Rough notes on the Birds observed during twenty-five years shooting and collecting in the British Islands

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BOUGH NOTES

ON THE

BIRDS OBSERVED

DURING TWENTY-FIVE YEARS’ SHOOTING AND COLLECTING

IN TIIE

BBITISH ISLANDS

BY

E. T. BOOT H.

WITH PLATES FROM DRAWINGS BY E. NEALE,

TAKEN FROM SPECIMENS IN THE AUTHOR’S POSSESSION.

VOLUME I.

LONDON:

PUBLISHED BY R. H. PORTER, 6 TENTER DEN STREET, W.,

AND

MESSRS. DULAU & CO., SOHO SQUARE, AV.

1881 - 1887 .

PRINTED BY TAYLOR AND FRANCIS,
BED LION COURT, FLEET STREET.

T E M 1* O R A R Y I N T R O D U C T I 0 N.

A few words by way of a temporary introduction appear to be necessary. It is hoped that
those who take up these pages will bear in mind that the title leads them to expect nothing beyond
“ rough notes.”

I have stated simply what has come under my own observation, with the addition of a few
facts picked up from those whose occupations have brought them constantly into contact with all
kinds of wild life. I am well aware that naturalists have so frequently drawn attention to what
they have been pleased to style the ignorance displayed by gamekeepers, that they would utterly
condemn all information acquired from such sources. During my wanderings by sea and land
I have, however, learned much concerning the habits of many scarce species, that I have
subsequently proved to be correct, from keepers and foresters, as well as from fishermen and
coast-gunners. As these pages do not profess to diffuse scientific knowledge, I consider there
is no harm in giving any information gained in this manner that tends to describe the habits
of birds, so long as the sources from which it was obtained are plainly made known.

Except where it readily strikes the eye, any attempt at the description of minute details of
plumage has been omitted ; and those who desire such particulars as the relative lengths of
the first and second primaries, the number of feathers in the tail, or the construction of the
internal organs had better not waste their time over ‘ Rough Notes.’

The Plates, on which great care and attention have been bestowed by my friend Neale,
are taken entirely from subjects in my own collection. Occasionally I have come across

11

TE]M porary introduction.

specimens, recently killed by others, showing various interesting stages of plumage that have
never yet been depicted; but, owing to the difficulty of knowing where to draw a line if
my original idea was once broken through, I have decided (as in the case of the collection,
where every bird now figured may be seen) to limit the drawings in these ‘ Notes solely to
specimens I have myself obtained.

It is, I consider, presumptuous to state one’s intentions with regard to the future : if,
however, ‘ Rough Notes ’ should be continued to further Parts, the description of the various
species (with the exception of certain classes) will be somewhat curtailed ; and possibly eight
or ten Parts, with between sixty and seventy Plates, will suffice to give an account of the
species (about 230) that I have met with up to the present date.

I have devoted the greater portion of my time to studying the habits of the larger Birds of Prey,
Highland Game, Waders, Wildfowl, and Sea-birds. Concerning the remaining families my experience
is comparatively limited, and many will have to be treated with simply a few passing remarks.

I take this opportunity of tendering my best thanks to those gentlemen and sportsmen who have
so kindly assisted me by granting permission to explore their estates or shooting-ranges ; without
their help my collection would have been small indeed.

In conclusion, I must beg my readers to make due allowance for the productions of one who is
but little accustomed to indoor work.

E. T. BOOTH.

September 1881.

[At the last moment (too late for insertion in Part I.) I have decided to add a drawing of the
adult male Kite. This Plate will appear in a future Part.]

I N T R 0 D U C T 1 0 N.

More years than I anticipated have been spent in describing the habits of the birds procured and
the production of the coloured Plates for ‘ Rough Notes.’ During the time which has elapsed several
other birds have been obtained, and it is now necessary that twenty-five years, instead of twenty
as at first stated, should be given as the period over which my observations extend.

The assistance of the men well trained in the use of ropes, from the llass Rock in the Firth
of Forth and other quarters, whom I took with me, rendered the work of reaching the nests of the
Golden Eagles on the mainland, and the White-tailed Eagles on the Western Islands, remarkably easy,
all our attempts to descend the rocks or cliffs being made without a mishap. While in pursuit of
Skuas, Fulmars, and other Gulls in the North Sea, I was luckily able to hire some of the most
powerful double-engine tug-steamers employed at Yarmouth, and we met with very good sport,
shooting and obtaining specimens. We also caught exceedingly heavy cod, and the largest silver
whiting that have come under my observation, for several years during the fishing-season, when the
immense flocks of birds were collected about twenty miles off the land, where the luggers from the
harbours on our southern and eastern coasts, and the Scotch craft (numbering in those days
about sixty or seventy), were following the course of the herrings. It is a remarkable fact that
the commencement of all the gales and bad weather we encountered assisted in bringing us more
rapidly towards the harbours for which we were making.

To search thoroughly over the high tops of the Highland mountains where the Ptarmigan pass
the winter months is by no means easy. Being, however, well acquainted with the parts of the hills
they frequented, no accidents occurred, though, no doubt, we had some rather narrow escapes.

Little beyond what has come under my own observation is given in ‘Rough Notes’; much
information, however, is recorded that was picked up from those whose occupations have given them
opportunities for making observations on the birds frequenting the hills in the most remote parts of the
Highlands, on the marshes and low grass- lands in the fens, and also at sea in the fishing-luggers. A
few extracts are made from two or three of our old ornithological authors, who described the habits of

IV

INTRODUCTION.

British Birds to the best of their ability. The quaint and old-fashioned Bewick is the most amusing
of these writers, and his woodcuts and the type employed in his work are sure to attract attention
and afford entertainment to those who study his productions. Under the heading of the Capercaillie
several extracts have also been made from Mr. J. A. Harvie-Brown’s work on * The Capercaillie in
Scotland,’ published in Edinburgh in 1879. I am aware that naturalists have so frequently drawn
attention to what they are pleased to style the ignorance displayed by gamekeepers, that they would
utterly condemn all information acquired from such sources. During the time passed searching over
the moors and also knocking about in stormy weather at sea I have, however, learned much
concerning the habits of many scarce species, that I have subsequently proved to be correct, from
keepers and foresters, as well as from fishermen and coast-gunners.

Few remarks concerning the changes of plumage through which the various species pass are given,
unless the birds are several years in assuming their last attire* As most carefully coloured
drawings of the soft parts * and plumage of Eagles, Ospreys, Kites, Harriers, Goosanders, Gannets,
Skuas, as well as a few other species, were made for this work, having been taken either from life or
at the time the birds were obtained, Mr. Neale has been enabled to give the most accurate represen-
tations of the various stages through which several species pass.

I take this opportunity of returning thanks to those who have so kindly rendered great assistance
by granting me permission to explore their estates or shooting-ranges; without their help my
collection would have been small indeed. In conclusion, I must beg those who study the contents of
these pages to make due allowance for the productions of one who has been but little accustomed
to indoor work.

May 1887 .

E. T. BOOTH.

Lius refers to the fleshy elevations on the beaks, the prominent eircles round the eyes, and the size and colouring of the legs
and toes, all of which rapidly contract and fade after death.

CONTENTS OF

VOL.

I

Golden Eagle
W II ITE-TAILED EAGLE
Osprey

Common Buzzard
Kite

Peregrine Falcon
Merlin
Kestrel
Sparrow-Hawk
Marsii-IIarrier
Hen-Harrier
Montagu’s Harrier
Siiort-eared Owl
Long-eared Owl
Tawny Owl
Barn-Owl
IIed-backed Shrike
Great Tit
Coal Tit •

Crested Tit
Blue Tit •
Marsh-Tit
Long-tailed Tit

Aquila chrysaetus.
Ilaliaetus albicilla.
Pandion haliaetus.
Buteo vulgaris.
Milvus regalis.
Falco peregrinus.
Falco a;salon.

Falco tinnunculus.
Accipitcr nisus.
Circus seruginosus.
Circus cyaneus.
Circus cineraceus.
Otus brachyotus.
Otus vulgaris.

Strix stridula.

Strix flammea.
Lanius collurio.
Parus major.

Parus ater.

Parus cristatus.
Parus cseruleus.
Parus palustris.
Parus caudatus.

VI

CONTENTS OF VOL.

Bearded Tit
Pied Flycatcher
Spotted Flycatcher
Kingfisher

Chough ....
Raven ....

Black Crow
Grey Crow-

Rook ....

Jackdaw ....
Magpie ....

Jay

Nuthatch

Wryneck ....

Creeper ....

Green Woodpecker

Great Spotted Woodpecker

Lesser Spotted Woodpecker

Cuckoo ....

Nightjar ....

Swift ....

Swallow ....

House-Martin

Sand-Martin

Pied Wagtail

White Wagtail

Grey Wagtail

Grey-headed Wagtail

Yellow Wagtail

Meadow-Pipit

Tree-Pipit

Rock-Pipit

Siiore-Lark

Wood-Lark

Lark ....
Snow-Bunting •

Piirus biarmieus.
Museicapa atricapilla.
Muscicapa grisola.
Alcedo ispida.

Corvus graculus.
Corvus corax.

Corvus corone.

Corvus cornix.

Corvus frugilegus.
Corvus monedula.

Pica caudata.

Garrulus glandarius.
Sitta europica.

Yunx torquilla.

Ccrthia familiaris.
Picus viridis.

Picus major.

Picus minor.

Cuculus canorus.
Caprimulgus europreus.
Cypselus apus.

Ilirundo rustica.
Hirundo urbica.
Ilirundo riparia.
Motacilla yarrelli.
Motacilla alba.
Motacilla sulphurea.
Motacilla flava.
Motacilla rayi.

Anthus pratensis.
Antlius arboreus.
Anthus obscurus.
Alauda alpestris.

Alauda arborea.

Alauda arvensis.
Emberiza nivalis.

CONTENTS OF YOL. I.

vu

Bunting

Black-headed Bunting

Yellow Bunting

Cirl Bunting •

Chaffinch

Brambling

Tree-Sparrow •

IIouse-Sparrow

Greenfinch

Hawfinch

Goldfinch

Siskin

Linnet

Lesser Redpoll
Mealy Redpoll
Twite
Bullfinch
Crossbill
Starling •

Dipper

Emberiza miliaria.
Emberiza schccniculus.
Emberiza citrinella.
Emberiza cirlus.
Fringilla ccelebs.
Fringilla montifringilla.
Passer montanus.

Passer domesticus.
Coccothraustes chloris.
Coccothraustes vulgaris.
Carduelis elegans.
Carduelis spinus.

Linota cannabina.
Linota rufescens,

Linota linaria.

Linota flavirostris.
Pyrrhula vulgaris.

Loxia curvirostra,
Sturnus vulgaris.
Cinclus aquaticus.

LIST OF PLATES TO VOL.

<SfT

J Golden Eagle. Male. Age about twelve months.
Golden Eagle. Female. Age nearly two years.
Golden Eagle. Male. Last stage before assuming
the perfect adult plumage.

Golden Eagle. Male. Adult plumage.

Wiiite-tailed Eagle. Female. Adult plumage.
Osprey. Nestling almost ready to fly.

Common Buzzard. Male. Immature plumage.
Common Buzzard. Male. Adult plumage.

7 Kite. Nestling newly hatched.

Kite. Young bird just after leaving the nest.

Kite. Male. Adult plumage.

Peregrine Falcon. Male and nestlings.

Merlin. Male. Immature plumage.

Sparrow-Hawk. Nestlings.

Hen-Harrier. Male and nestlings.

Montagu’s Harrier. Adult female.

Montagu’s Harrier. Nestlings.

Short-eared Owl. Male and nestlings.

Siiort-eared Owl. Winter plumage.

Long-eared Owl. Male and young shortly after
leaving nest.

Barn-Owl. Young on first leaving the nest.

Crested Tit. Female and young.

Beared Tit. Male, female, and young.

Beared Tit. Immature plumage.

Raven. Male. Adult plumage.

Grey Crow. Male and nest.

Cuckoo. Immature.

Nightjar. Female and young.

Grey headed Wagtail. Male and female.

Yellow Wagtail. First plumage.

Rock-Pipit. Scandinavian form.

Country Sparrow. Male, female, and young.

Town Sparrow. Male and female.

Siskin. Male, female, and nest.

Crossbill. Male adult and male immature.

R R A T A.

Kestrel [Vol. I.], page 3, line 4 from bottom : for trays read traps.

Grey Wagtail [Vol. I.], page 1, line 2 : for Allnaharra read Altnaharra.

Girl Bunting [Vol. 1.], page 1, line 25 : for edges read hedges.

Woodcock [Vol. II.], page 5, line 18. “One Woodcock,” instead of “A couple of Woodcocks,”
should have been inserted in the description of the second Plate.

Great Black-backed Gull [Vol. III.], page 2, line 23 : for Durnoch read Dornoch. On page 2,
line 36 : for Hickley read Ilickling.

/

X,

\

*AH***T IMP.

Q0L1E1 IAOILEo

FEMALE

Age Nearly Two Years

I

LD1

EAGLE

MALE

Las\ sta^e bef ore assuming the fjerfsct adult plumage

'

MALE.

Adult Plumage.

GOLDEN EAGLE.

AQUILA CIIRYSAETUS .

For years we have been told that this species was rapidly disappearing from the British Islands ; but those
who are well acquainted with the Highlands of Scotland will easily call to mind scores of glens where the
bird may still he found as wild and untamed as were his ancestors before the rage for excessive game-
preserving set in and drove the survivors to the forests and the more remote ranges. So long as deerstalking
remains as a sport, and the quiet and solitude of the forests are guarded as jealously as they now are, there is
no fear that the Golden Eagle will become a scarce bird. The crow of the Grouse-cock, or a startled hare
hounding up the mountain-side, pausing again and again to watch the cause of its alarm, have given warning
to many a noble stag of the approaching stalker ; and as the increase of both species is supposed to he checked
by the Eagle, care is taken that his eyrie in the forest he not disturbed. Where the hillside is under sheep
the case is totally different. The shepherd in nearly every district in the highlands is the worst enemy to the
Eagle ; perhaps for the protection of his flock, hut more probably for the sake of the money he can make by
the sale of the eggs to dealers or collectors, he will contrive by some means or other to rob every nest that
is placed on his beat. Active and surefooted as a mountain-goat, there arc few precipices he will not succeed
in scaling, though, should the rock prove too steep for him to climb unaided, there are always ropes kept
at the large farms for rescuing sheep from the dangerous and almost inaccessible ledges to which they may
have picked their way in search of grass when food is short ; and by means of these, and with the help of one or
two hands from a neighbouring beat, securely placed indeed must bo the nest that escapes him.

I should be of opinion that it is seldom a straggler is now found on this side of the border, • though
hardly a season passes without attention is drawn to the fact, in some county paper, that a magnificent
specimen of the Golden Eagle lias been obtained in the district ; this, in every case I have investigated,
has turned out to be the Sea-Eagle. On more than one occasion I have brought down on my head the
indignation of the “fortunate possessor” for daring to hint that his specimen was not what he fondly believed
it to be.

_ Alth °ugh his greatest admirers cannot deny that he will occasionally carry off a lamb, the Golden
is in many districts considered far less destructive on a sheep-farm than the White-tailed Eagle. I do
not think this species does any very great amount of damage to Grouse where hares or rabbits are plentiful
In one or two instances I have known him to take such a fancy to the newly-dropped fawns of the roedeer,
that no young were reared in the district for a couple of seasons; but, as a rule, I am convinced that Grey
Crows and Peregrines arc far more destructive to all winged game. Now and then, when grouse-shootm- I
have had a wounded bird that was falling at a distance carried off in front of me ; but to my mind the loss was
amply attoned for by the sight. I also remember, after a heavy shot at Wigcon with a punt-gun, one winter
on a nver in the north of Scotland, seeing an Eagle dash down from the sky after a bird that had separated
from the flock and was blindly making its way uphill; before being overtaken it fell dead into a patch of

2

GOLDEN EAGLE.

long heather. After circling two or three times over the spot, the Eagle settled on a stone close by ; and here
his majesty remained so long, apparently considering how to extricate his prey from the thick cover, that I
was forced to remove the glasses and attend to the work I had in hand.

Those who have only noticed an Eagle leisurely sailing across the sky can form but a very faint idea of
the irresistible swoop he is capable of making when in pursuit of his prey. It is, however, to descend from
the sublime to the ridiculous to describe the actions of the “king of the air,” when pressed by want, vainly
attempting to capture a mountain-hare in broken ground among large stones.

It is now fifteen or sixteen years ago, but I still have a perfect recollection of being witness to a most
amusing scene of this description in Glenlyon, in Perthshire. The ground was deeply covered with frozen snow ;
and a white hare, which had been down on the low ground during the night in search of food, was again
making his way uphill just as the early rays of the sun were catching the hills to the north ol the Lyon. My
attention was first attracted by an Eagle rising a short distance in the air and settling again on the large stones.
Here he would, with apparently more haste than speed, hop clumsily from one rock to another, occasionally
fluttering upwards and then alighting with outstretched wings, and dislodging once or twice great flakes of
snow as lie brushed against the sides of the stones. It appeared that the Eagle was unable to seize the hare as
it dodged backwards and forwards amongst the rocks, while, owing to the frozen snow, the hare was unable
to escape into any of the crevices or holes which would otherwise have afforded it shelter from its pursuer.
Every time the Eagle rose to any height in the air, the hare made a dart for fresh cover, and kept gradually
working its way uphill, the Eagle again and again returning to the attack, but apparently without success, as
at last I lost sight of both over the brow of the hill. The length of their wings, which, while moving on the
ground, they frequently spread, seems to render their actions extremely awkward. I noticed particularly that
the wings of the Eagle when in pursuit of the hare appeared on more than one occasion to strike against
the stones ; and again a few years later I observed another instance of the same circumstance occurring.

The keepers had noticed two or three young birds frequenting a rough hillside; and as they were
generally seen within a short distance of the same spot, we placed a bait (a setter which had recently died) at
the foot of a rock on which one of them occasionally rested, and set two or three traps on the nearest stones,
one of them being on the rock itself. On visiting the spot on the following day, two of the traps were
sprung, and in one were left a couple of the longest quill-fcatliers from the wing of an Eagle. Erom the
manner in which the stones were scored, it was evident that the bird had been held for a considerable
time before he effected his escape.

While observed soaring high in the heavens, or perched on a pinnacle of rock standing out in bold
relief against the sky, the Eagle is certainly what lie has always been described — a grand and noble-looking
bird. When, however, lie descends to the low ground, he leaves (to my mind, at least) his nobility behind
him, and shudlcs about with no more dignity, and far less case, than a Carrion-Crow. It is, nevertheless,
a fact that although in the air he is frequently attacked and bulleted by various species of birds, any number
that may be feeding on or gathered round some prey they have discovered at once give way and withdraw
when Lis majesty appears on the scene.

To see an Eagle to the very greatest disadvantage, lie ought to be watched when sheltering himself from
the force of the elements during a storm of wind and rain. As I am well aware that it has been stated by
some writers (good sportsmen, too) that the Eagle is utterly regardless of the storm, that he, indeed, defies
the hurricane, it may be as well to remind my readers that I simply give my own experience. I never yet had
an opportunity of watching an Eagle or, indeed, any other bird that appeared particularly to appreciate the
effects of wind, together with rain or sleet and snow. A steady downpour seems often acceptable to many
species, and even the cold and wintry blast will scarcely affect them ; but let the weather be only what a
Highland Gillie would describe as “carse ” (which means all the disagreeable properties of our British climate

GOLDEN EAGLE.

3

combined together and let loose at once), and then I fancy, if the observant naturalist was in a position to
minutely examine and publish a bulletin concerning the state of the royal bird, lie would scarcely be
justified in stating that, judging by external appearances, lie defied the elements.

A few years ago I was crossing the hills on a fearfully rough and stormy day ; although late in May, the
weather was bitterly cold, the tops were covered at least a foot deep with newly-fallen snow, and squalls of
sleet and rain were drifting with blinding force along the mountain-side. Our track was through a gorge in
the hills ; and while picking our way in single file over the stones that encumbered our path, my attention was
attracted by an exclamation in Gaelic from one of the keepers, and on looking up I discovered an Eagle perched
on a slab of rock in the face of the cliff on the opposite side of the pass. At the first glance it was difficult to
make out any thing through the downpour beyond an indistinct brown mass; but on further inspection this
gradually resolved itself into the shape of the most dejected-looking representative of the species Eagle I have
ever beheld. With his head drawn down between his shoulders, his plumage apparently thoroughly soaked, and
the water dripping from his feathers, he seemed so entirely engrossed by his own misfortunes as to be utterly
regardless of our presence. I examined the spot as carefully as I could (considering the rough state of the
weather), but I was unable to perceive any manner in which the bird could be stalked and shot, so inaccessible
was his perch, except by means of a rifle. Eew and far between were the passers-by in this wild glen ; and I
think most likely that the ledge was a favourite resting-place. Eagles often have certain stations, sometimes
at a considerable distance from their breeding-quarters, to which they resort after feeding, where they may
quietly digest their meal and arrange and clean their plumage.

One such spot I discovered on a grassy slope near the summit of an island in a large loch at no great
distance from the west coast. Here for a space of six or eight feet the grass was worn quite short, and
pellets and feathers were scattered in all directions. Although there arc no nests in the immediate vicinity,
the hills on which three or four eyries arc placed arc plainly visible from the spot. The lower portion of the
island (which is at the distance of at least a mile from the nearest shore) is thickly wooded and the ascent by no
means easy ; but those who scramble to the summit will be rewarded by the sight of some of the finest scenery
in the Western Highlands. The surrounding moorland within five or six miles of the loch, though crossed by
several rough and stony ridges, contains no hills of any commanding height ; consequently in clear weather
an unbroken view can be obtained of several of those lofty mountains whose fantastic outlines arc always an
object of interest to those who visit this wild and deserted region.

Another of these resting-places is on a steep hillside in one of the central districts of the Northern
Highlands. This spot appears to have some particular attractions to these birds : though only one or possibly
two may be noticed frequenting it, should they be captured, it will again be tenanted in the course of the next
few days. It is now some years since the locality was first pointed out to me ; but I am well aware that it
still continues a favourite resort. A few feathers and some down clinging among the tufts of heather that
sprung from the face of the slabs of rock below the ledge first led to the discovery. There arc along the same
ridge within half a mile no less than three or four other moss-covered stones or grassy slopes that bear evidence
of being at times used by the Eagles. This their head quarters is overshadowed by a couple of thick birch bushes
and a mountain-asli. The worn turf at the roots of the trees and the roots themselves, together with a mass of
pellets and dried and dirty feathers, bear witness to the frequent visits to the spot ; while the lower branches
of the trees that come within reach of where they sit arc entirely cut off by their beaks. The birds had in f ac t
formed a regular arbour to shelter themselves, removing all the boughs that interfered with their comfort, as
neatly as if the work had been carried out by a woodman armed with a chopper. The ends of the twi-s that
were left were perfectly dead and scored with hundreds of marks, showing that the result had not been
accomplished in a day. When first I went to examine the place I was in search of specimens so I at once
proceeded to set traps on the ledge. Within a few feet of one another there were three spots on which tin

4

GOLDEN EAGLE.

birds rested ; and placing a carefully-covered trap on each, we made them fast round the roots of the trees.
On our way downhill, and within a quarter of a mile of the ledge, we came across a mountain-hare half
consumed, which had evidently only been recently killed, and had probably just furnished a meal for the Eagle.
The following day, having delayed looking at the traps till after it was likely the birds had fed and then retired
to rest, we again passed over the same ground, and after having observed that the remains of the hare had been
carefully picked, we were by no means surprised to find one taken. The trap was again carefully reset, and
before a week had passed a couple more had shared the same fate. As I was then leaving the district, the
traps were removed; hut in less than a fortnight I learned that another pair of birds, both immature, were
noticed frequenting the spot ; and, again, a year later I found others still there.

The first Eagle taken had but one foot ; and as the bird was a male in almost adult plumage, I thought
that the ledge would probably have been his nesting-place had it not been for his mutilated condition. The
next two captured were a young male and female only in the second year’s plumage ; and this at once put an
end to my supposition that it was a pair that frequented the spot. It was not till the others were noticed
that I had any idea how extensively the place was used ; and it appears strange that the birds should have sucb
a fancy for this particular ledge, as they could with but little difficulty be stalked from three different quarters.

It is by no means an uncommon occurrence to take an Eagle that shows signs of having at some time or
other suffered from the effects of a steel trap. To hold a bird of the size and strength of an Eagle with any
certainty requires a large and heavy trap ; they may at times be captured in one of the common size used for
rabbits or Crows and other small vermin ; but for a single bird that is taken several most probably will make
their escape, leaving behind them either toes or claws. If the traps could be visited regularly, the birds might
possibly be secured ; but on the high moors snow is liable to fall at almost any time of year, while in some
parts mist and fog for days may render crossing the hills and searching the ground utterly impossible.

The Eagle may without fear of contradiction, I think, be termed essentially a lazy and indolent bird,
unwilling or unable to capture for himself any prey that would require much exertion on his part. Hares or
rabbits when surprised in the open most probably fall easy victims, while lambs or fawns arc far too feeble to
cause him any great amount of trouble. I cannot call to mind a single instance where I have observed him
in pursuit of any winged game that was not partially crippled by shot, while I have noticed scores of times
that lie has contented himself by making an ignoble meal off some wretched Crow or other vermin that was
struggling in a trap. A keeper in the north related to me the following incident ; and as it helps to illustrate
the character of the bird, it may not be out of place.

lie was on his rounds visiting the traps, when his attention was attracted by an Eagle which was rising a
short distance in the air and again dashing down. On carefully approaching the spot (a rough and stony
gully, where he was easily able to obtain a view) he discovered a wild cat held by a clam, and the Eagle
swooping down, as he imagined, attempting to seize the cat. Every time the bird approached with outstretched
talons the cat sprung forward to the fullest extent of its chain, and the Eagle sheared off. Crawling still
nearer, lie was at last observed, and the bird reluctantly sailed away to a range of hills above the spot where the
encounter had taken place. Making sure that the Eagle would speedily return, he killed the cat and left it as
a bait; then, resetting his trap, lie threw the rabbit which had been his former bait on one side, and rapidly
left, the spot. Returning after a few hours quite confident of finding the Eagle in the trap, he was greatly
surprised to discover every thing apparently untouched. It was only when he had removed the cat, whose skin
he required, and looked out for the bait previously used, that lie noticed the rabbit had disappeared from
where he had flung it in the morning, and was nowhere to be found. Had he only thought for a moment, it
ought to have been clear to him that the Eagle would never have attempted to interfere with the cat (a true
wild eat is far too rough a customer to be tackled with impunity), and the hungry bird was simply endeavouring
to reach the rabbit; even this proceeding the cat most forcibly resisted; and it was not till he returned and

GOLDEN EAGLE.

found every thing quiet that he managed to search out the prey lie was originally in quest of and then
make off.

There can be hut little doubt that Eagles arc able to take Grouse and other birds should they be forced
to make the necessary exertion. I have seen remains of Grouse and Blackgame within a short distance of their
breeding-quarters ; while, if all the stories that I have heard from shepherds and others arc to be believed, so
plentifully do they stock their larder, that the nest at times must bear a resemblance to a well-furnished
stall at a poulterer’s.

bile the young arc small and helpless they arc probably supplied by the old bird with partially digested
food. I have watched the female shortly after her arrival at the nest apparently disgorging something j but I
u as unable to get a view of the young at the same moment. I have also observed a young one calling
continually, evidently needing food, but perfectly unable to help itself to a mountain-liare and the remains of a
lamb which were both close at hand on the side of the nest.

Should any accident happen to one of the old birds, the survivor has hard work to procure food for the
nestlings and keep watch at the same time. I observed an instance where the female having been shot shortly
after hatching, the male brought food and regularly attended to the young one; before many days had passed,
on visiting the spot, I discovered the nestling dead and partially eaten. This, I conclude, must have been
the work of Grey Crows. I did not catch them in the act, but I noticed one flying along the hillside
croaking loudly within about a quarter of a mile of the spot.

. Th ° situatl0ns chosen by the Golden Eagle for breeding-purposes vary considerably. I have never seen
their nests so open and exposed to the storm and wind as those of the Sea-Eagle ; they appear, in most
instances, to seek a more sheltered and hidden position. At times the eyrie may be in the face of a precipitous
range of rocks, utterly inaccessible except to those well acquainted with the use of ropes ; but more frequently
it requires but little skill to scramble within a few feet of the spot, and, with the assistance of a single line from
a ove, to reach the nest itself. Numbers of ledges showing more or less of the old and weather-beaten
nests have been pointed out to me, where, without the slightest help, a very moderate climber might easily
make his way to the spot. These localities, with the exception of those in the strictly preserved deer-forests, are
now nearly all deserted. I have, however, during the last few years frequently heard of Eagles taking up their

quarters and nesting in districts where their presence formerly, except during an occasional flying visit was
entirely unknown. ’

The most curious and striking nest of this species that I ever came across was placed just above a slopin'-
bank that was a perfect bed of primrose-roots. A stunted holly-bush formed a background and broke the
dull appearance of the dark and sombre slab of rock that rose straight from the back of the lcd<-e. The
primroses were a mass of bloom, but the holly looked as dried and uncomfortable as if it was stru'Min'* for
existence in the smoky atmosphere of some London garden.

It is seldom, I believe, that the nests are now to be found on trees. The old and decaying remnants of
the deserted structures may still he seen, but the tenants have long been evicted. I am aware of° but two eyries
so placed which are still used in the Northern Highlands; in both instances a large Scotch fir is the tree
resorted to The materials used for building by the Golden Eagle vary according to the district; I have seen
the foundation formed of the dead branches of the nearest trees (pine or birch as a rule), while heather
coarse grass, and the roots or leaves of any strong-growing plant arc worked round the upper portion

. 1 quitc ^rant how many years scientific authors arc in the habit of allowing to this species before it
ail™ at maturit y- M y own °V^on, formed entirely from specimens I have obtained or watched in a state
of nature, is that the bird is at least flvo or six years of age before it gains the perfectly adult dress The tat
feathers on the back breast, and wings are a dark brown, with a rich deep plum-ooloured tint or bloom It is
a strange fact that m the Golden Eagle the tail is at first almost white, with only a black bind round “he

c

GOLDEN EAGLE.

lower part of the feathers ; and it is not until the bird is adult that the white entirely disappears. In the case
of the Sea-Eagle it is just the reverse ; the tail of the immature bird is dark, and it is only after several moults
that the feathers become perfectly white. At about a year old there is but little change in the plumage ; the
tail is considerably more white than black, and the feathers on the legs or tarsi (the part that is bare on the
Sea-Eagle ; and this is the best distinguishing mark for those who are not well acquainted with the two species)
are nearly all white or shaded very slightly with a dark brown. The feathers on the crown of the head, I believe,
vary considerably ; in some specimens they may be scanty and worn, but in others I have observed them thick
and in good condition ; they have not, however, the tawny hue so strongly marked as in the adults, but appear
of a paler or more washed-out colour. This stage of the bird is shown in Plate I. At the age of two years the
tail shows but little difference ; the feathers on the back and wings have changed from the uniform brown
tint and have a more mottled appearance ; the tarsi are much the same, or, if any thing, rather warmer in
colour. This is the stage shown in Plate II., the drawing being taken from a female obtained in April. The
Eagle figured in Plate III. is probably in the last stage before assuming the adult dress. The tail shows only
a small portion of white near the base, and the tarsi are of a warmer brown tint. Plate IV. gives the male in
the perfectly adult plumage. The white has entirely disappeared from the tail, the tarsi have turned a uniform
fawn-colour, and the breast has also become a rich dark warm brown (in some cases almost black) ; the feathers
on the head also are more tawny. The tint of these feathers 1 fancy fades slightly after the bird has been dead
some time. I have never seen on any specimen alive or fresh-killed the bright golden hue with which they
are at times depicted. The Gaelic name for the bird signifies “the Black Eagle; ” and this appears to me far
more appropriate than that of Golden Eagle.

<-

TAILED

female;

o

Adult. Plumage.

WHITE-TAILED EAGLE.

II ALIA E TUS ALBICILLA.

It is not an uncommon occurrence for this Eagle, while in the immature stage, to make its appearance even
in the south.

The whole of the eyries that I am acquainted with in Great Britain arc placed in the Northern
Highlands and on some of the adjacent islands ; this species, however, seems to be of a more roving disposition
than its relative the Golden Eagle; and hardly a season passes without specimens being either noticed or
captured in various parts between the Tweed and the English Channel. There arc few maritime counties, I
believe, in England that cannot claim the Sea-Eagle as an occasional visitor ; but I have only had opportunities
of observing it in Yorkshire, Norfolk, and Sussex. In the two latter counties I have noticed it at least half
a dozen different times; though in not one instance could I do more than simply recognize the species, the
distance being far too great for closer observation. 1 have also examined specimens that have been obtained in
these districts : in every ease the birds were in the immature state, and in all probability under the age of
twelve months. This is the plumage in which they arc frequently described in local publications as
magnificent specimens of the Golden Ea«-le.

Although at the present time rather beyond their usual range, I have now and then seen immature
>irds that have taken up their quarters for a few months on the moors near the east coast of the Highlands •
and I have also met with several in the north-west of Perthshire. In this part they arc noticed almost every
season during autumn, winter, or spring; as they arc usually observed frequenting the ground for a few
ays only, it is probable that they arc on their passage from one part of the country to another. While on
a s looting-expedition in the neighbourhood I was informed by some of the keepers and gillies that years a-o
ie woods in the ltannoeli district, especially those to the north-west of the loch, had been a favourite resort for
lose n s. iet or they nested or not in this part my informants were unable to tell ; but two old men

tlTnl f l ir T'*! ° CCaSi ° nS WhilG C1 ' 0SSing the COuntl ‘> r ’ about fort y or years ago, on their way from
he nor h (travelling by the rough track from Fort William to the upper part of Glenlyon that runs along the

cs side of Loch ltannoeli), they had seen as many as a dozen or more sitting about on the stumps of old trees

b “ P I* « 10 T° r aS thCy PaSSGd al ° nS ‘ 1 al8 ° ktdy leamed from an old tester, a native of the
laes of ltannoeli, that in Ins younger days he remembered having seen packs of White-tailed Eagles, numbering

wenty and upwards, frequenting the moors from the west end of the loch on towards the county march. He

standil o « f 6 tlmt thCy nGSted in lar ° e numbcrs in the old trees, mostly birch, that were then

standing on the islands in the small lochs that are scattered over the country in that direction. In different

C dist2t e iT C< T aC1 ‘° SS th ° remnantS ° f 01(1 nCStS in SUch Situati0ns - There are no residents now in
f V , 6 ^ SCCn are P robabl y dl ' ivcn from the west coast by stress of weather to seek a

bleafclTste imC 10m thC Wmtry WaStS ’ WhGre f °° d and shelter arc more obtained than on their own

9

WHITE-TA I LED EAG I ,E.

The nature of this species and its indolent habits have the effect of rendering it less destructive to
game than the Golden Eagle. I have never noticed the latter making a meal off any thing but moderately fresh
prey ; while on more than one occasion I have disturbed the Sea-Eagle from a banquet of braxy mutton that I
should almost imagine was too far gone to suit the taste of even a Highland shepherd. Whether it is only
prejudice that sets us degenerate southerners against mutton in this form I am unable to state from personal
experience, as I never, to my knowledge at least, sat down to a dish. The peculiar and unpleasant odour,
however, that pervades a dwelling in which a store is hanging is particularly striking to a stranger. It is now
many years since I first became acquainted with the fact ; but I still retain a vivid recollection of the scene
and the scent as well. I had gone on a visit to a large sheep-farmer in the west of Perthshire. No sooner had
I entered the door than I became aware of an indescribable change in the purity of the atmosphere. I was not
sufficiently new to the district to imagine the drains were out of order ; but for a long time I could find no clue
to t lie mystery, and I hardly imagined it would be in accordance with good manners to seek an explanation from
my host. At last I determined, on the first chance that presented itself, to examine the premises myself ; and,
following a more than usually powerful whiff, I drew on towards the back regions, and eventually found myself
in a large and what ought to have been an airy kitchen ; but here the all-pervading and oppressive odour was
stronger still, though every thing looked bright and clean, from the bare-legged lassies to the utensils they were
scrubbing. Casting my eyes upwards at a number of curious-looking joints hanging from the beams, I was
proceeding to continue my investigations, when the farmer appeared on the scene. “ Pine stock of hams,” he
remarked ; and, noticing I hardly comprehended his meaning, lie added, “ aye, grand braxy hams.” Need I say
that when the hospitable board was spread I was particularly watchful to look to what dishes I was helped?
and on the earliest opportunity urgent private affairs demanded my presence elsewhere. I subsequently
discovered I need not have been under the slightest apprehension, as the braxy was the property of some of the
shepherds who lodged in another part of the establishment.

These Eagles are also in the habit of searching the shore for any thing that may be cast up by the waves ;
dead fish or almost any refuse proves acceptable, while now and then the carcass of a seal that has been
wounded and escaped for a time is washed up ; and this affords the material for a most substantial feast. Gulls,
Havens, and Crows arc also attracted to the spot ; but each and all are forced to give way when his majesty
appears on the scene. That the Eagle will satisfy his hunger with food of this description I have not the
slightest doubt ; but to state that I have seen him feeding on it is hardly in accordance with the facts. Once,
while watching a mixed party that were gathered round the carcass of a half-grown seal, I noticed the arrival
of a fine old Sea-Eagle. After circling two or three times over the spot, and putting the whole of the
assemblage to flight, lie settled on a rock close by, and, shaking his feathers and folding his wings in the most
careful manner, he took up his position where he was enabled to keep the whole of the hungry birds at a
distance. Although I remained some time, in order to sec with what sort of an appetite his majesty would
commence his repast, 1 was doomed to be disappointed. An hour went by without his making the slightest
movement : at one time bis attention appeared to be attracted by another Eagle which was slowly circling over
the loch on his way to a distant range of hills ; but lie shortly relapsed into his former condition ; and as’there
was no knowing how long lie might remain in that state, I was compelled to leave the spot, as many a long and
weary mile over rough hillsides and marshy glens had to be passed before I reached a place of shelter. °It is
probable that the Eagle had made a meal earlier in the day, and having noticed the attack that was being made
on what he had intended to supply his future wants, he had simply taken up a position to preserve his° larder
from utter ruin. I have frequently noticed birds driving others less powerful than themselves from food they
did not appear to stand the least in need of. On my next visit to the locality an Eagle, probably the same, was
making his way from the spot, having evidently been in some manner disturbed by our approach ; and I a-ain
lost an opportunity of watching him feeding.

WHITE-TAILED EAGLE.

3

Mutton, I think, in one form or another is the usual diet of this species, and for lamb it has
without doubt a great partiality. It, nevertheless, exhibits its cowardly nature in procuring even such a
helpless prey, as it is seldom that an Eagle will swoop down and carry off a lamb that is not separated from its
mother.

On some of the large sheep-farms, where these birds arc forced to be kept down by trapping in order to
preserve the flocks from their attacks, but few are captured in seasons when the grass is backward. The baits
used by the keepers or shepherds who undertake the business arc for the most part lambs and sheep that
have died. When after a protracted winter and a dry cold spring the herbage is scarce, so many dead
carcasses may be found in all directions scattered over the moors that there is little chance that the traps will
be touched. In search of food in marshy spots many sheep get bogged, and, unless speedily rescued, their
struggles cause them to sink into the soft ground and they soon die ; others also frequently attempt to make
their way to some small green patch in the face of a precipitous cliff ; here they will remain for days till
discovered by the shepherds and reached by means of ropes; or else in endeavouring to effect their escape they
loose their footing and arc dashed to pieces in falling. Numbers also come down on the shore at low water to
nibble the seaweed ; and these are almost invariably swept away by the flowing tide, as they appear to have
not the slightest notion of retreating from the advancing water by the way that they came, but allow themselves
to be overtaken by the flood and carried away. They swim for a short distance, but arc soon drowned, their
bodies being afterwards cast up on some part of the coast. Erom these causes in bad seasons there is always a
plentiful supply of food for the Eagles.

It has so frequently been stated that it was dangerous to approach an Eagle’s nest, that I suppose there
must have been some foundation for these reports. I am afraid if tliis was ever the ease that the Eagles of the
present day are a sadly degenerate race. An old bird on the nest is not easily driven from her post ; but when
once disturbed, she sweeps out from the cliffs, and either entirely takes her departure or remains circling over
the spot at such a height as to be perfectly secure from gun-shot. This is my own experience, and it coincides
exactly with all that I have heard from keepers, shepherds, and others who have had more opportunities of
observing the habits of these birds than have fallen to my own share.

I have never met with any recently-occupied nests of this species except in the face of cliffs either
overhanging or at no great distance from the sea or salt-water lochs. Their nursery is generally a lawc
clumsy structure of twigs and sticks, with a slight inclination to a cup-shaped resting-place for the eggs. The
upper portion is finished off with finer materials, a few strands of long coarse grass and some small heather-
stalks : there is generally also a quantity of the roots or stems and leaves of a bright green rush or flag-like
plant that grows plentifully among the rocks near the shore ; when gathered it soon fades to a brown tint, and
in this state is seen in the nests.

Some eyries are so placed beneath the shelter of overhanging slabs of rock that to reach them appears
almost impossible; others are simply in the face of steep cliffs, and offer no insurmountable difficulties to those
well acquainted with the roping business ; while now and then this species will choose a spot where the very
roughness of the ground (coarse heather springing up among large uneven blocks of stone, together with the
twisted branches of old and weather-beaten stems, and the roots from tough and wiry bushes of mountain-ash
or holly) renders the feat of climbing to the nest a work of very little risk even without the slightest assistance.
I have also seen a few localities formerly used (with the remnants of the old structure still plainly visible)
where the nest was placed openly in the slope of a hill by no means dangerously steep. It is little wonder that
the tenants had long ceased to occupy any situation so easily assailed.

It is a common occurrence to hear those who have visited the Highlands, and explored what they imagine
all the wildest districts, make remarks on the scarcity of Eagles. In order to see this species in its native
haunts the usual routes followed by tourists and sightseers must be avoided. To many parts of the coast where

4

WHITE-TAILED EAGLE.

the Sea-Eagle is generally to he found there is not even the roughest track within miles of the spot, and the
travelling is a work of no little difficulty owing to the inaccessible nature of the country. The hills are steep
and rocky, the valleys and low-lying flats in many parts impassable during wet and stormy weather, being
intersected in every direction with marshy pools and waving bogs.

The various changes undergone by this species in its progress towards maturity would require a series of
coloured drawings to illustrate them accurately ; and as I confine the plates and descriptions in these pages *
entirely to those birds I have myself obtained, I must defer for the present, till I have had the opportunity of
procuring the necessary specimens, any attempt to enter into the full details of each succeeding stage of
plumage. As I have, however, frequently observed and taken notes on the immature birds I have watched on
the hills, I shall not be breaking through my rules by simply stating that the whole of the first plumage,
including the tail, is a uniform dark brown, striped and mottled with lighter shades. As the bird increases in
age the pale brown feathers appear on the head and neck, and the tail gradually becomes a pure white.

I have no means of judging with any certainty, but should imagine that the perfect adult dress is not
assumed till the bird has attained the age of five or six years. The old female from which the Plate is taken is
as fine a specimen as it woidd be possible to procure. All signs of immaturity have entirely disappeared, the
beak has turned a clear yellow tint, and the feathers of the head and neck, having lost all traces of darker
markings, are become a uniform pale brown ; the tail also is perfectly white.

In this species the tarsus (that part of the leg between the knee and the foot) is always bare of feathers.
This is the best distinguishing mark (to those who are not perfectly acquainted with the birds) between the
two British Eagles, the Golden being feathered to the foot +.

The eye during life showed little difference in colour from the surrounding feathers on the head,
except by its brightness. On close inspection the iris was a pale fawn tint, rendered still lighter
by being marked with lines like crystals radiating from the pupil, which added both depth and brilliancy
to its appearance. I had a good opportunity of thoroughly examining this specimen when first recovered
from the loch into which it had fallen Avounded, and Avas greatly struck by the sparkle of its Avild and
flashing eyes.

A fcAV words on the capture of this fine old bird may not be out of place. An extract from my note-book
for 1877 will give all necessary particulars, together with a short account of the locality, as well as a feAV
remarks on the natives of the soil.

“ April 28th. After a three-days’ journey by easy stages from Inverness avc reached the lodge on Loch
Uisge, which had been kindly placed at our disposal by the tenant. The travelling on the last day AA r as over an
exceedingly Avild and desolate country ; the road, which here and there skirted the sea-loclis, was rough and
narrow, but, except in a feAV parts, far better than Avould have been expected from the scanty amount of traffic
that must pass over it. Two or three small villages were seen, as avcII as a feAV scattered shcalings, most of
the buildings being placed at no great distance from the shores of the salt-water lochs. The dwellings of the
natives are miserable in the extreme ; the Avails are built up with stones and mud, and the roof composed of
straw, grass, and turf. Windows they have none, unless sometimes a small piece of glass is let in with mud.
Chimneys arc unknoAvn : the peat-fire burns on the ground, or, it may be, on a small heap of stones, and the
smoke finds its Avay out at the door if open ; at other times it forces its way through the thatch or the cracks
in the AA'all.

“ On our arrival the keepers informed us there Avcre at the present time several Eagles frequenting the

* A few remarks in the Introduction explain my reasons for adhering to this resolution.

t I mentioned this fact in my notes on the Golden Eagle, and I repeat it here, as it is such a frequent occurrence for the two species to be
confounded.

WIIITE-TAILED EAGLE.

ground ; a nest of the White-tailed had been already discovered, and this they were anxious that I should
proceed to on the first opportunity. Being several miles from the lodge, it was quite possible that it might
he robbed by the fishermen from some of the adjacent islands, who occasionally visited that part of the coast
in boats in search of seaweed, which they gathered for manure to put on their small pieces of cultivated
ground. This weed and the roofs of their houses, which they arc forced to remove once a year when the thatch
is completely rotted by smoke and soot, form the only dressing that their land ever gets.

“ Sunday, 29tli. Luckily, although cold, the morning was fine, the minister having arrived the night before
and put up at the lodge on purpose to preach in the district to the fishermen and crofters who lived in the
small villages on the coast. A sail was spread over three oars on the bleak hillside opposite the lodge, and
beneath this shelter, which much resembled the wigwam of an Indian chief, the minister held forth, first in
English and then in Gaelic, to a congregation of nearly one hundred persons, who mostly arrived in boats, only
a few crossing the hills on foot. For at least a couple of hours they sat on the damp grass and heather, exposed
to the biting cold east wind and a drifting rain that set in some time before the service was concluded, evidently
listening with the greatest attention to the exhortations of the preacher. The minister himself afterwards told
me that wet or fine, hail, snow, or sunshine, the people would be there if possible ; and although several were at
times laid up by the exposure, and some not unfrcqucntly died from the effects of the cold, they would never
miss a chance when lie came into the district two or three times a year. The only absentees, he stated, were a
few of the poor old bodies, who were kept away by the absolute want of clothes to appear in.

“ 30th. We did not make a particularly early start for the Eagle’s nest, as the minister was returning home
today, and I stopped to take leave of him. Before our departure he gave a short farewell service inside the
lodge to the inmates and some of the men; This unfortunately received an unexpected and somewhat protracted
interruption. It had, I suppose, been imagined that the minister would confine the service to reading portions
of the scripture and prayers ; to conclude, however, lie gave out a hymn, and as no preparations had been made
for moving the dogs of the establishment, it caused a slight delay while ‘ Scamp,’ a roguish terrier basking in
front of the fire, was hustled from the room, and two stout serving lassies were despatched to the kitchen to
help ‘Athol,’ a magnificent retriever, to sustain himself under the trials in store for him.

“ All went well during the first verse ; with the exception of a stifled whimper from ‘ Scamp ’ there was
not the slightest interruption. This, however, was but the calm before the storm : after a short pause the
second verse was commenced ; then a sound like a smothered groan was heard, and next a prolonged and
melancholy howl proclaimed the fact that ‘ Athol ’ refused to be pacified. Large as a donkey and powerful as a
bull his voice was perfectly deafening, and a stoppage was made while a couple of men were told off to assist in
preserving order. No sooner was a beginning again attempted than it was obvious that further reinforcements
were necessary. ‘ Scamp ’ had now broken loose, and having taken to the stairs, lie resolutely refused to bo
either caught or comforted. At last he was driven to some remote corner, where his miserable yells were
scarcely audible ; then, with a congregation sadly reduced in numbers, the singing was recommenced and
continued to the end.”

I should not have mentioned this incident, only it tends to show how peculiarly devout and reverent is the
disposition of the people, and how deeply impressed they are by the sanctity of all matters connected with
religion. Had such an interruption taken place during prayers in most English households, I am afraid the
solemn nature of the proceedings would have been sadly interfered with ; but, although the pauses were long
and somewhat trying, not the slightest signs of a smile were visible on the countenances of any of those
assembled.

“ At last we were off, our impedimenta (consisting of ropes, traps, and provisions) furnishing loads for
about half a dozen keepers and gillies. It was past midday before we reached the neighbourhood of the nest ;
the weather, although dull, having been fine, a part of the journey had been performed by boat.

(5

WHITE-TAILED EAGLE.

“ Considering the rough character of the country the walking was by no means bad ; owing to the recent
dry weather the low ground was in most parts fairly hard and fit to cross. A continuation of rain foi a
few days would, however, have rapidly converted many of the marshy spots into waving bogs. About a mile
from the nest we were joined by a couple of shepherds, who reported that the Eagle had been seen sitting
soon after davbrcak. When we arrived within the distance of a few hundred yards a halt was called, and all

c/

arrangements were made, so that there might be no unnecessary noise to disturb the bird. The nest was placed
on a small ledge about sixty or eighty feet from the summit of an almost perpendicular cliff, the distance down
to the water being about three times that height.

“ As the only means of obtaining a shot at the Eagle, either on the nest or while flying out, was by firing
from above, it was settled that I was to go down with a rope till I could obtain a view of the sitting bird.
Owing to the ground above the clilf being steep for some distance and the turf too slippery to afford safe
holding-ground to the men paying out the rope, they were forced to take up a position on a higher flat, and
would he consequently unable to see what line I required ; being encumbered with the gun, and in momentary
expectation of a shot, I should have enough to do without passing signals up the hand-line. In order that they
might be acquainted with what I required, we posted one man on a rock where lie could command a view of the
whole of the operations and signal my position to those with the rope. A keeper was next sent back to make
his way down to the foot of the rocks with the retriever ‘ Athol,’ so as to be prepared in case the bird should
fall into the water.

“ All things being now arranged, we made our way with the ropes slowly and silently to a point on the
hillside right above the nest. While the lines were being uncoiled I had a good opportunity to look round and
observe the wild and desolate appearance of the country. The nest was in a rugged and uneven range of rocky
cliffs overhanging a small salt-water loch ; to the north and west the barren hills increased in height, and the
summits were lost in mist and fog. Owing to the dull and cloudy sky the view was more cheerless than it
would otherwise have been ; but even under the most favourable circumstances of bright Aveather and sunshine
the avIioIc scene Avas dreary and desolate iu the extreme. A single White-tailed Eagle, probably the mate of
the sitting bird, Avhceling high in the air aboA'e the loeli, and a Great Northern Diver on the Avater almost
below the nest, were the only signs of life. The mournful cry of the Diver alone broke the oppressive stillness,
the monotonous roar of the surf breaking on the open coast being almost lost in the distance.

“ A signal from the man on the look out informed us that the keeper with the dog had reached the appointed
spot, and, every thing being ready, with the ropes made fast in such a manner that I could use the gun with
freedom, I prepared to descend. The rocks in the face of the clilf were soon reached ; and with only one hand
on the ropes for a guide, I managed to scramble on to a small ledge. Looking down from this point I was able
to discern the edge of the nest, and crawling further out, the white tail of the Eagle came in sight. So far I
could have easily gone without the slightest assistance from the ropes ; but to have fired a shot would have been
utterly impossible. I tried several spots, but soon discovered that I should have to shoot from the ledge.
Signalling my intentions to the man on the look out, I knelt down on the edge of the rock, and the rope was
most carefully paid out ; inch by inch, slowly but surely, I was able to stretch over the face of the clilf, till at
last I could make out the back of the bird; and as my position was hardly comfortable, I did not wait to make
any further observations, but fired at once, and Avith a tremendous flutter the Eagle fell backwards over the
precipice, receiving the contents of the second barrel as it disappeared from sight. The rope was next carefully
brought back so that I was enabled to regain the ledge. Being here unable to see Avliat had happened to the bird,
I gave the signal to lower away for the nest ; this being a straight drop Avas easily effected, and, crawling to the
edge, I had a good view of a most animated scene below me. The Eagle was still alive and apparently strong
although with both wings broken close to the body. Having fallen on the Avater the Avind had carried her
against a small rock about a dozen yards from the shore ; here, with her head turned towards her foes, she

WH ITE-TA I LED E AG LE

7

defied the attempts of the dog, who was swimming round, awaiting a favourable opportunity for an attach, tun ing
apparently hut little fancy for facing the terrible beak and talons of his antagonist. At last a sudden gust of wind
carried one of the broken pinions over the head of the Eagle, and the dog, seizing the point ol the leathers in
his mouth, swam off towards the shore; the poor bird then drifted on its back, and, impotently clutching at
the air, was dragged to land. On examining the nest (which was composed ol dead heather-stalks and pieces
of fir, lined with coarse grass and the roots of a broad-leaved rush) I found the eggs unbroken, and one large
feather from the wing-coverts cut by a shot alone bore witness to the murder that had taken place. A bile
climbing back with the assistance of the ropes I discovered an old stump of mountain-ash almost concealed by
heather. When I reached the ledge above no signs of it could be discerned ; and this, I expect, had taken oil
the greater part of the first charge, and prevented the bird from being killed on the spot.

“ By the time I gained the point from which I started the Eagle had been brought up from the shore. ith
its beak tightly bound up with a leather bootlace, and its powerful legs and claws made fast by some dirty white
material that bore a suspicious resemblance to a pair of garters, the poor bird was utterly incapable of mischief,
and its bright and flashing eyes alone gave signs of life.

“ It was quite possible that the male might soon return ; and having found the nest unoccupied, I imagined
lie would most likely take his place on the eggs. On this account we deferred setting traps till after we had
rested and taken our lunch. Concealing the ropes under some heather, we retired to a sheltered gully, where
we were perfectly hidden from view. The whole of the arrangements had been carried out without a hitch ; the
signals had been conveyed and the ropes payed out with the regularity of clockwork. The latter part of the
business had been rather ticklish work, as an inch or two more than was required when I fired the shots
would have pitched me headlong off the ledge. ‘ Athol,’ notwitstanding his objection to hymn, tunes, had
done his work right well. Sitting now demurely awaiting his share, lie hardly liked to trust the Eagle from
his sight, but ever and anon lie turned his eyes towards the slab of stone on which was laid out the body of his
fallen foe.

“Cautiously returning an hour later, we found the nest untenanted; a villanous Grey Crow flying croaking
past was the only bird in sight. As it seemed useless to remain any longer, a couple of traps were soon set in
the nest ; and having securely covered up the ropes for use on the following day, we left the spot and made our
way homewards across the moors.

“ Before leaving the coast we followed the shores of the loch a short distance further west, in order to
examine with the glasses a small bay that was concealed from sight by a projecting ledge of rocks. Here a
number of Gulls and Crows were collected round the carcass of a dead seal. While watching this assemblage
the arrival of a White-tailed Eagle put most of the party to flight ; and I particularly noticed a pair of Grey
Crows making a straight course towards the cliffs in which the Eagle’s nest was placed. The journey before
us was long and the way was rough, or I should certainly have turned back to learn if possible the object of
their visit to this locality.

“ May 1st. On reaching the nest the following day I discovered the eggs had been sucked ; this was, without
doubt, the work of Crows, although in some manner the robbers had managed to avoid the traps and make their
escape. As the shells were almost dry, it was evident that they had been broken for some considerable time •
and it is most probable that the damage was done shortly after we quitted the spot the previous evening and
before the male Eagle had a chance of returning to the nest.”

Another extract from my notes will show that even when the cyrio of the Eaglo has been discovered the
work of procuring specimens is not always so easy as might be imagined; and the slightest accident or a
moment's forgetfulness may frustrate the best laid plans. I may as well here state that I was using one of
the newly invented hammerless guns; and to this cause the Eagle was probably indebted for a slightly l„n»er
lease of life than it would otherwise have enjoyed. The mistake I made in this case (attempting to shoot

8

WHITE-TAILED EAGLE.

with a gun from which the charges had been extracted) was of but little consequence, and shortly after atoned
for. Ear more serious results, however, arc likely to occur should a gun of tins description containing
cartridges he handled by some inexperienced sportsman who believes the weapon to be what he would term
“empty.” The gun of the future ought, in my opinion, to possess indicators that show plainly whether or not

the barrels contain cartridges.

“ On arriving at a spring within a quarter of a mile of our destination we halted for a few minutes, and,
with the help of the glasses, made a thorough examination of the nest, which was now in view, placed in the
face of a steep and overhanging cliff. It was evident that the female was absent ; but the male was at length
discovered, at the distance of nearly a mile, perched on a detached rock out on the open moor. As he sat with
Ms head drawn back and facing the full blaze of the sun, which was now getting low, it appeared as if he had
not yet observed us. After carefully scanning the intervening space with the glasses, we came to the conclusion
that, if I could manage to reach a long broken ridge of rock that ran in the direction of the slab on which lie
had taken up his position, I should probably be able to obtain a shot. The track I was forced to follow was
far steeper than I had anticipated ; owing to the dry weather the turf was slippery as glass, and I had the
greatest difficulty in getting foothold. At last I reached the summit, and I now discovered that our
suppositions were correct, as if able to keep myself low enough to gain the shelter of the ridge, the travelling
would be comparatively easy. The air was oppressively hot, and the heat in the gully up which I had climbed
had been almost unbearable. Just as I had advanced about halfway over the eighty or one hundred yards of
open moorland that separated me from the ridge, and which I was forced to cross in serpentine fashion, crawling
flat on the ground, and shoving the gun in front of me, I encountered a delightfully cool and pleasant breeze.
The sudden chill, however, put a stop to my advance, as it brought on such a fit of sneezing that I was
compelled to bury ray head in the moss for several minutes for fear of disturbing the bird. While working the
gnn along through the rough grass and among the tangled heather-stalks, I discovered that, owing to the
absence of hammers, I could make my way with far greater freedom than with the old-fashioned weapons. At
last I was able to proceed ; and once well under the shelter of the ridge I was no longer obliged to adopt such
an uncomfortable mode of progression. On starting again after a short rest, I was not long in reaching the
marks I had taken as the nearest spot from which I should have to shoot. Here I was delayed a few minutes
in order to thoroughly examine the muzzle and barrels of the gun ; and while preparing to look over my
attention was attracted by a harsh scream high in the air above me, and on rising suddenly up I discovered
the bird just disappearing from sight over the brow of the hill, having probably only spread his wings a second
or two before, when the alarm-note of the female gave him warning. As both Eagles were now on the watch
and evidently disturbed, it was useless to wait ; so I made my way slowly back towards the spot where we had
halted. Slightly altering my course I avoided the steep gully up which I had scrambled, and returned by a
longer but easier track, rejoining the men a short distance from the nest. After remaining some time surveying-
all approaches and places for concealment, we retreated a few hundred yards to a grassy hollow, from which,
under the shelter of some stunted bushes and moss-grown stones, we could obtain a view of the whole range of
cliffs in which the nest was placed, and at the same time refresh ourselves with lunch. With the exception of
a wee nip taken at a well near the foot of the hill, neither bit nor sup had passed our lips for over eight hours,
and rest and food were most acceptable. While repacking the baskets after satisfying our hunger, I first
noticed that the gradually increasing gloom was not entirely caused by the disappearance of the sun behind
the hills, and a distant roll of thunder shortly after warned us that a tempest was approaching. One of the
men, who, while I was absent in pursuit of the male, had been as near to the nest as he was able to crawl,
stated that he had plainly heard the young birds calling ; if this was the case, I was of opinion that 1 should
be sure of a shot by waiting for the return of the female. Before many minutes had elapsed the western sky
was entirely overcast with dense black clouds, and the loudness of the peals of thunder indicated that the

AYTITTE-T AILED EAGLE.

9

storm was rapidly drawing nearer. While I was still undecided whether it would not be wiser to beat a retreat
and make for some place of shelter for the night, we caught sight of the female Eagle flying along the face of
the cliffs, and, after a single turn in front of the nest, she disappeared under the shadow of the overhanging
rocks. I was well aware that it was impossible to reach the Lodge or even the nearest shoaling before the
storm would break, as eight or ten miles of rough travelling lay before us, to say nothing of a burn, which,
although crossed almost dry-footed in the morning, would, if the storm passed over its upper waters, be coming
down in spate and quite impassable. Under these circumstances I thought I might as well endeavour to get
a shot if possible before the darkness closed in. We had previously discovered a rough tract that ran down
the face of the cliffs a short distance to the cast of the nest, and by following this to the bottom we should be
enabled to gain a footing among some large stones about twenty yards below the ledge on which the eyrie was
placed. Leaving the rest of the men and the baggage where we had lunched, Sandy (the head forester) and
myself started at once for this spot, making the best of our way over the broken ground. A few drops of rain
were commencing to fall as we reached the steepest part of the track ; here the rocks and stones were piled one
above another in most fantastic disorder, and, being forced to crawl with the greatest caution, it took us several
minutes to get over the last few yards. Just before we reached the bottom of the pass the full fury of the
storm burst over us. It was now utterly impossible to advance further with any hopes of success ; the rain fell
in blinding torrents, the lightning flashed incessantly, and the peals of thunder echoing back from hill to hill
appeared like one continued roll. For a few minutes we attempted to shelter ourselves beneath an overhanging
crag of rock ; then a sudden shift of wind carried the squalls of rain from an opposite quarter, and we retreated
a short distance up the pass to a spot we had examined on our visit in the earlier part of the day. A terrier
which had followed one of the keepers led to the discovery : his persistent barking and hunting among the
slabs of stone induced his master to follow ; and at last he came upon a number of small caves, formed by the
cracks and crevices of the fallen rocks. Some of the larger openings extended a considerable distance under-
ground, all appearing to communicate with another below the surface ; and from the excitement shown by the
dog, it was evident that this subterranean retreat was either a fox-cairn * or the den of a badger. Creeping
on hands and knees I made my way cautiously into one of the larger caverns, while Sandy betook himself to
another, a few yards further up the pass. Once past the entrance, which was somewhat contracted, the space
was by no means confined ; and snugly ensconced on a bundle of dry grass and heather, which we had
previously collected in case I had to wait for the birds, I felt decidedly thankful at having reached so secure a
shelter. The storm, which had lulled for a few minutes, again broke out with increased violence, flash after
flash lighting up the inmost recesses of my hiding-place. As the lightning appeared to play about the bright
barrels of the gun, I imagined that such an efficient conductor would be safest at a distance ; so crawliim
outside I withdrew the cartridges, and placed it under cover of the first stone I came to, and again retired
towards my den. Just as I was returning a blaze of light, which illumined the whole scene for several seconds
revealed the familiar features of Sandy peering from an opening among the rocks. The forester is as fine a
looking Highlander as one would meet in a day’s march ; but he certainly presented a most spectral and
uncanny appearance under the influence of the flickering gleams and the grim and rugged surroundings.
Then retreating to the furthest corner of my quarters I spread out the rough litter, and making myself °as
comfortable as circumstances permitted, I prepared to wait till the storm cleared off. Before long I became
aware of a dull oppressive sensation in the atmosphere coupled with a faint unpleasant smell ; but° whether it
was caused by dampness and the mildew collected on the stones, or was merely a slight reminiscence of the
usual tenants of the establishment, I was unable to determine. Tired with the long day’s work and lulled by
the distant rumble of the thunder, I soon fell asleep, and it was not till some hours after daybreak that I woke

* A “ cairn ” usually signifies a heap of stones ; it is
in which foxes rear their cubs.

also frequently the name given by keepers and foresters in the Highlands to the earth

10

WIIITE-TAI L E D EAGLE.

up. Eor several moments I was unable to realize the situation or collect my scattered senses ; at last I
comprehended the state of affairs, and crawling to the entrance of my burrow the first object that met my eyes
was the ever watchful Sandy, in the same position that I had last seen him during the height ol the storm.
The sun was now shining brightly, the air was cool and pleasant, and all signs of the tempest had passed away.
As soon as I made my appearance the forester crept stealthily forward, and stated that the male Eagle, carrying
a lamb in his claws, had once been in towards the rock, but whether he had proceeded as far as the nest he had
been unable to discern, as an angle of the cliffs shut out the view in that direction. The female had not shown
herself, and we at once decided that not a moment should be lost for fear she took her departure in search of
food. Hastily snatching up the gun we made our way, as rapidly as the roughness of the track would allow us,
to the lower part of the pass ; and having selected a position with firm standing-ground from which I could
shoot, Sandy proceeded a yard or two further and gave a low whistle and, after waiting a second or two, a
loud shout, neither of which had the effect of starting the bird. A small stone was next pitched on to the
ledge, hut still no signs ; and I was beginning to think she must have slipped away unperceived, when, with a
mighty spread of wing, out she swept, presenting a magnificent chance. IS'o sooner had I pressed the first
trigger than it flashed across my mind that I had omitted to replace the cartridges extracted during the stoiun
of the previous night. Two dull clicks were the sole response ; and the Eagle sailed away without appearing to
have taken the slightest notice of our presence.”

