyllyn Vase, Swanpool: rare.

Greater Shearwater, {V\iSLnv\iimA]oY,) Temm. — Harbour, Carrack road: rare.

Fork-tailed Petrel, (Thalassidroma Leachii,) Goidd. — Carrack road, Gwyllyn
Vase, Swanpool: rare.

Storm Petrel, (Thalassidroma pelagica.) Selby. — Harbour, Carrack road, etc. :

141

31iirirrllfliiratis JMlm,

NOTICES OF THE ARRIVAL OF THE SUMMER BIRDS OP PASSAGE,
AT HEADSWOOD AND THE NEIGHBOURHOOD, DURING THE YEAR 1851,

BY MR. THOMAS TAYLOR.

No.

10.
11.
12.
13.
14.
15.
16.
17.
18.
19.
20.

NAMES OF THE SPECIES.

Sand Martin

Swallow

House Martin

Swift

Goat Sucker

Spotted Flycatcher. . .

Ring Ouzel

Eodstart

Whcatear

"Wliinchat

Blackcap

Wliitethroat

Willow "Wren

Wood Wren ,

Sedge Bird

Grasshopper Warbler
Tree Lark, or Pipit,.

Cuckoo

Land-rail

Common Sandpiper. .

WHEN FIllST
OBSEKVED.

WHEKE FU<ST SEEX.

April 10,

Banks of tlie lliver Canibeek.

„ 22,

Hcadswood.

„ 23,

Newtown of Fothington.

May 10,

Dovecot, AValton.

„ 11,

„ 18,

April 15,

Hayton Moss.
Eiver Cambeck.
Gelston Forest.

„ 18,

Swinesteads.

„ 21,
„ 21,

„ 28,

Ileadswood.

Do.
Blackhouse.

„ 22,

Ileadswood.

„ 18,

Do.

May 10,

High wood, Lancrcost.

„ 11,

Banks of the Cambeck.

,, 8,

Do.

April 22,

Headswood.

„ 27,

Walton Moss.

„ 27,

Do.

„ 25,

Tindale Tarn.

Headswood is on the Roman Wall, a little to the south-west of Peiriona,
the thirteenth station, and nearly two miles from Brampton, Cumherland. —
Ileadswood J Cumherlandy June 2iid., 1851.

The Bat. — A relative of mine was fishing in Folly Copse, on the Dart, near
Totncs, Devon, last year, and discovered a Bat suspended by an artificial fly
and foot line, which some one had lost in one of the trees overhanging the
river, and which it had seized. It was still alive, and he secured it, as well as the
gut and fly by which it hung. The fly was nearly destroyed by the efforts of
the Bat to obtain its freedom. — S. Haniicford, Jim., Kiveton Park, May 1\)tli.,
1851.

Ned of the House Pigeon. — In ^^The Naturalist" of March, Mr. Hannaford
states, that the House Pigeon uses twigs in the formation of its nest: I beg
to confirm his statement. I have found it very constantly in the Tumbler
breeds, and likewise in cross-breeds from the Tumbler. Out of a flock of about
forty Pigeons that I have had at a time, at least one-third of them constructed
their nests of twigs. After the birds had laid, I generally removed the twigs
from the nesting pans, leaving the eggs upon the sawdust; so that they were

142 MISCELLANEOUS NOTICES.

not liable to be dragged out by the birds accidentally removing the twigs.
The same mode of building does not seem to continue in the same family:
I have frequently had a pair of Pigeons that always composed their nest of
twigs, the young of which have not attempted to form a nest, but have merely
laid their eggs on the sawdust at the bottom of the pans. The above certainly
seems at variance with Mr. Rennie's reasons for our common Domestic Pigeon
not deriving its origin from the Riug-dove. — H. J. G.

A Pied Blackbird, (Turdus merula.) — Though of no very unusual occurrence,
I lately observed a male Blackbird, I think in his second year, with one white
wing; I am not sure about the other: tail coverts also white. It was in the
course of a walk from this to Dalkeith, in the forenoon of March 25th. —
W. Bruce Ganninijham, (in a letter to the Editor,) the F. C. Manse, Prcstonpans,
June, Zrd.y 1851.

White variety of the Red-legged Partridge, (Perdix rufa.) — Rather before
the commencement of the shooting season of 1850, a nearly white variety of
the French, or Red-legged Partridge, was shot on the property of Archdeacon
Berners, of Wolverston Park. — R. P. C, Ipswich, May 28th., 1851.

A White-headed Sparroiv, (Passer domcsticus.) — A Sparrow with a dirty
white head and neck, was killed in the Butter Market of this town^ early in
October last. — Idem.

Purple Sandpiper, (Tringa maritima.) — Early in November last, I met with
two Purple Sandpipers in the flesh. One was at the Ipswich Museum; and
the other I myself saw shot at Felixstow, about twelve miles from here. It
was flying close to the shore, and appeared much fagged. — Idem.

Occurrence of the Solitary Snipe, (Scolopax major,)— A very fine specimen
of this bird was shot by a gentleman residing at Stoke, on Shaugh Moor,
near the Rabbit-warren, September 7th., 1850. I am informed it weighed
above eight ounces. — R. A. Julian, Jun., Lara House, Plymoidh, June, 1851.

Liylvt variety of Yellow- Hammer, and also of Chaffinch. — I had a Yellow-
Ilammer, (Emberiza citrinella,) about two years ago, which was shot at
Eversholt, about two miles and a half from this place, which was a very light
buff" all over it; and on the 2(5th. of March, 1850, I had a male Chaffinch,
(Fringilla ccelebs,) nearly white, there being only a few coloured feathers in
it. This bird was shot at Froxfield about one mile and a half from Woburn.
—G. B. Clarke, Woburn, May Uth., 1851.

Lizards and Newts. — The Common Lizard, (Zootoca vivipara,) is of course
found in Dorsetshire, as well as in other parts of England; but I do not find any
instance on record of the Sand Lizard, (Lacerta agilis,) which is rare in England,
being met with in the county of Dorset, except at or near Poole, on the Sandy
heaths there. Perhaps it may therefore be worthy of mention, that I have
found a specimen on the heath called Puddletown Heath, near Yellowham

REVIEW. 143

Hill. The colour was of a rich brown, with black spots, and a speck in each
of the spots. . The common Warty-Newt, {Triton cristatus,) is not unfrequently
met with near this tOAvn, in ponds of stagnant water; and I have taken them
upon Blagdon and other places. The colours are very brilliant, and of great
variety: I could not keep them long alive, and the colours soon faded when
put in spirits. I have never met with any specimen of the Common Smooth
Newt in this neighbourhood. — J. Garland^ Dorchester, Dorset, June dth, 1851.

Mode in which the Pholas dactylus makes its Crypt. — Having while residing
here, opportunities of studying the habits of the Pholas dactylus, I have
endeavoured, during the last six months, to discover how this mollusc makes
its hole or crypt in the chalk; whether by a chemical solvent, by absorption,
by ciliary currents, or by rotatory motion. My observations, dissections, and
experiments, set at rest all controversy in my own mind. Between twenty
and thirty of the creatures have been at work in lumps of chalk, in sea -water,

tin a finger-glass and a pan at my window for the last three months. The Pholas
dactylus makes its hole by grating the chalk with its rasp-like valves, licking
it up when pulverized with its foot, forcing it up through its principal or
branchial siphon, and squirting it out in oblong nodules. The crypt protects
the Pholas from conferva?, which, when they get at it, grow, not merely
outside, but even within the lips of the valves, preventing the action of the
siphon. In the foot there is a gelatinous spring or style, which, even when
taken out, has great elasticity, and which seems the mainspring of the motions

^of the Pholas dactyliis. — John liohertson, 48, Queens Head, Brighton, June 1 'dth.,

rl851.

Delayed appearance of the Emperor Moth, (Saturnia Pavonia-minor.) — My
brother desires me to say that a crysalis of the S. Pavonia-minor, which he
lad since the summer before last, gave birth the other day to the Moth:' it
was a male, but imperfect. The rest of the same year's productions all came
out this time last year, as usual: they were both males and females. The
specimens were collected on Goatfell, AiTan. — W.Ferguson, (in a letter to the
Editor,) Glasyow, May 29i/i., 18ol.

Favonrite Song Birds, containing a pfopvlar description of the Feathered Songsters
of Britain, with an account of their habits, haunts, and characteristic traits,
interspersed with choice passages from the Poets, and ipiotations from eminent
Naturalists. With tioelve colotired illustrations. Edited by H. Q. Adams.
London: W. S. Ore and Co., 1851. p.p. 196.

The little book before us is one of those laudable attempts to popularize
Natural History, which we must always hail with pleasure, when, as in the
present instance, accuracy is not sacrificed at the shrine of popularity. We
believe such sacrifice to be entirely unnecessary, and are convinced that the

144 REVIEW.

certainty of success, in a pecuniary point of view, is in proportion to the
truthfulness of the facts related. Simple facts may be clothed in pleasant
cheerful language, and we see no reason why the heart should not be touched,
and guided into -good paths, at the samj time that the understanding receives
positive information.

For the "Favourite Song Birds," Mr. Adams has culled choice passages both
from prose and poetry; the selections are well and judiciously made, and he
has woven them togather in a very agreeable and readable manner. The
various little songsters are introduced in such a way as cannot fail to endear
them to the reader, and at the same time foster and encourage kind, humane,
and religious feelings.

Many extremely interesting anecdotes are given of particular individuals,
and in every instance the authority for any fact is named. As the work is
rather a selection from the writings of others than an original composition,
we cootent ourselves with quoting from page 55, the following exquisite lines
addressed to the ^^Lark" that "at heaven's gate sings," by James Hogg: —

"Bird of the wilderness,

Blitlisome and ciimberless,
liight be thy matin o'er moorland and lea;

Emblem of hajjpiness,

Bless'd is thy dwellinp:-plaee —
0 to abide in the desert with thee!

Wild is thy lay, and loud,

Far in the downy cloud,
Love g;ives it energy, love gave it bu'th;

Where on thy dewy wing,

"Wliere art thou journeying?
Thy lay is in heaven, thy love is on earth.

O'er fell and fountain sheen.

O'er moor and mountain green,
O'er the red streamers that herald the daj'.

Over the cloudlet dim.

Over the rainbow's rim,
ilusical cherub, hie, hie thee away!

Then when the gloaming comes,

Low in th(! heather blooms.
Sweet will thy welcome and bed of love be!

Emblem of happiness,

Bless'd is thy dwelling-place,
0 to abide in the desert with thee!

This is a fiiir sample of the style of the poetic embellishments which are
introduced into the "Song Birds," and the general tone of the volume is so
good, that we shall be glad to find that the sale of the work equals the
wishes and expectations of its Editor.

145

ZOOLOGICAL NOTES;

BEING SOME REMARKS ON CERTAIN RARITIES
OCCURRING NEAR BANFF.

By ME. EDWARDS.

The following interesting remarks were elicited from Mr. Edwards, of Banff,
by a request that he would give some information respecting the first-named
bird, which was lately taken by Provost Sinclair, in his garden at Cullen;
and about the last-named monstrosity — a curious worm, which occurred in the
garden of the Rev. Mr. Steinson, of the parish of King-Edward. — B. R. M.

I am glad to be able to inform you, that the bird which you sent me
for inspection and preservation, is the Black Redstart, {Phoenicura tithys,)
a bird which has never, as far as I can learn, been previously obtained in
Scotland. Instances are on record of their having been found in some of
the southern counties of England; and, strange to say, though a summer
bird of passage, their occurrence there has either been in the autumn or in
winter. But, though they are known to visit Britain occasionally, there is no
authenticated account of their ever having bred in the country. They are
somewhat plentiful in certain parts of Germany, and are met with in Italy,
Greece, and at Gibraltar, They are abundant in Asia; but are not found
in America. They frequent rocky and mountainous situations, and old ruins.
The egg of this species is of a very pure white, whereas those of the other
birds belonging to the same genus are blue. The Common Redstart, which
has been known to breed in this locality, is a distinct bird from the one I
am speaking of.

The term Black Redstart^ will perhaps appear to many as rather contradictory
and unmeaning. That it does so at first sight, I do not deny; but a little
description of the bird itself will best explain the matter. The present
specimen, a male, weighs one half ounce; length of bill, half an inch; tail,
a little more than three inches; extreme length, five and a half inches, full;
chin, throat, breast, and cheeks, up to the eye, black, (this last circumstance,
together with the fact of the tail being reddish, has given rise to the English
name of the bird — the other syllable, start, being an English provincialism
for tail;) a narrow band or streak of the same colour passes round the
forehead from eye to eye, encircling the base of the upper mandible; passing
from the breast along the sides and flank, and on to the abdomen, of a
blackish blue; from thence on to the vent, a dull white; top of the head,
which is lightest, neck, and back, stretching down to the rump, a pale or
dull lead or slate colour. The wing, with the exception about to be stated,
is of a dark brown, and about the middle, when closed, a very conspicuous
band or strip of white, lengthways, not across, presents itself, in consequence

VOL. I, U

146 ZOOLOGICAL NOTESi

of the outer webs of the secondaries being of that colour; the tail, which
consists of twelve feathers, is, with the exception of the two middle ones,
which are much darker than the others, of a rich yellowish brown, or perhaps
what some would call a fine bright or reddish chestnut^ (hence the term
phoenicura tithys, from pJiainix, pTioinikos— that is, reddish, like the fruit of
the date palm when not fully ripened; and oicra, a tail — that is, date-red tail,)
and all are more or leas marked towards their tips with dark brown; the
upper coverts are of the same hue as the tail; the under ones of a brownish
white; the tail, when closed, appears slightly forked, from the circumstance
of the feathers decreasing in length as they approach the centre; eyes, hazel;
bill, legs, toes, and nails, black; the legs are longish, and rather slender than
otherwise; in form it a good deal resembles the Wheatear, a bird only
known here by the name of Stanechack, or Chackert.

Though I have said that the present specimeii is the first which has been
found in Scotland, I do not mean to say by that, that it is the first that
ever visited this part of the country. It is quite possible, owing to the
neglect, or rather the contempt, in which natural science has been, and is
yet, with many, still held in this part of the country, and, I may say, in
Scotland, that these birds might have visited us frequently, nay, for ought
we know, may even breed, in our mountainous and rocky districts, unknown
and unrecorded. I say this from the fact that another, and no doubt a
female, was with the one now in my possession at the time it was captured,
though it managed to make its escape. However, we are much indebted to
the gentleman, through whose kind attention in procuring the present specimen,
we are enabled to add another new name to the list of the fauna of our
county, and also of laying the details, though humbly, before the public. If
other individuals residing in the county, would do as the gentleman in Cullen
did, when an opportunity ofiers, our list would soon increase, and, at the
same time, the natural productions of this part of the country would in
consequence become better known. I may here remark, that on dissecting
the stomach of the bird, I found it to contain a quantity of insects, etc.,
such as flies and beetles, and the larvfe of an insect, perhaps a bee, the name
of which I do not at present recollect. However, I may state, that entomologists
may know it, that the perfect insect has a most beautiful glossy pink abdomen,
and green thorax and head, and builds its nest of mire and clay, in slight
hollows, or corners of stones forming garden and other walls.

On the same notable day, I had two fine specimens of the Waxwing,
{Bcmhycilla garrul a, )hr ought me, which had been procured some days previously
in our neighbourhood, where, I believe, they have been rather plentiful
lately. On the wings of one of these birds, I find that there are seven,
and on that of the other, six, carmine or waxen tags; and on the wings of
two others which previously passed through my hands, there were on the one
six, and on the other only five. How is this? Can ornithologists tell the
reason why there should be seven on one, and only five on another, and both

ZOOLOGICAL NOTES. 147

males."*' Again, of the two birds now before me, the tips of the quills of
the wings of the one are bordered with white, that is, from the outside margin
of the feathers all across their extremities, whereas, the other bird has nothing-
of that description. I would again ask, how is this? They are both males^
yet here is a decided and visible difference. In the stomach of one of the
present individuals, the other being entirely empty, I found the remains of a
number of insects, chiefly beetles. The stomach of one which I dissected lately,
I found crammed with rowans, or the berries of the mountain ash, together
with a few seeds of the dog-hip, or the fruit of the common dog-rose, [Bosa
eanina.) From these facts it would appear that these birds live on insects
as well as berries and seeds, unless, indeed, the one in question had been
driven to it from sheer necessity; but this could hardly be t'he case, if the
weather be taken into account. The term, Bohemian Waxwing, is frequently
given to this bird, whereas, in fact, it has no more to do with Bohemia
than it has to do with Scotland; perhaps appearing in the latter as frequently
as in the former, if not oftener. One of its names in Germany is Scknce
vogel, which means snow-bird, the belief being, that they visit Germany from
some hyperborean region.

Some three weeks ago, I had brought to me a fine specimen of what,
(though it is nearly white,) is called the Black Guillemot, in its complete
winter dress, which is nearly of a uniform gray colour. By the way, might
not this bird, the Uria fjnjlle, now in question, be termed the Red-legged
Guillemot, as these members do not change their vermillion at any season
after maturity? One would then be able, with justice, to call any bird of
the species by a suitable title, at whatever period of the year it was presented
to him. On Friday, the same remarkable day, I had another specimen sent
me from a friend in Fraserburgh, to which I can with all due propriety
give the title of Black Guillemot, as it is decidedly of that colour, except
the customary almost snow-white patch on the wings, and the bright vermillion
red feet and legs. Whilst in this plumage, they are said to be in their
summer or nuptial dress. It is stated in works on ornithology, that they
change from black to a dull white, the wings excepted, mixed with dark
streaks in the end of autumn or beginning of winter, resuming the black
colour in spring. Do all Black Guillemots undergo this change? If so, they
certainly change from the dress of winter to that of summer with extraordinary
rapidity, if I may be allowed to judge from the striking difference between
the two birds alluded to, and the short time which elapsed betwixt the first
and the present one coming under my notice. Having laid the present
specimen, a male, on a table, and having, by accident, looked at it in a
slanting direction, I was surprised at observing a beautiful greenish purple-like

*Another specimen, a female, which I have received from Delgaty since "writing the above,
has also seven waxen tags on the wing. The quills, except the two first, are also bordered
with white. The stomach contained some short grass, seeds of the dog-hip, and the remains
of insects.

148 ZOOLOGICAL NOTES.

gloss, from the base of the bill downwards, on both back and belly, but
which varied, as the view was taken from the one side or the other, producing
first the greenish gloss alluded to, then a deep brown, then again it would
appear like a piece of black velvet, and when viewed in profile, that portion
of the wing from where the white patch terminates, to its extremity, has
the appearance of a piece of fine black velvet. Perhaps this is not new to
ornithologists, but I have never seen it recorded.

I now come to the last, though not the least remarkable, of the day's arrivals,
namely, the curious monstrosity of the Common Earth Worm, (Lumbricus,)
with two tails. This will, no doubt, surprise many, yet the thing is; and
no wonder that the good folks of Danshillock remarked that "they never
saw the like o't." I doubt it not. It has been to them, perhaps, as it has
been to many more, in fact, to all who have as yet seen it, a complete
nondescript of its kind. As for myself, I must conscientiously say, that
though I have times without number delved in the earth, I never yet met
anything of a similar sort. And how am I to describe it? I think I may
use the old phrase here to advantage, and say, '^That it would puzzle a
Philadelphia lawyer to do it justice." However, something must be done, in
order that those who may not have an opportunity of seeing the prodigy,
may in some measure know what it is like. The animal in its ordinary
state, not when at its full stretch, is from seven and a half to eight inches
long. At about two, or nearly three inches from the posterior extremity, it
branches out in two, thus forming the tails or tags alluded to, and which
give it an appearance as if another worm were joined by the middle to its
nether end. So far as I have already observed, the double tail is no hinderance
to the movements of the animal, either in crawling or in boring into the
earth. Each tag has a distinct and perfect extremity of its own, and also
moves hither and thither at the will of the possessor, thus shewing that they
are in full connexion with the main and principal part of the body. In its
motions, the animal assumes many an odd-like figure, and not unfrequently
that of a musical fork.

The next question comes to be, is it a new species? or is it only a
common Earth Worm, as I have named it at the outset, which has met with
an accident that has made it as it is? Whatever others may think, I am
inclined to consider it such, and the most natural conclusion, therefore, which
can be arrived at is, that it has been cut or rather slit at one time, by
some unaccountable means or other, and whilst thus separated, the skin had
again united on each part respectively, thus forming the tails in question.
But so finely has the work been accomplished, that one would almost conclude
th^t nature had done it herself, and that the worm had been thus produced.
But be this as it may, it is a very singular and cmious looking object, and
certainly, the individual deserves credit who was the means of bringing it to
light, for many would have passed it by unheeded, or, if they had noticed
it at all, it would only have been to have crushed it to the earth.

149

THE MISSEL THRUSH, {TURDUS VISCIVORUS.)

BY J. MC INTOSH, ESQ.

There is one trait in the character of the Missel Thrush, which is

handed down from one ornithologist to another, namely, that it is noisy

and pugnacious during incubation, and will then attack other birds without

any hesitation that come near its nest; how far this is correct from tlie

observations of others, I will not pretend to say, but I think the following

fact — and

"Facts are cliiels that winna ding,
And doMTia be disputed,"

will modify this established belief. At the present time, there is in my
garden at Charminstcr, Dorset, a yew tree about fifteen feet high, with not a
very large head, in which a pair of Missel Thrushes have built their nest, which
contains two eggs; exactly one foot by measurement, and in a direct line
above, a pair of Common Linnets, {Linota cannahina,) have built their nest,
which now also contains two eggs. I have watched these birds, (namely, thes
Missel Thrushes and the Linnets,) with some considerable attention during the
operation of building, and must say that between the two the best understanding
imaginable has, and still continues to exist. Nor is this the only instance
which I have observed and recorded in my note-book, of the quiet behaviour
of this bird towards others which build and rear their young near its chosen
haunts, to which it will return year after year, even to the self-same tree
In the defence of its home and young, it is very courageous, like many
other birds. We have seen a pair attack the Sparrow Hawk, (Accipiter nisus,)
and drive him away from the neighbourhood of their nest; but not so with
those which build and rear their young near him, as we have above related,,
in the self-same tree. So much then for the pugnacious propensity of the
Gray or Holm Thrush, Throstle Cock, Storm Cock, Screech Thrush, Mistletoe
Thrush, Missel Thrush, and lastly, Turdus viscivorus. As to their noisy
habit, the pair building in my garden, and a pair in my next door neighbour's,
have gone on hitherto so quietly, that if they were not seen, no person
would know that the birds were in the neighbourhood. That they are noisy
at times, we admit, but it is not so general a failing as some writers would
lead us to believe. It commences its song early in January in the southera
counties, and February and beginning of March in the more northern. Although
not so thrilling as the other Merulidce, still it has indescribable charms to
the oraithologist, and is thus described by Charlotte Smith: —

"Oh, herald of the spring! while yet

No harebell scents the woodland lane.
No stai'wort fail", nor violet

Braves the bleak giist and driving rain,

150 REMARKS ON TUICHIOSOMA LUCOIIUM.

'Tis thine, as tliroiigh the coppice i-ude,
Some pensive wanderer sighs along,
To sooth him with a (.■hoorful song,

And tell of hope and fortitude."

Charminder^ Dorset^ April 2dth , 1851.

THE HOUSE-SPARROW A FIRST-RATE MUSICIAN.

BY W. KIDD, l.SQ.

It has been said, and proved to be a truth, that ''^use is second nature:"
in proof of this let me propound an astounding theory, which it is in the
power of any, or all, of your readers, to reduce to immediate practice; indeed
the experiment is an interesting one, and paves the way for still more wonderful
domestic discoveries. Let a nest of young House- Sparrows be procured, when
about four days old; being the hardiest of our hardy birds, there will be no diffi-
culty in rearing them. They should be fed in the usual way, with the end of a
short, pointed stick, and when able to feed themselves, they should be separately
caged oflf. The object of taking them at so early a period, is to prevent the
possibility of their hearing and imitating the voice of their parents. I assume,
of course, that they are, like all other birds, open to the very earliest impressions,
and these, as we all know, become indelibly fixed. The next step is to
provide a first-rate Canary in full song, and to keep him, and him only, in
the room with the Sparrows, not permitting the voice of any other bird to be
heard in the house. Now watch the result: in less than three weeks the
cocks will commence '^recording," and you will find every note they utter,
peculiar to the Canary only. If carefully tended, and this experiment be
fairly tried, it will be difficult, in a short time, to distinguish the voice of
the pupil from that of his master. A little reasoning — and no person will
ever read ^'The Naturalist" who is not fond of reasoning — will shew the
^'why and because" of this result. I shall be glad to see many instances of
^'success" with this experiment recorded in your interesting pages.

Hainmerstnitli, June Qth., 1851.

REMARKS ON TRICHIOSOMA LUCORUM.

BY RICHARD MAYSMOR, ESQ.

Probably all the readers of ''The Naturalist" may not have okserved the
cocoons of one of our largest Saw-flies, (Trichiosoma lucorum,) glued to twigs
upon the hedges; braving the storms of winter, and the heat of summer; if
not, it is because they have never carefully looked for them during the winter
months, when the hedges are stripped of their leaves. Although they are
common here, I never noticed them till the middle of March, in the present

HEM AUKS ON TRICHIOSOMA LUCOUUM. lol

year^ when I collected several, but even so early in the season I found
nearly all the last year's cocoons empty, the insect having taken its departure,
leaving its cast skin generally sticking in the hole through which it had made
its exit; and what is remarkable, is that the exuvia3 have been invariably left
with the head part in the interior of the cocoons, whilst the posterior part
has been drawn partly out of them; from this circumstance I was at first
inclined to think that the insects made their exit backwards, but such is not
the case. The cocoons which were thus uninhabited by the middle of March,
have a small irregular opening at one end, the position not being constant.
I am inclined to think these belong to the male fly, for reasons to be hereafter
stated. At present I will briefly describe the cocoons, which have all a uniform
appearance: they are three-quarters of an inch long, and a quarter of an
inch in diameter, rounded at each end, of a brown colour, and generally
attached the whole length to a slender twig. I have found them only upon
hawthorn, the bark of which they much resemble in colour, so that they are
not easily seen in a hedge; they are of a leathery texture, quite impervious
to water; and before the Fly escapes there is not the slightest hole in the
cocoons. Internally they are of a beautiful bronze-colour, and are of such a
texture as to withstand the weather for years. There certainly appears no
provision for a supply of air to the insect during its pupa state, or during
its change to a perfect fly. I should be glad if any of the readers of "The
Naturalist" would give me information on this point, or on any other connected
with this subject. The cocoon is the most perfect and secure piece of insect
architecture with which I am acquainted, if it can be said that one thing is
better than another in the works of nature, where all are equally perfect.

I have sometimes found the bark eaten from the twig near the place of
attachment of the cocoon, as if the gTub had taken a feed just before entering
upon its long fast. Occasionally the insect is doomed never to emerge from
its secure dwelling, having been selected, before fabricating it, by some anxious
Ichneumon fly, as a fitting subject for a place of deposit for her eggs, whose
larvas, when hatched, cat up gradually the fabricator of the cocoon, and then
make their escape through small circular holes in the cocoon made by
themselves after they have changed into the imago state; it takes them a
considerable time to cut these holes, and they have to return to the work
very frequently before they are large enough to let them out. They try the
capacity of these holes often, not wishing to make them larger than is really
necessary, as the task of gnawing these cocoons with their little mandibles
is a difiicult one. I have one cocoon which has six of these small holes in
it, containing the remains of the victimized Saw-fly. Of the Saw-flies which
open the cocoons in the irregular ragged way, I know nothing, as they had
all taken their departure by the middle of March, when I first collected the
cocoons. I presume they are males, and that they make their escape about
a month earlier than the females. I have observed the escape of several
females, and I see they all cut a circular piece out of one end of the cocoon,

152 REMARKS ON TRICHIOSOMA LUCORUM.

SO that it merely hangs by a little hinge; this they perform with theii*
mandibles, (which are very strong, sickle-shaped, with two small teeth,) as
true as it could be done with a pen-knife: it requires about two hours work.
In one instance the fly made a shght error in judgment, for when it had
cut out the piece the hole was too small, and after several vain attempts
to get out, it began and cut off a thin strip round the hole, which made it
large enough. I believe when they begin to work they soften the wall of
the cocoon with an acid, for, as soon as their mandibles get through, a little
liquid oozes through the opening, which has a very powerful smell.

My first flies came out on 12th. April, the day after I placed them in a
sunny window, and they became very active; I put them upon some hawthorn
leaves, but without any idea that I should soon have the pleasure of a sight
which I think but few have witnessed, namely, the act of ovipositing. I was
able to afford some friends a view of the operation, who declared it to be
one of the most beautiful sights they ever saw, and these parties are conversant
with the wonders of the microscope. A fly would continue to oviposit, at
intervals, for three or four hours, and was so intent upon it that I could
turn the leaves about so as to be able to see the whole operation distinctly
with a Coddington lens. It would seem that, although there may be no
connexion with the male fly, the desire of propagating the species is equally
strong. When a fly has the desire to oviposit, and is placed upon some
hawthorn leaves, (for I find she will use no other leaves, the ovipositor
perhaps not being adapted for them, and the fly's instinct telling her that
the food is not suitable for her progeny,) she becomes restless, running
rapidly over the leaves with her antennae lowered in front, till she finds a
leaf in a favourable position; she then gets to the edge of it, begins to pierce
the leaf, and inserts the ovipositor and sheath under the cuticle, working the
saws rapidly, so as to raise the cuticle from the parenchyma, till the ovipositor
is wholly extruded: when it is withdrjiwn a fluid is injected into the small
space where it has worked, which makes the leaf have the appearance of a
little blister upon it. The cuticle is so very transparent that at a little
distance the ovipositor absolutely appears to be on the outside of the leaf.
I found, with gathered leaves, that the fly would use either side. The
operation takes about three minutes, during which time the fly lowers her
antennae in front, and the posterior segments of the abdomen have a slight
tremulous motion. The ovipositor is composed of two beautiful saws, slightly
turned at the ends, which work in the sheath: this is a case which opens
all its length on its top side, and about half its length from the end on
the lower side, but joined towards the base, so that at the end it opens as
if it was a spring.

As regards the changes of the insects, I can only say that in the middle
of March I cut open a cocoon, and the occupant was then only a common-
looking grub; in a month after it cut its way out, and came forth a perfect
fly. It would be called a bee by persons not conversant with the insect,

ox ODOSTOMIA TRUNCATULA.

163

tKc only apparent singularity about it being its antenmc^ which are clubbed
at the ends. The cast skin of these flies is placed in the cocoonSj even
before the insects have left, in a singular position, the head being where
the insect lies with its posterior part, so that one would be led to imagine
that the insect had turned round in the cocoon after casting its skin, but
this cannot be. I hope to obtain information on this point through the pages
of "The Naturalist."

Devizes, June 28fh., 1851.

ON ODOSTOMIA TRUNCATULA.

BY H. K. BOLTON, ESQ.

My spare hours for the last two years have been much occupied in collecting
the land, fresh-water, and sea shells of this neighbourhood, and, as far as I am
capable, of studying their habits. Permit me therefore to say, that if a few
observations, the result of my experience, occasionally contributed to your
plea.sing magazine, be at all interesting to the conchologists of other localities,
I shall feel much pleasure in affording them.

I find many here that have escaped the notice, or have not been enumerated,
by Montagu, Turton, and others, in their accounts of the shells found in
Devon and Cornwall. One has been recently discovered which I have never
seen described among our British shells, Odostomia truncatula, of which 1
send you herewith a card of specimens. It is found in Plymouth Sound,
about two miles from the shore, while dredging among the sand, in rather
deep water; and was first observed by a friend of mine, of much practical
and scientific knowledge, Mr. Eouse, of Plymouth. The shell consists of six
clearly-defined volutions. Mouth, small, oval-oblong; outer margin, thin, not
reflected nor forming an umbilicus; apex, blunt or truncated; colour, white,
covered with a thin amber-brown epidermis; shell, a quarter of an inch in
length, and in form resembling the Bulimus.

If you have not yet been supplied with a list of the shells of Devon, I
shall be most happy in forwarding you one made from my own collection.
They are much more numeroas, particularly the minute shells, than has been
generally noticed by those who have written on the subject.

Plymouth, IG, Albert Street, June \^th., 1851.

We are much indebted to Mr. Bolton for a very fine series of this
interesting shell, which is a recent addition to the British Fauna, being first
recorded in ''The Annals of Natural History," for 1850, and since introduced
into the beautiful work on the British Mollusca, by Professor Forbes and
Mr. Hanley, now publishing. — B. JR. M.

154
THE MISSELTOE, {VISCUM ALBUM.)

BY J. Mc'lNTOSH^ ESQ,

Historians inform us that tlie Druids esteemed nothing more sacred than
the Misseltoe, and it is well-known that they delighted in groves of Oaks,
and performed no sacred rite without branches of the monarch of the forest,
and from hence seems to be derived their name of Druids; they considered
that whatever grew upon the Oak was sent from heaven, and as a sign that
the tree was the chosen one of God himself. The Misseltoe was very difficult
to be found, even by the Druids, on the Oak, and when so discovered, was
gathered with the most pompous religious ceremonies, particularly at the sixth
day of the moon, because that orb of night was then supposed to possess
extraordinary powers. The sacrifice and feast being duly prepared under the
tree, they led thither two white bulls, whose horns were bound for the first
time. It is a singular coincidence of circumstances, that bulls perfectly white
were sacrificed by the Egyptians to Apis: when such an animal Avas found
unblemished, and without a single black hair, the priest laid a fillet about
his horns, and sealed it with the signet of his ring; it being a capital crime
to sacrifice one of these animals except it was thus marked, (see Herodotus,)
The priest, clothed in a white' vestment, ascending the tree, cut off" the
Misseltoe with a golden bill, and received it in a white cloth, on the ground.
It was then dipped in water by the chief Druid, and then distributed amongst
the people, as a preservative against witchcraft and disease. They then slew
the victims, invoking the favour of the Deity on the offering. When the
sacrifice was over, the berries of this plant were taken by the ovate, the
physicians of the tribe, and converted to medical purposes. Sir John Colbach
published a dissertation, in 1720, on the efficacy of the Misseltoe against
sundry diseases of the nervous system ; and it would appear from the directions
given by Sir John, that it was to him a common occurrence to find the
Misseltoe growing on the Oak, Even in the present time, in country places,
it is supposed to cure diseases, etc., in cattle; and it has been stated, that
if eaten in a dried state by cows in calf, it will cause abortion; we have
heard a farmer assert that he lost ten calves from his cows havin"- eaten
of some dried Misseltoe, which had been thrown into the yard, from the house,
by the servants. It is in some respects with medicine as it is with
fashions, what is deemed of high value in one age, is discontinued in the next;
such is the fate of the Misseltoe; but to our subject: it was known to the
Greeks and Eomans, who valued it chiefly for its medicinal qualities, and
more especially as an antidote to poisons. The Persian magi gathered the
Misseltoe with great care, and used it in their religious ceremonies.

It has been supposed by some writers, to have been the forbidden tree in
the garden of Eden; for or against this opinion, at this distance of time, we
can say nothing. In the feudal ages it was gathered with great solemnity

THE MISSELTOE.

155

on Christmas eve, and hung up in the great hall with shouts and rejoicings;
this, as it is well known, is still performed —

"On Christmas eve the bolls were rung,
On Christmas eve the mass was sung;
That only night in all the year
Saw the stolod priest the chalice rear;
The damsel donned her kirtle sheen,
Tlie hall was dressed with holly green.
Forth to the woods did the men-y men go
To gather in the Misseltoe,

Then opened wide the baron's hall, *

To vassal, tenant, serf, and all."

This curious parasitical shrub is found throughout Europe, and the colder
regions of Asia. There are, however, various other species, to the number of
seventy-six, which have been described by botanists, (see Don's Mill,) but
the White-fruited, or Common Misseltoe is the only one found in England;
in some counties it is rather plentiful, as Staffordshire, Herefordshire,
and Monmouthshire, in which county we are informed that it is to be found
on more than one Oak, while it is rather of a rare occurrence in others.
It is probable that it grew in the Oak woods of Snowdon, before the damp
western parts of Britain were disforested. It has been discovered in Scotland,
though it cannot be considered as a truly indigenous plant to that country,
or to Ireland, where it is now found growing by cultivation, which is a very
simple process; and there is no person in England possessed of a garden with
mn Apple tree or White4liorn, but what may possess plants of this parasite.

We shall now enumerate the trees on which it has been found in this
country and on the Continent; at the same time we shall feel extremely
obliged if any correspondent of "The Naturalist" will record in its pages any
trees, ltd parLicularly tlie Oak, on which they have seen it grow, also the
county: in the meantime I give the following: —

On the Oak, (Qaercus L.)

1 Ponporthlenny, ) ,_ ^, , .

2 Usk f Monmouthshire.

3 Anglesea. It occurs hanging almost over a grand Druidical Cromlech

in the park of the (then) Lord Uxbridge.

4 Frampton-on-Severn. This Oak tree is said to be upwards of a century

old.

5 Lodbury Park, Chepstow. This tree is stated by its noble owner to be

upwards of seventy years old.

6 Mr. Beaton records an Oak near Ledbury, which he says was cut down

in 1831.

7 Castnor Castle, near Malvern. This is said to be a fine example.

8 In 1765, it was found growing on an Oak on the estate of — White,

Esq., Watling Wells.
The above are the only recorded Oaks on which it has been found growing

156 THE MISSELTOE.

Tiatm'ally, as far as I am aware, and I have availed myself of numerous
authorities for the same: that there may be found others, I have no doubt,
and I hope this article will be the means of inducing some of your numerous
correspondents, particularly your Herefordshire ones, to record them in the
pages of "The Naturalist." I am well aware that it is to be found growing
artificially on the Oak. Mr. Beaton caused it, as we have done ourselves, to
grow on the Oak; the manner of so doing we shall notice.
The Lime Tree, {TiUa^ L.)

1 East Tytherley. There is a tree beautifully studded with it.

2 Home Park, Windsor. The noble Lime trees are covered.

S Penhurst Park, Kent. There are fine specimens, which at a distance are

said to resemble a rookery,
4 The avenue of Hampton Court, has some fine specimens.
o At Bushy Park, Ditto.

0 Sutton Place, Surrey. The late Mr. Loudon says that in 1831, the Lime

trees at this place were eaten up with this parasite.
7 Shardeloes, Buckinghamshire.

The above seven are the only recorded Lime trees on which I am aware
that this parasite is found; of course there are many others.

The Maple, [Acer, L.)
It is found on the Maple in Yorkshire and Huntingdonshire; the names of
the places we shall feel obliged for.

The Common Ash, [Fraximtf^, L.)

1 am not aware that there is, or has been more than one recorded instance
of this parasite growing on the Common Ash, which is said to be at Tinloy
Park, Hampshire. I hope some of your Hampshire correspondents will be
kind enough to record any.

The Poplar, (Popnlus, L.)

1 Ashton, near Rotherham.

2 Sutton Place, Surrey. Loudon remarks that the trees were eaten up

with it. It has been found on both the Black and White, as also
the Lombardy Poplars.

The Elm, (Uhnus^ Z.)
It has been recorded to have been found on the Elm, and if we mistake
not in Kent. We shall be much obliged for any notice of it on this tree.
We have a note of its being either foimd in Tjancashire or Westmorland.

The Apple (Pyrus malm, L.)
It is common on this tree in various parts of England, particularly in the
orchard counties. The examples of it on this tree are too numerous to
record here. If there is a county in England or Wales in which it is not
found growing on the Apple, it would be well to record the same.

The Common Hawthorn, (CratcBgiis^ L.)
It is also common on this plant. We ask the same query as above.

THE MISSKLTOK.

157

The "White Beam Tkek, (Pt/nis Aria Ehrli.) •

It has been found growing on this tree on the Sussex Downs.

The Service Tree^ (Pyrus Sarins Gae.)
It has been found growing on this tree, bnt the names of the exact localities
are not stated, but we think Lancashire.

The Willow, (Salix, L.)
It has been found growing on the Willow in many parts of England; we
have seen it in several instances in Dorset. This is one of the common
trees on which this parasite is to be found.

The Buckthorx, (Pihamnus, L.)
We have a recorded instance of its having been found on this tree, in 1764,
both in Westmorland and Lancashire.

The Nut Tree, {Corylwa, L.)

It has been found growing on the C'ommon Nut and Filbert, but we rather

imagine these to have been grafted by the hand of man.

The RoBiNiA, (Z?. Pseudacacia, L.)

It has been found growing on this tree, but the exact places are not recorded.

The Cherry Laurel, (Cerasus^ L.)
It has been found growing on the Common Laurel, Common Cherry, and
Bird Cherry.

The Holly, [Ilex, L.)

It has been recorded to have grown on this tree, which we imagine to have
been a grafted specimen, as there is no recorded instance in a state of nature,
(what is here meant by nature is the woods and wild places.) That it will
grow on the Holly we are well aware, having caused it to do so ourselves.

The Mountain Ash, (Pyrus aucnparia.)
It has been found growing on this tree.

The Walnut, (Juglans, L.)
We have a recorded instance of its having grown in a garden in Cheapside,
in the year 1704, on this tree, and we believe it to be the only instance
on record of its being made to grow on the Walnut.

On the Continent we have the following recorded instances of its occurrence
on the following trees: — On the Oak, at Lobsens, in the Duchy of Posen.
Berlin, a Mr. Brachenridze found it growing on several Oak trees. In France
it is of rare occurrence to find it on the Oak, yet it abounds on the Almond,
{Amygdalus Ton.) In Spain, and near to Jerusalem, on the Olive, {Olea, L.)
At Schuitzingen, on the Poplar; at Strasburgh, on the Lime Tree; at Carlsruhe,
and in the neighbourhood of Magdeburgh, it is found in immense quantities
on the Pinus sylvestvis, or Scotch Pine. We are not aware of its ever
having been found on any of the Coniferce in England. Here, thus we have
no less than twenty-two recorded trees on which this interesting parasite has
been found growing or caused to grow; and, as we have before observed, we

158 ON MAKIXO DEEP CELLS FOR MICROSCOPIC OBJECTS.

•shall be thankful for any further information on this subject through the
pages of ^'The Naturalist."

The propagation of this parasite is by seeds^ the most common^ and by
grafts. It is generally supposed, and with truth, that it is propagated in a
state of nature by birds, particularly the Missel Thrush, which, after having
satisfied itself by eating the berries, wipes oflF such as may adhere to its bill
against the bark of the tree on which it may alight, and also from the
exci-ements of these birds, seeds out of which, we have, on more occasions
than one, caused to grow, although doubted by some botanists. If the seeds
are rubbed on the bark of the tree selected, it will soon germinate, particularly
on the Apple and Thorn. Du. Hamel made them sprout not only on living
trees, but on dead branches, bricks, tiles, stones, and in the ground; but,
though they germinated, they did not live long, except those on the bark
of living trees; and Du. Trochet caused the seeds to germinate on the frame
of a window, but they soon died. The roots of the Misseltoe, which penetrate
the bark, extend themselves between the inner bark and the soft wood, where
the sap is most abundant, but never, as some have supposed, into the hard
wood. The two modes of propagation, budding and grafting, are very simple;
merely make an incision in the bark, in which insert a thin slice of Misseltoe,
having a bud and a leaf at the end : the middle of May is the best time for
this operation. It is now high time I should conclude this lengthy article, but,
perhaps may, some day ere long, resume the subject again.

Charminster, Dorset, July 5th., 1851

ON Mx\KING DEEP CELLS FOR MICROSCOPIC OBJECTS.

BY J. S. C.

TfiE usual methods of preparing deep cells for mounting microscopic objects
being both tedious and difficult, a description of a speedier method which I
have adopted, sufficiently long, I consider, fully to test its efficiency, may possibly
be acceptable to such of your readers as arc microscopists. It consists in
the employment of small circular bands of vulcanized India-rubber, about
seven-tenths of an inch in diameter, (and which may be obtained of the
required size and thickness through any stationer,) cemented to the glass slide
with gold-size, which may also be used for putting on the thin glass covers.
For this latter purpose, however, it is necessary that the gold-size be very
old, about the consistence of treacle, otherwise it is apt to run in, and form
a thin pellicle over the surface of the contained fluid. When become too thick
for use, gold-size may be reduced by the addition of spirits of turpentine.
But, perhaps, the best material for closing the cells, is a solution of shellac
in rectified spirits of wine: a very thin coating of this should be laid on the
surface of the vulcanized band, as also upon the glass cover; the cover may
then be laid on at one edge and gradually pressed down, so as to express

MISCELLANEOUS NOTICES.

159

the superfluous fluid. This cement will ^set' in about half-an-hour, and may
then be covered with a coating of gold-size or other varnish^ and the cell is
rendered permanent.

The principal advantages of these cells consist in the quickness and little
trouble with which they may b3 prepared^ and their being unaffected by changes
of temperature. The elasticity of the band, when very thick, may, perhaps,
render the fluid likely to be forced out by compression, but, I believe this
would not occur with a less pressure than would sufiice to destroy the covering
of an ordinary cell, whilst it renders these cells secure from injury by slighter
concussions, which so frequently damage cells constructed in the usual way.

The vulcanized India-rubber may also be procured in sheets, and cut to
the required size with a sharp penknife, if square cells be preferred.

3iiistdlnnrnii5 IJntirtH.

Sparrmv-TIawh^ (Falco nisus.) — A vcr}- remarkable instance of the voracity of the Sparrow-Hawk
occurred in this neighbourhood a few years since, which would appear almost incredible had
not similar accounts been authenticated by various writers, and recently by A. E. Knox, Esq.,
in "Ornithological Eamblcs in Susse-x," which leave no doubt on the matter. A pair of these
birds bred in Loscar wood, about a mile from this place: not very long after the young were
hatched, the gamekeeper found around and near the nest, no less than between fifty and sixty
head of game, the greater part in a perfectly fresh state, consisting of young Pheasants and
Partridges, which were all stripped of their feathers, and, strange to say. Rabbits and Hares,
which had doubtless been obtained very near the nest, the Sparrow-Hawk, as mentioned in
"British Birds," page 147, not generally feeding on quadrupeds. They were of coui-se young
ones. — S. Haxnaford, Jun., Kiveton Park, Mai'ch 29th., 1851.

Tawny Owl, (StrLx stridula.) — A pair of these birds bred last summer in Thorpe wood, on
the Duke of Leeds' estate. The old birds kept their young well supplied with Rabbits, which
were hung, one at a time, on a branch of a tree near the nest, so as to be within their reach.
On March 2'5th., I got a very fine pair in this wood; the hen was sitting in a hollow of an
old tree, several feet down, on one egg, wliich was laid on a lot of old dried leaves and rubbish.
■ — Idem. / •

Kingfisher, (Alccdo ispida.) — A relative of mine was fislmig in Folly Copse, on the Dart, near
Totnes, Devon, last year, with a cow-dung maggot, or bob, and a Kingfisher made many attempts
to seize the bait, by dartuig at it from a hole in the bank. — ^Idem.

Jackdaic, (Corvus monedula.) — A very curious specimen was shot by a friend, near Worksop,
Notts., about a month since. The head was i-ather lighter than is usual; the back, breast,
lesser coverts, and scapulars spotted pretty thickly with white spots; two or three of the tail
feathers, perfectly white. — Idem.

Great Spotted Woodpeckti; (Picus Major.) — A very fine specimen, a male, was shot at High-
ground, near Worksop, Notts., by William Robinson, Esq. There was a bird in company with
the one shot, the plumage similar, but nearly as lai'ge again, about the size of a Fieldfare.—
Idem.

Nest of the House Piycoii. — -Your correspondent, S. Ilannaford, Esq., Jun., has anticipated me
on this subject. Vide page 23, of "The Naturalist." However, I camiot refrain from confirming
what thiit gentleman has stated, by asserting, from repeated observations, that the common
House Pigeon prefers twigs or small brandies to straws, and I have repeatedly watched them
break small twigs from oft" elm and beech trees. As this is another disputed point in ornithology,
I hope there are others of your correspondents who may be able to add, or otherwise, to these
remarks. — J. Mc'Ixxosii, Charmiiister, Dorset, April 12lh., 1851.

160 MISCELLANEOUS NOTICES.

Peafowl, (Pavo cristatus ) — It is supposed by many — and amongst the many, some scientific
Natiu'alists — that the white variety of tliis bird, which is so frequently seen about gentlemen's
houses, is not of the same stock as the common. Having had a considerable number of these
elegant birds, I assert, without fear of contradiction, that the white variety is one and the same
with the more common, both being reared by the same birds. They are more delicate than the
common, and form a beautiful addition to a gentleman's grounds. — Idem.

We believe it is always the case that Albinos, or animals in which the pigmentum niynun is
deficient, are more delicate than those with the natural colours. AVe have no doubt that our
correspondent is connect in his statement, as to the Wliite Peafowl being only a delicate variety
of the common.— B. R. M.

Anecdote of a Blackbird. — A young lady residing in Banft', who has a love for flowers, had,
in the spring of 1849, in a portion of a garden set apart for that purpose, planted a selection of
choice annuals. As is customary in flower plots, a small stick or pin was stuck into the eai'th,
to mark where each species Avas planted; and in the top of these sticks were introduced, by
means of a slit being made, slips of paper uiscribed with the name of the plant. Now, it would
most naturally appear that these tickets or slips of paper could be of no use to any party ; yet,
much to the surprise of the lady, a few of them, day after day, most miraculously disappeared,
leaving the empty sticks to tell that they were gone. "WTiat added to the mystery was, that
some were left here and there, wliich seemed to indicate that the thief did not Avish to take
them away indiscriminately, so as to strip all the sticks bare in one place. It was very
marvellous, the lady thought, and wondered if it was a trick any one was playing. Her brother,
with whom she lived, was informed of the circumstance, but he knew notliing of the matter;
the servants were next questioned, but they too knew as little, and had seen no one near the
place but the lady herself. Days passed away, and still the tickets were disappearing, to the
no small surprise of all in the house, for now all were on- the alert to detect, if possible, the
supposed fairy or fairies who were playing their pranks with the tickets, but their watchfulness
seemed to no purpose. After a long interval, howciver, old Father Time at last unveiled the
whole afliiir. The lady, rising one moniing rather earlier than usual, and having gone to her
bed-chamber window, which looked into the garden, to ascertain the state of the weather,
observed a Blackbird hopping amongst her now almost ticketless bed of aimnals. At this she
was not at all surprised, because bii'ds were numerous in the garden, being, indeed, encouraged
to come ther'e. But judge her a.stonishment when she beheld Blackie seize a hold of one of
the remaining tickets with her bill, and tug lustily to get it disengaged from the stick, but
failed in doing so ; the stick, like an honest servant, would not give up its charge. (This may
explain why one was left here and there, ius already alluded to.) But the bird, not to be
beaten, tried another, and succeeded, and, flying awaj^, disappeared with the prize among the
branches of a pear tree fai-ther up the garden, llie secret was now out; for the lady, going
into the garden to the pear tree, was most agreeably surprised at seeing in a cavity, all her
lost tickets in the form of a Blackbird's nest. Being an admirer of the sweet and melodious,
as well as a lover of the beautiful and fragrant gems of nature, the nest was allowed to remain
unmolested, in the hope that the sable builders might be enabled to rear a brood of young in
the tenement so strangely constructed. But, unfortunately, this was not to be, for a se\cre
stonn coming on before the nest wtis completed, caused it to give way and fall to the ground. —
Thomas Edwaeds, Banff", June 11th., 1851.

A specimen of the Snow Bunting, which has been presented to me by Mr. John Dickson, of
this place, was shot near Scarbro', on the 26th. of Mai'ch last. — F. 0. MoKnis, Naft'erton
Vicarage, Driffield, July 1st., 18.51.

TJie Tlirmh. — A person in this town, named Eothwell, with whom I am acquainted, has
had a fine cock Thrush in his possession for about two ycai-s. It was a nestling when he
obtained it. About ten days ago, he got a nest of five young Throstles, which he purposed rearing
by hand, and had so fed them in the sight of the old bird for a day or two, wlien he observed
that it appeared a good deal interested in the young brood, and was flying about the cage with
food in its bill; at the suggestion of a person who saw this, he put the whole of the birds in
one cage, and, strange to say, the old bird has continued to feed the young ones ever since.
If a morsel of raw meat be placed on the cage, he innnediatcly seizes it, and then, anxiously

MISCELLANEOUS NOTICES. 161

looking round, the firet mouth that opens receives it. About a week after the birds had been
together, one of them, which had been in a weak condition from the first, died, and its place
was supplied by another young bird of the same description; tliis did not seem to relish the
introduction afr first, but gradually foil into the ranks with the others, and this afternoon I
saw the whole of the birds iii turn get fed as I have described. — J. A. Eobinson, Southport?
Lancashire, May 8th., 1851.

Note on a Black Cock. — On Sunday moniing, the 20th. of April, a Black Cock was captured
by Hale, an under keeper of Lord Broughton de Gyffoi'd's, on Urchfont Down, near Devizes,
AVilts. The bird is living, and in the possession of Thomas Xoyes Lewis, Esq., of Wedhampton
Cottage, near Devizes. The circumstance is remarkable, as wo are not aware that Black Game
is found nearer than the New Forest, Hants, or some parts of Somersetshire. — From the Morning
Herald.

European Hoopoe.— In the early part of this month, April, a fine specimen of that rare and
elegant bird, the Hoopoe, (TJpupa ejmps,) was shot m;ar Farringdon, by Mr. Chas. Ileynolds.—
E. Maysmob, Devizes, April 29th., 1851.

Courage exhibited by a Hen, in defence of lier brood.— On Sunday morning last, a large
Rat attacked a brood of Chickens in the poultry-yard of W. Holdsworth, Esq., when the Hen
most valiantly defended her offspring, and successfully kept the Rat at bay, inflicting considerable
punishment. The Cock then came to the Hen's assistance, and by their imited efforts succeeded
in giving the rapacious intruder its quietus.— Nottingham Mercury. In Sun of March 29th., 1851.

On the occurrence of eight Night-Herons on the River Erme, Devon, in May, 1849.— Although
the occurrence of these birds was recorded at the time, by my friend, the Rev. C. Bulteel, in
"The Zoologist," and elsewhere, still, as some of your already very numerous supporters may
not have seen it, and as I think I can add a little information on the subject, I forward you
a copy of the circumstance from my note-book:— On the 23rd. of May, 1849, as the Rev. C.
Bulteel was fishing near the mouth of the River Erme, he was informed by the gamekeeper of
Flete, that a curious bird had just been seen near that spot; ilr. Bulteel immediately procured
a gun, and went m pursuit of it, and out of a small alder-bed, flushed four Night-Herons,
which, within the three following days, he was so fortunate as to obtain, besides a pair more
Jin a neighbouring creek. He informs me they very frequently perched among the foliage of

all trees, as though to screen themselves from observation, and, occasionally, on dead branches
lin a conspicuous situation, when they sat with their necks erect, keeping a sharp look out.
I After this occurrence, a solitary bird was frequently seen flying up and down the river, late on
i evenings, and early mornings, until June 22nd., when I accompanied Mr. Bulteel, and was so
[fortunate as to obtain it, and it proved to be a fine adult male bird; and on the afternoon of
fthe same day he shot a female, which I brushed out with my gun from a low, thick, alder-
[■fcush, just above Ermington. The male had a favourite haunt in a tliicket of sycamore bushes,
i about twelve feet in height, on the banks of the river, to which, though repeatedly disturbed,
[it constantly returned. It flew with its head close down upon its back, no neck being
{perceptible, somewhat quicker, but otherwise similar to the Common Heron. Out of these two,
■ ■which I dissected, I took both the bones of small fish and eels, and there was the slime of
' the latter about theii' beaks. They each had three streamers, (elongated naiTow feathers arising

from the occiput, and gracefully arched over the back,) which, when the bii-d was alive, rested
Ion one another, appearing only as one: those in the females were three inches, and in the
; males six inches in length, and the former also differed froin the latter in being sliglitly more

ash-coloured about the sides of the neck and -wings. The irides were redAish lake, -the lore,
I dark green, and the legs straw-colour. ~R. A. Julian, Jun., Lara House, Plymouth, July 1851.

Occurrence of the Little Spotted Woodpecker, (Picus minor.)— On April 22nd., 1851, I obtained
an adult male Littie Spotted Woodpecker, on some tall trees on the banks of the River Erme
near Ermington. —Idem.

Occurrence of the Continental Pied Wagtail.— On April 24th, 1851, I was so fortunate as to
obtain in the marshes at Lara, a fine specimen of the Continental Pied Wagtail, with a
beautiful slate-coloured back. On comparing it with a skin of one I had given me, shot last
month at Saumur, France, it agreed with it in every respect. It appeared verv uneasy and
VOL. I. Y

1G2 MtSC'ELLAXEOUS NOTICES.

first' attracted my attention bj' its note, which was sharper, and very distinct from that of
the Common English Pied Wagtail, (Motacilla YarrelUi.)— Idem.

Note on the Cuckoo, (Cuculus canorus.) — Going across Hale common, near Altrincham, one day,
I was startled by the dash of a bird from a bush near to where I was walking ; I immediately
commenced scarchuig the bush and found the nest of a Titlark, with, I believe, five eggs. On
my next visit, I was sui-prised to find the eggs lying on the ground, and lookijig into the nest,
I observed an e^^ of some strange bird, which I afterwards ascertained to be that of the Cuckoo .
I put the eggs into the nest several times, but they were always rolled out again. I am at a
loss to know how the yoxmg Cuckoo was hatched, for I never saw any bird about the nest after
it was taken possession of by the Cuckoo.— V. Balshaw, Stockport, May 9th., 1851.

I saw a solitary Swallow, {H. rustica,) on the 24th. of April, but on the 2Gth. I saw a largo
flock. -P. B.

Observations on the Cuckoo, (Cuculus canorus.)— On the morning of the 14tli. of April, a friend
and I wore out shooting for the purpose of obtaining specimens in ornithology. Having arrived
at a point of the Eivcr, called the Alder Carr, situated midway between Norwich and Thorpe,
I heard from an adjoining tree the well-known note of the Cuckoo, which I obsen^ed perched
at tlie distance of twenty yards. I was about to fire, when over my head sailed another with
something between its mandibles; my curiosity was excited, (leaving the other to speed its way,)
I followed in a boat the flying Cuckoo, which I saw alight in an adjoining meadow. I reached
the bird within twenty yards, and observed it in the act of progressing, (similar to the crawling
of a Parrot,) by the side of a drain with this substance still in its beak; after traversing some
distance, it stopped short, at the same tune I fired. Upon noaring it I found the substance
b(ifore-named to be its c^^, I am sorry to say broken, but still quite satisfactory to me that such
was the case. Upon dissection, I found the cloaca contained another egg of nearly the same
size, but minus the calcareous envelope. I think in all probability this bird was searching for
a nest, possibly that of the ^Sfeadow Pipit, {Anthus pratensis,) for the depositing of its cg^. —
J. 0. Harpek, Norwich, May 7th., 1851.

On tlie number of eggs laid by the Cnckoo.—A correspondent of yours, (J. Mc'Intosh, Esq.,)
in No. 1, of "The Naturalist," in Avriting on the habits of the Cuckoo, says, "This pro-\es
fm-ther to me, that the Cuckoo lays but one egg; at least this one could have laid no more."
The follomng extract from some oniithological memoranda of the late Col. Montagu, in my
possession, may not be unacceptable, shewhig, as it does, that nature has certainly made more
ample provision for the perpetuation of the species :~"May 17th., 1802. A female Cuckoo we
dissected weighed three ounces and three quarters. The ovaries and uterus were vastly distended,
but we tliiirk no v.gg had been produced. The largest vitellus appeared to be of suflicient size
to separate from the ovarium, but it was still attached; the next egg in succession was not
one quarter so large; the third and fourth nearly of the same size, not above half as big as
the second; two others rather inferior, and a seventh not half so largo as those. These may
be considered as the portion of eggs destined to be produced within the season, that is between
the above period and the beginning of July, the smaller eggs being scarcely definable." "Tliis
bird, as well as all the summer migrants, was unusually late this j-ear." "The female hero
described, had the stomach distended with the hairs and other exuvia) of some species of cater-
pillar, or larva of some lepidopterous insect.""H. Dorville, Alphington, near Exeter, May
14th., 1851.

On the Cuckoo conveying its egg in its mouth.— On returning to Cambridge last October, (1850,)
I was infonned by G. Carter, Esq., of Emanuel College, that a Cuckoo had deposited an egg in
a Wren's nest, in the Fellows' garden, and that the young bird was eventually shot by him and
given to F. Barlow, Esq., Solicitor, Cambridge, in whose collection it now remains. The "Wrens
were also seen to feed it by several of the Fellows of the College. Mr. Barlow also informs me
that, many years ago, he found a Cuckoo's egg in a Redstart's nest in a hole in an old willow-
pollard, and he had great difficulty in getting the egg out, the aperture being but just sufficient
to admit two of his fingers.— K. A. Julian, Jun.

Heronries additional.— '^ow'Aevho.vn.Caaile, near Exeter; Warleigh, on the Tamar. Single pairs
build in the woods near Totnes.— S. Hannaford, Jun.

MISCELLANEOUS XOTICES. 163

Hcronriea.—To the list given at page 60, may be added the following existing in South Wales:
—Margam Abbey, Glamorgansliire ; Pcnrice Castle, Glamorganshire.— E. Wilbraham Falconer,
M. D. Bath.

Heronries. —In addition to those mentioned by J. Mc' Intosh, Esq., in "The Naturalist" for
Ma J", there is one still in existence in Wanstoad Park, Essex.— H. J. C.

The Grasshopper IVarblcr, (Salicaria locustcUa,) near Fahwuth.—A. beautiful specimen of tliis
bird was sliot last week on the Furze common, Pendcnnis Castle, by Mr. G. Copelaud. Although
tills bird is not rare in this locality, from its shyness it is difficult to procure.— AV. P. Cocks,
Falmouth, May 19th., 1851.

Red-footed Falcon, (Falco rufipcs,) at Falmo nth. —This bird I flushed in Mr.-Jago's furze patch
stone quarry, parish of Budock, Falmouth. It was within throe yards of mc. The plumage of
the head, neck, and body, uniform dark slate gray colour; legs, bright reddish brown; bill,
yellowish; a broad black bar at the tip of the tail. Size, not larger than the male ^^ Tardus
viscivorus" here. After hawking close to the ground in Mr.'Selley's field for nearly ten minutes,
it mounted high and made oft' for the wood at Trefusis, about half-a-mile from the furze brake.
—Idem.

TJie Jackdaw, (Corvus monedula.)— I observe in the interesting "Xotes" by Mr. S. Hannaford, in
your last number, that his experience of the habits of the Jackdaw does not furnish him with
any instance of that bird nestling elsewhere than in churches. It may be interesting to him
to know, that although they may generally pi-efer such edifices, their predilection for them is
not so strong as to prevent theu" nestling in other buildings which present equally suitable
situations. In the tower, and along the sides of the cathedral church at Sherborne, Dorset,
great numbers of Jackdaws annually build their nests, but in the ruins of the old ivied castle
belonging to Earl Digby, which is witliin a mile of the church, may be found, at this season of the
year, quite as large, if not a greater number of nests of the same bird. As far as my experience
goes, they seem to nestle in any old buildings, and also in the hollows of any old trees, which,
from their seclusion, aftbrd a safe retreat. I remember, in the park at Sherborne, finding two
Jackdaws' nests in an oak tree, among the forked branches of which, was the nest of a Cape
Goose. These facts are sufficient to prove that the bird in question is not exclusively partial
to church buildings.— A. P. M., Leicester, May 5th., 1851.

The JacMaiv, (Corvus monedula.)— In reference to the notice on the Jackdaw, page 67 of
'The Naturalist," I beg to state that for the last four years two pairs of Jackdaws have built
*^iii a wych elm in mj' garden. Tliis year they have forsaken me, and are succeeded by Starlings.
[—E. Mack, Ilaluig Cottage, Ci-oydon, Surrey, May 8th., 1851.

The Jackdaw, (Corvus monedula.)— At page 67 of "The Naturalist," S. Hannaford, Esq., Jun.
states "that he never saw the Jackdaw, (Corvus monedula,) build but in churches." They
build in almost all the old church-towers m Beds., but in Wobum Park they invariably build
in the hole of a tree, as I have frequently frightened them out by rapping the tree with a
stick, and have seen both eggs and young which have been taken therefrom.— G. B. Clarke,
Wobum, Beds., May 12th., 1851.

0)1 the size of the eggs of tlie Thrush, (Turdus musicus.) --Having read an article in the first
number of "The Naturalist," I observed it stated at page 22, on the early nesting of the Song
Thrush, that the smallness of the eggs in a nest, found in March, arises from the want of
proper development in consequence of the severity of the weatlier. In tliis matter I have had
considerable experience ; and have almost invariably fouaid that j'oung birds, in thou- first season
of laj-ing, pi-oduce smaller eggs than birds of two years or the second season. It is not only so
with Thruslies, but with most other birds, including domestic Fowls. The whole of last May
and June, I was staying at EufFord Hall, in Lancashire, (Su- Thomas Hcsketh's,) where, on
most evenings, I amused myself by searching the woods, slu-ubberics, and pleasure grounds, for
nests; and I am positive I found at least tliii'ty of those of the Song Thrush, many of them
v.u-ying much in the size and colour of the eggs. Those of the younger birds were small, of a
deep blue, and thickly studded at the larger end with black spots; while those of the older
birds were pale, scarce of spots, and about one-fourth larger. AVhen a youth I lived near an
aviary, (in wliich were kept gold, silver, and other Pheasants,) enclosing about an acre of ground,

1G4 MISCELLANEOUS NOTICES.

and abounding in laurels and other shrubs ; this was portioned off in several compartments. As
I had access to this aviary, I reared in it some young Tlirushes and Blackbirds, which I kept
for six or seven yeare; feeding them liberally with snails, slugs, worms, etc. Having in this
space much liberty, they paired and bred; and from daily visiting them with food, I could
distinguish them apart. I am therefore ccsrtain the result of the difference in the size and
appearance of their eggs, arose from the circumstance I liave stated; the younger producing
smaller eggs than the older birds.—H. R. Boltox, 16, Alfred Street, Plymouth, April 30th., 1851.

Singular capture of a Sparrow-Hawh, (Accipiter fringillarius.)— Many years ago, when a boy,
being anxious to obtain a Thrush, I was induced (absurdly enough) to set a rat-trap alongside
of a Thrush's nest, containing eggs, in hope that the bird, when returning tliither, might, by
accident, light upon the trap, (which was not baited,) and thus be secured. The nest occurred
in a plantation, and was situated on a fir-tree, about twelve feet from the ground. Having very
loosely fastened the trap, wlxich was set, early in the morning, I left the shrubbery and went
for a days fishing in the neighbourhood. On my return home, late in the evening, I repaired
to the shrubbery with the hope of finding the Thrush caught. I had no sooner, however, entered
the first row of trees, than I was seriously alanncd by a screaming, which, to my terrified mind,
appeared like the noise of a child. Fearing to proceed any further, and not being able to see
any figure, (for it was getting dark,) I summoned up what little courage I had left, and in a
loud voice called out, —Who's there.'' lleceiving no answer, I was about to speak again, when
I was agreeably surprised by hearing the "metallic rattle" of the trap. I now darted forward,
and found a Sparrow-Hawk on the ground, a few yards from the tree on wliich the trap had
been placed, caught by one of its legs only. The bird, which is still in my possession, stuffed,
measured from the tip of the beak to the end of the tail, thirteen inches. Qmries. Did tlie
Hawk follow the Thrush to its nest.' or was it on the nest when attacked.' Or, is it probable
that the Hawk resorted thither to devour the eggs.' I am inclined to think the second hj-
pothesis the correct one, inasnauch as I had, a day or two previously, observed a SpaiTow-Hawk,
probably the same, hovering over the plantation with much expectancy. —Spencer CoBUOLn,
M. D., 20, Dublin Street, Edinburgh, August 2ud., 1851.

Note on the Moor-hen, (Gallinula chloropus.)— Having read with much interest the two first
numbers of your interesting publication, "The Naturalist," I cannot refrain from wishing it evei-y
success, and, at the same time, corroborating tlie fact of Moor-hens, (Gallinula chloropnx,)
laying, at times, more than four eggs; as mentioned by your concspondent, J. C. When in
^Norfolk, two years ago, I discovei'ed the nest of a Moor-hen on the edge of a similarly situated
pond to the one described by J. C. The nest was composed of reeds, rushes, and small twigs,
and constructed on the tops of some reeds, which stood about a foot above the sm-face of the
water. The hen was sitting at the tune, (this was the List week iia May:) as I approached
she darted oflT amongst the reeds and overhanging bushes, and exposed to view a nest containing
eight eggs. I hid myself for a few minutes, within sight of the nest, and saw the hen cautiously
return, and, having assured hei-self that all was safe, resumed her seat. Almost daily I visited
her, until she allowed me to go very near her before she moved from her nest. In due time,
about the middle of June, to my great delight, I saw three pretty little blnek balls of douii,
as a young chick at first appears, skimming and darting over the surface of the pond, already
catching flies. The hen was on her nest, doubtless watching her little progeny; she allowed
me to nearly touch her before she moved, when I saw a fourth chi(!k attempting to rid itself
of its shell, which I had no sooner removed, than immediately it left the nest, and soon found
out its three already busy little companions and anxious parent. When I removed from the
nest, the hen returned, and continued sitting until the remaining eggs were hatched; and I
had the satisfaction of watching this little brood grow up till they were old enough to shift
for themselves. As this may interest your con-esi)ondent, J. C, I send it to you to make what
use you like of it.— S. W. LuKis, Great Bedwyn, near Marlborough, April lath., 1851.

P.S. — I heard young Eooks in theh' nests on the 8th. and 9th. inst.--S. W. L.

On the Moor-fien.—In accordance with my intimation in the second part of "Tlie Naturalist,"
permit me to infonn you that a brood of Moor-hens was observed in my home pond on the
Pith, instant, and was seen by myself on tlie 13th. I am quite convinced I have seen them

MISCELLANEOUS NOTICES. 165

still earlier in other years. This remark has reference to the obsen-ation in the first part,
page 21, that the first brood is hatched early in June', or in the last week in May.— J. C.
Black Hall, Devon, May 13th., 1851.

Tlie Siskin, (Fringilla spinus,)— I observed a small flock of about fourteen of these birds
on the 23rd. of January last, in the new park belonging to the Earl of Stamford and
"Wamngton, Dunham Massey, Cheshire.— Samuel Hoberts, The Downs, Bowdon, Cheshire.

T/ie Nif/htittgale, (Sylvia luscinia,) I heard singing last season in a wood about one mile

from Sliipley, near Bradford, Yorkshire. I understood this bird, at the commencement of its

season, attracted such large audiences as to be almost a formidable rival of the Swedish Night-
ingale.—Idem.

In March last, passing the entrance of the new park, Dunham Massey, I heard a strange
confusion of tongues from the sylvan choir, which, on examination, I found to proceed from
tlie fright occasioned by the passing of a Hawk in pursuit of a Song Thrush. Almost every
inhabitant of that portion of the wood had mounted the topmost branches of the trees, and
were uttering the most discordant sounds that can be imagined; when, as if by magic, the
discord immediately gave way to a burst of song from every throat capable of joining in the
hymn of thanksgiving, as it appeared, for their deliverance.— Idem.

Carnivorous propensity of tlie Herring Gull, (Larus argentatus.)— Passing over an embankment
on the beach, between Lowestoft" and Yannouth, the early pai-t of last year, I came unexpectedly
upon this bird, which appeared to be resting itself upon the shingle; I approached it within
ten yards, when it rose. I then perceived it had endeavoured to swallow an animal too large
to pass the oesophagus, which it endeavoured to disgorge, after having settled a short distance
out at sea. For a wonder, I was without a gun, but, on the following morning, I again
walked down to the beach, and, to my surprise, saw the afoi-esaid Gull lying dead, washed high
upon the beach. Upon examination, I found it had endeavoured to swallow a large male Brown
Hat, ( Mus decumantis ; J the i-esult was, it had died of suflbcation.— J. 0. Hakper, Norwich,
July 7th., 1851.

The Puffin, (Fratercula arctica,) in the «<-««fer.— We have been favoured by W. P. Cocks, Esq.,
of Falmouth, with an interesting account of the occurrence of the Puffin on the 27th. of January
last, at Gwyllyn Vase, near Falmouth. The specimen was dead, but in a perfect condition. He
says, "the bird was a tight, well-made, little aristocratic fellow, with unsoiled plumage, and
weighed ten ounces." This bird being a regular summer visitant, its occun-ence in winter is
a circumstance worthy of record. We may ask, was this bird delaying on our shores in consequence
of the extreme mildness of the weather during the whole of the autumn and wiuter; or, was
he, like the Cuckoo noticed at page 43, induced to visit us at an earlier period than usual,
from the same cause? Its presence at Falmouth at the time stated, is probably refcrrible to
one of these two causes. We should be much obliged to any correspondent who may have
met with the bird under similar circumstances, to favour us with an account of it; for we do
not think it probable that Mr. Cocks' bird was a solitary wanderer to om- coast on that occasion.
-B. E. M.

Pugnacious disposition of birds in general towards tJicir <fea<f.— Seeing a notice in your pages
of the attack of the llobin on one of its own species stuffed, reminds me of several instances of
similar occurrences that have come under my observation ; indeed, however pugnacious or otherwise
the particular birds may be when alive, they seem in general to have a great aversion to dead
or stuffed specimens of their kind. Last June, I reared up two young Bullfinches from the nest,
both male birds, which lived togetlier always on the most amicable terms, until one day having
had the misfortune accidentally to kill one, the survivor, upon seeing its dead companion, flew at
it with the greatest fury, making that half-hissing half-screeching noise, so peculiar to the bnd.
Another case of the sort I remember in a Peacock, which, on being shewn a stuffed specimen
of the same species, with which it had been brought uj), and lived with for years, immediately
attacked it with beak and spurs most vigorously; and had not its unconscious victim been
removed, would soon have succeeded in stripping it of its feathers, and spoiling its beauty : these
attacks the bird always renewed on getting sight of its old companion. Having introduced nij'

166 MISCELLANEOUS NOTICES.

BuUfiuch, I cannot pass him by without a remark on the wonderful aptitude these birds display
for learning tricks — naturally of a bold disposition, when brought up by the hand, tliey seem
to have no fear, and lose that innate dread of man instinctively implanted in them. Amongst
other feats my little bird has learnt, he will, on my dropping a seed held at some distance over
his head, fly up and catch it in his mouth, or, what I think is more wonderful, stay till the
seed comes within reach and then catch it ; and this he does with the greatest precision, rarely
failing iu his objcct.~F. M. Burton, 1, Belgrave Street, Argyle Square, London, April 21st.,
1851.

Tamcncss of birds when not molested.— 1 niaj^ just mention, as a proof of the advantages which
might accrue to ornithologists, by sparing the gun upon all consistent occasions as much as
possible, and otherwise not scaring the objects of thou- study, that a Thrush, ( Ttirdns mitsiciis,)
has made her nest tliis season within three yards of the window of the dining-room here; and
a pair of Redbreasts within two. It is most pleasant to watch the little occupants passing to
and fro, aUke regardless of observation, and fearless of danger. The Thrush has occupied the
same bush for two seasons past; and it is not many years since a pair of llLng-doves, {Colinnba
palumbm,) built in a spruce fir, not ten yards from the garden gate, where thej' were constantly
liable to disturbance by the ringing of the bell, and the passing in and out of the members
of the family; but this they did not seem much to mind, and succeeded in bringing out their
progeny, which were afterwards unfortunately pillaged by a prowling Magpie, all, however, in
the way of his allotted avocation, so we must not find fault with poor Mag. The male Ring-
dove used to descend and walk about the grass-plot, in the early morning, but generally took
his departure to the neighbouring park when not engaged in the duties of incubation. A shot
has not been fired in the garden, I believe, for at least twelve or fourteen years; nor arc the
birds otherwise molested, unless by the agency of Cats or Magpies. ~R. F. Logan, Hawthorn
Brae, Duddingstone, near Edinburgh, July, 1851.

The Bed Ant, (Formica rubra.)— 'Wliile visiting, a few days since, at Norbury Park, in Surrey,
I observed a curious incident relating to these interesting little creatures, illustrative of their
bold disposition, which I do not recollect to have seen recorded elsewhere. I was watching them
as they climbed in a stream the stems of some old oaks, which grew in the Park, busily
searching for beetles and other insects, which, on settling in tlieir path, were mstantly seized
and borne off; some, from thcu* weight, size, and sti'ungth, requiring two ants to carry, one
taking hold of the head the other of the tail ; others being eaiily mastered by one ; wlien, on
putting my hand near to any part of the line of march, I observed that those immediately
underneath suddenly stopped, and by means of somehow or other turnuig the underside of their
bodies upward, by bending the liead back, and pushing their tails forward under their legs, so
as to have their stings most prominent, placed themselves in an attitude of defence ; the gi-eater
number, on my putting a piece of stick near them, shewed the better part of valour, discretion,
and prudently dropped to avoid the danger; but some were so bold as to lay hold of the twig
with their mouths and attempt to wound it with their stings.— F. M. Buiiton, 1, Belgra\'e Street,
Argj'le Square, London, June 10th., 1851.

A specimen of the common Cabbage ^Moth, (Mamcstra brass tea:,) came out of chrysalis in my case
on tlie 26th. of April, in the present year, 1851. I never knew the insect to appear before at
such an unusually early time, tlie proper period being June, and it therefore seems to me worth
placing on record.— F. 0. MoRiiis, Naflerton Vicarage, Driffield, July 5tli., 1851.

llruiriir.

Sainmer Life on X.and and Water, at South Queemferry. By W. \^''ALLACE
FyFE. Edinburgh: Oliver and Boyd. 1851.

The facilities of conveyance now afforded in all directions, have the effect
of annually draining our cities and towns of a large proportion of their inhabitants
during the delightful season of summer. All who can possibly escape from

REVIEW. 167

the cares of business and the toils of labour, seek a short season of rest
to recruit their exhausted spirits among the refreshing scenes of rural
life. The result of the universality of such enjoynaent is, that within the
last few years, almost every retired village and hamlet in the United Kingdom
has acquired somewhat of the stirring, business character of the city, and
hundreds who endeavour to rusticate amid cherished scenes, now seek in vain
for that quietude and retirement which the localities at one time enjoyed.
A few rural villages and country towns still, however, remain, for the enjoyment
of those who cannot find enjoyment amid the busy bustle of the "fashionable
watering-place;" South Queensferry is one of those quiet retreats. ^^Little,
however, do the denizens of Edinburgh appear to know of the surpassing
beauty of the little watering-place of South Queensferry, lying a matter of
nine miles distant from the Edinburgh General Post-office; separated from any
of the lines of railway by at least half of this distance, ^'The Ferry" is yet
appreciated by the few who render it their place of summer resort, on account
of its beauty and seclusion."

The object of the delightful work now before us, is to depict the picturesque
and artistic beauties of '^The Ferry" and its environs; to detail the many
interesting and important events of Scottish history with which it is connected;
and to illustrate these by an elucidation of its antiquarian relics. To its it
is chiefly a source of satisfaction that the talented author has allotted a
portion of his work to the natural productions of the district, and the fertile
waters of the Forth have afforded him many interesting subjects for comment.
Throughout the whole volume the author evinces a keen eye to the beauties
of nature, while an extensive knowledge of her productions enables him to
[contribute many interesting facts to science. The various tribes of animals are
noticed at length in an exceedingly interesting manner; and among the notices
of native plants, we find the following enumerated, their popular names, localities
etc., being given in addition to their scientific titles: — Glaucium luteum
Cochlearia officinalis, Silene nutans, Silene maritima. Astragalus glycyphyllus
Astragalus hypoglottis, Oxytropis Uralensis, Vicia lutea, Hieracium Sp
Poteutilla verna, Ligusticum Scoticum, Orchis pyramidalis, Habenaria albida
Thalictrum majus, Silene Anglica, Beta maritima, and many other interesting
floral beauties.

Amongst the numerous beautiful engravings which adorn this elegant work,
we find one representing a group of birds, and another a group of fishes,
native to the district. These are both excellent, artistically and scientifically,
and any one having a slight personal acqvaintance with the animals represented,
will readily recognise the various species in the plates, the poiiraits being at
once characteristic, life-like, and accurate as regards scientific details.

We have no room to make extracts, else we should certainly draw upon the
volume for many valuable particulars respecting marine productions; but the
book is altogether so interesting that we feel no hesitation in recommending
its perusal to all interested in Natural History, and especially to those within

168 PROCEEDINGS OF SOCIETIES.

reach of that, we had almost said, most interesting of all rural spots, ^^The
Ferry." The author's extensive acquaintance with literature and history', enables
him to give an interest to the facts detailed respecting natural productions,
which they could not receive from the pen of one exclusively devoted to
science.

l^rntwMngH nf Inrirfirs.

Geological Sociefi/ of Edinburgh, June, 1851. — On Chalk Flint, found in Tweedsmuir.

IsIk. Bell read a paper stating that he liad obtained several specimens of Chalk Flint, from
the Boulder Clay, upon the fjinn of Ilawkshaw, in Tweedsmuir, situated upon an offshoot from
the hill called Ilaitfell, two thousand six hundred and thirty-five feet high, the higliest hill hi
the south of Scotland.

In alluding to the probable manner in which the Flint had been carried from the low level
at which we now find the Chalk formation in Britain, and deposited there at a height of about
fourteen or fifteen hundred feet above the sea, he suggested that unequal subm(>rgence during
the deposit of the Boulder Clay, might account for the Flint being thus found so much higher
than its former probable level ; and in illustration of this view, stated, that he thought we had
evidence to shew that during the deposit of the Boulder Clay, when tliis northern part of
Britain was submerged, the south of England had remained at or near the surface ; and in support
of this, adduced the fact, observed by different writers, of the entire absence of the Boulder Clay
in that district. After stating several reasons for supposing that coast ice, and not icebergs, had
been the transpoiiing agent, he supposed that ITartfcll might then have existed as an island,
and that coast ice having the flints frozen into it, blown off by a gale, or carried by a current,
from a chalk sea-coast, had been sti-anded upon the then island of Hartfell, and there melted.

€\t (^m\±

Tlie Bustard, (Otis tarda.)— It would be uitcresting if any reader of "Tlie Naturalist" would
furnish well-authenticated instances of tftat noble bird, the Bustard, having been found in
England during the last thu-ty years. A friend of mine ha.s a pair of stuffed specimens, which I
think are in finer condition than any I have seen elsewhere. —Henry Tuckett, Frenchay, Bristol.

It would be a great advantage to many of your entomological readers, if some of j'our
correspondents would furnish to them in the pages of "The Naturalist," monthly, beforehand,
a list of the species of insects which may be expected to be found in the ensuing month, on the
first of which the magazine is published. Such a series of articles, monthly, on the plan of
Samouelle's "Entomologist's Useful Companion," might be published collectively in a volume at
the end of the year, and would doubtless be purchased by many entomologists. Let me beg of
any of your readers who have leisiu'e for such a work to comply with this request.—
F. 0. Morris, Nafferton Vicarage, Driffield, July 3rd., 1851.

I find that I must add to the "interrogative particles," in the May number of "The Naturalist,"
two more similar queries respecting the occurrence m this country of the Yellow-nosed Albatross,
(Dionuidea chlororynchus,) and the Painted Bunting, (Spiza ciris.J—ldcm.

What is the best method of killing Lepidoptera, and other insects, for the cabinet; without
injury to their colours? — D. G. F.

Mr. Dorville incidentally mentions having some impubUshed memoranda of Col. Montagu's in
his possession. May we venture to ask him if he feels at liberty to publish them in our pages.
They would doubtless be very interesting to all admirers, (not a few,) of Col. Montagu. —
B. R. M.

169
ECTOCAEPUS TESSELLATUS. (HAYDEN.)

SPECIFIC CHAEACTEKS.

Dksceiption of Plate. — No. 1. is a Drawing of the Plant as it appears when laid upon
■ paper. Nos. 2 and 3, branches and silicules of the same, more or less magnified. In Figure 3,
one of the Silicules appears to have burst at the end, and to have discharged its contents.

Filaments somewhat tufted, from two to four inches long, very light and
feathery as they float in the sea, not much branched, as compared with other
species of JSdocarpus, but bearing a remarkable resemblance to E. fasciculatus,
in having short multifid ramuli crowded together into little apparent bundles
throughout the whole length of each branch. Branching somewhat irregular,
between opposite and alternate, the main branches are rnoHtlij opposite, while
the penultimate are very irregular, and at their points are often hooked
backward in a scorpioid manner. The ramuli are secund, closely set, a
ramulus rising from almost every joint of the penultimate branchlet. The
Articulations are about as long as broad, sometimes rather less. The Silicules,
or Propagula (pod-like fruit) are abundantly scattered j sessile, on the upper
surface of the penultimate ramuli, varying in shape from oval to elliptical,
and sometimes inclining to reniform, regularly tessellated with minute dark
squares, which are clearly defined under a glass ,of moderate power by pellucid
lines, that intersect each other at right angles. This characteristic Silicule
clearly stamping the plant as new to British Algology, has enabled us to
append the above speciSc designation. Colour, a clear olive. Substance, soft,
closely adhering to paper.

This plant, besides being new to the British list, has the merit of being
tolerably abundant in the place where it was found in July, 1851, by the
Rev. F. W. Hayden, of Skelton, near York. Whoever walks to the farthest
point of Filey Bridge, Yorkshire, at low water, will there tread upon E. tessellatus
at almost every step; it will be found growing on the rock, on shells, and
completely clothing the fronds of Ilimanthalia lorea. So much does it
resemble E. fasciculatus in its outward form, that Dr. Harvey, Author of the
''Phycologia Britannica," remarks to Sir. Hayden, "It is to the ^naked eye so
like E. fasciculatus, that until I had put it under the glass, I thought it must
be that species."

LOCAL JOTTINGS.
DORCHESTER— DORSETSHIIIE.

BY .J. GARLAND, ESQ.

Believing every fact in Natural History, however slight, to be of importance,
and wishing to compare arrivals and departures of migratory birds, notes of
particular habitats, etc., with the observations of others on the same subject,
I purpose to string together a few memoranda with that view from time to time,

VOL. I. z

170 A TRIP TO WICKEN-FEX, CAMBRIDGESHIRE.

but without, I fear, much plan or order. If any reader of ^^The Naturalist"
would do likewise, it would, I think, aid the cause, although, perhaps, in a
triflino; degree.

White Jachdmv, (Corvus monedula.) — A very good specimen of this bird,
perfectly white, is now in the possession of Mr. Pulman, gun-smith, of this
town. It was taken just a twelvemonth since, after it had escaped, not quite
fledged, from the tower of St. Peter's church, in the belfry of which, many
Jackdaws build annually. It is now in fine condition.

The Lamprey, (Petromyzon fluviatilis.) — I have not seen any mention of
this once much-esteemed little fish being found in this neighbourhood, but I
have met with several specimens in the dykes in the water-meadows near
this town. They were not, however, of large size, but very distinctly marked j
and, like the Eel, very tenacious of life.

Artificial Flies. — I can bear witness to the fact of Swallows being caught
sometimes by Artificial Flies, as mentioned by Mr. Hannaford, at page G8,
having myself some years since taken two accidentally by that means, whilst
fishing in the River Froome.

Yew Fruit, (Taxus baccata.) — I can corroborate the opinion of Mr. Mc'Intosh,
at page 74 of this work, as to the innocuousness of this fruit, having frequently
when a boy eaten of the berries without any inconvenience arising therefrom,
' Common Primrose, (Primula vulgaris.) — My experience as to the Primrose
in this neighbourhood diSers from that of Mr. J. A. Robinson, of Southport,
page 93, for it has been unusually early and plentiful this year at Cerne,
and in the lanes and hedge-rows near.

Cistus, (Helianthemum vulgare,) Common Bock-rose. — This pretty little wild
flower is seldom met with, I am informed, in this neighbourhood, although
very common in Scotland, but I have now found it in perfection on a hill called
"The Giant's Hill," at Cerne. Many others, as the Polygala, white, pink,
and blue, Hieraciimi, Linum, Tormentilla, Thymus, etc., are likewise abundant
there.

Dorchester, Dorset, Sej)tember, 1851.

A TRIP TO WICKEN-FEN, CAMBRIDGESHIRE,
IN PURSUIT OF SPECIMENS OF NATURAL HISTORY.

BY R. A. JULIAN, ESQ., JUN.

Being accompanied by Mr. Green, of King's College, and Messrs. Outratn,
Park, and Kaiiie, of Emmanuel College, I left Cambridge at seven o'clock in
the morning, and proceeded down the River Cam, in a four-oar. We presently
reached Watorbeach, where we were informed by a farmer that some Dob-
divers, (a local name for Little Grebes,) were breeding in a pond among
some reeds about half-a-milo distant from the river. Wishing to see their

FACTS IX THE HISTORY OF THE COMMON CUCKOO. 171

iBestSj and also to procure an old male in his breeding plumage, we lifted the
»oat on our shoulders, and at last, after many a rest, and occasionally drag-
ging her where the ground was level, we launched her in the said water; but
were much disappointed at finding nothing but Moor-hens and their nests:
however, after having obtained a very good variety of these birds' eggs — one
nest containing thirteen; and having had a very tiresome task in getting back our
boat, much to the amazement of ploughboys and cattle, we reached Wicken
at about eleven, and went into the fen chiefly in search of Grasshopper
Warblers, where, walking on briskly among the sedge, we succeeded in obtaining
several fine specimens; we also saw a very beautiful pair of Harriers, which
a man informed us had a nest among the reeds; I have since been informed
by G. Outram, Esq., that these birds were obtained soon after I left, with
their eggs; and proved to be Montagu's Harriers, (Circus Montagui;) a quantity
of Cuckoos, a few Turtle-Doves and Lapwing- Plovers; and the smaller species
of Sedge Warblers, were exceedingly numerous; and I fear ere we learned to
distinguinh them from the Grasshopper Warblers when on the wing, many were
sacrificed from their similitude. The former fly and appear much to resemble
the Hedge Accentor, {Accentor modulans, Cuv.,) and the la:;ter from having
reddish rumps may be readily known; when the Grasshopper Warblers
alight they seem to settle down as near as possible to the roots of the reeds;
and in one instance I saw one perch half-way up a reed, and creep down the
stem like a mouse. A few days intervening, I again visited the fen, and
was so fortunate as to obtain a Grasshopper Warbler's nest with six eggs: it
was built among the sedge very near the ground, and was composed of a little
moss lined with dry grass; the eggs were round-shaped, and thickly dotted
with light carnation spots. In the fen, on the sallow-bushes, 1 observed
caterpillars of the Common Tiger Moth, Scarlet Tiger Moth, Egger Moth,
find Drinker Moth, very numerous; and saw great quantities of Swallow-tail
Butterflies.

Laiva House, Fhjmoutli, May 2()th., 1851.

FACTS IN THE HISTOEY
OF THE COMMON CUCKOO, (CUCULUS GANOItUS.)

BY J. MC'INTOSH, ESQ.
"Facts are stubborn things."

At pages 11 and 12 of ^'The Naturalist," I have recorded, from actual
observation, the feeding of the young Cuckoo by its female parent, and that,
as long as it could procure them, with the caterpillars of Abraxas yrossiilariala
in the month of July, 1850, and that the female cries "Cuchoo, cuckoo."
These facts have been attacked and denied in a 'Weekly Newspaper, called
the '^^Gardener's Chronicle." Now in justice and fairness to your readers and
myself, I consider it my duty to produce sufficient recorded evidence from

172 FACTS IS THE HISTORY OF THE COMMON CUCKOO.

Naturalists, to which the readers of '^'The Naturalist" may refer to show that
I have really stated nothing novel; but merely confirmed what has already
been known of the habits of this singular bird, by those acquainted with it.

It has been positively stated that the Cuckoo never feeds its own young.
In the "(rardeners' Chronicle/' page 469, for 1851, Mr. W. Kidd, that
delightful Naturalist, and well-known writer on "British Song Birds," says,
^^It is a fact, patent to most ornithologists, that the Cuckoo has been seen
in the act of assisting in feeding her offspring." The same gentleman again
says, ^^A few years since, the sight of a Redbreast feeding a young Cuckoo,
assisted by the old Cuckoo, was witnessed by a most truthful and worthy
ornithological friend of mine, now no more. Nor is this by any means a
solitary instance of the natural affection of the Cuckoo."

In the "Mag: Nat: Hist:" vol. 9, page 638, Mr. Blyth, a well-known writer
on the habits of this bird, says, "It is certain that the maternal feelings of
the Cuckoo are not quenched; astonishing as this may appear, Mr. John E.
Gray, of the British Museum, informs me that he has himself seen a Cuckoo,
day after day, visit the nest where one of its oflfepring was being reared, and
which it finally enticed away from its foster-parents. I had, says Mr. Blyth,
previously heard of analogous cases, but was disposed to regard them as
fabulous, until corroborated by so paramount an authority."

Again, it has been positively stated that the female Cuckoo never cries
"Cuckoo." In vol. 8, "Mag: Nat: Hist:" page 382, "I had," i^ays Mr. W. H.
White, ^^a few summers ago, the full means of ascertaining the fact, that
both sexes of the Cuckoo utter the call "Cuckoo," Page 329, same volume,
Mr. Blyth says, "Both sexes, I believe, utter the call "Cuckoo." A little
farther on, the same gentleman says, ^'The common and more generally known
note '^Cuckoo,' is alike repeated either when perched or on the wing; and I
am fully confident in my own mind, by both sexes." Now Mr. B. says in a
note, ^^Mr. Yarrell also inclines to the opinion, that this call-note ^^Cuckoo"
is alike uttered by both sexes. But, says Mr. B., I will not speak quite
positively on this point till I have myself examined a female, which had been
heard to sing. It is the decided opinion, however, of several observant persons
of my acquaintance, for the accuracy of whose observations I have the highest
regard, that this note is common to both sexes; and one even tells me that,
as, with a gun in his hand, and talking to a friend, a Cuckoo alighted upon
a tree close by, and several times repeated its call; he shot it, and a few
days after, his friend told him it was a pity he had shot it, for it had an
egg almost ready to lay." In the "Gardeners' Chronicle" of August 2nd.,
there is a letter from a Mr. Browne, in which he states that a young lady
(whose name I think he does not mention,) has recorded the fact of a Cuckoo
being shot while uttering the cry "Cuckoo," and in which hvo eggs were found.
Was this a male bird? I make no apology for making use of this fact,
although Mr. Browne in general terms denied my statements; and yet brought
forward this particular fact, which is clearly in my favour, as far as it goes.

FACTS IN THE HISTORY OF THE COMMON CUCKOO. 173

Mr. Turner, "Mag: Nat: Hist:" vol. 8, page 286, "A Cuckoo sang in the
neighhourhood of the garden at the time the young was growing strong enough
to fly ably." Was this bird male or female, I must leave my readers to
pronounce. To this I may add that I have shot them, male and fernale,
'^Cuckoo cuckooing" so late as the 8th. of August. See ^^Gardeners' Journal,"
page 484, for 1851.

It has been positively stated that it is well known ^'^that the Cuckoo leaves
this country in the end of June or beginning of July." How far the correctness
of this positive statement can be relied upon, the following extracts will show: —
In "Mag: Nat: Hist:" vol. 4, page 184, Mr. White says, "On the 28th. of
July, heard my favourite C. canorus at five a.m. last seen a few days afterwards.
Professor Macgillivray, "Manual of British Birds," page 82, says in July or
August. ^'^Grave's British Ornithology," vol. ii., (this loorh is not paged,) quits
towards the end^of July, though we have known them killed so late as the
month of October" Again he says, ^'We have seen two birds, one on the
26th., and the other on the 27th. of August: the former was a male, and
was uttering its well-known cry of Cuckoo; the sex of the -latter one we did
not discover." In the "Zoologist," page 2455, the following notice occurs: —
"Late-remaining Cuckoo, (Cuculus canorus.) A Cuckoo was shot close to the
city of Worcester, on the 14th. of October last." — M. Cutler, Bevere House,
near Worcester, April 19th., 1849.

'^Mag: Nat: Hist:" page 275, vol. 4., "This bird does not depart, or leave

this country, till long after it has ceased to sing; not I believ^e till the autumn,

or at least till late in the autumn." — Rev. W. T. Bree. Can this be the same

Mr, Bree, who in the "Gardeners' Chronicle" of August 2nd., so strongly

denies the truth of my statements? Vol. 8, page 340, "Mag: Nat: Hist:"

Mr. Blyth says, '^'^a very accurate observer informs me, that in the north of

Scotland, he once saw a flock of sixteen Cuckoos in September!" In a note

Mr. B. adds ^^ Another person also, whose authority in these matters I have

reason to respect, tells me that the old Cuckoos also congregate in flocks of

twenty to thirty towards the close of summer." The Bishop of Norwich, in

his Lordship's "Familiar History of Birds," at page 290, says, "that from the

18th. to the 22nd. of July, at one time forty Cuckoos were seen in a garden in the

County of Down, Ireland." Were there no old birds in this flock? "Mag: Nat:

Hist:" vol. 8, page 288, Mr. Turner, of the Botanic Gardens, Bury St. Edmunds,

who has i-ecorded some interesting facts on the history of this bird, says, "On

July 29th., one of the young Wagtails was dead upon the nest, and the others sat

shivering upon the ground beneath. I again replaced them; but, on Avigust 2nd.,

they were not in the nest, nor could I see them afterwards. The young Cuckoos

continued to thrive for some days, and then fell a prey to a cat.""^

* In corroboration of tliesc statements, we may mention than an old Cuckoo was sliot near

Thirsk, by Mr. Jolinston, son of the Rev. C. Johnston, Canon of York, on the 14th. of August,

in the present year, and was stuffed by Mr. Graham, of this city; who also stuffed a young

J, Cuckoo, shot on the same day; and an old one shot near Leeds, by Mr. Bond, of that place, on

July 24th. last.— J5. R. M.

IT-t FACTS IN THE HISTORY OF THE COMMOX CUCKOO.

It has also been positively stated that it is "rare for the Cuckoo to Iny
its eggs in the nest of the Hedge Sparrow, and that a recent Hedge Sparrow's
nest is not met with in July." Now, on the 7th. of August, 1850, I took
a nest of this bird with fresh-laid eggs, which are now in my possession. On
the 22nd. of July, 1851, I took a nest with two new-laid eggs, which are
also in my possession. I have at this moment, August 6th., 1851, a ne?t
with young ones, in a hedge, which divides my garden from my neighbour's.
And I see by my Journal that I have taken the nests of this bird from
March to August.

In the "Gardener's Chronicle," August 9th., 1851, Mr. Waterton, the
cekbrated Naturalist, says, "I have now, (August 4th.,) in a close-clipped
holly-bush, a Hedge-Sparrow's nest, with three unfledged young ones in it. On
Wednesday last, it had three eggs in it. On Saturday, it contained three
naked birds." Also "I will farther add that, the year before. last, in the last
week in August, I found a Dicky Dunnock's nest here in a thick yew bush,
with four eggs in it." — Walton Hall, August ith.

It is only a waste of time and your readers' patience, -to confute the silly
assertion as to the Cuckoo not laying its egg in the nest of the Hedge
Sparrow. All the Authors which I have consulted and have in my library,
(which are not a few.) mention this bird's nest either first, second, or third
in their list of birds, in the nests of which the egg of the Cuckoo is found.

It has also been positively asserted that the caterpillar of Abraxas yrossul-
ariata is not found in the month of July. Now it so happens that I have
on more occasions than one found the caterpillars in August and beginning
of September; and am inclined to consider this insect double brooded, but
on this I will not be quite positive, till I have made further experiments.
I had this year, up to the 31st. of July, thirty caterpillars on a gooseberry
bush in my garden: these have been devoured, with the exception of ten,
which are now in the chrysalis form, by the common House Sparrow;"^ and
I have now twenty chrysalises in a box.

Now, in the newspaper referred to, it has been positively stated, and
attempted to be defended that I am in error to all these facts. And when
I replied to confute these false assertions, my reply was refused insertion; and
I was obliged to send it to the "Gardener's Journal," in which it will be found
under the date August 2nd.

From the foregoing extracts which I have b.rought to bear on this subject,
the public will now be in possession of sufficient evidence to confute and
disbelieve the very ungentlemanly remarks made by the writers on my obser-
vations at pages 11 and 12 of "The Naturalist."

Chamiinster, Dorset, August IWi., 1851.

* Mr. jrc' Intosh has forwarded to lis two of tliese pupce, wliich are undoubtedly those of
Abraxas orossulaiuata, and have the characteristic gold bauds. — B. R. M.

175
NOTES ON THE YOUNG CUCKOO.

BY MR, CLEMENT JACKSON.

Ix June 1849, a neighbour brought me a young Cuckoo nearly fledged,
which he had found in a hedge-bank in his field, I presume in the nest of
the Titlark, {Anthus pratensis,) that species being the foster-parent of all the
young Cuckoos I have been able to identify in this vicinity. I undertook to
rear it, and found no difficulty, as it fed readily on a paste of boiled egg
and bread rubbed in a mortar, and grew rapidly to a handsome bird, soon
taking to feed itself freely, picking up lumps of the paste, and jerking them
bac'c into its capacious throat with great dexterity. It appeared very fond
of this paste, and also devoured great numbers of cockroaches, {Blatta,) eating
one hundred and fifty good-sized ones in one dayj these were first scalded
and put into the cage deadj but its favourite morsel was the full-grown
larva of the egger or drinker moths, and such like hairy caterpillars, which
it would take from the hand with the extreme point of the beak, and pass
them rapidly through it several times backwards and forwards, in a very
curious and dexterous manner; it then beat them against the perch till the
viscera were got rid of, and swallowed the remainder. A cup of water was
fixed at the end of the perch, as it drank very freely; but was averse to
alighting on the floor of its habitation, (a large wicker Dove's cage,) which
it rarely did, except to feed; and then quickly resumed the perch, which it
held with a very tenacious grasp; the curious form of its foot being then seen
to advantage.

About the middle of July, it became excessively restless at night; after
remaining tolerably quiet all day, about dusk in the evening it regularly
commenced, I presume, its fancied migratory journey; either fluttering against
the bars, or incessantly and vigorously fanning its wings whilst sitting on the
perch, as if in steady flight; and no doubt passing over many an imaginary
mile southwards. At these times I often took it out of the cage, and held
it on my finger, by candlelight; but it still continued its incessant and vigor-
ous flutter, looking eagerly about, and occasionally springing off" in a very
impatient manner; which it continued, whilst we remained with it, nightly
till its death. By this means its wings and tail got sadly mutilated, but it
did not at all lose flesh, continuing to feed heartily by day, and flutter vigor-
ously by night; till one day about the beginning of September, it got hurt
in attempting to fly towards the open window, which put an end to its career,
for although it survived a few days, it neither fed nor fluttered again. On
dissecting it to prepare the skeleton, I found it excessively fat, which probably
in part occasioned its death.

A few years since, I was requested by an acquaintance, to examine a
Lark's nest, and ascertain the species for him. On approaching the spot,
the old bird, {Anthus pratensis,) flew out, and I found a naked young Cuckoo
solo occupant; the three young Titlarks lying dead close to the nest, very recently

176 THE NIGHTINGALE IN DEVONSHIRE.

pitched out, and within a few inches of their mother's head, as she carefully
sat on their murderer, imparting that warmth which, but for his interference,
would have nourished her own hapless offspring.

Another young Cuckoo was found, and put in a cage, into which the poor
Titlark immediately followed, and continued to feed it in confinement; but
from want of food and attendance they did not survive long: and of many
young Cuckoos brought me for preservation, I have been informed that
although fully fledged, they were still anxiously attended by the foster-pair of
Titlarks. I have heard of one Cuckoo's egg being found near Liskeard, in an
Accentor's nest; but the nest being destroyed, I had not an opportunity of
identifying it, though from its colour it could scarcely be mistaken there.

East Looe, Cornwall , August 1st., 1851.

THE NIGHTINGALE IN DEVONSHIRE,

BY W. F. W. BIRD, ESQ.

In Mr. Julian's account of the birds which are summer residents at Plymouth,
communicated to "The Naturalist" of this month, he says he has never
observed the Nightingale in Devonshire. I hope he will permit me to inform
him, that I, and others, have seen that bird in his beautiful county, though
I know that the general impression is in accordance with his own observation.
It appears, at first sight, very strange that in a county possessing not only a
mild climate, but much water, and every kind of soil and vegetation, a bird
should not be found which is so common in almost every other part of
England. The best of our modern ornithologists agree, however, with Mr.
Julian; but Willughby says that "^Nightingales are very frequent in summer-
time in the south part of England, but in the north more rare." Pennant,
on the authority of the Cornish historian, Borlase, observes that "it is re-
markable that this bird does not emigrate so far as Cornwall, a county so
very mild that myrtles flourish in the open air during the whole year." But
he does not exclude Devon. Col. Montagu says "Nightingales are not found
farther west than the eastern borders of Devonshire, although they are plentiful
both in Somersetshire and Dorsetshire. Why they should not be found in
all the wooded parts of Devon and Cornwall, which appear equally calculateil
for their residence, both from the mildness of the air and variety of ground,
is beyond the naturalist's penetration." He then refers to, and rather countenances,
some fancied connexion between Nightingales and cowslips. Mr. Yarrell
allows the bird to be found "in the eastern part only of Devonshire, about
Exmouth, and no farther west in that direction;" and "that it has been
heard near Barnstaple, in North Devon." However justly great the authority
of these writers, yet when we see them defining such arbitrary, not to say
fanciful, geographical limits, to the visits of a bird of passage, one can hardly
help thinking that perhaps observers may be wanting, in Devonshire, as well
as Nightingales.

OK THE ARRIVAL OP SWALIjOWS. 177

But to turn from books to facts. Mr. W. R. Fisher, one of the authors
of a history of the birds of Norfolk, was with me in Devonshire, in the
spring of 184G; and on inquiring of Mr. W, F. Ross, of Topsham, a very
eminent ornithologist there, and probably known to Mr. JuHan, as to the fact
of Nightingales being rare in that part of the world, he informed us that he
heard them repeatedly every year; and a very few days afterwards, namely,
on Thursday, the 16th. April, 1846, we both saw and heard the Nightingale
singing on a tall elm tree, in the Northernhay, a public promenade, at Exeter.
That we were not the only persons who saw the Nightingale in Devonshire
in that year, is shewn by a communication made the following month to '^The
Zoologist;" in which Mr. Murch, of Honiton, mentions that one had just
been killed nejvr that town. I venture, therefore, respectfully to suggest
the desirability of ornithologists, in other parts of Devon, looking out for this
accomplished warbler, and making public any further appearance on his part.
I feel satisfied that, to be found, he only requires to be looked after.

5, Kings Hoady Bedford Row, June 13^7t. ISol.

ON THE ARRIVAL OF SWALLOWS.

BV W. BALSHAW, ESQ., M. R. C. P.

As noticed in my former communication, April 10th., one of my boys
assures me that he saw three Swallows pass over Fleetwood, on the morning
of the 3rd. of April. I did not myself notice any until the 12th. of that
month; on which day I observed two skimiuing over the marsh, near the
railway, about a mile from the town. On the 18th. I saw one hovering
over the bay, and another near the landmark, about two miles distant.
Owing to some cause or other, they are still very rare in th's locality; I
scarcely ever observe more than a single pair together in any of my strolls;
and this has been a subject of remark again and again by my boys^ who
are keen observers.

On our arrival from the south, at the end of April, last year, I was struck
with the fewness of the Hirundines throughout this neighbourhood. They
were scarce dixring the whole summer, but certainly their numbers might be
looked upon as considerable in comparison with the present season. Two
pairs built under the projection of the stone cornices above our windows.
When they had eggs, a heavy storm of wind and rain destroyed one nest
entirely, and the other partially. The latter was immediately repaired by its
thrifty and laborious occupants, but I am sorry to say before the young were
fledged we were visited by another severe gale and pouring rain, during which
the nest and brood fell a sacrifice. Both pairs deserted their chosen habitat.

The following dates have reference to the neighbourhood of Southampton: —

1842. — April 26th. A single Swallow seen.

VOL. I. . 2 A

178 FOREIGN BODIES IN EGGS.

1843. — April 14th. A single Swallow seen.
In these two years they were observed skimming over exactly the same piece
of ground at the dates given,

1847. — April 19th. A single Swallow seen: on the 21st. several noticed,

1848. — April 13th. Swallows first made their appearance.

1849. — April 13th. Swallows first made their appearance.

1850. — Api'il 13th. Swallows first made their appearance.
During these three years, as will be seen^ there was a remarkable coincidence
in the date of their arrival.

Ijast year the Nightingale preceded the Swallow, having been heard pouring
out its enchanting song as early as April 9th.

I must now add a note in corroboration of the fact thart, sometimes at
least, an individual specimen of the Swallow tribe may be noticed in the very
depth of Avinter; a subject which, as you are aware, occupied the attention
•and cai"eful inquiry of White of Selborne. The following observations are
extracted from my journal, at Southampton, in the year 1843: —

Tuesday, December 19th. This morning a Swallow^ was observed flitting
about for some time in the front of the house.

Wednesday, December 20th. The Swallow again observed, hawking for
insects.

Saturday, December 30th. The Swallow has been seen several times since
the previous date. Thrashes have begun their song in good earnest, and
make the neiglibourhood ring- again with their delightful melody. Robins
have likewise commenced their full song.

In 1842 the Cuckoo was first hefird on the 27th. April.

Fleetwood, 1851. On the 13th. May, during an evening walk from Preesall,
a beautiful village on the opposite . side of the River Wyre, the Cuckoo was
heard for the first time this year.

Fleetwood^ Lancashire y June IWi. 1851.

FOREIGN BODIES IN EGGS.

BY RICHARD NEAI-E, ESQ., M, R. C. S.

Early during the present year a lady, when on a visit to some friends,
was surprised by feeling the bowl of the spoon strike against something solid
at the bottom of the eg^, of which she was partaking at breakfast; which
proved to be, upon close examination, two shilling pieces finnly glued together.
Whether there was any external mark upon the shell, indicating their presence;
or whether the egg possessed its natural contour, no definite information can
be obtained; but the impression is that there was none; that no trick had
been played was most positively and certainly ascertained. Lately I read
of a similar case in one of the weekly papers, where a piece of glass, how-
ever was the foreign body.

FOREIGN BODIES IN EGOg. 179

The most probable explanation of these curious facts appears to me to be
the following: — The alimentary canal and the oviduct or tube through which
the eggs are passed out of the body of the fowl, both terminate in a common
receptacle, called the cloaca; but each time that the former rids itself of
foreign matter, its termination is brought by certain muscles to the exterior
of the body, and thus the matter is not retained within the cloaca; the
bird however, having swallowed the coins in the one case, and the glass in
the other, was unable to expel them, and they stuck in the cloaca, instead
of being passed out of the body altogether; when by a peculiar nervous action
called by physiologists, reflex, they must have entered the orifice of the
oviduct, and travelled up that tub^ a certain distance before the calcareous
envelope, or shell of the egg was formed, which thus covered them over, and
concealed them from view. It would be interesting to know exactly the
situation of foreign bodies in these cases — whether next the shell and separated
from the albumen or white of the egg by the memhrana putaminis, or thin
skin capable of being peeled off from the interior of the shell; or whether
embedded in the albumen — a circumstance not noted as far as I can learn
in either of the cases mentioned.

This ex23lanation appears more probable from a curious case that occurred
in a little boy who was dragged along a gravel path by his playmates; two
years after, symptoms of stone in the bladder were noticed, and upon operating
a large stone was extracted, the nucleus or centre of which was formed by a
piece of gravel; several pieces of which were extracted from the urethra at
the time of the accident, but this one must have travelled up by reflex action
to the situation mentioned.

Perhaps it may be as well to explain what reflex action of the nerves is,
in a homely and popular way, for the benefit of those who have not studied
physiology. By such is meant those actions that take place, involuntarily,
with or without consciousness, where irritation is applied to the nerves of one
part of the body, causing motion in or near the part from a nervous influence,
conducted along one class of nerves, called afferent or sensory, to the spine,
and thence reflected by another class, called effei-ent or motor: for example, a
person takes snuff, causing irritation of certain nervous fibrils spread out upon
the lining surface of the nose, of which irritation he is conscious; this is con-
ducted to the upper part of the spine by one class, and thence reflected by
another class, of nervous fibrils, to the muscles of the face and respiration,
generally causing sneezing. Or again, if the finger be placed in the palm of a
sleeping child the hand contracts, and grasps the irritating body, without any
consciousness on the part of the infant, through a nervous action of the same
character as in the previous case. Should any of your readers know of a
more probable explanation, they certainly would confer a favour by stating it.

Fazeley, Staffordshire, August 2dth. 1851.

k

180
FOREIGN BODY IN A HEN'S EGG.

BY HENRY DENNY^ ESQ.

A GRNTLEMAN' in this town mat witli a somewhat singular o^currenca on tlie
5th. of last month at InvernesSj and which he has CiiUed upon me to relate ^
which is this: — On breaking an egg for his breakfast at the above town, he
perceived something black in the substance of the egg upon removing the shell,
and which proved to be a horse hair sixteen inches in length, and which he
brought home with him to shew me. Can you or any of your friends account
for the hair being in this extraordinary situation.

Leeds, May 14f7i., 1851.

NOTES ON THE LEPIDOPTERA OP
THE WEST OF SCOTLAND AND FIFESHIRE.

BY J. GRAY, ESQ.

(Continued from page 136. J

The next section of the Lepidopterous insects, that of the Geometrine

Moths, on which we now propose giving a few local notes, comprises species

of much beauty and elegance of structure, in which respect, as well as in the

occasional suspension of the crysalis, they bear considerable resemblance to the

Dlurna — the

■ "painted populace,

That live in fields, and lead ambrosial lives."

DiiFering widely from the preceding group in their general aspect, they are
equally distinct in their habits, and in their flight devoid of that strength of
wing and rapidity of motion so conspicuous amongst the species of the Nocturna;
startins: oflF in a sluojo-ish and unwillinsj manner on boina; disturbed durino;
the day, and hovering in the twilight over hedge-rows, etc., ever and anon
settling amongst the foliage.

These pretty Moths are found in much greater abundance in cool and
shady places, secure from the heat of the summer sunj for no sooner are the
wandering steps of the naturalist turned in the direction of their favourite
haunts, in some woody ravine or grassy dell, than they may be observed,
alarmed at the saund of his advancing footsteps, and shunning his approach,
forcibly telling of intrusion — seeming almost to urge his departure, and restore
them to their former repose.

Though at some loss amongst the great number of synonyms with which
the Lepidoptera are burdened, we have been guided in our selection by a
desire of using those most generally recognised* with a view to which, we
have in most cases employed the original specific names given by their describers,
without availing ourselves of the artificial terminology recently attempted to
be introduced.

Amongst the more abundant of those species frequenting heathy places in

NOTES ON LKPIDOPTKllA. 181

the month of June, is the little Fidonia atomaria. The chrysalis, which is
of a beautiful green colour, with the wing cases brown, we have invariably
found deposited in very wet swampy places, lying near the surface, among
the tangled roots of the heath.

In our rambles through fir plantations during the same months, FiJonia
piniaria never fails to engage our attention; flying in the hot sunshine with
great agility amongst the branches. It is very common through the district,

Mcesia flavillacearia occurs in sparing numbers at Kirkintilloch and various
other localities, in the vicinity of heaths.

Hyhernia capreolaria is a common insect near hedge-rows and woody places
in the early spring. H. prosapiaria and H. defoliaria appear in the autumn,
but are much scarcer, occurring near Glasgow and in various parts of Fife.
II. pilosaria is also rather scarce, occurring in the vicinity of Glasgow in
March, resting on the bark of trees in gardens. H. rupicapraria and brumata
are found in hedges during the winter months.

Bistort betularius, though occurring in many places throughout the west of
Scotland, is much more plentiful in Fifeshire; thus appearing to be somewhat
local in its distribution.

Crocallis elinguaria occurs in considerable plenty near Glasgow and various
other places, in the beginning of September; near Lanark it is also common,
A few years ago, we recollect having met with it in a woody ravine near
this locality in great profusion; and though at all times this moth is an
exceedingly beautiful object on the wing, from its soft and fluttering appearance,
we were much struck with its singular flight on that occasion, as one specimen
after another wafted past ns in quick succession, not unlike large snow-
flakes continuing till the twilight merged into darkness, when they apparently
took refuge among the surrounding foliage.

Geometra hidentata and G. illunaria, though hardly abundant, are yet
frequently met with in many places. G. lunaria is much scarcer in this
district" we are only aware of its occurrence near Falkland, in Fifeshire, where
it appears in June. G. Tiliaria is also scarce, or, at least, local, occurring
in the neighbourhood of Ayr.

As everywhere abundant insects, may be mentioned Campoea margaritaria ,
Cahera exantliemaria, and pusaria; Ilalia vauaria and Larentia chenopodiata;
also Bumia cratcegaia, the 'Common Brimstone,' an insect of much beauty,
enlivening every hedge-row during the summer nights in countless numbers.

Ellopia fasciaria frequents fir plantations near Lanark and elsewhere, but
in somewhat sparing numbers; it appears to be strictly nocturnal in its habits,
and we have invariably found it in the day-time secreted in crevices of old
walls or other lurking-places, at no great distance from firs.

Ilipparclms papilionarms is also of nocturnal habits; occurring in very
sparing numbers in Renfrewshire.

Aids rliomhoidaria is a common insect, frequenting lanes and gardens around
Glasgow, etc.

182 NOTES ON LEPIDOPTERA.

Ephyra porata is not very often met with, though occurring in woods in
many parts of the district

Aspilates respersaria is generally distributed in heaths, etc.

Phasiane plumharia occurs commonly in Bute, also at Carmichael in hilly
districts where broom abounds, in the month of June.

Lurentia miiltlst rig aria frequents heaths near Glasgow, in February.
Of the genus Cidaria, the most common species are didymata, montanata,
and Jluduata, abounding everywhere during the summer. G. iniaria occurs in
many places in Lanarkshire, but much more sparingly. C. unidentaria is also
taken in sparing numbers. C. munitata frequents swampy heaths near Glasgow,
but is far from common; we have met with it also near Lanark, but in
quite a different sort of habitat, amongst cultivated, fields, and far from heaths.
In the day-time it is a very shy insect, starting off with a somewhat lofty
flight on being disturbed, and not alighting till at a considerable distance.

Harpalyce fulvata is a constant inhabitant of gardens and woody places in
this district during August and September. H. ocellata and suhtristata are
also common during the summer. H. tristata appears in June, but is rarej
we have only met with it at Carmichael. H. silaceata is another scarce species,
taken in woody places in Dumbartonshire, at the end of May. H. corylata
occurs not uncommonly in some parts of Fife, but we have not noticed it
elsewhere. H. centum-notaia and marmorata abound in innumerable varieties
in woods and hedges, from July to September.

Electra testata and comitata are very generally distributed through the
district. E. populata we have only noticed on Tinto, in Lanarkshire, flying
among the grassy heath, even to the highest point of elevation. E. pyraliata
frequents woods near Lanark and the Frith of Clyde, but does not seem to
be abundant.

Steganolophia prunata is somewhat local in its habits, generally found in
the vicinity of gardens.

Anaitis plagiata is not uncommon in woods in Arran and Lanarkshire; we
have occasionally noticed it on the wing during the day, flying about pastures.

Euthalia miata occurs sparingly in the Carmichael woods in September.
E. inqjluviata is an early species, and not uncommon near Glasgow. E. elutata
occurs at the end of summer in many beautiful varieties.

Abraxas grossulariata is common enough in gardens,

Chesias spartiata is not a common species; we have only taken it at
Netherton, in the vicinity of Lanark, flying in the twilight.

Charissa operaria is somewhat scarce and local; we have only noticed it
in the vicinity of Helensburgh, near the coast. Another species of this genus
occurs sparingly through the district, probably ohscuraiia, but as we have not
seen any but faded specimens, it may be some other species.

Thera simulata is common in fir plantations, especially those in the neigh-
bourhood of heaths, always resting during the day among the branches, T.
variata is also common in similar localities, both species appearing in September,

NOTES ON LEPIDOPTERA. 183

Oporahia dilutata is common in hedge-rows during the same month.

Chora cindaria occurs in the vicinity of Dalmally, Argyleshire, during the
spring: taken by Mr. Buxton, of Manchester, to whom we are also indebted
for a notice of some Noduoe, which we hope to insert in an appendix.

Aplocera ccEsiata, though by no means a common species, seems to be very
generally distributed in this district, not far from the coast in Fifeshire, and
near the Frith of Clyde; mostly affecting heathy places.

Larapropteryx hadiata is somewhat scarce, but widely diffused in woods, etc.
through this district.

Mlnoa chverophyllata is common near woods and pastures in July.

Eupithecia elongata, vulgata, and angustata are common in gardens and
hedge-rows. E. centaureata is occasionally met with at Glasgow, but is by
no means common.

Camptogramma hilineata and Emmelesia turharia are very abundant everywhere.
E. decolorata is not common, but is found in various localities. E. albulata
is far from scarce in the vicinity of heaths, etc. E ericetata also occurs in
similar localities.

Ptycliopoda dilutata and lividata frequent hedge-rows and gardens, and are
common and widely distributed.

Acidalia remutata is abundant in woody places everywhere. A. aversata
is equally common. A.fumata is much scarcer; we have only noticed it on
the heathy hills of the Isle of Arran, towards the end of June.

Poecilophasia marginata occurs rarely in woody places near the Frith of Clyde.

Veiiilia maculcda is also rare; found in similar districts to the preceding.

Macaria liturata frequents fir plantations, but is not often met with; we
have generally noticed it on the wing during the afternoon.

Pyrausta pimicealis appears to be a scarce insect, as we have only observed
it flitting about heath on Carmichael hill, near Lanark.

Margaritia institialis and M. fuscalis; Mesographe forficalis and Simaethis
Fahriciana, are abundant everywhere.

Ennychia cingulata is rather local, frequenting gi'assy slopes in Dumbartonshire.

Hypena prohoscidalis is common in many places during June and July.

In marshy places near Glasgow Hydrocampa lemnata is common; hovering
over the duckweed. H. potamoyata und Nymphoeata frequent also moist places,
and are widely dispersed through the district.

Pyralis farinalis is not uncommon in outhouses, etc. in Glasgow.

Aglossa pinguhialis also occurs in similar localities in many places.

{To be Continued.)

184

NOTES OF A BOTANICAL STROLL
IN THE NEIGHBOURHOOD OF PLYMOUTH.

NO. III.

Monday, May 19th. — Revisited the ground gone over on the 12th., as
described in my last communication, returning by way of Hooe. Added the
following plants to my list: — Bromus mollis, B. commutatus, Trifolium repens,
T. minus, Galium cruciatum, Carex divulsa, C. prcecox, Vicia sativa, Ervum tet-
raspcrmum, Rumex acetosa, Loliam perenne, Saxifraga tridactylites, Aim prcecox,
Pyrus malus. I noticed one tree of the Wild Apple, growing on a rock
jutting over the sea, in the most luxuriant state of bloom — scarcely a leaf to
be seen; it was one beautiful mass of roseate blossoms, and redolent of the
most delicate perfume. Geranium coliimlinnm, Bannnculus acris, B. hulbosvs
Fedia olitoria, Euphrasia officinalis, (Eye-bright.) What a charming little
flower this is! and how poetical its English name, which is derived from
the circumstance of the plant possessing ophthalmic virtues! The gaudier
flowers of the garden commend themselves to our notice by their larger size
and brighter colours; but this unpretending daughter of Flora, enshrined in
its lowly dwelling, might boast a corolla that, for richness of hue and delicacy
of pencilling, would outvie the proudest denizen of the parterre. When
examined by the aid of the magnifying glass, its beauty is wonderful. Alcliemilla
arvensis, Veronica arvensis, Jasione montana, Lepidiurn campestre. Tormentilla
officinalis, Dactylis glomerata, Sihthorpia Ewopxa, (Cornish Money-wort.) There
is an indescribable loveliness about this elegant little plant, creeping, as it
does, among Moss and Lichen, by the shady side of purling brooks, and so
intermatted therewith as to be almost inextricable; at least when torn from
its parent beds, a quantity of extraneous matters come away with it, which
tend to detract from the beauty of the plant; so that to be thoroughly
admired, it must be viewed while undisturbed in its native haunts. I am
at this moment rapt in delight, as with my '^mind's eye" I gaze upon it
trailing there, with its light green long-stalked leaves, round and notched,
and its pink-tinted minute flowei'S. Lamium purjjureum.

June oth. — Orohanche amethjstea, a solitary specimen, found on rocks under
the Hooe, Plymouth, by Mr. Bunker. This circumstance is worthy of record,
as the plant had boen hitherto found only in Whitsand tJay, a few miles
distant, with sea intervening.

June 6th. — Having made an appointment to meet a friend at Maristow,
the seat of Sir Ralph Lopes, which is situated most pleasantly on the east
bank of the Tavy, about seven miles south of Tavistock, I started about
nine o'clock this morning, although the clouds were lowering. I rode as far
as Bickleigh Down, where I descended from the vehicle, the rain falling
thickly, and went on the Down to collect Viola lactea, Smith. I gathered
a goodly number of specimens; and found, on laying them in paper, that I
not only had this plant, named by Thore V. Jancifolia, but the true V.

NOTES OP A BOTANICAL STROLL. 185

canina of Linnaous, not the plant improperly so-called in my first paper, the
correct name of which is V. sylvatica, Fries; as well as a form intermediate
between the two; so that, as Babington has it in the third edition of his
excellent ''^Manual of British Botany/' V. lactea, Sm., E. B. 445, is in all
probability a variety only of V. canina, L. These violets grow intermixed,
on heathy ground, among Furze and other plants which comparatively affect
dry situations. I mention this circumstance in consequence of finding, in
the work just referred to, that "turf bogs" are named as the habitat of
V. lancifolia; and supposing that it might hence be inferred that the plant
should be sought only in such a situation. Associated with the Violets, I
found Plantago lanceolata, Carex speirostachya, G. panicea, and C hiiiervis,
as well as Veronica officinalis, and other plants whose names have before
been introduced into these papers. In hedges of the road, between Jump
and Roborough Down, Hieracium pilosella was abundant, in common with
many other flowers before noted. On Roborough Down Pedicularis sylvatica
was unfolding its large rose-coloured flowers, which in some dry spots are all
that can be seen, the plants being so stunted that the stem and leaves are
scarcely observable. Straggling over all parts of the common, was Galium
saxatile; and, in the hedges, the majestic Foxglove, [Digitalis purpurea,) was
rearing its purple bells.

After passing the lodge, there is a walk of upwards of two miles before
Maristow is reached; and the road is, for a great portion of the way, lined
on both sides with various trees of noble stature. In the grounds of Maristow
I found Bunium fiexuosuvi, Sanicula Eurnpcea abundant; Aquilegia vulgaris very
plentiful, and, to all appearance, truly wild; for not only within the bound-
aries of the estate, but in the adjacent lanes, it grew freely, Lysimachia
nemorum: what a bright little earth-star this is! Melampyrum pratense;
Primula veris — nearly out of flower: this is a doubtful native of Devonshire;
but there was a great quantity of it here. Allium ursinum in extensive
patches, completely whitening the woods, and sending forth an offensive strong
smell of garlick; Melica unifiora and Milium effu^um — two graceful grasses;
Asperula odorata, compensating by its grateful odour for the disagreeable
garlick; and then came in abundance that beautiful labiate plant, the IleliUis
melissophyllum, with its large handsome flowers; Gcum urhanum; the bright
blue Anchusa sempervirens; and in an orchard the finest example I ever
saw of the Silyhum 3Iarianum, (the Virgin Mary's Thistle.)

At Lophill, a small village adjacent, I observed in flower on the road- sides,
or in the hedges. Cotyledon umhilicus, Anthriscus vulgaris, Viburnum Opulus,
Zfithospermum officinale, Urtica dioica, Ghelidonium inajiLS, Samhucus nigra,
Solanum dulcamara, Barharea vulgaris; also Sedum telephium, (inflorescence
undeveloped;) in the interstices of the walls and among loose stones on the
banks of the river within tide range, Cochlearia Anglica; and by a mill-pond,
or in marshy ground adjoining. Ranunculus sceleratus, QSnantlie crocata,
Veronica heccahunga, and Lychnis Flos-Cucidi: here also is a fine colony of

VOL. I. 2 B

186

THE OCCURRENCE OF A HERD OF PORPOISES.

Althcfa ojjicinalis, but not at this date in flower.

On my homeward walk I noted in addition Potentilla anserina, Malva
sylvestris, and HypocTioeris radicata.

Isaiah W. N. Keys,

Plymouth, July 12th., 1851.

ARRIVAL OF MIGRATORY BIRDS IN
THE NEIGHBOURHOOD OF BLACKHEATH, KENT. 1851.

BY H. J. C.

DIRECTION or WIND.

Chiff-ChaiF,

March 24,

N. W.

Wheatear^,

}}

30,

N. W.

Redstart^

April

15,

N. W.

"'Nightingale,

16,

S. E. and S.

Whinchat,

?}

16,

S. E. and S.

Meadow Pipit,

yy

17,

E. S. E.

Yellow \Mllow Wren,

^>

18,

S. W.

Wryneck,

ij

19,

W. S. W.

Swallow,

>}

19,

W. S. W.

Martin,

}}

19,

W. S. W.

Wh-tothroat,

}f

20,

S. W.

Blackcap,

7?

22,

S. E. and S. W.

I have omitted in the above list several of those birds that are seldom
seen in this populated locality, such as the Cuckoo and others, thinking that
if I did, my dates might only mislead.

Jtme VZtJi., 1851.

THE OCCURRENCE OF A HERD
OF PORFOISES, (DELPHINUS PHOCjENA,) AT LAIRA.

BY R. A. JULIAN, ESQ., JUN.

On Friday morning, August 1st., a stone-cutter of the Granite works
came to me with the intelligence that seven or eight Porpoises, which had
come up Laira on the previous night at eleven o'clock, had remained there in
a deep pit, just above the iron bridge, during low water, at about three a.m.,
and were at that time, (ten a.m.) to be seen sporting and rolling about just
above Saltram-point. I immediately went afloat, and with the aid of three
other boats, was enabled by shouting and splashing to deter the Porpoises from
going down with the tide, until about one o'clock, when the water had so far
receded that the depth under the bridge did not admit of their passing until
the tide again flowed. The force of boats was now considerably augmented, and

♦ On this day, at about noon, tlie wind changed from N. W. to S. E , and then S.; and tlit)
temperature rose aliaut lOo higher than it had been previously.

CHEAP METHOD OF MOUNTING MICROSCOPIC OBJECTS. 187

spectators and shooters crowded the bridge and neighbouring quays with every
description of fire-arms that could -be obtained at the moment. The word was
now given to row up in line, and commence the attack — bullets, 'marbles, and
shot, flew about, thick as hail; and as often as one took effect, it was followed
by loud cheers, until up turned one of the largest Porpoises in its last struggle,
which, amidst renewed cheers and the aid of an harpoon, manufactm-ed by an
ingenious blacksmith near the spot for the occasion, was towed ashore. Hos-
tilities were now recommenced, and as often as any of these monsters showed
their dorsal fins and huge backs above water, they disappeared as quickly,
after receiving two or three additional bullets; when the returning tide put
an end to our further sport, but not until two more had been killed and
landed. The others took advantage of the flow of water, and made their
escape.

Their lengj;h was as follows: — First, eleven feet two inches; second, eleven
feet one inch; third, ten feet one inch. The weight of number 2 was within
a few pounds of eight cwt. In descriptions of these animals by Sir William
Jardine, and many other authors, the length is stated at usually four to six
or rarely eight i'eet long. I am informed another Porpoise was picl cd up
dead the day following near Sutton Pool: no doubt one wounded on Laira.

Laira House, Plymoxdh, August 2oth., 1851.

CHEzVP METHOD OF MOUNTING MICROSCOPIC OBJECTS.

BY J. B. D,

The ordinary way of mounting microscopic objects ' is to procure slips of
glass, generally about three inches by one, and on them form cells for tcet
ohjcds, or merely cover dry ohjects, with another slip, either of the same size,
or a very small piece of what is termed thin glass, cemented with gold size
or Canada balsam. A want has been felt of a cheap method for putting up
the commoner and less delicate objects, and, if possible, to supply that deside-
ratum is my aim. Pieces of thin card-board are cut into the size required
for slides, and with a punch, a hole is driven in the centre of each, say
half-an-inch in diameter. The object is then to be carefully placed between
two very thin and equal pieces of mica — to be had of any Philosophical
Instrument Vender, — which are cemented at their edges by gold-size. Two
of the cut cards are now taken, and one side of each, covered with a thin
coating of glue; the mica is laid on one, so as to bring the object as nearly
in the centre of the hole as possible, and the other placed over it, and gently
pressed between books until the glue has hardened, and thus secured Iho
object in its place. The name should then be written on the slide, which
is now ready for laying away for future use.

It is not proposed to put up the finer objects by this method, but for

18S MISCELLANEOUS NOTICES.

most of those Tisei in class demonstration^ it is quite applicable; and besides
saving expense in first cost, lessons their liability to damage, from falls, etc.
The writer has beside him at this moment slides of this nature put up
two years ago, consisting of sections of wood, stomates, pollen grains, grandular
hairs, colour cells, starch granules, and even a beautiful spiral cell. For
wings, limbs, and scales of insects, nothing could be better.

Edinhurgh, Sept. 4:tJi., 1851.

3itkBllnntnii3 lintins.

Rapacity of the Peregrine, (Falco Percgriniis.) — A fine specimen of this noble bird was obtained
by my friend J. C. Dale, Esq., of Glanvillcs Wootton, Dorset, under rather singular circum-
stances, in the winter of 1839-40. It was observed by a countryman to strike down a Wood
Pigeon into a bush; he immediately ran to the spot, and succeeded in capturing the Falcon
alive, before it had time to recover itself, and along with it its unfortunate quarty. The Falcon
■was stuffed, but its victim was reserved for a less noble, though still useful end. — -B. II. M.

Hare Birds at Woburn.—K fine male specimen of the Gray Shrike, (Lanius excubitor,) was
shot on "Westoning Manor, near Wobuni, on February lOtli., 1851; this being a very rare bird
in Bedfordshire. The Thick Knee, or Norfolk Plover, (dJdicncmus crepitans,) was caught near
Wobiim, on March 29th., it havmg been previously wounded.— G. B. Clarke, Wobuni,
Bedfordshii-e, July 10th., 1851.

I heard the Nightjar, (Caprimulgns Enropcctis,) on the 12th. inst. On the 11th. I saw a
specimen of the Groat Gray Shrike, (Lanius excubitor,) in a field near the Ilaihvay Station,
where I understand they breed every year. — S. IIanxafoiiu, Jun., Totnes, May 17th., 1851.

Extraordinary Nest of the Common IFren, (Troglodytes Europoeus.) — In a garden belonging
to the Eev. F. II. Ilele, of Littlehempston, near Totnes, a pair of "Wrens have this year built
their nest in a plum tree against the wall, about four feet from tlie gTound: it is composed
cmtirely of small pieces of decomposed thatch from an adjoining bam, and is of a very large
size. The liole, which is in the front of the nest, is beautifully lined round with gi-cen moss ; the
neatness of which forms a singular contrast to the rough unshapen exterior. The bottom, top,
and sides are lined with moss and horsehair, but the back part is not lined at all, leaving the
rough wall uncovered. Tlicre is no bird, perhaps, which varies so much in the materials of
■which it forms its nest, as the Wren. Eennie mentions one, built neaf a school-room, partly
lined with quill scrapings; and Montagu says, "The materials of the nest are generally adapted
to the place: if built against the side of a hayrick, it is composed of hay: if against the side
of a tree covered with white moss, it is made of that material; and with green moss if against
a tree covered with the same, or in a bank." And Yarrell adds "Thus instinct directs it for
secui-ity;" but in this instance, there was an ample choice of materials, much more suitable, if
security was the object; for not only was the dirty black mass quite unconcealed and insecure,
but the ground underneath was covered with pieces of the vmused thatch. Indeed I am at a
loss to account for such strange materials being used, but am inclined to believe with Mr. Ilcnnic,
that they vary "according to the experience of the bu-ds, and thcar difibrent notions of comfort."
— Idem.

Predacious habit of the Book. — As one of the keepers in the evergreens, Wobui-n Park, was
aitting at breakfast on June 22nd., he observed a Rook, (Corvus frugilccjus,) suddenly dart down
amoiigst the fern on the hill opposite to the log cottage in which he lives, and thinking tliero
"wa-s something amiss, he went to the place ; and as he approached, several Eooks flew away ; he
then found a Pai-tridge's nest, with about thu-teen or fourt(!en eggs, and the old one dead about
a yard or two from the nest where she had been no doubt killed by a Fox, several of the eggs
were sucked, and one of the Eooks flew away with an egg on the end of its bill. When the
keeper knew what the Rooks had been doing, he set a ti'ap close to the nest, and succeeded in
trapping one of the Rooks in a short space of time, which he killed and brought home with

MISCELLANEOUS NOTICES. 189

liim, and shewed it to me. I was not aware before this that the Rook would suck eggs. — G. B.
Clarke, Woburu, Beds., June 23rd., 1851.

Occurrence of the Dotterel, (Charadrius morinollus.) — A pair of these birds were brought to
me by a farmer, who shot them at Bottisham-fen. — R. A. Juliax, Jun., May 26th., 1851.

A TF/u'te Missel Thrush, (Turdus viscivorus,) was shot on Tuesday last, July 8th., by Mr.
J. A. Haraos, gardener, of Heavitree, near Exeter, in his garden adjoining the turnpike-road.
It is quite a young bird, of the purest white, with light yellow legs and beak. Caleb "Weeks,
Torciuay, July 16th., 1851.

Parental attachment in the Chaffinch, (Fringilla eoclcbs.) — "We hear much of the attachment of
birds for their young, and the various stratagems they resort to to guard them from danger, but
I do not think I have ever seen the aft'ection of any bird carried to such an extent, as in the
following instance : — A few springs back, a Hen Chaffinch was found in a village in this neigh-
bourliood, actually frozen to death on her nest. Now I can attribute this to nothing but the
love the poor bird had for her eggs. The Rev. R. Barras, to whom the nest was brought, and
in whose possession it now is, told me that the preceding winter had not been very severe. — •
R. P. C.

Cinereous Shearwater, (Pufflnus cinereus.) — I obtained a live siiccimen of this rare bird on the
26th. of July, of a boy who caught it in the mouth of the Ri^cr Ouse, near Ljmn : on dissection
it proved to be a male. The account he gave was that, as he was returning to Ljnn in a
fishing-boat, he saw the bird sleeping on the water, and struck it with his oar ; this was on the
afternoon of the 25th. It lived with me until the morning of the 31st., when I found it dead,
most probably from injuries received from the oar of the boy who captured it, as it was very
lively, and ate readily of small fish, live shrimps, etc. The fishermen to whom I shewed it, say
that they know the bird, and describe it as being exceedingly swift on the wing, feeding on the
excrement or half-digested food of other birds, which it chases until they regurgitate. They
e^ddently mistake it for the Skua Gull, (Lestris cataractes.) "Wliile I kept it I never once saw
it attempt to fly, and it walked very little indeed ; I noticed no desire to liide itself. It slept
all da}' with its head turned back, and bill buried in its feathers, but became more lively after
sunset. I never heard of one of these birds being captured in this neighbourhood before. The
colour of the plumage of this bird was the same as that of the dark-coloured bird described by
YarrcU, (vol. 3, page 629.) The length was seventeen inches; wing, from anterior bend, twelve
inches; bill, one inch and tlu-ee-quarters ; tubular portion, five-eighths of an inch; tarsus, two
inches ; middle toe, including claw, two inches and a half. Tliis specimen is now in the Lj-nn
Museum. — T. Southwell, Lynn, Norfolk, August 2nd., 1851.

The Tree Sparroic, (Passer montanus.) — About two j'ears ago I foimd the Tree Sparrow
breeding in South Wootton Park, near Lynn, since which time I have found it rather abundant
in that neighbourhood. The nests are built in holes in the heads of decayed pollard "^'illows,
and are composed of roots and grass, lined with feathers. The eggs, from five to six in number,
vary much in their markings, some having separate and distinct longitudinal blotches of a very
fine browTi colour; others very closely resemble the eggs of the Titlark. I have also several
intermediate varieties. The dark variety is the most frequent. In 1850, and again this summer,
(May 22nd.,) I found a nest in a crack in the imderside of an Oak tree, which inclines over a
ditch. This is the only instance I have met with of their building in any other tree than 'the
"Willow. — Idem.

The following note occurs in the margin of a copy of the Ornithologj- of Ulysses Aldrovandus,
in my possession, in the hand-writmg of the late Mr. Sole, the Botjmist, once an Apothecaiy
in Bath: — '■'■Certhia familiar is, Linn: Creeper. I suppose this is what is meant at Bath, and in
Wilts, by Nettle Creeper; and is, I believe, my "^'hite Throat, (Eliz.) It is an excellent warbler,
and in my Botanic garden I have often sat in the arboin* with the greatest delight to hear
him respond to the Nightingale, and even silence him. The Nightingale never sings in sight :
on the contrary, this bird sings with most pleasure if greatly admired and looked at. ( TJnde
forsan familiar is dicta.") — R. "Wilbhaham Falconer, M. D., Bath.

Tlie hook upon wliich a Linnet's cage was suspended, giving way, caused the fracture of the
right leg of the little prisoner. Splints were applied for some time, but no union of the bones
took place, when the limb was amputated above the loiee ; after which the little patient survived

190 MISCELLANEOUS NOTICES.

several years as mciTV and happy a songster as any of its brethren. — Eichard Neale, M. R. C. S.,
Fazeley, Staffordshu-e, May 29th., 1851.

Tlw Spoonbill, (Plataloa leiicorodia,) in Yorkshire.— Wg hare nnich pleasure in recording the
capture of a very beautiful specimen of the Spoonbill, which was shot by Cliarles Vaux, servant
to Mr. G. Milner, of Wilberfoss, near York, on the evening of the 2nd. of August last. It was
an adult female, in fine plumage, and had alighted on the pond in the middle of a flock of tame
ducks in the dusk of the evening. It was stuffed by Mr. Graham, of this city, who shewed it
to us while yet wanii.— B. R. M.

Note on the Puffin, (Fratercula arctica.)— For several winters in succession I have met with
this bird in December and January at Tyne Sands, in East-I,othian. The specimens I found
were apparently young birds of the season, and probably helpless, so far as migration was
concerned — a suspicion sometimes confirmed by one or two dead birds bcsing cast ashore after
storms, in a recent state. Guillemots, Razor-bills, and Solan Geese often share the same fate:
the latter I have occasionally found in winter, but the birds were young ones; and regarding
both this species and the Puffin, I would suggest tliat some of the late-fledged broods are not
matured enough to leave the breeding stations along with the old and stronger birds, and do
not migrate at all. Tlie locality I have spoken of is distant only ten miles from the Bass Rock,
where they are bred in abundance. --R. Gray.

The Leaf -cutting lice. — Some three or four years ago, when in a printing-office in this town,
I observed a singular situation for the nest of a Leaf-cutting Bee. It was in the groove usually
cut out from the bottom of a horizontally-sliding window, but which is generally filled by a
coiTCsponding slip nailed to the window bottom. In this case the bottom slip had been broken
away, so that there was a square orifice of about half-an-uich — the full width of the window.
Observing a Bee fly in one day when the window was partially open, (at wliich time only access
could be had,) with a part of a leaf, I examined the bottom of the window, and there found
the nest, of about four inches in length, and composed of pieces of I'ose leaves curled round and
tucked one into another, mitil of the proper length and thickness. Last autumn I again detected
a Bee going into another window in the same room, which was similarly circumstanced to the
first-named, and again the nest was found, enveloping this time the larva, with a goodly supply
of a rather fetid, clammy substance; intended, I suppose, for its winter nourishment. — J. A.
Robinson, Southport, Lancashire, August 8th, 1851.

See Trees in the Xew Forest, Hants, in the time of Queen Elizabeth .—JLxtvact from a decree
of the Court of E-xcliequer, June 19tli., 23t]i. of Elizabeth. "It is likewise ordered that the
said keepers in the Xcw Forest, shall h.ave each of them, in his several walk, only such wind-
fall trees and boughs, where no part of the root is np turned and inbowes also, only so much
thereof as the Bees do light on, and the honey that shall be found in the tree, but not to cut
away any main bough or tree by colour thereof." In the smnmer of 1844, close to the New
Forest, there was a hollow tree in wliich honey was found; the amoimt of wliich was "a pail
full."-ll. R.

Capture of Leptinus testaceus, near Taislci/. — About the end of September, 1850, we captured
one specimen of this rare Beetle, in rather a singular waj'. I had been removing the carcase
of a cat in a vasculum, from Cart Side to Paisley Moss, for the pui-pose of attracting canion-
feoding Beetles; and returned with some small branches of birch in it, for feeding caterpillars.
A numbcn" of days afterwards, my brother observed the little creature making its escape from a
tuft of the cat's hair, which was still attached to the lid of the vasculvun. Is it an animal, or
a vegetable feeder?— Morris Young, 7, Old Sneddon Street, Paisley, August 22nd., 1851.

Capture of Rhinomacer attelaboides, tiear Paisley. — On the Srd. of May we captured three
specimens of this rare Beetle, by beating fir trees. at Paisley Moss. — Idem.

Capture of Acidota rufa, near Paisley. — On the Srd. of May we cnptured upwards of a dozen
spechnens of Acidota rufa at Paisley Moss, by shaking roots of grass. — Idem.

The Flea.— A. Flea from a Dog, which I had placed in a pair of spring forceps for micro-
scopical examination, lived twelve days so confined. It was remarkably vigorous after eight
online days.— J. A. Robinson, Southport, Lancashu-e, May 8th., 1851.

nEviEws, 191

Occurrence of Nika edulis, near Falmotdh.— 'My friend, Dr. Yigurs, found in a pint of boilnd
Prawns, taken in a shrimper's net, at Hilford, six miles from Falmouth, on the 14th. of May,
fourteen fine female specimens of the "rare" A^ika edulis. Twelve of them were loaded with
ova.--W. P. Cocks, Falmouth, July 19th., 1851.