Nestling, almost ready to Fly

OSPREY.

PANDION IIALIAETUS.

In England, during spring and autumn, the Osprey may generally he observed in certain localities in the
southern and eastern counties. The western division of Sussex and the east of Norfolk appear to have particular
attractions for these birds. At different times I have seen three or four in the neighbourhood of Shoreham,
in addition to several others reported by local gunners; while in the broad- district near Yarmouth I occasionally
have noticed as many as half a dozen in the course of a few weeks, and some years back a gamekeeper
obtained three immature specimens in a couple of days on one piece ol water.

Erom the number observed at these seasons, it is probable that our southern coasts are visited at the time
of migration by stragglers from the continent, as well as our native birds, that are on their way to and
from their breeding-quarters in the Highlands. The great majority of the specimens obtained are, as a rule,
in immature plumage; and more than once I have seen them in Norlolk all through May and as late as the
first week in June. These, of course, must have been birds that would not have nested that season.

Several pairs of Ospreys still resort to the central and northern districts of the Highlands, and take up
their quarters for the summer months. Though their natural food is everywhere abundant, and the whole
face of the country is wild and deserted, they are but seldom observed among the Western Islands. I never
noticed a single specimen in the Outer Hebrides ; and, after many inquiries of keepers and shepherds (who
were, I discovered, well acquainted with the species from having seen them on the mainland), I could hear of but
one bird having been met with in the district, and that was passed at sea during a fresh breeze of wind halfway
between Loch Shell and the Shiant Islands. It is probable that, owing to the absence of trees or rocky
islets * and old buildings on the freshwater lochs, they may be unable to find suitable nesting-quarters. To
the same cause their scarcity in Caithness may be ascribed : trout are to be found in every loch and burn,
while solitude reigns supreme over the northern and western parts of the county ; still it is only on rare
occasions that an Osprey makes it appearance.

Eormerly they often frequented the mountain-loclis among the bleak and barren moors, where a few st unted
firs or dwarfed birches tvere the only timber. At the present time their favourite resorts, with but few
exceptions, are the more open parts of dense pine-forests that cover either steep hill-sides or rough marshy
low ground. In one or two instances the journey to their eyrie is an undertaking of no slight labour. It is
necessary to force a way through tangled heather of gigantic growth, entwined in places with matted bushes of
juniper or bog-myrtle, while here and there waving bogs of green and treacherous moss arc intersected by
stagnant pools or streams concealed by luxuriant rushes and rank water-plants. At not unfrequent intervals
huge rocks and crumbling precipices or gullies, cut by winter torrents and blocked by fallen trees with sharp

* I was told of a small island, in a loch at a short distance from the coast, where formerly some large bird of prey (possibly the White-
tailed Eagle) had nested. I started to visit the spot ; but a heavy storm, accompanied by blinding squalls of snow, rendered our journey, which
had partly to be made by boat, utterly impossible.

2

OSPREY.

and pointed limbs, may bar the passage, and a circuitous course will have to be taken in order to avoid sucli
impracticable obstacles. Being screened from nearly every breath of wind, the atmosphere in sultry weather is
almost stilling : clouds of poisonous midges and flics in myriads buzz and hum around one s head ; to rest is
utterly impossible, the incessant attacks of the insects preventing all attempts at peace and quietness. Those
who have struggled to the haunts of the Osprey in these localities will, I am afraid, bear away few pleasing
memories of their visit to the district.

As a rule, these birds return to some old and weather-beaten nest, which is generally put slightly into
repair on their first arrival, before the eggs are laid. This is not, however, always the case, as I once observed
a female on a nest, which, when examined, appeared to have been untouched lor at least a twelvemonth.
The eggs were on a soft carpet of moss, green and perfectly alive, covering entirely in one mass the whole
foundation of sticks, and showing plainly that no additions could have been made that season.

In some of the forests and on the strictly-preserved estates they may still be found so numerous, that
two, or even three, breeding- stations might be visited in the course of a single day. In the more open
districts, where strangers are allowed to wander as they think fit, the poor Osprey has either entirely
disappeared, or is only an occasional visitor to those regions where formerly, during the whole of the summer
season, he was sure to be found “ at home.”

The fact that the present species holds its own simply where its safety is guarded by foresters or
keepers, is one answer to the arguments of those ranting sentimentalists who preach against all preserving,
urging that every living creature is sacrificed to make way for game, and strongly recommending that
keepers should be abolished and the balance of nature restored. No sane person, however, can have the
slightest doubt, if such an undesirable state of affairs ever came to pass, that not only game, but every species
of bird that at present adds such a charm to the wildest scenes would speedily disappear before what these
purveyors of twaddle would term the advance of civilization. Notwithstanding all that has been written or
said against him, the gamekeeper and his assistants arc the greatest protectors to the whole of the feathered
tribe.

The nests in the more northern districts were, with few exceptions, formerly placed on rocks or large
slabs of stone in the freshwater lochs. I have visited at different times several of these localities ; but in
every case the eyrie was deserted, and at most only a few sticks remained to mark the spot. In one instance,
on an island in a loch in the midst of a very wild and desolate stretch of country, I found on a low bush, or rather,
if I remember right, an old twisted birch-stump, at the height of not more than four or five feet from the ground,
a very large nest, which was said to have been formerly built by these birds. Although the structure still held
together, it was evident it had not been used for many years ; but the size of the sticks and the substantial
manner in which it had been put together prevented it from falling to pieces. I have frequently observed the
remains of other old nests, almost similarly placed, in various stages of preservation, when I have visited the
islands in some of the remote liill-lochs. In several cases I think it was doubtful whether the former occupants
had been of this species or the Sea-Eagle.

Those who have ever read the graphic account given by the late Charles St. John of his adventures in the
Northern Highlands will readily call to mind the description of how his friend Dunbar gallantly swam out to
the rocks on which the Ospreys’ nests were placed. To reach the islands in this manner was entirely beyond
my powers ; so I used for this purpose, and also to search the shores, which were in many parts quite un-
approachable from the marshy character of the ground, an india-rubber boat, which is a most handy invention
being easily carried in a small pack, and taking barely five minutes to got ready to go afloat. The labour
of dragging the ordinary boats of the country to some of the required spots, many miles from even the
roughest tracks, would be an undertaking of the greatest difficulty. On freshwater lochs I have never met

OSPREY.

3

now its extreme buoyancy would enable it to withstand a heavy squall, I cannot state from my own experience ;
but I only just missed an opportunity of satisfying myself on this point on Loch Maree, in Rossshirc, while
rowing out to look at the islands, on which were stated to be a couple of trees formerly resorted to by one or two
pairs of Ospreys. The birds themselves had long been banished, and the object of my visit was only to inspect
the locality, and compare the trees with others that I had seen used by this species. I was witlnn a stone’s
throw of one of the islands, when, happening to cast my eye to windward, I noticed that, at the distance ot
about a mile, a regular whirlwind had caught up the water into a cloud of spray, which with irresistible force
was rapidly drifting across the loch. In less than a dozen strokes I was ashore ; and lifting the boat on to the
bank, I made the painter fast round a tree, and bringing it back lashed it round the seat. Before I could gain
a place of shelter the storm had burst ; and the first force of the squall carried the boat straight out from the
tree to the full extent of the line, and dashed it to and fro till one of the lashings parted, when the wind
fortunately lulled almost as rapidly as it had risen. In the larger lochs among the hills there is always a
chance that such storms may arise; and what their effect upon the boat would be, I can only conjecture. I,
however, always console myself by the reflection that even although capsized, it one can but hang to t he boat
by means of the life-lines (which arc rigged round the sides after the manner ot a lifeboat), sooner or later
one must be blown to land. The only danger in this case would be the chance ot a rocky shore. I have
noticed that large slabs of stone and sharp and jagged rocks, extending a considerable distance into the water,
surround some of the islands among the inland Highland lochs ; and if driven on such a coast, I fancy both
boat and crew would suffer a heavy amount of damage before a landing could be effected. One hundred yards
or so further north of the point where I came ashore there is much such a spot.

The ruins of an old castle on Loch Assynt, which were stated formerly to have been on an island, although
now joined to the northern shore, were pointed out as having been used as a breeding-station by the
Osprey; but the greater part of the nest had disappeared, even at the time of my first visit to the locality,
now nearly fifteen years ago. "While passing along the shores of the loch only a few months back, I noticed
a single Osprey, apparently an old bird, flying in a westerly direction along the water-side. Many miles
further south, on the old castle on Loch an Eilan, a nest in a tolerably good state of repair may still be
observed ; but although a bird or two now and then alights and rests for a short time on the building, it is
some years since it has been resorted to for breeding-purposes.

All the nests now occupied that I have visited during the last few years have been placed on trees, and,
without a single exception, the birds had chosen Scotch firs. In two or three cases the nest was placed on the
highest branches, which were twisted and growing downwards towards their extremities, giving almost the
impression that the growth of the tree had been influenced by the weight of the nest. If the same spot was
resorted to for many seasons in succession, such a result might possibly be brought about. In one instance
I believe the tree has been made use of regularly, while another is only one of several different eyries to
which the birds occasionally return, some years taking up their quarters at one spot, and the next changing to
another. Eor the last twenty or thirty years they have never been known to choose an entirely new situation.
Within a distance of twelve or flftccn miles nearly a dozen nests in various stages of repair may still be
seen ; but it is seldom if ever that more than a couple of pair will be found breeding over the whole range.
In one instance an immense spreading fir is resorted to (one of the largest and finest trees in the forest) ;
here the nest is placed among the lower branches, at a height of about fifteen feet ; it is seldom that I have
seen them at a much greater elevation— twenty or twenty-five and (in two instances only) about thirty feet,
the latter being the highest I have ever noticed.

The manner of building seems to vary considerably. I have seen some nests only about a foot and a half
or, at most, two feet thick, and nearly nine or ten feet across. I never measured one accurately, but well
remember that, after having climbed up the tree and stretched out my hand, I discovered, when bending over

1

OSPREY.

the nest, that I could not reach within a foot of the eggs without scrambling on to
many instances the nest is heaped up to a height of three or even four feet,

the upper part. In all eases the foundation consists of good-sized sticks, finer materials being used complete

‘’"Z KsWnv-Eagle (or rather Water-Eagle, as I have heard this species termed in the north) ought
apparently to prove an uglv customer to all aggressors and thoroughly able to protect its own. O c
whcn examinin'* a nest I discovered the female sitting on a single egg, with the shell of another, which
I!; but recently broken and sucked, laying beside her. In this ease both male and female were a£e an
could never have suffered from any intrusion of visitors, as, besides being close to a keeper s lod 0 e, e og
were evidently quite fresh laid. It is difficult to understand how the Crow (and this robher was without
doubt the culprit, as I saw two pair within half a mile of the spot) had managed to gc a c ance 0 approac

th ° T never remember having seen it stated that this species was nocturnal in its habits ; but on more than
one occasion, when in the neighbourhood of their nests, I have heard the old birds calling loudly during the
night. Owing to the darkness it was impossible to tell whether they were on wing or perched, although I

have stopped and waited some time in order to make sure.

Unless molested the Osprey is always a most unsuspicious bird. I have seen one alight on a beacon
(marking the course of the Norwich river across Breydon mud flats) and allow two or three wherries to sail
past within fifteen or twenty yards without paying the slightest attention. These beacons (large flat-headed
stakes, a foot or more in diameter) appear to he favourite resting-places for this species, both in the tideways
and in the freshwater broads. I have also observed one pitched on a small pole, driven into a mud-bank
to hold a net, that was no larger at the top than a good-sized walking-stick. Here the bird remained
apparently at its ease, though how it managed to retain its position was by no means clear. This specimen
was particularly confiding, turning its head and watching all our motions while I closely examined it with the
glasses from a punt at the distance of little more than half a gunshot. At a Highland lodge I have
frequently visited it is no uncommon sight to notice one sitting on the boat-sheds close in front of the
buildings. The female, like many other birds of prey, is by no means easily scared from lier nest. While
passing near an eyrie one spring, and being uncertain whether it was occupied that season, we left tlie track
and proceeded a short distance into the forest in order to examine it. After walking round the tree and
noticing that the nest (which was not above fifteen or, at most, eighteen feet from the ground) did not appear
to have received any fresh additions, we came to the conclusion that the birds had chosen some other spot.
One of the keepers at last happened to strike the tree with his stick, and I then noticed the white head of
the female rise up a short distance, but immediately drop out of sight again. The large size of the nest had
entirely hidden the sitting bird ; and it was only when she sprung up for a moment that we became aware
of her presence. Pour or five of us walking about and talking loudly within a few yards of where she sat
had not caused her to move.

The young birds of this species appear to he quite fearless, and exhibit not the slightest shyness, eagerly
attempting to take food from their captors almost as soon as they have been removed from the nest. I have
never taken hut one pair that I required as specimens, although I might possibly have endeavoured to
rear one or two in confinement, had it not been, from some cause or other (most probably on account of
their fisli-diet), that they proved so abominably offensive to the nasal organs that the occupation of feeding or
even visiting them could hardly have been agreeable.

OSPREY.

making a meal off a butt, the local name for the flounder. Most authors describe the manner in which this
species seizes its prey, dashing down at times with great force and clutching it with its powerful talons. This
without doubt is its usual method; but under certain circumstances, I imagine, it is forced to change lis
tactics. I have watched one or two, while searching for flounders in the muddy creeks on Breydon Water,
following the course of the channels, and fishing in exactly the same manner that Gulls may be noticed when
picking up the floating refuse in a tideway, the only difference being that a Gull seizes the food with his beak,
while an Osprey grasps it in his claws. The thickness of the water renders it impossible for any fish to bo
detected at a depth below the surface; flounders, however, may frequently be seen working their way close to
the edge of the stream ; and from the manner in which the birds proceeded, I have not the slightest doubt they
were in pursuit of this description of fish. After hovering round for a second or two, I have noticed one dip down
close to the mud-bank, and, although appearing scarcely to have touched the water, sail off to some quiet spot,
where it could leisurely devour its prey, — a favourite resting-place in that locality being the sweeps of an old mill
standing within a short distance of the flats, from which a good view of approaching danger might be obtained.
Mullet are very plentiful in the upper parts of Breydon Water, and to these the Osprey is stated to be particularly
partial when observed in the south of England. I have never as yet (though, of course, that is no prool that
the bird does not) seen one attempt to capture any of these fish on this water. Possibly it may be owing to
the fact that the only part where they can be seen below the surface is, during summer, almost choked by a
green slimy weed, which would probably hinder the bird from taking its prey. On several occasions in the
Highlands I have noticed that small trout, a quarter of a pound or less, were brought to feed the young ; and
the male I have also observed carrying fish of about this size to the female while sitting. Although it has
been frequently remarked that large and heavy fish are captured, I have but once or twice seen a trout in their
talons that could have been a pound in weight. This species of fish, the common lake or brown trout, appears
to be their favourite prey in the north, as I have noticed no other members of the finny tribe taken. I was
rather surprised on one occasion to see a wounded Osprey disgorge some portions of an exceedingly small
trout. Although the whole fish could not have been above an ounce or two (about the size of a sardine), it
had been bitten into two or three pieces, appearing to have been divided straight across, and looking as clean
cut as if chopped with a knife. On examining the remains it seemed strange how so small a fish could have
been grasped by the foot of the bird.

Now and then I have come across paragraphs in different publications stating that this species had been
observed attempting to capture both fowls and rabbits. If any faith can be placed in these reports I should
imagine the birds must have been much reduced by want before they would resort to such unnatural food.
Had not the robber in one instance been shot, I should have been of opinion that some other bird of prey had
been mistaken for the Osprey.

Collectors and gamekeepers are not alone responsible for the annual diminution in the numbers of this
species. A wandering bird, while on its passage across the country, no sooner takes up its quarters for a short
time in the neighbourhood of some well-stocked pond or river, than the custodian of the water becomes alarmed
for the safety of the fish committed to his charge ; a strict watch is kept, and before many days have elapsed
the unfortunate stranger falls a victim either to misplaced confidence or the temerity caused by excessive
hunger ; and a paragraph in the county paper duly records the capture of the depredator.

Two or, more commonly, three eggs appear to be the usual number. When all the young birds have
been reared, I observed that by the time they were full-fledged there has been considerable difference in the
size, the largest being, as nearly as possible, double the size and weight of the most backward. By the end of
the second or third week in J uly the young birds arc generally fit to leave the nest. For some time after
they arc well able to fly they will remain about the spot, returning every night to roost upon the nest; and
here the old birds also bring them food.

OSPREY.

G

The Plate shows the plumage of a young bird when fully fledged and shortly before being able to quit the
nest. I particularly noticed the manner in which all the young, that I have had an opportunity of watching,
carried their wings. The shoulders arc drooped and brought far forward ; and this position, to the best of my
knowledge, they usually retain while standing. The younger and weaker birds but seldom rise on their feet.
The colours of the soft parts were — iris deep chrome-yellow ; beak black; cere blue-black; legs and feet a pale
livid flesh, claws black.

The adults are so well known that there is not the slightest necessity for illustrating them. TV hat age the
bird may be before it assumes the perfectly mature dress, I am unable to state, except from conjecture ; but
I should imagine it is not put on before the third or possibly the fourth year.

A specimen I shot on May 20 on Breydon mud flats showed less white about the head, and considerably
more dark feathers among the markings on the breast, than any of the birds I have seen at their breeding-
quarters. From the date of its capture, it evidently could not have paired and nested that season, and I should
imagine it was a bird in the second year. The back had lost all of the light-coloured edgings that appear on the
feathers of the young in their first plumage ; and the only difference I could detect from the adults was, as
previously stated, on the head and breast. The legs and feet were more deeply tinted with greenish blue
than I ever observed on any other fresh-killed specimen. In a pair shot at their nest the feet and legs of
the male were of the very palest livid white, with only the slightest tinge of bluish green ; while in the case
of the female the colour was a pale fleshy white, almost the same that I have observed in the nestlings.
The tint of the legs and feet must, I should be of opinion, if any faith is to be put in the coloured plates in
most works, vary considerably in different individuals. Here is the description of the above-mentioned pair,
taken from my note-book : — “ The male and female were alike in plumage, and only differed in the male being
by far the smallest. Iris bright king’s yellow ; beak black ; cere cobalt-blue : legs and feet by no means so
bluish green as usually depicted ; in the female especially the colour was a pale livid flesh.”

* 1

o

Immature Plumage

M A I, E

Adult Plumage .

COMMON BUZZARD.

BUTEO VULGARIS.

The only parts of tlie country where I have had a chance of observing this species in any numbers lia\ c
been a few remote glens in the wilder districts of the Highlands. Here the Common Buzzard may still
be found as a resident, breeding in any rough precipice or broken range of rocks sufficiently removed trom

intrusion. . .

In all the northern counties I have met with opportunities of watching a few specimens either circling
slowly over the moors, or perched on some commanding eminence on the lull-side from which a good view of
the surrounding country could be obtained. During the early part of winter I have on several occasions
noticed a bird or two, apparently immature, which had taken up their quarters in the big woods near the coast
in East Lothian. At times they might be seen sailing over the rabbit-warrens among the sandy links, the prey
they were able to pick up in such situations being probably their attraction to the district. On the fells ol
Cumberland and among the Yorkshire moorlands I have now and then come across a single specimen ; and in
some parts of these counties the rocks they formerly nested in were pointed out. In Norfolk and Sussex
a few stragglers now and then make their appearance. Those I observed in Norfolk were near the
sca-coast in the neighbourhood of the Denes, where rabbits were plentiful ; some of these were probably
Hough-legged Buzzards, as I seldom obtained a view sufficiently close to identify the particular species. In
Sussex, although I never heard on any reliable authority of this bird nesting in the county, I have known
several to show themselves early in the autumn, frequenting the wooded districts and hunting over the furze-
covcred fields and downs. Not a few of these, I am well aware, have been, as in Norfolk, llough-legs; but
I plainly distinguished the Common Buzzard, and have also seen several that have been shot or trapped
by keepers, as well as others whose dilapidated remains graced either the end of the dog-kennel or the
vermin-pole.

I can well remember being present about thirty years ago (when a school-boy) at the death of a large
Hawk which was nesting in a high tree in a densely timbered part of East Sussex. Several gamekeepers were
summoned to surround the spot so as to prevent all chances of escape. The sitting bird was shot. Its size was
large, its colour brown, and it was called a Buzzard by the keepers : these are the only particulars I can now
call to mind. The eggs, two in number, however, fell to my share, and remained for some years in a collection
I had formed with the assistance of the keepers of the district. They were of a dirty white tint, and, to
the best of my recollection, corresponded exactly with eggs of this species that I have since taken in
the Highlands.

Though cautious and wary in most instances when approached with the gun, the Buzzard is by no means
difficult to capture by means of traps, if set with only ordinary skill ; the young during their first season are
still less suspicious, and are almost certain to blunder into the first trap they meet with. A few years back I
noticed early in the autumn several immature birds frequenting a rough and stony moor that was well

2

COMMON BUZZARD.

stocked with rabbits. Having placed a trap baited with a blue hare on a small pile of stones, a watch was
kept ; and in twenty-four hours three young Buzzards were taken, in addition to a cat and a stoat.

This species, I am of opinion, docs but little harm to game. It has been stated by some writers who are
considered good authorities that it will take young Grouse and Partridges; but, according to my own
experience, the damage caused in this manner must be exceedingly slight. When in the neighbourhood
of their breeding-quarters I always carefully searched the ground in order to discover on what they had
been feeding. Scattered over the grassy slopes and on the nearest ledges I have found the remains of hare-
and rabbit-fur, and at times some portions of skins that appeared to have belonged to moles and mice. In
no single instance have I detected feathers, either in the vicinity of the nest or in their castings. A wounded
or diseased bird, I have but little doubt, would prove acceptable ; but that they would tackle a strong and
healthy Grouse, or even the young that were not deprived of the protection of either one or both of their
parents, must, I should imagine, be of rare occurrence. In most districts where the Buzzard still survives,
blue hares or rabbits are numerous, and in some cases so abundant as to be a nuisance ; in these parts, at
any rate, it is a pity that the bird should be exterminated. Scientific naturalists condemn keepers for
destroying this species ; it ought, however, to be borne in mind that these men arc bound to set traps, in order
to keep down Crows, stoats, and other vermin ; and, whether they desire it or not, the Buzzard, owing to the
manner in which it procures its food, is almost sure to offer itself as the first victim. It is, I am aware,
possible to conduct the extermination of vermin, by judiciously placed traps and the occasional use of
the gun, in such a manner that none but the guilty are destroyed; but such accurate knowledge of the
habits of all birds and beasts of prey is, I am afraid, more than can be reasonably expected of the majority
of gamekeepers.

I am ignorant of the age at which this species acquires the perfect adult plumage. The difference
between the young and the mature specimens I have obtained is not striking; and the Plates will show
the two stages far better than I am able to describe them. The immature bird was trapped in September
1865, and the adult male shot at its nesting-quarters a few years later, both specimens being obtained in the
Highlands. The old male, when fresh killed, was remarkably brightly coloured, parts of the breast and flanks
being deeply tinted with reddish brown. I noticed after a few years that its plumage had faded considerably ;
and the artist has been forced to rely somewhat on a rough sketch I made myself, in order to produce his
drawing. The female was by no means so richly marked, and much resembled the immature specimen.

Though none have fallen to my own exertions, I have seen many young birds, in very curious stages of
plumage, that have recently been shot or trapped by keepers. Several specimens were of a uniform dark-brown
or chocolate colour, in others a pale red or cinnamon was the pervading tint. During the last few years these
varieties appear to have occurred more frequently. I never remember to have seen a single specimen, either
old or young, on wing in the Highlands that approached these birds in colour ; and from the fact that all I
examined were procured in either Norfolk or Sussex or the adjoining counties, it is possible that they are
all foreign bred. Should, however, dark-coloured birds have been obtained breeding in some parts of the
British Islands, my supposition that these varieties arc all from the north of Europe at once falls to
the ground.

An extract from my notes referring to the capture of the male represented in the Plate will supply some
information as to the unsuspicious character of the bird and the rapidity with which a mate is at times
procured when one is lost. On this occasion, in little over half an hour after the death of the male, the
1 emalc was calmly seated on her eggs, with a fresh partner quietly perched on a stump within a few feet
of her nest.

“ May 30. Started early from the inn, in a downpour of rain, to make our way to the glen where the
Buzzard was supposed to be breeding. 1 have had many a tramp through dull and dreary wastes ; but I

COMMON BUZZARD.

3

scarcely ever remember a journey so long and uninteresting. Thick drifting mist obscured the view on all
sides; and after leaving the low ground not a glimpse of the surrounding country was obtained beyond the
distance of a few hundred yards on either side, until we descended from the high moors into a grassy valley
shut in by steep and broken cliffs. The heavy rain now cleared, and was succeeded by occasional showers,
while the clouds rolled further up the hills. Being uncertain about the exact spot where the nest was situated,
we kept, close below the rocks, on towards the northern extremity of the glen, in which part the shepherd who
had brought the information had noticed the birds. At length, during a heavy squall of sleet and rain, a
Buzzard was noticed to leave the cliffs ; but, although we closely examined the whole face of the rocks both
from above and below, we could detect no signs of a nest. In order to give the bird a chance to return, we
retired to the cover of a broken bank in a gully, at a distance of three or four hundred yards from the spot we
required to watch. Scarcely five minutes had passed when the pair of birds were seen Hying in circles at some
height in the air; then, gradually extending their flight towards the north, they were lost to sight in the
mist. A few moments later, one suddenly returned, and, sweeping close under the cliffs, at once disappeared
onto one of the ledges we had previously examined. Leaving one of the keepers in the valley to mark the
exact spot when the bird came out, we took a circuitous course, and again made our way to the top of the
rocks. On reaching the summit, and crawling cautiously to the edge of the cliffs, the bird left the ledge,
which was within the distance of a few feet, so rapidly that it was impossible, owing to my cramped position,
to obtain a shot. I was able to detect the situation of the nest ; and, the ropes being produced, there was but
little difficulty in reaching the ledge. Though the distance was so slight, the rock proved to be dangerous for
roping-work. If it had been necessary to descend far, the risk would have been considerable, as numbers
of loose stones were detached. The nest was placed on a small grassy ledge, partly sheltered, and almost
obscured from view by a projecting slab of rock. It was not a particularly neat structure, being roughly put
together, and consisting of heather stalks and roots, with a few pieces of that coarse-growing rush so
commonly seen in nests of Eagles, and lined with fine twigs entwined with strands of grass. As I had
previously obtained specimens of adult birds, the nest and eggs were the main objects of my visit ; and, owing
to the crumbling nature of the rock, I was afraid lest a second descent might prove destructive to them. We
consequently removed the nest and eggs, which were securely lifted to the top of the cliffs; and then, in order

to decoy the old birds, I constructed a fresh nest from dead heather, and also two imitation eggs made up of
balls of heather tied tightly in pieces of rag cut from my dirty pocket-handkerchief. About a foot and a half
of turf with fine short grass separated the nest from the edge of the precipice ; and here we placed a trap,
concealed with the greatest care. I imagined that one of the old birds might possibly settle on the ledge and
be taken, but never calculated that they would be sufficiently imposed upon to venture on the nest. When
completed, the whole affair had a most natural appearance. Looking down from above, it was impossible to
detect the changes that had been effected. On our way back wc discovered a projecting rock at a slightly
higher elevation, from which a far better view could be obtained of the ledge where the nest was situated. From
this point I was satisfied the birds could have been easily killed at the time of our first visit, if wc had been
acquainted with the exact position of the eyrie. Tired and hungry, and but little inclined to wait for the
chance of a shot till after a rest, I turned downhill to where wc had left the man to keep watch. He reported
that during the time we had been employed about the rock lie had been unable to make out cither of the
birds. A short distance further up the glen the mist was still thick; so it was quite possible that they mi-lit
have been within a quarter of a mile without having been discerned. Lunch was now brought out • but a
commencement had scarcely been made, when one of the Buzzards was noticed to skim rapidly under the
shadow of the cliffs, and at once disappear onto the ledge. Two or three glasses were turned to the spot by
the time the nest was reached ; but the bird apparently avoided the trap, and alighted at once on the e—s as
not the slightest disturbance was noticed. After waiting about half an hour longer, as the bird gave no si-ns

-1

COMMON BUZZARD.

of leaving, I determined to try and obtain a shot from the higher ledge we had lately discovered. Taking with
me only the head keeper, I followed the same track hy which we had returned from our last ascent. On nearing
the edge of the clitF, Duncan secured a good grip of my coat while I cautiously stretched over so as to
command a view of the ledge. The Buzzard was evidently covering the imitation eggs ; and it needed a whistle
to induce it to fly. Being well prepared, as soon as it spread its wings I tired; and the bird, just clearing the
ledge, fell to the foot of the cliffs. By the help of the glasses I was able to make out that the aspect of the
nest, eggs, and covering of the trap was in no manner changed ; so we returned at once to the spot where we
had been lunching. By the time we arrived the dead bird had been picked up, and proved to he, as I at first
imagined, the male. We had not regained our position above ten minutes when the remaining Buzzard came
in sight, and, after circling three or four times over the nest, it sailed away hack to the north. In less than a
quarter of an hour it again appeared in view, and, following the exact course pursued hy the bird already
killed, it settled at once on the nest. We had just come to the conclusion that this one also had managed to
escape the trap, when our attention was attracted hy a third Buzzard which was flying immediately over the spot.
After two or three turns, it alighted on a dead stump of mountain-ash, within a few feet of the sitting bird.
I should have started at once to endeavour to obtain another shot ; hut the commanding position taken up by
the latest arrival rendered it unlikely that we could get within range before warning of our approach would
be given. For over an hour we waited, in hopes that the bird might take its departure ; hut it showed no signs
of moving. As a last resource, I despatched a couple of men to walk a short distance up the glen, and return
again close below the nest, directing them on no account to pause while in the immediate vicinity, hut to keep
steadily on their way. This manoeuvre had the desired effect ; the bird left the tree without giving the alarm,
and, after circling a few times over their heads, made a straight course towards the north, where it was
speadily lost in the mist. As soon as it disappeared, we started again for the rock ; and on this occasion I had
some difficulty to force the bird to move. I was unable to get a shot while she sat ; and for several moments
she refused to stir. At length spreading her wings, I fired at once, and she fell dead into the trap. It was
necessary to go down to the ledge with the ropes in order to recover the dead bird ; and on examining the
imitation nest and eggs it was discovered that neither the male nor the female had made the slightest
alteration in the arrangement of their domestic affairs. The difference in the nest was certainly slight; hut it
was strange how the birds had been imposed upon hy the texture of the eggs.”

" ITS.

MALE.

Adult Plumage

KITE.

MILVUS REGALIS.

Tiie citizens of London would at the present day open their eyes with amazement to behold a Kite constructing
its cumbersome nest among the branches of their grimy trees, or soaring over the river-banks in quest ol
prey; yet, if we are to put faith in old records, such sights must have been of common occurrence in days
gone by.

It is seldom now that a Kite is observed in the south, though forty or fifty years ago they appear to have
been numerous. The only one that ever came under my own observation in England was while shooting in
the neighbourhood of Brighton during the autumn of 1878 ; I then noticed one passing west at a considerable
elevation. On mentioning the fact to the farmer on whose land I was, he told me that when lie was a young
man, over sixty years previously, he had known both Kites and Buzzards plentiful in a large wood near
Canterbury. He stated he had frequently robbed the nests of the Kites, and that it was always considered the
safest plan to mount first higher up the tree, so as to get a good view of the interior, as the birds were in
the habit of carrying snakes and vipers to feed their young; these reptiles having at times sufficient strength
left to hiss and strike if touched, rendered it necessary to take care when making an inspection.

Some works I have consulted give “reptiles and carrion” as forming part of the diet of these birds; but
I must say, from my own experience, that the Kites of the present day appear to be decidedly more refined in
their tastes. In some of their nests I have found a few squirrels and rabbits, numbers of Grouse and Peewits,
and, on several occasions, the young of Curlew, Duck, and Pigeons. Grouse seem to be their favourite food.
The last nest I had a chance of observing I passed several times, and on every occasion the young birds had a
fresli-killcd Grouse lying beside them.

The old birds usually have some particular spot to which they carry their prey to partially pluck and
break up before taking to the young. Sometimes it is the stump of a tree, a large moss-covered stone, or a
bare mound of earth; at other times, if the immediate neighbourhood of the nest is covered with lorn- and
coarse undergrowth, they prepare the food on the branches of a tree. Once, while passing a nest belonging to
this species, an old forester pointed out one of these spots (in this instance a clear space among long tufts
of heather and dead and rotten branches) where he had recently trapped an old bird. He had only needed
some feathers for flies; and having plundered his captive of all lie required, the poor wretch was released a
thinner clad but possibly a wiser Kite, as I judged by the wide berth he gave us while we remained in his
neighbourhood. In addition to the place where they prepare the food for the young (which I have heard
keepers style “the Kite's dressing-table”). I believe these birds, like Grey Crows, occasionally have some snot
to which they carry their prey to consume at their leisure. I once counted the remains of over thirty Grouse
under the branches of a large fir; some were only bleached and weatherbeaten skeletons, and probably had
laid for many months This stock could hardly have been brought together for the benefit of the youn“ as
the nest of the pan of birds frequenting the tree was within the distance of one hundred yards, and contained,

2

KITE.

at the time I discovered the remains of the Grouse, only eggs at the point

of hatching and a single nestling

with its eves as vet unopened. ,

The Kite appears by no means a powerful bird ; and how it manages to possess itself of so strong and
heavy a prey as an old Grouse, I am at a loss to understand. In most instances I have noticed that young
birds were brought as food to the nest; and where I have seen the remains plentiful they were in many
cases so old and decayed as to be past judging at what age they had been captured. Still I we 1 remember
that most of the feathers scattered about belonged evidently to young birds ; I also particularly remarked
that the only old cock Grouse I ever found on one of their nests (perfectly fresh-killed and m a fit state to
examine) was minus the head. This bird I fancy, from the manner in which the neck was lacerated, had been
struck down by a Peregrine (these Falcons frequently kill more than they require, leaving their victims lying
where they fall), and afterwards picked up and brought in by the Kite. Probably the greater part of the Grouse
destroyed by this species are wounded or diseased birds, with the exception of the young that they take when
their own nestlings are in the most ravenous stage. The squirrels must, I should imagine, have been surprised
on the ground, while on their way from one tree to another in some open part of the country, as among the
branches so active an animal would, I fancy, have been more than a match for its captor.

Formerly the Kite was stated to be remarkably easily taken by means of traps. During the last ten years,
however, I have only known about half a dozen captured in this manner. This species appears to have been
entirely banished from the woods in the more open and cultivated parts of the country, and those that are left
have, in most instances, taken up their quarters in wild and remote districts where little or no trapping is
carried on ; also in deer-forests, where, of course, vermin are never molested. I was told by an old keeper,
in one of the glens in the Northern Highlands, that about forty years ago, when these birds were common, lie
used to trap numbers in the spring by using old rags instead of bait, the birds being in the habit of taking
these materials for constructing their nests. I am also well acquainted with a forester’s lodge in another district
where, even at the present time, it is useless during the nesting-season to put out any small articles of wearing-
apparel to dry unless a close watch is kept, as they are sure to be carried off by the Kites before the day is
over.

All the nests of this species that I have seen have been placed in trees, and in every instance a Scotch
fir has been resorted to. The position of the nest varies considerably — sometimes in the very topmost twigs of
a small bending pine that is scarcely able to bear the weight of even the lightest climber, occasionally among
the higher branches of some large and spreading fir, conspicuous by its size among the giants of the forest, and
at times at only the height of fifteen or eighteen feet, placed close to the main stem, where even the immense
collection of rubbish that is used as a nursery by this species is scarcely noticed, a situation having been chosen
where several large limbs branch out from the trunk.

I have never yet had the opportunity of visiting a nest that was placed among rocks or cliffs ; but I was
informed by a keeper on the west coast of the Highlands, in a wild district where large timber was scarce, that
he had the previous season destroyed the greater part of a brood of Kites which had been reared in a nest among
some large and broken slabs of rock on a steep hill-side. He described the birds accurately ; but on searching
the spot we could find no traces of their having visited the locality for breeding-purposes again, although one
of the old birds had escaped the massacre of the previous season. I would not hazard an opinion as to what
species of Hawk it could have been, as not even a feather was preserved ; and I know by past experience that
it is useless to trust to the memory of any person who is not thoroughly well informed about the bird they
attempt to describe.

I he difference in size between the male and female, which is so conspicuous in many of our birds of prey,
is scarcely to be noticed in this species. My own opinion was that the male when on wing appeared slightly
the largest ; the naturalist, however, who prepared the specimens I shot stated otherwise. The colouring of

KITE.

3

the sexes is almost identical ; in the male perhaps the head is lighter and the markings more clearly defined ;
the reddish brown on the breast, flanks, and wings is also slightly brighter. The tail is certainly longer and
considerably more forked. The tints of various specimens differ somewhat remarkably; but it is impossible to
form a judgment from old skins, as the colours are certain to hide unless great care is taken to prevent exposure
to strong light.

I believe that in pursuit of prey for their young the old birds will at times roam over an immense extent
of ground, as many as fifty or sixty miles being covered during a single foray. As they usually proceed in
large circles, and seldom in a straight course, the distance actually passed over must be considerably greater.

Some years back I used to notice (most frequently a few hours after daybreak, but now and then at
all times of day) a single Kite sailing slowly along over the low ground adjoining the banks of a large river
in the Central Highlands. The track followed was almost identical on every occasion ; the bird appeared to be
making its way straight up the valley, but it always paused to take three or four circles over certain patches
of rough ground, and also regularly examined some straggling plantations of birch that fringed the sloping
hill-sides.

On reaching the large fir-woods, a mile or two further up the glen, it would search round more closely;
but, although often watched, I never observed it capture any prey. Once it appeared to be carrying some
small object in its talons ; but the height at which it kept rendered a good view impossible. I concluded
that there was a nest somewhere within a few miles, and made several inquiries, but without any result.
At length, a year or two later, I discovered by chance that the bird that followed this route belonged (in one
instance at least) to a nest fully twenty-five miles distant *.

Having only visited the glens frequented by this species during the summer months, when they were
engaged in their nesting-operations, I have never met with a chance of studying their habits during the
depth of winter. The greater part of the birds, I believe, remain in the neighbourhood of their usual haunts ;
but I can state nothing concerning the manner in which they procure their prey during that season. The
small numbers (compared with the young of the White-tailed Eagle and the Osprey) that are observed about
the time of migration would lead one to suppose that but few change their quarters on the approach of
severe weather f. I was informed by one of the Trinity men who had passed many years on different portions
of the coast;, and was particularly well acquainted with birds of prey, that he had never seen a Kite during
his time of service. Numbers of Peregrines, a few single Owls (and on one occasion a flight of forty or fifty),
an Eagle or two, and several Ospreys had come under his observation; but not a Salmon- tailed Gled had he
recognized since the days when he had robbed their nests in his native glen. Visitors from the continent are
by no means numerous ; and as our stock of Kites is far from large, I am afraid that, with the exception
of two or three forests where the survivors arc strictly guarded, these interesting birds will, before many
years have passed, have entirely disappeared from the British Islands.

I am not acquainted with above four or five districts where this species may still be found breeding ; in
some of these localities but one or two pairs are usually observed, in others as many as three or four nests might
possibly be found scattered over the woods within a distance of twenty or twenty-five miles.

The shy and wary habits of the Kite, as well as the nature of the country in which it is now found, can,
I think, be best described by giving a few extracts from my note-books, written at the time I was in search
of specimens.

“1876, June 19th. Having previously made arrangements, drove up the glen and met the keepers, who

* This circumstance is referred to hereafter.

t While these pages were in the press I again (September 22nd, 1881) observed a Kite in Sussex within a few miles of the channel • I also
heard from a fnend o, a speemen procured in Suffolk during the same month. I conclude that a few at all events make a move towards he south
as the autumn advances, unless these are stragglers from across the German Ocean. th

KITE.

were a waitin'* our arrival. They had discovered where one pair of Kites were breeding, though they had been

unable to detect the exact part 'of the fores, in which the nest was placed. The resort o "s a large

fir-wood covering both sides of a steep gorge in the hills. The ground was so broken up wrf* ~ of rock

and dry and stony gullies, as well as rendered almost impassable from fallen and rotten ^

work of no little difficulty to reach the spot where they had been observed As wo adviced t e bt ds wh^

were both flying in circles above the wood, came down nearer ; but not above once or twree d d t, ey v en tore

within even a long gunshot. After scrambling a considerable distance, we stopped a few mmutes to res

rather more open part of the wood, and, happening to look up, discovered a nest in one of the smallest

, , , • i i.i nnA fUof it woe nmv usp.d : n/nn on

tne contents, ana mauc uui tuau it ^.muuvu — o ' * ~ ^

the down. The old birds were now flying at a great height, with no signs ol approach, ng closer ; so a few

dead boughs were collected, and placed in such a manner as to form a small hiding-place, about forty yards
from the nest, under which I might await their return, while the keepers left the spot and retired to a safe
distance, where they would be perfectly concealed from view. I had not long been in the shelter before my
attention was attracted by a number of small stones rattling down the bill-side ; on looking up I discovered a
goat standing on a small ledge, regarding me intently. After a few seconds lie made a start, bounding over
some loose rocks, two or three of which were dislodged, and came dashing down towards where I was hiding.

I did not make a move to save myself, as I knew not which way to turn ; and luckily I did not stir, as a couple
of pieces, neither of them weighing less than a quarter of a hundredweight, crashed past within a lew leet ot
where I was stationed. I remained for between three and four hours, but without success, as neither of the old
Kites returned to the nest, and, indeed, disappeared entirely from sight during the last hour I waited.

“ 20tli. Returned to the nest shortly before daybreak. One old bird left the tree just as I got within
range ; there was, however, not light enough to shoot, with any certainty, at the momentary glimpse I caught
of the bird as it skimmed swiftly and silently through the dark shadows thrown by the trees. After waiting a
couple of hours without either bird appearing, we went back to the Lodge for breakfast, and later on returned
with a small Bantam cock, which was taken up the tree and made fast in the nest, the young having been
first secured, so that lie could not get at them. 1 imagined that when the Kites came in sight and found the
intruder in possession of tlieir nest, they would immediately come w ithin range in order to turn him out. No
sooner, however, did one of the old birds appear than the little cock, who had previously sulked and remained
laying on bis side, raised himself up and, with a shrill cock-a-doodle-doo, bid defiance to the Kite, which
instantly turned tail and rapidly disappeared from view, leaving the Bantam in possession. Although I
waited for a considerable time, I only caught a distant glimpse of one bird, which retired again as soon as it
came near enough to make out the state of affairs in the nest. As it appeared useless to wait any longer, we
removed the cock and, having set loose the young birds, returned to the Lodge.

“ Great was the rejoicing among the members of the keeper’s family at the safe return of the Bantam.
The plucky little fellow, however, fully deserved the welcome lie received.

“ Any cock, the saying is, will crow on his own dunghill ; but seldom lias one of liis race thrown down
a challenge to an unknown foe under more adverse circumstances.

“ The nest was composed of dead twigs of fir, and lined with sheep’s wool, hair, rags, dirt of every
description, and lots of old scraps of newspaper. The food provided for the young consisted of a fresh young
Grouse and a squirrel ; there were also the remains of a Curlew or two, with plenty of old bones and feathers
laying about, showing that Grouse, Pigeons, and Peewits were frequently taken.”

As I was of opinion that after the fright the old birds had got it would be best to leave them quiet for
some days, 1 did not return till the 26th, when I again drove up the glen to make another attempt.

KITE.

“ 26th. The weather was fearfully hot, and, where the eool breeze was excluded by the denseness ole
timber, the persistent attacks of the midges were almost unbearable. TV Into wo were advancu^ owmds their
quarters, the Kites did not seem by any means shy; and just before we reached the nest, on o th m saUed
over our heads, apparently within range. In hopes of a shot, I steadied myself against a rock (the g.ound
excessively steep and, owing to the dry weather and total absence of herbage, was slippery as glass) and awaited
its approach on the following circle. The next time it was hardly so close ; but when I fired it fell as il deal ,
into the top of a fir, and then giving a flap or two with its wings, freed iiself from the branches, and went o\ or
the precipice into the gorge below. When the bird struck the tree I did not fire the second barrel, as it was
within twenty yards, and would have been blown to pieces. Expecting but little trouble to find it, we turned
back, as the rocks just below were almost perpendicular, and made the best of our way to the spot where it
appeared to have lodged. While descending the rocks, a couple of dogs we had with us started two fox-cubs
from a cairn, and this caused an interruption that hindered us for some time. At last we reached the bottom
of the gorge, just below where we lost sight of the bird ; but, though we hunted for at least a couple of hours,
we could find no trace of it, not even so much as a feather. The number of dead and decaying stems of trees,
together with the cracks and crevices among the broken slabs ol rock and stone, rendered our search
any thing but easy.

“The remaining bird kept circling round at an immense height, and gave not the slightest signs ol.
returning to the nest. As it seemed of little use waiting for a shot at the present time, we retired to a bothy
on the opposite side of the gorge, from which, with the glasses, we could overlook nearly the whole of both
sides of the glen. Here we resolved to make ourselves comfortable till about midnight, when I settled to
crawl as near the nest as possible, and then wait till daybreak for a chance of a shot. Shortly before dusk we
observed the remaining old bird pitch in a tree near the upper part of the wood, and, after shifting its position
three or four times, we at length lost sight of it close to the nest.

“ 27th. Soon after midnight I started from the bothy, and cautiously making my way down hill, I
ascended the opposite side of the gorge, till I got some distance above the nest. Although we had previously
marked a track by placing dead branches against the trees, I had no little difficulty in finding my way owing
to the darkness. The night was perfectly still, without a breath of wind, and extra caution was needed as I
drew near the spot to avoid making the slightest noise. At length, after a long and tedious crawl, I reached
my station, about thirty or forty yards from the nest, and almost on the same level, as the tree on which it
was placed stood lower down the hill. I could plainly make out the heads of the two young birds against the
clear sky ; and, by the help of the glasses, I could see them snapping at the insects, which seemed a great
annoyance to them. It was evident that the old bird was not near the nest ; and while slightly moving my
position, so as to obtain a better view of the surrounding branches, I snapped a dead twig, and in an instant I
noticed a dark shadow glide from the further side of the tree and immediately disappear from sight. As there
was now but little chance that the bird would return for several hours, I called up the keepers, and we set a
trap on the nest, making fast both of the young birds. Then leaving the glen, we did not revisit the spot till

the mld,U6 0f the day ' 1,116,1 the tra P lvas sprang. As no food Pad been brought, and there were now no
s,gns of the old one, I was of opinion that, owing to having been so much disturbed, it might have deserted the
nest. We accordingly took the two young ones, and left the trap which we had previously set.

1 dafere r d C ° nSideraUy “ Size; °“ c lvas almost fuMedged, while the other only showed

about half its feathers just sprouting through the down. The eye was dark hazel, beak black, cere kino’s

- - — israris :r zt'z : r

<;

KITE.

well, though they resolutely refused to swallow a morsel unless placed in their mouths and forced half down
their throats.

“ July 3rd. On again visiting the glen, I found the trap in the nest untouched; neither had any food
been brought.

“We observed a single Kite hovering over an open moor a few miles distant; but although the keepers
while on their rounds had several times passed within sight of the nest, they had noticed no bird in that
locality.”

« 1877, May 19th. Having sent a man the previous day to Clcndhu, in order to learn if the Kites were
breeding this season in their old quarters, T to-day received word that a pair had nested in a Scotch fir marked
to be cut down. Among the rubbish in the nest, which contained three eggs, were the usual amount of old
rags and, in addition, a perfectly new pair of lady’s cuffs. I heard, however, of another pair or two of birds
which had been observed about twenty miles further up the glen.

“ 21st. Reached the lodge early in the afternoon, and shortly after set out through the forest to search

for the nest.

“ On starting we were able to drive along a rough track, within about a mile and a half of the spot where
the birds had been usually seen. After leaving the trap, the ground was by no means easy travelling, being
covered with long coarse heather, interspersed with stunted bushes of juniper and bog-myrtle, and cut here
and there with small watercourses leading towards a stretch of marshy pools, that could be plainly seen through
the trees, at the distance of a mile or so to the north. The timber, which grew in small patches, three or four
or, possibly, half a dozen trees together, and occasionally an open space for a hundred yards or more, consisted
of large Scotch firs, and here arid there a birch. Owing to the open nature of the wood, it would be impossible
for the Kite to get on wing without being observed; consequently we were able to examine the ground
thoroughly without taking any very great amount of time for the work. We had not proceeded above a quarter
of a mile from where our search commenced, when I caught sight of an old bird just leaving the upper part of
a large thick fir. Before we could reach the spot, which was not above the distance of a couple of hundred
yards, the pair of Kites were circling high in the air, right above our heads. As soon as we stopped below the
nest, which was among the topmost branches of the tree, both birds sailed right out of sight. Long spreading
limbs, almost down to the ground, rendered the work of climbing easy; and on mounting to the nest, it was
found to contain one young bird just hatched and two eggs. Thinking that the female would be likely to return
as soon as possible, the nestling being so helpless, we collected a few rough branches, and quickly constructed a
shelter against the stem of a large fallen tree, about five and thirty or forty yards distant. Then directing the
men to take the most open track, I sent them back over the brow of the hill to wait where the machine bad
been left.

“ It was just 7 p.m. when I took up my station, and I had not long lost sight of the keepers when I
observed the two Kites coming from the direction in which they had disappeared.

“Having been built into my place of concealment almost too securely, I could only command a view
towards the tree containing the nest ; occasionally, however, I caught a glimpse of one or other of the birds
soaring round and round at a considerable height above the wood. At last one settled on the far side of the
tree ; here it remained for some time, turning its head in every direction, and apparently unwilling to approach
the nest too closely. I was just on the point of crawling from my shelter, in order to obtain a better chance
of a shot, when the bird changed its position, exposing the whole of its breast; at this I immediately fired,
and down it fell, as if perfectly dead, to the foot of the tree. Just before I reached the spot, however, it rose
again, and flapped slowly away, requiring another barrel before it was secured. In the course of a few minutes
the keepers appeared on the scene ; and as the sun was now low, we set a trap in the nest, as I thought it
possible that the male bird might not come in till after dusk. The men then returned to their former station,

KITE.

7

while I remained as long as I eould see, and finally joined them, just as a cold drifting rain, which eventually
increased into a heavy downpour, set in. I had but little doubt that tins would soon Ml the young bird in

present wjk^tate ^ ^ ^ ^ the nest> and was s0 placed that the male could not possibly gather the

eggs or young together without being taken, X did not think it necessary to he very early on the spot, and it
was nearly 11 A.M. before we reached the tree. On mounting to the nest we found the young one, as I had
expected, quite dead and the trap unsprung. Having this morning more time to examine the locality, I
discovered, within the distance of seventy or eighty yards, a large dead fir that was evidently a favourite resort
for the old birds. It is, I think, very probable, since I had only a few moments previously lost sight of the
male before shooting his mate, that he had by that time settled on this tree; being so close at hand would
account for his having deserted the nest. Beneath the branches I found the remains of over thirty Grouse, a
few quite fresh ; but the great majority were only bare and weatherbeaten skeletons, and had evidently laid for
many months. Feathers, feet, wings, and bones were scattered in all directions ; and the heather was, in some
parts, quite white with the droppings of the birds. There were no other remains or leathers (except, of course,
those plucked out by the birds while dressing their own plumage) besides those ol Grouse. The tree, which
was somewhat singular in shape, must have been one of the oldest in the wood : at the height of about ten or
a dozen feet the huge stem divided into several large and widely-spreading limbs ; in various parts of the
branches, and also in the trunk itself, were numbers of marks of Woodpeckers, the holes having apparently
been bored for many years. While we were waiting, I caught sight of a large bird settling in a tree, at the
distance of three or four hundred yards, in a dense part of the forest. Imagining it might possibly be the
Kite, I crawled, by means of a small gully, within range. On reaching the spot, however, it turned out to be
only a Heron, which had pitched on its nest; a few of these birds are now and then found breeding singly in
the large woods in this part of the country.

“ As there seemed no chance that the male would now return, we removed the young bird and eggs, taking
also a portion of the upper part of the nest ; this, as usual, was constructed with dead twigs and small branches
of fir, while the lining was composed of moss, sheep’s wool, a few pieces of old rag, and a quantity of scraps of
paper. In addition to numberless torn and crumpled slips from various publications I could not make out,
there were several pages of a * Bradshaw,’ portions of the ‘ Field,’ ‘ Times,’ ‘ Scotsman,’ and some west-country
paper, as well as a packet of tissue-paper neatly folded. Not the slightest remains of food were on the nest.

“ The tw0 c °S s varied considerably, one being a dirty greenish white, and the other marked with several
blotches and streaks of reddish brown; the latter was just on the point of hatching, while the former was
addled.

“.The y° un S bird had a long hairy tuft of white down on the top of the head ; on the back the down was
of a dirty-brown hue, and on the underparts white. The eye was not opened, but what could be discerned was

fiesh CU SreyC ° l0Ur; M1 Llack ’ lightish towards the P° infc ; cere pale yellowish flesh; legs and feet pale
“The female shot the previous day was a fair specimen, in the usual summer plumage. Eye very pale

S-," •••■■ — <— »-> — C

■C— > .

in the usual manner ; the work ofZlvZZ. ” n T lmp0SSlWe *°. “ Wrd 80 >' 0U "S

“ 1878 June 27th tw p xi 1 nshable portions was, I believe, somewhat complicated

proceeded s’everal mile; further nort^to T both^n ^ * prCVi ° US ™^ments ; then

road we followed was partieularl"^ unln and * ' T WS “ d ™e

} ° Un6Ven ’ and the countr y ™ P^sed through wild in the extreme.

8

KITE.

A. dull and sultry morning had been followed by excessive heat, and after midday the weather gave every
indication of an approaching storm. Shortly after one o’clock the gloom and darkness increased, and heavy
thunder was heard rumbling among the hills both north and south of us. On leaving the bothy, we walked
about three miles on towards the wood in which the Kites were breeding— a long straggling belt of timber
composed entirely of Scotch fir. The nest was placed in a fork, where three limbs branched out from the main
stem, about twenty-five or thirty feet from the ground, and was a rather larger structure than I had previously
seen. It contained one young bird and a bad egg, and, when last visited by the keepers, the larder
provided for the nestling consisted of a Grouse, a Duck, and a Peewit. The men had already put up a small
shelter of fir-boughs, to screen me from the sight of the old birds, within about thirty yards of the tree ; and here
I took up my position about half-past six, when the keepers retired to a burn about a mile distant, so as not to
hinder the approach of the birds. I had not been waiting above half an hour when a single Kite passed over
at a great height, evidently being aware that something was wrong. After circling two or three times over
the nest, it took its departure, without making any attempt to come down to the young bird; and although I
I was able to watch it by means of the glasses, I could see no signs that it carried any prey. As might
naturally be expected, the midges gave me good cause to remember them, and before it got dark I was nearly

driven wild by their attacks.

“ Owing to the heavy thunder-clouds, it was so dark by a quarter to ten that I could no longer make out
the nest; so* I left the shelter, and made the best of my way to where the men were waiting. As the country
was strange, 1 had no little difficulty to discover the road, and, in the end, I had to fire off my gun to draw their
attention. As we proceeded on our way homewards the storms, which had been round us all day, again drew
near, and our track through the forest was lighted up by the flashes of lightning which followed one another
in rapid succession.

“ For a couple of miles our course lay through a wild and rugged glen, where the whole of the timber
had long been dead; by far the greater number of the trees were fallen and lay rotting on the ground;
while here and there a grim and weatherbeaten stem remained, and gave a ghastly appearance to the scene,
its bare and twisted limbs standing out plainly defined by every flash against the inky blackness of the
surrounding hills. On reaching the bothy shortly before eleven o’clock, as the atmosphere of the interior was
perfectly stilling, we sat down to our supper outside the building. The flickering gleams of the sheet or
summer lightning almost continuously illumined the smallest objects, and, although the night was dark and
overcast, gave sufficient light for all our requirements. Hardly a drop of rain had fallen, and the air was
close and sultry, without a breath of wind. As the heaviest of the storm was some miles distant and appeared
to work round us instead of approach, we had ample leisure, after our hunger was appeased, to admire the
grandeur of the scene. At times a vivid flash would strike the summit of one of the distant hills, and,
bursting into a thousand sparks of flame, would fall, like a cascade of fire, into the valley below. Tor a second
or two we might he enveloped in murky darkness, the hollow roll and echo of the distant thunder would die
away for a moment, the silence being only broken by the murmurs of the water in the adjacent burn, when
again a blaze would shoot across the heavens, and instantly mountain-side and heathery brae, the dark pine-
forest and glassy surface of the loch, would each in turn he lighted up for a moment and again disappear from
view. After watching the progress of the storm for at least an hour, the horses were put to; and, having
settled to meet the keepers the next night to try for the Kites at daybreak, we started for our twenty-mile drive
through the forest to the lodge where we were stopping. The fitful gleams of the lightning as they flashed
through the shadows thrown by the dark and gloomy fir trees were just sufficient to guide us on our way
and to enable the driver to avoid the hidden dangers in our course. As we emerged from the cover of the
woods and pulled up for a few moments at a keeper’s house, the first streaks of dawn were just struggling
through the storm-clouds, which were now rapidly disappearing. A few miles further, when the light had

KITE.

9

increased, we could plainly discern, by the swollen bums and the channels scoured across our track, how

heavy had been the force of the storm. . . ,, , ,

“ Before we reached our journey’s end the sun was shining brightly; but on arriving at the lodge we

learned that the tempest had been so severe in the early part of the night that the inmates had been half

frightened to death, and had all retired to bed as being the safest place.

“ 9 8t h The storm of the previous night had cooled the air, and the day was beautifully clear and fine.
As I was expecting a hard night’s work, I rested during the day, and starting in the evening reached the
bothy, where the keepers were waiting, by half-past eleven. Our walk through the forest to the nest was a
contrast to the last time we passed over the ground. The night was lovely and the wind a trifle chilly, which,
after the weather we had recently experienced, was by no means unpleasant. We reached the plantation in
which the nest was placed soon after one o’clock; and, owing to the darkness, it was some little time before I
was securely packed into my shelter and provided with all the rugs, waterproofs, provisions, and other
necessaries (I had also a bottle of vinegar, by which I hoped to keep off the attacks of the midges, which was,
however, an utter failure). By about half-past one my arrangements were all completed, and the men retired
to their waiting-place in the burn. Owing to the shadows thrown by the trees, it was at first so dark that I
could not even make out the whereabouts of the nest. Soon after two o’clock I discovered the young bird
stretching himself and flapping his wings, having apparently just woke up. Half an hour later the old female
pitched suddenly on one of the lower branches of a fir, within fifteen yards of my hiding-place ; she had in her
talons a Peewit, which she partially plucked (every feather on her head being thrown up on end during the
operation), and then flew to another branch about forty yards away ; here I could hardly watch her movements,
owing to the denseness of the timber. After some time she disappeared without my noticing her departure.

“ Nothing more was seen of either of the birds for about an hour, when the female again flew from
a tree right over my head, and it is quite possible that she might have been sitting there the whole of the
time. She then continued flying in circles over my head for more than three hours — at times sweeping down
to within twenty yards of where I was concealed, and, after hovering for a second or two, evidently trying to
make out what was amiss, shooting up to a great height and sailing round and round the wood till she
gradually diminished the circles and again came to close quarters. Almost incessantly she kept uttering a
most mournful cry, which ended in a long-drawn plaintive whistle. Till nearly seven o’clock I had seen but
one bird, the female, easily recognized by her ragged plumage, a couple of feathers being deficient in one wing.
She had as yet never attempted to settle to the young one; indeed, since her first appearance with the Peewit,
which was soon dropped, she had no prey with her. I had been in no burry to fire, as I was certain that, by
leaving my shelter while she was out of sight on one of her longer circles, I could, if I wished, at any time
have an easy shot, and 1 was in hopes that the male might show himself.

“ At Iast tlie attacks of the midges, which I had patiently endured for the last six or seven hours, became
almost unbearable; and I was preparing to start from my hiding-place (from the interior I could only take a

pot shot at the nest) when I recognized a slightly shriller scream, and, waiting a moment, a much finer bird
passed over.

“ He turned in an instant, and was back before I could get out ; the next time he passed out of si-lit
he seemed to be sweeping further off; so creeping from under the boughs, I had ample time to get ready
before he reappeared I could plainly see his shadow thrown through the upper branches of the trees before
he came m view ; and as there was an open space round the nest, he afforded the easiest possible shot, and fell

to tlr S ti n<i M “ • femalC ’ Wh ° WaS at the time at a S reat ^ight, immediately sailed away

to the north without turning round to see what had happened to her mate or youn-.”