These plants do not occur m the Flora Bevoniensis, (Jones and Kingston, 1820. J— Aconitum
najjellus- AXolfs Bane, or Monk's Hood. Found near brook at Bidwell and banks of River Dart,
near Staventon Bridge,— Flowers in May. Anemone Pulsatilla— Vasque flower. Found near River
Dart, about a mile above Hood Cottages.— Flowers in April. Asarum Furopecum.— Common
Asarabacca. Found near Truostroct, by William Gillard, Esq.— Flowers in May. Lcucojum
<c«;«V«>»— Summer Snowflakc. Found in boggy marsh near Totiles "Weir, growing amongst willows.
— S. Haxnapord, Jun., Totnes, Devon., May 24th., 1851.

llMinns.

Historia Naturalis Orcadensis. Zoology. Fart I. Being a Catalogue of the
Mammalia and Birds hitherto observed in the Orkney Islands. By W. 13,
Baikie, M. D., and Egbert Heddle. Edinburgh: Printed by J. and W.
Patterson, 52, Bristo Street. 1848. 8vo., p.p. 104.

The value of carefully compiled local Faunas and Floras, is now so generally-
admitted by naturalists, that we feel we are rendering a service to our readers
in calling their attention to the above catalogue, which we regret has only
lately fallen under our notice. The compilers have carefully given the author-
ities for each species introduced into this list, which is a larger one both of
mammalia and birds than we should have expected. Various Faunas of Orkney,
by other writers, have as.sisted in rendering this the most complete hitherto
given to the public. It would occupy more space than we can well aiford
to give many extracts; we shall therefore content ourselves with laying before
our readers one taken at random from page 88. It is a fair example of the
general style and amount of the remarks on each species: —

"Great Auk, (Alca impennis.) This bird has not visited Orkney for many years. One was

seen oft' Fair Isle, in June 1798, A pair bred in Papa Westray for several years; where they

I were named the liiug and Queen of the Auks. Shortly after Mr. Bullock's Aisit to Orkney, in

11813, one of these birds was shot and sent to him; and since that time the Great Auk has

apparently forsaken our islands."

The Authors, in the preface, express a wish for corrections or additions, and
fve shall feel much gratification if any such be aflforded them in consequence
9f this notice, in the pages of "The Naturalist."

\A Manual of Botany: being an Introduction to the study of the Structure^
Bhysiology, and Classification of Plants. By John Hutton Balfour, M.D,
F. L. S., F. R. S. E., Professor of Medicine and Botany in the University of
Edinburgh. Second Edition. Forming vol. xiii of the Cabinet Edition of
the Encyclopaedia Metropolitana. London: Griffist and Co., 1851.

Any person reading the above title-page, and knowing- the high character of
)r. Balfour as a botanist, would be disposed to think that he had got hold

192 PROCEEDINGS OF SOCIETIES, AND THE QUERIST.

of a trusty and faithful guide in commencing a study of Botany. We much
regret however, that we are unable to accord to the work the merit of being
an index to Dr. Balfour's botanical opinions. The first edition came out under
his sanction, and was generally considered a valuable addition to the library
of the student in Botany. The present edition has however undergone many
changes, and these of such a nature, as to induce the Professor to announce
from his professorial chair that this edition was not edited nor corrected by
him; and that he was in no way answerable for it. It seems that the book
has been re-edited, and considerably altered by some one employed by the
publishers, who has by no means represented Dr. Balfour's views. We allude
to the subject but thus briefly, with a view to prevent any of our friends,
who may purchase this edition, thinking they are by so doing, obtaining the
results of Professor Balfour's Botanical studies and opinions.

|<^rntrrMtig3 nf IntictiM.

Ayrshire Naturalists' Club. — The first anniversarj' meeting of this Club took place at Ayr, on
the 25th. of June, when Major Martin, of Ardrossan, was chosen President for the year, in the
room of the Eev. Dr. Landsborough, their President during the last year. After transacting some
business, they set out to explore the coast towards Dunnrc. They passed "Alloway's auld haunted
Kirk;" Bums' birth-place and monument ; and "The banks and braes o' bonnie Doon;" and then
bore down ou the shore, and in a little while fell in with a Pholas, which on extracting from the
perforation it had formed in the ro(;k, they were delighted to find was the rare and beautiful
Pholas papyracea, new to Scotland. The shore is a rich one for Algologists, but, on tliis occasion,
nothing rare was found. Several specimens of Alaria escitlexta and Jania ruhcns were got, and
the stones were occasionally spotted witli Hildenl)randtia rubra. The vei-y rare Lynybya Thompsoni
was obtained in a fresh-water stream. The bold headlands aftbrded some good specimens of
phenogamous plants, such as Seduni telcphium, Thalictrum minus, Eupatorium cannabinmn,
Cotyledon umbilicHs, and Lithospermum maritimum. Agates arc plentiful on the shore, and
several specimens of Olivinite were found. But the most interesting discovery was made as they
approached Dunurc; one of the party examining a stone that had fallen from the cliff, saw
embedded in it what, at first, was thought a shell; but on hammering it out, to their great
joy, they found that it was the scale of an old world fish. Several were found, some of them
about an inch in length, and three-quarters of an inch in breadth. Tliey were curiously wrinkled
on the outer side, and the whole had a coating resembling chalcedony. They were tlie scales
of the Iloloptychius of the upper old Ecd Sandstone, akin to, if not identical with the IT.
giganteus of Agassiz. llie party were much pleased with theii' excursion.

€liB (T^iicrist.

' Hie Nightingale, (Syh-ia luscinia.) — Is it true that tliis songster will not frequent, or pour
forth its delicious notes, save in spots where streams, lakes, or ornamental waters are to be
found?— W. F.

Wc request information from any of our sea-coast friends respecting the occurrence of the
Puffin, or any of our summer Sea-birds, during the whiter months. It is a subject of much
interest, and, we believe, much may be learned by extended and general observations. — B. E. Jl.

Wo shall feel greatly obliged to our various ornithological contributors if they will send us
information as to the time of the depai-ture of the Cuckoo from this country, specifying, when
pos.sible, the state of the bird, as to age. — B. B. M.

193

THE NOTCH-EAEED BAT, {VESPERTILIO EMARGINATUS.)

BY W. P. COOKS, ESQ.

Three months absence from my home has been the cause of my not
correcting an error in the "Falmouth List" sooner. The Vespertilio emarginatus
is a very rare visitant in our locality; and during the last eight years I have
only examined two specimens. The fii'st specimen was brought to me in the
year 1845; and was said to have been shot by a person of the name of
Symons, in Love, or Fox's lane, Woodlane, Parish
of Budock. It measured from tip of nose to
rump, two inches and three-eighths; tail, seven-
eighths of an inch; wings, when expanded,
measured nine inches. The ears were erect and
deeply notched on the outer edge; tragus, long,
styliform; fur, chestnut brown on the back and
sides — paler beneath. The second was shot by
a young sportsman in the year 1847, Pan.scoth
lane, Budock Parish. Length, one inch and three-quarters; tail, live-eighths and
one-sixteenth of an inch; wings, eight inches and a half; far, on the back
and sides, light reddish brown ; abdominal and inguinal regions, whitish. The
ears were notched on the outer edge, but not so deeply as in the first
specimen.

The Mus intermedius; I consider it to be nothing more than a dwarfish
variety of Mus decumanus.

Falmouth, August 26^^., 1851.

EYES OF THE COMMON MOLE, (TALPA VULGABIS.)

BY S. HAXNAFORD, ESQ., JUST.

I WAS much surprised on reading Mr. Smee's ^'Instinct and Reason," to
observe the following: — ^'There is a common animal in the fields, which being
almost exclusively in the dark, in subterraneous passages, has no eyes. This
creature is the Sleek-skinned Mole. It is a common proverb to speak of a
person as blind as a mole, but it is equally common to hear the casual
observer speak of the error of the proverb; because on turning aside the haira
on each side of the head, a little black tubercle appears, which is called an
eye. These black tubercles have no optical contrivance, and a distinguished
physiologist has shewn that the little tubercle is not supplied by the optic
nerve. In consequence of this creature having no eyeballs, there are no sockets
in the skull to receive the eyeballs." — Instinct and Reason, page 26.

This was so much at A'ariance with my own ideas on the matter, that I
immediately consulted all the works on Natural History in my possession, but
did not find a single corroboration of Mr. Smee's assertion. I give the following

VOL. I. 2 c

194 BLACK-HEADED GULL.

extracts, as it is a pity that any such statement, if vmfounded, should remain
imrefuted : —

^^The smallncss of the eyes is to this animal a peculiar happiness: a small
degree of vision is sufficient for an animal ever destined to live underground :
had these organs been larger, they would have been perpetually liable to injuries,
by the earth falling into them,' but nature, to prevent that inconvenience, hath
not only made them very small, but also covered them very closely with fur.
Anatomists mention, besides these, a third very wonderful contrivance for
their security, and inform us that each eye is furnished with a certain muscle,
by which the animal has the power of withdrawing or exserting them, according
to its exigencies. — Pennant's British Zoology, vol. 1, page 130, 8vo. ed.

"The. mole, though not blind, has eyes so small and so covered, that it
can have little benefit from the sense of seeing." — Bnffon, vol. 5, page 358.

''The eyes are so small, and so hidden beneath the hair, that their existence
even was denied for a while, They have been ascertained, however, to be
tolerably sharp-sighted." — Cuvier.

"The actual existence of a visual organ, though in an imperfect state of
development, is well known; and the open condition of the eyelids, in the
common species at least, would lead to the conclusion that this sense is not
absolutely wanting to it." — Bell's Quadrupeds.

HABITAT, NIDIFICATrON, INCUBATION, ETC., OF THE
BLACK-HEADED GULL, (LARUS RIDIBUNDUS.)

15V MR. W. D. BALSHAW.

WiLLUCHBY mentions a colony of the Black-Headed Gulls, {Lariis ridihun-
dics,) which yearly build and breed at Norbury, in Staffordshire, on an island
in the middle of a great pool. A similar one occurs about two miles from
the shore of Morecombe Bay, and four from the east bank of the River
Wyre, on a damp marshy piece of ground, called Pilling Moss, the property
of T. Gardner Esq., of this town.

Having selected a beautiful afternoon in the early part of May, we
crossed the river, and bent our steps towards the spot to which wc had been
dh'ected, having been kindly favoured by the proprietor with an order to visit
the colony whenever we might feel inclined. The day was all that could
have been desired for our excursion, the temperature of the atmosphere being
moderate; the caroling of the Larks as they rose from their grassy bed, and
the delightful melody poured forth by other songsters, together with all the
sweet influences of nature which combine on a spring day to please and to
delight, would have rendered gladsome hearts less light than ours.

From observation and inquiry of the keeper, we gathered the following
facts, which I hope may prove not uninteresting to your readers.

In the beginnitig of April, many thousands of these birds annually resort

ni-ACK-HEADKl) GVIAj. 190

to the place I have mentioned; — in such numbers do they come, that more
than an acre of ground is so thickly covered with their nests, that it requires
the utmost caution to avoid crushing the eggs at every step; and yet it is
remarkable that this spot is frequented only by this particular species — no
other sea-fowl being observable in the neighbourhood of the colony: indeed,
the only feathered inhabitants of the heath over which we passed, that we
saw, were a brace of Grouse.

The Gulls generally commence making their nests about the middle of

the month, (April,) but some do not begin till rather later, and the keeper

mentioned a very remarkable circumstance connected with those which build

first. He said that those pairs which commence the earliest in the season

invariably construct their nests at the north-west corner of the morass, and

those which delay nidification till the season is more advanced, lay their eggs

farther to the south-east. Our own observation also confirmed this, at first sight

improbable assertion; for we found that while the nests at the north-west

had their full complement of eggs, those in an opposite direction contained

mostly only one egg, and some none at all; — in the former the eggs had been

much sat upon, while in the latter incubation had evidently not commenced.

These birds build but very indifferent nests; they consist only of a few

dried rushes or straws placed upon the bare ground, on which their eggs are

laid. These are usually three in number, of a dark green or olive colour,

marked with spots and blotches of deep brown. The colouring varies very

much in different specimens, some being of a much lighter tint than others,

and having few spots or marks on them. In one or two of the nests we

found as many as four eggs, though it is very seldom that more than three

are laid. While we were upon the spot the birds continued hovering over

our heads, making a loud screaming noise, indicative of their displeasure at

our intrusion; and as soon as we had moved a very few yards away, those

that were sitting returned to their posts, so anxious were they for the

preservation of their eggs.

We were informed that it is about twenty years since they took possession
of this place as their summer resort. Towards the end of July, when the
young are ready to fly, the birds leave the Moss, and betake themselves to
the sea-shore, where they procure their food, which consists principally of
insects, 'worms, spawn, fry, and small fishes. During the breeding season, I
believe, they exist chiefly upon what they can obtain from the fields. For
some miles round they may be seen covering any piece of fresh turned-up
land, and often alighting, as I myself observed, within three or four feet of
the heels of the ploughman engaged in tilling the ground. It is indeed a
very interesting sight to see how actively and gracefully these truly beautiful
Gulls run up and down the newly-made furrows, in search of what nature
has taught them to regard as food for themselves and their young, Mr. Gardner
is annually reclaiming many acres of the moss-land, and he says that after
having cut through six or seven feet of peat, in which trees of various species

196 NATUKAMZATIONT OF FOREIGN lURDS,

are found, the White Birch, (Betula alba,) being the most abundant, a layer
of clay is met with; and below that a stratum of sand, embedded in which
are discovered many of the heads and antlers of deer. Does not this evidently
show that on this spot there has existed at one time an extensive forest,
abounding in game, though now for many miles round the country presents
a very barren appearance? Indeed, it is one extensive flat of peat bogs in
all directions. It may in conclusion be remarked, that the few trees in the
neighbourhood are very much stunted in their growth, owing to the strong
winds from the sea. This is very noticeable, even as far as Garstang, a town
nearly eleven miles from the bay.

Fleetioood, Lancashire ^ Sepfemher Uth., 1851.

NATURALIZATION OF FOREIGN BIRDS IN THIS COUNTRY,

BY HENRY TAYI.OR, ESQ.

Under the above title you did me the favour to insert a communication
at page 89, in which I suggested the desirableness and practicability of
introducing into our woods certain of the foreign song birds, now only kept in
cages or aviaries by bird-fanciers. My remarks were especially directed to that
beautiful songster, the Loxia eardinalis, or Virginian Nightingale. A reference
to my former article will shew that a pair of these birds was established this
spring in my conservatory, in company with several other kinds of the feathered
tribe. My desire was to become acquainted with their habits, as well as to
ascertain whether the Virginian Nightingales would breed under such circum-
stances. With your permission, I will detail the result of ray experience.

It was apparent in the month of May that the birds had paired, and my
attention was directed to the requisites for building. After trying various
kinds of receptacles, attended with much loss of time, I found their instincts
led them to give a preference to some dwarf box trees in the conservatory,
growing in pots.'*' In one of these a little hay was placed, which the hen
eagerly adopted as the foundation of a nest. Materials of various kinds were
scattered about, but that which found the greatest favour was paper in small
pieces, these probably being the nearest approach to dried leaves. A window
opens from the conservatory to my sitting-room, into which both birds were
always pleased to enter when opportunity was given, and where an old news-
paper was, to the female, particularly attractive. In rather a loose kind of
nest, lined with a few twigs stolen from a broom, an egg was laid on the
20th. of July, about the size of a Blackbird's; in colour what I might call
a dii'ty white, freckled with light brown spots. To this, I think, another
was added; although of the fact I could not be certain, for the nest imme-

* It is worth while to say that these are the favourite roosting-placos of the smaller and
move tender birds. In winter they afford the best protection from cold currents of air, whilst
at the proper season nests are frequently built in them.

A BOTANICAL UAM13LE 0\ THE liANKS OF THE DAIIT. 197

diatelj became aa object of attraction to a host of the smaller birds the
contents falling a prey to their mischievous propensities. I captured the
offending ringleaders^ and procured, for greater privacy, a much larger box bush
inserting, as before, some hay in its centre, nearly impervious to exterior view.
A few days only elapsed before a second nest was here in progress, the chief
material, as before, being bits of paper, but more scientifically lined than the
original one, with layers of hay and -Btrips of bass matting. Indeed, the two
nests differed extremely in construction as well as size. On the 29th. of July
an egg was laid, followed by a second, after which the hen rarely left the
nest, except during very short periods, for food. For this she usually came
into the parlour, particularly at the breakfast hour, to partake of some chopped
egg, or bread and butter, with great familiarity. Nothing more delighted her
mate than this opening of the window, which he requited with incessant
singing, in any part of the room. A more attached pair cannot be conceived.
Now and then his song would be acknowledged by a succession of Jicgs from
the female on her nest. On the lith. of August hatching took place. To
my extreme regret, the parents paid but little attention to their infant brood,
which soon perished. Occasionally the hen went to them in apparent distress,
but something was wrong in the article of food. Of the latter, various kinds,
animal and vegetable, were placed for choice; still the 07ie thine/ needful was
evidently missing. I suspect that insect aliment of some sort is indispensable;
for flies, moths, etc., are at all times pursued, and generally successfully, by
these birds, if chance lead such into the conservatory or parlour. A third
nest was subsequently in progress, but some cold weather ensued, and from
the lateness of the season, I did not encourage farther proceedings. I'he
birds are still in song.

September 8th., 1851.

A BOTANICAL RAMBLE ON THE BANKS OF THE DART.

BY S. IIANNAFORD, ESQ., JUN.

"T'was that dolis^litfiil season when the broom,
Full-flowered, and visible on every steep,
Alon^ the copses runs in veins of gold."

WoilDS WORTH.

There is perhaps no county in England with so great a variety of wild
flowers as Devonshire, particularly at this season of the year, when almost
all the spring flowers are in bloom. A few days since, I took a quiet
ramble by the banks of the River Durt, from Totnes to Hood, a distance
of about four miles, and was struck with the number of new specimens
which had opened within the last month; I should say from fifty to sixty at
least. I trust the results of my stroll may not prove uninteresting to some
of your readers.

198 A BOTAN^ICAL RAMBLE ON TITE BANKS OF THE DART.

On starting in a field opposite Totnes Weir, I found the Yellow Rattle,
(Bhinanthus crista-galli,) with its purplish streaked stem and yellow flowers;
deriving its name from the seeds^ when ripe, rattling in the large seed-vessel;
the Purple Trefoil, [Trifolium pratense;) with here and there the bright
yellow flowers of the Silverweed, [Potentilla anserina,) and Spring Cinqucfoil,
(Potentilla verna,) scarcely to be distinguished one from the other, but by
the digitate leaves of the latter. By a ditch side, a little way on, the white
flowers of the Common Watercress, (Nasturtium officinale;) and in the same
place, the Ragged Robin, [Lychnis flos-cuculi,) with its delicate rose-coloured
jagged petals; the Cuckoo flower, too, (Cardamine pratensis^ of various hues,
from a delicate lilac to a bright pink — •

"By the meadow trenches blow the famt sweet Cuckoo flowers."

Tennyson.

and just coming into bloom, the Wild Angelica, (Angelica sylvestris^) and, as
Carrington says — ■

"That okl favourite — tlic daisy — bom
By millions, in the balmy, vernal mom."

Onwards I went to Berryman's marsh, where the Early Purple Orchis,
(Orchis mascula,) still appeared, though not so abundantly or in such beauty
as it did a month since. I was tempted to turn into the pretty copse near
Darlington Hill; the ground of which was covered with the blue flowers of
the Wild Hyacinth, (Hyacinihus non-scriptus,) ^^Lushest Bluebell beds," as
Keats calls them; white specimens of which, by the bye, I have frequently
found in woods in this neighbourhood, but much more delicate than the
blue, and more resembling wax flowers, A few Wood Anemones, (Anemone
nemorosa,) still remained, with which the ground was covered as with snow
but a little time back. The greenish yellow plants of the Wood Spurge,
(Euphorlia amyydaloidvs,) a common plant hereabout, and one well worthy
of notice, from its flowers being enclosed in a kind of cup; the Red Campion,
(Lychnis dioica,) its bright red flowers contrasting beautifully with the white
ones of the Stitch wort, (Stellaria hohstea;) and the Broad-leaved Garlic,
(Allium ursinum,) commonly called Ramsey in Devonshire, well known on
account of its disagreeable smell; and the delicate green of the numerous
Ferns spread about in all directions. The hedges were filled with the Yellow
Weasel Snout, (Galeohdolon luteum) now in great perfection, with its pale yellow
flowers spotted with red — the leaves resembling those of the nettle, but very
much smaller. The Hawthorn, (Mesjnlus oxyacantha) shedding its fragrance
in every direction. On the copse wall I found very fine specimens of Herb
Robert, (Geranium Rohertianum,) Shining Crane's-bill, (Geranium lucidum,) and
Jagged-leaved Crane's-bill, (Geranium dissectum.) Leaving the Copse, I sallied
on towards Folly, and there, as I anticipated, found the water covered with
the white Water Crowfoot, (Ranunculus aquatilis,) in great pi-ofusion, with
its threc-lobed floating leaves, and five hairy-like leaves immersed in the water.

A BOTANICAL RAMBLK OX THE BANKS OF THE DART, 199

This is also to be met with on the Mill Leat, near Totnes. Passing Folly
Marsh, I saw the Common Snake, {Natrix torquata,) swim from the opposite
side of the Dart to the side where I stood, with its head raised gracefully
above the water; which it did with great ease apparently, and crawled up
the bank by my side. Here the Wood Horsetail, (Equisetum sylvaticum,)
with its fertile spike may be found, also the Earth Nut, {Bunium flexuosura,)
with its umbel of delicate white flowers, but it is very common everywhere.
In all directions now the Common Bugle, (Ajuga reptans,) is seen with its
pale blue flowers, growing in the hedges a foot or more in height, but more
diminutive in pastures. On the sandy soil in Folly Island, the flowers of
the Wood Loosestrife, or Yellow Pimpernel, (Lysimachia nemorum,) peep
forth from amidst their delicate green leaves. Passing a corn field near North
wood, I found the Common Fumitory, (Fumaria officinalis,) ^^Rank fumites"
as Shakspeare calls it, and the yellow flowers of the Creeping Cinquefoil,
(Potentilla reptans) just out, not yet abundantly —

"The five-leaved gi-ass mantling its golden cup of flowers."

And a single specimen of the Butterfly Orchis, (Orchis hifolia.) Before I go
further, I must mention that I found a short way back the Common Currant,
(Rihes ruhrum,) growing close by the water's edge. Eeturning to North wood,
the Dog Violet, [Viola canina,) still in great beauty —

"That queen of secrecy, the Violet."

Keats.

The yellowish tinged flowers of the Dogwood, (^Cornus sanguinea,) and the
pretty blossoms of the Maple, {Acer campestre,) met my eye, in addition to
many of those already mentioned, many of which flower in great beauty here.
A short walk brought me now to Staverton Bridge — which I crossed, and
on the Staverton side of the River found the Monks-hood, (Aconitum napellus,)
in bloom — a very rare flower in this neighbourhood, and which I have only met
with here and by Brook side, near Bidwell Copse. — It is so well known in our
gardens, that it needs no description here. Recrossing the bridge, I bent
my steps over the fields by the water side to Hood, and in a field not far
from Staverton found a great favom-ite of mine, the Common Dwarf Lousewort,
(Pedicularis sylvatica,) on marshy, sandy soil, raising its bright pink flowers
just above the ground amongst the golden flowers of the Furze, [Ulex Europoeus,)
not at all a common plant. Above Hood Bridge, the rocks in some damp
situations were covered with the Golden Saxifrage, (Chrysosplenium oppositi-
folium,) occasionally a Columbine, (Aquileyia vulgaris,) with its drooping purple
flowers was seen, a rare plant in some districts, but plentiful in all our Devonshire
woods. About a mile above Hood Cottages, a most delightful part of the
Dart, I discovered a short time back the Pasque Flower, {Anemone pulsatilla,)
similar in shape to the Wood Anemone, but the petals of a dull violet colour,
— a scarce plant in this country.

Although rather diverging from the route laid down at starting, I will

200 ANOMALIES IX THE VEGETABLE KINGDOM.

add one more very scarce flower which I found in the marsh near l^otnes
Weir — the Summer Snow Flake, (Leucojitm testivum^) growing amidst willows.
It has never been found here before I believe. It would be impossible for me
to enumerate all the flowers I found in my delightful walk^ but I hope
this slight mention of a few of our Botanical treasures may induce others to
examine for themselves^ the beauties of their own county.
Tvtnes, June Isf.^ 1851.

ANOMALIES IN THE VEGETABLE KINGDOM.

BY J..B. DAVIES, ESQ.

The interesting notice of the monstrous Earth Worm, by Mr. Edwards, in
'•'The Naturalist" for September, has suggested to me the idea of keeping a register
of the various anomalies noticed among plants by Naturalists throughout
the kingdom. Acting upon the idea, I begin with a tribe which has come
more within my notice of late than any other^ that is, the Graminioe^ and
beg to send you a list of the variations I have observed among them; some
of these are perfectly well known, and others less so, but all I think deserving
of being recorded in a collected form, so as to form a nest-egg for other
observers to increase from.

I am certain that I am not the only one among j^our readers who would
be interested in such a record as I propose to keep, and if it should meet
the ideas of others, I shall feel happy to contribute my mite towards the
gathering together of stones, to build a correct Science of Morpjhology; as it
is only from the possession of abundant data that we can ever hope to arrive
at anything like ultimate facts.

The variations of grasses may be classed as follows: — 1st. — Flowers becoming
viviparous, that is producing young plants instead of seeds. 2nd. — Change in
the seeds, supposed to be caused by the presence of a fungus, causing it to
enlarge and become dark in colour, and known as Ergot. 3rd. — Division of a
simple spike, or union of distinct ones. 4th. — Variations in the colour of the
leaves, the colouring matter being absent in certain parts, causing longitudinal
white lines. 5th. — Miscellaneous Sports, as extraordinary devolopment of glumes,
ligule, root, etc.

The following species have been noticed in a viviparous condition: —

Poa alinna, common on high hills in Perthshire and Forfarshire. Head
large and tufted. In the Edinburgh Botanic Gardens, and Golden Acre
Nursery, Edinburgh.

Festuca ovina, likewise found in mountainous districts in Scotland. Same
places as above.

Aira cocspitosa, to be found in collections; forms a very gracefully drooping
head. Kept up in cultivation by division of the roots. Same places as last.

I have noticed Ergot, in the following species: —

Secale cercalc, Rye, very common.

A BOTANICAL RAMBLE, 201

Dadylis glomerata, Rare, spui' sliort and thin, not more than half an inch
in lengthy and curved. Craigmiller Castle, Edinburgh, August 1849.

Eli/mus (jiganteus, Spur, three-fourths of an inch in length, thick and full
formed: section not so dark as in Rye. Crolden Acre Nursery, Edinburgh,
September llth., 1851.

I am under the impression that besides seeing this disease in a specimen
of Fhalaris arimdinacea, from Philadelphia, I have also seen it in a l>ritish
specimen of this plant, as well as in several other grasses, as Ammophila
arenaria, etc. Could some of your readers afford any information on this
subject?

The following are all the variegated grasses I can at present call to mind : —

Fhalaris arundinacea, (Common Gardener's Gcirter,) a border plant in every
cotter's garden.

Dactylis (jlo7nerata, also pretty generally known in gardens.

Agrostis vuhjaris, A Gardener's Garter in little, probably intended for some
of the junior branches. Not so common as cither of the preceding, and
with them in Edinburgh Botanic Garden^ Golden Acre Nursery, Edinburgh,
etc., etc.

Other variations have been noticed in Lolium perenne, (Common Rye
(xrass.) — The spike for two-thirds of its length dividing into two, each half
forming a perfect spike. Linlithgow, July 1850; Sands of Barrie, Forfarshire,
August 1850; near Kew, August 1851.

Lolium suhnuticum, presenting the same character. Golden Acre Nursery,
Edinburgh, September llth., 1851.

Bmeium loliaceum. The lower spikelet becoming pedicelate, and producing .
another spikelet from its axil. Duddingston Loch, Edinburgh, July 1851.

Dactylis glomerata, The outer glumes of the flowers varying from one-
tenth to eight-tenths of an inch in length. Arthur's Seat, Edinburgh, August
30th., 1851.

Ocloher \st., 1851

A BOTANICAL RAMBLE.

BY MR. J. A. R0DINS0^f.

Botanical Rambles are now almost as plentiful in print as the flowers
which their various authors describe; but, generally speaking, they relate to
some of the most favoured spots in our island, such as Devonshire and other
parts of the south of England. If I may crave the space in your journal,
I will attempt to give you a sketch of what may be picked up in a Botanical
Ramble near this village, unknown probably to most of your readers. Southport
is situated on the west coast of Lancashire, south of the mouth of the Ribble,
and is exposed to the full force of the westerly winds; and the soil being
for a considerable distance inland, almost entirely of a sandy character, it

VOL. L 2 D

202 A r.()T.\NirAT> VvA^Mr.I.K.

might reasonably be supposed that the flora would be neither very plentiful
nor varied; but it is not so; for^ notwithstanding the exposed situation, winter
is here almost unknown, save by name, and occasional gales of wind from
the north and north-west, which set the sand in motion, and blow it far
inland. These extensive sands tend to keep the atmosphere peculiarly dry,
for the rain is rapidly absorbed, however great the quantity that may fall.

Near Southport is a rural place named, and very judiciously, Birkdale, and
it is to this latter place we will take a stroll. We need not be long before
we commence operations; for scarcely shall we leave the road and enter the
fields which skirt it, before there are flowers in abundance. We will saunter
along a bank, or ^'cop," as it is technically called here. Here is a brilliant
patch of the Erodmm cicutarium, (Hemlock Stork's-bill,) with its beautiful
delicate pink flowers; then, almost side by side, and bearing a close resemblance,
except in the leaves, is the Geranium Boheiiianwn, (Herb Robert;) and the
Geranium molle, (Dove's-foot Crane's-bill;) the long beak -like seed vessels of
these plants present a most singular appearance, and they have not been
inaptly named. We cannot, like the midland and southern counties, boast
of the Viola odorata; but the eye will ever and anon rest on bunches of the
Viola canina and Viola tricolor, contrasting delightfully with the brilliant
B;arlet flowers of the Anagallis arvensis; the yellow flowers of the Galiura
vo'um; the lilac of the Cardamine pralensis; the pink of Ononis arvensis; and
the no less beautiful, though minute, Polygala vuhjaris; all of which may
be found, closely congregated, on almost any bank in this vicinity. The
Arundo arenaria, so useful on sandy coasts, is just putting forth its head
from the tender sheath surrounding it; and other grasses in abundance are
quaking and bending to the summer breeze.

In the pools of water the Ilottonia palustris and Erioplwrum vaginatum
are now plentiful; and certainly the former is deserving of a better locality than
that where it seems indigenous. In the boggy districts the stems and leaves
of the Menyanllics hifoliata are plentiful enough, although as yet there are
no signs of its beautifully-fringed blossoms. The margins of the ditches, and
the marshy ground generally, are covered with the flaunting yellow flowers
of the Iris pseudacorus and Caltha palustris, intermixed with the less assuming
hues of Myosotis paludris, Ranunculus aquatilis, and Veronica anagallis and
heccaltcnga. Yet a few weeks and some of these will be succeeded by the
beautiful purple flowers of the Lythrum salicaria, the leaves of which are
now fast making their debut from their watery bed. We cannot, as may
be easily imagined, boast of many of the Orchis tribe — only Orchis morio and
0. maculata being at all plentiful. That beautiful flower the Parnassia paliistris
will shortly be seen in thovisands on the low marshy grounds near the shore;
and at the present time portions of the shore itself are carpetted with the
Statice armeria and Glaux mariiima. In some of the meadows Botrychium
lunaria and Ophioglossiwi vulgatum are plentiful; as also that little gem Euphrasia
officinalis.

TUB SWEET^ OU SPANISH CHESTNUT. 203

But I must cut my list short, for cveu now I am fearful lest I should
have given you too lengthy an article; but should you deem it worthy of
insertion, I may probably renew the subject at a future time; and trusting
that if any of your readers have supposed this an unfavourable locality for
their summer rambles^ they may be disabused of the notion.

Wijcollar Cottage, Southport, Lancashire, June dth., 1851.

THE SWEET, OR
SPANISH CHESTNUT. (CASTANEA VULGARIS.)

BY J. Mc'lNTOSH, ESQ.

The Chestnut has frequently been alluded to by our old English poets, so
that we shall preface what we have to say on this tree with one or two
quotations. First then, Herrick says —

"Ecmcmber us in cups full crown' d,
And let our city health go round;
Quite through the young maids and the men,
To tlic ninth number, if not ten;
Until tlic fried chestnut leap
For joy to sec the fruits ye reap
From the plump chalice, and the cup
That tempts till it be tossed u))."

And the good old poet Milton, says —

"Wliile hisses on my hearth the pulpy pear,
And black'ning chestnuts stiu-t and crackle there."

Fear not my readers, I am neither going to write the history, or treat upon
the good and bad qualities of this old inhabitant of our sea-girt Isle; but
merely to record two curious old trees of this species of Castanca, which are
now in existence, and likely to be so for many a long year to come, at Clreat
C'anford, in the county of Dorset. The late indefatigable J. C. Loudon, in his
master-piece — "The Arboretum Britannicum," — merely alludes to the existence
of these trees in the time of ^Grose.' We have frequently paid a visit to
these venerable trees, and shall thus briefly describe them. There appear
originally to have been five, known and handed down to the present time as
John o' Gaunt's Chestnuts. Now, John of Gaunt was the fourth son of King
Edward the Fourth, and Duke of Lancaster. Whether these trees were
planted before his time, or by His Grace's direction, we have no account,
nor shall we offer an opinion; suffice it to say, that of these five trees only
two remain in life. The first and finest is in front of Canford House, and
measures at the gi-ound thirty-three feet; at six feet high, twenty-seven feet;
at or about the height of six feet there are about twenty large branches,
springing out in an upright direction, and assuming tho character of young
trees. The main trunk is somewhere about seventy feet high, full of holes,
and almost hollow; the bole, near the ground, when we last saw it, was

204 NOTES ON THE APPEARANCE AND CAPTURE OF LEPIDOPTERA.

the habitation of a colony of young Rabbits, \Lepus cuniculus;) and about

twenty feet high in the bole or trnnlc, was a litter of Kittens, {Fdis ? var

domestica,) six in number, and dead, the mother having no doubt been killed
by the keepers as a poacher, A little higher up, the trunk was swarming
with nests, containing eggs and young of the Common Starling, (Sturmis
vulgaris,) and what is most singular, there was a nest with young Starlings
immediately above the hole occupied by the young Cats.

At a little distance from this tree is another, quite prostrate, having laid in
this position, bleached by the rains and dews from heaven, for many a long
day, and likely so to remain. At about five feet from the butt end, it girthed
sixteen feet, and at ten feet, eighteen feet five inches; here it branches off
into three large branches, the stumps of which now only remain; the middle
branch measured eight feet, the right hand one ten feet, and the left six
feet nine inches. Still further on, we came to what was originally the
largest, but which is now a mere shell, with about eleven young Irces springing
out from its base. At the ground this stump measured forty-six feet, and
must have been, when in its beauty, a magnificent tree. We shall now only
add that Canford belongs to Sir J. J. Guest, Bart., who, with his amiable
Lady, will no doubt afford these venerable relics of days of yore that protection
which their decrepit old age requires.

Charininder, Dorset, August llt/i., I80I.

NOTES ON THE APPEARANCE AND CAPTURE
OF LEPIDOPTERA IN THE LAKE DISTRICT, IN 1851.

BY MR. W. GREENIP.

Anisoptcrijx cescularia and Hyhernia leucophearia, beat from young oaks,
March 14th.

Biston prodromarius, taken from the bole of the oak, from March IGth.
to April 8 th.

Lohophom polycommata. I took good specimens of this rare moth, daily,
from the trunks of young oaks and ash, from April 7th. to May 2nd.

Lohophora lohulata, from the ash, during the month of April.

Lohophom sexdisata, found on the trunks of the beech, between June 4th.
and 17th.

Zerene albicilhta, sitting on the oak during the days, and fiying amongst
the hazels during the nights of June.

Demas coryli, taken from the buds of the beech, June 15th.

Coremia propiujnaria, about the end of June. -

Crainhiis radidlus. This insect is found on our highest mountains, and is
generally taken on the wing, among the lent. I took five specimens on
Skiddaw, June 29th.: on the 4th. of July I captured ton more on llclvcllyn.

THE COALFISII. 205

Erehia Cassiope. On July 17th. I took this insect on Scawfell, at an elevation
of more than two thousand feet.

Safyrns Davus, found among the hent, on the mountain side, July 24th,

Fhisla hradca, honeysuckle, Augast 1st.

JIt/ilrocampa nymplumta, together with Hypenodes Immidalis and Or ambus
margaritdlus, all on the wing, on a peat moss, at the foot of Derwent
Lake, August 4th.

Einmelesia tccniata, beat from the hazel, four specimens on August 10th.,
three on the 12th.

£Ialf a-mile higher up the mountain side, amongst a broken line of crags,
I was fortunate enough to fall in with Stilhia anomalata, together with
Plusia interroyationis.

Also taken from the crags, the following: — Anaitis plagiata, Coremia
olivaria, Coremia salicaria, Coremia ilidymaria, Ilemithea ct/thisaria^ Ilarpalyce
ocellata, Aplocera cccsiata^ Emmclesia ericctaria.

On August 28th, I took from the rocks CwpJiasia hellana.

Keswich, September , 1851.

THE COALFISH, {MEBLANGUS CARBONARIUS)

By nOBEKT GRAY, ESQ.

Almost every one who is interested in the study of fishes, and who has
opportunities for taking notes, must look forward with some eagerness to
particular seasons when subjects are in most abundance. Not the least attractive
of these is the time of the Herring fishery, or drave as it is called in the east
of Scotland; for not only does the icthyologist, if he be a man of business,
participate in the general stir which it occasions, but he has many chances
of enriching his collection, and of adding to his stores of knowledge. The
nets of the fishermen, besides yielding marketable produce, often bring to
light important facts; and perhaps the most remarkable example that has
occurred for some time within our observation, is one regarding the species
which heads this notice. It is almost too generally known to require repetition
here, that the vast shoals of Herrings which appear on our coasts in summer,
afford a i*ich supply of food to many Sharks, and other fishes with a voracious
appetite. Of these may be particularized the Dogfish, [Spinax acanthias,)
the Porbeagle, {Lamna Cornuhica,) which in some seasons we have seen
hunting in troops numbering a score, and the Hake, (Merlucius vulgaris,^
The last-named, though one of the Gadidas, or the family of Codfish, will
equal in voracity any small Shark; and to the Coalfish, the subject of our
remarks, we apply the same observation without limits.

About six weeks ago, this fish appeared in Dunbar Bay in considerable
numbers, and under very peculiar circumstances; and a more destructive

206 THE C0ALFI8H.

enemy to the fishermen has not been seen for many years. It would seem,
in fact, during the present drave at Dunbar, to have taken the place of the
Dogfish, one of the worst annoyances to fishermen, when pursuing their calling,
at this season; nor does it appear, by the change, to l^ave in the least degree
mitigated the evil. One morning when we visited the shore, we were particularly
surprised at the numbers which had been caught on the previous night.
Almost every boat, and there could not bo fewer than two hundred, had
landed a number; and a considerable part of the quay and adjoining beach
was occupied by the variovis crews employed in cleaning them. They were
prepared in the same way as Cod and Ling, by being split up, salted, and
dried; but, though in tolerable demand amongst curers, the food is generally
esteemed coarse, being chiefly made use of by the poorer classes. The speci-
mens measured from two to three feet in length; but notwithstanding their
bulk, they must have been a poor recompense to their industrious captors.
What had become of their usual enemy the Dogfish? It had disappeared
altogether, though in former years it had regularly appeared in shoals at the
commencement of the fishing — a well-known nuisance, pursuing and devouring
the Herrings with uncommon rapacity; besides cotnmitting serious damage on
the nets. But its substitute was not a whit better liked, and with good
reason; their property being destroyed, and the Herrings devoured just as
before. The stomachs of most of them contained recently swallowed Herrings;
some of them so many as five or six large ones. We were somewhat amused
to see a number of little ragged urchins picki)ig up these and carefully washing
them in the sea, with a view to find them a market. They were afterwards,
we discovered, vended in the streets at a penny a dozen; and in spite of their
late burial and restoration, they appeared to meet with a ready sale.

All the Coalfishes we saw were not captured alike: they were caught in
two ways — entangled in the nets, and by baited fishing-lines put out by the
fishermen as an amusement in the interval between setting and drawing their
nets. Before being lifted into the boat they were knocked on the head with
a handspike; and those which had seized the bait, had made so eager a bite
that their bodies were mutilated ere the hook could be recovered.

Eapacity, such as we have spoken of, on the part of the Coalfish, is more
like the habit of a true IMcrlucius, or Hake, which is very destructive to small
fishes. The one is easily distinguished from the other by the position and
number of the dorsal fins; and by other characteristics which may be learned
on consulting any work on Ichthyology. Coalfishes, when young especially,
vary considerably in colour — from a light grey to a deep green, which in
adult specimens is sometimes retained, but more frequently changed to a deep
black. When about a foot in length, they aiford good diversion to the
angler by freely taking a baited hook, or springing at an artificial fly however
rudely formed. We have caught scores of them in an evening by using a
small gooso feather fastened to a hook without any care, and trolling with
it from the stern of a boat in motion. From piers and jutting rocks, numbers

MISCKT.TiANEOUS NOTICES. 207

of youthful anglers may be seen in a summer evening, using their simple but
effective tackle, which is sometimes nothing more than a slender wand, a bit
of twine, and a bent pin. The young Coalfishes, when nearing the shore with
the tide, swallow greedily any bait which is thrown in their way, and thus
they are taken in great numbers; but when the water is receding, they
become shy and will sniff saucily at the bait, wag their tails, and pass on.
On the east of Scotland, young individuals are known as podleys, and adults
as sdhes. Frequently in the winter season when the fishermen, in catching
haddocks, shoot their lines over rocky ground, large numbers are captured of
the maximum size, but they are grudgingly brought to shore as intruders on
more profitable fishing.

In speaking of the Hake, {Merlucius vulgaris,) we may observe that althou*>h
it is said to be very rare in Scotland, we give credit to some non- scientific
authorities who state the reverse: we mean the fishermen. In a recent
communication from our friend, Mr. John Jaffray, residing in Dunbar, he
states that he had made particular inquiries among the most intelligent of the
fraternity, and was pleased to obtain very satisfactory information from one
of them regarding the fish. This individual whom he interrogated, knew very
well the differences bctwcn it and the Coalfish, and gave them in precise
detail, shewing he did not speak at random; affirming at the same time that
when following his vocation on the coast of Caithness, he had seen Hakes in
great abundance caught in the Herring nets, to which, as well as to the
Herrings themselves, they were very destructive. We mention this fact in the
hope that if ^'The Naturalist" has travelled so far north as the county we
have named, some of its readers there will be induced to make observations
confirmatory of what we now record.

So^ithcroft Govan, Glasgotv, Septemher Sth., 1851.

3Jli5rdiniirnti3 Jhilm.

Anecdote of a Dog. — A gentleman of my acquaintance — Mr. II , of

Axminster, in Devonshire, was, a few years since, the owner of a very intel-
ligent and sagacious dog. It was a white Bull-terrier of the largest size; by
no means remarkable for its beauty, but singularly docile, and strongly
attached to its master; of whom it was the constant companion in the
extensive journeys, which, as a commercial traveller, he was in tlie habit of
taking. One day, Mr. H. had occasion to call at a house at the entrance to
Lyme Regis, and accordingly alighted from his gig for that purpose, leaving
his dog on the driving box.. The horse, from some cause took fright, and
started at a tremendous pace towards the town, with the reins trailing on
the ground in dangerous proximity to its feet. In a few seconds, after appa-
rently deliberating how to act, the dog leaped from the gig and seized the

208 MISCELLANEOUS NOTICES.

reins in its mouth, pulling them with all its strength, and allowed itself to
be dragged for a considerable distance, till he actually succeeded in stopping
the horse by pulling it round into a gateway : he retained a tight hold of the
reins, only relinquishing them when some persons seized the horse's head.
This extraordinary effort of what it would be difficult to designate as less than
reason, was witnessed by several persons besides the owner of the dog; who,
as may be imagined, was both surprised and delighted at an achievement
which, besides its singularity, was in all probability the means of preventing
a serious accident. — G. P. It. Pulman.

Young Hares, (Lepus timidus,) nursed hj a Cat. — The following A'ery
remarkable circumstance has just come to my knowledge, as having occurred
at Acomb, near this city. Many instances have no doubt occurred iij which
young Hares have been brought up by the Domestic Cat; but I never before
heard of this being done after the Cesarean operation had been performed on
their mother. The fact is this: — On Wednesday morning, the 10th. of Sep-
tember, ]Mr. J. Jolly, of Acomb Grange, shot a Hare, which proved to be
with young; he immediately opened the animal, and took from her three young
ones, which he carried in his pocket to his house — the distance of a mile,
and placed them in the care of a Cat which had recently kittened. The Cat
took to them without any difficulty, and they are now alive and thriving
^ell.— ^. R. M., York, Oct. Srd., 1851.

The Iceland Falcon, (Falco Icelandicus.) — A very rare bird of the falcon tribe
was shot lately at Inverbroom, in Rossshire, by Mr. Grant, gamekeeper to A. K.
George, Esq. When first noticed, the hawk was hunting on a hill top, and when
shot he had blood on his feet and legs, as if he had just then killed some bird.
Seeino- him take notice of a terrier dog he had Avith him, Mr. Grant took
advantage of the shade of a rock until the hawk came round it, seemingly
threatening the terrier and driving him onwards, circling in the air and
uttering a wild and peculiar cackling noise. When in front of the rock a
shot ended his hunting career. The keeper seeing that he was a vara avis,
sent him off to our friend, Mr, Snowie, Inverness, to be stuffed; but as no
specimen of this stranger bird had been seen in that locality, the sava7is were
at a loss to give the bird a name or local habitation. Two or three feathers
were forthwith dispatched to Charles St. John, Esq., the eminent naturalist,
who pronounced the bird to be the Iceland Falcon, and who had seen one a
short time before near Elgin. He at once recognised the bird, though not
more than two or three have been shot in Britain. The following description
will enable ornithologists to understand the difference between the Iceland
Falcon and those of this country: — Weight of the bird, three pounds fifteen
ounces; length, twenty-one inches; extent of wings, three feet nine inches;
beak, blue; tip, black, strong; and deeply-notched; head, ash-colour and white,
beautifully blended and mixed; all the back feathers and part of the wings,
pale ash, with dull white edges, and several white spots on each feather; tail,

MISCELLANEOUS X0TICE3. 209

barred with dusky white; throat, belly, and legs, white, curiously marked with
bars of brown, pear, oval, and heart-shaped. The entire plumage is a rare
instance of nature's harmonious colouring, and the hues are like the moss and
snow-tinted hills of the Falcon's native clime. — Inverness Courier.

Occurrence of Hen Harrier, (Circus cyaneus.) — A very fine specimen of this
bird was obtained near Ashburton, June 12th., 1851, and is now in the
collection of the Rev. C. Bulteel, Holbeton Vicarage. — E. A. Julian, Jun.,
Laira House, Plymouth, June 23rJ., 1851.

Occurrence of Fork-tailed Kite, (Milvus vulgaris.) — I saw a beautiful bird of
this species at Trowlsworthy Rabbit-warren, Shaugh Moor, June 17th., 1851.
The Rev. C. Bulteel informs me he saw a pair there on June 18th.; and
the warrener told me he had seen a single one there almost every morning
for the last two months. — Idem.

Bare Captures. Woodcoclcs. — As Matthews, gamekeeper to the Rev. J. Holmes,
of Brooke Hall, Norfolk, was going his usual rounds on Monday, May 5th.,
1851, he met with the rare incident of springing an old Woodcock, with four
young ones, in Brooke wood; two of the latter he succeeded in taking, but
having neither dog nor gun, the old bird, with the remainder of her young,
escaped his activity. A similar capture was made in the same wood some
fourteen or fifteen years since, when an old bird, with three of her young,
was taken. Another pair of young Woodcocks were also captured early this
month, in the Preserves, at Holkham, Norfolk, which appeared, by their
plumage, to be about three weeks old. The appearance of a few of these
birds remaining to breed with us has become rather more common of late
years, though still classing amongst the rare occurrences. — Ipswich Express,
May 2lst., 1851.

Note on the Cnchoo. — September 5th. A young Cuckoo was shot to day near
Liskeard, and sent to me for preservation. On dissection it proved to be a
male bird, and very fat: the gizzard lined with hair, and containing the
remains of caterpillars. A few of the scapulars and upper tail coverts on the
left side, with the first, second, fifth, sixth, and seventh tail feathers, were of
the adult plumage and perfectly developed; but on close inspection, I could
not find any other trace of moulting. Qiioeref Would this arise from natural
moult, or were the original feathers destroyed by accident, and replaced by
those of the adult colour? — Clement JacJcson, East Looe, September 10//i., 1851.

Note on a Kingfisher's Nest. — On Saturday, June 14th., 1851, I found a
Kingfisher's nest in the Crag Pit; it contained two eggs; the nest, if it can be
called one, lay some little way back in the bank, and on a slight depression
of the soil lay the two milk-white eggs, immediately under which were a
tiumber of very minute fish bones, mixed up with the Crag. A most unpleasant
smell arose from some black matter, which we found nearly at the mouth of
the hole, while digging into the nest. This Crag Pit, which is in a garden,

VOL. I. 2 E

210 MISCELLANEOUS NOTICES.

is at least a hundred yards from the nearest stream, and men and boys are
often working close to it. — B. P. C, Ipswich.

A White House Sparrow. — In July last, a SpaiTOw of a dirty white colour
below and a light cream above, was shot here; it was a hen bird, and had at
the time, I am told, either eggs or young ones, but of this I cannot be sure, as
I did not see the nest myselfj the bird was, however, very bare imderneath,
as if she was sitting. — Idem.

I bought a cream-coloured variety of the Common Brown Linnet, (Fringilla
linota,) and a white and brown bird of the same sort from a keeper in the
neighbourhood of Basingstoke, when in Hampshire, in August last. — Idem.

ADDITIONAL HERONRIES.

As one of your correspondents wished information respecting any additional
Heronries, the following may be inserted : — About twenty years ago, there was
a Heronry of long standing at Monkcastle House, in the parish of Kilwinning,
Ayrshire. The Herons built their nests on the trees that encompassed the
house: a new house, however, being built on an eminence at some distance
from the old one, when the family removed to this new residence, the Herons
were left unprotected; so that, after experiencing much annoyance, they forsook
Monkcastle, and chose to fix their abode some miles distant, near Eglinton
Castle, where the Lugden falls into the Kiver Irvine. This continued for some
years to be their breeding-place; but, unfortunately, the Eglinton Iron
works were established close to the Heronry, and the persecuted birds being
constrained to look out for some quieter habitation, have gone we know not
whither. — D. La7idsb(»'oughj Saltcoats.

Your correspondent, at page 60 of ^'The Naturalist," has omitted in his
list of Lincolnshire Heronries, to 'mention one which is situated at Manby,
near Brigg, on the estate of the Earl of Yarborough. I believe it is much
on the decline. — S. P. Alington, Sioinliope Rectory.

There is rather a large one at "The IVIoor," the seat of Mrs. Penoyre, in
Herefordshire, near the town of Hay, which is in Brecon : it has been there from
time immemorial. It is situated in a wood of large oaks, some of which being
once felled, but not grubbed up, the Herons deserted it for a time, but have
since returned. In the middle of August, 1849, a Heron was shot near a
large reservoir, belonging to the new river company, at Stoke Newington, near
Highbury, Middlesex. Another was also twice seen at the commencement of
last month, in a field at Highbury, and only half-a-mile from a populous district.
— E. E. Stride, Highbury Park, Islington, near London, August IG^/t., 18ol.

Thefe is one now in existence at Denny Lodge, New Forest, Hants. — /''.
Hyde. UArcy, Lymington, Hants., September 20i/i., 1851.

A few pairs of Herons have, during the past two summers, bred in Trenant

MISCELLANEOUS NOTICES, 211

Wood, the seat of W. Peel, Esq, — Clement Jackson, East Looe, September
lOtL, 1851.

There is a Heronry at Carton, Maynooth, the seat of Ireland's only Duke.
—G, B. Clarice, Wobuni, Beds., September 20th., 1851.

In addition to the Heronries mentioned in "The Naturalist," by J, Mc'Intosh,
Esq., I may notice two in this locality: — One in a wood belonging to Lady
Vane, on the margin of Bassenthwaite Lake, seven miles from Keswick,
Cumberland; the other on a small island in Rydal Lake, the property of
Lady le Fleming, Rydal Hall, Westmoreland. — William Greenip.

Pied Blackbird, (Merula vulgaris.) — I have now before me a preserved
specimen of the common Blackbird, shot by the gamekeeper of Thomas
Montgomery, Esq., of Garboldisham, in the winter of about 1838. The neck
and head are partially covered with white feathers. I should think from the
appearance of the plumage that he was a young bird. The gamekeeper told
me he was very shy and nimble, and gave him much trouble to shoot. —
U. C. Nunn, Diss, Norfolk, August Ath., 1851.

Partridges. — We are informed, says a correspondent in the ^'Norfolk News,"
by a gentleman who has a personal knowledge of the fact, that a nest of
Partridges was hatched at Ditchingham, near Bungay, between the 13th. and
18th. of April. We believe this to be one of the earliest dates on which
such an event has taken place. — Idem.

The Hawfinch, (Coccothraustes vulgaris,) breeding in Bedfordshire.- — The
second week in July of this year, four full-grown young Hawfinches were shot
at Woburn, Beds., which I have no doubt were bred in some of the Avoods
or plantations surrounding us; and an old female bird was shot about two
miles from here in the same week. I believe they breed regularly in the
woods and plantations about here, as there is not a summer passes over without
some of them being shot; and in the winter there are plenty of them both
here and in the surrounding neighbourhood. — George B, Clarke, Woburn, Beds.,
August 8th., 1851.

Capture of the Rose-coloured Pastor, (Pastor roseus.) — This remarkably rare
bird was recently shot at Coatham, near Redcar, and is now in the possession
of C. C. Oxley, Esq. of the latter place. — D. Ferguson, Redcar, October 8th.,
1851.

Occurrence of the . Rose-coloured Pastor, (Pastor roseus,) — A fine adult
female bird of this rare species was shot about the middle of last June, at
Tamerton, a village five miles distant from Plymouth. The only information
I could obtain as to its habits was that it much frequented a ploughed field.
— R. A. Julian, Jun., Laira House, Plymouth, August 2Gth., 1851.

^^ Occurrence of the Green Sandpiper, (Totanus ochropus.) — I shot a young bird

of this species, July 31st., near Crabtree, at the mouth of the River Plym,

212 MISCELLANEOUS NOTICES.

The Rev. C. Bulteel informs me he has frequently seen one at the mouth of
the River Ernie during the hist fortnight. A great distinguishing mark between
young and old birds of this species, (and also of the Greenshank, Redshank,
and Curlew Sandpiper,) is, that the rump feathers of the young are slightly
barred at their tips, those of adult birds being pure white. — Idem.

Note on Green Sandpiper. — August 14th. A pair of Tutamis Ocliropus,
male and female, were shot together at a small pond near St. Keyne; they
were in moult, but in good plumage, and very fat. The gizzards contained
a few aquatic larvae, and their contents diffused in water, appeared like a
quantity of small black hairs; which under the microscope, were apparently
a vegetable substance in a state of decomposition, — Clement Jackson, East
Looe, September 10^/j., 1851.

Singular situations for the nests of the Blue Tit, (P. ceruleus,) and Common
Moorhen, (G. chloropus.) — The Rev. Edmund Smyth, of Elkington, Lincoln-
shire, showed me, this spring, a nest of the Blue Tit placed inside a wooden
pump. The parent birds entered through the orifice made for the handle, and
the nest was placed about a foot below it, and was built all round the piston
rod of the pump, filling up the whole space inside; but the frequent working of
the piston rod produced a large hole through the centre of the nest. The young
were nestled up in one corner, but so near was the piston rod that it must have
grazed the old bird, when in use; notwithstanding this constant disturbance she
reared her young: one alone fiilling a victim, being crushed between the piston
rod and the nest. I believe she occupied the same situation last year. There is
a nest of the Common Moorhen at Croxby Lake, placed in a thorn-bush at
least three feet above the water. It is placed upon a broad branch, and built,
as usual, of rushes, etc. It had eggs when first found, and hangs slightly over
the water. — li. F. Alington, Sioinhope Rectory, Lincolnshire, Aitf/ust, 1851.

A White House Martin, (Hirundo urbica.) — For the last two or three days
1 have seen, sporting about with its companions, a pure white variety of the
House Martin. I have seen and frequently heard of a White Swalloiv, but
never before of a 'White House Martin — (perhaps some of your readers may.)
I am quite satisfied in my own mind that it is a ^llouso Martin,' from
frequently seeing it go out and into its nest, which is under the eaves of my
neighbour's dwelling, where there are four nests of this species. Mr. Hewitson,
in his valuable work on "The Eggs of British Birds," says, ^'The Martins
are, I fear, and I grieve to think it, yearly becoming less numerous in this
country." This fear I hope is groundless, for in the numerous villages with
which I am acquainted in this county, and other portions of England, Scot-
land^ and Ireland, I have always found more or less of these delightful and
interesting birds. Perhaps some correspondent may say, you ought to have
shot this bird: but I ssiy no! And only hope that it may be spared to
visit us again next spring. — J, Mc Intosli, Charminster, Dorset, Aiujust dth.,
1851.

MISCELLANEOUS NOTICES. 213

A White Sioallow. — On Monday, July 29th., I80I, Mr. Thomas Burrows,
Bird Preserver, of this town, shot on the Keyword, a hamlet of Diss, a
Chimney Swallow having all its plumage quite white — even the long feathers
of the tail and wings were the same colour. It is considered a fine specimen.
— E. C. Nunn, Diss, Norfolk, August 4dh., I80I.

During the winter Mr. Burrows shot that rare bird, the Ring Ousel,
(Turdus merula,) at Palgrave; a pair of Black Tern, {Slcrna fissiper,) on
Dickleburgh Moor; and a Bohemian Chatterer, (Bombycilla garrula,) at
Sturston; all these places are adjoining Diss. — Idem.

The Jackdaw. — I think your correspondent who states that he never saw
these birds build but in churches, must have had few opportunities of observing
the habits of the Jackdaw, other than those afforded him in his native town
of Totnes; for it is a notorious fact that there is scarcely a ruin of anv
magnitude which is not tenanted by them, as for example Rochester Castle,
Netley Abbey, Chepstow Castle, and numerous others throughout the United
Kingdom, which I could name were it necessary: but I believe bold cliffs
and wild mountainous districts to be the natural breeding places of these birds;
and in such situations .they will almost invariably be found. Jackdaws abound
in England, Scotland, Ireland, and Wales; and wherever in either of these
countries, the cliffs, marine or inland, are adapted for that purpose, they may
be seen, in the commencement of the breeding season, busily engaged preparing
for incubation. It would be taking up too much of your space to quote any
authors in support of this, I will therefore merely mention, for the benefit of
such of your readers as have not the opportunity of observing for themselves,
that if they will refer to either "Yarrell's British Birds," "Thompson's Birds
of Ireland," "Mudie's British Birds," or "Jardine's Naturalist's Library;" they
will, I think, be convinced that, although the Jackdaw resorts to Mother Church,
and secure in her precincts hath there, like the Sparrow, found her a house,
and, like the Swallow, a nest where she may lay her young; yet it docs not always
nestle there, but still retains its ancient and natural haunts, where, for centuries
before Christianity reached these islands, and ere there was a church tower to
afford it an asylum, it reared its callow brood. — E. K. Bridger, May 20th.,
I80I.

Jackdaw. — Page G7, "The Naturalist." The Jackdaw constantly builds in
this neighbourhood in hollow trees; and still more frequently in the chimneys
of houses, to the great annoyance of the inhabitants; quickly filling them up
to the top with sticks, in spite of smoke and fire. — B. P. Alini^ton, Swinhope
Rectory, Lincolnshire.

Jackdaw. — Churches are not the only places in which Jackdaws build.
The present year I knew of one that built in a chimney. I have frequently
found nests in the holes of trees, and likewise in the banks of gravel pits,
formerly rabbit-holes. — H. J. G.

Nesting of the Starling. — The Starling, (Stunius vulgaris,) has the last two

214 MISCELLANEOUS NOTICES.

or three years built platform nests, composed of twigs and bents, similar to a
Wood Pigeon's nest, in the branches of the Scotch fir, in the evergreens,
Woburn Park. — G. B. Clarice, Woburn, Beds., September 20th., 1851.

ARRIVALS OF SUMMER BIRDS OF PASSAGE,

AT PLYMOUTH, THIS YEAR, (1851,) UP TO THE END OF APRIL.

BY R. A. JULIAN, ESQ., J UN.

Chiff Chaff and Wheatear. March 21st. At Laira.

Blackccq). April 1st, In a garden at Yealmpton.

Sand Martin. April 7th. A pair were seen by my brother, flying over a
pond at Crabtree for many hours.

Swallow. April 13th. Saw a single bird in Plymouth.

Common Sandpiper and Yelloio Wagtail. April 14th. Sandpiper shot at
Laira, by Mr. Bolitho, Plymouth. Wagtail seen near Devonport.

Willoto Wren and Whitethroat. Saw several at Laira, April loth.

Redstart. April 16th. My brother saw one at Leigham.

Sedge Warbler. April 17th. Duck- Hunting-Pool, Laira.

Whinchat. April 17th. Shot at Laira.

Tree Larh and Wood Wren. April 1 9th. Saw one of the former, and shot
two of the latter, in Bickleigh Vale.

Grasshopper Warbler. April 20th. Saw one, and also heard it, as I was
going to Yealmpton church.

Hotise Martin and Passerine, or Garden Warbler. April 21st. Near the
Erme River.

GucJcoo. April 24th. Saw a male bird at Compton.

Laira Hoihse, Plymouth, June 23rc/., 1851,

Nesting of the Domestic Pigeon and Jaclcdato. — I should not have troubled
you with this communication, but that your correspondent, Mr. J. Mc'Intosh,
appears to invite a confirmation of the fiict that the House Pigeon prefers
forming its nest of twigs to straws, as noticed in his remarks on the nest of
the House Pigeon in a late number of "The Naturalist." I have for many
years kept a collection of superior bred fancy Pigeons, such as (Jarricrs,
Jacobins, Turbits, and other leading varieties, which are confined in a large
wired aviary, affording them ample space, and where they breed freely. Now
all these exhibit a great partiality for twigs to form their nests, in preference
to straw; and to indulge their wishes as far as practicable, I procure from
my friends all the worn down birch broom heads that I can obtain; and after
releasinof the twigs that are fastened to the handle, throw them to the birds
for their domestic purposes, and to which they are immediately applied. I
approve of their choice very highly, as the twigs form a most secure and
comfortable nest; the drainage assists in keeping it clean, and the sitting birds
look more interesting when surrounded by the birch; in fact I have adopted
the plan with my Pigeons that is in vogue with Her Majesty's Poultry nests
at Windsor, where they are formed of heath. I may add that as I keep

PROCE:^ DINGS OF SOCIETIES. 215

Cochin China Chickens and Sebright-laced feathered Bantams within the same
aviary^ to preserve them from the cats, with which I am surrounded, I am
necessarily obliged always to keep a quantity of straw within the aviary for
their use, which is within reach of the Pigeons, and of which they avail
themselves when not sufficiently supplied with birch broom heads, but never
otherwise. I have only one complaint to make on the subject of the twigs,
and that is, the Pigeons never appear to consider their nest completed while
one stick remains in view, and there is a possibility of dragging it in.

In reference to the nesting of the Jackdaw, I may observe that they not
only breed in churches, towers, castles, and hollow trees, but I have often
known them build their nests in the crevices of stone quarries in the vicinity
of Bath. When a boy I often assisted others in taking nests from such a
situation; and well remember on one occasion raking out one from an interstice
in the quarry by the assistance of a long blackberry thorn, which I twisted
into the nest, and in time withdrew altogether; it consisted of pieces of flannel,
rags, and cloth, and an old black kid glove, an old pen, and a quantity of
sticks, wool, etc., but, much to my disappointment, no egg. The Jackdaws
sat on the top of the quarry watching my proceedings with great interest
during the process of ejectment, and I dare say thought it a most illegal
step. — G. H. Broton, No. 5, Bears Place, New Noiih Road, London, September
9th., I80I.

Bemarhahle appearance of Oak trees, at JVohurn, Beds. — A great number
of the Oak trees in this district are so completely covered with Oak-apple
galls, produced by the puncture of the Cynips quercus, as to have more the
appearance of Apple trees loaded with ripe fruit, (only rather small ones,)
than Oak trees, there being such immense quantities of them. They have
a very pretty effect at this time of the year, and where other trees grow
beside them in full leaf, produce a very pleasing contrast. — G. B. Clarke,
Wohiirn, Beds., June 1th., 1851.

^c^rnrrrMugs nf Inrirtirs.

Yorkshire Naturalists' Club, Monthly Meeting, Wednesday, October \st., I80I. — Tlio club met
as usual, at Mr. Graham's, in Jubborgate, wlien E. Charlesworth, Esq. occupied the chair,
in the absence of the president, Professor Phillips; there was a full attendance of members.

Mr. "W". Thompsox exhibited a fine specimen of the Ring Ouzel, (Turdus torquatus,) which
he had shot on the 19th. of September last, in the Residence Gardens, close to York Minster.
This is a most unusiial locality for this bird; which, however is not very uncommon in some
parts of the "West Riding of Yorksliire.

ilR. Graham exhibited an old female Partridge, (Perdix cincrea,) which was shot by TV.
Garwood, Esq., near York, about the middle of last month. It was remarkable in having the
upper mandible veiy much elongated, and curved upwards and backwards, almost like the bill
of the Avocet. This curious malformation must have rendered feeding somewhat difficult, yet
the bird was in good condition.

Mr. Graham also shewed an extremely large male specimen of the Red Grouse, (Lagopns
BritannicHS,) which was lately shot in Yorkshire, by Mr. Wilkinson, of Myton. This remark-
able bird weighed full twenty-nine ounces — the usual weight in Scotland is about twenty-five

216 THE QUKRIST.

ounces. Tarrell has recorded one shot in Yorkshh-e, which vciglicd twenty -five ounces — the
Yorkshire birds usually are smaller than the Scotch. Pennant also mentions having heard of
one shot in Yorkshire, wliich weighed twenty-nine ounces.

Mr. Fergusox, of Redcar, exhibited a specimen of the old English Black Rat, (Miis rattus,)
which he had captured lately at Stockton-on-Tees, where it appears this spCcies still exists in
some numbers.

Mr. R. Cook, of Peel-Street, exhibited a curious leaf of the Common Spcar-mint, (Mentha
viridis,) in which, instead of being a single ordinary leaf, it was as though three leaves had
grown together. It was gathered in his garden in August last.

Shortly after nine o'clock the members separated.

E)itomological Society, Monthly Meeting, September \st., 1851. — J. 0. "W'estwood, Esq.,
President, in the chair.

Alfred Beaumont, Esq , of Huddersficld, was elected a member of this society.

Mil. Adam White exhibited a crustacean, the Nymphon gijanteum of Goodsir, taken at the
depth of twenty fathoms off the Shetland coast.

The President exhibited a moth reared from eggs, received from Mr. Parker, apparently
distinct from the true silk- worm moth; but of which the larva spun a fine kind of silk,
known in the north of China by the name of Tsatlee.

The President exhibited bred specimens of Nepticula centifoliella, the larva of which mine the
leaves of the rose, and previous to their transformation quit the leaves, and foiTn remarkably
minute brown cocoons in the bracts of the leaves.

Mr. Q-rant exhibited Peronea pcrmutann, Agrotis valligera, and Gelechia, all from Barnes-
common, being a new locality inland for species hitherto only taken on the coast.

Mr. Smith exhibited a Bee new to Britam, the Bomhus arcticus of Dalil, lately taken by
Mr. White, at Lei-wick.

€\}i iSim\±

Is it believed that Ichneumons pierce insects in the pupa state, and what proof have we that
they do so.' — G.

D. G. F. — Ether poured upon the head is a very effective mode of destroying the smaller
insects without injury to their colours: I have even killed the large dragon-fly in this manner.
Pounded laurel leaf in an air-tight box is another good method. — H. J. C, September 18th.,
1851.

Moorhen. — ^In confirmation of the statement of J. C, in "The Naturalist" of September, page
164, on the hatching of the Moorhen, previous to the last week in May or the beginning of
Jmie, I had a young Moorhen offered me in Surrey, on the 23rd. of May last, that had been
hatched at least a week. — Idem.

Will a spider ever rob the web of a neighbour? Will he use the neighbour's web as well as
his own, if the neighbour himself have been destroyed or removed.!" — p. Q. Morris, Nafferton
Vicarage, Driffield, October 1st., 1851.

In reply to the Qua;re of W. F. in "The Naturalist" for October, I have to say that water is
certainly not by any means necessary to the abode or the song of the Nightingale, for in Edlinton
wood, near Doncaster, these bh-ds abound, at least they did some years ago, though sadly thinned
by bird-catchers; and that wood is on the top of a little hill, with no water whatever m or
near it, unless it be some small pond for cattle. While speaking of the Nightingale, I have
also to observe that I believe York has hitherto been the farthest northern limit assigned to it;
but I plainly heard it, 'ni fallor,' about a mile south of Malton, namely seventeen miles north-
east of York. It was about eight years ago, when I was walking home one moonlight night.
— Idem.

Would Mr. Julian be so obliging as to record the date of his interesting visit to AVickcn-fen,
which in his account of in "The Naturalist" he has omitted to record? — Idem.

217

NOTES ON THE
ENTOMOLOGIGAL FAUNA OF PERTHSHIRE.

BY J. GRAY, ESQ.

'^Britisli Entomology, alone, to be well understood, is the study of a life."
This is a remark of one of the first naturalists which this country has produced
— a remark which cannot fail to be verified in the experience of those who
have made it a matter of studious moment; however much it may be regarded
in another light by others with whom possession is the greatest object of their
desires; for it lies only with the entomologist to understand and value the true
import — the great difierence between studying to obtain, and obtaining in order
to study.

It surely ought to aiford a pleasing occupation for leisure hours, especially
during those months when nature is, in a manner, sealed up, to examine her
productions collected when a milder season of the year called them forth in all
their joyous activity; and digest those materials so well calculated at once to
exercise the reason and the judgment, and raise the mind in its aspirations
after higher attainments; which, however abused, it is the province of Natural
History in a peculiar manner to awaken.

The investigation of the natural productions of certain circumscribed districts
tends very much towards the elucidation of peculiarities, often remarkable ones,
in the distribution and local character of species; opening up at the same
time a field of interesting inquiry, as to the changes which the march of civi-
lization and agricultural improvement has produced. It is only in this light
that collections of local fauna can be made subservient to the cause of science;
for looking upon them in any other aspect the philosophic naturalist can only
regard them as the most miserable attempts to restrict the interest in nature's
works, within the narrow limits of individual partiality; and, if instead of
looking upon them as what they really are — ^but a small link — a slight addition
to the knowledge of her extensive operations, they are recorded, as too often
is the case, as facts of exclusive moment; then indeed the attempt is made to
retard the knowledge of nature as she is, and the solution of rules which a
best are but partially understood, would seem but too truly to have become
a subject of little consequence; a circumstance of no rare occurrence amongst
British writers, and to which the majority of the entomologists of this country
certainly form no exception.

The insect fauna of our native country Scotland, bears in many respects
a striking resemblance to that of Norway and Sweden : this is the case partic-
ularly in the northern and western highlands, where many localities of the
deepest interest to the naturalist, remain to the present day in much the same
state as they have been for many centuries; thus affording a stronghold for
species which otherwise might have been extirpated, or which at least, might
only have remained to be recorded as straggling or uncertain natives of
Britain. The following notes it is hoped may be thus useful in attempting to

VOL. I. 2 F

218 ENTOMOLOGICAIi FAUNA OF PERTHSHIRE.

elucidate the geographical range of such species ; in any other respect the interest
attached to them has already been anticipated by continental writers more
than half a century ago — long before many of them had been kiio\Yn as
natives of this country.

We have been led into these remarks by a somewhat interesting commu-
nication we had recently from our friend Dr. Nelson, of Lytham, who a
short time ago instituted an investigation into the entomology of Perthshire.
Prevented by his professional engagements from carrying it on in person, he
employed a young lad for that purpose, and accordingly sent him to the
vicinity of the Black Forest, near Eannoch, for several weeks during the months
of June and July last. His more interesting captures may thus afford some
idea of the insect productions of the north, as contrasted with those of conti-
nental and English localities; a subject which by the way we are glad to see
is exciting an interest with some Scottish entomologists, who appear to be now
impressed with some idea of the utility of making known the results of their
investigations; and while we feel much pleasure in having it in our power in
some small degree to aid them, we must still remind them that the chief
benefit to be derived from such researches, lies altogether, as we have said, in
the enlarged views of nature's works that they are calculated to produce — a
subject of far higher moment, as shewing the operation of the laws of Him
who upholdeth all things, and who doeth nothing in vain, of Him who

"Givos its lustrn to an insect's wing',
And wheels his tlirouc upon the rolling worlds."

In Goleoptcra, this district of Perthshire is peculiarly interesting as a
Scottish locality. Without dessending to a minute enumeration of those kinds
which, though perhaps not very frequently met with, are yet generally dis-
tributed throughout the country, we will merely select such as from their
local habits seem to us to be worthy of special notice. In the surrounding hilly
districts, in common with many such like localities in Scotland, there occur
various Alpine species, such as Garahus glabratus and Gym'mdis basalts; Garabus
nitens and arvensis are also met with. It is, however, an investigation into
the forest localities that possesses most attractions for the entomologist, and
it is to the inhabitants of these haunts that we chiefly propose to direct our
attention.

Asemum striatum is not unfrequently met with flying during the sunshine,
and alighting on palings, cut timber, etc. This species, which appears to
be almost exclusively northern in its range, occurs in many other Scottish
localities, and is far from rare in the neighbourhood of Glasgow. It is seldom
seen however much further south in this country; but in Sweden and the
north of P^urope generally, it is a well-known insect,

Saperda scalaris occurs in very sparing numbers in Perthshire. We are
not aware of any other Scottish locality for this species, which in its general
range is much more southern than the preceding.

Besides the two common species of Rhagium, namely bifasciatum and

ENT05IOI-OGICAL FAUXA OP PKRTHSHIRE. 219.

Inquisitor, R. Imlagator occurs not unfrequently in company with both.
These three species are widely distributed throughout temperate Europe.

Lamia Textor: this truly interesting beetle forms a very conspicuous figure
in the entomology of this district. In its habits it is very local, and far
from common. Elsewhere in Scotland we are not aware of its occurrence;
but it is far from rare in many parts of the continent.

Asttjnomus Aijlilis: this very conspicuous insect is another truly interesting
species, and is perhaps the most conspicuous of our native Ceramhycidoe, from
the extreme length of the antenna) of the male. In this district it is by
no means scarce j and though we have known of its occurrence near Glasgow,
and several other widely distant localities, it is evidently a rare insect in
every other part of Britain. "Habitat in truncis arhorum Europoe." — Linn.
We find on referring to Moufiet's "Thesaurum Insectorum," page lol, a
very characteristic wood-cut of a male of this species, thus shewing it to
have been a long known insect, and originally figured, upwards of two hundred
years ago, in the first zoological work published in this country.

JPissodes Pini is not uncommon in many places, generally found resting on
the newly-felled firs.

Trichius fasciatus is very abundant, flying in the sunshine over flowers: this
lovely beetle is also very common in many parts of the continent. The
markings on the elytra vary considerably according to locality; thus it is
generally found that the black predominates on those from alpine districts,
while others inhabiting a milder locality, have the yellow more conspicuous.
In Perthshire both of these varieties occur in all intermediate stages; though
dark specimens are much scarcer.

Cetonia aurata: this beautiful beetle is also abundant in this neighbourhood,
but is of very local habits — flying over flowers in the hot sunshine. This is
an interesting locality for this species, which, however common in some districts,
appears to have been considered more southern in its distribution in this
country.

Amongst the species of diurnal lepidoptera few can be mentioned as not of
general distribution. Hipparchia Blandina occurs in this district pretty
commonly; it appears to be by no means a scarce^ insect in Scotland generally,
as it has been noticed as occurring in many distant localities.

IlipparcJda Cassiope is the most interesting butterfly which we have to
record as occurring in the hilly parts of Perthshire. It is strictly a mountain
species, and occurs in very sparing numbers.

The beautiful Bec-clearwing, (Sesia homhyliformis,) is occasionally observed on
the wing during the day, hovering over flowers in gardens, etc.

Orgyia Coryli is not unfrequent; indeed in Scotland generally, it is a well-
known and often an abundant insect.

Amongst the Noduce many interesting species frequent this district, sometimes
in considerable plenty, which appear to occur but sparingly in any other part
of Britain. Amongst these may be mentioned Acrcvyda Euplwrhioij liadcna

h

220 FIJKXS FOUND l\ COVNAMARA.

adusta and //. contiyua; Liiperina furva, and Stilhia anomalata are also far
from rare.

Hadena rectiUnea is also not imfrequent, and Plusia interrogaiionis also occurs
not uncommonly in this district on mountainous heath.

Polia tincta and P. occulta, though not abundant, are by no means rare,
the latter of which occurs in many beautiful varieties.

Anarta melanopa and A. cordigera are two very interesting species, both
occurring not unfrequently in this district; and confined, so far as we are
aware of their distribution in this country, to this district in Perth. As they
are evidently both alpine species we have no doubt of their occurrence elsewhere
in the north of Scotland. We observe they are mentioned by Thunberg, in
his original descriptions, as natives of Sweden.

Eupisteria faliginaria, (Linn.) E. carhonaria, (Fabr.) is not at all uncommon:
E. quinquaria is also frequently met with.

Psodos trepidaria — a pretty little insect — also appears in considerable
numbers.

With the above species we now conclude our notes, in the hopes that they
may not prove uninteresting either to the naturalist, or to his more humble
ally, the collector; as shewing what is sure to be the result of diligent search
and observation; but at the same time we cannot shut our eyes to the fact,
and we feel that the author of the sentence with which we opened our
remarks, did not overstep the bounds of truth when he said that ^^It is a
misfortune resulting from the passion of collecting, that nearly all naturalists
are more bent upon increasing the contents of their cabinets, than on studying
the economy of those living objects which are perpetually crossing their path."

Glasgow, Septeviber, 1S51.

LIST OF FERNS FOUND IN CONNAMARA.

BY HENRY SEEBOPIM, ESQ.

The district of Connamara, not inappropriately called the Irish Highlands,
combining, as it does, svch a variety of mountain, sea, lake, and island scenery,
might readily bo supposed to afford a rich harvest to the cryptogamic botanist;
and this would undoubtedly be the case, were it not for the almost entire
absence of wood. The Ferns here enumerated, with the exception of
Asplenium marinum, Cetera ch officinarmn, Polypodiuin p)liegopteris, and Pilularia
globulifera, were all gathered within a mile of the residence of James Ellis,
at Letterfrack, which is beautifully situated near the foot of Bengooria, and
commands a fine view of Ballinakill Bay. This list, made during a visit of
only three weeks, will no doubt be found to be imperfect; but since the
facilities for travelling hive been of late so much increased, it is to be hoped
that the Botany of so interesting a district will become better known.

Equisetum flmiutile abundant in several lakes.

FERNS FOUND IN CONNAMARA. 221

E. sylvaticum sparingly on the banks of small streams.

E. Telmateia flourishes on the banks of several streams: some specimens
measured upwards of three feet in height j and several of the branched fronds
were surmounted by a catkin.

E. arvense abounds wherever the land has been brought into cultivation.

Lomaria spicant is very common on the road-sides.

Pteris aqidlina: common.

Polypodium vuJgare occurs in considerable abundance.

P. pliegopteris: this fern I only found in one locality. Two miles from the
residence of J. Ellis, is a mountain which rises nearly two thousand feet
above the level of the sea, and which I had been climbing with a companion,
and an Irish labourer for a guide. We had just visited, with the help of
ropes, an Eagle's nest, and were descending a somewhat steep and very rocky
side of the mountain, when I found a few small plants of P. phegoptens iu
a wet chasm of the rocks.

Polystichum aculeatum and P. angulare: plants of well-marked character of
both these species are not unfrequently met with.

Lastrca oreopteris occurs very sparingly on the banks of one or two small
streams.

L. Filix-mas: abundant.

L. multiflora: common.

i. spinosa: frequent.

L. recurva: this species grows in considerable abundance among the loose
rocks on the banks of a mountain stream, which flows from a lake behind
Bengooria; and after passing through some high boggy ground, enters, by a
series of beautiful cascades, into a rocky valley; sometimes flowing in a narrow
channel between almost perpendicular rocks, which in several places widen,
and form a sort of natural amphitheatre, at the bottom of which is a deep
pool, generally abounding with trout. Most of the specimens were of a very
marked character: the lower pair of pinnae were largely developed, each leaflet,
more especially in the barren fronds, being concave, and the whole frond
very closely resembling in general habit that of L. rigida.

Athyrium filix-foemina is one of the commonest Ferns,

Asplenium adiantuvi-nigrum occurs in considerable abundance, I believe
invariably on limestone rocks.

A. marinum grows luxuriantly on High Island, about twelve miles from
Letterfrack. This island is quite a small one, but is surpassed by few in
the neighbourhood for the beauty of its clifis, and for the miniature fiords
which run into them, and into which the sea sometimes breaks with the
most imposing grandeur. The island is not inhabited, but it is used as a
Roman Catholic station; and the ruins of a church and two crosses carved
in stone are to be found upon it. I found several plants of this fern, in
which the fronds are very deeply serrated, some almost doubly pinnated.

A. rut a muraria I only found in one locality, on an isolated limestone

222 A DEVONSHIRE COPSE RAMBLE.

rock which protruded itself from among the surrounding mica slate.

A. tricJiomanes: it was very curious to observe in rambling over the
mountains, that wherever the limestone strata appeared there were almost
always plants of this fern growing in the crevices.

Scolopendrium vulgare is not unfrequent, but does not appear to attain
any great size.

CeteracTi officinannn is very abundant on the walls on the road-side
between Ovighterai-d and Gal way.

Hymenopliyllum tunhridrjense: I had expected to find this beautiful little
fern, and had searched most of the waterfalls for that purpose, but without
success. One day I had been out with a small party Fox-shooting on one
of the mountains, and we were overtaken in a heavy shower of rain. To
prevent our guns from getting wet we crept into a hollow formed by the
rocks, and we had not been there long before I found that the sides of the
cave were covered with a profusion of ILjmenopliylhim, and I subsequently
found it in gi'eat abundance in similar situations.

Osmunda regalis is one of the commonest ferns, and flourishes luxuriantly
on the banks of the lakes and streams.

Botnjcliium lunaria grows on the lawn in front of J. Ellis's residence.

Lycopodium selago abounds on all the mountains, generally preferring an
altitude of from eight to fourteen hundred feet above the sea.

L. inundatum I only found in one locality, on the boggy margin of a small
lake.

L. selnqinoides grows sparingly on most of the wet mountain sides, and on
the banks of some streamlets abundantly: in some specimens the spikes were
five inches and a half in height. I found this fern on the summit of mountains
one thousand nine hundred feet above the sea.

Isoetes lacustris is abundant in several of the lakes.

Pilularia glolmUfera grows in great abundance on a stream flowing from
Pollacappul Lough; but I was only able to discover one or two specimens
bearing pills.

Bradford, Septemler 2dth., I80I.

A DEVONSHIRE COPSE RAMBLE IN JUNE.

BY S. HANNAFORD, ESQ., J UN.

"The garlands fade that Spring so lately wove,

Each simple flowei-, which she had nurs'd in dew,
Anemones that spangled every grove,

The Primrose wan, and Harebell mildly bhie,
No more shall linger in the dell,

Or purple Orchis vaiiegato the plain;
Till Spring again shall call forth every bell,
And dress with humid hands her wreaths again."

Charlotte Smith.

A DEVONSHIRE COPSE RAMBLE. 223

It is wonderful to see how great a change has taken place in our woods
and fields, within the last month. Then they were filled with Spring flowers
innumerable; now, scarcely any can be seen, except the Germander Speedwell,
{Veronica chamcedrys,) the Spiked Speedwell, {V. spicata,)

"Looking up with gentle eye of blue,
To the younger sky of the self-same hue,"

With a few of the Cranesbills. But they have given place to others as
beautiful, although perhaps not quite so highly valued as those which come
as "bright harbingers of Spring." The foliage of the trees is now in perfection
— the dark shades of the Oak and the Sycamore contrasting beautifully with
the paler tints of the Ash, and the rich spike of white flowers of the Chestnut.
The air is filled with sweet odours, and everything is full of freshness and
vigour. William Howitt, in one of his very many charming works on the
country, says, that if ever he was tempted to turn angler, it would be now;
merely for the pleasure of rambling by a quiet stream away from the -cares
of the world, amidst the beauties of nature; even though taking not a single
fin. Does not this find an echo in the heart of many a true lover of nature?
What can equal the rosy tints of the Apple blossom, which we see in all
directions in Devonshire? one tree white; another the richest crimson; others
too of a more delicate hue, tempting us almost to exclaim with Ebenezer
Elliott,

"Wliat virgin's cheek
Can mutch the Apple bloom?"

There cannot be a more delightful walk than through some of our Devonshire
Copses. Perhaps a few lovers of Botany will ramble with me for a while
through one of them. About a mile from where I write is Bid well Copse,
at one time famous for the numerous pic-nics which took place there, under
the shade of a fine old Oak, cut down about twelve years since, which bore
the name of Bidwell Oak. Round this tree seats and a stone table were
placed, and a stream of the purest water ran underneath. The beauties of
Bidwell were lauded a hundred years ago, by Dr. Benjamin Kennicott, the
able divine and literary critic — a native of Totnes: —

"0 beauteous Bidwell! dearest rural seat!
May endless verdure deck thy soft retreat;
"With thee dwell every joy! Thy silver stream,
By swains and nymphs be sung in pleasing theme.
Eise into glory — call the poets forth,
To pay tlie debt of justice to thy worth."

Mss. Poem, 1750.

The Copse is entered by crossing a little rustic wooden bridge, under which
ripples a clear brook,

"Babbling so wildly of its lovely daughters,
The spreading Blue-bells."

Keats.

Which runs into the Dart about half-amile below. Everything here appears

224 A DEVONSHIRE COPSE RAMBLE.

refreshed by the heavy showers of late; and we scarcely know which way to
turn first, for there is beauty on every side, and everywhere we are "Brushing
ancle-deep in flowers;" so let us along these overgrown pathways and explore
for ourselves. On all sides we are saluted by the sweet-smelling Wild Honey-
suckle {Lonicera periclymenum,,) —

"Thnt sweet Honeysuckle, -whieh
Is fair as fragi'ant."

Carringtox.

And the delicious Sweet-Brier, (Eosa ruhiginosa;) "Rain-scented Eglantine"
and "Dew-sweet Eglantine/' as that pure soul Keats sweetly called it. Here
too, is another flower which casts its fragrance around — the Bastard Balm,
(Meliftis melissophyllum.) It can scarcely be overlooked, as it grows nearly
two feet in height; the flowers white, and the lower lip marked with a dull
violet; leaves large and much serrated: the flowers, as well as the leaves,
retain their delightful smell when dried. Now we come to one of the handsomest
of our wild flowers, the Foxglove, {Digitalis purpurea,) with its beautiful drooping,
crimson bell-flowers, spotted and hairy within. It appears to flourish here in
dry as well as in wet soils; for it grows luxuriantly on the banks of the
Dart, to a height of three or four feet. It is said to be almost unknown
in Norfolk and Suffolk, preferring rocky and hilly counties. In Scotland it
has various names — "Bloody Fingers," and "Dead Man's Fingers," alluding to
to the shape and colour of its flowers. This is a valuable medicinal plant, an
infusion of the leaves being frequently used in dropsical and inflammatory
cases. The bright yellow flowers of the St. John's Wort may now be found,
(^Hypericum perforatum and pulchrum.) To the St. John's Wort is attributed
the power of keeping away evil spirits. There is an old legend of a fiend
paying his addresses to a lovely girl; but finding that she had St. John's
Wort in her bosom, he says,

"Gin ye wish to be leman mine,
Lay aside St. John's "Wort, and the Vervain."

On the continent it is usual on St. John's Day, to gather a species of St.
John's Wort, and hang it ovei* the cottage doors, and place it in the windows,
under the idea that it will prevent evil spirits from entering, and propitiate
the saint himself.

The Yellow Meadow Vetchling, (Lathyrus pratensis,) is peeping forth from
the hedge-rows; and the Nettles, {Urtica urens and dioica,) smaller and greater,
are both in flower : —

"O'er the throng, Urtica flings
Her barbed shafts, and darts her poisoned stings."

DARWIN.

The leaves of the Great Nettle, (U. dioica,) are boiled, and eaten as a
vegetable by the peasantry in some parts of Ireland.

What a pretty sight it is to see the Dragon-flies, (Libellulidce,) of every
hue^ darting about in all directions over the brook — red, blue, green, white — ■

A DEVO>JSHIRE COPSE RAMBLE,

225

as harmless as possible, althougli generally considered to have the power of
stinging! And here let a word be said for the little Water Eft, or Evit, as
it is more generally called in this neighbourhood, so common in every pool
of water, and so much despised for its supposed venomous qualities. It is
quite harmless, and does not possess the means of stinging, as any one may
prove by taking one into his hand.

By the side of the stream we may find the Common Watercress flowers
(Nasturtium officinale,) and the handsome Yellow Iris, (Ms pseudacorus,)
which Withering calls the "Fleur de lis," although other Botanists have
given that name to the Purple or Stinking Iris, {Iris foetidissima.) a smaller
flower than the last, also conimon here; and Miss Catlow, in her valuable
introductory work on "Field Botany," applies it to both. The Yellow Iris
is known in many places as the Flag Sedge and Corn Sedge, and by the
Scotch as Water Skeggs. In moist situations the pretty flowers of the
Guelder Rose, or Water Elder, {Viburnum opulus,) are now opening, and
well worthy of notice. The marginal flowers, which open first, and are
much larger than those in the middle of the cyme, are destitute of both
stamens and pistils. The delicate Butterfly Orchis, {Hahenaiia hifolia;) the
Gresn-winged Meadow Orchis, {Orchis morio;) and the feathery cream-coloured
flowers of the Meadow Sweet, or Queen of the IVIeadows, {Spircea ulmaria,)
are in abundance here. Amongst the grass we occasionally find a few specimens
of Golden Rod, (Solidago virgaurea,) but it is more plentiful in Dartington
Hill Copse, a little way on; and more rarely still, the beautiful flowers of
the Milkwort, {Polygala vulgaris.) Here they are blue, but elsewhere in
the neighbourhood they may be found pink and white, the more general
colours.

It would, I fear, tax too much the patience of my companions in this
lovely ramble, to introduce to their notice all the plants which flower this
month; there are still, however, to be found here the Wood Betony, {Betonica
officinalis;) the rosy flowers of the Mallow, {Malva rotundifolia;) the Bugloss,
{Lycopsis arvensis,) with its handsome purple flowers and bristly stem and
leaves; and the delicate pink ones of the Lesser Willow Herb, {Epilohium
parvi florum;) and adjoining the copse the Red Poppy, {Papaver Rhceas;) the
Car Woundwort, {Stach/s arvensis;) the Pimpernel, {Anaga'lis arvensis;) and
the Wild Heartsease, ( Viola tricolor,) are enlivening the corn-field with their
bright-coloured flowers. I trust many who glance over this hasty sketch will
visit this delightful spot, and

"Pay the debt of justice to its worth."

Totnes, Devon., June, 1851.

VOL I 2 0

226
THE NIGHTINGALE, {PHILOMELA LUSGINIA)

IJY R. A. JULIAN, ESQ., JUN.

I WAS quite delighted to observe such well authenticated accounts recorded by
Mr. Bird, (at page 176 of "The Naturalist,") of the Nightingale having fre-
quently occurred in some parts of Devon. That gentleman, however, seems
to hint that observers are wanting in other parts to note the appearance of it
there also; I think the following query will be sufficient to stagger his
opinion : —

Is it probable that if the Nightingale frequently visited localities between
Plymouth and Kingsbridge, the latter having been the residence of that very
accurate observer of nature. Colonel Montagu, he would have noticed it on
only one occasion? I have many times been informed by persons in the
neighbourhood of Plymouth, that during such a night they had heard a
Nightingale singing; but whenever I had an opportunity of accompanying them
to the spot on a future occasion, I have always been disappointed, the sup-
posed Nightingale proving to be a Woodlark, a common species with us, and
one which sings much during fine nights, and possesses notes but little inferior
to the far-famed warbler. I have had frequent opportunities of observing the
habits of the Nightingale in the neighbourhood of Cambridge, where, in the
season, this species abounds. It frequents spinnies and thickets about here,
distant from as well as near water. Of a fine evening I have heard quite a
dozen in a narrow plantation adjoining the high road between Cambridge and
Trumpsington. When all around is quiet, it delights to pour forth its pleasing
and ever-admired notes and strains from a conspicuous situation, such as the
branch of a tree above, or a top part of a thicket, into which, when disturbed,
it immediately resorts for protection, and will warble away within a few feet
of an intruder, or utter a croaking note, much resembling that of the frog;
defying the sharpest eyes to get a good view of it.

This birds sings much during the day as well as night, more especially
on its arrival. A clod thrown into the thicket, or a rustling among the leaves,
is enough to make it commence, even if previously silent, its truly admirable ditty.
There is something in the formation and situation of the nest, placed usually
in some thorn stump, and not unfrequently touching the ground, at the foot
of a tree among a group of nettles or other weeds, to delight the eyes of a
spectator. The uniform olive brown eggs, (the shades varying a little in dif.
ferent nests,) from four to six, and rarely seven in number, deposited on a neat
lining of horse-hair or fibres, and frequently both mingled together, within an
exterior of dead leaves seemingly carelessly, but nevertheless skillfully put together,
are well worthy the notice of the lover of nature. I could say more in favour
of this elegant-formed, though not bright-coloured summer sojourner with us,
but I must forbear, as I fool incompetent to give it its due meed of praise,

Emmanuel College, Camhridge, Novemher 1th., 1851.

227
NOTES ON THE BLACK REDSTART, {PRCENIGURA TITHYS.)

BY JOHN GATCOMBE, ESQ.

The Black Redstart is a regular winter visitant to the neighbourhood of
Plymouth, arriving generally the first week in November, and departing at
the end of March, or very early in April. They frequent the cliffs and rocks
along the coast above high water mark, and quarries in the vicinity of the
sea: ramparts of fortresses and stone buildings of any kind appear attractive
to them. They are sometimes seen in churchyards, flitting about on the tomb-
stones, and making short excursions in the air after insects, much in the
manner of the Flycatchers. They are also particularly partial to the vicinity
of old stone arches and caverns, where they will immediately hide when
pursued, and remain concealed for a length of time.

During the first week of their arrival these birds are rather plentiful, but
after that time they disperse, though I have observed that a favourite locality is
seldom without its Blackstart during the winter; and should one be killed
another takes its place in a few days. They appear very liable to be caught
in traps, for I have, on several occasions, obtained them with their tails and
wings clipped apparently with a pair of scissors; in one instance I shot one
with its tail cut short, and a piece of red worsted tied round its leg. The
majority of birds that visit us are the young of the year, old males being
very scarce and shy. In their actions, these birds, in many respects, resemble
both the Robin and Wheatear.

In plumage these birds vary considerably: I have obtained them with black
breasts, yet without a shade of white on the tertials; then again with the
white on the wings very strong, and not a sign of black on the breast: this
appears to me very strange, as the black almost invariably appears before the
white. The young males of the year are easily distinguished from the
females, by being of a more uniform slate grey, without the brown tinge that
is observable in the female. It appears that the males are several years in
arriving at their full plumage; in very old birds the back is almost as dark
as the breast.

Wyndham Place, PlymoidJi, October, 1851.

ON THE COMMON DUNG BEETLE, {BOLBOCERAS
MOBILICOBNIS.)

BY MR. MICHAEL WESTCOTT.

The extraordinary muscular power of the above Beetle was wonderfully
exhibited to me the other evening. Having caught two of these Beetles, I
wrapped them up in my pocket-handkerchief, and by the time I reached home
they had eaten several large holes in the handkerchief. It being late I placed
them under two high brass candlesticks, about three-quarters of a pound each.

228 ON THE COMMON DUNG BEKTLE.

In the morning I found the candlesticks were removed from where I had left
them, one about eight inches, and the other nearly so, and the Beetles gone.
I was surprised at this, not being aware that so small a creature was capable of
making its escape from so strong a hold. The next evening I captured two more,
which I took home, and placed them separately under the same two candlesticks,
upon a rough deal board. I soon observed the candlesticks to move backwards
and forwards in quick succession. I then placed a two-pound weight on top of
one of the candlesticks, and then the Beetle moved the whole, two inches in
three-quarters of an hour: the weight being altogether two pounds and three-
quarters. Any person who wishes to be convinced by personal observation, of
course has an opportunity to try for himself.

Since receiving the above, we have been favoured by Mr, Westcott with a
specimen of the Beetle, which however was deadj it proves to be Bolboceras
vioMicornis; along with it were the following additional observations. The
muscular power of many insects is extraordinary as compared with that of
any of the higher animals. — B. Ji, M.

Inclosed is a specimen of the Dung Beetle, which I hope is alive, so that
you may be able to try a similar experiment to the one which I had the pleasure
of witnessing. Willing to ascertain if this one was as strong as its congener,
I placed it under a candlestick, which is twelve ounces; but I am not sure
that it was the same candlestick as in the former case, however the Beetle was
under, and I put three pounds eight ounces on the top, and strange to say,
the little animal moved the four pounds and a quarter, nine inches, in four
teen minutes. It was with interested attention I watched it perform the
Herculean feat, I put a second ixnder, but the candlestick did not move; I
lifted it up smartly and I found they were using their strength in opposition
to each other, I put it over them again, and presently it began to move
very rapidly, nearly quarter of an inch at a time; then they were both united
in their efiorts to escape, and which they would have readily accomplished if
it had been the candlestick alone which detained them, Next I allowed one
to crawl partly out, so that the edge of the candlestick rested on the centre
of the thorax, and by two or three hard struggles he cleared himself from the
pressure. Anxious to se3 how it managed to move its weighty prison, I placed
one under a rummer glass, andj after it had been enclosed for a short time, it
took a firm hold of the tablecloth with its mandibles, and the hooks of its
two fore legs, and then by gradually raising the abdomen, it forcibly pushed
the glass along. But it could not move the glass alone but very slightly,
owing to the smoothness of the interior.

By observing the habits and economy of the Dung Beetle, it is evident that
great muscular power is required in the important office of multiplying its
species. For this purpose the female bores holes a considerable depth in the
earth, and deposits her eggs at the base, rolled up in little pellets of horse
or cow dung, and leaves them until the return of spring, when the eggs are

ARRIVALS OP THE SUMMER BIRDS OF PASSAGE. 229

hatched^ and the little creatures escape from their loathsome covering.

If the elephant were as strong — in comparison to his enormous bulk — as
the Dung Beetle^ what a formidable enemy would he be! Bulwarks, towers,
and cities, alike would-be subject to his powerful and ruinous attacks. But
here the wisdom of God presents itself; for according to the economy of nature,
no one individual species requires strength: they are all endowed with sufficient
to perform the duties assigned them; and where strength is deficient, contrivance
is resorted to with success.

W^Us, Somerset J October Vdth. 1851.

NOTICE OF THE

ARRIVALS OF THE SUMMER BIRDS OF PASSAGE,

AT HENLEY -UPON -THAMES, IN 1851.

BY MR. C. STUBRS.

NO.

NAME.

WIIEX FIItST SEEX,

1.

Chiffchaff,

March

30.

2.

Whitethroat,

April 3.

3.

Wryneck,

}y

11.

4.

Redstart,

}}

13.

5.

Chimney Swallow,

;>

13.

6.

Bank JMartin,

y}

13.

7.

Nightingale,

}y

17.

8.

■ Blackcap,

}}

18.

9.

House JMartin,

}}

18.

10.

Cuckoo,

}}

21.

11.

Sedge Warbler,

})

24.

12.

Reed Warbler,

})

26.

13.

Titlark,

}}

30.

14.

Common Sandpiper,

}}

30.

15.

Swift,

Mny

' 7.

16.

Turtle Dove,

}}

11.

17.

European Thicknee,

}}

12.

18.

Lesser Whitethroat,

}}

11.

19.

Flycatcher,

})

15.

20.

Land Rail,

}}

19.

21.

Goat Sucker,

})

27.

Henley- upon-TJiames, October Id., 1851,

230

BlisrrllnnraitH JhWm,

The Hare. — In the summer of 1845, I obtained a young Leveret, which
in a few days became very tame and familiar, so much so, that on placing
it on a table and plucking its fur, so as to tease it a little, it would continue
to combat with me as long as I chose, by darting at my hand with its
fore paws, at the same time uttering a sound somewhat between a grunt
and a hiss. It was very fond of milk, which it lapped out of a saucer like
a Cat. At this time I had a very handsome and sagacious little Cocker
Spaniel, named Clara, and a large Cat, neither of which manifested thq. least
inclination to harm my little foundling; on account, I suppose, of seeing me
caressing it; nor did the Hare betray any dread of their company, or seek
to avoid them in any way; on the contrary, it was my usual custom to
cause all three to lap milk together out of the same dish; and it was certainly
a curious and interesting sight to witness the natural instincts of three dissimilar
animals so far perverted by civilization, if I may use the expression, as thus to
feed peacefully and confidingly together, without seeming to be aware of the
enmity that nature originally placed between their races. — A . S. Moffat, Beioick
Folly, October 21st., 1851.

White Bat. — A white variety of the common House Rat was killed a few
days since by a Rat-catcher, while pursuing his avocation in the stables of
an inn in this city; but was so mutilated by the man's dog before he could
get hold of it, as to render its preservation impossible. — F. M. Burton, Linthim
Souse, Lincoln, October 20tk., 1851.

Lark's eggs taJcen from the stomach of a Hatolc. — In visiting one day a
collection of birds and eggs, belonging to a bird-stuffer in this town, I was
shewn tioo Larlcs eggs, uninjured, which I was assured had been taken from
the stomach of a Goshawk in the spring, which had been sent to him for
preservation. At first I could hardly credit this; but on careful inquiry, I
find the statement to be correct. Can any of your readers inform me how
the Hawk could have taken up and swallowed such delicate eggs without
injury to them. — F. Hyde D'Arcy, Home Mead, Lyminyton, Hants., July 30th.,
1851.

We have received the following corroboration of the above curious fact
from Mr. Curtis, who stuffed, and Mr. Cox, who was present when the eggs
were discovered in the crop of the Hawk. — £. B. M.

Sir,

This is to certify that the assertion made by me to Mr. D' Arcy,
respecting the eggs being taken from the crop of the Goshawk, is quite
correct. I received the bird a few months since, to stuff for the person who
shot it; and perceiving something hard in its crop, I was very careful in
opening it; when, to my great surprise, I took therefrom two perfect Lark's

MISCELLANEOUS NOTICES. 231

eggs, which I cleaned and blew. They are now in the possession of Mr.
D'Arcy. — W. Curtis, Lymington, Scptemher ^Oth., 1851.

Witness to the above, T. Cox.

P. S. The person who shot the Goshawk, and has it in his possession,
is Mr. Lightfoot, of Bashley, near Lymington. — W. C.

Nidification of the Moorhen, (Gallinula chloropus.) — With regard to the nesting
of the Moorhen, I have no doubt but that the period mentioned for the appear-
ance of the first brood, by your correspondent, J. C, may, as respects
Devonshire, be correct^ but at the same time I may not be altogether out of
my reckoning. J. C. writes from Devonshire, I from the north-east corner of
Lincolnshire. In these two very far-distant counties, the difference of climate
will surely make a corresponding difference in the time of nidification. When I
left Lincolnshire this year for the south, in April last, the Rooks for instance,
were not at all advanced to that state when it is considered desirable to
make them into pics; but when I arrived in Bedfordshire, I found the
Rook-shooting commenced. Partridges are forwarder in the south than here;
and with regard also to vegetation, the corn is at least from two to three
weeks in advance of us in the more southern districts; and the south of this
county has even great advantage in this respect over my more northern
habitat. I am sorry I -was from home during the hatching of the first brood
of Moorhens this year; but when I left in the last week of April, I could
find no symptom of a nest, indeed there was no cover in our ditches or ponds
to affor J one a shelter. Some few in this district possibly may, and probably
do, hatch earlier than the end of May, in localities that are well adapted
for their purpose, in well sheltered situations in the neighbourhood of stack-
yards, where food is abundant, and in what are termed "early seasons;" but
I think the bitter cold springs we are subject to, and the want on that
account of proper cover in this district, may easily account for the difference
of a week or two in our accounts of the Moorhen's nesting. In the "Zoologist,"
page 722, I find the following, from the pen of A. Newton, Esq., Eldon,
Suffolk: — ^'Moorhen's first egg laid 23rd. of April." Allowing all the eggs
to be laid by the 1st. of May, they would not be hatched until the latter
end of the third week, three weeks being the time of incubation. Again,
Yarrell, vol. iii., page 33, "The first brood generally are hatched the end of
May." — R. P. Alington, Sioinhope, November Sth., 1851.

Anecdote of a Moorhen, (Gallinula chloropus.) — I was witness the other day
to an instance of the love of liberty in the Moorhen, which perhaps may be
worthy of notice. I was walking along the banks of the Rodding, in Essex.
with two retrievers, Avhen they flushed a Moorhen; and, after having hunted
it for some time, I discovered it close under the bank where I was standing;
but on my attempting to capture it, it deliberately dived to the bottom, (the
water was not above eighteen inches deep,) and remained under water while I

282 MISCELL.VXZOUS NOTICES.

threw off my garments; and on taking it from the water life was nearly
extinct, thus preferring, it appeared, death to captivity. — Samuel Howell Carter,
Bruce Grove House, Tottenham, Odoher 2nd., 1851.

Carnivorous propensity of tJie Gull family, (Laridae.) — I see in '^The
Naturalist," an account of the carnivorous propensity of the Herring Gull,
(Larus argentatus) My belief is that all Gulls, when pressed for food, are
carnivorous: I can answer for several from my own experience. The Greater
and Lesser Black-backed Gulls, (L. marinus, and L. fuscus,) I have had in
my garden for some time, and their food is chiefly flesh of some kind: rats
they are particularly fond of, and the Greater Black-backed makes no diffi-
culty in swallowing half-gi'own ones; and should they be three-parts grown,
a good soaking in some water makes them disappear as easily as their
younger brethren. The Common Gull, (L. Canus,) and Black-headed Gull,
(L. ridibundus,) also are fond of the same food; in fact when I feed some
trained Merlins which are fastened by their traces to stones on the grass in
front of my windows, if not watched Avhen fed, the Gulls soon have the
food away from them. Blackbirds which are caught in small rat-traps in my
garden, if not soon removed, are sure to be killed and eaten by the Gulls,
Common and Black-headed. I shot, in January 1850, an Iceland Gull, (L.
leucopterus,) on the beach near Southwold, (at Benacre;) it was in the act
of feeding upon the remains of a Lesser Black-backed Gull. A friend of
mine, who for years kept tame Gulls, was obliged to get rid of a Larger
Black-backed Gull, on account of his propensity for eating, or bolting I
should say, young chickens. The Herring Gull, (L. anjentatus,) I have also
kept in confinement for some time on flesh. The Kittiwake I never had,
but have no doiibt of its doing well on the same kind of food. — John Farr,
Benacre, Suffolk, October 2'Znd., 1851.

Bed-necJced Grebe, (Podiceps rubricollis.) — Three specimens of this bird,
shot near York, came under the notice of Mr. D. Graham, of this city, the
la3t week in January and th3 first in February, 1850, of course in the winter
plumage. The iiides of all these specimens were of a dirty yellowish white
colour, and not red, as is usually recorded. Two of these were the only
specimens of this bird that have ever come under my notice in the flesh;
and I should be glad to know if my observations on the colour of the iris
can be confirmed by other observers, and also if it holds good in the bird in
summer time. — JB. B. M.

The Cvxikoo. — I suppose sufficient has been said respecting the Cuckoo,
but perhaps the following may be considered worthy of recording. The weather
was remarkably mild during the month of February in the neighbourhood
of Torquay, and I was truly surprised to hear the Cuckoo at that unseasonable
time. It remained with us a fortnight during the fine weather; its voice
was as strong and clear as ever; I heard it in May or June. The spring
was afterwards cold, and we did not hear the Cuckoo again till later than

MISCELLANEOUS NOTICES. 233

its usual time of appearance. I thought every person acquainted with country
life was aware that the Hedge Sparrow, (Accentor,) and Wagtail were
generally selected as the foster parents of the young Cuckoo j indeed, among
our large woods in Hampshire, where the Cuckoo is so common, the Hedge
Sparrow is most often the parent. No instance of a young Cuckoo being
found in a Titlark's nest ever came to my knowledge till one of the men
here, in cutting some grass among the young trees, happened to wound the
young bird in the nest; the Titlark was flying round with food. I am,
however, informed that the Titlark's nest is mostly selected for this purpose
in South Devon. A young Cuckoo was hatched in a Wagtail's nest, close
by the steps of a small pond in the flower garden at Highclere; it became
remarkably tame, and remained on the lawn during a great part of the
summer. I recollect Lord Carnarvon, and the company visiting Highclere
House, being much amused by the singular way in which it was fed. As
the bird grew larger, it of course required more food, and the poor little
Wagtails were kept busily employed flying about, and nearly every minute
one or other alighted on the Cuckoo's back, when it turned its head round
and opened its large beak to be fed. I thought at the time it would form
a very pretty subject for an artist; and if this is common, I wonder advantage
has not been taken of it, for it would form a very pleasing picture. — James
Carton, Gardeners Journal, October 4th., 1851. '

Note on the CucJcoo, (Cuculus canorus.) — In a hole four inches and a half
high, three inches and a half wide, ten inches deep, and four feet from the
ground, in the wall of a dwelling-house, and not thirty feet from the entrance
door, where people are continually passing and repassing the whole of the
day, in the parish of Walton, the property of the Marquis of Bath, last
year a Cuckoo laid her egg in the nest of a Robin. The Robin's eggs were
thrown out, and the Cuckoo was hatched and fed till she became too large
for her contracted habitation, when she worked herself out, and fell on the
ground, from whence she was removed, and put into a cage and hung against
the wall, just above the hole. She continued to be fed by the Robin for a
long time, when she was set at liberty and flew away. — William Beynolds,
Walton, near Glastonbury, September liith. 1851.

Occurrence of the Grasslwpper 'Warbler, (Salicaria locustella.) — Heard one
of these birds August 17th., 1851, uttering its grinding notes in a thicket
of low thorns and brambles, on the side of the Dartmoor Railway, at about
two miles from Plymouth. During last season I obtained thirteen of these
Warblers in the neighbourhood of Cambridge; the date of a visit in pursuit
of them, to Wicken-fen, which I perceive the Rev. F. 0. Morris rightly
notices my omitting, I find on referring to my note-book I neglected to
enter; as near as I can trace, it was within two days of May 15th.,
1851. — R. A. Julian, Jun., November 7th., 1851.

VOL. I. 2 II

234 MISCELLAN'KOUS NOTICES.

Note on the nesting of the Jackdaw, (Corvixs nionedula,) in the Scotch
fir. — Having noticed the Jackdaws flying in and out of the evergreens in
Woburn Park, very frequently this summer, and knowing there was not a
sufficient number of decayed trees to allow of their building in holes that
might be in them, in fact where I saw them the most busily engaged was
where the bulk of the trees are fir, the outermost ones being mostly rhodo-
dendrons, laurels, and other evergreen shrubs, I thought this a singular place
for them to build in; but singular or no, they have built there, and not
in holes. The Jackdaw has chosen a forked branch, and has built a large
nest in the fork; the first layer or foundation of it is composed of small
twigs, and the remainder of the nest is built of coarse sedge, and lined
with fine dry grass. — G. B. Clarke, Wuhurn, Beds., October Vdth., ]851.

Alpine Swift, (Cypselus alpinus.) — Tn the Yeovil ^J'imes newspaper, of
September 23rd., I see an account of the anniversary of the Somersetshire
Archeological and Natural History Society, at which meeting a Mr, B. Fry,
of Axbridge, exhibited a specimen of the Alpine Swift, a very rare bird
in this country, which was shot by S. L. Fry, Esq. — Idem.

Carnivorous propensity of the Barn-door Fowl. — One day last winter, while
passing a neighbouring farm-stead, I was surprised by the tenant, Mr. R.
Morrison, holding in his hand a Hen of the Common Fowl quite dead, being
suffocated in consequence of its having endeavoured to swallow a large mouse,
which some boys had killed while a stack of corn was being taken down to
be thrashed. — A. S. Moffat, Bewick Folly, October 21si., 1851.

Heronries. — In addition to those already mentioned in "The Naturalist,"
there is one existing in Chillingham Park, Northumberland, the seat of the
Earl of Tankerville. — Idem.

Materials used in the nest of the House Pigeon. — Having seen in '^The
Naturalist" some communications concerning the nesting of the House Pigeon,
perhaps the following remarks may be interesting: — In a large Pigeon-house,
I last year kept from thirty to forty pair. The laying-holes were built of
stone; in some of these I had nests made of hay, and in others of straw;
in the former the Pigeons very rarely laid, and, I believe, never hatched their
eggs; in the latter some few were reared; but the Pigeons did not seem
partial either to hay or straw. The most favourite laying-place appeared to
be the bare stones, until, from having reared their young in the same spot
time after time, a kind of nest was formed by the accumulation of their own
dung. There were five or six nests made of twigs roughly put together,
which were principally of elm, of which wood there was a stack close by. I
never knew Pigeons use straw or any other similar material in making their
own nests; but I was not aware that the use of twigs for that purpose was
an uniLSual circumstance, as I have frequently observed it. — A. M. Norman,
Fgleifield, Yatton, Somerset.

MISCELLANEOUS NOTICES. • 285

The House Sparrow, {Passer domesticus,) sometimes builds its nest in trees,
althougli many little snug holes and corners in old buildings may be close
at hand; however, when this whim induces him to construct the large oval-
shaped nest, rather flat at the top, it is composed of hay, lined with feathers,
in such profusion that a pillow might soon be stuffed with the contents of
a few. I have invariably found them in the thick part of a holly in
preference to any other tree, indeed I never found them in any other in
this locality, (Pannal.) It is generally built about eight feet from the ground,
often near road-sides and footpaths much frequented: the little fellow seems
to place great confidence in his stronghold, l^he entrance, a little hole in
the side, is generally fronting the south. A farmer had dislodged a couple
of Sparrows which had built under a spout, and after taking the nest and
eggs, he stopped up the hole with mortar. You would naturally suppose
they would forsake this locality after such a sorrowful proceeding; but nothing
disconsolate, they soon fixed upon a new site — ^^a fine holly bush was close
at hand — a nest was constructed, and a family reared in safety. Who can but
admire the perseverance displayed under such adverse circumstances? Such
little examples may be of profit even to ourselves. A' singularly-coloured
Sparrow was observed a short time ago at Sheepscar, near Leeds; it possessed
the common characteristics, excepting the primaries and tail, which were
white. — J. Dixon, 7, Copenhagen-Street, Leeds, October 11th., 1851.

Early nesting of the Thrush, (Turdus musicus.) — There was a nest with
four young Thrushes fully fledged, in the beginning of February last, near
Winchester. — F. Hyde D'Arcy, Lymington, Hants., September 20th., 1851.

Yew Fruit, (Taxus baccata.) — I can confirm the statement as set forth
in page 74 of "The Naturalist," by Mr. Mc'Intosh, of the innocuous
property of the Yew Fruit, as I have partaken of it myself, and have seen
numbers of others eat it without experiencing the least ill effects. In a
garden adjoining our premises is a Yew tree, to which, during the winter,
several Thrushes and Blackbirds come to eat the berries so long as they
last; the stones or seeds passing through them undigested, in consequence
of the hard shell round them, lie at the bottom of the tree until the
following spring, when there invariably comes a Nuthatch or two to par-
take of the seeds which have passed through the Thrushes, etc., during
the winter. I have noticed the little fellow many a time, fly down and
bring a seed up in his beak, and place it in a crevice on the top of a
wooden post in the garden, then hammer away at it with all his might,
until he succeeded in splitting it in two, when he would eat the kernel,
then fly down for more until satisfied. The post mentioned above having
been used a mimber of years, and being partly decayed, is completely studded
all over with the empty shells of the Yew, which have been driven so firmly
in as to remain there until they decay. The Hawfinch also partakes of the
seeds of the Holly and Hawthorn which have passed through the Thrushes,

236 MISCELI-AXEOUS NOTICES.

etc., during the winter, which they crack with their powerful bills; I have
myself startled them from under a Holly tree in the spring when so engaged.
— (?. B.C.

Instinct in Fish. — We were seated on the banks of the Ure, near Eipon,
on a very close sultry day, killing time by examining a few of the many
prettily-coloured pebbles scattered at our feet, when a violent commotion in
the river, a few yards above us, suddenly attracted our attention. Feeling
curious to learn the cause, we stealthily approached the scene of action, in
sufficient time to discern the outline of two fine Pike, and on proceedino- a
little further, where the river becomes shallower, a very large shoal of Trout
darted off into deep water. We were at no loss to form our own opinion
on the circumstance witnessed, but at once set it down as a curious trait of
instinct, feeling satisfied the shoal had retreated to shallow water for safety,
as their ravenous admirers were of too bulky a build to keep up the pursuit
with advantage. — J. Dixon, 7, Copenhagen-Street, Leeds, October Wih., 1851.

Voracity of the Pike. — While out trolling for Pike, on the the 4th. of
March, 1851, in a backwater connected with the Till Eiver, a fish of six
pounds seized the bait, (a small Trout,) and after roving with it for about ten
minutes, gorged it; but owing to the hook being rather too small for the size
of the bait, it buried its points in the body of the Trout, in place of the
Pike's stomach; nevertheless he continued to struggle violently for possession
of his meal, and after nearly fifteen minutes run, only disgorged it when
drawn so nearly ashore that I was about to lay hold of him with my hand.
The bait being not much injured, I replaced the hook with a larger one, and
commenced again to troll in the same standing, when on the first cast, to
my surprise, the very identical fish, which I recognised by his wanting the
upper half of the caudal fin, immediately seized the bait, and after pouching
it a second time, and a fine run, was at length gaffed and creeled. — A. S.
Moffat, Beicich Folly, October 21st., 1851.

Capture of the Tench, (Tinea vulgaris.) — The Rev. W. Marsden, of Louth,
while spinning for Perch with a "miller's thumb," was surprised to strike and
land a Tench weighing about a pound with the above bait. I was not aware,
until this circumstance took place, that Tench would ever feed upon fish.
Have any of your correspondents heard of a similar case? — B. P. AUngton,
Swinhope Bectory, Lincolnshire, August, 1851.

Lottia testudinalis on the coast of Kincardineshire. — In a note at the bottom
of page 127 of ^^The Naturalist," it is stated that Lottia testudinalis is not
found on the east coast of Scotland. I am sure it will give pleasure to every
lover of Malacology to know that there is a locality for this beautiful shell
on the coast of Kincirdlneshire, The place where it is found is in a small bay,
immediately south of the Girdleness, known by the name of the Bay of Nigg.
It was discovered there some years ago, and in some seasons it seems to be
plentiful, and in others rather scarce. The rocks at the place named are

REVIEW. 23?

principally Gneiss. I possess a specimen of the shell almost an inch by six-
eighths. — J. W., Aberdeen, October 24:th., 1851.

Our correspondent has very kindly forwarded us some small specimens of this
very elegant patella. The discovery of this shell on the east coast of Scotland
is* interesting, and it is probable that by searching in other favourable localities^
some additional habitats might be found. — B. B. M.

Crustacea from the stomach of a HaddocJc, (Morrhua seglefinus.) — T removed
from the stomach of a male Haddock caught by hook and line a few miles
from the harbour, the following: — Alpheus ruler. — Four perfect specimens and
fragments^ old and young in abundance. Gonoplax angulata. — One old and
four young specimens, rather imperfect; fragments of hands, arms, etc.
Atelecyclus heterodon, Leach, (Septemdentatus, Montagu.) — Two full-grown and
five young ones; arms and hands in abundance. Ehalia Cranchii. — One perfect
specimen. Galathea nexa. — Three perfect specimens; arms and hands. Gebia
deltura. — Two perfect specimens; arms, hands, etc., in abundance. Pagurus
Bernhardus. — x\rms and hands. Foriunvs marmorens. — Carapace, amis and
hands of one specimen. lu addition to these Crustacea the following were also
obtained: — Tarntella terebra. — Three full-grown shells, empty; two containing
Pagurus loevis. Sepiola Bondeleta, partially dissolved by the juices of the
stomach. Aphrodita aculeata. — Perfect. All these specimens from one
stomach. — W. P. Cocks, Falmouth, May l^th., 1851.

Shells from Trawl Befuse. — This morning Miss Vigurs found in Trawl refuse,
the Voluta loevis, alive; Bulla cylindracea, dead shell; Fusus harvicensis, dead
shell; Ghemnitzia rufa, alive; and Dr. Vigurs a fine living specimen of the
Tritonia Hombergii — Molgula oculata, from the same stuff". — Idem.

Sphinx atropos. — The Caterpillar of this Moth was. captured by me at
Coatham, in the same garden as the Rose Pastor, feeding on potatoes, where
it has been regxilarly taken for the last three years : it measured three inches
and .a quarter. A similar specimen was taken at Marske, near Redcar. — ■
D. Ferguson, Bedcar, October 8th., 1851 .

mmm.

Phyfo Theology; or. Botanical Sketches intended to illustrate the Works of God,
in the Structure, Functions, and General Distribution of Plants. By
John Huttox Balfour, M.D., Professor of Medicine and Botany, Univer-
sity of Edinburgh. 1851.

O.VE marked feature of the present day is the rapidly increasing taste for
scientific knowledge among all classes of the people, and the corresponding
facilities afforded for its acquirement. The importance of such knowledge is
now pretty generally acknowledged by those whose daily employments call upon
them for a certain amount of scientific information, as well as by a large class

238 REVIEW.

who pursue it solely for the gratification and intellectual delight which its
acquirement affords. Of all branches of Natural Science, Botany is perhaps
the one which has of late years increased most rapidly in popular favour, for
it is a science which recommends itself in an especial manner to all classes
and conditions of society, irrespective of age or sex; indeed ''a science calcu-
lated to give pleasure to every mind. Though relating to living and organized
beings, the prosecution of it calls for no cruel experiments, nor for any researches
which could excite feelings of disgust, even in the most sensitive heart. It
is a study which can be turned to account in every situation, whether in the
closet or in the field, on the highway or on the hill-side, on the cultivated
plain or in the wild mountain glen. Every flower on which we tread becomes
a useful object of contemplation, and a means of pleasing i-ecreation, even amidst
the cares and toils of life."

How important then that this, the loveliest and most delightful of all the
sciences, should be pursued in that true spirit of devotion which ought to
characterize all knowledge, and which is especially due in the contemplation
of God's own wondrous works. "How important is it that such knowledge
should be solid and substantial — not ^ssience falsely so called, which some pro
fessing, have erred concerning the faith,' nor the ^perverse disputings of men
of corrupt minds and destitute of the truth,' who erroneously view reason as
opposed to revelation. If the fountains are poisoned, it is not to be expected
that those who drink at them will be sound and healthy. Instances are, it
is to be feared, not uncommon of parties who, by the acquisition of unsanc-
tified scientific information, have been led into the depths of infidelity and
pantheism; making their very knowledge the means of perverting others, and
of throwing ridicule and contempt on everything relating to man's fallen con-
dition, and God's glorious plan of salvation."

It cannot be said that Botany, and the truths which it makes known
concerning God's works, have ever been so conspicuously placed in opposition
to the truths of God's Word, as has been too often attempted with other
departments of science. But we very much fear that, in too many cases.
Botanical studies are pursued in a secular spirit; that in the admiration and
study of things temporal, sight is lost of the higher things eternal. How many
the books, excellent so far as their science is concerned, lofty and exuberant
to admiration in their descriptions of the wonders of Nature, and yet silent on
the great, the glorious, all-engrossing subject, which concerns the spiritual
welfare of man, and to which all knowledge ought to be made subservient.
It has been said that science never assumes a more noble attitude than when
she kneels at the foot of the cross; but this is the attitude in which she
ought always to be — her eye of hope directed to heaven. How meet the union
of science and religion! '^Science is the mind, as intellect or understanding,
contemplating Nature as a great series of phenomena, dependent on each other,
and linked together by forces and principles, which it is its part to disclose.
Religion is the mind, as faith, contemplating Nature, Man, and itself, neither

J

PROCEEDINGS OP SOCIETIES.

239

simply as series of successive changes, nor merely as magnificent apparitions
of loveliness; but as they declare the existence, proclaim the perfections, repose
in the shadow, rise toward the throne, and are illustrated and supplemented by
the Word of God."

The object of Professor Balfour is to present in this book the leading
principles of the science of Botany in a form suitable for general readers, and
to lead to the contemplation of Vegetable Phenomena in a christian spirit.
These purposes he has most successfully carried out; the tone of the whole
work exhibits a truly christian spirit; and we have sincere pleasure in recom-
mendinsr it to the attention of our readers.

l^rnrfrMiigs of InrittiBSf.

Yorkshire Naturalists' Club, Monthly Meeting, November 5th., 1851. — Tlie club met as usual
at Mr. Graham's, in Jubbcrgate. D. Ferguson, Esq., of Kedcar, occupied the chair.
fr F. GiBKES, Esq., of Northallerton, in reference to the subject of the occurrence of foreign
bodies in hen's cggS; which had been mentioned at the July meeting, shewed a large diagram
of the digestive organs of fowls, and expressed his opinion that no body of the size of a shilling .
could pass from the gizzard into the intestines, but he admitted that if it found its way into the
oviduct, it was quite possible for it to be included in the albumen of the egg before it received
its calcareous envelope. Mr. North and Dr. Moi-ris both thought it difficult to assign limits to
the expansibility of any of the canals in the living body. The Chaii-nian inclined to Mr. Gibbes'
opinion.

Mil. Baines shewed a goose's e^g which had a smaller egg within it. Also, a large reddish
brown tick, which had been taken from the upper lip of a hare.

, Tjie Chairman exhibited a number of beautifully-mounted sea-weeds, which he had received
from Plymouth.

Mr. Ciiarleswortii and 1)k. Morris both shewed some elegantly prepared specimens of
sea-weeds, which they had received from the Eev. Dr. Landsborough, of Saltcoats, N. B., the
well-known author of a very valuable little work on British Sea-weeds.

The CiiAiitMAN exhibited a collection of grasses, one of mosses, arid one of the Hepaticce,
which had been prepared by the pupils of the agiicultural school, at Ayton, near Stokesley.
Tliey were very nicely got up, and correctly named.

ilR. T. Aelis mentioned that a friend of his had shewn him some wheat wliich he had
grown, which had the external appearance of barley. It, however, tasted like wheat.

Mr. Gibbes exhibited a specimen of the Great Shrike, (Lanius excubitor,) procured near
Northallerton,

Mr Eichardson exhibited a very interesting series of Alpine plants, which he had procured
and collected in Switzerland, this summer.

Dr. Morris exliibited a specimen of Bay's Bream, (Brama Raii,) which Mr. E. "Wood had
picked up in the Eichmond market, on October 21st. It had come with other fish from
Eedcar. It measured twenty-one inches in length. The Chainnan stated, that, although genei-ally
considered rare, it occuiTcd tolerably frequently at Eedcar.

Mr. Graham exhibited a curious light-coloured variety of the Hen Pheasant; also a Little
Auk, (Mergulm alle,) which was procured at Nabum, near York, on the 21st. of October last.
He also exhibited a spocunen of the young Gannet, (Sula alba,) Avliich had been caught
when asleep, in a field near Beverley. Also, a very fine specimen of the Otter.

Mr. Charlesworth read an extract from a letter from a gentleman in America, to
Mr. W. P. Cocks, of Falmouth, detailing some successful experiments of his, on keeping
marine molluscs alive in sea water for months. He also shewed a very neat plan for mounting
small shells safely. The shells were first fixed on slips of cardboard, which were then inserted
into a cut in a cork, which then fitted into a small glass tube; by this means they were

240 THE QUERIST.

perfectly safe, and could be very conveniently viewed. These tubes were fixed to square
tablets by means of India-rubber bands. He also laid on the table a list of British Marine
Shells, which he had compiled from the splendid work on British Shells, by Forbes and
Hanley.

Mr. T. Allis exhibited four very fine specimens of the rare Moth '(Folia occulta,) one of
which he had taken at Doncaster, two he had received from Perthshire, and one from
Cumberland. Also, a pair of the scarce Cnephasia bellana, from Cumberland; also, three of
Plitsia bractea, from Cumberland and Cheshire.

On the table were several books, which the committee had bought for the use of the
members, and to form the nucleus of a library of practical books. Among them were Dr.
Johnston's British Zoophytes; Forbes' British Star- fishes; Landsborough's Bi-itish Sea "Weeds;
and Babington's British Botany. Much satisfaction was expresssed by the members present, at
this commencement of a library, and hopes were expressed that soon other valuable books
might be added. After some general conversation the meeting separated.

Entomological Society. — The usual monthly meeting of this society was held on Monday
evening, October 6th., 1851. — J. 0. "Westwood, Esq., President, in the chair.

John Curtis, Esa., F. L. S., and Captaix H. C. Lodder, were elected members of the
society.

Ma. S. Stevens exhibited a fine scries of the hitherto very rare Heliophobus hispida, taken
sitting on rocks in the Isle of Portland; also a new species of Eiipithecia, from Dover.

Mr. E. Shepherd exhibited a series of a new species of Feronea, reared from larvce found
on Spirtea ulmaria.

Mr. Weir exhibited a specimen of Gelechia centiginosclla, reared from larva3 found on Genista
tinctoria.

Mr. Janson exhibited some beautiful Coleoptera, from the Himalaya.

Mr. White made some observations on "Albin's History of British Spiders," and remarked
that many of the descriptions were copied verbatim from Dandi-idge's manuscripts, and without
any acknowledgment, whereby Dandridge had been deprived of the entomological reputation' to
which he was justly entitled. Mr. TNTiite also made some observations on Latreille, from which
Mr. J. E. Gray dissented, and considerable discussion ensued.

€liB (^mm\.

Will Ichneumons pierce Insects in the pupa stoAef — In reply to this query, some years ago, while
collecting in Botany Bay wood, on Chat Moss, I was rather startled on hearing a strange sound
from among the dry leaves scattered on the ground, (especially as Vipers are not uncommon
there.) On looking closely, I perceived it came from an Ichneumon, in the act of piercing a
leaf. On seizing it, I was delighted to have ocular proof that they will attach pupm : the leaf
contained a pupa, wliich next season produced Acronycta rumicis. I believe few entomologists
have witnessed the above: it is the only instance I have met with during several years
collecting. — E. S. Edleston, Manchester, November 5th., 1851.

Can any of your readers say, for a certainty, how long the different species of Gulls are before
they assume the full plumage? I was told of a Greater Black-backed Gull being kept three
years and there was no change of plumage. . My opinion is that they change their plumage to
full, when they are three years old. — J. Farr.

Stag's Horns. — I should be extremely glad if any of your correspondents could funiish me
with a recipe for preserving the rich bro\vn colour of the Horns of the Moose, and others of the
Deer tribe ; or restoring them to their freshness when bleached by time ; can they be dyed ; or
would a dark spirit varnish do? — C. J. W.

The Geographical Distribution of our native Water-lilies is by no means well ascertained, and
I should therefore feel much obliged by any of your readers communicating their observations of
our three native species in different parts of Britain and Ireland. — G. G.

INDEX.

Abraxas grossulariata, 12, 171, 182.
Abrostola urticije, 135.
Accentor modularis, 40, llo, 171.
Accipiter fringillarius, 40, 149, 159.

iiisus, see A. fringillarius.

Acer, 150.

campestre, 199.

Achatoa spreta, 135.

Acherontia Atropos, 72, 84, 237.

AciJalia aversata, 183.

fumata, 183.

remutata, 183.

Acidota rufa, 190.
Acoiiitum napellus, 191, 199.
Acronvcta euphorbioe, 219.

'- rumieis, 135, 240,

. Psi, 135.

Actebia proecox, 135.
Adela fibulella, 71.

viridella, 71.

Adoxa moschatelliua, 73,
Aglossa pinguinalis, 183.
Agraphis nutans, 74.
Agrostis vulgaris. 201.
Agrotis cxclamationis, 134,

Gelechia, 216.

tritici, 134.

valligera, 216.

Aira casspitosa, 200.

prtocox, 184.

Aiuga reptans, 71, 109, 199.
Alaria esculenta, 192.
Alauda arborca, 64.

arvensis, 58, 64, 129,

■ rubra, 69.

Albatross, Yellow-nosed, see Diomedea chloro-

rynchus.
Alf.a impcnnis, 191.
— — torda, 139.
Alcedo alcyon, 69.

ispida, 22, 55, 59, 66, 113, 159. 209.

Alclieinilla alpina, 71.

— ; • arvensis, 181.

Alois rliomboidaria, 181.
Allium ursinum, 185, 198.
Almond, see Amygdalus tou.
Alpheus ruber, 237.
Althoea officinalis, 186.
Alyssum maritimura, 93.
Amaryllidaeeie, 78.
Ammodytes lancea, 139.
Ammopliila arenaria, 201,
Ampliidotus cordutus, 128.
Amphileptus fasciola, 34.
Amygdalus tou, 157.
Anacharis alsinastrum, 77.
Anagallis arvensis 111 202, 225.
Anaitis plagiata, 182, 205.
Anai-ta cordigera, 220.

melanopa, 220.

mjTtilU, 134.

YOI-. 1.

Anas acuta, 138,

boschas, 116, 138.

clypeata, 45, 48, 138.

crecca, 138.

Penelope, see Mareca roi.i'lcpe.

— — - querquedula, 138.

. strepera, 70, 138.

Anchusa senipervireus, 185.
Anemone nemorosa, 109, 198,

Pulsatilla, 191, 199.

Angelica sylvestris, 198.
Animalculie in Askham Bog, 31,
Anisopteryx oescularia, 204.

Anobiuiu ? 120.

Anser albifrons, 138.

brachyrynchus, 69, 94.

Egvptiacus, 138.

fcriis, 138.

torquatus, 138.

Antennularia antennina, 48.
Antliocaris cardamines, 83.
Anthoxanthuni odoratuni, 110.
Anthriscus vulgaris, 185.
Authus arboreus, 64, 87, 141, 21 1.

petrosus, 64.

pratensis, 64, 116, 162, 175, 186, 229.

spinoletta, 69.

Anthyllis vulneraria. 111.
Ant, lied, see Foimica rubra.
Apamea nictitans, 135.

oculea, 135.

Aphrodita aculeata, 237.
Aplecta occulata, 71.
Aplocera csesiaria, 71, 183, 205.
Apple, see Pyrus malus.
Aptemus arcticus, 69.
Aquilegia vulgaris, 185, 199.
Ardea cinerea, 114.

comata, 59.

exilis, 8.

purpurea, 70.

Arenaria serpyllifolia, 111.

trinervia, 73.

Arenicola pisoatorum, 128.

Argus, Scotch, see I'olyommatus Aitaxei-Aes.
Argynnis Aglaia, 83.

• — ■ Eupliros}nie, 83,

Selene, 83.

Argyresthia conjugella, 71, 72.

spinieila, 72.

Argyrolepia Baumanniana, 71.
Armeria maritima, 111.
Artificial Flies, 170.
Arum maculatum, 110, 111.
Arundo arenaria, 202.
Arvicola agrestis, 39.

aniphibius, 39, 65.

ater, 39.

pnatensis, 39.

Asarum Europcoum, 191.
Ascmum striatum, 218.

2 I

2V2

Ash, see Fraxiiius.

— Mountain, see Pyrus uueuparia.
Aspcrula odorata, 18o.

Aspilates respersaria, 182.
Asplenium adiantuni nigrum, 221.

niarinum, 220, 221.

ruta muraria, 221.

trichoniaucs, 222.

Ass, see Equus asiuus.
Asterias rubens, 127.
Astynomus ^dilis, 219.
Atclocyclus h(>terodon, 48, 237.
Athyrium filLx-focmina, 221.
Audubon J. J., Death of, 24.
Avouet, see llecurviroiitni avocetta.
Auk, Little, see Mergulus alle.
AjTshire Naturalist's Club, 192.
JEcophora quadripunctella, 71.

Bacillaria, 33.
Badger, 8(!e Meles taxus.
Balanus Scoticus, 48.
Barbarea prrccox, 109.

vulgaris, 185.

Barbastelle, see Barbastellus Daulientonii ,
Barbastellus Daubentoiiii, 37.
But, 141.

— Common, see Vcsportilio pipistrellus,

— Great, see Vespertilio noetula.

— Horse-shoo, gi'eater, see lUiiuolophus fer-

rum equinum.

— Horsfvshoe, lesser, see Ehinolophus hippo-

sideros.

— Long-eared, see Plecotus auritus.

— Notch-eared, see Vespertilio emargiuatus.
Beam tree, Wliite, see Pyrus aria.

Bee, Leaf-cutting, 190.

— trees, 190.
Bellerophon bilobatus, 72.
Bellis perennis, 73, 117.
Betoniea officinalis, 225.
Biston betularius, 181.

prodromarius, 204.

Bittern, see Botaurus stellaris.

Least, see Ardea exilis.

Blackbird, see Turdus morula.
Black-cap, sec Cun-uca atrioajjilla,
Black Grouse, see Tetrao tutrix.
Black lledstart, see Phcpnicura tithj's.
Blatta, 175.

Blennius guttata, 128.

Bolboceras mobilicomis, 227, 228.

Bonibus arcticus, 216.

Bombyces, 133.

Bombyeilla garrula, 64, 69, 94, 95, 116, 14G.

Bos taurus, 39.

Botanical Eambles, 197, 201.

Strolls from Plymouth, 73, 109, 184.

Botaurus stellaris, 114.

Botrychium lunaria, 202, 222.
Botvs fuscalis, 71.
Brauia Riii, 239.
Brissus lyrifer, 128.
Bromus commutatus, 184.

mollis, 184.

Bucetum loliaccura, 201.
Buckthorn, see llhamnus.
Bulla cylindracca, 237.
Bunium flexuosum, 185, 199.

Bunting, Black-headed, see Emboriza scliooni-
clus;

Cirl, see Emberiza cirltia.

■ Common, see Embjriza militria.

Bunting, Yellow, see Emheiiza citrinelLi.

Pairited, see Spiza ciris.

Snow, see Ploctrophaues nivalis.

Bustard, see Otis tarda.

Bute, a days excursion to, 124.

Buteo vulgaris, 40, 56.

Buzzard, Common, see Buteo vulgaris

Honey, see Pernis apivorus.

Cabera exanthemaria, 181.

pusaria, 181.

Calamites, 103.
Calidris arenaria, 114.
Calluna vulgaris, 110.
Caloeampa exoleta, 135.

vetusta, 135.

Caltha palustris, 110, 117, 202.

Campoca margaritaria, 181.

Campto^ramnui bilincata, 183.

Cancer horridus, 48.

Canis famiUaris, 38, 207.

Capra hircus, 39.

Caprimulgus Europoous, 88, 113, 141, 188, 229.

Carabus avveusis, 218.

glabratus, 218.

nitens, 218.

Curadrina cubicularis, 134.
Caragana, 78.
Cardamine hirsuta, 73.

pratensis, 110, 198, 202.

sylvatica, 110.

Carduclis elegans, 112

spinus, 44, 112, 165,

Carex binervis, 185.

■ divulsa, 184.

panicea, 185.

prx'cox, 184.

spcirostachya, 185.

Carpocapsa stelliferana, 72.
Castanea vulgaris, 203.

Cat, House, see Felis catu^-domestica.

Cavia aperea, 39.

Cavy, liestloss, see Cavia aperea.

Celcena Haworthii, 135.

Ccntaurea cyanus, 76.

Centranthus ruber, 110.

Cerastlum glomeratum, 73.

Cerasus, 157.

Certhia familiaris, 113, 189.

Cerura furcula, 85.

vinula, 85.

Ceterach officinarum, 220, 222.
Cotonia aurata, 219.
Cettia altisonans, 69.
Chaffinch, see Fringilla coclubs.
Charadrius hiaticula, 113.

morinellus, 12, 113, 189,

pluvialis, 113.

Charissa obscuraria, 182.

operaria, 182.

Charosas graminis, 134.
Chelidonium majus, 185.
Chemnitzia rufo, 237.
Cluerophyllum temulontum, 110.
Chmtonotus larus, 34.
Chiff-chaff, see Sylvia hippolais.
Chiton levis, 127,

marginatus, 127.

Chough, see Fregilus graculus.
Chrysanthemum leucanthonmm. 111.
Chryfiosplcnium oppositifolium , 74, 199.
Cidaria didymata, 182.

Uuctuata, 182.

213

Cidaria mi.arla, 182.

montanata, 182.

■ muTiitata, 182.

unidciitaria, 182.

Cinclus aquaticus, 12, 40,
Circus ffiruginosus, 58.
■ cvancus, 40, 209.

Montagui, 58, 171.

Cistus, see Helianthemuiu vulgai-o.
Cleora cinctaria, 183.
Clostcrina, 33.

Cnephasia bellana, 240.

Coalfish, sec Mcrlann;us oarbonarius.

Coccothvaustos chloris, 112.

vulgaris, 112, 211.

Coccyx Hercyniana, 71.
Cochlearia Anglica, 185.

Danica, 73.

Cock, see Gallus domesticus.
Coleophora albicosta, 71.
Coleoptera, 218.

Colin, Virginian, see Perdix Marylandica.
Columbus ajuas, 113.
livia, 113.

palumbus, 27, 113, 166.

turtur, 88, 113, 229.

Colymbus arcticus, 139.

glacialis, 59, 68, 118, 139.

septentrionalis, 139.

Stella tus, 139.

Coot, sec Fulica atra.
Copse Ramble, Devon. 222.
Coremia didyiuaria, 205.

munitaria, 71.

olivaria, 205.

propugnaria, 204.

salicaria, 205.

Cormorant, sec Phalacrocorax carbo.

Black, see Phalacrocorax graculus.

Cornus sanguinea, 199.

Corvus corax, 113.

corone, 113, 115.

comix, 23.

frugilegus, 23, 43, 51, 95, 113, 183.

■ monedula, 67, 113, 159, 163, 170, 213,

214, 234.
Corylus, 157.

Corystes Cassivelaunus, 48.
Cosniia trapetzina, 134.
Cottius scorpius, 128.
Cotumix vulgaris, 113.
Cotvledou umbilicus, 185, 192.
Cra\), 46.
Crambus margaritcllus, 205.

radiellus, 204.

CratiBgus oxyacantha, 74, 156, 198.
Creeper, see Certhia familiaris.
Crex porzana, 87, 137.

■ pratcusis, 87, 137, 141, 229.

Crocallis elinguaria, 181.
Cross-bill, see Loxia curvirostra.

American WMte-winged, see Loxia

leucoptera.

Crow, Hooded, see Corvus comix.

■ Carrion, see Corvus corone.

Crustacea, 237.
Cryptomonadina, 33.
Cuckoo, see Cuculus oanorus.
Cucullia umbratica, 135.
Cuculus canorus, 11, 22, 43, 67, 87 90 91
92, 113, 114, 115, 141, 162, 171, 175,'l78'
192, 209, 214, 229, 232, 233.
Curlew, see Numcuius arquata.

Curlew, Pigmy, see Tringa subarquatfi.
Curruca atricapUla, 63, 86, 91, 115, 141, 186,
214, 229.

cinerea, 63, 87, 115, 141, 186, 214,

229.

• " 'hortcnsis, 63, 88, 214.

sylviella, 63, 87, 229,

Cyathophyllum, 74.

Cyclops quadricomis, 35.
Cygnus iitratus, 69.

ferus, 138.

Cymindis basalis, 218. '

Cynips quercus, 215.
Cypselus alpinus, 234.

apus, 88, 90, 113, 115, 141, 229.

Dactylis glomerata, 184. 201.
Dandelion, see Leontodon tiiraxacum.
Deilephila lincata, 84.

porccUus, 84.

Delphinus phoca'na, 186.
Demas coryli, 85, 204.
Dendronessa galericulata, 138.

sponsa, 69,

Depressaria Alstrajmeriana, 70.

ulicetella, 70.

Dianthecia carpophaga, 71.

conspersa, 71.

Dicrorampha Petivcrana, 72.
Digitalis purpurea, 185, 224.
Diomedea clilororj-nchus, 168.
Dipper, sec Cinclus aquaticus.

Diver, Black-throated, see Colymbus arcticus.
• Great Northern, see Colymbus glacialis.

Red-throated, sec Colymbus septentrio-
nalis.

Red-throated, Young, see Colymbus

stellatus.

Dobchick, see Podiceps minor. '
Dog, see Canis familiaris.
Dog-fish, see Spinax acanthius.
Dormouse, see Myoxus avellanarius.
Dottei-el, see Charadrius morinellus.
Dove, Ring, see Columbus palumbus.

Rock, see Columbus livia.

Stock, see Columbus a;nas.

Turtle, see Columbus turtui-.

Draba verna, 73.

Duck, Garganey, see Anas querquedula.

Pintail, see Anas acuta.

Red-headed Whistling, see Fuligula ru-

fina.

Scaup, see Fuligula mar" la.

Shoveler, see Anas clyp;'ata.

Stellor's Western, see Somateria dispar.

Summer, see Dendronessa sponsa.

see Dendronessa galericulata.

■ White-headed, see Erismatura mersa.

Wild, see Anas boschas.

Dunbar shore, Geology of, 97.
Dunlin, see Tringa variabilis.