This is the specimen from which the Plate of the adult male is taken.

oidcied the men to come up if they heard a shot, and a very few minutes had elapsed before they

10

KITE.

made their appearance. As I did not care to wait for the return of the female, we took the young bird and
also removed the upper portion of the nest, which, as usual, contained a quantity ol old newspaper and rubbish
of all descriptions. There were no signs of eatable food, and the only remnants were a few bones of a Plover
and the cleanly-picked skeleton of a Pigeon.

“ it is, I think, very likely that, in the absence of the old birds, Crows at times pay visits to the larder of
the nestlings in quest of food. Shortly before daybreak, I had noticed a couple of Crows fly silently through
the trees just above the nest, and after hovering over the spot for a moment or two, they quickly returned m
the direction whence they came, croaking loudly as they went ; another that was approaching turned back
at once, and the whole party departed together. I had no idea what could possibly have been the object
of their visit or the cause of their speedy return till I became aware of the empty state of the larder.

“ The young bird was slightly larger than those I had taken a couple of years before. He was remarkably
sulky, and so persistently hid his head underneath him in the basket in which lie was carried, that I uas afraid
he would be stilled.

“ I had noticed that while the old birds were absent the young one was ever hardly quiet, shuffling round
and round his nest, stretching himself and flapping his Avings, and occasionally pecking at the old bones that
were laying beside him. On the first signs of the approach of the old birds, long before I had made out their
note, he would drop down on the nest, and puffing up his feathers would quietly await his food, only
occasionally answering their continued cries by a low whistle.

“ After packing up a portion of the nest which I wished to examine, making a sketch of the tree, and
collecting the baggage from my shelter, we made the best ol our way to a burn with steeji and well-wooded
banks, where we had our breakfast. It was a splendid morning ; the sky Aias cloudless, and I must confess
I found the shade of an umbrella by no means unpleasant : only the previous night I had blown up an English
servant ivlio was Avitli me for bringing such a cockneyfied invention on to a Scotch hillside ; but this morning
I Avas by no means above availing myself of its shade. Eor the future, when making out the list of articles
to take on the hills in summer, 1 shall never omit the homely gingham. While getting ready to start again,
a Golden Eagle passed within a couple of hundred yards of where Ave had been resting, sailing slouly over the
forest, barely clearing the tops of the trees. The keepers pointed out a couple of eyries of these birds — one in
the face of a steep cliff, Avhicli they stated to be still used (although I happened to liaA-e seen the green grass
growing through the bottom of the old nest), and the other on the opposite side of the glen, and some miles
further south, in a large Scotch fir. This had been, in days gone by, a grand locality for birds that have now
become rare. During our morning’s walk avc had passed the deserted breeding-places of three pairs of Kites,
and I had examined no less than four trees on Avhicli there still remained the foundations of old nests that had
been built by Ospreys. After watching the Eagle, Avhicli had settled on a rock at no great distance (apparently
perfectly ignorant of our presence), for a considerable time, avc proceeded sloAvly on our journey, stopping a few
minutes to examine two or three small rushy lochs, Avliere the keepers had seen some birds, Avhich from their
description I could hardly make out. 1 have no doubt that the strangers Avere Red-necked Phalaropes,
Avhicli had rested for a short time on the pools ; there were no signs of them to-day, and I expect it had been
but a flying visit on their Avay to the far north.

“ 0n arriving at the bothy avc started as soon as the horses were put to, and reached the lodge by midday,
after a pleasant drive through the forest.

“ Tllc y° un S Kite was finite safe on his arrival, although he had apparently attempted to smother himself,
and it took no little persuasion to induce him to swallow a meal of fresh-killed Pigeon.

“ I)ui ' in S the afternoon, while fishing in a burn about a couple of miles from the lodge, I was rather
surprised to see the old female Kite (easily distinguished by her ragged plumage) fly over my head, within half a
gunshot. She was about twenty-five miles distant from her nesting-quarters, and was following the same

KITE.

11

course under the hills that I had on several occasions seen taken fly these birds while passing up and

d0W ‘ mh g ’ e This morning the captive was decidedly more tractable; during the day he consumed the meat
off three Pigeons. The beak was very dark horn-colour, almost black; cere king s yellow ;
pale orange-chrome ; eye pale lavender tint, which turned a deepci »,icy w it i a

“ July 11th. The young Kite had now reached the stage in which I wished to have him preserved A
signs of down had disappeared and he was perfectly full-fledged, although the tail had not attained above half
the length of an adult and showed hardly any signs of the fork, lie was getting by degrees more tame and
sociable than when we first obtained him ; but at times he was terribly sulky, aud no description of food wo
could provide him with would be to Ms liking. He was supplied, as a rule, with the flesh of Pigeons an
young rabbits. When, however, these dainties were not procurable, he was obliged to put up with raw beef
or mutton. This change of diet he evidently looked upon as an insult, and it required considerable care
to induce him to retain his meals. As it did not seem that he would ever become perfectly reconciled
to confinement, I had much less reluctance to sign his death-warrant than that of a pair of young Ospreys
the previous week. After I had taken his portrait in several different positions, lie was executed this

morning and forwarded to the south for preservation.

“ Considering the pains that had been taken to rear this troublesome customer, the people of the inn we
were stopping at were greatly surprised at his death. ‘ What!’ exclaimed one ol the attendants, ‘ is the puir
wee bcastie to be killed the noo, and twelve and sax pence paid for his meat ! A\ ell ! well !

“ Having quite accidentally heard of another Kite’s nest in a different locality, we left our present quarters,
and drove as near the wood as the state of the road would allow us. On this occasion the Kites had taken up
their residence in an extensive fir-wood, covering a steep hill-side sloping down to a large loch. \\ liile
approaching the breeding-place we proceeded with great caution, in case the old birds might be near at hand.
The nest was placed about five and twenty feet from the ground, near the top oi a small Scotch fir. The men
had stated there was hut one young bird ; we could, however, plainly make out a pair when we examined the
nest through the glasses, and both sat perfectly quiet when we drew near the spot and stood on a rocky knoll,
from which we could look right down upon them.

“ There were apparently no signs of the old birds, so we retired a few hundred yards in order to avail
ourselves of the shade of the large trees by the loch-side and give time for them to return with prey for the
young, as, while examining the nest, we had been unable to detect any food. After waiting about an hour I
returned towards the nest, and, while cautiously descending the steep brae that overlooked the tree, I noticed
that one of the birds had shifted its position ; and as it now sat with its forked tail in full view, I discovered
that instead of two young ones, the old female had been all the time on the nest. While searching for an
opening among the branches for the best chance of a shot at her as she flew off, my foot slipped on the sloping
ground, which the dry weather and the fallen spines of the firs had rendered like glass, and down I came,
fiat on my hack, luckily just missing by less than an inch a frightfully broken and jagged stump of a dead
tree. Before I could scramble up, being considerably shaken, but nevertheless exceedingly thankful when I
discovered my narrow escape, the old bird, probably startled by the fall, left the nest, and, gliding rapidly
below the branches of the trees, was out of sight in a moment. Before many minutes had elapsed, both male
and female were sailing round and round at a great height over the spot, and, gradually extending the circles
when the keepers came down to see what had happened, they at length disappeared entirely from view. The
young bird now fully showed itself; and as it appeared quite capable of flying, I took up a position below the
tree while one of the men went up to drive it off. He had not mounted above halfway to the nest when it
spread its wings and made an attempt to escape. I had now picked out more secure standing-ground, and an

easy shot was the result. This young bird proved on examination to be in precisely the same state of plumage
as the one killed and sent off in the morning.”

The Plate showing the advanced stage of the young Kite is taken from this specimen. The tint of the
feathers on the check was considerably lighter than in the young one that had been kept in confinement ;
the plumage on the crown of the head was also slightly paler. In other respects there was no perceptible
difference between the two birds, the colours in both being exceedingly bright.

“ As there was still an hour or two of daylight, I determined to wait and try for a shot at one of the old
birds. A slight shelter of branches, with dry heather to sit on, was soon put up under an overhanging bank
within forty yards of the tree, and under this I crawled. For at least an hour I patiently endured the attacks
of the midges ; but as I had as yet, since entering the place of torment, seen neither of the old birds, I could
bear it no longer. Owing, I suppose, to the low marshy nature of the ground where the tree stood, these
horrible pests were more persistent in their attacks, as well as more venomous, than in any other locality where I
have ever had the misfortune to meet with them. Leaving my shelter, I followed the track along the locli-side
to the gully where the keepers were waiting. The cool breeze off the water, with the assistance ol a cigar,
helped to keep my enemies at bay, and after remaining till the daylight began to fail, I quietly made my way
back to the nest; but neither of the old birds had returned. As I did not care to stop any longer, we removed
the food on the nest (a fresh-killed young Grouse, partly eaten) and set a couple of traps. Although we
visited these traps at regular intervals for the two following days, the wind was so high that all covering was
blown from them almost as fast as it was rearranged. The old birds, however, occasionally came into the nest ;
but, owing to the traps being exposed, they dropped the lood they brought (consisting of young Grouse and
Pigeons) on the extreme edge. As I was anxious to pay a visit to another district, we removed the traps
and left the poor birds in peace.”

Since the above was written, I have again been through the various districts inhabited by the Kites. In
most of the glens the birds were still present; but a pair or two appeared to be wanting. Having no
occasion for procuring specimens, I never molested them in the slightest degree ; but the observations I was
enabled to make with regard to their habits and food, as well as their manner of procuring their prey, were
simply a repetition of what has been recorded above.

K

t

-)

FALE 0 W.

MALE AND NESTLINGS

PEREGRINE FALCON.

FALCO PEREGRINES.

Notwithstanding the number of young that arc taken for Ilawking-pui'poses, the quantities slaughtered
by keepers, and the constant attacks both on eggs and birds by collectors, the Peregrine may still be found
by no means sparsely scattered over the country, from north to south.

In the Highlands of Scotland this species has numberless breeding-stations on the inland mountains and
along the rocky portions of the sea-coast, as well as on the adjacent islands. To the south of Perthshire,
though I have watched the birds as roving visitors in most counties where I remained for any length of time,
I met with no nesting-quarters, with the exception of those in the cliffs overhanging the sea. I have heard
as an old tradition, in more than one part of the country, that these Palcons nested formerly in the towers of
churches ; hut I can give no more trustworthy authority. I noticed one circling round the dome of St. Paul’s
a few years hack ; hut here, I believe, it is well known that a pair at times take up then- residence for some
months, being attracted by the Pigeons frequenting the edifice. In certain localities it seems as if no amount
of persecution would drive them from their favourite haunts. If one of the parents be destroyed, another
shortly after joins the survivor ; should the young be removed, the following season eggs are sure to be laid
either on the self-same spot or else at no great distance. Ever since I have known the Bass Bock, now over

twenty years, I believe it has been regularly resorted to as an eyrie, though I cannot speak with certainty as to
the last few seasons. Possibly the young may have flown on one or two occasions ; but every year that I have
been in the district I learned that the nest had been robbed. I frequently observed the old birds on the
adjacent islands of Craig Leith, the Lamb, and Pidra, and heard from the North-Berwiek fishermen that eggs
had been taken from them; but I never caught a glimpse of any part that seemed to have been used as°an
eyrie. The May, at the northern entrance to the firth, is likewise a well-known station ; I have repeatedly
seen the birds flying above the gloomy caves on the south side of the island. The chalk cliffs between
Bottingdean and Beacliy Head during autumn and winter harbour a large number of Peregrines ; and a pair
or two now and then breed in the eastern portion of the range. They are, however, so well looked after that
but few young birds are left long enough to take their departure. I have observed a stray bird or two round
the Isle of Wight; and on two or three occasions on the Cornish coast a pair appeared to ‘frequent the rocks
between Trcwavas and Porthleven; and, again, it was seldom that I visited the neighbourhood of the Land’s
End without noticing one or two within a short distance of the cliffs.

During the last week of October 1880 I witnessed a rathe'r curious performance between a pair of
Peregrines in this district. I was on the brow of the hill above the duck-pool near the Tol-Pedn Penwith i,
f unnel hole), when I caught sight, as I at first imagined, of a Peregrine in pursuit of some smaller Hawk on
from the direction of the Land’s End. The larger bird was continually risiiv above the n
dashing down as if attempting to strike it ; the latter, sharply altering j J course by a dr i ^

movement, avoided ever, swoop; and their flight, the whole time the, remained in sight, wasXpl"^!

2

PEREG11INE FALCON.

of those evolutions. They must have been in view for at least a couple of mil*. as they made a curve nght
round the hill on which T was standing, passing within the distance of fifty yards-so close, in fact that the rush
of their wings as the attacking bird swooped down and suddenly cheeked itself were plain y audible. I then
discovered them to be a pair of Peregrines, the female in pursuit of the male. They continued their course
in the same manner right out of sight, disappearing from view in the line of the Lizard. Piom the
regularity of their movements I imagine they were simply engaged in sport. I have watched the male
and female White-tailed Eagle flying in somewhat the same style : only the latter pursued their course
in regular overlapping circles ; there was nothing approaching the rapid mount and dashing swoop of these
two Peregrines.

There is not the slightest doubt that this Falcon is most destructive to game. Grouse arc perhaps the
greatest sufferers from its attacks ; but every other member of the family, witli the exception of the
Capercaillie, which is probably too heavy, is carried off by this dashing robber. The damage he effects would
not be so extensive or conspicuous if lie merely contented himself by satisfying the cravings of liis appetite
or the requirements of bis brood. There is, however, no denying the fact that, in addition to those lie needs
as food, lie strikes numberless victims for the mere pleasure of slaying. This unfortunate propensity lias, I
believe, been contradicted by naturalists and falconers ; it is nevertheless well known to those who have studied
the habits of the bird in a wild state. I have watched Grouse struck down on more than one occasion,
and not the slightest notice taken of their fall, the Falcon continuing his flight after the retreating pack with
undiminished speed. This has taken place both during a Grouse-drive and also when a pack has simply
incurred the displeasure of the tyrant by passing within a short distance of the crag of rock on which he was
resting. Falconers, 1 am aware, when a charge of this description is brought forward, argue that the Falcon
was prevented from following its prey to the ground by the presence of witnesses. If this were invariably the
case, why does the Hawk make a second attack except for the sake of slaughter? I once observed two
Grouse struck within a distance of a few hundred yards, both birds being entirely disregarded and left where
they fell. In order to ascertain if the Falcon ever returned to these remains, I visited some of them
repeatedly ; but although Grey Crows and Havens were occasionally attracted to the spot, I have seen no signs
of the Peregrine. When one has been disturbed from prey on which it was feeding, it will, I believe, usually
return to complete its meal, but never when the victim has been struck down and totally disregarded at the
time. Several keepers and foresters with whom I discussed the subject have given evidence to the same effect ;
and the scores of dead bodies that I have passed at different times on the bills (minus the head or lacerated on
the neck or back) plainly indicate the manner in which they have been destroyed.

It is not on the moors only that I have noticed these destructive liabits. While fishing on one of the
larger broads in the eastern counties my attention was attracted by the rapid movements of a flock of three or
four hundred Starlings which had been wheeling backwards and forwards over tlie marshes. Suddenly they
collected into a compact body at a considerable height from the ground, and in an instant a Peregrine, with the
rapidity of a thunderbolt, swooped down from the clouds, scattering the flock in all directions, and leaving
three or four dead or disabled birds fluttering helplessly downwards while, without checking his course, he
dashed after a Grey Crow, which lie pursued within a short distance of my punt, and then, apparently startled,
turned off in an opposite direction. On the sca-eoast also (and here, perhaps, more frequently than in other
situations) the Peregrine exhibits bis predilection for slaughter. While lunching one summer among the
ruins of the old fortifications on the Bass Rock, two audible shocks were noticed within the space of a few
moments, giving the impression that large stones had rolled from the upper part of the rock. On searching
the direction from which the sounds proceeded, we discoverd a couple of fresh-killed Guillemots lying on the
ground among the roofless buildings. 1'lie Falcon must have swooped over our heads ; but, owing to the
constant stream of passing Gannets and other sea-birds, lie liad not attracted our attention. On other

PEREGRINE FALCON.

3

occasions I have frequently met with both Ivittiwakes, Razorbills, Guillemots, and Puffins dead upon the Rock ;
and I have no doubt that the Peregrine was in every case responsible for the slaughter. In my note-books,
which I have regularly kept for over twenty years, I can refer back to instances in over a dozen Scotch and
English counties, as well as in two or three of the adjacent islands, where I have actually witnessed either
this destructive propensity or the unmistakable victims that have been struck down *.

It is of course impossible to convince any one who is thoroughly satisfied that the Peregrine will look for
prey but once in twenty-four hours and will never destroy life unnecessarily ; I, however, simply state what
I believe to be true from my own experience. Those whose opinions differ will deny that the dead Grouse
were the victims of the Falcon, suggesting that they owed their death either to disease or wounds, or the
attacks of some other vermin. I should not have brought such a sweeping accusation against a species I
admire as one of the most interesting of our native birds, had I not carefully examined several of these dead
bodies. I have shot the Falcon when in possession of a Grouse, found carcases on the ledges they frequent,
and picked up those I have watched struck down. The injuries indicted by the stroke of the Peregrine,
though usually severe, do not necessarily prove fatal ; at all events the bird is not on every occasion
instantly deprived of life, whatever might be the ultimate result. From the position in which the dead
bodies were found, from the character of the injuries, and from the state of the remains, I have come
to the conclusion that the Peregrine alone can be responsible. The healthy state of the feathers, the
condition of the bodies, as well as the localities in which they were discovered and the manner in which
they lay, would preclude the idea that disease was the cause of death. A wounded bird will, as we all
well know, occasionally fly a considerable distance and fall in any position ; but the majority that escape
for the time and eventually perish from effects of gunshots, usually creep into some secure retreat, and there
pine away and die. The Sparrow-Hawk and Merlin may, as some falconers assert, be guilty of destroying
a few Grouse; I must, however, confess that not a single instance has come under my own observation!
H ith regard to four-footed vermin, the manner in which they seize and kill their prey cannot fail to leave
marks that arc easily recognized. Even if disturbed and pursued, the fox, as a rule, bears off his prey ■ but
eathers leave a trace more or less visible from the very spot where it was captured to either the earth or the
p ace where it was devoured. The work of a stoat can mislead no one used to study their mode of slaughter •
and wild cats were few and far between, if not totally absent from the localities where I have met with the
greatest number of remains. In addition to the birds previously mentioned, I have seen one or two cases

frequent s^iff^^ 6 ^ P1 ° Ver ^ ™ nt ° nly slau S htcred - I)ucks » Coots, Rooks, and Snipe appear to be also

It would be useless to repeat any of the accounts of the damage inflicted on game by this species tint I

‘ k " eperS ° r SlUlCS ’ as 1 am wo11 aware that both scientific naturalists and falconers arc pleased

consider all such men both ignorant and lazy and only too glad to bring unfounded charges against the
poor Peregrine in order to account for their own shortcomings and neglect of dutv It G „ f 'V 3 ,

^ ** assists o,ooo that I have received evidence that
sunning on the cast coast during the present month (December 1881), a Peregrine passed within l
distance of the boat; and, pointing out the bird, I inquired of my puntman if he was a • * 10rt

species. The local name, I discovered, was the “ Game-Hawk;” and the bird was well k T n the

The man also stated lie well remembered, many years a-o pickin- un ami- r r * !? t0 the natlves -

dorva on one of the .aarahes aad loft, loth hi g q X ^d ? He had ali I K “ ' ,e ° n
species attacking the large flocks of Coots that frequent these waters driving thTlfi *****

and causing the greatest consternation in their ranks, none darim- to’tako i COmpact bodics

° to take wing, but occasionally flapping a

* My observations have been made in the Hebrides, Caithness, Sutherland Boss shire r * T
the Bass, Northumberland, Cumberland, Yorkshire, Norfolk, Kent, Susses, and Cornwall. ’ } ’’ IUVCrnCSS - shirc ’ ^l-shire, East Lothian,

4

PEREGRINE FALCON.

short distance over the surface. The Falcon had never, while in his sight, either captured or struck any of
these birds, being possibly unwilling to make the attempt while they were over the water or until they were
well on wing. Pywipes (local name for Peewits) he had seen flown at on two or three occasions, and a
single bird struck down and left. Once in his presence the Hawk had driven down a covey of Partridges
into a dry ditch under a fence ; and from this cover they refused to emerge while their enemy remained close
at hand. On making further inquiries of another gunner who was working my second boat, I found his
evidence was much the same with regard to the attacks on Coots and Partridges ; but the only bird he had
seen struck was a Sandy-head Poker (local name for the Pochard), which had risen with a bunch of fourteen
or fifteen others in front of his boat and been knocked down, lie himself had made an attempt to secure it ;
but after divine a short distance, it had fluttered into a reed-bed and escaped. The remarks of these two
men concerning the habits of the Peregrine were much what I should have expected from the knowledge
I have acquired while watching the bird in their district.

In the matter of food the Falcon accommodates itself to the locality it inhabits, preying on Grouse, Plover,
Ducks, and Pigeons in the Highlands, sea-birds (such as the smaller Gulls and Guillemots) on the islands, and
Partridges, Pigeons, and even the young of the domestic Fowl in the south. This noble bird, however, I am
almost ashamed to state, docs not despise an occasional meal off such humble fare as a Rook ; and, though
the instances have been far from numerous that have come under my own observation, it will at times even
condescend to make shift with either a Carrion or Grey Crow. For any one to attempt to give the true bill
of fare of a Peregrine is perfectly impossible, as on examining a dozen breeding-places there might be found
the remains of different victims on each.

How the existence of such a rapacious species on preserved moors is beneficial to the well-being of the
Grouse, I confess I can scarcely understand. From what I have myself seen I cannot believe that a Falcon
will, as a rule, prey upon diseased or weakly birds (I could credit it of a Buzzard, or even of the Eagle
or Kite) ; still this is the doctrine that is preached by many who have written on the subject. That his
admirers should term him a scavenger is, I consider, a poor compliment to this fine bird : far better to
describe him in his true colours as a bold and pitiless marauder, and trust that British sportsmen have too
great a respect for the few wild creatures left in our islands to order his total extermination. The plea that
some naturalists put forward, viz. that the presence of the wild Falcon causes Grouse to lie to dogs till late in
the season, will not hold good in every case. I have seen some few districts where Peregrines and all kinds of
vermin were abundant enough to suit the taste of even their most ardent supporters ; but, strange to relate,
the few Grouse that remained were wilder than even the Hawks themselves. The fact that the artificial Kite
has been invented to aid shooters (I was going to say sportsmen, but I consider my second thoughts more
appropriate) to make a bag is certainly a strong argument in favour of the presence of Falcons on a moor.
This, however, is a subject on which I can state little or nothing (beyond what I have read), as I have never
yet seen one of these machines in operation. From what I have heard, this method, if frequently resorted
to, is understood to drive birds from the district ; I should be of opinion that too many Falcons would
have much the same effect.

It must be a rare occurrence for the Peregrine to condescend to make a meal off any prey that he has not
procured by his own exertions, as I have never obtained a single specimen in a baited trap, neither have I
ever heard of but one being taken by keepers in this manner. The captured bird, I was informed, had
received some injury to one of its legs, caused probably by a wound from a large shot or bullet. It was in
poor condition ; and without doubt its weakness rendered it incapable of obtaining its food in the natural
manner. Some writers affirm that this species will never condescend to take prey unless it is seized on wing ;
this statement, I am afraid, is hardly correct, as on two or three occasions I have noticed unfledged young
brought to their brood.

peregrine falcon.

5

In parts where they are numerous I have known this species taken by traps placed on tto fa ^
resting-places in the faces of cliffs or steep mountain-slopes. Some years ago, lenicm >ci ■ & it ig

the west coast of the Highlands destroying seven in the course of a few weeks by these means. -
necessary to keep down their numbers on account of their depredations on the game, it is o cucia '

safest plan to trap or shoot them at their nesting-quarters. _ f

The situations usually chosen for breeding-purposes arc either small shelves 01 inequa ltics in ie ace o
steep rocks, or ledges more or less broken and difficult of approach among the inland mountains have
never examined any eyrie to which access could be gained without the assistance of a rope. 11 scieia
different localities it has been possible to look down upon the young, and even to crawl within a short
distance; hut the situation (in every eyrie I visited) has been, chosen with due regard to safety. "When
these birds resort to the sea-cliffs, either in the islands or on the coast-line of the mainland, the spot they select
is generally even more secure from intrusion, the rocks being of greater altitude and frequently perpendicular,
if not overhanging.

The nest of this species has been minutely described by some authors, who apparently have been misled
by the fact that now and then it appropriates the old nurseries of Ravens or even Grey Crows. The
Peregrine most commonly lays its eggs upon the rubbish and dust or dried strands of grass that ha\c
accumulated on the ledges it frequents, without the slightest attempt at building.

Those who have kept these Falcons in confinement could best give information concerning the age at
which the mature dress is assumed. My own experience is entirely gained by observing the habits of the birds

in a wild state; and it is seldom possible to obtain a view where all the details or varieties in plumage could
be accurately judged and studied. From the numbers that I have met with frequenting certain localities, all
apparently immature, I should be of opinion that they do not pair till the third or fourth year.

The Plate represents an adult male and the unfledged young. The specimen from which the drawing is
taken was a remarkably shy and wary old bird, whose daring forays on the Grouse had been a source of
trouble to the keepers for many years. Regularly every season the female had been trapped ; and on one
occasion a second and then a third that made her appearance shared the same fate as her predecessors.
Still the male defied all attempts at capture. The eyrie was on a ledge in the face of a precipice of grey
and moss-grown rock about one hundred and fifty feet in height. With but slight assistance from a rope
let down from above it was by no means difficult to reach, as a rough sheep-track led within a few yards of
a large cavity or fissure beneath overhanging slabs of stone, that stretched, with the exception of a break of
only four or five feet in width, to the spot where the young were situated. On my first visit, having carefully
w'atched the arrival of the female, I endeavoured to obtain a shot as she flew off. The work of climbing to the
upper portion of the grassy slope immediately below the ledge (and within a distance of fifty feet) was soon
accomplished ; but, owing to the steepness of the ground, I found the attitude I was forced to assume far too
cramped to use a gun with any certainty. The bird, however, totally disregarded all attempts to drive her off;
shouts were of no avail ; and it was impossible to pitch up stones, owing to our position immediately below the
spot. At last, while retracing our steps, she glided from the rock, skimming far down into the valley below
before she mounted into the air. Then returning at a considerable height, she remained for at least an hour
flying over our heads, uttering constantly the low scream of rage or anxiety that these birds always give vent
to when their quarters arc invaded. She never approached within one hundred yards of where we were
standing; and the male, who shortly after made his appearance, was still more careful. As waiting for the
chance of a shot seemed useless, the ropes were produced ; and the ledge was speedily reached. The young were
four in number, covered with a thick white down, and differing but slightly in size. The three smallest were
taken, and the largest and strongest bird removed a few yards from the open ledge on which they had been
hatched to a spot below the overhanging rocks, where it was firmly but carefully secured by a string round the

(5 PEREGRINE FALCON.

leg. Here it would be impossible for the parents when bringing food to avoid the traps which we set all round.
The bones and feathers scattered about indicated that Grouse and Golden Plover had furnished the greater
part of the prey supplied; there was also the carcase of a Ptarmigan much decomposed. After leaving
the neighbourhood for a few hours, we returned just as evening was closing in, and found the female captured
by both feet. The traps were then reset ; but although they were regularly attended and the place was
carefully watched for the two following days, not a sign of the male was observed. I lie young bird was kept
alive on trout fresh caught from the loch at the foot of the hill; and on this it thrived well. On the third
day I had resolved to give up the attempt, as I imagined the male had been scared from the spot ; however, on
visiting the ledge I discovered he was taken. The poor bird had brought an unfledged duckling as food ; and
with this lie had sprung the first trap ; then, in his vain endeavours to drag both duckling and trap to the young
one, he had been captured in the second.

MERLIN.

FALCO AE SALON.

Tnoron the true home of this dashing little Falcon is without doubt in the land of the heather and mist, I
can safely assert from my own experience that it is widely distributed over the British Islands. I have met
with the nests and eggs within a short distance of John o’ Groats, and obtained immature specimens both on
the Kentish shingle-banks and the cliffs near the Land’s End. Not an autumn that I have passed in East
Norfolk has gone by without several having been noticed sweeping over the Snipe-marshes in the vicinitv of
the coast; and on several occasions I have come across their breeding-stations in the Outer Hebrides.

The Merlin seems as much at home on the steepest hillsides of the Central and Western Highlands as
it does on the flat moors of the north and cast. I have but once seen the adult male further south than the
fells of Cumberland ; in this instance I was surprised to notice a flne old bird, which dashed past me in front
of the beaters while a wood was being driven in East Norfolk; this was in the month of December. In April
1876, while driving along the coast-road between Shorcham and Lancing, my attention was attracted by a
small Hawk that skimmed close past the trap and settled on a ridge of beach a few yards distant from the
rising tide. The bird was so intently watching the actions of a large flock of Dotterel and Dunlins wheeling
over the sands, that it took not the slightest notice of my approach. As it sat so low in the shingle, I could
scarcely make out the species ; so, waiting until it made a move, I obtained a shot, and then discovered it was
an immature male of this species, with only a few blue feathers showing on the back. The Plate is taken from
this specimen, and clearly shows the state of plumage. With this single exception, all the Merlins I have
observed in the south of England have been either old or young females, or males in too early a sta-c to
be recognized. J s

On the South Downs these Hawks are not unfrequcntly captured in the nets of the bird-catchers U
times they dash suddenly down with an impetuous swoop and destroy the brace-birds; occasionally ' they
approach in a more cautious manner. I have noticed them settle first at some short distance, and then draw
on towards their intended prey. In one instance a very young Falcon alighted on the pull-line where it
remained for several minutes, regardless of half a dozen persons within a distance of twenty yards its’ attention
being apparently entirely engrossed by the decoys in the net. * 3

It is stated on good authority that this species will attack birds of considerable size ■ mv own „»
rations, however, would lead me to believe that it will seldom fly at any prey of greater weight tha s

consequently the damage it inflicts on game must be exceedingly slight. * ” ° bmpe;

The food they procure in order to supply their youn<? varies according to ,• * . , . , .

found. In the Hebrides I observed they preyed principally on Snipe and Thrushes • IndTn ^ a ‘ e

in° d l“ Iua? “tims “T Tm “ ‘ ^ «

Redwings, greatly to my disgust, as I was intending to search out their ne“! tog ZlTty

2

merlin.

. • nnirrhhmirliood. In Perthshire I have seen

at this season that they must he nesting someu n<T . i also noticed some feathers apparently

Titlarks, Wheatears, and large mot is noug i down a C0U ple of nestlings just ready to fly; and

belonging to the Ring-Ouzel. On one occasion . , .. of 0 i 3 Serv ing their bill of fare. Though

as they were well supplied by their parents, 1 ia< a goo< °P1 damage to game. A brood of young

it was in the centre of a well-stocked moor, I detu c( no ]ieather at the distance of only a few yards
Grouse, with hardly a feather upon ^ J iccd the unfledged young of any species taken

when I first discovered the } oun 0 1 • common during the nesting-season,

by the Merlin. In Sutherland and ^a" the remains of Snipe and Titlarks

they appear to have a partiality loi s ™ a n isi derable numbers round their haunts in this county. The
and the wings of the Egger mot i sea eict m c n. ‘ Perthshire, I observed

Common Sandpiper is occasionaUy attacked. One the rive. Barely evading

“s, zsxzzzi r.trz.’T-K

remained perfectly motionless for over an hear heather on the flat

The position of their nests varies considerably. I have seen tnem piacou o

m00 rs and on more than one occasion on small ledges in the face of steep rocks The construct™ of heir
radio is not particularly elaborate, small heather-stalks, roots, and flue twtgs and fibres of grass being utilized
in the construction ; it, however, as a rule, fits cosily into some natural hollow in the ground.

Several years ago, while searching for a male of this species which I had knocked down broken-winged
amon, some large rocks near his nesting-place, I stumbled on the best-concealed whiskey-still I ever came
across ; the exciseman who makes a discovery in this case without the assistance of previous information wfll

te Pa Eariy 1 in JuTy 1868. during a continuance of remarkably hot weather which succeeded several weeks of
almost incessant rain, I came across a nest of this species in Sutherland, where all the eggs were bad. One
was perfectly empty, while the rest appeared scarcely above half the ordinary weight. The keepers had known
of this nest some weeks, and were well aware that the birds ought in the usual course to have hatched off a
considerable time earlier. X have seen it stated that eggs are soon deserted if their vitality is destroyed by
damp or other causes; in this case, however, both parents continued sitting, as, on passing the spot twice
during the day, I disturbed on the first occasion the male and subsequently the female from the nest. Birds
of prey, are I believe, as a rule, less suspicious of interference with their nests or eggs than most other species.
I have already mentioned the case of the Buzzard; I also tried the same experiment with the Hen-Harrier,
and found the female just as easily imposed upon. I have also known Ospreys and Eagles to sit on their nests
after the eggs had been carried off. A shepherd in the west assured me that he had watched a Golden Eagle
return and pitch on her nest in which he had placed the head of a lamb, having previously removed her two
eggs. The bird, he declared, appeared perfectly contented ; but on visiting the spot on the following day, he
found the head lying at the foot of the rocks, and the nest deserted.

KESTREL.

FALCO TINNUNCULUS.

Tiie Kestrel is without doubt the most numerous as well as the best known of the Hawk tribe that frequent
the British Islands. In every county and in the greater part of the islands I have visited, this species appears
common, readily adapting its mode of living to the nature of the country it inhabits.

Though not generally so regarded, it is one of our most useful birds, being a decided ally both to the
farmer and the game-preserver. I have been so frequently assured that Kestrels have been detected preying
upon young game, that I suppose some misguided old bird must, when greatly pressed by the cares of providing
for a hungry brood, have snatched some precocious young Pheasant from the neighbourhood of the coops,
and, like many another poor bungling thief, been caught at the first attempt, while the greater rogues go free.
The rats alone that these birds destroy while procuring food for their young would commit ten times more
damage in one year than the poor inoffensive Kestrels could possibly effect in their whole lives. I observe
most authors draw attention to the number of mice on which this species preys, and simply mention rats as
rather an exception to the general bill of fare. I particularly remarked some years hack, when I was engaged
in taking notes regarding their food and habits, that rats (none less than three-parts grown and many full-
sized) formed a part, and in some instances the whole, of the food that the old birds had provided for their
brood at a dozen nests I examined in various districts in Scotland.

During the winter of 1881 I had several opportunities of observing the prey captured by a couple of
Kestrels that frequented the rush-marshes in the neighbourhood of one of the larger broads in the cast
of Norfolk. It was seldom that they strayed far from two or three plantations which formed their head
quarters, being usually seen, at almost any hour of the day, hunting over the marshes or perched on either
some small hush or the raised bank of a water-dyke. In every instance when I examined the spot where
they had devoured their prey, I discovered that they had been feeding on the large brown field-mouse.
Occasionally they appeared to have consumed every portion of flesh, hone, and skin, and the only vestige
remaining was that portion of the intestine containing the green food on which these animals subsist ; at times
they had plucked off a considerable quantity of the fur, which was scattered in small clots round' the open
space where they had made their meal. 1

I never yet heard of the young of either Partridges or Pheasants being carried off from wild broods •
neither have I seen young Grouse among the victims on their nesting-places. Since the habits of birds of
prey are gradually becoming better understood by game-preservers, and as keepers (with but very few
exceptions) are by no means the ignorant class of men that certain writers have been pleased to describe them
it may bo hoped that the Kestrel will long continue as plentiful as it now is. I am convinced that if onlJ
the neighbourhood of the coops were strictly guarded, but little harm could possibly be laid to their chirm,

It frequently happens that the blame is laid on those that are by no means the most guilty. There is
little doubt that the losses attributed to the Kestrel are in many instances inflicted by Sparrow Hawks or

111

2

KESTREL.

Crows - and at times even the unsuspected Moorhen has been proved the agressor. Rats and stoats, as well
as snakes or adders*, arc also now and then tempted by such a tender morsel as a young Pheasant.

The Kestrel in the game-preserves of the southern and midland counties, like the Eagle and Peregrine
on the Highland moon) is made responsible for all injury when the real culprit has managed to escape
observation To recount all the instances I have met with where this species has been unreasonably accused
would be superfluous, though the following may perhaps afford an insight into the justice of certain charges of
theft brought against the larger birds of prey. A few years back I passed part of the spring on an extensive
sheep-farm in the west, where Eagles were looked upon as the most desperate robbers, in consequence of
the damage they were declared to have inflicted on the flocks and the number of lambs they had carried off.
That they were exceedingly destructive I never for a moment doubted ; but how the poor birds could possibly
be guilty of all the crimes imputed to them I was at a loss to conjecture. Shortly after leaving the islands
I returned to the neighbourhood of Inverness; and while crossing a hill overlooking the lochs in the
Caledonian Canal I observed a number of boats belonging to the east coast, which had been prosecuting
the fishing in the Minch, making their way home. The boats were naturally delayed some time in the
lochs ; and I was particularly interested as soon as I noticed that one or two lambs were on every craft. A
grassy bank stretched close down to the water-side; and it was an amusing sight to watch the gentle
manner in which the sturdy fishermen tended their sportive charges while they gambolled on the liill-side,
and the care with which they were led back to their respective boats when the passage of the lochs had been
effected. I have often wondered how or where these lambs had been procured.

Birds up to the size of Blackbirds or Thrushes arc now and then struck down by this species. Last
S p r ing I W as informed by the gardener that a Kestrel had made several attacks on these birds in my own
garden near Brighton. It appeared from his report that the Ilawk had not succeeded in making any captures,
although one Blackbird had only escaped with the loss of its tail. I was of opinion that the culprit must
have been a Sparrow-Hawk ; but being hastily summoned shortly after, I had a good view of a large female
Kestrel tearing at a Blackbird, on which she was perched on the middle of a bed of Hyacinths. On being
disturbed the Hawk at once made off, carrying the Blackbird in her talons.

I should be sorry to venture an opinion as to whether the British Islands are visited by any considerable
numbers from the Continent during the autumn. There can be little doubt that a few cross the North Sea;
I have met with them on the passage, and have also noticed an accession to the usual numbers on the cast
coast during the middle of October. I have more than once remarked that they appeared to come about the
same time as the Grey Crows. My attention was attracted early in the morning of October 2G, 1881,
by the commotion created by a pair of Black Crows attempting to drive off some of their Grey brethren
who seemed inclined to take up their quarters in a plantation they usually frequented. Later in the day the
Crows were busily employed in repelling the advances of three or four Kestrels who had approached their
domain. In some instances they followed them a considerable distance across the marshes before they
desisted from their pursuit. These, I should imagine, must have been fresh arrivals, as during the summer
months the Crows and Kestrels live in perfect amity, both species breeding in close proximity to one another,
the Kestrels, as a rule, appropriating the old nests of their black neighbours.

Eor breeding-purposes this species resorts to various situations. On the downs in the south I have
repeatedly observed them to rear their young in chalk-pits; they also make use of the deserted nests
of Crows and other birds in the woodland districts, while along the sea-coast and among the islands the
crevices and ledges in the cliffs furnish secure and almost inaccessible eyries. At times they are noticed

* I havo a vivid recollection of killing a large adder, about thirty years ago, in Sussex, near a coop in which somo newly-hatched Pheasants
wore located, and discovering that it had swallowed one of the young birds.

KESTREL.

3

frequenting the towers of churches and other buildings ; on the moors in the north the steep rocky faces oi
the numerous ravines and old ruins arc for the most part resorted to. In the summer of 1868 1 found a
brood of young Kestrels on a perfectly bare spot on an open moor in Sutherland. It was not for the want
of a suitable locality that such an unusual spot had been chosen for a cradle (there was not the slightest
suspicion of a nest), as a rough and broken precipice was within a few yards distance. The following year
I was shown three eggs on a shelf in a shepherds’ shoaling on Een Alisky, in Caithness, which had only been
deserted by its rightful owners the previous month, the bird making its escape through a hole in the chimney
while we were entering the building. I do not believe that the Kestrel makes any attempt at building a nest
for itself. I have frequently noticed that not even a strand of grass or a single twig was on the ledges where
their young had been hatched.

The number of rats that one pair will occasionally destroy, and the pertinacity with which the female
will return to her nest in spite of frequent interruption, will be seen by the following short extract from my
notes of 1867, jotted down while collecting specimens in East Lothian. The nest was in a small hole
six or eight feet from the top of the cliffs on the east side of Canty Bay. Being anxious to secure the young
as soon as they were perfectly covered with down, I had gone over the rocks with a rope on two or three
occasions to learn how they progressed.

“Juncl. On examining the Kestrels’ nest I found the young in the state I required for preserving.
The female was now more reconciled to having her treasures inspected, and simply hissed without making the
slightest attempt to use either beak or claws when I lifted her up. As on previous occasions, the remains
of rats were the only food. After paying the poor bird so many visits, I did not feel inclined to catch her on
her young ones and slaughter her in cold blood; so I left her sitting, and hauled myself to the top of the
cliffs with the assistance of the rope. On reaching the summit I determined to let her have the chance of
a fly for her life; so picking up my gun I took up a position with firm standing-ground, from which I could
shoot as she flew out. It required three or four stones pitched onto the ledge to induce her to move. At

last she dashed out, but instantly swept round a projecting slab of rock, and was out of sight before she was
twenty yards distant. When once on wing she appeared wild enough ; and as she gave no signs of approachin-
within range, I discovered I should have to use the traps (which I had brought to set for the male) in order
to effect her capture. The work of placing the traps (it needed a couple to cover the space at the entrance of
the hole) was by no means easy, swinging on the rope with only a small ledge about an inch wide on which
to get a foothold. At last the operation was accomplished ; and the traps being of considerable weight, I did
not think it would be necessary to make them fast. The rope was then drawn up, and we left the spot, making
our way down to the inn. An hour and a half later we retraced our steps ; and on stretching over 'the cliff
I was surprised to find the traps vanished. On descending to the ledge I discovered the young were also -one
Before regaining the top of the rocks my attention was attracted by a party of three or°four small °boys
diligently engaged in scraping a hole in the sand at the foot of the cliffs, between two and three hundred
yards to the west. On examining their movements through the glasses, I discovered them just in the act of
placing two traps in the hole and carefully covering them. I also noticed that they carried a couple of covered
baskets. As I had strong suspicions that these youngsters had managed to possess themselves of our tn»s
and birds, I directed the two men with me to take the path at the top of the cliirs and cut off their vet ,
towards North Berwick, while I watched their movements through the glasses. The time they spent b,
endeavouring to conceal the spot where they had buried the traps enabled the men to get round them T
could only discern, from where I was stationed, that the contents of the baskets were given up and the t,'
brought out from their place of concealment. On their return the men brought with them tb f
Hawks, the old female, and also the traps. They also had the remains of the rats I had Hoticed o 7
in addition to a large one the captured bird must have brought with her when taken. ‘ It seems that l!e b ^

4

KESTREL.

who had come on purpose to take the young (for which they had already obtained a market as Peregrine
Ealcons at North Berwick), had previously paid several visits to the nest. The descent to the ledge had been
effected by the aid of a piece of old rotten clothes-line, which, under the threat ol prosecution for appropriating
the traps, the terrified juveniles confessed they had stolen from a house on the East Links. The tameness of
the female was probably due to the number of times she had been inspected while sitting, though it appears
strange she had put up with such frequent interruption. With a leg and a wing broken (she had been in both
traps) it was necessary to kill the poor bird at once. As I still required the male I returned the young to
their nesting-place, reset the traps, and then retired a short distance to keep watch. In less than half an
hour he came in with a large rat, and was secured.”

Rats were in those days very numerous in the neighbourhood of Canty Bay. If I remember right, the
natives attributed their presence to some old vessels that had been wrecked along the coast. The
surrounding country for several miles was also remarkably well stocked with these destructive animals. It
was no uncommon occurrence for the ratcatcher, when paying his periodical visits to the farm-steadings, to
destroy between three and four hundred by means of traps or ferrets. The benefits conferred by Kestrels
in such a country could not be overestimated. With the single exception of the above-mentioned family,
required as specimens, I have always used my utmost endeavours to protect this useful species from persecution.

I noticed that on overy occasion, when visiting the spot, I found the female on the nest. The male
was observed carrying prey to the rock ; but I did not see him take his part in the labour of incubation.

SPARROW HAWK

NESTLINGS

SPARROW-HAWK.

ACCIPITER NISUS.

Notwithstanding the almost universal persecution that the Sparrow-Hawk meets with, it is still tolerably
numerous from north to south. I have seen several pairs breeding in the birch-woods of Sutherlandshire, and,
to the best of my recollection, have never passed a week in any district between that county and Sussex
without having met with a bird or two of this species. Wooded districts are its favourite haunts ; but it
may be noticed sweeping over the barren and treeless Grouse-moors, dashing past the buildings surrounding
the lone farmhouse or shooting-lodge, and gliding with rapid flight over the fens and rush -grown marsh -lands.

Falconers and naturalists frequently put in a plea for that still greater robber, the Peregrine ; hut I never
yet remember to have seen a single line written in defence of the Sparrow-IIawk. No one who has had the
opportunity of becoming acquainted with its manner of living can possibly doubt that it merits to a certain
degree the bad name it has acquired ; but that it will kill for the mere pleasure of slaying (which sportive
trait in the character of the Falcon can only he denied by those who are ignorant of its true habits) cannot be
laid to its charge. The poor bird is simply endowed with a vigorous appetite; and when engaged in providing
for the wants of its ravenous brood, the destruction it commits is not unfrcquently detected, and the contents
of its larder accurately described and commented on. Judging from my own experience, the damage he
is able to inflict on wild game is only small compared with the loss caused by his frequent raids on the
broods that are reared in an artificial manner and deprived of their natural protectors. Small birds, such
as Larks, Pipits, Buntings, and Finches, form the greater part of the food of this species; but at times it will
strike and carry off still heavier victims, and it is probable that none below the weight of a half-grown
Pheasant arc perfectly safe from its attacks.

That this Hawk will fly at and buffet almost any species that approaches its nesting-quarters has, I
believe, been recorded by several authors. A few months back I was watching an immature Marsh-Harrier
which, after searching over several of the adjacent marshes, was steadily making its way towards its next
hunting-grounds, past a plantation where a pair of Sparrow-Hawks were rearing their young. No sooner had
it approached within the distance of about one hundred yards of the wood than it was attacked by the male.
The difference in size between the two was particularly striking as the little Hawk gradually drove the Harrier
higher and higher in the air. Both birds were almost lost to sight (having risen in large circles, the Harrier
evidently attempting to get above his diminutive antagonist) before the chase came to an end.

The Sparrow-Hawk is occasionally mobbed by a mixed flock of small birds. I lately noticed one -lido
down under the shelter of a hedgerow, carrying a bright cock Yellowhammer in his talons pursued l, v a
chattering swarm, to whose clamour he payed not the slightest attention. I particularly remarked tint'
although noisy in the extreme, they exhibited their discretion by keeping at a respectful distance, and as soon
as the Hawk settled the whole crowd at once dispersed.

At the time of migration these birds are oeeasionally seen on the North Sea. I have heard of a few from

SPARROW-IIAWK.

the lightships; and the master of a Yarmouth fishing-lugger told me that he observed a large female Sparrow-
Hawk strike at a Peewit, when both eame down into the water. This occurred whde he was engaged on
home voyage, halfway between the “ Newarp ” lightship and the “ Knoll buoy, about the middle of October.
As the birds appeared unable to rise, the boat was headed towards them and the de.dle got ready so as to

effect a capture. When close at hand and just in front of the net, the Hawk u tore °" r,u 8 le eewi ,

and, mounting on its back, spread her wings and succeeded in making her escape. The Plover was secured,
and his flight-feathers being cut, he was kept on the deck of the boat, where he specdrly became reconciled to

confinement. . T ,

It is stated that this Hawk occasionally places its nest in rocks where trees are scarce. - o one, owever,

so located has come under my own observation. In every instance where I have examined their breeding-
quarters they appeared to have made use of the deserted nests of some of the various members of the Crow
tribe. I noticed both male and female employed in supplying food to their young brood. I mention this fact,
as it has been remarked that the female in some instances receives the prey from the male and conveys it to
the nest. The young are at first covered with a white or rather a dirty whitish down.

The Plate shows a brood rather more than lialf-fledged. The nest had been constructed and made use of
the previous season by a pair of Grey Crows in the bircli-wood overlooking Loch Craggie, m Sutherland.

While engaged in procuring the above-mentioned specimens, I was somewhat surprised to notice the early
hour at which the old birds brought food to their young. Both male and female were exceedingly wary ; and,
having attempted in vain to obtain a shot as they came in to roost, I determined to be on the spot before
daylight. Neither bird appeared to be in the vicinity of the nest when I cautiously made my way to the foot
of the tree soon after two o’clock ; but before many minutes had elapsed I heard their screams in different
parts of the wood gradually drawing closer, and before it was fairly light I had shot both birds, though not
before one of them had managed to pay one visit to the nest and make its escape, owing to the darkness,
beneath the trees. I discovered that two Pipits had been brought as food, though how they had been sccuied
at that early hour docs not seem clear. The small birds could hardly, I should imagine, have been astir before
daylight ; and it would almost appear that they must have been captured the day before and stored up for lutuic
use. Possibly owing to our presence in the neighbourhood of the wood during the previous alternoon and
evening, the old birds had been hindered from bringing in what food they had procured. The Meadow-Pipit
was remarkably plentiful in the district; but I cannot call to mind having ever noticed them on the move till
after sunrise. The Hawk tribe are particularly restless ; I have frequently heard their warning cry at all hours
of the night when passing near their quarters.

* The landing-net.

MARSH-HARRIER.

CIRCUS /ERUGINOSUS.

Considering the time I have spent at all seasons of the year in the neighbourhood of the fens and broads
of the eastern counties, as well as in other quarters that are frequented by this species, the observations I
have been enabled to record concerning its habits arc scanty in the extreme.

The Marsh-Harrier is stated on good authority to occur in Scotland. Here, to the best of my knowledge,
I have seen but a single specimen, an immature bird which I noticed in East Lothian. The only adults I could
ever positively identify were a pair I observed sailing over the reed-beds on Wicken fen, near Ely. Occasionally
one or two were seen beating about the fen-lands of Qui, Waterbeacli, and Swaffham, in the neighbourhood of
Cambridge; these, I believe, were all immature. In Norfolk the species is still far from uncommon, although
I never discovered the nest. I have watched them at all seasons of the year ; but none I met with appeared
to have arrived at maturity. Eiftcen or twenty years ago a stray bird was now and then observed in the

vicinity of the reedy pools on Romney Marsh, in Kent ; and in Sussex the flat country round TV'incliclsea and
Pevensey Marsh were occasionally visited by these Harriers, though none, I believe, were ever reported to
have bred in either county. In Cornwall a single specimen came under my notice hunting over the furze-
covered hill-side that slopes down to the pool on Marazion marsh, near Penzance.

During a residence of a couple of years within a mile or two of Gullane links, in East Lothian (a favourite
locality for this species according to some writers), I had the opportunity of observing the habits of many
birds of prey. The rabbits on these sandy hills, which are here and there interspersed with pools of water and
beds of rushes, are, I imagine, the chief attraction to the larger species, while the numbers of small Waders
tan‘ the Marshy portions of the ground afford an almost endless supply of food to those less powerful
At Afferent tunes, between the two extremities of the links (which stretch for several miles alon- the coast
from the fir-woods i of Areherfteld on the east to the shores of Aberlady burn on the west), I have witched two
three young White-tailed Eagles, several Peregrines, Kestrels, Sparrow-Hawks, and Merlins as well as a
occasional Buzzard. Harriers, however, with the single exception mentioned above were onlv o ■ ,

them absence. Early in the autumn of 1803 this specimen was noticed flapping ba’ckwards Ind f 0 ™!T S ?
the low-laying marshes towards the west end of the links. A Snipe, which I had narHa,, £or '' ards over
shot, took refuge among the sedges and water-plants near the shores of the firth • the hi • 1 ^ ^ ^ “ l0 " S

citated from flying, and while falling attracted the attention of the Harrier In’ order u" T
latter I withdrew behind the shelter of one of the sandbanks honim, hm a * ° btaln a shot a ‘ ‘he
Snipe, however, had sufficient strength left to rise when closely threatened • andttf „ .T” ‘° P '' Cy ' The
so often, the Hawk working as if desirous of wearing down rather than striking 1 ■ P “ £omumo ° was repeated
conclusion he would make no attempt to take any prey while it was aide t ° hls ™tim, that I came to the
m Norfolk, although I seldom passed a “ ™ g '

one or more coming under observation, I have never been able to r^d “ “

2

MARSH-HARRIER.

birds being attacked. The Buzzard, as this species is always styled by the natives, appears to be perpetually
sailing over the rush-marshes and reed-beds in the neighbourhood of the broads. I have noticed one pitch,
as if on prey, at least half a dozen times while hunting over a single marsh ; but on subsequently examining
each spot, the bearings of which were carefully marked, I could discover no signs of any bird or small animal
having been destroyed; the prey, if any was captured, must in every case have been entirely consumed.
I have frequently seen the greatest excitement displayed by Peewits and Redshanks while the Harrier was
beating over the marshes in which their young were concealed. At times, after hovering for a second or two,
the robber would descend into the cover; and I have little doubt that the unfledged young would prove an
acceptable and easily procured meal. Snakes, frogs, and mice, and even sucli small game as dragonflies, are,
I conclude from the remains I have come across, included in their bill of fare. Dead or disabled birds, if
incapable of flight, form most probably the chief portion of their diet. I discovered the toe of a Hawk I
believe to have belonged to this species in a trap I set baited with a Coot; the teeth had unfortunately proved
too sharp, but a feather or two adhering to the mud left little doubt as to the identity of the escaped bird.

I can state nothing on my own authority with reference to the nesting of this species. Those I observed
on Wicken fen were evidently, from their actions, breeding somewhere close at hand. Among the broads in
Norfolk I have been informed that nests have been found during the last few years; but the descriptions of the
birds given by my various informants were so conflicting that it was impossible to place any reliance on their

reports.

The eastern counties during the months of September and October 1881 were visited by several wanderers
of this species, as well as numbers of Buzzards. One or two young birds that I examined fresli-killed by the
gunners of the district were particularly rich in tlicir colouring, the feathers on the head being remarkably
tawny. I have noticed a few at times, during summer and the early months of autumn, so worn and ragged
in their plumage as to give the impression that some of the stuffed monstrosities one observes in the windows of
second-rate taxidermists or on the shelves of museums had suddenly been restored to life and allowed to return

to their former haunts.

MALE AND NESTLING.

HEN-IIAR RIER.

CIRCUS CYAXEUS.

Though by no means an exceedingly rare species, the Hen-Harrier can scarcely be termed common at the
present date in any part of the British Islands I have visited. A few pairs may still be found scattered over
the flat moors of Sutherland and Boss- shire ; I have also met with several nests in different parts of
Caithness. In Inverness it seems less common ; and in Perthshire not more than half a dozen specimens have
come under my observation. Among the Hebrides it appears, from the information I gathered from keepers
and shepherds, to be found in considerable numbers, though I failed to notice more than two or three single
birds in the Long Island. I have seen one or two beating over the Yorkshire moors in the neighbourhood of
Whitby, also in Cumberland near Penrith. The broad-district of Norfolk, the fens of Cambridge, and the
marshes and furze-covered downs of Sussex are also at times frequented by this species; females,’ however,
and immature specimens are most commonly met with. I have never observed a full-plumaged male further
south than Norfolk.

Several writers assert that this Harrier has been distinctly observed to make an attack upon Grouse and
Partridges. Unless the bird had been seen in the act of capturing its prey, I should be inclined to believe that
it must have picked up some of the victims struck down by the Peregrine. Small birds, such as Larks and
Pipits, together with mice, and even frogs appear to be its most natural food; it will also, I imagine carrv
off the unfledged young of Partridges and Land-Bails. I never detected the remains of such pre°v at their
nestmg-quarters, though I frequently watched a pair hunting over a marshy hay-field in the Hi»hlands wUd
was the resort o, a brood or two of Partridges and at least a dozen pairs of Land-Hails 1 was never r
enough to determine exactly, even by the aid of powerful glasses, the nature of the prey they eaZeT b

ne or two occasions it appeared to be either a dark-eoloured field-mouse or, wh^t Zar m„Z b’n
downy young of the Corn-Crake. 1 0 P roba ble, the

mhabttllZjlZrtnlZZ^r^ ** ^ «**»* they

that these birds disappear entirely from the north on Z “h Z lmma ‘ Ur0 ^ 1 haY ° heard il
incorrect. I was informed by a tee™ >”1^ TT 1 ™ Maed is

in perfect plumage during very severe weather hi Glen Aiferie n- ^ had ,l ° tlCOd t ' Y ° fino old malos

usual haunts on the moors worn deeply e^Z witt “l Z ? Z ***“* *» *"*■ Their

m order to procure food. When mint «■„„„• , . ’ 1 they were probably driven to the low ground

male, apparently in change of plumage^hunthfo T ^ ° n L ° Ch Shin ’ iu Sut herland, I observed a

The females I Have seldom recoUdli — ive

constructed of smLThl'^S^ C^BhfiueW^’ f **** 1 in t,1G "orth were

thGyWerC ^

2 HEN-HARRIER.

weather; but one or two nests were most cosily situated in sheltered corries, screened from almost every wind.
In the eastern counties they frequent the msh-marslies, breeding among the sedges and other coarse herbage.
I generally noticed that they selected some spot where the cover was from two to three feet high.

In the summer of 1800, while walking over a moor in the east of Sutherland, I disturbed a Ringtai (the
female of the Hen-Harrier is known by this name) from her nest, which contained one young one just out of
the shell and five eggs on the point of hatching. As both the old birds were flying round in a state of great
consternation, I sat down to watch tlicir actions for a few minutes. On rising to leave the spot, I discovered
I had laid my gun on the back of an old Grey Hen, who now got up from her nest, in which were three fresh-
laid eggs, evidently showing that she herself had chosen this apparently dangerous locality for her nursery, as
the Harriers’ nest was within six or seven paces. This is not the only instance I have met with of game and
birds of prey being found in close proximity.

Within the distance of half a dozen miles of the above-mentioned nest I came upon another female sitting
on eggs. In this instance I approached close enough to obtain a good view of her before she rose. "W hetlier
fear or anger at my intrusion had caused her to puff herself out to the fullest extent, I am unable to state;
anyhow her appearance was most remarkable. Her tail was spread and standing almost upright, while the
plumage on her back was elevated, and every feather on her neck and head on end, the ring round the face
being particularly conspicuous. After watching her closely for a minute or two, I drew cautiously back to
obtain my drawing-book, which was in one of the game-bags, in order to make a sketch of her position. On
endeavouring to approach the second time, she rose at once in the air ; and a subsequent attempt to take her
portrait met with no better success. Whether this is the usual manner in which the females of this species
comport themselves while engaged in the work of incubation, I am unable to state from personal experience,
as I never obtained another chance of judging.

The Plate, showing the male and nestling, is taken from specimens obtained in Caithness. When first
discovered, this nest contained five eggs ; but on visiting it a fortnight later I found a single young bird was
the only occupant, the eggs having most probably been carried off by some Grey Crows which were breeding
in a steep rock at no great distance.

The young, when newly hatched, arc covered by a dirty whitish down. The soft parts of the beak and the
cere, as well as the iris, are also of much the same dull tint.

MI CD) M TAG HE S UK Wi IE fl E IE*

ADULT FEMALE.

MONTAGU’S HARRIER

CIRCUS CINERACEUS.

mbouvliooa ot uonar ±>nuge

The numbers of Hen-Harriers that formerly resorted to the ucig — — -- —

moors stretching from the north of Loch Shin towards Ren Armine and the adjacent lofty mountains
probably led to the statement that this species frequented the district. During the years spent in the north
I traversed this locality on several occasions, meeting with many pairs of Harriers and inspecting their nests
and young * ; though every bird that came in view was examined with the utmost care, not a single specimen
of Circus cineraceus could he detected. I have only observed this species in the southern and eastern
counties of England; according to my own experience it evinces a partiality for either furze-clad downs or
rough and uncut rush-marshes, the nature of the country in which it is found differing considerably from
the stretches of wild moorland that form the favourite haunts of the Hen-Harrier.

On many of the unreclaimed marshes in the east of Norfolk, rushes and other rank herbage are grown for
litter, frequently remaining uncut for one or more seasons, by which means a heavy crop (termed “double
whale” in the district) is obtained; the docks and lofty thistles, with the endless varieties of tangled marsh -
plants and coarse grasses that flourish on the moist portions of the ground, render these flats almost
impenetrable. Where the soil is occasionally flooded, or swamps and sladcs are still undrained, the common
reed (. Phragmites communis) springs up in profusion, rearing its feathery heads above the dense undergrowth.
To such spots these birds usually resort in this locality; though occasionally straying while on their
rounds in search of prey to the drier marshes as well as the hills round the broads, it is only under
the shelter of reeds or rushes that they attempt to rear their young. When breeding where the rush
(Juncus glaucus) grows thick and strong, I remarked at times that the bare patch on which the nest is placed
was exceedingly small, the surrounding cover leaving barely sufficient space for the bird to spread its
wings Within a short distance other similar spots were occasionally found; these, the marshmen declared
were the roosting-places of the male: one such station, evidently frequently used, was pointed out below
an old furze bush on a marsh-wall about one hundred yards from where the female was sitting here the

r: s “^r n ' and ma,iy feathers - “ ^

Though many opportunities for watching these Harriers have f-.llen ™ 1

little o, nothing from personal observation concerning the nature of their prey. V^ers ■“ T

and large moths * are supposed by the marshmen to constitute a considerable' poniou i

t !£££.?£ V *T 1 ,h,t “ ««% in numbers.

t Pipers and Sw.fts wore the names given by the natives to these reptiles

+ Moths arc commonly known in the district as “ flics ” I well

the buildings of a farm at night to search for a certain species of moth ^ IT*** ^ *“*1 to go round

the farm-house opened, and a voice was heard exclaiming “ Is it the flies ye're after ? >’ ° m CXamimng the su S ar w *h a lamp, the door of

2

MONTAG U’S HARRIER.

frequently remarked that their presence caused far less uneasiness to the Redlegs and Peewits than that of
the Moor-Buzzard : this fact might lead to the belief that they were not destructive to the offspring of
these birds ; it is, however, possible that their flight while skimming over the marshes, being more rapid, does
not attract the same amount of attention. A Marsh- Harrier often remains for a quarter of an hour or twenty
minutes hunting backwards and forwards over an acre of rushes and sedge, swooping down repeatedly to
the surface, while the present species, as a rule, passes onward without turning to the right or left, only
pausing for a few moments when the capture of prey appears inevitable.