Eagle, White-tailed, see Haliaeetus albicilla.
Ebalia Cranchii, 237.
Ectocarpus fasciculatus, 169.

— tessellatus, 169.

Echinus miliaris, 128.

sphoera, 128.

Edinburgh Geological Sooietv, 168.

Royal Physical Society, 70.

Eggs, Foreign "bodies" in, 178, 180, 239.
Elachista albifrontella, 71.

fcstalicUa, 71.

244

Elachista pulchelln, 70.

tcstiicella 70.

Electra comitata, 182.

populata, 182.

pyralinta, 182.

testiita, 182.

Ellopia fasciaria, 181.
Elm, see Ulinus.
Eljmus giganteus, 201.
Emberiza cirlus, 58, 112

■ citriuella, 64, 67, 142.

miliaria, 46.

sclioBiiielus, 64.

vidua, 69.

Emmelesia albularia, 70, 18.3.

decolorata, 183.

ericetaria, 71, 183, 205

tieniata, 205.

— turbaria, 183.

Eini^eror Moth, see Saturnia Pavoiiia-minor.
Encrinites moniliformis, 107,
Enuychia cingulata, 183.
Eutomologiuai Fauna of Pertli, 217.

Society, 21t), 240.

Ephipiphora suutellaiia, 71.
Ephyra porata, 182.
Epilobium parvi-tiorum, 225.
Equisetum arvense, 221.

liuviatile, 220.

■ ■ svivaticum, 199, 221.

t'elmateia, 221.

Eipaus asinus, 39.

eaballus, 39.

Erebia Cassiope, 205.
Erinaceus Europtous, S7.
Eriocaulon septaiigulare, 78.
Eriogaster lanestris, 85.
Eriopliorum vagiuatura, 202.
Erismatura mersa, 69.
Eniiiue, see ifustela ci-mniea.
Erodiuui cicutarium, 202.

moschatum, 110.

Ervum tetraspermuni, 184.
Erysimum aliiaria, 110.

Erythaca rubecula, 40, 45, 57, 115, 10 'S.
Euchelia Jacobajae, 85.
Euchlaniodota, 35,
Eiiclidia glyphiea, 135.

Ml, 135.

Euphorbia amygdaloides, 74, 198.
Eupatorium cannabinum, 192,
Eupisteria carbouaria, 220.

fuliginaria, 220.

quiiupiaria, 220.

Eupitheeia angustata, 183.

ealliinaria, 71.

coiitaureata, 183.

plongata, 183.

N. S., 240.

palustraria. 70, 71.

sobrinata, 71.

vulgata, 183.

Euphrasia officinalis, 184, 202,
Euplcctes ignicolor, 69.
Euplexia lucipara, 134.
EuMialia elutata, 182.

impluviata, 182,

• miata, 182.

Euthemonia llussula, 85.

Falco TcelanvMcns, 208.

a'salon, 40.

iiisus, see Accipitor fringillarius.

Falco palumbarius, 65.

peregrinus, .^,9, 188.

rutipes, 163.

■ subbuteo, 88.

tinnunculns, 40, 57.

Falcon, Red-footed, see Falco rufipcs.

Falmouth, Fauna of, 37, 63. 112, 137.

Favosites, 72.

Fedia olitoria, 184.

Fells catus domestica, 38, 204.

Ferns found in Connamara, 220.

Festuca ovuia, 200.

Ficaria veraa, 93.

Fidonia atomaria, LSI.

Fieldfare, see Turdus pilaris.

Finch, Bull, see Pyrrhula vulgaris.

Gold, see Carduelis elegans.

Green, see Coccothraustes chloris.

Haw, see Coecotliraustes vulgaris.

Mountain, see Fringilla montifringilla.

Fir, Scotch, see Finns sj'lvcstris.

Fish, Instinct of, 236.

Resuscitation of frozen, 30.

Fitchet Weasel, see Mustela putorius.
Flea from a dog, 190.

Flies, Artilicial, 68.

Floral changes, 75.

Flo.scularia, 34.

Flounder, see Platossa flesus.

P'lycatcher, Pied, see ilusicapa atricapilla.

Spotted, see Musicapa grisola.

White-necked, sec Musicapa albi-

collis.

Foreign Birds, Xaturalization of in England,

89, 196.
Formica rubra, 166.
Fox, see Vulpes vulgaris.
Foxglove, see Digitalis purpin-ca.
Fragaria vesca, 73.

Fratercula arctica, 140, 165, 190, 192.
Fraxinus, 156.
Fregilus graculus, 113.
Fringilla ccelebs, 112, 142, 189.

linota, see Linota caunabina.

montifringilla, 112.

spinus, see Carduelis spiuus.

Fulica atra, 137.

Fuligula clangula, 139.

(ristata, 121.

ferina, 121, 139.

marila, 121, 1:!4, 138.

■ mariloidcs, 69.

rufina, 138.

Ftiligulinffi, 107.
Fuinaria officinalis. 111, 199.
Fuaus Norvogicus, 48.
= Bai'vicensis, 237.

Gadwall, see A,~ia3 strepera.
Galathea nexa, 237.
Galeobdolon luteuni, 198.
Galium cruciatum, 184.

• saxatile, 185.

• verum, 84, 202.

Gallinula rhloropus, 6, 21, 25, 137, 1G4, 212,
216, 231.

• Martinica, 6.

Gallinule, Puq)le, see Gallinula Martinica.
Gallua domesticus, 113, 161, 234.
Gasterosteus spinachia, 120.
Gcbia deitura, 237.
Gelechia artt^iiiesiella, 71.
centiginosella, 2iO.

245

Gelechia instabilis, 72.

Genista tinctoria, 240.

Geological Society of Edinburgh, 168.

Geology of Dunbar Shore, 97.

Geometra bidentata, 181.

illunaria, 181.

lunaria, 181.

■ • . Tiliaria, 181.

Geranium columbinum, 184.

dissectum, 117, 198.

lucidum, 74, 198.

. moUe, 110, 202.

■ Eobertianum, 73, 198, 202.

— — rotundifolia. 111, 117.

Geum urbanum, 185.
, Glaux maritima, 202.
Gloclioma hederacea, 73.
Goat, see Capra liircus.
God^vit, Bar-tailed, see Limosa rufa.

— Black-tailed, see Limosa melanura.

Gouium pcctoralc, 33.

Goiioplax angulata, 237.

Goose, Brent, see Anser torquatus.

Egyptian, see Ansor Egyptiaous.

Gray-logged, see Anser ferus.

Pink-footed, see Anser brachyrynchus.

' — White-fronted, see Anser albifrons.

GortjTia micaeea, 135.

Goshawk, see Falco palumbarius.

Gracula religiosa, 69.

Graklp, Minor, see Gracula religiosa.

Graniinono, 200.

Grapholita campoliliana, 71.

Grebe, Eared, see Podiccps auntus.

Grcenshank, see Totanns glottis.

Grouse, Ilock, see Lagopus rupestris.

Guillemot, see Uria troille.

Black, see Uria grylle.

Guinea-fowl, see Numida niideagris.
Gull, Black-headed, see Larus ridibundus.

Common, see Larus canus.

HeiTing, see Larus argentatus.

Great Black-backed, see Larus mannus.

Ivoiy, see Larus eburn-jus.

Kittiwake, see Larus tridactylus.

Lesser Black-backed, see Lams fuscus.

Little, sec Larus minutus.

Ilabcnaria bifolia, 225.
Haddock, see ilorrhua oeglefinus.
Hadena adusta, 134, 219.

basilinea, 134.

brassicix), 134.

contigua, 134. 220.

chenopodii, 134.

cucubali, 134.

glauca, 134.

lutulenta, 71.

oleracea, 134.

Pisi, 134.

• protoa, 134.

reetilinen, 220.

•— testacea, 134.

thalassina, 134.

Hake, see Morlucius vulgi^ris.

Hiilia vauaria, 181.

Ilalodendron, 78.

ITare, Common, see Lopus timidus.

Hirelda glaciaUs, 108, 121.

ITarold, Northern, sec Harelda glacialis.

Harpalyce centum-notuta, 182.

— corylata, 182.

fidvata, 182.

Harpal5'ce marmorata, 182.

ocellata, 182, 205.

siliceata, 182.

■ subtristata, 182.

; tristata, 182.

Harrier, Hen, see Circus cyaneus.

Marsh, sec Circus JJruginosus.

Montagu's, see Circus Montagui.

Hawthorn, see Crataegus.

Hedge Accentor, see Accentor modularis.

Hedge-hog, see Erinaceus Europoeus.

Helianthemum vulgare, 170.

Heliophobus hispida, 240.

Hemithea cythisaria, 205.

Hepialus camus. 85.

Hectus, 84.

humuli, 84.

lupulinus, 84.

sylvinus, 84.

velleda, 84, 85.

Heron, see Ardea cinerea.

Purple, see Ardea purjjurea.

Squacco, see Ardea comata.

Heronries, 60, 162. 163, 210, 211, 234.
Hieracinm pilosella, 185.
Hildenbrandtia rubra, 192.
Himanthalia lorea, 169.
Himantopus melanoptera, 114.
Hipparchia TEgeria, 84.

Blanduia, 83, 219.

Cassiope, 219.

Davus, 83.

Hyperanthus, 83.

Janira, 83.

Magnera, 83,

■ Pamphilus, 83.

Semele, 83.

Hipparchus papilionarius, 181.
Hirundo apus, see Cypselus apus.
riparia, 86, 90, 93, 115, 110, 141,

214 229.
' rustica, 86, 90, 91, 92, 93, 113, 115,

141, 162, 177, 18:;, 214, 229.

urbica, 23, 87, 91, 92, 93, 113, 115,

141, 186, 212, 213, 214, 229.

Hobby, see Falco subbuteo.
Hog, Common, see Sus domcsticus.
Holly, see Ilex.
Holoptychius giganteus, 192.
Hooper, see Cygnus ferus,
Hoopoe, see Upupa epops.
Horse, see Equus caballus.
Hottonia palustris, 202.
Houbara, see Otis M' Queenii.
Hyacinthus non-scriptus, 198.
Hybcrnia brumata, 181

caproolaria, 181.

dofoliaria, 181.

leucophearia, 204.

pilosaria, 181.

■ prosapiaria, 181.

rupicapraria, 181.

Hvdrocampa lemnata, 183.

^^ nymphfcata, 183, 205.

• potamogata, 183.

Hymcnophyllum tunbridgense, 222.
Hypena proboscidalis, 183.
Hypenodfs humidalis, 205.
Hypericum perforatum, 224.

pulchrum, 224.

Hypoch-xris radicata, 186.

Ichneumon, 216, 240.

216

TNDEX.

Icthyduia, 3i.

Hex, 1.S7.

Instinct, Progressivoness of, 61.

Iris foetidissiiuii, 225.

- Pseudacorus, 202, 225.
Isoetes lacustris, 222.

Jackdaw, see Corvus monedula.
Jaiiia rubens, 192.
Jasione montaua, 184.
Juglans, 157.

Kestrel, see Falco tinnunrulus.

Kin.<j-fish, see Lampris luiia.

Kingfisher, Great-belted, see Alcedo alcyon.

see Aleedo ispida.

Kite, see Milvus vulgaris.
Knot, see Tringa canutus.
Kolpodea, 34.

Lacerta agilis, 93, 142.

Lagopus Britannieus, see L. Scoticus.

Scoticus, 215.

rupestris, 69.

Lamia tcxtor, 219.
Lamiuni album, 73.

purpureum, 184,

Lamna cornubica, 205.

Lamprey, see Petromyzon fluviatilis.
Lami)ris luna, 46.
Laniproptcryx badiata, 183.
Lan;lrail, see Crex pratensis.
Lanius borealis, 69.

collurio, 88.

excubitor, 58, 188, 239.

Lareutia chenopodiata, 181.

multistrigaria, 70, 182.

Larid«, 232, 240.

Lark, lied, see Alauda rubra.

Sky, see Alauda arvensis.

■ Wood, see Alauda arborea.

Lark's eggs in the stomach of a Hawk, 233.
Larus argentatus, 141, 165, 232.

canus, 140, 232.

ebumeua, 140.

fuscus, 140. 232.

leucopterus, 232.

raarinus, 57, 118, 140, 232.

minutus, 140.

ridibundus, 140, 194, 232.

Rossii, 69.

■ tridactylua, 140.

Lasiocampa quercus, 85.

rubi, 85.

Lastrea fili.K-mas, 221.

multiflora, 221.

oreopteris, 221.

recurva, 221.

rigida, 221.

spinosa, 221.

Lathynis pratensis, 224.
Laurel, Cherry, see Cerasus.
Leguminosa;, 78.
Lcontodon taraxacum, 73, 117.
Lepidimn campestre, 184.
Lepidodendron, 103.

Lepidoptera of West of Scotland, 82, 133, 180.

Lake District, 204.

Leptinus testaceus, 190.

Lt^pus cuniculus, 39, 68, 116, 204.
var., 39.

timidua, 39, 68, 116, 208, 230.

I.estris eataiTactes, 140, 189.

Leucania impura, 135.

pallens, 135.

■ pudorina, 135,

— pygmina, 135.

Leucojuni lestivum, 191, 200,

Libellulida), 224.

Ligia oceanica, 128.

Liliacea), 78.

Lime tree, see Tilia,

Lunosa melanura, 114.

— ; rufa, 24, 45.

Limpet, Common, see Patella Yulgata.
Linaria cymbalaria, 72.

pilosa, 68.

Linnet, Conmion, sec Linota cannabina,
Linota canescens, 112.

cannabina, 29, 112, 149, 189, 210.

linaria, 112.

Linum catharticum, 112.
Lithocolletis spinoloUa, 71.
Lithosia rubricollis, 85.
Lithospermum maritimum, 192.

-; officinale, 185.

Lizard, Common, see Zootoca vivipara.

Sand, see Lacerta agilis.

Lobophora lobulata. 204.

polycommata, 204.

scxalisata, 204.

Local Jottings, 169.
Locust, 72.

Lolium perenne, 184, 201,

submuticum, 201.

Lomaria spicant, 221.
Lomiccra pericljTnenum, 224.
Lophonotus fasoieulelhi-i, 70.
Lottia testudinalis, 127, 230.

virginea, 127.

Lotus coniiculatus. 111.
Loxia a.strild.'' 69.

cardinalis. 89, 196,

curvirostra, 5''), 112.

' leucoptcra, 69.

Lumbricus, 148.
Lupeiina furva, 223.
Lutra vulgaris, 38, 239.
Luzula cainpestris, 74.

Fosteri, 74.

multiflora, 110.

pilosa, 74.

sylvatica, 110.

Lychnis dioica, 73, 198.

Hos-cuculi, 185, 198.

Lj-copodiuni inundatum, 222.

selaginoides, 222,

selago, 222.

Lycopsis arvensis, 225.
Lyngbya Tliompsoni, 192.
Lysimachia nemorum, 185, 199.
Lythrum saliearia, 202.

Macaria liturata, 183.
Magpie, see Pica caudata,
Malva rotundifolia, 225.

sylvestris, 186,

Maple, see Acer.
Mareca Penelope, 121,
Mamestra brassica), 166.
Margaritia fuscalis, 183.

institialis, 183.

Martin, House, see Hirundo urbica.

Sand, see Hirundo riparia,

Medicago lupulina. 111.

maculata, 111,

247

Melampyrum pratcnse, 185.
Meloagris gallopavo, 113.
Melcs taxus, 38.
McUca uuifiora, 184.
Melitoea artemis, 83.

— — cinxia, 83.
Melittis melissophyllum, 18.5,_ 224.
Mt'lizophilus Dartfordiensis, 63.
llontha viridis, 216.
Mciiyanthes trifoliata, 202.
Mercurialis pcrennis, 73.
Mergulus alio, 60, 139, 239.
Mergus albellus, 139.

merganser, 139.

• serrator, 139.

Merlangus carbonarius, 205.

Mcrliu, see Falco a;salon.

Merlucius vulgaris, 205, 207.

Morula vulgaris, see Turdus morula.

Mosographe forficalis, 183.

Mespilus oxj'acautha, see Cratcegus oxj'acantha.

Metopidia lepadolla, 35.

Miana arcuosa, 135.

• fasciuncula, 135.

Micropteryx calthella, 71.

Wicroscopio objects, Cells for, 158, 187.

ililium effusuin, 185.

Milvus vulgaris, 40, 209.

Mimulus luteus, 77.

Miuoa chojrophyllata, 183.

Miselia aprilina, 135.

• oxyacanthaj, 135.

Missel Thrush, see Turdus vised vorus.

Misseltoe, see Viscum album.

Modiola vulgaris, 127, 128.

Moenchia erecta, 110, 112.

Ma'sia flavillacearia, 181.

Mole, see Talpa vulgaris.

Molgula oculata, 237.

Monad, 33.

Moorhen, see Gallinula chloropus.

Monno maura, 135.

Morrhua ajgleSnus, 237.

Motacilla alba, 64, 117.

boarula, 64.

fiava, 64, 87, 214.

noglccta, 64, 87.

- — — - Yarrellii, 64.

Mouse, Hai-vost, see Mus mossorius.

House, see Mus musi^uliis.

Long-tailed Field, sec Mus pvlvatirus.

Mus decumanus, 38, 65, 118, 165, 193, 230.

— intermedins, 38, 118, 193.

— messoriiis, 38.

— musoulua, 38.

— rattus, 38, 120, 216.

— sylvaticus, 38, 65.
Musicapa albicollis, 69.

■ atricapilLi, 88.

grisola, 88, 141, 229.

Mustek crminea, 38, 120.

putorius, 38.

vulgaris, 38.

Myosotis arv'onsis, 110.

coUina, 111.

palustris, 117, 202.

• versicolor, 110, 112.

Mjoxus avoUanarius, 38.

Ncenia typica, 135.
Narcissus Pseudo-narcissus, 74, 117.
Narthociura ossifragum, 71,
Nasturtium officinale, 74, 112, 198, 225.

Natrix torquata, 199,
Nautilus, Pearly, 9.
Nematopogou Panzerella, 71.
Nemeophila plantaginis, 85.
Nepticula centifoliella, 216.

gratiosella, 70.

Newt, Common Warty, see Triton cristatus.
Night Heron, see Nycticorax, Gardenii.
Nightingale, see Philomela lusciiiia.

— — ; Virginian, see Loxia cardinalis.

Nightjar, see Caprimulgus Europocus.
Nika edulis, 191.
Noctua augur, 134.

baja, 134, 136.

basilinea, 136.

brunnea, 134, 136.

c-nigi-um, 134, 136.

Dahlii, 134.

plecta, 134, 135.

Noctua), 133.

Notes from the Rocks, 105, 121.
Notodonta camclina, 85.

dictoea, 85.

' dromedarius, 85.

• — zic-zac, 85.

Nudaria mundana, 85.
Numenius arquata, 114.

phicopus, 114.

Nut, see Corvlus.
Nycticorax (jardenii, 161.
N^mphon giganteum, 216.

Oak, see Qucrcus.
Obituary, 24.
Odonestis potatoria, 85.
Odostomia truncatula, 153.
(Edicnomus crepitans, 113, 188, 229.
ffigopodium podagraria, 71.
Q'^nanthe crocata, 185.
Oidemia fusca, 120.

nigra, 21.

perspicillata, 138.

Oloa, 157.

Olive, see Olea.
Olivinite, 192.
Orionis arvensis, 202.
Opah, 46.

Ophiocoma bellis, 127.
Opliioglossum vulgatum, 202.
Oporabia dilutata, 183.
Orchis bifolia, 199.
• maculata, 202.

mascula, 74, 198.

morio, 225, 202.

Orgyia corvli, 219.
Oriole, Golden, see Oriolus g,".lbula»
Oriolus galbula, 40.
Ornithopus perpusillus, 110.
OmLx Scoticella, 71.
Orobanche amcthvstca, 184.
Orthagoriscus raola, 119.
Orthocera ludense, 72.

pjTiforme, 72.

Orthosia gothica, 134.

instabilis, 134.

litura, 134.

stabilis, 1,34.

Osmunda rogalis, 222.
Otis Mc'Quoenii, 69.

- tarda, 168.

Otter, see Lutra vulgaris.
Otus brachyotus, 40.
vulgaris, 40.

I

248

Ovis aries, 30,

Owl, 66.

Long-eared, see Otus vulgaris.

Suowy, sec Strlx nyctea.

Shoil-eared, see Otus brachyotus.

Tawny, see Strlx stridula.

White, or Bam, see Strix flammea.

Ox, see Bos tuurus.

Oxalis acetosclla, 74.
Oxytrichiua, 34.

Pagurus Bemliardus, 237.

lopvis, 237.

Pandorina morum, 33.
Papaver Rhteas, 225.
Parietaria officinalis, 111.
Pamassia palustris, 202.
Partridge, see Perdix cincrea.

Red-legged, see Perdix rufa.

Parus ater, 64.

caudatus, 64.

■ cajruleus, 64, 212.

major, 64.

palustris, 64,

Passer domesticus, 96, 112. 142, loO, 210, 235.

montanua, 112, 189.

Pastor roseus, 211.
Patella Clealandi, 127.

• clypeiis, 127.

• vulgata, 127.

Pavo cristatus, 113, 160.
Peacock, see Pavo cristatus.
Pedicularis sylvatica, 185, 199.
Peewit, see Vanellus cristatus.
Pelican, see Pelecanus onocrotalus.
Pelecanus onocrotalus, 69.
Penipelia subomatella, 71.
Perdix cinerea, 43, 67, 94, 113, 117, 131, 211,
215.

Marylandica, 69.

rufa, 142.

Peregrine Falcon, see Falco percgrinus.
Pemis apivorus, 58.
Peronea, n. s., 240.

■ perniutana, 216.

Petasites vulgaris, 70.

Petrel, Fork-tailed, see Thalassidroma Leachii.

Storm, see Thalassidroma pelagica.

Fulmer, sec Procellaria glaeialls.

Petroniyzon fluviatilis 170.
Phalacrocorax carbo, 68, 140.
graculus, 69, 140.

Phalaris arundinacea, 201.
Phalarope, Gray, see Plialaropus lobatus.
• Ked-necked, see Phalaropus hypcr-

boreus.
Phalaropus hyperboreus,, 21, 138.

lobatus, 137. \

Phalangium comutum, 13o>
Phasianc plumbaria, 182. \
Phasianus Colchicus, 113, 239. V

Pheasant, see Phasianus ColchiciM: /

I'liilodineaj, 35.

Philcnela luscinia, 46, 88, 90, 92, 165, 176,

186, 192, 216, 226, 229.
Phlajodes frutetana, 71.
I'hlogophora meticulosa, 135.
Phocnicura ruticilla, 63, 86, 92, 115, 141, 186,

214, 229.

• Suecica, 40.

tithys, 44, 63, 145, 227.

Pholas Candida, should be P. crispata.

crispata, 127.

Pholas dactylus, 143,

papyraoea, 192

Phoxopteryx lundana, 70.
Phragmatobia fuliginosa, 85,
Phytocrene, 120.

Pica caudata, 113.
Picus major, l'')9.

martins, 20.

medius, 69.

minor, 161.

villosus, 69.

vuidis, 67.

Pigeon, Domestic, 23, 67, 96, 11 S, 141, i;)9.
214, 234. '

Wood, see Columba palumbus.

Pike, Voracity of, 236.

Pilulaiia globulifera, 220, 222.
Pipit, Meadow, see Anthus pratcnsis.

Eock, see Anthus potrosus.

Tree, see Anthus arboreus.

Pissodes Pini, 219.

Plautago coronopus, 110.

lanceolata, 74, 185.

Platalea Icucorodia, 190.

Platessa flesus, 68.

Plecotus auritus, 37.

Pleotrophancs nivalis, 64, 160.

Plotus anhinga, 5.

Plover, Golden, see Charadrius pluvialis.

Gray, see Squatarola cincrea.

■ Great, see CEdicnomus crepitans,

Ringed, see Charadrius hiaticula.

Plumularia falcata, 46.

Plusia bractea), 13o, 205, 240.

chrysitis, lb5.

festucae, 135.

Gamma, 135, 136.

inten-ogationis, 135, 205, 220.

• Iota, 135.

percontationis, 135.

Plutella Lalella, 72.

Poa alpina, 200.

- annua, 110.

- bulbosa, 1 10.

Pochard, Red-headed, see Fuligula firina.
Podiceps auritus, 21, 139.

minor, 27, 139, 170.

■_ — rubricollisj 232.

Poecilocampa populi, 85.
Pcecilophasia marginata, 183.
Polia Chi, 135.

occulta, 220, 240.

tincta, 220.

Polygala vulgaris, 112, 202, 225.
Polygastrica, 32.
Polyommatus Agestis, 49.

• alsus, 84.

■ ■ Artaxerxes, 49, 71, 84.

Polj-podium phegopteris, 220, 221.

vulgare, 221.

Polystichura aciileatuni, 221.

angulare, 221.

Pontia metra, 83.

rapa;, 83.

Poplar, see Populus.
Populus, 156.

Porbeagle, see Lamna coraubica.
Porpoise, see Delphinus Phocsena.
Portunus marmoreus, 237.
Potcntilla anserina, 186, 198.

. fragaiiastrum, 73, 93, 117.

■ rcptans, 199.

Tenia, 198,

249

Poterium sanguisorba, 112.
Primula veris, 185.

vulgaris, 73, 93, 117, 170.

Procellaria glacialis, 140.
Productus, 103.

Psodos trcpidaria, 220.
Psophia crepitans, 69.
Pteris aquilinu, 221.
Ptycopoda dilutata, 183.

lividata, 183.

Puffin,' see Fratercula arctica.
Puffinus major, see P. cincreus.

cinereus, 140, 189.

Pulmonaria officinalis, 73.
Pyga3ra bucephala, 85.
Pynus sylvestris, 157.
Pyralis farinalis, 183.
Pyrausta cingulalis, 71.

punicealis, 183.

Pyrophila Tragopoginis, 134.

Pyrrhula vulgaris, 112. '

Pyrus aria, 157.

• aucuparia, 157.

mains, 156. 184.

sorbus, 157.

Quail, sec Cotumix vulgaris.
Quercus, 153, 215.
Querist, 168, 192, 216, 240.

Eabbit, see Lepus cuniculus.
Rail, Clapper, see Rallus crepitans.

Land, see Crex pratensis.

Spotted, sec Crex porzana.

Virginian, see Rallus Virginianus.

• Water, see Rallus aquaticus.

Rallus aquaticus, 137.

crepitans, 6, 8.

crex, see Crex pratensis.

clegans, 8.

Virginianus. 8.

Ranunculus acris, 184.
aciuatilis, 198, 202.

bulbosus, 184.

ficaria, 73, 117.

parviflorus. 111.

scoeleratus, 185.

Rat, Black, see Mus rattus.

- Brown, see Mus decumanus.

- Water, see Arvicola amphibius.
Raven, see Corvus corax.
Razor-bill, see Alca torda.
Redpole, Lesser, see Linota linaria.

Mealj', see Linota canescens.

Redshank, see Tetanus calidris.
Redstart, see Phccnicura ruticilla.
Redwing, see Turdus iliacus.
Regulus cristatus, 63.

ignicapillus, 64.

Reviews : —

Bee-keeper's Manual, 47.
Botany, Manual of, 191.
Eutomostraca, British, 19.
Favourite Song Birds, 143.
Historia Naturalis Orcadensis. 191.
Mosses, British, 16.
Phvto-Theology, 237.
Sea Weeds, British, 119.
Summer life on Land and Water, 166.
Water Lily, Royal, 18.
Rhagium bitasciatum, 218.

inda^ator, 219.

inquisitor, 219.

VOL. I.

Rhamnus, 157.

Rhinanthus crista-galli, 198.

Rhinolophus ferrum-equinuni, 37.

hipposideros, 37.

Ribes rubrum, 199.
Ring Ouzel, see Turdus torquatus.
Robin, see Erythaca rubecula.
Robinia pseudacacia, lo7i
Rook, see Corvus frugilegus.
Rotifera, 32.
Rotifer vulgaris, 35.
Rosa canina, 147.

■ rubiginosa, 224.

Rumex acetosa, 184.
Rumia cratoegata, 181.
Rusina tenebrosa, 134.
Rutacese, 78.

Salicai-ia arundinacea, 63, 88, 229.

locustella, 63, 87, 141, 163, 171, 214,

233.

luscinoides, 69.

pliragmitis, 63, 87, 141, 214, 229.

SalLx, 157.

Salpina mucronata, 35.
Sanibucus nigra, 185.
Sanderling, see Totanus calidris.
Sandpiper, Common, see Totanus hypoleucos.
Green, see Totanus ochropus.

Pectoral, see Trmga pectoralis.

Purple, see Tringa maritima.

• ■ Wood, see Totanus glareola.

Sanicula Europcca, 185.

Saperda scalans, 218.

Sargassum, 78.

Sarothamnus scoparius, 109.

Saturnia Pavonia-minor, 85, 143.

Sat\Tus Davus, 205.

Saxicola ocnanthe, 63, 86, 141, 186, 214.

rubetra, 63, 87, 115, 141, 186, 214.

rubicola, 63.

Saxifraga aizoides, 71.

stellaris, 71.

tridactylites, 184.

■ — - umbrosa, 74.

Scaup, Broad-billed, see Fuligula marila.
Ducks, 107.

Tufted, see Fuligula cristata.

Scoliopteryx libatrix, 135.
Scolopax Brehmi, 69.

gallinago, 137.

gallinula, 137.

major, 68, 137, 142.

rusticola, 114.

Scolopcndrium vulgare, 222.
Scopula alpinalis, 71.

Scoter, Common, see Oidemia nigra.

Sui-f, see Oidemia perspicillato.

Velvet, see Oidemia fusca.

Scotophila porphyrea, 134.
Secale cereale, 200. '

Sedum telcphiuni, 185, 192.
Segetia Xanthogi-apha, 134.
Senecio vulgai'is, 73, 84.
Sepiola Rondelcta, 237.
Scricoris cespitana, 71.

Service tree, see Pjtus sorbus.
Sesia apiformis, 84.

bombyliformis, 219.

Shearwater, see Puffinus major.
Sheep, see Ovis aries.
Slielldrake, see Tadorna vulpanser.
Sherai'dia arvensis, 110.

2 K

250

Shoveler, see Anas clypeata.
Shi'cw, Common, see Sorex araneus.
Shi-ew, Oared, sec Sorex remifer.

"Water, sec Sorex fodiens.

Shrike, Greater Northern, sec Lanius Borealis.

Great Gray, see Lanius excubitor.

Red-backed, see Lanius eollurio.

Sibthorpia Europooa, 184.

SigillariiE, 103, 107.
Silene raaritima, 110, 112.
Silybum Marianum, 185.
Simaethis Fabriciana, 183.
Sinapis arvensis, 111.
Siskin, see Carduclis spinus.
Sisymbrium officinale, 111.

thalianum, 73.

Skua, see Lestris catarractes.
Smerinthus populi, 84.
Smew, sec Mergus albellus.
Smyniium olusatrum, 110.
Snake bird, see Plotus anhinga.

Common, see Natrix torquata.

Snipe, Common, see Scolopax gallinago.

Great, sec Scolopax major.

Jack, see Scolopax galhnula.

Solanura dulcamara, 185.
Solaster papposa, 128.

Solidago virgaurea, 225.
Somatcria disparj 120.

molissima, 108.

Sorex araneus, 38.

' fodiens, 38.

remifer, 38.

Span-ow-hawk, sec Accipiter fi-ingillarius.

House, see Passer domesticus.

Tree, see Passer montanus.

Specularia hybrida, 112.

Sphinx Atropos, see Acherontia Atropos.

— convolvuH, 84.

ligustri, 84.

Spider, Harvestman, 136.

House, 136, 216.

Spinax acanthus, 205.

Spirifcr, 103.

Spircea ulmaria, 71, 225, 240.

Spiza ciris, 168.

Squatarola cinerea, 24, 114.

Stachys arvensis, 74, 111, 225.

Stag's Horns, 240.

Starling, see Sturnus vulgaris.

Statice anneria, 202.

Steganolophia prunata, 182.

Stellaria holostea, 73, 198.

media, 73.

Stentor, 33.
Sterna Boysii, 140.

Dougalii, 140.

fissipes, 140.

hirundo, 140.

velo.x, 69.

Stickleback, Fiftecn-spined, see Gasterosteus

spinachia.
Stigmaria, 48, 103.
Stilbia anomalata, 205, 220.
Stilt, Black/- winged, see Himantopus melanop-

terus.
Stint, Little, see Tringa minuta.
Stoat, see Mustek erminea.
Strepsilas interpres, 45, 114.
Strix flammca, 40.
• nyctea, 45.

stridula, 40, 159.

Sturnus vulgaris, 113, 116, 204, 213.

Stylonychia lanccolita, 34.
Sula alba, 140, 239.
Sun-fisli, Short, see Orthagoriscus mola.
Sus domestica, 39.

Swallow, Australian Spine-tailed, secAcanthy-
lis caudacuta.

Chimney, see Hirundo rustica.

New, 69.

Swan, Black, see Cyguus atratus.

Wild, see Cygnus ferus.

Swift, Common, see Cypselus apus.

Alpine, see Cypselus alpmus.

Syhia hippolais, 63, 69, 86, 90, 92, 186, 214,
229.

luscinia, see Philomela luscinia.

Oi-i)hea, 69.

sibilatrix, 87.

sylvicola, 63, 141, 214.

tithvs, see Pha3uieura tithys.

trocliilus, 63 86, 115, 141, 186, 214.

Talpa EuropoDus, see T. vulgaris.

vulgaris, 193, 37.

Tamai'icacero, 78.

Taxus baccata, 74, 170, 235.
Teal, see Anas crecca.
Teesdalia nudicaulis, 110.
Tencli, see Tinea vulgaris.
Terebratula), 72, 103.
Tem, Black, see Sterna fissipes.

Common, see Sterna hkuudo.

Roseate, see Sterna Dougallii.

Sandwich, see Sterna Boysii.

Tethca duplaris, 135.

or, 135,

Tetrao tctrax, 161.
Thalassidrrana Leachii, 45, 140,

pelagica, 140.

Thalictrum minus, 192.
Thecla rubi, 84.
Thera simulata, 182.

variata, 182.

Thlaspi bursa-pastoris, 73.

Thrush, Missel, see Turdus viscivorus.

Song, see Turdus musicus.

Thyatira batis, 134.

Thymele alveolus, 84.

tagcs, 84.

Thymus serpyllum, 71.
Tilia, 156.
Tinea vulgaris, 236.
Tinea bistrigella, 71.

luzella, 71.

lutarelia, var. 71.

Tit, Cole, see Parus ater.

- Blue, see Parus cajruleus.

- Great, see Pai-us major.

- Long-tailed, see Pai;us eaudatus.

- Marsh, see Parus palustris.
Toad-flax, Ivy-leaved, see Linaria pilosa.
Tonnentilla officinalis, 184.

Tortrix ministrana, 71.
Tetanus calidris, 114.
hypolcucos, 88, 114, 141, 214, 229.

glottis, 114.

■ glareola, 114.

ochropus, 45, 59, 114, 211, 212.

Trachelomonas volvocina, 33.
Trichccus rosmarus, 20.
Tricliosoma lucorum, 150.

Trichius fasciatus, 219.
Trichodina tentaculata, 33.
Tricodiscus sol, 33.

251

Trifolium arvcnse, 111.
• — minus, 184.

pratense, 198.

procumbcns, 111.

repens, 184.

Triiiga canutus, 137.

hvpok'ucos, SCO Totanus hypolcucos.

jiiaritima, 137, 142.

minuta, 137.

pectoralis, 137.

subarquata, 44, 59, 137.

variabilis, 137.

Triphfcna Janthina, 134.

orboiia, 134.

pronuba, 134.

Triton cristatus, 143.
Tritonii Hombergii, 237.
Trochiliuni tipulitbrmc, 84.
Trochus cinereus, 127.
Troglodytes Europccus, 188.
Trout, 68.

Trumpeter, see Psophia crepitans.
Turtlus iliacus, 40.

merula, 40, 115, 119, 141, 160, 211.

musicus, 22, 40, 160, 163, 166, 235.

pilaris, 40.

torquatus, 40, 86, 141, 213, 215.

viscivorus, 28, 40, 149, 189.

Turkey, see Meleagris gallopavo.
Turnstone, see Strcpsilas intcrpres.
Turrilella terebra, 237.

Tussilago farfara, 74.

Ulex Europoeus, 74, 199,
Ulmus, 156.
Upupa cpops, 113, 161.
Uria grylle, 139.

troille, 139.

Urtica dioica, 185, 224.

urcns, 224.

Vaccinium myilillus, 110.
Vanellus cristatus, 114.
Vanessa Atalanta, 83.

cardui, 83.

Vegetable Kingdom, Anomalies in, 200.
Venilia maculata, 183.
Veronica anagallis, 202.

arvensis, 184.

Beccabunga, 185, 202.

Buxbaumii, 74.

chamocdrys. 73, 223.

hederifolia, 73, 93.

montana, 110.

officinalis, 185.

.polita, 73.

serpyllifolia, 74.

— spicata, 223.

Vespa borealis, 27.

Biitannica, 120.

Vespertilio Daubentonii, 118.

emarginatus, 37, 117, 118, 193.

• pipistrelluSj 37.

Viburnum opulus, 18o, 225.

Vicia sativa, 184.

Vinca minor, 74, 117.

Viola canina, 73, 117, 185, 199, 202.

Mrta, 74, 110.

lactea, 184, 185.

lancifolia, 184, 185.

odorata, 73, 202.

sylvatica, 73, 185.

tricolor, 111, 202, 225.

Vole, Black "Water, see Arvicola ater.

Vole Bank, see Arvicola pratensis.

Common Water, see Ar\'icola amphibius.

Field, see Arvicola agi'cstis.

Voluta lajvis, 237.

Volvocina, 33.
Vorticella, 33.
Vorticellina, 33.
Vulpes vulgaris, 38.

"Wagtail, Gray-headed, see Motacilla neglecta.

Gray, see Motacilla boarula.

Pied, Continental, 161.

Pied, see Motacilla YaiTellii.

Ray's, see Motacilla tlava.

"White, see Matacdlla alba.

"Walnut, see Juglans.

"Walrus, see Trichecus rosmarus.

Warbler, Black-cap, see Curraca atricapilla.

Blue-throated, see Phooniciu-a Suecica.

Cetti, see Cettia altisonans.;

Dartford, sse Melizophilus Dartford-

Garden, see Curruca hortensis.
Grasshopper, see Salicaria locustella.
Heed, see Salicaria arundinacea.
Sedge, see Salicaria phragmitis.
Willow, see Sylvia trochilus.
Wood, see Sylvia sylvicola.

Water Lilies, 240

Waxwing, Bohemian, see Bomby cilia garrula.

Weasel, see Mustek vulgaris.

Weaver bird. Crimson, see Eupleetes ignicolor.

Wheatear, see Saxicola ffinanthc.

"Whidah bird, licd-billed, see Emberiza vidua.

Whimbrel, see Numenius phajopus.

Whinchat, see Saxicola rubetra.

Whitethi-oat, see Curruca cinerea.

Lesser, see Curruca sylviella.

Wicken-fen, Trip to, 170.

Wigeon, see Mareca Penelope.
Willow, see Salix.
Woodcock, see Scolopax nisticola.
Woodpecker, Black, see Picus martins.

Great Spotted, see Picus major.

Green, see Picus viridis.

Hairy, see Picus villosus.

Little Spotted, see Picus minor.

Middle Spotted, see Picus medius.

Northern Three-toed, see Apter-

nus arcticus.
Worm, Earth, see Lumbricus.

Fossil Maiine, 14, 41.

Wren, see Troglodytes Europoeus.

Melodius Willow, see Sylvia hippolais.

Wryneck, see Yunx toi-quilla.

Xanthia flavago, 135.

fulvago, 135.

Xylophasia lithoxylea, 135.

— polyodon, 135.

• rurea, 135.

Yew, see Taxus baccata.

Yorkshire Naturalist's Club, 24, 48, 120, 215,

239
Yunx torquilla, 92, 186, 229.

Zelleria fasciapcnella, 72.
Zerene albicillata, 204.
Zoological Notes, 145,
Zootoca vivipara, 142.
Zygoona filipendula;, 84.

loti, 84.

Zygophyllacesp, 78.

252

LIST OF CONTRIBUTORS.

Aliiigtoii, Rev. R. P., 21, 27, 28, 56, 115, 210,

212, 213, 231, 236.
A. P. M., 163.
Balshaw, P., 162.

W., 177.

W. D., 194.

Bartlett, Rev. J. P., 29, 118.
Bird, W. F. W., 176.
Bolton, H. R., 153, 163.
Bridger, E. K., 94, 213.
Brown, C. H., 214,
Burton, F. M., 166, 230.
Carter, S. H., 232.
Carton J., 232.

C. J. W., 240.

Clarke, G. B., 23, 45, 92, 115, 116, 118, 142,
163, 188, 211, 213, 215, 234, 235.

Cobbold, S., M. D., 94, 164.

Cocks, W. P., 37, 63, 92, 112, 137, 163, 191,
193, 237.

Collingwood, C, 93.

Cooper, Rev. "W., 51.

Cox, T., 230.

Cunningham, Rev. "W. B., 142.

Curtis, W., 230.

D'Arcy, P. H., 210, 230, 235.

Da\ies, J. B., 200.

Denny, H., 70, 180.

D. G. F., 168.
Dixon, J., 235, 236.
DorviUe, H., 162.

Editorial remarks, 22, 69, 75, 95, 96, 116,
145, 153, 160, 165, 168, 174, 192, 230,
237

Edleston, R. S., 240.

Edwards, T., 145, 160.

Falconer, R. W., M. D., 163, 189.

Farr, Rev. J., 240.

Ferguson, D., 46, 211, 237.
• W., 95, 97, 143.

Ferris, H., 118.

Eraser, J. P., 124.

G., 216.

Garland, J., 115, 143, 169.

Gatconibc, J., 227.

Gibbes, F. R., 44, 95.

G. G., 240.

Gifford, Captain, 90.

Graham, D., 45.

Gray, J., 82, 116, 133, 217.
— '- R., 12, 105, 121, 180, 190, 205.

Greenip, W., 204, 211.

Hannaford, S., Jun., 22, 23, 65, 91, 92, 117,
141, 159, 162, 188, 191, 193, 197, 222.

Harper, J. 0., 91, 115, 162, 165.

Hayden, Rev. F., 169.

II. J. C, 142, 163, 186, 213, 216.

II. R., 190.

J. B. D., 187.

Jackson, C, 175, 209, 210, 212.

J. C, 25, 61, 90, 164.

J. S. C, 158.

J. W., 236.

Julian, R. A., Jun., 44, 45, 58, 86, 142, 161,

162, 170, 186, 189, 209, 211, 214, 226, 233.
Keys, Isaiah W. N., 73, 109, 184.
Kidd, W., 150.
Landsborough, Rev. D., 210.
Lawson, G., 75.
Lillingston, C. A.. 96.
Logan, R. F., 49, 70, 166.
Lukis, S. W., 91, 164.
Mack, R., 163.
Maysmor, R., 116, 150, 161.
Mc'Intosh, J., 11, 20, 30, 55, 60, 68, 74, 129,

131, 149, 154, 159, 160, 171, 203, 212.
Moffat, A. S., 115, 136, 230, 234, 236.
Morris, B. R., M. D., 5, 31, 46, 70, 115. 188,

190, 208, 232.

Rev. F. 0., 69, 160, 166, 168, 216.

Naylor, W., 93.

]S[eale, R., M. B., 178, 190.

Norman, A. M., 234.

Nmm, E. C, 211, 213.

Pulman, G. P. R., 207.

Robertson, J., 143.

Robinson, J. A., 93, 160, 190.

Roberts, S., 165.

R. P., 96.

R. P. C, 142, 189, 209, 210.

Reynolds, W., 233.

Seebohm, H., 220.

Shum, A. H., 55.

Southwell, T., 189.

Stride, E. E., 210.

Stubbs, C, 229.

"p^ 22.

Taylor, T.',' 141.

H., 89, 196.

T. S. 94 96.

Tuckctt, 'h.,'44, 116, 168.

W. B w 114.

W. D. B., 118.
W. F., 192.
Weeks, C, 189.
Wostcott, M., 227;
AVood, E., 14, 41.
Young, M., 190.

LIST OF ILLUSTRATIONS.

Black Guillemot, 5.

Dun-diver, 6.

Merganser, 9.

Pearly Nautilus, 10.

Fossil Marine Worm, 15. Thi-ee cuts.

Gonium pectorale, 33.

Vorticclla, 33.

Chffitonotus larus, 34.

Floscularia, 34.

Salpina mucronata, 34.

Metopidia lepadella, 35.

Rotifer vulgaris, 35.
Polyommatus agestis, 49.

Artaxerxes, 49.

Map of Dunbar Shore, 97.

Dunbar Battery, 100.

Section of Rocks on Diinbar Shore, 103.

Dunbar Castle and Rocks, 105.

Northern Hareld, (Harclda glacialis,) 121.

Ectocarpus Tessellatus, (Coloured Plate,) 169.

Vespcrtilio emarginatus, 193.

END OF VOL. 1.

J.Lavaty

RUFFED BUSTARD.

THE

NATURALIST;

A POPULAR MONTHLY MAGAZINE,

ANIMAL, VEGETABLE, AND MINERAL
KINGDOMS.

CONDUCTED BY

BEVERLEY R. MORRIS, ESQ., A. B., M. D., T. C. D.,

MEMB. WEUN. CIXB.

VOL. II.

WITH ENGBAVINGS.

LONDON:

GROOMBRIDGE AND SONS, PATERNOSTER ROW.

M. DCCC. LII.

\.5'?

1. £OLIS ALDERI. -COCKS.

2. BOLIS COUCHII.— COCKS.

THE NATURALIST.

NEW SPECIES OF MOLLUSCA.

BY W. P. COCKS, ESQ.

Eolis Alderi, Cocks. — Body, white, opalescent, about seven-eighths of an
inch in length, lanceolate, tapering, pointed behind; oral tentacula, white,
long, slender, with yellow tips; dorsal rather shorter than the oral ones,
bright yellow; two rows of white branchial plumes on each side of the
neck, five on the back and sides; grayish with yellow tips. Found attached
to stones in ponds between tide marks, Gwyllyn Vase: rare,

Eolis Couchii, Cocks. — Body, bluish black, with opaque white spots, tapering
behind; length, one inch and three-quarters; tentacula, white; dorsal, long,
filiform; oral, about one-sixteenth of an inch, shorter and stouter than dor-
sal; four rows of white transparent branchial plumes, spotted with opaque
white; each row, on the sides, composed of three foliations, semi-erect; eyes,
black; foot, attenuated posteriorly. I found this beautiful slug attached to
the under surface of a stone, on the coral bank, Gwyllyn Vase, extreme
low water mark, spring tide.

Eolis glauca, Alder; var. Cocks. — Body, white, with the exception of the
free space between the dorsal branchiae, which was of a bright yellow colour,
with a light brown circular patch in the centre. Branchial plumes, long,
filiform, cylindrical, mottled with gray, tipped with white; oral tentacula,
white; dorsal, brownish, with yellow tips; length, about two inches. Pound
attached to the under surface of a stone, Gwyllyn Vase.

Ancula crislata, Alder; var. Cocks. — The only difference from the Ancitia
cristata, was the non-retractile tentaculum that projected from the anterior
part of the animal, (a) It deposited ova seven days after confinement.
FcHmouth.

VOL. II. B

NOTE ON THE MOLE, (TALPA VULGARIS.)

BY J. B. DAVIES, ESQ.

With regard to Mr. Smee's assertion, quoted in ^^The Naturalist" of
November, by Mr. Hannaford, that the Mole is without eyes, I have it to
state, from personal observation, that it is incorrect. In the summer of last
year, accompanied by an artistic friend, I was scrambling among the rocks to the
north of Duddingston Loch here, in search of Asplenium septentrionale, etc.,
when my companion announced the discovery of the hind quarters of some
animal sticking up from among a heap of loose rubbish; it turned out to be
a Mole, which we captured, brought home, and kept alive in my room for
three days. His temporary habitation was an old tea chest, half-filled with
earth, and fitted on the top with glass, through which we could observe his
habits. A quantity of worms were mixed with the mould, in order to afford
a supply of food; and if Mr. Smee had seen him dart across the box after
one of his poor victims, I think he would not have denied him the benefit
of sight. I may further add, that he evidently took notice of objects placed
in his path, before approaching close to them, and rapidly dived beneath the
earth when the hand or any other obstacle was placed before him. As to
there being no eyes, or ^^sockets in the skull to receive eyeballs," I can
only say that on the dissection of our subject, with the assistance of a medical
friend, we were fully satisfied of the existence of both. I believe, however,
that the range of vision in the Mole is very limited; for he took no notice
of us so long as we kept at the outside of his box, but nibbled away at his
repast with great gusto, A fact which appeared to me to be interesting, and
which I had never seen recorded, came under my observation at the same
time, that is, that my prisoner positively refused to take a bite, unless he
had the worm endway in his mouth.

Edinhurgh^ November 4:f,h., 1851.

EYES OF THE MOLE, {TALPA VULGABIS.)

BY H. K. CREED, ESQ.

Having lately been carefully examining the eyes of the Common Mole,
(Talpa vulgaris,) and the parts connected with them, I find, (contrary to
Mr. Smee's assertion, in his "Instinct and Reason,") that the "little black
tubercles," which are seen on turning aside the hair on each side of the head,
have each an optic nerve, communicating with the brain.

On dissecting the head of a Mole, a few days since, I found two nerves
connecting the eye with the brain; one of these is the optic nerve, and the
other the second branch of the fifth pair of nerves.

If a Mole's skull is examined with attention, three small holes will be
found, some way further back than the eye; through the largest of these pass

ORNITHOLOar OF LINCOLKSHIRK. "

the optic nerve, and the second branch of the fifth pair of nerves. The two
others are very minute, but through them pass the olfactory and maxillary
nerves, and those connected with the ear, which is very large. There are no
sockets in the skull for the eye, but it is situated in a mass of muscle.

I kept one alive for some days in the spring of 1 848. When I was near
enough for him to see me, he was uneasy, and tried to bury himself in the
mould I had put in his boxj and when I dropped a worm in, he immediately
made for it, and devoured it rapidly.

Christ's College, Cambridge, December oth., 1851.

ORNITHOLOGY OF LINCOLNSHIRE.

BY THE REV. R. P. ALIXGTON.

In searching periodicals on Natural History, I find catalogues of ornitho-
logical species, from various districts of England; but I am not aware of
any complete contribution of that kind from a Lincolnshire correspondent;
neither am I going to attempt one. Perhaps a list of species that are not,
as less tedious, would be preferable to one of those that are; inasmuch as
the latter would be but an enumeration of nearly all the known species
inhabiting this island. This may at once be accounted for, from the variety
of surface and soil prevalent throughout the county. Take, for instance, the
north-east corner; here you have the high, bleak, but fertile land of the
north wolds, the rich tract of the middle marsh, the moorland of the district
around Rasen, the fens of Boston, the sand country along the banks of the
River Trent, and above all, the flat and muddy coast of the River Humber.
There are also, in many spots, large woodlands well adapted for the residence
of the Falconid(S, and the shyer species of warblers.

In former years the north wold of Lincolnshire was one great gorse cover,
and rabbit-warren; the resort of the Dotterel, probably, too, the Bustard,
(^Otis Tarda,) the Stone Curlew, {jEdicnemus crepitans,) and a great variety of
Charadriadce. In the Boston fens, too, might, and that not uncommonly
either, be found the Bittern, {Botawiis stellaris,) and Spoonbill, (Platalea leu-
corodia,) etc., etc.: but the great improvement in both districts, the one by
draining, the other by enclosure — the change from rush and swamp, from
gorse and ling, to fine pasture and grain crops, has banished these once-valued
species. The Ruff", (Machetes pugnax,) the Stone Curlew, with its wailing cry
at the close of the day, the Dotterel, except in a few localities on the sea-
coast, during the autumn and spring migrations, with the Bittern and
Spoonbill are all but extinct, Among others for ever banished, might, in
all probability, be named, (for Yarrell gives them places in the Ornithology
of the adjoining counties, Norfolk and Yorkshire,) the Crane, the Stork, the
Night Heron, (Nycticorax Gardenii,) and Squacco, (A rdea comata,) "cum muUis

4 ORNITHOLOOY OF LIKCOIi>rSHIRK.

aim." Their last grand resort too, though not within the district of which I am
now writing, Whittlesey Meer, from which they were accustomed to wander
over the neighbouring country, (is it in Lincolnshire? In spite of Sir Walter
Scott's assertion "that Roger Wild-drake lived near Squattlesey Meer, in the
moist county of Lincoln," (Vide "Woodstock,") we will not claim more
moisture than we are entitled to,) has just given way to the spirit of
improvement.

I must once again quote that quaint old author Camden, to shew what Lin-
colnshire once was in respect of Wildfowl: — "Yet the most gainfull trade they
have, is by taking fish, and catching wildfoule; and that is so gi'eate, that in the
month of August they will spread a net and at once draw three- thousand
Mallards and W^ild-ducks, and such like together. In regard of this their
takeing fish and foule, they paid yearly, in times past, to the Abbat, as now
they do to the king, X300 in our own money." Page 531. This quotation
applies to the district of Crowland. I now extract one relating to the country
in the neighbourhood and on the banks of the Humber: — "^AU this tract
over, at certaine seasons, good God, what store of foules, (to say nothing of
fishes,) is heere to be found. I meane not those vulgar birds, which, in other
places are highly esteemed, and beare a great price, as Teales, Quailes,
Woodcockes, Phesants, Partridges, etc., etc.; but such as we have no Latine
names for, the very delicate dainties indeed of service meates for the demigods,
and greatly sort for by these that love the toothe so well; I mean Puitts,
Godwits, Knotts, that is to say Canutus or Knouts birds, (for out of Den-
mark they are thought to fly thither,) Dotterels, so named of their dotish
foolishnesse, which being a kinde of bird, as it were, of an apish kinde, ready
to imitate what they see done, are caught by candle-light, according to the
foulers gestures. If he put forth an arme, they also stretch out a wing; sets
he forward his legge, or holdeth up his head, they likewise doe theirs. In
briefe, whatever the fouler doth, the same also doth this foolish bird, until he
be hidden within the net. But these things I leave to their observation, who
either take pleasure earnestly to hunt after Nature's workes, or being borne
to pamper the belly, delight to send their estates downe their throat."*

But, productive no doubt of much increase of health and comfort to the
inhabitants of the aguish districts, the draining-mill, the spade, and plough,
which have been the cause of driving away some species, have also encouraged
the naturalization of othei's, thus adding greatly to the nomenclature of the
county. Among others, we may observe that the Nightingale is fast drawing
on to this remote corner; and I am assured that it has been constantly
heard for several years in some woodlands not far distant from Market-
Rasen. The sea-coast and that of the River Humber is, and must always
remain a favourite locality for the ornithologist; for, as I have already stated,

* "Britain, or a chonographical description of the most flourishing kingdom of England,
written in Latin." By Wm. Camdex, translated by Philemon Holland, M. D. London,
1637. Page 543.

ORNITHOLOGY OF LINCOLNSHIRE. O

it is, for the most part, a muddy flat; the tide even receding from one to
two miles. Here then innumerable birds resort to feed — Stints, Curlews,
Ringed Dotterels, Redshanks, Gulls and Ducks of all kinds; and just above
high-water mark I have found the nests of the Oyster-catcher and Tern.

That Lincolnshire is one of the most favourite counties for ornithological
pursuit, cannot, I think, be doubted.. I send a list of those species which
have been observed in one single locality, near Swinhope, namely, Croxby
Lake. This piece of water contains about thirty acres, and is surrounded on
three sides by a belt of plantation, varying from fifty to two-hundred yards
in breadth: a portion of the fourth is occupied by a gorse cover, and the
rest by a swamp of rushes, willows, etc.; a very limited space, not exceeding
in all ninety acres.

1. Avocet

2. Bunting, Yellow

3 Black-headed

4 Common

5. Blackbird

6. Blackcap

7. Bramble E'inch

8. Chaffinch

9. ChifFchafF

10. Crow, Carrion
11 Hooded

12. Crossbill, Common

13. Creeper, Tree

14. Cuckoo

15. Coot :

16. Chat, Stone
17 Whin

18. Duck, Common Wild

19. Pintail

20 Shoveler

21 Scaup

22 Red-backed Pochard

23 Tufted

24 Golden-eye

25. Diver, Great Northern

26. Dove, Ring

27. Fieldfare

28. Grebe, Little

29 Dusky

30 Crested

31. Goldfinch

32.' Goose, Wild

33. Greenfinch

34. Gull, Black-headed
35 Common

36. Hawfinch

37. Hen Harrier

38. Hobby

39. Heron, Common

40. Jackdaw

41. Jay

42. Kingfisher

43. Kestrel

44. Lark, Sky

45. Linnet, Common

46. Moorhen

47. Martin, House
48 Sand

49. Magpie

50. Nightjar

51. Owl, Long-eared

52. ... Tawny

53. Pipit, Tree

54 Meadow

55. Peregrine Falcon

56. Redpole

57. Redbreast

58. Redwing

59. Rail, Land

60. ... Water

61. Rook

62. Partridge

ORNITHOLOaiCAL KOTES.

63. Pheasant

64. Peewit

65. Swift

66. Swallow

67. Sandpiper^ Green

68 Common

69. Snipe

70 Jack

71. Swan, Wild

72. Sparrow, House
73 Tree

74. Starling

75. Spotted Flycatcher

76. Sparrow-Hawk

77. Teal

78. Tern, Common

79. Thrush, Song

80 Missel

81. Tit, Blue

82. Tit, Long-tailed

83. ... Marsh

84. ... Cole
8,'>. ... Greater
86. Warbler, Hedge

87 Garden

88 Reed

89 Willow

90. Wigeon

91. Woodcock

92. Whitethroat

93. Wren, Golden-crested
94 Common

95. Wagtail, Gray

96 Pied

97 Yellow

98. Woodpecker, Green

99. Wagel
100. Wheatear.

I have now enumerated no less than one hundred species from this small
space; how many more might have been found there, by a careful observer
in days of yore, before it was enclosed and planted, having a decoy at the
rushy end; "your deponent sayeth not," The Golden Plover may still be seen
in large flocks in the neighbourhood; and, no doubt, in by-gone days of
frost and snow, most of the species of Gulls and Geese, Bewick's Swan, and
a variety of Ducks not mentioned, may have found a quiet resting-place on
this little lake. But they have now, alas! one by one, been fast retiring to
those distant haunts, where, far from the improving, though unsparing hand
of man, they can still rear their young without interruption.

Sioinlwpe Rectory, November 21th., 1851.

ORNITHOLOGICAL NOTES.

BY R. A. JULIAN, ESQ., JUN.

Occurrence of the Osprey, (Pandion haliaetus,) in Norfolk. — In May, 1851, a
very fine adult bird of this species was obtained near Norwich, and lately
presented to me by W. Cater, Esq., of Queen's College, Cambridge. It weighed
barely four pounds.

Occurrence of the Osprey, (Pandion haliaetus,) in Devon. — The following is
an extract from a letter, dated 29th. of October, 1851, by the Rev. C. Bulteel,
Erme-Bridge, Devon: — "An Osprey has visited the River Erme. About a
fortnight since he was unfortunately hovering over the river for a week

OENITHOLOGrCAL NOTES. 7

between Saltergrass and Pamphleet pleasure-house, without my being acquainted
with it; and on inquiry I was informed, though too late, that even his roosting-
place on the clifts had been ascertained. I live in hope of a November storm
bringing him into the estuary again."

Occurrence of the Fork-tailed Kite, (Milvus vulgaris.) — A fine adult female
bird of this now rare species was trapped near Trowlsworthy rabbit' warren,
on Shaugh Moor, near Plymouth, September 17th., 1851. This was no doubt
one of the pair recorded as having been seen there on June 18th., at page
209, vol. i. of '^The Naturalist." It measured in length twenty-six inches. The
irides were silvery yellow; cere and legs, crome yellow; claws, black above, and
white beneath.

Occurrence of the Snow Bunting, (Plectrophanes nivalis,) in Devonshire. — I am
informed by J. Gatcombe, Esq., of Plymouth, that a bird of this species was
obtained by Mr. Row, of Devonport, October 11th., 1851, on Eoborough
Down.

Occurrence of the Snow Buivting, (Plectrophanes nivalis,) in Cambridgeshire. —
Four of these birds made their appearance on Midsummer Common, adjoining
Cambridge, on November 1st., 1851. One of them, a bird of the year, was
shot by Mr. Baker, taxidermist, Cambridge, who informs me it had a centipede
in its beak.

Late nesting of Quail, (Coturnix vulgaris.) — I am informed by a friend
of mine, — Porter, Esq., of Queen's College, Cambridge, that he saw a Quail's
nest near Ely, containing many eggs, on the 2Gth. of September, 1851; when
he found it the old female was on the nest.

Late nesting of Ring-Dove, (Columba palumbus.) — I took two nearly-fledged
young ones from a nest in a low fir tree, at Minehenay, near Holbeton,
Devon, on September 5th., 1851.

A White House Martin, (Hirundo urbica,) and a White Sand Martin,
(Hirundo riparia.) — On October 10th., 1851, I saw preserved in an hotel
kept by Mr. Monk, at the station, Wokingham, Berks., a beautiful White House
Martin, Mr. Bolitho, taxidermist, Plymouth, has a pure White Sand Martin,
shot by him on the River Tamar, a few years ago.

Late occurrence of the Swift, (Cypselus apus.) — I saw a pair of these birds
flying over Laira, near Plymouth, August 28th., and a single one on August
29th., 1851.

Late occurrences of Cuckoo, (Cuculus canorus.) — A young Cuckoo was shot
on September 12th., at Mount Edgcombe, Devon. Out of its gizzard I took
about twenty half-digested hairy caterpillars. Whilst staying in Berkshire the
latter part of last September, the Rev. Arthur Roberts presented me with a
young Cuckoo, shot near Wokingham, on the 20th. of that month.

Emmanuel College, Cambridge, November 1th., 1851.

REMARKS ON THE JER-FALCON, (FALCO GYBFALCO.)

BY R. B. NASMYTH^ ESQ.

Havixg at present in my possession a cast (couple) of Jer-Falcons,*
{Falco Gyrfalco,) in course of training for the purpose of Hawking, I feel
desirous from the perfection of the specimens, as well as the rarity of the
bird, to give a short description, which may perhaps prove interesting to some
of your readers. I may add that the descriptions which have come under my
notice seem to have been given from stuffed specimens. The specimens are
both females, and this year birds; their respective weights are three pounds
seven ounces and a half, and three pounds eight ounces; the length, from tip
of beak to the end of the tail, twenty-seven inches; across the back, seven
inches; length of pinion, nineteen inches. The general colour of the bird is
of a dull brown, most characteristic on the back, interspersed with streaks of
dirty white, which tip the edge of each feather of the back. The breast
has blotches of black occupying the centre of each feather in a pyriform shape.
The wings are long and pointed, the second flight feather the longest, the
first and third of equal length; the outer web of each feather is of a dark
brown, the inner of a lighter brown, with transverse bars of dirty white. The
tail has the dull brown colour of the back, with transverse bars of white;
the centre feather is the longest, the other feathers shortening towards each
side. The thighs and under coverts of wing and tail are of a more perfect
white than that on the breast, with blotches of blackish brown. The head
presents, at a little distance, a white appearance; the auriculars have a curious
edging of white. The bill is of a pale bluish horn-colour, approaching to
black towards the tip; the tooth on the upper mandible and the notch in the
lower, both very distinct; the cere, bluish white, which is also the colour of the
legs; the claws are black, and grooved on the inner or palmar aspect, the
hind one being the most powerful. They are as yet remarkably heavy on the
wing, but that is disappearing daily as they take longer and bolder flights.
Their cry is more of a croak than anything else, or something between the
scream of the Peregrine and the croak of the Eagle.

Since writing the above, a friend informs me that a couple of these birds
were shot on the estate of the Earl of Lauderdale, some years ago, evidently
young birds. They used to make their appearance when the Harriers were
out.

78, George-Street, Edinburgh, November, 1851.

• All information as to their foi-mor habitat, which I have as yet been able to obtain, is not
to be relied on, but the party from whom I purchased them, believes them to have come from
Iceland.

PREDATORY HABITS OF THE ROOK.

BY J. W. LUKIS^ ESQ.

In confirmation of your corre?pondent's statement on the "Predacious habits
of the Rook," (Corvus frugileyus,) I send you the following facts which have
come under my notice: — Last season, whilst walking with a friend over his
grounds in this neighbourhood, we observed some Rooks very busily feeding,
and fighting for something, in a field at a distance from u?, which, on going
up, we found to be a Partridge's nest, which had contained eight or ten eggs.
They were all sucked, and the shells strewed about.

Some years before, the same friend had a Partridge's nest in a field of
^^cinquefoil," which, when it was being cut, the mowers took care not to dis-
turb, by leaving a space uncut round the nest. My friend watched it almost
daily until the third week of incubation, when one morning, as had been
his custom, he rode past the nest and saw the old bird sitting all right. On
his return through the field about two hours after, he saw some Rooks feeding
near where the nest was, and fearing lest his little protege might be disturbed
by them, hastened to the spot, but alas! too late; for the Rooks had sucked
all the eggs, and scattered the shells about. His poor little protege was
flying round and round, showing evident signs of distress and alarm, and
uttering a pitiful cry.

Great Bedwyn, Wilts., October 8fh., 1851,

FOREIGN BODIES IN EGGS.

BY J. W. LUKIS, ESQ.

Some years ago, my father had a Hen's

,. ^ egg brought to him, with a human hair

adhering to two sides of it. He did not
at first imagine that the hairs were connected
through the interior, but on breaking the
shell, he was doubly surprised at finding
that such was the fact; it passed through
the albumen, and either over the disk of
the yolk, or by the side of it. The singu-
larity of this circumstance urged him to preserve the shell for future exam-
ination, and making the matter known to the scientific world; but it was
delayed, and finally the shell was lost. Amongst my notes, I find the fact
of my having, some years ago, whilst eating a Hen's egg at breakfast, found
a barleycorn in the albumen,

Grcid Bedwyn, Wilts., October Sth., 1851.

VOL. II. c

10

NOTES ON THE LEPIDOPTERA
OF THE WEST OF SCOTLAND AND FIFESHIRE.

BY JOHN GRAY^ ESQ.
(Concluded from Vol. I, page 136.^

The concluding groups of the Lepidoptera are composed of species much
smaller in size^ and consequently more difficult in their investigation^ than
those other families of this order, which formed the subject of our former
remarks, an order of insects which still continues to offer sufficient scope for
the researches of the philosophical naturalist, whether with regard to the
natural bearings or affinities of the different families, or the generic grouping
of the species.

Looking upon these interesting little creatures, however, only as a section
of a very lovely tribe of insects, we cannot help being struck by the minutely
beautiful markings, and the bright metallic lustre of the spots or streaks that
adorn the wings, as well as the mechanism displayed in their various stagesj
the very minuteness of the field but tending to enhance our admiration of their
delicate structure, by showing that in the smaller tribes of the insect world,
the same admirably elaborated details exist in as perfect a degree, as in any
of those kinds whose size renders theui more conspicuous to the casual observer.

These little moths are particularly abundant during the summer months,
but no season of the year is entirely without the occurrence of some species j
even during the bleak n)onths of winter, various kinds make their appearance
when few of the insect world meet the prying eyes of the naturalist. Whilst
many arc found sporting in their various habitats in the rays of the summer
sun, not a few lodge themselves during the day in the foliage of trees or
hedges, seldom appearing on the wing till the approach of evening, when, iu
common with the majority of this order of insects, they leave their hiding-
places, and flit about, enjoying their wonted period of noctm'nal activity.

In a calm summer afternoon, nothing can convey a more pleasing feeling
of serenity to the mind than the motions of these tiny creatures, starting out
with noiseless wing from the foliage of some "copice green," and hovering
about till lost in the darkening twilight.

The study of this section of the Lepidoptera, in as far as regards careful
discrimination of species, is avowedly difficult; becoming more so as we descend
to the smaller species; for, however distinct many kinds really are in their
essential characters, it cannot be doubted that others ai"e much given to variety,
and that they form, in this respect, no exception to many variable groups of
larger moths, the different gradation in whose marking is more easily traced.
That such variations do occur is abundantly evident from the many synonyms
attached to various species, (for example, those of the genus Peroneaf) and,
though M'c consider a diligent investigation of these little moths absolutely
necessary for a proper definition of the species, still we cannot help deprecating
that hair- splitting and most unsatisfactory way of describing specific characters,

NOTES OV LEPIDOPTER.A,. 11

which, in many recent instances, is evinced by British entomologists; characters
which we strongly suspect, from their practical inutility, to depend often on
individual variety, or what is not improbable, on imaginary diflPerences. It were
well if such do not form a range of mere names destined not to be forgotten,
or swept away by the result of more enlarged investigation. In another
department of British entomology, that of the Coleoptera, this love of making
species has been strikingly evinced — the sure result of that absurd partiality
shewn by native collectors for British insects alone, which has called forth
upon them once and again the well-merited contempt of continental entomo-
logists, whose enlarged views, and more ample opportunities, so well qualify
them to take the lead, as they have hitherto done, in this the most difficult,
the most philosophic, and the most extensive portion of the animal kingdom.

In enumerating the following species as indigenous to this part of Scotland,
we feel how little has been accomplished towards an accurate investigation of
these local productions; and though our present notes merely form but a step
towards the desired end, it is with the hope that others, whose opportunities
for such pursuits are more ample than our own, may be induced to devote
more attention to this interesting field, and further the ends of science, not
by collecting a host of objects of natural history, which they know not how
to use; but by a patient discrimination of avithenticated species, may thus
assist others in their labours in this department of Zoology; and, at the same
time aid towards more accurate views of nature's productions — the true, we
might almost say the only, use of forming a collection.

Though we have subjected our local specimens of these little moths to a
careful scrutiny, not a few we have been unable to determine with any degree
of certainty, and in some cases we are fearful of having fallen into error; still
we hope that we have been sufficiently careful to avoid any important mistake,
by our rejection of many doubtfully named species which might otherwise have
served to swell our district notes.

The most conspicuous insect amongst the l^ortrices, which we have met
with in this district, is the truly elegant Hylophila prasinana. It does not
appear in plenty in any locality, but is very generally distributed in many
places along both sides of the Frith of Clyde, as well as in different parts
of Fife.

Tortrix vihurnana occurs in the vicinity of moist places near Glasgow, in
July, sometimes in company with T. paUeana, though neither of these appear
to be common.

Tortrix viridana is a constant inhabitant of the oaks, occurring in truly
beautiful profusion.

Tortrix Galiana is frequently noticed amongst hedge-rows, etc., in many
places near Lanark,

Lozotcenia Icevigana is abundant in gardens, etc., in July, in company with
L. heparana and its variety riheana, rosana, and xylosteana; which latter appears
rather later in the season, and is much less abundant.

12 NOTES ON LEnnoi'TERA.

L. Hohniana appears to be local in its distribution in this district: we
have only met with it in a single locality about a mile from Glasgow.

Philedone Oerninglana is a scarce species, generally found in tlie vicinity of
firs, in various places on the Frith of Clyde.

Antithesia hetuletana is a very common species everywhere during the summer.

Spilonota cynoshatella, with its congeners sticticnna, Sti'cemiana, and triiiia-
culana are far from rare, and generally distributed.

Pseudotomia aiirana is rather local, but not a scarce insect, generally
frequenting marshy places. P. Petiverella, and P. atromargana are not unfre-
quent in the neighbourhood of Glasgow and elsewhere. P. plumhagana is
much more local: we are only aware of its occurrence at Carmichael.

Steganoptyclia retusana, Ancliijlopcra Lundiana, and A. fractifasciana are
generally distributed throughout this district.

Philalcea hilunana and P. fiinbriana both occur near Glasgow, but not
commonly. P. Mitterhacherlana, stdwcellana, and nigromaculana are very
generally distributed^ the latter, especially, is a common insect in Lanarkshire.

Carpocapsa cana is frequently met with near Glasgow and Lanark; G.
uUcetana is abundant in many varieties everywhere, especially where furze
abounds; G. perlepidana occm's near Glasgow, but appears to be scarce and
local.

Pactra pauperana is a variable species occurring not unfrcqtiently near
Glasgow and elsewhere. B. plogana is much scarcer, but is met with in
similar localities.

Ablahia 4:-pi(,nctana occurs sparingly in various places at the beginning
of August.

Gnephasla Lojiana, asinana, ohsoletana, intcrjcctana, and masculana all
frequent various localities in Lanarkshire, and along the I'^rith of Clyde,
during the summer months. They are all more or less local in their habits,
and not abundant.

Sericoris -i-maculana is common amongst firs everywhere; S. vrticana is also
abundant; S. micana occurs rarely in Carmichael, in July; S. subsequana we
have only taken on Tinto, a few miles from Lanark, and is seemingly very
local. In this locality it abounds in great profusion towards the end of July,
amongst the grassy heath, always increasing in numbers towards the summit.

Pcecilochroma Solandriana occurs not unfrequently near Glasgow; P. trap-
ezana and communana are, however, more abundant.

Lophoderus ministramis occurs in woods near Glasgow and Lanark about
midsummer, and is not at all rare. In the latter locality some beautiful
varieties of a dark-colour occur.

Many varieties of the genus Peronea abound in this district; which, with
many, are considered as species. We may enumerate as abundant denizens of
the hedge-rows, P. asperana, ScJialleriana, and tristana, without attempting
further to wade through the prolix synonymy of this variable genus.

Aderis aspcrsana we have only noticed on the marshy spots of Carmichael

NOTES OK LRPIDOI'TERA. 13

Hill, near Lanark, in the month of July. A. tnpunctulana occurs in woody-
places a few miles from the same locality, where we have taken it secreted
amongst the roots of shrubs, in the month of January.

Clepsis rusticana is common in marshy places near Glasgow, early in June.

Teras emargana and effradana are generally distributed in woody places,
appearing at the end of summer.

Dictyopteryx ciliana and coniaminana are both common in the month of
August.

Argyrotoza Conway ana occurs near Glasgow, and along the Frith of Clyde
not uncommonly. A. Daldorfiana is also common in many places, generally
frequenting hedges. A. Bergmanniana is very abundant.

Orthotcenia Bentleijana frequents heathy places, especially in the vicinity of
firs; 0. comitana is common amongst firs; 0. antiquana is generally distributed.

Eupoecilia augicstana is a comnion insect in many places.

Lozopera straminea is local in its distribution, but occurs in abundance near
Glasgow; also in the Isle of Arran. L. Smeathmanniana is much scarcer.

Xanthosetia Zoegana is occasionally met with, but is far from common in
any locality. X. diversana, though perhaps somewhat local, is very abundant
where it occurs; a few miles from Lanark it appears in plenty, hovering
amongst broom during the daytime.

Depressaria codosa, ivrorella, and hadieUa are found in plenty throughout
Lanarkshire and elsewhere.

Anacampsis terrella, Betulea, and rhomhella are all plentifully distributed
throughout this district.

Acompsis cinerella occurs near Glasgow, in July.

Macrocliila hicostella is abundant on heaths near Lanark and elsewhere, at
the beginning of July.

(Ecnphora flavomaculella and stiJphurella both occur sparingly near Glasgow;
the latter, however, is much commoner.

Diurnea fagella is abundant in many places during February or March,
generally found resting on the bark of trees.

Adda viridella occurs but rarely in this district; we have only noticed it
in the vicinity of Glasgow. A. Swammerdamella occurs in woods near Glasgow,
flying in great profusion during the afternoon.

Yponomeuta padella frequents gardens, but we have never seen it in any
abundance; indeed we might almost term it a scarce species in Lanarkshire.

Tdea Gurtisella is by no means a scarce insect, frequenting hedges, etc.
The chrysalis of this species is beautifully striped with pale yellow along the
wing cases and abdominal segments, and is enclosed in a cocoon of the most
delicate white network. T. ccesiella is also common in most parts of this
district. T. lutarella is met with much more sparingly.

Ederesa pruniella abounds everywhere during the summer; E. albistria is
however much scarcer.

Elachista apicipunctella occurs near Glasgow and elsewhere.

14 ^'OTES 0>T LEPIDOPTERA,

Argyrosetia semifasoiella, Ooedartella, and hrockella occur in many places
near Glasgow and Lanark, the latter in several stages of markings till it
assumes a uniform coppery lustre. Argyromiges mespilella is also not unfrequent.

Heriheia Ilaworthana occurs in several localities early in the summer; IT.
Forsterella appears somewhat later near Glasgow, but is not common.

Microsetia exiguella, with several other congeners, are found commonly in
many places.

Lithocolletis TJlnifoUella and QuercifoUella abound in woody places every-
where.

CalUsto Fyeslella is common in the month of June, in marshy places near
Glasgow, A sty ages coracipennella is also common.

Chrysocoris scissella seems to be a local insect; it appears in July, near
Glasgow in great abundance, flying about furze.

Porrectaria otidipennella and gallipennella are generally distributed.

Aphclosefia auritella is a beautiful little frequenter of gardens near Glasgow,
but is somewhat scarce; A. triatomea is much commoner.

Eudorea duhitalis, lineola and suhfasca are not uncommon in many places;
Phycita fusca and nehulella are also generally distributed.

Crambus lythargyi'ellus, pascuellus, pratelluSy aquilellus, and culmellus, may
be enumerated as common on pastures, etc., during the summer; G.pinetellus
is also found in heathy districts, but very sparingly. C. radiellus, which has
been generally represented as occurring exclusively on mountainous districts,
frequents quite different kinds of localities in this part of the country, and
is, in some seasons, particularly common on a flat swampy heath in Renfrew-
shire. It also occurs in a similar locality at Kirkintilloch.

Ilarpipteryx dentella is common in gardens, etc. everywhere.

Choetochilus fisselhcs occurs sparingly at Westmains, near Lanark; we have
not noticed it elsewhere.

Cerostoma xylostella frequents hilly heaths near Lanark.

Of the genus Tinea, maiX\j species frequent houses, etc., which are too well
known to require any notice. T. parasitella is rather uncommon, though
frequenting many places. The most interesting species of this genus which
has come under our notice in this district is T. ustdla, chiefly on account of
its peculiar habitat; it has established itself, in fact, within the precincts of an
old coal and limestone mine in the vicinity of Campsie. For a notice of this
interesting fact we are indebted to our friend Mr. R. Gray, who informs us
that it appeared in great abundance when he visited the spot two years ago.

Lepidocera Birdella occurs sparingly near Glasgow, about the middle of
August, flying near hedge-rows.

Incurvaria mascidella is a common insect in hedges and woods, early in
the summer,

Lampronia corticella appears in June, in woods, etc., near Glasgow; L.
prcelatella we have only seen near Lanark; L. luzella occurs in July near
Glasgow, but is apparently local; L. purpurella is generally distributed.

KOTES ON CHEIMATOBIA BOREARIA* 15

Eriocephala calthella, subpurpurella, and semipurpurella occur in many different
localities, and are far from rare.

Gracillaria rufipennella frequents firs early in the season in many places;
O. Thunbergella is very abundant near Glasgow in July; G. syringella and
meleagripennella are also common.

Pterophorus pcntadadijlus is rather a scarce insect, occurring near Inverary;
P. tdradactylus, fuscodactylus, and one or two others occur in various parts of
Lanarkshire. Alucita hexadactyla is sparingly distributed.

Glasgow, Novemher 17th., 1851.

NOTES ON CHEIMATOBIA BOREARIA AND
TROCHILIUM SPHEGIFORMIS.

BY R. S. EDLESTON, ESQ.

Some six or seven years ago, I captured the male and female of Cheimatohia
horearia, thinking at the time they were merely varieties of Brumaria, and
so placed in my cabinet, no doubt the case with many others. Last season
I was too late for fine specimens, the time of appearance being kept a secret.
This year, on the 22nd. of October, I captured a single pair in Botany Bay
wood; on the 25th., thirty-eight males and eight females; abundant on the
30th. They frequent birch trees. Males are very difiicult to find in the
day-time; the moment it becomes dusk and you light up, the males are to
be seen emerging in all directions out of the grass and heath, perching on
the stem,s; others at rest on the birch twigs — few in proportion on the tree
boles; females principally on the twigs. I have no doubt this species may be
found wherever birch trees are abundant, I can only account for their being
overlooked so many years from their strange appearance at dusk. Any party
desirous of specimens may have them on application.

My brother captured a splendid pair in copido of Trochilium sphegiformis on
Chat Moss, July 4th.; also Phycita ohtusa, Palumbella, Platypteryx laceHula,
Litliosia mesomella, and Euthemonia Bussida. On the 3rd. of July, I met with
Bhodaria sanguinalis in great abundance at New Brighton; also Leucania
littoralis and Lupernia albicolon. On the 21st. of July, I received from
Macclesfield several Plusia hractea, from the eggs deposited by a female —
larvae fed on lettuce; I have a few in the chrysalis state. From the 1st. to
the 6th. of September, Ejmnda liclienea and Chersotis HawortM abundant at
Lytham. At the end of August, at Manchester, several specimens of Hydrcecia
petasitis were captured, and several bred; chrysalis found at the roots of
Burdock; larva apparently feed two years.

I possess a charming male Lasiocampa bred this season, apparently a Hybrid
between Eubi and Quercus; a Lyccena phlceas, the superior wings of which are
nearly black; and a Gerura bifida, with the broad bar on the wing terminating

16 FAUNA OF FALMOUTH.

in a point. The collectors down here, during the winter, cut out of the
poplar trees a great number of this species in the chrysalis state.

Manchester, November 5tJi., ISul,

CONTRIBUTIONS TO THE FAUNA OF FALMOUTH.

BY W. P. COCKS, ESQ.
(Continued from Vol. 1, paye 140. J

CLASS in.— REPTILIA.

Lacerta Stirpium, Daudin. — Embankment near furze brake, cast of Swan-
pool beach: very- rare.

Lacerta agiiis, Berk. — Common in the neighbourhood.

Lacerta anguiforrais, ShejJ. — Furze brake, Pennance point, near Swanpool
beach: very rare.

. Lacerta ^dura, Shej). — Lane, (Blockhouse fields,) extending from Water-
lane to the entrance of Capt. Bull's walk.

Anguis fragilis, Linn. — Common.

Natrix torquata. Bay. — Near dog-kennel, Panscoth lane, etc.: not common.

Viper communis. Leach. — Pennance, College wood, etc.: not uncommon.

Var. {Coluber chersea,) — Furze brake, l*cnnance, near Col-
lege wood: rare.

Kana temporaria, Linn. — Common.

Bufo vulgaris, Flem. — Common.

Bufo calamita, Laur. — In a pond near Poor-house Bar-lane: rare.

Triton palustris, Flem. — In ditches and ponds: not uncommon.

Triton punctatus, Buonap. — In ditches and ponds: common.

Triton palmipes, Lat. — In a pond near to Mr. Jago's farm-house: rare.

Triton Bibronii, Bell. — In ditch, Mr. Jago's field leading from Trevethan
lane, pond near stone quarry, Budock bottoms.

CLASS IV.— PISCES.

Labrax lupus, Cuv. — Common.

Serranus cabrilla. Guv. et Val. — Not uncommon.

Serranus Couchii, Yar. — Fish-market, August 6th., 1848. The first taken
for six years. Added to the British Fauna by Mr. Couch,

Trachinus draco, Linn. — Trawl boats: not common. Market: rare.

Trachinus vipera, Cuv. — Trawl boats, and fish-market: not uncommon.

MuUus surmuletus, Linn. — Not uncommon in the summer.

Mullus barbatus, Linn. — A few specimens have been captured during the
last five years.

FAUNA OF FALMOUTH. it

Trigla cuculus, Linn. — Common.

Trisla lineata, Linn.— ^ot uncommon.

Trigla hirundo, Linn. — Common.

Trigla lyra, Linn. — Common.

Trigla gurnardus, Linn. — Common.

Trigla Blochii, Yar. — Trawl refuse, August, 1845; length, three inches,
depth, four-eighths and one-sixteenth: very rare.

Cottus gobio, Linn. — Pond and brook near College Wood, Budock bottom,
etc.: not uncommon.

Cottus scorpius. Block. — Harbour, Barpoint, etc.: not uncommon.

Cottus bubalis, Cuv. — In pools, under stones, etc.: common.

Cottus quadricornis, Linn. — A mutilated specimen from the stomach of the
Morrhua vulgaris.

Aspidophorus cataphractus, Jenyns. — Trawl refuse, and stomach of Fishes:
not uncommon. J. Boase, Esq., of Pendennis Castle, found one under sea-
weed near the magazine.

Gasterosteus trachurus, Cuv. — Ponds, College Wood, Panscoth lane. Swan-
pool, etc.: common.

Gasterosteus leiurus, Cuv. — Brook near Mainporth: rare.

Gasterosteus spinachia, Linn. — Harbour, Gwyllyn Vase, Swanpool, etc.:
common.

Pagrus vulgaris, Cuv. — Summer, not uncommon, a great supply of them
this year, (1851.)

Pagellus erythrinus, Cuv. — Scarce.

Pagellus centrodontus, Cuv. — Common.

Dentex vulgaris, 'Cuv. — This magnificent fish, two feet eight inches and a
half in length, five inches in breadth, and between seven and eight inches in
depth, was purchased by J. Vigurs, Esq., November, 1840, in the Falmouth
market.

Cantharus griseus, 6W. — Not uncommon.

Scomber Scomber, Linn. — Common.

Scomber colias, Cuv. — Rare.

Naucrates ductor, Cuv. — January 25th., 1845, one was caught in the quar-
antine pool; November 3rd., 1847, three were taken by two boys in the
Mill-pond Bar; T. Passingham, Esq. captured nine in the same pond, the
smallest measured ten inches and a half in length. December 1849, three
captured in a hand net. Custom-house quay.

Caranx trachurus, Cuv. — Not uncommon.

Centrolophus pompilus, Cuv. et Val. — (Black fish,) caught by the teeth in
a drift net, St, Mawe's, August 27th., 1850; length, twenty-three inches and
a half.

Zeus faber, Linn. — Common.

Capros aper, Cuv. — Not uncommon. May, 184G, onej June, two; March,
1847, two; May, two; February, 1849, one.

VOL. II. D

18 MISCELLANEOUS NOTICES.

Cepola rubeseens, Cuv. — Not uncommon.

Atherina presbyter^ Cuv. — Common.

Mugil capito, Guv. — Common.

Mugil chelo, Cuv. — Added to British Fauna by Mr. Couch.

Blennius Montagui, Flem. — Under stones, sea-weeds, and in small pools;
Gwyllyn Vase, Swanpool, etc.: common.

Blennius ocellarius, Bloch. — Length, five inches; depth of head, seven- eighths
of an inch; first dorsal fin, five-eighths of an inch; caudal three-fourths of an
inch. Trawl refuse, October 25th., 1848: rare.

{To be continued.)

White Hare. — Mr. Harvey, on September 23rd. shot on the Ratherton
estate, near Holsworthy, a perfectly milk-white Hare, which is now in my
collection. — W. Tombs, Jan., Exeter, November 4dh., 1851.

Malformation of the Teeth of the Bahhit, (Lepus cuniculus.) — A gentleman
of this town was shooting at Wooton, Beds , on the 6th. of November, when
he shot, a full-grown Rabbit, which had the four front teeth, or incisors, of
a very extraordinary length, thoee in the under jaw being curved upwards; one
of them was broken olF, the other one was an inch and five-eighths long*
the two upper teeth were curved inwards along the roof of the mouth, and
were seven-eighths of an inch long. How the poor animal existed with such
teeth I cannot imagine, the only way it could eat the herbage, was by biting it
sideways; it was a mere existence certainly, for the poor thing was little else
but skin and bone. One of the Duke of Bedford's keepers brought me the
head of a Rabbit which he found dead in one of the rides in the evero-reens
in Woburn Park, about three years ago, which had the two bottom incisors
very similar to the above, but both perfect, and of such a length as prevented
its getting at any food; the animal had therefore died of starvation, in the
midst of plenty, as the keeper told me its body was nothing but a bag of
bones. — George B. Clarke, Woburn, Beds., November 11th., 1851.

The Peregrine Falcon, (Falco peregrinus.) — A rare occurrence took place
here on the 7th. instant. I was standing on the north bridge that crosses
the River Soar, when I heard a strange noise which attracted my attention.
Looking round, I perceived, about eighty yards off, two large Hawks fighting,
at each attack soaring one above the other alternately. Their evolutions at
this time were truly beautiful. I watched them with the greatest interest till
they gradually came within gun-shot. Mr. Birkley, Jun., who had been on the
look-out, seized the opportunity; taking steady aim, he let fly, and brought down
a fine female Peregrine Falcon. Mr. B. handed it to me to preserve for him.
Length, nineteen inches and a quarter; from tip to tip of wings, forty-four
nches; weight, two pounds. — W. Bond, Frog Island, Leicester, Nov. 27th, 1851

MISCELLANEOUS NOTICES. X^

La7'k's eggs found in the stomach of a HmvJc, (Circus Montagui.) — Oa
looking over ^'The Naturalist" of the present month, I find at page 230, a
notice of eggs found in the stomach of a Hawk. A similar circumstance
having come under my own notice, perhaps it may be interesting to some of
your readers to record it. In May, 1838, I had an Ash-coloured Harrier,
(Circus Montagui,) brought to me to be stuiFed. On opening its mouth for
the purpose of cleaning it, preparatory to skinning, I discovered some yolk
of eggs in the throat; by carefully examining it, I found the crop to contain
a number of eggs; some quite smashed, others slightly fractured, and one
entire — all Sky-lark's eggs. This bird was shot near Carlisle. I set it up
for T. C. Heysham, Esq., of that city, who also got the egg that was not
broken. — James Cooper, Museura, Warnngton, December 4th., 1851.

Buff-coloured Wood-lark, (Alauda arborea,) — A pure bufi"-coloured Wood-
lark was shot near Crediton, in August last. — W. Tomhs, Jun., Exeter,
November 4th., 18ol.

Rose-coloured Pastor, (Pastor roseus.) — A fine male bird of this species
was shot near Chudleigh, on July 10th. — Idem.

Glossy Ibis, (Ibis falcinellus.) — A young specimen of this rare British
visitor was captured at Blatchboro, near Holsworthy, on September 7th. — Idem.

Spotted and Common Redshanks and GreenshanJcs. — Three Spotted Redshanks,
{Totanus fuscus,) and several Common Redshanks, (T. calidris,) and Green-
shanks, {T. glotf^s,) have recently been killed in the estuary of the Exe. — Idem,

Little Gull, (Larus minutus.) — On January 31st. G. C. Luke, Esq. kindly
presented me with a Little Gull, which he had shot whilst feeding with
two others of the same species, in a turnip field near this city: it is now
in my collection. — Idem.

Late occurrence of the Cuckoo. — On the 23rd. of October, of this year, as
two friends of mine were botanizing in a small wood, called Botley, which
crowns one of the hills in this neighbourhood, they repeatedly heard the well-
known notes of "Cuckoo, cuck, cuck, koo," uttered several times. When
they were first heard, my friends were some distance from each other, and
the one who fancied the other was hoaxing her, repeated these notes until
they met, and, to their mutual surprise, there was this sweet harbinger of
spring, C. canorus, outvying my two friends with its sweet voice. — J. W. Lukis,
Great Bedwyn, November 27th., 18ol.

Late appearance of Hirundo rustica. — On the 12th. of November, as my
friend, the Rev. S. C. E. N. Rolfe, of Heacham Hall, Norfolk, was taking his
accustomed morning walk, between the hours of seven and eight o'clock, he
saw a Swallow flying about the front of his house as busily as in the middle
of summer. He watched it for the space of half-an-hour; it would now and
then alight on the coping of the house, and then resume its active flight.
It was not seen after breakfast was over. — Idem.

20 MISCELLANEOUS NOTICES.

Tlie Jachdaw, (Curvus monedula.) — I may here corroborate the fact of the
Jackdaw building in holes of trees; for when at Heacham Hall^ Norfolk^ I
used frequently to disturb two pair of Jackdaws from an old oak tree, in
which was also a brood of Starlings, {Stumus vulgaris.) The old church
tower was distant only a few hundred yards! — Idem.

Swalloios, (Hirundo rustica.) — A very large number of these interesting
birds assembled yesterday and to-day on and near my house in this town
previous to their migration, and started in two parties. This I have observed
as occurring about the same time and at the same place for several years
past. — John Garland, Dorchester, September Idth., 1851.

Curious freak of the Pied Wagtail. — On the 20th. of last June, a relation of
mine found a Redstart's nest, (Phoenicura ruticilla,) containing four eggs,
and brought it to me. To my surprise, on examination, I found one to be
the egg of the Wagtail, (Motacilla Yarrelli.) — William Bond, Frog Island,
Leicester, October 20th., 1851.

Ulack Scoter, (Oidemia nigra.) — Three specimens of this bird were obtained
here on the 23rd. of October last. — C. Stubbs, Henley-upon-Thames, December
1st., 1851.

A pure white specimen of the Common Blackbird, (Turdus merula,) was
shot on the 11th. of November last in this neighbourhood. — Idem.

A Land Rail, (Crex pratensis,) was brought me on the 4th)r of November.
It was a young bird, and very fat; rather late, more particularly considering
the cold weather we have had. — Idem.

A white specimen of the Common Starling, (Stumus vulgaris,) was seen
a great many times, in October last, at Emmer Green, near Caversham. It
used to associate with a large flock of the common colour. — Idem.

Peacock Bxdterfly, (Vanessa lo.)— A quantity of these flies came forward
to-day, August 25th., which changed from caterpillars August 9th., making
therefore the time they remain in the chrysalis state, sixteen days. — R. A.
Julian, Emmanuel College, November 1th., 1851.

Clouded-Yellow Bidterjhj, (Colias edusa.) — I know of about twenty of these
flies having been taken in the neighbourhood of Plymouth this season, between
August 30th. and September 20th. They were mostly captured on the coast
between Mount-Batten and Bovisand. They also frequent barren banks and
clover fields at a great distance from the sea. — Idem.

The Misseltoe, (Viscum album.) — Your correspondent, in No, 7 of this
Journal, may be glad to add the Pear tree to his list of trees upon which
this parasite grows. When at Fawnhope, in Herefordshire, in 1840, I observed
it growing most commonly and abundantly upon the common Pear tree, which
grows in the orchards of that pait of the country. I hope to add a list of

MISCELLANEOUS NOTICES.

n

the trees upon which it grows in this neighbourhood ere long. — J. W. Lukis,
Great Bedwijn, Wilts, October 8th., 1851.

"A Toad in a Hole." — A few days since, a lady who resides at the Vicarage,
South Newington, related a circumstance to me, relative to a disputed point
in Natural History, which occurred on the road leading from that village to
Banbury; and which, at the time, I thought worth sending for insertion in
your interesting and useful publication. I now feel the more disposed to
forward it, in consequence of having read in "The Times," of 'Tuesday last,
an article extracted from the "Literary Gazette," with the ludicrous heading
I have copied above. The account there narrated, is of a Toad having been
discovered by some workmen, in digging a well at Blois, last June, in the
middle of a large flint, weighing about fourteen pounds, and lying about a
yard beneath the surface of the soil. The stone and the Toad, just as they
were, were sent to the Society of Sciences at Blois, where it is said to have
become the subject of curious attention; and it is also stated to have been
brought before the Academy of Sciences at Paris. Every circumstance mentioned
appears to confirm the supposition that the creature must have been enclosed
from the very formation of the flint; but M. Magendie suggested that it was
just possible that an attempt was being made to hoax the Academy, as it
might have been put in by the workmen after the stone was broken. But
for the objections to this, and the whole narrative, I will refer your readers
to the article itself, and proceed to give you an account of the circumstance
I have commenced with, respecting another Toad which was discovered in a
similar situation, where, undoubtedly, no trick was attempted or thought of.
The lady I have alluded to was walking with some more ladies on the road
I have mentioned, when a cart, loaded with stones from a neighbouring
stone-pit, passed them. It had no sooner done so, than a large round stone
rolled ofi^ the load, and on its falling on the hard ground, immediately split
in two parts; when, to the wonder of the party, a living Toad came out
of a hole in the middle of it. They called to the carter, who stopped his
horses, examined the reptile and his lodging, and after having joined with
the ladies in expressing astonishment at — "the thing being in the middle of
a great stone when there was no place for him to get in at!" — coolly enclosed
it again in its once subterranean resting-place, threw the stone and its inmate
on the top of his load, and without further reflection drove leisurely on. I
regret exceedingly I had not the good fortune to witness this event myself,
as I fully believed, from the statement made to me, (the truth of which I
can fully rely on,) that the reptile was perfectly enclosed in the stone. This
was of the soft reddish brown kind which spreads over a large portion of the
north of Oxfordshire, and is described by the Rev. W. D. Conybeare, as
ferruginous sandstone of the inferior oolite; and by Sowerby, as sandy or iron-
shot oolite. I may add here, that Mr. Conybeare was for a few years
clergyman of South Newington, which afforded him an excellent opportunity

22 MISCELLANEOUS NOTICES.

of examining the stratification of this neighbourhood, and of so accurately
describing it as he has done in the ^^Outlines of the Geology of England
and Wales." The much-agitated question of living Toads being found in
blocks of stone, is by no means a new one in this town, as I have been
several times told by masons and labourers who reside here, and who have
collected fossils for me, that they have discovered them in this situation;
but I never had an account I could rely on better than the one I have
related. — Charles Faulkner, Museum, Deddington, August 22nd., 1851.

A fact for Naturalists. — A singular circumstance, and calculated to shake
the popular belief on the subject, occurred during the present week. Mr.
Pigeon, a fish dealer. Great Yarmouth, purchased a quantity of Crabs, and
in examining them, one of them was found to be marked with certain initials
and also with the date ^^1845" on the shell. The general-received opinion
is that the Crab casts its shell every year. If these marks, therefore, were
affixed in the year assigned, this must be considered a satisfactory refutation
of ^the notion. The initials are "Y. 0. U. N.," "C, and B. A." The Crab
is still in the possession of Mr. Pigeon, who will be happy to shew it to
any one curious enough to desire to see it. — Norfolk News, May Slst., 1851.

Note on a Sturgeon, (Acipenser sturio.) — August 15th., a Sturgeon six feet

long, and weighing sixty pounds, was taken in a ground seine near West

Looe, and forwarded to the London market. This fish is of very rare
occurrence here. — C. Jackson.

Scolopendra eledrica. — While walking a few nights since in my garden here,
I picked up a specimen of this singular luminous insect. The light it emitted
was not confined, as in the Glow-worm, to one spot of the body, but proceeded
from different parts, seemingly at the insect's pleasure, sometimes even shining
in more than one place at once — a fact noticed by Kirby, in his work on
Entomology, who further describes it as being "a common insect in this country,
residing under clods of earth, and often visible at night in gardens." One
thing I observed in it as being very peculiar; on being placed in my hand,
it emitted from its side several drops, as it were, of phosphorescent light,
which continued shining for a few seconds. This was no doubt occasioned
by a bruise it had received the moment before I picked it up, which allowed
the luminous secretion to escape. — F. M. Burton, Lindum House, Lincoln,
October 20th., 1851.

Some workmen, who were lately digging in a sort of bog in New Jersey,
came upon the bones of some enornaous animal. After a deal of labour, they
succeeded in exhuming a tusk measuring ten feet in length, and weighing one
hundred and sixty-five pounds; some teeth weighing over seven pounds each,
ten inches long, and twenty-eight in circumference; and a fore leg or shin bone,
measuring three feet six inches from the fetlock joint to the knee. From
these specimens we presume the remains to be those of some monster of the
Mastodon genus. — Evening Journal, October dth., 1851.

23

^^rntBBMngB nf Inrittie.

Katural History Society of Glasgow. — On 2nd, of July, 1851, a number of gentlemen formed
themselves into a society, under the name of "The Natural History Society of Glasgow " the
objects of which are to encourage the pursuit of Natural History in all its branches and to
foster a love of this science, by meetings for the exhibition of specimens, both native and foreign
the -reading of communications, and excursions for mutual improvement.

John Scouler, M. D., L. L. D., F. L. S., Lecturer to the Natural History Society of Dublin
is Honorary President, William Gourlie, Esq,, President, and W. B, Lorrain, M. D. Vice-
President, for the present season.

At a special meeting held on 9th. July, Dr. Scouler read a paper "On the Symmetry of
Plants and Animals." He observed that the great distinction between plants and animals
consists, as Aristotle has long since observed, in the presence of sensation in the one class and
its absence in the other. The functions of the plant were of two kinds only — nutritive and
reproductive; while in the animal there was, in addition, a complicated apparatus of sensation and
locomotion, connected by the central part of the nervous system. In vegetables the symmetrical
arrangement of parts was consequently more simple than in animals, having no relation to
locomotion. In the vegetable the parts were disposed in a spiral line, or radiated from a central
axis, and hence could not be considered as bilateral. A flower, for example, had neither a rio-ht
and a left side, nor anterior and posterior parts. On the contrary, in the animal kingdom there
was always an anterior part, indicated by the position of the mouth, and having near it the
chief nervous mass, whether a brain or a ganglion, and also the principal organs of sense. By
ascertaining the position of the mouth, we had, therefore, a certain means of reoognisino- the
anterior extremity, and by this means, as Agassiz had well shown, we could recognise the
posterior extremity and the right and left side ; consequently the bilateral symmetry even of the
radiated zoophytes, as the Sea-urchin and the Sea-star. Dr. S. continued, that the same kind
of investigation when extended was sufficient to prove the existence of this bilateral symmetry
throughout the animal kingdom, although it became obscure in proportion as the animal was
deprived of active locomotive powers, or enclosed in a shell. Of the greater or less distinctness
of the bilateral symmetry in proportion to the proportion of locomotion, we had examples in the
Cirripeds and the Lerncea, in which the young animals were perfectly bilateral, and furnished
with ambulatory feet, while in the adult females, permanently fixed to foreign substances or
to the bodies of other animals, almost every vestige of symmetry was lost. Nevertheless even
in zoophytes of very limited locomotive powers, we could still trace the bilateral sjTnmetry.
Even in the Actinia the foot was divided into two lateral portions, and in the allied genus of
Fungia we observed this division even in the coral or polypiary formed by the animal.

At the first ordinary meeting, held on the 5th. August, Mr. John Gray read a paper "On
the Hydrocanthari of the West of Scotland." This paper is retained in the meantime, at the
author's request, for the insertion of additional species.

Mr. Egbert Gray gave an interesting account of an excursion made by himself and Mr.
J. P. Eraser in July, to the shores of East Lothian and Berwickshire, including a visit to the
Bass Rock; illustrating the geological remarks with a numerous suite of fossils. At Dunbar
Mr. G. noted the interesting fact that the Coalfish, or Sethe, ( Merlangus carbonarius,) is, at
certain seasons at least, of very voracious habits. During the Herring-fishery at that town, it
had taken the place of Acanthias vulgaris, (the Common Dogfish,) a most destructive enemy to
industrious fishermen, as it devours the Herrings, besides destroying the nets. (This occurrence
is detailed in "The Naturalist," for November, 1851.) On the 21st. the party rambled along
shore, and examined a raised beach of some extent, about sixteen or twenty feet above the usual
level. This "ancient sea margin" was full of the usual objects to be found on the sea-shore,
and contained besides a number of Helices, or Snail shells, which had obviously been buried at
the same time with the others. The whole mass had become quite black, and strongly matted
with roots of grass, etc. Part of the same day was devoted to collecting fossils, in which various
parts of the shore abound. These have been alluded to by Mr. W.-Eerguson, in his Geological
Monograph, recently published in "The Naturalist," and consist chiefly of Encrinites of two
or three species, including one pear-shaped, and the remains of shells and corals. Many specimens
were noticed which were finely branched, and one or' two little moimds in the bed were entirely
composed of fragments of tentacula, or arms, some of which were not thicker than threads.

24: THE QUERIST.

Near the spot a magnificent sheet of Sandstone was observed, covered with ripple markings, so
regular and fresh-looking as almost to deceive the eye into the belief that the observer looked
upon a sandy shore, just left bare by the tide It is about twenty or thirty yards in extent.
Vegetable ren^ains lay here in myriads, many of them in exquisite condition, others were in a
stnte of charcoal, and might have been almost used as a dentrifice. "As we passed onwards,"
says Mr. G., "fragments of a sigillaria, of which the shingle on the beach was entirely com-
posed, betrayed the neighbourhood of another most interesting ancient forest; and as we walked
off the links and across these loose stones, we trod immediately on their prostrate and petrified
remains. "Whole trees lay there, with their curiously-marked tranks and branches crossing each
other, and in confused heaps, like tangle on the shore; and as we stopped from rock to rock,
new forms engaged our attention. Many of them had been washed out of their sites, leaving
a corresponding cavity impressed with their external characters ; others were laying loose in their
cradles, and rocked by the waves at every tide. "We dislodged a few of these, and found the
under side coated with coaly matter. Some specimens measured ten or twelve feet in length,
and were much branched; the main trunk had a proportionate thickness, and the extremities
might almost be termed twigs." One or two other deposits were noticed, fossils from which
were laid on the table ; the most admired were a large and crowded slab, containing portions of
echini, etc., and pieces of coral, in which were embedded some beautiful terebratula).

Several interesting ornithological notices were also given. At the Bass Eock, the Little Auk,
(Mergulus alle,) was observed, a bird which is very seldom met with. Great numbers of
Kittiwakes, (Larus tridactylus^) were breeding in the high ledges; one that was shot disgorged
an ordinary-sized whiting. The Sandwich Tern, (Sterna Boysii,) was also found breeding
there. Along shore specimens of the Purple Sandpiper, (Tringa maritima,) were obtained — a
rare capture in the summer season, as it is one of those species which retire to northern latitudes
to breed. On the 23rd., the excursionists set out for St. Abb's Head, where they had to endure
the disappointment of not finding a boat at their service. A delightful ramble, however, was
enjoyed along the head of the clifi's, which were profusely clothed with wild flowers. Over these
various insects were hovering in abundance — gay Copper Buttei-flics, and sober-coloured Ringlets,
Graylings, etc. Anthroccra Jil^'pendula', (the Five-spot Burnet Moth,) was particularly common.
On wing this curious insect resembles a slow-flying Beetle. Every gleam of sunshine called
forth swarms, which instantly dropped on the smallest disturbance being offered. Their flight
was not resumed for a time ; and so sluggish were they, that our entomologists leisurely pinned
them on the flowers, without being required to take them in their hands, an operation they
submitted to very quietly. In East Lotliian and Berwickshire the insect appears to have a
partiality to the sea-shore, being found in many situations along their coasts. On their way to
Cantybay, the party saw a large swarm of the Speckled "Wood Butterfly— an interesting and
pretty species of Ilipparohia— flying about the hedge-rows. There were some hxmdreds of them
in active motion, occasionally assembling in little clusters, and fighting till they reached the
ground. So numerous were these beautiful creatures, that several were knocked down at each
blow of a cap, as it swung rapidly from side to side. The Painted Lady, (Cijnthia cardui,)
was also found, but not in such plenty.

Mr. Gray concluded his account, of which the foregoing is a very imperfect abstract, with a
few interesting observations on the Rock Pigeon, (Columba Ihia,) which was noticed in
considerable numbers in the rocky coves between Cockbumspath and East Castle.

€\i <tm\±

Have any of your entomological subscribers reared Vanessa Antiopa from the larva in this
country ? and if not, at what period of the year were the specimens they possess captm-edi'—
An answer will oblige Bombyx Atlas, Tottenham.

JFatei--Mies, (Nymphfea alba.)— In a pond at Middleton Tyas, near Richmond, Yorkshire.
Nupltar lutca, in abundance in the "Wiskc, at Tafl!brth, near Northallerton, North-Riding of
Yorkshire. Collected in these localities by D. Ferguson, Redcar.

Water-Lilies, (Nymphcea alba.)"Pleutifuly in the Foss river, close to York. Nuphar lutea,
common in the Foss also.—B. R. M.

ANATOMY OF THP:: LEAF.

BY SPENCER COBBOLD, ESQ., M. D.

A LEAF is nothing more or less than a lateral expansion of the outer layer
or bark of any stem or bough. An ordinary leaf to the naked eye appears
to be merely a flat plate of cellular substance, which, traversed by numerous
veins or nerves, radiating from a common vein, or midrib, as it is called,
forms that beautiful reticulated structure so familiar to us all. Common as
the appearance is, we cannot fail to recognise in it evidence of design. We
shall not stop to comment upon the obvious necessity for such an arrangement;
this would lead us into a department of the subject to which the term
Morphology is more strictly applicable j moreover, it is a branch of inquiry
which has only very recently been broken up.

Let us look more closely at the ultimate elements of which it is composedj
this we are enabled to do by aid of the microscope, an instrument which of
late years has been brought to great perfection, and at the present time forms
one of our most valuable accompaniments in the investigation of natural
phenomena. A leaf, then, such as we have already defined, consists, like all
other parts of a plant in the fully-developed state, of only two kinds of structure,
which present, however, various modifications under different circumstances.
These two structures are termed cells and vessels. The cells are merely little
bags or vesicles, the wall or covering of which is a transparent homogeneous
membrane, of extreme tenuity, and is chemically closely allied to starch. Their
size varies considerably; in some plants measuring the twentieth or even the
tenth part of an inch in diameter, while in others they are less than the
two-thousandth part of the same metre. Their shape is equally variable, which
is owing to the manner in which they are compressed together, in this way
forming either cubical, pentagonal, octagonal, or dodecahedral cellular tissue.

Let us now see what is contained within these vesicles or cells. All of
them contain a more or less palpable fluid, which in some is watery or still more
dense; in others there exists only a vapour; but besides this, ^

all those cells, filling up the interstices hctiveen the veins, con- c o o O* »* o
tain a number of little round bodies, some of almost incon- ^ ^o^^^iPo
ceivable minuteness, termed molecules and granules. For the O ° O e"©
sake of distinction we call those granules which present a
clear central space, surrounded by a dark zone; while those which are termed
molecules, are mere spots or points of variable magnitude. When the larger
bodies present a green appearance, they are termed chlorophille
granules. These bodies sometimes exhibit under the microscope, •/•'•**o*.,*!*.
a series of extraordinary movements, a constant and rapid :.■'■'.•••.•/•,*.'
shifting and interchange of position, owing, doubtless, to cer- ;,•... ; -•*.•/.
tain attractive and repelling properties, which seem essential
to the constitution of all matter.

As I mentioned just now the existence of Chlorophil in the interior of the

VOL. II. E

26 AXATOiJY OF THE LEAF.

cells of the Leaf, it will readily be admitted that^ since the cellular structure
of the organ is colourless and diaphanous^ the green colour of leaves generally
must depend upon the presence of this granular material. Such is actually
the case, although at first it might not seem probable.

But it now may be asked, upon what does a difference of colour of the
leaves or any other part of a plant depenil ? This is an interesting question,
but we cannot now fully enter upon it; let it suffice me to state, generally,
that the granular matter is either red, blue, green, or violet, according as, in the
one case, it is disposed to reflect, or has an apjx'fite for reflecting the red, or
least refrangible rays; or, as in the other instance, it reflects either the violet,
or most refrangible rays; or any of the other intermediate rays, of which a
beam of solar light is constituted. In what, however, this inherent property
of absorbing or decomposing light consists, we cannot at present determine;
therefore, without entering any further into the ''Theory of Colours," we shall
at once return to what we were discussing respecting the contents of the
vesicles or cells.

Beside granules every true cell contains, at some period or other, a small
oval or round bo:ly, called a nucleus. This nucleus is usually regarded as
the centre from which the cell originated; but there are numerous theories
as to the mode in which cells spring up and are developed; and the subject
of cell development, or Cytogenesis, being of extreme intricacy and delicacy,
to enter further upon this subject would be altogether foreign to our pur-
pose. I cannot waive it^ however, without remarking by the way that
there seems to exist in the human mind an insatiable desire to unravel
Nature's greatest mystery. It is this that has unhappily led many of our
most enlightened philosophers to start aside from the truth once revealed, to
place their faith only in the vague notion, ''That organized bodies, whether
simple, compound, or complicated, are all of spontaneous origin." Thus fatally
overlooking the first, the great, the eternal cause!

But to return. Beside the nucleus, wc often find a quantity of Crystals,
or Eaphides, These bodies viewed under the micrascope have frequently the
appearance of bundles of fine needles. They are very numerous in the leaf-
stalk of the Rhubarb, in which plant they exist as oxalate of Lime. Starch
grains are also found, but these occur more fie(juent]y in the cells of the
root and fruit, as in the Potatoe and Wheat.

There is one other deposit to which I shall briefly allude, that is called
Lignine, or Woody Matter. This substance is that which gives to the veins
or ribs of the leaf a tough and fibrous character, aud in its more highly-
developed condition it constitutes ordinary wood; while in the seeds of many
foreign Trees, such as the Ivory Palm for example, it assumes an almost
stony hardness.

I have now to say a few words about the vessels of the leaves. Vessels
are elongated cells placed end to end, which sometimes communicate with each
other, forming complete hollow tubas; at other times they are closed. Their

ANATOMY OF THE LEAF, 27

size varies; they frequently contain in their interior large spiral fibres coiled
up; and they are so numerous and strong in the leaves of the Bananas and
Plantains of India, that the natives draw them out by handfiiUs, and dry
them for tinder. There seems to be a universal tendency in all organized
masses to develop themselves in a spiral manner; and in respect to the arrange-
ment of leaves on the stem, its consideration is included in that department
of the study of Morphology, which has received the name of Phylhtaxis.

Beside these spiral vessels, there is another class of vessels, called Laticiferous^
because there circulates in them a peculiar milky

fluid, called Latex. This stnicture is more abun- >\^:T:Tr77 ^■

dant in some plants than in others; this is es- ):/' 1-/^~~~1''

pecially the case in the Common Dandelion. l:L__^.-( /•/

Thus much for the vessels or vascular system
of the leaf; let me now direct particular attention
to the skin or covering of it: this is a more
interesting structure.

The external covering, or Epidermis generally
consists of a single layer of transparent cells on '*^'*' ^

each side, which do not contain any of the gi'een gi'anular matter of
which we have spoken. It is remarkable for the number of openings or mouths
which it presents.

The mouths, or Stomata, are formed by the apposition of two or more
cells, which have the appearance of lips. The lips close or open according to
the humidity or dryness of the atmosphere, and thus regulate the passage of
fluids to the leaves. They occur more generally upon the under than upon?
the upper side of the leaf, sometimes in equal numbers upon both. Their
number also varies in different plants.

Many leaves are covered with hairs. These, hairs are simply prolongations
of cells from the general covering; but, like all other organs of the plant,
their external configuration is subject to the greatest variety of form. Hairs
are by no means of little importance. Cotton itself is manufiictured from the-
hairs surrounding the seeds of the Gossypium herhaceum, or common cotton-
plant of India. Many hairs secrete at their base an acrid irritating matter,
which, if applied to the skin, communicates a burning sensation, frequently
attended by great pain. Every one is familiar with the sting of the common
nettle. These stings are conical hairs, the apex or top of which is closed
by a globular or button-shaped projection, resembling a pin's head. The
slightest touch causes this little prominence to fall off, when at the same
time the sharp end of the hair immediately beneath pierces the skin, and the-
irritating fluid within is thrown out.

Some hairs secrete oily, resinous, and adhesive matters; in the latter case,,
insects lighting upon the leaves stick there and die. By such means some
plants are preserved from the injurious attacks of insects, which would other-
wise have effected theii* destruction. Hairs also servo to protect certain plants

28 CAPTITRE OF THE LANCELET,

in times of gi'eat drouglit; this is done by preventing tlie siin's rays falling
upon the deeper structures of the leaf, which would otherwise abstract so much
moisture as to cause it to shrivel up and decayj of this the Verbascum
tJtapsus forms an excellent example. Certain cells, as those at the base of
of the hairs on Nettles, are possessed of the property of Coivtractility, by
virtue of which a variety of phenomena in different plants are effected. It is
owing to this irritability that we observe those curious and familiar move-
ments in the Mimosa pudica, or sensitive plant; and another striking illustration
of this property is exhibited in the leaves of the Dionoea mibscijpxda, or
Venus' Fly Trap. The closure of the leaf is here caused by the flies
touching certain hairs which grow from the upper surface of the blade.

We have other appendages to leaves in the form of Thorns or PricldeSj
and sometimes even flowers. I could only mention concerning the former, that
they are merely continuations of the Ribs or Veins, beyond the ordinary
cellular tissue at the margin of the leaf, the points of which become very
hard and sharp, owing to the increased deposit in its cells of woody matter,
or lignine. These occur, however, more frequently as abortive branches.

Edinhurgh, January, 1852.

CAPTURE OF THE LANCELET, (AMPHIOXUS
LANCEOLATUS,) AT HERM.

BY J. W, LUKIS, ESQ.

The notice of the discovery of so rare a little fish in our seas, as the
Amphioxus lanceolatus may not be altogether out of place in your valuable
pages. I here send you the following account, taken from my notes on the
day of its discovery, etc.

On the 4th. of April, 1848, I visited the island of Herm, which is
distant about three miles east of Guernsey, for the purpose of examining its
lovely shell beach, called Bel-val, which lies on the east side of the island.
This island is between three and four miles in circumference, sloping to the
north, and possesses many attractions for the conchologist over its sister isles.
There are a few cromlechs, Druidic circles, etc., as well as the remains of an
ancient chapel, which now forms part of the farmer's house who rents the
land, to interest the antiquary.

The 4th. of April was a splendid morning, hardly a breath of air was
stirring; a more propitious day for a water excursion could scarcely be had.
The sea reflected the rocks and headlands, as in one vast mirror; the Sea-
Gulls seemed to check their flapping wings, as if in doubt whether the still

CAPTURE OP THE LANCELET. 29

air could bear them on their course; whilst their cry re-echoed far and wide,
as we disturbed them from their resting-places; nought else but the measured
stroke of our oars broke the stillness of the scene. We landed at the small
unfinished harbour on the west side of the island, and soon walked across to
the above beach, with all the requisites for a shell-hunting excursion. This
beach, from high-water mark to about half-tide, is composed of one mass of
shells to a considerable depth; not, of course, of the larger perfect shells, but
of minute perfect shells, and fragments of the larger ones, with little or no
sand intermixed with them. Below half-tide the sand commences, and extends
a long way out to sea. As the tide gradually ebbed, 1 followed it down to
its lowest ripple, picking up many varieties of shells on my way, (a list of
some of the rarer ones I will hereafter give,) when the struggling of a small
fish at the edge of the water attracted my attention. At first I supposed it
to be a small specimen of the Ammodytes lancea, or the Tohianus lancea,
both of which fish abound on this coast. As there appeared to be something
about it different from what I had observed in the others, I put it into a wide-
mouthed bottle, with sand and sea-water; and when I reached home, found that
it was not the Sand Lance, but the Amphioxiis lanceolutus; a description of
which may interest some of your readers: —

The form of this little fish is compressed, smooth, and without scales
resembling somewhat the Sand Lance in colour; in length, nearly two inches*
from the nose extending round the extremity of the tail, and terminating at
the vent, is a delicate membranous dorsal fin: I could not trace the position
of the eyes. Yarrell, in his excellent work on British Fishes, says, in his
description of this fish, "The head, pointed, without any trace of eyes;" but
when I entered the room in which I kept it, at night, with a lighted candle
it would dart in and out of the sand, evincing great uneasiness, and signs
of fear, evidently shewing sensibility to light; therefore, I imagine it had
the powers of vision. The nose rather protruded, the mouth on the under
edge, narrow, elongated, and each lateral margin of it furnished with a row of
slender filaments, regularly disposed. The anal aperture is situated one-fourth
of the whole length of the fish in advance of the tail.

The body is strengthened by a flexible cartilaginous column, from which the
numerous muscles diverge; and are arranged in regular order along the side
of the body, diverging from a central line; one series passing obliquely upward
and backward, the other series obliquely downwards and backwards. The
cavity of the abdomen is large; the intestine, a canal of considerable calibre,
without convolution; above is a row of flattened globules, which have the
appearance of ova : it was so transparent that the viscera were_ plainly visible
through. I kept this little fish in a glass bowl for several weeks, alive,
giving it fresh sea-water nearly every day; thus afibrding me an opportunity
of making drawings, and watching its habits narrowly, until my cat put an
end to its existence, much to my vexation and disappointment.

It was particularly active, swimming round the bowl and darting in and

30 FAUNA or FAKMOUTH.

out of the sand^ with the greatest ease and quickness; and often, when alarmed,
would jump out of the glass bowl. When undistui-bed, it seemed to rest about
half-an-inch below the surface of the sand, inclining rather upon one side.

The following is a list of the shells I picked up, and dug up, from the
sandy part of the beach: — Madra glauca: not common, Solen ensis: common.
S. jJcUucida: rare. S. vagina: not common. Trochus exiguus: common. T.
magus: common. T. tumidus: common. T. crassiis. Lutraria elUptica: com-
mon. L. oblonga. Donax complanatum: not uncommon. Tellina crassa: not
uncommon. Psammohia strigilata, Turbo clathrus, T. datJiratulus, T. Turtonis,
T. elegantlssimusy Pandora inequivalvis. Cyprcea pedicularis: common. Venns
chione. V. Sarniensis: common. V. verrucosa: common. V. aurea: common.
V. fasciata, V. decussata. Area fusca and many fragments of Arcana^. Nerita
litoralis: common, etc.; and amongst the rocks and pools on the west side of
the island, I found, for the second time, Lima fragUis, alive; and was much
delighted in watching them dart from one side of the pond to the other,
when disturbed. I also found four fine specimens of Galeomma striata, alive,
and three of those singularly beautiful Star-fish Comatula rosacea.

I really must apologize for extending this article beyond reasonable limits,
but the subject may be sufficiently interesting to plead for me.

Great Bedwyn, November 2.1 th., 1851.

CONTRIBUTIONS TO THE FAUNA OF FALMOUTH.

BY W. P. COCKS, ESQ.
( Continued from page \%.)

Blennius ocellarius, Blocli. — A specimen, four inches long, and perfectly
white, was dredged by Dr. Vigurs, in July, 1851, off" Falmouth. It lived
a week in confinement without change of colour: after death the body and fins
changed to a light brown.

Blennius gattorugine, Cuv. — Under stones, sea-weeds, etc.: common.

Blennius Pholis, Flem. — In pools, under stones, etc.: common.

Gunnellus vulgaris, Flein — Under stones, etc.: common.

Anarrhichus lupus, Linn. — Preserved skin of one, said to have been taken
in the year 1846, near the Eddystone lighthouse.

Gobius niger, Linn. — Under stones, crevices of rocks, etc.: common.

Gobius bipunctatus, Yar. — In shallow pools, etc.: common.

Gobius minutus, Cuv. — In shallow pools, under stones, sea-weeds, etc.:
common.

Callionymus lyra, Linn. — Trawl boats: not uncommon. December 1st.,
1849, four 3'oung ones in the stomach of the Morrhua (Eghfinus.

Callionymus dracunculus, Linn. — Not uncommon,

Lophius piscatorius, Linn. — Not uncommon.

Labrus bcrgylta, Cuv. — Common.

FAUKA OF FALMOUTH. 31

Labnis variegatns^ Gmel. — Not uncommon.

Labrus trimaculatus^ Jenyns. — Not uncommon.

Crenilabrus melops, Cuv. — Not uncommon.

Crenilabrus cornubicua^ Risso. — Ti'awl refuse^ in pools^ under sea-weed, etc. :
not uncommon.

Crenilabrus rupestris^ Selhy. — Trawl refuse, and stomach of the Morrhua
CEylefinus: rare. Mr. G. Nichols, found one four inches long, on sands,
Gwyllyn Vase, December 7th., 1849, after a severe storm.

Acantholabrus exoletus, Cuv. — In the stomach of a young Morrhica (Eglifiniis.

Loricaria cataphracta, Linn. — The specimen, (dried,) six inches in length,
was brought to me in the year 1846; said to have been procured from one
of our trawl boats.

Cyprinus auratus, Linn. — Domesticated.

Belone vulgaris, Guv. — Trawl boats: not uncommon.

Scombercsox saurus, Flem. — On the sands, Gwyllyn Vase, after rough
weather; stomach of the ^ledancjm vulgaris and Merlucius vulgaris.

Salmo salar, Linn. — Market: scarce.

Salmo trutta, Jenyns. — Market: not common.

Salmo fario, Jenyns. — Market: not common.

Clupea pilchardus, Bloch. — In the season, common.

Clupea harengus, Linn. — In the season, common.

Clupea Leachii, Yar. — Spring, fish-market: not common.

Alosa finta, Cuv. — Not uncommon.

Alosa communis, Cuv. — Not uncommon.

Morrhua vulgaris, Cuv. — Common.

■ ■ var. Yar. — Not common.

Morrhua ocglefinus, Cuv. — Common.

Morrhua lusca, Flem. — Common.

Morrhua minuta, Flem. — Not uncommon.

Merlangus vulgaris, Cuv. — Common.

Merlangus ^jarbonarius, Cuv. — Not uncommon.

Merlangus pollachius, Flem. — Common.

Merlangus virens, Cuv.— 'Kot uncommon.

Merlucius vulgaris, Cuv. — Common.

Lota molva, Cuv. — Common.

Motella tricirratus. Nils. — Common.

Motella cimbria. Par. — Under a stone in a shallow pool, extreme low
water mark, spring tide, Gwyllyn Vase. The specimen measured two inches
and one-eighth in length.

Motella quinquecirrata, Cuv. — Common.

Motella glauca Jen. — Pools oh rocks, Gwyllyn Vase, Swanpool, etc.: not
uncommon.

Phycis furcatus, Flem. — Not common. I procured three specimens in June,
184G. I have seen one since.

32 FAUNA OF FALMOUTH.

Platessa vulgaris, Fhm. — Common.

Platessa flesus, Flem. — Common.

Platessa limanda, Flem. — Common.

Platessa microcephala. Jen. — Not uncommon.

Platessa pola, Cuv. — Not common. An epicure in fish-cookery in Fal-
mouth, prefers this fish to the Torbay sole.

Platessa limandoides, Jen. — Fish-market 5 length, nine inches and a half:
very rare.

Hippoglossus vulgaris, Flem. — Not uncommon.

Rhombus maximus, Cuv. — Not uncommon.

Rhombus vulgaris, Ciw. — Not uncommon.

Rhombus hirtus, Yar. — In ponds, Gwyllyn Vase, Trawl boats: not
uncommon.

Rhombus punetatus, Yar. — Gwyllyn Vase, Trawl boats: not uncommon.

Rhombus megastoma, Yar. — Common.

Rhombus arnoglossus, Yar. — Common.

Solea vulgaris, Cuv. — Common.

Solea pegusa, Yar. — Rare.

Solea (monochirus) varicgata, Flem. — Not common.

Monochirus linguatulus, Cuv. — Trawl refuse, stomach of M. €Eglefinus: rare.

Lepidogaster Cornubiensis, Flem. — Common.

Lepidogaster bimaculatus, Flem. — Not uncommon.

Cyclopterus lumpus, Linn. — Not uncommon.

liiparis Montagui, Flem. — Not uncommon.

Anguilla acutirostris, Yar. — Swanpool, etc.

Anguilla latirostris, Yar. — Swanpool beach. Green bank.

Anguilla mediorostris, Yar. — Same localities.

Conger vulgaris, Cmv.— Common.

Ammodytes Tobianus, Jen. — Not uncommon.

Ammodytes lancea, Jen. — Sands Gwyllyn Vase, Swanpool, Pennance, Main-
porth, etc., extreme low water mark: not uncommon.

Syngnathus acus, Jen. — Trawl refuse, sands, Gwyllyn Vase.

Syngnathus Typhle, Linn. — Trawl refuse etc: not uncommon.

Syngnathus sequoreus, Linn. — Harbour, Trawl refuse, etc.

Syngnathus anguineus, Jen. — Harbour, Trawl refuse, etc.

Syngnathus ophidion, Linn. — Trawl refuse: not uncommon; under stones,
sea-weed, etc., Gwyllyn Vase: rare.

Syngnathus lumbriciformis, Yar. — Under stones, sea-weed, etc., Gwyllyn
Vase, Swanpool, Barpoint: common.

Orthagoriscus mola, Cuv. — (Short Sun-fish.) Mr. Arthur Chard captured
one on June 22nd., 1850. Length, five feet nine inchesj weighed two hun-
dred and fifty pounds.

(To be continued.)

33

Occurrence of the Great Bustard, (Otis tai'da,) in Devon. — On Saturday
last I was much interested in examining, at the house of Mr. Drew, Taxidermist,
Stonehouse, a fine specimen of the Great Bustard, sent to him for preservation,
by J. G. Newton, Esq., Millaton Bridestow, Devon, with a note stating it
was shot some days previously, (on December 31st.) The bird being perfectly
fresh, and Mr. Drew having only just completed the operation of skinning it
when I called, I had the opportunity of ascertaining the sex, and examining
the contents of its stomach. It proved a female, and the stomach contained
a large quantity of turnip leaves, mixed with several flat flinty stones about
the size of a sixpence. The base of the feathers on the breast and back were
of a beautiful rose-colour. — John Gatcomhe, Plymouth, January 5th., 1852.

On the Cuckoo, (Cuculus canorus.) — So much having been said on the
subject of Cuckoos in the late numbers of ^^The Naturalist," the following
additional facts may not be unacceptable to some of your readers. In my
collection I have six eggs of the Cuckoo, at least three of which were taken
from nests of the Hedge Accentor, or Hedge Sparrow, in Middlesex; and it
is remarkable that one nest contained the Cuckoo's egg 07ily when it was
found. I myself, in 1840, took a Cuckoo's egg out of the nest of the Reed
Warbler, {Salicaria aruncUnacea,) suspended between reeds gi'owing in the River
Isis, near Oxford: the said nest contained also three eggs of the Reed Warbler.
From the very slender support which the reeds afforded to the nest^ I infer
that in this instance the Cuckoo deposited her egg with her hill. Is any
other instance of a Cuckoo's egg being found in the nest of the Reed Warbler
authenticated? I have shot a Cuckoo, a young bird of the year, early in
September in Yorkshire. — H. J. Torre, Pleasley, near Mansfield, December 5th.,
1851. ,

Note on the CucJcoo. — With regard to the question whether the Cuckoo assists
in feeding its young, I have generally seen an old one not far from the nest
containing the young Cuckoo. We once found an egg in a Wagtail's nest,
not far from the hous3 ; the Cuckoo was frequently in the garden, and repeat •
edly uttered its cry of ^cuckoo,' but we did not pay sufficient attention to
ascertain if it assisted in feeding the young one. — G. Grantham, (in a letter to
The liev. F. 0. Iforris;) .East Shalford, Guilford, September ISth., 1851.

P. S. — I shot a young Cuckoo on Tuesday last.

Note on tJte Lapwing, (Vanellus cristatus.) — In the early part of last season,
while walking over the hills which run between Midlothian and Peebleshire, on
a bare elevated ridge of hill I found a nest of the Green Plover, ( Vanellus
cristatus,) containing one egg. From the appearance of the egg, it was evident
that the bird, if alive, would soon burst the shell. On detaching a portion
of the shell, I found the bird alive, and apparently strong; thinking the mother
had walked off with the other young, and left this unfortunate to perish, I

VOL. II. F

34 MISCELLANEOUS NOTICES.

returned it to the nest, consigning it to its fate; however on walking down
the side of the hill, towards a marshy spot at the foot of it, I saw a I^apwing
running before me, and thinking this might be one of the birds belon^ng
to the nest, I walked quietly towards her, as I believed it was the female. She
continued running until I got within twenty yards, then dropping from under
her wing an egg, she ran a few yards farther, then rose. On picking up this
egg, I found the head and one of the legs of the bird protruding, and when
entirely freed from the shell, it attempted to walk. Where I got the second
egg Avas fully two hundred yards from the nest, so that the mother must
have been carrying it from the nest, down to the marsh, and no doubt intended
to return for the one she had left. — D. 31. Falconer, Loanliead, Novemher
18th., 1851.

Hen Harrier, Peregrine, and Buzzard, at Falmouth. — The Circus cyaneus
was shot in the neighbourhood, August, 1851: in the possession of Mr. N,
Tresidder. The Falco peregrinus, (male,) was shot in the neighbourhood,
September 28th., 1851: in the possession of Mr. Chapman. The JButeo vulgaris
was shot in Mylor parish, November 1st., 1851, by a sailor: in the possession
of Mr, Chapman. — W. P. Cocks, Novemher 7th., 1851,

Early disappearance of Swallows. — On the morning of the 2nd. inst., my
attention was arrested by the aasemblage of a large number of House Martins
round a lofty factory chimney; a little distance from the spot Swallows were
also assembled around the steeple of a church. I immediately recognised the
intent of the meeting to be that of preparation for their voyage to warmer
regions of the globe. I visited the place on the 5th., but found them all
disappeared; I have seen several Swallows since, but not one House Martin.
It seems rather singular to me why they should leave this neighbourhood
sooner than any other, for on the 7th., in a town a few miles from here, I
observed them flying about very actively, without the least symptom of being
prepared for migrating. — P. B w, Stockport, September 18th., 1851.

To the list of Heronries recorded by Mr. J. Mc'Intosh, ("The Naturalist,"
vol, i. page 60,) I may add one that came under my own observation some
years ago. It is situated on a small island, in the ornamental piece of
water, at Beanwood — the country seat of the Marquis of Landsdown, about
seven miles from Melksham, in Wiltshire, where I then resided. The island
is separated from the park by about ten or a dozen yards. The Heronry
consisted, if I remember rightly, of about a dozen or twenty nests, and the
trees, contrary to custom I believe, are very low. I never had the pleasure
of seeing this little community but once, and that was during the breeding
season. Three unfledged young ones in one of the nests might be plainly
seen through an opening in the trees, and the croaking of them and others
was incessant. To this I may add that I believe one or two pairs occasion-
ally breed in the woods round Hemsworth dam, a few miles from Pontefract,

MISCELLANKOUS NOTICES. 35

whicli mill-dam is much frequented by them for food. I take this opportunity
of returning my sincere thanks to Mr. W. P. Cocks^ for his very explicit reply
to my question, respecting the Vespertilio emarginattis and Mus intermedius.
— Hairy Ferris^ Kingsdown, Bristol, January, 1852.

To the list of Heronries may be added, one at Henham Hall, the seat of
the Earl of Stradbroke, Suffolk. I obtained eggs from it in the spring of
1848. — H. K. Creed, Christ's College, Camhridge, December 6th., 1851.

Among the Heronries omitted in Mr. Mc' Intosh's list, at page 60, of vol. i.
of "The Naturalist," is that in Shute Park, near Axminster, Devonshire,
the property of Sir John George Pole, Bart. It has been in existeace several
years, and still flourishes. — G. P. li. Pulman, January, 1852.

Nest of the Common Moorhen, (Gallinula chloropus.) — I remember having
seen, about five years since, a Moorhen's nest in a similar situation to the one
described by the Rev. R. P. Alington, in No. 1 0 of "The Naturalist." It was
formed of the usual materials, in an alder stump, and at least three feet above
the surface of the water. I used often to amuse myself by watching the
young Moorhens run up and down the stump which leaned over the water, at
an angle of about forty-five degrees. The indentical spot where this nest was
formed, is a few score yards above Cloakham Bridge, on the River Axe, at
Axminster. — Idem.

Colour of the Iris of the Bed-necked Grebe, (Podiceps rubricollis.) — In com-
pliance with your request at page 232, vol. i., respecting the colour of the
irides of the Red-necked Grebe. I stuffed one killed in the River Mersey
near this town, in January, 1850, the irides of which were lightish hazel.
I thought at the time this might be owing to its being a young bird, but
shortly after I had a young bird of the Great-crested Grebe, the irides of
which were pinkish red; it is therefore probable that the eyes of these two
closely allied species may differ more or less in colour, in the mature birds.—
In a letter to the Editor. James Cooper, Miiseum, Warrington, December
4th., 1851.

Occurrence of the Bing Ouzel, (Turdus torquatus,) near London. — Having
seen at page 213, vol. i. of "The Naturalist," a notice of a Ring Ouzel,
(Turdus torquatus,) having been shot in Norfolk, I beg to inform you that
I shot one at Peck ham 'Rye, not five miles from London, on the 22nd. of
October last. — F. D. Loames, 80, Old Broad-Street, City, London, November
Gth., 1851.

Black Beddad at Falmouth. — A fine male specimen of the Phcenicura tithys
was shot by a lad yesterday — Gwyllyn Vase : in the possession of Mr. Chapman.
December 1850, Dr. Williams' Son shot two specimens — females; the first
was given to Mr. Olive, watchmaker; and the second to Mr. Chapman. Mr.
May shot one the same week, and in the same locality — Gwyllyn Vase.-
— W. P. Cocks, Falmouth, November 13th., 1851.

36 REVIEW.

Nesting of the Sparrow. — It has been asserted that the Sparrow^ (Passer
domestic%is,) seldom, or never builds in trees; but this is not the case, for,
at Ashes, near Culross, Perthshire, there were a great many Sparrows' nests
on some larches in a small plantation there, besides others on tall beeches
close by. — J. D., Ediiiburgh, November 10th., 1851.

Nesting of the Blackbird and Ghaffiyich. — At the same place — Ashes — I
saw rather an unusual situation made choice of by a Blackbird. (Turdus me-
rula,) for a nest, namely, in a bean rick. This bird seldom builds in any
locality, except in trees, bushes, hedges, ivy, or in holes of walls, or rocks,
according to Macgillivray. In the same rick, a Chaffinch, {Fringilla coehbs,)
also made its nest; not a very likely place for this bird either. This was
in 1844. — IdLm.

When out walking one day in October last, I saw a Kestrel in full chase
of an unfortunate Hook/ (Oorviis frugilegus,') which seemed to be hard pressed
by the Hawk. I at last lost sight of them beliind some trees. This was
in the neighbourhood of Torry, Fifeshire, — Idem.

Tlie Missdtoe. — In accordance with the wish of Mr. Mc' Intosh, at page 15/5
vol. i. of "The Naturalist," I send you the following respecting the above parasite
growing in this locality, namely, in Woburn Park, some years ago on the
Whitethorn; in Ampthill Park, Beds., it is growing at the present time on
the Lime, Poplar, Acacia, and Hawthorn; it also grows in Welford Park,
near Newbury, Berks., on the Lime and Crab; in Herefordshire it grows on
the Apple and Pear, but by far the most frequently on the Pear. — George B.
Clarice, Woburn, Beds., November Srd., 1851.

Marsh Marigold, (Caltha palustris.) — Is it not very unusual for this plant to
be in flower at this time of the year? On the banks of the river near
Waltham Abbey, it is blossoming just as it did in the spring. I saw it on
Saturday last, when out sailing; I have never found it before later than the
end of May. — S. H. Carter, Bruce Grove House, Tottenham, November, 1851.

The Vade-mecum, of Fly-fishing for Trout; being a complete practical Treatise

on that branch of the ad of Angling; tvith plain and copious instructions

for the manufacture of Artificial Flies. Illustrated by numerous Engravings.

By G. P. R. PuLMAx, Author of "Rustic Sketches," "The Book of the

Axe," etc. London: Longmans, 1851. Srd. Edition, p. p. 18G.

This title would perhaps appear to belong to a work hardly coming within

the scope of the Naturalist; but, independently of the love of Natural History,

which generally goes along with the love of fishing, the above little volume

has claims on our space which wo should be sorry, in any way, to disallow.

The claims to which we allude are the many very interesting and faithful details

of the Natural History, not only of the fish involved in a treatise of this

REVIEW. 37

nature^ but also of the various flies which are destined to be their food; nearly
fifty pages arc devoted to the Natural History of these creatures^ and many
valuable facts and observations are to be found in them.

The following extract is interesting, as showing the enormous increase of size
which takes place in the common trout^ when placed under favourable circum-
stances. Page 19. —

"But an insttiiice lias come under our own knowledge which cannot admit of dispute, for
the water in which were captured the specimens (of trout) of which we shall speak, is miles
from the sea, and has not the slightest communication with it, through any of its numerous
feeders. We refer to the reservoir of the canal at Chard, in Somersetshire, a piece of water
covering some seventy acres, in which common trout, weighing six and eight pounds, were
taken with the net within two years after its construction; and one was found dead on the bank
about the same period, which weighed more than a dozen pounds. These fish must have been
supplied from the neighbouring tributary brooks, in which a trout above six inches long is
perhaps never seen; and they atford additional proof —if such were wanting— of the physical
peculiarity of fish, the gi-owth of which, under favourable circumstances, has no limit, and is
of marvellous rapidity."

This fact is one of much interest; for it is seldom that fish are so isolated
as to enable their origin and growth to be so decidedly traced, as they were
in this instance. We had no idea that the growth of the trout was so rapid,
even under any circumstances; and we had always thought the monsters one
sometimes read of, to have been fish of some indefinite age, and which had,
by slow degrees, attained such fair proportions; Mr. Pulman's fact is, however,
quite decisive, that some operating cause, other than, and independent of,
age, is at the bottom of such unusual increase.

The remainder of the work is occupied with the rod, line, flies, etc.; and
the chapter upon the last is so good, and so well illustrated by wood-cuts,
that if any reader of the book experiences difllculty in making the arti-
ficial flies, the fault will not rest with Mr. Pulman. This chapter is, to our
mind, the best on the subject we have seen, and we have done a little in
fly-making ourselves. The various steps are so clearly laid down, and so plainly
described and illustrated, that we have no hesitation in recommending the "Vade-
mecum," as a fitting ^'^pocket companion" for any brother of the angle. Mr.
Pulman is a practical fly-fisher, and all his directions and advice are practical
in their character, and if followed would, we believe, be found of much service
to most amateurs.

Kidd's London Journal; a Literary, Scientific, and Family Paper. London:
George Berger, Holywell Street, p. p. 16. Published weekly.

The first three numbers of this very amusing and instructive publication are
now before us. A portion of each number is occupied by short reviews of
various interesting works; and Mr. Kidd has judiciously allowed the authors to
speak for themselves, by giving one or two extracts from each work.

Judging from the first numbers of the Journal, we anticipate much very
useful information on the subject of domestic pets, of all kinds. This is a

38 PnOCEEDIXGS OF SOCIETIES.

subject which is identified with the name of Kidd, and is treated by him in
a light and playful, yet solid, style, which cannot fail to secure him hosts of
supporters^ for who is there that has not some fortunate or w/jfortunate pet,
the happiness of which may be increased or secured hy following the advice
that is and will be given in "Kidd's London Journal?" Many highly interesting
anecdotes are given, and more promised. Who can read Mr. Kidd's account
of the destruction of his splendid aviary by Rats, leaving him only eleven out
of three hundred and sixty-six feathered bipeds, without sympathy; or of his
turning the tables so completely on the invading army, as to annihilate it
entirely, without gratification; we confess we could not.

The healthy and proper tendency of Mr. Kidd's writings is well known,
and we are happy in being able to say that the present work is a safe- addition
to our domestic literature — no mean desideratum now-a-days — it will afibrd
instructive amusement to the fireside, we hope, of many. In conclusion, we
beg to wish '^Kidd's London Journal" a icarm reception.

^Jrntri^Mngs iif Intictia

B.oyal Thyskal Societij, Edbiburgh. — The usual monthly mectino: of this Society was held at
6, York Place, on the evening of Wednesday, December 3rd., 1851.— Dii. Coldstkeam in the
chair,— there was a full attendance of members and visitors. The following gentlemen were
unanunously elected oflSce-bearers for the current session:—

Presidents.— John Goodsir, Esq., Professor of Anatomy, University, Edinburgh; John
Coldstream, Esq., M. D., F.E.C.P.; and Hugh Miller, Esq.

Council.— llaralin W. Lee, Esq. ; Eev. John Fleming, D.D. ; James Cunnmgham, Esq., W.S.;
Bobcrt K. Grevillc, LL. D.; Robert Chambers, Esq.; and WUliam II. Lowe, Esq., M. D.

Treasurer.— William Oliphant, Esq.

Secretary.— Wyville T. C. Thomson, Esq.

Assistant Secretary.— George Lawson, Esq.

Honorary LiiiiiARiAN.— Eobert F. Logan, Esq.

It was remitted to the Council to forward to his Royal Highness, Prince Albert, a congratu-
latory address upon the success of his labour in connexion with the Great Exliibition, and also
to memorialize the Treasurer upon the importance of_^^ forming in Edinburgh a museum of the
geology and natm'al liistory of Scotland.

Tlie following communications were then brought forward: —

1. Ur. J. A. Smith read a notice of the occurrence of the Black Tern near Coldstream, and
exhibited a specimen of this bird shot in the beginning of July last. It was killed when flying
in company with several others, apparently of the same species, in pursuit of its insect prey, on
the banks of the Tweed. Dr. Smith believed the specimen before the Society to be an adult
bird, though from the dullness of its colouring, when compared with others which he had
examined from the south of England, he was led to the conclusion that it had only lately
assumed its adult plumage. Like the other Terns, Sterna nigra is a summer British visitor,
but, unlike them, it frequents rivers, ponds, and marshes, in preference to the , sea coast, breeding
amongst the grass and rushes of their borders. This bird is mentioned by Yarrell, Jardine, and
ilacgillivray, as not having been met with in Scotland; and as this individual had pursued its
prey to the northern bank of our boundary river. Dr. Smith considered it the first Scotch
specimen. Mr. Archibald Ilcjpbuni, however, Avho was present, stated that some years ago an
individual had been shot iu East Lothian.

2. Mr. Evans exhibited to the Society a beautiful specimen of the Bohemian Waxwiiig, lately
captured by him in the Experimental Gardens; and a specimen of the Nightjar, shot iu Uopc-
toun woods.