The drainage and cultivation of swamps and fens have much restricted the distribution of these Harriers;
their numbers also have been thinned down by gamekeepers, and their eggs removed to supply the demands
of collectors ; as yet, however, they are by no means exterminated, and a few pairs still succeed, at not
unfrequent intervals, in rearing their young in some of the most inaccessible of their old haunts. Some
fourteen or fifteen years ago, when in quest of this species, I fell in with several pairs in the eastern counties ,
having been misled, however, by a statement (from a well-known sportsman Avliose chances for observation,
one would suppose, ought to have rendered his remarks reliable) that this Harrier exhibited no white over the
rump, I allowed the females on two occasions to rise unmolested from their nests without attempting
to obtain specimens. The males resolutely refusing to permit a sufficiently close inspection to identify their
plumage with certainty, I was led to believe that all observed in the district were Hen-Harriers ; not
needing specimens of that species, little attention was paid to either birds or nests. If the females of
the two species are closely examined it will be seen that though the white band at the base of the tail
of C. cyancus is decidedly broader, a distinct white line is apparent at the roots of the feathers on
C. cineraceus ; this marking is especially conspicuous as the bird spreads its wings to rise from the
ground. The warm brown streaks and the general tint of the flanks, which come well into view as the
bird mounts in the air, ought to have proved a sufficient guide, had I been better acquainted with the general
colouring of the females.

Various means of distinguishing Montagu’s Harrier from its relative have been pointed out by writers
on natural history ; the plates, however, in several works indicate plainly that little attention could have
been paid to the specimens from which the sketches were taken. The ruff or frill round the head is by
no means so perfect as in the Hen-Harrier ; still it is represented in the drawings given by several authors
as continued prominently below the beak. Macgillivrav tells us that “the ruff is obscure,” and again
remarks that “the ruff is obsolete;” though somewhat singularly worded, these remarks are evidently
intended to convey the impression that the ruff or frill is imperfect. The head of the male represented
in the small woodcut in Yarrell differs from all others that I have seen figured, but agrees precisely in
the extent of the ruff with specimens I have examined in the flesh, the frill being entirely wanting on
the throat below the beak. The same author also informs us that “ the third quill feather of the wing
is much more pointed” than in the Hen-Harrier; this also accords in every instance with the measurements
I have taken from fresh-killed birds. I am enabled also to add that this feather in Montagu’s Harrier
is considerably longer than the second and fourth. The third and fourth were found to be almost
equal in length in several specimens of the Hen-Harrier that came under my observation when taking
notes on the two species; the fourth, however, is usually allowed to be slightly the longest. My attention
has also lately been drawn by a friend to another method for distinguishing the species. In Montagu’s Harrier
the second, third, and fourth primaries only arc einarginated on the outer web, whereas in the Hen-Harrier
the emargination * is carried on from the second to the fifth primary inclusive.

* I take the term “emarginate” to mean the cutting away of the edge of a feather. Macgillivray, however, in his Introduction, when
explaining the terms used in the structure of birds, states as follows: — “ Emarginate, having a notch at the end.” A woodcut is then given,
representing a feather notched at the point.

MO Vi' AG U’S HARR I ER.

While still in the down the youngsters of this species differ greatly from those of the Hen Hail
shortly after hatching they exhibit a dull white down, which, as the bird increases in size assumes a warm
red tint. This colour fades considerably after death, but never approaches the dirty white or dull leaden

hue which pervades the down on the nestlings of C. cyaneus.

The colouring of the soft parts of a female and brood obtained on the 3rd of July, 1883, may jo
described as follows Female : iris pale warm hazel, with bright yellow ring round the pupil, pale yellow
ring round eyelids; tips of upper and lower mandibles black, merging gradually into a pale blue slate
towards the cere, which was bright chrome-yellow ; legs and feet deep chrome, claws black. Young : beaks
black at the tips, continuing a dark horn up to the cere; cere yellow, inside of mouth a pale flesh-tint;
the skin between the base of the beak and the eye showing up through the bristles a livid slate-tint; iris
dark hazel, a pale yellow ring round eyelid; legs and feet Naples yellow, claws horn.

This brood consisted of three young birds and one egg, two of the youngsters being much alike in
size, though one was rather more advanced and stronger; these both exhibited a warm red blush on the
down. The third juvenile was much smaller and weaker, its naked skin being barely covered by a scanty
white down. The manner in which this tiny mite sought repose was most singular, the head, with its
Scraggy neck fully extended, being curled up under the body. At times, when rolling about uneasily,
it would elevate its legs above the bare wing-joints, and scratch violently with the claws at the back
of its head. The two larger birds now and then fought viciously, but speedily became reconciled and
nestled down together. TV hen awaiting their food, one would occasionally seize the distended crop of its
companion, and endeavour to tear away a portion with its sharp hooked beak ; the flesh showing red through
the down and bearing a certain resemblance to raw meat, in all probability led to this mistake. After
remaining in captivity for about a fortnight, the whole family, though taking their food with avidity in
the first instance, gradually became weaker, in spite of the most careful attention, and dropped off one
by one. Doubtless the brood were taken far too young to be successfully reared; the food also (the flesh
of small birds sliced up raw) with which they were supplied was probably unsuitable.

I carefully measured the eggs taken from a couple of nests of Montagu’s Harrier during the summer
of 1883, and discovered they were considerably smaller than those figured on the plates in a recently
published work on British birds ; one clutch were especially round and small, and proved to be three
sixteenths of an inch less in length.

It is many yearn since I had an opportunity of examining a nest of this species placed anion-
tee and the compos, t, on of those that came under my notice has entirely slipped my memory. For a
couple of seasons about hue and twenty years ago, I procured eggs which must have belonged to this
peces on an extensive stretch of tee, known in the district as the -horthy field,” near Onfield I
e e s of Sussex. One or two of the lords wore shot by the keeper, who termed them Marsh-Buzsards the

it h “ the r**

were placed would also leave little doubt on the subject. In the teaM i°. 6 countl 7 10 which the nests

simply constructed, consisting merely of a scanty enlleoti r *1 a ' , ,K| ad-districts the cradle is very
tees and grasses scratched t“ “ **““ *

the plumage. During of'issll' darker 0,1 thC colouri “8 °f

eastern counties in the vicinity of his nest’ »ne »f the

aiso several feathers of an ash-brown, intetecd 111 the 1 I"" “ Md were

Whether this bird was one of the dark variety, or only too yomm rem ™<!er of the plumage,

had no means of ascertaining: I remark J’that t ZZ d - 11“ « "'I *

° a ly " lUl a fine adult male frequently

4 MONTAGU’S HARRIER.

seen beating over the marshes and breeding near at hand. Not having, however, obtained the specimen
myself, the rules stated in the Introduction preclude the insertion of a plate to better illustrate his peculiar
colouring. The female with which this singularly tinted bird paired was of the ordinary type, possibly
young, if we may trust to the statements of certain authors, who describe the eyes ol young females as hazel
and those of older birds as yellow.

The female previously referred to, and the two largest of her brood, are figured on the Plates ; the woodcut
gives a correct representation of one of the favourite attitudes of the smallest and most helpless of the same
family.

MALE AND N F. ST LINGS

.

Winter Plumage

SHORT-EARED OWL.

OTUS BRACHYOTUS.

Tub old name of Woodcock-Owl was probably given to this species on account of its arrival having been
supposed by our ancestors to denote the fact that Woodcocks would shortly make their appearance on our
coasts. Without doubt, large flights at times reach our eastern shores during the autumn and early winter;
these, I conclude from reports I have received from the light-ships, arc birds that have crossed the Aorth Sea.
We arc also visited in the spring by a few stragglers that have passed the winter months on the continent. On
several occasions, usually soon after daylight, I have met with single birds in advanced breeding-plumage
within a short distance of the English Channel, both in Kent and Sussex, the date of their appearance being
from the middle to the latter end of April. I particularly noticed that these birds seemed lighter in plumage
than those that passed the winter on our shores.

During summer the Short-eared Owl may be found nesting in many parts of the British Islands. I have
met with them in the Hebrides and Inverness-shire, and in one instance on the west coast of lloss-shirc. In
the north-west of Perthshire they arc particularly numerous ; I have come across their nests on many occasions
on the Grouse-moors. I found one pair, which I believe to have been breeding, on the hills near Whitby in
Yorkshire, though I was unable to detect either eggs or young. Many years ago I captured an unfledged
nestling on the outskirts of Wicken fen, near Ely; and at the present date this species still breeds in
considerable numbers in the east of Norfolk.

Small birds about the size of Larks and Pipits, together with two or three different members of the mouse
family, appear to be the usual food of this Owl. The pellets, which may be found in immense numbers in the
neighbourhood of their haunts, clearly indicate the description of prey on which they subsist. I have heard
it stated that they arc at times destructive to young game; this I should much doubt, unless a partly-fledged
Snipe has happened to come under their observation.

During the winter months these Owls may usually be seen hunting for prey as early as 3 p.m.,
occasionally in dull weather even earlier. In summer they may be noticed soaring at all hours of the day
over the marshes or moors where their young arc located. When disturbed by the intrusion of visitors to
their haunts, they remain circling over the intruders, uttering a sharp barking cry, swooping down at times
as if with the intention of making an attack in defence of their progeny, then sailing slowly away to a
distance, and ever and anon returning again, till their quarters are left in peace. I repeatedly watched them
while the sun was shining brightly ; and they appeared not in the slightest incommoded by the strong li-ht
I have found their nests in the north in heather and rough grass. On the cast coast, where I met with
many opportunities of studying their habits, they seem to prefer the roughest and wildest situations they are

thstt^took rz “ th ° rush ' marshes are left for sotokJ y cars : here a luxuriant crop of
ttates, docks, and other rank-growmg plants soon becomes established: these wastes are the favourite
quartcis of the Marsli-Owl, as this species is termed by the natives.

SHORT-EARED OWL.

The young, I imagine, leave the nest some time before they are able to get on wing. I have frequently
come across a single young one seated by itself in some snug corner among the dense cover ; and after hunting
further, a second and then a third might eventually be discovered. Even after they are capable of flight the
family keep within a short distance of one another, appearing to resort to a certain spot for resting and
digesting their food. I have disturbed several broods in the marshes of East Norfolk, where for a space of
twenty or thirty yards the greater part of the rushes and herbage were broken down by regular runs or tracks ;
the surface of the grass also was matted by their droppings, and thickly strewn with pellets as well as
quantities of their feathers.

At times I have noticed one perched on a gate or post ; but more frequently they may be observed
steadying themselves on the small stunted willow bushes or the old stumps that arc found along the
marsh-dykes.

Their nest, if they construct any, is simply a few strands of grass placed in a depression that is either
scratched out or formed by the bird while sitting.

The first Plate shows a male in the summer plumage and two young ones unable to fly. It will be readily
seen that the breeding-plumage of the adult is much lighter than the winter dress, in which we are accustomed
to meet with the bird. I find in my note-book the following remarks referring to young ones taken in Norfolk
on June 23, 1881. “Eyes king’s yellow; beak dark horn or almost black; inside of mouth pale flesh; feet
yellow-oclire ; soles of feet king’s yellow ; claws dark horn.”

The second Plate gives the regular winter plumage, which is usually assumed by both old and young by
the middle of autumn. The bird was shot in Norfolk in December.

MALE AND YOUNG SHORTLY AFTER LEAVING NEST.

long-eared owl.

OTUS VULGARIS.

Tins species is by no moans uncommon in most parts of Great Britain. I never yet observed a Long-eared
Owl on the barren moors or treeless deer-forests of Sutherland and Caithness, or on the Outer Islands , but
with these exceptions I have found it generally distributed over almost every county I have visited. It appears
most numerous in those localities where fir-plantations of moderate size arc to be met with. I particular y
remarked in several districts in the Highlands, where the hill-sides for miles arc covered by dense forests of
Scotch fir or larch, that not a single specimen was cither seen or heard.

The Long-cared Owl is strictly nocturnal in its habits, seldom venturing far from its haunts till twilight
has set in. During the day it rests in some thick fir in the densest part of the wood it frequents. I noticed
that, when these birds have young to provide for, they commence to move about from tree to tree some time
before the sun has disappeared. An excited mob of Blackbirds and Thrushes occasionally collects, and, with
angry screams, persistently follows the hated intruder every time it shifts its position.

Small birds and mice arc the usual prey of this species. When living in East Lothian, I used to observe
these Owls during the summer coming regularly at dusk to the stack -yard for rats or mice, though the woods
where they nested were at a distance of nearly two miles. I have repeatedly seen them perched on the stacks
or farm-implements, intently watching for the slightest rustle among the straw, when they would instantly
glide to the spot. Unfledged nestlings are also taken. I noticed a Long-cared Owl making several visits one
evening to a boat-shed on one of the broads in Norfolk ; and on examining the place the next morning I
discovered that a brood of young Swallows had disappeared during the night. I do not think that the most
ardent game-preserver could make the slightest complaint against this species.

The young birds have a peculiarly sad and plaintive whistle (something resembling a deep-drawn sigh)
when calling for their food. When there arc several broods in the same plantation, the effect of their wailing
cries is any thing but lively when listened to on a still night in the gloomy depths of the pine-woods, their
mournful notes breaking out first on one side, then on another, and finally being answered from all quarters
at once.

The Long-eared Owl is by no means fastidious when choosing a cradle in which to rear its family. A
mass of dead leaves and twigs that have lodged in a cleft among the branches, the old dray of a squirrel, or
the deserted nest of a Crow appears equally suited to its requirements. I have never met with an instance
where there was evidence that the bird had been its own architect; indeed, I believe this Owl will not make
even the slightest additions or repairs to the collection of rubbish or the antiquated structure it selects.

The Plate shows the adult male and a young one shortly after leaving the nest.

The plates in some of the older works represent Owls as sitting with three toes in front of their perch and
one behind; all however, believe, place two toes in front and two behind. This error is very excuse as
of course the habits of the tod m this respect could only he ascertained by studying its actions in confinement.

2

LONG-EARED OWL.

A young bird of this species that I took from the nest in Norfolk lived for a couple of years about
the house, and, although allowed the use of his wings, never made the slightest attempt to escape. During
the day he appeared to prefer the darkest corner of a room, and if carried into the open air seemed confused by
the light, refusing to move if placed on the ground or on a tree. Once or twice after dark he started from the
window on a voyage of discovery, but never remained absent more than a few minutes, appearing particularly
pleased to return to his accustomed quarters. lie showed the greatest antipathy to dogs, puffing out his
feathers and spreading his wings as soon as lie caught sight of one ; on a near approach he became greatly
excited, bowing his head and intently following with his eyes every movement of the animal, and occasionally
giving vent to loud screams.

Although lie would, when hungry, feed readily on raw meat or birds, his especial fancy was for mice. Up
to three-parts grown he bolted them whole, taking down the head first, the tip of the tail remaining in sight
for some time from a corner of his mouth. If full-grown, he occasionally held them in his claws, and tore off
the head and other portions before swallowing.

I imagined that his death, which occurred when lie was rather more than two years old, might possibly
have been caused by the greater portion of his diet having consisted of shot birds.

TAWNY OWL.

ST 11 IX STRIDULA.

The Tawny or Wood-Owl (as this species is often termed) may be met with in most parts of England, with
the exception of those moorland districts that are utterly devoid of trees. Its favourite haunts appear to be
dense woods of oak or elm ; I have also now and then found a stray bird or two resting by day in a thicket
of Scotch firs. It is described by several writers as being of not unfrequent occurrence in many localities in
the Highlands. As I have not observed above two or three specimens further north than East Lothian, I
can state but little on my own authority as to its distribution in Scotland.

I have seldom noticed this Owl venture beyond the darkest recesses of the wood it frequents during
daylight, even if driven from its place of concealment. It does not usually start forth in pursuit of prey till
some time after sundown.

On several occasions I have heard this species accused of preying on young game ; but never having
seen it abroad by daylight, I fancy the charges brought against it arc without foundation. Mice, rats, and
moles arc most probably the chief items in its humble bill of fare, though the sharp and powerful claws with
which it is furnished (and by means of which a wounded bird defends itself most desperately) would make
short work of young rabbits or even leverets. That it may now and then be guilty of an attack on these
quadrupeds cannot, I am of opinion, be denied by even its greatest admirers. I am aware that several
instances have been recorded where these birds were ascertained to have provided their young with fish ; but
I have never met with a chance of observing this habit; indeed, according to my own experience, they appear

Mti* Owls tmg f0r PreJ “ the neighi0urh00d of "' ater than a “y species of our common

Por breeding-purposes the Tawny Owl makes use of hollow trees, old nests of Crows or squirrels or even
the car, taes formed by the decay of some large limb; the litter and old dead leaves that have\olleeted in the
aperture appearing to satisfy all its requirements in the way of a nest Not unfren n
to rabbit-holes. This curious habit is not the result of the eLX of ^1 T ^r ^

in this manner that they preferred an underground domicile" 1 di ? C ° VCr ° d

m Norfolk. subsequently met with a similar instance

o., irs",;, 1 : rr:,\rr - - *™ - -

BARM OWL.

YOUNG ON FIRST LEAVING THE NEST

0 W L.

BA RN-

STRIX FLAMMEA.

Tiie Barn-Owl is generally distributed over the southern portions of Great Britain. It occurs less frequently
towards the north, while in the Highlands not more than a dozen specimens have come under my observation.

Large numbers of this quaint-looking bird arc killed down without the slightest cause or reason. A visit
to the shops of the local staffers in any country town will plainly show the senseless slaughter to which this
useful species is exposed. An inspection of the immense quantities of pellets thrown up by these Owls in their
resting-places would speedily convince those who might be inclined to doubt the fact that the benefits they
confer on farmers by the destruction of small vermin are by no means imaginary. The apertures left in
many old-fashioned barns for the accommodation of the Owl indicates that our ancestors were better acquainted
with the habits of the bird and anxious to encourage it to take up its quarters on their premises. I have now
and then heard farmers, even at the present day, insisting that these inoffensive birds regularly destroyed
their Pigeons, and also bringing other impossible charges against them. From my own experience, l have no
hesitation in stating that this is one of the most harmless as well as the most useful of all our British birds.

This Owl is decidedly nocturnal in its habits, seldom making its appearance abroad during daylight, umoao
disturbed from its resting-place. If driven beyond the outskirts of the wood it frequents, or the shelter of its
haunt in the barn or church, it soon collects a mob of excited small birds to follow in its track. Shortly
before dusk one afternoon during the winter of 1881, my attention was attracted to a commotion created
by four or five Grey Crows which were flying over a fir-plantation in the cast of Norfolk, screaming loudly, and
occasionally darting down among the trees. I soon discovered the cause of their anger when a White Owl,
which had left his quarters in a neighbouring church-tower rather before the accustomed hour, flapped out
from the cover. lie, however, appeared to pay but little heed to the noisy demonstration of the Crows, as,
after continuing his uncertain flight for some distance over the adjacent marshes, lie again entered the wood,
where he continued searching for prey, utterly regardless of the mobbing of the Crows. I noticed that these
birds took not the slightest notice of a Short-eared Owl which was hunting over the rushes close at hand.

ossibly they were used to the sight of their constant companion the Marsh-Owl (as this species is termed in
the district), and considered his white relative an unwelcome stranger

For building-purposes this Owl resorts to hollow trees, church-towers, old horns, and ruined buildings.
Ihe same situation is made use of year after year, unless the tenants are forcibly evicted or destroyed.

the Owl hntlT l 1 T 1 ' eard I™ 8 ”■“* giVen *° tMs «*•«“• »* ««t common tit'le, perhaps, is
the Barn-Owl , but it is also known as the White, Screech, and Church-Owl.

haek^nr^tTv i ^ ^ ** rcduccd fl S urc of old male in the

n^Xton t W„ 1S ““ f "° m * ^ 1 “ of Chiltington

to ™t comi f ably ia *■ ; iu tus insta “ c °-

ccu tllc "hole of the juvenile members of the family.

RE I) -HA C K E D S H R I K E.

LANIUS COL LU RIO.

The Red-backed Shrike (known in most country districts as the Butcher bird) is one of the latest of the
migratory birds to arrive on our shores in the spring. It is stated by some authors that it makes its
appearance in the end of April: this, according to my own experience, is an early date; I have frequently
noticed in cold seasons that the first week in May is passed before all the usual stations arc occupied each
by its pair ol Shrikes, who during summer seldom stray far from their accustomed haunt.

This handsome bird may be observed in most parts of Sussex and other southern counties. I have also
met with it particularly abundant in the grass country round Harrow-on-the-Hill, ten or a dozen miles north
of London, the dense thom-liedges in that locality being well suited to its requirements for breeding-purposes.
In Norfolk, a few scattered pairs have come under my observation in the eastern division of the county ■
but I have not recognized even a single specimen further north. ’

The food of this species consists for the most part of beetles, bees of various kinds, dragonflies, and other
tege insects; these, at times, it impales on the thorn-hedges along its beat; field-mice are also occasionally
taken. . I cannot at the present moment recall to mind a single instance where I have seen more than two or
hree victims transfixed on one bush, and seldom, if ever, above half a dozen along a whole hedvelv
ccording to several published accounts, however, their larders are at times well stocked. The most elaborutelv
garnished twigs I ever had an opportunity of inspecting were a couple of small shoots ofwMtetW n rtc

mTiZTndtu 2> nT 'rftte^Butcher bird TaT^ i^ 118 aUXi ° US *° be00m ° with the

individual kadobtained theseT^^XS Xtan “

story-books which we are told are founded on f.ct ° Llke the marvell °ns tales in children’s

which had been made use of by the birds and contain 7 ™ 0108 ooll<!ctlons were fixed on the very twigs
impaled *. The reason for Js ^ “ ^mselvls

with what seemed to be an old ml MoCfiZ^ 7 i0 “ W " 1 1 — noticed a male flying

“y destroys youns 1 ^ : tc: zi s:

r r** ° f — — - ^

under my observation it has been placed in a thick thorn b °i 7' ' ^ inStaQCe that has come

It is a singular fact that this species lavs three r r .f U ° ^ height from thc ground,
town spots; a pale yellow ground, with dark cream colour A ^ ^ ^ ° f ° SSS ^ pal ° pink ground, with red-
wlute ground, with hrown or bluish-grey mark“ “? ‘ ^ ^ ^w or almost a dirty-

• 1 tact as i haTO carof u „ y studied () ° rulc t0 for ««« varieties. Each

^a tty , ingofthekindIhavecvermetwiththatial

RED-BACKED SHRIKE.

clutch, however, consists of similar eggs ; but the next nest, perhaps within the distance of half a mile or less,
may be of one of the other varieties and totally different. I am of opinion I have come across most of the
pink shade of egg in Sussex, while the yellow varieties were more commonly met with m Middlesex. In
Norfolk the onlv nest I ever examined contained pink eggs thickly spotted with red-brown.

A young bird that I captured shortly after leaving the nest soon became remarkably tame in confinement.
It fed readily on raw meat, but greatly preferred live insects, such as bluebottle flies, beetles, caterpillars, and
butterflies or moths. On one occasion I captured an immense dragonfly ; this was partially crippled, and
then placed on the table in front of his cage. “ Bitters” (on account of his habit of jerking Ins tail, lie had
been christened “ Cock-tail Bitters ”) was out in a moment, and, after setting at the fly like a miniature
gamecock for a few seconds, he commenced the attack. Striking it several blows with Ins beak, he next
seized it at the back of the head with one claw and bit off the head, which he consumed at once with evident
relish. The disposal of the body and wings was a somewhat laborious undertaking ; but be resolutely refused
to quit the spot till he had bolted every vestige of his vanquished foe. The description of beetle known to
country people as the “ devil’s coacli-liorse ” always gave him a severe tussle before it succumbed. At times
the insect would pin his assailant with his formidable nippers by the head, when the two would roll over
one another in a desperate rough-and-tumble fight, poor Bitters shrieking with rage or pain. These contests
seldom lasted more than a minute or two, and Bitters was always good for two or three beetles at a meal. Ilis
untimely end was brought about by overfeeding, not sufficient time having been allowed him to throw up
the pellets* of a couple of peacock butterflies before offering him some caterpillars of the cabbage-butterfly.
Unable to resist these luscious morsels, the unfortunate bird swallowed them and expired from the effects.

As I had so far trained him that he would sit on my finger, and dart at and capture flies and other insects,
returning at once to his perch, he would, I imagine, in time have become a most amusing pet.

* These birds throw up the indigestible portions of their food in pellets, after the manner of Owls.

GREAT TIT.

P AllUS MAJOR.

Ix England this bold and lively bird is plentifully dispersed over most of the wooded portions of the country.
It becomes less numerous after crossing the Scotch border ; and I can call to mind but few instances where
I have met with it further north than Perth. On the Outer Islands, according to my own experience, it seems
to be unknown.

I have never noticed in this species the habit, so common with most other Titmice, of assembling in
flocks during the winter, two, three, or four being, as a rule, the greatest numbers seen together. They
appear particularly hardy and regardless of cold. I observed a pair during the severe weather in January
1881, which joined for a few moments the large party of pensioners busily engaged with the food provided
for them in front of the windows. After flying down and hurriedly inspecting the bones and scraps of
meat, they were up and off at once, the rest of the party being almost helpless from the effects of the continued
frost.

I do not know whether we are regularly visited by these birds from across the North Sea ; I, however,
noticed a single specimen among the feathered passengers that had come on board for rest and shelter, one
stormy evening about the middle of October, a few miles east of the ‘ Newarp ’ light-ship. The wind was
north at the time, blowing fresh after a still morning. When I was making inquiries among the light-sliips
off the east coast concerning the birds that came on board the vessels during the autumn migration, I
could gain no information concerning this species; so I imagine that few, if any, visit us from across the
i ort i Sea. The masters or others of the crew kindly undertook to cut off the right wings of all the birds that
fell on board; these were forwarded to me from time to time, together with a few remarks as to wind and
weather at the time large numbers were obtained; and by these means I was able to form some idea of the
seasons at which the flights were passing across the North Sea. During the autumn and winter of 1872, and
spnngand summer of the following year, I received thousands of wings from the ‘Newarp’ ‘Cockle’
Lynn Well,’ and ‘ Leman and Owcr ’ floating light-sliips 1 ’

COAL TIT.

The Coal — Is plenty north to L tfZtote £

plantations of the furni8U crf onsivo tracts of recently-planted ground, where

rr ”lg autumn and winter they may frequently he found in small partres makmg them way across

4116 Z^ 'who ai’e not well acquainted with the difference between the Marsh and Coal Titmice may easily
distinguish the species while climbing among the trees, if they will only bear in mind the following short
description of the two birds -.—Farm palustris is dull and sober-coloured, while Farm ater is someu a
similar, but the wings are slightly relieved by a couple of small white bars near the shoulder, and the back
of the head plainly shows a white patch. This small strip of colour is particularly conspicuous while the
birds arc moving from limb to limb. I am of opinion that this prominent mark lias now and then led to the
bird being mistaken for the Crested Titmouse. I well remember one instance where a short-sighted naturalist
was greatly delighted by watching a small party of Coal Tits that were working their way through a straggling-
plantation of fir trees in the west of Perthshire, under the impression that lie was gaining an insight into the
manners and customs of the Crested Titmouse. I humbly ventured to suggest that lie was wrong in his
supposition as to the identity of the species ; but I received at once such a decisive rebuke for my interference
that I refrained from any further remarks.

As I perceive by a perusal of some of the recently published works that scientific naturalists are inclined
to separate our native Coal Tit from the Pams ater of the continent, it may not be out of place for me to state
(though I venture no opinion as to the decision of these learned professors) that I have never observed this
species at sea while in the act of migration, neither have I ever received a wing* from any of the light-ships
off the eastern coasts.

The food of this species is mainly composed of various minute kinds of insects, as well as caterpillars ;
probably it will also at times partially subsist on seeds. I have repeatedly noticed these birds paying short
visits of inspection to the bones and scraps of meat thrown out to the eager companies of pensioners that
gather in front of the windows during a protracted frost.

Like the majority of the family, the Coal Tit nests in holes, choosing frequently situations at a low
elevation, and at times even underground. It is by no means easy to distinguish their eggs from those of the
Marsh-Titmouse ; and, indeed, they much resemble in their markings those of others of the family.

* Vide notes ou the Great Tit.

CRESTED TIT.

PAWS CRIST AT US.

I have only met with this species among the forests in the neighbourhood of the Spey. As a rule they
frequent the pine-woods; hut I have occasionally noticed a few in the plantations of birch that are found on
the low grounds or straggling some distance up the mountain-sides. There is little in their habits or actions,
or, indeed, in their appearance at a certain distance, to distinguish them from their relatives the Coal Tits.
Both frequent the same forests, and gain their living in much the same manner.

In their native woods they are by no means uncommon ; but, owing to the presence of other small birds,
such as Coal and Blue Tits, as well as Gold-crests and Willow- Wrens, whose movements among the branches
while constantly changing their positions are somewhat similar, they are not easy to identify. If one is
anxious to gain a sight of this species, and continues wandering from place to place through the woods, it is
possible that a considerable amount of ground may be traversed before the wish is gratified. When keeping
quiet for any length of time, either resting, lunching, or more particularly while lying in wait for birds of
prey, I have repeatedly observed that it was seldom many minutes elapsed before one or two made their
appearance. They seem of a fearless or even an inquisitive disposition, and will now and then approach
within a few feet in order to make a close inspection.

The Plate shows the female and the young birds a day or two after quitting the nest. I watched the
brood for some hours, and consequently had a good opportunity of ascertaining the manner in which they
procured their food. I first discovered the family party in the topmost branches of some large Scotch firs.
The female was busily employed in hunting for food among the old stems of the juniper bushes which grew
in profusion all round. As soon as a mouthful was procured she flew up to the young ones, who continued
calling and hopping from branch to branch, but made no attempt to follow her while searching for their food.
As well as I could judge, she collected small insects, such as moths and flies or minute caterpillars, that were
abundant among the cover. The male was absent for some hours ; and the whole care of providing for the
family of six young appeared to devolve on the female.

There is little or no difference between the male and female in this species.

BLUE TIT.

PAllUS CsERULEUS.

This active member of the Tit family appears common in most parts of Great Britain. I have no record
among my notes of having observed this species in the Hebrides; so I conclude that, if found at all, u is far
from numerous in those barren islands. As far north as Eoss-shire it is plentiful in most wooded districts,
the specimens in my collection having been obtained in a plantation on the cast coast, near Nigg.

The Blue Tit is a most courageous little bird, the female generally resenting an approach to her nest
to the utmost of her ability, and occasionally attacking the intruder with the greatest ferocity. The pair that
I required as specimens, together with their brood (who were just in the act ol leaving the old stump in which
they had been hatched), were all captured by means of a butterfly-net, the parents refusing to desert their
young.

It is an open question whether this species is so injurious to the buds of fruit-trees as some gardeners
would have us believe. At all events, the damage they inflict at one time is amply compensated for by the
immense number of insects they destroy when providing for the requirements of their brood.

Like most others of their family, this species, in order to rear its young, resorts to holes in trees, walls,
old buildings, and other similar localities. Numerous quaint situations have come under my observation,
perhaps the strangest (owing to constant traffic) being a hole in one of the iron lamp-posts in the Montpellier
Road, in Brighton. If I remember right, the bird made use of this massive cradle for several years, and
safely brought out its brood.

In winter these birds collect in flocks numbering from three or four to a dozen or more. They may
commonly be met with frequenting the reed-beds in the eastern counties. I have on several occasions noticed a
party join company with Bearded Tits, the two species intermingling while climbing among the stems of the
reeds. The partnership, however, would not last long ; on being disturbed the Bearded Tits would take a short
flight and then drop into the thickest cover, while their visitors, mounting in the air, would betake themselves
to fresh quarters. An immense quantity of insect life is to be found among the stems of the reeds during
winter ; and this abundance of food accounts for the presence of these birds in such localities at this season.
Ear y in November 1881, while sheltering from a storm of wind and rain in a boat-shed which was newly

X reed ' I “° ti “ dth “‘ caterpillars dropped down from tiro roof soon

to^eTs The oxten dT a °7!° ^ *° *«&«> with insects, and they fell down

of food for insect eatimr V, T' " j n • SmT0Und some of the lar ge r broads must contain an endless supply

° 5 ^ ltlSStl ' anSe “ ““ °f «» Titmouse family haven”

marsii-tit.

PAWS PALUSTRIS.

It is, in my opinion, extremely doubM why acquainted with the true

species. Possibly those who gave i m ^ ^ ^ ^ may at times be f„ un d frequenting plantations
habits of the bird. Small parties ’ . f f a ammg the hushes in marshy localities ;

r ? - — T «- «- *

the rush-grown Myites of the fen-eountry or among the reed-beds of the broad-districts of the eastern counties,
where, during autumn and winter, numbers of Blue Tits may constantly be observed. To mention the
localities they mostly affect is almost impossible; it is hard to describe a spot where a small party might not
be met with. I have watched them working their way through the fir-woods m wild and uncultivated tracts
of country, and equally at home while pecking about among the grimy litter and stunted bushes of gardens in
close proximity to smoky towns. I noticed in the east of Sussex that these birds appear to prefer plantations

of moderate-sized undergrowth, where the larger timber consists oi oak.

During autumn and winter Marsh-Tits may usually he found in small flocks of six or eight individuals,
these parties probably being composed of a pair of old birds with their brood of the previous summer.

Insects furnish the greater part of their diet. At times they may he driven to subsist on seeds ; but flics
of various kinds, spiders, and other minute insects, together with small caterpillars, are without doubt their
favourite food.

The nest is occasionally found in holes in trees or hanks. One was pointed out to me some years ago
in a small cavity in a grass-park, that must originally have been either a mouse-hole or a bees’ nest. The eggs,
like those of the rest of the Titmouse family, are, when first laid, of a beautiful palc-piuk tinge, with red-brown
spots. As soon as incubation commences the beauty of the shell disappears, the general colour becoming a
dirty white, and eventually a livid hue.

I have observed this species more numerous in Sussex than in any other county ; they arc, however, to
be noticed in most parts of England that I have visited. In Scotland they arc decidedly less plentiful. A
few may occasionally be met with in the Lothians ; but, with the exception of a few stragglers in the
neighbourhood of Duukeld and near Perth, I have observed none that could be positively identified in the
Highlands. In Strathspey and in the cast of Ross-sliire I have carefully examined the flocks of Coal Tits that

frequent the large fir-woods in those districts, hut could never with certainty pick out a single specimen of

Farm palustris.

LONG-TAILED Ti l

PARUS CAUDATUS.

Ill

The elaborately-constructed nest of tins spemes is well know n to eve , . - - -Li-

te position it varies considerably, being occasional!}

rs: - t.

There arc some curious descriptions gi disnosc comfortably of their long

niiim. This T fancv. is simply imagination; it two 01 moic upeum D . . ,

presence can only be accounted for by the injury the structure has suffered by removal from ^original
site Branches or twigs are built into the outer covering; and when taken, however co y, V

of the exterior is certain to be torn; and these openings have been considered natural I have
nests removed from oak-branches, which might easily bo supposed to have been farms e y
with a couple of entrances.

These birds are seldom noticed singly during autumn or winter, the families of the preceding summer
keeping company till the approach of the following spring. They also occasionally join in considerable flocks.

Strange names arc often bestowed on the various members of the Titmouse family by the natives of country
districts. The Long-tailed Tit is commonly known as the “Bottle-Tit,” and also as the “leather-poke,
both these titles being apparently given on account of the manner in which this species constructs its nest.
In the east of Norfolk the Blue Tit is invariably called the “ Pickcliecse,” while the Great Tit is known as
the “ Saw-sharper,” the latter bird in Sussex being not unfrcquently styled the “Tinker” — these three names,
without doubt, being derived from the call-notes of the birds. In many parts I have found the whole family
of the Paridte known solely as Tom Tits; this, however, does not refer to the cast of Norfolk, where that name
is given to the Common Wren. I was surprised to find that many of the country people in that district, who
earn a considerable amount of money by egg-collecting and arc unusually well up in the knowledge of birds,
were quite unacquainted with either the Coal or Marsh Tits.

MALE FEMALE ^V.,r\-c

1 A R D 1 D TIT.

IMMATURE PLUMAGE.

B E A R D E D T I T.

PABUS BIAllMICUS.

Tue drainage of marshes and reclaiming of waste lands all over the country arc banishing numbers of our
native birds from the strongholds they have held for ages. This handsome little bird, unlike some of the
Wer species, is at present in no danger of being entirely driven from our islands, as the more extensive
broads and meres in the eastern counties offer them a safe retreat. The districts, however, that are suited to
their habits arc fast becoming much reduced; several spots where they were formerly common have been
completely changed by the new style of farming and other innovations.

In the east of Norfolk this interesting species is still to be found in considerable numbers, though the
never-failing persecution they suffer from dealers and collectors tends to greatly restrict their numbers. 1 he
price of four shillings a dozen, which is offered for their eggs, induces the natives of those dreary wastes to
search diligently ; and but few of the first nests ever escape their sharp eyes. After the reeds get up to a
certain height it is more difficult to make out the whereabouts of the birds ; and consequently the later broods
escape. No one but a practised hand would ever discover the nest of this species. There are, however, in
the fen and broad districts generally a class of men who make a living by egging, gunning, and fishing. This
occupation seems to have been handed down from father to son ; but I am afraid that, like many of the rarer
denizens of the swamps, they will before long be cither driven from their quarters or forced to adopt a new
style of life.

Over twenty years ago I observed a small flock in Romney Marsh, in Kent, my attention being attracted
to the reed-bed by their clear bell-like notes. Since that time I have occasionally visited the district, but
have never met with a single specimen.

The Bearded Titmouse commences its nesting-operations as early as the latter end of March, and would
in all probability rear two or three broods in a season if unmolested. The demand for their eggs, however, is,
as previously stated, so great that but few of the earlier nests escape. I have on several occasions seen young
birds able to leave the nest by the 4th or oth of May, and so late as the middle of August have known the
female sitting on eggs : the nest was accidentally discovered on August 16th. Some years back I noticed early
in the summer a couple of pairs on a small island in Heigham Sounds, in Norfolk ; and being then in want
of a specimen, 1 shot one of the male birds. On again visiting the spot a week or so later, I discovered that
the lone female had joined the other pair (whose nest with six fresh eggs I had previously seen), and had laid
ve eggs in their nest. The two sets of eggs, the one frcsli-laid and the other hard-set, were easily
is mgmshed by their colour, both females being equally demonstrative and excited while we remained in the

ir; jz “r - A day ° r tw ° bter the arst csss ™ ; ** 1 — ——

four to ZT m E0ed 'f ® SMts thc stylo these birds) join in Books varying from three or

four to ten or fifteen, and keep together till early in the spring. Though such delicately little Z£

2

BEARDED TIT.

limy arc remarkably hardy, and seem able to contend against severe weather with greater success than many
much larger and apparently stronger birds. The fact that they can at all times obtain a supply of food from
the seeds oi the reed and the insects that are found adhering to their stems, as well as shelter in the thick
beds ol rushes, probably accounts for their lively and active condition during the heaviest storms of snow, when
many other species appear numbed by cold and weak and helpless from want.

The nest is generally placed among the stems of the reeds on some boggy spot that is difficult of access,
though now and then I have discovered that the birds have selected firmer ground ; and in the neighbourhood
of Somorton Broad, near VJ interton, 1 found a nest, containing eggs, that was built into the roots of a tussock
of rushes in a field of marsh-hay. The leaves and other portions of the reed ( Phragmites communis ) arc the
principal materials that arc used in the construction of their cradle by the Bearded Titmice ; and it is wonderful
how neat a structure is produced by the means employed. The nests arc not unfrcquently situated but a few
inches above the level of the water, and consequently arc extremely liable to be submerged if the tides rise
suddenly, either from a heavy fall of rain or a flow of salt water up the rivers. In such cases the birds at once
commence a second nest on the top of their first edifice. This habit is so well known to some of the egg-
seekers of the district that in wet seasons they invariably scrape up the rubbish below the nests they find, in
hopes of discovering another set of eggs.

The first Plate represents the adult male and female with their brood just after leaving the nest. At this
early stage it is quite possible to distinguish the males from the females, as the beaks of the former show a
yellow tint, while those of the latter arc not so brightly coloured.

The second Plate gives the immature birds in the plumage of the first autumn.

PIED FLYCATCHE R.

mvscicapa atricapilla.

"r «* »'- o— . **** -

Sussex I have now and then met with stragglers at the time of migration, but have noticed no instance
of their nesting in any of the southern counties. In Soot, and I have seen but two .

on the Bass rock about the middle of May 1867, and a male in Strathspey a few. days earlier the following
year. The cracks and crevices among the old ruins on the Bass would afford suitable breeding-quarters . or
this species; but I could see no signs of a second bird, nor any evidence of a nest. A bitter cold east wind
was blowing at the time; and, cither to escape its effects or to procure food, the bird appeared unwilling to
quit the shelter of the buildings, its favourite resort when disturbed being a dilapidated chimney-stack in a
roofless house among the fortifications. At times it made its appearance at the summit, or dashed out from
the lower end or the holes in the crumbling stonework. The male that I observed in Strathspey seemed
also to be only a visitor to the district. I watched him for some hours frequenting a patch of old timber near
the waterside, and concluded his nest must have been near at hand. lie was absent, however, on the following
day ; and no traces of him could be found on searching the wood on several subsequent occasions. Though
I have often passed a week or two in the spring in this locality during the last ten years, I have never again
met with the species.

In the neighbourhood of Penrith, in Cumberland, I have had many opportunities of studying the habits
of these birds. They appear to prefer situations more densely wooded than their relative the Spotted
Flycatcher. I observed two or three pairs among the fine old timber in the large woods in the park at
Edenhall; and they also frequented the plantations on the banks of the Eden. On two separate occasions in
this locality I have come across instances where the nests of this species have been destroyed by other small
birds. There was not the slightest doubt that Starlings were the culprits in one case ; and I strongly suspect
they were also guilty in the second. But a number of the feathers of the Greater Spotted Woodpecker were
scattered around; so it is possible that these birds may have dragged out a portion of the nest after a
commencement had been made by the Starlings. The hole from which the nest was extracted was eventually
deserted by all parties; but the other was made use of by a pair of Starlings, who might have reared their
joung in peace had they not been shot in order that the Flycatchers might return to their rightful quarters.

Insects of all descriptions, as well as flies, form, I hclievc, the usual diet of this species. I have more
than once known them captured in a Nightingale-trap baited with a mealworm.

Wht course these birds usually take at the time of their annual migration is, I imagine, influenced by
the winds and weather at the time of their flitting. I have seen a single specimen on the North Sea during
the autumn, but have never received wings from any of the light-ships off the east coast. Twice I have me°t

IndEve 8 0 ftr UChfatl8U f ^ their a short distance of the sea-coast between Hastings

and Eye. On both occasions the date was within a few days of the first of May.

SPOTTED FLYCATCHER

MVSCICAPA (At I SO LA.

THIS is one of the latest of our migratory birds to make its appearance in the spring, the middle oflh,(«
even a week later) having usually arrived before its accustomed haunt is taken possession of. The date
of its departure is early, the nature of its food probably necessitating a move across the Channel before the
appearance of cold weather. It is seldom that one is observed after the beginning of October.

In the south and over most parts of England this quiet and unpretending, though somewhat conspicuous,
little bird may he found very generally distributed, though more or less plentiful in certain localities. In
Scotland it is to be met with in many districts, its numbers growing scarcer towards the north. I have now
and then come across a pair or two in some of the extensive pine-forests of Inverness, and on a few occasions
in Ross-shire.

In some parts of the eastern counties I have found this species known to the natives by its familiar title
of “ Wall-bird in most districts in the south it also goes by the same name. It is frequently a matter of
no slight difficulty to make out the derivation of some local names; in this instance, however, the reason
is obvious. For nesting-purposes in these localities the Spotted Flycatcher generally resorts to a garden-
wall, a situation being chosen either where a cavity is formed by the loss of a portion of a brick, or where
sufficient space is afforded on the limb of some trained fruit-tree. It also occasionally places its nest on
the arm of a fir or some other forest tree.

Although in most parts of England this species frequents gardens and pleasure-grounds, and appears to
prefer the vicinity of dwellings, in some of the northern counties it may be met with in the remotest districts.

As its name implies, it gains its living by preying on insect life. According to some writers it is accused
of occasionally making inroads on the produce of the fruit-trees ; I can, however, state nothing on this subject
from my own experience.

K I N G F I S II E K

ALCEDO IS PI 1)A-

S

“ seos in

the "™ En " LTOd that 1 ’ iaTo visited - t n
becomes & Icarcer, — 8 to m y ^ ZtLZ Z L”

it may be commonly seen in seven! ~

counties; I only state that it has escaped my notice.

In Sussex the Kingfisher is, or rather was, especially numerous. During autumn 1 have, days a o
by, often observed as many as forty or fifty of these birds fishing in the channels among the mudbanks m io
Nook at Rye. They used to commence working down the creeks soon after the turn of the tide ; and, close; y
following the falling water, they found abundant food in the numerous shallow pools. About half-flood they
would generally make a move, flying up the creeks, and so on, to the small drains that led through the
marshes, and then dispersing themselves over the levels. I have occasionally observed a score or two fly
past in small parties of threes and fours within a quarter of an hour while watching them from the
shingle-banks close at hand, one or two now and then steadying themselves for a moment and then making
a dash after a shrimp or small sea-fish. Twenty years makes a difference in most things : the mudbanks
and creeks arc certainly gone ; and I expect the numerous parties of Kingfishers that frequented them remain

only in the memory of those who have had the pleasure of watching them, the last time I visited the spot
some fine specimens of South-Down mutton were grazing stolidly and complacently on the luxuriant turf
that had formed where previously hundreds of acres of mudbanks were covered by every flowing tide.

I perceive this habit of coming down to the salt water, and even into the harbours, is common at several
parts of the south coast during autumn. If unmolested these birds arc remarkably unsuspicious of danger.
I have on several occasions, when the tide was low, watched a bird or two early in the morning, before the
day’s work had commenced, perched on the chain cables of the colliers lying alongside the wharfs in the
harbours both of Rye and Shorcham, their bright colours, lit up by the rising sun, being peculiarly attractive
against the grimy background. Intent on watching for their prey, they would pay not the slightest heed to a

boat dropping past with the tide within ten or a dozen yards of their station.

In the broad-districts of the east of Norfolk the birds arc not nearly so common as might be expected.
A few stragglers may be met with during autumn and winter ; but, owing to the flat nature of the country,
they are forced to seek other localities for breeding-purposes. While Snipe-shooting one winter round
Hickling Broad, I noticed some small object splashing in the water at the side of a dyke; and on proceeding
to the spot, I discovered an unfortunate Kingfisher that had come to grief in a rather singular manner. The

KINGFISHER.

l»n-d had evidently at some former time been struck by a shot, which had passed through the upper mandible.
'1 Ins wound was quite healed up ; but a small piece of the horny substance of the beak had been splindered
and into the crack produced by the fracture two or three of the small fibres which form part of the flowers
or seeds of the reed were so firmly fixed, that the bird was held fast. While flying up the dyke it must have
brushed too closely to the reeds that grew on the banks and been caught in the manner described. The
struggles of the captive had broken down the reed, which was lying fiat on the water, except when lifted up
In the victim in his vain attempts to escape. When released from his unpleasant position he flew off,
apparently none the worse for the mishap.

I have come across a few quiet spots in the southern counties where this species is in the habit of
breeding regularly. In every instance the bank resorted to was either directly overhanging the stream or
in its immediate vicinity. It has been stated that rats’ holes are occasionally made use of; but those I
examined were, I am confident, excavated by the birds themselves. The layer of small fish-bones on which
the young or eggs are found are frequently described as the nest ; these bones, however, in my opinion, arc
simply the castings thrown up by the birds.

Many who arc well acquainted with the appearance of the Kingfisher as it darts like a flash of light from
its perch on the penstock or a branch overhanging some small stream during the bright days of summer,
would fail to recognize the dingy-looking bird that would be presented to their view on a dull and gloomy day
in winter, when the stream looks black against the surrounding snow. Under these circumstances a
Kingfisher has more the appearance of a Dipper or Water-Ouzel. I have repeatedly noticed this fact.

CHOUGH.

CORVUS GRACULUS.

UP to the present date I hare met with few opportunities for closely studying the habits of this species I
enabled positively to identify the bird on the south-east coast of Scotland, though they were sard

was never

be occasionally met with when I first visited that district, now over twenty years ago. A pan- or tw o were now
and then sighted at a safe distance on the wildest part of the south-west coast, where they were I believe, far
from uncommon ; but I remained an almost total stranger to the Chough till I explored the rocky portions of

the Cornish coast. _ .. .

The Daw, as this bird is called by the natives (Jackdaws are known as Chaws), is now far from plcntilu

in the county from which it takes its name ; and miles of rocky ground along the summits of tlic cliffs may be
passed over without more than a stray bird or two being noticed. During autumn Choughs appear to keep
away from their roosting-quarters for the whole of the day, seldom showing themselves in the vicinity of the
place in which they intend to pass the night till the afternoon is well advanced. Owing to their scarcity, and
the rocky and impracticable nature of the ground they frequent, I met with considerable difficulties while
endeavouring to gain an insight into the movements of these birds. As far as I was able to ascertain, the few
pairs that came under my observation seldom strayed far from the sea-coast, apparently following a regular
and well-known course along the shore or over the cliffs, and only making a halt on any likely spot where food
might present itself. Though I repeatedly examined, with the greatest care, the numerous parties of llooks
and Jackdaws scattered over the fields within a few miles of the shore, I never detected a single Red-legged
Crow among them. If met with at a certain hour along the coast, there was but little doubt that, within a
few minutes of the same time, they would make their appearance on the following day. When once well
known, Choughs are readily distinguished at a considerable distance. Their actions on the ground are more
active, and their walk more sprightly, than those of either the Rook or Jackdaw.

"\\ orms and grubs appear to furnish a considerable portion of their diet ; and it is seldom one will pass a
lump of cow- or horse-dung without thoroughly investigating it. Rapidly sweeping the bill from side to side,
the fragments are scattered in all directions. During the whole operation the bird will be bowing and scraping
in the most amusing manner, and occasionally rising a short distance in the air, at times uttering its well-
known cry. The flight of the Chough is also slightly different from that of his sable relatives. Though a pair
may be noticed winging their way along the coast in a straight course, they will frequently pause, wheel
round, and then proceed in an undulating manner, rising and falling to a considerable height ; and, both

in the air and on the land, the Cornish Daw may be said to conduct himself with a more jaunty bearing than
the rest of the family. 3

I remarked that a pair which frequented the coast near Portlileven paid invariably (unless disturbed) a short
visu during the afternoon to a sandy bay, where they remained stalking round the pools of water left bv the
tide. What food they secured I am unable to discover. They also alighted, on more than one occasion/on a

2

CHOUGH.

lirld from which potatoes were being lifted ; and here they diligently explored the fresh-turned soil; hut
w hether worms or the smaller roots were the object of their search, it was impossible to decide. At times the
pair would settle down in the roadway that ran through a small village consisting of a few scattered hovels;
and here they seemed to have hut little respect for the youngsters who now and then rushed from the dwellings
and pelted them with stones, as they moved hut a short distance when assailed. They were, however, as
cunning as the ltook (who is declared to smell powder), as the sight of a doubtful-looking individual with a
gun was sufficient to put them immediately on guard ; and when once their suspicions are aroused there are
few birds more wary.

Though my visit to the parts of the coast where these birds may still be met with was in the autumn,
I examined several situations in which their nests had been placed and, I believe I may add, in nearly every
instance, robbed. Ledges in almost perpendicular rock were at times resorted to ; occasionally, however, their
quarters arc by no means dangerous to reach. I closely inspected two or three cavities among the slabs of
stone in the rough and broken face of the cliffs, from which young birds had been removed during the past
season, and where the nests were still remaining. To these a very moderate climber might have made his way
with but little difficulty or risk. The crumbling sides of the funnel-hole, the well known “ Tol pedn penwith,”
in the neighbourhood of the Land’s End, are still used as a nesting-place ; and here a few pairs resort at
roosting-time during the autumn. It is, however, hopeless for them to rear their young, as the natives of the
fishing-villages in the vicinity make a regular business of taking them, as soon as they can with safety be
removed. In one or two other localities that are not so well known, it is possible that a brood or two may
still escape, though I fear, from all I could learn, these favoured spots are few and far between. As I have
only to plead guilty to causing the death of a pair of Choughs, I can hardly be accused of having accelerated
their extermination in any very alarming degree.

The cause of their scarcity on the Cornish coast is not hard to find. There is a great demand for young
birds ; all that are taken command a ready sale. Consequently, as the nests arc not, as a rule, in situations
very difficult to be reached by those accustomed to the use of ropes, at the end of the breeding-season
there arc few beside old birds left. If such wholesale robbery is continued, the result is not difficult to
anticipate, and its accomplishment can hardly be long delayed.

In several districts the Chough seems to have become extinct without having suffered any very great
amount of persecution, unless perhaps the Jackdaws may be responsible for intruding on their haunts. Some
authors state that these birds, in days gone by, frequented the inland rocks in several of the wildest Highland
glens ; and local tradition tells the same story, though neither, as far as I am aware, can give reasons for their
disappearance, or the date at which it is supposed to have occurred. It is a strange fact that now and then
a wanderer returns to the identical spot that was formerly the home of his race. A few years back a curious
bird was noticed by a stalking-party in the upper part of Glen Cannich ; and as there was at the moment no
fear of disturbing the deer, the stranger was cautiously approached and brought down by a rifle-bullet, when it
proved to be a Chough. Though they were said formerly to have frequented the glen, the time of their departure
was a mystery even to the oldest inhabitant.

There are, I expect, few parts of the British Islands, with the exception of the Cornish coast, where the
whole of the Crow family might be in view at the same time. One afternoon, early in November 1880,
while waiting near the old mine at Trewarvas for a shot at a pair of Choughs, which were working their way
along the coast towards their roosting-quarters in the rocky cliffs at llinzey, I was enabled, by turning from
east to west, plainly to distinguish, by the help of the glasses, no less than two or three representatives of each
branch of the family. The Choughs previously mentioned were searching for food on a grassy bank that sloped
down towards the shore ; a pair of Ravens, croaking loudly, hovered round the rocks immediately below where
I was concealed ; numbers of Jackdaws clustered on the chimney and buildings of the ruined mine ; while at

CHOUGH.

3

,, f n „ ma ii party of Grey Crows, who frequented the shore, were busily engaged
a lower elevation two or three o < V , c kept watch on all sides from the stone dyke that

wit* some » large flock of Boots wore scattered

separated the pasture ahoi c 1 n< i dit i 0 iT to these a couple of Magpies had occupied themselves for a

^ - 4e of a £ of water , tte nearest boflow

"r m Twanderings in that district, while attempting to pick up a knowledge of the habits of this
• T ° d ; the acquaintance of an antiquated native of a small village in the neighbourhood of the coast,
who'well remembered the time when these birds had been plentiful along the cliffs in most parts of the county.
The poor old fellow evidently looked back with regret on the days when he had been enabled to shoot them m
such numbers that a Daw-pie was by no means an uncommon addition to Ins usual humble fare ; but he
remarked with a sigh, that he had not tasted one for the last sixteen years. As he occasionally made himself
useful by’ the information concerning the locality he was able and willing to supply, and volunteered one day
to drive up and signal the approach of a pair of Choughs, which were visible on a grassy slope at a short
distance to the west, I asked him, when he had successfully performed his work, if he would not join us at
lunch-time. It is needless to state that he was soon hard at work at an enormous hunch of bread and meat,
and, what was far more to his liking, an unlimited supply of bottled Bass. As the beer disappeared, the old
man gradually became more communicative as to his personal affairs, and eventually disclosed the fact that
he was no stranger to the various hardships and adventures of a smuggler’s life. After dilating in a somewhat
rambling fashion on several of what I suppose he considered the most stirring and exciting episodes of his
chequered career, he concluded by remarking, with a quiet chuckle and evidently intense satisfaction, “ buried
my ole ’oman last Friday.”

HAVE No

RAVEN.

CORFUS CORAX .

Tins quaint bird is very generally distributed over the country, being found in larger or smaller numbers from
north to south. The wild and deserted ranges of moor and the steep hill-sides of the Highlands, as well as the
broken and precipitous cliffs of the adjacent islands, are most suited to its habits ; and here it may he met
with at all seasons of the year.

I believe that a partial migration takes place in some parts of the north, as I have noticed, during several
years, a large increase to the numbers of these birds on the liill-sides of the north-west of Perthshire as soon
as autumn commenced, the first comers usually making their appearance early in September. As hut few
pairs nested in the district, it was easy to notice the time of their arrival, parties of ten or a dozen, and now
and then a score, being observed hunting over the moors. I have no evidence that our shores are visited by
migrants from the north of Europe ; so I consider it most probable these birds had strayed from some part of
the Northern Highlands or the desolate islands off the west coast. The immense numbers of blue hares that
infest the hills in this part of the country are without doubt the main attraction to the locality. As winter
advanced I have on several occasions seen large flocks collected together on ground where an extensive hare-
drive has been held. It was no uncommon sight to have from fifty to sixty Ravens in view at once while
going over the hills on the day following the shooting. Eor several seasons I made a practice of closely
observing these gatherings, in order to become thoroughly acquainted with the numbers and variety of the
vermin frequenting the district. As the Ravens were collected to feed on the wounded hares that escaped
from the guns, they were simply acting the part of scavengers on the ground, and their visits were beneficial
rather than otherwise.

In the vicinity of their nesting-quarters I have good evidence that they will destroy both young birds and
eggs. The few pairs that breed in the west of Perthshire usually have their nests at a considerable elevation
among the hills ; and I noticed them on several occasions carrying off the eggs of the Ptarmigan. In some
of the wilder islands off the west coast these birds, together with the Grey Crows, wage a constant war against
the eggs or young of the few Grouse that manage to subsist in their neighbourhood.

There is nothing in the way of carrion that will come amiss to these keen-sighted birds. I have observed
them preying on every kind of animal refuse cast up by the waves, disputing, both on the shores of the salt-
water lochs and on the liill-sides, with Gulls, Crows, and Buzzards for the carcasses of defunct seals, sheep,
horses, or hares, and barely giving place when the Sea-Eagle made his appearance and claimed his share. It is
also well known among shepherds in the north that weakly sheep or lambs are now and then attacked while living,
the ravenous birds snatching their favourite portions from the quivering victim before life is extinct.
Several times during September and October 1S7G, while passing over the South Downs near Saddlescombe in
Sussex, I noticed a pair of Ravens flying from the Dyke Hill. A year or so later a dead body or, rather, a
skeleton was discovered in a patch of furze near the top of the hill. The remains and the clothing had been so
much destroyed by the attacks of vermin and exposure to weather that it was almost impossible to judge to

RAVEN.

whom they might have belonged. A few scraps, probably from an old fustian jacket, the toe-cap and sole of a
boot, and tlie texture of the small remaining pieces of rag, indicated that their owner had belonged to the labouring
class or might have been a tramp. As the Ravens were always noticed near the same spot, I have not the
slightest doubt that they had discovered the body, and returned there regularly to feed as long as they could
find any thing to prey upon. Though 1 have passed the same hill l-epeatcdly of late years, I have never seen
one of these birds within miles of the spot since the autumn previous to the discovery of the remains.

Game-preservers are so accustomed to look upon the Raven as an enemy, that they commonly forget his
black feathers may possibly conceal a few redeeming qualities. There is, however, little doubt that in some
districts he will consume a number of i*ats in the course of the year. I watched one on the shores of the Pirth of
Forth, near Tantallon, busily engaged in making a meal off a large rat lie had surprised below high-water mark.
Quantities of these destructive brutes resort during the summer to this part of the coast, betaking themselves
in winter to the farmsteadings. Other instances of an almost similar nature have come under my notice.

The Raven, like most of the Crow tribe, is remarkably easy to capture by means of traps. Though
generally considered a cunning and sagacious bird, he appears to be unable to resist a bait, even if lie has
witnessed one of his kind struggling at the identical spot a short time previously. While laying out traps a
few years back in Perthshire, early in September, for some Buzzards which had been seen frequenting the high
moors (one or two of which I was anxious to secure as specimens), I noticed that large flocks of Ravens were
busy searching the hills for food. We had only set one trap, and moved about a quarter of a mile to prepare a
spot for another, when I became aware by the commotion among the black party that one of their number
must have been taken. Between a dozen and a score were flying in circles over the place, darting down and
croaking in the greatest excitement. When we had completed the second trap, we returned to the first, and,
after removing the victim and resetting the trap, proceeded uphill to set a third. Before the work was again
finished it was evident that two more were taken ; and during the whole day we could set no more than four traps,
as I did not like to leave the poor brutes when I knew they were struggling in the traps. Every bird caught
after the first one (and there were over a dozen captured) must have seen the fate of those that approached the
bait; but it had no effect as a warning. As I stated previously, these Ravens were perfectly harmless on the
moors at this season ; and though I have known as many as two or three hundred captured before the winter
set in, it would, I am now convinced, have been no detriment to the ground had they remained unmolested. It
was, however, impossible to set a trap in the open with any conspicuous bait without it being sooner or later
discovered by these birds.

Early in September 1805 I captured, in the north-west of Perthshire, a Raven whose tongue protruded
through a small hole in the loose membrane under the lower mandible. The skin was perfectly healed round
the wound, though the bifurcation at the base of the tongue prevented the bird retracting it into the mouth.
It is difficult to imagine how such a mishap could possibly have been brought about, unless it was caused by a
sharp-pointed bone belonging to some prey that the bird had been tearing, which passed through the skin, and
was followed by the tongue in the efforts of the sufferer to clear the wound. This Raven was in perfect health
and plumage, and weighed as much as (if not more than) two or three others taken at the same time. During the
following year I trapped another in precisely the same plight. As in the former case, its misfortune appeared
to have had not the slightest effect on its health or condition.

In order to become thoroughly acquainted with the manner in which the Raven gains its living, and also
to studv its habits when in company with other birds of prey, I have at different times put up bothies or
shelters on the mountain-side, from which I was enabled to watch some dead carcass— either a sheep that had
succumbed to disease, or a worn-out horse we had driven uphill and slaughtered for the purpose. Several
writers have described so exactly how these foul-feeding birds revel in the midst of the decomposing remains
and contend with loud and angry screams over their putrid banket, that it is useless for me to enter into the
details of such an unsavoury subject.

RAVEN.

3

In the north this species nests on ledges and in crevices among the ragged and broken slabs of stone in
the most inaccessible parts of the inland mountains, and also in wild rocky precipices overhanging the sea.
On various parts of the coast a few stragglers may still be met with all round our islands. One or two pairs
resort to the chalk cliffs near Beachy Head in Sussex ; and I have several times observed the birds in the
neighbourhood of the Lizard and the eastern portion of Mounts Bay, and also along the wild and moss-
grown headlands between the Logan Rock and the Land’s End. I am afraid the greater number of those
that frequented the large woods in the interior of the country are now driven from their quarters by the felling
of the timber or constant persecution. The nest itself is a large coarse structure, heather-stalks being freely
used in its composition in the barren districts of the north, and the architects making use of whatever branches
and twigs came nearest in other localities. The interior is a mixture of sheep’s wool, moss, hair, fine grass,
and other soft materials.

The Plate shows an adult bird with a dead white hare — a common sight on the hill-tops on the day
following a big drive in many counties in the Highlands.