PROCEEDINGS OF SOCIETIES, 89

3. Mr. R. F, LogaK presented the Report of tlie Entomological Committee on the Order
Lepidoptera, and said that he had hoped it would have been undertaken this season by Dr. Lowe ;
and it was only at his request, in consequence of absence from home, and professional engajre-
ments at the height of the season, that he had been induced to enter upon the subject. He
then proceeded briefly to detail the results of the various excursions undertaken by the Committee
during the season for the purposes of investigation, and mentioned that many insects had been
found which were probably additions to the fauna of Scotland — several probably undescribed
species — and that the Committee had this j-car added twelve species to the list of Edinburghshire
Ix^pidoptera, viz. — Amphysa prodromana, Graeilaria auroguttella, Hoeslerstammia pijinaana,
Argyresthia arceuthina., Gelcchia Cirsiella, Gelechia longicornis, Ornix torqi<ilella, (?) Kcmotois

, C?) Argyresthia dilectella, Bcprcssaria conterminella, Ulachista , (?) and

Exapate gelatella. Specimens of these and of a variety of other species captured during the past
season were exhibited by Mr. Logan, who was highly complimented by the entomologists present
for the beautiful manner in which they were set and preserved. It was mentioned that the
use of chloroform is the best and easiest method of killing insects, as it at once deprives them
of life without in the slightest degi-ee injuring them.

4. Mr. Rhind exhibited a drawing of a fossil animal lately found in the upper beds of the
Old Red Sandstone in Morayshu-e, by Patrick Duff", Esq. The skeleton is that of a vcrtebrated
animal, and, including the upper portion of the tail, measures about five inches in length. The
head exhibits teeth in both jaws; there are four legs. The first six ribs have the usual curved
form of the thorax of an air-breathing animal ; the next six or seven false ribs extend outwards
in a horizontal position; the whole stnicture of the skeleton bearing a resemblance to that of
the Draco Volans, or flying lizard of the East Lidies. It is to be hoped that a more particular
description of this singular fossil will be given to the public by its possessor.

o. ifn. RiiiND then brought before the notice of the Society a collection of zoophytes from
the Frith of Tay, near the village of Newport, cliiefly with a view of pointing out a locality
not hitherto much explored by collectors. Five species of Sertularia were exhibited; also
Plumularia falcata, Gemillaria loriculata, etc.; fine specimens of Laomedca dichotoina; and
specimens of Laomedca gelatinosa, from eight to ten inches in length. A muddy bottom and a
considerable proportion of fresh Avater from the flow of the river, were supposed to have influenced
the foi-ms of some of the zoophytes exhibited.

6. Mr. Alexander Bryson exhibited a suite of fine zcolitic minerals from the Bay of Fundj^,
Nova Scotia, collected by Professor Chipman, of Acadia College. The series comprised Chabasie,
Ileulandite, Stilbite, Analcime, Mesotype, Apophyllite, and Dysclasite. The crystals of Chabasie
are peculiarly interesting, some being hollow, showing that, instead of crystalizuig round a
central nucleus, the external sui'faces were first deposited. Mr. Bryson referred to similar examples
occurring in Garnet, Iceland spar, etc. The foot-prints of the Sandpiper, from the Bay of Fundy,
were also exliibited. i

The Society then adjourned till the first "Wednesday in January,

N'atural History Society of Glasgow — 7th. October, 1851. Mr. IIexxedy exhibited specimens
of Bryopsis plumosa and DrapcrnaMia nana, gathered by him in the course of the present
season at Gourock. The specimens were in fine condition, and the locality is interesting, from
its behig so far up the Frith.

John Scouler, Esq., M. D., F. L. S., then read a paper upon the geographical distribution
of plants, and described the appearance of the vegetation m countries with difiercnt and opposite
climates which he had visited.

4th. November, 185L It having been resolved that the Society should have a Yice-presldcnt,
W. B. LoRRAiN, Esa., M. D., was unanimously elected to fill that office.

Mr. W. Ferguson exhibited a nest of the Homct, taken from the roof of an outhouse in
Aberdeenshire. The Honiet occurs sparingly in the south of England.

Mr. Roger IIexnedy exhibited specimens of a species of liydra from the Old Basin of the
Forth and Clyde Canal.

Mr. Thomas Ferguson exhibited a specimen of Clostcra rcchisa taken in the neighbourhood
of Loch Lomond,

40 THE QUERIST.

Mr. Thomas Gray exhibited specimens of Terebratulm, from tliq chalk, from -which he had
succeeded in perfectly removing the embedding rock. This he had done so carefully as to
preserve entire the delicate processes in the neighbourhood of the hinge. No trace of the
internal calcareous process, usually denominated by collectors "the carriage spring," and which
seems a branchial support of some kind, appeared in these specimens. They were so completely
divested of every trace of the matrix in which they had been fossilized, as to present all the
appearance of recent specimens.

Mr. Gouulie read a communication from Dr. Scouler, "On the introduction of the potato
into Scotland," after which Dr. Lon-ain read "Some observations on the Xorth American Helices.'

2nd. December, 1851. — Mr. W. Ferguson read a communication from Dr. Scouler, entitled
"Notices of the occurrence of the Reindeer in Scotland." This paper narrated the discovery
of an undoubted portion of the horns of the Eeindeer, as well as of portions of those of Red
Deer, in alluvium on the banks of Clyde, near Renfrew. The notice will appear in a scientific
journal.

Dr. Lorrain read a paper "On the structure and peculiar habits of a North American Snail,"
the Helix concava, pointing out its carnivorous character, and detailing its mode of nidification.

Two very fine fossil jaws belonging to a sauroid flsli, were exhibited by Mr. J. P. Fraser
and Mr. W. Ferguson. They were obtained from the limestone quarries at Burdie House,
near Edinburgh, and were accompanied with other specimens for comparison. A notice of them
was read by Mr. W. Ferguson, detailing the position and character of the beds in which they
were found, and pointing out the confusion that existed as to the remains of Megalichthys and
Holoptychius ; many of the remains figured as belonging to the foi-mer genus, being really
those of individuals of the latter — even the Megalichthys of Dr. Hibbert's own memoir, in vol.
13 of the "Transactions of the Royal Society of Edinburgh," being the Holoptychius of •Professor
Agassiz. The jaws exhibited were about fourteen and a half inches in length, and] contained
reptile and ichthyolitic teeth, a group of the latter alternating with each of the fomier. Some
of these reptile teeth measured two and a half inches in length. The specimens were referred
to Holoptychius Hibberti. The other specimens exhibited were a portion of a Holoptychius
from the Yellow Sandstone, (a member of the Old Red,) of Dura Den, Fifesliire, a fish probably
not even generically allied to the Holoptychius of the Carboniferous system (Miller) — remains,
such as scales and plates of both Holoptychius and ilegalicthys from the Lanarkshire coal
fields, — and specimens of Sphenopteris affiais, the characteristic fern of the Burdie House bed.

€[}i (j^Htrrist.

Ichneumons. "With respect to G's query relative to Ichneumons, I should like to speak
positively on the subject, but I very much doubt their attaclcing insects absolutely in the pupa
state; but I will answer for then- attacking the larva whilst forming its silky cocoon; for I
watched several of them, in the very act, for a considerable time in my own garden this
last summer. I could not say they succeeded in piercing the insect, as the silky cocoon seemed
to yield, much to their annoyance, for they seemed very angry about it. I shall be curious
to see what other entomologists say upon this subject, and, if I live another year, I shall try
to make some experiments, so as to be able to come to some decision. BoMiiYX Atlas,
November 13th., 1851.

D. G. F. Ether, I should think, may very well answer for killing small insects for the
cabinet, provided they are spanned out after the English fashion. It is not, however, sufficiently
powerful for the robust sorts, simply stunning them for a while. If the insects are spanned
out, (as all mine are,) after the Continental fashion, ether is rather objectionable, as it makes
the wings too rigid, and necessitates the operation of damping ; still ether is a very good thing
when a peraon is going out for a long day's hunt, as it makes the insects go to sleep, and
they come home safely without injury. I generally contrive to put my smaller insects in quite
little pill boxes, and then kill them in a smothering box, burnuig a little phosphorus or
brimstone underneath; it answers very well. Muriatic acid is a very good thmg for tlic larger
insects. Idem.

41
A MEMENTO OF HAINAULT FOREST.

BY A LONDONER.

In these days of exhibition, science, and art, it seems 'Surprising that a
forest belonging to the crown, and within an hour's ride of a densely-popu-
lated city, should be on the point of being inclosed; yet so it is; Hainault
Forest, in the county of Essex not twenty miles from London, is doomed
by order of the Commissioners of Her Majesty's Woods and Forests, to
destruction. I do not know whether the act of demolition has yet commenced,
and it is now my intention briefly to relate, as well as I can remember, one,
out of many, of my pleasant rambles in that Forest, with the hope of showing,
that not only is it a favourite resort for pleasure-parties, but also that it is
a place peculiai-ly suited to the London lover of Natural History, who, with
only a day, or even a few hours, to spare, can resort to it, and there follow,
without molestation, his favourite pursuits.

It was, as near as I can recollect, one of the mornings from the 15tb.
to the 20th. of April, that I left the smoky city to obtain a little pure air,
and to enjoy a day in the country. A train which started from the Eastern
Counties Eailway Station at ten minutes past ten, conveyed me, at the jate
of about fifteen miles ' an hour, to Eomford. It was a splendid day, the sun
was already high in the heavens, and the Lark, that ^^crested herald of the
morn," soaring almost out of sight, poured forth its loud yet sweet notes,
surpassed, in my opinion, only by those of the Nightingale.

Arrived at Romford, I looked in vain for any sign which could possibly
give me an idea of the whereabouts of Hainault Forest: in vain I strained
my eyes in every direction, from north to south, and from east to west: I
saw nothing, and almost began to doubt whether such a Forest did ^not find an
existence only in my dreams, but a glance at my map, published in I80O, showed
me that my thoughts were not imaginative, but real. I walked through the
small, but I cannot say pretty, town of Romford, in the direction my map
pointed out, and at about a ten minutes walk from the Railway Station, the
continued cawing of some Rooks made me pause a few minutes to observe
them. The Rookery belongs, as a ploughboy informed me, to a Mr. Makenzie,
and is an extensive one. The grounds where the Rookery is are walled in,
but a road runs towards the Forest along the side of part of the wall, and
the tops of some of the high trees hang over the road, or nearly so. I
have often noticed that when I have been standing in a Rookery during the
breeding-season, the Rooks leave their nests and fly cawing around; but here,
(and I have often noticed it elsewhere,) although I stood under the branches
of the trees on which their nests were, the Rooks seemed as unconcerned,
and went on feeding their young, as if no one were there; a certain proof,
I conclude, that they knew, perhaps by instinct, or perhaps by experience,
that the wall was a sufficient barrier against intruders.

VOL. II. G

42 A MEMEXTO OF HAIIJAITLT FOREST.

After a pleasant walk of a couple of miles^ which brought me to the top
of a small hill, I at last perceived a dark, noble, heavy-looking mass of trees,
extending some distance, and which I at once concluded must be Hainault
Forest, which conjecture ultimately proved true. The sight of the Forest
cheered me, and after a short one mile walk, I stood on its borders. I
looked to the right, to the left, and in front of me, and saw nothing but
trees, shrubs, pools, and wild wastes. I have spent a great portion of my
time in the country, yet seldom I think have I felt so happy as then. In
that moment, business, time, and indeed everything, was forgotten, and the
only damp there seemed to be to my pleasure was, that at the setting of
.that sun which shone so gloriously over my head, I must retrace my footsteps,
I felt and knew I was free, and knew that there I could roam where I
liked, without fear of interruption by a man in corduroys, shooting-coat, and
wide-awake, calling himself baililF or keeper, asking me if I knew I was
trespassing, and that I should oblige him by walking off. But I happened
to look behind, and then I started and awoke from my reverie, on seeing,
not a dozen yards off, the well-known inscription of ^^All persons found
trespassing on these premises, or injuring these fences, will be prosecuted,"
painted on a black board, affixed to a post set up on the hedge of a piece
of land, which was no doubt stolen from the Forest.

In order to avoid this, to me, unpleasant object, I walked on, determined
before stopping again to penetrate further into the Forest. The Forest was
miserably wet, and at first I tried to pick my way, but finding that, in spite
of so-named waterproof boots, my feet became wet, I relinquished that mode
of proceeding, and went, not as the dry land pleased, but as I wished. The
trees there, if I recollect rightly, are mostly Elm and Oak, but I think there are
almost as many Pollards as trees. There are also a great number of small
Holly bushes there, as well as some very tall May and Black-thorn trees,
round which, in many places, the Ivy, with its death hug, has grown quite
thick, and often hangs over the sides of the topmost branches.

At the entrance to the Forest I flushed a brace of Partridges. I noticed
a good many of that beautiful bird the Jay, the habits of Avhich, from behind
a tree, I could watch to my perfect satisfaction, but on my showing myself^
uttering their hoarse and well-known cry of "kar, kar," they immediately
flew off. This is one of my favourite birds, and always has been, even when
it used to steal the cherries from our garden when I was a boyj and I
have often watched them alighting on a small branch, when, for the first
minute or so, you almost doubt whether they will not lose their balance
and fall, but by dint of a little exertion, they soon right themselves, and
even then every ''kar" they utter generally sets them moving to and fro.

While walking here one day, I heard some Jays making a great noise,
and wondering what it was about, advanced cautiously to where they were,
in order to ascertain, if possible, what the matter was. Unfortunately, still
advancing, I kept my eyes fixed on a Jay, perched on a tree some way off,

A MEMEXTO OF HAIVAULT FOREST. 43

who was uttering his cry, raising his crest, and seemingly in a state of great
agitation; when all of a sudden a splash, a sudden sinking and a cold sensation
of one leg, announced to me that I had put my foot in a pool. At the
same instant I heard a flutter, and on looking up perceived a bird flying oiF,
the Jays still uttering their harsh cry, I paid no attention to the bird,
thinking only of extricating and drying myself; but shortly afterwards advancing
a few paces in the direction the bird flew from, I perceived a half-plucked
Jay dead on the ground. I took it up and examined it, but perceived no
marks of violence about it except a blow on the back; I took two or three
of the small beautiful blue wing feathers with me and left it there. I roamed
about here for hours, sometimes listening to the everlasting ^^chink, chink"
of the Chaffinch, or else watching from behind a tree or bush the Long-
tailed or Blue Tits perform their interesting antics; while at others the shrill
cry of the Snipe made me look up, to notice the beautiful evolutions and
zig-zags that bird performs on rising. I found a great many Blackbirds and
Song Thrushes' nests; some with eggs, others with young ones, and some only
building. In a nest of the latter of these birds, a female bird sitting, allowed
me to come within a foot or so of her nest, and with her bill and neck
raised, and her glossy black eyes fixed on me, seemed as though she were
entreating me to spare her nest and eggs. Those pretty little fellows, the
Redstarts, were flying from twig to twig, shaking about their beautiful red
tails; while every now and then the cry of the Cuckoo or Woodpecker would
lead me to the place from whence the note came in search of them.

On turning a corner, I saw a Crow feeding on the ground, which no sooner
perceived me than it flew away, and was presently joined by another, which
I saw fly from a tree a short distance from where I was standing. On
approaching the tree, and seeing a few twigs reaching over a large fork at the
top of it, I immediately concluded there was a nest there, and on climbing
to it, found a nest with four eggs still warm. Only two of these eggs were
alike; they were of a greenish bluish ground, flaked, particularly at the larger
end, with large patches of blackish brown colour; the other two were in colour
like a Jackdaw's, only they were not so glossy, and were larger. Wanting a
specimen of a Crow's egg and nest, I took them. The nest, which was very
large, was composed on the outside of dried roots and twigs, while the inside,
which was also A^ery large, was lined with grass, hair, tow, etc., and between
the outside and inside, a layer of mud was placed.

The evening approaching, I walked to Chigwell Row, and having refreshed
myself at a wayside Inn, walked back to Romford, a distance of about five
miles, and about half-past eight was again in London, after having spent
a very pleasant day. I have been informed a coach starts from Gracechurch
Street to the May Pole, Chigwell Row, and vice versa every day, but I have
never been by it, nor do I know the time of its departure or arrival. I
scarcely met a single soul in the forest, with the exception of now and then
a few bird-nesting boys, and one or two persons, who, no doubt like myself.

44 A MEMENTO OF HAlXArLT FOREST.

had come there for a country walkj and the only animals^ besides pigs and
cows, that I met, were now and then a stoat as he crossed my path; or the
water rat twisting himself in and out among the roots of the trees along the
sides of the ponds, or else as I watched him swim from one side of the pond
to the other.

This was my first excursion to that delightful Forest, but I have often
been there since; and have there, towards the evening at dusk, watched the
stag beetle, or the buzzing cockchafFer flying through the air, or the Owl
stealing along on its noiseless pinions, waiting to make its supper on some un-
wary mouse; or else from the parlour of the small country inn — the May
Pole, near Chigwell Eow, (where I used to refresh myself after my walk,)
observe, on a beautiful summer's evening, the Swallow skimming the pond in
front of the inn; sometimes darting high in the air, whilst at others splashing
the water with its wings, as it seemed to take no notice of the bystanders:
and who would have had the heart to destroy it, if they knew that, perhaps in
the out-houses around the inn, a young brood was crying for the food it was so
laboriously obtaining? I have seen a good many different kinds of birds in
the Forest, and I have no doubt but that most of our common birds, from
the Eobin —

"The bird, who by some name or other,
All men who know thee call thee brother,"

and Wren, to that small, yet powerful bird the Kestrel are to be found
there, for it not only possesses trees, pollards, shrubs, and brambles, but both
marshy and very dry ground, besides which there are, at least, one or two
streams running through it.

I dare say I am one of many, who cannot afford to give too much time
to the study of nature; and I ask, if Hainault Forest is to be inclosed, and
the trees cut down, where is the Londoner, who has a little spare time, and
does not wish to stay in-doors all day, to go? Is he to go to Hyde Park
and watch the dirty London Sparrows scratch over the Horse's dung in Eotten
Row; or is he to go to Kensington Gardens and hunt a whole day to see a
Chaffinch or Robin, or should he be very fortunate, he might perchance see
a Lesser Spotted Woodpecker once or twice a year? Or perhaps the Com-
missioners might say, he can go to the Court Yard of Somerset House and
watch the Pigeons feeding; or he can take a walk to Highgate; (not knowing
perhaps, that should he move out of the turnpike road, he would, in most
places, be taken up for trespassing.) Besides, what is it that makes our
country look so pretty? Is it not our hills and dales, our fine trees, parks, and
forests; and do we not all know how wretched and barren a country without
trees looks; and who knows but that some day, with such unmerciful
Commissioners, it may come to that. No, let it never be said, that the
Commissioners of the Woods and Forests, of such a great Nation as ours,
were so mean, in the year 1852, as to deprive the people of a healthy and

NOTES OF A RAMBLE OS THE RAILWAY. 45

useful place of exercise, within an hour's ride of a city, containing more than
two millions of human creatures.

December 9th., 1851.

NOTES OF A RAMBLE ON THE

RAILWAY LINE TO LITTLE-HEMPSTON, RETURNING BY

WAY OF GATCOMBE.

BY S. HANNAFORD, ESQ., JUN.

It has often occurred to me that the Botany of some of our Railway lines
must be very varied, from the diiferent kinds of soil through which they passj
and with this idea, a few days since, I bent my steps over that portion of
the line which leads to Little-Hempston, a village about two miles from Totnes.
The morning was intensely hot, but still the dew-drops lingered on the grass,
glittering in the sunbeams; and the River Dart, which I crossed, rippling over
its pebbly bed, added a delightful coolness. Very few persons are aware of
the beauty of a summer's morn in the country, before the heat becomes un-
bearable; the cheerful music of the mowers sharpening their sythes; the
twittering of the Swallows as they skim overhead; the sweet song of the Lark,
as he soars high above; and the sweetness of everything around; all tending
to contentment and happiness. Wilmot, in his ^'Summer-time in the Country,"
remarks, That ''men wear out their days and strength in searching after
happiness; but they have only to stoop and gather it up, or look inward and
find it." How true indeed is this! Were there more observers and lovers
of Nature, there would be much more health and happiness in this world of
ours.

Almost immediately on crossing the Railway bridge over the Dart, the
delicate blue flowers of the Narrow-leaved Flax, (Limira angustifolium,)
attracted my attention, as I had never before met with it in this neigh-
bourhood. Mary Howitt speaks of it as

"The Flax-flower

— '—A.S blue as in the skj';
And 'tis a dainty little thing
We say as we pass by."

I have found great difficulty in preserving a specimen of this pretty flower,
as the petals drop off" at the slightest touch. The Yarrow, {Achillea mille-
folium,) so well known from its feathery leaves, grows here of a beautiful
pinkish tinge — it is more commonly found white. The embankments were
covered with the deep purple flowers of the Self-heal, or Heal-all, {Prunella
vulgaris;) the great White Oxeye Daisy, {Chrysanthevmm leucanthemum;) and
the pink and white flowers of the Rest Harrow, or Cammock, {Ononis avensis,)
and Smaller Bindweed, {Convolvulus arvensis,) trailing prettily along in aU

46 NOTES OF A nAMm,K 0\ THE HAILWAY.

directions: here pink, there white. It derives its generic name from the Latin
word Convoho — to bind — -whence its English name of Bindweed. Some
beautiful pink flowers tempted me to scramble up a steep embankment, which
I found to be those of the Musk Mallow, (Malva moschcita,) easily known
from the others by its deeply cut leaves, and faint smell of musk, on being
drawn through the hand. The dark crimson flowers of the Knapweed, [Cent-
aurea Jacea,) and the light blue of the Devils bit Scabious, (Scahiosa succisa,)
contrasted beautifully with the white of the Bladder Campion, (Silene ivjlata,)
and many of the umbelliferous plants. The Knapweed is said to be called
Gentaurea, on account of the Centaur Chiron having with this plant cured
himself of a wound received in his foot from Hercules.

I could not resist the temptation to rest awhile by the side of the Willow
plot on the left, just above Hempston, to listen to the little Sedge Warbler,
Reed Fauvette, or Sedge Bird, (Salicaria phragmitis,) which may be heard here
both by day and night. I am informed by the Rev. F. H. Hele, of Little-
Hempston — a gentleman who has devoted very much of his time to Natural
History, that these birds have bred there for seven years in succession; and
that, although he had heard them at almost all hours of the day and night,
he had never been able to see one until very lately. The Willow plot is
about an acre in extent, by the side of a small stream, with pretty much
sedge and rush about it; and these summer visitors appear to prefer it to any
other spot, for they are not heard elsewhere in this neighbourhood; although
there are many places equally suited to their habits within half-a-mile. Bewick,
vol. i. page 216, remarks, ^'Tt sings incessantly night and day during the
breeding-time, imitating by turns the notes of the Sparrow, the Swallow, the
Skylark, and other birds, from whence it is called the English Mocking Bird."
In endeavouring to get a glimpse of this little songster, I met with the
Yellow Toad Flax, (Linaria vulgaris;) and near the water the Branched Bur
Reed, (Sparganium ramosum,) and the Great Water Plantain, (Ah'sma
plantago,) — an upright plant, two or three feet high, with three delicate pink
petals; the leaves which spring from the root are very large and oval, on long
stalks: it may be found on most streams. The powdered root is said to be
a cure for hydrophobia. It is called the Alisma, from Alls, the Celtic word
for water. The Figwort, (Scrophularia nodosa,) was plentiful here; as indeed
it is everywhere in Devonshire.

Nearer Little-Hempston I found the Hemp Agrimony, {Eupatorium canna-
hinum,) growing in a dry situation on the line, although it generally prefers
moist places near lakes or rivers: the flowers are a sort of reddish purple,
growing in tufts, and the plant has an aromatic smell. A little further on,
the Trailing St. John's Wort, {Hypericum humifusum,) was in great abun-
dance at the bottom of one of the embankments; but although in flower, the
stems were not above four inches long: it generally grows to a height of six
inches or more.

Turning into the path fields on the left, leading to Little-Hempston church,

NOTES OF A RAMBLE OX THE RAIT-WAY. 47

I observed the Marsh Valerian^ ( Valeriana dioica,) a pretty plant with flesh-
coloured flowers; and on a wall, close by the stone stile, the Red Valerian,
(GentrantJius ruber,) gi'ows of a rich crimson colour. I went a little out of my
course up a hill to the left, after crossing the stile, as I had previously
observed the Gromwell, (LitJiospermum officinale,) and found it now in flower
— its straw-coloured flowers almost hid by the leaves; its seeds are four in
number, and exceedingly hard: hence its name of Lithospermum from Lithos
— a stone, and sperma — a seed.

A short walk through the village brought me into the Exeter turnpike road,
about half-a-mile beyond Gatcombe. Here in a hedgebank I saw a withered
specimen of Black Mullein, ( Verhascum ^nigrum,) the only one I have ever
seen hereabouts; and occasionally the Great Mullein, ( V. Thapsus,) three or
four feet high, covered with large handsome woolly leaves, which Clare calls

"Antique mulliens flannel leaves,"

and terminating in a dense spike of beautiful yellow flowers. Its generic name
appears to have been originally Barhascum, from Barba — a beard; on account
of its shaggy leaves. It was formerly used in niedicine. In the hedge in this
road the handsome Bee Orchis, {Ophrijs apifera,) may be found earlier in the
season : now, I could not obtain a single specimen, and am indebted to a kind
friend for one from this spot. Here too the Deptford Pink, (Dianthus armeria,')
its flowers pink, speckled with white; and the little Eyebright, (Euphrasia
officinalis,) one of the most beautiful of our wild plants, grows in a dry
hedgebank. The flowers of the Eyebright are of a very delicate white, slightly
striped with purple and yellow. The plant was formerly much used in diseases
of the eye : hence its English name. This and the Cow Wheat, (Melainptyrum,)
are said to be parasitic on the roots of grass.

I turned into a piece of rugged, barren ground near the Inn, and was well
repaid for my trouble. The ground was literally covered with the Bird's foot
and Hop Trefoil; the former beautifully tinged with red; the little Thyme-
leaved Sandwort, {Arenaria serpyllifolia;) the Milkwort, {Polygala vulgaris;)
the Pink Centaury, (ErytJircea Ce7itaurium,) in all directions — a handsome little
plant, used as a domestic medicine. The Rest Harrow, and many others
which have been enumerated, earlier in the season.

Between Gatcombe and the turnpike I found one specimen of the Melilot,
(Melilotus officinalis), which is used in making the Swiss cheese, called
"Schabzieger;" and the Common Agrimony, (Eiipatoria Agrimonia) — its spilce
of yellow flowers just making its appearance. I noticed the Tutsan, {Hyper-
icum Androsoimum,) and Hairy St. John's Wort, {H. lursutum,) which may
be distinguished from the others by the calyx being fringed with small black
glands and downy leaves. Close by the turnpike grows the little London
Pride, {Saxifraya umbrosa,) so well known in all our gardens: a rare flower
in Devonshire, and not included in the "Flora Devonensis." In Ireland it is
called St. Patrick's Cabbage. In the Quarry, near Bridgetown, the Wild

48 LOCAL JOTTINGS.

Mignionctte, {Reseda lutea,) was in flower — it is very similar to the cultivated
plant^ but wants its delicious odour. And lastly^ I found the little Wild
Thyme, {Thynrns serpyllum,) round which the bees were hovering; covering
the ground with its pale purple flowers.

TotneSy July Q,th., 1851.

LOCAL JOTTINGS.— No. 2.
DORCHESTER— DORSETSHIRE.

BY J. GARLAND, ESQ.
"Our Eiver, and its finny inhabitants."

The River Froome is a very pleasant clear stream, which rises near Evershot,
and, passing through this town, empties itself at length into the sea at Poole.
From Maiden Newton, a distance of eight miles north-west from Dorchester,
to Stafford, etc., a distance of three miles below, I know not anywhere,
Stockbridge perhaps not even excepted, of a better stream for artificial fly
fishing. It consists of very good shallows, over gravelly bottoms, alternated
with a few deep holes here and there. In many respects it reminds one of
those delightful localities so graphically described by that dear old lover of
the art of angling, Izaak Walton. Often have I mused over his tomb in
the fine old Cathedral Church of Winchester.

The Trout, (Salmo fario,) which abound in that space of the river above
described, do not run to a large size, rarely exceeding one pound and a half,
but they are early in season, and are marked with brighter red spots than
those of many other rivers, feeding, as these do, chiefly on insects. In a
culinary point of view, they are excellent indeed. Very good artificial fly-
fishing is to be had nearly throughout the year, the best about the month
of June.

The Dace, (Leuciscus vulgaris,) is another well-known inhabitant of this
stream. It is of rather a small size, and of course, being more gregarious
than the Trout, is more local, and not so abundant. It may be easily
taken by the artificial fly in April and May; and its bright, silvery, and
glittering appearance not a little adds, I assui'e you, to the pleasures of
a river lounger.

The 3finnow, (Leuciscus phoxinus,) is in great abundance, and affords
excellent feeding for that comparative monster the Trout. They are to be
met with in all the gullies and cuttings in the water meadows, and at about
the middle of summer are of the brightest orange and red colours that can
possibly be imagined. They look very pretty in a glass globe, with or without
gold or silver fish, but they cannot be kept very long alive.

The Eel, (Anguilla,) is very common also in this portion of the stream,
but rarely attains a large size, from the comparative absence of mud. At

A day's botany in uoslin and hawthornden. 49

the raill-ponis and weir -holes, and in the deeper parts of the stream, however,
they arrive at a larger size. They are of a light silvery appearance, and
considered by epicures very good eating, are caught chiefly by night lines, baited
with Minnows, and are to be purchased at a very reasonable price.

The Lampern, (Petromyzon fluviatilis,) is also occasionally met with, and
I have already spoken of this at page 170, vol. i., of this work.

The Grai/Jish, (Astacus fluviatilis,) v,'hich, when boiled, looks very like, and
in some opinions is little inferior to, the Lobster, is frequently to be met
with in this river, and lives in holes formed in the soft banks of the meadows,
and under old stumps of trees. It is seldom met with above two or three
ounces in weight, and they aflord much amusement to the boys who take
them, as well as a little pain occasionally, which I can vouch for from
experience, from their making free use of their '^nippers."

The Pike, (Esox lucius,) is found below Stafibrd, where the river gets
deeper, and, as a matter of course, the Trout and other fish before described
gradually decrease in numbers. There are several interesting species of fresh-
water Shells, Frogs, and Newts, and also the Water Rat, well known here,
but which do not come within the scope of this ^Motting."

Minnoio, (Leuciscus phoxinus.) — I know not if the following trifling incident
be worthy of mention, but as it appears to me to be rather singular and
unaccountable, T venture to make a minute of it: — A gentleman of this town
has a well in a small field, which is kept always covered, except when water
is occasionally drawn from it. The well is about twenty-five or thirty feet
in depth. Some little time since, it was observed that whenever the bucket
was drawn up some Minnows were therein, and afterwards many were from
time to time taken by a rod and line. This lasted a very considerable time,
and he could nearly always calculate on a "catch" upon drawing up the
bucket. He cannot in any manner account for their being in the well.

Woodcock, (Scolopax rusticola. — This well-known migratory bird is, I should
think, unusually early in this neighbourhood, as I know of an instance of
one being shot on the 24th. October, and of another on the 31st. October,
both close to Dorchester.

Dorchester, December Gth., 1851.

A DAY'S BOTANY
IN ROSLIN AND HAWTHORNDEN, IN OCTOBER.

BY J, B. DAVIES, ESQ.

I very much fear that Botanical Rambles are so plentiful as to be almost
at a discount in the pages of "The Naturalist;" I cannot plead any exception
to the rule in behalf of this short notice of mine, on account of novelty of
the species or mode of writing. I can only say in my behalf, that I wish
to record one of the few delightful trips I have had this season, and to shew
vol.. II. H

,W A day's BOTAXY in noSUN AND IIAWTHORNDEK,

what may be done in one day^ and that by no means a laborious one^ in the
neighbourhood of Auld Eeekie. Well, the summer had passed away, and the
autumn was preparing to follow it; indeed it was the first day of October, a
month of sunshine and shower, even in merry England, and in Scotland
presenting generally more of the latter than agreeable; when, accompanied by
two non-botanical friends, I took my way per coach to the village of Loanhead,
about six miles from Edinburgh, and from thence by a delightful walk to
the gate of the old Hermitage of Hawthornden, the ancient seat of the
Poet Drummond, the contemporary and friend of Ben Jonson. In the narrow
lane on our way, beneath the shade of Lime and Elm trees, now almost
entirely bare, we found a few mosses, as Hypnum 7'utdbulum, H. cwpressiforme,
H. squarrosum, Bryum ligulatum, B. pundatum, B. homum; the common
Tortulas and Jungermmmia hicuspidata, and J. Tamarisci. Then there were
the common hedge plants, though few and far between. From an old stump
grew a beautiful tuft of Agaricus fascicularis, with its pretty yellow cap and
olive-coloured stem; while the A. tener peered fearfully above the grass, now
nearly hidden by the mass of fallen leaves, covered with minute fungi; those
of the Acer pseudo-platamts being literally pied with the black blotches of
the Xyloma acerina.

Arrived at the Hermitage, and through the viewable sights thereof, we passed
into the wood, among everything calculated to make us feel anything but city men.
Before catering the wood, we halted a few minutes to admire the tree under
which the two men whose names shed a literary halo round the spot first
exchanged salutations. It is a fine old Sycamore, or Plane-tree, as we term
it, though in reality neither, being the Acer before alluded to. It is told
that Drummond, meeting his southern friend on the lawn, cried out,

"Welcome! welcome, noble Ben!"

To which the other answered as jocosely,

"Thank ye, Thank ye, Hawthornden."

The tree, under which they so often sat in converse, is still in good health,
and now measures thirty-six feet in circumference near the base. The old
square box-like cave, in which the Poet used to write, is hewn in the face
of a perpendicular rock; and in place of Poet's bays, was crowned, on the
occasion of our visit, with a profusion of the fresh green leaves of Luzula
sylvatica and the Vaccinium myrtillus. Another cave of interest is that in
which Robert Bruce hid himself in the days of Scotland's trouble; and in it
is shewn the huge two-bladed sword, said to have been borne by the royal
hero in defence of his country. This cave is more spacious, containing in its
stony breast, a library, bed-room, and parlour, and, like the retreat of the
Poet, is difficult of entrance, being hewn in the face of a rock, and commands
a fine view of the closely-wooded dell, or valley. Close by Bruce's cave we
found Asplenium adiantum nigrum and Polypodium vulgare.

A BOTANICAL RAMBLE ON THE SEA COAST. 61

Passing Into the wood and treading on the fallen honours of the year, we found
Mosses without number, and Lichens almost as plentiful. The common Yellow
Lichen^ (Parmelia parietina,) is not confined to walls, as its name implies,
but was found decking the stems of old trees with its sober yellow hue; and
the Ivy, (Iledera helix,) climbed up their trunks and crept along their leafless
branches, making the old young again in its covering of unfading green.

The Honeysuckle, (Lonicera periclimenum,) was still sparingly in flower. Of
Fungi, I picked nearly a score; and among others the common Mushroom,
(^Agarictts campestris,) A, piperattts, A. semiglohatijs, A. awantiaciis, the long
bell-shaped A. comcvtus, and A, ovatus. On one or two spots in Roslin dell
we found the Wavey Hair Grass, (Aira Jiexuosa;) and we frequently came upon
patches of the tufted species, {A. cosspiiosa,) with its large panicles of shining
silvery hue. The object of our search, however, was the more rare grass, the
Miliu7n effusum, and we were successful enough to procure a few half-withered
plants, growing among thousands of Bromus asper and Melica uniflora. The
ferns must not be passed over; besides those already noticed, the large
feathery fronds of Lastrea filix-rnas and Athyrium Jilix-foemina were every-
where seen waving in mournful beauty among the sere and yellow leaves of
autumn. Between the crevices of the rocks, the Wall-rue, (Asplenium rvta
muraria,) held its place, and was accompanied by A, trichomanes and Lomaria
spicanL

Alopeeurns agredis flowered in patches near the uneven shady walk in Roslin;
and close by the old chapel I found a few specimens of the Flat-stalked
Meadow-Grass, (Poa compressa.) Besides the Fungi already mentioned, I
procured fine specimens of Agaricus dealbatus, A, micaceus^ A. semiovatics,
and A. peronalus; with a whole multitude of the smaller parasitic kinds, as
yEcidiums and Uivdos.

After all, perhaps it would have been as much to the purpose to have given
a simple list of the plants found; and thus more information might have been
conveyed, and less space occupied; but ^'The Naturalist" dislikes dry details,
and so do I!

Edinburgh, November ISth,, 1851.

A BOTANICAL RAMBLE ON THE SEA COAST,
BETWEEN GOODRINGTON AND PAIGNTON.

BY S. HANNAFORD, ESQ., JUN.

A BRIGHT cool morning tempted me a few days since, in company with a
Botanical friend, to explore the Botany of the sea-side. The nearest point
at which we could reach the sea was Paignton, a small village about five
miles from where I write. We started early in the morning, preferring the
old Paignton road, through Berry and Blagdon, as more shady than the new,
which brought us out nearly opposite Collaton. In our way we noticed the

52 A BOTANICAL nAMBLE ON THE SEA COAST-

Linwn angustifolium, or Narrow-leaved Flax, which Murray, in his hand-
book of Devon and Cornwall, mentions as growing in this road. At Collaton,
instead of pursuing the straight road to Paignton, we turned to the right,
and after walking about half-a-mile on the turnpike road, we were induced
to turn into a corn-field on the left, attracted by what appeared, or rather
what we hoped to be, the Gentaurea cyanus, or Cora Blue Bottle, or Bluecaps,
as Clare calls them —

"Summer's bluecaps blossom 'mid the com,"

rather a scarce flower in this neighbourhood, but which turned out to be
the Cichorium Intyhas, (Wild Succory,) which is very plentiful in the vicinity
of Paignton. Its flowers are large, blue, and star-shaped; they open about
eight in the morning, and close at four, when the sun is declining. Hooker
says, "The Egyptians eat a great quantity of this plant." The roots have
been used as a substitute for coffee, and the expressed juice is said to be a
cure for phthisis. It derives its name from the Arabic "cMlwurychr

(inwards we went over hedges and ditches, until we espied a quarry on a
hill, about two miles from Goodrington, which we turned aside to explore,
but met with nothing not previously obtained, except the remains of the
Sunguisorha officinalis, (Great Burnet,) named from sanguis — blood, and
sorheo — to absorb, from its supposed styptic properties. Leaving the fields,
we got into a road which led us to a wood west of Goodringham, near a
limekiln, where we gathered a single specimen of Buscus acideatus, (Butchers'
Broom,) (the ancient name of which was buscus, from the (.'eltic "bruskelen")
or Box Holly. The flowers are very minute, and white or yellowish, and
rise from the disk of the evergreen leaves. The berries are red, and make
their appearance in winter. It was formerly used as a medicine, but is now
rarely, if ever, employed.

At the end of the wood, we clambered over a wall to the left, to explore
a long ditch or drain in a marsh near Goodrington, where we espied, much
to our delight, the Dewberry, (^Ruhus cocsias,) a plant often mistaken for the
Common Blackberry, (Bubus fnitlcosus,) but the fruit is larger, and the grains
fewer in number, with a bluish bloom; leaves ternate, whilst those of the
Blackberry are pinnate. Shakespeare mentions the Dewberry in "Midsummer
Night's Dream," Act iii.. Scene 1. Titania says, —

"Be kind and courteous to this gentleman;
Hop in his wallcs and gambol in his ejes;
Feed him with apricocks and dewberries."

The commentators on the word do not quite agree as to what it refers.
Hawkins says, "Dewberries are strictly and properly the fruit of one of the
species of wild Bramble, called the Creeping Bramble; but as they stand
here amongst the most delicate fruits, they must be understood to mean
Raspberries, which are also of the Bramble kind;" and Henley remarks
"Dewberries are Gooseberries, which are still so called in several parts of

A BOTANICAL RAMBLE ON THE SEA COAST. 63

the kingdom;" but it has been ascertained that about Stratford, the fruit
of the Bubus ccesius is well known as the 'Dewberry.'

By the side of the ditch, a handsome group of the bright pink flowers of
the Ejnlobium hisiitum, (Great Hairy Willow-herb,) nearly six feet in height.
Its generic name is from epi — upon, and lohos — a podj the flower being
placed upon the top of the elongated seed-vessel. It is very commonly called
"codlings and cream," from the resemblance of the smell of the top shoots
to that of scalded codlings. Following the course of the ditch, we gathered
specimens of Apium graveoletis, (Wild Celery,) Anthriscus sylvestris, (Smooth
Cow Parsley,) Equisetum limosum, (Smooth Naked Horsetail,) etc.

Clearing the ditch by a good running jump, we got into a long "Devonshire
lane," where the Vervain, (Verbena officinalis^) grew abundantly, with its
spike of pretty pale blue flowers, opening three or four at a time on each
spike. It is very abundant in England, growing everywhere by road-sides
and waste places. Pliny tells us the Vervain was made use of by the Druids
in casting lots, in drawing omens, and in other magical arts; and Borlase,
in his "Antiquities of Cornwall," page 91, speaking of the Druids, says,
"They were excessively fond, of the Wervaine;' they used it in casting lots,
foretelling events, etc. It was to be gathered at rise of the dog-star, but so
as neither sun nor moon be at that time above the earth to see it;" "and
with this charge," adds Miss Pratt in "Flowers and their Associations,"
"that before they take up the hearbe, they bestow upon the ground where
it groweth honey with the combs, in token of satisfaction and amends for
the wrong and violence done in depriving her of so holy a hearbe." It was
once called "Holy Herb;" and the Greeks and Eomans used it at their
religious festivals, and sent it by their ambassadors in treaties of peace. —

"A wrcatli of vervaiu heralds wear."

Draytox.

The power of keeping away evil spirits is attributed to the Vervain in
Ireland, as well as to the St. John's Wort, mentioned in a former paper,
and also in Scotland, for Meg Merrilies says, —

"Trefoil, vervain, John's wort, dill,
Iliuders witches of their will."

In Ireland, when it is pulled by village doctors, when the dew is on the
ground, these lines are generally repeated: —

"Vervaiu, thou gi-owest on holy ground,
In Mount Calvary thou wort found;
Thou curest all sores and all diseases:
And in the name of Holy Jesus,
I pull you out of the ground."

Ben Jonson also makes mention of it. — ■

"Bring your garlands, and with reverence place
The vervain on the altar."

64 A BOTANIC A.L RAMBLE ON THK SEA COAST.

It was called in Celtic ferfaen, from fer — to drive away, and faen — a stone,
from its supposed medicinal qualities; but it appears to have quite lost its repute.

The long lane before mentioned brought us at last into the Brixham road,
and turning into a field on the left, we met with Aiicmisia inaritima, (Sea
Wormwood,) scarcely yet in flower, and the beautiful Vipers' Bugloss, {Echium
vulgare,) the flowers of a bright reddish purple when in bud, afterwards blue.
From the supposed resemblance of the seeds when ripe to the head of a
Viper, arose the opinion that this plant not only possessed the virtue of
curing the bite of that reptile, but also of destroying the reptile itself. It
is said that bees which feed much upon the flowers are subject to a corrosion
of the wings.

Now we arrived within view of the sea, and descending the cliffs about
two miles beyond Goodrington, quickly discovered Plantago Coronopus, (Buck's-
horn Plantain,) and Plantago viaritima, (Sea Plantain,) Daucm maritimus,
(Sea Carrot,) easily distinguished from Daucus carota, (Wild Carrot,) which
it much resembles, from the umbels being destitute of a central coloured
flower. Lathyrm maritimus, (Sea-side Everlasting Pea,) covering the cliffs in
all directions with its flesh-coloured flowers. In a cleft of the rock we discovered
the Sea Fern, {Asplenium marinum,) a locality not before recorded, which
alone amply repaid us for our long walk. After resting a while on the rocks,
determining our specimens, etc., which we most thoroughly enjoyed, the sea
dashing around us, the sea-breeze refreshing us with its delightful coolness, a
fleet of fishing-boats in the distance, and Torquay in the background, making the
scene delightful in the extreme, we again started over the cliffs to Goodrington,
and found in abundance the Samphire, (Grithmum maritimum,) and the Teasel-
headed Trefoil, {Trifolium maritimum.)

On the sands about Goodrington, we obtained specimens of Solanum nigrum,
(Common Nightshade,) a pretty plant somewhat like the Potato flower. It
is common in waste places near houses. Its flowers are white; the fruit at
first green, afterwards black, containing many kidney-shaped seeds. Woodville,
in his "Medical Botany," page 238, tells us, ^'The smell of this plant is
faint and disagreeable; to the taste it manifests no peculiar flavour, being
simply herbaceous. It appears to possess the deleterious qualities of the other
Nightshades in a very considerable degree; even the odour of the plant is
said to be so powerfully narcotic as to cause sleep. The berries are equally
poisonous with the leaves." In the same situation grows the Cakile maritima,
or Sea Rocket, a fleshy glaucous plant with large lilac flowers.

In a marsh at Goodrington, near the beach, we observed Foeniculum vulgare,
(Fennel,) with its large, feathery, much-divided leaves, and Gluucium luteiim,
(Yellow-horned Poppy. On the sands, Ei-yngium maritimum, (Sea Holly,)
and a single specimen of Moth Mullien, (Verbascum Uattaria.) It was
anciently supposed by some, that this plant was highly agreeable to Moths,
Butterflies, etc., from its odour, and by others, that it was found useful in
destroying that species of insect which infests paper and books.

9
OVA OF PEXTHALEUS CAPIDARIUS. 63

We had only time to reach Paignton by daylight, and discover Maywort,
{Artemisia vulgaris,) scattered about everywhere, and on some sandy soil near
the beach, Erodium maritimum, or Sea Crane's-bill, and were compelled to
leave it for a future ramble.

Totnes, August 11th., 1851.

A MICROSCOPIC EXAMINATION
OF THE OVA OF PENTHALEUS CAPIDARIUS.*

BY SPENCER COBBOLD, ESQ., M. D.
Senior President of the Royal Medical Society of Edinburgh.

Tni Ova, to which I wish to direct the attention of the Society this
afternoon, are very much allied in character to those of the common Harvest
Bug, {Leptus autumnalis,) and the common Itch Insect, {Acarus scabiei,) and
are considered by Mr. Edwin Giles, of Ipswich, to be those of Fenthaleua
capidarius, or Acarus capidanus, formerly called Acarus sellucis.

The eggs now exhibited to the Society, are scattered over the surface of
Granite; and for the specimen before us, I am indebted to Stephen Jackson,
Esq., of Ipswich, who picked it up on the sea shore at Vallo, in Norway,
during the past summer; and by whom I am also informed, on the authority of
Mr. King, of the same town, that in the year 1842, it was very common
to find them attached to flints, old tiles, brickbats, and the like in the neigh-
bourhood of Ipswich, but since then it would seem that they have disappeared
from that district.

When seen with the naked eye they look as minute white specks, and viewed

singly, are scarcely discernible. Fig. 1. represents a section of the specimen
of the Granite, with the Ova scattered on its surface. When, however, we
examine them with a common pocket lens, we can at once detect their form

• Kead before the Physiological Society of Edinburgh, Norember 22nd., 1851.

OVA OP PENTIIALKOS CAPIDARIUS.

and recognise their nature. Their diminutive size is a character common to
most species of the same family, (Acaridce.) To obtain, however, a more
satisfactory knowledge of their morphology and construction, it is necessary
to subject them to much higher magnifying powers, and the drawings now
before the Society, represent them at different stages of development, magnified
two hundred and fifty diameters linear.

The chief points of interest, to which we may direct our attention, bear
reference to their external configuration; the changes in form during develop-
ment; and the manner in which the mature embryo or larva makes its
escape from the outer covering or shell.

The general form then may be at once recognised as that of a sphere
flattened and depressed from above. (See Figs. 2
and 3.) This button-like character is by no means
an unfrequent appearance in the eggs of insects
generally; and though I have not seen any pre
cisely similar illustrations to those before us in the
works of recent entomological writers; there is,
nev^ertheless, figured in the great work of Swammerdam, Plate xxxiii. Fig. 1,
a very similar form of an egg, belonging to one of the Noctuae, or Post
Meridian Moths; it is devoid, however, of certain markings, which, in the
specimens before us, have a very chaste appearance, and which represent a
series of alternate elevations and d.epressions, (twenty-five in number,) running
from a central elevated point, to the outer border of the button-like surface.

When viewed laterally, and especially if the specimen be immersed in some
transparent medium, not only are these morphological features readily con-
firmed, but we observe, through the outer covering, or shell-
memhram, a small round opake boJy, situated immediately _

under the central prominence, as seen as Pig. 4-. This, there
can be little doubt, corresponds to the Yolk, or Vitellus in
the Ova of birds and other animals, being enclosed in a special
and distinct envelope of its own, constituting the Yolk Sac,
or Vitelline membrane.

Keeping our attention fixed from time to time on the same Ova, we observe
that this opake body or Yolk increases at the expence of the surrounding
medium, or albumen, which is situated between it and the shell membrane, the
alterations in form of which latter structure, are almost entirely confined to
the cupola, or cup-shaped surface. I have employed the term Cupola here
as expressive of the change which this part of the covering 5

undergoes, becoming, as it does, in course of development,
dome-shaped, or convex; (see Fig. 5,) whereas in the first
instance we found it depressed or concave; its central point
only being excepted. (Fig. 3.)

We have now arrived at the period when the embryo, or
germe, enclosed within the Yolk Sac, has nearly attained its mature con-

OVA OP PENTHALEUS CAFIDARIUS,

o7

dition; and having exhausted the pabulum afforded by the albumen for its
growth and nourishment '^within," it is necessary that fresh materials be
obtained from ^'without:" this can only be effected by a twofold change,
which takes place as follows: — First, we have the shell membrane giving way
fjr the escape of the Yolk Sac, with its included germe. This does not

always take place exactly in the same manner;
for sometimes the escape is made by the cupola
being thrust on one side, and the shell mem-
brane is broken up in various directions. (Figs.
G and 7.) While at other times the Sac forces
up the cupola by a pressure equally applied,
and causes it to fall off, after the manner of
the extinguisher-like calyx of Eschscholtzia. (Fig. 8.)

The Second change consists in the breaking up of the Vitelline membrane, or
Yolk Sac, and of the consequent escape of the adult
embryo or larva. This takes place at any part
of the circumference of the membrane, except at
that portion which was situated under the cupola.
The reason of this seems to be owing to the
deposition of a white material, precisely similar
to that which covers the external membrane, and
which is analogous in function to the calcarious
shell in the case of birds; but as to its compo-
sition, nothing definite can be advanced.* For
what purpose the secondary shell exists: why it should occupy such a limited
portion of the Yolk bag, and in what way it is here secreted, are queries,
for the solution of which we will hazard no conjecture. The existence of
grooves on its surface, corresponding to those of the cupola, are also quite
discernible on the secondary shell. (Figs. 7, 8, and 9.)

The Sac having ruptured, the larva, which is of a
bright crimson colour, escapes in the usual manner.
(See Figs. 9. and 10.) It presents a pair of distinct
eyes, but no feet, while the annular divisions of the body
are barely apparent. As to the process of development
in Ovo I can add nothing new, but will conclude with
a short extract taken from the last Edition of Dr. Carpenter's valuable work
on the ^^Principles of Physiology." (Page 387: — )

'*In all cases the embryonic mass within the egg is first converted into a
footless worm, resembling the higher Entozoa, or the inferior Annelida in its

* Since wi-iting the above, I have been informed by Mr. Drummond, one of the members of the
Society, who has lately made some chemical investigations on tliis subject, that the homy-Kke
material, forming the shell of the Ovum, consists of Chitiiic; the foi'uiula of which is closely
allied to that of the Proteine compounds. It is well known that this substance enters largely
into the composition of the tegumentary system of Insects generally, and is especially abundant
in the Coleoptera.

VOL. II. I

10

58 REMARKS ON THE ATTACKING OF PUP.E.

general organization, but possessing the number of segments — thirteen — wliich
is typical of the class of Insects."

Edinlurgh, Febnuiry 2nd., 1852.

EEMARKS ON THE

ATTACKING OF PUP^ BY ICHNEUMON FLIES.

«

BY JOHN GRAY, ESQ.

In No. 9 of "The Naturalist/' we observe a query from a correspondent,
whether the pupae of insects were pierced by the Ichneumon, and what proof
could be adduced in support of any such assertion?

This has, we believe, been long a matter of dispute amongst entomologists;
and till recently we were ourselves often puzzled about it. It is well enough
known that caterpillars, when preyed upon by Ichneumons, in some cases,
really undergo the chrysalis change, before the creatures kill them. This is
not unfrequently the case when a caterpillar has been attacked when nearly
full grown; the larvae of the Ichneumon, by a very wonderful degree of instinct,
refraining from injuring any of the vital organs, till they themselves are nearly
full fed. Hence the fact of Ichneumons emerging from a chrysalis where their
presence had not been previously suspec^ted; having, indeed, been fed within
the body of the caterpillar for a short time, and then completing their
metamorphoses after it assumed the pupa state. That sujh is the case is now
pretty well ascertained from the recorded experience of several naturalists; but
here any further elucidation of the question, which we propose to deal with,
stops; at least we are not aware of any practical observations having yet
been made. It is also, we believe, well known, and this must be borne in
mind, that the pupae of caterpillars so attacked invariably die not long after
their change into the chrysalis state. It is evident that they must do so, for
as soon as the parasitic larvae have devoured the internal organs, life must
become extinct. From these observations it is quite clear that any facts bearing
on the question at issue, can only be gleaned from watching the progress of
the development of the chrysalis, aftei' it has been collected in the pupa state.

About two years ago we collected a considerable number of the pupae of
moths, by digging around the roots of various shrubs and hedges; one of these
we found exposed above the surface of the ground, where it had evidently
been turned up some time before by the scratching of barn-door fowls at a
farm-house, in the immediate vicinity. On taking it up we at first suspected
that it might be injured, but were soon reassured by the lively wriggling of
the abdominal segments, and its otherwise healthy appearance. We placed it
in our breeding cage, and on examining it some days afterwards, we found it
still apparently healthy. As no moth made its appearance, however, during
the whole summer, we then criticised it a third time, but with a very diifcrent
result, for on taking it up, we found the pupa case had become quite thin

MISCELLANEOUS NOTICES. 59

and yielding; and on opening it we discovered that in the interim it had been
completely cleaned out by an Ichneumon of some size^ the pupa of which was
ensconced in the interior almost mature.

The facts which we think we are fairly entitled to deduce from the above
case is^ that the pupa had been pierced Jpj an Ichneumon during the time
it had been lying exposed on the surface, for had the creature been attacked
before it changed into the chrysalis it would have died long before. We are
satisfied that it could not have been a recently changed pupa, as it had evidently
been scraped up from the spot where it had passed the winter months. The
period when we found it was about the middle of April — too late for the
changing of any winter-feeding larvce, and too early for the spring ones; any
of which we have never noticed changing till the beginning of May. The
pupa in question was about the size and of the same colour as that of
Semiophora gothica.

We think that it may be also deduced from the above fact, that the
piercing of pupae by Ichneumon Flies is in a measure accidental, and consequently
of rare occurrence; that they do run the risk of such attacks, however, is
sufficiently obvious from the great care with which nature provides against
them, in supplying many kinds with a cocoon quite impenetrable by the
ovipositor of an enemy, while with many others the want of such protection
is well supplied by descending into the earth, and there remaining secure,
and in other eases crevices and lurking-holes form a good means of escape,
by eluding detection.

From this we see an example of the working of one of the most beautiful
laws of nature, by which one race prevents the undue increase of another,
and the means employed on the other hand to prevent any such destroyers
from overstepping their given limits; for it is quite evident that were the
pupae of Lepidopterous insects as much exposed to external attacks as they
are in their previous stage, their numbers would be decreased to an undue
extent, and the number of their enemies increased in a proportional ratio,
which would be sure to end, if there, were no preventative,' in the confusion
which must result from the violation of any of those harmonious laws which
constantly meet the admiring eyes of the naturalist.

Glasgow.

MmWumm llntire.

The Spaniel. — V friend of mine was acquainted with a man who had a
dog of the above breed, which was very much attached to him. The dog's
master it seems, was a particular friend of "John Barleycorn's;" and on one.
of his occasional visits to the house where that notable person may be found,
his companions blacked his face for a "lark." Not being aware of the trick
they had played him, he left the house and went on his way home.

60 MISCELLANEOUS NOTICES.

The dog not liking his master's strange-looking face, began barking at him — -
would run away, then come back, and cut such capers that his master exclaimed
"there is something or other the matter with mc, but none is so faithful
as my dog to inform me of it." He looked at himself over and over again
but could see nothing uncommon ; ^ut however, the dog continued in his
efforts to make his master understand what was the matter with him. Fol-
lowed by young urchins, who were merry at his expense, he went into the
first house he came to, and there a peep at the mirror told him what his
sagacious dog wished him to know. — M. Westcott, Wells, Somerset, December
4th., 1851.

Sajacitj/ of a T)og. — The love of companionship by all animals is well
known, and is mentioned by White, L. G6. The Rev. F. H. Ilele, of
I.ittle-Hcmpston, near Totnes, had a few years since, a Water Spaniel which
was much attached to the family, and never seemed happy when alone, even
if left merely for a few minutes. W^henever any of the family were about
to go to the village, about a mile off, the dog always followed, and if driven
back, was sure to gain his point at last; but strange to say on a Sunday morn-
ing he quietly escorted his friends to the end of the garden gate, and returned
to his usual station outside the house door until their return from church.
— *S'. Ilannaford, Jan., Totnes, December, 18/>1.

Common Brown Rat, (Mus decumanus.) — These Rats are so voracious, as to
devour their own species when caught in a trap, as I have repeatedly proved.
— Idem.

The Great Bustard, (Otis tarda.) — llie increase of cultivation, together
with the more frequent use of the gun, has with many birds produced almost,
and perhaps in a few cases total, extinction, while on the other hand, the
practice of preserving game has given to many a shelter which before they
could not obtain, and a great increase in their numbers, and sometimes the
appearance of a new species, has been the result. The Common Bittern,
which used many years ago to be really common in the fenny parts of Norfolk,
is so no longer, and the small remnan' still in existence is rapidly decreasing
in number. The same might have been said of the Bustard some years ago,
but now I think it must be considered as extinct, even in this covmty, which
has so long hden its stronghold. West Acre seems to have been its favourite
resort, and there, little more than thirty years ago, as many as nineteen
were ?een in one flock. They were constantly to be seen in the neighbourhood
of Thotford. The Rev. R. Lubbock, in his "Observations on the Fauna of
Norfolk," says that a keeper, by the name of Turner, at Wretham, about
six miles from Thetford, some fifty years ago, in severe weather, used to kill
.many Bustards by looking for their tracks in the snow, and feeding them for
a day or two with cabbages. He next constructed a battery of three large
Duck-guns, bearing on the spot where the food lay, and secreting himself
before daylight in a hole some one hundred and fifty yards from the guns.

MISCELLANEOUS NOTICES. 61

by means of a long string fastened to the triggers he eifected a general
dist;harge on the first favourable opportunity, and in this way he once obtained
nine Bustards at one shot. I am happy to say that at West Acre they
wei'e better cared for, every protection having been extended to them. A
lady residing at Swaifham has one in her collection taken at Cougham, about
twenty years ago, also a pair and one young one, which, when alive, were in
the possession of her flimily. A gentleman residing at Gayton informs me that
he has seen as many hens together as eleven, but not for several years, and
he is of opinion that they are extinct in this county. Many years ago, a
hen Bustard was brought to him by his shepherd, very much devoured by
the Crows; he had it preserved, and it was afterwards presented to the Norwich
Museum. In 1831, a female Bustard was shot at Cougham; in 1832, another
succeeded in rearing its young near Thetford; and the eggs, five in number,
of three which bred on Massingham Heath, the same year, were taken away
in ignorance of their being polygamous, and the sexes parting company during
incubation, no males having been seen in the neighbourhood. Early in 1838,
another female was shot in a turnip-field at Dersingham, near Lynn, which is
the last that I can learn has been seen in this county. The Bustard, although
at other times so shy, appears during the season of incubation to lose much
of its natural wildness of character, and to become so tame as to admit of
a near approach. The Rev. E. Lubboek, in the work before quoted, mentions
an instance of one at Eldon, near Thetford, which, while sitting upon her
nest, admitted of so near an approach as almost to suffer herself to be taken
by a casting-net. Her two eggs were hatched under a Hen, and each pro-
duced a male bird. The above are a few particulars of the final history
of this noble bird in Norfolk, and should your contributors in other counties,
particularly Wilts, and Cambridge, be inclined to favour us with their remarks,
I am sure they would prove most interesting to your subscribers. — T. Southwell,
Lynn, Norfolk, December iSth., 1851.

Owl, (Strix flammea.) — A tame Owl was kept by a friend of mine in his
house, for the purpose of destroying mice. He found it one morning quite
dead, and an immense Rat by its side also dead; both bearing marks of a
very severe combat. — S. Hannaford, Jan., Totnes, Devon, December, 1851.

Hawks. — I have frequently noticed that the male Hawk seldom comes near
the nest whilst the hen is sitting; he brings the food to some tree adjoining,
which is fetched away by the female. I was pleased, a few days since, to
see my observation confinned by Mr. St. John, in his "Tour in Sutherland,"
vol. i., p. 216, as follows: — ^'Whilst I was fishing in the Findhorn, at a
place where a great many Kestrels bred, one of these birds came flying up
the course of the river with a small bird in his claws. When he came
opposite to the rock where his nest was, he rose in the air, and began to call
loudly and shrilly for his mate, who soon came out from the rocks, and taking

62

MISCELLANEOUS NOTICES.

the bird in her talons^ flew back with it: the male bird after uttering a few
cries expret ive of pleasure, flew ofi" to renew his hunting." — Idem.

Linnet, (Linota cannabina.) — I have heard a Linnet, kept in a cage in a
room overlooking a garden, leave ofi^ his regular song at the approach of
•Sparrows, and assume their twittering, which it generally continued for two
or three minutes without cessation. — Idera.

Laying of eggs hy hen Pigeons. — Mr. Dixon, a page 60 of ^^The Dovecote
and the Aviary," a most interesting book, which no naturalist should be without,
mentions that the unmated hens in a dovecote will pair one with another,
''go through all the ceremonies of pairing, make a nest, lay two eggs each,
sit alternately and carefully, and if they are members of a large flock, very
often rear young." A gentleman with whom I am acquainted kept a pair
of hen Fantails in a dovecote, apart from his other Pigeons, which laid
nearly thirty eggs during the summer, but they were all unproductive; and
another friend informed me of a hen Canary kept alone in a cage, which
laid eggs annually; of course also unproductive. — Idem.

Swallow, (Ilirundo rustica.) — Jenyns, in his ''Observations on Natural
History," p. 159, says, "The Swallow has a peculiar note, which it utters
in the height of summer, just at break of day, when it begins to get light.
This note differs from its ordinary song at other times, in being less varied
and lively, and is put forth in a peculiarly plaintive, and very monotonous
manner; it is sometimes repeated for an hour together, and is always uttered
from the chimney top where it is perched." Buffon also, vol. xvii., p. 473,
remarks "While the female sits, the male spends the night on the brim of
the nest; he sleeps little, for his twittering is heard at earliest dawn." I can
myself bear testimony to this, having been kept awake for hours by this
pleasing chirping of the Swallows at day-break, perched on the chimney tops,
particularly, I think, about May or June.

"I love to be awake, and hear
His moruing song twittered to dawning day."

IIuiiDis. — Idem.

Capture of tJie Red-necl<xd Phalaropc, (Phalaropus hyperboreus.) — This
uncommon bird was shot by Mr. C. Dobson, of this place, November 22nd.,
•^851^ — J)_ Ferguson, tiedcar, December 2nd., 1851.

Capture of tJie Stormy Petrel, (Thalassidroma pelagica.) — This bird was
taken alive here on the beach, November 13th., 1851. — Idem.

Arrival of Swallows in 1851, at Lynn, Norfolk. — I saw the Swallow,
(Ilirundo rudica,) first at North Wootton, about three miles from Lynn, on
the 18th. of April; it made its appearance there on the 17th. I first saw
the House Martin, {H. urhica,) here on the 19th. of April. On the 20th.
I heard the Cuckoo, and on the 18th. of May I saw the Swift, which con-
tinued with us until the 28th. of August. A friend informs me that he saw

MISCKLLANEOUS NOTICES. 63

a single Swift flying over the River Ouse, near Lynn, on the morning of the
16th, of September. I last saw the House Martin about the 14:th. of October.
— Thomas Southwell, Lynn, Norfolk, November 5th., 1851.

^are Birds at StocJdon-on-Tees. — I take the liberty of informing you that
I purchased a very fine specimen of the Red-necked Grebe, {Podiceps ruhri-
collis,) which I think very rare — shot on the 30th. of October, 1851, on the
lake about a mile from this town. I have also a very superior specimen of the
Canada Goose, and one of Bewick's Swan, shot on this river in the winter of 1850;
and a specimen of the Bohemian Chatterer, shot in the winter of 1850;
there were more than a dozen shot the same winter about this place. —
William Martin, Cleveland Roiv, Stocldon-on-Tees, November Gth., 1851.

Nest of the House Pigeon. — In my dovecote, near this town, it is the
common practice of the Pigeons to use twigs in forming their nests. Those
generally used are the dried twigs of the hawthorn and birch, and, but rarely,
the American fir. The stable-yard is on one side of the house and the
stack-yard on the other. — J. B. M., Glasgoio, October 23rc^., 1851.

The Stockdove, (Columba ccnas.) — A friend of mine took the fresh eggs of
the Stockdove from a rabbit-burrow in Beechamwell warren, on the 20th.
of August last. — T. Southwell, Lynn, Norfolk, December 5th., 1851.

Note on the Cuckoo, (Cuculus canorus.) — Having seen in ^'^The Naturalist"
various accounts of the Cuckoo being heard different times at early periods
of the year, it may not be uninteresting to your readers to have an account
of a Cuckoo reared in this place by Mr. "W. Plowman several years ago. It
was taken from a Hedge Sparrow's nest, in the latter end of April; kept
in a small room with a wood-lattice window, and fed for a short time at
first with worms cut small, and for the rest of the time with lean raw flesh,
(either beef or mutton,) of which it ate about a pound every week, and never
drank any water. Mr. Plowman kept it in this way through two successive
winters, parting with it to a friend of his a little after the end of two years,
when it soon after died. It began to call the first year about the same
time as others in the neighbourhood; the second year it started three weeks
earlier. Its voice was as strong and clear as that of other Cuckoos. — JV. B.
Gray, Tollerton, December VZth., 1851.

Occurrence of the Little Auk, (Mergulus alle,) near Cambridge. — A very
fine specimen of this species was presented to me for my collection by W.
H. Jackson, Esq., of Trinity College, who found it alive, but in a very exhausted
state, in a dry ditch close adjoining the highroad from Cambridge to St.
Neots, about eight miles distant from the former town, November 21st., 1851.
— B. A. Julian, December 5th., 1851.

Heronry. — There is one still in existence at the seat of Harvey Coombe,
Esq., Cobham Park, Surrey. — H. J. C, Blackheath, December 12th., 1851.

64 MISCELLANEOUS NOTICES.

A Pied Blachhird, (Turdus merula.) — I had a very fine specimen of this
bird brought me for preservation; it was the largest and fattest I ever saw.
There were several perfectly white feathers on the neck and breast, and the
back was beautifully spotted. — M. Westcntt, Wells, Somerset, Novemher 2Qth.,
1851.

Note on the Jackdaw. — As H. Crease, waggoner to Joseph Parsons, Esq.,
was walking through the cathedral yard a few days ago, he observed a Jackdaw
standing on one of the twelve apostles, very busily engaged with something
in his bill. After watching him some time, he let it fall, and it proved to
be a penny piece of George the Third's reign. — Idem.

Hemarhs on certain species of Microlepidoptera. — In his concluding paper
on Scotch Lepidoptera, your correspondent, Mr. Gray, in speaking of the genus
Lozotoenia of Steph, makes L. Riheana a variety of Heparana, which, with
all deference to Mr. Gray, for whom I entertain a very high feeling of respect,
resulting from his philosophical views on the subject of Entomology, I cannot
allow to pass unnoticed, as I believe no entomologist, ancient or modern,
will agree with him, the species being perfectly distinct, and differing in the
larva state, no less than in the perfect insects. Sericoris '^-macidana and
Orthotaenia Antiquana are synonymous, (vide Doub. Cat. of Brit. Lepid.j)
but as the species occurs here in damp places among low herbage, the insect
found among fir trees is possibly different. Ypono7neuta Padella is probably
Y. Malivorella. Padella, which if a Scotch species at all is very scarce, feeds
on whitethorn. Cramhus Lijthargyrellus is probably C. Warringtonellus, Sta.,
or the rayed variety of Perlellus, one or other of which was taken, I believe,
some years ago, near Dunbar, by Mr. E. Gray. — B. F. Logan, Duddingstone,
near Edinburgh.

The Misseltoe has been found on the Oak at Penporthlenny, parish of
Goitre, in this county; on one near Usk, and another at St. Dials, near
Monmouth. The only other accredited instance is at Godalming, in Surrey.
The same parasite was also found in Monmouthshire on the Ash, by the Rev.
J. Herbert; and in one instance in France by De Candolle. Mr. Herbert also
found it on the Elm in this county; and Mr. Taylor discovered an instance
at Strensham Court, Worcestershire. — From the Monmouthshire Gazette, sent

by w. P. a

Anomalies in Grasses. — I have this day found in Golden Acre Nursery
here, specimens of Elymus hordiformis and E. Canadensis: the first with
numerous fine spurs of Ergot, and the latter with a compound spike, resem-
bling five or six, but each of them shorter than the normal spike. Both
specimens were exhibited at the meeting of the Botanical Society this evening.
— J. B. Davies, Edinburgh, November 13^/i., 1851 .

65

TFIE MICROSCOPIC HISTORY OF THE
VINEGAR-PLANT.

BY J. B. DAVIF.B, ESQ.

A FEW years age, public attention was called to a peculiar gelatinous body,
which, when put into syrup, had the wonderful property of changing it into
vinegar; and this is now called, even by those who previously could not
conceive of a plant without root, stem, and leaves, the "Vinegar-plant."

The history of the plant is involved in great obscurity, some saying that
it came from the West Indies, while others assert that it was brought to
this country by the captain of a ship from South America. "N^^hatever be
the history of individual specimens, the history of the species is simple enough.
When a little stale vinegar, or, as Schleiden says, "the expressed juice of
currant," is left for a few days exposed in the open air, bodies are produced
in it, in the form of a muddy film or sediment, and these gi'adually attract
each other, and form a gelatin ovis-like mass. Every one is acquainted with
the appearance of the soft dirty-white mass which is formed in the bottoms
of empty wine-bottles; this is, if not identical with, at least very similar to,
the Vinegar-plant. In connexion with its history and habitat, I may state
that a friend of mine in Glasgow, who formerly dealt extensively in vinegar,
informed me that the plant had been familiar to him for many years, and
that he always observed it in vinegar which contained a large per centage
of saccharine matter, while pure acetic acid was free from it. Nor are these
developments confined to acetous and saccharine solutions; Dr. Pereira discovered
similar forms in many fluids, particularly in empyreumatic succinate of ammonia.
An interesting article on the subject was communicated by him to the
^'Pharmaceutical Journal," vol. vii. The following note on "Mycoderma,"
in ^'Lindley's Medical and Q3conomic Botany," bears out this statement: —
''It is probable that the floculent matter which forms in various infusions
when they become 'mothery,' and which beai's this name, is only the
mycelium of Mxicor, Penicillium, and other Fungals of a similar nature," I
have no doubt then of its being a native of Britain.

When first brouglit conspicuously before the scientific world, the idea was
entertained by some that it was the Trcviella nostic of Linnaeus, a plant
found, but rarely, on commons near London; which idea Mr. Lloyd proves,
in an able article in "The Phytologist," to b(} incorrect Some time after,
in the same journal, Mr. Bloxam writes to the following effect: — "About two
years ago I enquired of the Rev, M. A. Berkeley, what this really was, and
found that he considered it a form of PenicilUimi crmtaceum, which is
described in the 'English Flora.'" Dr. Lindley, in his admirable work,* before
quoted, describes it as a form of Penicillium glaucum, of Greville. As the
mass occurs it is no easy matter to determine its species, or even genus;
and it is likely to afford debating room for some time to come. Undoubtedly

* rublishcd in 1849.
VOL. II. K

66

MICROSCOPIC HISTORY OF THE VINEGAR-PLANT.

when left in a dry place, it speedily becomes covered with a forest of luxuriant
green mould, which might ingeniously be supposed to be the spore stalks,
which, when in the jBuid, had no opportunity of developing themselves, rushing
into existence in the new element. Whether the green mould was really a
portion of, or a parasite on, the Vinegar-plant, is a problem to solve.

The plant in question is a gelatinous body somewhat resembling leather
which has been long steeped in water* is tovigh, and in the progress of growth
divides into layers by a transverse separation. The length of time required
to change syrup into vinegar by its agency varies from five to six, or even
eight, weeks. Professor Balfour found that when the syrup was prepared
from white sugar, the tima required was nearly twice as long as when a mixture
of nearly equal quantities of raw sugar and molasses was employed; the same
fact has come under my own observation, clearly proving that the grape sugar
in the latter case accelerated the acetous fermentation. He also proved the
identity of the mass with ordinary moulds, by placing particles obtained from
dry bodies into the fluid, which in the course of time produced vinegar, at
the same time being developed into the gelatinous mass described. The same
experiment was repeated with like success by myself.

The absence of properly developed spores is the chief obstacle to the
determination of the species, and moreover aflfords a proof that the plant is
not in its proper element. On submitting a portion of the mass to the
microscope, a quantity of entangled cellular tissue is discovered formed by the
union and agglutination of the mycelium of the myriads of minute plants
which make up the whole, and corresponding with the tissue known as
dadaelenchyma. Rounded cells resembling spores were also observed, sometimes
occurring singly, but generally in clusters as represented in Fig. 1. On ex-
pressing a small quantity of the fluid the same spore-like bodies were found

1. 2.

in it; Fig. 2. In the sediment thrown down after fermentation, these spores,
perfect or abortive, were also found, but in this case they were free from
each other; Fig. 3. -Besides' these forms, another more marked was discovered,
which, to my mind, assumed the appearance of a portion of perfect fructifi-
cation. On separating the two layers which constituted one of the thin

MICROSCOPIC HISTORY OF THE VINEOAIi-PLANT.

67

strata of the plant, a clavate mass of these spores was discovered with a
distinct stipes, accompanied by globular and irregular-shaped masses, from all
of which radiated minute filaments, as seen in Fig. 4, Dr. Greville informed
me that he was of opinion that these were not true spores, and so far as
he knew, no naturalist had ever discovered 'perfect spores in a fungus which
Avas in an unnatural position. I do not desire to question the opinion of
such an authority on the subject, but would modestly suggest that if they
were not perfect spores, they were at least an approximation to them, and tend
to throw some further light on the generic position of the plant. It has already
been stated that Berkeley, Greville, and Lindley are of opinion that the
Vinegar-plant is the mycelium of a PenicilUum, probably P. glatcciim. It is
with much pleasure then that I attempt to confirm, by observation, their
opinion; especially as it appears that none of these gentlemen have seen
the spores in the plant, I may thus hope to be of a little service in adding
to the weight of evidence in favour of their judgment.

I take the liberty of copying the capital descriptions of the three genera
of moulds, from Dr. Lindley 's book, already referred to: —

"MUCOR Micheli. — Microscopic, cobwebby masses, consisting of tubular
septate threads, bearing at the end a roundish membranaceous spore case which
bursts when plunged into water.

M. mucedo, L. — (Common Mouldiness,) Cobweb-like; the fertile threads
simple; spores and spore cases, blackish. Habitat — fruit, paste, and preserves."
Fig. 5 is a small portion of this mould, obtained from
raspberry jam.

"ASPERGILLUS Jf/c/ieZt".— Microscopic, cobweb-like
strata, producing threads, at the ends of which grow spores
arranged in rows, the rows themselves being collected in
pencils or tufts.

A. glaucus, Link. — (Blue mouldiness,) cobweb-like strata
white, the fertile threads simple capitate, sporea loosely
packed, becoming glaucus. Habitat — decaying substances
everywhere. Cheese."

68

MICROSCOPIC HISTORY OF THE VIXEGAR-PLAXT.

Fig. 6 represents the plant as obtained from a rotten Turnip.
"PENICILLTUM, Link. — Microscopic, cobweb-like or niothery flocculenfc
masses, producing simple globose spores, disposed in
patches about the pencil-shaped ends of septate
fertile threads.

P. glaucum, Grev. — (The Vinegar-plant,) my-
celium forming a close, tough, crust-like, or
leathery web; branches entangled and bifid; spores
verdigris green. Habitat — on decaying bodies,
and in fluids in a state of acetification."

Fig. 7 is a drawing of a PenicilUum, which I take
to be P. (jiaucum, found in a quantity of stale paste.
On reading the above descriptions, and comparing
with them and the sketches of the plants indi-
cated, that of the Vinegar-plant, Fig. 4, it will be no difficult task to point
out its generic position. The genus Mncor, though Lindley says that it is
-. frequently the cause of fluids becoming ^mothery,

is not the parent of the Vinegar-plant, as no
indication of a membranaceous sac for the spores
could be traced. Neither can we lay it to the
credit of the geiuis Aspergillus, the roA^s of spores
forming a brush-like head are sufficient to exempt
it; though it is plain that the plant found in the
succinate of ammonia by Dr. Pereira, is a perfect
Aspcrgilhis. In the genvis PenicilUum, we find
that the stipes, instead of coming to an abrupt
head terminated by a mass of spores as in the
two former genei'a, branches out in the form of
a tree, and on these branches the spores are de-
posited in clusters. This branching pi'ecludes the
possibility of a determinable form of head: accor-
ding as the angle of the branches is greater or smaller, and as the spores
are thickly or sparingly deposited on them, so will it approach to the
rounded or oblong form. This may in some measure account for the difference
observed in the form of the masses in Fig. 4. Again, the circumstance in
which a plant is placed may influence the form of its branches. We know
that a tree will increase most on the side next the stream. In the case of
the Vinegar-plant the fact of the very abundance of nutriment, may have
caused a lengthening and attenuation of the branches, in the same manner
as the quantity of nourishment, aqueous and aerial, supplied to the Elms in
the Crystal Palace, gave them an unwonted vigour.

I then look upon the clavate mass of spores in Fig. 4 as the nearest
approach to perfect fructification yet observed in the Vinegar-plant, and as being
identical with, or at least very similar to^ the PenicilUum glaucum, Fig. 7;

BOTANICAL STUOLLS, 09

and am of opinion that the variations observed are to be charged more to
the circumstances in which it is found, than to a generic or even specific difference.

It is by no means clear, however, that the Vinegar- plant is invariably
produced by the same genus. Dr. Balfour found that the common blue
mould produced itj and it is well known that blue mould is the Aspergillus
gJaucus; indeed we might almost conceive of the mass being formed by as
many individuals and species as the gi'a^sy sward we tread on. That the
gelatinous body is formed by the interlacing of the root-like mycelium there
can be very little doubt, as will be seen on referring to the plant as grown
in the dry air. Fig. 7, where it will be seen that the tubes lie very closely
over each otlier. Suppose then these tvibes produced in greater quantity,
they would natitrally foi-m a soft spongy mass, which, if placed in a solution
nearly identical with it in chemical composition, would become consolidated
by the agglutination of the individual tubes, and thus form the tough
leathery Vinegar-plant.

Tidking of its chemical composition. Professor Penny, of Glasgow, suggested
to me the idea of testing the plant for nitrogen, a gas well known to be
abundantly present in Fungi of the larger kinds; and which, if present,
must have been obtained from the air, being wanting in the synip. On burninfT
the plant I was ahnod convinced of its presence by smell, but could not be
certain. If Dr. Penny should find by experiment that nitrogen was really
present in any quantity, it will go far to explode the notion that the organic
constituents of plants are obtained essentially from the soil. In the case of
the larger Fungi, as Agarics, which contain a large quantity of nitrogen, the
soil in which they grow may be naturally looked to as its source, seeing
that many of them only grow on dung- heaps or rich pastures,

Edinhurgh.

BOTANICAL STROLLS IN THE NEIGHBOURHOOD
OF PLYMOUTH.

NO. IV.

Ok June 18th., in company with two friends totally unacquainted with
botany, but in whom I awakened an interest in the study as we proceeded,
I strolled to Wembury, a scattered village lying near the sea, between Plymouth
Sound and the mouth of the Yealm; but on this occasion did not go fir
beyond Langdon Hall, the seat of C. B. Calmady, Esq. As previously remarked,
it is my desire to name only such plants as I have not met with before
during my rambles in I80I; so that it must not be supposed that the few
enumerated are all that were observed; and I must beg excuse if any are
mentioned more than once, as memory may fail me.

Our route from Plymouth lay over Catdown, where I found Hieraciitm
Pilosella, (Mouse-ear Hawkweed;) Sednm acre, (Yellow Stonecrop, or Wall

70 BOTANICAL STIIOTXS.

Pepper,) and Salvia verbenaca, (English C'lary.) The three plants just
mentioned grow on dry banks, walls, and hedges by the roadside. The first
is very pretty, with its lemon-coloured florets tinged externally with a streak
of vermilion. This, and the H. timhellatuin, are the only representatives of
this extensive and variable genus which T meet with in this neighbourhood.
The latter is not included in Mr. Hannaford's "Flora Tottoniensis" Query.
— Has he overlooked it? Of the Wall Pepper, suffice it to remark that,
growing as it does almost on the bare limestone, around which it thickly
clusters, it is an interesting object, with its fleshy leaves and golden stars.
The Clary is common on our cliffs, but is not so frequently met with inland.

At Catdown we took boat, and crossed over to Hooe, a small village
skirting the lake. In the lanes were noticed the following, which, being
all common plants, I deem it sufficient merely to name: — Holcus lanatus,
Hypodiceris radicata, Poa pratensis, Galium Mollugo, G. crudatum, Heradeum
Sphondyli'um, Epilohium montanura, Veronica officinalis, Tamus cothmunis,
Mosa canina. "We have now arrived at the road which, turning off at a right
angle, leads to Bovisand. We do not descend here, but cross some fields,
where we find Lychnis vcspertina, (White Campion,) a plant located in many
spots in this neighbourhood, but not common, and Geranium dissectum. We
are again in the road, and approaching our destination. In the crannies of old
hedges constructed of earth and small stones. Cotyledon Umbilicus is plentiful,
so much so, that I doubt not some of your northern untravelled readers would
be as much surprised and delighted at the abundance of this plant which they
would meet with in the genial west, as we who are familiar with it should feel
on being introduced into the living presence of the various lovely alpine species
which adorn their hills and dales. The Honeysuckle Avas here perfuming the
way, and the red flaunting Papaver Hhceas next met our view.

Arrived at Langdon Hall, we found on the grounds of this estate Seditm
anglicum, RJdnanthiis Gi'ista-galli, Lathynis pratensis, and Hypericum humifusum.

On the homeward route I saw in addition Parietaria ojficinalis and Stellaria
graminea.

On July 7th., I scrambled over the limestone heaps in Catdown Quarry,
a spot abounding with plants, although not very promising to the unpractised.
The following have not, I think, been recorded before in these papers: —
Foeniculum vulgare, (Wild Fennel,) very abundant, and of large stature.
Origanum vulgare, (Marjoram;) Linaria supina, in a spot remote from where
it has been found in former years, but it grows only on the outskirts of this
quarry; JReseda lutea; Vicia hirsuta; Apium graveolens, (Celery;) Verhascum
Thapsus, (Moth Mullein;) Diplotaxis tenuifolia, plentiful; Erythrcea Centaurium;
Hypericum perforatum; Sedum reflexum.

On July 29th.,- found on the Hooe, Plymouth, and the surrounding cliffs,
Triticum repens; Betonica officinalis, (Betony;) Carlina vulgaris; Ononis anti-
qvxyrum, (Spinous Rest-harrow.) Query. — Is this the true 0. antiquorum? I
doubt it much, believing it to be merely a spinous variety of Ononis arvensis.

BOTANICAL STROLLS. 71

Liguslrum vulgare, (Privet*) Linum angustifolium; Daucus maritimus; Criihmum
maritimum, (Samphire;) Beta maritima, (Sea Beet;) Melilotus officinalis,
(Melilot;) Trisetumflavescens; Cynosurus echinatus, (Dog's-tail Grass;) Alopecurus
(forget the species;) Polygonum aviculare; Senebiera Goronopus; this plant,
as well as its congener, G. cUdyma, is plentiful on waste ground in this
neighbourhood, emitting a rank smell, and very pungent to the taste; Potentilla
reptans; Reseda luteola; Atriphx rosea.

On August 5th., I took a long stroll from Plymouth to Bovisand, and
thence by the beach to Wembury, Newton, and Noss. My way again lay
over Catdown, on the borders of Plymouth, and I observed in flower there
Pastinaca sativa, (Parsnep,) and Diplotaxls muralis. Having been ferried over
to Turnchapel, I passed over Staddon Heights, a ramble over which ground I
have described in an earlier paper — and only noted here Arctium Lappa and
Anagallis arvensis, as strangers to my list. I searched about at Bovisand for
something to record, and succeeded in meeting with Medicago sativa, Pulicaria
dysenterica, and Koniga maritima. Hence I proceeded by the winding-path
used by the coast guardsmen to Wembury, where in a corn-field I found
Linaria Elatine, and, much to my delight, Papaver hybridum, but unfortunately
it was past bloom, being indeed quite withered. There was a large stock of
it; and however much its presence may be distasteful to the farmer, I trust
to get a good supply of it next season, for I have long sought for it in vain.
On the sands I met with that variety of Polygonum aviculare, described by
Babington as "sl form with very short internodes and leaves, small flowers, and
much-branched stems," as well as two or three of the genus Atriplex. Ascending
again to the fields, I remark Uuphorbia helioscopia, E. exiqua, Polygonum,
convolvulus, and Sonchus arvensis. A wet" spot was embroidered with Samolus
Valerandi; and then came a heathy bit of ground with the furze bushes
covered with Guscida Europcea. Not to dilate, I conclude with the mere names
of the other plants noticed during this ramble: — Eupatorium cannabinum,
Ilelminthia ecTiioides, Calamintha officinalis, Alsine rubra, Torilis anthnscus,
uEthu^a cynapium.

Here terminated my botanical strolls of 1851. I have been purposely
concise in this communication, as the opportunity of penning it has occurred
so long "after date."

Isaiah W. N. Keys.

Plymouth, February Wtli., 1852.

72

MARINE ANIMALS.

ECHINODERMATA, {THE ECHINUS)

BY 0. S. ROUND, ESQ.

A, Exterior view of Echinus Miliaria, natural size. B, A section of the same, shewing the lantern and

teeth C. 1), Interior of a piece of shell of Echinus, shewing; tlie perforations throuj,'h which the

Suckers work.

This genus of Marine Animals, with the shells of which almost every
one is familiar, is the Echinus, or Sea-urchin* so called from the universal
presence of spines, in more or less proportion of production over the whole
surface of the shell. This shell is composed of five pieces, that is by per-
ceptible sutures, but to give the number of actual plates of which it is
composed, would be an almost impossible, probably a most fruitless task. They
are certainly, ordinarily speaking, several hundreds in number, and exhibit in
the progressive growth of the creature the most wonderful arrangement. The
shape we know is a flattened, although somewhat irregular sphere, inasmuch as
where the larger orifice exists, which is, in fact, the mouth, the arch is
suddenly contracted, but this figure is found to be composed, upon close
examination, of an infinite number of pieces of calcarious matter, differing,
or rather increasing or decreasing in size as the shape of the shell enlarges
or lessens^ and hence at the largest part the plates will be largest. Between
each of these plates, the substance, of which the animal itself consists, is
protruded, and this substance is constantly collecting around the edges of these
plates, earthy and calcarious matter, which being added on, as it were, in
regular progression over the whole shell, this covering regularly increases in
size with the growth of the inhabitant, without in the smallest degree losing
its elegant shape and beautiful appearance; ornamented and embossed as it is
with patterns like the most beautiful artificial raised work, incomparable,
however of course, with any human productions.

In many of the species, particularly those in common collections, known as
sea-eggs, and which are the skeletons of the Echinus, the spines are so
minute as to be hardly discernible between the plates; in some attaining
several inches in length, and of a proportionate thickness; whilst in others,
the resemblance to the common urchin, or hedgehog is very striking; and in one

MARINE ANIMALS. 73

kind the plates being so closely placed^ and so hard that there is, in fact on the*
upper part, no means by which spines could protrude themselves; their presence
will be detected around the mouth on the lower or concave portion, as if the
denial of egress on one portion was made up by its production on another.

These spines when living, (if I may use the expression,) are discovered to
be coated by a secreting membrane, which is the agent of their growth, and
not only do they thus grow, but it has been found that where a spine was
bitten off by some fish of prey, probably, having seized, but failed to swallow
the Echinus itself, the imperfect end was reproduced, and in some specimens
a longitudinal section will shew the point at which such repair took place;
and in others not only once but twice in the same spine. Being quite isolated
from the body as they are, it was not until the external secreting membrane
was discovered that the source of their growth was known; but being so
known, sections of them shew distinctly the layers of increase, in the same
manner as trees exhibit their rings of woody fibre. In most of the Echinis,
each of the five ground divisions of the shell is grooved, and furnished with
a row of tubercles; both being regulated in graduation of size by the shape .
of the shell itself, and thus are formed ten rows of anibulacral plates, between
which tubular suckers or retractile feet are protruded at will; and these
feet are of course regulated by and connected with the animal's internal
economy.

That the Echinus becomes the prey of other marine animals, is established
by the fact that great numbers have been found in the stomachs of fishes;
but whilst we record this, it must not be forgotten that they themselves
are furnished with a most complicated and curious feeding apparatus, in which,
in my present paper, I can only notice that the number five is observed, as
in the shell, in a remarkable manner. The plates around the mouth are
moveable, and within them there are five teeth, which work upon five jaws,
provided with five processes, and attached to five long and slender levers; and
thus the number five, as I have before observed, is remarkably carried out;
and this Pentenumeral apparatus forming the mouth, was thought by Aristotle
to resemble a lantern, and is still known by that name.

As my space will not now allow me to enter into details upon this most
singular division of Marine Animals, I shall only further observe that the
Echinus, to which I have devoted this paper, is only one of its types; and
therefore without observing the strict order pursued by naturalists, I shall
take each in its turn as it occurs to me, at the same time not so wholly
discarding all method as to be silent on the actual place which science has
assigned them amongst the inhabitants of the ocean.

Inert and helpless as these ball-shaped beings naturally appear, every one
of the spines which protrudes from them, arises from a tubercle having a
socket, and capable of motion in every direction; and the suckers to which
I have before alluded, aided by these spines, which are in fact so many
hundred, or, in some cases, thousand, legs, enable the animal to transport

VOL. II. L

74 SEA-NETTLES,

itself in any direction with the greatest ease, and by means of the suckers
to ascend masses of rosk or coral for the purpose of obtaining its prey, or
of even burying itself in the sand to elude pursuit; and thus the most
apparently defenceless, and, to our ideas, perhaps, at first sight, the most
imperfectly developed animal, displays to the eye of the anatomist, the most
admirable and superior organization, though differing in actual structure
from the reptilea or mammalia.

(To be contbimd.)

SEA-NETTLES.

BY 0. S. ROUND, ESQ.

It has been well said of mariners, whose business is in the '^great waters,"
that they see the wonders of the Creator in the deep; and if this was the
experience of the inspired Psalmist, when so little — so infinitely little — was
known of those wonders, how mush more true must it be in these enlightened
days, when, ignorant as oi'dinary men still are of the inhabitants of the vast
ocean, and much as every year shews us to justify the extension of this
assertion to even those known as scientific, no one who has the least observation,
and who has glided over the glassy surface of the sea on a clear sun-light
day, or contemplated the sublime prospect in the calm moon-light, can fail
to be filled with wonder and admiration at the very magnitude of the thought,
which the bare idea of the unknown depths, and what may there be hid,
must inspire. Of the Fishes, (P/sce.s,) we probably have a tolerably general
knowledge, at all events of the different genera; for, although in remote islands
hitherto unobserved kinds are discovered, these are usually new species, not
genera, although a case lately occurred in which a new fish, if I mistake not,
of almost a new genus, was observed at Malta ; and yet, attention being drawn
to the subject, it was found to have been familiar to the fishermen of
Southampton Water for years; a sad reflexion on our icthyologists ! Fishes
too, as a mass, inhabit regions only comparatively near to land, the Cetacca,
the Sharks, and a few others only, being found on the boundless watery waste.
But sail whei'e we will, leave thousands of miles on all sides of us, the ocean
is still peopled by so vast a multitude of beings, that the least acquaintance
with them fills one's soul with the most admiring awe.

Of these the most numerous are the Acalephce, or Sea-nettles, including
the Medusae, and those brilliant denizens of the flood that gleam in such
countless myriads in the track of the good ship, as she bears us on towards
the haven where we would be. Familiar to the inhabitants of every beach
where they are cast on the shore, mere apparent masses of jelly, yet enquire
more closely into their organization, and a field of wonder opens to us almost
too vast to receive at once. These beautiful creatures vary exceedingly in
size; some are alone discernible by the aid of a powerful microscope, others

MODERN GEOLOGICA.L CHANGEa. 75

again are of considerable magnitude, and the forms which they display are
no less various. The Medusce float on the surface by means of a mushroom-
shaped gelatinous disc, assisted by the powers of dilation and contraction
possessed bj the animal itself: the Medusa Rhizostoma is a familiar instance
of this. Others are mere spheres, furnished with tentacular or prehensile
fibresj some are like the fin of a fish, but those best known are the Girdle
of Venus, (Gestum Veneris,) an animal of several feet in length, and emitting
a phosphorescent light of great brilliancy by night, and the most lovely hues
by day. It is apparently nothing more than a gelatinous ribband, but exhibits
upon inspection the most delicate conformation. The other is the Portuguese
Man-of-war, (Phygalia pelagica,) which, with its beautiful purple crest, is the
delight of landsmen, as the soft air catches this natural and bright-hued sail.
By many the Nautilus has been confounded with this beautiful creature; but
the Nautilus belongs to a much higher grade of marine animals, ^?ilich
perhaps I may have to speak of hereafter.

When we consider the delicate formation of this beautiful race of God's
creatures, we shall be struck with wonder how, amidst the boisterous waves
of the mighty deep they float, or even sport unharmed, when man, in all
his strength and pride, is unable to cope with it for a single hour; nor will
this wonder lessen upon a more intimate acquaintance with their structure,
and the species of food upon which they subsist, and how they obtain it.
Of these I intend to speak hereafter, and can only indulge at present
a humble hope that the young lover of nature, who scarcely yet dares
to call himself a "Naturalist," may be induced to journey with me on my
voyage.

(To be continued. J

ON SOME OF THE

MODERN GEOLOGICAL CHANGES EXHIBITED IN THE

NEIGHBOURHOOD OF GLASGOW.

BY W. FERGUSON, ESQ.

The surface of our earth has exhibited during its existence many difierent
features. Since the "Beginning," when God created it, who shall say how
many ages and epochs have rolled — ages and epochs so extended as to lead
even an inspired writer to apply to the hills of our world, the term "Ever-
lasting." Geology, in its province as explicating the past and present
condition of the material portion of the earth, has already thrown much light
on these past periods, and taught us something of their various appearances.
It has lifted the veil from off" the various systems which one after the other
have each been once ^^the present," It has exhibited to us the Silurian
System, with its dynasty of shells and cuttlefishes; the Old Red Sandstone
Period, with its wondrous families of mail-clad fishes; the Carboniferous Era,
with its characteristic palms, and forests of reeds and rushes; the various

76 MODERN OEOLCGICAL CHANGES.

members of the Secondary System^ with their terrible reptiles, realizing the
leviathan of Job; and the Tertiary Formations, with their mammoth quadrupeds,
in reading the mere description of which we are forcibly reminded of the
behemoth of the same sacred writer.

It is not my intention, however, to dwell upon the ancient aspects of
natm*e. There are a series of changes which have taken place at a period
far enough remote according to man's limited chronology, but at a time, the
date of which, as compared with that of any of the epochs I have already
mentioned, may be emphatically said to be only ^'^of yesterday." It is some
of these I would now attempt to describe. My attention was more specially
directed lately to the modern changes of surflice on the Frith of Clyde, by
the following circumstance: — Visiting my friend Dr. Lorrain one evening, he
put into my hand a large and brilliant specimen of Trochus zizrphanus. The
shell is quite a common one, and I remarked it was so. ^'Ah ! but whei*e
was that one found, think you," said he; "nine feet below the surface, in
Sauchie-hall-Street \" And so it was. In digging a drain there, the workmen,
after going down about four feet, came to a bed of pure peat, one foot
thick, and below that they dug four feet through beds of stratified sand,
containing shells. Mr. James Petus, a patient of Dr. I^orrain's, who was close
beside the spot when they were found, attracted by the brilliancy of one,
the outer coat of which had scaled off, preserved it, remarking "It would
do for his doctor," He informed me that *a good many more were seen, but
no one thought them worth preserving. In one shovelful of sand thrown out,
there were as many as five or six. We have thus here a portion of a
deposit shewing that the sea, or at least an arm of it, at one time covered
the spot now occupied by the upper level of Sauchie-hall-Street,

There are many other proofs of the same fact, some of which I will now
detail, confining myself to those found on the Frith of Clyde. Commencing
with the Island of Arran, we notice that the road from Brodick to Corrie,
and so on round the north end of the island, occupies a flat and level, but
not broad, space of ground, a little elevated above the level of the sea, and
backed by a series of cliffs of considerable height, and the vertical faces of
which are water- worn, and hollowed out into caves. The cliffs are of Sandstone,
and the caves are due to the action of waves at one time beating against
them. I visited the place, and obtained from the sides of a ditch, in what
was then a field waving with corn, many specimens of shells. They are
broken and worn; but when it is remembered that they were found at some
distance from the sea, and at a much higher level than the sea ever reaches
now, they are not without interest. In my note-book I find the following
account of my finding these shells: — I looked for the ancient beach all
along, but could not find a single shell. When we had passed Port-na-Claoch,
and were still a mile or so north of Markland Point, I asked an old man
who was working on the road whether he had ever seen any, as now, from
the profuse vegetation, I could sec none. He said he had often dug marl

MODERK GEOLOGICAL CHANGES. 77

wlieu he crofted a bit there, and bade me look behind the first rock, which
he said had "kepid the shells when the tide gaed out." ''For/' added he,
^'the sea has been over a' this, and up at the rocks yonder, for the auld road
gaed aboon fchera." I did as he recommended, and in the first hollow, behind
a mass of rock at the edge of a corn-field, found shells.

The same ancient beach is distinctly observable on the Island of Little
Curabrae, a little farther up the Firth. On one end of this island an ancient
town is situated on the old beach. Here, as in Arran, the beach is flat
and narrow, very little raised above the present level, and immediately flanked
by clifis rising abruptly from it.

As we advance farther up the Clyde, the same beach is seen on both
sides. All along from Gourock southwards, the road is formed upon it. In
some places it is a more shelf, but in others it attains considerable breadth,
and it is backed by most picturesque cavern-hollowed cliffs. These may be
seen very distinctly in the neighboui'hood of Wemyss Bay. On the north
side of the Clyde, between Helmsburgh and Dumbarton, the same sort of
beach may be traced; and there too, where the soft strata of the Old Red
Sandstone stand out in cliffs, on the upper side of the road, they are
hollowed out into water-formed caves.

Three or four miles below Glasgow, and a mile or a mile and a half north
from the bank of the river, is a place called Garscadden. In Gaelic, Gar
means a Point, and Scadden, a Herring; and . Macfarlane, in his "History of
Renfrew," mentions this place as the Herring Yair; and there are some notices
in the statistical account of Renfrew of certain ancient fishings at Renfrew
Quay. The conformation of the country down there is corroborative of the
traditions of the sea having formerly stood at a higher level than it does now.
Indeed, in the flat grounds near Renfrew, various deposits, containing shells
of species not now living in our estuary, have been found.

I shall now state the result of observations which have been made in and
around Glasgow itself.

In Glasgow Green may be noticed two triangles, one about eleven, and the
other about twenty-six feet above the level of the sea. The Green did not
always present the appearance it does now. In 1810, a slight swell in the
river, or a heavy shower, laid the Low Green under water. A portion of it,
known then as the Calton Green, was so soft and irregular, and the ground so
swampy from numerous springs, that more than one-half of it was cut up into
open drains or ditches. The banks of the river contiguous to Peat Bog,
were rugged and so washed down with springs, that they were comparatively
useless; and the inequalities on the surface of the High Green were very
considerable. Provost's Haugh, or Flesher's Haugh was separated from the
High Green and King's Park, by a large ditch, or goit, and so strong were
the springs which issued from the banks, that numerous drains were necessary
to carry off the water to the river.

But keeping in view the improvements which have been made on the

78 NOTES ON THE BIRDS OP lONA.

green, It is yet sufficiently obvious that the flat space along the river below
the High Green and Flesher's Htiugh, may have been a beach; and the
flat expanse of King's Park and the High Green sloping up to Monteith
How, another. The second of these levels gives us the line of London-Street
and Trongate, and may be traced in this way a considerable distance. Mr.
Kobert Chambers describes the terraces of Glasgow in these words: —

^'If we make a cross movement from the river bank at the Broomielaw,
the following ancient beaches will be found: — First, the street of Broomielaw,
a piece of ancient haugh ten feet above high-water mark* second, another
flat at Anduston, at about thirty feet; third, a terrace sloping up to the
skirts of Garnet Hill, somewhat irregular, but exhibiting some entire pieces,
(for example the site of St. Matthew's Free Church,) and attaining an extreme
height of somewhat more than eighty feet. A similar cross movement in the
eastern suburbs, starting at the green and passing up to the lodge at the
house of refuge, gives a precise repetition of these gradations. The Mill-
Street Factory is there seated upon the sixty-four — seventy feet level. In the
central part of the city we pass at once from the twenty- six alluvium, (for
example at George Square,) up a steep slope to an irregular height, not less
than one hundred feet, remarkable for a capping of dikivium, containing a
number of far transported boulders. But in the line of the High Street, the
University Buildings clearly sit upon the same terrace which we find at
Dowanhill and the Mill-Street Factory. On the right bank of the Moleud-
mar Burn, opposite Craig Park, there is a fine piece of terrace about one
hundred and fifty yards in length, and perhaps fifty above the tiny stream.
This is approximately about one hundred and forty-four feet above the level

of the sea."

(To be continued.)

NOTES ON THE BIRDS OF lONA.

BY HENRY D. GRAHAM, ESQ.

[I HAVE much pleasure in forwarding you the accompanying notes, addressed
to me by my esteemed correspondent Mr. Graham. Few observers are better
situated than that gentleman for noticing the occurrence and habits of some
of the rarer sea-fowl; and as he has, for a considerable time, paid close
attention to ornithological pursuits, under the most favourable circumstances,
it is likely his letters may prove interesting to many of your readers. I have
only to add that Mr. Graham is quite an enthusiast, and the observing the
habits of sea-birds especially affords him untiring delight. "I love," he says,
'^to pursue the aquatic tribes upon their own blue element, and to 'hunt a
field for health unbought.' I have spent days and nights in 'solitary places,'
watching them with my dog and gun, and I look upon the wild screaming
races that people the rocks, the caverns, and the sea-waves, as the companions
of some of my happiest hours."

NOTES ON THE BIRDS OP lONA, 79

The following notes on the Stormy Petrel and the Red-legged Crow, which
I select from his correspondence, will best introduce Mr. Graham to the
readers of '^'The Naturalist." — R. G,, Southern^, Oovan, Glasgow^

The Storm Petrel, (Thalassidroma pelagica^

This interesting and most diminutive member of the great order of Natatores,
visits our coasts in considerable numbers during the summer, for the purpose
of incubation. On fine calm evenings at this time of the year, after the
smooth surface of the deep has put oflF the fiery glow imparted by the setting
sun, and begins to assume the dull, leaden tint of night, then the little Petrel
may be seen scaring along upon the face of the sea^ now he darts past the
fisher's boat as it is rowing along upon its homeward course; is seen for a
moment as he flits round the lagging oars, and instantly disappears among
the increasing gloom of approaching night. His motions are so rapid, his
appearance so sudden, and he looks so extremely diminutive, that it is only
a quick eye that will detect his approach at all, and it would be almost
impossible for the homewai'd bound sea-fowl shooter to molest him.

The Petrel breeds upon many of the little wild unfrequented islands which
surround lona and StalFa; the latter itself is one station. But upon these islands
I have found their nests made in such very dissimilar positions, that it would
make one suppose they belonged to distinct species. The first place that I
fell in with them was on a little islet about a league south of lona, named
Soay. It is high and rocky, with grassy banks on its summit, which feed
about a dozen sheep: these banks, which are about eighty feet above the
level of the sea, are composed of a soft buttery kind of soil, which cuts,
with a spade, like new cheese; and it is in deep burrows formed in this
muddy soil that the Petrels make their nest. These banks are perforated by
numbers of holes, having the size and appearance of rabbit burrows. If
one of these is carefully cut out with a spade, two, or sometimes three,
very small apertures, no larger than mouse holes, are discovered opening out
of this large entrance, which serves as a lobby to as many distinct Petrel
residences. By continuing to dig up the course of these minute galleries,
which extend from three to four feet in length, and are at a considerable
depth below the surface, we at last come to a small nest composed of a
little dried grass, generally of the sea pinJc, loosely laid together, containing
a single white egg; the egg is quite warm, and by searching a little further,
the bird is sure to be found. It allows itself to be caught and taken up
without resistance, only giving a faint squeak, and then ejects about a tea-
spoonful of thick yellow oil from -its bill; the quantity and quality of this
decreases as the season advances, and latterly ceases altogether: this is
probably accounted for by the birds falling off" in condition during the time
of sitting.

The direction of the galleries may be ascertained by thrusting up a ram-
rod, for they take frequent and abrupt windings; a large block of the soil

80. NOTES OX THE BIRDS OF lONA,

may then be cut out with a spade; and the soi]^ though soft^ is so tenacious
that these blocks may all be returned to their places again; and the burrow
not being destroyed, is sometimes tenanted again next season. The birds
come to their holes in the first week in June; the eggs are laid by the first
week in July; and on the 13th. of October I have found the young very
recently hatched. I once kept a pair and succeeded in rearing one; the*
other one was killed by accident. They would take small pieces of fish very
readily, and were more active at night than during the day. The young
one when fully fledged differed from the adult merely in being of a rustier
black, and having an ill-defined white mark across the wing, formed by the
pale tips of the secondaries Both the young and the old ones, when con-
fined in a basket or bag, escape at the smallest aperture, climbing up the
sides like mice, in doing which they use their hooked bills to pull themselves
up with: it seems to be of more service to them than their claws.

As might be expected from their great length of wing they cannot spring
up quickly into the air; when one is allowed to escape from the hand, he
runs rapidly along the ground for several yards with the wings in motion
before he can get fairly started; but if he meets with a declivity, he throws
himself off and swoops away to his ocean home. Within the limited space
of a room their wings are quite useless.

The Petrel is also found breeding at Staffa, and at least one of the
Treshinish Islands, though I have no doubt they frequent all of them. Here
their nesting-places are very different from those at Soay, for they make
their nests under the large stones on the beach. These beaches ai-e com-
posed of blocks of basalt, about the size of a hat, and are considerably
raised above the sea level. They seem never to have been much exposed to
the action of the waves, for these large stones are rugged and angular,
consequently lying loosely together, easily allowing the mouse-like Petrel to
penetrate the numerous interstices, and to circulate freely a long way below
the surface, just as we see a wren, chased by a dog, taking refuge in a
dry-stone dike; and while the dog keeps watching the hole at which he
entered, in a moment the Wren hops out of the dike a gun-shot further on,
and chirps a feeble insult at his pursuer. It would be impossible ever to
discover the Petrel in such a situation as this, were it not for its betraying
itself, which it does in a very peculiar manner, especially about dusk, in the
evening, or at sunrise. If you happen to be upon one of these wild solitary
spots, you hear a most peculiar buzzing noise, not unlike that of a spinning
wheel, or a goat-sucker. It is not continuous, for at intervals of about ten
seconds it is broken by a sharp click. You soon find this music issues from
beneath your feet: guided by the sound you commence removing the heavy
stones; you are encouraged in your labour by hearing the sound nearer and
more distinct; sometimes it ceases, then re-commences; the noise and rolling
of the rocks seem to provoke the subterranean musician to renewed efforts,
until with a vigorous effort the last great stone is rooted out, and the

NOTES OX THE BIKDS OF lONA. 81

mystery is laid bare. We see a little black object shufHIng off, its small
white egg lying upon a few blades of dry grass to protect it from the
hard rock. The bird scircely makes an effort to escape; as if dazzled by
the broad glare of day-light, or stunned by the depth of its misfortune, it
lies passively in the hand of its captor, gives a faint squeak, and drops a
pellucid tear, in the shape of a globule of oil, from its beak.

I have compared specimens taken from these two different breeding-places,
but I am unable to detect any difference between them. The Soay bird is
always silent: I never heard him indulge in these curious melodies. Both
have a very powerful odour — a musky kind of smell, which adheres to the
skins years after they are stuffed, and to everything they come in contact
with. I have perceived it when walking upon the beaches at Caru-burg
Island, and at Soay it needs no terrier to inform you which holes are inhabited.

The Red-Legged Crow, (Fregihis graculus.)

We have three pairs of these birds constantly resident upon the island,
and there are several other pairs which make their nests upon the adjacent
rocky shores of Mull. The lona birds breed every season upon the island,
and usually roost during the rest of the year somewhere in the vicinity of
their old nest; but, though they rear a young brood every season, these are
sent off as soon as fledged to seek for other shores; and the same limited
number only remains with us.

The Chough is a very pleasing bird; his movements are active and
sprightly; he is always in the highest spirits, bustling about, calling and
responding to his mate. His voice somewhat resembles the Jackdaw's, but
it is much more cheerful and lively, having a clear ringing sound. Chow!
Chow! Chow! he cries till all the distant caves resound with his own name.

These birds always maintain a friendly footing with the Jackdaws, associating
with them in their feeding excursions, and sometimes accompanying them
home. The huge square tower of St. Columba's venerable shrine, grizzled
with age, moss-grown and roofless, still braves the shocks of time and the
fury of the elements, and affords secure shelter to a colony of Jackdaws
among its time-worn shafts and decaying windows. The belfry walls, which
once vibrated to the merry-peeling chimes, or the sadly-tolling knell, now
only awakens to the chattering voices of Daivs. But, however this may be,
the Jackdaws look upon the old tower as their exclusive property; and if
any audacious Hooded Crow or Kestrel ventures to alight upon it, in a
moment he is hustled off by the whole community, perhaps with the loss of
some of his tail feathers. One pair of Red-legs is, however, allowed by these
jealous republicans to rear their family in the midst of them; and also at
other times of the year they are welcome guests to roost upon their tower.
This nest was built last year in the ledge of a small window on the very
summit of the tower upon the inside: though quite out of reach the outer
sticks could be seen from below. Wc waited patiently hoping that some of

VOL. II. M

82 LOCAL JOTTINGS.

the young family, when nearly fledged, would fall over; but I suppose they
were destroyed by some days of severe wind and rain which we had about
that time, for the old ones deserted the nest afterwards. We however
picked up the fragments of some of the egg shells which had fallen after
the eggs were hatched: they were of a light brownish tint, spotted with dark
brown.

Another nest is in the mouth of a cave which can only be entered at low
water. The nest is inaccessible, and visible from below, but not from above.
If very much wished for it might perhaps be reached with the help of a
rope. We left it unmolested last year in hopes of getting the young, in
which I was disappointed by being absent from the island just at the time
they were fledged. This nest is a very old establishment, and has been
occupied many years. Nearly every evening, and at all times of the year,
the old pair come to roost in its neighbourhood. I have sometimes watched
them making themselves comfortable for the night; after trying several, they
at last select a sheltered inaccessible ledge overhanging the sea, upon which
they lie down with their legs tucked under them.

These birds are at all times tame, but at the breeding season they are
very bold. They do not take much notice of a visitor until very closely
intruded upon, and then become very vociferous, flying over his head, and
frequently alighting about forty yards distant, or less. Their brilliant coral
bills and legs are then very conspicuous, as they contrast with the glossy
blackness of the plumage.

Sometimes on a fine calm day the Iled-legged Crow amuses itself by
soaring up to a great height, and then sailing round and round in circles,
after the manner of the Eagle. One fine spring morning I witnessed a pair
doing this when I was accompanied by a veteran sportsman, who was almost
deceived by them, taking them for Eagles, until they began to call, which
at once betrayed them; and when they descended, the matter was put
beyond a doubt by shooting one. The natives call these birds St. Columba's
bird; no doubt because it used to breed upon the cathedral in greater numbers
formerly, when those ruins were less distm'bed by steam-boat visitors.

lona, 1852.

LOCAL JOTTINGS.— No. 3.
DORCHESTER— DORSETSHIRE.

BY J. GARLAND, ESQ.

The Hoopoe, (Upupa Epops.) — The celebrated naturalist, Gilbert White,
in his "History of Selborne," mentions the circumstance of a pair of these
pretty birds frequenting his garden, but they did not breed there; now I am
credibly informed that a pair built their nest and bred for several years.

MISCET.LANEOUS NOTICES. 83

about 1839, in the grounds adjoining Pensylvania Castle, Portland; unfor-
tunately, however, they were both afterwards shot, and one. I understand, is
now in the possession of Captain Manning, of Portland Castle.

The Fieldfare, (Turdus pilaris.) — I observed several of these birds in a
turnip-field near this town on Monday, October 20th., which I imagine must
be very early.

Cistus, (Helianthemum vulgare.) — This little plant is also met with, I learn,
on the eastern side of Portland, near Pensylvania Castle.

Dorchester, January, 1852.

Blisrrllnarniiig JhWm.

Note on a Black Rat. — During last week a Rat, which attracted curiosty, from its unusual
appearance, was caught in Bristol cathedral. It was sent up to tlie Pliilosophical Institution,
where, upon examination, it was found to be one of the Black English Rats, a race which
is now nearly extinct, having been all but exterminated by the Rats now ordinarily met with,
the species which is known as the Brown or Xorway Rat, which is really, by the way, an
Asiatic importation.— "Wells Jouunal, December 13th., 1851; Michael Westcott.

Sagacity of a Rat. — I send you the following instance of sagacity in the Rat, in case you
should deem it worthy of a place in your highly-interesting periodical :— In an out-house used
for garden tools, I placed, for the purpose of procuring maggots, to feed some young Partridges,
Avhich I was rearing, several Rats which had been trapped. A few days afterwards, there was
scarcely anything left of these Rats but their skins ; their entrails having been entirely devoured by
their living brethren. I then placed on the floor, near a Rat hole at one comer of the out-house,
a candle prepared with arsenic: next morning the candle had disappeared, and I congratulated
myself that one, at least, of these destructive vermin had taken more than was good for it.
However, some weeks afterwards, finding that the Rats were still in the tool-house, and were
working their way into the poultry house adjoining, I took up the floor of the former in order
to lay it with broken glass and lime. In doing this, I found the place quite honey-combed
underneath, with the runs of the vennin ; and, at the very opposite corner fron^ the one where
I had placed the candle, a distance of three or four yards, I found the candle untasted ; showhig
that the Rats must have dragged it that distance underground, and though, for some time
previous, they could have had nothing to feed on but the refuse of the drains, they had the
sagacity to discover that the candle was dangerous, and the self denial to abstain from devouring
it. This is the more extraordinary, as I have not been in the habit of using poison to get rid
of them.— C. M. 0., Edinburgli, December, 1851.

Note on tJie Kowail, or Black Indian Cuckoo, (Cuculus Indica,) — The Kowail is a handsome
bird ; the plumage of the male is black and glossy as the Raven ; the shape is elegant, tlie eye
a brilliant scarlet. The female is larger, brown and black, regularly baiTcd with white, and the
whole breast speckled and spotted; the eye a rich crimson brown. These birds come in spring,
with the lilac blossoms of the Ash, ( Melia Azedarachta,) and the bursting leaves of the Sissoo,
(Balbergia Sisso.J They are seen about the gardens, and heard chattering to each other; but
their song does not fill the gi-oves with melody till March, when the Mango flowers, (Mango/era
Indica, J load the air with perfume. The voice of the Kowail, the bird of the Indian poets, is
most musical; the note is "cuckoo, cuckoo," but prolonged and repeated, and swelling as it goes
up higher and louder; three or four birds singing together, like voices perfoi-ming a catch or glee,
till the quiet night and moonlight air ring with their music. The Black Cuckoo, for there are
three or four different species of Cucidus found in our woods, lays its e%^ in the nest of the
Common Crow ; the eggs of both are bluish green, speckled with brown, and the same size and
shape. The Crows make excellent foster-parents, unweai-ied in theii' exertions to feed their greedy

84 MISCKLLANEOUS NOTIORS.

nestlings. Like many Indian birds, they fly long before they can feed themselves, and they arc
always shivering their wings and clamouring for food. I have had a young one which eat
everything, and never seemed satisfied — bread and boiled rice, a soft pulpy fruit, raw meat, etc.,
and as soon as it could fly, it flew off to its friends the Crows. The Crows, always in pairs,
came regularly with their two nestlings, a Cuckoo and a Crow, to eat boiled rice on the verandah,
or in the room, if the plate were put near the door. The young Crow looked clumsy and dingy
beside the handsome, sprightly young Cuckoo, who shivered his bronzed and glistening wings,
and gaping wide his crimson thi-oat, always took precedence and was fed first. Tlio fruit or
berry they are so fond of is the Scarlet Gourd, (Ilomordiea monodelpha,) which creeps all over
the liedg(!s; and when the berries of tlie Asoy trees, (Uvaria louffifoUa,) one of the Custard
apple tribe, are ripe, the Cuckoos and Golden Orioles, and the Small Ilornbill, (Buceros,) come
in numbei-s to feed upon them. I have not been able to find out where the Black Cuckoo
goes in autumn, but after August or September its joyous note is rarely heard, but when I do
I shall let you know. — Extract from the letter of a friend to R. P. C, October 1st., 1851.

TJte Cuckoo, (Cuculus canoras,) lias tliis j'car been remarkably abundant in the vicinity of
Black Moor, near Leeds— it was heard on the IGtli. of April. The country people about here
repeat an old couplet, running —

The Cuckoo is a pretty Irird, and single as she flies.
She brings us gootl tidings, but tells us no lies.

It is also superetitiously considered imlucky to be witliout money on firet hearing its welcome
notes. Eight Cuckoos were seen assembled in a single oak tree the second week in July;
probably old birds commencing their migratory movements. — Jno : Dixon, 7, Copenhagen-
Street, Leeds, November 3rd., 1851.

The Stvallmv, (Hirimdo rustica.) — In the "Leeds Intelligencer," for November 13th., 1847,
I find the following: — "Rara Avis. A Swallow was observed flying about the Leeds Station,
of the Leeds and Bradford Kailway, on Sunday last, the 7tli. — -a very rare occuiTence so late
in the year." October 4th., 1849, another was observed aljout the Kailway Station, Starbeck;
the day cold and wet. Tliis solitary lingerer attracted the attention of a carter, who knocked
it down with his hat. It was brought to mo, but only lived a couple of hours. April lotli.,
1851, Swallows appeared at lloundhay. — Idem.

Note on Swallows. — The last of the Ilirundines that I have seen this season, were four House
Martins {Hirimdo urbiea,) and one Swallow, {H. rustica,) which were flying round a church
tower, on the 25th. of October. Having two brothers in the island of Madeira, one of them,
who has been there three or fom- years, informs me that in November, December, and January,
there are a great number of Swallows and Swifts, the latter, however, are of a larger sort than
our Swift. — F. H. D'Arcy, Lymington, Hants., December 6th., 1851.

Mr. John Cope, of Abbots Bromlej', near Staftbrd, has forwarded to me tlie following curious
statement: — "Three Chimney Swallows were found, to all appearance dead, between the glass
and brickwork of a window tliat had been stopped up for some years, in the house occupied
b}' Mr. Spooner, of Abbots Bromley. The bricklayer who pulled dowu the brickwork took them
into the house, by the fire; in a short time they showed signs of life, two of them soon
became able to fly, and escaped, and were seen no more; the other did not recover, and very
soon died." — F. 0. MoRiiis, Naffci-ton, March, 1852.

Spoonbill, (Platalea Icucorodia,) in Hampshire. — ^Thei-e was a Spoonbill shot on the marshes
here the other day. — F. H. D'Arcy, Lymington, Hants., December 6th., 1851.

Harli/ Blackbird's Nest, (Turdus morula.) — A friend in Essex, tells me that at Southend, in
that county, there was a Blackbird's nest found with one (!gg in it, in the middle of January
last; to remove any doubt about its being addled, the bird was frightened off" the nest. — Idem.

Colour of Iridcs in the Bed-necked Grebe, (Podiceps rubricollis.) — In reply to a request respecting
tile colour of iridcs in the Eed-neeked Grebe, I copy the following memorandum: — 1837,
December 27th., shot a female Eed-necked Grebe from a boat, after a short and sharp chase,
though it dived so quickly, as to escape many shots fired from a very short distauce; it still
retained many of its summer feathers scattered over tlie heail, neck, and breast. Eyes, dark

MISCELLAKEOUS NOTICES. 85

hazel, lower mandible, yellow, legs dusky; the stomach contained a fifteen-spined stickleback, and
was well filled with its own feathers. Several of those Grebes have come to hand from time
to time, but this appears the only one where the colour of the iridcs was particularly noted at
the time. Last April I had the pleasure of watching a pair in full summer plumage, diving
around and close to the rocks, the colour of tlieir necks shewing very bright, as the sun shone
iipon it. — Clement Jackson, East Looe, December 20th., 1851.

Ptiffin, (Fratercula arctica,) in ivinter. — January, 1846. A Puffin was piclced up dead on
tlie beaoh, quite fresh and in good feather, apparently a young bird of last summer; beak,
pretty fully developed, and of the usual orange and blue; head and back, black; cheeks below
the eyes, gray; above and in front, sooty; legs, pale greenish yellow. One was found on the
beach, putrid, in March last, probably an early summer migrant. — ^Ideni.

Predatory habit of tJw Tttr key. —Some few years since, we sat an old Turkey hen on
twenty duck eggs, and as I was passing by her nest one day, in the course of incubation, I
observed her devouring an egg which was just outside the nest. On examination, it was found
that she had been feasting very plentifully upon her charge, as there were but eight eggs
left, and four of which she despatched in a few days afterwards. Thinking that hunger might
have been the cause of her acting so unnaturally, food was continually placed near her after she
had eaten sixteen of the eggs; this prevented the remaining four from molestation, and which
were ultimately hatched by her. — Michael Westcott, "Wells, December 5th., 1851.

A Hen turned Mouse killer. — Last week my attention was attracted towards a common bam
fowl, which was reaching up to a hole in a wall, and pecking at it very earnestly. When
I was within about ten yards of the Hen, a common Mouse jumped out of the hole, and ran
off at fall speed, and away went the Hen after him. The fugitive was soon nm down, and a
sharp pinch, inflicted by his two-legged pin-suer, made him squeak for mercy; then darting
between the Hen's legs, he ran across the road, and hid himself in a large tuft of grass under
the wall. The Hen's sense of smell not being sufficiently acute to direct her in the chase,
and not seeing exactly the spot ho entered, she lost him for a time; but never was there a
spaniel, pointer, or any other dog, more active to stai't the game of which it might be in
pui'suit, than was the Hen to discover the hiding-place of poor mous-e; she ran about close to
where he was, picking and scratching the grass with a determination not to be defeated. Having
at last espied the little lurker, she pulled him out, and actually held him in her bill, knocking
him sevei-al times against the ground, vmtil he was quite dead. She then let him drop, walked
round him two or three times, and then as if to be satisfied that he was dead, she inflicted
another blow which exposed his intestines, and walked away very leisurely. — Idem.

Egyptian Goose, (Anscr Egyptiaca.) — On December 22nd., 1851, I pxirchased of a poulterer
in the Plymouth market a fine specimen of the Egyptian Goose, which was shot in the
neighbourhood of Lauueeston, Cornwall, and sent to Plymouth with some other wild-fowl for
sale. There is not the slightest indication in the look of this bird to lead one to suppose that
it had ever been kept in confinement. Its bill, legs, and plumage are quite perfect: the
stomach contained nothing but sand. — John Gatcombe.

White Book. — In the month of October last, I frequently saw in the marshes near Tottenham,
two Rooks, one of which was entirely white, and the other piebald. They appeared to be on
good terms with their black brethren. — S. H. Carter, Bruce Grove House, Tottenham, Nov.,
1851.

Early appearance of Fieldfares, (Turdus pilaris.) — Fieldftn-es have made their appearance
unusually early tliis season, for I saw a flock near my residence on the 9th. of September last,
and on the 11th. of the same month, I again saw about twelve or thirteen. — Idem.

BuUfiiicli, (Pyri-hula vulgaris.) — I noticed, a few days since, a white male specimen, shot in
this neighbourhood, in the possession of a taxidermist of this town. The back was slightly
tinged with blue, and the breast with red. — S. Hannaford, Jux., Totnes, May Uth., 1851,

Pugnacity of the Missel Thrttsh, (Turdus viscivorus.) — I was witness some few weeks since
to an encounter between a pair of these birds, which have a nest in an orchard adjoining the
Priory at Totnes, and a Jackdaw that had pitched on the tree to procure materials for his

86 MISCELLANEOUS NOTICES.

nest, which he was huilding in the church tower. The moment he alighted, both male and
female rushed at him, and a regular battle ensued, which lasted for some minutes, when the
Jackdaw finding himself over-matched, bolted. I frequently see Magpies pursued by these birds
from tree to tree, and they generally compel them to leave the neighbourhood. — Idem.

u4.n Adder, (Pelius Berus,) with two heads. — 'A young Adder with two distinct heads was
found a few miles from hence on the 9th. of October last, and was exhibited in the neighbour-
hood for a month or two shut up in a miserable bottle. I had the pleasure of examining it on
the 27th., when it was quite lively, both pairs of eyes bright, and the tongues frequently and
rapidly protruded, either both at once or singly; one head sometimes looked upwards, whilst
the other was downwards, or they were moved in opposite directions horizontally. On turning
it out, and allowing it fair play on the table, I observed that the right head was often laid
over the left, when quiet, but in progression, they were side by side, and the right projected
a trifle forward. Its colour appeared dark brown, as seen by candle-light, with the usual
markings distinct ; length, six or seven inches. A similar specimen was killed here four or five
summers ago, with both heads and necks distinct, which I saw in a bottle of spirits a few hours
afterwards.— Clement Jackson, East Looe, December 20th., 1851.

Occurrence of the Black Fish, (Centrolophus pompilus,) at liedcar. — A specimen of this remark-
ably rare fish was found this day near First "Water East, Redcar. It measured thirteen inches
in length, and four inches and a half in depth. None of the fishermen remember having
seen one here before. According to Tarrell it is a small specimen; and only two others are
recorded as having occurred in England. — D. Ferguson, Redcar, March 13th., 1852.

The Crab, (Cancer Pagurus.) — Mr. Ferguson's notice of the Crab with three Oysters attached
to its carapace, vol. i. page 46, induces me to ofier a few explanatory remarks on this occur-
rence. That the Crab does change its shell admits of little doubt. We have the testimony of
many eminent naturalists who have witnessed tliis suigularity, together with the fact that
specimens, devoid of shelly covering, have occasionally found their way into the fishermen's
creels or pots. They are seldom brought to market in this state, but are cast overboard, being
considered watery and insipid. In some parts of America, soft crabs are esteemed a delicacy.
If we examine minutely the anatomical structure of this shelly covering, it will convince us
that a frequent change is necessary for the full development of the body. This takes place
several times in the course of a year in young specimens, the growth at this period proceeding
rapidly. On approaching maturity, it only takes place at long intervals, afibrding ample time
for the full development of any testaceous body which may be attached. Mr. Ferguson's Crab
must have been an adult specimen; the spat, or spawn of the Oyster would in the course of
twelve months become as large as a crown-piece; after which the dimensions increase more
slowly, while the shelly matter is increasing in thickness. Mr. Couch, in one of his interesting
communications to the "Magazine of Natural History," states he has found Oysters on the
Crab two inches and a half in diameter. Se\cral fine specimens with this singularity are
deposited in the British Museum. It is said the Crab is much attached to its native haunts.
Many have been marked and deposited at considerable distances, and after some time had
elapsed, were again captured in their old quarters. They occasionally attain a large size, as
we may see from the many examples deposited in local Museums. The largest I ever saw is
at Walton Hall, the seat of Charles Waterton, Esq. , the indefatigable and unrivalled taxidemiist,
dissected into sixty-six pieces, previous to mounting. Much has been written on the natural
history of the Crab, but we are still in the dark on many interesting points. It is to be hoped
our friends on the coast will fall into the views of "The Naturalist," and communicate such
infonnation as may occasionally reward their researches. Natural History appears to have
received a new impulse; the numei-ous advocates for its further extension are daily on the
increase; and wc may look for many interesting and important results; rewarding those who
are devoting their leisure hours to this delightful study, which cannot fail to exalt our ideas
above the ordinary level, and teach us to appreciate more fully the wonderful dispensations of
an all-wise Creator.

Nature, a mother, kind alike to all,

Still grants her bliss at labour's earnest call.

Jno: Dixon, 7, Copenhagen-Street, Leeds, November 3rd., 1851.

87

^^nrwMiigs nf lurittia

Natural History Society of Glasgow. — The ordinar}' meeting of this Society was held on the
6th. of January, when there was a full attendance of members.

Mu. lloGEH Hennedy read a very interesting paper, entitled, "Contributions to the Natural
History of Clydesdale, from the Flora and Fauna of Gourock." Mr. Hennedy, after detailing
the cu-cumstanccs which led him to draw up his paper, went on to say, — "To shew the necessity
of such lists as I have; drawn up here, however imperfectly, it will only be necessary to refer
to those already published, which will be found in every respect sadly deficient and incorrect.
On referring, for instance, to Turton's "Manual of Land and Fresh-Water Shells," second
edition, by J. E. Grey, we find that the wi-iter complains, and it must be admitted with good
reason, of the imperfect materials at his disposal for the preparation of good tables, relative to
the general distribution of the British species. "When such complaints are made by men of
science, more particularly by those engaged in describing the geographical distribution of plants
and animals, how can we admit the accuracy of their general conclusions, or have faith in the
soundness of deductions derived ft-om such insufficient data?"

In carrying out these remarks, and for the sake of example, Mr. Hennedy took notice of an
excellent paper by Mr. John Gray, read by Mr. J. P. Fraser before the Philosophical Society
last session, in which it was stated, that the error of representing Scotland as deficient in many
insects, which Scotch naturalists know to be quite common in this country, is habitually com-
mitted by English entomologists. He continued, by saying, "for a similar error in regard to
conchology, allow me again to refer to Gray's "Turton," wherein the writer enumerates, from
the published lists and notes of others, only thirty-one species of land and fresh-water shells as
inhabiting Scotland, whereas I believe it may be stated with certainty, that members of this
Society alone could furnish more than double this number. Similar deficiences will occur, I
have no doubt, to most of the gentlemen present, in regard to other departments of natural
science."

Mr, Hennedy stated that the division of the Algae formed the most complete, and that so far
as he knew there had hitherto been no lists published of those indigenous to this coast, except
a few species noticed in Hopkirk's "Flora Glottiana." He mentioned "that the more rare
filiform Algce are entirely absent from the list he had the pleasure to lay before the Society,
and that the deficiency might be accounted for by the proximity of the locality to the fresh
waters of the Clyde. The comparative proportion of plants found in this locality, when we
take them by the series as divided in Mr. W. H. Harvey's "Manual," will be found as follows:
— Of Melanospermeaj, about one-third; of llhodospcnnea), one-fifth; of Chlorospennea), one-third;
but in consequence of the Ehodospermete imncipally inhabiting deep water, there can be little
doubt that their numbers will yet be increased." He mentioned one which he had kept out
of his list, namely Lichinia pygmcea; it grows very plentifully on rocks by the sea-side,
forming a snug refuge for Kellia rubra., and several of the small mollusks.

After some very interesting remarks on the flowering plants, ferns, and mosses of the district,
Mr. Hennedy proceeded to take notice of the shells. Having made a few introductory observa-
tions, he went on to say, "from the absence, in this district, of rivers, or canals, we arc
deficient in the Alasmodon, Anodon, etc. ; on the other hand in Sylvan species we are tolerably
rich, among the Helices we have two very beautiful species in great abundance, namely H.
Aculeata and H. Camellnta. In the spring they are found upon the previous year's decaying
leaves, and are so minute, that it is necessary for their discovery to lift the leaves and turn
them over in the hand. By this means they are easily seen. The species of Succinea, called
Pfeifferi is very plentiful, and is always found on grass and stones in ditches and hollows.
Limnmus truncatulns is abundant, those found on the hills being very small and clean, are
often mistaken for a new specie3. In the heat of summer they disappear, burying themselves
in the mud. That little beauty, CarycJiium minimum, is also plentiful; it is found on
Marchantia in damp places, and this is probably what it feeds upon. Pupa umbilicata is
found amongst moss and heath on projecting rocks close by the sea-side, where the spray of
the sea must often fall on them. Along with them is the Clausilia nigrcscens^ which is fi'e-
quently found on the bare rocks within a yard of high water.

88 THE QUERIST.

"With regard to those shells which inliabit salt water, it will almost be supci-fluous to
mention them. I maj' notice, however, the following, lest by any means they lia\'e been
overlooked: — Velittina lavigata, Siffaret/is, or, as it is now called, Lamellaria tentaailata. This
is found in May beneath stones, where it probably comes at tliat season to deposit its ova.
Tatella tcstndinalls, or, as I understand it is now called, Acmwa tcssellata, Fissurella Xoachina,
Modlola dtscrepans is found nestling in tufts of Corallina officinalis, and M. discors may be
found in great abundance cast ashore, and inhabiting the tunic of a species of Ascidia, KcUla
rubra, and Scalaria communis. Xijlophaga dorsalis was found last year when Goiirock quay
was repairing. It inhabited the piles, and along with Limnoria terebrans had completely
destroyed the portion under water. Timber, thoroughly perforated with these pests, is often
cast ashore in the vicinity of Gourock. Pholas crispata occurs plentifully in clay at the Castle,
and in several places farther down. Aphjsia dcpilans is often found when the retreating tide
has left it in a rocky pool." Mr. Hcuuedy illustrated his lists, whicli were very full, with a
beautiful collection of elegantly-mounted AUjcb, laud and fresh-water shells, besides several
marine species.

Dr. L0RRA.IN, the Vice-President, read a paper on Nanina vitrinoide!^, and exhibited speci-
mens, His notes are as follows: — About three j'ears ago, our wortliy Chairman, Mr. Gourlie,
presented me with a living specimen of the Nanina vitriiioidcs, and the notes were made from
observation, during the time I had it confined in a glass shade. ^ITion in my possession it
added nearly half a volution to the shell. I fed it entirely on lettuce leaves and cabbage.
The shell resembles in every respect the European genus Zonites, but the animal is very different.
Wlien stretched in crawling, it is very long and slender. Tlie posterior extremity terminates
very unlike any of the Helices; it is split horizontally, with a part turned up like a tail, and
at the root of this horn-like tail is a small hole. On each side of the mouth of the shell, the
mantle is elongated in two pointed lobes; these are in constant motion, contracting and
expanding, in close contact with the surface of the shell, and often covering the umbilicus, but
always more or less grasping the side of the umbilical cavity. The Nanina seems to lick or
clean its shell like a cat dressing her fur. The animal is ash-coloured, the mantle yellowish,
becoming darker as it extends into the elongated lobes; the foot is gray, with an edging of a
lighter colour. My Nanina was very lively in the evenings, but was usually qui'jt during the
day, except when it was damped, or had water poured over it. It seemed to have some
difficulty in drawing itself entirely into the shell.

The Nanina was discovered by Mr. Benson.

€\}t (fltiFrist.

On killing Insects for the Cabinet. — I am reminded by a notice in "The Naturalist," for
January, of some facts I have for some time intended communicating to you, relative to
kilUng insects for specimens. I had previously been in the habit of employing either bruised
laurel leaves, or hot water; but on one occasion last summer, when I could not conveniently
procure either of these, I thought of employing the' vapour of chloroform. I accordingly put
about three drops into an eight ounce bottle, in which were three largo Lepidoptera, which it killed
in about fifteen seconds, or perhaps less. I have, since that time, almost constantly used it
for insects of all kinds, with perfect success. Its effects are nearly instantaneous, and it does
not in the least interfere with their setting up, or their preservation. For the future I never
intend going out "insect hunting," without a small quantity, which I may put drop by drop
into my store bottle. It is especially useful for Lepidoptera, as it acts upon them so speedily
that they are completely prevented from fluttering about, and so injuring their wings; its
action on Jlymenoptcra and Coleoptera is no less remarkable, and in the case of the latter
especially, will completely prevent the more tedious "hot water" process. — JF. H. B., February
Srd., 1852.

Water-Lilies, Nymphma alba .and Nuplmr lutea occur in various places near Aberdeen. They
arc abundant near the Corbie Loch, about four miles north of Aberdeen; and they are also
found in the Loch of Drum, about tliirteeu miles west of Aberdeen.—/. W.

89

THE RUFFED, OR MCQUEEN'S BUSTARD,
{OTIS MC QUEENII.)

We have been induced to give a coloured plate of this very interesting
addition to the list of British birds, from there being, as far as we are aware,
no figure of it except in Gould's expensive work, which is not accessible to
many of our readers. The plate is taken from an admirable drawing made
from the bird itself by Miss Barker, a young lady who kindly painted the
bird for Mr. Graham, of York, to whom we are indebted for the loan of
the picture.

The bird was shot at Kirton Lindsey, in Lincolnshire, on the 7th. of
October, 1 847, by Mr. G. Hansley, who parted with it to Mr. Alfred Roberts,
of Brigg, from whom it was purchased by E. T. Higgins, Esq., of York.
The bird is now in the Rudston collection of British Birds, in the Museum
of the Yorkshire Philosophical Society.

Description : — The bill is dark lead-colour, compressed at the tip, depressed
at the base; irides, yellow; the head and throat, rufous, mottled with black,
with long loose feathers of a slate-colour, hanging over the breast. Chin,
white; back of the neck, white, minutely mottled with brown; the sides of
the neck are ornamented with a range of feathers two inches long, about
two-thirds of the upper portion black, the lower part white. The back and
wing coverts, rufous, mottled with black, with zigzag bars of black across;
the quill feathers black, extending to the end of the tail when closed; under
parts, white; legs, lead-colour. Length, twenty-three inches; expanse of wings,
three feet eight inches; weight thirty-six ounces.

Although this is the only specimen of this Bustard which is known to
have occurred in this country, yet its having evidently come as a voluntary
visitor to our shores, gives it a decided claim to a place in the British
list. The coloured figure which we now give, will enable any one readily
to recognise the bird, should it ever come under his notice. Let us hope
that if such an occurrence should take place, "The Naturalist" may be the

medium of making the interesting fact known to the scientific world.

B. R. M.

NOTES ON THE ROOK, (COBVUS FRUGILJEGUS.)

BY J. Mc'iNTOSH, ESQ.

Thf, benefits that man derives from the labour of this bird, by destroying
his insect enemies, particularly the cockchaffer, {MeJoIoviha vulgaris,) and
the wire-worm, {Elater obscurus,) are immense; yet, however strange it may
appear, it is too true that there is not, with the exception of the House
Sparrow, (Passer domesticus,) any other bird in the whole list of British
Ornithology that he perseveres more determinedly in destroying. In the
olden time, there is no question that public opinion was entirely against them,

VOL. II. N

90 KOTES ON THE ROOK.

and that their destruction was regular and systematic, which may be fairly
drawn from the following entry, among certain others, concerning the parish
of Alderley, in Cheshire, in lo98, the fourteenth year of good Queen Bess's
reign: — ''We find there is no Crow-nest in the parish o payne, that one be
bought by the charge of the parish." It is true that we are authorized and
justified in diminishing such creatures as are found to be injurious to our
property, yet under this head we are daily committing so many serious mistakes
from want of a proper knowledge of their habits, that ere long some of the
most useful and interesting inhabitants of our woods and fields will be
extirpated. It is true that the Rook eats grain, walnuts, and potatoes, but
they are neccessaries of life to which he never resorts except when his supply
of animal food is shortened. After the grain has germinated, he has nothing
more to do with it, except in scratching it up in search of insects, which
are hidden from the human eye; yet while engaged in this very important
operation, the husbandman, in nine cases out of ten, drives him away, or
deals death and destruction around him.

Many of us are well satisfied of the usefulness of these interesting and
useful co-labourers, whilst others are not aware of their value; for the benefit
of such, I shall endeavour in these notes to give some interesting remarks;
and the husbandman who values an abundant harvest will, I hope, extend
his protection to these feathered artizans, which they so richly merit. To
those who may be inclined to doubt these remarks, let them compare the
orchards, fields, and gardens where the destruction of birds is to any extent
tolerated, with those where they are unmolested, and they will find that in
the absence of their persecuted friends, their fruits and grain are in the
jaws of a far more deadly enemy, which they can neither shoot nor trap.
Kalin has remarked that, after a great destruction amongst birds in the Northern
States of Ameinca, for the paltry reward of three pence per dozen, in the
year 1749, they experienced a complete loss in their grain and grass cix>ps;
and the celebrated Wilson justly remarks in respect to the Blackbird, (Turdus
^nerula,) that the good should be balanced against the damage they have
done; the service they render the husbandman in spring is immense, by
destroying millions of insects and their larvae, which they devour as their
natural food.

But to our subject, the Rook. Natural instinct seems to direct the Rook
to this species of food, namely insects, while man is unconscious of the circum-
stance: thus we often see flocks of these birds busily engaged in our parks,
meadows, and other grass lands, picking up food, which, upon inspection, is
not visible on the surface. From many and attentive observations, I assert,
and that without fear of contradiction by those acquainted with their habits,
that their employment in such cases is in perforating the surface with
their bills, which are well adapted for the purpose, in search of the larvae
of those insects which are at the same time busily engaged in devouring
the roots of the herbage. By some husbandmen, however^ they are regularly

NOTES ot; thr nooK. ^

permitted to accompany the ploughman, and collect the various insects which
the operations of ploughing and harrowing bring to the surface, and of which
they devour more than of the grain which is scattered around them: this is
easily ascertained, and that by dissection. I do not mean to assert that their
crops will be found void of grain; on the contrary; but what grain therein
may be found would not be the tenth of what would have been consumed
by the insects which the Rook devours in their several stages.

As soon as the operation of seed-time is over, and no insects are to be
found in the arable districts, the Rooks migrate, taking with them their
young, spending most of the summer months on heaths, moors, and high
down lands, where they are scantily supplied with the fruit of Vaccinium
myrtillus, V. Vitis-idcm, and some few others, as well as with several species
of Helix and Limax, and various insects. Towards the end of harvest they
return to us, visiting again our stubble, potato, and turnip-fields, at which time
they attack the insect world in their imago or perfect state, before they
have had time to deposit their eggs; the larvae are also diligently searched
for; yet for all this close attention and valuable assistance to the husbandman,
they are gi'eatly persecuted; to such I would say, bear the following beautiful
lines in mind: —

"Take not away the life yoix cannot give,
For all tilings have an equal right to Uve."

Dkyden.

..Vgain, the sole employment of the Rook in the spring months is in search
of insect food, and a small gi-ay slug which in some seasons is found abundantly
on the young blades of grass and autumnal-sown grain, as wheat and rye;
and the havoc that a flock makes at this season of the year is of the
utmost benefit to mankind, for each insect destroyed is the means of ridding
our crops of thousands. An American journal says that every Rook requires
at least one pound of food per week, and nine- tenths of their food consists
of worms and insects. One hundred Rooks then, in one season, destroy four
thousand seven hundred and eighty pounds of worms, insects, and their larvas.
In a number of the ^^Sussex Express" for 1844, the following fiict in favour
of the Rook is stated: — "On Thursday last, a great number of old Rooks
were destroyed on the estate of William Oliver, Esq., when one old bird
was killed having in its crop nineteen grub-worms and seventeen wire-worms."
A correspondent of the ^^Agricultural Gazette" for 1846, says, "If Rooks
are as mischievous as your correspondent asserts, how is it at harvest-time
we have anything left in the neighbourhood? Whilst I write, hundreds of
Rooks are being constantly fed by the old ones almost within gun-shot of
the table at which I sit. What are these young ones fed with? I have
no ripe corn, no potatoes; what are they fed with? They are fed with
countless thousands of grubs, picked out of the earth by these invaluable birds."

Another correspondent of the same journal for 1844, says, ^'In the neigh-
bourhood of my native plaee is a rookery, in which it is estimated that

92 NOTES ON THE ROOK.

there are ten thousand Rooks, that one pound of food per week is a very
moderate allowance for each bird, and that nine-tenths of their food consists
of worms and insects. Here then, if my data be correct, there is the enormous
quantity of four hundred and sixty-eight thousand pounds, or two hundred
and nine tons of worms, insects, and their larva3 destroyed by one single
Rookery." From this valuable extract, some idea may be formed of the
utility of the Rook to mankind. The same writer says, "I will mention
another proof of the utility of the Rook. A flight of locuds visited Craven,
and they were so numerous as to create considerable alarm among the farmers
of the district. They were soon, however, relieved from their anxiety, for
the lioolcs flocked in from all quarters by thousands and tens of thousands,
and devoured them so greedily, that they were all destroyed in a very short
time." Amongst our notes we find a newspaper scrap bearing the date of
1841, in which it is stated that the vegetation on the mountain of Skiddaw
was nearly all devoured by an enormous quantity of caterpillars, and that
the farmers of the neighbourhood became alarmed for the safety of their
corn crops, etc., but the Rooks found them out, and in a short time
put an end to their fears. Bradley relates an instance of the inhabitants of
a certain village destroying all the birds around them, by setting a price
upon their heads. The consequence the following year was, that the whole
of their crops were attacked by insects, and that they were glad to offer a
greater reward for their (the birds') protection j and we are told that a whole
district in Germany was nearly deprived of its corn harvest by having destroyed
their Books. When frosts and snows prevent their getting into the open
fields for snails, slugs, and insects, they have recourse to our highways for
their scanty meal, which has thus been described by the poet Cowper: —

"The very rooks and daws forsake the fields,
Where neither grub, nor root, nor earth-nut, now
Repays then- labour more; and, perclicd aloft
By the wayside, or stalking in the path,
Lean pensioners upon the traveller's track,
Pick up their nauseous dole, tho' sweet to them,
Of voided pulse or half-digested grain."

We learn from a French journal for 1845, that the Prefect of the Lower
tSeine gave eficct to the French law enabling magistrates to prohibit the
destruction of Grows, Books, and other small birds. It is to be hoped that
we English will take a leaf out of the Frenchman's book. What a pity it
is that this French law cannot assume the shape of Paris gloves or Lyons
silk, for in that case it would soon be followed ! Yet we find that durino-
the never-to-be-forgotten French Revolution, the country people, among other
causes of dissatisfaction with their superiors, alleged their being fond of having
Rookeries near their houses. A mob of these misguided and ignorant people
proceeded to the residence of the principal gentleman in their neighbourhood,
dragged him from his house, and hung his body upon a gibbet, and then

OBSERVATIONS ON THK NORTHERN DIVER.

93

attacked the Rookery, shooting the Rooks amid loud acclamations!

Ignorant prejudices often take deep root, and are handed down from ancient
to modern times. It therefore becomes the duty of the naturalist of the
nineteenth century to point out these prejudices in their true colours; and I
am sure that there is no right-thinking individual but who must be satisfied
of the great services rendered to his fellow-creatures at least ten months
out of the twelve, by the united and valuable aid of birds. That the services
of the Rook alone have of late years attracted considerable attention in England,
on the part of those who h^ve in some measure been their greatest enemies,
is apparent from the numerous enquiries which we almost weekly read of
in the various periodicals of the day, wishing to know how they can induce
the Rooks to return to the Rookery, from which they had been banished
some ten years before. This fact itself is a most convincing proof of the
vitility of the Rook.

(To be continued.)

OBSERVATIONS ON THE

AUTUMNAL AND VERNAL MOULTINGS OF THE

COLYMBUS GLACIALIS, {NORTHERN £>IVJER.)

BY MR. CLEMENT JACKSON.

Two top figures— Winter plumage. Three lower— Summer plumage.

Whilst recently reading Selby's "Description of the Divers," I was forcibly
struck with the omission of any reference to the changes of plumage to which
in common with their neighbours, they are regularly subject after attaining
maturity; changes so complete as to destroy their identity, except to those
well acquainted with them. He says, "0. Glacialis is a common winter
visitant in its stages of immaturity on our northern coast, but adults rare, as
out of twenty specimens examined only two were mature;" but the months

^ OnSEUVATIONS ON THE NORTHERN DIVKR.

when obtained are not mentioned, and as his expression '''when past the third
year the plumage is perfected" may without further explanation tend to
mislead, I thought a few observations, from a rough note book, might be
acceptable to such readers of "The Naturalist" as have not an opportunity
of examining for themselves the changes and habits of this beautiful species.

C. Glacialis is a regular visitant with us, arriving in October, and remaining
through the winter until May, and sometimes June, when the adults have
reproduced their splendid summer coat; but I regret to say since the intro-
duction of percussion guns amongst the young fishermen they are becoming
gradually scarcer, and as their reproduction is limited, will eventually become
a matter of history.

On referring to Montagu's "Supplement," he describes a female commencing
change in January; and I have met with it equally early, but shall confine
myself to notes entered at the time of their occurrence,, which are strictly
cox'rect, beginning with the autumnal change from the brilliant summer livery
to the very plain garb of winter, when the young birds are, I believe, only
distinguishable by the lighter gray edgings of the upper feathers, and perhaps
inferiority of size, though it is very probable C. Arcticus may ' be confounded
with it, at that period the plumage being described as similar; and doubtless
the three species midergo like changes. I have never met with 0. Arcticus
to idendify it, but have for many years suspected the smaller Loons to be
that species in its winter dress.

October 14th., 1836. — A female Northern Diver was shot and preserved,
which had just commenced change; some white feathers on the cheeks, chin
and throat having displaced the dark ones, and a few gray scapulars made
their appearance; the rest of the plumage as in summer. It only weighed
five pounds and a half, being very starved and thin.

December 13th. — A specimen was shot which had the head and neck clean
moulted of the plain winter garb; the back and scapulars still retained many
of the summer feathers.

December IGth. — Another examined with a good glass still retained some
of its summer livery.

November 27th., 1837. — Two Northern Divers were caught in a Salmon-
net, both in perfect winter livery, probably a young pair, as the upper plumage
was Avell edged with gray, and one was much larger than the other.

On paying their ransom, and releasing them from -the grasp of the fisherman,
who was uncerenxoniously dragging them along by their necks, they were set
down on the beach at a considerable distance from the water, to which they
made their way pretty rapidly by springing along on their half-opened wings
and legs, somewhat like the elegant hop of a toad, but the larger one was
more inclined to fight than fly, and vigorously pursued a hat purposely held
to it down the beach. On reaching the water, they immediately dived, and
rising at a safe distance from the beach, commenced arranging their ruffled
plumage.

OBSKRVATIONS ON THE NORTHERN DIVER. 95"

l^oveml^er 23rd., 1838. — Female Diver shot to-day in complete winter
livery; edging of upper feathers, light gray.

November 4th., 1851. — An adult specimen shot to-day was deep in moult,
and had most of the dark head and neck feathers displaced and replacing,
giving those parts a very ragged appearance, but still retained great part
of summer scapulars; back and wing coverts interspersed with many new dark
gray feathers, edged a shade lighter, of the plain winter coat; it was starved
and thin. Sex not noticed, but supposed a male from its size.

A pair were seen here on the 8th., and on examination with a good glass
on the 17th,, I could distinctly see they were both deep in moult, still
retaining much of the summer back and scapulars. Observed a pair again
with the glass on the 4th. of December, probably th6 same, and they
appeared clean moulted; the throat and front of the neck very white, and the
upper parts plain.

Vernal Change.

May 5th., 1837. — Observed a pair of Divers in summer livery.

June 8th. — Divers still here of course in all their brilliancy of summer
plumage.

March 6th., 1838. — A male, weighing eleven pounds, was shot just com-
mencing change; a few dark feathers only shewing on the nape, but new
feathers appearing all over under the winter coat; three or four shore crabs,
denuded of legs, were in the gullet and stomach.

April 15th. — Observed a pair apparently in complete summer livery.

May 15th., 1839. — Observed a Diver in complete summer livery.

June 4th. — Observed a Diver in complete summer livery.

February 2nd., 1840. — Observed Divers in pairs — plain winter livery.

May 4th. — Observed Divers in complete summer livery.

February 12th., 1841. — A. large male Diver was shot to-day in plain
winter livery.

April 28th. — Shot a male Diver, weighing twelve pounds, after a very
smart chase with three boats, each firing as they came up. The summer
livery was nearly complete, but markings very irregular from unequal gi'owth
of the feathers. When picked up it was endeavouring to disgorge a flat fish
of which these birds devour great numbers, and of considerable size, pecking
them for a long time on the surface of the water till of a fit consistence for
swallowing, which seems then to be accomplished without difiiculty.

Their usual fishing-ground here is over the sand, and about the mouth
of the river, where they catch numbers of fiat fish, etc., and shore crabs, the
daws of which appear to be carefully picked off" previous to swallowing.

During the period of both Vernal and Autumnal moult, these birds appear,
when not fishing, to be constantly occupied in preening and arranging their
plumage, frequently swimming round on their side, with one leg raised high
out of the water to put the nether garments in order, and every now and

%' ON THE CERE AND LEGS OF BIRDS.

then raising themselves upright, and having a vigorous flutter; but the adults
are very wary and discriminating, for, although they will often allow a
boat-load of seaweed, or a man fishing, to pass very near them, the moment
a gun is raised they dive and take good care to keep out of reach. A pair
in beautiful summer livery remained here throughout May, but were too wary
to be procured.

On the 6th. of June, 1837, I went in chase of a large Diver, which was
leisurely swimming about amongst a lot of fishing-boats close in shore, and
just as I came up one of them thinking it a wounded bird, was sculling with
all his might, and a boy leaning over the bow trying to catch it, whilst
the bird merely swam the faster till the boat was just upon it, then dived;
and although so fearless of the fishermen would not let us approach within
shot, making long dives, and flapping the wings on rising. At length flapping
heavily along the surface for some distance, it rose high in the air, and con-
tinued flying very swiftly and vigorously for miles, appearing light and active
as a Wild Duck on wing. After flying around some time, and alighting
from whence it rose, dived a few times, got a star-fish or crab for supper,
and whilst dissecting it took good care to keep out of reach.

Although both this species and the Red-throated Diver depend chiefly on
their legs during winter, almost invariably diving to escape pursuit, they fly
frequently and vigorously toward spring, particularly the latter, which makes
off" as freely as a Wild Duck.

The above instances, amongst many others which have occurred unrecorded,
place the double moult of this species beyond a doubt, and I think satis-
factorily account for the non-appearance of the adult summer plumage till
May or June, when they migrate to their breeding stations.

Uad Looe, Cornioall, January, 1852.

ON THE CERE AND LEGS OF BIRDS.

BY THE REV. GEORGE SOWDEN.

In examining the beautiful engravings in the "History of British Birds,"
by the Rev. F. O. Morris, I have been struck by what appeared to me a
somewhat remarkable fact, namely, that with one exception, the Cere and
Legs of the VuUuridce and Falconidce are of the same colour. For instance,
in the Griflfon Vulture the Cere is bluish black, so are the Legs; in the
Osprey and in the Swallow-tailed Kite, both Cere and Legs are blue. In
the Erne, Golden and Spotted Eagles, the Harriers, and others, both these
parts are yellow; in the Orange-legged Hobby, they are deep orange. The
two figures of the Egyptian Vulture exemplify what I state remarkably; in
the older bird both Cere and Legs are light yellow, while the younger one
has them of a kind of dark bufl!". But while the Cere thus generally corres-
ponds with the Legs, this is far from being the case with the lower part

SEA-NETTT,ES. 97

of tlie bill. In the Egyptian Vulture, Spotted Eagle, etc., the Legs are
yellow, the bill black; in the Golden Eagle the Legs are yellow, the bill
horn colour; in the Jer-Falcon and Peregrine-Falcon, the legs are yellow and
the bill blue. But the rule which I am noticing is orthodox in having its
exception to confinu it; for in the Honey Buzzard, the Legs are yellow, and
the Cere is blue.

I am so far interested in the matter that T should like to know, from those
whoso knowledge extends beyond British Ornithology, whether this really be
a solitary exception, and whether my rule be imaginary or not. I confess
it seems to me so far borne out, that I wonder it has not been noticed by
Natural Historians, and I am not aware that it ever lias beey. An eminent
ornithologist, to whom T have communicated these remarks, acknowledges that
they are new to him, and it is by his recommendation that I now lay them
before the consideration of the readers of "The Naturalist."

The ornithologist to whom T refer suggests as an explanation (he probabil-
ity that all the bare parts of the flesh would be of the same colour; but
this is at least strikingly at variance with the more mature Elgyptian Vulture,
which has a bare skin of deep flesh-colour on the head^ while the Legs are
light yellow.

Stainlnnd, Halifax, January 20th., 18;")2.

SEA-NETTLES.

BY O, 8. ROUND, ESQ.
( Continued from pa ffe In.)

These creatures occupy the fourth class of z\crite animals, according to
the new and somewhat improved system, which has been applied by Professor
Owen and other naturalists. They exhibit no distinct nervous system, but it
is supposed that a neurine or nervous matter is diffused in a molecular con-
dition throughout the body. The place of muscular fibre is supplied by
contractile molecules. The alimentary apparatus presents nothing but cavities,
and most of them appear to be but a repetition of similar parts, each capable
of forming a perfect creature. At first sight what do we see, (I now
speak of a larger specimen,) a mass of jelly-like substance; which, when
taken from its native element, and allowed to dry, becomes at last a mass
of mere filaments of transparent cellular matter, where grains represent pounds,
and lines perhaps inches! The Acaleph^ have been divided by naturalists
into five groups: the Pulmoniyrada, from the motion which their powers of
expansion and contraction exhibits, and which bears some resemblance to
expiration and inspiration; the Ciliograda, from the motion of certain cilia —
or hair-like substances which cover the surface of the body; the Phjsograda,
where the motion is regulated by one or more bladders; the Cirrhigrada,
which boasts something like a skeleton, and resembles partially the Pulmonigrada;

\'0L. TI. o

98

SRA-XKITFiKS.

and the Diphyida, which consist of two parts most delicately joined, and
whose motion is produced by the contraction and expansion of the halves
which are constantly ejecting and imbibing circumambient fiuid. The
Puhnonigrada possess in common a gelatinous disc, which, however, upon a
section being made, shews the variety of texture, nor is there any fibre appa-
rent by which any motion in itself could be given to it. This disc has the
shape of a mushroom, or a belt, which floats with its concaA^e part down-
wards, and contains within it the body of the Pidmonigrade, which is very
similar in its structure to the root of a plant, and from which numerous
tentalula emanate, not unlike the leaves of the common Kale, with small
plain leaflets pendant at the extremities.

In the Bhizostoma there is a double row of these leaves by which the food
is collected and absorbed. The Ciliograda are of different forms; some being
circular like a sphere, and others mere ribbon-like substances; but in all the
ciliated bands are the means of locomotion; and it would appear that the
animal has the most perfect control over their movements, as much as we
have over a finger, or perhaps more; for the discontinuance, or sudden action
of any of these cilia, as occasion may require, either promote or retard the
action in the water, which may be regarded as more allied to vibration than
actual motion, being very quick, and to our vision scarcely recognisable.

In some species these bands lie on the surface; in others they are between
folds of membrane, which, at times, perfectly and entirely conceal them, and
this is probably for their protection whilst the creature is inactive.

The agent employed in the motion of these numerous paddles is still a
mystery, although it has been supposed that a fluid is secreted beneath them,
which inflates their tubular substance, and causes them to project; but this is
all that is at present known, although some species are of considerable size.
The most familiar example of the flat-shaped creature, which I have before
referred to, is the Cestum Veneris. In this species the cilia are placed upon
the edge only like a fringe, in a double row, of the most lovely hues imag-
inable in the sun-light, but which, when dai-kness veils the surface of the sea,
appear highly phosphoric, and emit a most brilliant flashy light. Some of
these animals are many feet in length, and under the cilia, for the whole
length of the medusa a canal is observed to pass, which is supposed to
secrete a fluid for the purpose of erecting the cilia, as in the case of the
other Cdiograda.

The next division of the Acale.phce is the Physo^rada, an animal composed
of a bladder-like substance, if that word can be so applied. The familiar
instance of these animals, as I have before observed, is that beautiful creature,
the Portuguese Man-of-War, which is so often mentioned by voyagers to the
East. The shape of the bladder-like body of the medusa is elliptical, with
a small additional pear-shaped smaller protuberance at one end, bearing to
the body somewhat the relation of a head, at what may be termed the
neck of this additional bladder, or where it is contracted; as well as at the

SEA-NETTLKS. 99

other extremity of the main bladder there is an orifice, through which the
animal has the power of contracting the bladders to force out the air within;
and thus by repressing the buoyant power, at once" sink beneath the waves.
That it has likewise the means, by some internal economy of generating fresh
air, to renew the supply when it desires to take a .sail, is equally certain;
and although the apparatus by which this is effected is not understood, it is
not difficult to conceive the existence of chemical agents by which it might
easily be effected.

As these animals are mostly seen floating on a calm sea in the bright
sunshine, it is not impossible that the supply of air being just sufficient to
cause it to rise to the surface; the air contained within the bladder may
become rarified, and hence more buoyant, needing therefore less real waste
than under any other circumstances. All that we see is the delicate body
and the bright purple velamina, but depending from this are the same organs,
which are found in various forms in all the medusae, in the shape of tenta-
cula and root-like substances, constituting in fact the animal itself; and
busily employed probably in feeding, while it appears merely to be basking
in the bright rays.

Another very beautiful specimen of this order is the Ghelyosoraa, which is
composed of a disc, more or less transparent, regularly traversed by tubular
substances, which branch out as they approach the circumference, and take
something of the shape of the Shepherd's purse corallines, and around the
circumference is a connected string of small bladders of equal size, which
when distended, appear like a pearly diadem lying on the bosom of the
green ocean. From these, numerous filaments descend of a considerable
length, and by these, subsistence for the medusa is obtained. These are the
types of an order only, and as such are usually adverted to, and it would be
manifestly impossible in a paper on the different tribes of Marine Animals to
enter moi-e into detail.

Two genera of AcaJephoe now only remain to be described, but none of
those already adverted to are more worthy the attention of the naturalist.
The first of these, the Girrhigrada, bear a close apparent resemblance to -the
Pahnonigrada, being supported in the water by a circular concave disc, but
in this disc we recognise a semicartilagenous structure, which approaches to
the formation of a shell; and is composed of lamina, obliquely placed against
each other in rows, extending in straight lines from the centre to the cir-
cumference like radii, and these are full of hollow cells. From this shield,
as it were, cirrous, or tufted tentacula depend, and some species have an
elevated ridge on the upper circumference of the disc, from which a thin
membrane is produced, which, catching the air, wafts the little creature on
its voyage of pleasure.

Next and last, we have the Diphyida, which have long puzzled the
learned, as it is wholly uncertain whether they arc composed of two separate
individuals adhering together, or of one so delicately joined as to raise the

100 LIST OF KERNS.

first presumption; the prevailing opinion is, and I think it is the just one,
that each pair, in fact, compose one animal. Unlike the other medusoe, the
Diphyida swims, or lies laterally on the water, and is composed of two
bells, lying side by side, with a kind of stalk from their closed extremities,
•which are joined at a short distance from the bells, which have very much
the shape of a Campanula; its powers of locomotion are the same as the
Pulinonigrada and Cirrhujrada; and from the orifice or mouth filaments, in
the same manner, though in less number, protrude.

Before concluding my paper upon this interesting class of Marine Animals,
I must advert to a few facts which are transmitted to us from Ehrenberg and
other eminent professors, concerning their general habits, construction, and
increase. We have seen that they are all inhabitants of the ocean, and
sport at will within its volume, or upon its waves; some by sail-like
appendages, but most by the mere powers of contraction and expansion,
which either expels air or acts upon cilia; and thus a swimming or progressive
motion is produced. Their subsistence is obtained by means of tentacula, cilia,
or the exuding of some fluid, supposed to act, in an electrical manner, and
taken in by pores, through foliated processes, into one common cavity, where
the prey, be it fish, or animals of any species, is, after a fashion, digested.
They exhibit no trace of nervous system; those filaments, supposed to be the
rudiments of a neuralgic system being of far too uncertain a formation
to warrant an assertion to the contrary. Of their production little or
nothing is known, although from what has been observed, it is presumed that
the young are produced in an almost perfect condition, a most remarkable
fact, if correct, connected with such a lost, though beautiful order of beings.

Lincohis-Tan- Fields, Fehruaiijy 18o2.

LIST OP THE FERNS FOUND
IN THE NEIGHBOURHOOD OF T0RRY13URN, FIFESHIRE.

1!Y J. 1>.

1. — IHerls aqaUiaa: here, as everywhere else, very common.

2. — Lomaria spicaid: abundant in Valleyfield, Wordsmoor, near Grange.

3. — Scolopendrium vuhjarc: rare. Valleyfield, near the Mansion House.

4. — Asplenium alternifolium: I insert this Fern in my list because, although
now nearly, if not altogether, extinct in the place where it was found —
Craigloscar Hill, among damp rocks, by Dr. Dewar — a few years ago, still I
think it may be included, though with the foregoing qualification. Only found
in four or five stations in Scotland.

5. — Asplenium adiantum-nigrwn: rare. Very fine on Culross church;
but this generally common Fern is not at all common in this neighbourhood,
although a few specimens occur here and there, but never in any quantity.

\ MODKltN GEOLOGICAL CHANGES. 101

6. — Asplenium Ruta inuraria: not very common^ Lut occurring on walls
at Torrj and Culross church.

7. — Asplenium Tricho manes: common,

8. — Athyrium filix-foemina: common in clamp shady woods^ as at Valley-
field.

9. — Polystichum lohatum: abundant in shady woods in all parts of the
district.

10. — Lastrea spinulosa: common in similar situations to the last.

11. — Ladrea Jilix-mas: very abundant.

12. — Cystopterin frcKjilis: rare, but growing in great perfection on Culross
church, along with Asplenium adiuntum-niyrum and Asplenium Huta-murana.

13. — Poll/podium valgare: plentiful in several places in the vicinity;
Valleyfield, Culross. Very fine in the Ladies' Walk, Culross Abbey, and
on a bank at the Abbey Park there.

14. — Poh/podium Dryopteris: discovered by Mr. Kirk, growing in the avenue
leading to Valleyfield House, in considerable abundance, along with BlecJinum
boieale, {Lnmaria spicant of authors,) and Lastrea Jilix-mas^ Athyrium jUix-
fcemina, and Polypodiwn vulgare.

15. — Osmunda reyalis: this x'are Fern in the east of Scotland, though found
plentifully on the banks of the Clyde in the west, grows in considerable
abundance in a small field on the sea-shore, between Culross and Kincardine,
near Blair; but I have never succeeded in finding it in fruit.

16. — Ophioglossum vuhjatum: this beautiful plant exists plentifully in a
small wood above Tainianu, Torry, and also in another damp shady plantation
on th3 same ^tate; in both places in considerable abundance,

Edinburykj JSfoveinber 11 //j., 18C1.

ON SOME OF THE

MODERN GEOLOGICAL CHANGES EXHIBITED IN THE

NEIGHBOURHOOD OF GLASGOW.

BY W. FERGUSON, ESQ.
( Continued from page 78.^

In addition to the proofs of an ancient higher sea-level arising from the appear-
ance of these terraces, which of itself would lead us to the supposition that
they had been formed by the action of waves, we have the authentic records
of the discovery of shells in the clays and sands, of which many of them are
composed. Thus at various points in the parishes of Paisley and Renfrew,
have shells been found, especially at Oakshaw and Bellahouston. They have
been found in some of the brick-fields at Annfield, by Mr. John Craig, and
by the same person in various other places, at forty, eighty, one hundred,
and three hundred and sixty feet above the sea-level. Shells were discovered

102 MODERN GEOLOGICAL CHANGES. '

in cutting the canal to Paisley, at a distance of about four miles from Glasgow;
twenty-two species were obtained, and a notice of them by Captain Laskey
appears in an early volume of the "Wernerian Transactions." A series of
shells are in the Andersonian Museum here, procured from Dalmuir, and a
notice of their discovery, by Mr. Thomas Thomson, was inserted in the first
volume of ^^Thomson's General Records of Science." Similar deposits are also
described as occurring on the shores of Loch Lomond, and more recently at
Airdrie.

There is collateral proof of the former existence of the sea, or at least
of a branch of it, at the spot now occupied by Glasgow, in the records of
the discovery of several canoes, embedded in sand, at various places on our
river.

The first of these was dug out of the foundations of the original church
of St. Enoch's, in 1780. It was lying flat, and filled with sand and shells.
In the bottom there was sticking a celt or hatchet, used by the aboriginal
inhabitants. This is of bloodstone, and is figured in '' Wilson's Pre-historic
Annals." The boat was seen by the late John Wilsone, Esq., who secured
possession of the celt, and it is now the property of his relative, Charles
Wilsone Browne, Esq. It is in good preservation.

The second was found about 1781, when digging the foundation of the
Tontine Buildings. It is alluded to by Chapman, in his '^Picture of Ghisgow,"
published in 1818, third edition, page 152. He describes it as "embedded
in sand and gravel, several feet below the surface."

The third was found in 182o, when opening Ijondon-Street. The position
of this boat was vertical, the prow being uppermost, as if it had sank stern
foremost. It was also filled with sand and shells. Pieces of it were broken
ofl\, but there was no cfibrt made to disinter the boat, and it was carelessly
permitted to be covered up again.

A fourth was found in Stockwell-Street, a little above Jackson- Street,
while cutting the common sewer, in 1825. Not much is known about this
boat.

A fifth has been found within the last two months: it is preserved in the
Stirling Library, Glasgow.

No less than four were found in 1847-48, within a few yards of each
other, in the course of the operations for widening and deepening the river,
at Springfield. They were found about one hundred feet from the margin
of the Clyde, and rested on a bed of gravel fifteen inches thick, covering a
bed of finely laminated sand. Over it was a bed of loam nine or ten feet
thick, surmounted by sand. The entire depth of the situation of the canoes
below the surface was seventeen feet, being just about the level of low water
in the river. One of these canoes had a plug of cork, which is now in the
possession of John Buchanan, Esq., Glasgow.

I may in conclusion, ofler a few conjectural remarks on the period of
the changes indicated by these various facts, as well as on the appearance

MODEUN riF.OT.0OK;AL CHANGES. 103

our locality may have presented when such beaches as that of Sauchie-hall-
Street formed the bound of silver sand that forbade the farther progress of
the waves which in those remote ages rolled over the spot now the dwelling-
place of our city's busy population.

First of all, I must clearly distinguish between the period when these
raised beaches were formed, and that in which these canoes came to be
embedded. It requires no more for the embedding of the canoes than that
along the flat margins of our river should have existed considerable swamps,
lying very low, and subject to inundation every tide; and that this may
have been the case within the last two thousand years is very probable.
This would give us a considerable rise in the surface of ground around us,
similar to what is taking place at present on the Clyde, between Helensburgh
and Dumbarton. And that such a supposition is by no means too extreme,
the alterations which have taken eifect on the Clyde within the period to
which our annals refer, sufficiently attest.

But that the great geological changes in the level of the sea arc carried
back into an antiquity very much greater than the period to which authentic
history reaches, is very sufficiently proved by the oldest civilized remains of
which our country can boast; — -I mean those of the Komans; — of which our
immediate neighbourhood furnishes us with a good many instances. My
purpose requires me to refer at present to only one of these— the site of
the kst or terminating fort upon the Roman Wall of Antoninus, or Graham's
Dyke, as it is commonly called. This site is occupied by the ruins of a
modern fort or house — Dunglass Castle.

I have been favoured with the following particulars as to this wall bj''
Mr. Buchanan, one of our most zealous antiquarians: — "The first time the
isthmus between Clyde and Forth was fortified by the Romans was in the
year 81, while Titus, the conqueror of Jerusalem, was emperor. This was
done by Agricola, during his fourth summer in Caledonia. He placed, however,
merely a row of forts, without any connecting wall or curtain, having ulterior
plans, which were marred by the death of his patron Titus, and the recall
of this excellent officer by Domitian. The wall was constructed about sixty
years afterwards, (answering to the year 140,) by Lollius Urbicus, the
governor of Britain under Antoninus Pius. The plan of this military fortification
was a great trench, stretching from Clyde to Forth, at Dunglass rocky
promontory on the former, to Coeriden on the latter; in line with, and
connecting the old forts of Agricola, but with a number of additional ones
placed at intervals. The earth from the trench was thrown up into a rampart
on the south side, and faced at some places with stone, at others with turf,
and along the south ran a paved military way. The distance between the
forts was generally two miles. It was not nearly so stupendous a work as the
great wall of Severus, between the Solway and the Tyne, which was of stone."

We have now to notice that "when both walls were built, they were
erected with reference to a sea-level at either end, corresponding very nearly.

104 MODKUN GEOLOGICAL CHANGES.

if not entirely, with that at present existing in both the Scotch and English
estuaries."

If Dunglass was the site of the terminating fort on this coast, its situation
almost on line with the present surface of the water, affords a proof that the
level of the sea is not lower now than it was in the year 140, or one
thousand seven hundred and ten years ago.

If then two thousand years has seen such a slow rise as merely to convert
a swamp into dry ground, without almost raising it at all, except where that
has been done through artificial means adopted by man, how shall we calculate
the epochs necessary for the formation of the numerous beaches found at so
many various heights, from the present sea- level up to three hundred and
sixty feet? But this is not all; there are terraces covered by the sea:
this introduces us to a new element in the computation, namely, that the
movements have been downwards, as well as upwards; and increases
indefinitely the already almost inconceivable vastness of the time necessary
for these processes: and yet, as I have already stated in the outset, this is
but the modern period, and, in reference to the preceding eras of geology,
may be said to be but of yesterday.

On the whole may we not conclude that the valley of the Clyde was
once an arm of the sea; and may we not imagine that at the time when
the beds of sand which I have already referred to were being laid down
where I hav^e described them, in the hollow of Sauchie-hall-Street, the waters
of this noble estuary eddied around the various eminences which mark the
physical geography of Glasgow? Garnet Hill would stand out conspicuously — ■
a rounded islet of mud — separated by a narrow, and not deep channel, from
BIytheswood Hill. A broader and deeper current would flow on the side
towards the hill where Port Dundas now stands, finding its way into the
main channel probably by the valley of the Kelvin. Beyond, eastward,
Garngnad Hill and the Fir-park Hill might be other islets, while to the south
the wide expanse of water would sweep on towards the Cathkiii, and other
southern hills, with perhaps Camphill and Hillhead, and the other eminences
on the south side of the river, appearing here and there above the waves.
The scene would wear more the aspect of a landlocked bay, or inland sea,
than of an estuary.

But on the remote antiquity of this era who shall speculate? And if
this, the most recent of all the geologic periods, is so utterly in its limits
and duration beyond our calculation, what of the vast series of eras that
preceded it? Thus much we conclude, that the indefiniteness of time which
geology requires is only equalled by the inde.'initeness of space which astronomy
demands, and the twain only surpassed by the infinity of Him who actively
tills them both, with the evidence of his presence and his perfections.

Glasgow, December, 1851.

105
ON THE GROWTH OF SOME LAND SHELLS.

BY H. R. BOLTON^ ESQ.

The last two years I have been payiiig some attention to the growth of a few
of our common Land Shells, from the time of their first appearance after leaving
the egg, until their arrival at maturity. I was led to this by seeing a table
formed from M. Bouchard's observations, in an edition of "Turton's Manual
of Land and Fresh- water Shells," published in 1840, page 306, wherein it is
stated of the Zoned Snail, (Melis virgata,) that the time thus occupied is
from eighteen to twenty-four months.

Whether climate, soil, or locality may create a difference, I am unable
to say; but this does not agree with the habits of this species of Helix in
the neighbourhood of Plymouth I have reason to suppose, from observation,
that the entire life of the animal is disposed of in twelve months; that it
is an annual; and that it seldom outlives the winter. About September we
find the adult animals in colonies of thousands. Towards the latter part of
October they begin to disappear, and by December nearly all are gone into
the earth, where they secrete themselves under tufts, roots of grass, etc.,
and they there deposit their eggs: this act being performed, the animal dies.
On the returning warmth of spring the eggs are hatched; but the young are
not seen until about midsummer. They did not make their appearance this
season until the showers of rain which fell in the beginning of July. They
then came forth in abundance. I observed hundi-eds in a minute state, the
apex formed, and small whorls just indicated. In ten days after they had
grown to a third part of their natural size, in twenty days two-thirds, and
from thirty to thirty-five days they had attained a state of perfect maturity.

Another shell, common in this neighboiu'hood, I find to be also an annual
— the Twist Shell, (Bulimus acutiis;) but its growth is very different, and
far less rapid than the above. The young of this Helix make their first
appearance in March, with the apex and one or two small whorls formed,
and although there are myriads of them, not a single mature shell is to be
seen or found among them, nor at any other period during their growth.
In April they are enlarged by another whorl, ,in May by a fourth, by June
they have five whorls, in July they have increased to six or seven, and
about August arrive at full maturity.

They remain on the surface until November, when they bury themselves in
the sandy soil which they inhabit, creeping under the roots of herbage, tufts
of grass, etc., where they deposit their eggs, and are no more seen alive.
A few dead shells may be occasionally found washed by the rain, and drifted
from the sand. The same occurs in the Helix virgata, whose dead shells
may be frequently seen on the surface of the turf.

16, Alfred-Street, Plymouth, Novemher 12tJi., 1851.

VOL. II,

106
CONTRIBUTIONS TO THE FAUNA OF FALMOUTH.

BY W. P. COCKS, ESQ.
(Continued from page 32.^

Acipenser sturio, Linn. — Not uncommon.

Acipenser latirostris, Par. — Taken in a trawl net, November 3rd., 1848;
length, five feet eight inches, breadth of head ten inches. May 15th., 1850,
one, seven feet six inches, was taken by Mr. Snow, a few miles from the
harbour; weighed one hundred and sixty pounds.

Scyllium canicula. Guv, — Common.

Scyllium catulus, Cuv. — Common.

Scyllium melanostomum. Couch. — Caught on a line, by one of Mr. Yeoman's
men, July 16th., 1849; length, sixteen inches; circumference, five inches and
a half.

Carcharias glaucus. Guv. — Caught by the same man, length, six feet six
inches, breadth ten inches.

Galeus vulgaris, Flem. — Trawl and line boats, on the beach: not common.

Mustelus laevis. Guv. — Trawl and line boats, on the beach: not uncommon.

Acanthias vulgaris, Bisso. — Trawl and line boats, on the beach: not
uncommon.

Squalus spinosus, Gmel. — Taken in Mrs. Chard's trawl net, a few miles
from the harbour, December 6th., 1849; length, seven feet; breadth, two
feet; weight, two hundred pounds.

Squatina angelus, Jen. — Trawl and line boats: not uncommon.

Torpedo nobiliana, Bonap. — Captured in a trawl net, by Arthur Chard,
September 5th., 1845. Length, three feet two inches; breadth, two feet.
Dacember 4th., same year, he procured a second fish, length, four feet.

Tlaia mucronata, Gouch. — Trawl boats, fish market: not uncommon. One
was hooked in the harbour by Dr. Williams' son.

Raia oxyrhynchus, Mont. — Not uncommon,

Raia batis, Linn. — Not uncommon.

Raia miraletus, Linn. — Not uncommon.

R,aia spinosa. Bond. — Not uncommon.

Raia clavata, 3font. — Common.

Ammocaetes branchialis, Flem. — Inlet near Penryn head, Mylor creek, etc.

Gastrobranchus caecus. Guv. — I have procured two mutilated specimens from
the stomach of the cod, taken in the spring of the year: market.

MOLLUSCA.«

Eledone ventricosa, Grant. — Fishing-boats, and Trawl refuse: rare. In the

* The "British MoUusca," by Professor Forbes and S. Hanley, now in the course of publication,
comprises a full description of all the recognised British species, and should be the companion
of all interested in this department of Natural Histoiy.

FAUNA OF FALMOUTH. 107

stomach of the Gadus Morrhiia, mutilated fragments: not uncommon. Pound
a perfect specimen on the beach, Boyer's cellars, August, 1847.

Octopus vulgaris, Lamarck. — Fishing-boats, Fish-market, etc.: not uncommon.

Sepiola Rondeletii, Leach. — One in the stomach of the Trigla lyra; half-
digested fragments of four or five specimens in the stomach of the Scyllium
canicula.

Loligo vulgaris, Lamarck. — Trawl-boats, Fish-market, etc.: common. The
spawn in Trawl refuse: not uncommon.

Loligo sagittata, Lamarck. — Several mutilated specimens from the stomach
of the Gadus MoiThua and G. (Ejlefinus, in the autumn of 1846.

Loligo media, Linn. — One specimen from the stomach of the Pleuronectes
rfiombits; length, two inches.

Sepia officinalis, Linn. — Fishing- boats, Fish-market, etc. Spawn attached to
Fucus serratus, F. Vesiculosus, ctc.j low water mark, Truro river, St. Mawes,
Helford, etc.: not uncommon.

Spirula Australia, Linn. — On the sands. Bar point, Grwyllyn Vase, Bream
Bay, Pendower, etc.: rare.

(Nomen. Alder and Hancock."^')

Doris tuberculata. Guv. — In crevices of rocks, on stones, etc., between tide
marks: not uncommon.

Doris flammea, Aid. and Hanc. — ^On stones, extreme low water mark, spring
tide, Gwyllyn Vase: very rare.

Doris Johnstoni, Aid. and Hanc. — On stones, Rowe's oyster beds, near
Boyer's cellars: rare.

Doris coccinea, Forbes. — On stones, rocks, etc., Gwyllyn Vase, Swanpool,
etc.: not uncommon.

Doris repanda. Aid. and Hanc. — Under stones, old oyster valves, etc., Rowe's
oyster beds. Green bank: rare.

Doris planata. — Under surface of stones, extreme low water mark, Gwyllyn
Vase : rare.

Doris depressa. Aid. and Hanc. — Under stones, extreme low water, spring
tide, Gwyllyn Vase and Swanpool: rare.

Doris diaphana. Aid. and Hanc. — Under stones, low water mark, Selley's,
Glasson's and Olver's beaches, and at Gwyllyn Vase, extreme low water mark,
spring tide: rare.

Doris pusilli. Aid. and Hanc. — Under stones, extreme low water mark^
Gwyllyn Vase: very rare.

Doris pilosa, Johnston. — Under stones, attached to Fucus serratus, etc: not
uncommon. Gwyllyn Vase, Selley's beach, Green bank. Varieties, — Pure
white, canary yellow, brown, black, and dappled.

* An exquisite work, and unquestionably the best that has appeared on the subject, and should
be in the possession of all who take an interest in the habits and propagation of these beautiful
creatures.

108 FAUNA OF FALMOUTH.

Doris lajvis, Mull. — Crevices of rocks, extreme low water mark, spring
tide, Gwyllyn Vase; two specimens in six years.

Tritonia Hombergii, Dahjell. — A fine specimen from Trawl refuse, by Dr.
Vigurs, April 10th., 1850.

Goniodoris nodosa, Mont. — Under stones, Green bank, Gwyllyn Vase, Swan-
pool, etc.: not uncommon.

Goniodoris castanea. Aid and Hanc. — Same localities: not common.

Triopa clavigera. Mull. — On a stone, Gwyllyn Vase: rare. Helford river:
not'Wcommon. June lOth., 1850, one, Gwyllyn Vase.

Polycera quadrilineata, MilU. — On stones and small sea weeds, in ponds,
near low water mark. (Dr. Vigurs found two beautiful specimens of this rare
species, by dredging in Gerrans bay.)

Polycera ocellata. Aid. and Hanc. — On stones, and the smaller Algoe in
ponds, between tide marks: not uncommon, Gwyllyn Vase, Green bank, etc.

Polycera ocellata, Var. Cocks. — On stones, Gwyllyn Vase, extreme low water
mark : rare.

^gires punctilucens, B' OrUgmj. — On the fronds of F. serratus and Gellu-
laria reptans, extreme low water mark, Gwyllyn Vase: rare.

Thecacera pennigera, i^fo«<.— Under stones, Bar beach: very rare.

Ancula cristata. Alder. — Under stones. Green bank: common. Gwyllyn
Vase: not common.

Ancula cristata, Var. — Under stone. Green bank: rare.

Scyllaea pelagica, Cuv. — Attached to sea-weed. Bar point, after a storm,
(1845:) very rare.

Doto coronatus Gmel. — In Fucm serratus, from deep water, after a storm,
1847, Gwyllyn Vase.

Eolis papillosa, Linn. — In stones, rocks, etc., Gwyllyn Vase, Green bank,
etc.: common.

Eolis papillosa, Var. — Same localities: not uncommon.

Eolis rosea. Aid. and Hanc. — In stones, Gwyllyn Vase: not common.

Eolis coronata. Aid. and Hanc. — Attached to the under surface of stone,
Gwyllyn Vase: not common.

Eolis rufibranchialis, Johnston. — Trawl refuse: not uncommon; under stones,
Gwyllyu Vase: rare.

Eolis alba. Aid. and Hanc. — Attached to stones in ponds, Gwyllyn Vase,
between tide marks: not common.

Eolis alba, Var. — In crevices of (shelving) rocks, Gwyllyn Vase: rare.

Eolis olivacea. Aid. and Hanc, — Among rocks, under stones, on Sertu-
laria plumula, Gwyllyn Vase: rare.

Eolis despecta, Johnston. — In the Laomedea geniculata, Penryn Creek, Rowe's
oyster beds, etc.: very common in 1847.

Eolis glauca. Aid. and Hanc. — Under stones, etc., Gwyllyn Vase.

Eolis Alderi, Cocks. — Under stones in ponds, between tide marks, etc.
Gwyllyn Vase: rare.

MISCELLANKOUS NOTICES. 109

Eolis Couchii, Cocks. — Under surface of stone, extreme low water mark,
spring tide, Gwyllyn Vase, (the only specimen procured.)

Eolis exigua, Aid. and Hanc. — On Laomedea genicidata, Penryn Creek,
Rowe's oyster beds: not uncommon; Helford, August, 1849. Every blade of
Zostera Marina, examined, covered with the adult animal and ova.

Singular lining to a SjuirrcVs nest. — In the woods in the neighbourhood of Dunkeld, there
are great numbers of S(iuirrels. Whilst staying at that place last summer, I fell in with a
curious character — a fellow who professed to be ostler at the Duke of Athol Hotel — and who,
from being a good fisherman, and possibly somewhat of a poacher, had evidently become in his
way a bit of a naturalist. It appeared he was very fond of rearing Squirrels; and he told me
that last year, on climbing up to a nest, which might have been some twenty or thirty feet
from the ground, he AVas much astonished at finding in the bottom of it the body of a full-
grown Rabbit, which evidently had not been dead very long; and, from the manner in which
it was placed in the nest, he had no doubt that it had been taken up the tree by the Squirrels
to serve for a warm lining for the young when brought forth. Mr. Knox, in his "Game Birds
and "Wild Fowls," mentions having been told by a keeper that he actually saw a Squirrel
carrying a half-grown Pheasant (alive) up a tree; "this proved, however, to have been an invention
of the keeper's brain;" but the story is not, I think, at all improbable, supposing the SquiiTel
about to appropriate the Pheasant in the same way as the Rabbit was used. — Martin Curtlek,
Bevere, Worcestershire, March 1st., 1852.

Bo the Hawk tribe drink. — I have a tame Golden Eagle and a tame Kestrel: I had never
seen cither of them drinking, although constantly supplied with fresh water, and about two
months ago I took the water from both birds, and they have never had any since. They are
both in very good health. In summer time the Eagle bathes himself in a large tub, floundering
about in the water until all Ms feathers become so saturated that he is not for some time able
to fly to his perch. I had a Peregrine Falcon which was equally fond of bathing, but I never
saw him drink any water. — Idem.

Occurrence of the Cuckoo. — The "Ayr Advertiser" states that a Cuckoo was seen flitting about
the plantations at Seafield on Wednesday last, the earliest appearance of this harbinger of
summer in this neighbourhood.— J. Flint, Glasgow, March 22nd., 1852.

We have no doubt of the correctness of the statement forwarded to us by Mr. Flint, as in
a letter received the same day from our esteemed correspondent, J. P. Eraser, Esq., he mentions
that he heard the Cuckoo at Blantyre, about seven miles above Glasgow, on the 12th. of
March ; and a friend of Mr. Eraser's, to whom he mentioned the fact, stated that he had heard
it in the same place on the 10th. The weather had been very fine and mild, but not much
sunshine, till the following week, when the weather was like the end of April. — B. R. M.

Occurrence of the Landrail, (Crex pratensis,) in February. — When out with a coursing party
on the 10th. of the month, a Landrail took wing from a stubble-field, but was captured after
a short chase. It was in full feather and good condition. Has the bii-d wintered here, or
been tempted to migrate from the mildness of the season? — C. Nelson, M. D., Lytham.
Lancashire, February 16th., 1852.

A White Magpie, (Pica caudata.) — Early m March,' 1847, I was called to a patient about
five miles from Looe, and my attention was directed by the gentleman I visited, to what he
called a White Magpie, in a wild state. On examining her, (for she proves to be a female,)
as well as from the well-known shyness of Magpies she would allow me, I found that her
head and neck, and the whole of her body, with the exception of the ujiper and under tail
coverts, were of that pure and delicate white so remarkable in the Magpie; her wings and
tail were natural. On visiting the same gentleman this day, December 12th., 1851, I was
much pleased at seeing my old friend, the Magpie, but in a somewhat diftbreut dress to what
she wore when first I saw her: she now appears completely white, with the exception of the

110 MISCELLANEOUS NOTICES.

primaries of both wings, and her tail, which still possess their natural colour. I have had
frequent opportunities of seeing her during the periods mentioned above ; and I have remarked
with pleasure the gradual increase of whiteness. She appears rather smaller than natural,
particularly her head; but whether she is really so, or only in appearance, from want of the
usual blackness of |her head, I cannot say. She was hatched in the breeding-season of 1846;
consequently she is now in the sixth year of her age, having had a long lease of her life,
considering how much 'rarae aves' are sought after by naturalists, as well as taxidermists.
Wlien I first saw her in 1847, she was mated, and although she had a nest and eggs in that
year, she did not produce any young; but since then she has had two or more broods, all of
which have turned out true and veritable Magpies, both in their plumage and nature. If we
may judge from this case. Magpies must possess a remarkable amount of local attachment, as
she has been for nearly six years, and is still to be seen within a radius of half-a-mile of
my friend's house; indeed, I have seen her some dozen or more times within a quai'ter-of-a-
mile of the same spot. The fact of her confining herself to this locality cannot be doubted,
as her peculiar plumage renders her identity unmistakeable. 1 could almost wish she might
be allowed to die a natural death, to enable us to form some idea as to the longevity of
these birds in their wild state ; but as she appears to me to be quite unique, I have persuaded
my friend, under whose protection she has escaped all danger so far, to have her shot this
•winter, so that she may be preserved. If he succeeds, I will then send you a more minute
account of her plumage, if you think it of sufficient interest. — Stephen Clogg, East Looe,
Cornwall, December 13th., 1851.

Occurrence of Doritis Apollo, near Falmouth. — Last year a specimen of the Apollo Buttoi-fly
was captured by the son of J. S. Enys, Esq., of Enys, in the parish of My lor, and sent to the
Exhibition of the "Royal Cornwall Polytechnic Society" in the autumn of the same year. Miss
Warren informed my friend, Mr. Lovell Squire, that Sir Charles Lemon had taken one at his
residence, Carclew, four or five miles from this place. — "W. P. Cocks, Falmouth, March 20th., 1852.

Contents of a Vallisneria Jar. — Vallisneria spiralis belongs to the natural order Hydrocharidce,
which are aquatic plants, chiefly found in Europe, Asia, and North America ; its natural habitat
is the still portion of rivers and lakes; and, for the beautiful contrivance displayed in the
mechanism for keeping the female flowers, which are on a long spiral peduncle, on the surface
of the water, till the male flowers, which grow on the surface of the mud, are sufficiently
developed to break away, come to the surface, and swim to the female, to allow the application
of the pollen, has been the theme of the poet's song. When growing, its appearance is not
at all in^iting, as it looks just like so much grass in the water; but to compensate for this
uninteresting appearance, the phenomenon of the rotation in its cells, as displayed by the
microscope, is, without doubt, "the grandest that has yet been seen in the whole vegetable
kingdom." The best way to see this phenomenon is to fold one of its leaves across the finger,
and insert a lancet or sharp penknife just under the cuticle, and so divide the h'af in two.
One of these layers, when placed under a power of two hundred diameters, will exhibit a number
of green granules, which, generally speaking, will be found in rapid circulation around the walls
of each cell. If the circulation is languid, a little heat will assist in making it distinctly
visible. The average velocity of the current, according to Mohl, is one-one hundred and eighty-
third of a line in a second. Professor Balfour says, "the cause of rotation has not been
satisfactorily explained." In addition to the above phenomenon, which of itself will repay the
trouble of procuring and keeping the plant, some of the leaves become covered with a brownish
matter, which, on examination, will be found to consist of multitudes of animalcules. The
following is a list of such as I have observed at various times :— Of the first family, Monadina,
there were three or four species, and among them was Microglena monadina. Of the fifth
family, Closterina, there was Glosterium acerosmi, which formed by far the greatest number
of microscopic forms observed. Of the tenth family, Bacillaria, there were Navicula Phmiieenteron,
Hunotia triodon, and Fragilaria grandis, which was very delicate, and very fragile; at the
time I observed it, I was not at all inclined to rank it as an animalcule, but was of the firm
belief that it was of vegetable origin. Of the thirteenth family, VorticelUna, there was Triehodina
fentaculata. Of the twenty-eighth family, Euchlanidota, there was Mastigocerca carinata. And
"last, though not least," of the twenty-mnth family, Fhilodincea, there yia& Rotifer vulgaris.—
Henry Watts, Bristol, December 7th., 1851.

Ill

iUniciu.

Popular Field Botany, containing a familiar and technical description of
the plants most common to the various localities of the Srilish Isles; with
Uighty coloured figures of Plants. By Miss Catlow, Author of ^'Popular
Conchology." Second Edition, Royal IGmo., p. p. 384. London: Reeve

AND BeNHAM.

The title-page of a book is not always, as it should be, a condensed
index to the contents of the volume; in the case before us however, the
promises on the title-page are amply and faithfully carried out. Miss Catlow's
book is admirably adapted to assist those commencing a study of Botany;
the plants described are those most usiially met with in our every-day walks
in the fields and lanes, so that the learner is not confused and puzzled by a
multiplicity of plants, which he may be many years a diligent collector
before he is able to procure : Miss Catlow makes him familiar with the names
and properties of those he is most likely to meet with, and the selection
of plants suitable to her purpose, appears to us to be extremely happy. The
numerous coloured figures will be a great assistance to those who are not
personally familiar with the plants they daily see.

The book is arranged under the months of the year, and this plan enables
the author to give much useful information in a pleasing and intelligible form.
The arrangement embraces both the classification of the illustrious Linnaeus,
as well as what is called the Natural System of De Candolle. The young
student will find ample and safe instructions for preserving the plants when
found; a matter of much moment to the inexperienced; and as about six
hundred species are described, it it probable that the name may also be found
without going beyond the limits of the present book. Miss Catlow, however,
very modestly looks upon her work as only preparing the way for the larger
standard authors on this interesting subject. It is with real pleasure and with
much confidence that we recommend this little work to our readers, both on
account of its own intrinsic worth, and also as the production of a lady. It
is with gi'eat satisfaction that we observe a growing interest in Natural History
among the fair sex; we are quite sure that, whether taken up as an ordinary
recreation, as a matter of serious study, or as a solace in a state of ill health,
the most satisfactory results will ever await those who enter on the study in
a proper spirit, such as is evident in the ^'Popular Field Botany."

We always feel grateful to an author who places the study of Natural
History in its true light, namely, as the handmaid of religion; and although
we should consider any lengthened theological discussion ill judged in a systematic
work on Natural History, yet such incidental allusions as occur in the work
before us, are most proper and useful, and can nowhere be more beneficially
introduced than in a work professing to treat of some of the wonderful works
of God.

We trust a third Edition of the "Popular Field Botany" may soon be
required.

112

^c^rarFrMiigH nf InriftifH.

Natural History Society of Glasgow. — The ordinary meeting of this Society was held on the
3rd. of February, 1852, when there was a full attendance of members.

Dr. Loukain handed in his resignation of the office of Vice-President, being about to leave
the country on account of his health. The Society accepted it; and in doing so, the meeting
recorded their deep regi'et at the sudden removal of so valuable a member from among them,
and expressed their sympathy with him in his present circumstances. On the motion of Mr.
William Ferguson, Mi*. Thomas Gray was unanimously elected to fill the vacant office.

Mr. Ferguson exhibited a pretty variety of Purpura lapillus, forwarded by Mr. Charlesworth,
of York. It was picked up by that gentleman at AiTan, in 1849. It is smooth, white, and
very much acuminated.

Specimens of a verj^ beautiful variety of Nassa reticulata, also forwarded by Mr. Charlesworth,
were exhibited, and a notice of it by Mr. Charlesworth read.

He also forwarded for exhibition, specimens of minute shells, beautifully mounted, accompanied
with these remarks — "It is a most impoi-tant object, especially in public museums, to mount
small specimens in such a way that they may be secure from injury by dust, and yet be readily
accessible to close inspection. My own way of attaining this is to gum the shells or other
objects on a thin slip of card, one end of which is inserted in the cork of a small glass tube.
The objects fixed in this way may be much more conveniently examined than if loose in the tube,
while a number, or other memorandum, may be written on the back of the slip of card. If
very close inspection is required, it is only necessary to draw out the cork."

The specimens exhibited were — •

Montacuta bidcntata, Bisoa eostata, Truncatella Montagui, and Bulla truncata, and they were
numbered with reference to a "Catalogue of British Marine Shells," prepared for the "British
Natural History Society;" a copy of which was laid on the table along with the specimens.

On the motion of the President, the thanks of the Society were voted to Mr. Charlesworth
for his interesting communications.

Mr. Gourlie read a most interesting paper "On the Botany of New Zealand," illustrated
by a beautiful collection of plants and drawings.

Mr. J. P. Fraser then read a paper entitled, -"Notes on a Sandstone quarry in the neigh-
bourhood of Glasgow," illustrating his remarks with sections.

Mr. Colin Brown, Glasgow, and James Paton, Esq., M. D., Paisley, were admitted resident
members.

March 2nd., 1852. — Mr. Kennedy exhibited a specimen of Alasmodon vulgaris from the
Clyde, below Clyde Iron Works, which contained a great numder of pearls; also a specimen of
Buccinuin undatum from Gourock, the apex of which was broken off, presenting a very singular
appearance. It was suggested that, propably the apex had been mutilated accidentally, and
the animal had deposited calcareous matter upon the opening which consequently had been
made, and thus filled it up so as to protect itself.

Mr. Thomas Gray, the Vice-President, read a paper, entitled, "Some notes upon a species
of Strombus, in the Hunterian Museum, supposed to be unique." He illustrated it by a
beautiful drawing of the shell taken by himself in water-colour. This paper will bo printed in
full with a lithograph of the shell.

Mr. George Donaldson was admitted a resident member ; and the Eev. Dr. Landsborough,
Saltcoats; Major Martin, Ardrossan; the Eev. James Yuill, Peterhead; Beverley E.
Morris, Esa., M. D., York; Edward Charlesworth, Esa., F. G. S., York; and Dr. T. B.
Grierson, Thomhill, were admitted corresponding members.

Busmess being concluded, the Society adjourned to the first Tuesday in April.

€\}i (^Mml

I shall feel greatly obliged to any one who will kindly inform me what is the best medium
in which to mount the more delicate of the conferva for the microscope. I have hitherto failed
in my attempts to preserve them. I shall be very happy to exchange duplicate specimens with
any gentleman similarly engaged with myself. — T. P. Fernie, Kimboltoji, March 12th., 1852.

113

A STROLL THROUGH A BEECH WOOD, OX
THE SOUTH DOWNS, SUSSEX.

By MISS AGNES CATLOW.

"Hear how the Nightingales, on every spray,
Hail, in mild notes, the sweet return of May !
The gale that o'er yon waving almond blows,
The verdant bank with silver blossoms strows;
The smiling season decks each flowery glade,
Be ga}', too soon the flowers of spring will fade."

SiK Wii-LiAM Jones.

Nothing cau be more charming than a ramble amongst the woods in the
latter days of May, when the spring flowers are in perfection, the air sweet
and balmy, the birds busy and pouring forth their joyous song, and our own
feelings in unison with these sources of pure enjoyment. Those who are
botanically inclined will perhaps be my companions in imagination in one of
my oft-repeated rambles through the Beech Woods of the South Downs, where
sweet scenery, fine air, and many botanical treasures await us. We leave our
house about three miles south-west of Midhurst, which faces these Downs,
and riding through the pretty lanes, from which we have constant peeps of
the hills before us, for about a mile and a half southward, arrive at the small,
but beautifully-situated village of Tray ford: the church and small number of
houses of which it is composed, are within a few hundred feet of the hills,
and we have but to cross a field to be at once upon them.

How lovely the Downs look, stretched out before us, running east and
west as far as the eye can reach; on the west joining the Hampshire range,
under one of the slopes of which, within fifteen miles of us, lies the cele-
brated village of Selbourne, so well known to all lovers of Natural History,
as the residence of Gilbert White; on the east inclining nearer the coast,
and ending in Beachy Head.

This walk, through the field, is very pleasant, but wo are now on the
rising ground, and fairly on the Downs; we at once enter one of the numerous
Beech Woods, and we shall find that it shades a little stream, which has
its source higher up, and adds greatly to the picturesque beauty of the spot,
for it issues freely from the ground, and has worn itself a way through the
stones and chalk, by its constant and rapid motion, leaving high banks difficult
to descend. But look around, the ground is clothed with plants, whose beauty
and comparative rarity must now command our attention.

The edges of the wood are white with Sweet Wood-rufF, [Asperula odorata,)
a lovely little plant when freshly gathered, and when drying gives out a very
agreeable odour, resembling that of the Sweet-scented Vernal Grass, (Aniho-
xanthum ocloratinn.) The genus dei'ives its name from Asper — rough, many
of the foreign species being clothed with hooked bristles. The leaves are about
eight in a whorl, placed at intervals on the slender stalk, which is not above
six inches high; the small white flowers form a loose bunch, and are funnel-

VOL. II. Q

114 A STROLL THROITOH A BEECH WOOD.

shaped. It belongs to the JRuhiaceoe family, in which so many useful plants are
found; for example, the Cinchona trees, which produce Peruvian or Jesuit's
bark, so much used as a tonic, and brought from different parts of Peru;
Cephaelis Ipecacuanha, growing in the woods of Brazil, and yielding the
medicine of that name; Coffee, the fruit of the Coffea Arahica, and the
Madder, [Bubia tinctoria,) so valuable for dying red, purple, and orange, are
all included in the same family. Mingled with the Asperula, we find the
Wood Sanicle, (Sanicula Europoea,) another pretty and interesting wood
plant. Look how ornamental the smooth, shining, and palmate leaves are,
and the heads of minute white flowers rise up from the ground as if to
attract attention. You find on examination that it is one of the UmhelUferce,
to which family belong so many useful, and also poisonous plants. I need
scarcely mention the Carrot, Parsley, Celery, Fennel, Parsnip, and Samphire,
all valuable as food; and also Carroway seeds, the fruit of the Cartitn carui.
Then amongst the poisonous genera are the Hemlock, {(hnium maculatum,)
Hemlock Water Drop, (CEnanthe crocata,) and Water Hemlock, (Cicuta virosa.)

Now let us enter the wood, and no sooner do we begin to climb the hill
than among the dry leaves of last year, Ave meet with a curious plant, which
at first sight, has the appearance of a dead floAver-stalk ; but gather it, and
you will find that it is not only living, but highly curious and beautiful,
though the colour is that of a dead and faded plant. It is one of the
Orchidaceoe, the Common Bird's Nest, (Listera nidus avis.) Altogether it is
an extraordinary production; in the first place its roots are formed of short,
thick fibres, and if we pull one up carefully, we shall find they cross each
other so as to look somewhat like a bird's nest: the plant is supposed to be
parasitic. There are no leaves, a few scales clasping the stem supplying
their place, and above these rises the spike of flowers of a dingy brown, and
about a foot high. Near it is another species of a much more healthy
appearance, but not more curious, called Tway blade {Listem ovata,) from
the two large opposite leaves; the spike rises from between them about a
foot high, the flowers of which are small, rather distant on the stalk, and
of a yellowish green. The two broad leaves are so marked a feature as at
once to make this plant familiar, and in this wood you see it abounds, though
scarcely so fully in blossom as it will be next month. Now let us examine
another lovely specimen of the Orchidacece, the Butterfly Orchis, (Ilahenaria
hifolia.) You need not spare the flowers, for you see we have them in pro-
fusion, and in some seasons I have carried home baskets full of these lovely
plants, and have even sent them to friends in town, who preserved them in
water for some time, enjoying their fragrance and beauty.

We have now come to a damper part of the wood, indeed we are not
far from the spring I mentioned, and you see in this marshy copse we may
gather as many as we can carry, without risking the extermination of our
favourite. Its large- yellowish white flowers render it very attractive, and
the long slender spur at the back of the blossom is a striking characteristic:

A STROLL THROUGH A BEECH 'WOOD. 116

it has two or three large leaves below, very shining underneath, and a few
smaller on the stalk, which grows about a foot and a half high. I shall
not easily forget the delight T experienced the first time my eyes rested on
this plant; and when I found I might possess hundreds of specimens, I
became rather greedy, and I did not leave the wood till I had gathered
baskets full, the fragrance and beauty of which afforded me great delight for
many days. The blossom, when fully expanded, certainly resembles a but-
terfly; others are like bees, flies, spiders, etc., and some found abroad are
likewise compared to doves, eagles, snakes, lizards, and frogs; the colours,
spots, and stripes on the large lip, often have the appearance of the skins
of leopards and tigers. The properties of the family are mucilaginous, aromatic,
or antispasmodic, and tonic, varying in the different genera. Salep, used as an
article of food for invalids, is derived from several species of Orchis, and
generally brought from Turkey, where it is called Sahleh. Vanilla also used
in confectionery, and in flavouring chocolate, and perfuming snufi", is derived
from the fruit of several species of the Vanilla genus.

Here is a treasure indeed, a single specimen of the Fly Orchis, {Ophys
muscifera.) This is the first time I have met with it in this locality, though
it is abundant in the eastern counties, also in Surrey and Kent. The flower
is indeed very curious; the genus differs from the Orchis in having no spur;
the narrow lip which has only two lobes at the extrenaity, is coloured with
a broad pale bluish spot in the centre; the side petals are quite slender,
and with the lip are of a blackish purple; their slender form causes them
to look like the antennse of the insect. We may still add another lovely
Orchidaceous plant to our collection, this is the White Helleborine, {Epipadis
grajidiflora.) It is scarcely yet fully expanded, but you see there is promise
of great profusion in a short time. However from this specimen, more open
than the rest, we may remark its peculiarities and beauties; the whole flower
is a lovely white, the lip very concave at the base, three-lobed and yellow
within, the bracts are longer than the flower, the leaves are oblong and
sessile, and the whole plant is about a foot and a half high. The Epipactis
latifolia, I have found here in July and August; it has a more drooping
spike of flowers; they are not white, and much less conspicuous, being of a
purplish green.

We must not overlook the curious Herb Paris, (Paris quadrifolia,) and
here we may gather as many as we please. You are aware that the plant
derives its name from the word pars — a part, on account of the division of all
its parts into four; the calyx is divided into four, the petals are four, the
berry is four-celled, and in general there are but four leaves, though in this
wood I have found specimens with five, six, and even seven leaves; here is
one with the latter number, and you see those with five are quite common,
It belongs to the family Trilliacece, the plants of which are either acrid or
narcotic: Paris has the latter property. Here too we find the Solomon's
Seal, (Convallaria multiflora.) What an elegant plant it is! with its arched

116 NOTES ON THE KOOK.

stem, like the frond of a fern, large handsome leaves standing erect in two
rows on the upper part, and the numerous pretty though small flowers, white
tipped with green, drooping in the opposite direction. There cannot be a
greater contrast than in the two plants we have just found, the stiflPness of
the former and the elegant curve of the latter ^vill equally attract the notice
of the botanist. Convallaria midtiflora belongs to the Liliacece family, many
genera of which we ai-e well acquainted with, as showy plants in our gardens;
some are used medicinally, as the squill, the aloe, and several others; whilst
the onion, shallot, and garlic are used as articles of food.

But I must desist, for the scramble on the sloping ground has been fiitiguing,
and we are loaded with flowery treasures; we leave abundance however to
call us back for another search next month, if my present companions are
sufficiently interested in this excursion to follow me in a June ramble to
the South Downs.

Beacons/ield, March 19th., 1852.

NOTES ON THE ROOK, {CORVUS FRUGILEGUS)

BY J. MC'INTOSH, KSQ.

( Contirmed from page 93.^

In a foi'mer communication we have therein pleaded the cause of these
innocent birds, whose sociability excites our admiration, and whose interesting
gambols enliven our country mansions and villages; we Avill now turn our
attention to their nidification and their manners. It is well known that the
Rook has a peculiar attachment to the lofty monarchs of the forest, imme-
diately adjoining the mansions of the opulent, as if they looked up to the
noble owners for that protection which they so richly merit at their hands.
I^hey rarely build in single trees, and never in large and solitary woods,
preferring to such places the busy haunts of their enemy; here they build,
and rear their young with the greatest confidence, as may be seen in some
of the frequented parts of London and Edinburgh. Their affection towards
their nursery, or as we call it, the rookery, is remarkable, frequently visiting
the same from the place of their summer labours. As soon as churlish winter
has left us, they commence the necessary repairs of their former habitation.
We are perfectly satisfied in our own minds, from attentive observation, that
the pairing of these birds takes place only once in their lives, that is, should
no accident, but natural death, befall either. They live on as man and wife,
year after year rearing their young and repairing their nests, some of which,
from the yearly accumulation of twigs and moss, we have seen of a very
considerable size, which the happy pair commenced immediately after their
honeymoon, and year by year added to its bulk. This affair being settled
all is harmony and good feeling in their community, their whole attention
is now in laying, hatching, and rearing their tender young, vvhercin they

NOTES ON THK ROOK. It^

display much care and tenderness^ and no disturbance takes place till the
young are nearly fledged, when —

"Their soitows now begin,

"Wliich briefly mourns my muso,
Some villain bold, and at the dead of night,
Whose callous heart feels not of natui-e's pangs,
Hurls down from genial beds the feathered brood,

And deals destruction round.

In vain from towering heights the parents' cry
Would force compassion from th' unharden'd breast;
Alas! their host heare not the painful moan;
He sleeps, and wakes but to deplore their loss."

Why such a vulgar prejudice, or a still more vulgar notion of their being
delicious eating, should contribute erroneously to the destruction of these
lively and useful creatures, to us is strange, for with all the beefsteak or fat
bacon, they are to u,s but poor eating. To some of your readers this may
appear trivial, and they may argue that it affords them great pleasure to go
Book- shooting, and that if they were not in some measure destroyed in this
way, we should be over-crowded, to the destruction of our property. Such can
never be the case: the Great Almighty, in his admirable arrangements, has
provided against anything of this kind occurring. Ijook, for instance, to the
quantity of the bird genera which are existing in the world 5 it surpasses all our
power of enumeration, at least as to any real distinct conception of the amount,
for we can only pen down the words billions, trillions, quadrillions, and such
like augmentative terras, in which all comprehension soon becomes lost in
mere verbal sound and confusive obscurity. Yet with all these birds we find
no crowding, no confusion, no revengeful wars; this enormous amount is
nowhere visible to our senses. "Who but an Almighty could have arranged
such multitudes of living and ever-moving beings in positions, limitations,
and habits so wisely appropriate to each— so productive of comfort to every
one? The truth is, the further we inquire into the laws of animated nature,
the more are we surprised at the beautiful arrangements that have been
made for each other's enjoyment. No idea can be more erroneous than for
man to suppose that the animal creation was made for the purpose of being
subservient to him; in nothing is his ignorance and self-conceit so obnoxious
as in upholding such an idea, although maintained by philosophers of all
ages.

But it is now high time we should return to the Eookery. When un-
molested, the old birds use every artifice in their power, by parental example,
to induce their young to leave the nest and perch upon its edge, and then,
by farther encouragement, to the branches adjoining; having succeeded so far,
they next induce them to take short flights from the breeding-trees, as soon
as they can flutter, at which time it is not unusual to see one of the
juveniles make a false step, by which it is precipitated to the ground, if it
is not fortunate enough in its descent to hold fast by a twig. If it should

118 NOTES ON THE ROOK.

perchance descend to the ground, the old birds immediately follow to ascertain
the result, and if not killed, but able to hop or jump along, they entice it
away to some place of shelter, such as under a bush or shrub, and daily
attend to its wants, till it is able to take wing, if no prowling enemy in
the meantime has devoured it. Then they roam about without restraint, till
their strength fails them, and then, solitary and resigned, they patiently await
death on the brink of the same stream where they sang their loves, and
beneath the trees which bear the nests of their posterity. The young, for
a few evenings after flight, will return with their parents, and roost where
they were bred. It is amusing to watch with what care the parents lead
them forth in search of food, walking about in the meadows and other grass
lands collecting snails, slugs, and insects, while the young are cawing around,
or watching with anxious eye a passing fly, at which they will make a dart,
and invariably succeed in making a mouthful of it. When the old birds
have collected sufiicient, they will hop and strut with much dignity towards
the young, who are ready with open mouths to receive the dainty morsel, which
the old birds give them by thrusting their beaks into the open ones of their
young, into which they empty the contents of their own. In a short time
after this, that is when the young are able to take long flights, they betake
themselves off", as we have before said, to the downs, moors, and heaths in
search of food. As soon as autumn is felt, they return to their forsaken
habitations, and will often set about repairing the same, as if they intended
a second incubation. After a consultation and a good deal of bustle, and
some slight misunderstanding, they fix upon the most sheltered part of the
Rookery to roost in for the winter, but if a small Rookery, they betake
themselves to the nearest larger one. They now make excursions during the
day to the adjacent fields, and in their flight to and from the same they
make, or rather perform, a variety of evolutions, which to the naturalist
are very interesting; the cause of such gambols I cannot understand. From
the fields where they have been busily engaged, if the weather has been
open, in pulling up the roots of plants in search of insects, they return
about dusk, sometimes in clouds, but generally in a sort of line, with a slow
and steady flight.

The Rook is very bold in defence of his home and young, not suffering
the Crow, Raven, or Heron to roost or build near his habitation. If one
of these intruders should be bold enough to make his appearance, the whole
colony gives chase and battle; and should a Hawk hover in sight, he is
glad to beat a retreat in double-quick time. Yet they permit the Starling,
who, bye-the-bye, is a regular companion of the Rook in his rambles through
the meadows; the Sparrow and the sprightly Tomtit to build and rear
their young in a hole in their nests, being well aware that there is nothing
to fear from these birds. The Rook is grateful for any kindness it may
receive from man's hands. During our residence at Milton Abbey, in Dorset-
shire, the old birds, with their young, regularly every year paid a visit to

NOTES ON THE ROOK. 119

the housekeeper's window, which looked into a small shrubbery adjoining the
Rookery there, and were fed with crumbs from the sill of the window; first
the old bird would alight from the branches of a Catalpa tree to the ground,
and then to the sill of the window; the young would immediately follow
their parents' example. On their return in autumn to the Rookery, they
would proceed to the Catalpa, and announce their arrival, and, I am happy
to say, were always received with the same good feeling as in their spring
visit. The instinctive sagacity shown by the Rook in avoiding the approach
of sportsmen, or other suspicious characters, is remarkable to a degree. They
can also with equal discrimination discern and attach themselves to friends.
The Rooks at Milton Abbey would allow a person to approach within a few
yards of them, when they would make a sort of jump or short flight, and
if a piece of bread were thrown to them, they would advance with an air
of dignity and pick it up. We have frequently watched them and the Jackdaw
picking the meat off a bone immediately under the paws of a Newfoundland
Dog in front of our door, without showing the slightest fear. Many interesting
accounts are to be found in works on Natural History, of their deserting the
Rookery on the departure of the owner thereof, and settling themselves in
trees near his new residence. Could we but dive into all the mysteries of
a Rookery, volumes might be written with much that man never dreamt of,
with all his boasted philosophy. It has been advanced that they prefer
elm trees for their habitations, but this is not the case, as far as our
observation goes. We have found them in elm, oak, beech, ash, spruce fir,
Scotch fir, larch, horse chestnut, Spanish chestnut, sycamore, plane, lime, and
even in the apple tree, but most frequently in the oak, elm, and beech.
They are not over particular as to the height of the tree, as is well exemplified
in the Rookery at Dalkeith, in which we have spent many hours watching
their ways and doings. Here they build in young bushy oaks, not over fifteen
feet high: in two trees of this height, we have counted six nests in one and
five in the other.

We now come to a somewhat disputed point in their history, namely,
the absence of feathers on the bills of the old birds. Without troubling
ourselves with what has already been advanced by various naturalists, we
without further hesitation pronounce it to be the eflFects of old age, just as
an old man becomes grey, and that delving has nothing to do with it. This
off-handed way of dealing with a disputed subject may appear strange to some
of your readers, but we have on more occasions than one watched the gradual
and natural decrease of these feathers from birds which we have kept domesti-
cated, and which were never observed delving; but on referring to our notes,
we do not find that we have, which we much regret, made any entry
respecting the date or time of age that this takes place. In support of this
opinion, we find your respected correspondent, the Rev. W. Waldo Cooper,
inclines, see vol, i., page 5-3, of "The Naturalist;" as also the Rev. F. O.
Morris, in his invaluable "British Birds," vol. i., page 338. That the young

120 NOTES OX THE ROOK.

Rooks do migrate from the Rookeries which are already thickly inhabited,
and settle in new localities, is evident by the numerous small ones that are
to be met with throughout the various counties of England, Scotland, and
Ireland, and various other countries; but this migration is not to the amount
that some naturalists imagine. In the following Rookeries, namely, Dalkeith
Park, near Edinburgh, Monzie and Abercarney, Perthshire, Milton Abbey,
Charborough, Whatcombe, and Canford, in Dorsetshire, we have observed an
annual increase, to a certain extent, of young pairs of the same Rookery,
without any molestation on the part of the older inhabitants to them; but
should Rooks from a distant Rookery attempt to rear an habitation in an
old established one, they are quickly dislodged, and driven to seek fresh
quarters. We must also take into consideration the amount of both young
and old that are slaughtered by Rooh-sliooters, and various other causes both
natural and accidental; these large gaps in the colonies have to be made
up, and such is done by old and young pairing together; we have frequently
seen pairs in a rookery, consisting of an old male and a young female, also
an old female with a young male; we have also watched these birds picking
up sticks and moss from the ground, and carrying them to their nests. This is
sufficient in some measure to account fo? what becomes of a certain amount of
the young. And again, young pairs of the same rookery pair and build their
nests in adjoining trees to those which gave them birth; and as we have before
said, without any molestation on the part of their parents and their neighbours,
except when they have been caught in the act of stealing the materials from
their neighbours' nests, which the young birds are apt to do, the whole colony
is in an uproar, and the unfortunate pair are driven to seek fresh quarters:
this we have on many occasions observed. Others, and that but to a small
amount, betake themselves in search of a new locality.

We feel perfectly satisfied that these remarks will be received by many
readers, who have not paid close attention to the subject, with pooh, pooh,
nonsense, but we candidly a.ssert that they are observations made for years
in England, Scotland, and Ireland; and be it remembered '^Facts are stubborn
things." There is one fact in the character of the Rook that in conclusion
we must not omit, and which is peculiar to them, that is, the distress which
is exhibited whenever one of their companions has been wounded or killed
while feeding in a field or in flying over it, instead of being frightened by
the report of a gun, and leaving their dead or wounded companion to his
f ite, they shew the greatest sympathy for him, flying over him in circles in
the air, and uttering cries of great distress, shewing that they wish to render
him assistance; some of the old birds will even make a dart through the
air close to him, as it were to find out the reason that he does not follow
them. If perchance he is only wounded, and can flutter a little way along
the ground, his companions appear to animate him to make fresh exertions
by flying a little in advance, and uttering cries of encouragement. Even when
a dead bird is hung up in a field to frighten them away, they will collect in

LKPIDOPTERA OF MIDLOTHIAN. 121

hundreds over it uttering loud cries to ascertain the cause; but as soon as they
find it is hopeless, they leave it to be bleached by the dews and rains of
heaven. Here,

. "We can trace,

Examples worthj' of the human race."

Merriott, near Ilminster, January \2th., 1852,

THE LEPIDOPTEROUS INSECTS OF MIDLOTHIAN.

BY DK. W. H. LOWE, F. R. S., ED., ETC.,
AND R. F. LOGAN, ESQ., M. U. P. S., ED.

That some account of this branch of Natural History is at present
demanded, seems to me sufficientl}"^ attested by the fact that the only descrip-
tion of the Lepidoptcrous insects of Edinburgh at present existing, is that
published by Mr. Stuart, in the ^^Wernerian Transactions," for 1808, being
a mere list of insects found, and containing only one hundred and eleven
species. When we take into consideration the increased attention which has
been given to all branches of Entomology since the early period I have named,
and the increased success in capturing insects, which has resulted from a
more intimate knowledge of their habits, to say nothing of the various agents
now employed to allure them, as the use of light, and especially the smearing
of saccharine mixtures upon the rocks and trees, it will not surprise any one
that the list we now present contains not merely double the number of those
in Mr. Stuart's, but no less than five hundred and eighty-two well-authenticated
species.

For the accuracy of any insect inserted in our catalogue, Mr. Logan and
I conjointly pledge ourselves, having rigidly refused every insect of doubtful
origin; and in the few instances in which the species have not been observed
by ourselves, we have attached the name of the entomologist who has captured
them, and this not until we had personally communicated with him respecting
them, and obtained his sanction for so doing. *

A few insects still remain in the list of Mr. Stuart, unsupported by subse-
quent observation. They are Poli/ommatus (Egon, P. agestis, Argynnis Eiipliro-
s^i/ne, Vaneasa C-album, Satyrus Megoera, Splihix Ligustri, Smerinthus Tiliw,,
Hpilosoma Luhridpeda, Notodonta Gamelina, Pygcera Bucephala, Xaivthia citrago,
Hadena Chenopodii, Plusia hractea, Biston Betularia. ,With regard to some
of these, as S. Liguntri, V. C- album, N. Camelina, etc., it may be doubted
whether they have not been erroneously inserted by Mr. Stuart; while others,
as Pygcera Bucephala, Plusia bractea, Biston Betularia, etc., having been taken
in some instances abundantly, in the neighbouring counties, or at least in
Scotland, may be expected again to occur in this district. The length of
time, often a great number of years, which has frequently been observed to
occur between the abundant appearance of a particular species, and the com-
parative rarity of its presence or entire disappearance, is a curious subject to
VOL. n. R

122 LEPIDOPTERA OF MIDLOTHIAX.

investigate. The fact that chrysAlides occasionally pass one or two successive
winters in a torpid state, until a warm, or at least a favourable, season
developes the perfect insect, is quite insufficient to explain the phenomenon.

Four years ago Spcelotis 7'avida, S. augur, and S. pyrophila, were abundant
in my own garden, as was also Polia advena, Aglossa pingidnalis, Alucita
polydactyla, all of which have since been extremely scarce, and during the
past year, although looked for, altogether wanting. In like manner, a few years
ago, (1846,) Sphitix convolvidi, was very abundant throughout the country,
though far from being a common insect either before or since that time. This
sort of periodicity in the appearance and non-appearance of insects in particular
seasons, is an interesting and important subject to investigate; and is an
additional reason, if one were wanting, for keeping exact registers, not merely
of the rarer insects, but' of the commonest and most abundant kinds. Why,
for example, Plutella Cruclfe"arum should in general be a common insect, and
has in the past year suddenly become, by its swarms, a destructive pest, I am
quite unable to determine; but how greatly would the value of Entomology
be enhanced, could we with certainty predict the prevalence of a particular
insect, and thus enable the farmer to meet the attacks of his small but often
most destructive enemy.

For reasons I have already alluded to it will not be supposed that in
presenting this list, Mr. Logan or myself do so in the idea that it affords
a perfect catalogue for the shire of Edinburgh. A life-time of observation
would not insure this, as every year brings to light species which are either
altogether new, or were only believed to be met with in the more genial climate
of England. We have indeed delayed the publication of this list during the
last two years owing to the numerous additions we have found it necessary to
make, and it is now only the feeling that no length of time will enable us
to comprise all the insects which may be found in this neighbourhood, that
we have determined no longer to delay. As it is, it is the result of many
years careful observation; and for its accuracy we feel we have little to fear
from future in^stigations. Perhaps we have been a little hastened in our
intentions to publish this list by the appearance of Mr. Gray's interesting
catalogue of the Lepidopterous insects of the adjoining districts; we observe
however, that although his observations comprise a far wider range of country
than our own, the number of species noticed is far loss. I almost regret that
our district had not comprised the circuit of ten miles around Edinburgh,
rather than the mere arbitrary boundary of Midlothian; we have been
debarred, for example, from including many interesting species in our catalogue
taken at Burnt Island, and the opposite coast, as well as at Guillane Links,
by the aiTangement we have made, and to which when once determined upon,
we made it a point strictly to adhere. The frequent reference made to
'^Duddingston and Arthur's Seat" by Mr. Logan, and "Balgreen and Cor-
storphine Hill" by myself, will be sufficiently explained by the circumstance
that the two districts thus frequently alluded to form our respective places

LEPIDOPTKRA OF MIULOTHIAM. 123

of residence. Mr. Logan enjoying the fine opportunities afforded by the
vicinage of Arthur's Seat and Duddingston Loch, on the east side of Edin-
burgh, and I the less varied ground of Corstorphine Hill, on the west.

W. H. Lowe.

Rhopat-ocera.

Pieris, Boisd — Brassicae, Largs White B.: abundant, especially in gar-
dens.
" " — Rapae, Small White B.: abundant, especially in gar-

dens.
" " — Napi, Green-veined White B. : abundant in fields and

road-sides.
Anthocaris, Boisd... — Cardamines, Orange-tip B.: local, rather scarce, Dud-
dingston, Mr. Logan' Musselburgh, Mr. J. Hovvdenj
Balgreen, Dr. Lowe.
Chrysophanus, Hub. — Phloeas, Small copper: abundant everywhere.
Polyommatus, Steph — Alsus: rare. Dr. Greville.

" " — (Egon: in Mr. Stuart's list published 1808, in the

"VVernerian Transactions."
" "■ — Alexis, Common Blue: abundant everywhere.

" " — Artaxerxes, Scotch Argus: abundant on Arthur's Seat,

sparingly on the Pentland Hills, also on the shores
of the Firth occasionally, Cramondj appears in May',
and is found till August.

Argynnis, Och — Euphrosyne, Pearl-bordered Frittilary: Mr. Stuart's list.

Vanessa, Och — Cardui, Painted Lady B.: scarce, Arthur's Seat, Pent-
land Hills, Balgreen.
" " — Atalanta, Red Admiral B.: abundant in particular

seasons.
" " — lo, Peacock B. : very scarce, Duddingston, Mr. Logan :

Braid Hills, Dr. Stark; Balgreen, 1848, Dr. Lowe.
" '^ — Urticae, Small Tortoise-shell B.: everywhere abundant.

'' " — C-album, Comma B.: in Mr. Stuart's list.

Satyrus, Boisd — Seraele, Grayling B.: abundant on Arthur's Seat.

" " — Janira, Meadow-brown B.: very common.

" " — Megjera, Wall B.: in Mr. Stuart's list.

" " — xEgeria, Speckled Wood B. : not unfrequent in woods.

" " — Hyperanthus, Ringlet B. : abundant, but local.

" " — Pamphilus, Small Heath B,: abundant on Pentland

Hills, less common on Arthur's Seat.

Pamphila, Steph — linea. Small Skipper B.: Mr. Wilson; in Mr. Stuart's

list.
" " — sylvanus. Large Skipper B. : botanical gardens, Mr.

Wilson; Stuart's list.

124 LRPIDOPTERA OF MIDLOTHIAN.

HETEROCERA.

Sphinges.

Macroglossa, Och.... — stellatarum : Duddingston^ Mr. Logan; Morningside^
Mr. Wilson; also occasionally in the botanical gardens.
Chaerocampa, Dap... — porcellus: Arthur's Seat, Mr. Logan.

" " — Elpenor: Salisbury Craigs, Mr. Duncan, Mr. Wilson.

" " — celerio: Hopetown, Mr. J. C. Howden, September, IS-iS.

Deilephila, Och — 'Galii: Mr. Duncan, Cramond.

Sphinx, Linn — Pinastri : Ravelston W^ood, Dr. Leach.

" " — Convolvuli: Duddingston, Mr. Logan; Balgreen, Dr.

Lowe; unusually abundant in 184G.
" " — Ligustri; Mr. Stuart's list.

Acherontia, Och — Atropos: Duddingston, Mr. Logan; Morningside, Mr,

Wilson. It has several times been seen in the neigh-
bourhood of Edinburgh.

Snierinthus, Lat — Tiliae: in Mr. Stuart's list.

'^ " — Populi: not unfrequent. Mr. Logan, Dr. Lowe.

Anthrocera, Scop.... — Filipendulie : Salisbury Craigs, Dr. Stark, Mr. Wilson.

BOMBYCES.

Euchelia, Boisd — Jacobaeae: Musselburgh, (Guillane Links.)

Lithosia, Boisd — rubricoUis: Dalmeny Park, Mr. Robert Greville.

Nudaria, Haw — mundana, Craig Millar Castle, Arthur's Seat, Mr.

Logan.
Euthemonia, Steph... — russula: once taken to Mr. Duncan.

Arctia, Steph — caja: not unfrequent.

Phragmatobia, Steph — fuliginosa: Pentland Hills, Slateford, II. Clarke, Esq.

" " — lubricipeda: neither Mr. Logan nor myself have ever

seen this insect in Scotland, though so abundant

in England. It stands, however, in Mr. Stuart's list.

" " — Menthastri: frequent.

Orgyia, Och — antiqua: occasionally.

Lasiocampa, Steph... — Rubi: Pentland Hills.

" '^ — Quercus: Pentland Hills.

Saturnia, Schr — Carpini: Pentland Hills.

Hepialus, Fab — Humuli : everywhere.

" '^ — sylvinus: Arthur's Seat, Mr. Logan; Balgreeen, Dr.

Lowe.
" " — Lupulinus: extremely common.

Cilix, Leach — spinula: Queen's Ferry, Dr. Greville.

Cerura, Steph — furcula: the larva taken by Mr. Logan, on Pentland

Hills.
" " — vinula: not unfrequent.
Notodonta, Och — Camelina? in Mr. Stuart's li.st.

LEPIDOPTERA OP MIDLOTHIAN. 125

Notodonta, Och — Dictaea: near Leith, Mr. Logan* Musselburgh^ Mr. J.

C. Howden.
'* — Dromedarius: larvae found on a birch tree, Pentland

Hills, Mr. Logan.
Pygoera, Boisd — Bucephala: in Mr. Stuart's list.

Nocture.

Semiphora, Guen... — Psi: common everywhere; a single very dark specimen
taken by Dr. Lowe, suggested the possibility of its
being the next species, namely, Tridens, but this
without the larva cannot be determined.

Acronycta, Och — Eumicis: Borthwick Castle, Mr, Logan; Queen's ferry,

Dr. Greville.

Bryophila, Tr — perla: very abundant on walls, rocks, and the trunks of

trees.

Caradi'ina, Och — cubicularis: very common, including variety Superstes.

" " — ^blanda: Arthur's Seat, Mr. Logan.

Leucania, Oc/t., /S^/e^^. — lythargyria: Arthur's Seat and Duddingston, Mr Logan.
" " — conigera: Duddingston, Mr. Logan; Balgreen, Dr. Lowe.

" " — impura: Duddingston, IMr. Logan.

" " — palleus: abundant everywhere.

Nonagria, Tr — fulva: Duddingston, Mr. Logan; Pentland Hills, Dr.

Lowe.

(jrortyna, Tr — flavago : a single specimen taken near Rosslyn, Mr. Duncan.

Hydraecia, Ouen — micacea: Duddingston, Mr. Logan.

" " — Petasitis: a single specimen taken by Dr. Lowe while

basking in the sun at mid-day, Balgreen, 1849.
" '^ — leucostigma: Duddingston, Dr. Greville, Mr. Logan.

" '' — nictitans: Pentland Hills, Mr. Logan.

Miana, Steph — literosa: Duddingston, Mr. Logan; Corstorphine Hill,

Dr. Lowe.
" " — fasciuncula, Duddingston, Mr. Logan; Corstorphine Hill,

Dr. Lowe: abundant.
" " — strigilis: Duddingston, Mr. Logan.

" " — arcuosa: Duddingston, Mr. Logan.

Apamea, Och — didyma, including varieties Oculea, I nigra, Rava, Furca:

common.
" " — unanimis: Duddingston, Mr. Logan; Balgreen, Dr. Lowe.

" " — gemina: not unfrequent.

Luperina, i?o^W — testacea: Arthur's Seat; common.

" " — basilinea: extremely common.

" " — infesta: Duddingston; common.

" " — furva: Arthur's Seat, Mr. Logan.

Xylophasia, Stcph... — rurea, including variety combusta: common.

126

LEPIDOPTERA OF MIDLOTHIAN.

Xylophasia, S^eph... — lythoxjlea: not unfrequent.
" '' — polyodon: everywhere.

Triphaena, Och — pronuba: extremely common.

" '' — orbona: also very coinmoii.

" " — fimbria, a single specimen taken by Mr. J. C. Howden,

at Duddingston, 1847.
" " — janthina: Duddingston, Mr. Logan; Balgreen, Dr.

Lowe.

Segetia, Steph — xanthographa : very common.

Ruaina, Steph — tenebrosa, Duddingston, Mr. Logan; Cramond, Dr.

Lowe.

Noctua, Boisd — umbrosa: Duddingston, Mr. Logan: scarce.

" '' — bella: Duddiugston, Mr. Logan.

" " — baja: not unfrequent at Duddingston, Mr. Logan.

"■ " — festiva: Duddingston, Mr. Logan; scarce.

" " — Dahlii: Dr. Greville.

" " — brunnea: Duddingston, Mr. Logan; rather scarce.

" " — C. nigrum: Duddingston, Mr. Logan; Balgreen, Dr.

/ Lowe: scarce.

" " — Hebraica: Pentland Hills, taken twice at Balgreen,

Dr. Lowe.

Chersotis, Boisd — plecta: Duddingston, Mr Logan.

" " — porphyrea: Pentland Hills, Mr. Logan; Corstorphine

Hill, Dr. Lowe.
" " — Haworthii: Duddingston, Mr. Jjogan.

Spaelotis, Boisd — augur, common.

" " — ravida: Balgreen, in some seasons not unfrequent. Dr.

Lowe.
" " — pyrophila: Dr. Greville; Duddingston, Mr. liOgan; Bal-

green, Dr. Lowe: very rare.
" " — cataleuca: Salisbury Craigs and Arthur's Seat.

Agrotis, Och — suffusa: not unfrequent.

" *' — segetum : very common.

" " — eorticea: Arthur's Seat, Mr. Logan.

'^ " — exclamationis : common.

" " — fumosa: common.

" " — obelisca: Duddingston, Mr. Logan; Balgreen, Dr. Lowe.

" '■'• — putris: Duddingston, Mr. Logan.

" '^ — cursoria: Dr. Greville.

^* " — -tritici: Dr. Greville.

Cerapteryx, Curt — graminis: common.

Heliophobas, Boisd.. — popularis: a single specimen taken on Arthur's Seat,

Mr. Logan, 1849.
Taeniocampa, Gaen.. — gothica: common.

LEPIOOPTERA OF MIDLOTHIAN. 127

Taeniocampa, Qnen. — stabilis: not unfrequent.
" " — instabilis: not unfrequent.

Orthosia, Ouen — Lota: a single specimen taken at Duddingston, Mr.

Logan,
" " — congener: Arthur's Seat, Mr, Logan; rare,

Anthocelis, Guea — lunosa: frequent on hilly ground,

" " — litura: very common.

Scoliopteryx, Guen... — libatrix: a single specimen taken at Duddingston, Mr.
Logan.

Euperia, Guen — trapezina, common.

Xanthia, Och — ferruginea: very common.

'^ " — cerago: Kavelrig Bog, Mr. Alexander Logan.

Glaea, Steph — Vaccinii: abundant at Duddingston.

Scopelosoma, Curt... — Satellitia: Duddingston, Musselburgh, Balgreen, Dr.
Lowe.

Miselia, Tr — Oxyacanthae: Duddingston; tolerably abundant,

Chariptera, Guen.... — Aprilina, Duddingston, a caterpillar taken on Corstorp-

hine Hill by Dr. Lowe.
Dianthecia, Boisd.... — capsincola: Duddingston, Mr. I^ogan; Corstorphine Hill,
Dr. Lowe: rare.
" " — Cucubali: Queensferry, Dr. Greville; Duddingston, Mr.

Logan.
Polia, Tr — Chi: very common; variety Olivacea taken at Dudding-
ston by Mr. Logan, and likewise specimens at Balgreen,
Dr. Lowe.

Hadena, Ocli — Brassicae: very common.

" " — adusta: not unfrequent.

" " — oleracea: common, particularly on the coast.

" " — thalassina: common.

" " — dentina: Arthur's Seat, Mr. Logan; Corstorphine Hill,

Dr. Lowe.
" " — glauca: occasionally met with.

" " — protea: very common.

" " — Splendens: Pentland Hills, Mr. Logan.

" " — Chenopodii: Mr. Stuart's list.

Aplecta, Gmn — advena: rather common a few years ago.

" " — occulta: once taken at Duddingston by Mr. Logan;

four specimens taken on Corstorphine Hill by Dr. Lowe,
1850.

Phlogophora, Tr — meticulosa: common.

Calocampa, Staph.... — vetusta, Duddingston, Mr.Logan; Balgreen, Dr. Lowe: rare,
'^ " ---exoleta: common.

Cucullia, Schr — umbratica: Duddingston, Mr. Logan; Balgreen, Dr.

Lowe: scarce.

128 ORNITHOLOGICAL NOTES.

Cucullia, /S'c/ir , — Chamomillae: a single specimen taken by Dr. Lowe at

Balgreen, April, 1851.

Anarta, Och — Myrtilli: Pentland Hills, Balgreen, T)r. Lowe.

Plusia, Och — Gamma: very common.

" " — Iota: scarce.

" " — inscripta: rather rare.

" " — Festucae: Duddingston; rare.

" " — bractea: in Mr. Stuart's list.

" " — chrysitis: rather rare.

Abrostola, Ocli — Urticae: Duddingston, Mr. Logan 5 rare.

Nsenia, Tr — typica: not unfrequent.

Philopyra, Guen — Tragopogonis : very common.

Mania, Tr — Maura: Banks of the Esk, Mr. Logan; Water of

Leith, Dr. Lowe.
Euclidia, Och — mi: Arniston, Mr. J. C. Howden; Cramond, Dr. Lowe.

Pyrales.

Pyrausta, Sdir — cingulalis: Arthur's Seat.

" " — ostrinalis: Pentland Hills, Arthur's Seat.

" " — cespitalis: Pentland Hills, Arthur's Seat.

Pyralis, Linn — farinalis: Duddingston, Mr. Logan ; Balgreen, Dr. Lowe.

Aglossa, Lfd — pinguinalis: abundant in 1847 at Balgreen, but not

observed since. Dr. Lowe.
Hydrocampa, Led... — Nymphaealis : common.
" " — Potomogalis: common.

Scopula, Schr — etialis: common.

Pionoea, Guen — forficalis: very common.

Botys, Lat — fuscalis: not unfrequent.

" " — Urticalis : Duddingston, Mr. Logan ; rare.

Hypena, Schr — proboscidalis : common everywhere.

(To be continued.)

ORNITHOLOGICAL NOTES.

BY J. 0. HARPER, ESQ.

Occurrence of the Caspian Tern, (Sterna Caspia,) at Yarmouth. — Mr. Knight,
Taxidermist, of this city, received, for preservation, from the above-mentioned
town, on the 14th. of August of this year, a fine adult male specimen of
the Caspian Tern, in full summer plumage.

Occurrence of the Avocet, (Recurvirostra avocetta,) at Yarmouth. — Mr. Knight
also received on Thursday, June 12th., two fine specimens of this bird in
good plumage.

ORNITH0I.00ICAL NOTES.

129

Occurrence of the Bar-tailed Oodtoil, (Limosa rufa,) in Suffolk. — I shot on
tho 18th. of October, a fine male specimen of this bird on Lowestoff beach.
This is not a very common bird cither in Norfolk or Suffolk.

Note on the Book, (Corvus frugilegus.) — There are various opinions respecting
the tuberculous growth, or abrasion as it is called, at the base of the bill of
this bird. Is it natural or caused by abrasion — by many it is thought the
latter. Mr. Macgillivray states in his work on "British Birds/' vol. 1, page
551, ^^It is only after the young have been abroad for some weeks that these
parts become to be abraded, leading to the supposition that it is the result
of digging with its bill in exploring for provender." This gentleman, to
whom I feel greatly indebted for valuable information from the pages of his
work, is very rarely wrong; probably I may have put a wrong construction upon
his statement, if so I plead his pardon. The Rev. F. 0. Morris, in his work
now publishing, (which I trust will find its way into the hands of every
inquiring ornithologist,) gives it as his opinion that it is natural and not^caused
by abrasion. To confirm the latter gentleman's opinions, I forward the
particulars copied from my Journal. I kept one of these birds, several years
back, which I obtained when fully- fledged and confined it in a room with some
Brown Owls. When first it came into my possession the base of the bill and
nostrils were covered with stiff" feathers. After having it for six weeks the
feathers were replaced by an early development of this so-called abrasion,
inclining to a dirty flesh-colour; but after keeping it for twelve months I was
obliged to destroy it for its quarrelsome disposition. At that time there was
a full development of this tuberculous growth; the bird never having left
its place of confinement. The accompanying engraving is a figure of the skull
now in my possession, with the horny covering of the mandibles and tuberculous
growth left on.

Occurrence of the Great Snipe, (Scolopax major,) in Nmfolk. — I shot on
November Gth., at Rockland, a specimen of this bird. I had never been
ablp to procure a specimen before, therefore I think it rather uncommon.
Mr. Yarrell states in vol. 3, page 19, that it is not uncommon in autumn
in Norfolk.

VOL. II. s

130

FOSSIL MARINE WORMS.

Note on the nesting of the Domestic Pigeon. — I beg to state from experience,
and in confirmation of communications received from your various correspondents
on this subject, that a pair of Pouters in my possession have for several years
supplied their nests with small twigs from an adjoining garden, although
furnished with straw for that purpose.

DEPARTURE OF THE FAMILY HIRUNDINID^ FROM NORFOLK, 1851.

Swift, {Cypselm apus,) August 27th. Wind— north-west.

Sand Martin, {Hirundo riparia,) September 21st. Wind — west.
Martin, {Himndo urhica^ October 5th. Wind — south-west.

Swallow, {Hirundo rustica,) October 12th. Wind— west. Weather-

warm.
Norioich, November 11th., 1851.

FOSSIL MARINE WORMS IN
THE FLAGSTONE BEDS OF PATELEY-BRIDGE, YORKSHIRE.

BY JOHN DIXON, ESQ.

Since the publication of Mr. Wood's interesting remarks on the Fossil
Marine Worm from Wensleydale, I have had the good fortune to fall in with
another variety of Dorsibrancldate annelide occurring in the flagstone beds of
Pateley -bridge; a deposit similar in general composition to those of Wensley-
dale. The fossils differ in character and distribution. The Wensleydale
specimens are widely scattered throughout the strata, and are of great length,
while those of Pateley are generally found in confused masses on the surface,
very distinctly developed, and clearly indicative of organic origin. The perfect
specimens are from eightean inches to nearly two feet long, with a circumference

MISCELLANEOUS NOTICKS. 131

of about two inches. In general character they much resemble the Eunicoe,
or Marine Worms of the tropics; and, like this class, are free from any
distinct annulatious or markings, with the exception of a singular dorsal
ridge. There is no appearance of any swimming appendage; the creature seems
more fitted for crawling about the tine mud of a shallow salt-water lagoon.
Traces of vegetable impressions, evidently aquatic, are discernible in the same
strata. The common Lug Worm, (Arenicola piscatorum,) of our own coast,
furnishes us with a good example of this class.

The discovery of this Annelide I trust will lead to more extended researches
in a field of great interest, which will doubtless repay the persevering geologists
by the discovery of many new and interesting fossils, hitherto overlooked.

Leeds, December \^tli., 1851.

3Jli3tHlnttBati0 pAXim,

Common Owl, (Strix flammea.) — Some years ago, as two lads were returning from Thelton
to Diss on a fine summer's evening, their way led through a beautiful lane, with higli fences
on either side. Their unlooked-for presence in this seclusion, gave a momentary terror to a
White Owl, as it was winging its way just over their heads, which caused it to drop the
Mouse it had secured for its prey; but having recovered its self-possession, it wheeled round,
darted down, and once more seized the little creature, Avhich had fallen nearly two yards, and
quickly resumed its noiseless flight. This fact was related to me by a gentleman, (one of the
lads in question,) many years after, when I was delivering a lecture on Natural History before
his workmen. — E. C. Nunn, Diss, Norfolk, December 22nd., 1851.

Bohemian Chatterer, (Bomby cilia garrula.) — A pair of these beautiful birds, Bohemian Chatterers,
a male and female, were shot on the Royden road, near Diss, January 30th., 1835, and were
added to the collection of the late Mr. Dowding, Sui-geon, Diss. In a note on page 29, Mr. Brown
in his edition of "White's Selbourno," states that these birds always appear in flocks; but from
what I can learn fom* or five is the largest number that has ever been seen together in Norfolk
or Suffolk; more generally they are found in pairs, and sometimes singly. — Idem.

Bolicmlan Waxwing, (Bombycilla garrula.) — I beg to state, for insertion in "The Naturalist,"
that a bird of tliis species was shot near Cork a short time since. — Eblana, Dublm, February
13th., 1852.

Note of the early occurrence of the Wryneck, in Devonshire. — On the 25th. of the present
month, a fine specimen of the Wryneck, (Yunx torquilla,) was obtained in the neighbourhood
of Plymouth. The rarity of tliis bird in Devon, together with its early appeai-ance, I think
warrant a notice being given of its capture. — John Gatcombe, Wyndham Place, Plymouth,
March 30th., 1852.

' Oceurrenee of tlw Ortolan Bunting, (Emberiza hortulana,) at Worthing. — One of these very
rare visitors to England was shot on the 27th. of last month, close to the town of Worthing,
in Sussex, and about a couple of hundred yards from the sea. It was a male, and in very
good plumage. It hiis been capitally preserved, (for the collection of — Stephenson, Esq.,) by
Mr. Cooper, of Radnor Street, St. Luke's, who shewed me the bii'd shortly after he received it.
— W. F. W. B., London, May 6th., 1852.

Occurrence of the Jloo^ioe, (Upupa epops,) near London. — Though not so rare a straggler here
as the Ortolan, still this pretty bird appears so unfrequently as to make its capture worth record.
A female specimen, in clean plumage, was shot at Whetstone, about seven miles north of London,
on the 25th. ult. She was busy on the banks of a swampy piece of water, where she seemed
to find plenty of food to her taste. Mr. Cooper, the naturalist above referred to, purchased the
bird the simie day, and was kind enough to send it for my inspection.— Idem.'

132 MISCELLANEOUS NOTICES.

Singular situation for the nest of the Common Swallow, (Ilirundo rustica.)— A few years since,
a piiir of Swallows built their nest in a comer of my brother's bed, althougli it was in constant
use every night till the little builders had got up a good part of their dwelling, when bed and
bed-room Averc set apart for their especial accommodation, the windows being left open day and
night. lu the nest built in this singular situation they reared five young ones, all of which
left the nest at the usual time, but not until they had become quite tame. During the period
of incubation, and until the young birds were fledged, the nest was visited daily by my brother
and friends. The old birds appeared to like these visits, and would fly about the room twitterhig
all the while with the greatest complacency. The following year tliey returned and built again
in the same place and reared a young brood with the same success as before. On their return
the third year the room behig in use was closed against them. They contumed twittering at
the windows for some days, but at last took thcii- departure and built in a shed at some
distance from the house. They did not return the fourth year.— Jn: P. U., Chestertield,
December 16th., 1851.

Occurrence of the Iceland and Glaucous Gull at Yarmouth, — Mr. Knight, Taxidermist of this
city, received for preservation, on November 29th., a tine adult male specimen of the Larus
(jliuwus; also a specimen of the Iceland Gull, (Larus leucopterus,) botli of which were killed at
Yarmouth.— J. 0. IlAitPEii, Norwich, February Uth., 1852.

Variety of the Common Sni2)e, (Scolopax gallinago.)— Mr. Saycr, of this city, received for pre-
servation a curious and very beautiful variety of the Common Snipe, which was shot within
the last fortnight by Mr. Anthony Thomas, at Guestwick. It diftered wholly in colour from
the usual plumage, b<>ing of a delicate buff, with darker markings on the back and wings; the
bill and legs were of a pinkish hue instead of a green. — Idem.

Occurrence of three Polish Swans and a Northern Diver, near Zj/nn.—Mv. Glason, of that place,
received on the 11th. of December, three fine specimens of the Polish Swan, (Ci/f/nus immutabilis;)
also a Great Northern Diver, {Coli/mbus glacialis.) The former were killed out of a flock of
nine at Ingoldisthorpe ; the latter at Thoniham. — Idem.

Heronry. —There is a small Heronry at Gauiford, in the county of Durham.— Robeht Calvert,
Bishop Auckland, January 5th., 1852.

TJie Ringed Plover, (Charadrius hiaticula.)— A young Einged Plover was shot on Looe Island
on the 4th. of November, with an additional toe springing from the
inside of the right leg, attached to tlie knee as far as the second
joint; no other peculiarly existed, and [tlie bird Avas veiy fat. —
Clemext Jackso.v, East Looe, December 20th., 1851.

Curious nest of tlie Blackbird, (Turdus morula.) — A laundry-maid
at Lady B~'s, had laid out a quantity of fine linen, on the grass-plot,
for bleacliing. Amongst this miscellaneous collection was a lady's cap,
bedecked with very expensive lace. Towards night-fall the linen was
collected, and the cap found missing; a vain search commenced, inquiry
was instituted, but no trace of the missing article could be discovered.
"Well, the matter blew over, and for a time was forgotten, until the
gardener, having occasion to dress a thick hedge of yew, discovered the
theft. A Blackbird, in constructing its nest, had purloined the cap
which formed a portion of the outer materials, curiously interwoven
with coarse fibres and grass. No nest could have been more beautiful. It was rcmo\Td, put
under a glass case, and formed an object of great interest in the good old lady's drawing-room.
— John Dixon, Leeds, December 19th., 1851.

A Pied Blackbird, (Turdus morula.) — A beautiful specimen of a mottled Blackbird was taken
at Green Bank, near Pl3-mouth, in December last, by a boy placing a bit of lean beef on a
fish-hook : the bait proved successful. Thc^ l>ird has been stuffed by Mr. Mutton, of Plymouth.
— JoJiN Baxkek, Stonehousc, January 17th., 1852.

MISCELLANEOUS KOTICES. ^ 133

Curious Ilex's E(jfj.--1 send, in case you should deem it of any interest, a description of a
Hen's egg, laid in my poultry-house last year. Length, one inch
and one-eighth; diameter at large end, five-eighths of an inch;
diameter at small end, half-an-inch: the entire shell was very
much granulated. In blowing it, a very small quantity of albu-
men was obtained; on the needle being again applied, it came in
contact with some substance which prevented its reaching the
other end of the shell. I consequently broke the shcdl, and in the
interior found another egg without a shell, but having an exceed-
ingly thick and tough membrane ; so tough was it, that the needle which had pierced the shell
had no effect on it, nor could it be cut through but with a sharp penknife. The internal
egg corresponded ir. shape with the outer one, save that it was rather more obtuse at the
smaller end, and the albumen was of a much more solid nature. The length was one inch,
and the diameter three-eighths of an inch. Neither egg had any yolk.—C. M. 0.

The Apollo Butterfly, (Doritis Apollo.)— In our last number, page 110, is a notice of the
occurrence of this very rare Buttei-fly, near Falmouth. Subsequent inquiries, however, by Mr.
Cocks, prove that the first-named specimen was purchased at Harrow, and probably is a
foreign one. The second was taken at Carclew, about twenty-five years ago, but was then
supposed to have come over in the chrysalis state, 'along with some earth containing plants
collected in Italy. The first specimen was exhibited in a collection of insects labelled as British.
We greatly regret the necessity for this notice, but we deem it far better to insert these lines,
than to allow a knotcn erroneous statement to remain. Sir C. Lemon's specimen may however
still be a genuine British one.— B. E. M.

Oecurrenee of Vanessa Antiopa, etc., in Serivickshire.—Ohscrv'mg in "The Naturalist," for
May, 1851, the fact mentioned that a Locust had been captured at Lauder, Berwickshire; and
being on a visit to that locality a few days ago, I Avent to see a miscellaneous collection
formed by one of the Earl of Lauderdale's shepherds, named "Wattle Simpson," who exhibited
to me two specimens, which he had captui-ed on Lauder Common. He likewise shewed me a
specimen of the Camberwell Beauty, (Vanessa Antiopa,) and of the dark green Fritillaiy,
(Argymnis Aylaia,) both captured by him in that vicinity. I should feel exceedingly obliged
to any of your correspondents who would be kind enough to inform me of any other localities
in Scotland, where the Vanessa Antiopa has been seen. My friend, Daniel M. Falconer, Esq.^
possesses a specimen of the Painted Lady, (Cynthia cardui,) captured by him on the wing so
late as the 28tli. of October.— John K. Wilson, Edinburgh, March 10th., 1852.

Vanessa Antiopa taken near Zineoln.— As you wish to receive any information respecting the
rarer British Buttertiics, perhaps it may be worth while to mention that four years ago a fine
Camberwell Beauty, (Vanessa Antiojm,) was taken in a garden in this city; and s<!veral
others have been at various times seen and taken flying about the willows in the fenny
districts in this neighbourhood. In the year 1848, a white variety of the Common Copper,
(Lycccna Vhlmas,) was taken by myself in a large fir wood at Skellingthorpc, about three
miles from here; there were vast numbers of the ordinary red colour about, which kept inces-
santly fiying at the white one whenever it settled, and beating it away from the flowers. The
Comma, (V. C-album,) is common here in the same wood, and has two broods. — Fredeuick
M. BuiiTON, Lincoln, March, 1852.

MILDNESS OF THE SEASON.

TJie Peacock Butterfly, (Vanessa lo.)— On Monday, the 2nd. of February, inst., a gentleman,
on his way to Blandford, saw a specimen of this Butterfly on the wing. — John Garland,
Dorchesttn', February 11th., 1852.

TJie Primrose, (Primula vulgaris.) — Several wild Primroses were gathered in flower in Mill
Lane, Cenie, on Wednesday, the 28th. of January last, which is much earlier than usual. — Idem,

Note on Abraxas grossulariata. — I think it is but right, in order to confirm the assertion
of J. Mc'Intosh, Esq. relative to "Abraxas grossulariata," (see vol. i., page 174, paragraph four
of "The Naturalist,") that I do not believe a year has passed during the last ten years, in
which I have not had the caterpillar of Abraxas grossulariata, both in this country and on

134 REVIEWS.

the Continent, in the months of July, August, and September, but also in October, November,
and Docember. To" this assertion I defy contradiction, and should only say to any one who
did so, that he has a great deal to learn in the study of entomology. You may make whatever
use you please of this, — Bombyx Atlas, in a letter to the Editor; Tottenham, October llth., 1851,

On attackiuff of Pttpcc by Ichneumon Flies. — That the pupsx) of insects are sometimes attacked
by Ichneumons, when opportunity presents, as in the case mentioned by your able correspondent
in "The Naturalist," vol. ii. p. 58, cannot, I think, be denied; yet I do not remember ever having
seen any other modus operandi recorded, than by the laying of the egg in the larva by the
ovipositor of the parent fly. But in a case I lately met with, there are very strong proofs
that this method is not the only one resorted to, but that the chrysalis is sometimes destroyed
by the parasitic larva eating its way through the co(;oon, and exterior integument of the enclosed
Pupa. "While out on an entomological ramble a short time since, I found on a post the chi-ysalis
of a motli, which proved to be that of Aeromjcta UumiciSy (The Bramble,) and which, as was
evident from its general dry and stiff appearance, I directly perceived to be Ichneumonized.
On examining it, I discovered on the outside of the cocoon, which in this instance is formed
of longitudinal pieces of dried grass, a small round hole, that had evidently been eaten through
by the larva of some insect, and on taking out the chrysalis, in that part of it which lay
exactly opposite the hole in the outer case, I found a corresponding one rather smaller; while
in the interior, on breaking it open, I exposed to view the pupa of an Ichneumon Fly, which
is now rapidly approaching its full state. These are the facts as I found them, and they prove,
I think, indisputably that the chrysalis, after its change into that state from the larva, was
attacked by the Ichneumon Fly, which, either from its being unable to pierce the covering
which enclosed its victim, or from its usual natural habits, had laid its egg on the cocoon,
and that on the larva being hatched, it had eaten its way through the covering and outer case
of the enclosed chrysalis, and so accomplished its destruction. The holes in question, I must
observe, are certainly not caused by the escape of a fly from the inside, as is the case with
the parasites of Saturnia Pavonia-minor and others, several of which are often found together
in one chrysalis, and which, when fully developed, emerge through a hole they make in the
side, as the parasite I here allude to is of a large size, and fills the entire cavity of the
chrysalis case. — F. M. Burton, Lindum House, Lincoln, April 20th., 1852.

Muller's Topknot, (Rhombus hirtus.) — A specimen of this fish was taken at Redcar, on the
27th. of April last. Its length was eight inches, and its depth four inches and a half. —
Daniel Ferguson, Redcar, April 30th., 1852.

TJie Misseltoe, (Viscum album.) — At page 154, vol. i. of "The Naturalist," in the interesting
article on the ilisseltoe, by Mr. Mc'Intosh, I see he mentions seven instances of this parasite
growing on the Lime. Allow me to add another, namely, on one forming a part of a noble
avenue in Bramshill Park, Hants, the seat of Sir T. Cope. There is also a large bunch of it on
a White Poplar in this immediate neighbourhood, two miles from Glastonbury. — R. E. MouuES>
Ashcott, Glastonbury, November 6th., 1851.

Marsh Marigold, (Caltha palustris.) — A correspondent in your last states that he has never
found this plant in flower later than May. I have gathered it on the banks of tlie River Ouse,
in Bedfordshire, as late as the latter end of September. — S. Arthur Sewell, Stamford Hill,
February 14th., 1852.

iUoifuiB.

Flora Totlonieiisis ; A Catalogue of the Flowering Plaids and Ferns growing
toild in the vicinity of Totnes. By S. H.vnnafoud^ Jun. London: Longman.
p. p. 38.

The value of local Floras or Faunas is perhaps only duly appreciated by
those who write on cither subject generally j for instance^ no general Flora of

REVIEWS. ■ 135

England would be worth anything unless the writer had access to hosts of
local Floras, whether published or unpublished. To those therefore who
publish a carefully prepared Flora the gratitude of all naturalists is due.
That Mr. Ilannaford has executed his work well and carefully, we have only
to refer to the work itself, which contains the habitats of five hundred plants,
four hundred of which were fixed from the personal observation of the author.
In addition to the habitat, the time of flowering is given, which will be a great
assistance to local collectors, as well as to any one writing on geographical
botany.

The Flora is well printed on good paper, and has a margin wide enough
for a short note or two. We trust that many of our readers may be induced
to order this little work, which, from the low price at which it has been
published, must require a large sale to cover even the cost of printing.

Drops of Water; their marvellous and beautiful inhabitants displayed by the
Microscope. By Agnes (Lvtlow, Author of "Popular Conchology," ^'Popular
Field Botany," Etc. With coloured plates. London: Ekeve and Benham.
p. p. 194.

Having introduced Miss Catlow's works to our readers last month, we have
great pleasure in calling their attention now to another of her worthy and
successful endeavours to popularize Natural History. Having ourselves worked
a good deal with other "drops" of water, we can state from our own know-
ledge that the figures given of the Animalculao are good and accurate, and
such as will readily enable the student to recognise any of them when seen
in examining stagnant water by the microscope. To us the study of nature,
by the aid of the microscope, has been an unfailing source of gratification
and instruction, and we gladly hail Miss Catlow as a valuable assistant in
inducing others to take up one of our favorite studies.

The first portion of the book is occupied with introductory remarks, explaining
the habits and economy of Animalcules, with a short outline of the principles
of their classification. The author then proceeds to describe the forms seen
in the first "Drop," which contains the simplest forms, and next those in the
second "Drop," containing others of a higher organization, and so on till those
highest in the scale of Infusory animalcules are brought before the reader.
This plan is a very good one, and will give the beginner an accurate general
idea of the classification of these minute and wonderful creatures.

Many very interesting particulars, relating to the different creatures described,
are given, which cannot fail to be read with pleasure by the young student,
who we trust will thus be led to work out more fully the innumerable wonders
of the '^New World," as revealed by a good Achromatic Microscope. No
one can ever regret taking up so mentally healthy a recreation.

Miss Catlow deserves the encouragement which we trust she will receive
by an extensive circulation of this elegant and useful little work.

136 THK QUEUIST.

Popular British Eritomohji/, containing a familiar and technical description
. of the insects most common to the various localities of the British Isles. By

Maria E. Oatlow. With sixty-nine coloured figures. liOndon : Reeve and

Benham. p p. 2G9.

Miss M. CATr.ow commences her pleasant task by giving a short outline
explanatory of the different parts and organs of insects^ which must be known
and understood before any classification of specimens can be made. She next
gives a full account of all the families into which the various orders of insects
are divided, by means of which the learner may classify his captures into
groups or families. Next comas a description of a considerable number of
genera and species, by which most of the common insects may be correctly
named; and as all the Butterflies are included, those which usually first engage
the attention of the young student may all be named. The coloured figures
are very good, and will be a great assistance to those commencing the study
of Entomology. Directions for collecting, preserving, and arranging insects are
also given; and a concluding chapter on the benefits and injuries received
from the insect tribes, with Fome account of fossil species will be read with
much interest. We much regret that the small amount of space at our dis-
posal for reviews obliges us to refrain from any extracts; but we cannot conclude
these few remarks without expressing our gratification that, like her sister,
Miss M, Catlow has not hesitated to plade the connexion between Religion and
Natural History in its true light; on this account, as well as on the intrinsic
merits of her little book, we can with much confidence recommend it to those
commencing a study of Entomology, or who may wish to encourage any young
friend to take up the science.

It will not supersede the necessity of other works, but it will pleasantly
and usefully prepare the way for them.

€)^i (£imxi±

Having kept tame Buzzards, (Buteo vulgaris,) for many years, I beg leave to [say a few
words in answer to the question, asked in the last number of "The Naturalist," Bo the Hawk
tribe drink? These birds are very fond of bathing, and I have remarked that when water is
placed for them, they invariably perch on the edge of the bowl or pan and drink for a con-
siderable time before attempting to wash themselves, throwing their heads far back after every
sip. They also often go to the water solely for the purpose of quenching their thirst. — John
Gatcombe, AVyndham Place, Plymouth, May 4th., 1852.

Can any of j-our readers tell me the origin of the word "Wort," so frequently used in Eotany,
as "Woundwort, Louscwort, Spearwort, Spidcrwort, Etc. — S. Hannaford, Jun., Totncs, April
7th., 1852.

' Nuphar lutca is plentiful in the River Froom, Stapleton, near Bristol. — Henry Watts, 2,
Lower Arcade, Bristol, April 26th., 1852.

137

THK COLLARED TURTLE-DOVE, {TURTUB BISORIUS.)

BY MISS CATLOW.

Observing in your journal an article on the materials used by Pigeons in
constructing their nests, I beg to offer you the following curious particulars
relative to two Ring-doves I had in a state of captivity for more than eight
years; they were hatched in a cage, and brought to me from Sussex, when
quite young. I had a large roomy cage for them, and being at the time a
great invalid, and confined to the house, I petted my pretty birds till they
became so tame as to leave their cage and fly about my room with the
greatest familiai*ity, even though a favourite dog was constantly by my side,
and attentively watching them. They would sit on my finger, eat out of my
hand and mouth, and perch on my shoulder and head; indeed they generally
chose the latter situation as soon as they left their cage.

In the spring of the second year, they built their nest in a compartment
of their cage provided for the purpose, with twigs, which I cut from a birch
broom, for I was then residing in London, and could not conveniently pro-
cure fresh twigs for them. After the nest was made I found four eggs
laid, and then first knew that the birds were both females; but as T was
much attached to my pets, I did not part them. They sat very assiduously
on these eggs, taking the duty alternately, and both roosting together at
night, though the strongest generally contrived to cover all the eggs. At
the end of three weeks they abandoned them, and in the course of another
re-constructed their nest, and again deposited their eggs.

This they continued seven or eight times every year; but what I wished
particularly to communicate to you is an account of the materials these birds
preferred for their house- building. Being so tame they were constantly on
my table, and on one occasion attempted to carry away a quantity of rather
coarse string which happened to lie there. It was a very droll sight to see
these pretty creatures carrying a long piece of string, each holding an end
in its beak; the struggles they made to take it from each other and fly
away, lasted some time, and their manoeuvres were very curious; but as they
could not manage it, I at last cut the string, and gave to each a piece,
which they eagerly took from my hand, deposited them in their box, and
then instantly returned for more, walking round my workbox and books, and
close to my hands, as if looking for a fresh supply. I gave them many short
bits, which they laid in due order on the twigs already in their nest. Every
day when the cage door was opened, they came to procure more, and in
short, it seemed to become a mania with them, for if there was any string
lying within sight of their cage, they were never easy till it was .given to
them. After this they entirely refused twigs, even when placed in the cage
for them, I should not omit to state that they invariably shook the string
violently for several minutes, before placing it in the cage, just as they had

VOL. II. T

188 ■ LOCAL JOTTtNOS.

been accustomed to shake the twigs: this action was I imagine to shake off
ijiseets.

After some time one of the Doves happening to meet wiih a narrow strip
of paper, and this seeming to suit its purpose equally well with twigs or string,
it was carried to the nest, and from that time the same eagerness was shown
for strips of paper as for string; but if it were not stiff they would have
nothing to do with it. These birds would carry up these curious materials
as fast almost as T could cut them up, and at times, as they sat in the nest,
they were almost buried in string and paper — a curious sight — their pretty
heads and bright eyes peeping out of these odd materials.

They were both perhaps more tame than such birds had ever been made
before, for besides the particulars I have mentioned, they would wash in a
large bowl, whilst I held it in my hand, splashing the water about with
their wings, and then preening their feathers as familiarly as if I were not
close to them. One of them, which I called ^^Lovey," was more particularly
so, for she allowed me to stroke her wings and back and kiss her all over,
as she sat on my finger* but ^'Dovey" would not be kissed, though in other
respects equally at ease. They were greatly attached to each other, for if
one was carried out of the room, the other fluttered about, and was greatly
distressed till the return of its companion. They were a constant source of
interest and amusement to me during many years of ill health, and I was
never tired of watching their graceful actions. At last one having been for
some time in a suffering state, and unable to get on the perch, I thought
it more merciful to have them both killed, as I was going from home for
some time, and thus these interesting birds lived, died, and were buried together.

Beaconsfield, Buckinghamshire, March ^th., 1852.

LOCAL JOTTINGS.— No. 4.
DORCHESTER— DORSETSHIRE.

BY JOHN GARLAND, ESQ.
"Our River, and its finny inhabitants."

I OMiTTF.D in my last several of the "Finny" tribe inhabiting the pleasant
River Froome, and which, though of trifling consideration, and seldom observed,
are, I humbly think, well worthy of mention.

The Loach, (Cobitis barbatula.) — This little fish is found lying under stones,
but seldom or^ never attains a larger size than four or five inches, and is not
very abundant in this stream. It is of a dullish brown colour, with a light-
coloured belly, and has several projections or barbules issuing from the mouth,
which, are very peculiar. It feeds on insects, worms, &c.

2!'.(3 Miller's thumb, or Bull-head, (Cottus gobio,) is a well-known little fish,
and very numerous in "our stream." It is seldom more than three or four
inches in length, and has a very singular-looking head — large, round, and
rather flat. The body dark, with belly whitish. It is a very stupid fish.

LOCAL JOTTINGS. 139

and unlike the Loach easily becomes the prey of the school-boy. T have
never known it or the Loach eaten. Mr. Yarrell^ in one of his works, of
which I unfortunately forget the title, gives an entertaining explanation of the
origin of the names by which this curious fish is commonly known. It lurks
also under stones, and feeds on aquatic insects, etc.

The Sticklehach, or Thornhaclc, (Gasterosteus aculeatus.) — This curious little
fish abounds here, but is of very small size — not more than an inch and a half
in length. It is of a green colour, with belly white, but sometimes streaked
with crimson. There are three sharp spines on the back, which it can raise
at will. It is very voracious.

I am not aware if either the Roach, Perch, or Gudgeon be found in this
river, but I have never seen any of them within the distance I have men-
tioned, and taken as the field of my observation.

There are a few other little residents in and near our stream, a notice of
which should be appended as a finale to my observations on this river. These are

The Leech, (Hirudo.) — Thi.s well-known creature is found rather abun-
dantly in and near the main river, and is of a darker colour than many I
have seen in rivers in ITamjishire and elsewhere. They do not, however, attain
to a large size.

The Fivfj, (Rana temporaria.) — Immense numbers of these little reptiles are
seen in early summer in the river and water meadows near this town of all sizes,
and generally very bright in colour. Toads are comparatively very scarce in this
neighbourhood. I have often been puzzled to find out how these little gentry,
the Frogs, could get into a wine-cellar of mine. I used frequently to have
them taken out and every nook and cranny cleaned and scraped most thor-
oughly, and yet to my surprise and annoyance more constantly appeared. I
have never been able to account satisfactorily for this to myself, especially as
the temperature is always about equal, and the cellar not very damp.

The Water-Newt, (Triton cristatus ) — This beautiful little reptile is seen
here occasionally, and I have already mentioned the subject at page 142 of
the first volume of ^^The Naturalist," and ought therein to have alluded to
this species of reptile. It is found in stagnant waters, and feeds on insects.

The Water-Bat, (Arvicola ampliibia.) — The banks in many parts of the
stream are, much to the annoyance of the agriculturists, undermined with the
burrows of these industrious little animals. It is perfectly harmless, and feeds
entirely on roots and vegetables; although from its being so much like the
Common Rat, it is looked upon as a carnivorous animal, and much persecuted.
It swims and dives remarkably well, and is very timid, seldom being seen,
\inless carefully watched for. It is difficult to discover the entrance to their
burrows, as it is generally close to the water's edge.

There are some pretty species of Fresh-water Shell-fish found here, of
which I propose speaking in a future article.

April 2nd., 18ij2.

140
A TRIP TO WICKEN-FEN, CAMBRIDGESHIRE.— No. 2.

BY R. A. JULIAN, ESQ., JUN.

Started from Cambridge at seven o'clock, a. m., and proceeded down the
river in a four-oar, accompanied by Mr. Green, of King's College, Messrs.
Creed and Stuart, of Christ's, and Mr. Outram, of Emmanuel.

The morning was misty, and many anxious inquiries were made as to the
probability of the weather clearing, however just as we reached the Baits-
Bite Lock, five miles on our journey, we were cheered with a gleam of
sunshine, which dispelled our fears and the mist together. Here some singular-
looking goslins attracted our attention, which we found to be hybrids, a cross
between the Chinese and the common tame species; they were about a fortnight
old. As we proceeded the Larks were singing merrily, (one was perched on the
top of a sallow-bush,) and the pleasing, though rather harsh ditty of the Reed
Bunting enhanced our enjoyment of the morning. The sharp chirp of the
Tree Sparrow seeking a mate among some old willow-pollards was not unnoticed;
and the watchfulness of a few straggling Hooded Crows, the bulk having
migrated, showed them to be as well supplied with cunning as other species
of that family.

The second Locks were now reached, and we were here joined by another
friend, Mr, Wayte, Jun., of King's College, who had overtaken us by taking
the train from Cambridge to Waterbeach. Here we got heartily tired of
rowing, and drew up our boat high and dry on the banks, and proceeded on
foot. The scene which now presented itself was a vast extent of flat country,
all reclaimed fen, a windmill or two in the distance, and here and there lay
a farm-house, usually surrounded by a few apologies for trees, and one or two
corn and bean stacks. It was at one of these farms that we discovered a
great quantity of Mountain Linnets, (Linota montium;) and the eagerness
with which they were pursued and persecuted for some half-hour, proved them
to be desiderata in all our collections. They were feeding on some seed,
principally charlock, that had been cast out from among corn, were very tame,
and occasionally a few would sit warbling away on a tree in the sunshine. The
length of their tails, when accompanied by the Common Linnet, was a good
mark of distinction between the two species, and one easily discernible at a
distance. Their frequent note, resembling the word ^twete,' or ^twite,' also at
once distinguished them.

After having procured a goodly number of these birds, we proceeded to
Upware, where there stands close to the banks of the Cam, The Five Miles
from AnywJiere; certainly a very unusual sign for a public-house. Here we
refreshed, and then started to explore Wicken-fen. It consists of a large level
plain, much intersected with dykes, and thickly covered with sedge and reed,
and an occasional sallow-bush just budding. On the bank of the first dyke
the Colt's- foot, {Tussilago farfara,) was in full bloom. At this jump to get
into the fen none of the party succeeded, and one of them seeing it was beyond

LF.riDOrTERA OF MIDLOTHIAN. 141

what he could hope to get over dry, walked through, the depth of water and
mud being about five feet. We had scarcely got into the sedge, and were
going on in line, when up flew a Short-eared Owl, (Stricc Irachyotos;) and at
the report of the gun another appeared from the same spot. They both fell;
and such eyes — superbly magnificent. Having put some cotton-wadding in
their throats, and re-loaded our guns, we again advanced, and presently one
of our party flushed another, and as soon as that fell, a fourth arose to share
the fate of its predecessors.

In both instances the male was the first to fly; and of the second pair, he
was of a much more mealy appearance than these birds usually are They
annually breed in the fen, laying four or five pure white eggs, and from their
forward state on dissecting them, I should say they are very early breeders.

Finding nothing more, with the exception of a Water-Ruil, we returned to
dine quite elated with our day's sport.

"Oh! who would cast, and hahuico at a desk,
Porch' d liki! a Crow upon a threc-lcgg'd stool.
Till all his juico is dried, aud all his joints
Are full of chalk? But let mc live my life."

Tennyson.

Emmmmel College, Cambridge, March Sth., 18o2.

THE LEPIDOPTEROUS INSECTS OF MIDLOTHIAN.

BY DR. W. H. LOWE, F. R. S-, ED., ETC,
AND R. F- LOGAN, ESQ., M- U. P. S-, ED.

(Coiitinncd from page 128. J

GEOMETR.E.

Geometra, Linn — papilionaria : Eoslyn, Mr, Duncan; rare.

Metrocampa, Lot.... — margaritaria : common in woods.

EUopia, Steph...... — fasciaria: Kirknewton, Mr. Logan; Corstorphine Hill,

Dr. Lowe.
Ourapteryx, Leach.. — Sambucaria: Mr. Duncan; rare.

Rumia, Dup — Ci'atoegaria : everywhere.

Ennomos, Dup — lunaria: Dr. Greville.

" " — illunaria: Duddingston, Mr. Logan; Balgreen, Dr. Lowe.

Odontopera, Steph.. — bidentaria: Duddingston, Mr. Logan; Balgreen, Dr. Lowe.
Crocallis, Tr — elinguaria: Duddingston, Mr. Logan; Musselburgh, Mr.

J. Howden; Balgreen, Dr. Lowe.
Himera, Dup — pennaria: Duddingston, Mr. Logan; Balgreen, Dr. LoAve;

rare.

Macaria, Curt — lituraria: Corstorphine Hill, Dr. Lowe; scarce.

Halia, Dup — Vauaria: common.

Fidoiiia, Steph — piniaria: common in fir woods.

142 ' . LEPIDOPTERA OF MIDLOTHIAN,

Eupisteria, Boisd... — carbonaria: Pentland Hills, Dr, I^owe.

Hiberuia, Lot — leucophcearia : Duddingston, Mr.J. C. Howden, 1848; rare.

" " — rupicapraria : Duddingston, Musselburgh; scarce.

" " — progemmaria : Duddingston, February; not unfrequent.

^' " — aurantiaria: Duddingston, Mr. Logan; scarce.

" " — defoliaria: Duddingston, Mr. Logan; more common.

Phigalia, Dup — pilosaria: Duddingston, Mr. Logan; Corstorphine Hill,

Dr. Lowe.

Biston, Leach — Betularia: in Mr. Stuart's list.

Boarmia, Tr — repandaria: common in woods.

Gnophos, Boisd — obscuraria: Arthur's Seat, Dr. Lowe,

Phasiane, Diqy — palumbaria : common .

Anaitis, Duj) — plagiaria: Duddingston, Mr. Logan; Corstorphine Hill,

Dr. Lowe.

Eubolia, Boisd — cervinaria: Duddingston, Mr. Logan.

'^ ^' — mensuraria: common.

" " — multistrigaria : Arthur's Seat, Mr. Logan.

Coremia, Guen — didymaria: very common among nettles.

^^ " — olivaria: Newbattle, Mr. Logan; rare.

" ^' — pectinitaria : common in fir woods.

" " — montanaria: very common among nettles.

" " — fluctuaria: very common on cabbages.

" " — munitaria: Borthwick Castle, 1848, Mr. Logan; rare.

Thera Stejjh — firmaria: Duddingston, Mr. Logan; Corstorphine Hill;

Dr. Lowe.
" " — simularia: Belstane, near Kivknewton, Mr. Logan.

Anticlea, Steph — badiaria: Musselburgh, Mr. J. Howden.

" " — derivaria.

Steganolophia, Sfep. — ribesiaria: common in gardens.
Harpalyce, Stejih... — silacearia: Queensferry, Dr. Greville; rare.

" " — sufiiimaria: Duddingston, Mr, Logan; Pentland Hills,

Balgrecn, Dr. Lowe.
" " — ruptaria, Cramond, Mr. Logan; Corstorphine Hill, Dr.

Lowe.
" " — ocellaria: Duddingston, Mr. Logan; Corstorphine Hill,

Dr. Lowe.
" " — Galiaria: Arthur's Seat; not unfrequent.

" " — fulvaria: common: feeds on roses.

" " — Chenopodiaria : not unfrequent.

" " — pyraliaria: Craig Millar Castle, Mr. Logan; Corstorphine

Hill, Dr. Lowe.
" *' — Popularia: Pentland Hills, Mr. Logan; Corstorphine Hill,

Dr. Lowe; scarce,
^' " — achatinaria: Pentland Hills; abundant in September.

LKPIDOPTERA OF MIDLOTHIAN. 143

Harpalyce, Steph... — Russaria: Duddingston, Musselburgh, Balgreen.

" '^ — immanaria: common.
Ypsipetes, Steph — impluviaria: Balgreen, Dr. Lowe; scarce.

" " — elutaria: common.

Phaesyle, Dup — caesiaria: Pentland Hills, Balgreen, Dr. Lowe.

" — miaria: Duddingston, Mr. Logan; Balgreen, Dr. Lowe.

Oheimatobia, Steph.. — dilutaria: Duddingston, Corstorphine Hill.

" '• — Bligrammaria: Pentland Hills, Mr. Logan.

'^ " — brumaria: very common.

Triphosa, Steph — dubitaria: Duddingston, Mr. Logan.

Phibalapteryx, yS'fep/i — lignaria: Duddingston, Mr. Logan,

Melanippe, Dup — tristaria: Pentland Hills, Cramond, Mr. Logan; rare.

'^ " — Alchemillaria : common.

Eramelesia, Steph... — hydraria: Duddingston, Mr. Logan; Corstorphine Hill,
Dr. Lowe.

" " — decoloraria: Cramond, Mr. Alexander Logan; a single

specimen.

" " — albularia: Duddingston, Mr. Logan; Pentland Hills,

Dr. Lowe.

" " — Ericetaria: Pentland Hills.

Zerene, Steph — rubiginaria: Balgreen, Dr. Lowe; rare.

Abraxas, Leach — Grossulariata : common .

Cabera, Dup — pusaria: Banks of the Esk, Mr. J. C Howden; Cors-
torphine Hill, Dr. liowe; Queensferry, Dr. Greville.
Eupithecia, Curt.... — Linaria: Corstorphine Hill, one specimen, Dr. Lowe; very
rare.

" . " — pulchellaria : Corstorphine Hill, Dr. Lowe; rare.

" " — rectangularia : not unfrequent.

" " — indigaria: Corstorphine Hill, Dr. Lowe.

" " — cxiguaria: common.

" " — minutaria: common.

" " — nanaria: Pentland Hills, Corstorphine Hill.

" " — abbreviaria: Corstorphine Hill; Dr. Lowe.

" " — castigaria: common.

" " — austeraria: common.

" " — Callunaria: Pentland Hills.

'• " — Centaurearia: near Leith, Mr. Logan; near the coast.

" " — subfulvaria: Duddingston, Mr. Logan; rare.

" " — sobrinaria: Pentland Hills, Mr, Logan.

" '^ — elongaria: near Musselburgh and Portobello, Mr. Logan.

" " — cognaria: Curtis.

Dosithea, Dup — virgularia: common.

" " — scutularia: Balgreen, Dr. Lowe; not unfrequent.

" ^' — ^bisetaria: Dr. Greville.

144 r.EPinopTKnA of Mini.oTiiiAN.

Acidalia, Tr — aversaria: common.

Paccilophasia, Stepli. — mai-ginaria: Dr. Greville, Dr. Lowe; rave.
Odezia, Boisd — Choerophyllaria : Corstorphine Hill^ Dr. Lowe.

TORTRIOES.

Tortrix^ Lin., Guen. — Xylosteana: common.

" " " — Rosana: common.

^' " " — heparana: common.

" " " — Ribeana: common.

" " " — spectrana: Duddingston, Mr. Logan.

" '' " — Icterana: Duddingston^ Cramond.

" " " — Viburnana: near Kirknewton; common.

'' " " — viridana: common.

Amphisa, Curt — Gerningiana: Kirknewton, Mr. Logan.

" " — prodromana: Pentland Hills, Dr. Lowe; rare: Mr. Logan.

Leptogramma, Curt. — littorana: Duddingston, Mr. Logan.
Peronea, Curt — favillaceana: common.

'' " — mixtana: Pentland Hills.

" '' — Sclialleriana : common.

te

— comparana: common.

" " — Caledoniana: Pentland Hills, Mr. Logan, Dr. Lowe.

" " — Abildgaardana : common.

" " — ferrugana: Duddingston, Mr. Logan.

" " — asperana: Pentland Hills.

Teras, Tr — caudana: {Uffradana, Hub.) not unfrequent; Dudding-
ston, Mr. Logan.
Dictyopteryx, Steph. — contaminana: common.

" " — Holmiana: on Blackford Hill upon the rose in 1844,

Mr. Logan.
" " — Bergmanniana : common.

Argyrotoza, Steph... — Conwayana: not unfrequent.

Ptycholoma, Steph.. — Lecheana: Duddingston, Mr. Logan; Dalkeith, Mr. A.
Murray.

Penthina, Tr — Pruniana: Craig-Millar Castle, Mr. Logan; Slateford,

Dr. Lowe.
" " — Cynosbana: common.

Spilonota, Steph.... — comitana: Duddingston, Mr. Ijogan; rare.

" '' — neglectana: in willow trees, Duddingston, Mr. Logan.

" '' — suffusana: near Kirknewton, Mr. Logan.

Pardia, Guen — tripunctana: common.

Sericoris, Tr — cespitana: Arthur's Seat.

^' " — lacunana: common.
" " — micana: Borthwick Castle, Mr. Logan.
Mixodia, Guen — Schulziana: Pentland Hills, Dr. Lowe.

LEPIDOPTERA OF MTDLOTHIAN. 145

Orthotsenia, Stejjh.. — antiquana: Balgreen^ Dr. Lowe.

Cnephasia, Gwt — musculana: Mr. Logan.

Sciaphila, Tr — subjectana: common.

" '* — Virgaureana: not unfrequent.

" " — octomaculana : not unfrequent.

" " — bellana: Edinburgh, Mr. Curtis.

Clepsis, Ouen — rusticana: Belstane, near Kirknewton, Mr. Logan; rare.

Bactra, Steph — lanceolana: common.

" " — furfurana: Duddingston, Mr. Logan, Dr. Greville.

Phoxopteryx, Tr... — unguicana : Pentland Hills; abundant: Mr. Logan, Dr. Lowe.
" " — Lundana: not unfrequent.

Grapholita, Tr — Paykulliana: Mr Logan; scarce.

" " — nigromaculana : Borthwick Castle, Mr. J. Ilowden; Bal-

green. Dr. Lowe.
" " — campoliliana : Pentland Hills, Mr, Logan.

" " — trimaculana: common.

*' " — noevana: on holly; common.

Batodes, Guen — angustiorana : common.

Poedisca, Tr — -corticana: common.

" " — occultana: Corstorphine Hill, Braid Hill, Duddingston,

on the silver fir.
" " — Solandriana: Pentland Hills, Mr. Logan; Duddingston.

" " — sordidana: Alder trees near Musselburgh, Mr. Logan j

Balgreen, Dr. Lowe.
Ephippiphora, Dnp. — dissimilana: Balgreen, a single specimen. Dr. Lowe.
" " — scutulana: Pentland Hills, Mr. Logan, Duddingston,

" ^' — Brunnichiana : common on Tussilago farfara.

" " — turbidana: a single specimen taken at Duddingston, by

Mr. Logan; several taken by Dr. Lowe at Balgreen.
Tussilago farfara and Petasites vulgaris were so inter-
mingled, that the insect might belong to either.
" '^ — trigeminana: Borthwick Castle, Mr. Logan; Balgreen,

Dr. Lowe.
" " — tetragonana: Borthwick Castle, Mr. Logan.

Olindia, Guen — Ulmana: Borthwick Castle, Mr. Logan; Corstorphine Hill,

Dr. Lowe.

Semasia, Guen — Woeberana: not unfrequent on plum traes.

Coccyx, Tr — argyrana: common on oak trees.

" " — splendidulana : Duddingston, Mr. Logan; scarce,

" " — Hercyniana: common on fir trees.

Heusiraene, Steph.. — fimbriana: on oak trees, Duddingston; not common:

Mr. Logan.
Paraplusia, Guen... — subsequana: Pentland Hills, Mr. Logan; Corstorphine
Hill, Dr. Lowe.

VOL. II. U

146 LEPIDOPTERA OF MIPLOTHIAN,

Stigmonota, Guen... — perlepidana: Duddingston, Mr. Logan; Pentland Hills,

Dr. Lowe.
Dicroranipha, Oiien — Petiverana: including var. Stellifermia; Arthur's Seat,
rare; Mr. Logan: abundant at Balgrcen, Dr. Lowe.
'' " — saturnana: oeea»sionally met with.

Pjrodes, Guen — Rheediana: Duddingston, Balgreen.

Catoptria, Guen — Ulicetana: very common on whin,

" " — Carduana: Arthur's Scat, Balgreen.

Trycheris, Guen — mediana: Cramond, Dr. Greville; Duddingston, Mr. Logan;

Balgreen, Dr. Lowe.
Simaethis, Lencli... — Fabriciana: always to be met with on nettles.

Eupcecilia, StepJi — ambiguana: (?) Duddingston, a single specimen, Mr.

Logan.
" " — angustana: Duddingston.

" " — ruficiliana: abundant on Leyden moor, near Kirknewton,

Mrv Logan.
Xanthosethia,<S'^^/)A.— hamana: Corstorphine Hill, a single specimen, Dr. Lowe,
Argyrolepia, /S^e/>/i.— Baumanniana : Leyden moor, near Kirknewton, Mr. Logan ;
rare.

Oochylis, Tr — stramiueana: Duddingston, Balgreen.

Tortricodes, Guen... — hyemana: common in March and April.
Aphelia, Curt — pratana: Arthur's Seat.

TiNE^, (Stainton's Nomenclature^

Crambus, — pratellus : common,

" — hortuellus: common,

" — pascuellus: a single specimen taken at Leith, Mr. Logan,

" — falsellus: Arthur's Seat in August, Mr, Logan.

" — Pinetellus: Dr. Greville.

" — margaritellus : Dr. Greville.

" — culmellus: everywhere.

" — tristellus: abundant.

Eudorea, — Groccella: common.

" — ambigualis: common.

" — Pyralella: Cramond, Musselburgh, Arthur's Seat, &c.

" — Cratoogella: Duddingston, Mr. Logan; Corstorphine Hill,

Dr. Lowe.
" — lineola: Duddingston, Mr. Logan; Corstorphine Hill, Dr.

Lowe.
" — coarctata: Arthur's Seat, Mr. Logan; Balgreen, Dr. Lowe.

Aphomia, — colonella: common.

Pempelia, — dilutella: Arthur's Seat, Mr. Logan.

" — carbonariella : a single specimen at Duddingston, Mr. Logan.
Chimabacche, — Fagella: abundant in spring.

LEPIDOPTERA 01' MIDLOTHIAN. 147

Exapate, — gelatella : abundant on the Pentland Hills.

Taloeporia, — Species undetermined: on rocks on Arthur's Seat.

Tinea — masculella: Duddingston, Slateford, &c: abundant.

" — rusticella: Du'ddingston, Mr. Logan; Balgreen, Dr. Lowe.

" — tapctiella: Portobello, Mr. Logan, Dr. Greville.

^' — granella: common near granaries.

" — Cloacella: common on decaying wood.

^' — pellionella: not unfrequent; destructive to furs and skins.

^' — ganomella: Duddingston; abundant.

\ " — comptella: Corstorphine Hill, Duddingston, Newington.

" — caesiella: abundant on whitethorn.

" — semifulvella : Dr. Greville.

Ochsenheimeria — vacculella: Arthur's Seat.

Micropteryx — seppella: abundant everywhere.

" — semipurpurella: Inveresk, Mr. Logan, a single specimen.

" — subpurpurella : abundant in May.

Nematopogon — Schwarziellus : Musselburgh, Mr. Logan.

Adela — fibulella: Duddingston, Mr. Logan; Cramond, Dr. Lowe.

Nemotois — Minimellus: (?) near Kirknewton, Mr. Logan.

Plutella — Cruciferarum : injurious to turnips and Cruciferae generally.

" — maculipennis : Dr. Greville.

" — porrectella: Duddingston, Balgreen, on white rocket.

" — Dalella: Pentland Hills, Corstorphine Hill.

" — vitella: abundant on the bark of beech trees.

" — fissella: common.

" — harpella: common.

Anchinia — bieostella: near Kirknewton.

CEcophora — sulphurella : in decaying wood.

" — quadripunctella : Arthur's Seat on the wild rose, Mr. Logan.

" — Lewenhoekella : Pentland Hills in May.

" — lacteella: extremely common,

" --fuscocuprea: Pentland Hills

" — fuscescens: Corstorphine Hill, Dr. Lowe.

" — ^Curtisella: abundant on ash trees; local.

Yponomeuta — Malivorella: occasionally very injurious to apple trees.

" — Evonymella: on Prunus padus, experimental gardens, Mr.

Evans.

Orthotajlia — Sparganiella : Duddingston Loch, Mr. Logan.

Depressaria — costosa: common on whin.

" — liturella: Duddingston, Mr. Logan; Water of Leith, Dr.

Lowe.
" — Ulicetella: Corstorphine Hill, Dr. Lowe; Arthur's Seat,

Mr. Logan.
" — arenella: frequent.