The tricks and eccentricities of Ravens in confinement have frequently been described and commented
upon by various writers ; and numbers of these birds whose habits were more or less peculiar and amusing have
come under my own observation. I cannot, however, pass over, without a few remarks, one that I became
acquainted with while at the University. In the centre of the toum of Cambridge there was in those days
(now over twenty years ago) an establishment well known to most undergraduates whose tastes inclined towards
sporting matters. Anyone who remembers the graphic sketch of the dog-dealer’s yard in ‘Tommiebeg
Shootings ’ can form an idea of the place, as the surroundings were almost identical. Rifle-shooting, practised
after an original method at live pigeons, drew sundry embryo marksmen ; but the main attraction was the
spacious pit, in which all sorts of battles between birds and beasts used to be fought, in addition to the legitimate
sport of ratting. The encounter between the tame Raven and a rat could hardly be termed a fight, as it
invariably ended in the discomforture of the quadruped. A large strong rat would, however, occasionally
prove a tough customer. After having flown several times at the head of the bird, it would discover it could
not face the terrible raps it received from the powerful bill of its adversary, and, partly crippled, would attempt
to seek safety by flight. The aspect of the Raven would now have been a fine study for an artist: with every
feather on end, hopping and croaking, and occasionally almost screaming with rage, lie would relentlessly
pursue his retreating victim round and round the pit. When at length a lucky blow had put an end to the
contest and “Old Nick” (the Raven) had been lifted out of the pit, lie would shuffle off across the yard to his
cage, bearing in his beak the body of his fallen foe, on which to regale himself at his leisure. His roguish
glance of distrust at the company, evidently fearing to be robbed of his prey, while he sidled back to his den
was comical in the extreme.

The domestic arrangements of the happy family that were inmates of the same enclosure with “ Old
Nick ” were at feeding time exceedingly amusing. The group, as near as I can remember, consisted of a
Goose (a pink-footed, winged on Midsummer Common), some Owls, a few small Hawks, a couple of Magpies,
a single Jay, and two or three Jackdaws. If it happened that his sable Majesty had been performing in the
pit and his appetite was appeased, he would content himself with simply examining every piece of food that
was provided, and then retiring to his favourite perch he would quietly regard the contentions of his subjects,
apparently thoroughly disgusted by their gluttony. When, however, lie was “ sharp ” like the rest, his
excitement increased as the hour drew near, till at last, when the basket containing his loathsome repast
appeared in sight, he positively danced with delight ; and small indeed were the portions that would
have fallen to the share of his companions in captivity had their interests not been looked after by
the attendant. There never was a better illustration of the old Scotch saying, “ He needs a lang spune
that sups wi’ the De’il.”

BLACK CROW.

CORPUS CORONE.

From north to south the Black Crow is scattered over the country. I never identified a specimen in the
Outer Hebrides ; but with this exception I have met with it in almost every part of England and Scotland.
Though by no means abundant in any district I am acquainted with, I found the most frequent opportunities
of studying the habits of this species in the west of Perthshire and in the east of Norfolk.

These crafty birds do not appear to liock together like Grey Crows. The brood of the previous summer
however, usually keeps with the parents during the whole of the autumn and winter, the family (in many
instances that have come under my observation) only breaking up on the approach of spring or the death
of some of their number. I am aware it has been stated by more than one author that Black Crows take
their departure southward on the approach of winter. This I have never remarked. In every district where I
have been able constantly to keep a watch on the species they remained stationary during tho whole year.

The bad character borne by these Crows, and the persecution they suffer in consequence at the hands
of gamekeepers, easily accounts for their number being kept within bounds. In any locality where preserving
is neglected Black Crows increase rapidly, and levy a heavy tax on eggs and young birds. I have never
witnessed them in the act of destroying lambs ; but I see no cause for discrediting the stories I have heard
to that effect from shepherds and keepers. It is well known to all who have studied their habits in a
wild state that no flesh comes amiss to them ; and as I have found them, in company with Grey Crows,
making a meal on sheep before they were cold, I think it highly probable they only require to find one in a
weakly or disabled condition to commence operations at once. These birds cause far greater destruction to
game in England than the Grey Crow, as the latter, for the most part, take their departure early in the spring
for their breeding-haunts in the northern counties or across the North Sea. I have had many opportunities
of witnessing the havoc they will commit among the eggs and young broods of the various species of Waders
that nest on the marshes in the neighbourhood of some of the large broads in the east of Norfolk. Every small
plantation within a mile or so of the water-side contains a pair at least of these inveterate thieves. Durin"
spring and summer they may be noticed frequently hunting over the swamps and rush-grown marshes, the
shrill cries of the Peewit and Redshank being constantly heard while they are hovering over the vicinity
of their nesting-quarters. On searching the ground I have discovered plenty of proof of their evil deeds, in
the shape of empty egg-shells scattered about in all directions. The Snipe-shooting in this locality would be
greatly benefited if these birds were restricted in number ; keepers, however, are few and far between, and the
game is mostly left to the tender mercies of poachers. I have repeatedly watched Black Crows feeding on
the maize or Indian corn supplied to some decoy-ducks I kept on Hickling Broad, and carrying off any bread or
meat that had been thrown to them. In the same neighbourhood a farmer, who cultivated a few acres of
ground, assured me these birds totally destroyed a small field of beans. Whether these plunderers ever make

BLACK CROW.

an

any reparation (after the manner of the Hook) for the robberies they have committed is, I am of opinion, „„
open question. It is probable a certain quantity of destructive grubs and insects form part of their diet; and
I have no doubt, from what I have observed, that they clear oil large numbers of mice, if not young rats and
moles, during the course of the year.

Many years ago I frequently observed this species pairing with the Grey Crow in the Highlands; and for
some time I believed, when this was the case, that the young took after one or the other of the parents. In the
summer of 18GG, when living in the north-west of Perthshire, I trapped one young bird and shot another near
the same spot, both of which exhibited signs of being a cross between the two species. In each case the
plumage of the whole of the body was black, with the exception of a small patch of grey on the neck and
back. On first examining them I was in doubt whether they might be young Jackdaws, being uncertain
whether that species had a white eye in the immature state. A glance at a Jackdaw’s nest, however, disclosed
the fact that the iris is of the same colour in the mature and immature stages. A few days later two more young
birds, in almost similar plumage, were killed in the same glen by the keeper, who reported that he saw them
flying after a pair of old Crows, one of which was black and the other grey. During the remainder of my
residence in Perthshire I met with no further opportunities of observing this curious intermediate plumage.
AVe kept down so effectually the whole race of Crows, whether Grey or Black, that I do not remember a single
young one being hatched out in the neighbourhood. There were usually several Black Crows to be seen
early in the spring ; these in every instance paired with Grey Crows. I never met with a pair of Black Crows
in that part of the Highlands. I often remarked that, however closely any species of this description of
vermin might he killed down, the places of those destroyed were filled up the following season. As hut little
attention was paid to preserving on many of the adjoining shootings, there was always a reserve of Crows close
at hand to fill up all vacancies.

A few years later I again fell in with the Black and Grey Crows interbreeding in the more northern
counties. The result of my observations only confirmed the opinion I had previously formed, viz. that the
offspring most frequently resembled either one or the other of the parents, though occasionally they showed a
half-and-half state of plumage. The information I received from foresters and keepers in the various districts
I passed through plainly indicated that those who had paid any attention to these birds were all aware of the
same facts ; and in almost every case their experience was identical with my own. It appears that certain
scientific naturalists have at length arrived at the conclusion that the Grey and the Carrion or Black Crow
are simply varieties of one and the same species. According to the experience of several careful observers and
sportsmen, the progeny of a pair of birds, where one is black and the other grey, may be either perfectly Black
or Grey Crows, or even young ones exhibiting a curious mixture of colour, black, as a rule, predominating.
This agrees with what I have myself witnessed and the reports I have received from keepers in various parts
of the Northern Highlands. Some writers also assert they met with Crows showing “ every stage ot
plumage, from pure black to the perfectly marked Hooded Crow, and this without reference to age or sex
(the italics are my own). As I have never come across these hybrids paired and breeding, I conclude the
writers must have been more successful in their observations than myself. Unless the birds had been clear y
distinguished engaged in nesting-operations, I should be of opinion it was scarcely justifiable to state that they
had been recognized at all ages. It is, however, quite possible that such observations may have been made
and recorded in some work to which I have not had access. I should not have noticed these statements, had
I not called to mind that they somewhat differed from the ideas of a very close observer of nature (a resident
in Inverness) with whom I had, some years ago, several discussions on the above subject. This old Highlander
was perfectly convinced in his own mind that whatever colours the offspring of the Grey and Black Cions
might take in their first plumage they would eventually turn into either the perfect Black or Grey C ow.
The facts he related would certainly lead to the belief that such changes must (occasionally at least) take plac .

BLACK CHOW.

3

As I have never yet had an opportunity of rearing any of these hybrids and keeping them in confinement
lor any length of time, I am unable to give an opinion on the subject.

Though I have frequently observed the Grey or Hoodie Crow, at the time of migration, in the act of
making the passage of the North Sea, I was never able positively to identify the Black Crow. From the crews
o the light-ships oir the east coast I could gather but little information concerning them. It is probable that
a few, at all events, reach this country during the autumn, as I recognized a bird of this species on board a
fishing-boat a short distance off Yarmouth, and the skipper informed me it had flown on board that morning '

The Black Crow is to be met with in many parts of the British Islands ; and I have spent a considerable
amount of time m studying their habits; but in no single instance have I ever noticed them nesting (even
where one was mated with a Grey Crow) except on trees or bushes. I mention this fact, as I believe it is
reported by some writers that their manner of breeding corresponds with that of Grey Crows, whose nests as
° ten as not > are P laccd on » cliff or an inland precipice. I have of course not the slightest wish to question
these statements; I merely describe the habits of the birds as I have witnessed them. The nest is a lar-e
and coarse structure. The outside materials vary according to the locality, the birds making use of
whatever sticks and twigs they find easiest to collect. Heather-stalks and roots, together with branches of
uc 1 01 n, aie largely used in the Highlands. Nests that I have examined in the southern and eastern
counties were composed of dead twigs of the trees that grew nearest at hand. The remains of an old nest that
ms been occupied in former years is often resorted to and patched up. The interior is warm and comfortable
being lined with sheep’s wool, hair, dried strands of fine grass, or any soft material.

I was particularly struck by the depth and warmth of the interior of the cradle that a pair of Crows (one
aek, the other Grey) had prepared for their anticipated brood. The nest was placed on the topmost branches
of a lofty tree overhanging a hill-burn that dashed down the mountain-side through a rift or chasm in the solid
roc . Both parents having been shot within an hour of one another, the nest was now untenanted ; and I was
anxious to remove it, so that it might no longer attract any wandering Crow to the spot. To reach it by
climbing was decidedly risky, even if practicable. The branches of the tree on which it was built stretched
ovei ic gorge at an angle that looked excessively dangerous; and it appeared that, to take the nest, the whole limb
would need to be sawn oil. Before commencing this somewhat arduous undertaking, I resolved to attempt to
cut it down by means of a rifle-bullet. The main branch, that sustained the nest, was not less than from two to
nee inches in diameter immediately below the structure; but having found a convenient rest for the rifle
the operation was completed far more rapidly than I had anticipated. The first shot cut away a considerable
por ion of the supporting limb ; and the second having smashed the remainder, the nest and the surrounding
twigs dropped at once. Being caught, however, by a lower arm of the tree, it needed a third shot to brin"
it to the ground. The eggs, which were partly incubated, had fallen out and smashed among the rocks"
n hue examining the materials with which the nest was composed, I discovered the remains of the shell of
e egg of a Ring-Ouzel still adhering to some of the sticks. This had probably been brought as food to the
emale while sitting. The situation chosen by this pair of Crows was particularly suitable to the requirements
of these evcr-watchful and rapacious birds. From the upper branches of the tree an uninterrupted view could
be obtained of the wild and rocky glen, rendering an undetected approach to their quarters almost impossible-
w i e t e steep and rugged banks of the burn (concealed in several parts by long and rank heather) inveigled
many an unfortunate sheep to its doom, affording, consequently, an almost inexhaustible supply of food. ° It
was seldom, if ever, that I passed the spot without noticing a carcass or two of highly scented mutton slowly
ccomposmg in some quiet pool, or firmly wedged between the stones that formed the rocky bed of the torrent,
was gieatly amused one spring at the horror expressed by a stranger to the district (more used to paved
ootways than mountain-sides), who persisted in indulging in a copious draught of the sparkling waters of this
identical stream. Weary and utterly fagged out by the unusual exertion, he made his way to the side of the

1 BLACK CROW.

burn, a few yards below the spot where it emerged from the steepest part of the gorge, and, accepting as a
hoax my repeated warnings that within the next hundred yards he might find the remains of at least half a
dozen defunct sheep, he totally disregarded the advice that a wee drop of the cratur might help to qualify the
possible impurities, and, hastily snatching a cuacli* from the hands of one of the gillies, he emptied it again
and again. I shall never forget his look of hopeless dismay (or the doses of whiskey needed to bring about
his recovery) when, mounting a few steps further up the hill-side, lie looked down and became aware of the
revolting spectacle in the pool, immediately above the spot where he had quenched his thirst. A dead ewe
almost blocked up the course of the water (now low from continued drought) ; and the tiny streamlet that
bubbled slowly along meandered peacefully through the decaying carcass, and found a vent near the chest,
where the bones were split asunder from the force of the fall or the effects of decomposition.

* A wooden drinking-cup ; pronounced “ quay.”

•'.sf

» V • v

e

MAI.E AND NEST

GREY CROW.

courus coumx.

I * ® 7 C /“ W 18 ? Per “ reSiaent “ alm ° st «»7 P-‘ of ‘ho Highlands that I am acquainted with
It IS allowed to nest occasionally m some of the southern counties of Scotland ; hut I have not (with certainty)

observed it breeding further south than Perthshire. In England it is likewise reported to remain at 7m!

during summer in certain districts on the north-east coast. Some years ago I watched a pair or two that

aZTril m0MS 7 Ck f Sle “ S “ th ° neiShb0Urh00d ° f Whitb y ; bt “ this is a11 ‘ho information I am
able to give on my own authority.

tot, T 7 ZTu USU f y arrives 0a the east ooast of En S land the middle of October, the 7th 8th
s 7 , t 7® ! S °“ WMCh 1 haVe Witt ^ h““ed or on the p ll

No7i 7:77! in ^ 1 ^ ““ *“ — 1 «rs in the

Wirt 1 ” "Thf! 8 *! the , Highland8 thes ° birds oooasionally desert their quarters on the lull-sides during
winter, and betake themselves to the vicinity of the farm-yards and the low grounds. On the slmres of 7e

firths and the lochs in the neighbourhood of the coast, they may at this season be found in great numbers-
but I am ignorant whether these birds are migrants from the North Sea, or only visitors from inland gta
atti acted to the shore by the prospect of more abundant prey.

In the south Grey Crows generally frequent the sea-coast, living on the dead fisli or any decomposing
remains that may be east up by the tide. When more substantial food is scarce, tliov also manage at ttaes to

korf fh T S l “ ° f mUS8eIS ’ C0Ckl0S> “ ud other smaU shdls the y are able to pick up along the
litter washed °u°n!n the! 7“’ 7 ‘T bl '° adS “ ““ eaSt rfSaMk - on. after another ov7 the

ItLrs Is l as a a d “ d ™ mded bMs «> a ‘ have escaped from the

77 f i, , , 7 , Was dlSC0Vered ’ the making and screaming of those near at hand would bring the

ho8te: and> Hvins ° r dead ’ ““ **- -> d

These troublesome pests have frequently destroyed fowl I knocked down before there was a chance to

7th-s 7 S ' LaS ° C0Urred rdpeatedly “ a11 P arts of the oountry ; Imt the most wholesale robbery

of this description was perpetrated in the east of Ross-shire. While gunning on Loch Slyn ono stormy day

unng the wmter of 1868, I succeeded in making (more by good luck than management) a heavy shot at 'a

rge flock of Ma lard as they rose from a bank on which they had been resting. Owing to the long heather

at grew round the shores of the loch, we experienced considerable difficulty in collecting the cripples many

the wounded crawling into the thick cover before we were able to gather up those nearest at hand Not

expecting any use for a dog (it was blowing a gale of wind), I had left my retriever at a farm by the loch

side and consequently failed to secure several disabled birds that could never have escaped the nose of that

infallible quadruped. An hour or so later I remarked a large party of Grey Crows, numbering in all at least 7ty

2

GREY CROW.

or fifty birds, screaming and quarrelling near the spot where I had fired the shot. On returning and again
searching the ground, we discovered they had succeeded in dragging from their hiding-places seven more
Ducks. Four were cleanly picked, though the remaining three had only been sufficiently torn to render them
useless. The following morning we detected two more skeletons, which had previously escaped our notice. A
dozen fowl at least had fallen to the share of the Crows at this single discharge. In addition to the remains
we found, they had evidently got possession of three or four which dropped in a swamp, where we had not
attempted to reach them.

With good cause game-preservers look upon the whole of the Crow tribe with distrust ; and the present
species may he considered the worst of a bad lot. On the moors in the north they arc without exception the
most destructive vermin a keeper lias to contend with. They may be seen in the spring quartering the ground
like setters ; and the nest of a Grouse or other game-bird, once discovered, is soon robbed of its contents.
These thieves usually have some elevated spot to which they carry the eggs before sucking them, leaving the
empty shells lying about in dozens, as if to draw attention to their bad deeds. I have occasionally found eggs
consumed close by the nests from which they were stolen ; but I believe their most common custom is to
remove them to one of their favourite feeding-places. A pair of Crows will have several of these stations ;
and the number of eggs they destroy would appear incredible to any one who had not carefully watched their
proceedings. At times they will resort to trees to consume their plunder. One spring, while m the west of
Perthshire, I noticed a pair of Crows very busily engaged in the topmost branches of some trees, in the upper
part of a birch-wood that covered a sloping lull-side. On examining the spot a day or two later, I discovered,
under some of the highest trees, the shells of between twenty and thirty eggs. In almost every instance it was
evident black game had been the sufferers from their depredations. When Grey Crows attack eggs too large
or heavy for them to carry off conveniently, they break holes in the shells, and extract the contents withou
removing them. In the nests of the White-tailed Eagle and the Osprey I have seen their work ; and I have
also known them to destroy and subsequently devour the young of the Golden Eagle after one of the paren
birds had been shot. From observations I have made in the Highlands, I believe that this species ; is . m t .e
habit of visiting the nests of some of the larger birds of prey in hopes of carrying ofT some portion of the

from the larder that had been stored up for the use of the young.

Though many keepers commence to trap both these birds and Ravens m the autumn, I have co ne to the

conclusion that the time to effectually destroy all the various members of the Crow family is in early spimg
as soon as they have laid. During autumn they are simply acting the part of scavengers on the moors ; and i
is only when the e-gs of the game birds appear that they are enabled to cause the slightest damage To
expect to clear the ground before severe weather sets in is useless as well as hopeless ; the traps mus shortly
ceise working on account of frost; and the places of those that have been killed will be fi ed ^

U hnfnrc the breedin-season. I have never been able to detect the slightest harm that these birds
“flirted on Grouse except during the time of nesting, or when the young birds were in the down. As soon as
U ' ' . . , ’ tl far nort h or from the outer islands have taken their departure, and the residents have

the migrants from the fa nmth o ^ ^ ^ is kiUed down makes one less in the number

—"CT and shoot them at their nests I have found by far the most effeetive plan. By

of the rob e . , , , d theDL securing the old birds with traps when they come

leaving the ‘ °“ g (* Uoh plan is advocated by some experienced game-preservers), I should be

If number of eggs must be lost, which might be saved by commenemg operates

at an earlier date. oonseouentlv easy to trap. On a moor in the west of

In spring these bin s me ^ ^ whUe ouc poor victim was struggling in the trap. A

veracity I can thoroughly depend on, showed me a trap where, only a day or

GREY CROW.

3

two previously, lie had discovered a party of eight or ten gathered round the hare that had been used as a
bait. As they were so intent on the food, with which the whole number were busily engaged, he was enabled
to crawl within range, and succeeded in stopping three or four with his two barrels. On examining the trap
he was surprised to find that one of the Crows had been held a prisoner; his misfortune, however, had not the
slightest effect in deterring the others or impairing his appetite.

Of late years 1 have always made a practice of setting two or more traps to every bait, the two nearest the
quarry being placed side by side. By these means I have often secured vermin that were but slightly held by
one ol the traps, as during their struggles they have blundered into the second. Early in December 1881,
when visiting the traps I had set at the carcass of a domestic cat, on a marsh in the neighbourhood of one of
the large broads in the east of Norfolk, I found a couple of these Crows, one being held by each of the traps.
Having been placed as close as possible, it is strange how the two had been taken. Each of the poor wretches
evidently imagined that his misfortune was due to his companion in adversity, as they were fighting
desperately when first seen. Only the previous day a Black Crow had been secured at the same spot ; and this
malefactor had managed to spring botli traps, and was discovered with one leg in each.

During the autumnal migration I have often met with Grey Crows on the North Sea, apparently tired
out by their long flight, and glad of a rest on any boat or vessel they might meet in their course. These
birds, according to my observations, seldom fly in very large flocks. Ten or a dozen may now and then be
seen together ; but for the most part they make their passage in small straggling parties. I have frequently
noticed as many as fifty or sixty in view at the same time from the deck of the steamboat, though perhaps not
more than three or four would be keeping company. Two Grey Crows and a Jackdaw, which had followed us
one day in a thick fog for a considerable distance, at last settled on one of the paddle-boxes. A shot or two
which I fired at some Gannets at first greatly alarmed them, and one of the Crows beat a speedy retreat ; it
soon, however, returned ; and after a time they got used to the noise of the shooting and the shouts of the
men who were fishing, and stalked gravely about on the bridge, evidently taking particular notice of what
was going on. Towards dusk the wind freshened, and the pitching and rolling of the steamboat appeared to
disagree with them, as, after looking very miserable for some time in their vain attempts to keep their footing
m spite of the combined effects of wind and sleet, together with the constant breaking of the spray, they at
last took a reluctant farewell, flying slowly against a head wind towards the land.

Jrom what I have observed in the North Sea, I should be of opinion that some of the larger migratory
birds (such as Books, Crows, and Jackdaws) arc by no means so weathenvise as their smaller feathered
relatives. I find the following entry in my notes for 1872, under date of October 10, at which time I was
cruising in the North Sea for the express purpose of watching the migration : —

“ lfe72, 0ct - 10, 1 110t observe any small birds crossing, though I kept a constant look-out ; and we

met with only a few straggling parties of Grey Crows and three or four small flocks of Books during the early
part of the day. While steaming out, we passed several drowned Books and one or two Grey Crows floating
on the water, about fifteen miles from the land. Soon after midday the weather came on thick and squally
from the south-west; and towards night it blew strong, with drifting rain. The small birds had probably been
aware of the rough weather approaching, and had not attempted to make their passage in face of it. Next
day several of the more venturesome Books were washing about a few miles off the land. In the afternoon,
while on the beach at Yarmouth, I noticed a small black-coloured bird swimming in the ltoads ; and having no
glasses with me, I took it to be a Little Auk. Shortly after, the bird was picked up by a shore-boat, when my
Little Auk turned out to be an unfortunate Jackdaw. A couple more (both dead) were floating at a short
distance.”

I he note of the Grey Crow is usually allowed to be a harsh and most unmclodious croak. The
extraordinary sounds, however, that the species is capable of producing when excited ought to be heard in

GREY CROW.

order to be thoroughly appreciated, as any description must fall short of the reality. Towards the latter end
of December 1881, 1 observed a party of eight or ten of these birds “mobbing” a Rough-legged Buzzard,
which was beating about over some rush-marshes in Norfolk. One or two would lly round, croaking as they
went, and, after two or three turns, settle at some short distance. Others would then take up the attack,
repeatedly dashing down, as if with the intention of striking, but taking evidently especial care to keep at a
respectful distance. This style of warfare was carried on for some twenty minutes or half an hour, when the
Buzzard (who paid little or no attention to the noisy demonstrations of his assailants), having searched over
the marshes without success, flapped slowly off to a large oak, and took up his position on one oi the topmost
branches. After wheeling round, screaming and croaking loudly for several minutes, the dingy rabble broke
up, and departed in various directions ; three of their number, however, shortly returned and settled in the
outside branches of the same tree, at a distance of eight or ten feet irotn the Buzzard. It was difficult to
account for their animosity, as Hawks (the Common and Rough -legged Buzzards, the various Harriers, and an
occasional wandering Peregrine) are by no means uncommon in the locality, and I have seldom noticed
the Crows to exhibit any excessive signs of displeasure at their presence. This particular bird, for some
inexplicable cause, appeared to be regarded as a special object of hatred. For an hour at least they continued to
give vent to a succession of the most discordant and unpleasant sounds I ever heard proceed from the throats of
any living creatures : to describe them I am utterly unable. While so engaged, they occasionally stretched out
their necks, and assumed what I suppose was intended for a threatening attitude; they, however, confined
themselves to this noisy manner of expressing their auger, and, having at length apparently exhausted
themselves by their efforts, first one and then the remaining two flew slowly back to the marshes, leaving the
Buzzard in undisputed possession of the situation. During the whole of the time he had been exposed to this
abusive outcry, lie had remained without changing for a moment his position on the tree, or exhibiting the
slightest signs of annoyance, treating their clamour, indeed, with utter contempt. For another hour or so
after their departure he retained his perch, utterly regardless, as before, of an occasional visit, one or two
of his former assailants returning from time to time and after circling once or twice round the tree, again

beating a retreat.

On the sea-shore I have noticed these birds harassing and attacking any stranger that made his appearance,
weary and worn out by the force of the autumnal gales. In the latter end of October 1879, I observed several
Pomerine Skuas drifting before a strong north-easterly breeze along the coast. Occasionally they would settle
on the sandbanks a few yards distant from the breakers; but in not a single instance were they permitted to
rest above a moment or two, as a party of Crows would swoop down on them at once, and, with threatening
screams, compel them to move on. The squalls of rain and mist obscured the view beyond the distance of a
few hundred yards, or, I conclude, I must have seen some of the poor wanderers (who were evidently exhausted
by the buffeting of the storm) struck down and killed by their numerous assailants.

I have frequently come across Grey Crows feeding on the refuse, dead fish and other garbage, that is
carried from the mouths of harbours or rivers by the ebb-tide. They will occasionally follow the floating filth
a considerable distance at sea, hovering over the water, and stooping down and seizing in their beaks any
temptin'' 1 morsel as it bobs up and down in the current. At such times they are often seen in company of

Gulls Lesser Blackbacks and Herring-Gulls in immature plumage, and numbers of Common Gulls in all

stages The Crows are by no means backward in plundering these unfortunate birds when they may have
secured any particularly inviting fragment. I have watched as many as forty or fifty of these robbers engaged
in this manner at once. While seeking their food in this somewhat unusual fashion, I have but little doubt
that they may have been at times mistaken for Skua Gulls. Early in November 1879, a week or so after the
disastrous October gales had driven large flights of Skuas to our shores, I met with a couple of gentlemen on
the beach near Yarmouth, evidently greatly interested by witnessing a score or two of Crows feeding in

GREY CHOW.

•j

tideway m the roads. Under the impression that the birds attracting their attention were a party of Skuas,
they were closely studying their manner of procuring prey; and the voracity with which the whole rabble rout
contended with the hungry sea-fowl afforded them every opportunity of gratifying their curiosity. The ferocity
with which one or two Crows just then attacked a Gull that had picked up a heavy mouthful of offal, which it
vainly attempted to make off with, was certainly misleading to any one who had never had a chance of
observing the habits of the various species of Skua Gulls in a wild state.

Eor breeding-purposes this species resorts to trees, ledges, and cavities in the face of precipitous rocks,
and cliffs m the vicinity of the sea-coast. In some exposed districts on the north-west of Scotland, and also on
several of the islands on inland lochs, I have come across their nests in hushes of birch and stunted fir, at the
height of only a few feet from the ground ; at times, however, they will make use of almost the highest tree
in some dense forest. The composition of the nest varies according to the materials within reach of the
architects— twigs and branches of trees in woodland districts, and roots and stalks of heather in the more open
localities. The lining consists of wool, moss, and grass.

The Plate shows an adult male and a nest. It is taken from a rough sketch made on one of the barren
and uninhabited islands off the west coast of Scotland. This nest was entirely constructed of bleached and
weatherbeaten stalks of heather, finer twigs being used for the formation of the interior and the binding down
of the upper portion. The lining was composed of sheep’s-wool, white lichens, and strips or strands of bark.
Whether this latter material had been torn from large coarse heather-stalks or stunted birch bushes, I was
unable to decide. The interior was a most elaborately worked-up cup-shaped cradle, six and a half inches deep
by seven inches in diameter at the upper rim of the nest.

This species is known in various localities by several different titles. Throughout the Highlands it is
commonly styled the “ Hoodie;” in the Midland counties and on the south coast I have heard it spoken of as
the “ Grey,” “ Saddleback,” “ lloyston,” or “Norwegian Crow;” while by many of the Norfolk punt-gunners
it is named the “Kentish Crow:” the more familiar term, however, for the bird (when conversing amon«
themselves) would be an « Old Kentish man.” Over a somewhat limited district within a few miles of
Huntingdon this species is known among the natives as “ Potter Brown’s Crow.”

ROOK.

CORVUS FRUGILEGUS.

The Rook adapts itself to circumstances with the greatest equanimity, appearing as much at home among
the grimy trees of the metropolis as in the lofty woods of some extensive park. To give a list of the localities
in which this familiar bird may be met with is unnecessary. Though less frequent in the north, there are
scattered colonies to he found in every county I have visited, from Caithness to Cornwall.

Opinions differ as to the useful or destructive habits of many of our native birds, and the present species
comes in occasionally for much abuse and also well-merited approbation. I fully believe that, for about three
fourths of their time, Rooks, owing to the nature of their food, act the part of benefactors to the farmer.
There is, however, no denying the fact that they now and then exact toll for the service previously
rendered. Pew of our feathered friends are more omnivorous ; it would be difficult to find any substance,
animal or vegetable, containing the least particle of nutriment that they would not make a meal off when
pressed by want.

A newly sown field of corn, wheat in particular, will suffer considerably from their visits, while potatoes,
peas, and beans are also patronized. Their attacks on the grain when stacked also occasion no little annoy-
ance to the owners, as wet and wind find an entrance where a commencement has been made, and in the end
considerable loss is entailed. When food is scarce in dry seasons, Rooks are exceedingly destructive to the
eggs or young of game : they hunt the ground continually, and do as much damage as Grey or Carrion Crows ;
m many counties in the Highlands I have watched them while so employed— Grouse, Blackgame, Wildfowl,
and Waders being all plundered alike. I am afraid that they can scarcely ever be held perfectly blameless, and,
however abundant their natural food may be, an exposed nest would never be safe if once detected by their
sharp eyes. Some years ago I was assured by the keepers of Stanmer Park, near Brighton, that these robbers
carried off at least thirty young Pheasants from the coops before they were able to put a stop to their depreda-
tions ; the Rooks were distinctly seen to seize them, and fly off with their plunder at once to the high trees
where their nests were situated. On the South Downs they now and then so persistently search out the nests
of the Norfolk Plovers that not an egg is left to be hatched in the district. The nests of these Plovers are much
exposed, being usually placed either on the bare hill-side or concealed only by the scanty shelter of the young
corn. While passing over the downs near Palmer in May 1872, I noticed, at the distance of less than a couple
of hundred yards, a Rook fly down and attack the eggs of a Plover which had accidentally been driven from
her nest. The newly fledged young of many species of small birds are also carried off. I have repeatedly seen
them flying away with the nestlings of Larks, Pipits, and Ring-Dotterel. On one occasion I learned that a
most impudent robbery had been perpetrated by a pair of these birds. The sufferers were a brood of young
Larks placed in a cage, in order to be reared by their parents, the olfence being committed but a few yards
from a cottage. On their first visit they managed to drag one of the young Larks from between the bars of the
cage, but being detected at the next attempt they departed with the heads only of their victims. The survivin'*

2

ROOK.

young one was then removed to a safer spot, and the dead bodies thrown out. The Rooks, however, were not
to he balked of their prey, as they shortly returned and were distinctly seen to carry off the headless carcasses
from the ditch into which they had been flung.

At all seasons of the year Rooks may he met with along the sea-shore ; in some districts they resort
regularly to the mudflats at low water, in quest of marine worms, diminutive crabs, shrimps, or any small fish.
On Breyden mudflats I repeatedly watched large bodies collecting all through the summer, and on the Sussex
shingle-banks small parties arc constantly to be seen. They arc especially busy in the latter locality during
the mackerel season, large quantities of fish being captured by means of seines shot by boats and then drawn
ashore. After a haul, numbers of small fish and shrimps are scattered about on the shingle, mixed up in the
weeds dragged in by the net. For these the Rooks keep a sharp look out, eagerly darting down and claiming
their share as soon as the men have left in search of a fresh shoal. Though intent at the time on sea fish,
these cunning birds are by no means so unobservant as to let a chance of a good substantial meal escape them.
'W hile on the beach between Shoreham and Lancing on June 30, 1880, I remarked from twenty to thirty
Rooks closely searching over the heaps of refuse lying on the shingle. The men who effected the capture had
withdrawn some distance to the top of the ridge of beach, and having sent for a liberal supply of bread and
cheese, proceeded to enjoy their well-earned repast. A commencement had scarcely been made when another
shoal of fish broke up on the surface, within a few hundred yards. As there appeared a good chance, the food
was at once relinquished, and the crew started in pursuit of the mackerel. On returning an hour later, it was
evident that the Rooks, who had been observed on the spot, had discovered and cleared off the whole of the
bread and cheese, a few crumbs being all that remained.

In severe winters, when the ground is covered deep with snow, or hard with frost, these birds are frequently
put to cruel straits to procure food. At such times they will attack any weakly bird, or one that is partly
disabled by wounds. I have also seen them rising from dead and decomposing carcasses, and large flocks,
considerably in excess of those usually observed, betake themselves to the sea-shore, where a scanty living on
shellfish and other offal is picked up. When scraps and crumbs have been thrown out to the starving swarms
of diminutive feathered pensioners that congregate below the windows during protracted storms, I have
frequently noticed the Rooks so emboldened by want, that they would dash down at once and carry off all the
smaller portions; and it was only by providing a quantity of pieces too heavy for them to lift, that those for
whom the feast was intended could enjoy their share.

I had previously been of opinion that flesh was only consumed by this species when their regular food
was scarce, either in the depth of winter or during the prevalence of dry winds. A couple of Rooks,
however, attracted my attention while driving between Brighton and Shoreham, on March 20, 1882, the
weather at the time being exceedingly mild. The birds were busily engaged with some object by the side
of a heap of mould, within a short distance of the roadside; and on proceeding to the spot and investigating
the nature of their prey, I discovered that they were tearing the meat from some bones, dragged from under the

covering of the soil. Their repulsive banquet (suspicious certainly, but possibly the remains of some ewe that
had died) appeared particularly suited to their tastes, as they refused to move above twenty yards on my
approach, and returned immediately and commenced again as soon as my back was turned.

It is probable that Rooks occasionally convey a supply of dry materials to their young, in order to assist
digestion. On May 17, 1882, I carefully examined an old bird, shot on purpose to ascertain the food it was
carry in o', and discovered it had six small land-snails, each about the size of a sixpenny piece, as well a mouth,
or rather, a pouch, full of dead and perfectly dried worms. The snail-sliclls were all untenanted and empty, with
the exception of one, which was full of mould, while the dead worms were so brittle that they had broken up
into scraps of about an inch in length. The entire mouthful contained but little of a nourishing character,
with the exception of the lower portion of the supply of worms, which the moisture in the bird’s throat had

HOOK.

3

reduced to a consistency somewhat resembling potted beef or ham. It certainly was not scarcity of food
that caused such an apparently unpalatable mouthful to be collected, as on examining the field from which
the bird had risen when shot, I discovered several lively worms still struggling in a furrow in which they
had recently been disturbed by the plough. With but few exceptions, the large number of llooks and Jackdaws
frequenting the ground were then engaged in searching over a portion of the land which, being newly sown
with tares, had undergone both harrowing and rolling. It is probable that the dead worms had been collected
in this part; after having been cut and disabled by the number of teams passing over the ground the
heat of the sun would soon dry them. I could find no signs that the tares had suffered in the slightest
degree.

Grubs of various kinds and many noxious insects also form a large portion of the food of this species, the
crops necessarily being freed by their attentions from a great source of danger. In parts of the eastern
counties I discovered that farmers brought grave charges against the Hooks for the destruction of turnips,
one of my informants stating that to his knowledge nearly one third of a field of seven acres had been
destroyed by these birds during a single morning. The attack is declared to be made soon after the rows are
cleaned and thinned out, the crop being supposed to suffer most in dry weather. When, however, it is generally
allowed that the birds only drag up the young plants in order to get at the wireworm, it is a question °whetlier
any really healthy roots are affected by their depredations. I have often observed large parties of Hooks busily
engaged on the South Downs tearing up the short turf, and on examining the spot have ascertained that the
roots were loosened or removed in patches over a considerable extent of ground. Though apparently destroying
the grass, they were simply seeking out the grubs at work below the surface and effectually ruining the pasture*
The birds are doubtless guided in their search by the want of vigour in the herbage that is attacked by the
insects. During the winter of 1882-83, and throughout the following spring, a few birds occasionally settled
on a marshy spot near the sea-coast between Shoreham and Lancing, and in a most energetic manner dragged
up large patches of long coarse grass by the roots. For several months I remarked their work on an acre* or
two of ground, but was unable to procure a specimen so as to ascertain the peculiar grub or worm attracting
them to this spot. The benefits conferred on agriculturists by Hooks are now generally well known, and
there is little fear that such unfounded charges as were formerly brought against this useful species will
again be put forward.

I find the following in my notes, under date May G, 1871 “ Wind south-west, weather line and still :
numbers of Kooks tumbling in the air. This performance is in some parts considered a sign of rain.
Whether there is the slightest truth or not in this old saying, the rain certainly fell within a few hours after
a dry period of several weeks.”

Numbers of Hooks arrive on our eastern coast during autumn ; I have often met with large flights in
the North Sea, evidently making their way straight for land. It was seldom that they flew in straggling parties
alter the manner of Grey Crows ; those seen singly appeared to have fallen out of the ranks from fatigue.
After a gale of wind from the south-west, it was no uncommon occurrence to pass several floating dead on
the water between twenty and thirty miles from land. I also received a few wings from the light-ships off the
east coast during the winter months, the birds having fallen disabled on deck after striking the lamps.
Having failed to observe them on their return journey in the spring, or obtained any wings from the light-
ships at that period, I am ignorant whether they take up their residence in this country, or again return to
the north of Europe ; it is possible that a few, at least, of our visitors remain with us and assist in founding
those new colonies from time to time recorded.

In the opinion of certain authors a partial migration of our native birds takes place towards the south
on the approach of winter. If such is the case, the number of those that leave our shores must, I imagine,
be small and composed for the most part of the migrants from across the North Sea or of young birds of the

4

ROOK.

year. I have never met with any unusually large bodies of Rooks on the south coast during autumn or
winter, or an increase to the regular fraternities that inhabit the rookeries in the neighbourhood of the coast.
In severe weather it frequently happens that a general movement of mixed multitudes of small birds takes
place along the south coast from east to west ; and among the countless swarms of fugitives, I have on several
occasions noticed a few scattered parties of Rooks. They were not, however, in sufficient numbers to represent
anything approaching to even a partial migration.

Every observer who takes an interest in our native birds must be thoroughly conversant with the breeding-
habits of this species. Elm, oat, and beech arc perhaps the trees to which they mostly resort for nesting-
purposes in the south ; though in the outskirts of Brighton a few broods are annually reared in both Scotch
and silver firs. In the exposed glens of the north and west I have found them making use of stunted
bushes of alder, and also firs bent and twisted by the constant gales. On one occasion in Caithness, after
being banished from the rookery they inhabited, in consequence of their depredations on the . Grouse eggs the
poor birds nested out on the open moors, trees being scarce in the neighbourhood. _ The cradle of the Book
too well known to need minute description ; it is, however, occasionally most amusing to watch the architects
collectin'* the materials. Though the greater portion of the sticks they make use of are picked up from the
ground or stolen from their neighbours, many twigs are broken off the trees in the vicinity of the roo ery.
If sma ]l or dead, the birds meet with little difficulty in detaching them, though a tough and unmans eable
touch is now and then seised hold of. The first attempt to snap off the coveted portion having failed t
hird°after hovering round, usually selects a fresh perch, and resolutely gripping the twig between his mandibles
a sin tps ff endeavourmg by tie sudden strain to effect his purpose, frequently owing to his ; exertions,
the small pieces he may already have collected are dropped; but he almost invariably returns to the attack,

eacl^cccedins ; « with disastrous consequences to

the “^okeriL She terrible hurricane of April ,0, IBS, must have destroyed many

thousands of young birds in the southern counties of England.

parts of England. I a _ manufa ctured in town during the season they arc procurable; but

can voucllfor the^fact that ilge consignments are frequently forwarded to London from certain quarters as

soon as the annual slaughter has taken plact . <. tliere is, however, another call-note

The familiar caw of the Book is heard alike m town and conn y ; ‘« nce to ^ of ^ the

which the bird occasionally utters when on wing, an i ns ear ° The extraordinary

larger Gulls. It is usually in the early spring that I , si ing> appear to have

noises that this curious bird produces, while at emp g ° “ er rema medin ignorance of this accomplish-
escaped the notice of most writers. It us probab I might have » on ^ chimney ot my

ment, bad not a certain old male peic ic( nms ° Happening early one line bright morning to

sanctum, in order to go through Ins e ^ tl y the note of a bird, caught my ear.

ho seated near the fireplace a most peon ^ note of the stal q iug (often to be beard

This strange melody somewhat reson, ^ ^ ^ 0u obtaining an out-of-door view of the songster,

ou the same spot), thougl h more £ moTt'Tecentrie antics, and at the same time

5 notes that had first attracted my attention.

. rp 1(Wv bc ab ic to form an idea of the performance, the singular attitudes assumed,
* Those who have kept —es in — ^ ^ ^ aln08t identical with what I witnessed. Though somewhat similar,
as well as the contortions gone throu 0 u, )
the sounds produced were, of course, more powerful.

1J00K.

This species appears not unfrequently to exhibit curious malformations of the beat. I have on two occasions
seen birds flying past with elongated or twisted mandibles ; and on shooting one in Glenlyon, in Perthshire,
I discovered that the beak was curved downwards, and much resembled that of a Chough, only far thicker and
at least an inch longer. It was apparently a bird of the year, still retaining the feathers over the bill.

The adult llook ( as a11 observers must be well aware) exhibits a patch of scurfy skin over and round the
sides of the bill ; this bare space appears at a short distance of a dirty white tint. In the youm- bird
immediately after leaving the nest, this space is covered with black feathers or bristles. It is usually allowed
that this sign of immaturity disappears after the first moult, when the young bird is supposed to become
similar in appearance to the adult. I am of opinion that still further attention will have to be given to this
subject be lore the truth is arrived at. The eye of the young bird on leaving the nest is of a dull slate tint and
differs considerably from that of the adult, which is a dark hazel. After a few weeks the iris changes and

assumes the same colour as in the mature bird. I mention tl.is fact, as it appears to have escaped the notice
of all writers.

lhc old-fashioned idea that the absence of feathers was caused by the bird thrusting its bill into the
ground, while digging for worms and grubs, has, I believe, long been proved a fallacy. The bare scurfy skin
round the base of the mandibles is evidently the natural state, though the date at which it is assumed may
possibly be doubtful, should there be any foundation for the theory of those writers who assert that observations
made on birds in captivity arc not to be relied upon *.

In the adult the colour of the interior of the mouth and tongue is a dull slate, while in the young
immediately after leaving the nest it is of a deep red flesh tint. I have repeatedly reared Rooks from the nest to
ascertain at what age the bristles were thrown off and the slate tint of the mouth assumed. Little or no
difference was detected in any case that was carefully watched. The following is the result of observations on a
young bird taken from the nest in May 1882. The colour of the interior of the mouth commenced to change
about the end of the first year, when the bird was probably nine months old. The tongue and the interior of
the mandibles first showed the slate tint, which gradually spread over the roof of the mouth (detached spots
appearing in the first instance) and finally reached the throat. The gullet, at all ages, is of a dark flesh tint.
This change in colour was accomplished in about three months, the mouth being thoroughly slate-tinted by the
time the bird was a year old. Towards the end of April 1883, a few of the bristles under the beak were lost ;
none of those on the upper mandible had, however, as yet disappeared. During the first and second weeks in
May, small bare patches showed on the upper mandible, though the whole surface did not exhibit the usual
white scurfy appearance of the adult till well on in July. It was not till the middle of August that the last
signs of the bristles had completely vanished.

The statement that young birds lose the feathers over the base of tbe beak at tbe first moult can scarcely
be correct, or there must be not unfrequent exceptions to the rule. Not a single specimen that I have had the
opportunity of examining in captivity has changed at that age ; and during the earlier months of the year 1
have at various times met with specimens exhibiting tbe black feathers over the bill.

Being anxious to gain information concerning tbe number of Rooks showing black beaks in Sussex
during spring, I closely examined every party met with on the downs in April 1882. Though some
thousands of birds were carefully inspected, I could only positively identify three specimens in this stage.
On April 2nd a bird on wing skimmed past so close that the feathers and bristles were visible to the naked
eye. On the Cth I remarked another in tbe same state. This bird repeatedly flew after an adult searching
for food on the downs ; and although it did not flutter its wings in the manner of the young when first taking
after their parents, it gave the impression it was following the old bird for what it could get. Nothing,

* Acc0rdm o to my own experience, tho changes undergone by birds reared in captivity corresponded, in every instance where I have been
able to verify the fact, with those in a natural state.

()

ROOK.

however, being forthcoming, it at length left the adult and proceeded to hunt for itself. Again, on the 22nd, I
watched another keeping company with an adult in much the same manner ; and on the latter taking wing, it
was followed at once by the younger bird. As in the former case, the adult took not the slightest notice of the
immature bird when it approached. In every case I was sufficiently close to see that the plumage was as bright
and glossy as that of the adults ; this, of course, would not have been the case had they been young birds of
the year, hatched at an earlier date than usual. That Rooks with black bristles over the bills were to be met
with in the broad-district of Norfolk during May 1871 is well impressed on my memory. While watching for
two Black Crows breeding in a small plantation, I shot a couple of black-beaked Rooks as they crossed over
my hiding-place beneath the nest, and under the impression that I had obtained the rightful owners, sent off
the pair at once for preservation. It was not till receiving word from the taxidermist to whom my specimens
had been forwarded that I became aware of the ridiculous error.

Though Rooks, at times, if not invariably, retain the bristles over the beak till the second year, it is quite
possil.de to distinguish them from Crows by a few moments’ examination. The interior of the mouth of the
Black Crow is at all times a pale flesh ; the mouth of the Rook, though a deep flesh in the juvenile
stage, has assumed the slate-colour of the adult before the bird is a twelvemonth old. If examined in the
sunlight, the plumage of the Rook is considerably more glossy, a brilliant blue pervading the feathers on
the head, neck, and back. Though the Crow will he found to exhibit far less lustre, a dark purple bloom
at times is visible. There is in addition a faint and indescribable odour that hangs about the latter bird, which,
though by no means so strong as the scent of the Fulmer or Gannet, leaves no doubt in the mind of one who
has once “ felt ” it as to the identity of the specimen. The claws and talons of the Crow arc more powerful
than those of the Rook ; this difference, however, is scarcely discernible without comparison.

From information lately gathered from the skipper of a trading- vessel (an old puntsman well acquainted
with birds), I consider it is possible that young Rooks may leave the British Islands and take up their
residence for a time on the continent in greater numbers than we generally suppose. I also learned from a
couple of gunners who had passed some considerable time shooting on the opposite coast, that during autumn
and early winter flocks of Rooks were met with, composed, as far as they were able to judge, almost, if not
entirely, of young birds. For these statements, of course, I am not able to vouch ; I simply record the facts as
they were told me while conversing on sporting matters.

I am ignorant whether scientific naturalists can inform us with certainty as to the age at which the
Rook commences to breed ; no remarks on this subject can be found in any works I have examined. As far
as I am to judge from personal observations, it appears probable that this species does not arrive at maturity
before the third year—*, c. does not pair and nest till it has arrived at the age of two years.

JACKDAW.

CORPVS MO NEBULA.

In almost every town I have passed through, between Inverness and Penzance, I recognized this species as a
resident. The wildest districts are also resorted to. Like his constant companion the Rook, this lively bird
adapts himself to circumstances, and seems as much at his ease in the midst of the noise and hustle of a
city as in the lonely retirement of some lofty precipice among the inland mountains or on the rocks in the
neighbourhood of the sea-coast.

Jack is generally supposed to be a mischievous rogue; but I had always believed his character, like that
of another black party, was not so bad as it was depicted. One summer, however, when living in Perthshire,
I required a young bird of this species, in order to compare with the young of the Grey Crow ; and on
examining some nests I discovered the shells of dozens of Grouse-eggs which had been destroyed. The
remains of the eggs were scattered over the ledges, and also in the cracks and crevices of the rocks among the
nests, plainly showing that the robbers had, in some instances at least, conveyed their plunder to their
quarters. It was too late that season to do much good by exterminating the colony, as the mischief was
already accomplished. Early the next spring I took forcible measures to prevent them from breeding in their
old haunts; and the following season the Grouse on the adjoining beat were nearly doubled. The whole of the
ground within about a mile of the rocks where the Jackdaws nested had till now been perfectly worthless,
never more than a few pair of barren birds being found there. In order to prevent these mischievous brutes
returning to the corrie they frequented, it was necessary to be continually on the watch ; and numbers were
killed before they took the hint that their presence was not required. At last the survivors moved to a
fresh station further up the glen ; but I believe that in a few years they gradually reappeared at their old quarters.

I never detected Jackdaws doing much harm to game in England, though I have been assured by
shepherds and keepers that they occasionally managed to search out the early Partridges’ nests on the downs
in the south. This charge is probably correct ; but, like their cousins the Rooks, they effect an immense
amount of good ; and, if weighed in the balance, I have not the slightest doubt that the benefits they confer
would more than compensate for the taxes they levy on the game-preserver and farmer.

The greatest injury and annoyance that is caused by these birds may, 1 think, be ascribed to their
pertinacity in choosing as breeding-places situations where their nests are particularly undesirable. Chimneys
are frequently blocked up by the immense collections of sticks they bring together ; and the quantity of litter
they carry into the towers of churches and other buildings at times seems almost incredible. Great numbers
resorted many years ago to the ruins of the disused portion of Battle Abbey, near Hastings ; and here they
caused considerable damage to the conservatories and forcing-houses in the gardens. On some of the glass
they managed to throw down old pieces of stone, mortar, and other refuse that they scratched out when clearing
their quarters on commencing operations in the spring. On other parts they continually dropped sticks and
twigs that they were bringing to form their nests. To drive them away in any manner except by constant

JACKDAW.

shooting was found impracticable; and tins plan was disapproved of by the owner. The loss of an enormous
quantity of glass was consequently entailed every spring. In chalk-pits these birds are looked upon as an
especial nuisance when they take up their quarters above the spot where the workmen are employed. Some
years ago, while I was shooting a pair or two which I required as specimens, at Offham, near Lewes, I
remarked that the men kept loudly expressing their pleasure as each poor Jack came to grief. One old fellow
was particularly eager to render assistance by driving the birds, though his over-anxiety caused two or three
chances to he lost. I was on the point of inquiring the cause of his animosity, when he removed his hat and
exhibited a plate on his head. This lie stated was the result of a fractured skull, caused by the fall of a piece
of chalk dislodged by a Jackdaw from the upper part of the pit.

We are visited in the autumn by large numbers of these birds that cross the North Sea. I have met with
them frequently on the passage many miles from land, and have also received a few wings from the light-ships
on which they have fallen disabled. Several times after a gale at that period I have seen them floating either
dead or dying on the water, not having had strength sufficient to complete their journey. I am ignorant
whether any return in the spring to the north of Europe, as I have never observed them at that season or
heard of their capture on the light-ships while crossing. In severe weather, when the mixed flights of small
birds migrate along the south coast towards the west, I have occasionally noticed a few Jackdaws following the
same course, generally in company with Looks.

This species is easily accommodated with a nesting-place ; a hole in a tree or a cavity in cliffs (either chalk
°r rocl 0 suits him as well as the comfortable quarters he occasionally secures in a lofty steeple or the
battlements of some antiquated tower. In the Highlands I have frequently found large colonies breeding
in rabbit-burrows. The holes they selected were generally in rough and broken ground on the face of some
steep hill-side. These birds, I believe, do not commence their nesting-operations so early as Rooks. I noticed
two or three pairs on the 28th of March, 1880, attempting to force their way into some holes near the roof
of a large building in a town in Norfolk, where they had previously been in the habit of breeding. During
the winter iron bars had been placed in front of the apertures ; and the noisy and fruitless efforts of the
birds to effect an entrance were most amusing, and were continued at intervals for several days.

On the Bass Rock Jackdaws were formerly common, breeding in holes in the turf near the summit. At
last their depredations on the eggs of the sea-fowl induced the person who hired the rock to take steps to
kill them down. For this purpose lie unfortunately made use of poison laid out on bread and butter, which
certainly had the desired effect on the Jackdaws ; but it also cleared off nearly the whole of the larger Sea-Gulls
that resorted to the rock. Whether the Daws have returned again I am unable to state. On the last occasion
I carefully examined the various birds during the summer, L did not observe a single specimen.

I met with a curious breeding-station of this species within a short distance of the rocks known as the
“ Suitors,” on the coast of Cromarty, overlooking the Moray Firth. The greater number of the nests were
placed among the stalks of the coarse ivy that climbed up the face of the cliffs, in several instances in close
proximity and even joined to those of the Herons, who also breed in the same range of rocks. I did not
observe that they molested their neighbours, though I should imagine an exposed egg must at times have been
a temptation almost too strong to be resisted.

Jackdaws arc in some districts asserted to relieve sheep of a number of the ticks with which they are
infested. As they are, however, declared occasionally to steal a quantity of the wool, it must be doubtful
whether their visits are conducive to the interests of the farmer, or even beneficial to the sheep themselves.

MAGPIE

PICA CAUDATA

In the more northern counties of Scotland the Magpie appears decidedly scarce. A few pairs came under
my observation in the south-east of Sutherlandshire ; and I have also watched a bird or two crossing the
waters of the Kyle from the woods above Bonar Bridge to the opposite shores of Ross-shire. In the latter
county it is not uncommon; in the neighbourhood of Tain several pairs arc to be seen, nesting in some
instances in gardens close to the highroad. In Inverness-shire and Perthshire, the greater part of the country
(with the exception of those portions that are let as “ forests ”) is too well looked after to suit the species*;
still the Magpie is to he met with in certain localities. In the south of Scotland it appears by no means
abundant; during a residence of a couple of years in East Lothian I had but few opportunities of
studying its habits. Over England it is generally distributed ; some twenty years ago it was common in the
east of Sussex, hut its numbers have now decreased. In Yorkshire I have observed lar<?e flocks during
winter, having counted at times between thirty and forty keeping company in the neighbourhood of Doncaster.
In Cornwall I met with several pairs frequenting the vicinity of the coast-line in the western division of the
county during the autumn of 1880.

A male of this species, which I observed flying along the Cornish coast while a fresh breeze from the east
was blowing, exhibited a most singular method of progression. This Magpie (the only one I ever noticed
venturing any distance off the land) was making for the rocks to the west of Lamorna Cove, and was evidently
somewhat incommoded by the length of his tail, which was carried by the wind right underneath the body.
The length of the caudal feathers, and the upright manner in which he was forced to proceed, rendered his
appearance exceedingly strange. Of course it is possible that the bird might have been slightly wounded,
causing the hind quarters to droop ; still I imagine (seldom, if ever, having seen one far from shelter during
a strong breeze) that the Magpie must find his long and handsome tail-feathers difficult to manage if he is
ever in the habit of migrating across the stormy ocean.

There is, I am afraid, hut little that can he said in favour of this showy bird. At certain seasons he is
forced to seek a living by honest means ; hut plunder, such as eggs or young birds, is always preferred when
available. To carrion, I am of opinion, he has not the slightest objection. Having on more than one occasion
closely watched the tactics of an old Magpie busily engaged in foraging for its newly-hatched brood, I conclude
that, after the manner of all the Crow tribe, any small quadrupeds, such as mice or young rats, if caught in the
open, would at once he pounced upon and seized as prey. Doubtless a considerable number of injurious
grubs and insects are also consumed in the course of a year.

Though the Magpie exhibits the greatest caution when aware that his actions are watched, and commonlv
affords an immense amount of labour to those who endeavour to encompass his destruction by means of powder
and shot, yet he speedily falls a victim to a well-laid trap baited with an egg. Early in the spring I have
captured numbers by this bait in both the northern and southern counties. In localities where game-

-MAGPIE.

preserving is neglected, this usually wary species is by no means shy; it is probable that constant persecution
alone accounts for its almost habitual distrust.

I was much amused by the cunning displayed by a female Magpie, who for some time had successfully
dclied all attempts of a keeper who was bent on her destruction. I happened one day to meet the man while
on his way to watch the nest ; and hearing shortly after a couple of shots in the direction he had taken, I made
my way towards the spot. At length I found him beneath a high tree, to the topmost branches of which
be pointed exultingly, declaring the bird was dead in the nest. He stated that almost immediately he had
taken up bis position, the female Magpie came in sight, and after dodging about for a few minutes she made
a straight dash for the nest, and disappeared from sight before lie could take aim. Finding it impossible to
start the bird by means of sticks or stones or striking the stem of the tree, he tired one barrel at the nest,
hoping to stop her by the second as she came out. Nothing beyond a slight fluttering in the nest (which I
suspect was only imaginary) resulting from the shot, he came to the conclusion lie had at last accomplished
bis task. In order, however, to make doubly sure, he fired the second barrel; and no signs of the bird bein'*
visible, be was now perfectly convinced of his success. I eventually learned that his suppositions had proved
erroneous. On meeting the man again a week or so later, be informed me that he had been forced to devote
another half day to lying in wait for this troublesome egg-stealer before he finally got rid of her. It appears
that the bird must have escaped both of the shots fired at the nest, and had simply refused to stir. Probably
her past experiences had enabled her to become acquainted with her assailant, and she had formed a pretty
correct estimate as to the shooting-powers of both man and gun.

The pertinacity with which this species will at times continue to return to some favourite breeding-station
after constant interruption would scarcely be credited by those who have not witnessed the fact. In a small
clump of three or four beech trees, standing in a valley among steep hills in one of the southern counties, there
is every spring a Magpie’s nest. Invariably one or other of the old birds is shot by the keepers; and although
a second may be killed, it not unfrequently happens that a brood succeeds in escaping. Whatever may have
been the slaughter effected during the preceding season, the old clump has hitherto been regularly tenanted by
a pair of Magpies each succeeding spring.

While crossing the downs near Lewes, in company with a keeper, about the middle of May 1872, my
attention was attracted by the curious actions of a Magpie. The bird (a fine male) was flying past at a
great height, when he suddenly wheeled round and pitched straight clown into a stunted thorn bush standing
in a small patch of furze. As we were not above the distance of seventy or eighty yards, and plainly in view
on the bare hill-side, I imagined the bird must have detected some particularly inviting prey concealed in the
cover. In hopes of discovering the cause of this strange performance I approached as quietly as possible, at the
same time sending the man round to the ojiposite side in order that the bird should not escape unobserved.
The bush was not above eight or ten feet high, and the furze but a small patch, perhaps half a dozen yards
across ; still for some time we were unable to catch sight of the bird, which was eventually discovered skulking
in the bottom of the thorn bush. For some unaccountable reason lie resolutely refused for several minutes
to make an attempt to escape, crouching down among the branches and creeping behind the stems of furze
to avoid the stones aimed at him by the keeper. At last he was forced from the scanty cover, and took
wing within a yard or two of where I was standing. As I was in want of a good specimen, I shot the bird,
which proved to be in most perfect plumage. For at least an hour w'e closely searched the patch of furze
and all the surrounding grass without discovering the slightest signs of a nest or any unfledged young.
There was not a vestige of any prey that could possibly have been an attraction and caused him to check his
flight so suddenly. Though it never occurred to me at the moment, I have little doubt that a Peregrine
was the cause of this strange behaviour. The sun w r as shining brightly at the time, and it was almost
impossible to look upwards. AVe had only just caught sight of the Magpie, when he instantly dashed down

MAG PTE.

3

and was hidden from view in the hush. The Falcon might have been within a short distance without
attracting our notice*.

The nest is a large and conspicuous structure, placed at times in some lofty tree, and occasionally in a low
bush or hedge-row. In country districts I have now and then heard it affirmed that the Hedge-Magpie
is a distinct race. The supporters of this view assert that the bird is smaller than the Magpie that resorts
to high woods. My own opinion, of course, agrees with the usual judgment, viz. that the British Islands

contain hut one species.

I have never heard of the Magpie attempting to cross the North Sea; and it seems by nature unfitted
for long journeys. I was, however, somewhat astonished, when living in the east of Ross-slure, to notice
the confiding habits of a few pairs that nested in close proximity to the town of Tain. I particularly
remarked that their manners and customs most closely resembled those of their Scandinavian cousins;
indeed in no part of Great Britain have I met with Magpies so regardless of the presence of human
beino-s. It is true that they did not, like their kinsmen on the opposite coast of Norway, place their
nests on the dwelling-houses themselves; but they built in small trees in the gardens, and showed little
more respect for passers-by than this species exhibits in the outskirts of Christiania and in several of the
neighbouring towns and villages.

* While the above paragraph was passing through the press, I happened to alight upon an account of an unquestionably degenerate sport
termed “ Magpie-hawking.” The description given of the actions of the hunted bird so closely resemble those of the specimen I obtained that I am
convinced a Peregrine must have been the cause of the sudden descent of this Magpie into the thick cover, and also of its subsequent disinclination
to seek safety by flight.

JAY.

GARRULUS GLAND ARIUS.

In none of my notes can I find any record of having observed the Jay further north than Perthshire ; and in
that county I met with it on but few occasions. In the south of Scotland it is less scarce, hut, according to
my own experience, its numbers are kept well within bounds. Throughout England it is to be found in most
wooded districts, more plentiful perhaps in the southern than in other portions of the country. In Middlesex
several pairs of Jays used to frequent some thick coverts about halfway between London and Harrow-on-the-
Hill. These woods must have been a happy resort for vermin in those days (now about thirty years ago), as,
in addition to the Jays (which were abundant), both Magpies and Crows nested in the district, while polecats
and stoats were by no means scarce.