148 LEPIDOPTERA OF MIDLOTHIAN.

Depressaria — applana: common throughout the year.

'^ — Heracleana: commoa on the Cow Parsnip.

" — atomella: Pentland Hills, Mr. Logan.

" — conterminella : Balgreen, Mr. Logan, on osier twigs.

Gelechia — cinerella: Arthur's Seat, Borthwick Castle, Mr. Logan.

" — gallinella: Pentland Hills; abundant.

" — terrella: common.

" — Cirsiella: Pentland Hills.

" — longicornis: Pentland Hills.

" — obsoletella: near Musselburgh, Mr. Logan.

" — mulinella: Arthur's Seat on the whin.

" — diffinis: Musselburgh Links, September, 1849, Mr. Logan.

" — sequax: Arthur's Seat, on Helianthemum.

" — Artemesiella : Arthur's Seat.

" — dodecella: Braid Wood, Mr. Logan; Corstorphine Hill,

Dr. Lowe.
" — Knockella: Duddingston, Mr. Logan.

" — taeniolella: Dr. Grevillc.

Roeslerstaramia — pygmoeana: Roslin, Mr. Logan.

Glyphiptcryx — variella : Duddingston.

Q;!]chmia — Thrasonella: in marshy places.

" — Fischeriella : common, especially in woods.

Argyresthia — nitidella: very common.

" — albistria: Arthur's Seat, Pentland Hills, Mr. Logan;

Corstorphine Hill, Dr. Lowe.
" — semitestacella : common on beech trees.

" — conjugella: Dr. Greville.

" — curvclla: not unfrequent on apple.

" — ephippella: common on cherry and plum trees.

" — arceuthina: Pentland Hills on juniper.

'' — dilectella: Duddingston, on arborvitae.

" — farinatella: near Kirknewton, Mr. Logan, in July, and

Corstorphine Hill.
" — Goodartella: abundant on birch and alder trees.

'* — Brock ella: Dalmahoy, in birch woods.

Coleophora — albicosta: Corstorphine Hill, Dr. Lowe; Arthur's Seat,

Mr. Logan.
*' — coespititiella : Pentland Hills, Duddingston, Mr. Logan.

" — coracipennella : Borthwick Castle, Mr. Logan.

Zelleria — fasciapennella: first seen by Mr. Logan on the Pentland

Hills, 1847; and again taken in 1851 in the same
spot.

Gracillaria '. — Frankella: not unfrequent on oak trees.

" — syringclla: common.

LEPIDOPTERA OP MIDLOTHIAN. 149

Gracillaria — auroguttella : Musselburgh, Mr. Logan.

Ornix — Anglicella: not unfrequent in whitethorn.

" • — torquilella: Arthur's Seat, on sloe trees.

Cosmopteryx — proeangusta: Musselburgh, Mr. J. C. Howden.

Elachista — Staintoni: Arthur's Seat a single specimen, Mr. Logan.

" — atra: on whitethorn (?) and apple trees.

" — albifrontella : Duddingston,

" — luticomella: Duddingston.

" — atricomella : Duddingston.

" — Kilmunella: (?) Arthur's Seat, Mr. Logan.

'' — nigrella: Craig- Millar Castle* Duddingston.

" — pulchella: Duddingston; scarce.

" * — obscurella: Pentland Hills in May.

" — apicipunctella: Cramond, Duddingston.

" — Khynchosporella : Kirknewton, Mr. Logan.

" — cygnipennella: abundant.

" — testaceella: Duddingston.

" — consortella: Arthur's Seat; abundant in March and

April.

Lyonetia — Clerkella: Duddingston, Mr. Logan; Balgreen, Dr. Lowe;

scarce.

Ccmiostoma — Spartifoliella : on Broom, near Borthwick Castle.

'' — scitella: common on apple trees.

Nepticula — ruficapitella : Duddingston in May.

" — gratiosella: Duddingston in May.

Lithocollctis — Pomifoliella: abundant in whitethorn.

" — Ulmifoliella : Borthwick Castle, a single specimen, Mr.

Logan.
" — Pomonella: Duddingston, Mr. Logan.

" — Faginella: abundant on beech trees,

" — Quercifoliella : common on oak trees.

" — Alnifoliella: Newbattle and Duddingston, Mr. Logan;

scarce.

Pterophorus — ochrodactylus : Duddingston, Balgreen ; scarce.

" — fuscus: more common.

" — trigonodactylus: in a quarry at Musselburgh, Mr. Howden.

" — pterododaetylus: Duddingston, Mr. Logan, in October rare.

" — tetradactylus : near Torsonce, Mr. Logan.

" — bipunctidactylus: Arthur's Seat and Corstorphine Hill.

Alucita — polydactyla: Duddingston, Mr. Logan; Balgreen, Dr.

Lowe.

150

ANATOMY OF THE PORBEAGLE SHARK,
(SQVALUS COENUBICUS.)

BY T. SrENCER COBBOLD, ESQ., M. V., EDINBURGH J
Senior President of the Royal Medical Society.

The dissection of any of the larger species of the Shark tribe, {Plagiostomcs,)
cannot fail to be interesting in a teleological point of view, ^Yhether we confine
our attention to particular systems only, such as the nervous, vascular, digestive,
and reproductive, or, when taking a more extended view of the subject, we
trace out in full detail the relations of structure and function of the entire
fabric, as compared with that of other animals.

In the present paper I propose to record ve}y briefly a few of the more
prominent anatomical peculiarities, as indicated by a careful dissection of one
of the above-named species, a large number of which were captured last winter
by the fishermen of the T'lrth of Forth, during the Herring season."^

Commencing our manipulation by removing almost the whole of the left
wall of the abdominal cavity, we at once bring into view the liver^ which in
the present species is divided into two nearly equal halves or lohes, enclosing
between them all the remaining abdominal viscera, strictly so called. Fig. 1.
gives us a faithful notion of the position of this viscus; while its obvious size
indicates in no small degree its relative importance in the economy of digestion

and assimilation.!

Our next step was to remove en masse the entire abdominal contents, so
that, as represented in Fig. 2, we have still retained all the parts in situ; the
left lobe of the liver has been turned on one side, and we have now exposed
more fully those organs, the manifestations of whose functions illustrate very

* An extended verbal account of this dissection was made to the I'liysiological Society of
Edinburgh, December 20th., 18i>l.

f These illustrations are copies of drawings made by the author from the dissections.

Explanation of Fig. 1. — (a,) right lobe of liver; (b,) portion of left lobe diawn out from
under the other viscera; (c,) the claspers.

ANATOMY OF THE PORBEAGLE SHARK.

151

forcibly that unerring skill by which the Divine artificer adapts everything in
such a manner only as shall be most conducive to the wants and preservation
of the individual.

Directing our attention then to the second figure, we observe the gall
bladder, (d,) situated, as we should anticipate, immediately at the place where
the two lobes of the liver are united; at this spot also the gall duet and
the duct from the liver, {hepatic,) coalesce, and the common duct thus formed
descends alongside the stomach, as indicated by the letter (e,) emptying its
contents, the bile, into the small intestine, to be more fully noticed presently.
We have not space sufficient to point out the vascular arrangement of these
organs, but it may be observed that a group of vessels, marked (f) in the
engraving, constitute a remarkable anastomosis ^plexus mirabilis' between the
hepatic veins and certain arterial branches, (cceJiac,) the blood of which being

152 ANATOMV OF THE PORBEAGLE SHARK.

thus of a mixed character is distributed to the stomach and intestines in
the usual manner.

But we pass on now to the consideration of that all-important viscus, the
stomach, (st,) and looking first to that end of the organ directed towards
the oral aperture, we fail to recognise any line of demarcation, so generally
found in animals, at the point where the gullet (g,) terminates in the stomach,
constituting the cardiac orifice j in short we cannot define where the stomach
begins; the utility of such a patent condition of the oesophagus being evident,
inasmuch as the existence of a contracted aperture would not only prevent
the ready passage of large masses of food, but would also prevent the animal
from freeing itself of those indigestible portions of it which it is from time
to time necessitated to eject.

If we next examine the opening, or pyloric orifice, (h,) by which the
digestible part of the food makes its escape into the intestines, we find here,
on the contrary, that the organ has suddenly contracted into a very narrow
tube, which is at once recognised as the duodenum, (i,) or small intestine.
Large masses of indigestible material are thus very efiectually prevented passing
in this latter direction, for if allowed to get into this part of the alimentary canal,
the great function of nutrition would be interfered with, moreover it is probable
that the existence of a peculiar valvular arrangement in the large intestine
would present an insuperable obstacle to its free exit.

A most interesting structure, and one which presents a great diversity of
external configuration, is the spleen, (k, k, k.) In the present dissection we
find it divided into a multitude of unequal lobes, adhering together by folds
of the peritoneum with which it is invested, together forming an uninterrupted
chain of glands, and embracing lengthwise two-thirds of the circumference of
the stomach. The office this structure is destined to fulfil is not yet satisfactorily
ascertained, but numerous observations and experiments seem to prove that its
function is that of a blood-preparing organ. We next come to a gland whose
form is much more simple, and whose function is intimately connected with
assimilation; this is the pancreas, (1;) and here, like the spleen in man, it exists
simply as an elongated body slightly curved upon itself, but, unlike the spleen,
indicates a tendency to subdivision in the mesial line. The situation of this
organ might at first sight cause a doubt in the mind of the anthropotomist as to
its identity, but a little reflection will satisfy him that its position here is a neces-
sary result, consequent upon the shortening and abrogation of the small intestine.

At this point of the alimentary canal we have three openings into the
colon or large intestine, (m.) We have the first formed by the termination
of the duodenum, (Ileo-colic valve;) the second formed by the entrance of
the pancreatic duct; and the third formed by that blind prolongation of
intestine known as the ^appendix vermiformis,' (n.)

The colon, or great intestine, (m,) merits our particular attention; by its
aid the great function of nutrition is mainly carried on, and the mechanism
by which an enormous amount of material shall be absorbed into the system

OCCURRENCE OF THE MAIGRE.

163

in so small a space, is well calculated to excite ouv admiration.

In the dissection, which Fig. 3 illustrates, the upper half of this part
of the intestine has been laid open; the gut being suspended by two large

hooks which were found loose in the stomach, pro-
bably belonging to a huge and partially decomposed
cod-fish also in the same situation; in this manner
we have exposed a series of valvular folds, which
being incomplete in the centre, leave a narrow
canal, scarcely larger than that of the duodenum,
by which the excrementitious parts of the ingesta
are conveyed into the Cloaca, (o,) to be ultimately
expelled from the body. The valvular character of
these folds is better seen in the lower part of the
engraving, where a window-shaped portion of the
intestine has been cut away in order to shew also
the manner and point at which the folds terminate.
The import of this peculiar feature in the alimentary
system of Sharks, is, that by such an arrangement,
there is furnished an extensive surface of membrane
in order to meet the demands of a vigorous absorp-
tion, and at the same time this has been accomplished
without the incumbrance of numerous rolls of
intestine, which would entail serious inconvenience
upon a creature destined to make rapid progress
through so dense a medium as that in which it lives!
The only other viscera to which I propose to
allude are those concerned in the elimination of
urine. In Figure 2 the kidneys, (p, p,) appear as
elongated bodies, lying parallel to, and connected with, each other, by folds
of peritoneum ; their ureters unite into a common duct, and enter the bladder,
(r,) near its fundus, and this reservoir again finally empties itself into the
cloaca. Fearing lest this paper should become too lengthy, the author purposely
omits, for the present, entering upon the reproductive and other systems.

Edinburgh, January, 1852.

OCCURRENCE OF THE FISH CALLED
MAIGRE, (SOKENA AQUILA,) IN THE ORKNEY ISLANDS.

BY ALEXANDER R. DUGUID, ESQ., M. D.

On the 23rd. of December last,' while a man was employed in a boat in
Scapa Bay catching Sillocks, (the young of the Merlangus carbonanus,) he
observed some agitation on the surface of the water at a little distance, which
on a near approach he found to be ]MoIuced by the motion of a pretty large

VOL. II. X

154 ON THE ICHNEUMON FI.Y.

fish. He repeatedly attempted to seize it near the tail, and to throw it into
the boat, but by violent struggles it escaped from his grasp, and dived out
of reach. It did not however remain long under water, and he at last suc-
ceeded in getting a firm hold at the gill-opening and threw it into the boat.
Having brought it to me, I did not at first recognise the fish, never having
seen a specimen before, but after examination I found it to be the Muigre.
This is the only instance so far as I know of its occurrence in the Orkney
Islands; but Mr. Neill records the capture of one which was sent to him
from Zetland in 1819.

As it is rather a rare fish on the British coast, a short description of it
may not be uninteresting. Length, four feet seven inches; girth, two feet
ten inches; depth, one foot; length of head, fifteen inches; colour, grayish
brown; fins, reddish brown; scales, large, of irregular outline, somewhat ellip-
tical, measuring in some instances one inch and a half in length, and an inch
in breadth; preoperculum, obscurely serrated. The fin rays were in number,
first dorsal, nine, with small spine before it; second dorsal, thirty, with spine
before it; pectoral, seventeen; ventral, five; anal, seven; caudal, eighteen.

It will be observed that these numbers difier somewhat from what are given
in Yarrell's and Jenyn's works, more especially as to the dorsal, but I can
only say that the rays were carefully and more than once counted by my
friend, Mr. R. Heddle and myself. The swimming bladder was two feet long,
and six inches in diameter, and was enormously distended with air, which I
presume accounts for the fish being unable to remain under the surface, from
its body being specifically lighter than the water; but how it had lost the
power of modifying the quantity of air according to its necessities, which fishes
must possess, it would be perhaps difficult to conjecture. The bladder was
fringed all round its edge as shown by Yarrell.

The fish was not observed to make any sort of noise, either before or after
its capture, as related by others. As to its edible qualities, some friends, to
whom I had sent portions of it, considered it very good when stewed or
grilled. For my own part, having only tried it plain boiled, I should be
inclined to pronounce it very indiiFerent food.

Kirkwall, February Srd., 1852.

I>0 ICHNEUMONS PIERCE INSECTS IN THE PUPA STATE?

BY R. MAYSMOR, ESQ.

In answer to "G" in "The Querist" of November, relative to Ichneumons,
perhaps a few quotations from authors upon their general habits may not
be uninteresting to some of the readers of "The Naturalist." In speaking
of the service of the Ichneumon Flies in staying the encroachments of the
Wheat Midge, the Rev. Edwin Sidney, in "Blights of the Wheat," says,
"Their peculiar instinct is to lay their eggs in other living insects, mostly

ON THE ICHNEUMON FLY. 165

when they are in the larva state. Sometimes they oviposit in chrysalides,
and occasionally in eggs, but never, it is believed, in any insect while in a
perfect condition. The object of their eggs being thus laid is, that they
may under these circumstances, which are favourable to their nature, hatch
into grubs. These grubs or maggots soon commence attacking the living
substances in which they are placed, and ultimately destroy them. The instinct
of these extraordinary creatures leads them to the most complete regulation
of the number of their eggs by the size of the victim in each case, and
that of the larvae to which they are to give birth. Sometimes they lay a
single egg where there is only enough for the support of its gi"ub, but the
numbers vary from one to a large quantity. There is scarcely an insect in
existence that is not more or less subject to this species of attack; and the
Ichneumons themselves vary in size according to the dimensions of the bodies
on which they are destined to prey. "Some," says Mr, Kirby, "are so
inconceivably small, that the egg of a butterfly, not larger than a pin's head,
is of sufficient magnitude to nourish two of them to maturity; others so large,
that the body of a full-grown caterpillar is not more than enough for one."
It is not the Ichneumon itself, but its larvae or maggots which destroy such
quantities of insects. The Ichneumon is a fly with four wings, whose food
is honey; and the female seems to live only for the purpose of depositing
eggs in the way mentioned.

^^In search of this," we are told by the aged entomologist just alluded to,
"she is in constant motion. Is the caterpillar of a butterfly or moth the
appropriate food for her young, you see her alight upon the plants where
they are most usually to be met with, run quickly over them, carefully
examining every leaf, and, having found the unfortunate object of her search,
insert her sting into its flesh, and there deposit an egg. In vain her victim,
as if conscious of its fate, writhes its body, spits out an acid fluid, menaces
with its tentacula, or brings into action the other organs of defence with which
it is provided; the active Ichneumon braves every danger, and does not desist
till her- courage and address have insured subsistence for one of her future
progeny. Perhaps, however, she discovers, by a sense, the existence of which
we perceive, though we have no conception of its nature, that she has been
forestalled by some precursor of her own tribe that has already buried an
egg in the caterpillar she is examining. In this case she leaves it, aware
that it would not suffice for the support of two, and proceeds in search of
some other yet unoccupied." Such are the singular habits of these creatures,
thus aptly described. All these processes are, as might be expected, varied
according to the number of eggs that may be placed with a hope of safe
existence in any one body.

As soon as these eggs are hatched, the young maggots revel in the feast
the body of their victim provides, while the supply of food in every instance
is regulated with an inconceivable precision, so as just to last these young
Ichneumons till they have grown to an age to do without it. Then the

156 ' ON THE ICHNEUMON FLY.

grub or caterpillar on which they have existed dies, or perhaps just retains
sufficient vital power to turn into a chrysalis, which at last does not give
birth to a moth, butterfly, or any other fly proper to it; but to one or more
full-grown Ichneumons, whose larvas have become pupae within this case.
The author, not many years ago, had a chrysalis which disclosed at the
proper time, no less than seventeen Ichneumons, instead of a large moth
which he had expected to see emerge from it. Instinct, we are told, upon high
authority, is a propensity prior to experience, and independent of instruction :
it is verified in these strange operations. The little maggot which springs
from the egg of the Ichneumon goes on eating up its prey, devouring every
part of it except the vital organs, which it never touches, as if it knew
instinctively that the death of its victim would involve its own entire destruction
by famine. Some Ichneumons only glue their eggs to the bodies of certain
larvae, because their maggots are provided with instruments for piercing the
skin. Others, like the Cuckoo among birds, lay their eggs in the nests of
insects, which hatch them to. devour their own young. Bees are particularly
subject to such insidious enemies. No concealment, unless perhaps under
water, seems sufficient to baffle an Ichneumon, and nothing can surpass its
perseverance until its eggs are safely placed in the condition suitable to its
progeny."

The following would seem easy of proof to all persons. In regard to
Ichneumon tipulae, now called Platygaster tipulge, Mr. Sidney says, ^'This
little Platygaster may be readily found on the glumes of the wheat plants,
in the. months of July and August. It runs rapidly over the ears, and
seems to know well which are those occupied by the larvae of the midge.
The author found numbers of them in various wheat-fields in August, 1845;
and almost invariably, on examining the ears on which they appeared, discovered
that they contained the objects of their search. The Ichneumon hunts for
them with the utmost eagerness, and by the aid of a sharp tail places a
single egg in each of their bodies. The sight has been witnessed by Kirby,
by the following experiment: — A number of larvae of the wheat midge were
put upon a piece of white paper, pretty near each other, and an Ichneumon
was dropped into the midst of the group. The energy of her manner, the
rapid vibrations of her antennae, and the whole of her attitudes, were most
amusing. On approaching one of the larvae her agitation quickened to the
utmost intensity; she soon bent her body in a slanting direction beneath her
breast, applied her tail to the larva, and, becoming still as death, sent forth
her curious sheath and deposited her egg in the victim, which writhed con-
siderably under the operation. If she came to one that had previously an
egg in it, she left it in an instant, and sought another, for the Platygaster
lays but one in each. This, however, often repeated, destroys a great many
of these devastators of the grain."

Each .species of Ichneumon is restricted in its attacks to one, or at most
to a few, particular species oF caterpillars. IMr. Stephens states that he possessed

MISCELLANEOUS NOTICES, . 1i)7

eight hundred British species of the Ichneumoiiidae. From the foregoing I
think it would appear there is abundant proof that Ichneumons pierce insects
in the larva state. Speaking generally it will be found that writers upon
the subject say that it is while in the caterpillar state that insects are attacked;
and it seems much more natural to suppose it should be when in this soft
state than when the insect has put on a stout protecting case, as during the
chrysalis period. I should hardly think it possible for the Ichneumon, which
is parasitic upon Trichiosoma luconim, to pierce with its slender ovipositor the
tough and leathery cocoon of that Saw-fly. Doubtless certain species of insects
are attacked in one stage of their existence, and in that only. It would not
be supposed that the same Ichneumon fly would attack an insect both in the
larva and chrysalis state. That the larvcs are really attacked there can be no
doubt; for I find it stated in the "Penny Cyclopaedia/' by Mr. Waterhouse, I
presume, that '^Instances are not uncommon in which the eggs of the Ich-
neumon hatch in the body of the living caterpillar; and what is most remarkable,
they do not destroy its life. It is not until the larvae have quitted their abode
in the caterpillar that it dies." The same writer states, "In most cases these
eggs are not hatched until the caterpillar has changed into a chrysalis; they
then hatch, and the Ichneumon larvae feed upon the contents of the pupa
case, enclose themselves in silken cocoons, and undergo their final transformation,
to come forth in proper season, eating their way through the chrysalis case."
I shall be glad if this interesting subject receives further attention in '^The
Naturalist," and, above all, positive testimony from personal observation.

Devizes, February ord., 1852.

3l!kfllnti!nu3 JMlm.

Curious instinct in the Rat, (Mus decumauus.) — A friend of luiue observed in a ditch a hole
eight inches deep, and five in diameter at the mouth, shaped like a funnel, with a small
quantity of water in it, not a drop of which could escape, the inside being so securely puddled
round. A well-beaten path ran up to the hole, evidently made by some small animal. He
stopped it up, but on visiting the place next day found it re-opened, and all as neatly executed
as before. Tlie circumstance exciting his curiosity, ho set a trap, and succeeded in capturing
a large Eat. From the smoothness of the sides of the hole, and the clearness of the water,
it is evident tlifse animals resorted thither for the pui-pose of quenching their thirst, by dipping
in their tails, and afterwards licking them. It is the opinion of my friend that this stratagem
was attributable to a pool having been filled up, from which they previously drank. — Hubert
Beadles, Broadway, May 5th., 1852.

Tlie Slwrt-tailed Field Mouse. — Some workmen while ploughing a few days since, turned up
three or four Short-tailed Field Mice. They were all ensconced in a snug little hole, with
plenty of dried grass roots, etc., to keep them warm for the winter, and a pretty good larder
to boot, in case of premature and temporary recovery from torpor. This larder was composed
of, (if the workmen are to be credited,) prefty nearly half-a-peck of wheat. — Martin Curtler,
Bevereye House, Worcester, February 10th., 1852.

The Swallotv, (Hirundo rustica.) — I am informed by the Eev. "W. F. Cornish that a Swallow
was sliot at Dittisham, on the Dart, the week before last. — S. Haxnafokd, Jun., Totnes, April
7th., 1852.

158 , UKVIEW.

In Mr. Doublcday's "SjTionymic List of British Lcpidoptera," he places the Orgyia v-nigra
aTiiong the "reputed Britisli Bombyees," omitting it accordingly from the British species. But
it is an indigenous moth, for a school-ftdlow of mine, (now the Rev.) Henry Hilton, caught
one himself, in one of the summer vacations, near Feversham, Kent, and brought it back with
him. It then passed into the collection of Mr. Abraham Edmonds, of Worcester, now I believe
of London, where I subsequently saw itmyself. — Francis 0. Mokkis, Nafferton Vicarage,
Driffield, May 2l8t., 1852.

Misseltoe. — In the neighbourhood of Blackhcath, the Missoltoe is growing upon the Willow.
In Hawnes Park, near Bedford, it grows upon the Beech. — H. J. C.

Comparative Table of the Ph^nooamous, or Flowering Plants, and Ferns,
AND Allied Species op the British Isles, Devonshire, and the Neighbovrhood of Totnes, Devon.

By S. Hannafohd, Esq., Jln.

cnogamous
Plants.

Ferns and
AUied Plants.

Total.

1371.

57.

1428.

774.

30.

804.

British Isles, per "London Catalogue," 1850,
Devonshire, per "Flora Devoniensis," 1829,
Totnes, per "Flora Tottoniensis,"

within a range of six miles, 1851, 460. 23. 483.

Nuphar lutea,— These flowers are found in the River Alt, a small stream running into the

sea, after a somewhat tortuous course, at Forniby, a few miles south of Southport. Nymphcea

alba also grows in this neighbourhood, but never having obtained it myself, I cannot give its

exact locality. — J. A. Robinson, AYycoUar Cottage, Southport, Lancashire, January 12th., 1852.

Ernintr.

Glass Booh of Botany: being an introduction to the study of the Vegetable
Kingdom. Part 1. — Structural and Morphological Botany. By J. H.
Balfour^ M. D. With more than one thousand illustrations. Edinburgh: A.
AND C. Black. London: Longman. 1852. p. p. 357.

To those who wish to study Botany^ and to understand the structure, nature,
and uses of the various parts of which plants are composed, and we trust all the
Botanical readers of ^'The Naturalist" are of this class, we know of no book that
we could with greater confidence recommend than the above. Dr. Balfour's
high character as a Botanist is amply sustained in the very valuable work before
us; it is strictly confined to an elaborate, and at the same time remarkably
clear, description of the structure of plants as shewn in the present day, by the
microscope — in no department of nature perhaps have more discoveries been
made by this instrument, than in Botany. The engravings exhibiting minute
vegetable structures are I'emarkably plain and good, and will be of very great
assistance to the student who is unable to command the help of a microscope,
while to him who possesses one they will greatly simplify the knowledge of
the vegetable preparations he may possess or make. In the outset, too, some
concise directions are given for using the microscope; and the best method
of mounting structures which it may be desirable to preserve is also detailed.

Dr. Balfour commences by describing the structure of cells, and then goes
on to that of vessels, or elongated cells, of various kinds. The contents of
vegetable tissues and a description of the cuticle conclude the first chapter.
The second chapter is devoted to the nutritive organs of plants, including
the root, stem, and leaves. Chapter three embraces the re-productive organs

PROCEEDINGS OF SOCIETIKS. lo9

of flowering plants, while the fourth and last chapter describes the nutritive
and re-productive organs of flowerless plants, including the Ferns, Mosses,
and Sea-weeds. When it is stated that about three hundred and sixty
pages are divided among these four chapters, some idea of their extent may
be formed, but, unless seen and carefully read and examined, only a faint
idea of the amount of valuable information contained in them will be
obtained. Every page of the work is profusely illustrated by well-designed
and executed wood engravings, and one feature of this department strikes
us as particularly good, namely, that in every instance there is a full description
of the engraving in a note referring to its number. We particularly mention
this, as in many well-illustrated books much of the good that might be
derived by the young student is lost to him, from want of some such assistance
as is here given.

In Dr. Balfour's Class Book of Botany the student will, for a few shillings,
obtain what in our days of pupilage was unattainable, and may commence the
examination of flowers with far more positive and intimate knowledge of their
structure, than he could hope to reach after many years of study and labour,
without this or some similar book. We cordially recommend the Class Book
to our readers, and can only regret that the crowded state of our pages
prevents our entering as much into detail as we could wish 5 we have, however,
no fear of any one who purchases this book on our recommendation being
disappointed in its contents.

l^rntf^Mngs nf Intirtius.

Entomological Society. — At an ordinary meeting of this Society, held the 3rd. of May, 1852,
at 17t, Old Bond-Street, J. 0. "Westwood, Esq., President, in the chair, it was announced that
the council had determined on offering a prize of £5 for the best "Essaj- on the duration of
life in the three different kinds of individuals of the hive-bee," a subject, not only interesting,
but practically useful to the bee-keeper. The essays to be sent to the Society's rooms on or
before the 31st. of December next, and addressed, in sealed envelopes, "To the President and
Council of the Entomological Society of London," with the word "Essay" in the corner. Real
names and addresses of the essayists to be given.

The Secretary read an extract from the "Entomologische Zeitung," that Lithosia deprcssa
and L. helveola are only the different sexes of the same insect; also an extract from Mr. Robert
Fortune's "Journey to the Tea Countries of China," showing how the attacks of mosquitos may
be prevented by what is called mosquito tobacco, a kind of jostick, used commonly in Cliina
for that purpose. "Wherever that preparation is burnt, the mosquitos will not come, and imme-
diately seek other quarters on its being brought into their vicinity. Surely the inhabitants of
those countries where these little scourges abound, and especially travellers, owe much to Mr.
Fortune for making this invaluable remedy known.

Refen'ing to what transpired at the previous meeting of this Societ}', relative to the ridding
of houses of the Common Black Beetle, (Blatta Oricntalis,) the President read a letter he had
received from a gentleman detailing the particulars of a plan he had found highly effective. It
consists merely in having a round hole cut in the kitchen hearth-stone, large enough to admit
of a basin being inserted so that its rim is on a level with the stone ; the basin is then baited
at night with bread-crumbs, beer, &c. ; the insects fall in and cannot effect their escape, and are
easily destroyed in the morning with boiling water, if required. During the day this simple
contrivance may be covered over with an iron plate similar to a coal-plate.

160 THE QUERIST.

Dr. SiithEuland, lately from the Arctic regions, who was present as a visitor, exhibited,
through Mr. A. White, some Podurce he found there upon the ice, which appeared identical with
the Dcs.sirea found on the glaciers by Agassiz in the Swiss Alps.

During the evening various papers were read on different orders of insects brought home from
China by Mr. Fortune, which contained many novelties.

€^i (^mml

In the last number of "The Naturalist," I perceive a question is asked by S. Ilannaford,
Jun., as to the origin of the word "Wort," used in Botany. It is derived from the old Saxon
Yyrt, or Vcort, (Dutch, Worte,) signifying a herb, or plant generally. It is also sometimes
used to denote a plant of the cabbage family by some old authors ; and in other cases to denote
"new beer," either |ermented or not. — John L. Wight, London, June 4th., 1852.

Wort. — This word is derived from Pj^pr, Peopr — Saxon; Worte — Dutch. Originally it was a
gei\eral name for a herb, and is still preserved in Lousewort, I/UUgwort, Spleenwort, Spearwort,
Spiderwort, Woundwort, &c., that is, a herb having specific (supposed) properties for destroying
Lice, for curing affections of the Lung, and Spleen, or a herb having hastate, or spear-shaped
leaves. In Latin we have Caulis, or Collis, the Cabbage Colcwort. In German, Krant. Bene-
dicteukrant, Herb-beicet ; Leus-krant, Louse-wort. (liefer to "Todd's Johnson's Dictionary,"
Foiu-th Edition.) — E. Wilbraham Falconer, M. D., Bath, June, 1852.

In reply to the query of your correspondent, Mr. Ilannaford, as to the origin of the word
"Wort," I beg to say that it is no other than the Anglo-Saxon "Wyrt," or "Wurt," (differing
only in orthography,) and is sj'nonymous with "herb," which is from the Latin "herba." Hence
the name "Woundwort" would imjily "the herb (wort) for wounds;" and so on with regard to
the other words cited by the querist. In further illustration of the signification of this term,
it might be remarked that in Anglo-Saxon it is frequently compounded with other words, as
^^TFi/r(-bcd" a herb-bed; Wyrt-drenc, a. herb-drink, a purgative; Wyrt-gcard, a W'ort-yard — an
orchard; Wyrt-weard, a plant-keeper, or gardener. — I. W. N. Keys, Plymouth, June 1st., 1852.

Wyrt. — Anglo-Saxon herb, plant, a general term. In old German, Wiirze, herbs. Modern
Geraian, spices. Urt — Danish. Ort — Swedish. Urt, jurt — Norse. Ort-gcard — Anglo-Saxon, a
garden — an orchard. — W. Gray, York.

T. P. Fernic- — Mr. Tliwaite's receipt for a fluid for mounting and preserving Algse in. — Sixteen
parts of distilled water; one of spirits of wine, saturated with creosote, and carefully filtered
through chalk, and then mixed with the same quantity of Camphor water — Isabella Gifeord.

In answer to Mr. Femie, in the Querist for this month, I would point out to him, in
addition to the fluids recommended in Quekett's work on the Microscope, for preserving Confer\'8e,
&c., the following solution of Corrosive Sviblimate in water, of which Harting, of Utrecht, thus
speaks — "For prcpa)Tvtions of delicate vegetable tissues, and, in general, of all tender organs in
which it is desired to retain the starch globules and chlorophyl unaltered, for fresh-water alga-,
diatomacea;, conferva?, infusoria belonging to the division rotifera, &c., a solution containing
one four-hundredth, or one-five hundredth of Corrosive Sublimate is the best preservative with
■which I am acquainted." He also says "The blood corpuscles can be preserved unaltered in
no other fluid with which I have experimented. Tlie corpuscles of the frog requnc a fluid
containing one four-hundredth of Corrosive Sublimate; those of birds one three-hundredth;
of mammalia and man one two-hundredth.— R. May'smob, Devizes, May, 1852.

Birds' Kcsts. — 1st. —Has any ornithologist treated of the arrangement of the materials of birds'
nests, in reference to their respective powers of conducting heat? or 2nd., of the difi'erent altitudes
at which bu-ds build their nests? or 3rd., whctlicr the latter has any, and Avhat reference to
the powers of flight in birds? — E. Wilbraham Falconer, M. D., Bath, June, 1852.

I should feel much obliged to Mr. Mc'Intosh, or any of your correspondents, who would
favour me with a complete, or full list of the hardy -gi-o wing British Trees that will gi-ow from
slips or cuttings. — F. OiU'EN Morris, Nafferton Vicarage, Driffield, May 21st., 1852.

V'A

LETTERS OF AN 0RNITH0L0GT8T.
Letter I.

[Since the commencement of the past winter, these and other letters,
written by Mr. Graham, of lona, have formed part of a correspondence I have
had the happiness to enjoy with that gentleman j and I believe they contain
so much that is interesting to the ornithologist, apart from their pleasing
style, that many readers of "The Naturalist" will gladly excuse the mode
in which the information is conveyed to them. The receipt of these com-
munications has afforded me the liveliest satisfaction; and I am sure none
will regret they should have been offered for perusal. It may be proper to
observe that their enthusiastic author is not aware of the use to which they

are now put. — B. (7]

lona, February, 18r)2.

We have now fortunately begun to enjoy some pleasant weather, and I
took advantage of the very first of the fine days to launch my boat and
go round to the back of the island, to make an attempt upon a flock of
Long-tailed Ducks, which have been there all the winter; and I succeeded in
killing a pair of fine males. One of them was in such fine plumage, and so
little hurt, that I felt sorry I could not send him to you as he then appeared,
looking beautiful even in death, without having to spoil his good looks by
our clumsy hands in the operation of taking his jacket off.

A fine accessible RaA^en's nest, full of eggs, was wantonly destroyed by a
boat's crew of blackguard fishermen last year. The nest had been there for
a course of years, and the natives never meddled with it: it is on a wild
secluded cliff overhanging the sea, and the place was not canny! voices were
heard there — the thin voices of spirits! The Raven is not a canny bird,
especially those who were under special spiritual protection; and so there it
remained. I never heard of it till last year, as I suspect it was intentionally
concealed from me; for when I did discover it, several of the islanders,
including the village tailor, begged of me most earnestly not to think of
harrxjing the nest, or in any way to interfere with the foul fiend! Unfor-
tunately I was a day too late last year: I hope the vengeful spirit of the
desecrated nest overtook the fishermen with a good ducking before they got
home, and a foul wind ever after! I despaired of the Ravens returning,
but yesterday the old shepherd, (whose heart I had just enlarged by the
presentation of six inches of pigtail,) informed me that the Fi' ich, or Ravens,
had nearly finished building their nest in the old place. I hope that I may
get them if all goes right, even though it should be necessary to take a
basin of holy water from St. Columb's cell to dash into the nest and dislodge
the deil from his eggs.

Collecting eggs, however, is as uncertain and full of disappointment as even
wild-fowl shooting, and this is why I speak so cautiously in the list I have
just written; for many of these eggs, though very plentiful at the islands,

VOL. II. Y

1(>2 T,F,TTRRS OF AN OUNri'intl.OOIST.

must be procured at exactly the right time; and from the uncertainty of
the weather it is not always possible to get them. Last year, for instance,
being a week too late, out of nearly every PuflBn's and Black Guillemot's
hole, instead of an egg, I extracted an unpleasantly soft, downy, dirty, little
object, which I was glad to return again, receiving for my pains a furious
nip from the old one; and a Puffin's bite is really no joke; it is as bad as
a Parrot's, and he holds on like a bull-dog. The most cautious mode of
proceeding, when you wish to take up a live Puffin, is to give him a gentle
tap on the head to confuse him, and quickly grasp him round the neck
before he has time to catch your fingers. But one cannot be cruel to a
J'uffin, for his comical look would make a (!!ynic laugh.

I have not met with the Sandw ich Tern here at all, though the Common
and Arctic Terns, especially the latter, breed in profusion, so that we use
their eggs as an article of food; but I will keep a watch for it next year.
The Hooded Crow's eggs are most numerous, as these odious birds are most
extraordinarily abundant, and they are very persevering in nestling, although
their nests and eggs are continually destroyed. Last year I witnessed a very
striking instance of this, for, finding a nest, I waited till it contained five
eggs, and then took them. A few days after I examined it, and found
three eggs, which I took, and destroyed the nest. About a fortnight later I
found a new nest built not a gun-shot from the old situation, containing four
eggs, which the hen was hatching. From the lateness of the season, as well
as the proximity of the situation, I hailed her as my persevering old friend.

I am informed on undoubted authority, that it is a common trick for young
people to remove the Ploody's eggs, and replace them with Bantam's eggs
slightly rubbed with indigo, which the Crow hatches most faithfully; only
they must be removed immediately from the nest, before the foster-mother
has time to destroy her spurious brood. I have so far witnessed this experiment,
that four small Hen's eggs, which I placed in a nest, were most faithfully
covered by the Crow for ten days, when unfortunately they were taken away
by a mischievous boy. A much more cruel trick is that of boiling the
eggs hard to prevent their being hatched, and consequently the poor bird
sits on them till she gets so exhausted as to be incapable of flying, and so
falls alive into the hands of her young tormentors. A young one taken from
the nest becomes a useful garden scavenger, destroying all kinds of injurious
insects.

J hope to get some new eggs this season, by setting the boys on the search
among the moors over in Mull; but it is not easy to get the people to
understand why yoii want eggs. An egg collector in the Highlands must go
armed with a roll of tobacco in one pocket, and halfpence and lozenges in
the other; the one for shepherds, the otlier for herd-boys, and then he will
gain their sympathy and good-will. St. John, in his "Tour in Sutherland,"
when inquiring about an Eagle's nest of an old shepherd, breaks out into a
lamentaticui upon the reserve of the llighlanders, '^vho seem to have a

LETTERS OK AN ORMTHOl.OUlST. 163

suspicious dislike to giving information." It is a wonder that such an old
sportsman should uot have been acquainted with the talisman which unlocks
the cannie lips of old Donald. A little meeshin, or a few inches of tobacco^
at once goes to the heart of the old luountaineer; but it must be given in
the right way, not as you Avould throw a beggar a halfpenny, but with such
a remark as '^maybe you're out of tobacco to day, Donald," or "try this
Sandy, and tell me if it's good or no." The gentle tveed is the great mollifier
among the wildest nations; the Arab exchanges pipes on meeting his friend,
as an assurance of his good faith, and the American chiefs dispel the impending
war cloud by a few whiflfe from the pacific calmut. Had tobacco been discovered
in the middle ages, I will answer for it that those warlike barons would
have stopped at home and smoked their pipes upon their castle walls, instead
of galloping about the country cutting people's throats.

I am on the eve of starting on a trip to the north-west extremity of
Mull, where there is a loch famous for Widgeon and other Ducks I shall
take a boat and one hand, touching, if it is possible, at Staffa on the way,
for Geese abound there. I wish I could have the pleasure of your company:
I have plenty of feathered society indeed, but I would rather, for a companion,
have one of Plato's two-legged animals without feathers! The time of my
absence will depend entirely upon the wind.

Letter II.

lona, March, 1852.

You will be glad to heau that the charm of the Raven's nest has been
broken, that we attempted it last week, and succeeded in liarrying it. It
contained five eggs; and I will willingly consign to you my share, though I
have a companion who lays claim to half of the plunder. I.^he nest was
situated on a very dangerous cliff, not in the same place as the old nest.
The beetling crag overhung it so as to make it invisible from above, except
from a projecting ledge about a gun-shot further on. The old shepherd had
stipulated with me that the Raven was to be shot; but he was so eager to
point out the right position for seeing the nest, that he obstructed my aim
at the critical moment of the bird's launching herself off the nest. Shepherds
of course have a hereditary hatred of Ravens, but I was glad that she
escaped, as I have no grudge against her, and I could not have saved her
skin^ for she would have fallen into the stormy waves far down beneath the
nest. I was disappointed in the size of the eggs, as they are not larger
than those of the Hooded Crow; they are of a longer shape, and their colour
is a fine deep greenish blue, and with few or no spots.

I was out walking this evening, since writing the above, and I saw the two
Ravens evidently choosing a locality for trying a new nest. One of them had a
piece of moss or wool in its bill. They are apparently disposed to try the
opposite side of the island for their new habitation. Though I did not go
atler them, for fear of frightening them from their intention, yet I have a

104 I.ETTKliS OF AX ORNTTirOI.OOIST.

good idea of the spot they will choose — a precipitous cliff, generally tenanted
by a pair of Kestrels and several Hooded Crows. The latter seemed jealous
of this encroachment, and two pairs of these Crows constantly followed them
with vociferous cries; the short, angry bark of the Ravens warned them not
to interfere with them; but the Hooded Crow is a bold, determined fellow,
with powerful bill and claws, too, which he uses with effect in a skirmish.
His cries also never fail to collect all his clan to his assistance: in this way
I have often seen Kestrels and Merlins miserably hustled; and the lordly
Peregrine does not pass without being insulted. They pursue the small Hawks
with great venom and fury; and although I never saw a battle terminate
fatally, yet I have occasionally met with their bones and carcasses. On one
occasion I picked up a fine Buzzard, only a few hours dead, with no mark
of violence but a slight wound upon the head. How deceased met with his
death there was not sufficient evidence to prove, but I was tempted to return
a verdict of wilful murder against some Hoody or Hoodies unknown.

I returned yesterday from a short cruise about the north-west parts of
Midi. I was disappointed in my expectations of getting Widgeon, as they
had got very shy since the fine weather set in, though I saw some large
flocks floating about the lochs, but keeping far out of range, even of swan-
shot. The only good fortune I had was while rowing through the sound of
Ulva, where I saw a party of three Great Northern Divers very busy fishing,
and calling to one another with loud hoarse shouts. I rowed up close to one,
and fired a charge of No. 7 into him at thirty yards, and, without stopping,
held on in the direction of his consort, who had dived at the report, but
rose again close to the boat, and another shot stretched her on her back.
The third was not much • scared, but would not let me approach him, and I
was not very anxious to pursue him. These are very large birds, and they
weigh, I am sure, fourteen pounds each, though I have not weighed them
yet. The skin of one is very little hurt, which I will try to preserve: they
are only in their plain winter garb.

Immediately after meeting with these great monsters, I found myself
surrounded by the other extreme of the family of Colyuibidjc, namely, three
most minute little Dobchicks, or Grebes. Their activity utterly set my shooting
at defiance; and, with a heavy boat deeply laden with ballast, I could not
attempt pursuing them till they were fatigued, which is the only mode of
getting them. I remembered your inquiries about Grebes; but as there are a
few in our neighbourhood, in Mull, I intend to take a light punt to pursue
them with, and so I will defer making any remarks concerning them till
after this opportunity of studying their habits. Yesterday, in returning home,
my mate and I had to pull the entire distance, twenty-five miles; which
gave us hard work from two p. m. till ten, besides a walk of ten miles over
the hills in the morning.

(To be coiitiiiKcd.)

THE NEST OF THE KINGFISHER, {ALGEDO ISPIDA.)

BY ^^r-YCIDAS."

It appears to me somewhat strange, that in this age when everything is
well nigh reduced to a fact, and craving curiosity pries into every work of
natm'e — too often for some utilitarian end — that our tropical-coloured little
Halcyon — ill fated — because so beautiful, should still succeed is mystifying the
intruder on her haunts, and leave something yet for the mind to speculate upon.

I see in vol. i., page 22 of your periodical, that a very agreeable corres-
pondent expresses a doubt as to the construction of the Kingfisher's nest, and
again at page 57, I find it stated by another contributor, that this bird
does not construct its nest of ejected fish bones, but lays its eggs on the bare
soil the first year of its occupation of the hole, but in the second and following
years incubates on the castings of the young of the first year. It is neither
my wish or intention to enter into any polemical discussion, but I would simply
desire to give you the result of a very slight and superficial observation. In
an evil hour, under the influence of some cruel demon, who reigns supreme
over egg collectors, I have sacrilegiously pillaged the nest of this, the most
'besung' of all birds, and have ever found the eggs placed on a small quantity
of minute fish-bones at the extremity of the hole.

It is still fresh in my mind, as a great epoch in my life, the thrilling
excitement I felt, when as a truant school-boy, I first marked the Kingfisher
to her hole. Great were the demonstrations of friendship shewn me by many
of my school-fellows, following the same pursuit as myself* many were the
offers to assist me in taking the nest, but I kept my own councils, for I
calculated on another prize the next season, as I knew well that the birds
would construct their nest again at no great distance from their old hole.
Well, this proved to be the case, for the same pair of birds worked their
hole the next year within a few feet of their old nest, and I again robbed
them, and still found the eggs placed on fish bones, differing only from the
nest of the former year, inasmuch as there was perhaps a smaller quantity
of fish bones, and the hole was free from excrement, whereas I found the nest
of the first year exceedingly offensive, arising from the large quantity of the
foeces of the young, the same hole having doubtlessly descended through several
generations as a patrimony in the family. In after years, long since the time
I have just alluded to, I blush to say that I again robbed a Kingfisher's nest;
and again in the following spring I found the neic nest containing fish bones,
as in the case I have before alluded to.

In making the foregoing observations, I would not wish to be understood
as impugning in the remotest degree the statements, or denying the accuracy
of the research of your correspondents, — mine may be the exception, theirs
the rule.

It has often been my fortune to watch this little bird for hours beside the
rippling stream, '"'where the dark trout leaps/' the beauty of its plumage, and

166 THK NEST OK THE KINGFISHER.

its somewhat curious nature have ever fascinated me. If you incautiously
advance suddenly on her haunts, your inquiry is awakened, but not appeased,
for the eye is just dazzled for an instant by something as brilliant and rapid
as a meteor, shooting down the margin of the stream. But if you advance
quietly, the Kingfisher appears to extend confidence to man, and you may
then see her sitting motionless on a willow spray overhanging the water, like
some pendent and beautiful flower, resplendent in the sun of a warmer clime.
If you have patience, and it is a virtue indispensable in a naturalist, you will
see her suddenly dart from her resting-place, hover for a moment over the
brook, like some gaily -pain ted butterfly, ere it pitches on its chosen flower,
and then in mystery is lost to your gaze, leaving only a faint ripple on the
stream as a conjecture whither she has vanished. You are not however long
in anxiety as to her fate, for in the twinkling of an eye she regains her
favoured seat — usually some old branchless trunk — with the hapless minnow
in her mouth. Nature, in her ever just distribution of the beautiful, seems
to have given this little bird its gorgeous plumage, as a compensation for its
total absence of song. The only note I have ever heard her tune, is a
mournful and singularly-plaintive whistle, should you advance near her nesting-
place, which freshens in one's memory Ovid's sorrowful tale of the Shipwrecked
and transformed Ceyx, and the devotion of his Queen.

Where the stream suddenly winds, the watei's washing with some force
against the contending bank, play back in a rippling eddy; here, the bank
being usually high, and free from the burrowings of the water-rat, the King-
fisher loves it for a home to incubate and rear her callow brood. The
practised eye can never fail to discover her nest. The hole is almost inva-
riably about a foot from the top of the bank, and of nearly a circular form;
its length averages about four feet, and at the extremity is somewhat larger,
and hollowed out in a circular form. These little birds appear fully to
understand the principle of drainage, for you always see a gradual fall from
the nest to the entrance of the hole, so as to allow the foeces of the young
to run off"; and indeed so well does their ingenuity succeed that it is often
their betrayer, for the excrement finding vent at the entrance of the hole,
tells the plundering youth that it is the home of the Kingfisher. I have
read somewhere in books, written I think by men who have observed but
little for themselves, that this bird often constructs its nest in the hole of
the water-rat. I have ever endeavoured to discover thxt such is the case,
but I have always found that on the contrary tho Kingfisher carefully avoids
rat's holes, and selects such a position in the bank for her nest, as is out of
the reach of these animals, and far above high water mark. The eggs arc
generally five or six in number, and of a delicate pink hue, but when blown
become of a beautiful enamelled white. They soon however lose their trans-
parency, unless the thin membrane which encircles the inside of the shell be
extracted, when they retain their grained appearance for a long period. The
eggs are placed on a small quantity of minute fi;>h bones, (probably as much

TriK VKST OF THE KlNfiFISHKH. 1 G7

as could be held in one's hand,) which I have always taken to be the castings
or pellets of the old birds, rather than the foeces of the young, as I have
seen them in nests never tenanted by young birds, and have found them to
be quite white and free from excrement.

If we are not yet quite familiar with the economy of the Kingfisher, it is
a pleasure to reflect that the ornithological intelligence of the age, shines in
striking contrast with the quaint ignorance of the first century in our christian
era; for my eye happened a short time since to alight on the following passage
in Pliny, which may prove somewhat amusing from its curious phraseology
and strange research: — "The Halcyones are of great name and much marked.
The very seas and they that saile thereupon know well when they sit and
breede. This very bird, so exceeding notable, is little bigger than a Sparrow:
for the more part of her plumage, blew, intermingled yet among with white
and purple feathers, having a thin small neck and long withall. There is a
second kind of them breeding about the sea side, differing both in quantitie
and also in voice; for it singcth not as the former do, which are lesser, for they
haunt rivers, and sing among the flagges and reeds. It is a very great chance
to see one of these Halcyones, and never are they seen but about the setting
of the Starre Virgilioe, or else neere midsumer, or midwinter when dales be
shortest; and the times whiles they are broodie, are called the Halcyon dales;
for during that season, the sea is calme and navigable, especially in the coast
of Sicilie. In other parts also, the sea is not so boisterous, but more quiet
than at other times, but surely the Sicilian Sea is very gentle, both in the
streights and also in the open ocean. Now about seven dales before midwinter,
that is to say, in the beginning of the month of December, they build: and
within as many dales after they have hatched. Their nests are wonderously
made, in fashion of a round bal, the mouth or entrie thereof standeth some
what out, and is very narrow, much like unto great spunges. A man cannot
cut and pierce the nest with sword or hatchet; but breake they will with some
strong knocke, like as the drie foam of the sea, and no man could ever finde
of what they be made."

Another great writer of rather a later date speaks of the Kingfisher's nest
as follows: — "It is the bones of some fish, which with her beak, and other
instruments she joins together, interlacing them some lengthwise, and others
across, and aiding ribs and hoops in sush manner, that she forms at last a
round vessel fit to launch, which being done, and the building finished, she
carries it to the edge of the sea beach, where the waves beating against it,
shews her where to mend what is not well joined and knit, and where better
to fortifie the seams that arc leaky, and open at the beating of the waves;
and on the contrary, what is well built and has had due finishing, the beating
of the waves does so close and bind together, that it is not to be broken
or cracked by blows either of stone or iron without a great deal of trouble.
What is still more to be admired is the proportion and figure of the cavity
within, Avhich is composed and proportioned after such a manner that it is

168 THE HOUSE MAKTIN.

not possible to receive or admit any other thing, save the bird which built
it, for to every thing else it is so impenetrable, close, and shut, that nothing
can enter, not even the water of the sea."

If, after all, this Iron Age of Mechanism — '^these dregs of life" — is not
fraught with much of love and taste for Nature's simple charms, we at
all 6vents, in Zoology, approach nearer truth than did the dwellers upon
the land in those days, "whence our fabling Poets took their Golden Age."
I lament, however, that the Spirit of the Times has now no faith in the
genial influence of the Halcyon days, for never was tranquility and repose
more required by wearied and shattered man.

I hailed. Sir, with delight the advent of your periodical, which is based
on such a plan as will render it accessible to every one, from the peer
to the peasant J for I was ever taught in childhood, and the belief has ripened
with my years, that the study and appreciation of the. good and beautiful in
Nature, are elements necessary to breathe into society a truly healthy and
moral tone. It has always seemed to me that those lines of our Poet Coleridge
are singularly beautiful, and teem with- truth — •

"He prayeth best who loveth best
All things both great and small,
For the dear God who loveth us
He made and loveth all."

Those who have been trained in the harsher rudiments of schools, and have
been inculcated with the arid doctrines of scholastic dogmas, may, though
strangely recognising the force of allegory, disapprove of reality, and object to
Nature as a guide to truth, yet, it is my conviction, that there cannot be a
more suasive appeal to the wav^rer, or infidel in faith, than the charms and
magnificence of Nature; she touches at once the affections and the finer feelings
of man. In truth did one of the greatest founders of Natural History,
Linnaeus, the memory of whose departed genius can never fade, inscribe in
golden words, ''That he who does not make himself acquainted with the all-
wise Providence from the consideration of Nature, will scarcely acquire
knowledge of Him from any other source, for if we have no faith in the
things that are seen, how should we believe those things that are not seen."

THE HOUSE MARTIN, {HIRUNDO URBICA)

BY JOHN DIXON, ESQ.

During the spring of 1851, a couple of Martins built under the eaves of
a new house, at Moor Allerton, the residence of a friend of mine. The
nest occupied about eight days in building, and when completed, an audacious
cock Sparrow unceremoniously took possession, and kept the rightful owners
out. They made every exertion to dislodge the intruder, and for some time
kept up a most vigorous assault ; but could make nothing of their troublesome

THE GABBLE RATCHET. 169

customei'j who presented his hard horny beak at the entrance^ and kept his
position most manfully. ' Tired with this skirmishing, they flew off, but pre-
sently returned with a strong force of comrades. The attack again commenced,
and the Sparrow was at last dislodged, but not until the nest was partly
demolished. It was again repaired, but from some unknown reason the
Martins forsook it.

The Sparrow again took possession, accompanied by a mate; their noisy
proceedings led to another scrape. The hen was shot, and the old cock
narrowly escaped the same fate. In the course of a few days he forgot his
sorrow, picked up another mate, and once more determined to try his luck
at the old quarters. "Fortune favours the brave," such gallantry had won
him some compassion; he once more enjoyed his airy lodgings unmolested, and
turned out a numerous brood in safety. The nest is again occupied; we are
daily looking for the Martins' arrival, and quite expect our noisy friends will
meet with a warm reception.

Leeds, April \^th., 1852.

THE GABBLE RATCHET.

BY JOHN DIXOK, ESQ.

Many of our country friends, when out late on a still dark evening, mjty
have often been startled at hearing a singular noise overhead, produced by
some invisible agency. It is heard all the year round, most frequently in
shady lanes and by the sides of plantations; the gloomy character of which
at such times tends to conjure up ideas not the most soothing. It is un-
questionably produced by some bird on the wing, and much resembles the
shrill sharp cry often uttered- by the Lapwing towards nightfall. The country
folks in the north of Yorkshire call it the Gabble Ratchet, and very readily
class it amongst the supernatural; gravely telling of its being the soul of an
unbaptized child, doomed to flit about after nightfall, for the purpose of
frichtening a host of silly rustics and superstitious old women, who always
prophesy some bad luck attendant on hearing it.

Gilbert White, in his "Natural History of Selborne," writes "Those that
are much abroad on evenings after it is dark, in sprincf and summer, fre-
quently hear a nocturnal bird passing by on the wing, and repeating often a
short quick note. This bird I have remarked myself, but could never make
it out till lately. I am assured now that it is the Stone Curlew." If the
noise mentioned by White, be similar to the Gabble Ratchet, it cannot be
produced by the Stone Curlew, a migratory bird quite unknown in this
district. Many suppose the Goatsucker produces it; but the fact of its being
heard in the depth of winter, shatters that supposition. It is a curious
mystified subject, worthy of attention, and probably some of your many
readers may be enabled to throw more light upon it.

Leeds, April Ihth., 18r>2.

L

170
RARE BIRDS NEAR LYNN.

BY T. SOUTHWEUi^ ESQ.

The following rare birds have occurred during the past autumn and winter
in this neighbourhood: —

Spotted Redshank, (Totanus fuscus^) shot at Clenchwarton, September 11th.,
1851.

Sandwich Tern, (Sterna Boysii-,) shot at Hunstanton, September Gth., 1851.

Honey Buzzard, (Pernis apivorus.) — A fine adult male specimen shot at
Terrington, in November, 1851.

Great Northern Diver, Colymbus glacialis,) shot at Thornhara, about the
4th. of December, 1851.

Bed-throated Diver, (C. septentrionalis,) has occurred several times during

the past four months; the last I saw was taken alive in a fishing-boat on

the first of May; it was just assuming the red throat: the others were all
young birds in the plumage of the first winter.

Shoveler Duck, (Anas clypeata,) has also occurred several times during
the past winter.

Pink-fooled Goose, (Anser brachyrhynchus.) — Two specimens in December,
1851.

White-fronted Goose, (A. albifrons.) — Several specimens towards the end of
January, 1852. From the mild nature of the winter, and the inland waters
remaining open, the number of Wildfowl frequenting the estuary of the Ouse
has been unusually small, and but few scarce specimens have been obtained;
scarcely an individual of the genus Anser having occurred, except during a
little severe weather in December and January.

Black Grouse, (Tetro tetrix.) — A female was shot at Clenchwarton, during
April last.

I might also mention three specimens of the Polish Swan, (Cygnus immu-
tahilis,) shot out of a flock of thirteen, at Ingoldisthorpe, in December, 1851,
supposed to have left the waters at Holkham.

Lynn, Norfolk, May lith., 1852.

ON THE SUBMERGENCE OF BIRDS.

BY 0. S. ROUND, ESQ.

SiNCR reading the Editor's excellent article in the first volume of "The
Naturalist," on this subject, I call to mind several observations which I have
myself made upon it, and which all go to corroborate his view as the correct
one. I have stood for hours watching the Dobchicks, [Podicops minor,) and
Water-hens, ( GalVmula chloropus,) on a large pond not far from our country

• ON THE SUBMERGENCE OF BIRDS. 171

residence, and these birds were for the greater part of the time with little
more than the bill above- water, which was very clear; if I suddenly ran round
to that part where they were lying near the shore among the rushes, I could see
them swim only just beneath the surface with the same ease as upon it;
and these birds, [Gallinulce,) are, as we know, waders more than swimmers;
although in the instance I speak of, nothing could be more perfect than the
command of subaqueous motion which they displayed. I think, however, the
bird most perfect in this qualification, is the Water Ouzel, (Cinclus aquaticus.)
I recollect very well when I was at Ambleside, being struck with astonish-
ment at the almost amphibious gambols of these pretty little birds. Sometimes
after a wet day, when the water would come roaring over the masses of stone
in its course from the Rydal falls, in the most impetuous manner, there
would be perhaps a pair of these birds popping in and out of the torrent,
now lost in the black mass of water, or the white foam as it broke against
a projecting rock; and now emerging and resting for a few seconds on a small
point of stone; and with a shake apparently as dry in a moment, as if nothing
had happened to moisten their feathers; their brilliantly white breasts shining
in the highest relief amidst the surrounding deep gray stones, and deep brown
stream. They appeared to have almost the powers of fish.

The Kingfisher has something of the same power, but in a very compara-
tively limited degree, for he merely remains for a few seconds at most under
water. The most perfect exhibition of this power I ever witnessed, was
some years ago, at the gardens of the Zoological Society, in the case of

one of those singular birds called Darters, (Plotus ?) It was necessary

to capture him for some purpose, and as his wing was cut, this was supposed
to be a matter of small difficulty; but those who thought so, grossly mis-
calculated, for upon the first attempt to take him, with unerring instinct he
made his way to the water, wherein he was confident in strength. The pond
was small and not deep, and yet for more than half-an--hour did he completely
baffle the efforts of half-a-dozen men armed with poles, etc., and as many
coadjutors, in chance boys, but too ready to assist. I suppose never was a
more wonderful display of subaqueous powers; so great were they, that many
of the spectators, who had not seen the commencement of the chase, were
not in the least aware ivhat was the object, until he was brought to land;
unfairly caught even then, and apparently nothing daunted.

We can well understand how active exertions rightly made, may produce
continued submersion and subaqueous motion; but that curious provision by
which birds are enabled to swim just beneath the surface, can, I think, be
explained in no other way than that advanced in the article I refer to;
for in that way the bird has it perfectly in its power to regulate the amount of
submergence according to circumstances, which in no other way, by no movement
of the webbed feet or otherwise, could it do. But before I close these remarks,
I may observe that such birds as are capable of this evolution are not the
lightest birds nor the best flyers, except in the larger Divers and the Cormo-

172 GLEANINGS FROM MY NOTE BOOK.*

rant tribc^ which are all, if I mistake not, adepts in this way.

With animals, it is notorious that the Otter, (Lidra vulgaris,) when pur-
sued, swims with his nose only above water, in exactly the same position as
the birds which have been referred toj but in this case, I imagine his general
powers of subaqueous motion are the sole agents engaged; indeed I have seen
some of the Messrs. Kenworthy, the celebrated diving and swimming professors,
at the Holborn Baths, do very much the same thing.

Lincolns-Tnn-Fields, June Ast., 1852.

GLEANINGS FROM MY NOTE BOOK.— No 1.

BY J. Mc'iNTOSH, ESQ.

Sirds Eggs. — To preserve the colour of these, there are various ways:
the best I have found is to wash them twice with isinglass dissolved in gin.
The shining properties of the varnish soon disappear, leaving the egg quite
natural in appearance.

Frozen Fish. — Sir R. Phillips says "at Coppermine River, fish are so frozen
as to break with the blow of a hatchet, but if when thus frozen, they are
thawed by the fire, they will revive."

Swallows. — These birds do percli on the branches of trees. On June 29th.,
1851, observed tiventy-five perched on the branches of a walnut tree, and
have frequently on former occasions observed the same thing.

House Martins. — These birds also perch on the branches of trees. I have
frequently observed them in the evenings, about six o'clock, when hawking
for flies, alight on the branches of oak and elm trees for some minutes, as
if to rest themselves, yet they would frequently dart at a passing insect, and
again return to their perch.

Moorhen. — It has been frequently doubted whether this bird perches in
trees. We have frequently caught them in our hands, by the light of the
moon, so perched, while they were "napping" and are quite satisfied in our own
minds that they roost in trees in places where they are not likely to be dis-
turbed by prowling boys, foxes, etc. Wc have most frequently found them in
spruce fir tree branches; but where these trees are not close to their haunts,
they may be found perched in alder and willow stumps; we have also found
their nests in willow stumps six feet from the ground.

Jackdaws Egg. — May 28th., 1851, took a Jackdaw's egg of a dirty white,
or rather light stone-colour, which is still in my possession, with two largo
blackish patches — one on each side. Is this a common or an uncommon
occurrence with the eggs of this bird?

Hatching Fish. — Hatching eggs by artificial heat is well known and ex-
tensively practised in various countries, but I am not aware that the hatching

NOTES ON THE GEOLOGY OF EAST LOTHIAN ANB BERWICKSHIRE. 173

of fish bj artificial heat is practised in any other country but China.
Martyn^ in his "China," says the fishermen collect with care, on the margin
and surface of the water, all the gelatinous matter that contains spawn of
fish, which is then placed in an egg-shell, which has been freshly emptied
through a small hole, which is then stopped, and the shell is placed under
a sitting fowl. In a few days the Chinese break the shell in warm water,
warmed by the sun; the young fish are then placed in water, until they are
large enough to be placed in a pond.

The Lapwing. — When this bird wants to procure food, it seeks a spot
likely to abound with worms, and commences stamping the ground with its
feet, slender as they are: the worms are alarmed at the sound, and endeavour
to make their escape by coming to the surface, when they are immediately
seized, and become the easy prey of their cunning enemy, the beautiful Lapwing.

Vitality of Fish. — Some fish die almost immediately they are taken out of
the water, for instance Mackerel, and the Herring, while others, as the Eel,
Plaice, Skate, Carp, and various other species, will live for many hours after
being brought to land. Perch have been known to survive a journey of
sixty miles per coach, not per rail, packed in straw; and Carp can be fattened
when placed in damp moss in cellars, if occasionally dipped in water; so also
the Turbut: others, again, sufier the most dreadful mutilations, as the Eel,
the Shark, and the Dog-fish, without being speedily killed.

Merriotl, near llmhister, Somersetshire.

NOTES ILLUSTRATIVE OF

THE GEOLOGY OF PxVRT OF THE SHORES OF

EAST LOTHIAN AND BERWICKSHIRE.

BY JAMES P. FRASEIl, ESQ.
Head before the Natural History Society of Glasgow, on April 6th., 1852.

On the 2Gth. day of February I had the pleasure of accompanying my
friends Messrs. Robert Gray and T. Ferguson on an excursion to Dunbar
and its neighbourhood, when I seized the opportunity of making a few
geological notes in addition to those I made on a former visit in July last.
These I have much pleasure in laying before the Society; but as Mr. W.
Ferguson has already written a paper upon the geology of part of this shore,
which was read before the Philosophical Society last session, and printed in
'^The Naturalist," I will avoid what he has done, and take up what he
had not time to examine.

In commencing, then, I will begin with general features, and descend
afterwards to minute details. The surface of the country in this district is
extremely diversified, though not mountainous. The principal rising grounds
arc the Lammermuir Hills, consisting chiefly of uptilted Silurian strata, upon

174 KOTES ON THE GEOT.OGY OP EAST LOTHIAN AND BERWICKSHIRE.

which the Old Red and Carboniferous rocks repose. The general inclination
is from the foot of the Lammermuir range towards the north-east, but the
descent is far from uniform. From the shores of the Frith of Forth the
country consists of a series of parallel ridges, running from west to east, and
successively increasing in altitude until they reach the Lammermuir Hills.

The Old Red Sandstone forms a considerable portion of the district, and
generally rests upon Metamorphic rocks, and is covered by the Coal formation.
It is of a brownish red colour, though occasionally of a yellowish or grayish
white, gliding not unfrequently into a delicate bluish white, imparting, in
some places, a variegated aspect to the shore. It alternates from very fine
to very coarse granular, thus passing into the Conglomerate. The strata vary
from a few inches to several feet in thickness, and are generally inclined to
the horizon. The dip I have never seen to exceed 45", and the usual direction
is from north-east to south-west. The Lammermuir range, as I have already
said, is composed principally of Greywacke, or Silurian rocks, and the position
of the strata is nearly vertical.

The harbour of Dunbar is situated in a red-coloured Trap rock, which
forms a large promontory. To the south-east of the harbour the coast is
low and sandy, consisting of Old Red Conglomerated Sandstone, Trap-tufa,
and Greenstone rock. The lower strata of the Sandstone are calcareous,
containing in the upper beds the impressions of vegetables, and in the lower
the remains of Encrinites, Producti, Terebratulce, etc. To the north-west of
the harbour the coast is more elevated and rugged, consisting of lofty cliffs
of red- coloured Trap-tufa, which are succeeded by others of red and white
Sandstone. From Belhaven Bay to North Berwick, the coast is low and
sandy with the exception of the small promontory of Whitberry Head and
Ravensheuo-h Craig. Dr. Macknight has described it as follows: — "It is a
Trap formation, apparently overlying, but in reality subordinate to, the Old
Red Sandstone, and consists of Basalt with crystals of Hornblende, red and
green Trap-tufa impregnated with Lime, beautiful Clinkstone, and Porphyry
Slate." This description is that of a true Wernerian, and is not in accordance
with the views now entertained. It appears really to have been a submarine
volcano the contents of which have burst through the Sandstones, and over-
flowed them. Many beautiful examples of this are to be seen along the
whole extent of coast already noticed, and the Sandstones may be observed
to be quite metamorphosed, having been indurated by the excessive heat of
the liquid rock, and present the appearance at first sight of compact Felspar."^
About a mile north-west of Whitberry is the elevated rock called Ravensheugh
Craig consisting principally of Greenstone and Basalt, with crystals of Horn-

* It must be observed and borne in mind that the whole of the lieadland which forms the
southern shore of the Frith of Forth is Trap, covered here and there, upon the coast, with
small patches of Old Red Sandstone and Carboniferous rocks, principally, however, the latter.
These I have no doubt, were raised from the point of their deposition by the Trap, and originiilly
covered it but by denudation have now nearly disappeared; but this will be entered into more
fully at the close of this paper.

^OTES ON THE GKOI.OOY OF HAST I.OTIIIAN AXD TJERWICKSfllRE. 175

blende. To the north the coast again becomes elevated^ and near Tantallan
Castle the cliflfe are particularly rugged, and rise to the height of a hundred feet.

And now to be a little more particular. On the forenoon of the 27th.,
our little party wandered leisurely along the coast towards Belhavcn; but
as this has all been described in Mr. Ferguson's admirable paper, I will
pass on to our afternoon's ramble, eastward along the shore, to the Catcraig.
On our road we passed over and admired many interesting geological phenom-
ena,— the thin sharp edges of the Old Red, having the appearance, as Mr.
Ferguson graphically describes it, of ^^the ridges of a ploughed field on a
gigantic scale," so regularly are they laid out. Suddenly we find this regularity
close: the gently-sloping edges are raised to the vertical position, then they
are reversed, and here we find them reclining on a great dyke of Greenstone;
we find this succeeded by the ancient forest and the ripple-mark, and then
the Shale with its Encrinites.^ We now walk over a fine expanse of sand,
and arrive at the Catcraig. The rock here is Limestone, and it is characterized
by the immense abundance of Corals which it contains — indeed it appears to
have been one great reef; the colour is a bluish gray; it is. very compact,
and highly crystalline, and its thickness seems to be considerable. I may
mention that here the strata are quite horizontal. The Corals of this bed
are Madreporites, and imbedded with them are some Terehratulce, and in the
Shales around, which form the lower beds of this Limestone, the larger
Producti are so abundant as almost entirely to form these lower layers of
the Limestone beds. They uniformly rest with the convex side of the valve
downwards, thereby indicating the tranquil condition of the bed of the sea
where they lived and died.

On the morning of the 28th., the party proceeded by rail to Cockburns-
path, which stands upon the borders of the counties of East Lothian and
Berwickshire, and walked from that to Siccar Point, along the headlands.
The road is wild and varied: the path overhangs the sea, which it commands
beautifully, yet fearfully, to a great extent. It is a silent, sublime, and
sea-beat scene, where the German Ocean rolls its strength on the rocky
precipices; and to enjoy the wild sublimity of the landscape, we often stood
awhile and listened calmly to the fierce music of the waves which beat
against the rugged base, and were then lashed into the whitest foam, as if
enraged at their own impotent fury. The noonday light of a cold, clear
February day was full on the rocks, bringing out in bold relief their varied
lights and shades, the old ruined church of St. PTelen's, hoary with age, and
the modern homes: no cry of the mariner, no voices from the crowded mart,
or from the chambers of luxury, came over the waters.

Having reached Siccar Point, we descended the precipice by a road, to a
giddy head, not very safe, exit out by the proprietor Sir James Hall, for
the convenience of visitors. Having arrived at the bottom, we entered the

* For a beaiitiful and correct description of the strata in the immediate neighbourhood of
Dunbar, See ifr. AY. Ferguson's monograph in "Tlie Naturalist," vol. i., page 97.

176

NOTES OX TH5 GEOLOGY OF EAST LOTHIAN AND BERWICKSHIRE,

cave^ into which the roar of the waves came with a hollow and sepulchral
voice, and the sea-birds swept shrieking around its mouth. This cave is in
the Clay-slate and Schists of the Laramermuirs, where they are undermined
by the sea. In the interior the Slates are traversed by innumerable and
very beautiful Quartz veins; and we were sorry that from the want of
instruments sufficiently heavy, we could not procure specimens so fine as we
desired. In looking out to sea we observed that the entrance of the cave
is characterized by a gorge of the same width with itself, but apparently of
great depth, up which the sea came rolling and tossing, as if anxious to lick
the sides of the interior, and jealous of its privacy being broken in upon by
any intruder; and by its fury it was here dashed into a foam rivalling the
snow in purity, and so thick that a small wand might almost have stood
erect in it. It was a scene which every true lover of nature must have
admired and enjoyed. This cave is a famous breeding- place of the Rock
Pigeon, (Columba livia;) and the roof was almost as full of last year's nests
as of Stalactites.

In coming out of the cave, we observed that the Old Red Sandstone lay
unconformably to the Clay- slate; indeed the object of our first visit was for
the purpose of studying and examining this phenomenon. Strata are said to be
unconformable, when one series is so placed over another, that the planes of
the superior repose on the edges of the inferior. In this case it is evident
that a period had elapsed between the production of the two sets of strata,
and that during this interval the older series had been tilted and disturbed.
Afterwards the upper series was thrown down in horizontal strata upon it.
If these superior beds are also inclined, as they are very considerably, it is
plain that the lower strata have been twice displaced; first before the depo-
sition of the newer beds, and a second time when these same strata were
thrown out of the horizontal position.

a. o.— Twisted strata of the Silurian Schists.
b. b. 6.— Unconformable strata of Old Red Sandstone at Siccar Point.

Playfair has remarked that this kind of junction, which we now call
unconformable, had been described before the time of Hutton, but that he
was the first geologist who appreciated its importance, as illustrating the high
antiquity and great revolutions of the globe. He had observed that where
such contacts occur, the lowest beds of the newer series very generally consist
of a breccia or conglomerate, consisting of angular and rounded fragments,
derived from the breaking up of the more ancient rocks. ^^On one occasion,"

AN INQUIRY AS TO A SPECIES OF FLY. 177

says Lyell, "the Scotch Geologist took his two distinguished pupils, Playfair
and Sir James Hall, to "the cliffs on the east coast of Scotland, near the village
of Ejemouth, not far from St. Abb's Head, where the Schists of the Lam-
mermuir range are undermined and dissected by the sea. Here the curved
and vertical strata, which are of Silurian age, and which often exhibit a
ripple-marked surface, are well exposed at the headland called Siccar Point,
penetrating with their edges into the incumbent beds of slightly inclined
Sandstone, in which large pieces of the Schist, some round and others angular,
are united by an arenaceous cement. ^VVhat clearer evidence,' exclaims
Playftiir, ^could we have had of the different formations of these rocks, and
of the long interval which separated their formation, had we actually seen
them emerging from the bosom of the deep? We felt ourselves neces.sarily
carried back to the time when the Schist on which we stood was yet at
the bottom of the sea, and when the Sandstone before us was only beginning
to be deposited in the shape of sand or mud, from the waters of a superin-
cumbent ocean. An epoch still more remote presented itself when even the
most ancient of these rocks, instead of standing upright in vertical beds, lay
in horizontal planes at the bottom of the sea, and was not yet disturbed by
that immeasurable force which has burst asunder the solid pavement of the
globe. Revolutions still more remote appeared in the distance of this extra-
ordinary perspective. The mind seemed to grow giddy by looking so far
into the abyss of time; and while we listened with earnestness and admiration
to the philosopher who was now unfolding to us the order and series of these
wonderful events, we became sensible how much farther reason may sometimes
go than imagination can venture to follow.' "'"-^

(To he coutinwd.)

AN INQUIRY AS TO A SPECIES OF FLY.

15V J. C. DALE, ESQ.

I SEND you extracts out of Ray and Moufet, and also from a letter from
the son of Dr. Paris to Mr. Curtis. I showed it to Mr. Haliday, and spoke of
it to IMr. Spenee; neither could make it out, and wished me to go to Hin-
kleshaugh myself and try to get a specimen. I will give Mr. Paris's first. —
"I also wanted to ask you the name of an insect which bothered me occasion-
ally when I wanted to be quiet and enjoy a fine view, but unfortunately I
neglected to procure a specimen, and unless you happen to have visited the
spots they haunt, my description will not be sufficient. On the summits of
the Dartmoor tors, not only on the highest rock, I was always assailed by
a multitude of flies, bearing a resemhlaiice to the hee, (but not what we used
at school to call "darting flies,") which came by two or three, increasing in
number every moment, flying and buzzing in my face, until I was forced to

* The reader is refencd to the frontispiece of the last edition of Lyell's "Elements of Geology,"
for a view and explanation of this interesting: spot.

VOL. II. 2 A

178 ox THE DIFFKRENCES BETWEEN PIEUIS BRASSIC.E AND P. CIIARICLEA,

a precipitate retreat. When they settled on the rock they began a very
harmonious piping, to which I could willingly have listened had the rest of
the band desisted from their persecution. I defy any person to stand quiet
for five minutes on the top of one of these tors. If you have visited Dart-
moor I am sure you must have noticed them."

From Ray, page 273. — "3Iusca Apiformis montanciy corpore hreviore, tJiorace
nigro, ahdomine anmilis nigris et rubria alternis vario. Ape vulgari mellifica
paulo brevior est, thorace nigro, abdomine annulis nigris et rubris alternis
composito. Alse cinereae transversa linea nigra prope imam partem notatae.
In monte pra3alto Hindzdhaugh dicto prope Sdtle Comitatus Eboracensis
oppiduluni, inveni. Viildc importuna erat et molesta circa montis cacunien.
Aculeum non habet, verum forcipes ad caudam iis quae in erucarum ore
similes."

From Moufet, page 61, with a figure as "Asilus cipiarivs. Alter Tabanus
sive Asilus, nascitur in extremis partibus favorum, amplioris magnituJinls quam
sunt apes caeterae; et quoniam exagitat, nee patitur examina, conquiescere, (ut
lie praDdictus Oestrus armenta) oistron Groeci vocarent. Caput huic muscse
spadicei coloris est, linea alba a, fronte usque ad occiput intercurrente, scapulis,
et dorso subfuscisj reliquis omnibus a vulgariura muscaruni forma non differt,
baud florum duntaxat succo, et melle vescitur, sed etiam animalium sanguine,
quemdiu violentius exugit, acriter mordet."

(j^ Tabani feed on flowers. ^ Can any of your correspondents suggest

2 Do. feed on blood. J ivhat insect this is?

The first part of Ray s;?ems to agree with a Tabanus, but the latter part
with the Asilus of the moderns, and yet the account agrees better with the
former, and still less with CEstrus or Sericomyia.

Glanvillcs Wuotton, May -ith., 18o2.

OX THE DIFFERENCES BETWEEN

PIERIS, (PONTIA,) BRASSW^J AND P. CTIARICLIJA—Tn^

LARGE CABBAGE WHITE BUTTERFLIES.

BY BOMBVX ATI, AS.

In common, I believe, with several other entomologists, I have for many
years had my doubts as to whether Pieris Chariclea was a variety of Piens
Brassicoij or whether it was a distinct species. The great similarity in the
perfect insect and the non-recordance of any distinction in the caterpillars led
to the conclusion that Piiris Charidea was an accidental variety of Piens
Brassicce. The difference in size and appearance of the two insects, and the
constancy of these diflerences led to a quite opposite opinion. The only real
way of coming to a decision, which admitted of no doubt, was to obtain the
caterpillar and carefully watch its growth and development, and compare it with
that of Pieris Brassicce— move easily said than done, I grant you — for I have

ox THE DIFFERENCES HETWERN' riERlS HRASSICK AXD P. rifAniCI.EA. 179

searched for many years, and passed as many Brassiere through my fingers as
would reach ahnost from my residence to yours, still I detected no diflferenee
otherwise than usual.

It so happened that last autumn I stumbled upon what I thought at first
sight was a little cluster of eggs of Pieris Brassicce; but it struck me it was
not quite the thing, and I brought them home and compared them; there was a
great resemblance, still I was not satisfied. In course of time my eggs were
hatched, and every one went into a state of chrysalis. The caterpillars differed
widely from Pieris Brassicce, the chrysalis also. The perfect insect, every
one was Char idea, and the time of appearance was different. Thus the egg,
caterpillar, chrysalis, time of appearance, and perfect insect being different; it
follows "de necessitate," the two species must be distinct, and Pieris Chariclea
is no more a variety of Pieris Brassiere than Pieris Brassicce is of Pieris
Chariclea.

I am not going to describe the difference between the two perfect insects.
That is already very fairly done by J. O. Westwood, Esq., in his work entitled
"British Butterflies," published in 1S41, in which he quotes from "Albin."
Not possessing, nor ever having had the good fortune to meet with "Albin's"
work on Entomology, I can form no opinion as to the accuracy of his colouring
the caterpillar. It is clear, however, that "Albin" himself was aware of the
difference between Brassicce and Chariclea.

I readily admit that to an unpractised Entomologist so great is the general
resemblance of the two caterpillars, that they are probably often passed over
or mistaken one for the other. I am almost certain I have formerly repeat-
edly done so myself; and I dare say others have done the same. I send you
a little synoptical table in which I have, without attempting to occupy your
time or space too much, given you the precise points in which these two
caterpillars differ, neither more or less; in all other respects then please to
observe the two caterpillars present the same appearance.

I cannot help thinking that Pieris Chanclea is a much less common insect
than Pieris Brassicce, but it would occupy too much of your space to give
my reasons for so thinking, and also I believe that many Entomologists have
placed in their collections an accidental variety of Pieris Brassicce for Pieris
Chariclea. I know T have formerly done so my.self, but now I have not the
slightest shade of hesitation in pronouncing Pieris Chariclea to be a perfectly
distinct species from Piens Brassicce.

I trust this may interest some of your readers, and lead them to follow up
this and similar cases, and I hope to see the results of their observations in
your Journal.

POINTS OF DIFFEREXCR OF (JATERPILLARS,
P. Brassietr. P. Chariclt^a.

Ground colour. — Pale grayish sea-green, or Ground colour. — Pale greenish yelknv, (in~

pale grayish yellow. variably.)

Abdomen. — Dull )'ellowi8h green, with a Abdomen. — DulH««o«-rc/oMr, with a rather

rather darker ventral line. lighter ventral line.

I8(i

JIlSt'KM-ANKUl'S NU'I'K'KS.

P. Rrassic*.

Head. — Light bluish gray or green, finely
speckled with black, and with a small trian-
gular pati;h of very light flesh-colour in the
centre, broadly bordered by black, and a
small round black spot on either side.

Mandibles. — Palo bluish gray, tipped witli
black.

Thoracic Legs. — Yellowish, faintly spotted
with light brown.

Growth. — Grows to about two inclies.

Eggs. — Generally in clusters of fifty to
si.xty, of a pale lemon-coloui-.

Earliest time of appearance. — Generally
about the 21th. of April. Seldom earlier
than that period.

Tottenham, April 2StIi., 1852.

P. Cliarieloa.

Head. — Liglit bluish ffreeti, {invariably,)
finely speckled with black, and with a small
triangular patch of brigJtt yMotc, broadly
bordered by black.

Mandibles.— Pale bluish graij.

Thoracic Legs. — Yellowish, bordered and
tipped with dark brown.

Growth. — None exceed an inch and a half.

Eggs. — Generally in clusters of twenty to
thirty, of a dce2) lemon-colour,,, altogether
smaller than those of P. BrassicEO.

Chrysalis. — Much smaller, of a much paler
green than, and not so much spotted as that
of P. Brassica3.

Food. — Similar to that of P. Erassicm;

Earliest time of appearance. — Generally
from about the 30th. of JIarch to the 24th.
of April. Seldom later than that period.

We shall be very glad if some of our other Entomological friends will follow
out the experiments commenced so ably by Bombyx Atlas. It is the only
way to arrive at the truth. We have ourselves hitherto always considered F.
Chnriclea to be only a variety of P. Brassicce; but the above facts certainly
will induce us to re-consider our opinion. — B. B. M.

SIliarrllniiFDHH liutirfs.

Carious anecdote of a Spaniel and young Bucks. — In the early part of last spring I called on
a cottager, a poor neighbour, who I heard was ill. I found him sitting by his fire \vith a Spaniel
and her puppy, six weeks or two months old, and a Cat and a half-gro^vn kitten. The dog got up
to greet me, for we are old acquaintances and good friends, when from under her ran seven
young Ducks, a few days old. Tlie woman of the house told me that they had been hatched
imder a hen, which would not take care of them; and that she had brouglit them into
the house to keep theni warm. The Spaniel immediately took to them, and whenever
she came in and lay down by the fire, the Ducks ran to her and nestled among her long hair.
I asked her how the Cat agreed with them, to which she rei)lied that Busy, (such is the Spanicd's
name,) would not sufl'er anything to come near them; and I had proof of this, for her own
puppy went up elo.se to one of them as though to play with it, when she snapped at him and
drove him away. One of the Ducks soon died, having, apparently, something wiong in its head ;
but the other six throve under Busy's care, and are now tine Ducks, fit for table. The woman
added that she was remarkably fond of little young things, and would nestle a brood of
young chickens like a hen,— E. M., Goundou, Coventry, July 2nd., 18o2.

Mouse Diving. — The Eiver Severn has lately much overflown its banks, to the great destruction
of the Moles, Mice, and Weasels, wliicli in some uumbers infested the banks and flat meadows.
I was walking along the edge of the water a day or two since, when a Dog I had with me
started out of a tuft of grass a little Mouse, which, niucli to my surprise, innnccliatcly took
the water;' to be sure he was rather sorely presscid, and had no other means of escape. The
Dog spi'ang in after him, and, just as he was on the point of catching him, the Mouse, to my

MISOriJ.ANEOUS XOTICKS, 181

still greater astoushmcnt, dived, and I saw him no more. I think that it was the Short-tailed
Field Mouse, but the whole affair was done so quickly that I had not opportunity to ascertain.
— Martin Curtleii, Bevere House, Worcester, February 10th., 1852.

Kestrel Falcon attaching Missel Thrush. — Some few weeks ago a friend of mine was standing
within a few yards of a large Portugal laurel tree near this house, when he was startled at the
noise made by a bird darting rapidly through the thick leaves and branches, and almost before
he had time to look up, down from thq tree, and within a very short distance of my friend's
feet, fell a Kestrel and a Missel Thru«i, firmly locked in deadly struggle, both making a
most tremendous uproar. Tliey rolled over and over several times, until the Kestrel appeared
to have the best of the encounter, and managed to take wing, still holding the Thrush quite
tightly ; he was, however, only able to fly a few yards, when down both came again, and the
struggle was renewed upon the ground. The same thing was repeated two or three times,
the Hawk managing to fly with his victim about the same distance each time, until at last
he contrived to take him over a high hedge into a plantation, and was lost to view. There
was not the least doubt, my friend assures me, as to the Hawk being a Kestrel: probably ho
was hard pressed for food, or he would not have attacked so formidable a bird as the Missel
Thrush. I believe that the Kestrel very seldom preys upon birds of any kind, but that its
food consists almost entirely of Mice. Lot any one climb a tree and inspect this bird's nest;
he will there probably see some scores of disgorged pellets, composed of fur, all around the
nest, which he will find on examination are the remains of Mice. I have myself seen in and
under one nest, when the young birds were only about a week old, from one hundred and fifty
to two hundred of these Mice pellets, and not a vestige of a feather, or sign of any kind of
bird to be seen. — Idem.

Irides of the Sparroiv-Hawk, (Aociipiter fringillarius.) — A short time ago a fine specimen of
this bird, a male, was shot near here, and came into the possession of a bird-stuffer in this
city, having its irides of a deep red colour, instead of the ordinaiy bright yellow. This singularity,
I must observe, was not caused by any injury the bird had received; for on skinning it, not
a shot-corn was found to have penetrated the head. — F. M. Burton, Lindum House, Lincoln,
March 3rd., 1852.

European Hoopoe, (Upupa Epops.) — A pair of these rare and elegant birds were shot in the
parish of St. Stephen's, near St. Austell, Cornwall. I am informed by Mr. Tercy, bird
and animal preserver of this town, that the female was shot on the 26tli of March, and the
male on the 3()th. They were in very good plumage. — Ww E. Matthews, 4, Portland Square,
Plymouth, April 16th,, 1852.

The Hoopoe, (Upupa Epops.) — A very beautiful specimen of that rare and singular bird, the
Hoopoe, was shot at Earsham, near Bungay, Suftblk, a few days since. It is almost thirty
years smce one was shot on Bungay Common. — E. C. Nunn, Anandeston, May 1st., 1852.

Appearance of the Hoopoe.— Ahout the middle of last April, two Hoopoes were seen on the
Island of Skomar, Pembrokesliire, by a friend of mine, who shot one of them : about the same
time one or two others were seen in the neighbourhood.— E. 11. B , May 26th., 1852.

A good specimen of the Hoopoe, (Upupa Upops^J was captured by a labouring man on the
8th. of May last, in the parish of Sparkford, Somerso't. It was kept alive by the man for
three weeks, during which time he fed it on worms and~sttch like. — C. Dew, Yeovil, Somerset,
June, 11th. 1852.

Mte on the Woodcock, (Scolopa.x rusticola.)— On the 16th. of June, 1851, a fine adult Wood-
cock was shot in Mr. PauU's nursery It was discovered by a gentleman, sitting on some weeds
in the middle of a brook, about ten yards distant from the turnpike road. — R. H. Nancarrow,
Grampound, March 12th., 1852.

Ortolan, (Emberiza hortulana.)— The Ortolan mentioned at page 131, when killed, was busily
seeking food in the grass and low herbage, on the bank by the road side; and, on dissection,
its crop was found to be almost full of the remains of small beetles. — W. F. W. B,

Kiuffjisher's Nest.— A few weeks since I found a Kingfisher's nest with five young, I should
think about three days old. The nest was composed of loose fish bones, lined with red cow-
hair; this is a cii-cumstance I hav€^ never before witnessed or heard of, the object I suppose was

182 MISCEIXANROUS NOTICES.

to pi-otect the touder skius of the youn<? from the points of the fish-hoties. The hair was not
there when tliero were eggs. I ha\-e never found a nest with the bones cemented togetlier. —
Charles Dew, Yeovil, June, 1852.

Common House Sparrow, (Passer doniesticus.)— Some j'ears ago my curiosity was excited,
during the month of March, by the manner in which the Common House SpaiTow every evening
nssembhid in numbers under the eaves of an old thatched building, and twitched out the straws
from the roof. This led me to examine minutely their operations, and on placing myself in
a convenient situation to obtain a better view, I perceived their object was to get the insects
that were secreted in the thatch. I pulled out several straws, and found many little insects
adhering to them.' — E. C. Nunn, Diss, Norfolk, December 22nd., 1851.

Late nesting of the Ring-dove, (Columba palumbus.) — I discovered a nest containing two
half-fledged birds, in Trevan wood, about a mile from this place, September 25th., 1851.— Idem.

Late appearance of the Home Martin, (Hirundo urbica ) — I saw a single House Martin here
on the 18th. of November, 1850. It continued flying over the neighbourhood for about two
houi-s, and then disappeared. The weather for some time previous had been wet and cold, but
on the day in question it was comparatively warm.— Idem.

Note on the Hedge Accentor, (Acocntor modularis.) — Twice last summer I heard the Hedge
Accentor singing during the night; once at eleven o'clock, and some weeks after at midnight.
The moon was shining brightly on both occasions. Query — Is this of common occurrence, or is it
not probable that the bird mistook the moonlight for the light of moraing? — Idem.

Early nesting of the Blue Tit, (Parus caerulcus.) — A person in the employ of Mr. Paull,
brought me an egg taken from tlie nest of the Blue Tit, on the 16th. of January last. It was
considerably smaller than the e^gi of the same species taken last summer, and the substance of
the yolk appeared to be partially congealed. Perhaps this may be attributed to the coldness
of the weather. — Idem.

A neighbour of mine has a Duck which, last spring, laid black eggs, or rather, eggs of a dark
brown colour. The first two or three, I was credibly informed, were almost black; after that
they gradually became lighter, till they assumed the general colour. Unfortunately I did not
hear of it in time to procure one of the first eggs; but a portion of the shell of one of the
lighter ones was brought to me. It was covered all over with small brown spots. — Idem.

Varietg of the C'ommor,, Fhcasant, (Phasianus Colchicus,) at Woburn, Beds. — I have by me a
very light cream-coloured Pheasant, which was shot in tlie evergreens, Woburn Park, towards
the close of the last shooting season, and since presented to me; it is as regularly marked as
another bird : the tail feathers are rather darker than the other parts of the body. It is three
j^ears old, and was well known — when the sun shone on it the feathers had a silvery appear-
ance. There is also at the present time a pair of Pheasants, the plumage of which is pure
white, in the Pheasantry of Mr. Curtis, at Bow Brickhill, Bucks., about tliree miles from here,
which were bred there from pied birds which they have shut up with other tame Pheasants. —
G. B. Clarke, Woburn, Beds., March 13th., 1852.

Wild Swan, (Cygnus ferus.)"As I was walking in Woburn Park, on the 9th. of February,
I saw a Wild Swan in a piece of water called the Basin, in front of the Abbey, which had
been there for about a week previously. It had not long settled there when two tame Swans
which were there came sailing up, and began to chase it round and round, until they at last
drove it out of the water, when it flew ofi" to another piece of water called Great Drackclow, where
it met with the same reception as it had done at the Basin; the tame Swans no sooner seeing
it settle in the water, than they began to chase it as the others did before. I was surprised
to see it stay here so long as it did — namely, about a fortnight. --Idem.

The Swallow, (Hirundo rustica.) — Three were seen by me on the 13th. of April. — J. W,
LuKis, Heacham Hall, Norfolk, April 29th., 1852.

Notices of the Arrival or TitR

HiRUSDINES, ETC, DCniNO THE PRESENT SPttl.VG, AT MiN'EUEAD, SOMERSET.— By CaPTAIN GiPPORD.*

On the 3rd. April, at six, p. m., saw a bird fly by me to the eastward, which I am positive
was a Sand Martin, (Hirundo riparia,) and on Thursday, the 8th,, I saw three more fly
• See Naturalist, vol. 1., page 90.

PROCEEDINGS OF SOCIETIES. 183

over the top of my house in tlic same direotion, about eleven, a. m. On the 12th., (Easter
Monday,) saw a Swallow, (Hirundo riistica,) cross the "Water Lane" several tunes, and as 1
proceeded on my walk over the Warren, I saw three or four Swallows and many Sand Martins.
Wednesday, 2Ist. — Heard a Cuckoo, (Caculus canorus,) and saw a Fieldfare, ( I'urdus pilaris, j
which I thought very late in the season for this winter visitor to remain here. 25tli. —
hoard the Nightingale, (Philomela luscinia.) 29th. — Saw several Martins, (Hirundo nrhica.)
May 8th. — Saw two Swifts, (Gypselus apus,j flying over my house at eight, a. m.

The MisseUoe.--h.xaong the trees on which the Misseltoe has been found, (vol. i., page 156,) I
do not observe the Sycamore. In and near Cheltenham, many plants of it may be seen on
that tree; there are also in that town Mountain Ashes with Misseltoe on them; and at a
country house a few miles oif, some fine plants of it on Acacias ; both which cases are men-
tioned in your catalogue, but not specified. At Cheltenham and elsewhere, it may be seen
abundantly on Apple trees mixed with Pear trees, not a single plant ever appearing on a
Pear tree, which is strange, as it grows on the Hawthorn, Mountain Ash, and White Beam,
which Avill all take grafts of the Pear.--E. D., Dublin, June 19th., 1852.

l^rnrrBMngg nf IntlttiBH.

Natural History Sooiety of Glasgow. — ^Tho ordinary meeting of this Society was held on
Tuesday, April 6th., 1852. — William Gourlie, Esq , President, in the chair — when there was
a full attendance of members. Mr. James Duncan was admitted a resident member, and Mr.
Charles W. Peach, Peterhead, a corresponding member.

Mr. Gourlie exhibited a specimen of Unio Mississipensis, Lea, sent by Joseph Clark, Esq.,
to Dr. Lorrain; also a specimen of Codiiim Bursa, a rare sea-weed found near Brighton, and
sent by Dr. Landsborough, of Saltcoats.

Mu. Thomas Ferguson exhibited specimens of Nephrops Norvegieus and Lithodus Maia,
and stated that they are both somewhat interesting species of British Crustacea, especially the
latter, as being one almost peculiar to our Scottish seas. He procured this specimen from
Largs, almost the only locality as yet recorded on the West of Scotland. Major Martin
includes it in his list of Clyde Crustacea. He stated he was indebted to his friend, Mr. Robert
Gray, for the following notes of its occurrence at Dunbar: — It approaches the shore there early
in spring in considerable numbers; and is indeed during the entire winter pretty frequently
met with. Being totally useless as a marketable eommotlity, however, it was some time ere he
could prevail upon the fishermen to bring ashoi'e any sptjcimens which they got; and though
perfectly well known to those employed in the crab fishery, it was always counted a curiosity
when exhibited in the market, as it seldom happened that its captors took the trouble to remove
it from their hooks when caught, otherwise than by tossing it back into the sea. Mr. Gray,
however, to ascertain its numbers, oft'ercd a reward for ever}^ specimen that was brought to
him ; and the very fii-st day afterwards he was obliged to refuse many. This was in February,
March, April, and ilay of 1846; and the specimens were brought from deep water about ten
miles off" shore. They were caught on the fishing-lines, not in crab-cages. It sometimes comes
so near the shore, that at low tides it is found wedged iii crevices of rocks and in deep pools,
lying concealed under the leaves of Fuel, in company with the common edible crab, {Cancer
pagurus.) At Dunbar, during the months mentioned, this crab becomes still more common
close to the shore, but for what purpose is not well known. It would hardly appear to be their
object to deposit spawn, as almost all, indeed all but one of the specimens procured by Mr,
Gray, were males.

The specimen of Nephrops Norvegicus which was exhibited was unusually large, being six-
teen inches from the extremity of the tail to the tips of the claws. This species is abimdant
on the Dunbar shore, and falls a sacrifice to the voracious appetites of the cod-fish iu enormous
quantities. It does not appear farther south than Berwick-upon-Tweed. This specimen was
brought from the Ayrshire coast, and is also enumerated by Major Martin in his list. There
is an excellent figure of it in "Pennant's British Zoology," vol. 4th.

Mr. James P. Fraser exhibited a specimen of a new cncrinite, which had been sent him by

184 THE QUERIST,

his friend, Edward "Wood, Esq., of Ricliraond, Yorkshire. He mentioned it had been found by
that gentleman in the mountain limestone of that district. The species is absolutely new to
that fonnation, and most likely new to science, as he believed it to be yet undoscribed. This
species is distinguished by its relatively narrow joints, as compared with their length; and he
took notice that the column decreases in diameter towards the base, instead of increasing, which
is quite a new character in encrinites. He mentioned that Mr. Charlesworth thinks it belongs
to the genus GyatJiocrinus, but so far as he had opportunities of studying its structure and
comparing it with other species of that genus, he felt inclined rather to place it in a genus
between Gyatlmcrinus and Flatycrinus. It comes very near the latter in many points.

A letter by Dii. Morris, of York, was read, relating to the occurrence off the Yorkshire
coast of a new Priapulus, a creature allied to the Sipunculidai — a description of it will be
seen in the proceedings of the Yorkshire Naturalists' Club.

The following remarks upon Ilippothoa dwaricata, by Dr. Landsborough, were read by the
Secretary : — The specimen of Hlppothoa dwaricata which accompanies this is from Mrs. Gatty,
wife of the Rev. Mr. Gatty, Vicar of Ecclesfield, near Sheffield. The shell to which it adheres
is from Sidmouth. Mrs. Gatty has the honour of making the discovery that it has capsules ; in
consequence of which it must be separated from the family of the Eucratiadce, one characteristic
of which is that "they have no external ovarian capsules," The one polypidum is so minute
that she had great difficulty in making many of the naturalists see them. But they have now
been seen and acknowledged by Dr. Johnston, Dr. Greville, and M. Bosk, who is writing on
zoophytes.

The following papers were then read: —

1, — "Notes illustrative of the Geology of part of the Shores of East Lothian and Berwick-
shire,"— illustrated with a number of diagrams and sections — by Mr. James P. Eraser.

2nd. — "On the habits of the Ice Duck, {Harelda glacialis.") — illustrated with specimens and
drawings — by Henry D. Graham, Esq., lona; communicated by Robert Gray, Esq.

Business being concluded, the Society adjourned till the first Tuesday in May.

Entomological Society.— kt a fully-attended meeting of this Society, No. 17, Old-Bond-Street,
on the 7th. of June, 1852, J. 0. Westwood, Esq., F L. S., President, in the chair, several
papers were read, among which was one on the Megaccphnloc of the Amazonian region, with
details of some of their larvtc, by Mr. Bates, and another of considerable interest by the
President on certain Lamellicorn beetles, accompanied by drawings; also a note on the larviB
of Sericnris Antiquana, which inhabits the roots of Stachys arvensis.

Those questions of public interest— viz., the destruction of Blatta Orientalis in houses, and of
the larvae which attack the corks of wine-bottles, were again mooted, and as the attention of
entomologists is now so actively turned to these subjects, it may be hoped we shall soon see a
remedy for them, especially the fonner, which is by far the most annoying.

A novel mode of catching lepidoptera in Canada "West was mentioned : it consists in smearing
the tress with soapsuds, which have become putrid by exposure to the sun. It is said to be
very attractive to the moths, although a trial of it in this country was without effect, probably
from putridity not being sufficiently advanced in our temperature.

Many interesting British specimens of lepidoptera were exhibited, several of great rarity. A
specimen of the genus Morpho., from New Granada, was on the table, said to be the finest in
Europe.

€\}i <Sxmi±

I am afraid that chronology is not one of the "ologies" which Mr. R. A. Julian so industriously
studies. I last year had to ask him for the date of an interesting excursion to Wickim-fen,
which he thereupon furnished, but now again, in the last number, in an account of another
excursion thither, though he has given the hour of the day, ho has omitted the day of the
month. — F. 0. Morris, Nafferton Vicarage, Driffield, July 1st., 1852.

Will double flowers, which through deficiency of culture have deteriorated into single ones,
again resume the double foiin if better "management" be supplied to them? — Idem.

t

HONEY BUZZARD.

185

HONEY BUZZxVRD, (PERNIS APIVORUS.)

The unusually marked Honey Buzzard, of which we present our readers with
a faithfully-coloured, and carefully- executed figure, was shot in the neighbour-
hood of Bridlington, Yorkshire, and was taken in the flesh to Mr. Jones, a bird-
stuffer of that town, about the end of May, 1850. It was from him purchased
by T. AlIUs, Esq., of Osbaldwickj but being in a very bad condition, was
sent by him to be re-stufFed by Mr. Graham, of York; who, with his usual
taste and skill, made a splendid specimen of it. To Mr, Graham we are
indebted for permission to copy the admirable painting of the bird made
for him by Miss Barker, the same young lady who so kindly executed the
drawing of the New Bustard, from which our plate in a recent number was
copied. The life-like attitude of the bird, so ably imitated by Mr. Graham,
has been admirably preserved in Miss Barker's drawing; and cannot fail, we
think, to be satisfactory to such of our readers as are familiar with the
natural positions of birds, which are always graceful and pleasing.

By giving an accurately-coloured figure of the bird, we avoid the necessity of
a lengthened description. It is sufficient for us to remark that it differs from
the ordinary appearance of the Honey Buzzard in having the neck and breast
almost entirely of a pure white, instead of a rufous colour; having but a few
dark blotches towards the vent; the head and nape of the neck are also of a
bluish slate-colour: but it is possible that this may be the effect of age.
The eyes in the young of the Honey Buzzard are hazel, and yellow in the
adult. In this specimen the eyes were of a bright yellow colour, leading to the
supposition that it was an old bird. The sex was not ascertained, but from
its size it was probably an adult female. The back and tail were of the
usual colour. — B. R. M.

CAN TOADS EXIST FOR AN INDEFINITE PERIOD
DEPRIVED OF FOOD AND AIR?

BY n. MAVSMOR, ESQ.

In the January number of ^'The Naturalist," Mr. Faulkner relates an
account of a Toad having been found in a strange situation, namely, in the
middle of a stone; and from this recent circumstance draws attention to such
rare phenomena, and thereby brings this disputed point before the readers of
"The Naturalist" for consideration. That Toads have been found in most
unlooked-for situations there can be no doubt; but naturalists can never be
brought to believe that they have been found alive in such extraordinary
places as parties fond of the marvellous have occasionally stated and insisted
on; and which statements have found credence among many unphilosophical
persons, who are only accustomed to look upon the surface of things; they arc ever
inclined to render uncommon appearances still more marvellous, and are there-
fore not to be trusted. It may be said that these unaccountable stories are

VOL, II. 2 B

IsO

KXlSTENt'K DK I'OADS.

as iinivcrsally known and credited as the exi.stence of Toads themselves^ by
the unthinking portion of mankind in this country; and even many respectable
people, who have not given much attention to Natural History, more than
half-believe them.

The Natural History of the Toad is in itself one of the most interesting
siibjects possible, without investing it with any fabulous interest. The following
brief flicts, though true, are far more strange than fiction: — Frogs and Toads
are peculiarly interesting, from the remarkable changes in their development;
the fiiculty of enduring long abstinence, their hybernation, and the age to
which they attain. They come from the egg in a condition which is in all
essential particulars, that of a fish, and undergo a gradual series of changes
by which their form and structure become analogous to those of the true
reptiles. In their tadpole or fish state, they are vegetable feeders, having a
tail, by which they swim through the water, but no appearance of limbs or
members; they breathe by means of gills, which are long fringes hanging
loosely in the water on either side of the head: these, which are merely
temporary, disappear at a later period, and respiration is carried on by another
set, situated behind the head, and which are covered in by a fold of skin,
the water gaining access to them by passing through the mouth, as in fishes.
In a short time, the hind legs begin to sprout forth at the base of the
tail; at a later period the fore legs begin to be developed, and the tail
gradually disappears. During this time the lungs are being developed, and
the gills are falling into general disuse; and the animals become fitted to
live on land and breathe air; not now vegetarians, but feeding on insects,
annelides, and small mollusks; water alone being no longer able to afford
sufficient air for their respiration.

The wonderful tales of the discovery of Toads in the hearts of trees, in
the inside of stones, and in the middle of rocks, have been related to shew
partly that they had been in such positions for years unknown, deprived of
air and food; and doubtless the situations, from a superficial view, might
lead to this bdief; but from a series of experiments made by Dr. Buckland,
and recorded by him in the fifth volume of the ^'Zoological Journal," (to
make known which to the readers of "The Naturalist," is the principal
object of this contribution;) he concluded that Toads cannot live a year
excluded totally from atmospheric air, and that having an occasional supply
of air they probably cannot survive two years entirely excluded from food.
A supply of oxygen is necessary to the performance of the functions of cold-
blooded animals, although the demand for it is much less than in warm-
blooded ones; the quantity necessary increases with an increase of muscular
exertion; and the oxygen which is consumed is replaced by carbonic acid gas,
which must be removed as it causes the death of animals which inhale it even
in small quantities. Reptiles, and most Invertebrata that inhabit the land,
become to all appearance completely inanimate when the temperature is lowered
"below a certain point. In this state their circulation and respiration appear to

EXISTENCE OF TOADS, 187

cease entirely, and the animals may be prevented from reviving for a long
time, without their vitality being permanently destroyed, if they be surrounded
by an atmosphere sufficiently cold. Serpents and Frogs have been kept for
three years in an ice-house, and have completely revived at the end of that
period.

Smellie, who was half-inclined to believe the rare phenomenon, says, '^Man
abortive attempts have been made to account for an animal's growing ani>
living very long in situations without the possibility of receiving nourishment or
air, especially as, like all other animals, when put into an exhausted receiver,
the Toad soon loses its existence. Upon this subject I shall only hazard
two observations. The Toad, it is well known, when kept in a damp place,
can live several months without food of any kind; though in its natural state
of liberty, it devours voraciously spiders, maggots^ ants, and other insects.
Here we have an instance, and there are many, of an animal whose con-
stitution is so framed by nature, that it can exist several months without
receiving any portion of food. According to our ideas of the necessity of
frequent supplies of nourishment^ it is nearly as difficult for us to conceive an
abstinence of four or six months as one of as many years^ or even centuries.
The one fact, therefore, may be as readily admitted as the other. The
same remark is equally applicable to the regular respiration of air. The
Toad, and many other animals, from some peculiarity in their constitution,
can live very long in a torpid state, without seeming to respire, and yet
their principle of life is not entirely extinguished; hence the Toad may, and
actually does, live many years in situations which exclude a free intercourse
with the external air. Besides, almost all the above, and similar facts, must,
from their nature, have been discovered by common labourers, who are totally
unqualified for examining every circumstance with the discerning eye of a
philosopher. In rocks there are many chinks, as well as fissures, both horizontal
and perpendicular, and in old trees nothing is more frequent than holes and
vacuities of diffi3rent dimensions. Through these fissures and vacuities the eo;ss
of Toads may accidentally be conveyed by water, the penetration of which, few
substances are capable of resisting. After the eggs are hatched, the animals
may receive moisture and small portions of air through the crevices of rocks,
or the channels of aged trees. But I mean not to persuade, for I cannot
satisfy myself." Upon which it is remarked by another writer, '^'It is allowed
to be difficult to assign limits to suspended animation, but it is very improbable
that where it is probable that nature has made a provision for the ordinary
period of hybernation, the animal should continue to exist for many years
after the supply must have become exhausted. The theory of the conveyance
of eggs by water is very feeble, and its extreme improbability will be manifest
to those who will consider for a moment the mode of reproduction and the
metamorphoses which the creature undergoes."

Dr. Buckland admits it to be true that reptiles occur in cavities of stone,
and at the depth of many feet in soil and earth, but says, "The evidence

188 EXISTENCK OF TOADS.

is never perfect, to show that the reptiles were entirely enclosed in a solid
rock; no examination is ever made until the reptile is first discovered by
the breaking of the mass in which it was contained, and then it is too late
to ascertain, without carefully replacing every fragment, (and in no case
that I have seen reported has this ever been done,) whether or not there
was any hole or crevice by which the animal may have entered the cavity
from which it was extracted. Without previous examination, it is almost
impossible to prove that there was no such communication. In the case of
rocks near the surface of the earth, and in stone-quarries, reptiles find ready
admission to holes and fissures. We have a notorious example of this kind
in the Lizard found alive in a chalk-pit, and brought alive to the late Dr.
Clarke." The same author remarks, that the first effort of the young Toad,
as soon as it has left its tadpole state, and emerged from the water,
is to seek shelter in holes and crevices of rocks and trees. ''An individual
which, when young, may have entered a cavity by some very narrow aperture,
would find abundance of food by catching insects, which, like itself, seek
shelter within such cavities, and may have soon increased so much in bulk
as to render it impossible to go out again through the narrow aperture at
which it entered. A small hole of this kind is very likely to be overlooked
by common workmen, who are the only people whose operations on wood
and stone disclose cavities in the interior of such substances." The attention
of the discoverer is always directed more to the Toad than the minutia) of
the state of the cavity in which it was contained.

Dr. Buckland's experiments, before referred to, were as follow: — In
November, 1825, he caused twelve circular cells to be prepared in a large
block of coarse oolitic limestone. Each cell was about one foot deep, and
five inches in diameter, and had a groove or shoulder at its upper margin,
fitted to receive a circular plate of glass, and a circular slate to pi'otect
the glass; the margin of the doable cover was closed round, and rendered
impenetrable to air and water, by a luting of soft clay. Another block of
compact siliceous sandstone, (Pennant grit, of the Bristol coal formation,)
was made to contain twelve smaller cells, each six inches deep and five inches
in diameter, and each under the same double cover as the first-mentioned
cells. A live Toad was placed in each of these twenty-four cells on November
26th., 1825, and the double cover of glass and slate was placed over each
of them, and cemented down by a luting of clay. Dr. Daubeny and Mr.
Dillwyn, who were present, ascertained and noted the weight of each Toad,
(they had all been imprisoned together in a cucumber frame, some of them
for two months previously,) as it was immersed. The largest weighed one
thousand one hundred and eighty-five grains; the smallest one hundred and
fifteen grains; and they were distributed equally, small and large, among the
limestone and sandstone cells. The blocks were bviried in the earth of Dr.
Buckland's garden, three feet deep.

On December 10th., 1826, these blocks, which had remained unopened

KXISTENCE OF TOADS. 189

from the period of their inhumation, were examined. Every Toad in the
smaller cells of the sandstone block was dead, and so much decayed that
they must have been dead for some months. The greater part of those in
the larger cells of the oolitic block were alive. No. 1, which weighed when
placed in its cell nine hundred and twenty-four grains, was reduced to six
Imndred and ninety-eight grains. No. 5, whose weight at the same period
was one thousand one hundred and eighty-five grains, had increased, it is
asserted, to one thousand two hundred and sixty-five grains. Dr. Buckland
observes, that the glass cover over this Toad's cell was slightly cracked, so
that minute insects might have entered; but none were discovered therein.
In another cell, the glass of which was broken, and its tenant dead, there
was a large assemblage of minute insects; and a similar assemblage was observed
also on the outside of the glass of a third cell. In the cell No. 9, a Toad
which weighed at its entrance nine hundred and eighty-eight grains, had
increased to one thousand one hundred and sixteen grains. The glass cover
of this cell was entire, but the luting that secured it was not attentively
examined; and Dr. Buckland observes, that it is probable that there was
some aperture by which small insects found admission. No. 11 had decreased
from nine hundred and thirty-six to six hundred and fifty-two grains.

The result of Dr. Buckland's experiments was, that all the Toads, both
large and small, enclosed in sandstone, and the small Toads in the limestone,
were dead at the end of thirteen months, a fate which befel all the large
ones also, before the expiration of the second year. These last were examined
several times during the second year, through the glass covers of their cells,
but without removing them to admit air* they appeared always awake, with
open eyes, and never in a state of torpor; but at each successive examination
they became more and more meagre, till at last they were found dead.
The two Toads which, when first examined, had increased in weight, and
were at the end of the first year carefully closed up again, were not exempt
from the common annihilation, but were emaciated and dead before the
expiration of the second year.

When Dr. Buckland enclosed these Toads in . stone, he at the same time
placed four other Toads, of moderate size, in three holes cut for that purpose,
on the north side of the trunk of an apple tree. Two were placed in the
largest cell, and each of the others in a single cell, the cells being nearly
circular, about five inches deep and three inches in diameter. These were
carefully closed with plugs of wood, so as to exclude access of insects, and
Avere apparently air-tight. Every one of the Toads, thus pegged in the knotty
entrails of the tree, was found dead and decayed at the end of the first year.
Four Toads were, at the time the others were shut up, each placed in a
small basin of plaster of Paris, four inches deep and five inches in diameter,
having a cover of the same material luted over them. These were buried
at the same time and in the same place with the blocks of stone, and on
being examined at the same time with them, in December, 1826, two of

190 BOTANICAL STROLLS.

the Toads were dead, the other two alive, but greatly emaciated.

Doubtless the above may be new to many readers of "The Naturalist/
and thus be worthy of a spare sheet.

Devizes, March loth., 1852.

BOTANICAL STROLLS IN THE NEIGHBOURHOOD
OP PLYMOUTH.

NO. V.

SiNCK my last communication was printed, mislaid notes of two other
botanical excursions made in 1851 have turned up, and I accordingly transmit
them for publication in the pages of "The Naturalist."

On Friday, July 18th., I had a day's botanizing, in company with two
friends, who, although uninitiated in the science, were soon captivated by its
charms. On the limestone of Catdown the following plants were in bloom : —
Galium verum; which, with its light green leaves, and its golden yellow
panicles of flov/ers, densely crowded into a kind of terminal spike, contrasted
agreeably with the deeper tint of the surrounding vegetation. Convolvulus
arvensis, (Small Bind-wced,) an humble, but one of the most beautiful of
our wayside plants. What pencil could imitate the lovely roseate streaks on
its petals? and its fragrance, how refreshing! Horchum murinum, (Wall
Barley,) in plenty; Beseda lulcola, (Dyer's Rocket.) This, as well as R.
lutea, which I have, I think, before mentioned as growing here, are of the
same genus as the favorite Mignionette, so much cultivated both as borders
to flower-gardens and in pots, but of a much larger and coarser growth.
"Used in dyeing woollen stuffs yellow." — Hoolcer. Qtioere. — Is it at the present
day cultivated for this purpose?

-From Catdown we crossed in a boat to Ilooe; and between this place
and Langdon Hall observed Scrophularia nodosa, (Knotted Figwort.) The
botanical name of this plant is from the disease scrophula, which it was
supposed to cure. Its flowers are small, and of a peculiar greenish purple
hue, which, with the dull green of the foliage, gives the plant a lurid and
uninviting aspect. Arctium Lappa, (Common Burdock.) The involucra
have hooked bristles, by means of which the heads of flowers readily fasten
themselves to the coats of animals and to clothes. Who in his boyhood has
not found sport in throwing these at his companions, and thus unconsciously
aided in the diffusion of the species? Shakspere, the great poet of nature,
has not overlooked this plant. In "Henry V." he has introduced it as one
of the "hateful" weeds which infest neglected land; and in other plays he
has drawn from it similes of attachment and constancy. Ex. gra: —

"Nay, friar, I am a kind of burr, I shall stick."

"MeASUKE FOK IVfEASUllF,.

BOTANICAL STROLLS. 191

Again, in "As You Like It:" — •

'■"■Rosalind.— 0, how full of briers is this working-day world!

Ccfe.— They are but burrs, cousin, thrown upon thee iu holiday foolery. If we walk not
in the trodden paths, our very petticoats will catch them.

Ros.—l could shake them oiF my coat; these burrs are in my heart."

In "Troilus and Cressida/' Pandarus, uncle to the heroine, says—

"Nay, I'll give my word for her too; our kindred, though they be long ere they are wooed,
they are constant, being won: they are burrs, I can tell you; they'll stick Ay here they are
thrown."

Polygonum aviculare, (Common Knot-grass;) Bartsia Odontites, (Red Bartsia,)
a pretty plant seen growing, but oue which, like many other of the Scrophu-
larinese, turns black and unsightly in drying: the flowers are of a reddish
purple. Agrimonia Eupatoria, (Common Agrimony,) a plant well known to
the peasantry, being largely collected by them, and dried as an officinal herb.
It is a very graceful plant, of the Rosaceous tribe, having its yellow flowers
on a long spike- the leaves are interruptedly pinnate, with the leaflets deeply
serrated. Its name, according to Hooker, corrupted from Argemone, given
by the Greeks to a plant supposed to cure the cataract in the eye, called
argema. Origanum vulture, (Common Marjoram:) botanical name from
oros, a hill; and ganos, joy; implying that this genus is the ornament
of dry hilly spots on which it flourishes. This name is most suitable; for,
with their large panniclcs of flowers, a cluster of these plants is one of the most
cheerful sights our dry banks present. '^^ Clinopodium vulgare, (Wild Basil;)
Ononis arvensis, (Rest-harrow,) growing on the edges of the clifis, and over-
hanging them in lovely profusion. Hypericum quadrangulum, (Square-stalked
St. John's Wort.) The St. John's Worts are a very interesting class of plants;
but I must not indulge in any comments upon them, lest I should encroach
upon your valuable space. Centaurea nigra, (Black Knapweed;) and Scabiosa
arvensis, (Field Knautia,) both gay and showy flowers, and familiar to all
accustomed to ramble through the fields.

From Langdon Hall we proceeded to Wembury, situated on the sea-coast,
finding in our way Pyrethrum Parthenium, (Feverfew;) Linaria vulgaris,
(Yellow Toad-flax,) with its spikes of crowded, imbricated, sulphur-coloured
flowers; Filago Germanica — one of a group of small Composite plants, difficult
to identify, but so elaborately constructed as to be well deserving of study;
Centaurea Scahiosa, (Great Knapweed.)

At Wembury Ave met with Anagallis tenella, (Bog Pimpernel,) that sweet
little plant, with its creeping, thread-like stem, sending up its comparatively
large pink corollas at every node. Sparganium ramosum, (Branched Bur-
reed;) Myosotis palustris, (Forget-me-not.) So much has been said, and so

* This is another of the plants not unknown to our great bard. He designates it "sweet

marjoram;" and it forms apart of the bouquet which Perdita, in the "Winter's Talc," presents

to Polixenes: —

"Here's flowers for you;

Hot lavender, mint, savory, marjoram."

192 BOTANICAL STROLLS.

aptly and poetically said, of this charming flower, that my timid pen dares
not essay an additional word. Senecio sylvaticus; Epilohium Mrsutum; Juncus
lampocarpus; Sanunculus Flammula; StSUaria uliginosa; and 8. glauca.
The two last-mentioned plants escape the eye of the casual pedestrian, but
they are two of the most beautiful little gems that deck the coronet of Flora.
Galium palustre, remarkable for the pure whiteness of its flowers, which,
although minute, shine conspicuously forth amid the dank vegetation of bogs
and marshy ground, where it abounds; Lythrum salicaria, (Purple Loosestrife,)
in serried ranks of stalwart plants, one mass of gorgeous bloom, Verbascum
Thapsus, (Moth Mullein,) a solitary plant, rarely gregarious, (to borrow a
terra from zoology,) capricious in its habits — now flourishing in all luxuriance
in the crevices of some dry stone wall, now by the wayside, and anon in
some corn-field, or daring to intrude within the hallowed precincts of some
trim parterre, in which latter situation I have seen it, with its congeners,
V. virgatum and V. Blattaria, grow to the height of six or seven feet, and
to send out branches on iill sides, Sonchus arvensis; Gonium maculatum,
(Hemlock.) This is a handsome, tall-growing, umbelliferous plant, highly
poisonous, but easily distinguished from its allies by its foetid smell and
spotted stem — characters which should be pointed out to children, who are
so apt to taste the flowers which they gather. It is one of the ingredients
of the witches' "charmed pot," in ^^Macbeth:" —

"Root of hemlock, digg'd i' the dark."

In the second scene of the fifth act of ''Henry V.," where Burgundy is
bewailing the woes that have befallen France, in consequence of wars, this
infelicitous weed is mentioned by him as one of the "cumberers of the
ground," the cultivation of which had been neglected: —

•'Her fallow leas
The darnel, hemlock, aud rank fumitory
Doth root upon."

The next plant noticed was the Salvia Verhenaca, (Wild English Clary,
or Sage.) It is very frequent in our neighbourhood, especially near the
Bea, on dry stony banks; but, according to Hooker, it is rare in Scotland.
That pretty denizen of waste ground, Verbena officinalis, (Common Vervain,)
next arrested our attention. It is a charming thing, with ita long, slender
spikes of small and distant pale purple flowers; and possesses additional interest
from the tradition that it was revered by the Druids, and gathered by them
with religious ceremonies. It is a curious coincidence that the Greeks also
should attach extraordinary powers to this herb, especially in incantations.
It was held in high esteem by the Romans. Even so late as the last century,
(vide Penny Cyclopaedia,) scrophula was pretended to be cured by the root
of this plant being hung around the patient's neck. It is by no means
uncommon in this district. Hooker says it is "rare in Ireland;" while the
author of the article above alluded to states that "it is not found in Ireland."

BOTANICAL STROLLS, 193

Perhaps some practical botanist in that country could enlighten us on this
point? It appears to have a wide range, being an inhabitant of New Holland
The next plant on my tablets is Torilis nodosa, (Knotted Hedge Parsley;)
and then follow three Thistles, namely, Carduus mdans, (Musk Thistle,) a
large and handsome species, ''^said," as Hooker has it, "to smell powerfully
of musk in warm weather — most so in the evening, according to Lightfoot;''
but your correspondent has never detected the scent; G. tenuiflorus, (Slender-
flowered Thistle,) plentiful near the sea on our coast; and G. arvensis,
(Creeping Plume Thistle.) Aira caryophjllea, that graceful little Grass, was
waving its pensile heads; and the elastic sward was overgrown with Thyvixis

ScrpyUum.

"I know a bank whereon the wild thyme blows."

MlDSlMMFR XiGHT's DkEAM.

.» Then came Dnuciis Carota, (Wild Carrot,) with its wide-spreading umbels
of white bloom, curiously marked in the centre with a solitary abortive
floret of a purple colour. Cytinghsmm officinale, (Common Hound's-tongue,)
now met with for the first time in my rambles; and much pleased was I
to find it, although it was getting cut of flower. The nuts are very peculiar;
but as untechnical language would fail to describe them, this vague observation
must suffice. The hedges were adorned with Malva Moschata, (Musk Mallow,)
one of the most beautiful of our wild flowei's, in colour rivaling the Roses
of the garden. On the verge of precipices overhanging the sea, Carlina
vulgaris, (Common Carline Thistle,) stood erect, with its spinous stem. This
plant rarely acquires a large stature in this neighbom-hood, the stem being
more frequently single-flowered than "many-flowered corymbose," as described.
I recently received from the north of England a specimen with several heads
of flowers, and altogether presenting a different appearance, so far as growth
is concerned, from the example here met with. And this is not the only
plant in which I have noticed a more luxuriant condition when growing
farther north, than in this mild and southern position. What is the cause
of this? Mula Gonyza, (Ploughman's Spikenard,) completed the list of our
findings about Werabury,

At Noss, a village lying on the banks of a ci-eek running in from the
River Yealm, we discovered a colony of Ver,l)ascum virgatum, (Ijarge-flowered
Primrose-leaved Mullein,) upwards of thirty roots "sXl in a row" by the side
of a hedge, and, being in full bloom, a very fine show they presented. What
a catch, methought, they would have been for some rapacious collector, whose
eyes had never feasted on such a sight, and whose vasculum had never held
so rich a prize !

At Kewton, another village on the opposite shore of the creek, Fceniculum
vulgare, (Feimel,) was abundant,

"There's fennel for j'ou."
Ophelia.

Ligmtrum vulgare, (Privet,) fenced the cottages, and Sedum reflesum, (Crooked
VOL. n. 2 c

191 BOTANICAL STROLLS.

Yellow Stonecrop,) with its succulent leaves and cyme of large and brilliant
flowers, was growing from between the stones of old walls. By this time
the shades of evening had closed around us, and we bent our steps homeward
after a pleasant day's excursion.

Later in the month of July, I went with a non-botanical party to Gunnis-
lake, on the banks of the Tamar — that matchless river, whose beauties have
been so sweetly sung, and without "local prejudice" too, by our native poet,
Can-ington; but, as I had no opportunity to search for plants, it must not
be supposed that the few hereafter mentioned bear any proportion to the
number to be found in this favoured locality. Here are the famous Morwell
Rocks, where that flivorite and graceful Fern, the Asplenium lanceolatum,
and the rarer Jlypericum linariifoUum, delight the adventurous botanist.

From the lioliday steamer which had borne us from Plymouth over the
tranquil waters of the Tamar, we landed a little below Calstock, whence a
winding path, which we followed, leads along the margin of the river to that
village. By the way I noticed, in addition to many plants already included
in these papers, Apium graveolens, (Wild Celery;) Senecio aquaticus, (Marsh
Ragwort;) S. Jacohcea, (Common Ragwort;) AchiUcea Millefolium, (Yarrow;)
Pyreihrum inodorum, (Corn Feverfew, or Scentless Mayweed;) Sonchus
oleraceus, (Sow Thistle;) Epilobium montanum, (Broad Smooth-leaved Willow-
herb;) E. parvijionim, (Small- flowered Hairy Willow-herb;) Galium Mollugo,
(Great Hedge Bed-straw;) G. Aparine, (Goose-grass, or Cleavers;) Teucriwn
Scorodonia, (Wood Germander, or Sage;) Erica cinerm, (Five-leaved Heath;)
Loniccra Pcrichjmetmm, (Honeysuckle, Woodbine.)

"And honeysuckles full of clear bcc-wine."

Keats.
The woodbine wild,
"That loves to hang on barren boughs remote
Her wreaths of flower}' pea-fume."
Mason.

Crepis tccforum, (Smooth Hawk's-beard;) Acjrostis inthjarifi, (Fine Bent-grass;)
Hypericum perforatum, (Perforated St. John's Wort.) I could fain say a
few words about the beauties of this plant, did I not feel conscious that
this article is already too long. Rosa canina, (Dog Rose,) filling the air
with grateful odours.

"And first of all tlie rose, because its breath
Is rich beyond the rest, and when it dies
It doth bequeath a (;harm to swt«ten death."
Bakky Corn wa 1,1,.

Ruhus fruticosus, (Blackberry;) well known to every truant school-boy, and
relished far beyond the choicest dainties of the table.

"Were reasons plenty as blackbemea, &c."

Falstaff.

Ballota nigra, (Horehound;) Lapsan a communis, (Nipplewort;) ami Senehiera
didyma, (Lesser Wart-cress.)

NOTES ON THE GEOLOGY OF EAST LOTUIAN AND BERWICKSHIRE. 195

Along the road between Calstock and Gunnislake, were observed Ei-ythrcea
Oe>itaurium, (Common Cantaury,) a herb collected in large quantities for
officinal purposes. I have seen an old herbalist — a woman — bearing home
upon her bent and yielding shoulders as much of this herb as she could
stand under — the result of a day's labour — to be disposed of to some chemist
at about one penny per pound; and thus through the summer she earns
her scanty livelihood. Bdonica officinalis^ (Wood Betony^) another useful
herb; Sedum Anglicum, (l^jnglish Stonecrop;) Lotus major, (Narrow-leaved
Bird's-foot Trefoil;) Circcea lutdiana, (Enchanter's I»Jightshadc;) Stachijs
sylvatica, (Hedge Woundwort;) Leonunis Cardiaca, (Motherwort,) a plant
unfrequent in this neighbourhood; indeed, until discovering it here, I knew
of only one habitat for it, which was at Rame, Cornwall. It is, I believe,
nowhere a common plant. "Named from lean, a lion; and oura, a tail,
from a fancied resemblance in the plant to a lion's tail." — Hoolccr.

From Gunnislake we descended to the Weir, up to which point the River
Tamar is navigable. The wooJjd scenery of this part is of surpassing
magnificence.

"The surging snake
Has not more folds than Tamar. * *
Each wood-fring(!d Iicadlaud doubled, we shall pause
Beneath the flashing Weir.

CARRI^^GTON.

The only plants here added to my list were the Meadow Sweet, (Spiraea
Uhnaria,) and White Valerian, (Valeriana officinalis.) At evening we returned,
steaming gently down the sinuous river, our way enlivened by cheerful music
performed by a band on berird.

Isaiah W. N. Keys.
Flymouth, 1852.

NOTES ILLUSTRATIVE OF

THE GEOLOGY OP PART OF THE SHORES OF

EAST LOTHIAN xVND BERWICKSHIRE.

BY JAMES P. FKASKR, ESQ.

Read before the Natural History Society of Glasgow, on April Gth., 1852.

(Continued from page yjl.)

The rocks which lie unconformably to these Schists are the beds of the
Old Red Sandstone. The Old Red Sandstone at this point presents some
varieties of structure, varying in fineness of texture from a compact sandstone
to a coarse conglomerate, or pudding-stone, in which many of the imbedded
fragments and pebbles are nearly a foot in diameter. In the conglomerate
form, it is principally composed of water-worn pebbles of slate and schist,
greywacke slate, and pieces of quartz, imbedded in a dark-coloured sandy
cement. These pebbles are generally well rounded^ as if long subjected to

19C) NOTES OX THK GEOLOGY OF EAST LOTIIIAX AND UERWICKSHIRE.

Section as scon from the opposite side of the ravine, about one hundred feet hi^h. a, unconformable
beds of Old Red Sandstone; ft, vertical beds of Silurian strata. These beds of the Old Red are the finer
quartzose Sandstone.

attrition by the action of water. The fragments of quartz, however, present
an exception to this rule, being of two kinds; first, well rolled and polished
pebbles, possibly originating in some distant and ancient mass of quartz, which
has now disappeared; second, angular fragments which seem to have been
imbedded in the conglomerate immediately after they were detached from the
parent mass. These last probably proceeded from the larger veins of quartz
so numerous in the slates and schists, the softer materials in which they occur,
forming part of the cement which binds the conglomerate together. The
fragments of the schist are also very angular and sharp. Another appearance
which the Old Red Sandstone presents along a great portion of the coast, at
all events from 8iccar to the Cove, and which I think proper to notice here,
is, tliat in its conglomerate form it frequently alternates with narrow beds of
finer Sandstone, These alternations have sometimes been supposed to indicate
partial elevations and subsidences in the bed of the sea where the materials
were deposited; but from their frequency, it seems much more probable that
they ought to be attributed to the periodical increase and diminution of
those currents or streams which bore the gravel to the ocean.

At Siccar we have the northern junction of the newer Palaeozoic rocks with
the older of the Lammermuir ridge; and at St. Abb's Head, near Coldingham,
which I had the pleasure of seeing last July, we have the southern junction,
but the immediate contact is not visible; the Lammermuir Hills running east
and west. The section which the sea coast makes at St. Abb's is highly
instructive, from the great disturbance of the older strata, and the variety of

NOTES ON THE GEOLOGY OF EAST LOTHIAN AND BERWlCKSHinE,

197

their contortions. All along the coast from Siccar to St. Abb's^ a distance
of about ten miles, these flexures are most distinct; and the nature of the
curve into which the schists are bent cannot be misinterpreted, seeing that
besides transverse sections from north to south, the deep indentures which the
sea has made, and the projecting points of rock exhibit many longitudinal
sections in a direction from east to west.

St. Abb's Head takes its name from Abbe, or Ebba, sister to Oswj, King
of Northumberland, Abbess of the Nunnery of Coldingham, which is said to
have been the oldest in Scotland; it is mentioned as early as 6G1, and at
this period she was at the head of it. It is said she came to this solitary
headland to perform her devotions, and it was at all times her favorite
resort for meditation.

But to return to their still older history. The rocks are the same with
those at Siccar point;* they consist principally of a bluish slate, and they
frequently bear a ripple-marked surface. The undulations of the beds reach
from the top to the bottom of cliffs, from two hundred to three hundred
feet in height, and there are sixteen distinct bondings in the course of about
six miles, the curvatures being alternately concave and convex upwards.

Cliffs at St. Abb's. Curved strata of slate, height, three hundred feet.

For the sake of future remarks I may mention here, that since I came
home, I have learned the fact of the occurrence of a large mass of real granite
in the vicinity of the village of Priestlaw, in Lammermuir. I will now detail
the rest of our trip before I pass on to any hypothetical conclusions by way
of explaining the phenomena which have passed under review.

After leaving Siccar we retraced our steps — in the face of a biting north
wind, accompanied by two sharp showers of hail — to Cockburns-path, and
struck off by another road which brought us to the Cove, so called, I presume,

* These rocks stretch across the country to Ayrshire, and forai the prevailing rock of the
whole of the south of Scotland. They run in a straight line south-west from Siccar point to
Girvan, constitute the rocks of the whole of the south of Ayrshire, Wigtonsliirc, Kirkcudbright,
Dumfries, Peebles, and Selkirkshires, and the northern portion of Berwickshire.' Sir Koderick
ilurchison has examined them at Girvan and Dumfries, and has, I believe, identified them with
the Caradoc and Llandeillo flags, or the lower Silurian rocks.

198 NOTES ON THE GEOLOGY OF EAST LOTHIAN AND BEUWICKSHIRE.

from the sheltered position it occupies between two lofty heads of land, the
sea having made a very deep indentation. The features of this spot are
highly interesting also, but as they are nearly those which I have already
described, I will not trouble you with a repetition; I Avould only notice that
there is another intrusion of trap, similar to that found at Dunbar, recognised here.

We now wended our steps homewards, intending to return by the sea-
coast for the purpose of visiting the Pan Quarry, where, we were told, are
to be seen some fine specimens of fossil trees, but as we found ourselves
somewhat footsore," we thought it most prudent to go by the high road.
Having arrived at Dunbar, we visited again the raised beach, mentioned by
Mr. Robert Gray,'^ and we had the satisfaction of proving his statement with
regard to Helices being found in it, for we had not been many minutes at
work before I extracted a specimen of Helix nemoralis, evidently as old as
its associated shells. I mentioned this fact to our excellent Vice-President
on my return, and he informed me that he was not surprised at it, as Helices
frequently wander down to the shore. All the shells we found are those now
living on our coasts.

By way of conclusion I may, I think, endeavour to relate as concisely as
possible the history of this coast, so far as I have had the means of exami-
nation, without being accused of an unreasonable spirit of hypothesis.

1st. — A great physical group has been deposited in a region which is now
occupied by the line of coast, stretching from Siccar point to Coldingham
bay — the schists and clay slates of the Silurian age.

2nd. — Afterwards came the period when the granitic axis was elevated.
When the elevatory movements began, and how long they were continued, I
do not think it is possible to determine; but they ended before the deposition
of the Old Red Sandstone; for before that period the granitic axis and the
Silurian masses had assumed their present relative position. I strongly suspect
that two large veins of granite must lie on either side of the contorted schists;
for in no other way can I explain the immense flexures, and the innumerable
quartz veins of all sizes which ramify them. Now, after the strata were thus
bent and contorted, let us suppose a denuding current to sweep away the
higher and more exposed portions, the strata would thin off, and present in
many places vertical columns, which they actually do. It is not assumed that
the disturbing action ceased at an epoch anterior to the deposition of the
unconformable Sandstones. On the contrary, there is no doubt that it continued
long afterwards, and that these beds have undergone fractures and dislocations
like the older strata, though to a smaller extent. In this way alone can I
account for the highly crystalline state of these sedimentary deposits.

3rd. — After this, were deposited the conglomerates and finer Sandstones of
the Old Red, which range from Dunbar to Siccar point, and extend inland
across the whole country, with one or two breaks to Ayrshire, and a patch
beginning at Berwick upon-Tweed, crossing as far as Jedburgh and Selkirk.

* Vid. Proceedings of Natural History Society of Glasgow, first fasciculus, page 6.

NOTES ON THK GEOLOGY OP EAST LOTHIAN AM) HKUWICKSHIRE. 1U9

4th. — Within the period of the two preceding groups, there seem to have
been extensive tracts of elevated land, covered with the ancient plants of the
carboniferous era; of this we are certain, that the isolated coal beds which
characterize this shore, were deposited in regular order on the preceding group.
The underlying strata of Old Red Sandstone show a regular gradation from
the conglomerate to a fine quartzose Sandstone; but before passing finally into
the coal measures, we find the same pebbles, or rather fragments of which the
conglomerate is composed, imbedded in lime, and forming a calcareous con-
glomerate, after which succeed the ordinary beds of lime, shales, and sandstones.
There is, therefore, no sudden change from the one set of strata to the other.
The transition is perfectly gi-adual, and in perfect harmony with those theories
resulting from the researches of modern geologists, which all tend to demon-
strate that the old hypothesis of vast and sudden convulsions, revolutionizing
at stated epochs the whole surface of the globe, have no place in the economy
of nature, where every thing is, and ever has been, regulated by laws, whose
grand characteristic is the principle of a slow but certain progression."'

5th. — A second great mineral axis now came into force, ranging nearly east
and west, and elevating and tilting the strata of the Old Red and Carboniferous
groups. We see this axis in the trap rocks about Dunbar, and at the Cove,
and it explains without doubt the high inclination, the north-eastern dip, and the
occasional alterations of these beds. In attempting to trace the nature of this
change, we may suppose the rocks of the district to have presented three
different phases in succession. First, the sedimentary rocks would be deposited
in a level position, and the surflxce would then form one continued subaqueous
plain. Second, the eruptious of trap at several localities would fissure and tilt
the beds, throw up some portions, and depress others: the surface would then
exhibit a vast assemblage of heights and hollows, bounded by mural precipices.
Third, diluvial currents would sweep away the more tender and more exposed
strata, wearing down all the prominent parts, till its action was arrested by the
firmer rocks, especially by beds of trap. These beds of trap, though origi-
nally injected at a considerable depth, would now occupy all the salient points
of the surface, and give the country its peculiar physiognomy, as is the case
in the inunediate neighbourhood of Dunbar. It has been here assumed that
the eruption of the trap rocks took place simultaneously, although it may
have occurred at different periods. My object, however, is not so much to
paint the condition of the whole surface at any one time, as to convey an
idea of the sutn of the changes which it has undergone from the causes re-
ferred to. If these views be even approximately true, they help us to account
for the very interesting phenomena of this coast; but I admit they may be
open to doubt, as my examination of this coast, in extent about thirty-one

* Perhaps it may be necessary that I should guard this statement; it is not to be supposed
tliat I do not admit that there have been forces in operation greater than any that we now witness
on our globe, giving those physical features to our planet, which add so much to its beauty and
our enjoyment; but I do not agree with those who state that every group has been ushered
in and closed with periods of violent disturbance.

200

FOKRiaV BODY IS^ A BEKCH THEE.

mihs, wa? not so mluutc as I coulJ have wished, on account of my lack of
sufficient time.

[n fine, this is a shore I would recommend to a young geologist, who is
anxious to learn more of the science than can be gained from books or cabinets,
as the disposition of the various stratified formations, their relations to each
other, and to the subjacent and superincumbent igneous rocks, altogether form
an excellent school for the first labours of the practical geologist. The
beginner will learn more here, with a slight theoretical knowledge of the
science, in two weeks, than he could learn in two months from books; here
he will learn to observe, and apply his observations.

FOREIGN BODY FOUND IN
THE TRUNK OF A BEECH TREE, (FAGUS SYLVATICA.)

BY C. W. ROTHERY, ESQ.

About two years ago a Beech tree was blown down in front of my house,
which I sent to the saw- mill to be ciit into planks. The workmen did
not proceed far when they found that some body in the wood was causing
an obstruction to their labour; and after an eifort to overcome it, found, on
completing the section, that they had actually cut through a piece of iron,
having all the appearance of a nail. I had it brought home and examined;
and by carefully removing the dark-coloured rotten mass of woody fibre which
surrounded it, succeeded in withdrawing an old gimblet, one-half of the handle
of which had been cut off in the operation of sawing, and the iron considerably
filed at one place.

The part of the trunk where this object was found was about two feet

SPRING FLOWERS.

201

below the axil of a large branch, so that it appears probable that some one
— it might be even South cy — using a gimblet in the garden had stuck it
carelessly into the axil of the branch, and so left it until by the lapse of
time, the yearly growth of the woody layers had completely covered it in.
I have now in my possession the gimblet, with the portion of the stem in which
it was found; and send with this a sketch of them,

Greta Hull, Keswick, Cumberland, April 29th., 1852.

APPEARANCE OF SOME OF OUR

EARLIEST SPRING FLOWERS, ETC., FOR 1852, NOTICED IN

THE NEIGHBOURHOOD OF CHLRNSIDE, BERWICKSHIRE.

BY GEOROE HENDERSON, ESQ., SURGEON.

February.

23rd. — Alauda arvensis singing. I
have heard it in some seasons as
early as the 9th.

23rd. — Merula vulgaris first heard.

March.

5th. — Vanellus cristatus heard.
20th. — Viola odorata flowered.
23rd. — Draba verna.

— Fiearia ranunculoides.

— Lamium album.

— Leontodon Taraxacum,

— Potentilla fragariastrum.
26th. — Geotrupes stercorarius abroad

in the evenings.
2Gth. — Bombus terrestris feedinor on
the willows.

April.

1st. — Tussilago Farfara.

6th. — Narcissus pseudo Narcissus.
10th. — Anemone nemorosa.
11th. — Vanessa urticae on wing.

— Pontia rapae on wing.
14th. — Oxalis Acetosella,
15th, — Tussilago Petasites.
26th, — Primula vulgaris,

Chirnside, 3Iay 18th., 1852.

VOL. II.

April.

29th. — Veronica chamaedrys.
30th. — Ilirundo riparia arrived.

May.

1st, — Viola canina.

2nd.— Caltha palustris. House

Swallows arrived.
2nd, — Primula veris,

— Prunus spinosa,

6th. — Papilio eardamines on wing.
8th. — Spartium Scoparium,

— Corn Crake heard.
10th. — Alchemilla vulgaris,

— Geum rivale.

— Saxifraga granulata.

— Erysimum AUiaria.

— Stellaria holostea.

— Ranunculus bulbosus,

— R, auricomus.

— Vicia sepium,

— Orobus tuberosus,

— Anchusa Sempervirens,

— Viola lutea.

11th, — Bat flying about in the

evening.
18th. — Cardamine pratensis,

— Mespilus oxyacantha just be-
ginning to bloom,

2 D

202

ANOMALY IN THE STRAWBERRY
LEAFED CINQUEFOIL, {POTENTILLA FBAGABIASTRUM.)

r.Y J. B. DAVIES^ ESQ.

While searching a lane near the race-course at Ripon a few days ago, I
found a specimen of the common barren Strawberry, (PotentiUa Fraganadmni,)

having six petals, the normal number being
five, and one of them occupying the very centre
of the flower, (Fig. 1;) in fact it was an
altered carpel, becoming petaloid. It is no
,^^ uncommon thing for stamens to be so con-
Q verted, and even occasionally the pistil, but
^/ we seldom find the latter taking the lead in

the development. In the case of the double-
flowered Cherry, we have all, or nearly all the stamens converted into petals;
and the pistil, which is composed of a single carpel, assuming the form of
an ordinary leaf, (Fig. 2.) In short, in all cases where flowers become double,
the change proceeds from without inward; but here, nature, to shew that she
will be bound by no law, reverses this order, and converts one of the carpels
into a perfectly-formed petal, (Fig. 3,) differing in no particular from the
ordinary petals, while the remainder of the carpels, together with the whole
of the stamens, are left unchanged.

Ripon, March 22nd., 1852.

3^^{3tdlnnpnu0 JfhWm.

Hare taking a bath. — A friend of mine, upon whose veracitj' I can safflj' rely, tells me the
following strange freak of a Hare: — He was walking bj' the side of a large pool on a verj'
hot day last summer, when he observed at some little distance some animal swimming about
very leisurely in the water. He thought it must be an Otter, but, on approaching it, discovered
that it was a Hare, which, on seeing him, swam leisurely to the bank, jinnped out of the
water, shook herself, as a Dog would under similar circumstances, and toddled quietly ofi'. —
M. CuKTLER, Bevere, Worcestershire, March, 1852.

A Sow killed by the bite of an Adder. — In the month of June 1851, a full-grown Sow,
belonging to a farmer on the borders of the New Forest, in this parish, while grazing in a
meadow, Avas bitten by an Adder on the tongue. The poor animal in a short time began to swell
and foam at the mouth, and in a few hours after she died, in great appai'ent pain. One rather
remarkable feature in the case was, that after the bite she could not be induced to move
forwards, but persisted in going backwards, and this retrograde movement continued until the
poor creature baeked out of existence. It is not quite easy to decide which was the first
aggressor, the Adder or the Sow. I am inclined to think it very probable that the Sow made
the first attack; fancying, perhaps, the Adder would be a choice morsel, she seized it, and
thus became "the biter bit." It is possible, however, that she miglit have seiiied it accidentally
while eating, and thus received the fatal wound ; and, were it not for the well-known carnivorous
propensities of Pigs, and Sows in particular, this would appear the most probable cause of the
interview between the quadruped and the reptile. I was once intimately acquainted with a
Sow which took great delight in devouring fowls. Whenever these unfortunate birds, tempted
by the meal on which she was fed, or a stray cnist or potatoe floating about her wash, ventured
into her sty, in the hope of sharing her repast, she would make a furious grab at them with

MISCELLANEOUS NOTICES. 203

her by no means amiable-looking open mouth, and happy indeed were those who escaped from
her jaws, it might be only to hear her "crunching" the bones of their less fortunate companion.
Her custom was to devour the whole of the fowl, save the large wing feathers and a few of
the smaller ones which escaped in the process. She never left such numerous traces of her
banquet as a Hawk would leave, had he been the murderer. — J. Pemberton Baetlett,
Fordingbridge, Hants.

Anecdote of a Bog. — The sagacity of these intei-esting animals comes so very near reason in
some instances, as to make it a most difficult question, where instinct ends, and the rational
powers begin; in other words, whether what we call reason is the exclusive property of the
human creature. I remember a most singular case of intelligence in a beautiful little King
JCharles Spaniel, which belonged to my sister, which occurred a few years since. This little
animal was not only the most beautiful, but also the most testy little fellow I ever saw ; but
I am bound to speak well of him, because, for some reason or other, I was an especial favorite,
and although he sometimes snapped even at me, he never did more, which few others could
say; and I own that although I saw his faults, I was exceedingly attached to -him, and he in
return had the most perfect confidence in me, and understood my looks in a most extraordinary
manner, and it was a common practice not only with myself, but other members of our family >
when we left the room where he was, to promise in words to return, and not go out without
him ; for his sporting propensities were very strong, and I never knew a more indefatigable
or better finder than he was. One fine day I was engaged in my own room writing, and little
"Charlie" lay on the rug dosing, and very snug and comfortable, and twice or thrice during
the morn I had occasion to take my cap and go out for a few minutes, but on each occasion,
promising to return, he only looked up, and again settled himself to sleep ; but at last, thinking
I would take a short walk, but not particularl}^ wishing to have the incumbrance of a Dog
with me, I took my cap once more, and promised to return as usual, but as I passed the
corner of my room took up a small stick, which was usually my walking companion; but this
circumstance was sufficient to make him disbelieve what was certainly intended to deceive him,
and it would not accordingly do this time, for he immediately followed me to the door, showing
that he was not to be done, and I own that my heart smote me, and I took him with me,
being no less pleased with his intelligence. Now we know it is a very common thing for a Dog,
if you do not wish him to follow you, and therefore shut him in by a front door, to come
out and join you by the back door, if it be open; or if conscious of doing that for which he
has been chastised, on the approach of any pei-son immediately decamp; but it appears to me
that the anecdote I have just related is a greater refinement of instinct than I ever heard of
or met with, and worthy to be recorded of a little animal who has long since met the melan-
choly end of all pets, the unnatural life he led producing asthma, and unhealthy obesity, which
rendered it necessary to put him in the hands of a Dog-doctor, where he soon after breathed
his last, and lies buried under a small stone .in those very shrubberies which had so often
resounded to his joyous cries. — 0. S. Round, Lincolns-Inn-Fields, February 3rd., 1852.

The Fern Owl, (Caprimulgus Europa;us.) — It is not in all heath-clad districts that you meet
with these birds, although it is almost always in such districts that they are found, and I
cannot help thinking that, as a general fact, they are not so numerous in this country as I
remember them in my boyhood, now some twenty-five years since. I have travelled a good
deal about England, and have consulted those who were as familiar with Scotknd, a knowledge
I cannot equally pretend to ; and my impression is that which I have stated, because, wherever
I go, natural objects are chiefly interesting to me, and hence without effort I make my silent
observations. The neighbourhood in which I spent the earlier part of my life, Bagshot Heath,
has always been the peculiar resort of the Fern Owl; and I suppose no one has had more
opportunities than myself of observing their mode of life, and obtaining specimens. By imitating
their call, which is not difficult, in the summer's evening, you may soon have the pleasure
of their company; and I remember in this manner bringing five or six flying round my head
in a very short time. There has been a great deal of discussion and conjecture relative to the
serrated nail of the middle toe, but I tliink I am quite right in saying that no satisfactory
conclusion has been come to on the subject. It may be to secure their insect prey, to pass
through theii- feathers, or to secure their footing on the leader of a tree, and is probably used
for more than one purpose; but we find in the Heron the same conformation, which might

201 MISCELLANEOUS NOTICES.

be in that case more satisfaotovrly conjectured, having regard to the slippery nature of their
prey ; but having paid particular attention to the matter, I consider it rests in conjecture only.
At some future time I may have some more to say on the subject, but for the present shall
confine myself to this general observation. — Idem.

The Buzzard. — An incident occurred to me last year which I thought might be interesting
to some of the readers of ''The Naturalist." It was a fine day in the middle of the summer,
when, walking to the head of the valley of Easdale, in Westmorland, I saw a fine specimen
of the Buzzard, (Buteo vulgaris^) curving about the crags on the east side of the valle\\ The
bird seemed alarmed by the appearance of myself and servant, and was very irregular in its
flight. At that time— being able to imitate the cry of the Buzzard — I thought I would try
if I could attract the feathered sovereign of that rocky ten-itory, so I ordered my man to lie
down upon the heather, and I soon followed his example. After remaining quiet for a minute
or two, I commenced the cry, and it was a beautiful sight to see the bird gradually ascend
and wheel round to a iwint immediately over my head. This position I could not witness
myself, but it was observed by my attendant. The Buzzard gradually descended to within four
or five yards of my cranium, when the witness, becoming alarmed for the safety of my apparrcl
or my person from the shock of the Hawk's attack, immediately arose, and scared the creature
away. Had I remained still much louger, no doubt the bird would have dropped upon me,
carrying away a portion of my arm, or talons filled with hair ; wliich might look more ridiculous
to the observer, than be pleasant to the sufferer, I liave in my possession a Buzzard, taken
from a nest in Lonsealo Fell, the nose of Skiddaw, about two years since: it is very tame for
a bird of that species, and will eat its food in my presence. The bird Avill not refuse to
accept meat when offered to it by the hand. I do not think it would be happy to associate
with its own class, it has become so far domesticated. This does not shew much nobility
about the Buzzard, or inclination to roving habits; but it seems as if the creature preferred
solitude in a hay chamber, resting near a barred window, to the independent habits of the
untamed Hawk. — C. W. Eqthery, Keswick, May, 1852.

Heronry. — In the list of Heronries still to be found in England, which has appeared in your
interesting magazine, "The Naturalist," no mention is made of one at Chilham Castle, in Kent,
the seat of J. B. Wildman, Esq. There, however, the Herons have a colony, to which they
return almost invariably on the same day of the month every spring. — J. Pembekton Bautlett,
Fordingbridge, Hants., March 10th., 1852.

Additional JTeronry. — In addition to the list of Heronries mentioned at page 60 of vol. i., and
elsewhere, in "The Naturalist," may be addtjd one in the domains of Warwick Castle, the truly
magnificent seat of the Earl of Brooke and Warwick. Of this I was informed by some friends
of mine;, who had been there a few years ago, and also a fortnight back, whilst there, by one
of the gardeners at the Castle, but unfortunately time would not allow of my visiting it. — W. B.

In addition to those already enumerated in "The Naturalist," a Heronry is still in existence
at Wolverton Wood, near Lynn.--T. Southwell, Lynn, Norfolk, May 14th., 1852.

Occurrence of the Bee-eater, (Mcrops apiaster,) in Aberdeenshire. —h. fine specimen of this
rara avis was shot about thrtx; weeks ago, (about June Wi.) by the gardener at Kinmundy,
(nearly the extreme north-east point of the county,) and is at present in my hands: it was
gorged with bees when sliot. The plumage is remarkably brilliant and perfect.— Thomas
Fergusox, Glasgow, June 25th., 1852.

We hav(! to apologize for the non-appearance of the above in the August number. It was
overlooked in the confusion consequent on a change of residence~B. K. M.

Chiff-chaff, (Sylvia hippolais.) — One of these interesting little fellows was shot here on the
22nd. of March; wind in tlie south at the time. I have the skin by me now, which I intend
sending to a gentleman at St. John's, New Brunswick, along with several others that I have.
— Geoege B. Clarke, Wobuni, Beds., April 12th., 1852.

Note Ml the Starling, (Stumus vulgaris.) —A dark cream-coloured Starling was shot by a
cousin of mine, near Colchester, this autumn, and is now in his collection.— E. B. P., Shelly,
Stoke-by-Nayland, January 2nd., 1852.

MISCELLANEOUS NOTICES. 20o

Note on the Starling, (Sturnus vulgaris.) — In looking over my notes I find some observations
on the number of times a pair of Starlings fed their young, which I give in the hope that it

may prove useful. The hours in the table were in the days between May 20th. and 2oth.

On the 21st., thirty-four times between five and six, and twenty times between six and seven-
a.m.; twenty-five times between one and two; twenty-five times between three and four
twentj^-four times between four and five; and twenty times between five and six, p.m., which
is twenty-four times per hour on the average. Then suppose they began at five, a. m., and con-
tinued feeding until eight, p. m., which is sixteen houi-s, in that time they destroyed nearly four
hundred grubs and worms. And when we consider that within twenty yards from where I sat
there were half-a-dozen nests of Starlings alone, the quantity of larvae destroyed must appear
very great. And yet there are many other bii-ds besides Starlings that consume as many.
These are facts, for I watched them myself for hours. — Eblana, Dublin, February 18th., 1852.

Early appearance of the Swalloto, (Hirundo rustica,) at York. — It is we believe universally
admitted that one Swallow does not make a summer, but it is not accurately defined what number
does. To-day, when walking near the river Ouse, about half-a-mile above York, at half-past
five, p. m., I saw ttvo Swallows hawking over the river. The wind was blowing fresh in squalls
from the east, in which quarter it had been for some time past. The weather was bright and
sunshmy.— B. R. M., York, April 23rd., 1852.

The Swallow, (Hirundo rustica.) — The Swallow was seen here for the first time this year,
on April 11th. I saw five of them myself sporting and twittering about this afternoon, as if
it were the height of summer; wind in the south-east. This is four days earlier than last year.
— George B. Clarke, Wobum, Beds., April 12th., 1852.

The Swift, (Cypselus apiis,) was first seen at Heacham Hall, Norfolk, on the 12th. of May.
—J. W. LxJKis, Heacham Hall, May 21st., 1852.

Arrival of tlis Hirundinidce. — In looking over the notices in your pages of the first appearance
of the Swallow, (Hirundo rustica,) in various localities, I find only one mention of it earlier
than I and my friends have observed it this year in our neighbourhood; I therefore think
it worth recording among your notes on the subject. The notice in No. 8 of three Swallows
being seen on the 3rd. of April, 1851, by a boy at Fleetwood, in Lancashire, may perhaps
be considered a little doubtful, as the writer did not observe them himself till the 12th., and
the situation of that westerly county almost precluding the possibility of so early an arrival,
so that without calling into question the veracity of the young gentleman, we may doubt the
act. At Lynn, in Norfolk, they appeared on the 18th. ; at Upper Helmsley on the 20th. ; at
Great Bcdwyn, AVilts, on the 13th. ; at Norwich on the 18th. ; at Black Hall, Devon, about
the 11th., for some years; at Plymouth on the 13th., etc. This year on the 9th., (Good
Friday,) during the prevalence of the north-east wind, between six and seven in the evening,
my sister observed two Swallows fly over this place, but they appeared to be only passing, as
the}' or others were not seen again till the 15th ; but in the valley within a mile of this to^vn,
at a village called Wooburn, a friend of mine driving there, saw them on the 12th. They
seemed to prefer the sheltered situation and milder air of the lower ground, and were not again
seen by us till the 15th. Then only a few had ventured, but on the 17th., many made their
appearance, and they soon became general. I shall be anxious to know if they were observed
equally early in other parts of the country. This town stands on the Chiltem Hills, and is
very cold. — Agnes Catlow, Beaconsfield, May 7th., 1852.

A List of the Winter Birds of Passage,
Banged in the Order in which they appeared at Henley-upon-Thames in 1851.— By C. Stubbs, Ese.

No.

1. Wild Goose August 19th.

2. Lapwing October 3rd.

3. Wild Duck " 8th.

4. Woodcock " 20th.

5. Black Scoter " 25th.

6. Fieldfare " 26th.

7. Redwing " 28th.

No.

8. Wood Pigeon November 1st.

9. Bleater Snipe " 3rd.

10. Widgeon " 6th.

11. Mountain Finch " 20th.

12. Gray Wagtail '* 25th.

13. Jack Snipe " 30th.

206 MISCKIXANEOUS NOTICES.

The Swift, (Cypselus apus,) was first seen by mc this year on Tuesday, May 18th., at Cawood,
about twelve miles south of York.— B. K. M., May 24:th., 1852.

A Bar-tailed Godwit, (Litnosa rufa,) in summer plumage was shot at Kedoar, by Mr. Robert
Dobson, June 11th., 1852. — Daniel Ferguson, Redcar.

Late nesting of tfi^ Bedbreast.— Towards the end of November last, the nest of a Redbreast,
(Erythaca rubcmla,) containing eggs, was discovered by some workmen while pulling down a
shed at Giibton, Dumfriesshire, the seat of Francis Maxwell, Esq. The bird was sitting at the
time, and when distui'bed continued to linger near the spot till her frail fabric was buried
in the ruins.— Richard Rimmer, Kirkmichael House, February 4tli., 1852.

Ming-dove, (Columba palumbus.)"I am at a loss to account for the pined and emaciated
state of a very large proportion of our Ring-doves this year. I have shot a great many, and
think I am not wrong in saying that one-third have been in a most deplorable condition,
matteiing under the wings and thighs, feathers loose, and altogether presenting a diseased
appearance. Perhaps you or some of your correspondents will kindly throw some light on this
subject. —Idem.

Tlie Bullfinch, (Pyrrhula vulgaris.)— Last summer I took a nest of young Bullfinches imme-
diately before they were fully fledged. In a few days they all became sickly, and afterwards
died, except one, a hen, which from that moment evinced all the solicitude of a mother
towards the rest. When food was put into the cage she immediately conveyed it to them in
turn; refusing to taste herself till all were satisfied. She is still in my possession, and has
learnt to repeat two or three short sentences with great distinctness.— Idem.

Occurrence of the Hawfinch, (Loxia coccothraustes,) in Wariviolcshire.—h. fine male specimen
of this bird was shot by Bowyer C. B. Cave, Esq., on the 11th. of this month, in his garden
at Kenilworth. Another specimen has since been seen in the same locality. I may as well
observe that I have seen these birds in considerable numbers in Albania, near the coast during
the winter months,— H. J. Torre, Kenilworth, February 17th., 1852.

Carnivorous propensity of the Barn-door Fowl. — About three weeks since, I caught a large
Mouse in a granary, which on my throwing it into the poultry yard, was seized by a Cock. He ran
about the yard for two or three minutes, pursued by some of his companions, evidently desirous
of snatching the prize from him, and then he proceeded to swallow it head foremost, and
succeeded in doing so apparently with little difficulty. On another occasion I threw three mice
cut into small pieces to the poultry, which were devoured with avidity by them.--"W. M. Heath.
Lytchett Matravers, Dorset, January, 1852.

TJie Nightingale, (Philomela luscinia.) — These sweet little songsters have been enlivening our
woods for the last fortnight. — J. "W. Lukis, Heacham Hall, Norfolk, AprU 29th., 1852.

Skylark, (Alauda arvensis,) breeding in confinement. — Amongst all the interesting correspon-
dence in your amusing and instructive publication — "The Naturalist," there appears no record
of the Sky-lark having bred in confinement. A few years ago a pair in my possession, which
were kept in a cage five feet by three, had four broods in one year, but only three young
ones in the first nest arrived at maturity; two broods died on the second and third days, and
the eggs in the last nest were all addled. Both birds were exceedingly attentive to their young,
the cock being particularly active in keeping the nests clean ; and as soon as any of the young
died, he took them in his bill and thrust them out between the wires of the cage. Having
placed a fine young Lark near the cage, it so aroused the anger and jealousy of the old one,
that he killed his mate by pecking her on the head until he had quite destroyed the skull.
If other Larks are placed near him, they cease in a short time to sing, being completely
cowed by his energy and strong melodious voice. I have a Great-crested Grebe, which was
shot by L. Rudd, Esq., on Monday last, in the estuary of the Exe. A pair of Shovclers and
a Long-tailed Duck vwere seen in the same locality by this eminent ornithologist. — W. Tombs,
JcN., E.xeter, March 12th., 1852.

Late occurrences of the Landrail, (Crex pratensis.)— As I was looking through the Cam-
bridge market on November 7th,, 1851, I was rather surprised at seeing a Landrail apparently
fresh killed; however on examining it, I found an old wound in the pinion of the wing

MISCELLANEOUS NOTICES. 207

which no (Jpubt prevented its migrating. On December 2nd., 1851, a friend of mine shot on
his estate, near Plymouth, Devon., a Landrail, which he carefully plucked, but could not find
the slightest mark of a wound about it. Do these birds ever winter with us?--R. A. JuliaN)
Emmanuel College, Cambridge, April, 1852.

Occurrence of the Puffin, (Alca arctica.)— A bird of this species was captured in a fen near
Ely, on February 18th., 1852. It seems to be a bird of last year. It is now preserved in Mr.
Green's collection, of King's College Cambridge.— Idem.

The Herring Gull, (Larus fuscus.) — ^Whilst walking on the shore here very lately my atten-
tion was attracted by a pair of these birds, which were hovering close overhead. Presently one
made a sweep downwards to where a little boy and a very small terrier dog were walking ; the
bird reached within two or three feet of the dog, which shrunk down and ran off, the boy also
raising his arms in evident alarm at the close proximity of the Gull, which I should judge
could not be less than five feet from tip to tip of the wings. Had it not been for the boy,
I feel pijrsuaded the bird would have made an attack upon the dog. Probably some of your
readers may be enabled to say whether my sui-mises on this head are correct. — J. A. Eobinson,
Wycollar Cottage, Southport, Lancashire, January 12th., 1852.

Pattern Besigns by '■'■Fatlier Frost." — The main street of Southport, about a mile in length,
presented a most singular and beautiful appearance on the morning of Saturday, the 10th. of
January. Thei-e had been a fall of snow on the morning of the previous day, and this having
thawed off, had been followed by .rain, which had ceased probably by five or six o'clock in the
morning in question; a dry wind and frost had immediately followed, and on reaching Lord-
Street, about nine, a.m., I was immediately struck with astonishment at seeing the beautiful
crystallizations on the flags. Each of these formed a perfect picture ; some having, as it were,
wreaths of flowers and foliage; others graceful climbing plants; and others again the most
accurate representations of nearly all the fern tribe. Not a few had most elegant Kaleidoscopic
patterns on them; and occasionally along the junction of two flags a climbing plant, bearing
the appearance of the hop, might be seen and delineated — the black mark between the flags forming
the hop-pole. When I tell you that these beautiful pictures were all illuminated by the rays of
the rising sun, which too soon destroyed them, the pretty effect may perhaps be judged; but
I feel that my attempt to describe the beauty of the scene falls very far short of the reality.
I have often seen something similai" to this, but never before anything approaching to it in
elegance and variety. — Idem.

The Broad-nosed Sturgeon. — A fine specimen of this fish, about five feet long, was taken in
the Ouse at Cawood, near York, on May 18th., and I was told that it is not uncommonly
met with there. It was sold for four shillings. — B. E. M., May 24th., 1852.

Entomological Hints.- -As the Entomological season is now about its height, perhaps the
following communication may prove of service to embryo Entomologists, who, having collected
numerous specimens, are anxious to have them neatly and conveniently arranged. "When
commencing the study myself, I experienced considerable difficulty in this particular. Visions
of cabinets with numberless rows of air-tight drawers flitted before me, but on consideration
I soon found that such bulky articles were not only quite unsuited to my own present serai-
peripatetic life, but, even if settled, that they would take up much room, and involve considerable
expense. It was therefoi-e with gi-eat pleasure that I was recommended by my friend Mr. A.
Adams, K. N., to adopt the plan which I now wish to mention to the younger lovers of this
pursuit, namely, placing the specimens in boxes made in the form of books, with folding hinges,
on both sides of which the insects may be pinned down. And here I cannot help mentioning
the boxes of this description made by Mr. Robert Downie, Union -Street, Barnet, Herts., which
are, both for neatness and cheapness, the best I have seen. His name is well known to all
Entomologists of any standing, and I can only add my own less extended testimony to the
efficacy and portable nature of his works. The sizes generally made are three, namely, eleven
inches by eight and a-half inches, thirteen by nine and a-half, and sixteen by twelve ; the prices
being respectively five, seven, and twelve shillings. The first two are the most useful for small
collections. No. 1. being well adapted for Coleoptera, Hymenoptera, and Diptera; and No. 2.
for Lepidoptera and Neuroptera. I am certain that any one trying them will be as fully satisfied
with them as I was.— W. Balfour Baikie, M. D., Haslar Hospital, July 8th., 1852.

208 PROCEEDINGS OF SOCIETIES. THE QUERIST.

Hints to Enfomolofj/ists. — Allow me to suggest that such of the correspondents of "The
Naturalist," as may be entomologists, would be bestowing a great boon on some of their younger
fellow-workers in this delightful science if they would give the precise localities and times of
capture, either by themselves or of their own knowledge of the more rare or local insects. For
instance, in the order Lepidoptera, (the one to which I have principally turned my attention,)
they might give the places in which Machaon is now found. The localities, I dare say, of this
insect are becoming yearly more circumscribed; but I have no doubt that it is found in other
fens than Wicken — the only one that I have ever seen it in. It would be unnecessary of course
to say anything about the very common ones, as Brmsica, Urticce, Sgc, they being abundant
everywhere. I have only mentioned the order Lepidoptera, but I have no doubt that this plan
would be equally agreeable to the admirers of the other orders, as Coleoptera for instance, and
would greatly facilitate exchanges between parties in different parts of the country. Have any of
your readers heard of the capture of Daplicide, Dia, Hero, Ligea, Cassiope, Chrtjseis, HipjKtJwe,
or Virgaurea within the last few years ? if so, when and where ? — E. B. P.

Tli,e Brimstone Butterjly, (Goncpteryx rhamni,) was first seen here on the 16th. * of last
mouth. — C. Stubbs, Ilenley-upon-Thames, February 17th., 1852.

Wood Anemone, (Anemone nemorosa.) — In the immediate neighbourhood of Pooley Bridge,
Westmorland, I lately noticed a lai-ge patch of the common "Wood Anemone, growing under a
cluster of thorns by the road side, all of which were more or less tinged with purple. Two
were especially conspicuous for the depth and richness of their colouring. I am inclined to believe
that the excessive heat and drought we have had for the last ten weeks, may have been partly
instrumental in changing the colour, not improbably too, assisted by the limey nature of the
soil in which they grew. — C. "W. Rothery, Greta Hall, Keswick, Cumberland, April 29th., 1852.

|c%ntwliing3 nf Inrirtia

Yorkshire Naturalists' Club, Monthly Ifeefing, Attgust ith., 1852. — William Anderson,
Esq., in the chair.

A communication was read from Daniel Ferguson, Esq., of Eedcar, mentioning the occur-
rence of two specimens of the Norway Lobster, {Nephrops Norvegicus,) which were taken on
Saturday last, the 31st. of July, in a herring net, at lledcar; together with a vast multitude
of Turritella terebra. The Norway Lobster has only before occurred on this coast in the stomachs
of cod fish.

Dr. Morris mentioned that when at Redcar, in June, he had seen, in the possession of T. S.
Rudd, Esq., a fine and very perfect specimen of that very rare Star Fish, the Rosy- feather Star
{Comatiila rosacea,) which Mr. Rudd had procured from the deep-sea lines of one of the
fishermen.

Mr. T. H. Allis exhibited a very fine specimen of that very rare variety of the Common
Ermine Jloth, which has usually been described as a distinct species, under the name of
Spilosoma radiata. He also showed another variety, intermediate between this one and the
Common Ennine. Both were from Cottingham, near Hull, the only place where they are known
to occur, and where the late Mr. Haworth captured the original specimen.

The following new members were proposed and admitted: — H. W. Thomas, Esq., of Pinchin-
thorpe House, near Guisbro', and George Dixon, Esq^ of Great Ay ton.

€tiB dUnwiBt.

I had last year a caterpillar of the Large Egger Moth, which duly went into chrysalis. It
did not, however, come out, but remained in 'statu quo' through the winter. It was quite alive
this spring, though it subsequently proved to have been infested by an Ichneumon. Is not
this an unusual circumstance with this species? I never myself knew of a case of the kind
before.— F. 0. Morris, Nafforton Vicarage, Driffield, July, 1852.

Nuphar ;«^«ff.— Frequent in Kennett and Avon Canal, near Bath. Nymphcea «/*«.— Frequent
iu the Avon, near Bath.—R. Wilbraham Falconer, M. D., June,

209

LOCAL JOTTINGS.— No. 1.
MONTGOMERY— NORTH WALES.

BY JOHX MATTHEW JONES, ESQ., OF THE MIDDLE TEMPLE.

I CAN safely say that there is no prettier spot in England than our little
town of Montgomery, situated on the slope of a hill, and environed on all
sides by oak woods, rippling brooks, and ^'sunny banks whereon the wild
thyme grows;" no hour of the day passes by, wherein some fact may not be
ascertained in the various departments of that most entertaining of all pursuits
— Natural History.

Above the town rises a high groimd, known by the name of the "Town
Hill." In the southern parts of England it would be called a vast mountain,
for from its highest point can be distinctly seen the outskirts of five or six
countiea To the north-west, mountains rise over mountains in slow gradation,
until the eye rests upon the lofty summits of Plinlimmon and far-famed Cader
Idris. On a very fine and clear day, Snowdonia's grand range may bo dis-
cerned, mingled with the blue haze of the far distant horizon. On the hill
immediately over the town, and almost hid from sight by old trees, their
trunks grown hoary and covered with moss, stand the last remnants of Mont-
gomery Castle, so well known in days of yore as an almost impregnable
fortress. Many a stalwart Welsh chieftain has caroused within those walls,
which now, ivy-grown, afford shelter to the noisy Jackdaw.

A little further to the north-west, and only separated from the old Castle
by a wide gorge, stands another hill, on which remain the foundations of an
extensive encampment, supposed to be the stronghold of the English when
they made their several attacks on the Castle in the days of the Common-
wealth. On the side of this hill, and nearly opposite the Castle, has been
planted, within the last few years, a fir plantation, of about seven or eight
acres in extent, which, together with the hill at the top, is called the ^^Freethe;"
the young trees are now about twelve feet high, and have become so inter-
mingled with furze and brambles, that it is perfectly impossible for any human
being to force his way into the plantation, for not only would he have all
his clothes torn from his back, but he would also run a good chance of
getting a bite from an adder, of which there are numbers hereabouts. It is
in this little wood, safe fi'om the marauding hand of the bird-nesting boy, that
whole multitudes of Thrushes, Blackbirds, Linnets, Finches, and other small birds?
make their nests, and rear their young, and if any enthusiastic ornithologist
were to sit on the hill just above this wood on a summer's evening, and
hear the hundreds of Thrushes and Blackbirds singing their "vesper hymn,"
his thoughts would immediately become wrapt in delicious reverie, at the
magnificence of these sylvan sounds.

About a quarter of a mile to the west of this again, and a little below
the Town Hill, there is a large wood of oak and fir, sprinkled with beech,
having a good underwood of furze and bramble. In this wood you may

VOL. II. 2 E

210 LOCAL JOTTINGS.

see to advantage the Wood-pigeon/ Creeper^ Titmouse^ and Whitethroat. Creeping
stealthily along until you come within sight of the topmost branches of a wide-
spreading bcech^ you may gain a sight of a fine Wood-pigeon, or Quiest, (as
it is called hereabouts,) the metallic colours of his breast flashing in the sun
as he alternately preens both sides of his person; if you should cause by
accident the very smallest stick to crack, he is erect in an instant, and ere
another passes, he is off to some other secluded situation.

If I were to go on describing the various woods, hills, dales, brooks, etc.,
which are adjacent to this pretty place, I am sadly afraid I should be mo-
nopolising too great a portion of the interesting pages of ^'The Naturalist;"
I will therefore content myself for the present with the foregoing description of
the chief places of resort of the various kinds of birds which frequent this
part of North Wales. I have been induced to describe the locality of the
said hills and plantations for the good reason, that I now intend from the
present time, to accept the office of Ornithological Biographer for this neigh-
bourhood, and in so doing I shall oftentimes have to make mention of the
said localities, in connexion with the habits of many of our birds; and I
believe it to be the duty of every person situated as I am, in the very
midst of a country abounding in nearly all the species of the feathered tribes
frequenting the British Isles, (of course excepting sea-birds,) to lay before
the public, and those not having an opportunity of visiting such places, a
true and faithful account of the goings on of those pretty creatures, whose
habits and instinct cannot but manifest to the attentive observer, the wisdom
and goodness of the Great Creator.
To begin then with the Raven: — ■

I notice a pair of these birds frequently during the summer and autumn
about the Town Hill, and I sometimes see a third in company. They come
I believe from Kerry Hill, a wild barren mountain track, about five miles
from hence, where they breed unmolested. These birds are becoming very
scarce hereabouts, in consequence of the prejudice existing against them among
the fiirmers, who declare that they frequently destroy the young lambs by .
picking out their eyes. I have not the slightest doubt they are looking out
for such like dainty morsels among the sheep on the Town Hill, when I
observe them in that situation, I notice when the pair are in full flight,
that one keeps in advance of the other, in line, about twelve yards or so,
giving about every eight seconds the loud peculiar croak. On a fine calm
day you may hear this croak before the birds actually come within sight.

They breed also on a mountain called ^'Corndon," about seven miles from
here. It was on this mountain, some six or seven years ago, that some boys
procured a young Eaven, and having brought it to INIontgomery, they dipt
his winss, and christened him "Rafo." After a year had passed, the bird's
wino« were allowed to attain their mature plumage, and "Rafo" thinking that
exercise was necessary for his health, made two or three cruises per diem in
the immediate neighbourhood, always returning to his home for the night.

LOCAL JOTTINGS. 211

^^Rafo" liad a vast liking for human society, and generally alighted wherever
he happened to see labourers at work in a field, and when he took it in his
head would behave himself very improperly, stealing the bread and cheese of
the workmen, which probably lay covered up with a cloth under the hedge.
One day a very ludicrous scene occurred j "Rafo" had made rather a longer
excursion than usual, and had arrived over a portion of territory he had not
visited before. Seeing a team of horses and a plough at work with two
attendants, he determined to east anchor in so favourable a spot, and first of
all espying a very white-looking cloth at one end of the field, he made his
way to it, to gratify his curiosity; but no sooner had he surveyed the sub-
stance, than he began to show evident signs of there being something within
suitable to his palate; first pulling about the cloth, and finding he could not
get at the dainty morsel of bread and cheese within, he began to deal furious
strokes with his tremendous bill, and in a short time accomplished his purpose
of scattering the food all over the ground; and not being satisfied with this,
his attention was next directed to a *^^eortril," (a small barrel-shaped vessel,
holding about four quai-ts of beer,) which lay with the cork at the bung
exposed to view. ^^Eafo" gave a fierce dig at the cork, and out it came.
One of the labourers now having noticed the bird for the first time, ran to
frighten him away, but what was his surprise when he came up to find that
^^E-afo" would not be so easily disturbed, for when the countryman pelted him
with clods, ^^Rafo" would only move a step or two out of the way and give
a loud croak, but at last he took flight and went ofi".

As soon as the labourers had finished what remained of their meal, they
set to work ploughing as before, but had not proceeded far up the field when
''^Rafo" again made his appearance, keeping within a foot or two of the team
as it went on, and do what they would they could not drive him away. At
last these two poor superstitious Welshmen, who had never seen so large a
bird dressed in such a suspicious colour before, got frightened by his seeming
determination of keeping close company; and this fright increased tenfold, when
one of them, determined to send a farewell clod at him, happened to hit
the poor bird a severe blow, when up got "Rafo," and kept sailing round
and round over their heads, croaking most horribly for several minutes, and
then ofl" he went, keeping up his dreadful noise until out of sight. When
these poor fellows recovered from their fright, one said to the other, "By
gum Jack that must be the d 1!"

But alas! poor ^^Rafo" did not continue his tricks long, for one day a surly
farmer, not liking his frequent visits to his farm-yard, gave him a dose of
large shot, which ended poor "Rafo's" career. He was certainly a most
amusing bird, and, like the generality of his brethren, hated dogs, and kept
up a perpetual warfare against those animals; creeping softly behind one of
these poor creatures, he would, with the whole force of his body, give him
such a dig with his formidable beak, as would send the poor dog howling
away with his tail between his legs.

(To be continued.)

212
NOTES ON THE BIRDS OP lONA.

BY HENRY D. GRAHAM, ESQ.

(Continued from page 82. J

Thb Long-tailed Ice Dock, [Harelda (jlacialis.)

This bird comes to lona in the early part of November, when there
appears a small flock of a dozen or so, which takes up its station off the
northern coast of the island. These are gradually reinforced during the
frosts and severe weather of December and January, by fresh arrivals which
are driven in from the sea, and from their more unsheltered haunts, till at
last a very great number are assembled in the bay. Towards the end of
March this largo flock begins to break up into pairs and small parties; many
go away; and when the weather keeps fine they make long excursions, and
for days the bay is quite deserted — not a Long-tail is to be seen. A change
of weather, however, will still bring them back, and a smart gale would
assemble a considerable flock of them, and this as late as the second week
in April; but after this time you see them no more: thus we have them
Avith us for about four months. They arrive with the first frown of winter,
and depart with the earliest blink of summer sun. The Northern Hareld
brings ice and snow and storms upon its wings; but as soon as winter, with
his tempestuous rage, rolls unwillingly back before the smile of advancing
spring, to his Polar dominions, the bird follows in his train; for no creature
revels more amidst the gloom and rage and horrors of winter than the
Ice Duck.

The change which takes place in the appearance of these birds, during
the latter part of their stay, is very striking. In winter you see the flocks
of Long-tails far off, twinkling like bright white stars upon the blue waves;
but late in spring they become so dark that at a short distance they look
very black. Ijast year they remained so late as the 18th. of April; and I
had an excellent opportunity of watching a party of them on that day. I
was looking down upon them from a small eminence, with a glass; and
sometimes they came almost within reach of shot, so that I was able to
examine them nearly as well as if they were actually in my hand. They
seemed to be in full summer plumage. The males a fine deep black, some-
thing reddish about the wings when the sun caught them ; curious little white
caps upon their heads, and a patch of white visible behind the thigh. The
females were dark brown. I got one of these, though I did not succeed in
getting a male. The first time that I saw my old friends in their new
costume I did not recognise them, and I was puzzled to know who they
were; but at this meeting I was set at ease at once, as they were the first
to speak, and then I recognised their voice.

The cry of the Long- tailed Duck is very remarkable, and has obtained for
it the Gaelic name of Lach BMnn, or the Musical Duck, the most appropriate
name for them ; for when their voices arc heard in concert — i-ising and falling

NOTES ON THE BIRDS OF lOXA. 213

— borne along upon the breeze between the rollings of the surf, the effect
is musical, wild, and startling. You look around in vain to discover whence
the mysterious strains proceed. ^^Ah!" you exclaim, "sometimes the fishermen
take their bagpipes out with them to cheer their toil while rowing; but no,
no boat could live among those terrible breakers, and nothing is in sight all
round the murky horizon; surely then I am listening to a band of Tritons
and Naiads, whose music thus mingles with the splashing of the waves, to
which the intermissive roar of the surf forms a fitting bass!" The united
cry of a large flock sounds very like bagpipes at a distance, but the cry of
a single bird when heard very near is certainly not so agreeable. On the
occasion I just mentioned, I took great pains to learn the note; and the
following words are the nearest approach that can be given of it in writing:
it articulates them very distinctly, though in a musical, bugle-like tone: —
Our, 0, u, ah! our, o, u, ah! Sometimes the note seems to break down in
the middle, and the bird gets no further than our, or ower, which it runs
over several times, but then, as with an effort, the whole cry is completed,
loud and clear, and repeated several times, as if in triumph. At this time
they were busily feeding, diving in very deep water on a sandy bottom, and
calling to one another when they rose to the surface.

I never saw these Ducks come very near the shore; perhaps this is partly
owing to the bay which they frequent having shores which they could not
approach easily, as there is usually a heavy surf breaking upon them. I
have frequently watched them at night, to see if they would come into any
of the creeks, but they never did; on the contrary, after dusk they would
often leave the bay; the whole of them would fly off simultaneously in the
direction of the mainland of Mull, as if they were bound for some well-known
feeding-ground. I have often seen them actively feeding in the day-time,
though more generally they are floating about at rest or diverting themselves.
They are of a very lively and restless disposition, continually rising on the
wing, flying round and round in circles, chasing one another, squattering
along the surface, half-flying, half-swimming, accompanying all these gambols
with their curious cries. "\A''hen the storms are at their loudest, and the
waves running mountains high, then their glee seems to reach its highest pitch,
and they appear thoroughly to enjoy the confusion. When watching them
on one of these occasions, I had to take shelter under a rock from a dreadful
blast accompanied by very heavy snow, which in a moment blotted out the
■whole landscape; everything was enveloped in a shroud of mist and driving
sleet; but from the midst of the intense gloom there arose the triumphant
song of these wild creatures, rising above the uproar of the elements; and
when the mist lifted, I beheld the whole flock careering about the bay as
if mad with delight. When feeding over some sea-weed-covered bank, the
whole party disappear, and rise again together. I have examined the contents
of their stomachs, but found nothing but half-digested sea-weed and great
quantities of shell-sand, and pieces of coralline.

214 A^J ORNITHOLOGICAL RAMBLE.

I have always found them a very difficult bird to shoot. I never could
get a sitting shot at them, though I have tried every method of approaching
them — running down upon them under sail, rowing to them, or drifting in a
minute punt. I have had most success by coming in upon them from the
sea in a small boat. They invariably take wing when you get within from
a hundred yards to a quarter of a mile. The moment you hear their music
begin loudly to sound, drop your oars, seize your gun; there you see the
large flock rising like a black cloud off the water. Now they fly in a long
straggling body to windward — there they turn! — here they come — look out!
The main flock passes by out of shot; never mind, here's a small party
coming straight for us; in a moment they are whistling past the boat with
the swiftness of shot; no time for a poking aim; bang! hurra! — there's a
pair of them. Load again; that shot has broken up the large flock, and
small bodies are flying about in all directions; you will soon get another shot:
after that they will probably fly out to sea. This is a fortunate day; but I
have often had the mortification of seeing them all fly off to sea without
obtaining a single shot at them.

From the various plumage of the male, female, winter, summer, young,
and adult, there is a wonderful variety exhibited wherever many of these
birds are congregated.

lona, April, 1852.

(To he continued.)

AN ORNITHOLOGICAL E AMBLE NEAR LEEDS.

BY HENRY FERRIS, ESQ.

Every naturalist will acknowledge that few places are less favourable to the
practical study of ornithology, or any other branch of Natural History, than
a large manufacturing town; more especially when one's only time for the said
study is before seven o'clock in the morning, and after eight at night. In
such a town, swarming with population, where countless tall chimneys day
after day vomit forth volumes of smoke, obscuring the sky, and giving birth
to whole showers of soot; where the few unfortunate trees and plants are
but dirty, miserable distortions; and where the very snoiv is speckled as it
falls ; in such a situation, and in few more than such, do the works of
Nature appear extinguished by those of Man. Well were it, if these baneful
effects were confined to the limits of the town itself; but, on the contrary,
they extend for miles round; so that to get fairly into the untainted air and
green fields of the country, requires at least an hour's walk. But all these
difficulties are not entirely insurmountable to an enthusiastic naturalist, who,
in summer at least, may, by early rising, now and then contrive to lose
himself amongst the scenes he loves.

It was under such circumstances as these that I started, on the twenty-
first of fourth month last year, in company with a friend, for an ornithological

AN ORNITHOLOGICAL RAMBLE. 215

ramble in the vicinity of Leeds, It was about four o'clock in the morning
when we set out^ and although some rain had fallen in the night, it was
then bright and clear. We had previously planned visiting a piece of water
a few acres in extent at a place called Killinbeck, about three miles along
the York road. Thither we accordingly bent our steps, and reached it by
sunrise. We saw nothing particular for the first mile or two, but as we
neared the pond we met with the Tree Pipit. The sight of this bird always
gives me pleasure, more especially when seen for the first time in the spring,
as was the case on this occasion. His note is not particularly musical, and
its charm lies more in the manner in which it is uttered than in its quality.
See him perched on the topmost twig of that old ash! He warbles a few
notes to himself, as if to get into the right key, starts from his perch, and,
with rapid beats mounts up, up, up, singing joyously. This continues a few
seconds; his upward progress becomes slower; he poises a moment in mid
air, spreads his wings like a parachute, and gently descends in a graceful
curve, singing merrily all the time. As he nears the ground, we perceive
his little feet extended to their utmost, as if eager to seize the grassy turf,
and very often his song is continued after alighting. They were very abundant
on this occasion, although they could not have arrived more than a day or
two. Lesser Redpoles, too, were numerous. We saw several of them hopping
about ainongst the ti'ces in their usual sprightly manner, continually uttering
their short note, which always reminds me of the rattling of loose cog-wheels
in an old watch.

The Willow Wren, which had arrived on the 18th. of the month, was also
plentiful, and is, like all the Sylviadoe, perhaps a still greater favorite with me
than the Tree Pipit. Though not gaily coloured, its form is remarkably elegant;
and although he does not possess great musical powers, his song is very
pleasant and lively, and is, moreover, uttered at intervals during the whole
of his stay with us. None of the other Warblers, I think, are so willing
to take up their abode near large towns. I was considerably surprised one
day at seeing a pair of these birds in the trees at Beech Grove Terrace,
which is by no means beyond the smoky atmosphere, singing and chasing
insects as if perfectly at home.

We had now reached the banks of the pond, where birds were pretty plentiful.
Besides the two species just mentioned, Blackbirds, Thrushes, Starlings,
Linnets, and Chaffinches, and a variety of others, were singing merrily, or
sporting among the trees; while numerous Water Hens were swimming about,
or dabbling among the reeds. We had not proceeded far before we found
a nest of one of the latter birds, which we were searching for very eagerly.
It was placed among some rushes a few yards from the shore, and was
only to be obtained by wading. No sooner had I set foot in the water,
than the bird, which had probably merely quitted the nest, and slipped
beneath the surface on our approach, rose up in great alarm at finding her
clement invaded, and flew off to the other side of the pond. The nest was

210 FKROCITY OP THE MtSSEL THRUSH.

composed of ruslies woven together, as they usually are, like basket-work,
and contained eight eggs warm as a toast.

At the farther end of the pond we met with several Sedge Reedlings,
{CalamoherjK pliragmitis,) which were chattering and singing at a great rate.
I never met with them in any other locality near Leeds. We saw nothing
else worthy of note at the pond except a large Water Vole, which dived on
our approach, and rising at a little distance, struck boldly out across a wide
corner, performing a much longer stretch than I ever saw done by one of
these quadrupeds before; indeed, as far as my observation goes, it does not
Aseem to be a common practice with them to venture far from shore, though
I can give no reason for it.

We now set out on our return by a different way, and stopped awhile
on a railway bridge, to watch a number of Bank Sw9,llows, which were
glancing up and down in the cutting below. We had not seen any previously,
but, as they were numerous, they had probably arrived some time. After
this, we met with nothing worth mentioning, and hastened home from a
ramble which I shall ever remember with pleasure — a pleasure which those
on whom nature has bestowed a passionate love for her works, and whom
necessity compels to live cooped up in the crowded city, will easily comprehend.

Kingsdown, Bristol, 8 iiw: IWi., 18o2.

ALLEGED FEROCITY OP THE MISSEL THRUSH,
{TUBDUS VISGIVORUS.)

BY W. P. W. B.

The description of the Missel Thrush in Mr. Macgillivray's ^'History of
British Birds," contains a remarkable communication from his very assiduous
nnd most delightful correspondent, Mr. Weir; in which that gentleman mentions
in detail, several instances of the ferocious propensity of this bird to prey
upon the eggs and young of others; not sparing even the grown-up family
of his cousin the Song Thrush, {T. musicus.)

This unfavourable ''trait," so foreign to our established ideas of Thrushes,
has not, as far as I can ascertain, been mentioned, or even alluded to, by
any other ornithologist or writer on Natural History, either in this country or
on the Continent; but I think no one who has read the numerous and inte-
resting contributions with which Mr. Weir has enriched Mr. Macgillivray's
great work, can doubt the accuracy of his statements. His regard for truth is
only equalled by the perseverance with which he seeks for it.

At the same time, if this be an habitual feature in the Missel I'hrush's
character generally, and not the result of accidental or temporary causes, or
the cruel practice of a particularly savage individual, it would be in the
power of many ornithologists living in the country, to bring forward similar
facts from their own observation; and it is to be hoped that some will give

THE CHOUOH. 2l7

attention to the subject next spring; and I shall look forward with interest
for Mr. Morris's description of this bird, in his excellent ^'History" now in
progress.

I myself can corroborate one part of Mr. Weir's accusation; that, namely^
which relates to the egg stealing.

In the month of May or June, 1848, whilst ^^^zoologizing" in Black Park,
Bucks., (a place dear to London Entomologists,) in company with my late
lamented friend, H. Fullar Farr, Esq., I observed a bird caught in a trap,
which the gamekeeper had fastened to the stem of a fir tree, about five feet
from the ground. On a nearer inspection I found that the trap was a com-
mon iron rat-trap, the handle of which had been tied fast to the tree by a
string above and below, so that it stood horizontally level; and it had been
baited with a small bird's egg. The prisoner was a Missel Thrush.

This, at the time, created rnuch surprise in my mind, and more than once
have I thought of it since. The only explanation which ofiered itself was,
that the Thrush had been accidentally caught in a trap set for more notorious
plunderers, the shrieking Jay, or chattering Pie, who find in every gamekeeper
a sworn and implacable foe. But the recent perusal of Mr. Weir's numerous
authenticated acts of rapine and murder against Mr. Viscivorous, have con-
vinced me that he w^as, in this instance, most justly punished for his egg-
stealing propensities.

In the hope that these remarks may be the means of bringing further
communications on the subject, I send them to your Magazine,

London, August 14:th., 1852.

THE CHOUGH.

BY E. K. B.

Mr. Knox, in his very delightful book, ^^Game Birds and Wild Fowl,"
attributes the disappearance of the Chough from many parts of our coast to
the superior strength of the Jackdaw, whose hard conical beak is more than
a match for the graceful and slender bill of the Red-legged Crow, and states
that ^^some years ago he found great numbers of Choughs on the precipices
of Caldy Island, off the coast of Pembrokeshire, and procured several specimens;
but observed no Jackdaw, although he saw two or three pairs of Ravens,
who from time immemorial had lived on excellent terms with the Red-legged
Crow;" but he had been informed the Daw had since made its appearance,
in consequence of which he fears the doom of the Chough is sealed.

Now with due deference and great respect for the high authority of Mr,
Knox on the subject of ornithology, I do not think the disappearance of the
Chough can be attributed to the persecution of the Daw. In the first place
I would ask, how it is that these two birds, which have ever lived together,
still continue to do so in considerable numbers in various parts, both of

VOL. II. . 2 F

218 THE CIIOUOTr,

Englandj Wales, Scotland, and Ireland, if a war of exterininatioti is, (and of
course ever has been,) carried on by the stronger against the weaker, as is
conceived to be the ease? for, unlike the Eed-legged Partridge, the Grey
Rat, and the Colchican Pheasant, instanced by Mr. Knox, which, since their
introduction into this country, have been successfully carrying on the work
of extermination against their respective congeneric predecessors, the Jackdaw
is as truly a British Bird as the Chough.

I would next ask whether the Chough and Daw have been seen to dis-
agree? I apprehend they have not, or if so, but rarely. I have had many
opportunities of watching these birds on the Pembrokeshire coast, and par-
ticularly on Caldy Island; for, notwithstanding that Mr. Knox saw no Jackdaws
on his visit to that place, I can assure him they have lived there together
with the Choughs in considerable quantities time out of mind, and still con-
tinue to do so without any diminution in their numbers, and I can only say
I have never seen them quarrel. A friend of mine, who lives on another
and far more wild and romantic Island off the same coast, where the Choughs
and Jackdaws breed, and who has paid considerable attention to the habits
of the birds which frequent it, writes to me confirming the fact that these
two birds do not disagree.

I was unwilling to be the first to contradict so great an ornithologist as
Mr. Knox, and should probably never have offered these remarks to the readers
of "The Naturalist," had it not been for a very interesting paper by Henry
D. Graham, Esq., at page 81, wherein he states that in the Island of lona,
the Choughs ^'remain on a friendly footing with the Jackdaws, associating
with them in their feeding excursions, and sometimes accompanying them
home." Being able to confirm the statement of that gentleman with regard
to the friendly relations subsisting between the two birds in question, I venture
to obtrude these remarks with that view, and will conclude them with the
following brief notice on the habits of the Chough, as observed on the Pem-
brokeshire coast and adjacent islands: —

This lively and beautiful bird remains on the coast throughout the year,
ornamenting and enlivening the cliffs by its presence, when the migratory sea-
fowl, which resort thither during the breeding-season in countless numbers,
have taken their departure. It chooses for its nest, holes in the most inac-
cessible parts of the cliff, generally far out of the reach of the most daring
fowler, so that although they breed here in considerable numbers, their eggs
are rarely obtained, and the possession of specimens is therefore a desideratum
with the collector. Choughs are not gregarious, and remain for the most
part in pairs until the autumn, when six or seven, (two old birds and four
or five young ones forming one family) are seen together. They never mix
promiscuously with the Jackdaws, or indeed any other bird, and when in the
corn-fields the Choughs will generally be seen in one corner and the Daws in
another. Though at times a shy and wary bird, like the rest of its race,
it will frequently approach the gimner with considerable boldness, too often

THE MOLE. 219

to its Ov^a destruction; and wKea one of a pair falls a victim to tlie murderous
gun, its partner will manifest the greatest distress — dashing about, uttering
notes apparently of mingled grief and defiance, swooping down so as some-
times almost to touch its dead companion, as though to convince itself of the
reality of its death, wheeling round and again returning incredulous, till at
length satisfied that no hope is left, it flies off to its lonely abode to mourn
its loss in solitude.
May 2StL, 1852.

THE NATURALIST, VOL. 2, PAGE 2. »

THE MOLE.

That the Mole is without eyes or sight, I deny.

That any individual specimens, on the examination of which Mr. Smee
grounds his assertion may have been eyeless, I do not deny, having no proofs;
but that Moles in general are blind I deny, and that flatly.

In the first place I do not understand why Nature, beneficent and thoughtful,
has given the animal eyes, as she has done, if those eyes are to be of no
use. Virgil talks of blind Moles, — ^^Oculis capti fodere cubilia Talp^;" and
Shakspere also, "That the blind Mole, etc., etc.: but to poets we allow
licenses; to naturalists, none. Virgil was a good farmer, and understood bees;
but he seems to have known little of the Mole more than that it sometimes
disfigured his lawn, and turned up Mole-hills in his meadows, to the detriment
of the scythe's edge at mowing time. Shakspere too was a splendid fellow —
a heart of gold — and as long as he kept himself to the description of human
eyes, he was correct. He tells us of the violets being "sweeter than the lids of
Juno's eyes;" gives the old King Hamlet ^'^An eye like Mars;" and to the
excellent Desdemona ^^An inviting eye." "What an eye she has!" says the
devil lago. So far, good : but let us yield him his prerogative as poet in the
matter of the Mole's blindness.

The eyes of the Mole, which are dark, minute, deeply set in the fur, and
as brilliant as diamonds, answer fully the ends for which they were created.
Taking into consideration his subterranean mode of living, it is evident that
ordinary eyes would be obnoxious to inconveniences arising from earthy par-
ticles disturbed in his travelling operations. Therefore he has extra-ordinary
eyes, set well back in the fur, and thus beautifully guarded from falling
particles likely to enter the eye.

The senses of hearing and touch are exceedingly keen and well defined in
the Mole. I have proved both in wild nature on several occasions.

I will allow want of eyes to the Mole examined by Mr. Smee, because I have
no reason to doubt his statements; but that all Moles lack eyes or eyesight,
I utterly scout and deny. Also, I will believe with Mr. Davies ^Hhat the range
of vision in the Mole is very limited." His habits do not require a very
extended range oi, sight: of what use would such a faculty be to him?

220 THE JACKDAW.

When burrowing, it would be entirely in abeyance. And supposing his run made,
how would his being far-sighted advantage him, seeing that every now and then
he got off at an obtuse angle? — unless indeed he has the gift of looking round
corners. What would Waterton say to this supposed eyeless state of the
Mole; or that having eyes or '^tubercles," they are of no use to it! One may
just as well argue with him that the dreadful rows of teeth that garnished
the jaws of the leviathan, which he so bravely bestrode, were there not for
securing its prey, but as a mere superfluous ornament. Do not let vis believe
any such improbabilities.

THE NATURALIST, VOL. 2. PAGE 20.

THE JACKDAW.

It seems to me that Mr. Lukis is attempting to corroborate an already
corroborated fact, when he tells us that Jackdaws build in the holes of trees.
Birds differ in nidiScation and manners in different neighbourhoods: wisely
they conform themselves to those places and circumstances in which they find
themselves.

In this country I find Daws build in three distinct localities: — In the
cathedral, and in the country churches; on sea-side and other cliffs; and in
hollows of the ^^tall ancestral trees," which grace this beautiful country. The
sea-side cliffs, from Dawlish downwards to Watcombe, Petch-tor, Babbicombe,
Black-rock, Hope's Nose, and Berry Head, are all inhabited by colonies of
Daws in the breeding-season.

The grand old trees in Ugbrook Park, belonging to Lord Clifford, are
favourite and frequent nesting-places for the Daws; also the mighty time-
honoured sky-piercing chestnuts, and others, in Peamore Park, the seat of
Samuel Trehawk Kekewich, Esq. — a noble gentleman withal; one who walks
the land, garlanded, as to his brow, with the blessings of all good men; to
whom also I am indebted for much ornithological and floral love, inasmuch
as his proverbial courteousness and urbanity opened the gates of his beautiful
park to me studying Nature.

Many a pretty lesson have I learned there : sometimes roaming at my own
sweet will, fancy -led; and daintily attended with many a little laughing spirit
that lay lurking in the flower's dewy bell. Sometimes too, stretching along
the branches of the noblest beech in Devon, "Silvse filia nobilis," just merely
enjoying the blessedness of existence. "Wasting my strength in strenuous
idleness," and listening to the manifold sounds of woodland music —

"Move along these shades
In gentleness of heart: with gentle hand
Touch: for there is a spirit in the woods."

In the clefts of Dewerstone Eock, one of

"The mighty tors of the dread wilderness"
of Dartmoor, the Daws breed annually, and the church- tower of Shaugh is
not distant half-a-mile.

THE TOAD. NESTING OF THE SPARROW, ETC. '221

I have no reason for doubting that Daws have built in the hollows of trees
over since, according to the Roman ornithologist, Ovid, that money-loving
traitress Sithonis was metamorphosed into this same bird. Ovid says,

"Mutata est in a^■em quaa nunc quoque diligit aurum
Nigra pedem, nigris velata moxedula pennis."

I kept one once, the merriest, most mischievous pet that was ever hatched;

the veriest vagabond thief that ever appropriated what did not belong to

him; and a brave defender too of what he had stolen; until at last he

himself was stolen, whether indeed also by himself, or by another, I am not

exactly prepared to say.

THE NATURALIST, VOL, 2. PAGE 21.

THE TOAD.

Eighteen centuries ago Toads were found in holes: "Inventus que cavis
BUFO," says Virgil, in his first Georgick. We are just as far from compre-
hending the natural history of these recluses as was the Ausonian farmer.

..the naturalist, vol. 2., PAGE 36.

NESTING OF THE SPAEROW.

Is J. D. of Edinburgh quite sure that the Sparrows which built in the
larches and beech trees at Ashes, near Culross, Perthshire, were bona fide
Passeres domesticif I am not wishful to impugn the ornithological science
of J. D.: by no means. But Passeres arhorei are very similar in personal
appearance, in material of nest, and in egg, to the former, and are frequently
mistaken for them. I am fully aware that the House Sparrow does build in
trees; and, true to his instincts, he there makes a domed nest; thus deluding
his young with the idea that they have been as much reared under cover as
if they had been hatched under the eaves of a cottage, or in the convenient
niches of the flowering capital that curves over the shaft of the Corinthian pillar.

I have spoken with open-air naturalists, who deny the existence of Passer
arhoreus; and who assert that the Sparrow that builds under eaves and in
holes is analagous with the bird that builds a domed nest in trees.

THE NATURALIST, VOL. 2, PAGE 109.

DO THE HAWK TRIBE DRINK?

As far as my experience goes — -no. I believe that flesh-eating birds seldom
or never drink. I have kept various birds of prey at various times, but never
once saw either Falcon or Hawk drink water. I kept two Kestrels in a
room, and they never saw any water. They were very docile, and would
come and perch on my wrist at my whistle. I fed them with flesh and
shell-snails.

I took a Buzzard Hawk from the top of a mighty ash tree in Sir Arthur
Aston's Park, in Cheshire. She was indeed a magnificent bird. She had an
eye like an Immortal, and withal as gentle as Night. I entertained great
hopes of flying her. She never touched water whilst in my possession; but

S22 NOTKS ON SPraNG FLOWERS^ ETC.

used to quench her thirst with the hot blood of the slain. It was partly

for this reason that I used to feed her with birds and mice neioly killed, so

that she might enjoy, as in nature, the luxury of warm blood. She one day

bade me good-bye: it was grand to see her rush upwards on her sky-cleaving

wing.

"0 for a falconer's voice!

To lure that tassel gentle back again."

First and last, I have reared seven Ravens; one, which had devilry enough
in him for a whole generation of Eavens, was very fond of water, and drank
frequently: there was a deal of strange weird mystery about this bird —
something beyond mere instinct. The others were never supplied with water.
I have had Gulls too, which never would get afloat, although they had every
appliance thereto j nor did I ever see them drink. Finally, they were kept
without water.

Any one who may have kept a bird of prey will remember that the alvine
secretions have been principally a white lime-like substance; this answers to
the aqueous deposit of quadrupeds. From the abundance of this same sub-
stance I seem to argue that the juices of flesh or fish supply sufficient moisture
to the system without the aid of water. Is it not so?

Henuy Seymour Daniell.
Torquay, Devon, June lith., 1852.

NOTES ON SPRING FLOWERS, ETC.

BY S. HANNANORD, ESQ., JUK.

"Was it a dream, or have I seen

Violets white and blue?
And golden flowers on mosses green,
Bright wet with glistening dew?"

Sumner Jones.

It is indeed no dream — "For lo, the winter is past, the rain is over and
gone; the flowers appear on the earth, the time of the singing of birds
is come," and the first few spring flowers are peeping forth in our hedge-rows,
gladdening the heart of the botanist, despite the bleak winds and cold showers
which still linger with us, but it is

"Eight — that the young bride of the earth
Be not too soon caressed!"

The trees are already putting forth their buds; the fields are being covered
with young shoots of grass, amongst which

"Daisies vermeil rimm'd and white.

Hide in deep herbage."

Endymion.

The hedges are gradually clothing themselves with their bright garb, and

XOTES OK SPRTN'O FI.OWKRS, KTC. 22.1

the Redbreast too has forsaken the habitations of man, and returned again
to its old haunts, to welcome the approach of spring. How cheering is the
rich sweet whistle of the Song Thrush, (Turdus musicus,) ".with his note so
true;" and the loud, mellow song of the Blackbird, {Turdus mertda,) which
is said to be sweeter during the continuance of a spring shower than at any
other time; of which Christopher North writes so eloquently, "There he flits
along upon a strong wing, with his yellow bill visible in distance, and disappears
in the silent wood: not long silent. It is a spring day in our imagination;
his clay-wall nest holds his mate at the foot of the Silver-fir, and he is now
perched on its pinnacle. That thrilling hymn will go vibrating down the stem
till it reaches her brooding breast. The whole vernal air is filled with the
murmur and the glitter of insects; but the Blackbird's song is over all other
symptoms of love and life, and seems to call upon the leaves to unfold into
happiness."

By the end of March young broods of the Thrush and the Blackbird may be
found. The nest of the former is generally placed in a thick hedge or tall
bush, formed externally of twigs, moss, and frequently grass, closely inter-
woven; the inside is composed of cowdung and decayed wood, cemented by a
saliva. I have frequently seen clay used for the interior of the nest, although
it is doubted by Mr. Rennie. The eggs are generally four, oftentimes five in
number; light blue, with a few small black spots at the large end. Keats
speaks of

"Yonder Thrush
Schooling its half-fledged little ones to brush
About the dewy forest."

And again of her song, —

"Close my happy eyes
Amid the Thrush's song "

The nest of the Blackbird may be found in a thick bush, and is composed
externally of twigs, fibrous roots, and grass or n}oss, lined on the inside with
mud and dry grass; the eggs are four or five in number, bluish green, with
reddish brown dottings. I took last spring, from the nest of this bird, two
eggs, one of the general length — about one inch and two lines by ten lines
in breadth, but quite sharp at one end; the other was much shorter and
broader, and quite round at each end, more resembling that of a Bantam.
This bird is very easily alarmed, and utters a sharp chattering cry as it flies.
Walter Scott bears testimony to its sweet song —

"How blithe the Blackbird's lay."

Marmiox.

Early in February the Dandelion, [Leontodon taraxacum,) may be found
m flower, taking its generic name from Leon — a lion, and odous — a tooth,
from the tooth-like margin of its leaves. The root is valuable on account of
its medicinal properties; and everywhere in the hedges and woods, and grassy
banks, the Primrose blossoms {Primula vulgaris,) appear. It is too well
known to need description; the flowers grow on long stalks, which are joined

224 NOTES ON SPRING FLOWERS, ETC.

at the bottom. It is called Primula from the Latin Primus — first, from its
early appearance; and in France Prinievere. It appears to be a great favourite
with our poets as the herald of spring. To commence with Clare —

"How sweot thy modest unaffected pride
Glows on the sunny bank and wood's warm Bide."

And our Devonshire poet too^ Carrington —

"Amid the sunny luxury of grass
Are tufts of pale-eyed Primroses, entwin'd
With many a bright-hued flower, and shrub that scents
The all voluptuous air."

And very beautiful are the following by Hartley Coleridge, which reminds one
of the line in Milton's "Lycidas" —

"The rathe Primrose that forsaken dies."

"In dewy glades
The peering Primrose, like sudden gladness,
Gleams on the soul, yet unregarded fades;
The joy is ours, but all its own the sadness."

A later poet says

"The solitary Primrose hath come back
To haunt the green nooks of her happy spring

Who does not remember the heart-felt joy when he has seen the first spring
Violet, and how it has been treasured? The Sweet Violet, {Viola odorata,)
may easily be distinguished from the Dog Violet, ( V. canina,) which has no
perfume, by the obtuse leaves of the calyx: those of the latter tapering to a
sharp point. The Hairy Violet, ( V. hirta,) which I have never met with in
this neighbourhood, also has blunt calyx leaves, but the root is not creeping
like that of V. odorata, and the flower stalks as well as the leaves are covered
with hairs. The flowers of the Sweet Violet are recommended as a Cosmetic
by an old herbalist in the following words: — "Anoint thy face with goat's
milk in which Violets have been infused, and there is not a young prince on
the earth who will not be charmed with thy beauty." Our immortal poet,
who thoroughly appreciated all Nature's beauties, speaks of

"Violets dim.
But sweeter than the lids of Juno's eyes
Or Cytherca's breath."

Winteh's Tale.
And Barry Cornwall of

"Violets, whose looks are like the skies."

About the 18th. of February, the Common Daffodil, (Narcisms Pseudo-
narcissus,) may be found on a hedge-bank near Colt, by the banks of the
Dart, &c. The flowers are solitary, and formed of six egg-shaped petals, yel-
lowish, the nectary deep yellow and bell-shaped. Its name is derived from
Narcissus, who is said to have been changed into this plant, or more probably
perhaps from wa?7<:e— stupor, in allusion to the powerful and injurious smell
of tho flowers.

NOTKS ON SPBING FLOWERS, ETC. • 220

"In spite of all
Some shape of beautj' moves away the pall
From our dark spirits.

Such are Daffodils,
With the green world they live in."

Endymion.

The Lesser Celandine, (Ranunculus Jlcaria, or Ficaria verna,) is now in
flower, with its pretty shining, golden petals— nine in number; and the Straw-
berry-leaved Cinquefoil, {Potentilla fragariastmm,) is abundant in the hedges.
This latter plant is very similar to the Wood Strawberry, (F. vesca,) which
flowers later in the season, but by a little careful examination may easily be
distinguished. The fruit is small, dry, and hairy; whilst that of the Wood
Strawberry is fleshy. In the former the calyx leaves appear between each
petal. On a hedge in Folly Copse, near the Dart, the Lesser Periwinkle is
just coming into bloom, covering the bank with its beautiful pale blue flowers.
It grows quite wild here, and at Bunkers Hill, Bow Hill, and Havbertonford,
in this neighbourhood. A white variety is also occasionally found : name sup-
posed to be derived from Vincio — to bind.

March 5th. — The following are in flower at this date: — Perennial, or Dog's
Mercury, (^Mercurialis perennis;) Lamium purpureum, or Red Dead Nettle;
Coltsfoot, {Tassilago farfara,) the flowers of which appear before the leaves;
Common Stitchwort, (Stellaria media;) the Ivy-leaved Speedwell, {Veronica
hederifolia;) Hairy Wall Cress, {Arabis hirsuta;) and Marsh Marigold, (Caltha
palustris.)

March 20th. — The woods and banks of streams are covered with the beautiful
white petals of the Wood Anemone, or Windflower, as it is called in some
parts, (Anemone nemorosa,) tinged underneath with pui-ple. It is said to be
poisonous to cattle. It derives its name from Anemos — the wind, in allusion
to the beautiful appearance their feathery leaves produce when waved by the
wind.

"The coy Anemone, that ne'er uncloses
Her lips until they're blown on bj' the wind."

On more careful examination of the specimen gathered on the banks of the
Dart, recorded at page 199, vol. i. of "The Naturalist," which I at first supposed
to be A. pidsatilla, appears to be only a red variety of A. nemorosa. I can
merely add a few more plants which appear between this and the end of
March. The Black Thorn, (Prunus spiaosa,) Cuckoo flower, (Cardajnme
pratensis, Shepherd's Purse, (Thlaspi Bursa pastoris, Ground Ivy, {Qlechoma
hederacea,) Early Purple Ochis, (Orchis mascula,) Red Campion, (Li/chnis
dioica, Stellaria holostea, or Great StitchWort, Early Field Scorpion Grass,
(Mi/osotis collina,) Wood Spurge, (Euphorbia ainygdaloides,) White Dead
Nettle, (Lamium album,) Wood Strawberry, (Fragaria vesca,) .Tuberous
Moschatel, (Adoxa moschateUina,) Golden Saxifrage, (Ghri/sosplenium opposit-
ifolium,) and Wall Flower, {Cheiranthus Cheiri.)

VOL. II. 2 o

226 ON THE DIURNAL LEPIDOI'TEIIA OF SUSSEX.

"The rude stoue fence, with Wall-flowers gay,

To me more pleasure yields
Than all the pomp imperial domes display."

Scott.
The Woodpecker, (Ficus viridis,) may be heard about the middle of the

month, and the Blood j-nosed Beetle, (Timarcha teneh-icosa,) found in great
numbers.

Totnes, Devon, 18o2.

SOME ACCOUNT OF
THE DIURNAL LEPIDOPTERA OF SUSSEX.

BY MISS MARIA E. CATLOW,

As it is always interesting to the entomologist to know the localities
frequented by his beautiful favourites, I intend giving in the following paper
a brief account of the Diurnal Lepidoptera which came under my own
observation, when living in the extreme west of Sussex — three miles from
Midhurst, and about two from the range of hills forming part of the South
Downs. The neighbourhood is very lovely, the face of the country extremely
varied, the climate mild, so that the collector of "winged gems" has many
advantages in the prosecution of his favourite pursuit. Extensive and breezy
commons, rocky sheltered lanes, meadows and gardens, by turns invite him forth
to ensnare his favourite game, without any risk of sharing the poacher's fate;
or even of being classed, as he might formerly have been, with the '''very
eccentric." He would probably not capture all the species named in a single
excursion, nor even in a single season; but if he will accompany me in the
spirit, I can at least point out the localities in which I had the pleasure
of finding them.

The magnificent Papilio Machaon, (Swallow-tail,) I never had the good
fortune to take myself, but one specimen was caught on a wood-stack by a
neighbour's coachman, and was added to his collection; so that I can vouch
for that beautiful insect being found in this locality.

Gonepieryx FJiamni, (Brimstone Butterfly,) may be seen any day in May,
and again during the autumn, flitting, like an animated primrose, tip and
down the common; or even early in March on the skirts of the pretty
sheltered woods so common in this neighbourhood; looking, at that early
season, like a fairy promise of the coming spring, and often, like other
promisers, proving but a gay deceiver; yet it is ever welcome, for though
our variable clime deceives us day by day, always breaking its fairest vows,
we are quite ready to be deceived again.

Colias Edusa, (Clouded Yellow.) is not very common here; indeed it
prefers the vicinity of the sea: whether a distant sight of that element be
sufiicient for its happiness I know not, but the only specimen I found, was
on the beautiful Downs, just where a magnificent prospect of the Isle of
Wight, Portsmouth, Chichester^ and the blue expanse of ocean greets the eye.

ox THE DIURNAL LKPIDOPTKUA OF SUSSEX. 227

But let us for the present ramble in the gardens belonging to that old
mansion, which, though bearing the impress of age, derives all its beauty
from its situation and pretty grounds. In the sunny kitchen-gardens, sloping
to the south, may be seen in April and May, and indeed through the
spring and summer, for there are two broods of nearly all the species, various
kinds of White Butterflies, which, in the larva state, do so much injury to
vegetables, and are looked upon with such ill-will by the gardener. Pontia
Brassicoe, (Cabbage Butterfly,) the largest of the genus; P. Bapce, (Small
White,) very similar except in size; P. Metra, (Howard's White,) a delicate
looking little creature, almost entirely white, tinged with yellow; and P,
Sabellicce, (Dusky-veined White,) considered only a variety of P. Napi,
(Green-veined White,) a very common species. All these I have constantly
found in this garden, but the prettiest of the genus, the little Pontia car-
damines, (Orange-tip,) prefers the shady paths in that pretty wood, evincing
the good taste you would expect from so lovely a creature. Early in April,
during the transient gleams of sunshine, I have watched with delight this
little fairy, which looks as though he had caught a ray of sunshine on the
tip of his wings, so brilliant are the orange markings in the male buttei-fly;
while the demure little female is satisfied with having her pretty wings powdered
with yellow and green. How like gems they look, glancing under the tall
tress; but a shower is coming on, and they disappear. When it is over,
we will extend our ramble through Love-lane — where is there a neighbourhood
without a Love-lane? and this is supremely worthy of that romantic name
' On one side of the pretty winding path are the plantations belonging to

■ Hall; on the other sloping meadows with a small stream running through

them, bordered with sweet flowers, and backed by the ever-varying Downs,
alternately sunshine and shade, as the shadow of a passing cloud courses rapidly
over them. In this lane I caught, one day in May, the rather rare insect
Leucophasia Sinajns, (Wood White,) the smallest of our White Butterflies,
and not very unlike a Dragon-fly, with its slender wings and semi-transparent
appearance; and in the park field just above, two specimens of Pieris Orataegi,
(Black- veined White,) or Hawthorn Butterfly, bj no means a common insect.

Near the end of the lane, in a narrow grassy path winding through the
plantation, the pretty Hipparchia Hyperanthus, (Ringlet Butterfly,) might
be seen abundantly during one summer, and I captured several specimens;
but that part of the copse was cut down, and though the underwood
soon grew again, the pretty Ringlets had quite disappeared, and I never saw
them afterwards in that locality. Here too, I found the beautiful Melitcea
Euphrosyne, (Pearl-bordered Fritillary,) a most appropriate place too, for the
violet, the sweet food of the caterpillar of this species, is abundant in Love-
lane during the season. Argynnis PapJtia, (Silver-washed Fritillary,) and
Hipparchia cegeria, (Speckled Wood,) are also inhabitants of this pretty and
secluded locality; the former appearing about July, the latter at many-
different seasons.

228 ox THE DIURNAL LEFIDOPTERA OF SUSSEX.

We will return through the flower-gardens of Hall, where^ between

the fine trees, we shall enjoy a delightful view of the country and the
Downs, and I will point out to you where I have taken Vanessa Polycldoros,
(Large Tortoise-shell,) V. urticoe, (Small Tortoise-shell,) V. lo, (Peacock
Butterfly,) and the beautiful Cynthia Gardui, (Painted Lady;) also Thccla
Rubi, (Green Hair-streak,) which was in tolerable profusion one year, seeming
to confine itself however, to a single spot — a high laurel hedge facing the
south — a very warm and sunny locality for this delicate-looking species.

Another ramble, taken across the common, with its widely-extended views,
taking in the range of Downs from the neighbourhood of Brighton to Up
Park, on the borders of Hampshire, will introduce us at different seasons to
Hipparchia Titlionus, (Large Heath,) H. VamphUits, (Small Heath,) JPoly-
ommatus Adonis, (Clifden Blue,) P. Alexis, (Common Blue,) both lovely
little creatures; the delicate blue of the upper surface contrasting beautifully
with the pencilled markings underneath. We shall also find another pretty
species, Lycoena Phoeas, (Common Coppei',) and my favourite Hipparchia
Semele, (the Grayling,) a favourite I think, from the locality in which I
always found it, as well as from its own beauty. In one part of the
common is a deep sandy lane, with rocks of sandstone varying from twenty
to perhaps fifty feet in height, on each side. From the summit of these
rocks is a lovely view, comprising wood and meadow, with one or two small
villages, backed by the Downs, at whose base may be seen some of the
primitive Sussex churches, and old-fashioned farms; while the winding roads
up the hills, which may be traced from this distance, look very tempting to
the lovers of extensive views. On these rocks we were sure to find the Gray-
ling in July; and this favourite locality, both of the butterfly and its admirers,
was soon well-known as ^'the Grayling rocks."

Two other species of Hipparchia — H. Megoera, (Wall Butterfly,) and
H. Janira, (Meadow Brown,) are very common in this neighbourhood. We
must make two expeditions, beyond walking distance, to complete the list of
my Sussex collection of Lepidoptera; one is to the beautiful Downs, by the
little village of Trayford; whence a steep winding road will conduct us to
the summit. Here the entomologist will forget his pursuit for a time, to
revel in the beauty so profusely spread before him. Looking southward
beyond the undulating surface of the hills, which are here varied by extensive
woods and noble beech trees, may be seen

"The sea! the sea! the open sea!
The evci" fresh, the ever free!"

on one side; Portsmouth and its shipping on the other; Chichester, with its
tall cathedral spire, and in the distance, more interesting than all, to those
who have seen the beautiful undereliff" and other picturesque localities, the
Lsle of Wight; the whole extent of which is visible, like ''^a gem set in the
silver sea." To the north, Sussex is spread out like a map before the eye,
with town.s, villages, and country seats, nestling in its well-wooded districts;

MISCRLLANEOUS NOTICES. 229

ths spire of Petworth church being visible at the distance of many miles.
The blue hills of Surrey and Hampshii-e bound the view on this side.

Now if we put our Butterfly-nets in requisition^ we shall probably capture
Argynnis Aglaia, (Dark green Fritillary,) which seems to rejoice in these
thymy pastures as gi'eatly as the black-faced South-down sheep we see iu
such numbers. Other species may be seen^ but they have been mentioned
before; and I once had the pleasure of capturing HipparcMa Galathea,
(Marbled White,) which was then new to me, and led me a very long
chase in my eagerness to secure the prize.

Argynnis Adippe, (High-brown Fritillary,) and the beautiful exotic-looking
Vanessa Atalanta, (Red Admiral,) I found in profusion in the woods over-
hanging a small lake, in the grounds belonging to Sir Charles H. The
extreme beauty of this locality being equally tempting to the poet, the lover
of nature, the botanist and the entomologist, frequently allured our wandering
feet; and a variety of tastes were sure to be gratified by this charming
excursion.

I do not of course give this as a perfect list of the Diurnal Lepidoptera
to be found in Sussex; for stronger and more able collectors might probably
discover other species. I merely mention faithfully those which came under my
own observation, during two or three seasons of tolerably persevering research.

Beaoonsfield, 18i'>2.

BlistellnttfntiH 3h\\m.

Eyyptian Goow, (Ansor Egyptiacus.) — "A fine specimen of the Egyptian Goose was shot at
Rutlcy, near W'oodbridge, a few days ago, (April 3rd., 1852,) and is now in the possession of
;Mr. William Cook, Woodbridge, "We do not recollect an instance of this rare bird being found
so far south, and the lateness of the season makes its appearance here still more singular." —
Ipswich Jouunal, April 3rd., 1852.

By a reference to Bewick's British Bii'ds, I find that this bird must have been rather a rare
visitant to the noi'thern parts of our island, for he says that neither the author nor liis corres-
pondents were able to procure a specimen of this species, for the purpose of making a drawing.
— E. C. NUNN.

Curious Facl.—'Mv. Munro, Zinc-worker, of Bury, St. Edmunds, (April, 1852,) had a brood
of ten chickens hatched from nine eggs, one of which was double-yolked. Are any of your
numerous readers aware that such a fact has been before noticed? — Idem.

Swallows. — A pair of Swallows were seen skimming over the mill-pool of the town of Sudburj-,
as early as Friday, the 9th. of April. Their first appearance at Thrandestone, near Diss, a village
thirty miles north of Sudbury, was not observed till Thursday, the 24th. of April. The House Martin
visited the same village on the 26th. The Cuckoo on the 24th. ; but did not welcome us with
his well-known note till the morning of the 27th. The Wryneck came on the 7th., the Yellow
Wagtail, Api-il oth. In speaking of the migration of Swallows, White, in his "History of
Selborne," names April 11th. as the earliest period he has observed for the arrival of these birds
in 1770. On an average of years they make their appearance about the 13th. of April, though
an occasional straggler has been seen in March. — Idem.

I7ie Little Bustard, (Otis tetra.x.) — Being on a visit to my friend, Mr. Baker, Writtle, near
Chelmsford, a short time ago, I saw in his collection of rare birds, a fine specimen of the
I/ittle Bustard, which was shot on his farm some few years since. This bird is but rarely, if
ever, soon in this country at the present day. — Idem.

230 MISCELLAXEOUS NOTICES.

Curious habit of the Robin, (Erythaca rubeeula.)—! last year noticed what appeared to me
something very remarkable in the uidifiuation of the Eobin, and doubtless it will prove as
interesting to many of your readers. Some time in the end of April, I discovered a Robin's
nest hidden in some ivy which runs over an old wooden fence round our garden ; at that time it
contained three young ones, which all went safely off, though the nest was constantly visited
by some of our family. Some three weeks after on looking at the nest again I was surprised
to find that it had been repaired, and that the old one was again sitting on seven eggs, five
of which proved good, and five young birds flew in due course. From the singular circumstance
of the old bird having used the same nest for two broods, we became very much interested in
her affairs, and visited and fed her constantly. You may judge of my surprise on going to
the nest about a fortnight after the second brood had flown, to find that the nest had been
again repaired, and that it contained a third sitting of eggs, I think five in number, three
of which were hatched, and the young birds got safely off. I have been a pretty accurate
observer of birds and their habits for many years, but I never met with anything like this
before; indeed with the exception of the Common House Sparrow, I know of no bird that
uses the same nest for two successive broods. —R. B. P., Shelly, Stoke-by-Nayland, 1852.

Note on the Cuckoo.— '^Wa. respect to the late appearance of the Cuckoo, I saw a young
bird in this neighbourhood, the second week in September, and could have shot it had I felt
inclined." Idem.

A. White Swalloiv, (Hirundo rustica.)— A White Swallow was shot in this parish about ten
years ago, and is now in the possession of a relative of mine. A White Martin, (Hirundo
nrbica,) was shot last summer at Hadleigh, in this county, by a young man; and two others,
probably of the same brood, were seen there by many persons. In 1844, I saw three Swallows
flying round the railway station at Chelmsford, on the 19th. of November, the latest period
that I ever saw either the. Swallow or Martin. —Idem.

Hirundo rustica. — The first fiook 'fifty birds' appeared early on the morning of April 16th. at
Swanpool, wind blowing a gale from E. S. E. The second flock 'nearly one hundred' arrived on
the 3rd. of May at Swanpool, 12 o'clock, a. m. wind S. E. very warm. — W. P. Cocks, Falmouth,
May 8th. 1852.

Robin,' (Sylvia rubeeula.) — On Monday the 5th. instant, I heard a Robin singing in a ficdd
at BridgetowTi, at nine o'clock, p. m., and on passing the same spot at half-past twelve, it was
still singing very sweetly. The moon Wiis shining very brightly. — S. Hannaford, Jun., Totnes,
April 7th., 1852.

The Hedge Sparrow, (Accentor modularis.)— 'Mr. Mc'Intosh does not appear to require much
further corroboration of his statements as to the Cuckoo, Abraxas, Hedge Sparrow, etc., attacked
by Mr. Doubleday, beyond the able letter of Mr. William Kidd, who is a great authority on
these matters, and I know not therefore whether ray humble testimony in one respect will be
of any service. In case it may be I will mention that I myself have seen and taken a nest
of the Hedge Sparrow from a black-thorn hedge at Froome, near this town, with eggs, so late
as the last week of the month of June. —John Garlaxd, Dorchester, February 11th., 1852.

Ornithology. — Another of those rare birds, the Fire-crested Wren, has been shot in the parish
of St. Clement, and is now in the possession of Mr. Passmore, Truro. A Hoopoe has lately
been shot at Hendra, in the parish of Ladock. Last week a singular circumstance occurred at
Truro : a Cuckoo flew against the plate glass window of Mrs. Tregellas, ironmonger, and instantly
fell dead. On examination it appeared by a wound to have been probably struck by a Hawk.
These birds are all in the possession of Mr. Passmore, to be preserved. — West Brixton, April
23rd., 1852.

Curious deformity in the Bill of the Jackdaw, (Corvus monedula.) — A friend of mine shot a
Jackdaw, the bill of which was crossed like a Crossbill's; but, notwithstanding its strange shape
the bird was in very good condition.— C. Stubbs, Henley-upon-Thames, February 17th.,1852.

Occurrence of the Oleander Hawk Moth, (Metopsifus Nerii.)^A fine male specimen of this
rare British Sphinx was taken in the garden of Montpellier House, Brighton, on the evening
of Saturday, the 11th. of September, 1852; at about half-past seven o'clock. — E S. L. S.mith,
Brighton, Sussex, September 15th., 1862.

231

l^rnmMngs nf IntirtiBi

Report of the Entomological Committee of the Roxjal Fhjsical Society of Edinburgh, 1851, —
In a second time presenting the Keport of the Entomological Committee, on the order Lepidoptera,
some apology seems necessary that it should again come through my hands. I had indeed half
expected that it would have heen undertaken by Dr. Lowe, this season; and it is only at
his request, in consequence of absence from home, and professional engagements at the height
of the season, that I have been induced to enter upon the subject. As the Committee, however,
issued a programme of excursions at the beginning of the season, some account of the results
of these will naturally be expected ; and it will be my endeavour to render it as accurate and
comprehensive as possible.

The first-stated excursion on the list, is on the 17th. of May; but some of the members paid
a previous visit to the Pentland Hills on the 13th., when the cases of one of those singular
insects, called by the Germans Sacktriigers, were found in considerable numbers on the wall
of an old sheep-fold ; the enclosed insects being still in the pupa state, but quite ready to burst
their envelope; as all emerged in the course of a few days after, and were, without a single
exception, females ; which immediately commenced ovipositing in the empty cases which they had
just left, filling them with large oval yellowish looking eggs; after which they speedily died from
exhaustion. Without both sexes it is difficult to determine the species, but it would appear to
be closely allied to the continental Tal(cporia Lichenclla. On the same day several specimens
of Amphysa Prodromana were taken ; an insect with singularly pectinated antennae, first observed
in this country many years ago in Lanarkshire, and described by Curtis and Stephens under the
names of Walkeri and Walker an a.

At Dalmeny on the 17th. of May there was a very poor attendance of members, and not
very many insects, though Incurvaria masculella was dancing round the hawthorn sprays, and
several rather curious Lithocolletes were beaten from Scotch firs. An insect new to the Edin-
burghshire list was taken at Roslin, on the 22nd., flying by the bank of the river: it is the
Roeslerstammia pygmceana of Haworth and Stephens. On the Pentland Hills on the 31st. of
the month, Phoxopteryx unguicana was abundant among the short heath near the summits;
and lower down, near the base of a hill covered with juniper, where the heath gave place
to short mountain turf, abounding with Potentilla tormentilla, (Ecophora Lewenhoekella was
discovered in the greatest profusion ; but somewhat difficult to capture, from their unwillingness
to rise from the turf, and extreme activity when they did so. One or two specimens of
Argyresthia Arceuthina were found among the junipers; another addition to the Edinburghshire
list, and several of a_ species of Eupithecia, which is apparently undescribed. In crossing over
the top of a hill about the same elevation as that on which Phoxopteryx unguicana occurred,
but in addition to the heath, covered with a crisp gray lichen, Gekchia longicornis, also new
to Edinburghshire, rose at every step; and a little lower, a single specimen of Plutella Dalella
was taken, which had no doubt lived over the winter, as it is an autumnal insect.

On the 7th. of June, Tinea prcelatella was again found in the little wood at Ormiston, and
was observed chiefly on the shaded side of the wood, where a quantity of Gemn tirbanum and
rivale grows, upon which it is not improbable the larva feeds. It is stated by Freyer to live
upon Wild Strawberry, in a case ; but it not unfrequeutly happens, that an insect not strictly
polyphagus, feeds upon several allied plants in the same natural order. (Ecophora quadripune-
tella was not seen upon this occasion, but some small dark brown pupae, beaten out of wild
briar, produced this insect a few days after.

At Torwood, on the 3rd and 5th of July, a great many interesting species were observed,
several of wliich have not previously been recorded as Scotch. Among the species taken, may
be mentioned Coleophora juncicolella, one of the smallest known species in the genus, Stigmonota
redimitana, Mixodia palustrana, Nepticula argyropeza, Microsetia GleichelUz, etc., etc.

On the 12th. of July, the committee met at Grant's House, in Berwickshke, and proceeded
through the Tenmanshiel woods to the Pease Dean, meeting with several interesting species by
the way, though the day was unfavourable, the wind being very high. Trifurcula immundtlla
was taken from the broom, Lithocolktis ?* flying round hazel; ColeopJwra fuscedinella

• This is one of the FrolichieUa gi"onp, but does not seem exactly to correspond with anj- of the known
species. It ra-iy be X. yicellii.

232 OBITUARY.^QUEHIST.

from the birch, which swarmed with Arffyresthia Broclceella, and from which also Pcnthina
Picana was beaten; seeming to indicate this tree as the food of the larva, wliich is unknown.
In the Pease Dean a single specimen of Olindia Ulmana, was taken ; and Argyresthia Alhistria
was not scarce among the sloe bushes which line the edge of tlie bank below the bridge.

At the base of the Lammcrmuirs, near Pressmenan Lake, on the 2nd. of August, the party-
was considerablj' disappointed by finding the old birch wood on the hill side cut down, and
with the exception of a few trees in the centre and upper corner, a mass of dead branches
and root-stumps. In a marshy hollow, however, a little to the eastward, they took the rare
(Ecophora Jlavimacuklla, singularly enough, at the same time and in the same place where
the larvse had been found last year feeding on the umbels of the Angelica sglvcstris, but when
these were examined in the expectation of finding the larvae again, not one M-as to be seen ; so
that it would seem to be very uncei-tain in the periods of its appearance in the larva and perfect
state. At Guillanc Links on the 8th., Aphelia pratana, and Pt/rausta purpuralis, not a very
eommon insect in Scotland, occurred in considerable numbers.

Towards the middle of August, Ochsenheimeria VacoiMla was abundant in the little marshy
hollows near the top of Arthur's Seat, flying close over the grass and rushes in the heat of
the day. Towards sunset none were to be seen, as they disappeared among the herbage, and gave
pla(!e to Elachista atricornella. One or two worn specimens apparently of E. Kilnmnella were also
found, but its season was over before the hollows were examined. One very beautiful specimen

of Elachista ?* however, was taken resting on a blade of grass ; and there can be little

doubt that these hollows, small as they are, are well worthy of examination another year, and
will probably funiish some novelties to the district.

On the 30th. of August, the Committee met in Torwood, Stirlingshire; and, though rather
too near the end of the month, found Argyresthia sjnniella in considerable numbers, and in
tolerably good condition.

On the 27th. of October, several members paid a concluding visit to the Pentland Hillsj
which had never before been examined so late in the season. The day was beautifully fine,
being the very last of the fine weather, and they were rewarded by finding Exapate gelatella,
another addition to the Entomology of Edinburghshire, in the greatest profusion, flying over
the heather; besides meeting with fine r^pecimeus of Zelleria fasciapennell^t, and of Pcronea
mixtana.

In conclusion, I may mention that we have added twelve species to the Edinburghshire list
this season, namely, Amphysa prodromana, Gracilaria auroguttella, Roeslerstnmmia 2)ygmaiana^
Argyresthia arceuthina, Geleehia Cirsiella, G. longicornis, Ornix torquikllaf Nenwtois mini-
melius? Argyresthia dilectella, Bepressaria conterminella, Elachista 1 Exapate gelatella.

K. F. LOGAN".

(Dliitiiarij.

It is with much regi-et that we announce the death of Professor Macgillivr.vy, at Aberdeen,
on the 5th. of September. His valuable work on British Birds is well known, and will long
be referred to as a standard authority: we wish its publication had proved more lucrative to
its author than we fear it did. Science has lost a valuable follower in Mr. Macgillivray.

€\i itmm\.

A correspondent has inquired of me whether insects captured in Guernsey and Jersey, are to
be regarded as British ones or not ? It is an interesting question, and I shall feel much obliged
to any of your correspondents who can answer it "on authority." — F. 0. Morris, NaiFerton
Vicarage, Driflield, September 4th., 1852.

• Perhaps BisideeUa, Zeller.

233

LOCAL JOTTINGS.— No. 5.
DORCHESTER— DORSETSHIRE.

BY JOHN GARLAND^ ESQ.

The Snake, (Natrix torquata.) — Remembering the observation quoted in
some portion of the first volume of '^The Naturalist," that "Facts are
stubborn things/' I am induced to mention one or two anecdotes of the
Snake, although with much diffidence, from the fear of being "Doubled" up
as Mr. McTntosh was attempted to be in the memorable Cuckoo controversy;
I will, however, vouch for the truth of them.

Some few years since I was walking in one of our walks, when I saw a
Snake glide into a rut made by cart-wheels in the turf adjoining the walk.
I should premise that this town is surrounded on three sides by terrace
walks, planted with chestnut and sycamore trees, very much in the style of
the boulevards of the French towns, and turf is at the sides of some of
them. I looked in the cart-rut, and perceived the Snake and several young
ones, not very large. I stepped back with the intention of picking up a
stone, still keeping my eye on the spot, when I saw the old Snake glide out
of the rut, cross the roadway, and go into a hedge by the side. I then
went to the rut and looked in, thinking to take the young Snakes, but to
my surprise saw none of them. I searched for them in vain, and have no
doubt they must have been taken away by the old Snake's swallowing them
pro tem : — I am quite sure I must have seen them had they remained there,
as I never once lost sight of the spot, although I did of the depth of
the rut.

A short time before the above occurrence, I was one day passing at Grim
stone, just four miles from this town, when I observed a dead Snake, about
three feet long, hanging up on one of the arms of a directing post, and some
boys pelting it with stones. I passed on, and when I returned from making
the call which was the object of my journey, the boys were still there. It
occurred to me that I should like to see the Snake opened, and one of the
boys proceeded to do this. I saw various things taken out of it, such as
what I conceived to be a mouse and other partly-digested things, but also,
what struck me as rather singular, a minnow, about two inches in length,
almost perfect. The water-meadows adjoin the road, and possibly it might
have found a dead minnow on the bank of one of the rivulets: I cannot
otherwise account for it. I have had some little experience in the habits of
Snakes, having when at school frequently kept them, feeding them with insects,
etc., but I never remember seeing any mention of instances like the above.
I made notes of both occurrences at the time.

Dorchester, April \^th., 1852. \

2 H

234:

NOTES ON
THE NATURAL HISTORY OF SOUTHAMPTON.

BY WILLIAM D. BALSHAW^ ESQ., JUK.

A VRRY general opinion seems to be entertained by naturalists that the
Whinchatj (Saxicola ruhetra,) is with us only a summer visitant, making its
appearance in the southern parts of the country about the middle of April,
and migrating again, according to some authors, almost the first of our birds
of passage, being, as it is stated, very susceptible of cold. My own observations
however tend rather to show that, at least in the neighbourhood of South-
ampton, it remains the whole year with us.

On this point Yarrell, in his "British Birds," vol. i. page 250, says, "The
similarity in various points between these two birds {Saxicola ruhetra and Sax-
icola rubicola,) has induced a partial belief that the Whinchats, like the
Stonechats, remain here during the winter, but the Whinchats almost to a
bird depart in autumn to go farther south' I am not aware of more than
two authentic instances of the Whinchat's being seen here in winter." Upon
all the commons in the neighbourhood of Southampton, these Furze Toppers,
as they are there popularly called, are very numerous during the whole of the
year, and often have they excited my attention in the most dreary winter
weather by their lively and active motions in search of food. So frequently
had we established the fact of their spending the cold weather with us, that
I. never thought it worth while to record in my journal the dates when I
saw them; except during the severe winter of 1846-7, when both males and
females were seen. The entry bears date February 25th., which was a bright
frosty day, with snow lying in some of the more sheltered spots.

White, in his ^'Natural History of Selborne," (Letter xxv. to the Hon.
Daines Barrington,) in a list of soft- billed birds which, though insect-eaters,
stay with us the year round, includes the Whinchat.

I shall be very glad to see the opinions of any of your correspondents, on
this interesting subject, expressed in the pages of "The Naturalist."

During the summer of 1848, a most remarkable flight of the common Lady
Bird, (Coccinella septempunctata,) alighted in the neighbourhood of South-
ampton, and at the time excited considerable attention among us. These
insects were found in by far the greatest numbers upon, and in the immediate
vicinity of the Milbrook shore. I well recollect our astonishment, when,
walking along the beach, one day towards the beginning of August, we found
the railings of the Southampton and Dorchester Railway literally red with
them, where a few days before there had not been one. They swarmed in
the same numbers on the fence enclosing the grounds of Freemantle House,
the seat of the late Lady Hewitt. Further from the shore they appeared in
unusual numbers during the whole of the autumn, and were to be seen in
great abundance even in the windows of houses.

The year 1848 was altogether very remarkably prolific in insects. In the

KOTES OS THR NATURAL HISTOriY OF SOUTHAMPTON. 235

course of the summer we captured specimens of many of the ssarcer butterflies,
which were never obtained in previous seasons. Among them I may men-
tion the Silver Streak, (^Argynnis Paphia,) only one specimen of which, and
that very much battered, had till this year fallen into my hands. I may
safely say that, had we been so disposed, we might have possessed ourselves
of some scores, both of this and the Dark Green, {Argynnis Aglaia^ which
are not, generally speaking, very common. We also captured the Glanville,
(Melitoea Ginxia,) rather frequently, which is said by Rennie to be very
uncommon; and the Hair Streaks, (Thecla Quercus and Thecla Eubi,) were
more than usually abundant. Several, I may indeed say a good many speci-
mens of the Marbled White, {Hipparchia Galathea,) were this year seen,
while only one or two were noticed throughout the whole course of the
succeeding summer. This was likewise the only year in which we ever met
with the Wood White, (Leucopltasia Sinajns,) of which we obtained several
specimens in the New Forest, as well as one or two in the copses nearer
the town.

There is one remarkable circumstance connected with the Entomology of
Southampton, which I am quite at a loss to account for, namely, that though
during the season, (August and September,) the Clouded Saffron, (Colias
Edvsa,) is very plentiful in the immediate vicinity of Netley Abbey, not a
specimen of it is to be seen elsewhere. They are rarely to be met with at the
distance of a mile from the ruins, and I have sought, for them in vain on
the western side of the Itchen. In a field, however, a few hundred yards
beyond the Abbey, this insect may be captured at the rate of a dozen per
diem. The caterpillar is said to feed on grass; and I am not aware that
there are any peculiarities of herbage which will account for their being so
strangely local.

The summer of 1847, too, while other butterflies were not more than
usually numerous, appeared to be very favourable to the production of the
Admiral, {Vanessa Afalanta,) In our garden there were two Strawberry
trees, {Arbutus Unedo,) which seemed to be very favourite resorts with them^
and on which they alighted in great numbers. Four, five, and even more
might frequently have been observed on one tree at one time, and that all
the day long: the havoc which we made among them by the capture of
scores not appearing to diminish their numbers.

In the hope that it may be interesting to some of your entomological
readers, I append a list of such butterflies as I have caught in the neigh-
bourhood of Southampton. —

Primrose, (Gonepteryx Rhamni.) — Common.

Clouded Saffron, (Colias Edusa.) — Near Netley Abbey.

Gahhage, (Pontia Brassicae.) — Very common.

Turnip, (Pontia Rapae.) — Very common.

Green-veined, (Pontia Napi.) — Very common.

Wood Lcidy. (Mancipium Cardamines.) — Common.

236 NOTES ON THE NATURAL HISTORY OF SOUTHAMPTON,

Wood White, (Leucophasia Sinapis.) — New Forest in 1848.

Duke, (Neraeobius Lucina.) — One specimen^ New Forest^ 1848.

Scabious, (Melitcea Artemis.) — Frequent.

Glnnvilh, (Melitoea Cinxia.) — Scarce. Frequent in 1848.

Prince, (Melitoea Euphrosyne.) — Not uncommon.

High Broivn, (Argynnis Adippe.) — One or two specimens taken in 1848.

Dark Green, (Argynnis Aglaia.) — Scarce. Frequent in 1848.

Silver Streak, (Argynnis Paphia.) — Scarce. Frequent in 1848.

Elm, (Vanessa Polychloros^,) — Somewhat scarce.

Tortoise-shell, (Vanessa Urticse.) — Common.

Peacock, (Vanessa lo.) — Common.

Admiral, (Vanessa Atalanta.) — Frequent. Abundant in 1847.

Painted Lady, (Cyntbia Cardui.) — Frequent.

Speckled Wood, (Hipparchia ^geria.) — Common.

Wall, (Hipparchia Megaera.) — Common.

Grayling, (Hipparchia Semele.) — Very abundant.

Marbled White, (Hipparchia Galathea.) — Scarce.

Gatekeeper, (Hipparchia Tithonus.) — Very abundant.

Meadoxo Broivn, (Hipparchia Janira.) — Very abundant.

liinglct, (Hipparchia Hyperanthus.) — Not common.

Black Hair Streak, (Thecla W. Album.) — Not common.

Purple Hair Streak, (Thecla Quercus.) — Not common.

G^'een Hair Streak, (Thecla Rubi.) — Frequent.

Copper, (Lycaena Phleas.) — Common.

Azure Blue, (Polyommatus Argiolus.) — Common.

Chalk Hill Blue, (Polyommatus Corydon.) — Common.

Clifden Blue, (Polyommatus Adonis.) — Frequent.

Dead Blue, (Polyommatus Argus.) — Common.

Grizzle, (Thyraele Alveolus.) — Frequent.

Great Streak Skipper, (Pamphila Linea.) — Common.

During the year following the completion of the Southampton and Dorchester
Railway I met with two scarce plants growing on it; they were the Lesser
Quaking Grass, (Briza minor,) and the Ivy-leaved Toadflax (Linaria spuria.)
As they were only discovered at this time, I am inclined to think that the
seed must have lain hidden in the earth, and that when by the construction
of the line, they were brought near the surface, an opportunity of germinating
being aiforded them, they instantly put forth those powers, which it is well
known many seeds will retain for an indefinite period.

During the summer of 1849, when the cholera was committing its ravages
in this country, and proving particularly fatal in Southampton, the almost
entire absence of Flies, (Muscidoe,) in the house, was very remarkable. The
same season was distinguished for its unusual heat.

As early as March 24th., 1849, I noticed a single Bank Martin, (Hirundo
riparia,) hawking for insects, on the Netley shore, the morning being rather

NOTES ON SPRINa FLOWKRS AND MIGRATORY RIRBS. 237

damp and misty. A very large colony of these birds established itself the
same year in the sand-pits, near the Itchen Ferry, but the bulk of its
members did not make their appearance till three or four weeks after the
above date.

A-bout the end of March, 1849, I saw a Crested Grebe, {Podiceps cristatm,)
on the Southampton Water.

Fleetwood, September 1th., 1852.

NOTES ON
SPRING FLOWERS AND MIGRATORY BIRDS.

BY S. HANNAFORD, ESQ., JUN.

My Botanical papers in "The Naturalist," having commenced with May, last
yearj there are some few of our rarer plants which I did not then mention,
and some even which are not included in my "Flora Tottoniensis," 1851; these
I purpose naming very briefly here, with the dates of the arrival of such of
our migratory birds as I have seen.

April 2nd. — On the banks of the Dart, between Hood Cottage and Austin's
Bridge, I found this day Vacoinium Mt/rtillus, (Whortleberry,) many of the
flowers of which have ten stamens, although included in the Linnaean class
Octandria; Calluna vulgaris, (Common Ling;) Alchemilla arvensis, (Lady's
Mantle;) the two last-named are not yet in flower, but mentioned here as
this is a new habitat for the former, and the latter has not been previously
observed. Tassilago petasites, (Butterbur;) occasionally in dry hedges, Luzula
campestris, (Field Rush;) Hypnum hornum, H. dendroides, H. alopecuruni,
H. squarrosum, Polytrichura commune, Anomodon viticulosum, etc., etc.

April 7th. — ChiiF-chafi", (Si/lvia hippolais,) heard this day.

April 9th. — On an orchard hedge between Totnes and Truestreet, I met
with Vinca major, (Greater Periwinkle,) some distance from any house; on a
bank in Weston lane, near Truestreet, which was covered with Vinca 7ninor, I
obtained specimens of Asarum Europcmmi, (Asarabacca;) Helleborus viridis,
(Green Hellebore;) and in a copse on the Paignton road. Daphne 1 aureola,
(Spurge Laurel;) in great beauty Viola odorata, (Sweet Violet,) the white
variety; and F. canina, in greater abundance and finer than I have ever seen it
elsewhere; by the roadsides everywhere Cardamine hirsuta, (Hairy Cardamine,)
and on walls Arabis hirsuta, Hairy Wall Cress;) Galium cruciatum too, is
just coming into flower, and it occurs to me here that no botanical work men-
tions the beautiful dark crimson colour of the stem above each whorl of flowers.

April 9th. — Blackcap, (Ourriica atricapilla,) heard this day. The early
arrival of this bird is rather extraordinary, the weather being very cold; an
east wind having prevailed for twelve weeks.

xVpril 13th. — Martin, {Hirundo urbica,) and Redstart, (Phoenicnra ruticilla,)
seen this day.

2.38 RARK BIRDS IK ABERDEENSHIRE.

April 15th. — Sand Martin, (Hirundo riparia,) seen this day.

April 17th. — On a ramble over the cliffs by the sea, between Paignton
and Goodrington, I observed Cochlearia oJJIcinalis, (Comraon Scurvy Grass,)
in great abundance; Silene maritima, (Sea Campion,) Statice armeria, (Sea
Pink.) On the rocks beyond Goodrington I discovered two new groups of
Asplenium marinum, in addition to that found in the same locality by
Dr. Barry in 1851. It is worthy of remark that in specimens of this Fern
brought from Dartmouth Castle, the pinnae are lanceolate, whilst in those
obtained at Goodrington^ the pinnae are, as Moore in ^'British Ferns" describes
them, '^obtusely ovate." In a corn-field at Goodrington, I gathered Cerastium
tetrandrum (Tetrandrous Mouse-ear Chickweed,) easily distinguished from G.
semidecandrum, although mentioned in ''Flora Devoniensis" casually as a
variety of that plant; Fedia oUtoria, (Corn Salad.) On the sands at Paignton,
Erodium cicutarium, (Hemlock Stork's Bill,) and a species of Arenaria, not
yet in flower, but which from the two stipules at the base of the stem and
the ribless sepals, I think may be A. rubra; and on a wall in Paignton
village Saxifraga tridactylites, (Rue-leaved Saxifrage.)

April 18th. — Swallow, {Hirundo rustica,) first seen.

April 19th. — Cuckoo, (Cucidus caiwrus,) first seen.

Totnes, April 2ith., 1852.

RARE BIRDS OCCURRING IN ABERDEENSHIRE.

BY JOHN LONGMUIR, ESQ., JUN.

Bohemian Waxwing, (Bombycilla garrula.) — This bird has occurred several
times in Aberdeenshire. Three were shot in January, 1850, in the vicinity
of Aberdeen, by Mr. A. Mitchell, taxidermist. The same person shot six out
of a rather large flock, which he found perched on a mulberry tree at West-
field, near Aberdeen, in the beginning of February, 1851. About the same
time Mr. Morison, Constitution Street, shot two in his garden.

The Hoopoe, (Upupa epops.) — A specimen of this rare visitor was shot
between March and April this year, by the gamekeeper at Crimmonmogate,
Aberdeenshire. It was a male.

A White Blackbird, (Turdus merula.) — Two specimens of this bird, of a
pure white colour, were lately obtained near Aberdeen. The one, at the Coor,
was an old bird; the other, a young female, was shot near Woodside. Both
these birds were obtained in April, 1852.

The Crane, (Grus cinerea.) — This ''occasional and very rare visitor," as
Yarrell entitles it, has lately occurred in this neighbourhood. It was first
seen about the end of May, in a field about eight miles up the River Dee,
and remained some days in the vicinity before being shot. It was a young
male, and is now in the possession of Mr. Alexander Mitchell.

A BOTANICAL SCRAMBLE. 239

Turtle Dove, (Columba turtur.) — I have only heard of two specimens of
this bird being shot in the neighbourhood. The one^ in August, 1849, near
Old Aberdeen, was a young bird just beginning to assume the mark on the
neck; and the other, in September, 1851, was a younger bird still. They
were both shot by Mr. Mitchell,

Pied Flycatcher, (Muscicapa atricapilla.) — Mr. Yarrell does not mention the
occurrence of this little bird in Scotland. I am happy, however, to be able
to state that a single specimen was obtained by Mr. Robert Dickie in the
wood of Hazlehead, near Aberdeen, about the month of July, 1845.

Great North American Shrike, (Lanius borealis.) — This bird, though last
on ray list is the most important one. A specimen of it was shot (the only
one, I believe, as yet obtained in Britain,) by Mr. Thomas Mc' Kenzie in the
month of April, 1848.

I have to record my obligations to Messrs. Mitchell and Mc' Kenzie for
many of the foregoing particulars.

Aberdeen, July Zrd., 1852.

A BOTANICAL SCRAMBLE ON HELVELLYN.

At the south-west corner of Helvellyn, and about half-way between Keswick
and Ambleside stands the city of Wythburn, composed of about a dozen
hind's houses, an inn, and a chapel, said to be the smallest in England:

"Wythburn' 8 modest house of prayer,
As lowly as the lowliest dwelling."

I cannot go on without noticing the interesting walk, or, as most tourists
would make it, drive from Keswick to Ambleside. The distance is about
sixteen miles, and embraces no less than five of the English lakes, with just
a peep at a sixth. First, at Keswick, we have Derwentwater, surrounded
by hills of every variety of outline, and studded with well-wooded islands.
Getting a mile or two from town we turn back to "cast one longing, lingering
look behind;" and in a rich green valley we have a picturesque little town and
two lakes — Bassenthwaite like a sheet of silver in the far north, and almost
beneath our very feet Derwentwater rolls, like nothing, save itself; the
majestic Skiddaw looks over the whole and nods to his brothers Saddleback,
Helvellyn, and Scawfell; all of which are seen from the Castle Rigg, and
form a scene of which any country might be proud. Passing on we have
Thirlmere, a long stretch of water, on our right and Helvellyn rising at
our left; further still we have Grassmere, whose very name bespeaks its
beauty; then Rydal, and lastly Windermere, the largest of all the English
lakes; which begins to shew lacustrine breadth, and continues full half its
length between the counties of Westmorland and Lancashire, and ends in
the latter in the River Leven.

240 A BOTANICAL SCRAMBI.K.

Stopping then at Wythburnj and after a good night's rest, for we got in
late, we get up just to see if the sun has been before us, and find that he
has long since cast his morning beams into the lake, and that we have been
dreaming away the best part of the morning. However an early breakfast,
and off at half-past seven to Danraail Raise, and caring little whether that
mighty monarch sleep there or elsewhere, we take a walk or rather a climb
up the Ghyll, passing first over

"That pile of stones,

Heaped over brave King Dunmail's bones;
He who once held supreme command,
Last king of rocky Cumberland."

It was about the middle of the hot month of July, and on one of the
warmest days in it, when, plaid over arm, for we frequently have pelting
showers here when least expected, we got over the first dozen large stones
which lie not only by the side of the stream, but which disturb its very
bosom, and cause the smooth water to dash into many hundred little cataracts,
Saxifraga aizoides, was the first plant whose appearance attracted notice, and
certainly from the plentitude of its bright yellow flowers and shining linear
leaves, it does deserve a corner in our vasculum, notwithstanding its abundance ■
in every moist place in the district. Seclum anglicum inhabits rather drier
places among the loose stony soil, about the foot of the hill; those who do
not know the plant will have a pretty good idea of it if they suppose
the Common Stone Cress, {Sedum acre,) with white instead of yellow flowers,
and withal of a duskier hue, and less luxuriant in growth.

Further up the steep Ghyll Saxifraga stellaris, with its wedge-shaped leaves,
star-like flowers, and spotted with yellow, grew among damp moss, under
the spray of the water; here also the rarer Saxifraga hypwAdes found space
and enriched my collection. Toiling still on in the warm sunshine, over
hui^e masses of rock, I came upon the Kidney-leaved or Mountain Sorrel,
{Oxyria reniformis;) this is by no means a common plant, though I have
met with it before in the neighbourhood of Keswick, at Ashness Ghyll. It
grows from one to two feet high, with very fleshy leaves of a kidney shape,
and has a spike of flowers very much resembling the Sorrel, which induced
the earlier observers to call it a Rumex.

Among the grass, which consists in a great measure of Fesluca ovina,
was found the Common Club Moss, {Lycopodium clavatum,) in fine fruit;
The Fij-club Moss, (L. selago,) was quite as plentiful, as also the L. alpinum.
L. selaginoides was less abundant, but in the marshy ground about eight
hundred feet up the hill, a plentiful supply might have been obtained.
Carex pulicaris, (Flea Sedge,) grew among tufts of damp grass, and Forget-
me-nots of different species, including Myosotis repens, ccespitosa, and palustris,
and numberless forms of each, occurred from the ditch at the foot of the hill
to the point of my ambition for the day, namely, Grisedale Tarn. This is
one of the largest Tarns in the district, and is surrounded by hills on every

A BOTAXICAL SCRAMBLE. 241

side but one, which looks down a long, deep, almost pathless valley into
Patterdale, and commands just a peep of fair Ullswater.

Getting over from the Ghyll by which I ascended the path, or rather ^oay,
for there is no regular path, passing through a little wilderness of soft brown
bog earth, laid bare by the winters' floods, and holes covered with Spliagnum,
in which should the foot of the traveller unluckily light, he goes knee-deep
in water. Eushes, (Juncus effusus,) are in plenty, as well as a moderate
supply of Heather, (Calluna vulgaris,) and Hair Grass, (Aira ccespitosa,) and
by planting the foot in one of these tufts, and carefully drawing the other
after, we pass over even the worst parts without further inconvenience than
a wet shoe. I had got then by the side of the Tarn, and began alternately
to admire the scene, and repeat to myself Wordsworth's description of Red

Tarn : —

"It was a cave— a huge recess,

That keeps till June December's snow;
A lofty precipice in front,

A silent Tarn below.
Far in the bosom of HelvelljTi,
Remote from public road or dwelling,
Pathway or cultivated land,
From trace of human foot or hand."

But I called to mind that the only poetry I had a right to think of in
that spot, was that of nature — that I had come to seek for plants, not poesy.
So without looking to see the ^sometimes' leaping fish, or even listening for
the lovely cheer' which they send round the Tarn, I addressed myself to
some rocks, which act as portals at a point where the Tarn sends forth a
merry stream to gladden the vale of Patterdale, and add its mite to the
Lake of Ullswater. Nor were my addresses saucily rejected. Two of the
prettiest and rarest of our Alpine plants rewarded my endeavours; the first
was the Alpine Meadow Rue, (Thalictrum alpinum,) but unfortunately it
was not in flower; I took with me however, a few of its delicate maiden-hair-
like leaves as a token of friendship. The Alpine Hawkweed, (Hieraciuvi
alpinum,) was the other prize yielded by this point, and by no means a
poor one. It has rarely more than one head of flowers, of a golden yellow,
surroimded by strap-shaped bracts of a darkish hue, covered over with hairs of
a silky whiteness, many of them at least half an inch in length. It is an old
belief, probably taking its origin in the usual habitat of the plants, or not
unlikely in the bright golden yellow of the eye-like flower, that Hawks fed
upon these for the purpose of sharpening their sight, and hence the common
name Hawkweed, as well as the generic title Hieracium from Hierax — a
Hawk.

Still the chief object of my ambition was unattained. I had been informed
by an intelligent botanist, Mr. Flintoft, that the Silene acaulis grew on some
rocks rising to the left as we look down into Patterdale, and to pick,
for the first time, this little gem was my desire. To gain even the bottom
of those crags was no easy task, but I could have wished the diificulty doubled

VOI-. II. 2 1

242 A BOTANICAL SCRAMBLE,

in order to have sacrificed the more for the sake of the prize. I soon
had enough of difficulty however, for though the Silene was to be had
without setting a foot on the Orag, yet in order to get it in flower, no
small amount of climbing and balancing was required. The truth is, I was
like many people in pursuit of less harmless pleasures, behind time; I should
have been a month sooner, and then such a show of flowers as no lowland
botanist could believe, without the unmistakeable evidence of the multitude of
capsules. After much hair-breadth posturing and anxious searching, I at la.st
succeeded in finding two patches of the plant in flower; they were the first T
had ever looked on in a fresh growing state, and on the hill where for centuries
they had kept lonely watch. No dried specimen, were it ever so perfect a
pattern of pressing, could aflford such pleasure; 1 could have danced with joy,
but my position required the utmost caution, and dancing forms no part of
the naturalist's qualifications. The Silene gi'ows in dense tufts, and at a
distance might be mistaken for patches of Thyme, (Thymus serpyllum,) but
that the masses are much denser, and the leaves brighter, and perfectly free
from hairs. The fiowers are only one on a stalky and have much the same
colour as Thyme,

I shall but stay to mention two more plants found associated with the
plant of the day, although I might run out a list of no end. Arenaria
vema, not a rare but a very beautiful plant, is deserving of being picked
from its rocky seat even by those who know nothing of botany. The Alpine
Lady's Mantle, whose satin leaves we might suppose the little folk, the fairies,
used to deck out a Titania or some other Queen, here decorates the bare
hard rock. This last mentioned plant, with the Oxi/ria reniformis and the
Silene, form a trio by no means to be despised. For the benefit of those
who have not the time or perseverance, for I do really think, without much
self-conceit, that it requires a little to ascend Dunmail, I may state that
two of them, namely, the Oxyria and the Alchemilla, grow in Ashness Gihyll,
about two miles from Keswick, the latter but sparingly, though it may be
had in basket-fulls at a Ghyll above Applethwaite, under Skiddaw. The
Silene must be sought however by Grisdale Tarn; or, if the tourist will ven-
ture some twelve miles up Borrowdale, he will perhaps find it and Saxifraga
oppositifolia, on Great End Crag, where they were found by H. C. Watson,
Esq.

After all there is nothing to be compared to a boyish ramble on the hills,
warm and tiresome though it be, it seems as if every day so spent was to
add a little to ones span of existence, and sure I am that whether it
adds in time it will add in pleasure, for who would not look back with a
beating heart to a day spent with the Creator on one of his majestic
mountains?

Keswick, July 20th., 1852.

243

FLORxV OP
THE MEADOWS OF THE PROVINCE OF ORAN.

TO THR f:DITOR OF THE NATURALIST.

Sir,

My attention has been drawn to a series of papers on the
^'Natural Meadows of the Province of Oran/' in Algeria, two of which have
been already published in a local newspaper, called "L'Echo d'Oran." They
are from the pen of Mr. Giles Munby, the distinguished author of the "Flore
De L'Algerie/' a naturalist of whom this city may be justly proud. These
papers seem so full of important and interesting matter to the scientific
agriculturist, as affording a comparison between the meadows of that country
and our own, and at the same time are so valuable as a contribution to
Botanical Geography, that I have made a translation of them, and trust you
will consider them as equally likely to please the readers of your Journal.
I have only to add that the genera, examples of which occur native in this
country are in the translation distinguished by a larger type, and the British
species by italics: — no such distinction of course occurs in the French original.

Oswald A. Moore.

York, September VM., 1802.

The plants which compose the natural meadows of the province of Oran
belong almost exclusively to three great families of the vegetable kingdom,
that is to say, to the Grasses, Leguminous, and Composite Plants.

We shall consider at first the species of the family of Grasses, and according
to alphabetical order: —

AGROSTIS. — This genus, which is so common in all the meadows of the
north of Europe, does not show itself in the province of Oran, excepting in
species interesting rather to the botanist than the agriculturist, such as A.
ELEGANS, A. vERTiciLLATA, and A. minima. The A. vulgaris is found in the
natural moist meadows of the Milidja, at Algiers. It is a variety of the species
which has been cultivated in England under the name of Fiorin Grass, and
which has been extolled as possessing very nutritive qualities.

AIRA. — Of this genus we have at Oran only two species, which are of no
use in agriculture, namely, the A. minuta and A. caryophyllea.

ALOPECURUS. — I have not yet found in the province of Oran any species
of this genus; the A. hulbosus is by no means rare in the moist meadows of
the Milidja, at Algiers.

ARUNDO. — A great kind of Grass, which grows on the hills, called Dis
by the Arabs.

ANTHOXANTHUM. — One species of this Grass, sweet-scented Vernal
Grass, (the A. odoratum,,) which in Europe gives the agreeable scent to new-
made hay, is found very commonly in the meadows at Algiers, but in the
province of Oran there is only one sfecies of any utility — the A. ovatum.

AVENA.— This genus, which comprises the different species of Oat, is

g44 FLOEA OF THE MEADOAVS OF THE PEOVINCE OF OBAK,

widely spread in our province. Unfortunately the species which is the most
useful is also the one which is of the most rare occurrence; I speak of A.
elatior, called 'Fromental' in French^ which is only found at the foot of the
Dwarf Palms. A. sterilis, or Barren Oat, is common everywhere, joined with
an allied species — A. hirsuta.

,BROMUS. — We have many species of this genus, such as B. madritensis,
B. mollis, B. DivAKicATUs, B. RUBENS, B. stenlis, and B. maximus. They are
all annual species, and produce but little.

CYXOSURUS. — This genus produces the C. cristatus, a species found in
all the meadows of Europe, whether natural or artificial. It is rare at Algiers,
and I have not yet seen it at Oran. We have the C. echinatus and C
ELEGANS, insignificant plants.

DACTYLI8.— The B. glomei'ata is common in all the meadows from the
north of Europe: it abounds in Oran, and its leaves furnish an excellent
pasturage. The other species of this genus 'are not of any interest; they are
the D. REPRNs and D. pungens.

FESTUCA. — In French, Fetuque. We have more than a dozen species
of this genus; but the most useful, the F. pratensis, is found but rarely in the
neighbourhood of Oran. The meadows which contain the most of this species
are those of M. Ramogen, at Ain-Beida.

HOLCUS. — I have only found in the province of Oran the H. mollis, and
that only on the edge of the Ould-Isser, near Tlemcen. Desfontaines, in the
''Flora Atlantica," states that H. lanatus, (Meadow Soft Grass,) is found in
the neighbourhood of Mascara.

HORDEUM. — This genus, which includes Barley, only afibrds us three
insignificant species, namely, B[. murinum, called in Arabic Goult-el-far; H.
maritimum, and H. crinitum.

LOLIUM. — The ray-grass of the English is L. perenne, and is found very
commonly by road-sides and in gardens. The L. Temulentum, the only one
of the European Grasses which is poisonous, is happily very rare in the corn-
fields.

MELICA. — We have the M. ciliata, which grows among the Dwarf Palms
in barren places, and the M. aspera.

MILIUM. — This genus affords us the M. cerulescens, M. multiflorum,
and M. paradoxicum. Although they are species of the middle of Europe,
they do not suffer from the heat. Their stalks are sought for by the cattle
in the heat of summer.

PANICUM. — The neighbourhood of Algiers affords many species of this
genus, but I have only found the P. dadylon near Oran; the roots of which
replace those of the T. caninum as a Dog's-tooth Grass.

PHALARIS. — The fodder of the plain of Mitidja, and especially that of
the low meadows of the neighbourhood of Bouffarick, is composed in a great
measure of P. aquatic a, which I have hot found at Oran. The other species
are the P. canariensis, P. paradoxa, and P. nodosa, L, This last plant grows

AX entomologist's excursion. 245

ia the thickets of Dwarf Pahn^ and possesses a very large and nutritious leaf
much sought after by cattle.

PHLEUM. — The pratense abounds in the meadows of Bouffarick^ near
Algiers, but I have not found any species of this genus at Oran.

POA. — We have some species of this genus, of which the commonest is the
P. bulbosa, which almost forms the basis of the greensward in the neigh-
bourhood of Tiaret. The P. annua is found here and there in the gardens.
The other species are the P. rigida, P. divaricata, P. distaiis, and P. festu-
CiEFORMis; the two last species are aquatic plants, and found in the marshes
of A'in-Beida.

POLYPOGON. — This genus affords us two species, which grow in swampy
places about the lakes of the Senia and Misserghiu. — They are the P. mon-
spellknse and P. maritimum.

ST IP A. — The commonest species of this genus, and which covers immense
tracts in the poor soils in the neighbourhood of Oran, is the S. tortilis; the
other species are the S. barbata, S. parviflora, SjLagascj^, S. juncea, and
S. tenacissima. This latter plant pi'oduces Matweed, (Le sparte,) and is
called by the Arabs, Halefa.

TRITICUM. — Without speaking of Wheat, this genus furnishes many
species which enter into our natural meadows. The Dog's-tooth Grass, or T.
repens, (Couch Grass,) is found in the neighbourhood of the Senia, and in the
marshy meadows of Ain-Beida. The other species are T. c^spitosum, which
grows in the thickets of Dwarf Palm; the T. ciliatum, and T.junceum.

(Extracted from "L'Echo D'Oran," Saturday, Jime 19th., 1852.)
(To be continued.)

AN ENTOMOLOGIST'S EXCURSION TO WARMINSTER DOWN.

BV MR. MICHAEL WESTCOTT.

The first of June, Whit-Tuesday, being a holiday, and a Fair in our city,
I contemplated enjoying an entomological ramble on that day long before it
came. I was up betimes, and took a peep out of my chamber window to
ascertain the state of the weather, and was disappointefU in seeing a dense
fog, which, however, gradually disappeared as the sun's golden beams shed a
lustre of joy over Nature's smiling children.

Being fully equipped for the *^^chase," I started about nine o'clock, accom-
panied by a youth, who is much interested in the study of insects. We made
our way along the Bishop's Park, and soon got into a beautiful sunny lane,
leading to Wensley farm. In this lane I started my first game. Its warm,
flower-studded banks were so attractive to the insect tribe as to cause multi-
tudes of them to be there flitting about, chasing each other from flower to
flower. The Orange-tipped B. (Pontia Gardamines ;) the Gate-keeper B., [Hip-
parchia Megcera;) and the Wood Ringlet B., {Hipparchia Hyperanthus,) were

246 -v\ extomolooist's excursion.

here in abundance. In this lane I took several caterpillars of the Drinker
Moth, (^Odo)iestis potatoria,) feeding on common cootch grass; and a nest of
the small Egger Moth, {Erior/aster lanestris,) feeding on white thorn. The
caterpillars of the Drinker Moth are very common in this locality, but I
never captured more than one Female Moth, they being nocturnal, and the
males very swift flyers, which makes them difficult to obtain in their perfect
state, but I have several splendid specimens, both male and female, which I
bred. The sexes of the Drinker Moth vary in size and colour very much;
the females being of a dark buff-colour, measuring two inches and a quarter
in the expanse of the wings; and the males of a dai-k fawn-colour, and not more
than two inches in the expanse of the wings, at least mine measure no more.
The antennoB of the male are very beautiful, resembling a quill, with the feathers
on either side of equal length, and the extreme points of both sides are
turned down towards each other, so as to nearly meet. The females are of
the same shape, but smaller.

Having taken as many specimens of the above insects as I wanted, I pro-
ceeded towards Wensley farm. I saw nothing here of any note, save a brood
of young ducks, which were enjoying themselves, swimming about in a pool,
to the great discomfort of a poor hen, which ran round and round the pool,
calling upon them to come out of a place which she naturally supposed would
cause their destruction. I proceeded along this lane about two hundred yards,
thence along a footpath which led to Twinnles wood, the property of E. C.
Ludway, Esq., M.P. On my way thither I found a nest of the Green
Woodpecker, (Picus viridis,) containing four young ones. These beautiful
birds are common in this neighbourhood. As I entered Twinnles wood my
attention was drawn towards a Blackbird, nearly white, in pursuit of a young
Magpie. I saw five Squirrels sporting about over head, one of which was of
a fine cream -colour, and three of the others had white tails. I had not
traversed this wood far ere I captured a fine male specimen of the Stag
Beetle, (Lucamis cervus,) and which was the only entomological object I could
find in the wood. But if Miss Catlow had been there on a botanical ramble
she would not leave it with such a meager collection of plants as I did of
insects: she would find many beautiful subjects to write about. My knowledge
being rather limited at present in the interesting science of botany, I cannot
describe the many ^^children of the wood," of various growth and features,
looking there so charming and delightful, inviting the lover of flowers to enjoy
a few hours of their cheerful company. When I got out of the wood my
admiration rose to its greatest height on seeing that pretty little flower.
Eye Bright, (Eriphrasia officinalis,) growing in profusion on the sunny bank.

I now found myself on the top of Twinnles, and in nothing more or less
than a large field of clover, nearly in full bloom. On looking around I
discovered that the objects of my pursuit were in countless numbers; I therefore
prepared for "active service." Close by me was a Humming-bird Moth,
(Macroglossa Stellatarum.) How charming it was to watch it sporting about

AK entomologist's EXCURSION. 247

in the sun's golden beams, sipping the nectar from every little flower, alighting
on none, but balancing itself while it probed every tube with its long proboscis.
However, as I went out to collect specimens, as well as to admire and study
the works of the Great Creator, I commenced operations by making captive the
Moth I was admiring. I was busily employed in this field for about two hours,
as may be seen by the captured specimens named in the following list :■ — Six
Brimstone B., (Gonepteryx Rhamni;) eight Large White B., (Pontia Brassicce;)
seven Small White B., {Pontia Bapoe;) nine Wood Argus B., {HipparcMa
jEgeria;) ten I^arge Meadow Brown B., {HipparcMa Janira;) ten Heath
Butterfly, {Hipparchia Davus;) eight Least Meadow Brown B., (HipparcMa
PampMlus;) five Green- Veined B., {Pontia Napi-) seven Painted Lady B.,
{CyntMa Cardid;) seven Small Tortoiseshell B., {Vanessa Urticce;) one Red
Admiral B., {Vanessa Afalanta;'^) twelve Silver-studded Blue B., {Polyommatiis
Argus;) eight Commoa Copper B., (Lyccena Phloeas;) seven Silver y Moth,
(Plusia Gamma.)

My collecting box being now nearly full, and not seeing anything rare, I
started for Warminster Down. As I walked along at the bottom of a wheat
field, looking attentively along the bank for caterpillars, I espied a Pheasant's
egg lying on an ant's nest. As I wanted a specimen, and knowing that it
would never be fruitful in that situation, I claimed it as a prize. After pro-
ceeding along this field, and crossing two or three more with a single capture,
I found I stood upon Warminster Down. It is a charming place! everything
was here that a naturalist could wish for. The scenery was delightfully
picturesque. Walking about for some time enjoying the prospects around, I
passed over a moss-clad hillock, by the east side of the wood, and came to
a spot which really seemed like the famous fairy's bower of the olden time.
To describe it is impossible, at least for me. I sat down on a mossy couch
to regale myself with a couple of hard-boiled eggs and a' little weak brandy
and water. But oh, the harmony! I never shall forget it. The Blackbird,
Wood Lark, Sky Lark, Thrush, Robin, Whitethroat, yes, and a pair of
Nightingales, one of which I could see, were pouring forth their lovely strains,
striving to outvie each other. Who, thought I, would not leave the town
and its noise, such as the bustle of a fair, the shouting of cattle-drivers, a
*^tum turn" band parading the streets, horses trotting, vehicles running; in
fact, a monotonous and tiresome jumble of unpleasant sounds, incident to a
fair, a club, and a holyday, all in one. But even such a day as this has its
admirers — may they enjoy it to their profit.

As I sat all attention to the harmony around, a Wood Wren came with
father long-legs in her mouth as a dainty morsel for her numerous brood.
Taking no notice of me she hopped on her nest, and there seven or eight
pretty creatures were fit to fly out of their mossy couch, contending for father
long-legs. A Dormouse, too, regardless of my presence, was running about
close to me, and in fact came between my legs as I was sitting down, and

* It is very earl}' for this fly to make its appearance, and so it is for the Wood Kinglet.

248 A FEW NOTES OX SOME INSECTS TAKEN IN SWITZERLAND.

picked up some crumbs. A Squirrel, in a fine oak overhead, attracted my
attention, and as soon as I moved, Mr. Mousy was off like a shot.

Having regaled myself I left, though reluctantly^ this charming spot, and
proceeded in search of new discoveries. In doing so I walked along a narrow
cart-road, nearly overgrown with grass and moss, running through an irregular
part of the wood. Here I took a nest of caterpillars of the Golden-tail Moth,
(Porthesia chrysorrhcea.) As I traversed this cart-road I came to a small
pool of water, which is well supplied by a little stream issuing from the hills.
In and around this pool was a grand display of insect-activity. — The Water
Scorpion was feeding away with the greediness of the Wolf on the larvae of
other insects. The Dragon-Flies, (Libellulce,) were here in abundancej I
captured several good specimens. While I was engaged watching a battle
between a large hunting Spider, (Aranea viatica,) and a Grasshopper, I was
startled by a heavy clap of thunder. I perceived, to my disappointment, that
some dark clouds were gathering round; and being about four miles from
home I considered a speedy retreat most suitable to my personal comfort — I
therefore acted accordingly. However, I had not proceeded above a mile ere
I was compelled to take shelter from a heavy storm of rain, which did not
entirely abate until I reached home, which was about four o'clock, p.m.; a
much earlier period than I anticipated when I started in the morning for
Warminster Down,

St. Cuthhert's Place, Wells, July ?>Oth., 1852.

A FEW NOTES ON SOME INSECTS
TAKEN DURING A SHORT TOUR IN SWITZERLAND.

BY S, ARTHUR SEWELL, ESQ.

To the naturalist only travelling a few degrees south of England, the change
in the natural appearance of the productions is scarcely less interesting than
the magnificent scenery which he may there meet with. I found this to be
the case in a short tour made last August through various parts of Switzer-
land, and it has struck me that a few notes on the insects I met with might
not prove unacceptable to your readers.

During ray passage through France I had seen from the windows of the
train innumerable insects, (chiefly butterflies,) which it had never been my
fortune to meet with on the wing, and I longed for the time when emanci-
pated from diligences and railways I might capture some new specimens for
my cabinet.

My first opportunity was one beautiful morning when under an Italian sky
I left Charaounix to walk over the pass of the Tete Noire to Martigny. It
was about seven o'clock, but even at that comparatively early hour the insect
world was all alive, revelling in the blaze of sunshine which was unintereepted
by a single cloud. Though utterly unprovided with any entomological apparatus,

A FEW NOTES OK SOME INSECTS TAKEN IN SWITZEKLAND. 240

I could not resist the temptation, and so taking a limp felt hat off my head,
I began to pursue some of the many butterflies which settled on the path.

The first captured, and which species seemed to be decidedly the most
abundant, was a variety of the Scotch Argus, {Hipparchia Blandina,) dis-
tinguished by black occelli, with bluish pupils on a band of red. This
butterfly appears to confine itself to the mountainous districts, as I did not
meet with it in the lower valleys.

Having walked on some distance, and being then much higher on the
mountains, what was my surprise and pleasure to see, settled on a flower
close to the path, a "Glorious Apollo." I cautiously approached him, but
being unaware, after I had struck at him, that he was under the lining of
my hat, I suffered him to escape, which he did apparently uninjured; of
course I was bitterly disappointed, but was repaid by the capture of two others
subsequently. This insect, {Parnassius Apollo,) is very bold; the flight strong
and vigorous, and the body thick and leathery, offering great resistance to
the pin; the scales also appear not easily rubbed off.

Near the Tete Noire I noticed several specimens of Argynnis, "Adippe"
I believe, which I could not capture.

The Grasshoppers were exceedingly plentiful, including the large green
species; and the noise made by them towards the evening was surprising.

Towards noon the butterflies deserted us, and all the insects I saw were a few
Beetles. Many Hawks, some of very large size, occasionally were seen floating
about among the mountains. Ferns of all kinds were remarkably abundant,
and I could promise the botanist a rich harvest in Switzerland.

The next day, in a walk along the plain from Martigny to Villeneuve, I
observed a specimen of the Scarce Swallow-tail Butterfly, (Papilio Podaliriits,)
Pale Clouded Yellow B., {Colias Hyah,) was also extremely abundant, as
well as the Painted Lady, {Cynthia Cardui.)

My next and last opportunity for entomologizing was at Lausanne, where
I spent a few days. In a neighbouring wood I took among others, Argynnis
Paphia and Leucoj^hasia Sinapis, tolerably abundant; Polyommntus Adonis
and P. Cory don, scarcer; Hipparchia Hyper anthus, or a large variety thereof;
H. Janira, and also a pale variety; Pieris Cratcegi and Zygena Filipendulce,
and a variety.

In the fields I obtained Papilio Machaon and Colias Hyale; Cynthia Cardui
was extremely plentiful, but difficult to capture, being easily disturbed; it is
also almost impossible to procure a perfect specimen: there were hundreds in
a field of clover which we entered. I purchased a specimen of Gonepteryx
Cleopatra, which is just like G. Bhamni, with the exception of having a
brilliant suffusion of orange on the anterior wings. At the proper season it
is very common, and found in company with G. Bhamni. Vanessa C-album
is also common, and Lyccena Chryseis may be procured without difficulty.

In conclusion, I would remark that the naturalist would find ample com-
pensation for a visit to Switzerland in the variety and beauty of the plants

VOL. II. 2 K

250 MISCELLANEOUS NOTICES.

and insects so easily procimible; and he would^ without difficulty, at least be
able to fill up the spaces in his cabinet by exotic specimens of the rarest
British insects.

Stamford Hill, June, 1852.

BlisttllnErniis llntirts.

In December last I killed a Rabbit, with apparently only three logs, but on closer inspection
I discovered a perfect foot with unusually long claws, hanging about an inch from the shoulder;
the other leg was particularly muscular. Ho ran quite as fast as his four-legged brethren, and
was killed very near this place. — J. Williamson, Jun., Sherborne, Dorset, August 17th., 18^32.

Occurrence of the Hoopoe, (Upupa Epops,) May 4th., 1852. — A fine specimen was killed near
Lyme, Dorset, and presented to my father by a gentleman residing in this town ; unfortunately
he was on a visit to Cambridge when it arrived, and on his return, it was too far gone to
be set up well. — Idem,

Cirl Bunting, (Embcriza cirlus,) August 2nd., 18o2. — As I was driving early in the morning
to Wincanton, I was attracted by the note of a bird that I did not recognise, in a plantation
about four miles from here; looking about I discovered a fine male Cirl Bunting, on the top
of a fir tree. On the following day I walked out and succeeded in killing it, but could not
find any more. In a letter from R. A. Julian, Esq., Laira House, dated July 20th. he mentioned
having heard three singing, and kindly promised to try and procure me one. — Idem.

June 1.5th., 1852. — The nest and eggs of the Re«l Warbler were brought me this day, taken
in a little osier bed, about two miles off. A pair of these birds have frequented the same spot
for several years ; last year their nest was robbed four times, and this year I regret to say three
times; on each occasion they have built a new one a few yards from the former site. — Idem.

Nesting of the Nuthatch, (Sitta Europsea.) — Whilst walking through a wood in this neighbour-
hood on the 18th. of April last, I saw a pair of these birds building. They had fi.Ked upon a
hole in an ash tree, about twenty feet from the gi'ound, and were contracting it with a
plastering of mud, for which they flew to a small pool about fifty yards distant from the tree,
and took pieces in their beaks about as big as a bean, which they laid on, and smoothed with
their chin. Sometimes one of them would go inside and remain for a short time, I suppose
for the purpose of smoothing the mud there. Tlioy would every now and then leave off from
their task, and chase one another up the trunk and round the branches of the tree with amazing
rapidity, uttering all the while their flute-like whistle. They both seemed to take an equal
share of the labour; and had, like the House Martin, small pieces of straw mixed with the
mud, for the purpose of making it bind better. Tlioy seemed to be quite at ease on the ground,
and hopped about much after the same manner as the SpaiTOW. The male bird was easily
distinguishable by his brighter plumage. — C. Stubbs, Henley-upon-Thames, April 6th., 1852.

Roohery Deserted. — In a small wood near to Moore Hall, Cheshire, the residence of Afrs.
Heron, a colony of Rooks has been in existence for upwards of thirty years, but is now apparently
entirely deserted. In the present year, about the usual time of those birds returning to their
annual breeding localities, the wood in question was visited by two pairs of the Carrion, or Bluck-
l)illed Crows, as they are sometimes called. There did not appear, in the present instance, to
be any extraordinary resistance on the part of the Rooks, to retain possession, although in the
spring of former years, I am informed, that when a single Crow has alighted 'near the nests,
he has been made to quit the place instantly. I am told also, by those who have been on the
spot, that at the commencement of the present year, if the voice only of a single Crow has
been heard at the distance of several hundred yards, the Rooks however numerous, have fled
from their nests in the greatest consternation. To aid the rightful owners, a price was set
upon the heads of the intruders, which resulted in one of the four being killed, and although
attentively watched morning and evening for some time, still the object of driving the legitimate
settlers was completed by their determined aggressors. Dispossessed of their old quarters, the
foundation of another colony was commenced by the Rooks, in some fine Elms in an adjoining

MISCKLLANEOUS NOTICES. 251

Township, about half a mile from their former settlement, and they were so far unmolested as
to have deposited their eggs in some of the new nests, when their old enemies suddenly
commenced a second attack, and drove them to seek a refuge elsewhere, "Whether the Rooks
will, from instinct in the spring of next year, revisit their original breeding-place, or entirely
leave the neighbourhood, remains to be seen. The ruins of their former habitations have afforded
an asylum for Daws, Starlings, and Sparrows, with which they have been well peopled during
so far of the breeding season. — R. O'Kell, Moore, June, 1852.

A Creeper, (Certhia familiaris,) -hatched by a Titmouse, (Parus ca^ruleus.) — In the latter part
of lost May, I found a nest of the Blue Titmouse, situated in an out-house, and containing
eight eggs, wliich in due time produced a corresponding number of young birds; and on
the 12th. of the present month, on making a careful examination, I discovered, to my surprise,
that only seven out of the eight birds were Titmice, the other being a young Creeper, The nest
was so placed that it gave me every facility for closely watching this happy family, the parent
Titmice feeding the young stranger with all the care and solicitude bestowed upon their own
offspring. The young Creeper left the nest on the 17th. and the Titmice on the 18th. of
this month. I will only add, that I frequently observed a pair of Creepers in the neighbourhood
of the nest, but could not detect any actual approach to it.— J, H. B., Luton, Bedfordshii-e,
June 23rd., 1852.

The Roller in Hertfordshire. — On Monday the 20th. inst., a labourer came running in from
the Orchard, with the intelligence that there was a "comical bird in an apple tree." My
neighbour, who was lucky enough to be in the waj', went out with his gun, and forthwith came
to me with a magnificent specimen, an adult female in full plumage, of Coraeias garnda,
(Chattering Roller.) The bird was but slightly wounded, and uttered a most discordant note.
I observed that it was exceedingly tenacious of life. — C. A. J., Callipers Hall, Herts., September,
1852.

The Swallow, (Hirundo rustica,) — I saw Swallows here, for the first time this season, on
Saturday, the 1st. of May. — J. P, Fkaser, Glasgow, May 6th., 1852.

Swallow. — (Hirundo rustica.) — Aware of the truth of the old saying that "one Swallow does
not make a summer" still perhaps it may not be unworthy of mention that I saw one of these
birds flying about apparently in great enjoyment on Easter Monday, April 12th. instant. A
friend of mine saw twelve or fourteen over a pond about a mile and a half from this town
yesterday. — John Garland, Dorchester, April 19th. 1852.

Green-crested Cormorant, (Phalacracorax graculus.) — A few days ago I saw at Mr. Bolitho'Sy
Taxidermist, of this town, a veiy fine specimen of this bii-d in full breeding plumage, which
was captured by some boys at the mouth of the River Yealm, with sticks and stones, on the
3rd. of this month. — W. E. Matthews, 4, Portland Square, Plymouth, April 16th., 1852.

Curious Variety of the Ydhxo-hammei', (Embcu-iza citrinella.) — As I frequently obsei-ve in
"The Naturalist," that you record any unusual variety of plumage in which birds occasionally
appear, I have much pleasure in communicating a remarkable change of costume in wliich
I discovered the Yellow-hammer on the 11th. of this month, in the island of Gometra, which
lies about six miles to the north of Staffa. I visited that district exclusively for the purpose
of making myself acquainted with the birds which might bo found there ; and while standing
at the door of Mr. Mc' Lean's house, a gentleman whom I am much indebted to for his
kindness during my visit, my attention was directed to a bright yellow bii-d attempting to
alight within eighty yards of me, but was so much beset by a flock of Linnets, {Linaria
montana,) that he flew off" to some distance. I immediately called the attention of my young
friend Mr. Sinclair, who accompanied me in the excursion, and requested him to mark tvcll
till I got my gun, which was the work of a second. I very soon got up to within twenty
yards of it, and upon such close examination I was convinced that it was a Canary! which
had escaped from Miss Mc' Lean, and rather than risk my reputation in bagging such a bii-d,
I requested Mr. Sinclair, in the distance, to make the inquiry, who assured me it was not.
It was with considerable difficulty that I could again get within shot, as some Whinchats,
{Saxicola rubetra,) were now in full pursuit; and just as he was ascending a rocky eminence
I shot liim, and have preserved the skin to establish the fact of the "Jackdaw in the Peacock's

252- MISCELLANEOUS NOTICES.

feathers." The following forenoon another was discovered, which Mr. Sinclair and I immediately
gave chase" to, bnt, like the former, he appeared to have no friends, as the Whinchats were
tigiiin iu full cry, and, after following liim over some rocky precipices, he escaped, to die,
however, the following evening, as Mr. Sinclair had the good fortune to shoot him. — Geokoe
Donaldson, Glencripsdale, Loch Sunart, August 18th., 1852.

Occurrence of the Little Bittern in Norfolk. — A male specimen of this exceeding rare bird
•was shot at Somerlyton, near LowestofF, on Tuesday, May 18th. It was purchased for the
Norfolk and Norwich Museum. — J. 0. Hauper, Norwich, June 17th., 1852.

Dates of the arrival of the Hirundinidm in Norfolk, in 1852. — Sand Martins, April 13tli.,
wind S. AV. Swallows, April 26th., wind S. Martins, April 27th., wind S. W. Swifts, May
14th., wind S. W.— Idem.

Very many instances are related of the voracity of the Pike, and the group here shown, adds
a remarkable example. The two fish were taken in April last, in the "Crystal Colne," (the Duke

of Northumberland's waters,) precisely in the position here represented, and in which tRey have
been excellently preserved by J. Cooper, of Radnor-Street, St. Lukes. The Pike, it will be
recollected, is one of the most voracious of fish, and it is said will even eat its own species.
It is a strange action of Pike v. Pike. The two fish were swimming in the Colne, one witli
open jaws, into which the other darted, and became transfixed and 'faucibus hajsit,' as we
here see it. — Idem.

Occurrence of Vanessa Antiopa. — The following may perhaps interest some of the readers of
"The Naturalist." The accuracy of the statement admits of no doubt whatever: — An old friend
of mine, a medical gentleman, and lover of entomology, wliilst driving in the green lanes near
Stoke Newington, had his attention arrested by "Vanessa Antiopa." He alighted and endeavoured
to possess himself of it, but having no better instrument than his hat, was obliged after several
attempts to give it up sorrowfully. He describes it as a beautiful fresh specimen, with the
yellow border. I have just shewn this gentleman specimens of Antiopa with the yellow as well
iis with the white border, and he has no hesitation in stating it to be the specimen with the
yellow border. This rencontre took place on Thursday last, the 15th. inst. I intend to visit
the exact spot as soon as I have leisure. — Bombyx Atlas, Tottenham, July 20th., 1852.