The well-known destructive habits of this species render it a particularly hateful object in the eyes of most
game-keepers ; and as the bird is easily attracted by means of eggs as bait, its numbers are now year by year
rapidly diminishing. I have trapped hundreds early in the spring, in Sussex, before the woods had broken out
in leaf. A small platform or staging, constructed by broken branches, was formed, at the height of about
three feet from the ground, on some bush in an open part of the covert. On this a trap was concealed by
means of litter or dead grass ; and a Thrush’s nest placed at one end completed the very simple but certain
method of capture. Eggs of the Thrush were always preferable to those of the Blackbird, owing to their more
conspicuous colouring ; but I have used the latter with almost equal success. Magpies were also frequently
taken ; and at times an unfortunate squirrel was made prisoner. When placing the traps on the ground, at the
side of a hedgerow or round the outskirts of a wood, I usually baited with the eggs of the tame Pigeon or
domestic Eowl ; and the Carrion-Crow (and, in one instance, the Haven) was now and then secured, in addition
to the usual list of victims.

An old keeper in my father’s service used to declare he shot numbers of Jays by drawing them to the spot
where he was concealed by means of a hedgehog. Ilis plan was to tickle the animal’s legs by scraping them
with the teeth of a comb ; and the shrill yells the unfortunate beastie uttered during the operation were
supposed to attract the Jays. I distinctly remember being present at some of these performances ; but as it
is now nearly five-and- thirty years ago, I am uncertain what amount of success was met with. I, however,
still retain a vivid recollection of the large paper bags full of blue feathers from the wings of his victims, which
the poor old fellow stored up with jealous care, regarding them as a sure source of unlimited wealth.

The Jay, I conclude, is stationary all the year in the districts it inhabits ; and it is probable that our
native birds receive no additions to their numbers from the continent.

The nest is a small collection of rough sticks, neatly lined with fibrous roots. It is generally placed near
the stem of some small tree, at a height of from five to ten feet.

NUTHATCH.

SITTA EUROPE A.

According to ray own observations the range of the Nuthatch is by no means extended in the British Islands.
I have never been able to identify a single specimen, with certainty, further north than Yorkshire. In two
different localities in the southern part of that county (large parks containing scattered timber as well as dense
woods) I have met with a few pairs. Though stragglers have from time to time come under my notice
in the east of Norfolk, the nature of that side of the county is hardly suited to their requirements, and the
species appears in greater numbers to the west of Norwich. In the neighbourhood of llarrow-on-the-IIill, in
Middlesex, I have seen the nest on two or three occasions ; and the birds themselves are tolerably common
during the autumn and winter. It is, however, in the woods of Kent and Sussex that I have had the best
opportunities for studying the habits of the Nuthatch. I am not acquainted with the east of Kent ; but the
bird is common in the well-timbered portion of the county near the Sussex border, and may be found in almost
every wood in the eastern division of the latter county ; it is also abundant (on the north side of the Downs) in
the neighbourhood of Brighton.

To the best of my knowledge, this species is a resident, and seldom strays far from the district it inhabits.
I have met with no evidence of its crossing the North Sea; neither have I observed it on the English Channel
or in the immediate vicinity of the coast.

The Nuthatch is usually noticed solitary or in pairs. On two or three occasions, when cover-shooting late
in the season, I have remarked as many as half a dozen, or even more, showing themselves in rapid succession,
if disturbed by the advance of the beaters. They are, however, by no means shy, and usually afford abundant
opportunities to any one desirous of watching their movements. Their actions while searching the trunks
of trees for food are most interesting, if carefully observed through powerful glasses. Unlike the Wood-
pecker tribe, this species does not make use of its tail as a support while climbing ; it will also descend
the stem or limb of a tree head downwards as readily as it ascends. Though feeding occasionally on nuts,
from which habit I conclude its name is derived, the bird mainly supports itself on insects and larvae, which it
procures from the cracks and crannies in the rough bark of the trees it frequents. I have now and then seen
one rise from the ground (usually an open space in a cover) ; but I never had an opportunity of watching
their actions while in that position.

For breeding-purposes this species resorts most commonly to holes in trees, the entrance to its nursery,
if not according to its taste, being plastered up with mud. In some instances this substance is made use of in

large quantities.

WRYNECK

YUNX TORQUILLA.

The Wryneck is only a summer visitor to the British Islands, arriving early in April, and, after rearing its
young, leaving our shores about the end of August or early in September. The latest date on which I have
noticed one was on the 5th of September ; this was within a few hundred yards of the sea-coast. In most
of the southern and eastern counties a few pairs are to be met with scattered over the wooded portions
of the country, though in no locality I am acquainted with can it be termed abundant. Ou a fine spring
morning during the second week in April, I have on one or two occasions in Sussex met with as many as half a
dozen specimens within a short distance of one another, along a hedgerow, on a rough grassy bank. These,
however, were birds that had just landed, and were taking their first rest after making the passage of the
Channel. On visiting the spot a few hours later it would be found that the whole of them had shifted their
quarters further inland. I can find no entry in my note-books concerning observations on this species further
north than Norfolk ; and I am unable to call to mind a single instance where I have recognized it in either the
more northern counties of England or the south of Scotland.

Owing to the sober tints of its beautifully marked and variegated plumage, this is by no means an
attractive species, and, except on its first arrival (when its subdued though somewhat striking note is heard),
it might easily escape the observation of those who are not accustomed to its habits or actions. The cry
somewhat resembles the words “ peu, peu, peu,” repeated six, eight, ten, or even a dozen times in rapid
succession.

The Wryneck, when unmolested, is most unsuspicious of danger, and is an exceedingly amusing visitor
to watch while taking up its residence for the summer months in an orchard or shrubbery. Occasionally
the young are reared in close proximity to dwelling-houses. A brood were pointed out to me some years
back, near the small village of Plumpton, in Sussex, in a hole in an apple-tree standing at the distance of
only three or four feet from the door of a cottage. The woman who lived there was particularly anxious I
should make away with the family, as she declared they one and all “ bussed ” at her every time the door was
opened ; and she had a notion they were “ unlucky birds.” This was the first and only time I have heard such
an idea expressed with regard to this species.

The remarkably elongated tongue of the Wryneck clearly indicates that it is intended by nature to procure
its living in somewhat the same manner as the Woodpecker tribe. Ants and their eggs, together with insects
of various kinds, form probably the chief or the whole of its diet.

Wryneck, and Cuckoo’s mate, appear to be the commonest titles for this species. Any one who has
quietly watched one of these birds sunning itself on the limb of a tree, and carefully noted all the
contortions it will go through (elongating its neck and twisting it in the most extraordinary manner,
while adding to the strangeness of its attitudes by occasionally raising and dropping its feathers so as
to admit the warmth of the sun), will easily recognize the derivation of the name. The date of its arrival,

2

WRYNECK.

usually within a few days of the Cuckoo, accounts for its being termed, in certain districts, the Cuckoo’s
mate.

Eor breeding-purposes these birds resort to holes in trees, making use of those that are formed by accident
or decay; at times they take up their quarters in the deserted domicile of the Woodpecker. I have never
detected any materials brought in to form a cradle for the young, though I notice some writers mention the
nest of this species.

CREEPER.

CERTHIA FAMILIARIS.

I cannot call to mind noticing the Creeper in Caithness or among the Hebrides. With these exceptions,
I have found this active species scattered over the wooded portions of most of the English and Scotch
counties from Sussex to Sutherland.

These birds, I believe, seldom stray far from the district they frequent ; I have on hut few occasions seen
them, unless in the vicinity of trees of considerable size or age. During autumn and winter they now and
then join in company for a time with the flocks of various kinds of Tits that are to he seen busily engaged
in searching for insect food through the woods and coverts. Their habit of commencing to hunt the lower
portion of the trunk of a tree, gradually working upwards, and rapidly disappearing round the stem if
alarmed, readily indicates the species if intermixed with other small birds. When the upper branches are
reached they flit downwards towards the next tree they intend to search, and in this manner work their
way through the woods. Their association with the Paridae is usually of but short duration should their
companions be inclined to shift their quarters to any distance. I have noticed this in the Highlands when a
river was crossed by the main flock, and also in Sussex, where the change was but from one plantation to
another.

Since the above lines were written, I remarked a Creeper in company with Coal Tits as early in the season
as the 9th of August. My attention was first attracted by the lively party of eight or ten Tits flitting through
the branches of a beech-grove in the interior of Sussex. I was somewhat astonished when, a few moments
later, a single Creeper made his appearance, steadily working his way from tree to tree, and keeping pace
with the Tits as they advanced. Owing to the dense foliage, it was by no means easy to retain the birds in
view ; but I managed to watch the Tits to the end of a ride that led through the wood, when they turned
back and disappeared in the thick cover. As far as I could judge, the Creeper parted from the rest of the
company at this point, and struck out a line for himself.

Insects appear to be the principal support of the old birds ; and I could detect that they brought no other
food to their young when I have watched them engaged in supplying their wants.

Eor nesting-purposes this species resorts to a variety of situations. Holes in old timber, or the gaps
between the slabs in a dry stone dyke*, are frequently made use of in the Highlands. I have also seen
the nest in the cavities among the roots of an old dead stump. In this instance the birds had chosen a
subterranean domicile, as the nest was some distance below the level of the ground. In Sussex, on two
or three occasions in remote country districts, I met with nests placed in wooden dwelling-houses and also
in sheds. In one case a knot had dropped out of the timber and afforded an entrance to the spot selected ;
but usually a rotten or defective plank supplied the means of ingress. Their nest is not elaborately put
together ; but is usually a warm and cosy collection of grass, wool, and feathers, screened by its hidden position
from all effects of wind and weather.

* A wall built without mortar.

GREEN WOODPECKER,

PICUS FIRIDIS.

In the forest district of Sussex I have met with considerable numbers of this species. It also appears very
generally distributed over most of the southern and eastern counties : I cannot, however, assert that I have
observed it further north than Norfolk. In the dusk of a gloomy October evening, some twenty years ago, I
caught sight of two birds much resembling Green Woodpeckers in the Tynningham Woods on the coast of
East Lothian. It was impossible to identify them with certainty, owing to the rapidly increasing twilight and
the momentary glimpse I was able to obtain as they dashed across the road. From inquiries I have made among
keepers and foresters in the North, and also from my own observations, I am of opinion that this species must
be of very unfrequent occurrence in Scotland. The call of the bird is so remarkable that it is almost
impossible they could be residents in any district without attracting attention. The note must be heard
to be thoroughly understood ; and I can only describe it as a high-toned scream of laughter. I have no
evidence that this species is migratory, or that the British Islands are ever visited by flights from the
continent.

It is only in Sussex that I have met with opportunities of closely studying the habits of the Green Wood-
pecker. I particularly remarked, in both the eastern and central parts of the county, that, with but few
exceptions, these birds resorted to beech trees for breeding-purposes. Deserted and recent borings may be
found in all quarters of Balcombe Forest, wherever their favourite trees arc situated. Large beeches are
scattered over the greater portion of that wild and picturesque locality; and though the majority are still sound,
the birds appear to have but little difficulty in selecting any number they may require in which decay has
already set in. Many of these forest giants measure from five to seven feet in diameter ; and the immense
quantity of chips that this Woodpecker throws out while boring into such ponderous stems often presents a
most curious sight, if examined when the work has been recently executed. I have repeatedly come across
heaps of at least from one to two bushels of chips piled up at the roots of the tree ; and in two or three instances
I have arrived on the spot while the boring was being carried on. Every few seconds the head of the bird is
seen at the entrance of the hole with a chip in its bill ; this it immediately drops, and at once returns for a
fresh supply. Where the wood is soft, it appears that the holes are very rapidly excavated; I have noticed
large heaps of debris accumulated in a short space of time. It is, I believe, usually supposed that the boring is
a straight entrance or hole and then takes a downward course till the depth at which the bird desires to deposit
its eggs is arrived at. This is not invariably the case, as, in a boring I cut out near the western extremity of
Balcombe Forest, I discovered the bird had constructed a most curious winding passage. Luckily the tree
was particularly rotten, so the labour was slight, or I might have had an undertaking of some hours to follow
all the curves and turns that the architect had fashioned. For between two and three feet the hole was cut
straight into the stem, next turning downwards for some eight or ten inches, then brought for about a foot in
the direction of the entrance, and finally carried downwards to the depth of fifteen or sixteen inches. In

2

GREEN WOODPECKER.

trees where only a small
distance into the stem.

portion of the timber was unsound, I discovered the borings extended but a short

1 noticed on several occasions that the male takes part in the duty of incubation and also of feeding the

g. n order to ascertain this fact I captured four birds while on their eggs; and in three instances those
I secured were males.

young.

The sexes may be easily distinguished, as the hlack mark that stretches like a moustache from below each
side of the beak contains a small patch of red feathers in the male ; these are absent in the female. Before the
young birds quit the nest a few of these bright feathers have already made their appearance. The eye of the
nestling I remarked was a dirty greyish white. The hissing and snapping noise emitted by a brood of youim
^ oodpeckers while in the nest would most probably deter any one unacquainted with their note from exploring

the hole in which they were concealed without due caution, as the sound could hardly he expected to proceed
from a bird. r

Among the food which this species conveys to its young I have found small insects of various kinds, spiders,
ants and their eggs. The mouth and throat of an old male (killed accidentally while shooting specimens of the
young) were greatly distended by a large quantity of two different kinds of ants’ eggs, as well as numbers of the
insects themselves.

WOODPECKER.

GREAT SPOTTED

FICUS MAJOR.

Though this species is occasionally observed in considerable numbers on the north-cast coast of Scotland at the
time of migration, I am of opinion it is by no means plentiful at the present date in the Highlands. The
remains of the old timber in the valley of the Spey, and in many other parts of Inverness and the adjoining
counties, indicate that Woodpeckers were formerly numerous in those districts. From reports I have gathered
from keepers and foresters in the various glens, I conclude the birds must have belonged to this species. On
some of the largest and oldest trees I have counted from twenty to thirty holes bored right into the centre of
the stem. According to the statements of my informants, it appears that these Woodpeckers commenced to
decrease in numbers about 1845 or 1850. In many parts of the country only an occasional straggler was seen
for nearly thirty years. I discovered, however, on passing through several of these localities in 1878 and 1879,
that a few pairs had lately taken up their quarters in these long-deserted haunts. The cause of their dis-
appearance in the first instance was perfectly unaccountable to all those with whom I conversed on the
subject.

Squirrels were accused by the keepers of destroying the nests of Crossbills and Siskins in some of the districts
where the W oodpecker had previously been abundant, I perceive these animals are supposed by more than
one writer to be responsible for the scarcity of Ficus major. This is a subject on which I will not venture an
opinion. Though I have frequently trapped squirrels by means of eggs, I never saw one in the act of preying
on either young birds or eggs, and am consequently unable to give any information concerning their predatory
habits on my own authority.

In Cumberland and Yorkshire I met with a few pairs of Larger Spotted Woodpeckers during the summer
months in districts where large timber abounded. Norfolk appears to be the most northern county in which
this species is to be found in any numbers. Occasionally, during the autumn and early winter, I have come
across a few birds in the plantations near the coast. These, in every instance where I obtained a chance of
examining them, were in the immature stage and, I believe, migrants from the north of Europe. I can find
no evidence among my notes of having received wings from the lightships off the east coast; so I conjecture
it is most probable these birds were stragglers from some flock that had first made the land on the inhospitable
shores of Shetland or Orkney, Caithness or Eastern lloss, and then gradually worked their way towards the
south. In the vicinity of Norwich this Woodpecker is by no means uncommon ; and there are also residents in
various other parts of the county. Throughout Kent, Sussex, and Surrey this species is very generally
distributed. I have observed a few specimens in several other counties in addition to those named ; and I
believe the bird is more common than is usually supposed.

The food of this species is composed of insects of various kinds, for the most part extracted from the rou»h
bark of trees. I have observed the young fed on the flying ant, also a mixture of flies, grubs, and other small
insects. Should the old bird be shot while carrying this description of food, it will be found that the greater

2

GREAT SPOTTED WOODPECKER.

portion of the insects are alive— a black heaving mass, about the size of a Blackbird’s egg, completely cramming
the mouth and throat, and at times even forcing apart the upper and lower mandibles to a considerable extent.

Although this W oodpcckcr, like others of the family, makes use of many varieties of trees for breeding-
purposes, I remarked in certain districts almost every nest would be found in the same description of timber.
In the Highlands (though few nests now occupied have come under my observation) I noticed this bird breeding
in Scotch fir and birch. With scarcely a single exception the old borings I examined in the forests were in
Scotch fir. Elm and oak appear most frequently resorted to in the more southern counties; but I have also
met with broods in several varieties of fruit-trees as well as willow and fir. The last nest I examined was in a
remarkably high Scotch fir in one of the Sussex forests. The tree was rotten in the heart; and the bird
appeared to have first taken up its quarters at the time when the decomposition set in. The highest borin'-'
was near the summit of the dead limb ; and at short intervals a fresh entrance had been made as the decay
progressed. Nine holes were counted in a space of about fifteen or sixteen feet, the young birds being
discovered on their usual bed about a foot or fifteen inches below the level of the lowest boring. The diameter
of this hole was exactly 2J inches ; it was impossible to judge the size of the others, as decay had already set
in round the edges.

Towards the end of September 18GS the north-east coast of Scotland was visited by a large flight of
■Woodpeckers, scattered birds being noticed in the district for at least ten days or a fortnight. Those that
came under my own observation were, in several instances, in most unusual situations. I noticed a few on the
coast near Dornoch ; and in the dusk of a misty evening, with the wind blowing strong from the east, I passed
numbers fluttering along the sandy links, and sheltering among the rough bushes on the Ross-sliire side of
the Dornoch Firth. They were especially numerous along the narrow strip of sand leading towards the Mickle
Ferry. Judging by the worn and ragged condition of two or three I shot, and others that were picked up disabled,
I imagine they must have met with rough weather on their passage, and also that the portion of the coast on
which they had been driven was unsuited to their habits and requirements. From reports received from keepers
and others in the neighbourhood, I learned the flight extended along the coast-line for many miles. Several
of the birds that had been shot were brought or sent to me in order to be identified, a few from remote districts
arriving in the shape of skins *. All I examined were in immature plumage and, for the most part, in very
poor condition. From those I shot and picked up I did not reserve a single specimen, owing to the ragged
and dirty state of their feathers. In consequence of the excessive weakness of the greater number met with,
it is probable that but a small percentage would regain sufficient strength to enable them to continue their
journey. A dozen or so of dead bodies were passed during one morning along the shore ; and for a week or two
longer I noticed a few single birds in the woods on both sides of the Firth. These cannot have remained
long in the district, as after the end of the first week in October I did not observe any specimens in the
vicinity of the coast, although I remained a year longer on the shores of the Firth.

The cry of the male is two or three notes of a low whistle, uttered most commonly in the spring, just
before the breeding-season. I have, however, heard it on several occasions after the young were hatched.
Whether the female has the same note I am unable to state. I remarked that the only sound produced by one
I prevented for several hours from visiting her brood was a sharp klick, something resembling the noise by

* Although I am unable to record with certainty the fact that I have obtained the White-backed Woodpecker (Ficus leuconotus) in the British
Islands, I consider it may not be out of placo to state that this species has, without doubt, occurred on our shores. Some years after returning to
the south, I happened to discover one of the skins previously mentioned in a box of nests and other materials brought from the north. I was
immediately struck by the appearance of the specimen, and, on comparing it with a skin of P. leuconotus, there was not the slightest doubt as to its
identity. At the time ttio birds wero killed I had no works that alluded to this species, and consequently imagined all those that came under my
notice were simply immature specimens of P. major. I should not have mentioned this fact, had I not considered it highly probable that one at
least of thoso 1 shot (and failed to preserve, owing to their ragged condition) also belonged to this northern species.

GREAT SPOTTED WOODPECKER.

3

which impatient horsemen are supposed to urge on their unwilling steeds. Flying to the topmost branches
of one of the adjacent trees, she uttered this note once or twice at short intervals, and speedily dashed off
into the depths of the forest, returning again from time to time to discover if it was possible to make
her way to her nest, which Avas placed in a large Scotch fir. On one occasion during her absence my attention
was attracted by a Coal Tit, who was diligently searching for food to convey to his brood, cunningly concealed
in a rotten stump at no great distance. While closely inspecting the limbs of the fir, he became aware of the
holes in the trunk, and instantly popped into the very one in which the young Woodpeckers were quietly
reposing. Startled by his unexpected appearance, or mistaking him for the shadow of their absent parent,
the whole family at once broke out into full cry ; and I never saw a bird make a hasty retreat with greater
signs of alarm than poor Farm atcr exhibited as he dashed from the hole and disappeared in the thickest of
the surrounding cover.

If taken when young, these Woodpeckers are easily reared in confinement. Those I secured as specimens
were procured in Sussex, the brood having been hatched in a large Scotch fir. The loud cries they emitted
from the inside of the tree led me to believe (though unable to obtain a glimpse of them) that they must
be ready to take their departure. On cutting an opening into the stem, I was surprised to discover my
supposition was entirely wrong. Though the quills were plainly showing, there was not a single feather
opened on any of the young birds. As I had shot botli male and female, it was useless to leave them longer ;
so giving each of the four that composed the brood a good feed from the immense hall of insects I found in
the mouth of one of their defunct parents, together with some pieces of raw beef, which I had brought with
me in case it might he needed, I was enabled to satisfy their wants for the time. Being regularly supplied
with raw beef, as well as a few worms, insects, and ants’ eggs, their feathers rapidly expanded.

The following dates, taken from my notes jotted down at the time, will show the rate at which their
plumage was assumed : —

“June 3rd. Young Woodpeckers taken from the nest; only pin-feathers visible. There was but little
difference in the size of the brood of four ; two, however, were slightly larger, as well as decidedly more
vigorous.

“June 4th. All grown considerably, and feathers expanding rapidly. The two largest pecking and
hammering round the woodwork of their cage.

“ June 8tli. The tail-feathers making their appearance.

“ June 9tli. One or two commenced to call, the note being similar to the whistle of the old male.

“ June 14th. As the two largest and strongest persisted in knocking the smaller and weaker birds from
their perches, they were killed today, being now full-fledged, and in the state in which they were required as
specimens. Eye dark hazel. Beak dark slate. Feet and legs pale slate. These two I conjectured were
males, the crowns of their heads being entirely covered by crimson feathers, while the smaller birds exhibited
but an exceedingly minute patch of this colour. One of the weakest of the brood showed a pale pink mark
on the feathers in the centre of the breast.

“June 21st. The two remaining birds were now full-fledged, and consequently shared the same fate as
their companions. These were both faintly marked with pink in the centre of the breast. By this time I
discovered the small patch of crimson on the head had increased, and there was not the slightest difference
in the plumage of the four young ones that composed the brood, with the exception of the pale pink spot in
the centre of the breast of the two more backward birds. From this evidence I think we may fairly state
that, in their first feathers, the male and female of the Great Spotted Woodpecker show the same amount of
crimson on the head.”

LESSER SPOTTED WOODPECKER.

FICUS MINOR .

It is only m Sussex that I have met with the chance of closely studying the habits of the Lesser Spotted
Woodpecker. With the exception of two or three pairs in Norfolk, and a stray bird or two in Middlesex,
Surrey, and Kent, I have never positively identified this species in either England or Scotland. In the
southern and eastern counties, I am of opinion that this Woodpecker is of much more frequent occurrence than
is generally supposed, its small size and common habit of seeking its food in the upper branches of large
trees enabling it to escape observation unless closely searched for.

I noticed that these birds, during winter and early spring, appear to have a regular course which they
pursue from day to day. I repeatedly timed them arriving at certain trees from the same direction almost to
the minute, and, after remaining their usual time among the branches, departing, if undisturbed, in the very
line they had taken on the previous day. During the breeding-season the cares of providing for their young
probably compel them to shorten their wanderings; and I have never noticed at that season the same
regularity with regard to the course they follow. This custom is, I believe, common to all our British
Woodpeckers, though I have not so frequently observed it in the two larger species.

Borings of the Lesser Spotted Woodpecker are to be met with in several varieties of forest timber, and
also in apple-, plum-, and other fruit-trees. The breeding-quarters these birds resort to vary considerably in
height. I have often both heard and seen them excavating holes near the uppermost parts of some tall
poplars in the well-wooded district just north of the range of the South Downs ; and on two or three occasions
I observed their nests at no greater elevation than from five to six feet above the ground.

Though usually somewhat shy, and, as a rule, selecting their breeding-stations in some quiet spot where
they are free from constant observation or interruption, I discovered a brood of young in a pear-tree standing
not more than four or five yards from the door of a cottage, in a village of some considerable size. On
examining the hole, which was placed at such a low elevation as to be easily inspected without mounting
the tree, the young (though unable to fly any distance) hurriedly made their escape, climbing rapidly to the
upper branches, where the old birds were lluttering round in the greatest consternation. Being in want of
specimens at this particular age, I had little difficulty in capturing the whole brood, consisting of four. There
Avas not the slightest difference in the size and plumage of the three largest, the crowns of their heads beiim
strongly marked with red; one was somewhat smaller, and exhibited but few red feathers on the head. From
the observations made while rearing the Great Spotted Woodpeckers, I have not the slightest doubt that
in a few days this bird would have assumed the same plumage as the rest of the brood. It is, I consider,
quite clear that there is little or no difference between the immature males and females till after the first
moult. The food brought by the old birds appeared similar to that procured by the Greater Spotted, viz.
flying ants and other small insects, with a few grubs and caterpillars. This garden appeared to possess some
peculiar attractions for the Woodpecker tribe. The previous season a pair of the Great Spotted Woodpeckers

2

LESSER SPOTTED WOODPECKER.

had reared their young in an adjoining tree, the two limbs being within a few feet of one another. When
examined side by side, it was easy to distinguish the difference in the size of the holes cut by the two
species, the cnti*ance to the nursery of Ficus minor being about half an inch smaller in diameter than that
required by his larger relative.

The note of the male is a low whistle, repeated two or three times in succession.

I was assured by a gardener in the interior of Sussex that this species was destructive to peas. He
showed me two or three he had shot while protecting these vegetables from the attacks of Hawfinches and
Sparrows. There was not the slightest doubt as to the identity of the birds, and I fully believe they were
killed where the man described (I have repeatedly seen a pair or two frequenting the garden) ; but that the
peas were the object of their visit I can scarcely credit.

C tu (GJiCGO

CUCKOO.

CUCULUS CAN ORUS.

There are few parts of Great Britain to which the Cuckoo is not a well-known summer visitor, bein«-
especially numerous in some of the wildest districts of the north of Scotland. The rocks and heather of the
Highland glens arc fully as attractive to this singular species as the plantations and extensive reed-beds of
the east of Norfolk or the furze-covered downs of Sussex. After reaching our shores in spring, Cuckoos
apparently proceed with but little delay towards their haunts, few remaining for any length of time in the
neighbourhood of the coast. Por a day or so they may he seen flitting along the hedgerows, invariably
attracting attention as they flap slowly over the bushes (their manner of flight somewhat resembling that of
the smaller Hawks) ; the wanderers, however, speedily pass over, and the vicinity of the shore is deserted, except
by an occasional straggler, till the return journey is entered upon early in autumn.

It is probable that Cuckoos return regularly to their accustomed haunts, from which during the season
they seldom stray any considerable distance. Though failing to catch a glimpse of the bird, I was frequently
informed a few years back, by keepers, shepherds, and others, of a Cuckoo exhibiting red or tawny
plumage, that was seen for two or three seasons resorting to a well-sheltered valley in the South Downs.
During the latter part of May and early in June 1870 I repeatedly observed a male of this species, showing a
broad patcli of white on the wings, skimming over the marshes and round the reed-beds about Ilickling Broad
in Norfolk; in the following year a bird with much the same markings was again seen frequenting the
same localities.

Though several facts still remain to be ascertained, the breeding-habits of the Cuckoo have been so fully
described by many authors that most of the peculiarities of this singular species are now generally well known
to all who take an interest in bird-life ; the extraordinary manner in which the young eject their companions
from the nest has also been accurately depicted. The observations that I have been enabled to make on this
subject throw no further light on the habits of the bird, and may consequently he passed over.

The following extracts from my notes for May 1872 tend to prove that the egg is laid on the ground and
then conveyed to the nest. Having marked down a Green Sandpiper, in a dyke in the Potter-Heigham
marshes, I followed the bank round towards the spot where the bird was lost sight of. On looking cautiously
over a thorn bush which had effectually concealed my approach, the Sandpiper rose and was at once
secured. At the report of the gun a Cuckoo fluttered from the sloping bank within a yard of where I stood,
and on examining the spot (a bare patch among brambles, weeds, and rough grass) an egg was discovered
lying on the ground. There could not he the slightest doubt as to its identity, and the bird was evidently a
female ; in all probability, unless so suddenly alarmed, she would have removed it on rising on wing.

I am inclined to believe that whatever may he the position of the nest, the egg is invariably laid on the
ground and then transported to the spot selected. In May 1883 I happened to catch sight of a female
Cuckoo skimming slowly over a rush-marsh in the east of Norfolk ; a Pipit was following closely in attendance,

CUCKOO.

2

and while for a few moments she swooped down into the grass the poor little bird hovered round with
quivering wings exhibiting the greatest distress. Under the impression that the Cuckoo must at that
moment have deposited her egg in the nest of the Pipit, I was proceeding to examine the spot, when it was
discovered that a plank forming the footway across a marsh-dyke had been removed, and my visit was deferred
till another day. Again and again I passed the marsh, occasionally noticing one or other of the Pipits,
though the plank still being absent the small drain in which the old Cuckoo was lost sight of remained
unexplored. It, was not till some weeks later, when a young Cuckoo attended by a Pipit was observed on the
marsh wall *, that I made my way towards the spot previously mentioned, when a nest, evidently but lately
deserted, was at once detected. There were undoubted signs that a juvenile Cuckoo had occupied the nest;
an egg also was lying in the grass near at hand, though I was unable to find the remains of any of the
unfortunates that ought in the usual course of affairs to have been ejected. It is very probable, however,
that the youngsters when turned out may have been picked up by a passing Hook or Crow; and rats, I
also obtained good evidence, were extremely active in the immediate neighbourhood. Prom the actions of
the Pipits and the date of the appearance of the young Cuckoo I am convinced that the egg was deposited in
the manner described ; should my conjecture prove correct, it is evident that the Cuckoo merely skims down
to the nest, inserts her egg, and immediately departs.

No one who has watched the female attended from time to time by her numerous admirers can possibly
imagine that Cuckoos pair ; while fishing quietly in some sheltered corner among the reed-beds of the
Norfolk broads, or resting on the breezy downs of Sussex, I have met with ample opportunities of observing
their habits during summer.

A long list of the birds to whose charge the Cuckoo commits its offspring has been given by several
authors ; the nests in which I have found the eggs are but five in number — Meadow-Pipit, Reed- Warbler,
Iledge-Sparrow, Pied Wagtail, and Robin. On the downs of Sussex, as well as on the moorlands of Perthshire
and other northern counties, I remarked that Cuckoos most frequently consigned their eggs to the care
of Meadow-Pipits. In the broad district of the east of Norfolk the swaying cradles of the Reed- Wren appear
to be largely patronized, though I have noticed a few young birds being fed by the Pipits that breed along
the rough banks in the drier parts of the rush-marshes.

On the 18th of June, 1873, a Cuckoo that had recently left the nest was watched for some time in one of
the sheltered valleys on the South Downs between Palmer and Lewes while attended by a pair of Meadow-
Pipits, and a specimen being required, the youngster was shot, when it proved blind in both eyes. I remarked
that the foster-parents had at times hovered round their charge, probably in some manner directing its
movements, as it occasionally settled among the low twigs of the stunted thorn bushes f .

The note of the Cuckoo may be heard at all hours of the night. I find the following entry in my journal
for 18GS, under date of May 17th, jotted down while driving through the Western Highlands: — “On pulling
up at the Inn at Kenlochewe half an hour after midnight a Cuckoo was calling loudly in the plantations round
the building; others were also heard before daylight as we proceeded on our way towards the east.” In the
neighbourhood of the Norfolk broads these birds are at times exceedingly noisy during the night. While on
Ilickling Broad an hour before daybreak on t he 15th of June, 1873, the continued jarring of the Night-Hawks
and the calls of the Cuckoos, coupled with the discordant sounds arising from the Sedge-birds and frogs in
the reed-beds, rendered it utterly impossible to distinguish the note of a small Warbler that I believed to be
in the locality.

Though the Cuckoo has been repeatedly charged with destroying the eggs of game, I must confess that

* The embankments thrown up to hold back the waters of the broads, meres, or livers aro termed “ walls " in this part of .Norfolk,
t The interior of the mouth of this specimen was exceedingly bright orange ; legs and feet pale lemon-yellow, shaded with a tinge of ochre;
the eyes a dull grey tint and evidently sightless.

CUCKOO.

3

this habit has entirely escaped my notice. It was recently asserted by a well-known sportsman in the < Field ’
that a keeper had watched a Cuckoo carry off the egg of a Pheasant from the nest, and also shot the thief
while consuming the plunder. In order to inquire more fully into the matter, I requested the address of the
man, and ascertained the facts to be as follows :-The keeper happened to have noticed a Pheasant’s nest
from which several eggs had disappeared, and imagining that a shepherd boy was the culprit, concealed
himself in a hedgerow to watch the spot; almost immediately a Cuckoo alighted in an oak tree and shortly
after flew down and carried an egg some ten or a dozen yards on to the open ground. While in the act of
sucking it the bird was shot, and close at hand were found the shells of the eggs previously stolen from the
nest. In answer to a question as to the manner in which the egg was transported, my informant stated
that the bird appeared to have pecked a hole in the shell before taking it in its bill. Two cases in which
Cuckoos destroyed the eggs of Wood-Pigeons had also come under his observation, the eggs in both instances
being sucked on the nests. It was only in the summer of 1881, when all the smaller birds were scarce, owin-
to the wide-spread destruction caused by the severity of the winter, that the keeper had noticed Cuckoos
attack the eggs of either Pheasants or Pigeons. This man evidently considered eggs the natural food of the
Cuckoo small, perhaps, preferred, as a rule, but the larger taken without hesitation in the absence of the
former. More recently he had shot a female Cuckoo which had settled on a rough bank by the nest of a
Robin, and devoured in succession the contents of three eggs. He also informed me that he had seen a female
Cuckoo sitting on the nest of a Spotted Flycatcher* where she remained for some time; this latter
statement by no means corresponds with my own observations, which would lead to the belief that the egg
is laid on the ground and then conveyed to the nest.

If the Cuckoo is as destructive to eggs as its accusers declare, it appears strange that the depredations
of a species so widely distributed have hitherto escaped my observation : I have also great doubts as to whether
^ beak of a Cuckoo is sufficiently powerful to break the egg of a Pheasant. Many years ago I frequently
assisted^the keepers in killing down Jays, Magpies, and Crows during spring in a densely wooded district in the
east of Sussex. These robbers were captured in traps baited with the eggs of Thrushes or Pigeons ; but though
Cuckoos were exceedingly numerous not a single bird was taken.

Letters also appeared in the * Field ’ during the first quarter of 1882 asserting that the Cuckoo had been
discovered to feed largely on the eggs of small birds. The only instance I ever met with in any manner
corroborating this supposed habit occurred many years ago in Sussex. While passing a thick clump of holly
bushes a Cuckoo blundered out within a yard, and on examining the spot I discovered the nest of a Hedge-
Sparrow containing one egg, the shell of which exhibited two small slits or cuts apparently caused by the
beak of a bird. On further search being made, another egg, entirely uninjured, was detected on the ground
below the nest.

Within the last few years I ascertained from the natives in a remote district of the eastern counties that
the belief still exists that the Cuckoo turns into a Hawk durin" winter.

* The Flycatcher was referred to as a “ nay-builder ” (a name not unfrequently bestowed on the Whitethroat in Sussex) ; there was, however,
uo doubt as to the species, the nest being built on the limb of a trained fruit-tree, and the habits and plumage of the bird accurately described.

FEMALE A NESTLINGS

NIGHTJAR.

CAPRIMULGUS EURO PAJUS.

I have met with this singular bird in every county in which I have passed the summer months, from Sussex
to Sutherland. Though I failed to notice the species in Caithness, it is probably to be found in the southern
or more wooded portion, the barren and treeless moors of the central and northern parts of the county being
perhaps unsuited to its habits. Throughout the Long Island I never observed a single specimen, though often
crossing the hills at all hours of the day and night. In the east of Ross-shire it appears as numerous as in
the south of England ; indeed I am acquainted with no part of Great Britain where the bird is so plentiful as
on the hill of Tarlogic near Tain.

I he Nightjar is only a summer visitor to our islands, and is rarely seen before the end of the first week in
May. If met with at sea on a fine still morning, while making the passage of the Channel, its curious flight
would mislead any one unacquainted with its habits at this season. I have known several instances where
this species has been mistaken for a large Petrel— its flight, as it turns and twists over the water, now hovering
ior a moment over a submerged butterfly or moth, and again dashing rapidly after some passing insect, much
resembling that of the wandering sea-bird that is supposed to be the harbinger of storm and tempest. Every
other migrant I am acquainted with pursues its course with but slight deviation from the point for which it is
making ; this species, however, may frequently be observed hawking about over salt water in much the same
manner as a Swallow or Martin over a pond or river. On one occasion I carefully noted the movements of a
party of two or three of these birds skimming round the steamboat from which I was watching them. The sea
was without a ripple ; and every action, as they rose or fell in the air or darted over the surface, was plainly
visible ; and I was easily able to keep them in view for at least a quarter of an hour, though now and then
at a distance of three or four hundred yards. To the best of my recollection I have never noticed one of these
birds at sea after eight or nine o’clock in the morning ; and I believe they generally reach the coast at a still
earlier hour. It is a singular fact that, although they by no means hasten their journey over the Channel, and
remain (as previously descrihcd) for a considerable time either searching for food or sweeping in a sportive manner
over the surface, I have never noticed one so engaged over any of the inland waters in the neighbourhood of
their summer haunts. I have studied their habits in the vicinity of highland lochs and the larger broads in
the eastern counties, and have been unable to record a single instance where they followed their prey over the
surface of either loch or broad.

The Nightjar (as its name implies) is never heard, and seldom seen, by day, unless disturbed from the
spot where it is resting. It is usually Hushed from the bare ground in a ride through a wood or an open space
on a moor or down, usually at only a short distance from some bush of furze, rank heather, or other mountain-
plant. If cautiously approached, the bird may be noticed squatting almost Hat on the ground, with the head
drawn back between the shoulders, and the eyes either entirely or partly closed. It now and then takes
up its quarters for its daily rest in somewhat curious situations : I have repeatedly started one from garden-

NIGHTJAR.

scats or chairs, and more than once from flower-beds, as well as garden-paths. This has usually occurred soon
after their arrival or shortly before their departure in the autumn.

On fine still nights the Nightjar may often be seen rising from the centre of a dusty road, dashing out of
sight for a moment or two, and again coming into view as it settles at a short distance further ahead. This
curious performance is supposed to be induced by the habit of dusting itself, in which the bird is said to
indulge. It is quite possible that this may be the case, though, owing to the darkness, I was never able
to ascertain its actions on the ground.

During the autumn months the Nightjar may frequently be observed at dusk darting round the chimneys
and up and down the streets of towns in the neighbourhood of the sea-coast. I distinctly watched one of
these birds, through the gloom of an impending storm, alight on the roof of a house in Yarmouth ; the
position it took up was lengthways on a ridge-tile.

The remarkable serrated claw on the centre toe of this species is frequently supposed by country people to
assist the bird in clearing the scales or down of the moths it captures from its mouth and bristles. For my
own part, I am of opinion that the true use of this singularly formed claw has not yet been discovered.

As the sun disappears the well-known whirring note of the Nightjar maybe heard resounding far and
near through its haunts. Perched on the limb of a tree in the outskirts of a dense covert or a straggling
plantation, the bird gives utterance to the strange jarring sounds that, even when listened to at a short distance,
appear as they rise and fall in the silence of the wood, now loud and then almost imperceptible, to spring first
from one quarter and the next moment from an entirely opposite direction. A warm still evening in June is
the time to study the note of this singular bird; in cold, wet, or stormy weather, when the wind whistles
through the trees, the note of the Nightjar may be awaited in vain, or, at most, a single whirr will be detected
in some sheltered corner.

The food of this species consists, I believe, entirely of moths, beetles, and other nocturnal insects. It is
not only perfectly harmless, but most useful in clearing off a superabundance of destructive insects. Five-
and-twenty or thirty years ago I have heard one or two keepers in the southern counties declare they were
allied to the Hawk tribe, and the poor birds suffered in consequence. This exceedingly mistaken idea has,
I believe, now entirely disappeared, and for years I have never, either in England or Scotland, met with a
single guardian of the preserves who was not perfectly acquainted with their habits.

Nightjar and Goatsucker arc the commonest of the titles by which this species is known. In some
localities it is styled the Nighthawk, Evejar, and Fern-Owl. The reason for the appellation of Goatsucker is
too ridiculous to need a word of explanation.

The two curiously marbled eggs of this species are placed either on a clearing in the wood or thicket the
bird frequents, or on an open spot on a moor or down. There is usually some shelter from bush, bank, or low
shrub within a few feet of the spot where they arc deposited. With the exception of a dead leaf or two, or a
strand of grass carried by the wind and lodged in the slight natural hollow the bird makes use of, there is not
the least suspicion of a nest.

The Plate shows a female with two young ones newly hatched. It is taken from a rough sketch made
of the group in a grassy valley among the South Downs between Lewes and Brighton. The eggs had
been laid on the slope of a hill facing the south, and were sheltered from above by a thick and spreading
furze bush.

SWIFT.

CTPSELUS A PUS.

%

Tiie Swift may be observed in most parts of England and Scotland, being distributed more or less plentifully
over the country from north to south. This species appears, according to my own experience, to fall off in
numbers in the Northern Highlands ; there is, however, a large colony, which has been established for many
years, in the Cromarty rocks, overlooking the Moray Eirtli. I also noticed a small party, early in May 18G9,
near Durness, in Sutherland ; and a week or two later my attention was attracted by a couple of pairs which
were screaming over the road between Castletown and Dunnct Head, on the north coast of Caithness.

The time that the Swift passes in these islands does not extend over a longer period than between three
and four months. Though its visit is so limited in duration, this species appears able to withstand sudden
changes of temperature far more readily than either the Swallow or Martin, both of whom arrive in this
country at a considerably earlier date. I am aware that some authors have recorded instances where this
bird has been captured in a helpless condition during cold and stormy weather ; but not a single Swift has
e\er come under my observation exhibiting the slightest signs of being incapacitated by wet or cold, though
Swallows and Martins might be seen on all sides sheltering from the force of the storm. I particularly
remarked this fact on June 8, 1871, at which date a gale of wind and rain (succeeding several days of cold
and cutting breezes from the north and east) broke over the Norfolk coast.

The food of this species is composed entirely of insects. As a rule, the Swift captures its prey at a greater
elevation than Swallows or Martins.

I have never observed a Swift settle on the ground ; and it is probable that its nesting-materials (straw
or grass and a few small feathers) are collected while on wing. Incommoded by its long wings and the
shortness of its legs, this species seems unable to rise from the ground. I never tried the experiment but once ;
and then the bird was either incapable or unwilling to make its escape till lifted a short distance into the air.

Eor breeding-purposes the Swift, for the most part, resorts to cavities under the eaves of houses, or any
accessible niches and apertures they can discover in churches and other large buildings. In wild localities,
where situations of this description are wanting, they do not hesitate to make use of fissures and cracks in
the face of cliffs or precipices. In several localities round the northern coast, and in one instance in a
remote and rugged Highland glen, I have watched these birds dying up and down the face of the rocks
without being able to detect any of their nesting-quarters. So rapid are their movements, and so instantaneous
the evolutions they go through while turning and twisting to and fro in front of the cliffs, that it is almost
impossible to keep any single specimen in sight. As I previously stated, there is a large colony in the
Cromarty rocks ; here they may be easily watched from the sands at the foot of the cliffs.

S W A L L 0 W.

HIRUNDO RUSTIC A.

from north to 800^1^™”^ observed” Zlf Out” Hn ^ ka °"' 11 “

occasionally make their appearance in those barren islands as rt“’ ^ StragglerS must

across the Minch, in the beginning of May ’ ““ “ “ “ t '™ % I* "*>» **

.. LTs “'/cz.’rrt t - •' *“ -

after that date thm r yin Apnl, but although numbers are observed shortly

that date, these birds continue crossing in small parties till the end of May. While notin- the

arrival of birds of passage during several years, I remarked large quantities making their way to land on

May m and •>* tbe ■* ** - ■* ** - ^ e — ::t::

h “Z tto Ch “ Ml “ large compact flocks: scores, or possibly even

“nXtere LI b b‘ t T ^ ** ^ be ^ “ Smn11 ottered parties.
Occasionally there might be a break m the stream of travellers, when only a single bird or two would flv

ST b “ fV" “‘ erral ° f PerhaPS “ h ° Ur ” m ° re - freSh comers ™dd appear in view

Though I have watched Swallows while making the passage of the Channel on many occasions I do not

— fltrT T DUmb r ° n ™ S after mMd “ y - Single Wrds ™ d sma H parties may continue
Ze b t Z rn °° n ; mai “ b0dieS apparently make an early start, shortly after daybreak,

ome years back an unfortunate Swallow was transfixed on the point of the arrow forming the vane to the

signal-pole on the centre pier at Shoreham Harbour. The bird, I conclude, must have been making its

way to the shore during the night, and was probably attracted by the harbour-light, which stands at but a
short distance inland from the signal-pole.

All my observations concerning the arrival of the Swallow were made in the English Channel. From
ie numbers constantly seen during favourable weather crossing straight from the French coast to our
southern shores, I imagine that the short sea-passage is the favourite route, the remainder of the journey
to the northern counties being probably made over land. It is, however, clear that a few, at all events, must
pass over some portions of the North Sea, as in the spring of 1873 I received the wings of several Swallows
that had struck against the light-sliips off the east coast.

In the last week of April 1874 I watched for some time an immense concourse of Swallows collected
together by the side of a pool of brackish water, just over the sea-beach near Shoreham. The wind was
lowing in strong gusts from the west, with drifting rain; and the whole of the birds were sit-tin-
facing the gale. Hundreds were closely packed on the ground at the water’s edge; but the greater

SWALLOW.

number were perched on the points of some slightly exposed faggots and stakes which had been
driven into the mud to keep back the tides. Those that were settled on the twigs covered almost
every available spot for a distance of at least a quarter of a mile. When disturbed they speedily gave
evidence that, though attempting to shelter from the force of the wind and rain, they were by no means
incapacitated from (light or suffering from the effects of the storm. It was between 9 and 10 o’clock in the
morning when I observed this gathering; and on passing the same spot late in the afternoon, by which
time the weather had moderated, there was hardly a Swallow to be seen. As there had been but a light
breeze in the early morning till a few hours after daybreak, when the wind freshened, it is most probable
these birds had only managed to make the land after the commencement of the gale. Then finding it
too rough to continue their journey, they had brought up in the best shelter available to wait for a

change of weather.

Swallows arc speedily affected by a sudden change of temperature. I have on several occasions noticed
them much cut up by storms of wind and rain. At such times they may be observed sheltering from the
cold and drifting squalls behind banks and hedges, and apparently utterly incapable of the slightest exertion.

There is but little doubt that, as a rule, they leave our shores in the autumn in companies larger than
those which arrived in the spring. I never met with them on the return passage, but have frequently
noticed the gatherings that take place as the time for quitting our shores draws near. I believe it is usually
admitted that the majority have taken their departure before November. Large numbers, however, remain
after that date in suitable localities. On several sunny days during the first and second weeks in November
1880 I watched a constant stream of Swallows flitting up aud down under the shelter of the rugged cliffs
that stretch from the Logan llock to the Land’s End. Though a cold and cutting wind from the north-east
was blowing at the time, the atmosphere below the level of the moss-grown headlands was warm and
pleasant ; and here the birds were able to escape the effects of the wintery blast.

On looking over my notes, I can find several instances where small parties of two or three, as well as
single birds, have come under my notice up to within a few days ol Christmas. These were generally
observed on fine hot days hawking up and down in some warm spot, either under the shelter of a row of
houses facing the south, or below the level of some range of cliffs where the exclusion of the wind and the
heat of the sun enabled the poor birds to pick up a few insects, and prolong their lives till a continuation
of rough and stormy weather would put an end to their existence. These late stayers are probably,
with but few exceptions, the young of backward broods too weak to attempt the passage of the Channel
when the main body take their departure. I consider it extremely doubtful if a single individual ever
survives the winter. When discovered half-starved and numbed by cold in some crevice to which they have
betaken themselves to die, they have frequently been described as hibernating. These ridiculous reports
have led to the belief, in some remote country districts, that Swallows always retire on the approach of cold
weather to some convenient spot (either under water, into the mud, or a cavity in some tree or building) and
there sleep away the winter. Even as lately as the present summer (a.d. 1882) I have been gravely assured

that such was the fact. . , ,

There are few parts of the British Islands where Swallows are not welcomed and protected. It is seldom

that the troublesome habit of placing its nest, with all the accompanying dirt and filth, in undesirable
situations, which is so frequently laid to the charge of the House-Martin, can be ascribed to this species.
The interiors of chimneys are perhaps most frequently resorted to for breeding-purposes. It also makes use
of the rafters and stays in boat-sheds, farm-lodges, and wooden bridges, to place its cradle on. I have seen
numbers of nests in the roofs of the oast-houses or barns in which hops are dried. In country districts
in the southern and eastern counties where the hop is cultivated, such quarters appear to have some peculiar
attraction for these birds. In the summer of I860, when in Glenlyon, in Perthshire, a pair of Swallows placed

SWALLOW.

3

their nest on the head of a red deer, which was nailed on a small wooden porch that formed the entrance
to the lodge. The nest was built on the upper portion of the skull, between the bases of the antlers. The
birds were perfectly fearless ; and while the female was sitting, the favourite perch of the male was on one of
the brow-antlers.

Swallows and Martins may frequently be observed, when flying over a river or pond, dipping down to
the water either to drink or seize a submerged insect. This operation is generally easily effected. Several
hundreds of these birds, however, lost their lives in this manner a few years back in the east of Sussex.
The water had been drawn off from a large pond in order to thin down the fish ; and although the surface still
retained its usual appearance, it was in reality nothing more than a thick black mud of about the consistency
of treacle. No sooner had the wing of one unlucky bird been caught by the mud while skimming too
closely over the surface, than the struggles of the sufferer brought scores to the spot ; and within an hour
or two the mud was dotted all over with hundreds of dead and dying victims. Some of those nearest the
shore were reached with landing-nets, and after being cleansed from the mud in fresh water, and placed
in the sun for a short time to dry their feathers, made good their escape.

Though it is now some years since I observed the performance, professional birdcatchers arc well aware
how readily Swallows can be attracted by a decoy of their own species. The brace-birds they employ are
perfectly untrained, and simply flutter helplessly in the air when the twig or perch* to which they are
attached is lifted. I have watched numbers captured in this manner — almost every Swallow that appeared
in sight being drawn to the spot by the struggles of the dangling prisoner, and flying straight for the fatal
nets. Two or three are often taken at a single pull while skimming rapidly past or hovering for a moment
over the lure. As the object in capturing these unfortunate birds may possibly seem a mystery, it may
be as well to state that there was at one time a considerable demand for the skins by plumassiers. Dozens
and dozens were supplied for trap-shooting, though the numbers procured for this purpose were limited, as
the hapless captives were supposed to show no sport if they had been any length of time in confinement. Like
Starlings, if crammed in the villanous store-cages, Swallows soon become incapable of flight, and refuse to
rise when liberated from the trap. Their wretched bodies were also often to be detected among the rows of
Wagtails and other small birds that, plucked and neatly ranged round a dish or impaled on a wooden skewer,
were hawked as Wheatears about tbe streets of towns on the south coast by females of far from inviting
aspect.

Insects of various kinds captui’ed on the wing form the food of this harmless and useful bird. I watched
a pair or two of Swallows flying close over the trees and shrubs in a garden near Brighton at half-past eight
one evening during the last week in July; and though it was impossible to see clearly, in consequence
of dull and gloomy weather and rapidly approaching darkness, I tvas almost forced into the belief that
the cockchafers, which were swarming round the trees, must be the object of their search. I should imagine,
however, these insects would prove too large and tough a prey.

These birds may often be obseiwcd collected in great numbers on the limbs oi trees ; and they have
no more favourite resting-place than the wires of the telegraph : here they may at times be seen gathered
in immense flocks; I have watched occasionally an almost unbroken line of birds stretching lrom post
to post. Towards the end of summer large flocks, composed for the most part ol young, resort at roosting-
time to the reeds and willows overhanging streams, or the large beds of water-plants, reeds, rushes, and
other rank-growing vegetation that are found in marshy districts. In the latter end of July 1881 1 discovered
a favourite haunt of some hundreds of SAvallows, in the midst of a dismal swamp in the east oi Norfolk.
Passing the spot on several evenings, we disturbed the birds on each occasion ; and it is singular that

* Known as the “ swish ” among professionals.

4

SWALLOW.

they should return so persistently to a spot that must have been at least two or three miles from where
the majority were hatched. As we quanted* quietly up the narrow and almost overgrown channel that
led through the reed-bed, it was easy to obtain a view of the whole colony before they took wing. I
remarked, on two or three consecutive nights, that about half a score of Pied Wagtails kept company with
the Swallows. These were running about on the flags and water-plants, and appeared to resort regularly
to the same spot at roosting-time.

A specimen of the Swallow has now and then come under my notice so richly tinted with chestnut on
the breast, as almost to approach the colouring of Uirundo savignei.

* To work a boat with the long setting-pole or quant used in the eastern counties is, in that district, termed quanting.

HOUSE-MARTIN

II I RUN DO URBICA.

The remarks concerning the distribution of the Swallow might equally be applied to the Martin. There is,
however, one addition — viz. that I have good evidence a few now and then make their appearance in the
Hebrides, having watched a pair skimming over the harbour of Stornoway in the spring of 1875. I could
obtain no information concerning their nesting on the island ; so it is possible they were only resting ioi a

while on their way to more northern summer-quarters.

I frequently remarked that these birds, like Sand-Martins, are more punctual in the time of their
arrival than Swallows. After the main bodies have taken up their quarters, it is seldom stragglers are
noticed on the passage in any thing approaching the numbers of the dilatory Swallows.

In the same manner as the majority of the family, this species is readily alfected by protracted storms
of wind and rain ; it is, I believe, the greatest sufferer from these causes. On two or three occasions
I have known almost the whole of the birds in certain localities either destroyed or forced to take their
departure, owing to want of food. From observations made in various parts of the country, I should
be of opinion that this species has greatly decreased during the last few years.

Previous to leaving our shores for the winter, Martins often collect into immense flocks. I have
witnessed these gatherings as early as the 16th of August. On that date in 1874, the rocks to the east of
Canty Bay, on the coast of the Firth of Forth, were perfectly alive with thousands of these birds,
clustering in swarms along the face of the cliffs. The small colony of Martins that have their summer
quarters °in the rocks in this neighbourhood do not exceed a few hundreds in number. It is evident that the
greater part of this multitude must have been strangers from the interior of the country or the towns
and villages along the coast. Though all signs of the visitors had disappeared on the following day there
was no diminution in the number of the residents; and I observed they remained for some weeks longer
in their usual haunts. On September 27th, 1879, immense flights alighted on some large buildings near
Brighton, the roofs being completely covered. After remaining three or four hours in the vicim y, ic
whole body took their departure in a south-westerly direction. These birds remain in considerable numbers
as late as the second week in November. I watched hundreds flying, in company with Suallous, un u
the shelter of the rocks near the Land’s End at that date in 1880. Compared with Swallows, Ihwoften
remarked that but few late stayers are noticed after the main body have left our shores
believe, more commonly than others of the Hirundines, desert their young if these are unable accompa y

them at the time of migration. About the year 1855 or 1856, I remember several nests, under one building
in the east of Sussex, being left with the broods utterly unprovided for. So sudden and simu an
was the departure of all the birds, that 1 should almost be of opinion that disease or some unavoidable

mishap must have been the cause of such unnatural behaviour. .

The situations in which this species principally delights to fix its nest are against the buck or stone

2

HOUSE-MARTIN.

work above windows (the sides in some instances adhering to the glass, and entirely preventing the opening
oi the frame), under the eaves of houses, and occasionally under porches and other inconvenient positions.
No wonder careful housewives frequently call out against the dirt and filth, to say nothing of the extra
work caused by the pertinacity with which this persevering bird will return to some undesirable spot,
after all traces of the offending materials have been carefully removed and effaced. In the spring of 1878, I
noticed these birds so eager to obtain quarters against the west face of a house in East Norfolk, that their
mud-formed cradles (some occupied and others either incomplete or deserted) stretched in an almost
unbroken line from side to side. Two or three nests I remarked were commenced immediately below others,
and were built up in such a manner that it was evident, if continued in the same style, they must
effectually block the entrances of tin; two above them. The progress was unusually slow, as the structures
were at least twice the ordinary size; I discovered, however, as the work approached completion, that they
were contracted towards the upper portion, and in not the slightest degree interfered with the neighbouring
domiciles. Several of the adjoining nests were also of greater length than those usually seen, the entrances
being placed, in almost every instance, about the centre of the edifice. The small sketch will give an idea
of the manner in which some of these curiously fashioned nests were constructed.

To show the rapidity with which this species now and then decreases in numbers in some localities, I
may state that while in 1878 there were seventy-five occupied nests round this house, there was but a single
one in 1879. Though several more nests were built in the following year, and they have now slowly

increased, the birds have by no means reached their former numbers.

In many wild localities where houses arc scarce, Martins resort to rocks and cliffs lor breeding-purposes.
There are two or three small colonies along the rocks below the ruins of Tantallon Castle, on the coast ot East
Lothian. A far larger number may be found during the summer frequenting the Cromarty rocks (the same
rano-e occupied by tbe Swifts). In many of these situations it is extremely difficult to detect the nests
the°height at which they are placed, and the materials with which they are constructed, rendering their

appearance almost identical both in colour and outline with the cliifs themselves.

The ignorance often displayed concerning the difference between the two species Swallows and Maitins
is certainly astonishing when it is considered in what universal estimation these birds are held in most parts
of the country An author, who is often quoted by ornithological writers, gave some interesting information
concerning a Sparrow who had appropriated a Swallow’s nest being built in by the rightful owner* lt», of

represented hanging in graceful attitudes on some Martins’ nests suspended under the

HO USE-MART 1 N .

rz ™ss :r - ■": - - ■

-* “> •■ «'• following it i. „* ,,,. 1 ,. i Zte 'nutnbOF L, Z T,Z" » T“ ?“

Tins extract from my notes will give some slight idea of the movements of the birds ■_

“ October 2nd. Strong wind, west south-west. Immense numbers of House-Martins and Sw»lw n ■
due east before the wind ; thousands continued passing till 3 p.m. &

“October 3rd. Wind west and north-west; weather fine. House-Martins and Swallows noticed on win-

to s!‘ e “ S - Th68e iWS We n °‘ ™ -me east, some west, and others Tut

“ 0ct ^ CT 9th ' Wind south ; weather fine. House-Martins and Swallows flying east durin- mornin- and
midday. Numbers observed making their way out to sea between 4 p.m. and 5 p m °

SwalirSg 1 -: ^ S “ : Wea ‘ her ^ A ^ “artins - — of

;; October 13th. Wind north-east ; weather fine. House-Martins and Swallows flying east

. October 20 th. Wind south ; weather fine. After midday, wind strong from south-west. In the early

steaTTt w ar T and S ' Vall0 ' VS ayins ° ast Afte 10 numbers increased, and a continued

stieam kept passing before the wind up till 3 p.m.”

It will be seen that on five days out of six the greater number of the birds were passing from west to east
On former years when I noted their movements in the same locality, the course they followed while on ili-ht
w as in exactly opposite directions on several consecutive days. °

SAN D-M A R T I N.

HIRUNDO RTPARIA.

According to my own observations, Sand-Martins are met with in most parts of the British Islands, wherever
localities suitable for their breeding-operations can be discovered.

Severe weather in the spring is by no means uncommon after the arrival of this diminutive traveller •
the Sand-Martin, however, proves itself a remarkably hardy bird. I have more than once noticed hundreds’
winging their way through a heavy snowstorm in the month of April, and apparently none the worse if
the sun broke through on the following day. These birds are the first of the family to make their appearance
in the spring. The greater number of those that visit the British Islands probably reach their quarters within
a fortnight after the first arrivals. With the exception of a few single birds and some straggling parties, I have
never remarked this species while on their passage towards our shores. On the 28th of August, 1882, I
observed some hundreds of Sand-Martins at sea, a few miles oil the Sussex coast. The day was°fine, with a
light breeze from the south ; and a continued stream of these birds passed the boat, flying due south. Towards
the afternoon, numbers were noticed a few hundred yards at sea ; these were keeping a course along the shore,
and, as far as I was able to judge, were not then intending to make the passage of the Channel.

Ilickling Broad in the east of Norfolk, owing to the extent of surrounding marsh-land and the large beds
of reeds and other aquatic plants, is a favourite haunt of the Sand-Martin. During fine and bright weather
large numbers are constantly to be seen hawking for insects over the surface ; while here and there small
parties may be observed perched on the stems of the reeds. At times large flocks settle on the grass-marshes,
where they remain resting for hours. In stormy weather they are usually absent, particularly if the gale
should continue for any length of time. On their first arrival I have watched thousands huddled together on
low reeds facing a blinding snow-squall. It is seldom they are much affected by the weather; but the severe
storm of June 8th, 1871, cut them up considerably. I collected between forty and fifty perfectly helpless from
the effects of the cold, and brought them indoors. With but few exceptions they all recovered, and were able
to take their departure towards evening, when the weather moderated. On the 9th of August 1881, during a
strong southerly breeze, I noticed immense numbers of these birds sitting on the ground on one of the hills *
on Ilickling Broad. The whole body were facing the wind, and endeavouring to obtain shelter behind the
patches of flags and rushes, as well as the low turf bank built round the marsh to keep back the water during
high tides.

In the choice of breeding-places this species is influenced by the nature of the soil, being forced to select
situations in which it is able to excavate to a sufficient distance to form its nursery. Sand-pits are frequently
resorted to ; and in many parts of the country their borings may be observed in railway-cuttings. I have also
seen large colonies in river-banks at times but a few feet above the level of the water. In 18G5 and I860 I

* A “ hill ” in the feu and broad country is simply a piece of open marsh-land. It is not necessarily of any elevation, and is frequently below
the level of the surrounding broad or river, the water being kept back by a turf bank, usually termed a “ wall.”

SAND-MARTIN.

noticed numbers of these birds rearing their young in the banks of a small island in the river Lyon in the

des t7 t, W V , The foll0 ™ S y eai ' 1 was sal 'P™ed to their accustomed quarters entirely
T U ’ OT ' S ‘ scarcll<!d the island on two or three occasions, I never detected a single bird. Early in
June however, we were visited by a terrible downpour of rain, which caused a heavy spate all over the district.