On Vanessa Antiopa. — I believe this insect is generally considered by entomologists as of rare
occurrence in this country. I must confess here that I canjiot speak from my own experience,
never having seen a living specimen in England, that is to say a specimen bred from caterpillars
absolutely English. I have, however, bred the perfect insect in this very parish from a caterpillar
brought by myself from Switzerland. I had some diflSculty in bringing over the catei-pillars ;
they mostly went into chrysalis "en route," and many died from the difficulty of getting
quite fresh food; still I have by me several specimens of these very Antiopa, but these cannot
fairly be called British specimens. The fact, however, that Vanessa Antiopa was seen by a
professional friend of mine in the green lanes at Stoke Newington, near the residence of the
Ilcv. Mr. A. Clissold; and my friend, who is also a good entomologist, having assured me that
lie had ample time for observing the insect, (what a pity he had not his entomological instru-
ments as well as his surgical ones by him at the time ;) and that it had the rich yellow border
and not the pale white one, has induced me to send you a few observations of my o^vn upon this
insect. I must first of all state that Vanessa Antiopa was seen at the spot already mentioned,
on ITiursday, the 15th. of this month, August. I shall begin by observing then that the caterpillars
of Antiopa are gregarious, and in the "Canton de Vaud, Switzerland," may be found in
immense families on the summits of the highest branches of the "Salix Caprea." About the
latter end of June, or beginning of July, they lU'c generally full grown: they seldom remain

MISCELLANEOUS NOTICES. 253

in chrjsalis more than eighteen or twenty days. The perfect insect is found the latter end of
July, or about the beginning of August. At the second brood the perfect insect may be seen
from the end of September to the first fortnight in October; after this period it is only occa-
sionally seen for a short time on very mild days — it then liibemates. Here I must pause just
to say that in both these broods the colour of the perfect insect, on escaping from the chrysalis,
is precisely the same. I scarcely know how to express this colouring, it appears to me a rich
velvety claret black, and the external border a rich pale golden yellow, sliglitly irrorated with
rich claret black; this is sufficuent for my purpose, and for obvious reasons I go no further.
The insect it appears then hibernates, and remains concealed under the bark of old trees, in
the clefts of rocks, under gables of houses, etc. ; it there passes the winter in a donnant state,
till the warm spring revives its energy. It sometimes becomes , so brittle from the intense cold,
that if you lay hold of one by its wings, they will snap like glass. Vanessa Antiopa is not
however aroused from his lethargy so early as some of his congeners. The earliest period I have
recoi'ded his appearance is the 3rd. of March, 1846; whereas I have seen Rhamni on the wing
in January, Jlrticm and Polychloros in February, lo on the first of March, C-album also on the
3rd. of March, and even fair Cardni on the 4th. of March. So j'ou see my friend Antiopa is
rather lazy, but j'ou know large bodies move slowly, and more especially when they consider
themselves personages of some note. Now when the sun beguis to shine with a certain degree
of brilliance, aye, and between the hours of eleven and one, gives a certain degree of heat too.
Fancy yourself on the border of some rushing rivulet, wliich like Antiojja, has just begun to
feel the influence of Old Sol, say between the middle and latter end of March, you will, if
you have chosen a good locality, seldom miss seeing more than one Antiopa, soaring anon
above the stream, slowly descend on some bit of broken rock, rising just above the flow of
the water, expand his noble wings, and thoroughly enjoy himself — a splendid specimen of the
wonder-working hand of God. The winter, however, has blanched his golden border, and ho
ajjpears with one of creamj' white, irrorated with bluish claret; the intense richness of his
mantle has also faded, and he has become bluish claret. His finely-turned border, owing to
its great brittleness and the boldness of his flight, is veiy much injured. In truth, I have
never seen an hibernated Antiopa with the external border perfect, and I have heard much
older and better entomologists than myself express the same thing. I have a great many
specimens, and one in particular wonderfully fine, but I cannot say he is perfectly faultless;
of my friends with the yellow border I have a great number quite blameless, as fresh as fresh
can be. I could fill up a whole number of your journal with a few only of the freaks of Vanessa
Antiopa, but I must conclude and subscribe mjself Bojibyx Atlas.

Discovery of Acmtea testudinalis, F. and H. ; Patella (Lottia) testudinalis, Muller, on the
coast of Forfarshire. — After reading a communication from J. W., Aberdeen, in page 136, vol. i.
of "The Naturalist," my attention was directed to look out for this beautiful shell, in similar
situations to that alluded to by your correspondent. Accordingly in the month of April last,
in company ■with my friend Mr. Croall, on a short excursion along the coast, about six miles east
from this, and the southern portion of Kincardineshire, we proceeded to examine the projecting
rocks oif St. Cjtus, at low-water, and were much gratified to find this Shell pretty frequent
on smooth water-worn stones. Encouraged Avith tliis success, I determined on trying to find it
in Forfarshire if possible; consequently having fixed a day for that purpose, the first field
for investigation was the projecting rocks between the point of the Ness, at the mouth of our
river, and the fishing village of Usan. I left this about eight o'clock, a. m., and while waiting
the return of the ferry-boat, which crosses our river to and from the fishing village of FeiTydert,
and it being nearly low-water at the time, I looked amongst the stones on the beach at the water-
side, and was very much gratified to find six specimens of the shell which I was in search of,
(Acnuca tcsticdinalis, F. and 11.,) and so far as I can ascertain the first ever found in Forfarshire:
then crossed the river by the ferry-boat, along with Mr. Brydon, who wished to accompany
me that day, and proceeded to the projecting rocks above specified, where we found but a few
small specimens. Some days afterwards, being stream tide, I made another search at the water-
side, where I found the first six specimens, and have now much pleasure in stating that I
found this beautiful shell in considerable abundance. Should any of your readers wish for
specimens, I shall be most happy to supply them,— A>-DnEW Kekr, Murray Street, Montrose,
August 17th., 1852.

254

TLAX OF THE GAllDEN.

Second Field.
Door.

First Field.

Outer Garden

Acmsoa testudinalis in Forfarshire. — "We have received some very fine specimens of this
elegant shell from Andrew Kerr, Esq., of Montrose. This is the second locality on the cast
coast of Scotland announced in our pages. We have little doubt of its being found also in
other favourable localities on the east coast, but these arc wa believe the only two hitherto
known.— B. E. M.

Curious InstiiiM of tJte Toad.— In a small bed of radishes, closely covered by a Herring-net
to keep oflf the S^^arrows, a large Toad was seated upon its form several days. Tlie Toad

changed its position on the bed sometimes, and
had two or three forms, like a Hare. It was
frequently removed from under the net to dis-
tant parts of the garden, but invariably returned
to the radish bed ; and, though twice as large as
the meshes of the net, it was seen on one occa-
sion in the act of creeping tlirough one of the
meshes. Having heard a surpi-iahig account of
the difficulty of banishing a Toad from tlie place
of its choice, the observation of tliese facts seemed
confirmatory of it, and it was resolved by my-
self and my friends, in whose garden the remarks
were made, to put the matter to a severe trial.
The garden, wliich was large, was entirely walled
round, excepting a small gate leading into ano-
ther garden; this gai-den was also walled roimd,
but there was a shigle small hole under the
outer door into a field, Behind the inner gar-
den wall was a shrubberj^, and into this we
took the Toad the day before yesterday, little
expecting to see it again; but to our surprise
it was seated the next day beneath the net on
one of its forms. To reach that place it must have gone through the fence of the shrubbery
into a field, then through another fence into a second field, next through the hole under the
outer garden door, and lastly through the gate into the inner garden. This well-authenticated
fact so fully confirms a curious story related to me by an elderly relative many years ago,
that I would suggest this habit of the Toad as an interesting subject of further observation. —
William Whytehead, Risley, Suffolk, Jime 21st., 1852.

Radish
Bed.

Inner Garden.

,;,^ Shrubbery.

f\mm.

Tlie Natural History of Portdiead; Comprising a Guide to the Locality, loiih
an Appendix, containing an Ornithological, Entomological, and Botanical
Catalogue for the Neighbourhood; with a Coloured Geological Map of the
District. By John N. Duck. Bristol: Evans and Abbot^ 1852. p. p. 65.

We have before adverted to tte value of carefully-compiled local Floras
and Faunas, more particularly as relates to the development of Geographical
Natural History; and in the very unpretending little work before us we
have another of those small, but not on that account less valuable, rivulets
which assist in swelling the great river of Natural History. Mr. Duck enters
on his work, very properly, by giving a description of the locality and its
neighbourhood; and this portion of the book will be valuable, not only to
the naturalist, but also to the tourist, who may be in search of the picturesque.

PROCEEDINGS OF SOCIETIES. 255

The portion of the work devoted to Natural History then follows^ and
embraces notices of a few of the Mammalia, some of the peculiarities of birds,
reptiles, fishes, insects, and polypi, and concludes with some interesting facts
in Botany and Geology. The last few pages are devoted to lists of the birds,
insects, and plants, which the author has met with. These lists although
limited in length, are of much value from the fact of every species having
appended to it the time of its occurrence, the locality of its capture, and its
comparative rarity, or the reverse. No doubt these lists may be greatly
added to, but Mr. Duck has done well to make the beginning, and we trust
that those who follow up his researches will be as particular as he has been
in noting the dates and the localities. These facts always make lists valuable;
indeed without them they are comparatively worthless.

We shall be very glad if this short notice of the ^^Natural History of
Portshead," should assist in the sale of the work, and in any way benefit, we
believe, a very deserving man. We are much pleased to observe that Mr,
Duck has done what he could to preserve the connexion between religion
and Natural History.

^^nmliingH nf Inrirtie.

Yorkshire NatnralisW Club, Monthly Meeting, October Qth., 1852. — T. Hounby, Esq., of
Pocklington, in the Chair.

On the subj(!ct of the alleged transmutation of oats into barley, Mr. Smallwood rej)orted
that the oats he had sown had not outlived the winter.

A[r. Baines also reported that his plants had shared the same fate; but also mentioned that
a friend of his, at Iloltbj-, who had cut down his unripe oats in autumn, about tlu'ce j-ears
ago, the next yc^ar had a crop, without any sowing, of what was somewliat like barley.

J[r. "Whyteicead said that he had seen some oats this year, at Tang Hall, wliicli had been
planted and treated with a view to carry out these experiments, which had lived over the
winter, but produced only oats.

Mr. Horsfall, of Caherley House, near Leeds, exhibited a fine specimen of the Spotted
Rail, CCrex porzana,) shot lately near his house.

Mr. Graham exhibited a Tern, which he believed to be the young of the "Whiskered Tern,
shot at Sutton-on-Derwent, and sent for preservation by the Rev. G. Read.

The Hon. and Rev. S. liAWLEV exhibited a female Sparrow Hawk, shot at Escrick, of an
unusually large size.

H. Cholmeeey, Esq., of Brandsby, exhibited a variety of the Partridge, which had the wings
neai'ly all white.

Mr. Graham showed a fine Death's Head Hawk Jloth, (Sphinx Atropos,) which he had
captured in a barge near Ouse bridge.

1[r. Baines showed the eggs of some large moth, deposited on a laurel twig.

Mr. Moore exhibited a curious Fungus, ( Phalhis impud'eus,) in all the stages of its growth;
and his account of it was received with much interest by the members present.

The Rev. R. Wood, of Woodhall Park, sent for exhibition several specimens of another rare
fungus, obtained under mountain limestone, of a large size, and in all stages of development.
It proved to be a Geaster, allied to G. eollegens, and G, llygrometricus, but distinct from either,
and probably new.

Dr. 3k[oRRTS showed a beautiful drawing of a curious variety of the Tcllow Hammer, which
had been shot by G. Donaldson, Esq., on the island of Gometra, near Staffa, in August last.
In colour it exactly resembled a Canary. He also exhibited some remarkably fine specimens of
Acvfea festiiflinaHs, which he had received from A. Kerr, Esq., of Montrose, taken on tlic shore

250 THE QUKItlST.

there. Also a box of Lepidoptera, Colcoptcra, and Crustacea, taken by himself at Rcdcar this
summer.

Mil. Whytehead told a very interesting anecdote of the difficulty of banishing a toad from
the place of its choice, and several other curious particulars in the history of this animal were
related by Mr. Baincs, Mr. E. Allen, and others.

The Secretary read an extremely interesting letter, which Mr. Baines had received from
Mr. Spruce, who is now collecting objects in natural history on the Amazon, and who was,
some years ago, well known in York, as a most industrious botanist.

Mr. Bond, of Middleton Lodge, exhibited a very fonnidable pair of jaws of a Shark, the
Sqiialus galeus.

The Hon. Capt. Lawley exhibited a fine series of foreign specimens of the following English
birds, which he had collected while in the Mediterranean, namely: — Specimens of the Night
Heron, in the three different states of plumage; the Glossy Ibis; the Avocet; the Little Bittern;
the Great Bittern; the Common Egret; the Roller; the Bee-Eater; the Gull-billed Tern; tlic
Pratincole; the Grcenshank; the Land Rail; the Hoopoe; the Golden Oriole ; and a fine specimen
of the Pine Martin.

Entomological Society, October ith. — J. 0. Westwood, Esq., President, in the Chair.

This meeting, by permission of the Zoological Society, was held at their house — the new
meeting room at No. 12, Bedford Row, to which house the Entomological Society has removed,
not being ready.

Mr. Wallace, who has been collecting objects of natural history in South America for several
years, and who has lost the whole of his valuable collection by the burning at sea of the ship
in wliich he was bringing them home, was present as a visitor.

C. G. PiCKERSGiLL, EsQ., was elected a member, and W. Quin, Esq. and R. Shield, Esq.,
were elected subscribers to the society.

Mr. Bond exhibited larvae of Anticlea Berbcrata, from Cambridgeshire — a rare moth, of whicli
the caterpillars feed on the leaves of the barberry.

Mr. Weir exhibited Coleophora doauratella, fi-om Tunbridge Wells.

Mr. Edwin Shepherd exhibited a box of rare and fine species of Lepidoptera from the
neighbourhood of Dover, including the beautiful Vanessa Antiopa.

Mr. Stevens exhibited another specimen of this scarce butterfly, lately taken at Ilampstead ;
and mention was made of several others having been recently seen in various places.

Mr. Hunter brought for distribution many specimens of Mononychus Tscudacori, found
feeding on the seeds of Iris foctidissima, in the Isle of Wight.

Mr. Douglas exhibited bred specimens of Elachista testaeella and Roslerstamraia pygmccana,
both rare insects.

Mr. Hunter mentioned that he had found pieces of rag, soaked in sugar and water, and
hung on bushes at night, very attractive to moths, and very convenient in districts whei'e there
were no trees on which to put the mixture.

The Secretary read a paper on the indcntification of tlu; insects mentioned in the "Memoirs"
of Reaumur and De Geer, illustrated by living larva) mining in leaves of various plants; also
some observations on the Groo-groo worm of the West Indies, and the method of capture of
this insect-larva, which is used as food, and accounted a great delicacj' by the planters.

€\]i (Cliirrist.

In some of the newspapers there has been a mention of a new weed that has appeared in
our rivers ; particularly the Cam, Ouse, and Trent. Will some of yoiu- botanical correspondents
favour your readers with an account of this weed, its supposed origin, and its affinities. If tlie
accounts in the newspapers are correct, there seems no small danger of the navigation being
seriously impeded. Any hint as to an effectual mode of getting rid of it, would therefore be
read with much interest. Some of our canals may easily be filled with sea-water, wliich
possibly might have the desired effect; but this apjjlies to a very small portion of our inland
navigation. — W. Waldo Cooper, West Rasen Rectory, September 20th., 1852.

257 .

FLOEA OF
THE MEADOWS OF THE PROVINCE OF ORAN. '

{Contimted from page 245.)

We proceed to consider the species of the ftimily of Leguminous plants,
which produce the richness, and I may also say the superiority, of the hay
of Algeria over that of Europe.

ASTRAGALUS. — This genus aiFords a considerable number of species,
which are found in almost all the meadows, but which, on account of their
small size, enter but little into the composition of hay. The most remarkable
species are the A. bceticus, A. hamosus, A. falcatus, A. caprinus, and A.

PENTAGLOTTIS.

BisERRULA. — This genus consists of but one species, the B. pfxerinus,
which is very common in the pastures about (H-an. It is only a few inches
in heiglit, and although the leaves are readily eaten by cattle, the plant is
too small to be an object of any interest.

ERVUM. — This genus, which includes the cultivated Lentil, affords us the
E. hirsutum, E. tetmspermum, E. vicioides, and E. lentoides.

HEDYSARUM. — The Saint foin is the product of H. onohrycMs, which I
have never seen in Africa, either wild or cultivated. We have however other
species of this genus which are more productive than the Saint foin* I allude
to H. coRoxARiuM — a beautiful plant, which attains the height of above six
feet (deux metres,) and the stalks of which equal the little finger in
thickness. An allied species, the H. flexuosum, has been distributed this
year by the prefect of Oran, to the husbandmen of the province, under the
name of the Saint foin of Maroc. It grows naturally in many localities of
the province, particularly in the forest of Muley-Ismael, on the road to Mascara,
The other species of this genus are H. capitatum, H. Fontanksii, H. caput
GALLT, and H, flexuosum.

HIPPOCREPIS. — The species of this genus are too small to merit the
notice of the agriculturist. They are the H. unisiliquosa, \l. multisiliquosa,
and H. ciliata.

LATHYRUS. — All the species of this genus are very nutritious to cattle.
We have the L. aphaca, L. cicera. L. clymenus, L. ochrus, L. sylvestris,
and L. sativusj this last plant is cultivated under the Spanish name oijijas,
in French gesse.

LOTUS. — This genus furnishes a host of species which are found in almost
all meadows, but which do not produce a great amount of hay; such as the
L. tetragonolobus, L. edulis, L. conimbricensis, L. ornithopodioides, and

L. CRETICUS.

LUPINUS. — We have three species of Lupines, which arc the L. hirsutus,
L. ANGusTiFOLius, and the L. luteus.

MEDICxVGO. — This is the genus which makes the richness of the meadows
of Algeria; the species is known under the name of Trefoil, but the true

VOL. II. 2 L

2o8 Fi.onA OF TirE mkadows of tiir rnoviNcn: of ORA>r.

Trefoils arc rare in Algeria. The commonest species are M. ounicuLARis,

M. HELIX, M. SCUTKLLATA, M. TUUUINATA, M. TRIBULOIDA, M. ARABICA, M.

INTRRTEXTA, M. ECHINUS, M. minima. Lucerne, {M. sativa,) is also a plant
of this genus; it does not occur native in Algeria, but it succeeds everywhere
where it has been cultivated.

MELILOTUS. — This genus includes 3L officinalis, M. tarviflora, M.
Italica, M. cretica, M. sulcata, and M. messanensis. They all afford a
nutritious fodder, bixt in no great quantity.

ONONIS. — This genus affords several species, which are refused by cattle.

OIINITHOPUS. — We have the O. compressus, O, scorpioibes, and O.
ebracteatus: these species are of no importance. One species of this genus,
the O. SATiYus is cultivated as fodder in Portugal.

OROBUS. — The 0. atropurpurf.us is common in the moist meadows of
the Mitidja, but I have not found it at Oran : it affords excellent nourishment.

Phaca. — We have only a single species of this genus, the P. bcetica,
which is rather a plant of ornament than usefulness: goats eat it greedily.

PisuM. — The P. SATIVUM, is the cultivated pea of the gardens. It is
found native in some localities, but in too small quantity to be an object of
any importance.

ScoRPiuRUs. — The S. vermiculata, S. muricata, and S. sulcata are
found in abundance in all the natural meadows of the province, and furnish
an excellent fodder.

TRIFOLIUM. — This genus consists of a gi-eat number of species, but it
enters but little into the composition of the indigenous hay. The T. prafense,
so commonly cultivated in Europe, occurs native in the meadows of the
Mitidja, but in small quantity. The other species affording fodder are the
T. procumbent, T. elegans, T. istiimocarpum, T. glovieratum, T. resupinatiiin,
and T. spumosum; but not any of these species are deserving of extensive
cultivation. The cultivation of T. incarxatum, or farouche, has been tried
in the neighbourhood of Oran, especially at the small lake of the Senia, by
M. Pechenet, but the results are fir from being encouraging. From conver-
sation which I had with M. de. Thury, it would appear that at Arbal, on
the contrary, they were perfectly satisfied with its culture.

Trigokblla. — This genus affords us some small species which are of
little importance.

VICIA, — The species of this genus, which includes the cultivated Vetch,
are the V. polyphylla, V. atropurpurea, V. sativa, V. hitea, V. hi/hrida,
V. hithynica, V. bifloua, and V. narijonensis. They all afford a very
nutritious fodder. The cultivation of the Vetch, (Tares,) has been tried in
the neighbourhood of Oran, but with little success.

In a future article we shall consider the fodder plants included in the great

fiimily C0MPOSIT.T;.

G. MUNBY.

(Extracted from ^^L' Echo D'Oran," Saturday, June 19th., 1852.)

(To be coHtinv.c(J .)

259

NOTES ON THE LEPIDOPTERA
OF THE WEST OP SCOTLAND AND FIFESHIRE.

BY JQHX GEAY, ESQ.
( Concluclod from joage 15.)

In giving a few additional remarks on the entomological fauna of this
portion of our island, we have been enabled to introduce a few species which
have recently come under our observation; the occurrence of which plainly
indicates the existence of other interesting kinds^ which have but to be care-
fully sought after, ere they become recognised denizens of the west* a field
of inquiry in which our aim has been to act as a sort of pioneer, and incite
others to more extended researches.

We have been much gratified at noticing in these pages, since the publica-
tion of our last notes, a paper on the Lepidoptera of Midlothian, by Messrs,
Lowe and Logan — we only wish the geographical limits had been more
extended; however we hope it is merely a precursor of many such local lists
towards the elucidation of the geographical distribution of our insect faima.
The species enumerated in our own notes, with few exceptions, are such
as have fallen under our notice in the various localities mentioned, oftimcs
when engaged in other branches of this delightful science. In depending
however, too much upon information conveyed to us we are afraid that the
insertion of Melitcea Ginxia in a former paper, was a mistake; the remarks
on that species we have now reason to suspect apply to M. Aiiemis. In our
last paper the notice of Crambus radiellus must also be deleted, as we find,
on comparing a series of specimens recently sent us for examination, that they
quite agree with the description of Plialcena margariteJla in ^'Fabricius' Mant:
ins., ii., 243.

Many varieties of the smaller Lepidoptera have occurred in the course of
our rambles, which we hesitate to introduce into such a paper as this; chiefly
on account of our unwillingness to attach much importance to those trivial
differences and airy distinctions, which some entomologists delight to elevate
into the rank of specific characters.

Amongst the Diurna, the most interesting addition we have to make, is
Golias Edusa, a specimen of which was sent us for examination captured near
Largs, about the middle of September last. It was a male, and from its
freshness and beauty of colour, had evidently newly emerged from the pupa state.

Hipparcliia cassiope occurs in several localities on the highland mountains
of the West coast.

This past summer seems to have been a most propitious one for our native
butterflies; the commonest kinds teemed everywhere in surpassing abundance.
Vanessa Atcdanta occurred throughout the district in a profusion we never
before witnessed: the striking appearance of the insect on the wing attracting
the notice of many careless observers. IlipparcMa Blandina, too, appeared
in the highland districts along the Frith of Clyde literally in thousands; W- i-st

260 NOTES ON LBPIDOPTERA.

Argynnis Acjlaxa flitted about in the same localities in countless numbers.
This periodical appearance of these insects — periodical at least in respect of
numbers, is a curious subject of inquiry; a question however which we suspect
is more easily raised than satisfactorily answered.

Macroglossa stellatarum, as a native of this district, is by no means common.
The larva may be occasionally met with feeding in company with that of
JD. Porccllus on Galium verum, generally not far from the coast: we have
found however much difficulty in rearing the species.

Besides the specimen of Deilephila Livornica in our cabinet, which we
formerly mentioned under the name of lincata, as having been captured near
Glasgow, a second specimen was taken in a garden in the spring of this year,
near Falkirk: that it had survived the winter was evident from its much
faded condition and time of appearance. These captures almost induce the
idea that the species is not a straggling visitant merely, but really indigenous
to this district of the country.

Several additional species of Bomhycidce have recently occurred, which we
gladly rank amongst oui* district fauna. Of these perhaps the most interesting
is Dasychira fascelina, an insect not very uncommon in the larva state in
several localities near the Frith of Clyde. We have also received specimens
from Fifeshire and elsewhere. The caterpillar of this species has always
been with us an object of much admiration, from its rich tufted livery. It
has been no less a favourite too, with entomological iconographists, if we may
judge from the numerous figures which we met with whilst tracing out the
original descriptions of the species in the works of the older entomologists,
from the rough wood-cuts of Moufet down to the beautiful delineations of
Sepp, in those admirable plates of the insects of the low countries.

Episema cceruleocephala is far from rare in many localities in this district.

Clostera reclusa has also occurred lately • in its previously known locality-
near the Frith of Clyde.

Ccrura furcula has occurred in this part of the country in considerable
numbers during this past summer. We have in our cabinet a somewhat
lengthy series, exhibiting all shades of variety in the dark bands of the fore
wings; the first nervure of the hind wings in the male appears always to be
slightly, whilst in the female it is more or less deeply, forked; the only
exception to this rule which we have yet met with in our district specimens,
is that of a very dark variety of a female with the first neuratiou of the
hind wings simple.

Drepana falcataria, as a Scottish species is scarce, but has occurred spar-
ingly in Fifeshire, and elsewhere.

Some few species of Nbduce have recently come under our notice, which
appear to be very generally distributed over the west of Scotland. Such are
N. Futris, deixtina, Menyanlhidisj and reniyera; the latter, which we take to
be N. cataleuca of some authors, is generally found in rocky glens, etc.; the
neighbourhood of Campsic and the Isle of Arran may be mentioned as localities.

NOTES ON LEPIDOPTERA. 261

Orthosia macilenta and ruhricosa both occur in woody places; the latter
along with 0. gracilis^ was taken in abundance in Argyleshire by Mr. Buxton.

Triphcena fimbria is rarely met with; we are only aware of its occurring
in the Isle of Bute.

Plastenis suhtusa occurs in the vicinity of Ayr.

We have but few additions to mention amongst the geomctrine moths—
Ilimera pennaria and Zerene ruhiginata, are all that we have lately noticed
as new to this district. These species do not appear to be common.

Such are a few features in the Lepidopterous fauna of the west of
Scotland, which however faulty as exhibiting anything like a complete catalogue,
may still be worthy of attentive perusal by the student of the geographical
distribution of the insect world; and while we now take leave of this interesting
branch of Scottish Entomology, it only remains to suggest a few hints as to
the utility — the legitimate use of local investigations. Any remarks on this
subject, the proper estimation of which we have so much at heart, we feel
can only be addressed to the naturalist, for by him alone can they be un-
derstood; with mere collectors we have nothing in common, however much
we wish their labours were turned to the permanent good of science.

The first, and indeed the great use of investigating local fauna, consists
in giving the student of nature a knowledge of the range of species, and
what we may term their positions of locality. At page 208 of the present
volume of this magazine, we observe a query by a correspondent, whether
the insects of Guernsey, etc., ought to be considered British; such a question
we had never noticeS, and far less answered, had a reply not served to illus-
trate the subject under our notice.

A fundamental error with the majority of local faunists consists in their
limiting their observations within the capricious boundaries of counties or nations.
This would be so far well, if it were intended merely as a step towards
the elucidation of the entire natural range; but how seldom is this the case,
how rarely do we find their interest in the subject extended to nature's own
boundaries. Let the unprejudiced naturalist take a glance at those entomological
cabinets devoted exclusively to British species, and he will quickly discover what
a precious jumble is there made in geographical distribution. In such col-
lections he will find two if not three distinct ranges of distribution, illus-
trated by species taken within the British Isles forming an arrangement to
the entire exclusion of such as occur in the remaining portions of the same
sphere of natural habitats. The only interest to the naturalist in such collections
would consist in their elucidation of geographical character; this they do not
possoss; whilst as a systematic arrangement, the defects are still more apparent;
thus leaving an impression on the mind that such arrangements could only
have been dictated by the most capricious absurdity.

If such entomologists must have an arrangement of local fauna, let them
study nature's geography, and act accordingly. Let them, if they will, separate
the Alpine fauna of the north from that of England, and study it in its

262 NOTES ON LEnuOPTEnA.

course through Norway and Sweden, and other Alpine districts of the continent,
but by no means attempt to arrange it along with the productions of England,
which, to be properly understood, must go hand in hand with the fauna of
most parts of temperate Europe. The fauna of Ireland too, might well be
separated from that of Great Britain, as possessing features of a very peculiar
and oftimes anomalous kind, with which every naturalist is familiar, and on
that account need not here be dwelt upon.

But collections of local fauna can never be arranged in a natural manner
without some degree of confusion resulting from the difficulty of determining
the real position of many widely- distributed species; rather let the naturalist
consign his theories of local and geographical distribution to his note-book, tL\ou<y
with any remarks on the habits and economy of the objects of his study,
vrith which indeed all such theories are inseparably connected. These obser-
vations sufficiently answer the before- mentioned query with respect to Guernsey
insects, a fauna which, in common with the productions of many districts of
the continent, cannot be separated from that of England without doing
violence to those interesting and beautiful laws of distribution which, with every
true entomologist, are a field for enticing investigation — a source of inviting
inquiry. Viewed however in the unnatural light which guides the purely
British collector, such insects would only be considered as intruders, not
having been fortunate enough to be captured within the magic circle of
Great Britain and Ireland! This doubtless will be the response of the
'authority' to which the querist alludes; but let him, with ourselves, appeal
to the only authority in such cases which the naturalist\nows — the authority
of nature; for of a truth, '^nunqnam aliud natura aliud sapientia dicit."

Another use in the investigation of local fauna consists in the facility thus
affiarded of noticing the peculiarities, and oftimes anomalies, which species
exhibit in the selection of their habitats. This can only be attained by a
patient tracing of the habits of the species, as shown in various localities; a
subject on which our notes have swelled to some extent, but on which at
present we refrain from enlarging.

Thus it will be seen that local notes in the natural history of animal life
have their distinct sphere of usefulness, when viewed as a link or step towards
a proper understanding of the economy of nature; but when looked upon as
a topic of exclusive interest, far better would it have been had they never
been penned. We know not how far our feelings in these and former remarks
have been shared in by the entomological readers of "The Naturalist," but glad
should we be if they have had the effect of arousing inquiry and careful study
of the truths of nature in any. Then instead of the insipid "lists of captures,"
and '^curious facts," worthless in themselves, and sometimes not free from
vulgarity, which adorn the pages of some magazines of natural history^
we might hope to see observations made, and conclusions arrived at, of perma-
nent value; a bright contrast to the episodes of "strolling" dabblers, whose effu-
sions, whilst ofiFensive to the eye, are alike beneath our criticism and contempt.

Glasgoio, October, 1852.

2G3
CAPTURES OF LEPIDOPTERA.

CY ROBERT S. EDLESTON, ESQ.

In April, at Prestwick Wood, I captured Talccjwria inconspicuella, Stainton,
in great abundance: tliis is a distinct species.

In June, two of our collectors visited "Burnt Wood," near the Whitmore
Station, Staffordshire, and captured Melitoea Athalia in abundance, and several
specimens of Eacosmia undularia, Macaria iiotataria, and Hypena crassalis.

At the end of June, Bleackley made an excursion often days to Brockenhurst,
in the New Forest, and captured at Sugar upwards of three hundred 3Iyth-
imna Turca, two hundred CJeoceris 00, and two Diphthera Orion. On the bole
of an oak he captured a fine 9 of Heterogena asclhis; the larvae of Lithosia
quadra exceedingly numerous, spinning their cocoons on the oaksj also a few
of JPdlura monacha.

On the New Brighton and Lytham coasts, a great number of the larva
of Lasiocampa Trifolii were taken in the evening, feeding upon star grass;
some two or three hundred Moths have been reared: the virgin ^ attracts
the males in abundance at night. Leucania liltoralis is exceedingly abundant
on these coasts, and Adehia precox not uneom.mon.

Gortyna Petasitis occurred last month in this neighbourhood in great plenty;
the jVIoths are taken on the wing at dusk, in places where Tussilago Petasites,
(butter bur,) abounds; Heliophohus popnlaris and Gharceas cespitis were also
captiu'ed. On the moors near Bolton, Cidaria Erutm'ia occurs in plenty, resting
on the stone walls.

Epunda liehenea is most abundant at Lytham; they are captured soon
after dusk, by examining the dead branches of furze bushes with a lantern^
and are almost invariably found on the lowest branches.

At Chesterfield, Pterophorus osteodactylus, Lampronia luzella, and Semioscopis
Avellanella, are not rare.

During a recent visit by Herr Zeller to my friend Mr. H. Doubleday, ho
kindly submitted to him drawings of a Xoctua in my cabinet, named in
London as ruticilla. Zeller says it is not that species, and at present
unnamed. He possesses a specimen of his own capturing, a charming Tineay
which has been in my cabinet some time, under the manuscript name of
Elerjantella, which he recognised as the Tinea Biganella Lodofisky described
in the "Moscow Natural History Magazine" in 1830.

Cucullia Ghamomill(je : a few specimens of this rare insect were taken in
April last by Dr. Nelson and Mr. Gregson in the neighbourhood of Lytham,
resting on palings near fruit trees. Next season will no doubt make it a
common insect, a fate to which many rare species have recently fallen.

Barrow Hill, Strangeways, Mancliester, Scptemher Zrd., 1852.

2G4

OCCURRENCE OF

SOME OP THE RARER BRITISH MAMMALIA, BIROS,

Ils^SECTS, &c., NEAR ALVERSTOKE, HAKTS.

BY MRS. MARY ADAMS.

The following notice of a few rather uncommon animals as observed by me
in this locality, (Alverstoke, Hants,) during the summers of 1851-52, may
not be uninteresting to some of the readers of "The Naturalist:" — ■

An old English Black Rat, (Mus rattus,) was watched towards evening
playing about the mouth of a drain in Stokes Bay.

A Field Vole, (Arvicola agrestis^ was rescued from the claws of a Weasel,
not however in time to save its life, in a lane betwean Grange and Rowner.

A specimen of the rare Shrew, (Sorex remifery) was captured in a wheat
field near Stoke village, with the mark near the ear very white and conspicuous.

The Black Cap, (Carruca atricapiUa,) and Nuthatch, [Sitta Europoea,) paid
frequent visits to the apple and damson trees in the garden this autumn.

Odynerus spinipes, a beautiful Wasp, forms projecting tubular porticoes to
its nest in the banks along Brown Down.

Eumenes coarctata, another handsome Wasp, forms a cluster of several red
clay huts, and builds in the furze bushes in the same locality.

Ccelioxys Vedis, a sharp-tailed banded Bee, whose specific name implies its
usual locality, is not uncommon along the shores opposite the Isle of Wight,
and builds in the banks about here.

Dasypoda hirtipeSy a curious Bee with very hairy hind legs, nearly peculiar
to the UnderclifF, (I. W.,) has thrice been found '^^straying in leafy bowers"
near Brown Down.

Two specimens of the apterous female of the beautiful hymenopterous
insect Mutllla Europoea, were taken crawling on the sandy banks of Brown
Down.

A swarm of Honey Bees, {Apis mellifica,) constructed a large double comb
of dazzling white wax, suspended in a bush near the coast.

The large Black Spiny Fly, (Echinomyia grossa,) was twice taken by myself
and husband hovering near the heads of Umhelliferce.

Three specimens of the Clouded Yellow Butterfly, (Colias Edusa,) were
taken on the wing at Brown Down, AugTist, 1851 j their flight is low, steady,
and tolerably rapid.

Three specimens of Drypta emarginata, a rare and lovely green Beetle, were
found in a bean field near Stokes Bayj and uSSgialia glohosa and Pedinus
femoralis were captui'ed in sandy places in Hayling Island.

Knapp's Green, Alverstolce, Hants, September loth., 1852.

265

OX A NEW INSECT, A PARASITE ON TUE SYCAMORE.

BY THOMAS P. PEBNIE, ESQ.

INSECT GREATLY MAGNIFIED.

This curious insect, which I have named provisionally PhyllojyJiora testudi-
nacea, occurs in this neighbourhood, on both sides, but especially the upper,
of the leaves of the sycamore, {Acer catapestre,) evidently feeding upon its
juices. It casts its skin while in the pupa state, which is that in which it
is now found. In the complete insect two bristles appear to take the place
of each of the leafy appendages with which the sides of the abdomen are
fringed.

I hcxvc recently found it, somewhat sparingly, on the leaves of Acer pseudo-
platanus. Having from observation some reason to think it may prove local
in its distribution, I shall have much pleasure in sending a leaf with the
insect on it, to any person who may be desirous of possessing it, and has
not been able to find it. I have mounted a few for the microscope, which
may perhaps prove an acceptable medium for exchange.

KimboUon^ July lOtli.j 1852.

VOL. II.

266

LOCAL JOTTINGS.— No. 6.
DORCHESTP^R— DORSETSHIRE.

BY JOHN GARLAND, ESQ.

The Hermit Grab, (Pagunis.) — This wonderful little tenant of our shores
I so seldom see any mention of in my readings, that I cannot help thinking
a short account of such an interesting animal may be acceptable to the
readers of "The Naturalist."

They are called Soldier Crabs, or Hermit Crabs, from their taking up their
abodes in empty shells, but of what kind they may happen to be they are
not particular — either turbinate or truncated. The appearance of the little
Crab peering forth from its borrowed dwelling is very peculiar, the large
projecting eyes, the legs, and the claws, being only visible. The abdominal
portion of the body is without that hard shell of the fore parts and of the
other kinds of Crab, and they look out for empty shells of the size best
suited to their bodies, and take possession of them, seeking for their prey,
and retiring within the shells again at the least approach of danger. They
feed on any animal matter they can find on the shores and shallows of
the coast. They hold on in the inside of the shell with some of their
small legs, and with great comparative power. As their bodies increase in
size they look out for larger shcl's, and most amusing is it to see one of
them twining over a shell, and then, doubtful if it will suit him as a resi-
dence, going to another until he meets with one which he fancies, and very
prudently never leaving the old one until he has found such new tenement —
perhaps a shell of a different desc-ription. It is also most comical to see them
dragging their domiciles about with them, and with their claws, one of which
is larger than the other, seeking for food or defending any attacks made on
them by other fish. What a wonderful instinct this is! and how remarkably
it shows forth the wisdom and care of the Creator for his creatures.

The Peninsula, commonly called the "Island of Poi-tland," near Weymouth,
is a most interesting, though little known, locality for naturalists. In the West
Bay, the north-western part of the island, and on the Chcsil Beach they are
found in abundance, and constantly taken up by the fisherman in the lobster
and crab pots. On the coast of Sussex too they are plentiful, and I doubt
not on most other parts of the shores of Great Britain. I have a specimen
taken at Hastings in a whelk shell, and well preserved by a person who deals
in objects of Natural History on the esplanade in that town, and several
other specimens which I have found in this neighbourhood.

The Rook. — At the pretty village of Upwcy, where I am staying, there is
a very large Rookery at the back of a mill, and underneath a lofty range of
hills, on the oppo.site side of which is another high range of hills forming
the valley in which this lovely, favourite, and healthy village is situated. I
remark in the mornings from six to seven o'clock, and in the evenings about
jseven, an extraordinary commotion amongst the feathered occupants of the

aLEAKINOS FROM MY NOTE BOOK. 267

Rookery. In the morning they fly out of tlie trees with great noise, pitch
on the hills, then separate in small parties and go forth, I imagine, on their
feeding expeditions. In the evening these parties come in again, assemble
separately at first, then all with great noise unite on one of the sides of the
hills, and after no very lengthened period, during which they wait for all the
separate parties to come in, all again retire to the trees and are gi-adually
silent, I have observed that the form the final meeting of the Rooks assumes
on the hill is that of a very large semicircle. Ignorant if this jotting be
worth inserting or not, I send itj at all events it strikes me as singular.

September IQth., 1852.

GLEANINGS FROM MY NOTE BOOK.— No. 2.

BY J. MC'iNTOSH, ESQ.

The Waking! of Birds in the morning from the month of May to July. —
The Chafiinch, {Fringilla codebs,) commences its notes from one to half-past
one in the morning; the Great Black-headed Tomtit, (Parus major,) from
two to three; the Quail, (Coturnix vulgaris,) from half-past two to three; the
Blackbird, (Turdus menda,) from half-past three to four; the Thrush, {Tardus
musicus,) about three o'clock; the Nightingale, {Philomela luscinia,) from
three to half-past four; the House Sparrow, (Passer domesticus,) from five to
half-past five. The principal cause of the waking up of the diflFerent species
of birds arises from the necessity of providing food for their young, which is
more abundantly found at early morning than mid-day. The period of feeding
having passed, the general time of rising with most species is a little before
sunrise; yet they are frequently to be found ^^napping" during the heat of the day.

Heronry on Windermere. — The Westmorland Gazette informs us that a pair
of Herons have built their nest on Ramp's Holme, or Berkshire Island,
between the Ferry Hotel and Storro Hall, the property of the Hon. Mrs,
Howard, of Levens Hall. While recording this addition to our list of Heronries
at page GO, vol. i. of "The Naturalist," allow me to return my most sincere
thanks to those gentlemen who have responded to my inquiries for informa-
tion on this subject.

Birds' Nests found in August, ISol. — Hedge Sparrow, with eggs and young;
Goldfinch, with young — this nest was placed on the branch of a standard
apple tree in an orchard; Song Thrush, with young, in a small spruce fir
tree — this nest was remarkably slender; the Robin, with eggs, at the bottom
of a field hedge; Whitethroat, with young, and one with eggs. The above
birds' nests were found by myself during the month of August, in the county
of Dorset. We shall have more to say on this subject in a future number.

Nidijication of Birds in a Bottle for Seventy-three consecutive yews. — "So
far back as the year 1779, a "pair of Blue Tits built their nest and brought
up their young in a large stone bottle, which had been left to drain on the

208 AUGUST.

lower branches of a plum tree, fronting the farm-house, near Stoekton-upon-
Tees, now occupied by Mr. Callender. During the above period, with the
exception of one year, this bottle has been annually tenanted by these little
gay-plumaged birds. About thirty years ago, the old plum tree, upon whose
boughs the bottle was first placed, having fallen into a state of decay, the
bottle was placed upon the branches of an adjoining tree, to which it is now
fastened by iron hoops. Thebirds did not, however, desert their favourite tene-
ment. Last year, ISol, they made their appearance as usual, but the inmates
of the farm-house having neglected to draw the previous year's nest out of it,
the birds were obliged to seek other quarters. This year, 1852, they have
again built in their old residence." Will our Stockton-upon-Tees readers be
so kind as to ascertain the truth of the above, and record the same in the
pages of ''The Naturalist," as we have quoted the same from a newspaper
paragraph?

Cochineal. — We are informed upon good authority that every pound weight
of Cochineal contains seventy thousand insects broiled to death; so that the
annual sacrifice of insect life to procure our scarlet crimson dyes amounts to
about forty-nine millions of these small members of the creation.

No. 5, Middle-Street, Taunton, Somerset, September \2th., 1852.

AUGUST.

BY C. MILLER, KSQ.

At this season of the year, when many a falling leaf heralds the approach
of Autumn, when the trees here and there assume a faint russet tint, the
peaceful walk of the naturalist teems with interest. ''The insect that crawls,
the note of the bird, the plant that flowers, or the vernal green leaf that
peeps out, engages his attention, is recognised as an intimate, or noted for
some novelty that it presents in sound or aspect. Every season has its
peculiar products, and is pleasing or admirable from causes that variously
affect our different temperaments or dispositions; but there are accompaniments
in an autumnal morning's woodland walk, that call for all our notice and
admiration; the peculiar feeling of the air, and the solemn grandeur of the
scene around us dispose the mind to contemplation and remark."

The contemplation of nature elevates our ideas, and stores our minds with
a knowledge which, though*slowly acquired, when once implanted, flourishes,
and by degrees takes the place of other and more worldly thoughts: we gaze
round on nature's varied and endless kingdom, and our hearts fill with silent
praise at her wonderful and admirable products. But of all those products,
flowers perhaps are the most dear to us — ^flowers, as some one has observed,
are the soul of nature, they bring warm gushing memories back to the heart,
become inseparably connected with the scenes of our youth, and remind us of
"Happy hoiys and da3's flown bj,"

AUGUST. 2G9

when no care had furrowed our brows, or thought of the future disturbed
the tcnour of our lives.

August, with its flowers and fruits, wears a rich and plenteous aspect/ the
brown corn, now ready for the sickle, is waving over the field, the broad and
leafy branches of the trees afford a shade to the tired cattle, the golden
cones of the hop are twining round the tall poles, and the orchard trees are
laden with ruddy fruits. The flowers look gay and brilliant, for Autumn
flowers are mostly yellow, and they seem to cluster in such abundance that
none would suspect they are far fewer in variety than in the preceding months;
perhaps twice the nunjber of species might be found by the botanist during
the month of June than he could find now, and though many summer
blossoms still linger, yet those strictly peculiar to August are comparatively
so few, that we can but remark the year is making rapid progress to its
close.

The hedges and meadows are now blue with the heads of that pretty
flower, the Pasture Scabious, (Scahiosa succisa,) and on dry banks and walls
the Snap Dragon, (Antirrhinum majus,) still blooms. All the varjeties of
the Snap Dragon have the power of maintaining a state of vegetation in
great droughts, when most other plants yield to the influence of the weather;
and it is the more remarkable in these plants as the places in which they
chiefly delight to vegetate are particularly exposed to the influence of the
sun. The same may be said of the Burnet, (Poterium sanguisorla,) another
common plant that flowers at this time. From the Wild Thyme, {Thymus
serpyllum,) on the chalky bank comes a delightful fragrance, scenting the wan-
dering gale; here too are the bright blue blossoms and bristly stems of the
Viper's Bugloss, (Echium vulgare,) Yellow Toad Flax, called in the country
butter and eggs; Wild Mignionette, (Reseda luteola;) and Bitter Wood Sage,
{Teucrium scorodonia.) In the clear brook the pure white flowers of the
Water Arrowhead, (SagiUaria sagittifoUa,) may now be found emerging from
among their shining green leaves, from the shape of which the plant probably
derives its name; here also the Golden Rod, (Solidago virgaurea,) opens its
yellow blossoms, with the pale blue Forget-me-not, (Myosotis arvensis;) the
various kinds of Mint, (Mentha^ and Comfrey, (Symphytum officinale^ with
its rough leaves and pale yellowish bells still flowers. The climbing Dogwood,
(Cornus sanguinea,) flowers in the hedge, with the starry blossoms of the St.
John's Wort; the Greater Bindweed, (Galysteyia sepium,) Woundwort, (Stachys
sylvatica,) and Purple Nightshade, whose bright red berries have so often
tempted us in our youthful days.

Every bank now presents its store of frail blue Harebells, (Campanida
rotundifolia,) waving and trembling in the breeze. Here the Mouse-ear,
(Hieracium pilosella,) and Ragwort, (Senecio JacoJxea,) raise their bright
yellow stars, with Betony, (Betonica officinalis,) Yellow Bedstraw, (Galium
verum,) and Tansy, (Tanacetum vulgare.) This plant was formerly very
general in gardens, but is left now for the cottage ground, where in the

270 " THE IGUANA.

rustic plot it still takes its place with the flowers which the poet Clare

describes : —

"And where the marjoram once, and sage, and rue,
And balm, and mint, and curl'd-lcaf parsley grew;
And double marigolds and silver thyme.
And pumpkins 'neath the window used to climb.
And whei-c I often when a child for hours
Tried through the pales to get the tempting flowers.
As lady's laces, everlasting peas.
True love lies bleeding with the hearts at ease;
And golden rods and tansy running high.
That o'er the pale top smiled on passer by. —
Flowers in my time that every one would praise.
Though thrown like weeds from gardens now-a-days."

In the moist ditch, from amid thick downy leaves, the Mullein raises its
spike of pale yellow flowers, and the scarlet Pimpernel, {Anagallis arvensis,)
the Poppy, (Papaver rhcEcis,) and spreading Mallow, (JMalva si/lvestris,) are
dotting the roadside with their blossoms. But the common must not be
forgotten: here the different species of Erica raise their purple waxen bells,
round wJiich with ceaseless never-tiring hum the Wild Bee floats, presenting
a lesson of industry that all should learn.

Hackney, September Gth., 1852.

TU% IGUANA, (IGUANA TUBERGULATA.)

BY M. MAXWELL PHILIP, ESQ.

Although the term ^'Iguana" is generally used as the generic name for
a whole family of Lizards, still in those countries themselves where this and
the other varieties of Saurians exist, the name "Iguana" is always understood
to designate but one particular sort of Lizard, while the other varieties of the
same family are distinguished by other terms. Whether it is from the hurry
that must always attend the observations of travellers, or the absence of
sufficient investigation, errors are still very common on the subject of the
Iguana. Some have described it as inhabiting trees; some have made it exceed-
ingly active in its habits; others again have confined it exclusively to a
terrestrial existence, and have entirely neglected to speak about its amphi-
bious nature — perhaps the most important point about it. It is possibly
from this cause that the naturalist who has never had the opportunity of
studying the Iguana in its own climate and medium of existence, still enter-
tains but very confused ideas in connexion with it. Unfortunately, too, the
great likeness which exists between the true "Iguana" and the species next
to it in gradation, and also the great ignorance of the local names by which
individuals of the same family are known, tend in a great measure to create
uncertainty and confusion.

The Iguana is a large Lizard, peculiar to America. Scientifically described
it may be said to stand at the head of the second family of Lizards, to
which it has given name — the ^'Iguanidae," of the fourth family — Sauria, of

THE IGUANA. 271

the third class — reptiles, of the vertcbrated sub-kingdom. It is generally
from four to five feet long; the greater part of this great length, however,
i-i made up by the tail, which is something more than half of the reptile.
The head, in comparison with the usual size in Saurians, is short; at the
junction with the neck it is large and full, and is of greater measurement
from its top to the under part of the throat, while from a point taken from
its summit, the jaws incline towards the muzzle at an angle of fifty, making
the head of the Iguana upon the whole shorter, higher, and more symmetrical
than that of either the Alligator or of any other species of its own family.
The body is long and slender, without any greater roundness at any one point
than at another. It is supported on four legs of considerable length; the
fore ones are somewhat shorter than the hind ones, and its toes are not
long, nor are the claws attached to them of any length, but those of the
hinder legs are very long, with the claws corresponding: there is an apposable
toe on the feet, l^he tail of the Iguana is exceedingly firm and wiry, and
is possessed of a strong elastic power. The skin is of a firm tough texture,
and is covered with small thick scales; its colour when the Iguana is young
is a beautiful light green, but when it is at its full growth it is usually of
a pale green, with a slight shade of yellow.

The principal mark of distinction in the Iguana and the Iguana family
is the crest and dewlap with which it is provided. From the back part
of the head rises a crest of strong cartilaginous substance, which runs
along the back from that point to the seat of the hinder legs. A pretty
correct idea of this may be conveyed by comparing it to the sharp side
of a saw; the exception, however, must be made in this, that the small
spears or excrescences of the crest are not so much in the shape of an equilateral
triangle, nor do they stand so closely together, as the teeth of the saw.
The dewlap hangs from the beginning of the throat to the seat of the fore
legs. This is composed of a strong membraneous substance. In the '^Iguana"
proper it seems to be for ornament solely, but in some other species it is
capable of being distended by the reptile, and no doubt serves some purpose
or other in the procuring of its food. These two ornaments vary in size
according to the gender of the Iguana. In the male they are much larger,
and the crest especially is more formidable than in the female.

In the line of generalization the Iguana seems to form the link between
the Alligator and the other creeping things whose habits and existence are
entirely terrestrial. In the scale of descent in the vertebrated kingdom,
the Iguana, it would appear, stands next to the Alligator, and seems to
be the continuation of the important class of reptiles from the water to
the land; for it is to be observed that, whereas the Crocodile and the
individuals of that family, although, strictly speaking, amphibious, do pass
the whole of their lifetime in the water, the Iguana, on the contrary,
which is also possessed of the power of living in both elements, passes the
greater part of its existence on land, and resorts to the water only occasionally,

272 THE IGUANA.

as the Crocodiles and Alligators do to the land.

From what precedes^ it may easily be gathered that the Iguana is amphibious.
It lives on the banks of large rivers and lagoons, where it is generally seen
basking in the sunshine, either on the ground or on the trunk of some
fiillen tree. In some of the West India Islands, however, where there are
no large rivers, and the shores are precipitous, it inhabits the clefts of rocks.
On being pursued, if the precaution is not taken of cutting it off from the
water, it immediately takes to it, into which it dives, and is not again seen.

When, however, the reptile is young, it seeks the protection of trees, on
which it creeps to the very top, and secretes itself among the dense foliage.
This, no doubt, is the reason why the Iguana is provided with apposable
toes; for, from a study of the creature, it is easily perceived that trees are
perhaps the only objects on which the young Iguanas could find security;
because those reptiles, when young, are exceedingly stupid and indolent, and
even seem to lack a great deal of the common instinct of self-preservation.
The young Iguana will not flee away from you until your hand is almost
laid upon it; its large lurid eye nevertheless is all the time fixed upon you
in a vague and torpid gaze. When the Iguana has attained a considerable
size, it abandons the trees and remains on the ground — the proper medium,
it would appear, of its existence; it is there that it feeds. Its food consists
of vegetable matter, of which it takes, upon the whole, but little, as it
would seem that it requires but little aliment to maintain life. Its powers
of abstinence are extraordinary. Iguanas have been known to live for weeks
together without food, and to show no great decrease in their size.

The Iguana, like the generality of reptiles, is exceedingly torpid and indolent;
it, however, displays great activity and extraordinary agility when it is roused
to action. It will remain for hours together basking in the sun, without once
moving its head or any of its limbs. Even when caught, the Iguana never
makes an attempt to escape, such is its lethargy. When, however, it is
pursued by the dogs, by which it is generally hunted, it displays extraordinary
fleetness; it flies over the ground with astonishing rapidity. Its motions are
much more graceful than those of the generality of reptiles, for it has not
that tortuous movement which characterizes creeping things, from the Crocodile
to the Snail.

The Iguana is exceedingly inoffensive; it does not seem to be pi'ovided by
nature with any weapon either of offence or defence. Its serrated teeth seem
intended solely for cropping the vegetable matter on which it lives, as a
person may put his finger between its jaws with impunity. In the month
of March however, the season when they seek the females, and are particularly
excited, the Iguanas make dexterous use of their tails, the one against the
other, in their little amorous battles. Sometimes, too, the large males will
turn on the dogs that pursue them, and whip them severely with their long
wiry tails. With the exception of this slight warlike disposition, these creatures
arc quite harmless.

MARINE ANIMALS, 273

The Iguana is oviparous; it buries its eggs in the soft alluvial soil on the
banks of rivers^, and they are there hatched. It lays many eggs at a time;
these are soft^ like those of the Turtle^ and are covered with a parchment-like
membrane. These eggs are much prized as articles of delicacy, and during
the months of Mai'ch and April the females are hunted for the especial
purpose of taking the eggs, which they generally contain at that time.

Like many other things unknown to European taste, which nature, lavish
to extremes, furnishes for the use of the inhabitants of warm climates, the
Iguana is considered an exquisite article of food. It is generally hunted by
dogs trained to that sort of sport, and is always taken alive, for the dogs
exhaust it without worrying it. They chase the Iguana until it can run no
longer, when it buries its head, like the Ostrich, in the first hole that it
finds. The hunter then takes it by the tail, and secures it without any
danger of being bitten.

The mode of cooking the Iguana is always in a fricassee. The flesh is
soft and tender, like that of birds, but exceedingly rich, especially that of
the females. Amateurs consider it excellent food, but people are not unan-
imous on this subject. Some deem it unwholesome, and productive of that
dire disorder leprosy; there are persons, therefore, that could not be prevailed
upon by any consideration to taste Iguana flesh. The truth of this notion
has never been investigated by ssience; but perhaps it would not be prxident
to disregard this belief altogether; because, however caroless the inhabitants
of those countries where the Iguanas exist are to making saientific deductions,
they nevertheless possess on their side that long observation which, in the
natural state, is the only parent of truth. Be these things as they may,
one thing, however, is singular, and that is that the Iguana, which is believed
to cause leprosy, is also considered the only cure for that disease, and several
extraordinary cases are reported as having been permanently cured by this
remedy among the South- American Indians, It would be a blessing if, upon
scientific test, the belief should be found correct, for it would tend to relieve
many that are now suflering from a reputed incurable disorder, and would
at the same time bear important testimony in favour of homoeopathy.

8, Minerva Terrace, Barnsbury Park, London.

MARINE ANIMALS,

THE ARGONAUT,

BY O, S. KOUND, ESQ.

{Continued from page 74.)

Every one knows so well the shells of this beautiful race of Marine Animals,
that it is much to be regretted that their history and formation should not
be also a matter of as great notoriety, for I take it to be almost a necessary

274 MARIKK ANIMAT.S.

consequence of familiar acquaintance with an interesting and beautiful object,
that we at once wish to be better acquainted with it. To dispel, in some
measure, this reproach upon our literature, is one aim of ray humble efforts,
and if I succeed in the least, it must be much more attributable to my
love of the subject, than my ability, 'ab initio,' to handle it.

Well then, we all know the Nautilus' shell when we see it, but we often
mistake the same species of shells for varieties, from a very simple circum-
stance, namely, the manner in which they are prepared to form ornaments
for our boudoirs and mantles. The common Argonaut, or Nautilus, is of a
cream-colour, with an enamelled surface, plain on the larger part, and
where it begins sensibly to decrease, covered with transverse bars and
wavings of a cinnamon-colour, with a large portion of a very deep hue, in
fact nearly black at the smallest end. Now, like all shells, this is likewise
composed of Lamina, which have, in the upper ones at least, somewhat of
a cellular structure; though in this instance the material is so compact and
thin, that it is not so easily recognised as in the Pinna and Mi/tilus tribes.
This forms the upper or apparent layer; immediately under this lies one of
true Nacre, or Mother of Pearl, which more or less extends in several layers,
through the remainder of the entire thickness, and is of a very beautiful
surface and appearance; hence, the upper or cream-coloured and cinnamon-
barred enamelled surface has only to bo removed, which is very easily done
by a strong acid, to render the whole shell a nacreous or pearl shell; and
this is the condition in which we see it when formed into those elegant
cups, or vases, or stands, so often seen among the more choice articles of
veiiu.

There are a great many species of Argonaut, of which I may speak in a
future paper, but I shall now confine myself to general observations. When
I speak of the upper layer being enamelled, I must be understood to mean
the whole upper surface of the shell, both on the outside and inside; and
hence the nacreous formation comprehends the whole interior, bearing the
same relation to the enamelled layers, as the loaves of a book bear to the
covers. When a section is made of these shells lengthwise, they discover to
the view a series of cavities of a wedge-like figure, somewhat hollowed on
the under side, which shape is formed by the circular shape of the shell;
and through the centre of each of these cavities, and the layers of shell
which divide them from each other, a tube passes, which is the apparatus
by which the Nautilus rises to the surface of the water, or sinks to the
bottom. This is performed in the following manner: — The tube thus running
through these cavities is capable, at the will of the Argonaut, of sucking in
or imbibing, or ejecting water; and hence, when the creature is on the surface
of the sea, and desires to sink, it has nothing to do but to imbibe water into
these cavities, and, like a boat filling, it necessarily sinks; and again, when
at the bottom and desiring to rise, it ejects the water thus imbibed, and
thus necessarily rises, by reason of the air which is always resident in the

MAUINE ANIMALS. 275

cavities, and which is not wholly displaced by the water taken in; for this
purpose, those portions of the tube which pass through the cavities are
furnished with a very beautiful apparatus representing valves, so contrived
as at once to expel or drink in water; and therefore the commonly received
notion of the animal filling its shell with water to sink, is the correct one,
although, as a broad unexplained assertion, it gives but a very imperfect idea
of the true operation.

As I have before observed, in casually referring to this class of Marine
Animals, the poetical notion of the sailing propensities and capabilities of
these beautiful creatures is altogether without foundation. It may seem
an ungracious task to dispel that which has furnished the poet with so many
themes of song, or the painter with so many materials for his pencil; but
as a faithful delineator of nature, I am bound to dispel this fable, and put
the matter upon its real footing. Thus, what are called the sails, are nothing
but a part of the mantle or interior membrane, which covers all this class
of animals, and extended in this instance to protect the sides of the shell,
around which, when on the surface of the sea, they are usually wrapped.
Doubtless the arms or tentacula assist the shell in its movements on the
water, but it much more often floats than is propelled; arid the ordinary form
in which it appears, is with some two or three of the arms hanging over the
sides into the water, and the others protruded forward after the manner of the
horns of a snail, the velamen, or protruding mantle, either loose, or wrapped
around the shell; and when at the bottom of the ocean, they crawl with
what would be called the shell upside down; that is, in the very reverse
position to that in which they appear on the surface.

Those layers of shell which divide the cavities I have above referred to,
are secreted one by one behind the animal as it grows larger, and thus the
number of cavities would of course enable us to determine its age, having
once ascertained how long one of these cavities is in forming; but of this
I shall not speak at present; suffice it now to say that the animal resides only
in the outermost portion of the shell, the whole of the cavities being filled
with air only, and the agents whereby it sails or swims. The general for-
mation of tho body greatly resembles that of the starfish, but this likewise
I shall for the present defer minutely describing; merely adding that any
doubts, which might formerly have existed, with reference to the fact of the
animal being the owner and former, as well as the inhabitant, of the shell, have^
been long since set at rest by numbers of Argonauts being kept in a state
6f captivity alive, and the shells being in numerous instances fractured and
repaired by the creatures themselves. In my next paper on this elegant
class, I shall refer particularly to the different genera.

(To be continued.)

276

NOTES ON THE CONGLOMERATE AND OLD
RED SANDSTONE OF WESTMORLAND AND CUMBERLAND.

BY C. W. ROTHERY, ESQ.

MELL FELL.

35'

^^=^' Bampton. +

Thkuk are few formations in the lake dis.trict more curious than the Con-
glomerate and Old Red Sandstone. Theso strata can be viewed by every
tourist along the north-west bank of Ullswater, at the foot of a hill, called
Soulby Fell, by which passos the Patterdale and Penrith road; also the
summer daily coaches convey not only lakers, but now and then a zealous
lithophilist, who takes an interest in stones and the wonders of our pedal
foundations; one or two having perchance the '^Thoughts on a Pebble"
pocketted, which evidently is a valuable book for a conglomerate.

Soulby Fell is entirely composed of this formation, and it extends in a
north-west direction towards Mell Fell, a curious conical hill, which from the
Keswick road seems almost isolated in a sea of swampy wastes; it then is
traced across UUswater, near the foot of the lake, over the fell towards
Bampton; can be seen again at Shap Abbey, and between Orton and Tebay.

This ferruginous composition is not very compact at Soulby Fell in many
plcices where it abuts in the Ghylls, but it becomes more consolidated in a
lower situation towards Dacre. At Dacre Bridge specimens can be obtained
sufficiently hard to be portable for cabinet use.

The great feature of this rock is the variety of pebbles which it contains,
with evident markings of violent abrasion, held together by a heavy calcareous
cement. I have found in the Conglomerate, concretions of Calcedony, very
fine Porphyry, beautiful forms of Agate and Jasper, with the Shap Granite
in the Diluvium, resting with it. I observed a Shap Granite pebble, rounded
and very much worn, close to the Conglomerate of Orton and Tebay, placed

NOTES ON CONGLOMERATE AND OLD EED SANDSTONE. 277

many feet below the surface of the diluvial clay.

It is an interesting circumstance that you may wander along the escarp-
ment of Winder Scar, above Pooley Bridge, which is of Mountain Limestone,
and contains many organic remains, as zoophytes and producta; and you may
command one of the most imposing scenes in the district of the lakes; for
here you look over the champaign country of the romantic vale of Eden to
your right, bounded by the stern Gross Fells; and immediately in front rise
and expand before the eager sight — glories of two rival counties, Cumberland
and Westmoi'land — fair mountains resting by the lake. This charming scene
you view from a scar very similar in appearance to the Yoredale tabular hills.
On the left of the scar below, as you look towarJs the lake, is a ghyll, the
banks of which are formed of Conglomerate, and here huge blocks or boulder
stones are to be seen, one of which must weigh about six tons, of a substance
so hard that a moderately-sized hammer will require two or three minutes
knocking before a fragment flies ofi". The Conglomerate along the banks of the
Eden is of a coarse quality, very largo, and firmly cemented together. This
formation can be traced without much difficulty, down the Eden from Appleby.

The most pleasing locality for observations on this rock I have seen in the
north of England, is about a mile from Tebay, where there is a station on
the Lancaster and Carlisle Railway, a bed rests along the channel of a brook
which flows into the Lune. Here are associated, in most beautiful order, the
finely-laminated Shale and Conglomerate, which is very hard and closely-cemented.
The action of the stream in many places has worn the yielding Shale into
oval Basins, and the rough pebbly rock above has fiillen to the running eccen-
tricities of ever-flowing and clearest water. In one spot has been scooped out
a very complete, and no doubt comfortable, bath; large enough to admit a
person of middle stature, as a slipper bath would do. Though more enticino-
than the thermge of our large towns, which, not unfrequently, from a combina-
tion of circumstances, convey an odour by no means so pleasant as that of a
pellucid running pool, warmed by the vertical rays of the sun.

The Old Rod Sandstone of the north, as a rock, conveys to an amateur
geologist much that is curious; but it is not so attractive as other formations,
from the organic remains being rubbed to pieces as it may be supposed. Yet
its near affinity to the cold-looking (though only in winter,) chain of the
Silurian hills, and the warm relationship which it bears to the great carbo-
niferous group, give pleasure in visiting the modest surface of country which
it occupies in the north-west of England.

• Its younger companion, the New Red Sandstone, is interposed in the great
carboniferous chain, causing a journey of several miles until you arrive at
Hartside and the region about Crossfell. You may here look from an emi-
nence over the vale of Eden, (New Red,) and wonder how that vast plain
came there, separating the limestone of Motherby, from a family group which
form the neck and back-bone of England, beginning at Crossfell.

Keswichj June iith.y 18o2.

278

SKisrrllniirDUS Jhlim.

The Otter, (Lutra vulgaris.)— It appears the Otter is not always partial to a finny repast;
several specimens trapped iu this neighbourhood having been dissected, and the stomachs found
to contain remains of the Water-hen. — Johx Dixon, Leeds, August 9th., 1852.

The Pigeon. — Can any of your correspondents furnish me with authenticated instances of the
Pigeon laying more than two eggs at one nesting? — Idem.

The House Sparrow, (Passer domesticus.) — I have paid some little attention to the nesting
of the Sparrow in trees, and am led to believe that it is generally a matter of choice, although
necessity may have sometimes compelled the selection of such situations. For some years a
colony of Sparrows have regularly built in a clump of Scotch firs, close by the high road at
Morrtown, near Leeds; some of the trees contain four and five nests, and although there are
much safer situations among old farm buildings close at hand, this noisy crew still maintain
a dogged position amongst the trees, notwithstanding the volleys of stones and other missiles
discharged against them. At Gledhow a similar colony exists, but on safer principles, the nests
being built under those of the Book. It may be worth while to state that the Corinthian
capitals of the Court House, Leeds, were for many years favorite nesting-places. It was droll
to see the bundles of straw projecting from the carved foliage. Fertilizing showers of guano
were not congenial to the habits of the "blue bottles," and the luckless Sparrows were accord-
ingly served with a writ of ejectment. — Idem.

Oeeurrence of the White Stork, (Ciconia alba,) in Jierwickshire. — A very fine specimen of
this bird was shot near the sea coast at Coldingham, a few months ago, and is now in the
beautiful collection of birds at Abbey farm, North Berwick, where I had the pleasure of seeing
it last month, through the courtesy of Mr. Paterson, owner of the museum. The bird had
been seen in the neighbourhood for some days before it was killed. — KonEiiT Gray, Southci'oft,
Govan, October 19th., 1852.

Bare Birds at t/ie Tees Mouth. — A friend of mine, (Mr. Dunn, of Ilurworth, near Darlington,)
one day last week shot, near the Tees mouth, two fine specimens of the Pigmy Curlew, four
Sanderlings, a Turnstone, a young specimen of Richardson's Skua, and the Klack-toed Gull of
Bewick. — T. S. IIudd, Esq., in a letter to the Editor, dated September 1st., 1852.

Heronry. — A few years ago there was one in existence at Sands, near Sedgcficld, in the
county of Durham. The present owner, Mr. Ord, of Sands, called upon me yesterday, but
being on the Tees, I did not see him, and consequently missed the opportunity of ascertaining
whether it is still in existence or not. I have heard it is not. — Idem.

Occurrence of tlis Wood Warbler, (Sylvia sylvicola,) in Suffolk. — A specimen of this diminutive
warbler was shot in a plantation at Bosmerr on the 10th. of May last, and was presented to
me for my collection : it is considered a rare bird in the centre of Suffolk. — Henry Lingwood,
Barking, Needham Market, June 25th., 1852.

Nesting of the Spotted Flycatcher, (Muscicapa grisola.) The following incident took place
under my own observation, and may be worthy recording in the pages of "The Naturalist:" —
In the early part of May, a pair of Chaifinches, (Fringilla cwlebs,) selected the trunk of a
poplar tree as a suitable situation for their nest, which was built about six feet from the ground,
in a conspicuous and much frequented part of my garden, but was deserted by them before they
produced eggs. A few weeks after I discovered that a pair of Spotted Flycatchers, (Muscicapa
grisola,) had taken the unoccupied nest, just as left by the Finches, and had laid three eggs,
which the hen bird was sitting on. Were the Flycatchers disturbed at a former nest after the
hen had laid one or two eggs, so that she was tempted to deposit the remainder in the
one built by the Finches, or will they take a vacant nest in preference to one of their own
structure ? — Idem .

Curiam death of a Partridge. — Towards the end of last March I found a Partridge, (Perdix
cinerca,) dead underneath the telegraph wires at Thungarton, near here. The head was almost
severed from the neck just below the diin, and decomposition was already begun. I conjecture
it had flown against the wire in the dusk, and that, too, with great velocity, and so met with

MISCELLANEOUS NOTICES. 279

this unusual death. I have read that platelajers make a practice of driving Partridges over
the line, trusting that some may meet their deaths in this way, but, surely, it could not often
occur. — Laius, Southwell, August 31st., 1852.

Tufjnacity of the Robin. — In addition to the many instances that have occurred of the pug-
nacious disposition of this bird, I send you another. "When walking with a companion on a
summer's evening, two years ago, we saw two Robins, {Erythaca rubecula,) engaged in a fierce
conflict on the ground. They allowed us to approach closely, when one flew away to a thick
hedge close by, and left the other, a cock bird, wholly unable to escape. "We took it up, and
found it had suffered severely — a leg and wing were broken, and it was much disfigured.
Thinking it was past recovery, we put it down again, when the other one flew to it again and
commenced the attack anew, while we stood close by. Humanity induced us this time to drive
the victor out of the vicinity, and take the conquered Eobin on with us. Shortly after we left
him to his fate under a hedge, and I trust out of sight of his adversary. — Idem.

I have in my collection a hen's egg of precisely the same length as that mentioned at page
133, vol. ii., but is rather rounder. It was the first egg laid by a young fowl. Does not it
always happen that the first-laid hen's egg is smaller than they afterwards are? I always
understood so. — Idem.

N'est of the Cliaffinch, (Fringilla ccolebs.) — We all know that birds will frequently adopt many
substances to weave into their nests, differing greatly from their usual building materials; and
many curious instances have been noted of this habit. As a general rule, however, each species
of bii'ds seems to have some particular substance that it generally makes use of in nidification;
hut they frequently adopt different materials, which may strike their fancy by happening to
fall in their way: this may be because they find them closer to their nests than the usual
material. Eennie furnishes us with an account of a nest of the Wren, (Troglodytes EurojJoeus,)
which, instead of being lined, as usual, with feathers, the industrious little woi'kman had neatly
lined with dogs' hau-, and what seemed to be scrapings of quill barrels, procured, as was sup-
posed, from the sweepings of a neighbouring school-room. In "The Naturalist," vol. ii., page
132, there is an account of a Blackbird, ( Ttirdus merula,) using for its nest a very curious
article; and I have found the nest of one with. more than a yard of stout cord twined round
it. But I wish to uiform your readers of a case I witnessed this year, of a Chafl[inch, (Frhigilla
coekbs,) a bird which, I believe, seldom or never covers its nest with anything but lichens from
old palings, etc. However, as I was passing up a very pleasant lane near here, on April
25th., this year, I happened to tear up a letter which I had in my pocket, and throw it on
the ground; on the 27th., I walked the same way, and found a Chaffinch liad built her nest
close by where torn fragments of the letter lay, and had commenced cnveriug the outside of
the nest with shreds of paper, which I knew by the blue ink, as well as by the writing,
were pieces of what I had thrown down close by. I freqiicntly went to see what pi-ogress it
made, and on the 29th., had the satisfaction to see both birds busily employed in picking up
the bits of paper and working them in the nest: next day it was finished and looked beautiful,
just as if covered with flakes of snow. On the 1st of May it had one cs:^ in it, so I thought
I would wait till the full number was laid, and then preserve it : but alas ! boys tvill take nests,
and some marauder took this one, much to my vexation ; and I have never been able to hear
anything more of it. — Idem.

Curious situation of a Swift's nest.— On the outside of the clerestory of the old Cathedral
here, tlici-e are several iron pipes for carrying off" the rain, and in the top cavity of one
of these a pair of Swifts {Cypseliis apus,) had built their nest. What I wish to remark,
though, is their singular mode of egress— instead of departing as they entered, at the top, they
were accustomed to drop donn, and emerge at the bottom of the pipe. I could never see them
either entering or coming out while it rained; but I used to see them every evening, and
noticed that they invariably entered at the top, and again left their nest by means of dropping
down the pipe. They have now left us, but I hope to have the pleasure of again viewing
their strange proceedings next summer. The pipe seems about five yards in length. — Idem.

Sivallows affected by i?«/«— About the 18th. of September, this year, we had very wet
weather, and that day happened to be very cold and miserable. House Martins and Swallows
\\ti\Q caught by the hand in the Market-place here. Yesterday was very wot, and I then

280 ' MISCELLANKOUS NOTrCES.

noticed that Swallows would fly quite close to anybody walking in the fields. Were they
afiected by the rain? or mei-ely seeking the insects disturbed by persons passing? — Idem.

The Window Swallow, (Hirundo urbica.) — A friend of mine informs mo that he saw on the
3rd of this month, at Grooby, about four miles from Leicester, three nests containing j-oung;
the old birds wore feeding them at the time. I think this unusually late. — Idem.

Curious Varieties of the Drinker Moth, (Odonestis Potatoria.) — I think the following occurrence
well worth recording in your pages or in that of any other work treating on entomological
subjects, you will however judge best, and do as you think well by inserting it or not. I
bred this year about one hundred and fifty of the Larvaj of (Odonestis potatoria,) of course
letting all the Moths fiy in my garden : — On the 8th. of July, (a day not to be forgotten,) I
spied in the corner of the box, what I at first thought an enonnous male, judge of my surprise and
delight, when upon seeing it move a little, and catching a glimpse of its antennoB, it proved
to be a most splendid variety, the 9 colour of (^ a prize that rarely falls to the lot of
the entomologist. But mark my astounding good fortune. On the 19th. of July, came up an
equally curious variety of the male; the colour of all the wings being absolutely a strong
lead-colour. I know not which the most to prize. I never saw nor heard of anything like
either one or the other, and I have seen some few I can assure you. If one was disposed
to play the rogue, so complete and so brilliant are these varieties, it would only be necessary
to give them some now name, and create a new Odonestis. The caterpillars however would call out
"I am only Totatoria varietasT — Bombyx Atlas, August 5th., 1852.

The Broad-nosed Sturgeon, (Acipenser latirostris,) was taken a few miles from the harbour
in a trawl net belonging to Mrs. Chard, April 29th., 1852. Description: — Body, elongated,
angular — five rows of honey plates without spines, but highly keeled; head, large, broad, and
depressed; eyes, small, greyish and about six inches from tip of snout; nostrils, small, the
apertures two inches from inner angle of eye; snout, conical, broad, and obtuse; mouth, small,
eight inches from tip of snout; ciini four, long, slender, two inches and a half from tip of
snout; skin very rough. Colour — upper portions greenish brown, with buff patches, sides, much
lighter; abdomen, dirty white; length, from tip of snout to root of caudal fin, seven feet five
inches, depth of body near shoulders as it lay on the stone slab, in the fish market, eleven inches
and a half; superior portion of caudal fin, eighteen inches and three-eighths, inferior portion,
eight inches and a half; pectoral fins, ton inches and an eighth. It was an old male: — the
body was cut up and sold at sixpence per pound, but the flesh was tough and rank, and the
consumers complained of its bad qualities when it was too late to remedy the evil ; I procured
several parasites from its tough and well-wom skin, as well as from the gills, viz: — Caligus
Miilleri, C. centrodonti, etc. The ci-eaturo was alive when I commenced the survey. — W. P.
Cocks, Falmouth, May 8th., 1852.

Orthagoriseus trtmeatus. — This rather strange and rare fish was caught at the fishing station,
Portlethen, in Kincardineshire. It was taken while displaying the power these fishes have of
floating with their head and eyes above water, giving thom the appearance of a dead or dying
fish; and in this state they move slowly along sideways. They belong to the osso-cartiliginous
fishes. The dimensions ai'e as follow : — Length, four feet two inches ; breadth, five feet two
inches, from below the fins; circumference, five feet two inches; weight, fourteen stones, or
one hundred and ninety-six pounds. I have also seen the Ortliagoriscus Mala taken in the
Bay at Aberdeen. — James Taylor, Pitmixton, September 22nd., 1852.

Gigantic Fungus. — I never remember seeing a Fungus so large as that the size of which I
give you underneath, and perhaps the account of it might be deemed worthy a place in the
useful "Naturalist." It was cut in a grass field at Wintcrborne Zelstone, in this county, on
Thursday, June 3rd., iust., and I carefully measured it myself, and can vouch for the accuracy
thereof.— Depth at narrowest side, twelve inches and a half; depth at thickest side, fourteen
inches and a quarter ; width across at narrowest side, fifteen inclics and a quarter ; width across
at thickest side, seventeen inches; circumference, fifty-three inches. Colour — dark brown on,
under side, white on upper part. — John Gauland, Dorchester, June 5th., 1852.

TJie Misseltoe, (Viscum album.) — I have seen this curious plant growing here on the Thom,
and also the Nut. — Laius, Southwell, August 31st., 1852.

INDEX.

Aberdeenshire, Rare Birds in, 238.
Ablabia 4-punctana, 12.
Abraxas grossulariata, 133, 143.
Abrostola urticaj, 127.
Acalcphro, 74, 98, 99.
Acanthias vulgaris, 23, 106.
Aeantholabrus exoletus, 31.
Acarus capidarius, 55.

scabiei, 55.

telluris. 55.

Accentor modularis, 6, 182, 230.
Accipiter fringillarius, 6, 181.
Acer campestre, 265.

pseudo-platanus, 50, 265.

Acherontia Atropos. 124.
Achillea millefolium, 45, 194.
Acidalia aversaria, 144.
Acipenser latirostris, 106, 280.

sturio, 22, 106.

Acleris aspersana, 12.

Acmaea testudinalis, 253, 254, 255.

tessellata, 88.

Acompsis cincrella, 13.
Acronyota rumicis, 125, 13-1.
Actebia precox, 263.
Actinia, 23.
Adela fiburella, 147.

Swammerdaraella, 13.

viridella, 13.

Adoxa moschatellina, 225.
.ilgialia giobosa, 264.
^gires punetilucens, 108.
JEthusa cynapium, 71.
Agaricus aurantiacus, 51.

campestris, 51.

comatus, 51.

dealbatus, 51.

fascicularis, 50.

micaceus, 51.

ovatus, 51.

peronatus, 51.

■ piperatus, 51.

semiglobatus, 51.

semiovatus, 51.

tener, 50.

Aglossa pinguinalis, 122. 123.
Agrimonia eupatoria, 191.
Agrostis corticea, 126
• cursoria, 126.

elegans, 243.

exclamationis, 126.

fumosa, 126.

minima, 243.

obelisca, 126.

putris, 126.

segetum, 126.

suij'usa, 126.

tritici, 126,

vcrticillata, 243.

vulgaris, 194, 243.

Aira ca)spitosa, 51, 241,
VOL. II.

Aira caryophyllaea, 193, 243,

flexuosa, 51.

niinuta, 243.

Alasmodon vulgaris, 112.
Alauda arborea, 19.

arvensis, 5, 201, 206.

Alca arctica, see Fratercula arctictt.
Alcedo ispida. 5, 165.
Alchemilla arvensis, 237.

vulgaris, 201.

Alisma plantago, 40.
Alopecurus agrestis, 51.

bulbosus, 243.

.? 71.

Alosa communis, 31.

finta, 31.

Alsine rubra, 71.
Alucita hexadactyla, 15.

polydactyla, 122, 149.

Alverstoke, Eare Animals, etc., near, 264.
Ammocaetes branchialis, 106,
Ammodytes lancea, 29, 32,
Tobianus, 32.

Amphyoxus lanceolatus, 28.
Amphvsa Gemingiana, 144,

^ prodromana, 39, 144, 231, 282.

Anacampsis Betulca, 13.

rhombella, 13,

terrolla, 13,

Anagallis ai-vensis. 71, 270,

tenella, 191.

Anaitis plagiaria, 142,
Anarrhicus lupus, 30,
Anarta Myrtilli, 128.
Anas acuta, 5.

bosehas, 5.

clypeata, 5, 170,

crecca, 6.

penelope, 6,

Anchinia bicostella, 147.
Anchufa sempervirens, 201.
Anehylopera fractifasciana, 12,

Lundiana, 12.

Ancula cristata, 1, 108.

var., 1, 108,

Anemone nemorosa, 201, 208, 226.

Pulsatilla, 225.

Angelica sylvestris, 232.
Anguilla acutirostris. 32, 48,

latirostris, 32.

mediorostis, 32.

Anguis fragilis, 16.
Auomodon viticulosum, 237.
Anser albifrons, 170.

brachyrhynchus, 170.

Egyptiacus, 85, 229.

ferus, 5.

Anthocaris cardamines. 123.
Anthocelis litura, 127.

lunosa, 127.

Authoxanthum odoratum, 113, 243.

20

282

Anthoxantlium ovatum, 243.
Anthriscus sylvostris, 53.
Anthrocera filipendulae, 24, 124.
Anthus arboreus 5.

pratensis, 5.

Anticlea badiaria, 142. [

• Berbenita, 256.

dcrivariu, 142.

Antin-hinum majus, 269.

Antithesia betnletana, 12.

Apainea didyraa, 125. ,

gemima, 125.

unaniiuis, 125.

Apholia pratana, 146, 232.
Aphelosetia auritclla, 14.

tiiatomea, 14.

Aphomia colonclla, 146.
Apis mellifica, 264.

Apiuin gravoolens, 53, 70, 194,
Aplocta ad vena, 127.

occulta, 127.

Aplvsia dcpilans, 88.
Aratis hirsuta, 225, 237.
Aranea viatica, 248.
Arbutus Uuedo, 235.
Area fusca, 30.

Arctia Caja, 124.
Arctium L;xppa, 71, 190.
Ardea cinerea 5.

comata, 3.

Arenaria serpyllifolia, 47.

rubra, 238.

Arenicoia piscatorum, 131.

Argouaut, The, 273.

Argynais Adippe, 229, 236, 249.

Aglaia, 133, 229, 235, 236, 260.

— Euphrosvne, 121, 123.

■ Papbia, "227, 235, 236, 249.

Argyresthia albistria, 148, 232.

arceuthiua, 39, 148, 231, 232,

Brockella, 148, 232.

conjugella. 148.

. curvella, 148.

diloctella, 39, 148, 232.

ephippella, 148.

farinutella, 148.

Gcedartclla, 148.

nitidella, 148.

semitestacella, 148.

spiniella, 232.

Argyrolepia Baumanniaiia, 146.
Argyronii^es mespilella, 14.
Argyrosotia Brockella, 14.

G-ccdartella, 14.

semifasciella, 14.

ArgjTotoza Berginaniiiana, 13.

Conwayana, 13, 144.

Daldorfiana, 13.

Artemisia maritima, 54.

vulgaris, 55,

Arundo, 243.
Arviciola agrestis, 264.

amphibius, 139.

Asarum Europooum, 237.
Aspergillus glaucus, 67, 69.
Asperula odorata, 113,
Aspidophorus cataphractes ? 17.
Aspleniuin adiantum-nigrum, 50, 100.

iiltemifolium, 100.

lanoeolatum, 194.

marinum, 54, 238.

ruta-inuraria, 51, 101.

scptentrionale, 2.
tnchomauca, ol, 101.

Astacus fluviatilis, 4d.
Astragalus Boeticus, 257.

caprinus, 257.

falcatus. 257.

hamosus, 257.

pentaglottis, 257.

Astyages coracipenuella, 14.
Asylus apiarius, 178.
Atherina presbyter, 18.
Athyrium filix-foemina, 51, 101.
Atriplex rosea, 71.
August, 20'8.
Avena elatior, 244.

hirsuta, 244.

sterilis, 244.

Bactra furfurana, 145.

lanueolana, 145.

pauperaua, 12.

plagana, 12.

Ballota nigra, 194.
Bartsia odontites, 191.
Bat, 201,

Batodes angustiorana, 145.
Belone vulgaris 31.
Beta maritima, 71.
Betonica officinalis, 70, 195, 269.
Birds' eggs, to preserve colour of, 172.
of Zona, 78.

nests, 160.

submergence of, 170.

BiseiTula pclarinus, 257.
Biston Betularia, 121, 142.
Bittern, Little, see Botaurus minutus.
Blatta orientalis, 159, 184.
Blechnum boreale, 101.

Blennius gattorngiue, 30.

Montagui, 18.

ocellarius, 18, 30.

— PhoUs, 30.

Boarmia repandaria, 142.

Bombus terrestris, 201.

Bombycilla gaiTula, 38, 63, 131, 238.

Botanical Ramble, 51.

Strolls, 69, 190.

Botany, a Day's, in Roslin, 49.
Botaurus minutus, 252.

stellaris, 3.

Botys fuscalis, 128.

• urticalis, 128.

Briza minor, 236.
Bromus asper, 57.

divaricatus, 244.

Madriteusis, 244.

maximus, 244.

mollis, 244.

' rubens, 244.

sterilis, 244.

Bryophila perla, 125.
Bryopsis plumosa, 39.
Bryum komum, 60.

ligulatum, 50.

punctatum, 50.

Buccinum undatum, 112,
Buceros, 84.

Bufo calamita, 10.

vulgaris, 16, 21, 185, 221.

Bulimus acutus, 105.

Bulla truncata, 112.

Buteo vulgaris, 34, 136, 204.

Cabcra pusaria, 143,
Cakile maritiuja, 54.
Cttlamiu"'" ollicinulis, 71.

283

Calamohcrpe phragniitis, 216.
Calliouymus, dracunculus, 30.

lyra, 30.

Callisto Fyeslella, 14.
Calluua vulgaris, 237, 241.
Calocainpa exoleta, 127.

vetusta, 127.

Caltha palustris, 36, 134, 201, 225.
Caljstegia sepium, 269.
Campanula rotundifolia, 269.
Cancer pagurus, 86, 183.
Cautharus griseus, 17.
Caprimulgus Euiopoous, 5, 38, 203.
Capros aper, 17.
Caradrina blanda, 125.

cubicuiaris, 125.

Caranx trachurus, 17.
Carcharias glaucus, 106.
CardamLne hirsuta, 237.

pratcnsis, 201, 225.

Cprdutiis elegans, 5.
Carduus arvcnsis, 193.

nutans, 193.

tenniflorus, 193.

Carex pulicaiis, 240.
Carlina vulgaris, 70, 193.
Cai-pocapsa cana, 12.

perlepidana, 12.

ulicctana, 12.

Carum carui, 114.
Carychium minimum, 87.
Catoptria Carduana, 146.

ulicetana, 146.

Ceniiojtoma scitella, 149.

Spartifoliella, 149.

Centaurca cyan us, 52.

Jacea, 46.

nigra, 191.

scabiosa, 191.

Contranthus ruber, 47.
Centrolophus pompilus, 17, 86.
Cepola rubescens, 18.
Ceraptcryx graminis, 126.
Cerastrium semidecandrum, 238.

• tetrandruni, 238.

Cere and Legs of Birds, 96.
Cerostoma xylostella, 14.
Certbia familiaris, 5, 251.
Cerura bifida, 15.

furcula, 124, 260.

viuula, 124.

Cestum A^eneris, 75, 98.
CharadriadiE, 3.
Charadrius liiaticula, 132.

• pluvialis, 6.

Charneas cespitis, 263.
Chariptera Aprilina, 127.
Choetochilus tissellus, 14.
Chcimabacche Fagella, 146.
Cheimatobia borcarca, 15.

brumaria, 15, 143.

■ dilutaria, 143.

filigrammaiia, 143.

Cbeiranthus Cheiri, 225.
Chersotis Haworthii, 15, 126.

plecta, 126.

■ porphyroa, 126,

Chffirocampa ceferio, 124.

Elpenor, 124

porcellua, 124.

Chough, see Fregilus graculus.

Chrysanthemum leucanthemum, 45.

Chrysocoris scissella, 14.

Cbrvscichauu;} pJUwusi iJ3.

Chrysospknium oppositifolium, 225.

Ciohoria Intybus, o2.

Ciconia alba, 3, 278.

Cicuta Tirosa, 114.

Cidaria Erutaria. 263.

Ciliograda, 97, 98.

Cilix spinula, 124.

Cinclus aquations, 171.

Circaea lutetiana, 195.

Circus cyancus, 5, 34.

Montagui, 19.

Cirrhigrada, 97, 99.
Clausilia nigrescens, 87.
Cleoceris 00, 263.
Clep.sis rusticana, 13, 145,
Clinopodium vulgare, 191.
Clostera reclusa, 39, 260.
Closterium acerosum, 110.
Clupea harengus, 31.

Leachii, 31.

pilchardus, 31.

Cnephasia asinana, 12.
interjcctana,

12,

Logiana, 12.

masculana, 12, 145.

obsolctana, 12.

Cobitis barbatula, 138.
Coccinella septempunctata, 234.
Coccotln-austcs chloriSj 5.

vulgans, 5.

Coccyx argyrana, 145.

Hercyniana, 145.

splendidulana, 145.

Cochineal, 2G8.
Cochlearia officinalis, 238.
Cochylis stramineana, 146.
Codium bursa, 183.
Ccelioxys Voctis, 264.
Coffea Ai-abica, 114.
Coleophora albicosta, 148.

coespititiella, 148.

eoracipcnnclla, 148.

: — deauratella, 256.

fuscedinoUa, 231.

juncicolella, 231.

Colias edusa, 20, 226, 235, 259, 204.

Hyale, 249.

Coluber chersea, 16.
Columba livia, 24, 176.
cnnas, 63.

palunibus, 5, 7, 182, 206.

• turtur, 239.

Colymbus glacialis, 5, 93, 132, 170.

septentrionalis, 170.

Comatula rosea, 30, 208.
Conger vulgaris, 32.
Conium maculatum, 114, 192.
Convallaria multiflora, 115, 116.
Convolvulus arvensis, 45, 190.
Coot, see Fulica atra.
Coracias garrula, 251.
Corallina officinalis, 88.
Coremia didymaria, 142.

fluctuaria, 142,

montanaria, 142.

munitaria, 142.

olivaria, 142.

Com Crake, see Crex pratensis.
Comus sanguinea, 269.
Corvus corax, 210.

comix, 5.

corone, 5.

frugilegus, 5, 9, 36, 85, 89, 116, 129,

266.

284

Corvus monedula, 5, 20, 64, 220, 230.
Cosmopteryx praeangusta, 149.
Coturuix vulgai-is, 7, 267.
Cottus bubalis, 17.

gobio, 17, 138.

quadricoruis, 17.

scorpius, 17.

Cotyledon umbilicus, 70.

Crab, 22.

Crambas aquilellus, 14.

culmellus, 14, 146.

— falsellus, 146.

■ hortuellus, 146,

lythargyrellus, 14, 64.

■ marguritellus, 1 46.

pascuellus, 14, 146.

perlelius, 64.

piuetellus, 14, 146.

pratullus, 14, 146.

radiellus, 14, 259.

tristellus, 146.

■ Warriiigtonellus, 64.

Crenilabrus cornubicus, 31. j

melops, 31.

rupestris, 31.

Crepis tectorum, 194.
Crex porzana, 255.

pratensis, 5, 20, 109, 201, 206.

Crithmum maritinium, 54, 71.
Crocallis etiuguaria, 141.
CuculUa chamoniillic, 128, 263.

uinbratica, 127.

Cuculus canorus, 5, 7, 19, 33, 62, 63, 84,
109, 183, 230, 238.

Indica, 83.

Curious fact, 229.
Curlew, Pigmy, 278.

Curruca atricapilla, 5, 237, 264.

cinerca, 6.

hortensis, 6.

Cuscuta Europoea, 71.
Cyclopterus lumpus, 32.
Cygnus Bewickii, 6, 63.

ferus, 6, 182.

immutabilis, 132, 170.

Cynoglossum officinale, 193.
Cyuosurus cristatus, 244.

echinatus, 71, 244.

• elegans, 244.

Cynthia Cardui, 24, 133, 228, 236, 247, 249,

253.
Cypraea pedicularis, 30.
Cyprinus auratus, 31.
Cypselus apus, 6, 7, 62, 130, 183, 205, 206,

279.
Cystopteria fragilis, 101.

Dactylis glomerata, 244.

pungens, 244.

repens, 244.

Dalbergia Sisso, 83.
Daphne laureola, 237,
Dasychira fascelina, 260.
Basypoda hirtipes, 264.
Daucus carota, 54, 193.

maiitima, 54, 71.

Deilephila Galii, 124.

lineataj 260.

Livomica, 260.

porcellus, 260.

Dentex vulgaris, 17.
Lepressaria applana, 148.
arenella, 147.

atomella, 148.

Depressaria badiella, 13.

contcrminella, 89, 148, 232.

costosa, 13, 147.

Heradeana, 148,

irrorella, 13.

liturella, 147.

Ulicetella, 147,

Dessirca, 160.

Dianthecia capsincola, 127.

— : cucubali, 127.

Dianthus Armeria, 47.
Dicrorampha Pctiverana, 146.

-; saturnana, 146.

Dictyopteryx Bergmanniana, 144.
ciliana. 13,

— contaminana, 13, 144.
Holmiana, 144.

Dionoea muscipula, 28.
Diphthera Orion, 263.
Diphyida 98, 99.
Diplotaxis murulis, 71.

• tenuifolia, 70.

Diumea Fagella, 13.
Dog, 60, 203.
Donax complanatum, 30.
Doris coccinea, 107.

depressa, 107.

diaphana, 107.

flammea, 107.

Johnstoni, 107.

IsDvis, 108.

pilosa, 107.

planata, 107.

pusilli, 107.

— — repanda, 107.

tuberculata, 107.

Doritis Apollo, 110, 133, 249.
Dosithea bisetaria. 143.

scutularia, 143.

virgularia, 143.

Doto coronatus, 108.
Double flowers, 184.
Draba vema, 201.
Draco volans, 39.
Drapernaldia nana, 39.
Drepana falcataria, 260.
Drypta eraarginata, 264.
Duck laying black eggs, 182.

Echinodermata, 72.
Echinomyia grossa, 264.
Echium vulgare, 54, 267.
Ederesa albistria, 13.

pruniella, 13.

Edinburgh, Koyal Physical Society, 38.
Egger Moth, Large, 208.
Eggs, Foreign bodies in, 9.
Elachista albifrontella, 149.

apicipunctella, 13, 149.

atra, 149.

atricomella, 149, 232.

■ consortella, 149.

• cygnipeniiella, 149.

Kilmunella, 149, 232.

luticomclla, 149.

. nigrella, 149.

— obscurella, 149.

pulchella, 149.

. llhynchosporella, 149.

Staintoni, 149.

testacella, H9, 256.

? 39, 232.

Elater obscurus, 89.
Eledone rentricosa, 106.

EUopia fasciaria, 141.
Elymus Canadensis, 64.

• hordiforinis, 64.

Embcriza cirlus, 250.

citrinella, 5, 251.

hortulana, 131, 181.

■ miliaria, 5.

schoeniclus, 5.

Emmolesia albularia, 143.

decoloraria, 143.

Eiicetaria, 143.

hydraria, 143.

Ennomos illunaria, 141.

lunaria, 141.

Entomological Hints, 207, 2'" 8.

Report of lioyal Physical Society

of Edinburgh, 231.
Entomological Society, 159, 184, 256.
Entomologist's Excursion, 245.
Eolis alba, 108.
• var. 108.

Alderi, 1, 108.

coronata, 108.

Coucliii, 1, 109.

dt-specta, 108.

exigua, 109.

• glauca, 1, 108.

• ■ olivaeea, 108.

papillosa, 108.

var. 108.

rosea, 108.

■ rufibranehialis, 108.

Ephippiphora Brunnichiana, 145.

dissimilana, 145.

scutulana, 145.

tetragonana, 145.

trigeminana, 145.

turbidana, 145.

Epilobium hirsutum, 53, 192,
montanum, 70, 194.

parviflorum, 194.

Epipactis grandiflora, 115.

latifolia, 115.

Episema caeruleocephala, 260.
Epunda lichenea, 15, 263.
Equisetum limosum, 53.
Erica cinerca 194.
Eriocephala calthella, 15.

semipurpurolla, 15.

subpurpurella, 15.

Eriogaster lanestris, 246.
Erodium cicutarium, 238.

raaritimum, 55.

Ervum hirsutum, 257.

lentoides, 257.

tetraspcrmum, 257.

vicioides, 257.

Eryngium maritimum, 54.
Erysimum allLaria, 201.
Erythaca rubecula, 206, 230, 279.
ErythriBa Centaurium, 47, 70, 195.
Esox lucius, 49.

Eubolia cervinaria, 142.

mensuraria, 142.

multistrigaria, 142.

Euchelia Jacoba;ae, 124.
Euclidia mi, 128.
Eucosmia undularia, 263.
Eudorea ambigualis, 146.

coarctata, 146.

Crata)gella, 146.

dubitalis, 14.

Grsecella, 146.

Uneoia, 14, 146.

Eudorea Pyralella, 146.

subfusea, 14.

Eumenes coarctata, 264.
Eunotia triodon, 110.
Eupatoria Agrimonia, 47.
Eupatoriuni Cannabinura, 46,
Eupajcilia ambiguana, 146.

angustana, 13, 146.

ruficiliana, 146.

Euperia trapezina, 127.
Euphorbia unygdaloides, 225.

exigua, 71.

helioscopia, 71-

Euphrasia officinalis, 47, 246.
Eupisteria carbonaria, 142.
Eupithecia abbreviaria, 143.

austeraria, 143.

Callunaria, 143.

castigaria, 143.

Centaurcaria, 143.

cognaria, 143.

elongaria, 143.

exiguaria, 143.

indigaria, 143.

linaria, 143

minutaria, 143.

• nanaria, 143.

pulchollaria, 143.

rectangularia, 143.

sohrinaria, l43.

subfulvaria, 143.

Euthemonia Russula, 15, 124.
Exapate gelatella, 39, 147, 232.

Falconidse, 3.
Falco gyrfalco, 8.

peregrinus, 5, 18, 24.

subbutco, 5.

tirmunculus, 5.

Falmouth, Fauna of, IG, 30, 106.
Fedia olitoria, 238.

Festuca ovina, 240.

pratensis, 244.

Ficaria ranunculoides, 201.

verna, 225.

Fidonia Piniaria, 141.

Field Mouse, short-tailed, 157.
Filago Germanioa, 191.
Fish, frozen, 172.

hatching, 172.

vitality of, 173.

Fissurella Noachina, 88.

Fly, inquiry as to a species of, 177.
Founiculum vulgare, 54, 70, 193.
Foreign body in Beech tree, 200.
Fowl, Barn-door, 206.
Fragaria vcsca, 225.
Fragilaria grandis, 110.
Fratercula arctica, 85, 207.
Fregilus graculus, 81, 217.
Fringilla coolobs, 5, 36, 267, 278, 27J

moiitLfi'ingillu, 5.

Fulica atra, 5.
Fuligula dangula, 5.

cristata, 5.

ferina, 5.

marila, 5.

Fungia, 23.

Fungus, gigantic, 280.

Gabble Ratchet, 169.
Gadus morrhua, 107.
Galeomma striata, 30,
Galeua vulgaris, 106.

286

Galium npariiie, 194.
cruciatum, 70, 237.

mollugo, 70, 194.

palustre, 192.

vorura, 190, 260, 269.

Giilliiiula cliloropus, 5, 35, 170.
Garrulus glamlarius, 5.
GastiTostcus aculeatus, 139,

leiurus, 17.

spinachia, 17.

■ — — — trachurus, 17.

Gastrobranchus caucus, 106.
Geaster collegens, 2-55.

lij'groinotririis, 2o5.

Gelechia Artcmcsiclla, 148.

cinerella, 148.

Cirsiolk, 39, 148, 232.

diffinis, 148.

dotleeella, 148,

gallinclla, 148.

Knockella, 148.

longicoi-nis, 39, 148, 231, 232.

mulinella, 148.

obsolctclla, 148.

seqiiax, 148.

tajiiiolella, 148.

terrella, 148.

Gomillaria loriculata, 39.

Geological changes near Glasgow, 75, 101.

Geologj- of East Lothian and Berwick, 173, 195.

Geonietra papilionaria, 141,

Gootrupes stercorarius, 201,

Geranium dissectum, 70,

Geum rivale, 201, 231.

urbanum, 231,

Glfca Yaccinii, 127.

Glasgow Nat: Hist: Soc:, 23, 39, 87, 112, 183.

Glaucium lutcum, 54.

Glechoma hederacoa, 225.

Glyphipteryx variella, 148.

Gnophos obscuraria, 142.

Gobius bipunctatus, 30.

minutus, 30,

niger, 30.

Goneijteryx Ilhamni, 208, 226, 235, 247, 249,

-_ '— Cleopatra, 249.

Goniodorus castanea, 108,

nodosa, 108.

Goose, Canada, 63.
Gortyna flavago, 125.

Petasitos, 263.

Gossvpium hci'bacteum, 27.
Gracillaria auroguttella, 39, 149, 232.

Frankella, 148.

meleagriponnclla, 15,

rufiponnella, 15.

svringella, l5, 118.

Thunbnrgella, 15.

Grapholita campoliliana, 145.
tiigi'omaculana, 145.

ucevana, 145.

Paykulliana? 145.

trimaculana, 145.

Grasses, anomalies in, 65.
Grus cinerea, 3, 238.
Gull, Black toed of Bewick, 278.
Gunnellus vulgaris, 30.
Habenaria bifolia, 114.
Hadena adusta, 127.

Brassicac, 127.

Chenopodii, 121, 127.

dentina, 127. —^

glaucu, 127. "":'__

Hadena olcracea. 127.

protea, 127.

splendens, 127.

thalassina, 127.

Haiuault Forest, a memento of, 41,
Halia Vauaria, 141.

Hare, 202.

Hareida glacialis, 184, 212.

Harpalyce achatinaria, 142.

Chcnopodiaria, 142.

fulvaria, 142.

Galiaria, 142,

immanaria, 143,

ocellaria, 142.

Populaiia, 142.

pyraliaria, 142,

ruptaria, 142.

Russaria, 143.

silacearia, 142.

suffumaria, 142.

Ilarpipteryx deutella, 14,
Hawks, 61, 109, 221.
Hodera helix, 51.
Hedysarum capitatum, 257.

caput-galli, 257,

coi-onarium, 257,

flexuosum, 257.

— Fontanesii, 257.
onobrychis, 257,

Hclcborus viridis," 237.
Helianthemum vulgare, 83.
Helices, 23.

Heliophobua Popularis, 126, 26
Helix aculeata, 87.

Camellata, 87.

concava, 40.

nemoralis, 198.

virgata, 105.

Helminthia echioidcB, 71.

Helvellvn, Botanical Scramble on, 239.

Hen, 8o, 133, 279.

Hepialus Hamuli, 124.

Lupulinus, 124.

sylvinus, 124.

Heracleum sphonchlium, 70.
Hcribeia Forsterella, 14.

Haworthaiia, 14.

Heronries, 34, 35, 63, 132, 204, 267, 278.
Heterogena asellus, 263.
Heusimene fimbriana, 145.
Hiberuia aurautiaria, 142.

defoliaria, 142.

leucophcearia, 142.

progemmaria, 142.

rupicapraria, 142.

Ilieracium alpinum, 241.
pilosella, 69, 269.

umbellatum, 70.

Hiracra peunaria, 141, 261.

Hipparcliia ^geria, 227, 230, 2 15, 247, 249.

. Blandiua, 249, 259.

Cassiope, 259.

Davus, 247.

— Galathea, 229, 235, 236.

Hvperauthus, 227, 236. 245, 219.

— Jauira, 228, 236, 247, 249,

Megcera 228, 236, 245.

Pamj.hilus, 228, 247.

Semcle, 228, 236.

Tithouus, 228, 236,

Hippocrepis ciliata, 257.

multisiliquosa, 257.

unisiliquosa. 257.

Hippoglossus vulgaris, 32.

INDEX.

287

Hippothoa divaricata, 184.

Hirudo, 139.

Hirundines at Minehead, 182.

Hirundo riparia, 5, 6, 130, 182, 201, 236, 238,

rustica, 6, 19, 20, 62, 84, 130, 132,

157, 182, 183, 205, 230, 238, 251.
urbica, 182, 183, 237, 280.

Holcus laniitus, 70, 244.

mollis, 244.

Iloloptychius Hibberti, 40.
Ilordeum crinitum, 244.

maritimuin, 244.

muriiium, 190, 244.

H3"dra3cia loucostigma, 125.
micacea, 125.

— '■ iiictitan8, 125.
— petasites, 15, 125.

Hydrocampa Nymphfealia, 128.

Potomogalis, 128.

Hylophila prasinana, 11.
Hypeiia crassalis, 263.

proboscidalis, 128.

Hypeiicum Androssemura, 47.

hirsutum, 47.

humifusum, 46, 70.

linariifolium, 194.

perforatum, 70, 194.

quadrangulum, 191.

Hypnum alopecurum, 237.

cupressiforme, 50.

dendi-oidcs, 237.

horiium, 237.

rutabulum, 50.

squarrosum, 50, 237.

Hypochifiris radicata, 70.

Ibis falcinellus, 19.

Ichneumon flies attacking Pupae, 68.

Ichneumons, 40, 134, 154.

Iguana tuberculata, 270.

Incurvaria masculella, 14, 231.

Insect, a new, Parasite on Sycamore, 265.

Insects, killing for the Cabinet, 40, 88.

lona, notes on birds of, 78, 212.

Iris foetidissima, 256.

Jackdaw, 64, 172.

Jottings, Local, 48, 82, 138, 209, 232, 266.

Juncus effusus, 241.

lampocarpus, 192.

Jungermania bicuspidata, 50.

• Tamarisci, 50.

Kellia rubra, 87, 88.
Kestrel and Mi.igel Thrush, 181.
Kingfisher's nest, 181.
Koniga maritimaj 71.

Labrax lupus, 16.
Labrus bergylta, 30.

trimaculatus, 31.

variegatus, 31.

Lacerta agilis, 16.

anguiformis, 16.

^dura, 16.

stirpium, 16.

LamcUaria tentaculata, 88.
Lamium album, 201, 225.

purpureum, 225.

Lampronia corticella, 14.

-^ luzella, 14, 263.

- — ■ preelatella, 14.

purpurella, 14.

I^and Shells, growth of, 105.

Lanius borealis, 239,
Laomcdea dichotoma, 39.

gelatinosa, 39.

Lapsana connnunis, 194,

liflpwing, 173.

Lark's Eggs in stomach of Hawk, 19.

Larus canus, 6.

fuscus, 207."

leucopterus, 132.

marinus, 6.

minutus, 19.

ridibundus, 5.

tridactylus, 24.

Lasiocampa Quercus, 15, 124.

_ Eubi, 15, 124.

Trifolii, 263.

Lastrea filix-mas, 51, 101.

— ' spinulosa, 101,

Lathyrus aphaca, 257.

cicera, 257.

-^ clymenus, 267.

maritimus, 54.

ochrus, 257.

sativus, 257.

sylvestris, 257.

Leaf, anatomy of, 25.
Leontodon taraxacum, 201, 223.
Leonurus cardiaca, 195.
Lepidocera Birdella, 14.
Lepidogaster bimaculatus, 32.

— Cornubieusis, 32.

Lcpidoptera, captures of, 263.

Diurnal of Sussex, 226.

of Midlothian, 121, 141.

of West of Scotland and Fifeshire,

10, 259.
Leptogramma littorana, 144.
Leptus autumnalis, 55.
Lepus cuuiculus, 18,

timidus, 18.

Leniaja, 23.

Letters of an Ornithologist, 161,

Ijcucania comigera 125.

impura, 125.

littoraUs, 15, 263.

lythargyria, 125.

pallens, 125.

Leuciscus phoxinus, 48, 49.

— vulgaris, 48.

Leuoophasia Sinapis, 227, 235, 236, 249,

Lichiuia pygmjea, 87.

Ligustrum vulgare, 71, 193.

Lima fragilis, 30.

Limnoeus truncatulus, 87.

Limnoria terebrans, 88.

Limosa rufa, 129, 206.

Linaria Elatine, 71,

spuria, 236,

supina, 70.

vulgaris, 46, 191,

Lincolnshire, oniithology of, 3.
Linota cannabina, 5, 62,

linaria, 5,

moutium, 140.

Linum angustifolium, 45, 52, 71.
Liparis Montagui, 32,
Listera nidus-avis, 1.14.

ovata, 114,

LithocoUetis Alnifoliclla, 149.

Fagiuella, 149.

Ni(«llii, 231.

. Pomifoliella, 149.

Pomonella, 149.

Quercifoliella, 14, 149.

288

LithocoUetis Ulmifoliella, U, 149.

? 231.

Lithodus Maia, 183,
Lithosia depressa, 159.
hfilveola, 159.

mesomella, 15.

quadra, 263.

rubricoUis, 124.

Lithospermum officinale, 47.
Loligo media, 107.

sagittata, 107.

vulgaris, 107.

Lolium perenne, 244.

• temulentum, 244.

Lomaria spicant, 51, 100, 101.
Lonicera periclymenum, 51, 194.
Lophius piscatorius, 30.
Lophoderus ministranus, 12.
Loricaria cataphracta, 31.
Lota niolva, 31.
Lotus Conimbricensis, 257.

creticus, 257.

edulis, 257.

major, 195.

ornithopodioides, 257.

tetragonolobus, 257.

Loxia curvirostra, 5.
Lozopera Smeathmanniana, 13.

straminea, 13.

Lozotsenia heparana, 11, 64.

Holimana, 12.

■ la3vigana, 11.

ribeana, 11, 64.

■ rosana, 11.

■ xylosteana, 11.

Lucanus Cervus, 246.
Luperiua basilinoa, 125,

furva, 125.

■ infesta, 125.

. testaeea, 125.

Lupeniia albicolon, 15.
Lupinus aiigustifolius, 257.

hirsutus, 257.

luteus, 257.

Lutra vulgaris, 172, 278.
Lutraria elliptica, 30.

oblonga, 30.

Luzula campestris, 237.

sj'lvatica, 50.

Lychnis dioica, 225.

vespertina, 70.

Lyccena Chryscis, 249.

— phteas, 15, 133, 228, 236, 247.

Lycopodium clavatum, 240.

selaginoides, 240.

. selago, 240.

Lyonetia Clerkella, 149.
Lynn, llaro Birds near, 170.
Lythrum salicaria, 192,

Macaria lituraria, 141.

notataria, 263.

Maerochila bicostella, 13.

Macroglossa stellatarum, 124, 246, 260.

Mactra glauca, 30.

Maigre, Occurrence of, 153.
Malva moscliata, 46, 193.

sylvestris, 270.

Mancipium Cardamines, see Pontia Cardamines.
Mangofera Indica, 83.
Mania maura, 128.
Marine animals, 72, 273.

Worms, Fossil, 130.

Martin, House, 172. see also Hirundo rustica.

Mastigocerca carinata, 110.
Mastodon, 22.
Medicago Arabica, 258.
echinus, 258.

helix, 258.

intertexta, 258.

minima, 258.

orbicularis, 258.

sativa, 71, 258.

scutellata, 258.

tribuloida, 258.

turbinata, 258.

Medusa rhizostoma, 75.
Medusae, 74.
Megalichthys, 40.
Melanippe Alchemillaria, 143.

tristaria, 143.

Melia Azedarachta, 83.
Meliea aspera, 244.

-^ ciliata, 244.

uniflora, 51.

Melilontha vulgaris, 89.
Melilotus Cretica, 258.

Italica, 258.

" Messanensis, 258.

officinalis, 47, 71, 258.

parviflora, 258.

sulcata, 258.

Melitaja, Artemis, 236, 259.

Athalia, 263.

Ciu.'^ia, 235, 236, 259.

Euphrosyne, 227, 236.

Mentha, 269.

Mercurialis perennis, 225.

Mergulus alle, 24, 63.

Merlangus carbonarius, 23, 31, 153.

pollacliius, 31.

— virens, 31.

vulgaris, 31.

Merlucius vulgaris, 31.
Merops apiaster, 204.

Merula vulgaris, see Turdus merula.
Mespilus Oxyacautha, 201.
Metopsilus Nerii, 230.
Metrocanipa margaritai'ia, 141.
Miana arenosa, 125.

fasciuncula, 125.

literosa, 125.

strigilis, 125.

Microglcna monadina, 110.
Microlepidoptera, 64.
Micropteryx semipurpurella, 147.

seppella, 147.

subpurpurella, 147.

Microscopic Examination of Penthaleus Capida

rius, 55.
Microsetia exiguella, 14.

Gleichclla, 231.

Milium coerulescens, 244.

effusum, 51.

multiflorum, 244.

paradoxum, 244.

Milvus vulgaris, 7.
Mimosa pudica, 28.
Miselia Oxyacanthse, 127.
Misseltoe, 64, 158, 183, 280.
Mixodia palustrana, 231.

Schulziana, 144.

Modiola discors, 88.

discrepans, 88.

Mollusca, 1, 106.
Momordica monadolpha, 84,
Monochirus linguatulus, 32.
2.l.Ju-"Achus Pseudacori, 256.

Montacuta 'bidentata, 112.
Moorhen, 172.
Mon-hua, lusca, 31.

— minuta, 31.

• (Eglefinus), 31.

vulgaris, 17, 31.

Motacilla boarula, 6.

■ flava, 6.

Yarrellii, 6, 20.

Motella cimbria, 31.

glauca, 31.

quinquecirrata, 31.

■ tricirratus, 31.

Mouse, diving, ISO.
Mucor mucedo, 65.
Mugil capito, 18.

■ chelo, 18.

Mula conyza, 193.
Mullus barbatus, 16.

surmuletus, 16,

Muscicapa atricapilla, 239.

grisola, 278.

Mus decumanus, 60, 83, 157.

• intermedins, 34.

• rattus, 83, 264.

Mustelus loDvis, 106.
Mutilla Europoea, 264.
Myosotis arvensis, 269.

coespitosa, 240^

■ collina, 225.

paiustris, 191, 240.

repens, 240.

Mythimna Turca, 263.
MytUua, 274.

Nsenia typica, 128.

Nanina vatrinoides, 88.

Narcissus pseudo-nai'cissus, 201, 224.

Nassa reticulata, 112.

Natrix torquata, 16, 233.

Naucrates ductor, 17.

Nautilus, 75, 274.

Navicula Phoenicentcrum, 110.

Nematopogon Schwarziellus, 147.

Nemeobius Lucina, 236.

Nemotois niinimellus, 147. 232.

? 39.

Nephrops Norvegicus, 183, 208.
Nepticula argjTopeza, 231.

■ gratiosella, 149.

ruficapitella, 149.

Ncrita litoralis, 30.

Nests of Birds in August, 267.
Noctua baia, 126.

bella, 126.

brunnea, 126.

cataleuca 260.

c-nigrum, 126.

Datilii 126.

dentina, 260.

festiva, 126.

Hebraica, 126.

Menyanthedis, 260.

putris, 260.

renigera, 260.

ruticilla, 263.

umbrosa, 126.

Nonagria fulva, 125.

Note Book, gleanings from my. 172, 267.
Notes on Conglomerate etc., of Westmorland

and Cumberland, 276.
Notodonta Camelina, 121, 124

dictoea, 125.

VOL. IL

Notodonta dromodarius, 125.

Nudaria mundana, 124.

Nuphar lutea, 24, 88, 136, 158, 208.

Nvcticorax Gardenii, 3.

NymphiBa alba, 24, 88, 208.

Obituary. 232.

Ochsenlieimeria vacculella, 147, 232.
Octopus vulgaris, 107.
Odezia Choerophyllaria, 144.
Odinerus spinipcs, 264.
Odonestis potatoria, 246, 280.
Odontopcra bidentaria, 141.
Qichmia Fischeriella, 148.

Thrasonella, 148.

CEcophora Curtisella, 147.

flavomaculella, 13, 232.

— fuscescens, 147.

— fuscocaprea, 147.

lactella, 147.

Lewenhockella, 147, 231.

quadripunctella, 147, 231.

— sulphurella, 13, 147.

ffidicncnius crepitans, 3.

ffinanthe crocata, 114.

Oran, Flora of the meadows of, 243, 267.

ffistrus, 178.

Oidemia nigra, 20.

Olindia Ulmana, 145, 232.

Ononis, 258.

antiquorum, 70.

arvensis, 45, 70.

Ophioglossum vulgatum', 101.
Ophris apifera, 47.

muscifera, 115. J

Orchis mascula, 225.
Orgyia antiqua, 124.

■ — v-nigrum, 158.

Origanum vulgare, 70, 191.
Ornithological notes, 6, 128.

ramble, 214.

Ornithologist, Letters of an, 161.
Ornithopus compressus, 25S.

ebracteatus, 258.

sativus, 258.

scorpioides, 258.

Omix Anglicella, 149.

torquilclla ? 39, 149, 232. .

Orohus atropurpurcus, 258.

tuberosus, 201.

Orthagoiiscus mola, 32, 280.

truncatus, 280.

Orthosia congener, 127.

gracilis, 261.

Lcta, 127.

macilenta, 260.

rubricosa, 260.

Orthotajlia Sparganiella, 147.
Orthotaenia antiquana, 13, 64, 145.

Bentleyana, 13.

comitana, 13,

Osmunda regalis, 101.
Otis M'Queenii, 89.

tarda, 3, 33, 60.

tctrax, 229.

Otus vulgaris, 5.
Ourapteryx Sambucaria, 141.
Oxalis acetosella, 201. >

Oxyria renifoimis, 240, 212.

Paecilophasia marginaria, 144,
Pagellus centrodontus, 17.

erythrinus, 17.

Pagrus vulgaris, 17.

3 P

990

Tasinis, 266.

Pumphila linca, 123, 236.

sylvanus, 123.

Pamplusia subsequana, 145.
PaucUon haliKtus, 6.
Pandora ineq^uivalvis, 30.
Panicum caiiuuim, 244.

dactylon, 244.

Papaver hybridum, 71.

RliPeas, 70, 270.

Papilio Cardaminos, sec Pontia Cavdamiiics.

JSIaehaoii, 226, 249.

Podulirius, 249.

Pardia tripunctaiia, 144.

Parietaria officinalis, 70.

Paris quadrifolia, llo.

Parmclia parietina, 51.

Pamassius Apollo, see Doritis Apollo.

Parus ater, 6.

cteruleus, 6, 182, 2ol, 267.

caudatus, 6.

major, 6, 267.

— — palustris, 6.

Passer domesticus, 6, 36, 89, 182, 267, 278.

montamis, 6.

Passeres arborei, 221.

— doniestici, 221.

Pastinaca sativa, 71.
Pastor roseus, 19.
Patella testudinalis, 88.
Pattern designs, &c., 207.
Pedinus femoralis, 264.
Pelius Berus, 86.
Pempelia carbonariella, 146.

■ dilutella, 146.

Penieilium glaucum, tio, 67, 68.

crustaceuiii, 65.

Penthaleus capidarius, 55.
Penthina Cynosbana, 144.

Picana, 232.

pruniana, 144.

P(>rdix cincrea, 5, 278.
Pernis apivorus, 170, 185.
Pcronea Abildgaardana, 144.

asperana, 12, 144.

Caledoniana, 144.

— comparana, 144.

• — favillaceana, 144.

ferrugana, 144.

mixtana, 144, 232.

Schalleriana, 12, 144.

tristana, 12.

Petasites vulgaris, 145.
Petromyzon fluviatilis, 49.
Phaca bcetica, 258.
Pha)nicura ruticilla, 20, 237.

tithys, 35.

Plisesyle ca?siaria, 143.

miaria, 143

Phalacrocorax graculus, 251.
Phalaina raargaritella, 259.
Phalaris aquatiea, 244.

canariensis, 244.

nodosa. 244.

paradoxa, 244.

Phalaropus hyperboreus, 62.
Phallus inipudicus, 255.
Phasiane palumbaria, 142.
Phasianus Colchicus, 6, 182,
Phibalaptcryx lignaria, 143.
Phignlia pilosaria, 142.
Philalcea bilunana, 12.

• fimbriana, 12,

Mitterbaclieriana, 12.

Philalcea nigromaculana, 12.

subocellana, 12.

Philedonc Gerningiana, 12.
Pliilomela luscinia, 183, 206, 267,
Philopyra Tragopoginis, 128.
I'lileum prateuse, 245,
Plilogophora nieticulosa, 127.
Pholas crispata, 88.
Phoxopteryx Lundana, 145.

unguicana, 145, 231.

Phragmatobia' fuliginosa, 124.

lubriripeda, 124.

Menthi-astri, 124.

Phycita fusca, 14.

ncbulella, 14.

obtusa, 15.

palumbella, 15,

Phyllophora testudinacca, 265.
Pliysalia pelagica, 75,
I'h'ysiograda, 97, 98,
Physis I'urcatus, 31.
Pica caudata, 5, 109.
Picus viridis, 6, 226, 246.
Pieris Brassica), 123, 178, 179, 180, 2li7, 235.
247.

Clariclea, 178, 179, 180.

Cratoegi, 227, 249.

Metra, 227.

Napi, 123, 227, 235, 247.

KapiB, 123, 201, 227, 235, 247.

Sabcllica;, 227.

Pigeon, 62, 63, 130, 278.
Pike, 252.

Pinna, 274.
Pionuea forficalis, 128,
Piscum sativum, 258.
Plantago coronopus, 54.

— maritiraa, 54,

Plants, Table of, 158.
Plastenis subtusa, 261.
Platalea leucorodia, 3, 84.
Platessa flcsus, 32.

liinanda, 32.

■ limandoides, 32.

niicrocephala, 32,

• — pola, 32.

■ vulgaris, 32.

Platygaster tipulaj, 156.
Platypteryx lacertula, 15.
Plectrophanes nivalis, 7.

Plotus ? 171.

Plumularia falcata, 39.
Plusia bractea, 15, 121, 128.

chrysitis, 128.

Festucse, 128.

Gamma, 128, 247.

insctripta, 128.

Iota, 128.

Plutella crucifcrarum, 122, 147.

DalcUa, 147, 231.

fissella, 147.

harpella, 147.

maculipennis, 147,

porrectella, 147.

vitella, 147.

Poa annua, 245.

— bulbosa, 245,

— corapressa, 51.

— distans, 245.

— divarieata, 245.

— festucceformis, 245.

— pratensis, 70.

— rigida, 245.
Podiceps coruutus, 5.

291

Podlccps crista(.u8j 5, 237.
minor, 6, 170.

rubricoUis, 35, 63, 84.

Podurae, 160.

I'occilochronia communana, 12.

— Solaudriana, 12.

■ trapezaiia, 12.

Poedisca cortieana, 145.

occultaua, 145.

■ Solandriana, 145.

sordidana, 145.

Polia ad vena, 122.

Chi, 127.

Polycera occulta, 108.

var:, 108.

Polygala vulgaris, 47.
Pohgonum aviculare, 71, 191.

convolvulus, 71.

Polyommatus Adonis, 228, 236, 249.

■ agcstis, 121,

Alexis, 123, 228.

Alsus, 123.

Argiolus, 236.

Argus, 236, 247.

— Artaxerxes. 123.

Cofydon, 236, 249.

(Egon, 121, 123.

Polypodium dryopteris, 101.

vulgare, 50, 101.

Polypogon maritimuni, 245.

monspelliense, 245.

Polystichum lobatuni, 101.
Polytrichum commune, 237.
Pontia, see Pieris.

Porbeagle Shark, Anatomy of, 150.
Porreetaria gallip(!nnella, 14.

otidipennella. 14.

Porthesia chrysorrhoca, 248.

Potentilla fragariastrum, 201, 202, 225.

reptans, 71.

tormentilla, 231,

Poterium sanguisorba, 269,

Preserving fluid for microscopic objects, 160.

Priapulus, 184.

Primula veris, 201.

vulgaris, 133, 201, 223.

Prunella vulgaris, 45.

Pruuus spinosa, 201, 225.
Psammobia s.trigilata, 30.
Pseudotomia atromargana, 12..

aurana, 12.

Petiverella, 12,

plumbagana, 12.

Psilura monacha, 263.
Pteris aquilina, 100.
Pterophorus bipunetidactylus, 149.
fuscodactylus, 15.

• ochrodactyliis, 149, 263.

pentadactylus, 15.

■ pterodactylus, 149.

■ — — tetradactylus, 15, 149.

. trigonodactylus, 149.

Ptycholoma Lecheana, 144.
Pulicaria dvsentorioa, 71.
Pulmonigra'da, 97, 98, 99.
Pupa umbilicata, 87.
Purpura lapillus, 112.
Pygoura Bucephala, 121, 125.
Pyralis farinalis, 128.
Pyrausta cespitalis, 128.
■ cingulalis, 128.

ostrinaliti, 128.

pm-purulLs, 232.

Pyrethrum inodorum, 194.

Parthenium, 191.

Pyrodes lihocdiana, 146.
Pyrrhula vulgaris, 85, 206,

Querist, 24, 40, 88, 112, 136, IGD. 184, 208,
232, 256.

Rabbit, 250.
llaia batis, 106.

clavata, 106.

miraletus, 106.

mucronata, 106.

oxyrhynchus, 106.

■ spinosa, 106,

Eallus aquaticus, 5.

llamble on the Railway, &c., 45.
Kana tempoi'aria, 16, 139,
Ranunculus auricomus, 201.

bulbosus, 201.

ficaria, 225.

■ flammula, 192,

Rat, 83.

— Black, 83.

Raven, see Corvus corax,
Recurvirostra avocctta, 5, 128.
Reed Warbler, 250.
Regulus cristatus, 6.
Reptilia, 16.
Reseda lutea, 48, 70.

luteola, 71, 190, 269,

Reviews: —

Botanv, Class Book of, 158.
Popular Field, 111.

Entomology, Popular British, 136.

Flora Tottoniensis, 134.

Fly-fishing, Vade-Mecum of, 36.

Kidd's London Journal, 37.

Portshead, Natural History of, 254.

Water, Drops of, 135.
Rhinanthus crista-galli, 70.
Rhizostoma, 98.
Rhodaria sanguinalis, 15.
Rhombus arnoglossus, 32.
hirtus, 32, 134.

maximus, 32.

megastoma, 32,

punctatus, 32.

vulgaris, 32.

Rissoa costata, 112.

Roeilerstammia pyma;ana, 39, 148, 231, 232,

256.
Rook, 85, 89, 116, 266,
Rookery, 250,
Rosa canina, 70, 194.
Rotifer vulgaris, 110,
Rubia tinctoria, 114,
Rubus csesius, 52.

frutieosus, 52, 194.

Rumia Cratajgaria, 141.

Euscus aculeatus, 52. ,

Rusina tenebrosa, 126.

Sagittaria sagittlfolia, 269.
Salicaria aruudinarea, 6, 33.

phragmitis, 46.

Salmo fario, 31, 48.

salar, 31.

trutta, 31.

Salvia verbenaca, 70, 192.
Samolus valerandi, 71.
Sandoriing, 278.
Sanguisorba officinalis, 52.
Sanicula Europcua, 111.

292

TXDEX.

Satumia Carpini, or Pavonia-minor, 124, 134.
Satyrus jEgeria, 123.

■ Hyperauthus, 123.

Janira, 123.

Megoera, 121, 123.

— Pamphilus, 123.

Semele, 123.

Saxicola cenanthc, 6.

rubetra, 5, 234.

rubicola, 5, 234.

Saxifraga uizoidcs, 240.

— granulata, 201.

'— fiypiioides, 240.

oppositifolia, 242.

stellaris, 240.

tridactylitos, 238.

umbi'osa, 47.

Scabiosa arvensis, 191.

succisa, 46, 269.

Sealaria communis, 88.
Seiaphila bellana, 14o.

• octomaculana, 145.

subjectana, 145.

• Virgaureaiia, 145.

Scia?na aquila, 153.
Scoliopteryx libatrix, 127.
Scolopax gallinago, 6, 132.

gallinula, 6.

major, 129.

rusticola, 6, 49, 181.

Seolopendra elcctrica, 22.
Scolopendrium vulgare, 110.
Scomber colias, 17.

scomber, 17.

Scombcresox saurus, 31.
Scopelosoma satellitia, 127.
Scopula etialis, 128.
Scorpiurus mmicata, 258.

sulcata, 258.

vermiculata, 258.

Scrophularia nodosa, 46, 190.
Scyllaja pclagica, 108.
Scy Ilium canicula, 106.

— catulus, 106.

melanostomum, 106.

Sea-nettles, 74, 97.
Sedum acre, 69, 240.

Anglicum, 70. 195, 240.

reflexum, 70, 193.

Segetia xanthographa, 126.
Semaphora Psi, 125.
Semasia Wcebenina, 145.
Semiophora gothica, 59.
Semioscopis Avellanella, 263.
Senebiera coronopus, 71.

— didyma, 71, 194.

Senecio aquaticus, 191.

Jacobaja, 194, 269.

sylvaticus, 192.

Sepia officinalis, 107.
Sepiola Roudeletii, 107.
Sericomyia, 178.
Sericoris antiquana, 184.

cespitana, 144.

lacunaiia, 144.

micana, 12, 144.

■ 4-maculana, 12, 64.

subsequaua, 12.

■ urticana, 12.

SeiTanus cabrilla, 16.

Coucbii, 16.

Sei-tularia, 39.
Sileuc acaulis, 241.
■ iuflata, 46.

Silene maritima, 238,
Simaethis Fabriciana, 146.
Sitta EuropoDa, 250, 264.
Skua, Kicbardson's, 278.
Smerinthus Populi, 124.

Tilia;, 121, 124.

Solanum nigrum, 54.
Solea pegusa, 32.

variegata, 32.

vulgaris, 32.

Soleu ensis, 30.

pellucida, 30.

• vagina, 30.

Solidago virgaurea, 269.
Sonchus arvensis, 71, 192.

oleraceus, 194.

Sorex remifer, 264.

Southampton, Natural History of, 234,

Sow killed by Adder, 202.

Spaniel, 59.

and Duck, 180.

Sparganium ramosum, 46, 191.
Spartium scoparium, 201.
Sphenopteris affinis, 40. .
Sphinx Atropos, 255.

Couvolvuli, 122, 124,

Ligustri, 121, 124,

■ — -_ Pinastri, 124.

Spilonota comitana, 144.

• ■ cynosbatella, 12.

■ neglectana, 144.
sticticana, 12.

Stroemiana, 12.

— ; • suffusana, 144.

Spilosoma lubricipeda, 121.

■ radiata, 208.

Spiroea Ulmaria, 195.
Spirula Australis, 107.
Spoelotis augur, 122, 126.

■ — cataleuca, 126.

pyrophila, 122, 126.

ravida, 122, 126.

Spring Flowers, 201, 222, 237,
Squalus coniubicus, 150.

— galeus, 256.

spinosus, 106.

Squatina angelus, 106.
Squirrel, 109.
Stachys arvensis, 184.

sylvatica, 195, 269.

Statice armeria, 238.
StegauDlophia ribesiaria, 142,
Steganoptycha retusana, 12.
Stellaria holostea, 201, 225,

glauca, 192.

■ graminea, 70,

media, 225.

uliginosa 192.

Stoma Boysii, 24, 170.

Cajpia, 128.

hirundo, 6,

nigra, 38.

Stigmonota perlcpidana, 146.

redimitauu, 231,

Stipa barbata, 245.

juncea, 245.

Lagascie, 245.

parvittora, 245.

tenacissima, 245.

■ tortilis, 245.

Strix brachyotos, 141.

flammea, 61, 131.

Stroll tlu-ough a Beech "Wood, 113.
Sturgeon, Broad-nosed, 207.

293

Stumus vulgaris, 6, 20, 204, 205.
Swallows, 172, 229, 279.
Swan, Bewick's 63.
Switzerland, Insects taken in, 248.
Sygnutlius acus, 32.

sequoreus, 32.

anguineus, 32.

lurabriciformis, 32.

ophidion, 32.

Typhle, 32.

Sylvia hippolaia, 5, 204, 237.

rubecula, see Erytliaca rubccula,

sylvicola, 278.

trocliilus, 6.

Symphytum officinale, 269»
Syrnium stridula, 5.

Tabanus, 178.
Tajniocampa gothica, 126.

instabilis, 127.

stabilis, 127.

Tal-deporia inconspicuella, 263.

lichenella, 231.

? 147.

Talpa vulgaris, 2, 219.
Tamus communis, 70.
Tanacotum vulgare, 269.
Tees Mouth, Kare Birds at, 278.
Telea coesiella 13.

Curtisella, 13.

lutarella, 13.

Tellina crassa, 30.
Teras caudana, 144.

effractana, 13, 144.

emargana, 13.

Terebratula;, 40.
Tetrao tetrix, 170.
Teucrium scorodonia, 194, 269.
Tlialassidroma pelagica, 62, 79,
Thalictrum alpinum, 241.
Thecacera pennigera, 108.
Thecla Quercus, 235, 236.

Enbi, 228, 23-5, 236.

W-album, 236.

Thera Armaria, 142.

simulaiia, 142.

Thlaspi bui'sa-pastoris, 225.
Thymele alveolus, 236.

Thymus serpyllum, 48, 193, 242, 269.
Timarcha tenebricosa. 226.
Tinea caDsiella, 147.

cloacella, 147.

comptella, 147.

elegantella, 263.

• — — ganomella, 147.
granella, 147.

masculella, 147.

parasitella, 14.

pcUionella, 147.

prselatella, 231.

Eiganella, 263.

■ ■ rusticella, 147.

■ scmifulvella, 147.
tapetiella, 147.

ustclla, 14.

Toad, 16, 21, 185, 254.
Tobianus lancea, 29.
Torilis anthriscus, 71.

nodosa, 193.

Torpedo nobiliana, 106.
Tortricodes hycinana, 146.
Tortri.x Galiana, 11.

heparana, 14 i.

icterana, 144.

Tortrix pallcana, 11.

Kibeaua, 144.

llosana, 144.

spectrana, 144.

Vibumana, 11, 144,

viridana, 11, 144.

xj'losteana, 144.

Totanus calidris, 19.

fuscus, 19, 170.

glottis, 19.

hypoleacos, 6.

ochropus, 6.

Trachuius draco, 16.

vipera, 16.

Tremella nostic, 65.
Trichiosoma lucorum, 157.
Trichodina tentaculata, 110.
Trifolium elegans, 258.

glomeratum, 258.

incamatum, 258.

isthmocarpum, 258.

maritiraum, 64.

pratense, 258.

procumbens, 258.

resupinatum, 258.

spumosum. 258.

Trifurcula immundella, 231.
Trigla Blochii, 17.

cuculus, 17.

■ gumardus, 17. .

hirundo, 17.

lineata, 17.

lyra, 17.

Trigonella, 258.
Triuga mai-itima, 24.
Triopa clavigera, 108.
Triphaena fimbria, 126, 261.
janthina, 126.

orbona, 126.

^ pronuba, 126.

Triphosa dubitaria, 143.
Trisetum flavescens, 71.
Triticum cacspitosum, 245.

ciliatum, 245.

junceum, 245.

repens, 70, 245.

Triton Bibronii, 16.
oristatus, 139.

• palmipes, 16.

palustris, 16.

• punctatus, 16.

Tritonia Hombergii, 108.
Trochilium sphegiformis, 15.
Trochus crassus, 30.

exiguus, 30.

magus, 30.

tumidus, 30.

Troglodytes Europoous, 6, 279.
Truncatella Montagui, 112.
Trycheris mediana, 146.
Turbo clathratulus, 30.

clathrus, 30.

■ elegantissimus, 30.

- — Turtonis, 30.
Turdus iliacus, 5.

morula, 5, 20, 36, 64, 84, 90, 132,

201, 223, 238, 267, 279.

musicus, 6, 216, 223, 267.

pilaris, 5, 83, 85, 183.

torquatus, 35.

■ viscivorus, 6, 85, 216.

Turkev, 85.

Turnstone, 278.
i Turritella terebra, 208.

294

INDBX,

Turtur risorius, 137.

Tussilago farfara, 140, 145, 201, 225.

• • petasites, 237, 263.

TJnio Mississipensis, 183.

Upupa cpops, 82, 131, 181, 230, 238. 250.

Uvaria loiigifolia, 84.

Vacciniuni myrtillus, 50, 91. 237.

Vitis-idcea, 91,

Valeriana dioioa, 47.

officinalis, 195.

Vallisneria spiralis, 110.
Vanellus cristatus, 6, 33, 201.
Vanessa Antiopa, 24, 133, 252, 256.

Atalauta, 123, 229, 235, 236, 247, 259.

C-album, 121, 123, 249, 252.

Cardui, 123.

lo, 20, 123, 133, 228, 236, 252.

■ polvchloros, 228, 236, 253.

Urtica), 123, 201, 228, 236, 247, 253.

Velutina loevigata, 88.

Venus aurea, 30.

chione, 30.

' ■ decussata, 30.

fasciata, 30.

Sarniensis, 30.

— ; — verrucosa, 30.

Verbascuin blattaria, 54, 192,

nigrum, 47.

— Thapsus, 47, 70, 192.

virgatum. 192, 193.

Verbena officinalis, 53, 192.
Veronica Chamsedrys, 201,

liederifolia, 225.

officinalis, 70.

Vespa crabro, 39.
Vespertilio cmarginatus, 34.
Vicia atropurpurca, 258.

bifoha, 258.

Eithynica, 258.

hirsuta, 70.

■ hybrida, 258.

lutea, 258.

Vicia Narbonensis, 258.

polyphylla, 258.

. sativa, 258.

sepium, 201.

Vinca major, 237,

minor, 237.

Vinegar Plant, Microscopic History of, 65,
Viola canina, 201, 224, 237.

hirta, 224.

lutoa, 201.

- — odorata, 201, 224, 237.
Viper communis, 16.
Viscum album, 20, 36, 64, 1.34, 158, 183, 280,

Wax win p:, Bohemian, 63,
Wicken Fen, 140, 184.
Winter Birds, Arrival of, 205.
Wort, Origin of, 136, 160.
Wren, Fire-crested, 230.

Xanthia cerago, 127.

citrago, 121.

ferruginea, 127,

Xanthosetia divcrsana, 13.

hamana, 146.

zoegana, 13,

Xyloma acerina, 50.
Xjlophaga dorsalis, 88.
Xylophasia lythoxylea, 126,

polyodon, 126.

rurea, 125,

Yorkshire Naturalists' Club, 208, 255.
Tponomeuta Evonymella, 147.

malivorella, 64, 147.

padella, 13, 64.

Ypsipetes elutaria, 143.

— impkiviaria, 143.

Yunx torquilla, 131,

Zclleria faseiapennella, 148, 232.
Zereno rubiginaria, 143, 261.
Zeus fabcr, 17.
Zygena Filipenduloe, 249.

LIST OF CONTEIBUTORS.

Adams, Mrs. 264.

Alington, He v. 11. P., 3.

Baikie, W. B., M. 1)., 207.

Balshaw, W. D., Jun., 234.

Banker, J., 132,

Bartlett, Rev. J. P., 202, 204,

Beadles, H., 157,

Bolton, 11., 105.

Bombyx Atlas, 24, 40, 133, 178, 252, 280.

Bond, W., 18, 20.

Burton, F. M., 22, 133, 134, 181,

C. A. J., 251.

Calvert, R., 132.

Carter, S. H., 36, 85.

Catlow, Miss A., 113, 137, 205.

M., 226.

Clarke, G. B., 18, 36, 182, 204, 205.

Clogg, S., 109.

C. M. 0., 83, 133.

CDbbold, T. S., M. D., 25, .55, 1,50.

Cocks, W. P., 1, 16, 30, 34, 35, 106, 230, 280.

Cooper, J., 19, 35.

Rev. W. W., 256.

Creed, H. K., 2, 35.

Curtlcr, M., 109, 157, 180, 181, 202.

Dale, J. C, F. L. S., 177,

Daniel, H. S., 219.

D'Arcy, F. H., 84.

Davies, J. B , 2, 49, 64, 65, 202, 239

Dew, C, 181.

Dixon, J., 84, 86, 130, 132, 168, 169, 278.

Donaldson, G., 251.

Duguid, A. R., M. D., 153.

Eblana, 131, 205.

Editorial remarks, 109, 133, 204, 254

Edleston, R. S., 15, 263.

E. K. B , 217.

E. M., 180.

E. R, B., 181.

Falconer, D. M., 34.

R. W., M. D., IGO, 208,

Faulkner, C, 21.

Ferguson, D., 24, 62, 86, 134, 206,

T., 204.

W., 75, 101,

Fernie, T. P., 265.
Ferris, H., 35, 214.
Flint, J., 109.

Eraser, J. P., 173, 195, 251.

Garland, J., 20, 48, 82, 133, 138, 230, 233,

251, 266, 280.
Gatcombe, J., 33, 85, 131, 136.

295

Gifford, Miss I., 160.

Capt., 182.

Graham, H. D., 78, 161, 212.
Grantham, G., 33.
Gray, J., 10, o8, 259.

— ^ 11., 78, 161, 278.

W., 160.

W. B., 63.

Hainiaford, S., Jun., 45, 51, 60, 61, 62, 85,

136, 157, 158, 222, 230, 237.
Harper, J. 0., 128, 132, 252.
H(!ath, ^y. M., 206.
Henderson, G., 201.
H. J. C, 63, 158.

Jackson, C, 22, 84, 85, 86, 93, 132,
J. B. M., 63.
J. I)., 36, 100.
J. H. B., 251.
Jn. P. D., 132.
Jones, J. M., 209.

Julian, E. A., Jun., 6, 20, 63, 140, 206.
J. W., 88.
Kerr, A., 253.

Keys, I. W. N., 69, 160, 190.
Laius, 278, 279, 280.
Lingwood, H., 278.
Loanies, F. D., 35.
Logan, E. F., 64, 121, 141.
Londoner, A, 41.
Longmuir, J., Jun., 238.
Lowe, W. H., M. D., 121, 141.
Lukis, J. W., 9, 19, 20, 28, 182, 205, 206.
Lycidas, 165.
Martin, W.. 63.
Matthews, W. E., 251.
Maysmor, E., 154, 160, 185.
Mc'Intosh, J., 89, 116, 172, 207.
Miller, C, 268.
Morres, Eev. E. E., 134.

Slorris, B. E., M. D., 24, 89, 185, 205, 206,
207.

Eer. F. 0., 84, 158, 160, 184, 208, 232.

Moore, 0. A., 243, 257.
Munby, Giles, 243, 257.
Nancarrow, E. H., 181.
Nasmyth, E. B., 8.
Nelson, C., M. D., 109.
Nunn, E. C, 131, 181, 182, 229.
0' Kell, E., 250.

P. B w, 34.

Philip, M. M., 270.

Pulman, G. P. II., 35.

E. B. P., 204, 208, 230.

E. D., 183.

Eimmer, E., 206.

Eobinson, J. A., 158, 207.

Eothcrv, C. W., 200, 204, 208, 276.

Bound," 0. S., 72, 74, 97, 170, 203, 273.

E. P. C, 83.

Eudd, T. S., 278.

Sewell. S. A., 134, 248.

Smith, E, S. L., 230.

Southwell, T., 60, 62, 170, 204.

Sowden, Eev. G., 96.

Stubbs, C, 20, 205, 208, 230, 250.

Taylor, J., 280.

Tombs, W., Jun., 18, 19, 206.

Torre, H. J., 33, 206.

Watts, H., 110, 136,

W. B., 204.

W. B. B., 88.

Westcott, M., 59. 64, 83, 85, 245.

W. F. W. B.. 131, 181, 216.

Whytehead. W., 254.

Wight, J. L., 160.

Williamson, J., Jun., 250.

Wilson, J. K., 133.

W. P. C, 64.

LIST OF ILLUSTEATIONS.

Anatomy of Leaf, (Three Cuts,) 25.

• SquaJus cornubicus, (Three Cuts,)

150.
Curious Egg, 133.
Echinus, (Three Cuts,) 72.
Egg, with Foreign Body in it, 9.
Eolis Alderi, (Coloured Plate,) 1.

Couchii, (Coloured Plate,) 1.

glaiica, var. 1.

Foreign Body in Beech Tree, 200.
Fossil Marine Worms, 130.
Geological Map, 276.

Section, 176.

Sections, (Two Cuts,) 196.

Lancelet, (Amphioxus lanceolatus,) 28.

Leg of Einged Plover, 132.

Moulting of Colymbus glacialis, (Five Cuts,)

93.
Otis Mc'Queenii, (Coloured Plate,) 89.
Penthaleus capidarius, (Seven Cuts,) 55.
Pernis apivorus, (Coloured Plate,) 185,
Phyllophora tcstudinacea, 265.
Pike, 252.

Plan of Garden, 254.
Potentilla fragariastrum, 202.
Skull of Eook, 129.
Vinegar Plant, (Seven Cuts,) 65,

^\^tJ^