CU ' . 10 St ° rm ’ tllC hlll ' burns rushed down like mountain-torrents into the river, carrying before the
flood a floating mass of debris that swept the shores and destroyed the whole of the crops in its course. Cattle,
m two or three instances, were overtaken and drowned ; and I well remember landing, by a cast of the phantom
minnow, the carcass of a fine ram, which was coming down the river with the first of the spate. The island on
which the Martins bred was entirely covered to a depth of three or four feet, the very banks being in some
parts torn away by the force of the current and the stumps and roots hurled against them. Though I
occasionally noticed a few of the birds in the glen during the summer, I was unable to discover where they
had louild fi’csli quarters. A few returned the next spring to their old haunts; but since that date I have been
absent from the locality, and I am ignorant whether it is still a resort of this interesting and useful species.

PIED WAGTAIL.

MOTACILLA YARRELLI.

The Pied Wagtail is well known in most parts of the British Islands, more plentiful perhaps in the south but
certainly a summer visitor, if not a resident, in the north. I occasionally remarked several pairs along the
banks of the Ness as early in the year as the beginning of April ; a few of these probably pass the winter in the
district. They may be met with on the stony shores of the river where it flows through the town of Inverness
as well as along the various burns and streams in the neighbourhood. Scattered pairs are also to be observed
during the winter on the east coast of Ross-shire.

1 hough it is a well-known fact that our native birds receive large additions to their numbers early in
the spring, I have been unable to learn from personal observation at what date our summer visitors take
their departure for the continent. The first and by far the largest arrivals may be looked for on the south
coast soon after the beginning of March. Straggling parties continue to cross during the whole of the month ;
and occasionally a few make their appearance as late as April. On still mornings they may be observed
landing by hundreds. They seldom show the slightest signs of fatigue or exhaustion when the passage of
the Channel is accomplished. After alighting for a time at some brackish pool in the vicinity of the shore or
on newly ploughed land, they invariably continue their journey direct to the quarters they intend to take up
for the summer. Although hundreds may have been observed within a mile or two of the coast during the
early morning, it is seldom that more than a pair or two will be met with after two o’clock in the day, the
whole of the birds of passage having made their way inland. Should the weather set in cold and stormy, few,
if any, will make their appearance; but with a change of temperature their accustomed haunts will again be
alive with fresh arrivals.

During the summer months these Wagtails may be found scattered over the country, a pair or two here
and there wherever suitable localities are procurable. While engaged in their nesting-operations they seldom
stray far from the neighbourhood of the farm-buildings, quarries, chalk-pits, or other situations that offer them
a home. A low-lying patch of marsh-land, the banks of a horse-pond, a gutter, or a mountain-stream are
usually the rendezvous where the largest meetings may be noticed; and to such spots the young make their
way on leaving the nest. As autumn draws on they gather in flocks and betake themselves to the river-side,
the salt-water mudbanks, or flooded meadows, collecting towards evening iu large parties often at a
considerable distance from their usual haunts.

These birds may commonly be seen roosting in company with other species. I repeatedly disturbed
a party that had taken up their quarters for the night with a number of Swallows in a reed-bed in the
east of Norfolk during the months of July and August 1881. The Wagtails appeared, while I observed
them, either running on the water-plants or perched on the dead and floating roots of the reeds. I also
remarked an assemblage of from twenty to thirty resorting with lleed-Buntings to a patch of rushes in the
marshes between Shoreham and Becding, during the first week in March 1879. By G p.m. large numbers of

PIED WAGTAIL.

2

Buntings were collected among the stems of the reeds, many when they had taken up their positions being
entirely lost to sight in the thick cover immediately above the surface of the water. The Wagtails for the
most part gathered on the floating weeds and some balks of decayed timber. I noticed a few old birds in
perfect plumage, though the majority were evidently young of the previous year, still exhibiting the yellow
tinge round the head and a general dull plumage.

'ihe heavy sea that caused so much damage along the Cornish coast on October 7, 1881, broke over and
completely flooded some grass-meadows and fields in the outskirts of Penzance. As the waters subsided,
immense numbers ol Pied Wagtails and a score or so of Grey were to be seen daily feeding round the pools.
Ihe former species were still numerous in the district as late as the second week in November. One of their
favourite roosting-quarters were the cracks and crannies among the large slabs of rock in the cliffs overhanging
the sea between Porthleven and Itinzey. By about half-past four in the afternoon they were gathered in
hundreds along the ledges. On being disturbed from their quarters they scattered over the patches of grass
in the vicinity, but speedily collected again and returned to the position they had selected. During fine still
weather they paid but littte regard to the aspect of their roosting-place, though a gale of wind and a
threatening sky caused them at once to seek the sheltered side of the gullies that ran down the cliffs. The
greater part of these birds showed immature plumage.

The nest of this species is often found in close proximity to buildings— a hole in a thatched roof, an old
farm-lodge, or a dilapidated wall being frequently made use of. When breeding in the open country they
resort to disused quarries, old lime-kilns, or even any inequalities in hilly ground or the face of rough banks.
I have more than once noticed these Wagtails breeding at some height in large trees, the nest being usually
placed in some convenient hollow in the main trunk where two or three large limbs branched out. A favourite
situation ol this description, which I often inspected, was thickly shaded by a luxuriant growth of the Common
Polypody (Polypodium vulgare).

The food consists of Hies and insects, collected while on wing and also on the ground. These birds are
excessively fond of glowworms. A pair were observed to clear off great numbers of these insects which had
been collected and placed among the rough grass and creeping plants on a small grotto in a garden in Sussex.
Scarcely an insect would be seen on the night following their capture, till the rockwork was covered by netting,
when the thieves were kept at a distance. While boating on one of the Norfolk rivers my attention was
attracted by a female Pied Wagtail fluttering on the ground, tumbling over and over and apparently unable
to rise. At length I discovered she was making an attack on an enormous dragonfly, which eventually
succumbed, though the bird evidently had a rough tussle before her object was accomplished.

While conversing on the subject with my puntman, I learned that the local name of the dragonfly was
the “ Tom Breczcr.” A few years later, when again in the same district, I was refreshing my memory as to
the local names for various birds, insects, and reptiles, such as “ pishemeers ” for ants, “hopping-toads” for
frogs, &c., &c. The man assented to all the titles I bestowed on the subjects of our discussion, stating that
my naming was perfectly correct. He concluded by gravely remarking, “ and the things you call wopses*
we call wasps — W-A-S-P-S (spelling it slowly over) ; I looked in a book and found it.”

* JJy this name these abominable pests are invariably spoken of in some country districts in the south.

WHITE

AVAGTAIL.

MOTACILLA ALBA.

I have never met with the A\ kite Wagtail during the winter ; and, according to my own observations, those
that visit the British Islands in the spring are considerably later in making their appearance on our shores
than the Pied Wagtails that pass the winter on the continent. I cannot record a single instance where
this species has been observed before the second week in April. During fine weather at that period, these
birds may commonly be noticed in Sussex, within a short distance of the sea-coast. As a rule, they appear
to be making their way from west to east, and seldom remain in the locality for any length of time. I have
watched them seeking for food along the banks round brackish pools, as well as on the muds of Skoreham
harbour. A few were also occasionally remarked frequenting the salt marshes between Lancing and
Worthing. Further east I found a single specimen feeding along the muddy shores of a dyke in the
level near St. Leonards, in the first week in May. When disturbed, the bird took a short flight; but after
alighting two or three times on the floating weed and searching closely over the surface, it rose in the air
and made a straight course along the shore towards the east. The water in the dyke was partly salt ; and
the tangled weed that grew in profusion contained a number of minute shells. I am ignorant whether
scientific authorities allow that this Wagtail will feed on sucli apparently unpalatable morsels. Though
the bird was not shot in order to ascertain the fact, I was considerably mistaken if it did not swallow
several of these small shells.

During the latter end of April, when passing through the district, I repeatedly noticed several pairs of
White Wagtails feeding along the shores of the Ness. The birds were not met with further inland than
the town of Inverness, being most frequently seen about the small drains running down to the water, or
gathered round any refuse thrown out on the shores. A few Pied Wagtails also resort to the same spots, and
a pair or two often intermingle as they chase insects round the puddles or run rapidly along the stony
bed of the river. The difference between the two species Avas most striking when closely examined side
by side, the extra size and length of Motacilla alba being particularly conspicuous.

Though I never detected the nest or even came to the conclusion that the birds were then settled in
the district, numbers of these Wagtails were met with in the island of Lcavcs, early in May 1877. I did not
recognize a single specimen, except in the immediate vicinity of dwelling-houses or round the various
outbuildings and enclosures. A severe gale of wind, Avith hail and rain, from the south-east swept over
the island on the 6th of May ; shortly after midday the storm moderated, and by 3 p.m. the weather Avas
bright and mild. During the afternoon I remarked at least five pairs of White Wagtails about the gardens
and landing-stages round a shooting-lodge on the shores of Loch Shell. On the following day, which was line,
not a single bird was noticed; and it was not till the 9th that I again observed them, a pair or two remaining
for several hours in the gardens. On many occasions when watching this species on these islands, I
Avas particularly struck by their confiding nature — eagerly searching for food and actively chasing insects

2

WHITE WAGTAIL.

glleTf M U ay6. flTe ynidS ^ 1 inSp<!Cting their m °™™nts. This was especially the case after the

itselftas^vbelrih t 1 haT6 A n0t mCtwiththe nest ° f th!s » the British Islands. The bird

llscu lias on V ' )Con Observed during April and May.

GREY WAGTAIL.

MOTACILLA SULPHUREA.

I cannot call to mind a single instance of having noticed this species in the Outer Hebrides. With the

exception of a pair or two about Golspie Lairg and Allnaharra, I never met with the Grey Wagtail further

north than the east coast of Ross-shire. In the neighbourhood of Tain these Wagtails were by no means
uncommon, most numerous perhaps in the spring and summer, though a few pairs were to be found in
certain localities during the winter. I repeatedly noticed these peculiarly clean and elegant-looking birds
frequenting the open drains and other repulsive spots that still remain in some old-fashioned Highland
towns. r J hey were to be observed at most seasons actively snapping flies and other insects off the heaps

of filth and refuse liberally scattered in the public streets. In the town of Inverness a few pairs are to be

seen along the banks of the river. Stragglers now and then penetrate the thickly populated parts of the
town ; but their favourite haunts are the shores between the bridge and the islands. These birds are also to
be met with in various parts along the canal towards the west.

In Perthshire the Grey Wagtail is common in many districts; I find, however, in my notes that in
some localities they disappear during the winter, and do not show themselves till well on in April. The
dust-heap at the back of a shooting-lodge that docs not rejoice in (or rather, as prejudiced natives would
declare, suffer from) drains is the happy hunting-ground of these birds. As a rule they are of a sociable
disposition, and appear to prefer quarters at no great distance from human habitations. In several of the
southern counties of Scotland these birds were noticed. On one occasion I detected a pair on the island of
Fidra, in the Firth of Forth ; and they are also common during the autumn along the shore from North
Berwick to Dunbar. Along the hill-burns and river-banks in Cumberland, and also on the coast of
Northumberland, I remarked several pairs. During summer and autumn a few may be met with in the wildest
parts of the rocky glens on the Yorkshire moors, through which the hill-streams make their way towards the
North Sea. In Norfolk I did not recognize the species, except in three or four instances where stragglers
made their appearance in autumn in the neighbourhood of Breydon mudflats ; these, doubtless, were working
their way south for the winter. To the best of my recollection, I never caught a glimpse of a single specimen
in the broad-district.

In Sussex, these birds are to be met with during autumn, winter, and early spring, frequenting streams
and river-banks. A few remain in the neighbourhood of Brighton at these seasons, resorting to open drains
or pools, and in some instances visiting the gardens adjoining the town. In the west of England I did not
penetrate their haunts during the breeding-season, though a few specimens were now and then observed in

the autumn.

The nest is most commonly placed in a hole among stones on the rough bank of a mountain-sti'eam or
in the cavities of old masonry. These birds frequently return during many successive years to the same
situations. While fishing one spring in Glenlyon in Perthshire, I noticed a fine male of this species

2

GREY WAGTAIL.

running along the nver-s.de, apparently somewhat uneasy at his haunt being invaded. On inquiring of the

in a ide in T H e “ * "" ^ ^ ^ ^ he -membered a nel being found

nreviouslv Aft °V WhlCh We Werc stand “?- repairs were made nearly twenty years

Lmedia i P ,T 5 °f “ apei ' tur0 where a stoae was he held up the landing-net, and

mediately captured the female, who at that moment issued from her nest.

MALE & FEMALE

grey-headed

IE.

MOTACILLA FLAFA .

Ihe Grey-headed Wagtail, it looked for with care, may be met with every spring along the coast of Sussex.
I never detected this species alighting on the salt-water mudbanks, or in such close proximity to the sea-
shore as the White W agtail, all that came under my observation in this locality being noticed a short distance
inland. As far as 1 have been able to judge, the Grey-headed closely resembles the Yellow Wagtail in its
habits and the localities to which it resorts. I am well acquainted with certain spots about a mile from the
sea-coast, between Brighton and Shoreham, where a pair or two might be found at almost any time during May.

In Norfolk I have also recognized two or three males of this species in the marshes within a short
distance of Breydon mudflats; occasionally I remarked the same birds, or others closely resembling them
(when carefully examined through powerful glasses, the variations in the grey of the head or the clouded
markings among the yellow feathers on the breast can readily be distinguished), frequenting the pastures in
the vicinity ot the wall on several consecutive days. As I removed from Yarmouth at the end of the month
when the flocks of Waders, which then claimed my attention, had ceased to fly, I was unable to ascertain
if they remained and bred in the neighbourhood. According to my note-books, I recognized this species in
either the north or south marshes every season while awaiting the spring flight on Breydon muds.

It is only in Sussex, Kent, and Norfolk that I positively identified the Grey-headed Wagtail. There is
little doubt this species breeds not uncommonly within a few miles of Brighton. I repeatedly observed
males frequenting two or three of the sheep-ponds that are scattered over the downs at seasons when it was
most probable the female was sitting close at hand.

An adult male and female are figured in the Plate. When first killed, the head and upper part of the
neck of the female exhibits a strongly marked grey shade. Though the colour is fainter, it appears, when
seen in certain lights, almost as conspicuous as the clear bluish-grey tint on the head of the male. I mention
this fact, as it is highly probable that females of the Yellow Wagtail (if showing a rather whiter line
than usual over the eye) have been occasionally mistaken and figured for this species. The male represented
in the Plate was shot April 17, 1874, about a mile west of Brighton ; and the female was procured within a
short distance of the same spot ten days later. This female was in company with an exceedingly brightly
marked male; and the pair had, I am of opinion, taken up their quarters for the season. On passing the
spot during the second week in May, a pair were again discovered frequenting the same locality; and I
conclude the male had already consoled himself by a fresh partner for the loss of his former mate.

30 .

FIRST PLUMAGE

YELLOW WAGTAIL.

MOTACILLA RATI.

r r.t : rrr ‘ *? - rr -

Sr*? ,l ; " i " d - - “> “izX" “t-

inlanT Bv Z end of M T 0V ” ^ P ‘ SS ' mead ° WS “ the <>t the coast as far as a mile or two

inland. By the end of May the majority have taken their departure, and all that remain are the few pairs

breeding in the district. In no part of the British Islands hare I met with this species so numerous during
the summer months as m the Norfolk marshes. 3

The counties north of the Humber do not appear so suitable to the habits of the Yellow Wagtail-
and though stragglers are to be met with in many localities, I have never observed these birds in any thin-
approaching the numbers that frequent the flat districts on the east coast. In Scotland I remarked a
few pairs at various times near Dunbar, and again on Gullane links. The species was also recognized near
t e sea-coast within a short distance of Nairn and Inverness, and once or twice on “ the fendom,” a
remarkably flat sandy stretch of low-lying ground to the east of Tain, in Ross-shire.

In not a single instance have I detected the nest in Scotland. I have no wish to state that the bird does
not breed in considerable numbers so far north, as I gave but little attention to the species in this locality,
being well acquainted with its habits from constantly observing them in the south. The situations chosen
by the Yellow Wagtail for breeding-purposes vary considerably. In Norfolk, where I have had the most
opportunities of observing them in their summer haunts, they frequently resort to holes in the banks
of the water-dvkes intersecting the grass-marshes, the spot being usually well screened by long grass or
overhanging plants. In the southern counties I have occasionally found their nests in situations almost
similar, in the levels towards the east of Sussex and also in Kent. Throughout the arable portions of Sussex,
in the immediate vicinity and to the west of Brighton, these birds commonly rear their young in the
cornfields, some small inequality in the side of a grip or bank or even an open furrow being selected.

Early in August the young birds collect in numbers in the Norfolk marshes. At this season
considerable flocks now and then make their way to the farm-buildings, and may be seen eagerly searching
for insects among the beasts in the yards. I have remarked as many as fifty or sixty busily engaged among
the litter, flying up, when disturbed, to the roofs of the sheds, but speedily returning when the cause of
their alarm had vanished. In Sussex I noticed both old and young gathering in the marshes near the
sea-coast previous to migrating.

The nestling plumage of this species is totally different from that assumed after the first moult. In
its earliest feathers the Yellow Wagtail bears a strong resemblance to the Pipit tribe. Before the end
of August a complete change has come over them ; and by that time it is difficult to distinguish the old
birds from their broods, both being arrayed in their autumn travelling-dress.

The Plate shows the young birds in their first feathers. This plumage is worn for only a few weeks.

MEADOW-PIPIT.

AN THUS PR ATEN SIS.

r » - •• - »■«,«- *.

hillsides of Sutherland. ° 1 S 1C( l im cments as the moors and stony

- rf ; " = “

country and for a number of years. In the north of Seotland I remarked immense flights of these birds
Pc ssing fiom north to south over the east of Ross-shire from the loth to the 20th of September 18G8. These
I believe, must have been migrants from across the North Sea, as Blackbirds and Thrushes in thousands
were passing at the same time, and Redwings also showed themselves in small flocks. I noticed a week or
so later that the usual natives of the district had not disappeared from their accustomed haunts, and
were to be met with in about the same numbers as previously. For several consecutive days after
October 20, 1872, small scattered parties of Meadow-Pipits continued flying in a southerly direction along
the denes near Yarmouth, and also at times penetrating among the houses and up the streets towards the
east of the town. During a squall of wind and rain, one poor bird, evidently worn out by a long journey,
was blown against the glass of a window and fell in the garden below, where it was immediately attacked by
a Robin and driven into some thick bushes. Annually during September and October large bodies make
their appearance in the vicinity of the Sussex coast. At this season I repeatedly noticed them approaching
and hovering for a few moments round the Lark-glasses which were some years ago so commonly seen in the
neighbourhood of Brighton.

For at least six weeks, countless Meadow-Pipits may be met with almost daily in this locality ; their
numbers, however, vary considerably, according to the weather. After the beginning of November, though
flocks occasionally show themselves, it is evident that the greater part of the birds composing the autumnal
flights have taken their departure. Having observed but a few stragglers at sea in the autumn, I should
be of opinion the main bodies commence the passage before it is fairly light. While the flight lasts, large
flocks and single birds may be noticed on fine mornings with a light breeze steadily making their way along
the coast. One day the multitudes pass west ; and on the following it is quite possible they may be flying
towards the east. After carefully watching and noting down their movements during several years, I consider
it impossible to state with certainty the course these small birds may follow ; but, as a rule, it is most
frequently either against or across the wind. The flight of Pipits, Wagtails, and the Swallow tribe is at this
season exceedingly confusing, and much concerning their movements still remains to be learned. Though
Swallows and Martins desert our shores entirely, a certain number of Pipits and Wagtails are at all times to

2

M EADOW-PIPIT.

l)c found; and not unfrequently, as previously remarked, a considerable body of Pipits may be detected
harbouring in some open spot where food is obtainable during severe weather. From observations made in
various parts ot the country, I conclude that numbers of the Pipits landing on our coasts in March and Api*il
arc on their way to more northern breeding-grounds.

A few extracts from my notes for 1882 will show the line of flight followed by these birds along the coast
of Sussex and the wind and weather at the time the observations were made : —

“ Sept. 12. The morning was still and fine, with a light breeze from the north. Meadow-Pipits
continued flying in large and small bodies for several hours along the coast between Shoreham and Brighton.
The whole number pursued a course parallel with the shore from west to east. I watched these flocks of
Meadow-Pipits streaming past for several hours, and detected but few strangers in their ranks besides an
occasional Pied Wagtail. Swallows and Martins were also making their way east.

“ Sept. 13. Weather excessively cold; fresh north-west breeze. I did not notice a single Pipit on the
move, though several small parties were harbouring in the stubbles and in some of the fields of coarse grass
near the coast.

“ Sept. 11. Wind changeable from south and west. A few Pipits continued to pass east. During the day
a severe thunderstorm broke over the district, accompanied by hail and heavy rain.

“Sept. 17. Light breeze from north-west; weather fine. Immense numbers of Pipits seen along the
coast from Lancing to Newhaven, the downs on the summit of the cliffs in some parts perfectly swarming
with this species. The birds were mostly stationary ; but a slight movement from east to west took
place.”

During the next week there was no general flight, though the numbers met with on certain days varied
considerably.

“ Sept. 29. Strong wind from the south-west. Small flights of Pipits making their way towards the west.

“ Oct. 2. Strong wind west-south- west. Very few Pipits seen ; those recognized were moving both east and
west. There were, however, numbers of Larks and thousands of Swallows flying east before the strong wind.

“ Oct. 3. Wind west and north-west; weather fine. Numbers of Pipits flying west.

“ Oct. 9. Wind south ; weather fine. Small parties of Pipits flying west.

“ Oct. 10. Wind south-east ; weather fine. A few Pipits flying east.

“ Oct. 13. Wind north-cast ; weather fine. Some Pipits making their way due east, and others following
an exactly opposite course ; many small flocks stationary in the stubbles.

“ Oct. 20. Wind south ; weather fine. Numbers of Pipits moving east.

“ Oct. 28. Wind east ; heavy rain. Large flocks of Pipits harbouring in the stubbles and rough meadows
near the coast ; none seen on flight.

“ Nov. G. Wind south ; fine still morning. A flock of from forty to fifty Pipits were pecking about on
the shingle-banks between Shoreham and Lancing. At times they would tiy down to the large heaps of
sea-weed recently east up by the gales, and then betake themselves to the scanty vegetation on the higher
portion of the beach or some brackish pools on the opposite side of the sea-wall. Small parties of Chaffinches
and Greenfinches were in company with the Pipits ; the finches, however, did not follow them down to the
sea-weed, but remained searching for food among the various seed-producing plants on the higher ridges of
the beach. These Titlarks appeared remarkably sociable, as when disturbed from the shore they joined a
large flock of some hundreds of Twites, and after a short flight settled with them on the saltings.

“ Nov. 10. Wind west. But one or two Pipits seen along the coast from Shoreham to Lancing.

“ Nov. 11. Wind west ; weather fine. I remarked a good many single Pipits on the highest portions of
the Downs, near the Dyke ; there were also a few scattered along the sides of the hill roads.”

During the winter months, Meadow-Pipits not unfrequently resort to localities that are damp or flooded.

MEADOW-PIPIT.

When all but running water is frozen, they betake themselves to the edges of the saltings or any open springs.
These residents seldom appear much affected by the cold, and may be seen in any ordinary weather running
actively over the ground m search of food. The extraordinary violence of the wind during the terrible snow
s orm of January 18 1881, however, proved most disastrous to the feathered tribe, and utterly incapacitated

“ ! 7 ° ff t 7 “a I •° UrSe ' Th0USaml8 “ USt haV ° P Mish8d throu S>' ooM and want of

food ter the buffe ings they received during the force of the gale. On the 20th of January (eight days

after the storm) I happened to be m Shoreham harbour shortly before high tide. This was the first time
the water had entirely covered the mudflats since the hurricane; and I remarked hundreds of dead bodies
of small birds (Larks, Pipits, Linnets, and many others) washed out from the weeds growing on the banks
These unfortunate birds must have sought shelter from the cutting blasts among the stems oAhe plants and
perished from the long-continued inclemency of tlie weather.

When the large flights of Blackbirds, Thrashes, Fieldfares, Larks, and other small birds pass alone
the coast from east to west on the approach of snow-squalls during the winter months, it is seldom an^
considerable bodies of Pipits make their appearance. I have seen small parties searching for food in
sheltered spots at the time the general movement was taking place, but cannot call to mind an instance
of meeting with more than a few specimens working their way west at this season

Towards the middle of March these birds commence to return to our shores. Any still foggy mornin-
from about the 10th of the month till well on in April, they may be noticed landing on the south coast, singte
and m small flecks, from shortly after daybreak till nine or ten o'clock. For a day or two they may be
observed m numbers about the banks of streams and saltwater pools near the sea-beach; but with a change
of weather they soon proceed inland, and scatter themselves over the country. Under the date of March 27
1873 I find m my note-hooks that hundreds of Meadow-Pipits had now returned and taken up their quarters
on the marshes and round the broads in the east of Norfolk. These birds made their appearance simultaneously
, 7 “ ° Starlings, which continued flying east for throe or four days. Several parties composed

entirely of male Chaffinches also passed over. I remarked the Grey Crows were then gathering previous to
a -mg their departure. Light easterly winds appear to bring ail these birds (both those that are leaving our
shores and our own summer migrants when on their return journey in the spring) to this part of the
coast It is seldom that any addition to the numbers of these birds is observed in the Highlands before
April ; tills fact was noted for a couple of seasons in the east of lloss-sliire.

The persecution that this unfortunate Pipit undergoes from the various smaller Hawks in the Highlands
ought to tend to keep down its numbers. Merlins, Sparrow-Hawks, and Harriers all appear to "have a
special fancy for feeding their young 1, roods with this particular bird as long as any are to be met with in
icir neighbourhood. I am aware my own experience in this respect differs considerably from that of a well
known writer on Highland sports, who remarks that this species suffers from the attacks of ground-vermin
such as stoats and weasels, but is seldom molested by Hawks.

l'or breeding-purposes the Meadow-Pipit resorts to a great variety of situations. On the south coast I
laic found their nests in the long rank grass growing round the pools of brackish water within a short
distance of the sea-shore. The pairs that nest in this locality are, without doubt, residents that have passed
the winter in the district. In many instances I recognized the three or four pairs that have their quarters
round a certain piece of water near Shoreham, on every occasion when visiting the spot during autumn,
winter, and early spring. These stationary birds are remarkably early breeders ; their nests are usually built,
and their eggs not unfrcquently laid, before the greater number of the migrants have arrived. Many pairs of
Pipits may be seen on the furze aud heath- covered rauges of the South Downs duriug the summer months.
Their nests are usually placed under the shelter of the heather or other coarse vegetation on a grassy bank, or
even in some slight inequality in the ground or on the bare hill-side. Among the broads and rivers of the

4

MEADOW-PIPIT.

eastern counties these birds seldom resort to particularly marshy situations in which to rear their brood,
choosing, as a rule, a dry spot on a turf-wall or a rush-grown mound rising above the general level. On the
grouse-moors and on the steep mountain-sides in the northern counties, this Pipit is plentifully distributed,
being occasionally seen at an elevation considerably over one thousand feet in height. A ledge of rock or a
tuft of grass serves to ward off the cutting winds from their unfledged young.

The eggs of this species vary greatly, though not to the same extent as those of the Tree-Pipit, many shades
of red, brown, and grey being frequently met with. On June 1, 1870, 1 drove a bird off her nest in the long grass
on the marsh-wall round Heigham Sounds, in Norfolk. On examining the five eggs on which she was sitting,
I discovered they were unlike any I had previously met with. There was not the slightest doubt as to the
identity of the bird, as she rose at my feet; and the nest was unmistakable. In order, however, that there should
he no possibility of an error, I approached the spot again after a short interval, and captured in a butterfly-net
a female Meadow-Pipit. The eggs were utterly unlike those of any British bird. The ground was a pale blue
(the same shade as the egg of the Wheatear), spotted with moderately sized markings of a pale violet or bluish
grey, a darker spot of the same tint showing here and there. The whole five were much alike, the size of the
markings and the thickness and regularity of the spots on each individual shell being almost precisely similar.
In shape they were somewhat longer than the usual egg of Anthus pratensis. On examining them again
today (August 31, 1882) I find their shades have but very slightly faded during the lapse of eleven years and
a quarter.

The nest of the Meadow-Pipit is frequently chosen by the Cuckoo as the cradle in which it deposits its
egg. I have noticed this fact repeatedly on the downs of Sussex, and also on several occasions in the
Highlands.

TREE-PIPIT.

ANTHUS ARBOREUS.

In the valley of the Spey, particularly throughout those parts of the forest of Glenmoro where the timber
is composed of old though moderate-sized Scotch fir, this Pipit may be met with in numbers during the
breeding-season. I have also observed a few scattered pairs on somewhat similar ground in Boss- shire. In
the more northern counties I failed to meet with it, and was also unable to learn any tidings from keepers
who, I was aware, were well acquainted with the species. Perthshire is probably visited by the Tree-Pipit ;
but I cannot find in my note-books any record of its having attracted my attention. In suitable localities in
the south of Scotland this species may be seen, though, according to my own experience, it is far more
uncommon than in the southern and eastern counties of England

The Iree- Pipit is only a summer visitor to the British Islands, usually making its appearance towards the
end of April, and frequently being observed in considerable numbers scattered over the country in the vicinity
of the south coast for some time previous to its departure in the autumn.

The note of this Pipit, which is lively and pleasing, is uttered in the air, the songster rising from the
topmost branches of a tree and slowly dropping with extended wings. It is known to bird-fanciers as the
singing Titlark. This species may readily be distinguished from the Meadow-Pipit by its superior size
and the shorter hind toe.

The nest is most commonly placed beneath the shelter of some small shrub in a plantation or the edge
of a clearing in a wood. I have, however, observed it in the open in such a situation as might have been
chosen by its relative the Meadow-Pipit. On June 25, 1S75, while examining a colony of the forester-moth
on the South Downs, between Brighton and Lewes, I disturbed a Tree-Pipit from her nest. This was placed
among the grass on the bare hillside, the nearest timber being a plantation of Scotch fir and beech on the
opposite side of a road, at a distance of some fifty or sixty yards. The female was eventually captured in a
butterfly-net, and is now in my collection.

The eggs of this species vary considerably, all shades between a deep red-brown and a dull grey being
occasionally met with, streaked, scrawled, and spotted in every conceivable manner.

SCANDINAVIAN FORM

ROCK-PIPIT.

ANTIIUS OBSCURUS.

The name of Rock-Pipit is by no means misapplied. Every part of Great Bntam, from north to south as well
as the adjacent islands, where the coast-line is formed by rooks or cliffs, appears to be requeued by this
species In many of these localities the bird may be found as a resident. When observed where the shores
are flat or at inland waters, its visits are usually only short, and made during autumn winter, or early spring
At any season, with the exception of the height of summer, I have occasionally observed a few of these
Pipits along the flat portions of the Sussex coast, from Pagham to Brighton. The muddy edges of he pools
of brackish water inside the shingle-banks are their favourite haunts. The chalk cliffs between Brighton and
Eastbourne and in the neighbourhood of Pairlight near Hastings, are resorted to during the breeding-seaso ,
though those that nest in these localities are by no means so thickly dispersed throughout the range as over
many parts of the more northern coast-, ine. Pevensey Marsh, Winchelsea Level, and (across
Romney Marsh are each and all visited by this species at the same seasons as the fiat districts to the w s
of Brighton. It is seldom that the birds are observed at the inland parts of these marshes the ^P**"*^
(minute worms and small insects) that attracts them appearing to inhabit only those pool that are si y
!Z"d by salt. On the Suffolk coast and marshes, and also in Norfolk, I have only recognised this
species as a visitor. Breydon Wall and tlie grassy edges of the mudflats (locally known as t ic i one cs) ai

•U « H* a. bird i. ™a» .b»..d. I M JtS

« the^e watched flitting round the shores of the broad, alighting

inland that I have ever observed t L L p . . , the walls round Breydon, and also

“October 16, 1873. Noticed soon after daybreak several ° C ^ the sca . bca ch just before dark.”

in the afternoon on the South Denes. Hundreds of Lar s wer . ° M crossed tho Nort h g e a, as it

It is possible, I imagine, that .those .observed on the thc diffs and among the rocks on the

was seldom they frequented these dry sand . ^ ^ on seTeral 0 f the larger of the Pern

Yorkshire coast, both north and soutl y ,Wached rocks I have seen their nests

Islands off the coast of Northumberland, and also on a few of “ d ^ ^ of East Lothian ,
close to the old lighthouse and the surrounding buildings At Dunbm^ rf ^ town . They

9

ROCK-PIPIT.

detect. Many were placed among the fallen masonry in the old fortifications, and in parts of the buildings
where stones had been dislodged from the walls. I stumbled upon one or two among the accumulation of old
rubbish in the passages in the ruins, which had been built in almost total darkness. They also resort to the
cracks and ledges on the face of the rock, especially on the south side.

On one occasion I discovered a brood, just ready to fly, on a small exposed rock that formed part of the
ledge on which the beacon stands, a short distance east of Tantallon. In this instance it was certainly a
marvel how the young had escaped destruction from the waves. The whole of the rock that was above water
at high tides was hut ten or a dozen yards in circumference ; and I watched the seas washing up within a foot
of the bottom of the nest. The bird had made a most cunning choice of a situation. The nest was placed
in a slight hollow in the side of the rock that looked towards the shore, from which it was distant about one
hundred yards. An overhanging slab of stone formed a covering towards the north-east, from which quarter
the heaviest swells rolled towards the land. Rut one small tuft of vegetation struggled for existence on this
diminutive islet; and behind its scanty shelter the nest was located. A few days after I discovered the young
birds they quitted the nest in safety, a result that could scarcely have been anticipated had a heavy gale from
the north or east set in. I repeatedly remarked that on this part of the coast the birds appeared to have a
preference for the islands; possibly the number of rats along the shores of the mainland may have influenced
their selection.

Along the flat shores of the east of Ross-shirc I occasionally noticed this species during autumn and early
spring on the shores of the firths and the numerous marshy pools. They frequent the Cromarty rocks
overhanging the Moray Firth and many points along the rocky coasts of Caithness and Sutherland; but I
never spent any time in searching out their nests in these localities. On the small islands off the west coast of
Iioss-shire, it was almost impossible during the spring to wander any distance among the heather and rough
stones without disturbing several of these Pipits from their nests.

The bird to which the name of Scandinavian Rock-Pipit has been given is merely, in my own opinion, a
variety of this species*. Early in March I have shot numbers of specimens which plainly showed that the
winter dress was identical with that of this bird, only a few of the vinous feathers being visible at that period;
on several I procured, only one or two of these feathers could be found. I also obtained specimens exhibiting
the change in every stage. In two or three instances the plumage closely approached that of the Water-Pipit
{Anthus spipolelta ) ; a few spots or clouded markings, however, were always visible among the feathers on the
breast. As spring advances the vinous tint gradually spreads over the whole of the breast, and the back of
the head and neck becomes a bluish grey. The numbers of this variety that appear on our shores arc very
uncertain. I have met with them during some seasons in great abundance, while the following year hardly
a bird would be recognized. The first arrivals may he looked for — or rather, I ought to say, might have been
looked for (as I have not identified a single specimen for the last ten years) soon after the beginning of
March ; and for about a month or six weeks from that date they would be seen making their way along the
coast. As a rule, they appeared to fly against the wind, and were mostly observed on thick foggy mornings.
On the Kith of March 1866 (a light wind from the west and weather dull and cloudy) I watched a party of
between twenty and thirty of these Pipits collected round a pool of brackish water just inside the sea-beach
at Portslade, near Brighton. Immense numbers of Meadow-Pipits, as well as these birds in all stages of
plumage, were continually landing till nine or ten o’clock, after which hour they ceased crossing. In the
spring of 1867, though I kept a constant watch on all the likely spots along the same range of coast-line, I
did not meet with above a dozen specimens. These were particularly backward in their plumage, and but one

* I conclude it is the Pipit known to continental naturalists as Anthus rupestris. It seems also, in certain stages of plumage, greatly to
resemble Anthus aquations. Possibly those two scientific names have in some instances been bestowed on one and the same form, which is in
reality only a variety of Anthus obscurus.

ROCK-PIPIT.

3

or two showed the vinous tint to anv extent Tn n n ,i nonn t

visiting their haunts in 1870 I found their numbers had considerably faUen^ finfspedmenT

tirihem™ tte 20411 23th ° £ April> WhiCh h tll ° IatCst dato “ which I have mei

On many occasions during the past ten years I have closely searched these parts of the coast, but not
a single speemaen was rdenhfied. By carefully examining the footmarks on the soft mud round the pools
it was easy to learn if these favourite spots were frequented by any number of the Pipit tribe. As far as
I am able to judge, these birds seem now to have entirely changed their line of flight. The only specimen
I ever obtained or even observed beyond the borders of Sussex was shot on March 14, 1871. on the Norfolk
coast, at a marshy pool near Horsey : for the season of the year it was far advanced in plumage.

As stated previously, the winter dress so closely resembles that of our common Rock-Pipit, that I have
been unable to detect the slightest difference, a careful search being needed in order to discover the one or
two vmous-tmted feathers on the breast that formed the sole distinguishing marks in the specimens obtained
unng the early part of the season. I have, however, been favoured with a view of preserved specimens
declared by scientific naturalists to belong to this form of Pipit, in the winter plumage. I must confess that’
though unwilling to question the decision of those eminent authorities, I was utterly unable to learn from
what outward and visible signs they had formed their judgment. I have closely watched the genuine Rock-
Pipit of the Rntish Islands and also the Scandinavian form ; and in flight, actions, manner of feeding, and note
the two birds seemed identical.

According to my own observations, the Scandinavian Rock-Pipit does not remain and breed in the British

Islands. I never remarked the birds frequenting situations where it was probable they would select a site
for a nest.

The Plate shows Scandinavian form of the Eock-Pipit. The figures are taken from specimens
obtained between Shoreham and Lancing towards the end of April 1870.

SHORE- LARK.

ALAUDA ALPESTRIS.

A GLANCE at the pages of the older works on ornithology will show that the Shore-Lark was in former days
considered a rare wanderer to our shores. It is quite possible the writers may have been correct in their
supposition; but I should rather be inclined to believe that the species must have escaped notice, owing
to its similarity to the Common Sky-Lark. Unless carefully watched, the two birds would scarcely be
distinguished by the majority of observers. At any distance over thirty yards the dark markings and bright
colours round the head are not sufficiently conspicuous to the naked eye to attract attention. Those,
however, who have once had an opportunity of studying the actions and general habits of this handsome
bird would be unlikely to overlook the species. The Shore-Lark appears fond of company ; on one
occasion I recognized a male and a couple of females associating with a party of Sparrows in the roadway
towards the south end of Yarmouth ; they also join for a time the flocks of Sky-Larks and Snow-Buntings
frequenting the denes along the coast. Unfortunately for their own safety, these birds arc remarkably
unsuspicious of danger, paying little regard to either net or gun.

It is only in Norfolk, Suffolk, and Sussex that I met with this Lark. The earliest date in any season on
which the species came under my observation was the 20th of October; and not a single specimen was ever
noticed later than the second week in March. Towards the latter end of October 1S79 a flock numbering
between twenty and thirty, as well as several small scattered parties, frequented the South Denes at Yarmouth.
These birds repeatedly made their way among the buildings in the outskirts of the town, a favourite resort
being a few acres of ground adjoining the Naval Hospital recently laid down for grass. From this spot,
when disturbed, they made their way either to the upper portion of the sands by the drive or to the open denes
further south. Numbers of Snow-Buntings put in an appearance about the same time, and were invariably
to be found either along the roadway of the drive or among the sandhills. At times I remarked the two
species intermixed while feeding, though, if alarmed, it was seldom they kept company for any distance. Fresh
comers joined the first arrivals early in November, and were still more confiding than those previously noticed.
Small parties might be watched feeding on the sandy links within twenty yards of the drive, utterly regardless
of the traffic. In this locality I observed the Shore-Lark in larger or smaller numbers during the winters of
1871, ’72, ’73, ’79, ’81, and ’82. The more lonely and unfrequented coast-line between Blakcny and Salthouse
is better suited to the requirements of this species; and here they were to be met with collected into large flocks
on the few occasions when I visited the district. The rough banks bordering the marshes, interspersed with
pools of water and coarse grass, were their haunts. If driven up while feeding, these birds were far less easily
alarmed than the Sky-Lark, for the most part merely hovering round the intruder for a few minutes, and
again settling close at hand.

The first specimens I obtained were a pair shot in December 18G2 ; these birds were in attendance on an
immense gathering of Snow-Buntings on a marsh near Hunstanton. In November 1872 I noticed a small

2

SHORE-LARK.

flock along the shore near Benacre Sluice in Suffolk ; from their disinclination to rise and quit the beach, it
is probable they had only recently made the land. Shortly before dusk the same evening, while steaming
along the coast inside the Newcome Sands, I noticed a straggling party of a score or so of small and weary
travellers fly past the vessel and disappear in the haze. One poor bird, worn out by its journey, hovered across
the deck for a moment and attempted to alight on the paddlebox ; here it was unable to gain footing and
fluttered helplessly down to the water. The main flock, as far as I could judge, was composed of Sky-Larks;
but the unfortunate wayfarer who had failed to board us was a Shore-Lark.

During severe weather in Sussex I often remarked a fresh-captured bird or two of this species in
the store-cages of the professional bird-catchers when meeting with them along the downs near the coast. But
one small flock of three or four individuals has (with the exception of the above-mentioned captives) come
under my notice in this county ; these birds were on the shingle-banks between Shorekam and Lancing.

According to my own observations the Shore-Larks are regular winter visitors to several portions of the
east coast from Hunstanton to Lowestoft ; hut it is only occasionally that they show themselves in the
southern counties. The seeds of the various grasses and plants growing on the rough banks and uncultivated
ground they frequent are doubtless the main food of this species. From closely watching their actions I should
also judge that small insects were taken; in that case their prey is so minute as to escape the observation of the
naked eye, and a post mortem examination would be needed to establish the fact.

WOOD-LARK.

A LAUD A ARBOREA.

Knowledge concerning the distribution of this species throughout the British Islands appears somewhat
limited ; and I regret my own observations can throw no additional light on the subject.

In Scotland I failed entirely to identify the Wood-Lark with any degree of certainty, two or three
localities in the south of Yorkshire being the furthest north at which this admirable songster was met with.
As far as I am able to judge, the bird is exceedingly local during summer; and, with the exception of the
above-mentioned northern county, I have only observed the AN ood-Lark about Harrow-on-the-IIill in Middlesex,

and in the well-timbered portion of the east of Sussex.

I am ignorant whether any migrants from the north of Europe arrive on our coasts during autumn
or early winter. Wood-Larks have never come under my observation while making the passage of the North
Sea; neither were any of their wings recognized among the many hundreds of those of the Sky-Lark received
from the light-ships off the east coast *.

As winter approaches there is, during some seasons at least, if not annually, a general movement of
this species from north to south along the east coast, and from east to west on the shores of the English
Channel. In the latter end of November and early in December 1879, snow fell for several days on the
coast of Norfolk, and 1 remarked a few stragglers of this species passing south over the sand banks near
Yarmouth. Numbers of Sky-Larks were taking the same course, moving southward in continuous streams
for several hours daily. The severe snow-storm in January 18G7 drove countless Larks and other small birds
along the coast of Sussex for several consecutive days. Many Wood- Larks also appeared, the whole of these
birds on this occasion being obviously far more affected by the cold than their relatives. While the Sky-Larks
flew westward in clouds from shortly after daybreak till between 2 and 3 p.m., the unfortunate Wood-Larks
were repeatedly settling and gathering together in small flocks on any spot that was free from snow. Here
they would remain huddled together till disturbed by a near approach, evidently worn out by want of food
and exposure to cold, and retaining scarcely sufficient strength to get on wing and resume their weary journey.
Some idea of the numbers of the Wood-Larks in this locality may he formed from the fact that I counted
between six and seven dozen in the possession of one bird-catcher alone, who was working las net on the downs
between Rottingdean and Newhaven. Many others of the fraternity had from three to four dozen ; and a

dealer secured forty dozen at the price of three shillings the dozen.

In open winters it is probable that there is but a small accession to the residents m the vicinity of le

* There could be no chance of confusing the wings of the two species. Though the rule as to size would hardly hold good (I “

occasional Sky-Lark, probably a young bird, quite as small as the Wood-Lark), there is an unmistakable ’difference

J 1 , i i a ti,nn fhA Rkv-Lark In old skins or stuffed specimens tins aistiucuou

markings on the wings of the Wood-Lark being tar more plain ye. ' length and shape of certain of the feathers at

is not particularly clear ; but in fresh-killed birds it is most conspicuous. In addition to tins

once indicate to which species the wing belonged.

2

WOOD-LARK.

south coast. There are, however, a few spots on the downs, some two or three miles inland, where a bird or two
may he observed at almost any time the species is looked for between November and the end of January.
During the snow-storms in the first and second weeks of December 1882 I did not recognize a single specimen
ot the A\ ood-Lark on wing, though considerable flocks of Sky-Larks were moving west. I discovered, on
consulting one or two of the professional bird-catchers, that my experience was much the same as their own. I
could learn of but one bird having been noticed ; this was captured near Seaford.

A\ hen watched on wing against a background that shows up the bird, the difference between this species
and the Sky-Lark is easily recognized. As it flits past the observer, the plumage on the upper portion (back
and wings) of the latter appears of a uniform brown tint, while the dark brown and white markings on the
Wood-Lark at once attract attention.

LARK.

A LAUD A ARFENSIS.

There are parts of the British Islands in which the Lark is not a resident; immense flocks also
arrive in this country during autumn from the north of Europe. On almost every occasion when meetum-
them at sea, I remarked that they flew in compact bodies of several hundreds, seldom showing signs of
fatigue, though a few now and then fell out from the ranks and, after hovering for a short time round
the steamboat, at length settled on board; then, creeping into the first quiet corner, they puffed out their
feathers and speedily dropped off to sleep.

During the years I was in correspondence with the light-ships off the east coast Larks were by
far the most numerous of the birds taken on board the vessels * ; Starlings were next ; and from the
crews I learned that Wheatears, in certain states of weather, proved frequent victims— none, however
were captured during the autumn of 1S72 or the following spring.

While steaming in company with the herring-fleet in the North Sea during the autumn of 1872, I
fell in with Larks in large numbers, flying direct for the Norfolk and Suffolk coasts, almost daily from
the 7th of October to the 9th of November. At the same time that these birds are making their way
m such swarms across the North Sea, they arc also landing on the shores of the Channel or passing
along the coast. My notes for 1882 and the following year contain frequent references to the movements
of this species along the south coast, between Shoreham and Lancing, as well as the occasional landing of
large bodies. The course followed by these birds during autumn is decidedly uncertain ; one day the whole
of the flocks proceed west, and on the next the direction is probably reversed. On the approach of winter
storms, and during the continuation of severe weather, they invariably make their way towards the west.

“ 1882, September 28. Wind south. Larks continued flying west during the greater part of the day.

“October 2. Strong wind, west-south-west. Larks in considerable numbers flying east before the
strong wind.

Wind changeable, west and north-west.

“ October 3.
towards the west.
“October 10.
“October 13.
“October 20.

Larks in large flocks

making

their

way

Wind south-east ; weather fine. The whole of the Larks flying east.

Wind north-east. Larks flying east.

Light wind from the south ; after midday the wind freshened from the south-west.
Larks flying west. On this day the whole of the Pipits moved east.

“December 9. Wind north-east, cold, and snow three inches deep. After 9 a.m. wind shifted north-
west, when Larks commenced flying west in immense numbers.”

* It is recorded that during foggy weather in autumn, many years ago, at least one thousand small birds, mostly Larks, were captured one
night on hoard the ‘Newarp.’ Several of the crew having been at once set to work, six hundred of the slain were stripped of their feathers, and
an immense sea-pie, a three-decker (three tiers of birds with an intervening layer of crust between), was built up and proved a great success.

2

LAIIK.

A head wind appears to draw Larks towards the land, though it is impossible to hazard an opinion as
to the point from which the birds arriving on the south coast had started on their journey. On the
8th of October it will be seen that they landed before a light favouring breeze.

“ 1883, October 5. Wind north, strong. Larks crossing against the wind all day.

“ October G. ind north, strong. Immense numbers of Larks ci’ossing all day and landing till
after dusk. In order to ascertain their condition I fired one shot into a dense flock sweeping low over
the shingle-banks just after dark, and on examination their crops proved perfectly empty.

“ October 8. Light wind, south ; fine. Large quantities of Larks still landing.

“October 10. Wind south-east; fine. Larks flying west.”

A heavy fall of snow and a cold wind from the north-west is certain to bring myriads of Larks and
other land-birds along the south coast, intent on making their way from east to west ; occasionally they
pass in continuous streams from daylight till dark. Larks arc usually the first to show, a slight covering
of snow being sufficient to put them in motion, while it requires a few days of severe weather before
Fieldfares, Redwings, or Blackbirds appear in any numbers. The storm of January 18G7 caused by far
the most extensive migration of small birds I have ever witnessed in Sussex ; from the summit of the
cliffs between Rottingdean and Newhaven, as far as one could see inland over the Downs, these endless
swarms extended; tor at least a mile at sea also clouds of Larks and Starlings intermixed with other species
were working west, sweeping closely over the water to avoid the force of the wind.

At such times the whole of the bird-catching fraternity of Brighton are engaged in the work of
destruction. Should a strong cold wind from the north-west be blowing, the course of the birds is close to
the ground, and thousands are captured in the nets. There is great competition for what are considered
the best pitches, numbers of men leaving Brighton before midnight and depositing their packs on the
ground they intend to occupy, to reserve the spot; they seek what shelter they can till daylight
behind some bank or stack. F rorn thirty to fifty dozen are commonly captured, and the takes not
unfrequently reach as high as eighty dozen. I have often seen over two hundred clap-nets at work on
a favourable day ; and as scores of drag-nets are out as soon as dusk sets in, some idea of the number
of birds taken may be formed.

"When pressed by want during continued snow-storms, Larks arc forced to put up with green meat
in order to sustain life; the leaves of the winter-cabbages in the fields are at times entirely consumed,
the veins alone being left, presenting a most singular appearance; turnip-greens also suffer considerably
from their attacks. The terrible hurricane of drifting sleet and snow in January 1881 inflicted great
suffering on all the various species of small birds in Sussex. On the 25th several Larks in an exceed-
ingly weak and helpless state alighted on our lawn to feed on the bread and scraps provided for the
usual pensioners ; on the following day I watched hundreds of their dead bodies swept out by the flood-
tide from the weeds on the mud-banks in Shorekam harbour in which they had sought refuse at the
commencement of the gale.

A scarce bird not unfrequently falls into the possession of one unacquainted with its value, and the
occurrence consequently remains unrecorded. Towards the latter end of the flight-time in January 1SG7, while
Larks were still passing over the south coast, I drove along the road between Rottingdean and Newhaven to
make notes on the various species moving towards the west. After watching the passage for several hours
I pulled my conveyance up at the roadside, as the daylight was commencing to fade, and proceeded to
discuss a well-earned lunch : while so employed a roughly clad individual, armed with an antiquated
muzzle-loader, drew up alongside, and after loafing around for a few minutes, making some remarks as to the
weather and other subjects, at length broke the ice by inquiring if I would buy a French Partridge. Not
satisfied with my answer, he produced the bird, which I immediately identified as a female Little Bustard

LARK.

3

S1 ‘7 d °™ “ 7 “ 7 k hC plUCked his bM "’«» ‘he greatest satisfaction, remarking when^is
work was completed, that it would “ make a good supper for the missus and me •'

Some flve-and-twenty years ago the fields in the neighbourhood of Brighton were resorted to durin-
the autumn flight by quantities of gunners who indulged in the sport of shooting these birds while ™

pass ge For this amusement the well-known Bark-glass was made use of, the reflection of the sun n

the twirling glass being supposed to prove the attraction*; anyhow, the infatuated birds when once in
view made hastily towards the lure, skimming round on extended wings and offering a succession of
the easiest shots. Though the numbers of shooters have greatly increased, this old-fashioned custom has
gradually fallen into disrepute ; I do not remember to have seen more than one or two Lark-glasses in
operation during the last half-dozen years. Meadow-Pipits are also attracted by these means if the flights
as is usually the case, happen to be passing over at the time. In October 1S75, having placed a glass Tome’
hundred yaids or so from the back of our house near Brighton, in order to watch the actions of the Larks when
undisturbed, I shot an immature Black Redstart that darted down. Whether it was attracted by the
glass or was on the point of settling m the garden close at hand (a favourite resort in those days for that
species), I had no means of ascertaining, the bird having been killed the moment it was identified.

, Jme 187 °’ “ y atteatio11 ha ™g been attracted by a couple of Larks hovering in the greatest

state of excitement over a rough bank near one of the Norfolk broads, I ascertained, after a few minutes'

watching, that a stoat carrying one of their newly fledged brood in its mouth was the cause of the
disturbance. Thinking that the group would afford a good chance for the taxidermist to exercise his
s all, I procured the whole party with one shot, and much regret that the plates in “ Rough Notes ”
are too small to depict the scene. Some of the lesser Falcons as well as Hawks also prey upon this
species, and to rats they not unfrequently fall victims. A few winters ago I discovered that one or
two of these destructive brutes had taken up their quarters in the vicinity of my boatsheds in the east
of Norfolk. They commenced operations by devouring holes in the men’s oily coats, and next turned
their attention to the decaying carcasses of some Grey and Carrion Crows hanging on a vermin-pole. A
dog that accompanied me soon pointed out their whereabouts, below the hatches of one of the gunning-
punts lying on the bank. From this shelter they were soon forced and destroyed, and the contents of
their domicile being overhauled, it was ascertained that they had carried there a Lark and a Starling, both
perfectly fresh ; these they must have captured themselves on the marshes, as none had been shot in the
neighbourhood. There were also parts of the Crows transported by some means from the pole on which
they had been suspended, and a bottle containing a few drops of Rangoon oil. The latter had been
flung out the previous day on the bank to the distance of about twenty or thirty yards; and it would doubtless
have been amusing to have observed the manner in which the rats conveyed it to their nest.

The tints on the plumage of young Larks in their first summer are much lighter in colouring than
in mature birds, the whole of the feathers on the hack being edged with a pale straw and the general
tone more subdued. None but those acquainted with the species during all its changes would imagine
the relationship between an old and young Lark shot in August.

I 1 or my own part 1 always imagined the Larks took it for a Kestrel hovering close to the ground, which it certainly much resembles.

SNOW-BUNTING.

EM HE HI Z A NIVALIS.

In July 187G I made an attempt to reach the ground, on the summit of the high hills in the east of Inverness,
where the Snow-Bunting is supposed to breed ; a dreadful storm of wind and rain, however, put a stop to our
advance and rendered it an impossibility to reach the haunts of the birds. A short extract from my notes will
give an account of the attempt Ave made : —

July 4th. Having settled to search Ben Muich Dhui for Snow-Buntings, we decided on making an early
start, and leaving the lodge at midnight avc drove to a bothy on the east side of the forest. Here four keepers
and foresters were awaiting our arrival, and an immediate start was made for the high ground. The morning
proved dull and gloomy and avc were well up the Braemorc Pass before it became fairly light. The weather
then got worse and the wind increased, the mist and clouds rolled lower down the hills, AA'hile the rain drifted in
blinding shoAvers, rendering it impossible for us to advance. For two hours avc sheltered among some large slabs
of rock near the highest part of the Pass in hopes that the storm might moderate. At length, however, we
came to the conclusion that it Avas quite useless to attempt to reach the high ground; added to which the
position we noAv found ourselves in could scarcely be termed pleasant. The terrific gusts as they roared round
the crags above us noAv and then dislodged stones and pieces of rock that came rolling down the side of the hill.
Some of these dashed past us at no great distance just after we had quitted our shelter, and I must confess I
felt greatly relieved when we emerged from the Pass; the unearthly howling and screeching of the wind among
the jagged and pointed rocks Avas perfectly deafening, and the force of the blasts A\ r as such that it would have
been the height of folly to have proceeded further. I Avas much surprised at the presence of a Wren far up on
the bleak hill-side; during the lulls in the storm the little bird mounted on the wet and dripping rocks and
sang as loudly as il: his lot Avas cast in pleasant places. When first the sound of his note was heard Ave Avere

unable to make out what bird it could be, and a considerable time elapsed before avc caught sight of the
diminutive songster strutting about on the summit of a large stone. Towards mid-day the sun broke through
and the wind dropped a little, but it continued far too rough to renew our attempt to reach the top of the hills.”
In the winter of 1868 I Avas staying at Tain, in the east of Boss-shire, for the punt-gunning on the Dornoch

Firth, as Avell as Partridge- and Snipe-shooting on the Fendorn, the stretch of sandy flats and cultivated land
that extends along the south shore for several miles. While returning one evening just after dark OA r er the
rough ground covered with coarse grass on the Fendom, AA'e put up an immense number of Snow-Buntings.
The birds rose almost at our feet and flitted in thousands Ioav down, the white on their Avings resembling the foam

at sea AAdien the Avaves are seen breaking in the dusk. I conclude it is the young birds of the year that exhibit
such a warm broAvn colouring on their first arrival in autumn; there are many different tints to be seen, and
scarcely any will be found Avith exactly the same plumage. In December 1862 I noticed a very large flock on
some marshy ground near Hunstanton, on the Norfolk coast; Avhen settled and spread out feeding they must
have covered at least a couple of acres. Occasionally during winter I have knoAvn a great many taken by the

2

SNOW-BUNTING.

clap-nets on the downs near Brighton, and still more by the drag-nets at night. Though such immense numbers
make their way south in winter, the hill-tops in the Highlands are not entirely deserted at that season. When
Ptamn 0 an shootin g on the hills in the north-east of Perthshire, in December 1867, 1 repeatedly found flocks on the
higher slopes of the snow-clad mountains. I was rather amused at the description given by a forester in
Inverness of the nature of the ground on the summit of the mountains to which this bird resorted. “ The
liill-top,” he remarked, “ was a very vulgar place.”

On the 29th of October, 1879, the weather being stormy at the time, there were large flocks of these birds
on the denes near the harbour-mouth at Yarmouth ; occasionally during the following week 1 remarked they
were intermixed with Shore-Larks. Many small flocks of Snow-Buntings were seen on the south denes near
Yarmouth about the middle of February 1882 ; some were exceedingly light-coloured, with much white
showing, and others very dark. Several specimens exhibiting various stages of plumage were shot in a sand-
pit near the shore, between the town and the harbour-mouth.

I have a few entries in my notes, taken while staying at Yarmouth in the autumn of 1872, referring to
Snow-Buntings, and they are as follows : —

“ September 26th. Weather rough, wind south-west. Three Snow-Buntings, the first I had met with this
season, were shot on the south denes, and proved to be two males and a female. During the remainder of
the time passed at Yarmouth, I seldom went along the denes without observing several along the side of the
carriage-drive ; they generally showed in the greatest numbers in rough weather.

“ October 31st. There was to-day a large addition to the flock of Snow-Buntings on the south denes ;
most of the fresh arrivals were dark-coloured, being, I suppose, young birds of the year.

“ November 1st. Steamed out of Yarmouth harbour, round the Barber Sands off Caister, which were, as
usual, covered with Gulls ; I noticed a few dark-coloured birds among them, but, on approaching as close as
we were able and using the glasses, it was ascertained that they were only Grey Crows. Larks, llooks, and a
few small flocks of Snow-Buntings were the only birds I observed at sea making for land.

“ November 5th. Steamed from Yarmouth as far south as Lowestoft, and afterwards back to Caister; no
birds of passage seen with the exception of a few llooks and a small party of Snow-Buntings.”

On the 12th of November I was again enabled to make observations on these birds. This was the second
day of the terrible storm that, commencing on Monday the 11th of November, continued, with a lull of only a
few hours on Friday morning, till Saturday the 16th ; then several of the larger fishing-boats left the harbour,
but before they could get clear of the sands it came on to blow harder from the east-north-east and they were
all forced to put back.

“ The gale this morning was blowing from the east-north-east. Several flocks of fowl were still flying
north, but the number of Dunlins that passed were not to be compared with those observed the previous
day. The Snow-Buntings had received large additions, and the flock must have numbered between two and
three hundred. Their favourite haunt and resting-ground seemed to be the carriage-drive along the shore from
the town towards the harbour-mouth, though what food they could find there I was unable to discover.”

BUNTING

EMBERIZA

MILIARIA.

Common in tlie south, and distributed by no means sparingly over many of the cultivated districts in the
northern and western Highlands, this species is well known in most parts of the British Islands. According
to my own observations, it is more numerous in Sussex (especially within a few miles of the sea-coast) than in
any other county where I have met with a chance of studying its habits.

During summer the Common Bunting is usually to be seen in the immediate vicinity of hay-fields. The
male, perched either on some commanding twig along a hedgerow, or on the topmost bar of a post-and-rail
fence, is sure to attract attention while uttering from time to time his somewhat monotonous song. Here by
the roadside he will await within a few yards the approach of passers by (I have frequently driven past one
within six feet without his exhibiting the slightest sign of alarm), and then with drooping legs and an
apparently laboured flight, will flutter some forty or fifty yards into the field, and take up a position on any
rank plant or strand of grass that will sustain his weight. From this point of vantage ho will again continue
to drone out his harsh and tuneless ditty.

This species appears to be late in nesting; I have repeatedly seen fresh eggs mown out in June when the
hay was cut— the fields of seed-grass being the favourite breeding-quarters of this Bunting in Sussex : their
nests are also occasionally discovered under the shelter of coarse herbage on the furze-covered downs. I am
not aware of any eggs that vary to a greater extent ; at times they differ but slightly from those of the Yellow
Hammer, while clutches may now and then be seen blotched and scrawled in every conceivable manner with a
rich red-brown. Eggs taken in the east of Sussex, I remarked in several instances, both in shape and
colouring, bore but a very slight resemblance to those procured to the -west of Brighton.

As early as the last week in August I have noticed these birds especially numerous along the south
coast and commencing to flock. Whether these were all natives of the district, or visitors from more northern
localities, it Avas impossible to form an opinion. On the approach of winter large bodies collect and roost in
the marine weeds growing on the mudflats above high-water mark in Slioreham Harbour. Soon after 3 p.m.
they may be seen flying singly or in small parties from the surrounding country, and, after hovering round a
few times, pitching straight down into the thick cover. If disturbed when their quarters are once taken up,
it would be discovered that the birds were scattered over several acres of the flats — one, two, or three rising
here and there, wherever the cover v r as most dense. It is not till early in the spring that this situation is
totally deserted ; I have watched a few scattered birds gathering towards the harbour shortly before sunset as
late as the beginning of April.

The upper mandible of this Bunting is furnished with a very prominent protuberance or tooth. This is
supposed to assist the bird in shelling the various seeds which form the principal part of its food.

HUNTING.

BLACK-HEADED

EMBERIZA SCIKENICUL US.

The familiar names of Reed-Bunting or Reed-Sparrow, commonly applied to this species, clearly indicate the
style of country it frequents. These titles, however, only hold good during summer, as the birds may
constantly be observed in autumn and winter joining in small numbers with other Buntings, Linnets, and
Finches. In company with these roving flocks, they move from one spot to another— stackyards, waste lands,
and any situations where food is procurable being visited.

From Caithness to Sussex this lively bird is to be met with ; and even the wild and barren Western
Islands are resorted to at certain seasons, if no residents remain all the year round on those inhospitable
shores. I remarked a pair or two repeatedly in a few stunted bushes in the garden of a shooting-lodge situated
on one of the saltwater lochs in the Long Island during the latter end of April and early in May 1877.
Their presence at such an early date would lead to the impression that they had passed the winter in this
neighbourhood. TV hen I left the lodge (about the middle of May) the birds were still there; and as no suitable
nesting-ground could possibly be discovered within a mile or so of their usual quarters (from which they
were seldom absent for any length of time), I concluded they had yet to make a move to their summer
haunts.

The neighbourhood of rush-grown marshes is the favourite resort of the Black-headed Bunting ; and in
the Broad districts of the eastern counties this handsome bird may be observed in immense numbers and to
the fullest advantage during fine summer weather. The male, with his black head, white neck, and conspicuous
red-brown markings on the back, is one of the most attractive inhabitants of these watery wastes. As he flits
along the river-bank or the side of the marsh-dyke, by no means disconcerted by a passing boat, there is little
difficulty in closely watching his actions. A short stroll across any of the adjoining grass-marshes that arc
interspersed with thick patches of rushes and other luxuriant water-plants would doubtless start a female,
fluttering apparently helpless and injured, from her neatly built nest snugly concealed among the roots of the
coarse herbage.

I have no evidence that any migrants from across the North Sea arrive on our coasts during the fall of the
year. According to my own experience, this species is decidedly less numerous in many English counties
throughout the winter months than during the breeding-season. This local diminution may probably be
accounted for by their common habit of joining with other small birds towards the end of autumn and
deserting their usual haunts. It is evidently the custom of this species to roost in the neighbourhood of
marshes, though whether in winter they separate from the flocks of small birds with whom they keep
company during the day I have had no opportunity of ascertaining. As early as the first week in March
they may be seen towards evening gathering in the direction of some rush-grown pool or ditch in the levels in
the vicinity of the south coast. A patch of reeds in a small water-dyke running through the marshes between
Shoreliam and Beeding is a favourite resort. I have on several occasions, while passing, watched them

2

MAC K-IIEAD E D 15 U N'T IXG.

approaching their quarters. The birds arrive for tlie most part singly, flying high and darting down witli a
sudden sweep, and at once disappearing among the stems of the reeds, appearing to take up a position close
above the water. As many as forty or fifty might be counted seeking the shelter of this small patch of rushes
shortly before dusk.

In winter, while keeping companny with other Buntings and Finches, the food of this species consists for
the most part of grain collected from the neighbourhood of farm-buildings and stackyards, as well as the seeds
ol many grasses and plants. Insects and caterpillars, together with a few seeds, probably form the principal
part of their diet during spring and summer. A small white moth which appears among the water-plants
growing on the broads in the east of Norfolk early in June is eargerly sought after by this Bunting. The
insect is usually found clinging to the stems of the reed ; and unless the weather prove too stormy, the birds may
he seen daily for a few weeks, flitting from stem to stem, diligently hunting through all the straggling patches
of reed that fringe the side of the marshes.

Y E L L 0 W B U N T I N G.

EMBERIZA CITRINELLA.

The Yellow Bunting is to be met with in almost every part of the British Islands where the country is
sufficiently wooded to supply its very modest requirements in the way of concealment for its nest.

Of all our birds, whether native or migratory, this bright-coloured and attractive species is one of the hardiest,
apparently more fitted to withstand the severity of the climate than many of our winter visitors from the shores of
Norway, Sweden, or Lapland. The Bedwing and Fieldfare land on our northern coasts, and pass south as the
cold increases, often being found, during protracted storms, helpless from want or frozen to death in the
southern counties of England. The swarms of Bramblings which make their appearance in autumn first on
the stubbles or in the beech-groves, and finally, as winter draws nearer, in the neighbourhood of the farrn-
steadmgs, gradually take their departure, together with the greater number of the Chaffinches, to districts less
exposed, leaving the Yellow Hammer to face the cutting blasts and drifting snow-squalls in its native glens.
In some of the wildest parts of the Highlands I met with these Buntings, during hard frosts, collected into
flocks numbering several hundreds. The sheltered corner of the cattle-yards and the immediate vicinity of
any dwelling-houses where food might be procured were their favourite resorts, and, indeed, the only spots
where the poor birds had a chance of sustaining life. On one occasion during a heavy snow-storm I observed a
large number of these birds, together with a score or so of Chaffinches, clinging to the joints and feeding on the
flesh of a dead horse, which had been hung against a dog-kennel at the back of a shooting-lodge in the°west of
Perthshire. On the pieces being removed and placed on the ground, and the snow swept from them, the half-
starved birds came down in hundreds and settled on the meat.

The Yellow Bunting may be found frequenting situations differing considerably in various localities. In
Sussex it is distributed over the woodlands, breeding by the roadside hedge or under the shelter of some
bramble-covered bank. It is also equally numerous on the furze-clad downs, its nest being concealed in the
coarse grass or among the lower branches or roots of some stunted bush. On one occasion (June 18, 1875) I
discovered a nest of this species containing three eggs, on the open hillside on the downs to the north of
Stanmer Park. The pasture was exceedingly short ; and there was not the slightest cover of any description
within a distance of five-and-twenty or thirty yards.

Hie sheltered valleys among this range of hills are a favourite resort during winter, if the weather remains
mild. Here I have repeatedly noticed these birds collecting into immense flocks. If disturbed in the evening-
twilight shortly after seeking their roosting-quarters, the whole hill-side for several acres would appear alive
with fluttering wings. Frost and snow soon force them to the farmyards ; and in all parts of the country
tbey may be seen clinging to the stacks, or pecking about the yards in company with Sparrows, Green-
finches, and Chaffinches. In the marshes of the Broad districts of the eastern counties, this species is
less abundant, its place being taken by its relative the Black-headed Bunting or Reed-Sparrow ; on the
cultivated lands adjoining the fens, however, it is plentiful. Severe weather, though it usually drives this

YELLOW BUNTING.

2

species from outlying quarters to the neighbourhood of farms ancl other buildings, seldom causes any general
movement from one district to another.

Owing to the breeding-range of this species extending far north, it is probable the British Islands are
visited by migrants from across the sea. Only one or two while on the passage have come under my obser-
vation off our coasts in autumn ; and during the years I received wings from the light-ships no information was
gained concerning their arrival.

Thoughout the snow-storms early in December 1882, I remarked a few scattered pairs of Yellow Hammers
keeping company with Chaffinches, Greenfinches, Pipits, and Wagtails. These birds were fluttering and
running busily alongside the roads in the outskirts of Brighton. Wherever the snow had been removed they
eagerly searched the dust-heaps, or any collection of rubbish carted out from the town.

Seeds and insects no doubt form the greater portion of the food of this species. I had previously
imagined it was only when pressed by want that meat would be patronized. A female Yellow Hammer,
however, was distinctly seen to make a most vigorous attack on a piece of cooked mutton, hung up by a string
to a small tree in a garden near Brighton for the benefit of the Titmice. The weather was exceedingly mild at
the time, and the sun shining brightly (February 7, 1883) ; so a scax-city of natural food could hardly have
influenced its choice. The wind having twisted up the string round a limb, the Bunting was enabled to reach
the meat, which while swinging was accessible only to the Paridse. A hen sparrow was enjoying the feast in
perfect amity with the Bunting. I remarked that while the former attacked the fat alone, the latter was
tearing out small strands of meat from the lean.

In the east of Norfolk this species is commonly spoken of as the Goldfinch, — “ Carduelis elegans ” being
in that locality termed the “ Drawwater.”

GIRL BUNTING.

EMBERIZA CIRLUS.

The range of this species is, according to my own experience, exceedingly limited in Great Britain. With
e exception of Sussex where the Cirl Bunting is common in certain localities, I have only met with a chance
of observing this bird in the Isle of Wight. That it is an occasional visitor to Norfolk, however, I am “
possession of good proof, having discovered a couple of fresh-killed females among a dozen Yellow Buntin-s and
other small birds, shot at my request by a fanner as food for an Owl I kept in confinement. This occurred in

had Te t“] h 8 l ’r T* H<>iSham Deal ' Tarm0Uth ' The l,irds were obtained round a stack that

been thrashed ; but though I carefully watched the spot on the following day (being aware the species

is considered rare in the district), no other specimens .were detected. In the winters of 1879, ’81, and ’82
again closely inspected the large numbers of Yellow Hammers frequenting the farm-buildings in this
locality, but without recognizing the bird ; and doubtless it is but a rare straggler to the east of Norfolk.

In Sussex the Cirl Bunting is a resident, and may be found at all seasons in the country immediately north
of the range of the South Downs, being particularly abundant within the distance of fifteen or twenty miles
from Brighton. I have seldom, if ever, noticed the bird further inland than eight or ten miles from the
coast. During the summer a few make their appearance to the south of the lulls, and nest in the immediate
vicinity of the seaside towns and villages. I have remarked these Buntings in a few instances as far east
and west as Hastings and Bognor.

In autumn they collect in flocks, as many as fifty or sixty being seen at times in company. Yellow
Hammers and a few stray Chaffinches are occasionally to be observed in close proximity, though for the most
part I have remarked that they appeared to prefer their own society. At this season they feed on the
stubbles, resorting for shelter to the hedgerows and coverts. I imagine these birds do not shift their quarters,
however severe the weather, beyond paying a visit to the farmyards, having met with them frequenting the
slopes of the downs and the adjoiniug arable land from early in November till the end of February.

The nest much resembles that of the Yellow Hammer, though I have now and then noticed that the structure
exhibited a larger quantity of green moss in its composition than is commonly made use of by that species.
The quickset edges alongside the London, Brighton, and South Coast Railway are a very favourite breeding-
resort for these birds. In the plantations on the sloping sides of the downs, nests may occasionally be seen
at an elevation of five or six feet in moss-grown and ivy-covered stumps of thorn. In the foliage of trained
rose-bushes, as well as among ferns and creeping plants on rockeries in gardens, the young have been
repeatedly reared in the vicinity of Brighton.

The eggs vary to a considerable extent, exhibiting several shades of colour, though in some instances they
correspond closely with those of the Yellow Hammer. The young shortly after being hatched are thickly
covered with a dull black down, and show a large and clearly defined white gape.

The plumages of the female Cirl Bunting and Yellow Hammer bear a very close resemblance. It is by no

2

CIRL BUNTING.

moans an easy matter to determine at a glance the identity of a female. All observers of bird-life must,
while passing through our country-lanes, have had their attention attracted by the conspicuous warm brown
tint of the feathers on the rump or lower part of the back of the Yellow Hammer as the bird flies past or
rises to flutter over a hedgerow. In the Cirl Bunting this red-brown colouring is absent, and the plumage
is ol a pale olive-green tinge. This fact is mentioned because I do not remember to have seen it alluded to
by any ornithological writer.

Hie note ol the two species is also very similar; that of the Cirl Bunting, however, is destitute of the
prolonged skirl which the Yellow Hammer gives utterance to by way of an ending. In the neighbourhood of
the South Downs in Sussex I have heard country people compare the song of the Yellow Hammer to the
following words : “Little bit of bread and no cheeese.” The note of the Cirl Bunting is almost identical,

with the omission of the long-drawn-out “cheese” at the finish.

CHAFFINCH.

F RING ILL A CALEBS.

Thbb, are few parts of the British Islands, with the exception of barren and treeless moorlands, where the
Chaffinch is not occasionally to be observed at one season or another. In most wooded localities it is common

tte NoXVSandr ^ or two in man y of the dense pine-forests of

Large numbers reach our eastern coasts from across the North Sea during the autumn months. Though
immense flocks may occasionally be seen all through the winter in various parts of Great Britain, it is probable
tha many Chaffinches cross the English Channel, and return to our shores early in the spring I paid
particular attention to all large gatherings of these birds, met with either by sea or land, in order, if possible
to learn whether there is any certain rule as to the separation of the sexes during the winter months The
following notes extracted from my journals will show the date of the arrival of our visitors from the north of
Luiope, and also the relative numbers of the sexes in any considerable parties that have come under mv

During a heavy snow-storm in December 18G5, I noticed several parties of Chaffinches frequentin'* the
armyards and the dust-heaps at the back of a shooting-lodge in the west of Perthshire. Both males and
females were to be seen in about equal numbers.

In January 18G7, at the time of the heavy snowfall, when countless myriads of small birds passed from
east to west along the coast of Sussex, the stubble-fields between Brighton and Newhaven were, in some parts,
almost covered with flocks of Chaffinches. The poor birds, wearied and half-starved, were flying past and
dropping wherever a spot free from snow could be discovered. There were both males and females 3 ; but after
carefully watching them for two or three consecutive days, it was evident the males were most numerous ; still
one third at least were females.

Towards the end of January 1871, the coast of Sussex was again visited by swarms of fugitives during
protracted frost and snow. I remarked that, in the flocks of Chaffinches appearing in the fields, the males and
females were in about the same proportion as during the severe weather four years previously.

While steaming in the North Sea between twenty and thirty miles off Yarmouth, on the 7th of October
1872, with a fresh breeze from the south-east, several parties of Chaffinches and Tree-Sparrows were noticed
flying towards the land. The Chaffinches that were near enough for the sexes to be identified were males and
females in about equal numbers. The other birds seen on the passage during the same day were Hooks,
Starlings, and Larks.

On the following day (the 8th), while ten or fifteen miles east of the ‘Newarp’ floating light, a
continued stream of Rooks, Grey Crows, Jackdaws, Starlings, Larks, and Chaffinches were observed makim-
their way towards the land, with but slight intermission, from daylight till dusk. Several Larks and Chaffinches
came on board. The Larks were greatly fatigued, and, creeping into any quiet corner, generally went off at

2

CHAFFINCH.

once to sleep; while the Chaffinches, though tired, seemed of an inquiring disposition, and pecked about all
over the deck, only fluttering a few feet when any of the crew passed near them. One poor little bird,
evidently much distressed by its journey, after being a passenger for at least twenty miles, left us as we were
entering the harbour, and fluttered on hoard a fishing-boat just going out. Here he perched himself in a
basket hanging over the stern and was carried to sea again. All the Chaffinches that came on hoard during
the day were, without exception, males. In the flocks passing the steam-boat I did not recognize any females;
in many instanses, however, they were too far off to be clearly examined.

During rough and stormy weather, and, indeed, immediately before a gale, few, if any, small birds are rash
enough to attempt to cross. The 10th and 11th of October proved squally with drifting rain from the south-
west ; and on those days no Chaffinches or Larks were observed on the passage. On the 14th of October,
weather still and hazy, the whole of the birds of passage were making good way ; and though large numbers
of Hooks, Starlings, Larks, Chaffinches, and Tree-Sparrows were continually passing the vessel while about ten
miles outside the Cross Sands, the only visitors that boarded us were two or three Tree-Sparrows, who took
their departure after a short rest. The males were apparently most numerous in the flocks of Chaffinches,
though I clearly recognized one or two small parties entirely composed of females.

On several days between the 2 1st of October and the 9th of November, I was out at sea in company with
the herring-fleet; but not a single Chaffinch was seen crossing, the only birds of passage observed being
llooks, Grey Crows, Starlings, Larks, Snow-Buntings, and Peewits. On Monday the lltli a most disastrous
gale of wind set in, with terrific squalls from north-north-cast. After continuing blowing all the week from
east, south-east, and east-south-east, the wind dropped on the 18th, and on the 20th we were again enabled
to steam round the Cross Sands. At the invitation of the master, I went on board the ‘ Newarp ’ floating light,
and learned they had not yet spoken any vessel since the gale, which they had ridden out with 1G0 fathoms of
cable ; and though, naturally, having experienced rough times, every thing, as usual on all the Trinity ships, was
in the greatest possible order and brightness. I found on board the only birds that had struck the lights or
settled on deck during the storm. These were two Stormy Petrels, one male Siskin, one Tree-Sparrow, one
female Blackbird, and one male Chaffinch. This appears a late date for this species to be still crossing ; I did
not hear of any others till the following spring.

On March 27th, 1873, a fine bright morning, light easterly breeze, I was out on Ilickling Broad in the
east of Norfolk, and noticed soon after daybreak immense flocks of Starlings flying east, also several parties of
male Chaffinches. These Finches were apparently all bound due east, and passed over without halting ; as far as
I could judge there was not a female among their numbers. Meadow-Pipits were also taking up their quarters
round the broad after a winter’s absence from the district. A few days later (April 7) I received from the
‘Lynn Well ’ light-ship the wings of a few Chaffinches, also several Starlings, and one Meadow-Pipit. This
would go to prove that some at least of the flocks observed on the Norfolk coast had continued their journev
across the North Sea. After an interval of a few weeks, wings were again sent from the same vessel ; and these
plainly indicated that Chaffinches had passed over till the end of April. These birds, I was informed, were all
red-breasted, and consequently males.

In the spring of 1875 a large mixed flock of Bramblings, Chaffinches, and Tree-Sparrows resorted for
several weeks to some arable ground on the downs near Falmer in Sussex. I remarked that the Chaffinches
were both males and females, and, as near as I could judge, in about equal numbers.

During the severe gale and protracted frost on the coast of Sussex in January 1SS1, Chaffinches, like
other small birds, suffered excessively. The frozen victims that came under my notice were of both sexes.

Passing on several occasions along the sea-wall from Shoreham to Lancing during November and
December 1882, and in January 1883, I repeatedly disturbed large flocks of small birds that resorted for food
to the various seed-producing weeds and plants growing on the shingle-banks. Greenfinches, Linnets, Twites,

CHAFFINCH.

3

and Chaffinches were constantly to he seen; and here again I remarked both males and females in about

at thatTt CTS ; % m 1 considerably reinforceMht.h

at t at date a few paws had evidently taken up their summer quarters along the more wooded portion of the

coast-line. The mates were singing constantly during the sunshine when the weather was warm and bright

I cannot call to mmd having heard the note of this species on previous seasons so early in the vear

On the 5th of March 1883, several straggling parties of Chaffinches, with but few exceptions all males

= — *" — — ■■■ —i •«'- ;

During the summer months this handsome species takes up its quarters in gardens and pleasure-grounds
in the immediate vicinity of dwelling-houses, as well as throughout the woods and coverts. A few pairs are
also to be met with among the scattered bushes and plantations in remote and rocky glens, and even on the
furze-covered downs of the southern counties. The neat and beautifully constructed nest is too well known to
need description ; and the eggs are to be seen in the collection of every schoolboy. Seeds and insects supply
the chief items of the food of this useful bird. Destructive it may be at times to the produce of the farm and
garden; but the quantities of injurious caterpillars it clears off, atone amply for all its previous delinquencies,
to severe weather it will greedily prey on the bones and crumbs provided for Kobins and other small pensioners
and if hard pressed will ravenously attack raw flesh, if accessible*.

* Vide Yellow Hammer.

brambling.

F RING ILL A M ON TIFRINGIL L A.

Tiiol gh an annual visitor m considerable numbers to our shores, I never remarked this species on passage

1 \ and th<3 ™ gS rGCeived fr0m the i^hips off the cast coast during the seasons

of 1872 and 1873 dul not exceed a score. It is possible that fine and clear weather may have prevailed at the
time of their migration during these years; and under such circumstances but few would be injured by
striking the lights. Still, as I was able to gather little or no information concerning this species from
the crews of any of the vessels, it is most probable the main flocks of Bramblings make the land
towards the northern portion of the Scotch coast. Their early arrival in the Highlands, a month or so
at least before any numbers show themselves in England, also points to the same conclusion.

All parts of the Highlands (with the exception of the high ranges) appear to be occasionally visited •
1 have found large flocks in many of the wildest glens. According to my own experience, they seldom
stray far up the mountain-side, resorting on their first arrival to the stubble-fields and being especially
partial to the neighbourhood of beech trees. On the approach of severe weather they betake themselves to the
farmyards; and by far the greater number eventually move south to avoid the protracted cold and the
hardships of a winter in the barren northern glens.

Stragglers and small parties may be seen almost every season on the eastern and southern coast, and,
indeed, m all parts of the country, though the immense gatherings that arc occasionally met with do
not put in an appearance with the same regularity. Hard frost, however, generally brings considerable
flocks to the southern counties, where they join company with Einches and Linnets on the stubbles and
waste lands. I have now and then observed them moving towards the west with the multitudes of Larks
and other small birds that pass along the Sussex coast after a heavy fall of snow. I did not remark that
Bramblings were particularly numerous in the severe weather of January 1807, when Fieldfares and
Redwings were far more abundant than in any subsequent year. In January 1871 these birds arrived
in countless swarms, many of the fields along the coast being completely covered when a flock alighted —
their bright colours, shown up as they flew past the snow-drifts, being particularly attractive. During
the terrible hurricane in January 1881 large flights again appeared in the south; and on this occasion
they suffered excessively from the continued inclemency of the weather. Hundreds collected round the
houses, eagerly availing themselves of any scraps of food provided for the starving swarms of pensioners ;
while here and there a worn-out traveller, numbed and helpless, would creep into some sheltered corner
and, puffing out its feathers, quietly await its fate. The numbers of small birds that perished during
this storm could scarcely be credited, except by those who witnessed the immense quantities of dead
bodies (collected together in many instances to the extent of several hundreds) that were exposed to
view as the snow melted.

I obtained a specimen in January 1871 that exhibited a black or rather a dark greyish-coloured throat, the

BE AMBLING.

bird (a male) being at that date, of course, in winter plumage. This variety has previously been alluded
to by several writers.

A very large flock of Bramblings took up their quarters for several weeks from the end of March
187o in a beech-plantation on the hill near Palmer in Sussex. Some scores of Chaffinches were among
their numbers ; and a few Tree-Sparrows also kept company with them. During the day they resorted
to the arable land for lood, retiring when disturbed to the adjoining beech-woods. Many of the males were in
fine plumage ; and I secured two or three early in April that showed the perfect breeding-dress ; the
beaks had also assumed a blue tint. I noticed this gathering, though in considerably reduced numbers,
still frequenting the district at the end of the month ; a week or so later I learned they had all taken
their departnre. By May it is probable that all except a few stragglers have left our shores.

I have met with this species during the summer months on but one occasion. While fishing in the
west of Perthshire, in June 18GG, I was forced to ascend a beech tree to release the line, which had
become entangled in the branches ; and while so engaged a female Brambling was disturbed from her ■
nest, containing three eggs, which was placed close to the stem of the tree. Being anxious to px-ocure
the newly fledged young as specimens, I left her in peace ; and on again visiting the spot in about ten
days or a fortnight the nest was empty; and, judging by its appearance, I should be of opinion that
the young birds had been dragged out by a cat.

This is the oixly instance I am acquainted with of the Brambling attempting to rear its young in Great
Britain. During subsequent years I have both carefully searched the same locality and made many inquiries,
but invariably without success, though the bird was well known by those to whom I applied for information.

MALE. FEMALE <fc YOUNG

TREE-SPARROW.

PASSER MONTANUS.

Though stated by various authors to be widely distributed over the British Islands, it is only in the southern
and eastern counties of England and in East Lothian that I have recognized the Tree-Sparrow.

. . * n S0 “® parts ° f N ° rfolk this s P ecies is almcst as numerous as the House-Sparrow, a few remaining in the
vicmi y ° f their ( l uarters throughout the year. According to my own observations, this Sparrow is only an
occasional visitor to the downs of Sussex, arriving in flocks on the approach of cold weather, passing gradually
along the range of lulls from east to west, and again making their appearance while on the return journey in the
spring. Towards the end of March 1875 I remarked a few of these birds, in company with Chaffinches and
Bramblmgs, resorting to the large beech-woods at Palmer, near Brighton; after remaining in the district till
about the middle of April the flock gradually disappeared. On two or three occasions Tree-Sparrows were met
with late m autumn flying along the links near Direlton and also between Canty Bay and Dunbar in East
Lothian; in all probability these birds were migrants which had recently crossed the North Sea.

Numbers of this species arrive on our eastern coasts from the northern countries of Europe during autumn
While steaming in company with the herring-fleet, in order to make observations, I frequently noticed these
birds while on passage. Occasionally, when weary and worn out, they would alight on board, and selecting
some quiet corner, turn their heads over on their backs and puffing out their feathers instantly fall asleep.
After resting for a time a few now and then flew down on the deck and peeked about among the crumbs of
bread and other food provided for the accommodation of our small feathered visitors ; when revived they
invariably took their departure before darkness set in, heading straight for the land. The migration appears to
be continued through the whole of October, the latest straggler that I heard of being a single bird captured on
board the ‘ Newarp' floating light during the gale that commenced on Monday the lltli of November, 1872,
and continued during the whole of the week. On boarding the vessel on the 20th I learned that only seven
birds had fallen on deck during the storm, the force of the wind being so great that the majority of those
striking the lights were carried overboard.

The scientific name of Passer montanus bestowed on this species appears as inappropriate as that of arboreus.
Though Tree-Sparrows when moving westward on the approach of winter usually pass along the Sussex downs,

I never on other occasions met with these birds in a hilly country, their strongholds in Great Britain bein"-
evidently the flat portions of the midland and eastern counties. Many of the earlier writers on ornithology
(who have been followed, in some instances, by those of a later date) exhibit but little knowledge concerning the
habits of this species. The following lines are extracted from a well-known work : — “ It is now perfectly clear
that this bird resides amongst trees only, and that it makes its nest in holes and cavities of such as arc decayed,
and never amongst the branches nor in buildings.” I took especial pains to hunt out the breeding-quarters
of these birds round several farms in the east of Norfolk during the summer of 1873, and in every instance the
nests were placed amongst buildings, some in cowsheds, others under the tiles of outhouses, and three

2

TREE-SPAR ROW.

or four among the rough stems of some coarse ivy that grew over an old wall. Not one did I discover amongst
trees, though House-Sparrows were breeding plentifully both in the branches and the ivy round the trunks.
\\ it hin the last lew years I again visited the district, and noticed the birds still frequenting the same spots ;
a sma11 colony was also pointed out by one of the natives in the roof of a carpenter’s shed.

Occasionally I remarked in the east ol Norfolk that these birds were absent from their usual haunts for

some months during winter. Under date of Sunday, March 30, 1873, the following occurs in my notes:—
1 iee-Sparrovs were again numerous round the farm-buildings, this being almost the first day they had put in
an appearance, a close watch having been kept for their return.” During the winters of 1871 and 1881 they
wore to be observed continually throughout the cold weather in company with House-Sparrows, Finches, and
Buntings round the cattle-yards of several of the farms.

Although it has been asserted that Tree-Sparrows do not inhabit towns in Great Britain, 1 repeatedly noticed
a few pair peeking about in the main road running through the north end of Yarmouth in the autumn of 1872.
A\ hethcr these were migrants lately landed, or residents, I had no means of ascertaining. A single bird also
attracted my attention in a garden rather nearer the outskirts of the town in the summer of 1883.

1 he newly hatched broods of these Sparrows suffered severely from the fierce heat in the summer of 1873.

Several pairs had built their nests under the tiled roofs of some cattle-sheds and piggeries adjoining the Falgate
Inn at Potter lleigham, where the space was exceedingly cramped and little or no air could penetrate. Being
anxious to procure specimens in the nestling plumage I removed the tiles, when the whole of the young, in all
probability suffocated by the tropical heat, were discovered dead in the nests. After their bereavement I noticed
three or four pairs of the birds building again between the 7th and 10th of July in some rank ivy overhanging
an antiquated wall. I his situation had evidently been chosen with considerable forethought, the widely spreading
limbs and dense foliage affording ample shade and protection from the rays of the sun.

The male and female of this Sparrow are alike ; the young also exhibit the same markings, though some-
w hat less clearly defined, in their first plumage.

PI. 11.

Tin

MALE & FEMALE

o

HOUSE-SPARROW.

PASSER DOMESTICUS .

In the appearance of the city -bred and country Sparrow there is always a striking difference ; the aspect of the
townsman is by no means prepossessing, his worn and shabby attire, frequently black and grimy as the smoke-
dried trees and buildings to which he resorts, contrasts but poorly with that of his country relative. The
plumage of the latter is for the most part neat and trim, the bright colouring of his cheeks and flanks,
as well as the warm red tints on his hack, show up conspicuously in the sunlight and render his
appearance by no means unattractive ; the two birds if seen in company could scarcely be supposed to belong
to one and the same species.

From north to south the House-Sparrow is abundant and appears gradually to be extending its range in
some parts of the Highlands. Twenty years ago I remarked the absence of these birds about the dwellings in
several of the remotest glens ; of late years, however, a few pairs have taken up their quarters round the
shooting-lodges or the small collections of shealings termed villages in such districts.

Sparrows are decidedly pugnacious, frequently fighting among themselves and occasionally with other species.
On the 27th of December, 1883, I happened to he watching a brightly plumaged old male that had settled at
some food thrown out for the benefit of the pensioners who regularly collect on our lawn, when a couple of
Starlings flew down and attempted to claim a share. Undaunted by the size of his assailants, the Sparrow
resolutely defended the portion he had appropriated ; with open beak he faced his foes and successfully repulsed
three or four attacks, the Starlings eventually drawing off and leaving the plucky little fellow in possession.
The encounter appeared exceedingly ridiculous, the two long-legged giants (Starlings when fighting draw them-
selves up to their greatest height) stalking cautiously round and darting from time to time at the diminutive
Sparrow, who, crouching down on his prey with elevated and expanded tail, quietly awaited and repulsed every
attempt to approach the food he guarded. When pressed by want these birds become exceedingly daring : the
excessive drought early in July 1884 rendered soft food very difficult to obtain, and while the sultry weather
lasted I repeatedly noticed one or two cock Sparrows hopping round and closely watching the actions of the
Blackbirds while seeking for grubs or worms on the lawn ; the moment any prey was secured the Sparrows
would dash in, and in almost every instance carry off whatever had been extracted from below the soil. A
female Sparrow that attempted to emulate the exploits of her lord and master was assailed by an old hen Black-
bird, and having been utterly vanquished was forced to seek safety by flight. As a rule, Sparrows take but
little notice of a cat as she creeps stealthily round the stacks while on the watch for mice, neither do they show
their enmity when, on maternal duties bent, she makes her way demurely across the yard towards her kittens
concealed in the barn ; they seem, however, to detect at once the poacher who prowls along the hedgerow or
through the plantations in quest of feathered prey. In our gardens we are able to trace accurately the course
taken by the feline marauders when stalking through the shrubberies, by the calls and excited actions of the
swarm of small birds in attendance. The loud “chuck chuck” of the Blackbird first attracts attention and

HOUSE-SPARROW.

soon collects a mob ol Sparrows, whose shrill notes rapidly draw the whole of their fraternity within hearing to
the spot. Last winter I witnessed a most lively scene : at least fifty or sixty birds of various species had settled
on the surrounding branches or were flying down and hovering round a vagrant pussy vainly attempting to
spring to the top oi a wall along which wire netting had been stretched; every time the animal dashed at the
wire (invisible owing to the overhanging branches) it was thrown violently backwards, being followed towards
the ground by numbers of the noisy rabble. The animosity exhibited by a pair of Wrens, who were by far the
most demonstrative of the party, was most amusing; with ruffled feathers these tiny mites fluttered, screaming
open-mouthed to within the distance of a few inches, or perched, when wearied by their exertions, for a few

moments on the twigs immediately above the object of their hatred, still giving vent to their fury with
sharp cries.

. 1Il0Ush Ovmcin o a partiality for the immediate vicinity of human habitations*, the Sparrow selects a
\arioty ol situations in which to rear its young. So well known are the usual nesting-quarters of this familiar
species that it is unnecessary to enter into particulars concerning their breeding-habits, which have been
described by endless writers ; one or two facts referred to in my notes may, however, be worth recording.

llie mud-built nests of the Ifouse-Martin are frequently appropriated by Sparrows, their rightful owners
being turned out and driven to other quarters. These domiciles apparently possess a peculiar attraction for
t ns species, and the rapidity with which they are again occupied after one pair of Sparrows have been disposed
of would scarcely be credited. Early in June 1883 I noticed a couple of pair of Martins building under the
eves ol a farmhouse m Norfolk ; no sooner were the nests (which had been constructed side by side) completed
than 11, c unfortunate Martins were evicted. For a short time one or two would occasionally return and after
circling round skim up to the nest, speedily beating a retreat when faced by the beak of an impudent Sparrow
protruded Irom the opening. The old cocks were often to be seen sitting with their heads blocking the
en ranees, which in both cases had been at once enlarged to suit the size of the present lodgers. As I was
anxious to retain the Martins round the house, I shot down every Sparrow that entered the nests durin-
the hours I happened to be on the spot, four males and two females being killed the first two days.

I remarked on one occasion after a male was shot that the female secured another mate within an hour.

, five-and-tvventy having been cleared off in less than a week, the nests remained vacant for a

(Un or two ; as no Martins, however, put in an appearance to claim their old quarters, I left the Sparrows
tor the future unmolested.

In June 1872, while sheltering from a heavy shower under an overhanging bank on the roadside adjoining
a plantation near Palmer, in Sussex, my attention was attracted l>y a Sparrow endeavouring to approach the
spot with food, and turning round, a young brood was discovered in a nest placed in a hole in the chalky soil
among the roots drooping through from the thorn-bushes above. Farm-buildings, thatched and slated lodges
as well as ivy-clad walls being within the distance of a couple of hundred yards, the site chosen appeared
remaikable. As the crumbling bank overhung considerably, a dark shadow was thrown on the spot where the
hole for the nest had been scratched. Within a couple of feet of the entrance a Long-eared Bat ( Vespertilio
auritus) was hanging from one of the twining roots. The hollow excavated in the bank measured about four
inches across at the opening, the width of the interior of the cavity being an inch or two more in extent; the
trance to the nest, of which only a small portion was visible from the outside, was placed exactly in the

for tb ° t 6 ai “ re !“ ^ ° halk ' J lle b ‘ rdS ha<1 oonstmote4 tlleir cradle w ‘th the usual materials, employing
pLes of“X” toh 7 ’ r ° USh SraSS ' "* """ ° f l ' 00tS - ^ a ™ ^ -d small

neces^re torXet ^ duri “* at last, however, it became

necessary to reduce their numbers, and several nests were lately removed from an ivy-clad wall in my garden

I cannot call to mmd an in.tance of « nest being placed much more than a quarter of a mile from a dwelling-how.

HOUSE-SPARROW.

3

While examining their composition I remarked that the lining in almost every instance consisted of the down
plucked by some captive Wildfowl, while sitting, to cover their eggs, together with a quantity of feathers from
the same birds. Some half-dozen nests of these Ducks having recently been cleared away and thrown on a
rubbish-heap, the Sparrows had evidently availed themselves of the opportunity for furnishing their own
domiciles; small scraps of paper had also been intermixed with these materials in one or two nests.

Though sufficiently hardy to endure the cold to which we are exposed during most winters, Sparrows suffer
severely from the effects of the hurricanes that occasionally break over these islands. During the terrific snow-
storm of January 18, 1881, the force of the wind and drifting snow was such that thousands of small birds were
driven to seek shelter from the cutting blasts in all sorts of out of the way corners and crevices, from which
few succeeded in effecting their escape. An instance where at least fifty Sparrows had taken refuge under the
shelter of a trug-basket * (containing fish for the captive Gauncts) placed in a shed on our grounds near Brighton
came under my notice, the warmth from the chimney-stack of a furnace, against which the basket was lying,
having probably attracted them to the spot. These unfortunate birds were huddled together in an almost
helpless mass, most of them being unable to rise on wing or even stir, as the snow had frozen into solid
lumps of ice upon their backs and rendered flight impossible. On the following morning between forty
and fifty were found lying dead under the snow-drifts collected round the basket.

A few weeks back I watched a pair of Sparrows amusing themselves in a most singular manner ; the two
birds were perched on the gutter running round the roof of a conservatory, from which point they kept
fluttering some three or four feet up the glass and then sliding quietly back, the performance being indulged
in for several minutes.

Though the farmer has just cause for complaint against this species, the Sparrow makes a certain amount
of reparation for the damage committed, by the quantities of insects supplied to the young broods. In the
immediate vicinity of towns I have repeatedly seen acres of corn where the ears were almost entirely stripped
of grain, clouds of young Sparrows rising from these barren patches when alarmed. In such localities it is
necessary for the birds to be continually scared, or great loss would ensue, the countless multitudes that
find shelter about the buildings in the neighbourhood being entirely beyond the reach of the farmer. A lew
pence for every score or dozen are often paid by agriculturists in the country to the lads in their employment for
vouno- Sparrows taken on the premises. If those who offer these rewards thoroughly understood their own
interests, none but full-fledged birds just fit to quit the nest and commence plundering on their own account
would be destroyed ; it is without doubt while providing for its offspring that this species renders the

greatest service.

Numbers of spring flowers also suffer from the inevitable Sparrow ; in our small piece of ground near
Brighton, the primroses that fringe the paths in the shrubberies are entirely ruined till late in the season. I

find the following entries in my notes referring to their depredations :

“December 29, 1883. Sparrows had already commenced to crop the primroses, every flower or bud that

showed having been bitten olf.

“ January 29, 1881. The bloom of the primroses totally destroyed by the Sparrows.

“ February 9, 1881. Hundreds of yellow and variegated crocuses lying on the beds, having been bitten in
pieces by the Sparrows. No flowers having appeared on the primroses, owing to then- former robberies, the

tormentors now attacked the crowns of the plants, tearing out the young shoots.

“ March 6, 1881. Violets, both white and purple, scattered about on the paths, having been out oil and

a- — “ ~ »• •' ‘

. A is the local name given in country districts in Sussex to a hashet constructed of aide strips of white wood (usually willow

with a handle of ash), and employed, for the most part, for gardening or farming purposes.

4

HOUSE-SPARROW.

still left them unmolested, imagining that some slight amends might he made as soon as their young needed
providing for. In this, however, I was soon undeceived : the Sparrows collected in hundreds to prey upon the
corn supplied to the Wild Duck, Wigeon, and Teal that were kept in confinement ; when the young broods were
hatched out, the swarms rapidly increased, the soft food provided for the juveniles being carried olf in immense
mouthfuls. To such an extent was this pilfering carried on that it became necessary to keep watch within the
distance of a few yards while the ducklings satisfied their hunger, otherwise little would have fallen to their
share. In order to lessen the numbers of the robbers, I was forced to make use of an air-gun, and at length
succeeded in effecting a slight diminution ; neither the Wildfowl nor the Thrushes, Blackbirds, Starlings, Robins,
Hedge-Sparrows, or Greenfinches that formed the other visitors to the ponds were in the least alarmed by the
report of the gun or the effect on the Sparrows, even when turned over within the distance of little more than a
foot. Although much has been written extolling their value as exterminators of insect pests, it is evident that
Sparrows will shirk the labour of hunting out the larvae or caterpillars on which they usually feed their young
if supplies of soaked bread, mashed potatoes, or other soft provision can be obtained with less exertion. These
birds also often make their way (in not the slightest degree intimidated by a wire netting, through which they
are able to force an entry) into the coops or enclosures where Chickens or Pigeons are kept, and steal their food,

appropriating, in many instances, by far the larger portion.

As the summer draws on, these persevering birds still continue to give trouble in the garden ; no sooner
are the flower-beds put in order than lobelias, and other tender plants employed for bordering, are cropped off
after the manner of the primroses. Red currants also are occasionally patronized to some extent, while for
peas, when fit for gathering, they evince an especial taste. My attention was drawn early in the morning of
.Tune 17, 1884, to the quantity destroyed in our garden, fully a quarter of the crop of green peas that were then
ready for use having been utterly destroyed. The injury inflicted by this species can readily be detected from
the well-defined nip given by the Hawfinch ; the Sparrow possessing less strength in the mandibles, is forced to
gnaw his way gradually to the pea, while the latter leaves the shape of his powerful beak plainly visible on the
outside of the pod.

Early in the present year (1885) I again remarked the Sparrows were attacking the primroses, nibbling off
the full-blown flowers, and biting far down into the crown to reach the budding shoots. Having been informed
that thick white cotton strung up over the roots was a means of scaring these marauders, I resolved to try the
experiment, and hundreds of yards were speedily put out, stretched across the ground on twigs inserted
among the plants. This proved efficacious to a certain extent, but any exposed roots were still destroyed, and a
more forcible remedy was evidently necessary. The air-gun used the previous season was of scarcely sufficient
power to do the work thoroughly, so a light 24-bore double pin-fire breechloader with cartridges charged with
dust-shot was employed, and after a few days’ shooting, some hundreds of Sparrows having been cleared off, the
whole of the primroses were saved, the appearance of the thousands of roots bordering some of the paths in
full bloom fully repaying the time and labour expended in their protection. As the season drew on, fresh birds
were attracted to the garden, some to the pond for water, and others to the food provided for the pinioned
Wildfowl ; these, however, were kept down by occasional watching and shooting. The peas also were well
looked after, several lines of cotton having been stretched over every row ; and the intruding robbers meeting
with a warm reception, scores being dropped while attempting to settle near the spot, they failed to inflict the
slightest damage. A few weeks back I was informed that a large spreading pear-tree in a garden at Shoreham
had been almost entirely denuded of bloom by these pests, and on making an investigation it was evident
that the damage inflicted had not been exaggerated. A careful study of their habits has convinced me
there is not the slightest doubt that Sparrows cause immense losses to both the farmer and gardener,
which is by no means repaid by their clearing olf the insect posts so injurious to the crops. Should other
food be procurable with less exertion, they resolutely refuse to perform their necessary duties, and, increasing

house-sparrow.

•J

rapidly, become an insupportable nuisance rpnrlpvinn. u

and kept within bounds. ’ ° necessary that their numbers should be diminished

In order to aid digestion, or for other mimm. «

them clinging to the newly-built walls in the southern parts”™ g 000aS10IlaI1 ^ their dict : 1 haT0 oft en seen
in the sea-sand used in its composition in this loealitv S X IT imS ** th ° m0rtar ; P ossibl y the salt

female was distinctly observed Mting oYand ^ ™™ry a

operation was watched immediately beneath a w ndo fl T? ‘“T ^ ° f SraSS ® a la ™ 1 - *h.

the bird were clearly visible. “ "" d ' Stan0 ° ° f onl ^ si * » eight feet, the aetions of

c„nnS7 P ““: f he s " * re “ ™ piaie 1 ■ *• ^

relatives, the pair of town Sparrows secured in ihe vicinity of =4^^™ ^

G II EENEINCIL

COCCO TIIRA TJSTES CIILORIS.

The well-known Greenfinch may be found in almost every part of the British Islands— passing the summer
only in those districts in which sufficient cover for nesting-purposes is to he met with, though at times a
visitor to any wild and open portions of our coast-line where the seeds of various plants afford a supply
of food. I have recognized this species during summer and autumn in many parts of the Highlands ; with
hut few exceptions, however, the birds Avere only noticed in districts where cultivation was carried on.
Though strong and hardy, the Greenfinch appears somewhat susceptible to cold, but few, when compared
with the numbers of either the Yellow-Hammer or Chaffinch, remaining to face the wintry snow-squalls in the
more remote glens.

In all the southern and eastern counties of England with which I am best acquainted this species is
common at every season of the year, joining not unfrequently during winter in flocks with other Finches,
Buntings, or Sparrows, and resorting to farm-buildings and stackyards. On the 1st of February 1882, during a
slight frost, I watched for some time a party of eighteen or twenty clinging to the sides of a stack of oats that
had been cut in half; while crawling, after the manner of Titmice, up the even surface they eagerly extracted
the grain lying within their reach. Late in autumn and on through the winter Greenfinches may often be
seen harbouring about the shingle-banks on the coast of Sussex to the west of Shorcham. Chaffinches, Twites,
and Linnets will usually be found in their company, or resorting in small separate parties to the same
range of beach, the seeds of the numberless rank weeds that grow on this barren waste proving the attraction

Though Greenfinches are usually supposed to commence their nesting-operations so early as April, icy may
not unfrequently be seen in company after that date. For several days after the 13th of May, 1807, a succession
of small flocks was encountered along the links to the east of Dunbar, m East Lothian: as far as I was able to
ascertain by watching their movements, these birds were making tl.e.r way northwards along the coast, a
week later others, though in reduced numbers, were noticed on the sandy links near Gullane.

While residin'* 1 in East Lothian I remarked that Greenfinches nested in considerable numbers, often m

close proximity to one another, in the thorn hedges surrounding the plantations of beech near the coast of the

Firth’of Forth In the south of England this habit of breeding in company may also be observed, in our

garden near Brighton the birds were exceedingly plentiful during the summer of 1883, then- nests in some

instances bein, placed so thickly that after the autumn gales had carried off the eaves from the shrubs and
instances bein p ' ^ counte4 from one spot The dense bushes of Oogreuu, as well as

young 1CC ® bc gelected in preference to other quarters, though willow, poplar, lime, elm, and red-may

were" alTwell patronized. One exceedingly curious ^ 0 !^ being

r. r.; x - — rzsszs. “ • — t “ “ ~

2

GREENFINCH.

nest being subsequently dragged out by a cat, the immense quantity of stonecrop used in its construction
was plainly exposed to view. The young birds after leaving these nests joined in small parties, but did not quit
the locality in which they were reared for several weeks, roosting at night in some small plantations of
sycamore. It was most amusing towards evening, especially when the weather was wet and showery, to watch
the forethought displayed by the juveniles while choosing a cosy situation among the thick foliage, their object
being apparently to select a position immediately below one of the large spreading leaves, which would
evidently afford complete shelter from the raindrops.

A couple of broods are occasionally hatched in the same nest, the second clutch of eggs being laid shortly
after the first family have taken their departure. This fact was noted on two occasions (1881 and 1883) in
a garden at Potter Heigham, in the east of Norfolk, the nests in both instances being placed in the same
yew tree.

In their earlier stages the young birds somewhat resemble juvenile Crossbills; the markings or streaks on
the feathers, however, arc scarcely so strongly developed. The plumage of both species fades considerably after
death, a stuffed specimen giving but a poor idea of either bird when seen in life.

The Greenfinch is by no means an accomplished songster, though its note and plaintive calls in spring,
summer, and autumn are sure to attract attention. The old male in early spring-time often renders himself
especially conspicuous— rising on wing in the bright sunshine, and, after a short flight, skimming or, rather,
floating through the air on extended pinions, with much the same actions as the Swallow or Martin.

After a prevalence of easterly winds during spring, hollies of all descriptions are often attacked by
numberless small caterpillars that completely destroy the tender shoots in which they are curled up. In my
notes for 1881 it is recorded, under the date of June 17, that Greenfinches were observed for some time busily
employed in tearing out these insects. Sparrows are also occasionally to be seen searching diligently over the
shrubs affected with this pest.

Laigc numbers of Greenfinches used formerly to be taken by bird-catchers during spring and autumn, and
disposed of with Sparrows for trap-shooting. Among the professional catchers of the south these birds are
known as “ Chubs,” or “ Green Chubs.”

HAWFINCH

COCCO THRA US TES VULGARIS.

The Hawfinch is said to be distributed over most of our English counties ; it is, however, with the exception
of two or three flocks noticed in winter in the midland counties, only in Sussex that this species has come
under my observation. I well remember a few at Catsfield, K infield, and Battle in Sussex, about thirty years
ago ; though their nests were never detected, I came to the conclusion later on that they were residents in the
district.

I should be unwilling to state that this species can with certainty be attracted by a call-bird ; the following
is, however, my experience on the subject. While at school at Harrow I noticed a fine old male in a store-
cage in a bird-catcher’s cottage, and, after becoming the purchaser of the bird for a shilling, took it home when
the holidays commenced. In a week I captured, in a clap-net, a couple of the Hawfinches previously observed
in this part of Sussex. The first flew across my net when set on the lawn at Catsfield House, which my
father then hired for several years, and the second settled down to the call-bird in a large grass-field just
outside the well-timbered lawn at Catsfield Park, belonging to Sir Andrew Pilkington. There is little doubt
that Hawfinches bred at both these places ; and their nests could not have escaped observation had the birds
been carefully watched among the fruit-trees in the gardens, and the dense cover in the rough plantations
adjoining been also thoroughly searched.

On two occasions while staying in Brighton I went and examined the nests of this species, and the following
extracts from my notes may possibly give a slight idea as to some of the habits of the birds.

On the 24th of June, 1872, I started from Brighton soon after midnight and drove round by Lewes to
Plumpton, where several pairs of Hawfinches were reported to have been inflicting a great deal of damage on
the peas in a garden where I had liberty to obtain specimens. Our destination was reached by daybreak,
and a few minutes later the old birds were observed feeding their young ; the whole party, however, proved
exceedingly shy, and the garden being large and surrounded by high trees, it was no easy matter to obtain
a shot. I was previously unacquainted with the call-note of this species, which, when once heard, is easily
recognized again ; had it not been for their shrill whistle I should have had little chance ol procuring the biids ,
their approach was, however, invariably detected as they drew near by the sound before they appeared in sight-
After remaining on the watch for eight or nine hours, I succeeded in obtaining the male, female, and three
young ones, that had probably left the nest only a few days previously ; the juveniles proved to be of about the
same size as the old birds and quite as wary. The nest in which they had been reared was placed in a pear-tree
in the centre of the garden, and the gardener informed me that the birds had nested regularly m the same tree
for the last six or seven years. These destructive finches had devoured or destroyed the whole of the peas
that were fit for gathering, the pods being cut to pieces by their broad beaks, and the crop on seven rows
utterly ruined. The gardener stated that during the previous season he had set some clams for A\ ood-Pigeons,
baited with hard peas, and in two or three days half a dozen Hawfinches were captured. The following week

HAWFINCH.

I visited the garden at the Manor House at Portslade, and examined the peas to ascertain if there were
any Hawfinches in that locality. I discovered that nearly every pod was destroyed, but the peas were extracted
in a different manner, and there were no signs of the broad cuts inflicted by Hawfinches, which reveal the
shape of their beaks. The gardener informed me that Sparrows had caused the damage in this instance,
and after watching for an hour I was convinced that his opinion was correct.

On the 9th of June, 1875, drove over to Plumpton to take a brood of young Hawfinches from the same
garden where the birds had been shot in 1872. I happened to be a day too late, five youngsters having been
seen by the gardener and keeper in the nest in the early morning, but only three remaining when I reached
the spot during the afternoon. These were immediately secured, a landing-net being dropped over the nest,
and the pair of old birds were soon obtained while flying round the garden with their mouths crammed full of
food for their young ; what they had collected was composed of a large mass of caterpillars and chrysalises of
various kinds. The nest was in the same pear-tree in which the birds had placed their cradle three years
previously, and the three young, which wc kept and reared, turned out to he all males. The colours of
the soft parts of these juveniles were as follows: — Upper and lower mandibles dull olive-yellow, gape yellow ;
inside of mouth and tongue a very bright flame-coloured red, shaded here and there with a pale sky-blue and
streaked with a beautiful cerise tint. A few lines referring to the three young birds taken from the nest on
the 9th of June, 1875, may not be out of place. For a week or two they all required to be fed, but shortly
after commenced to help themselves to whatever was provided. As previously stated, they all proved to be
males, the two that had left the nest being in all probability females. As they had evinced a disposition to
snap at one another, we concluded that a bite from their powerful beaks might be attended with serious results,
and consequently kept them separate in three large wire cages, placed side by side, but so that each occupant
was just out of the reach of his next-door neighbour’s spiteful mandibles. Within a year one of these youngsters
was found dead at the bottom of his cage, and, on an examination being made, it was discovered that the skull
had been pierced by a broken wire, pointing downwards from the top of the cage, which must have caused
instant death. The two that remained went through the regular changes in the colouring of the beak every
year ; all through the latter part of autumn and early winter the mandibles were a dirty flesh-tint. The change
commences towards the end of January, a livid blue gradually showing near the base and the points becoming
slightly darker. I find one note entered on the 15th of February, 1883, stating, “beak now quite blue;”
again, on March the 6th the same year, “ beak now blue with black points.” During the whole time they
remained in captivity the changes took place at much the same dates; the eyes never varied, the tint of the
iris corresponding precisely with the colour of the grey band of plumage round the neck. The seed-tins of the
birds were always filled with hemp ; but they also received a continuous supply of every description of vegetables,
with apples, nuts, hips and haws, and all the plants employed in the composition of salads, scarcely anything
eatable coming amiss to them. The long time they lived may, I think, be accounted for by the changes of
diet they enjoyed ; their excitement (snapping, pecking, and rating at one another) when their dainties were
being produced was most amusing. They frequently indulged in vocal performances; some persons might
possibly have termed it singing, but the sounds emitted were exceedingly discordant, resembling the squeaking
of an ungreased cart-wheel produced with variations. While giving utterance to their quaint melody they
occasionally became much excited and danced or hopped on their perches from one side of their cages to the
other in a most extraordinary manner; their actions ought to have been seen to be thoroughly understood,
as to accurately describe the antics the infatuated birds went through is utterly impossible. Though
previously perfectly healthy, one commenced, in May 1883, to exhibit signs of weakness in his right foot; the
toes all contracted and remained closed, the poor creature appearing much crippled for some months. At length,
however, he recovered the use of his disabled limb and was much the same as ever for a time. The following
3 eo.r he suilered from a second attack, and in the summer of 1885 grew graduallv weaker, and becoming still

HAWFINCH.

.‘3

more Mpless by degrees, died on the 21st of December. The survivor had for some weeks also been showing
unmistakable signs that old age was working its course, and it was now evident the end was drawing near
Once or twice the unfortunate half-blind cripple was discovered lying on his back on the sand on the bottom
boards quite helpless, but, on receiving assistance, he came round and kept up till found huddled into
a ball, cold and stiff, in a corner of Ins cage on the morning of the lltli of January, 1880. Nearly eleven vears
old must be considered a good age for hand-reared birds, as I have frequently heard naturalists, and others who
considered themselves good authorities, declare that this species could not be kept for any length of time in
captivity. A liberal and varied diet may, however, be supposed to account for their prolonged vitality. After
death, the old couple who had spent their lives side by side for so many years wore not divided ; my '-ardeners
at Brighton, who performed the work of the undertakers, dug up the box in which the first was interred and
inserting the remains of the second, replaced “the chest”* in the long grass, beneath the weeping-willows,
that forms the burial-ground for the birds kept in confinement.

Yarrell states, “ The bill of the adult male in summer is a deep leaden blue ” ; this does not agree with
observations I made, having remarked, in both wild specimens shot and caged birds reared in confinement, that
though the base was of that tint, the points of both mandibles were a dull black, the colour penetrating further
back towards the gape of the mouth. One or two of our British authors declare that many of this species leave
our shores in winter ; the young they consider most probably are the migrants. During all the time I have
passed steaming about in the North Sea and the Channel, in the latter part of the year, not a single specimen
was ever observed on wing, nor did I hear of their being secured on the light-ships round our eastern or southern
coasts. Seebohm, in his beautifully illustrated book on the eggs of British Birds, tells us that the Hawfinch
pairs about the middle of April ; and this remark agrees with my own experience, as I am of opinion that their
nests are usually commenced shortly after that date. The cradles of the Hawfinch are roughly constructed
and put together on the outside, strong and prickly twigs being occasionally entwined ; the interior, however,
is usually finished off with far greater skill, the lining being composed of fine materials, hair, wool, and
occasionally feathers being twisted in together. The only two nests I examined were placed in the limbs of
the same old pear-tree in the garden at Plumpton, at a height of about eight or nine feet from the ground.

* This is the name given to an oak coffin by the natives of the Broad district in the east of Norfolk.

goldfinch.

CARDUELIS ELEGANS.

\ the 7“ g °“ s we d ~ * - nu.be, dttring

England, where formerly they were ^“ hTndret " f* ^ «-»«* of

needed to supply the demand, could only have caused this fellin- off !s 7 “ d th ® thousands

to or Tl r C ° mpara * 1Vely SCarCe - “P art ‘° the P^ctioe of catching the birds prior

Such c!tr ^‘OS^O". and not a hundred may be seen even at the most favourable time of year."

also at HaL^ ^hT “r^ 16 *° S °“ 6 rCadcrs> iut - vears a S° when a school-boy at Brighton, and
nrofessioml t \ ° f ' SCGn ’ " ^ m C ° mpan ^ with somc of the most skilful and best equipped

LfZe^tand Wtl 00 " 8 7 “T," *” ° CCaSi ° nS ' hu “ drcds stra ^ing in the nets after a pull, and can
, , . ,G nUmberS Stated to have been taken were reached. I believe that, in those days, these

ground^ ’^betwee C ° UD ^ ry 77*^ ^ or ^hingand Brighton in Sussex and the unreclaimed land (termed “allotment

found f r hi aUd t™ md .os from Harrow, in the direetion of Pinner, were about the best that eould be

round lor this species in Great Britain.

One of the Brighton bird-catchers informed me lately that his best take at one pull had been eleven dozen,
and these were captured about five-and -twenty years ago. During the past season he stated he had been out a
times, but no flight had taken place, and his catches had never reached a dozen in a morning.

The grass-fields adjoining the wide-spreading shingle-banks at Shoreham, where mv punt and boat-houses
are built, were formerly a favourite spot for the netting fraternity, and a few years back a man from London
w o was well up to his business and provided with an immense stock of call-birds came down regularly every
season, and set within a hundred and fifty yards of my station, where I could obtain an excellent view of his
proceedings. Although Linnets were plentiful, he met with no great success with the Goldfinches ; if I remember
right, a single bird was his total catch during one season. I have been in the habit of fishing and shooting on
this part of the coast for many years, and have to cross the fields that the Goldfinches formerly passed oven- at
flight-time, but no flocks of these birds have attracted my attention during the autumn, though constantly on
the look-out ; two or three small parties only, of half a dozen or so, have been observed along the adjoining
hedge-rows that border the field during the whole time.

M hile at home at Catsfield, near Battle in Sussex, for the Christmas holidays during the winters of 1853
and the two following years, I generally amused myself by working a small bird-net every day when the

2

goldfinch.

weather was favourable, and caught a number of BullSnehes and several Goldfinches; ; the : form r gene y
moved about in parties of five or six, though never above a pair of Goldfinches were seen and more freque: j

solitary cook birds. I had several, perhaps half a dozen, different places suitable or setting my nets and th
morning seldom passed at any of them without one or more of this species being noticed, if not caugh . I
remember on one occasion my best male call-bird made his escape, owing to the net becoming entangled in the
fastening wire and opening the door of his cage. Though at liberty, he showed no inclination to take hi
departure, but remained busily engaged in cleaning his plumage in a fence at the side of a plantation abo
twenty yards distant, and a few minutes after a fresh-caught bird had been placed in the net, he flew r down to
some ‘thistles and was at once secured again. The numbers found at tins season will show that thou h sc d„m
met with in large flocks, Goldfinches do not entirely desert our shores in winter ; I have also observed them
small parties in the plantations round some of the larger Broads in the east of Norfolk. Under the date
December 1881, while shooting at Potter Heigham, it is entered in my notes that at least twenty of this species, in
company with as many Siskins, were watched working their way through the woods adjoining Heigham Sounds
Though not feeding together, the Siskins invariably keeping to the alders, while the Go dfinches confined the
attentions to the rough bark of the stunted and moss-grown oaks, each party, I remarked, kept the other in
sight and immediately joined in company when a lengthened flight to another plantation was undertaken

The beautiful and neatly built nest of the Goldfinch somewhat resembles that of the Chaffinch , but the
materials are finer and more cleverly interwoven, no conspicuous lichens being used in its construction.
A brood of five in my collection, taken from their cradle in an apple-tree in a garden at Hickling m June 1873,
iust as they were on the point of leaving, proved very useful to compare with their parents obtained at tie
same time. The young in their first plumage appear to differ little from the old birds, with the exception t lat
the black and lovely crimson markings on the heads are wanting. While exhibiting this deficiency the juveniles
are generally termed “ Grey-pates ” by the professional bird-catchers and dealers, that appellation having been
bestowed on them on account of the colouring of the feathers on those parts.

In the east of Norfolk I learned that the marshmen invariably spoke of this species as the “ Draw-water,
evidently bestowing this title on account of the habit it occasionally acquires in confinement of drawing up a
small bucket by means of a chain to supply itself with water. While living in Yorkshire many years ago I
heard these birds called “ Captains ” by the country people in the neighbourhood of Doncaster.

MALI FEMALE & NEST

SISKIN.

CARBIJELIS SPINUS.

Though large numbers of this active species make their appearance in the southern counties of England
during autumn and winter, the quarters to which they resort in summer throughout the Highlands are
by no means en .rely deserted. The weather on Christmas Day in 1805 was remarkably mild and warm
for the time of the year, and a flock of from forty to fifty Siskins, their colours shown off to the fullest
advantage by the bright sunshine, were noticed busily climbing among the boughs of the alders
overhanging the river Lyon in the north-west of Perthshire. This was the largest party I ever met with

in the north in winter, and it is probable that the previous open weather accounted for their protracted
stay in this usually bleak and inhospitable glen.

On the approach of spring the flocks that have kept company with Redpolls and other small birds
about the open commons, groves, and dense hedgerows, where their favourite alder is to he found, gradually
take their departure from the southern counties of England. Possibly many of our visitors are from the
north of Europe, though there can be no doubt that, if carefully looked for, this species is far from
scarce during summer in the large woods of several of the counties of the Northern Highlands.

In the breeding-season I have repeatedly remarked that Siskins, though °by no means shy and
unapproachable, become more retiring in their habits ; it is now less easy to watch their actions closely,
unless the birds be detected in the act of building or feeding the young. When once the nest is
completed and the labour of incubation commenced, the male, from the many instances that have come under
my observation, appears during the midday hours to pass the greater part of his time cleaning his
plumage and spreading himself out to enjoy the heat of the sun on almost the topmost branch of '’some
lofty Scotch fir. In several of the straths adjacent to the Beauty river in Inverness-shire, and on the pine-
clad hills that slope down to the Dornoch Firth, I had ample opportunities for watching several pairs.

If in quest of Siskins during summer, it is possible to keep moving all day through miles of
forest without noticing a single bird, though the haunts of several pairs be passed. When resting
quietly or waiting for a view of some other species, I frequently discovered the nest of this bird ; indeed
it was only by chance that I ever found one. On no single occasion did I meet with Siskins during
the breeding-season further south than Perthshire; they appear to nest in the greatest numbers in the
eastern portions of Inverness-shire and Ross-shire. In Balnagown and a few localities on towards the east,
where these birds were plentiful fifteen or twenty years ago, their numbers have greatly diminished.
This falling off is attributed by the keepers to the great abundance of squirrels in the district. I can offer
no opinion on the subject ; it is, however, a fact that the Siskins have gradually disappeared as the
squirrels increased.

Though it is probable, owing to the frequency with which the males may be seen in the depths of
the pine-woods during summer, that Siskins commonly breed on Scotch or other firs, it is solely in the

2

SISKIN.

birch that, 1 have detected their nests. The light-coloured hoary lichens and pendent masses of Usnea barbata
that droop from the limbs of the weeping birches in many of the northern glens afford ample concealment
for the small and neatly constructed cradle. The nest has been stated to resemble that of the Goldfinch ;
with the exception perhaps of size, I have noticed little similarity. The outer portion is fashioned with
green moss held in position by fibres of roots and strands of grass, finer materials of the same description
being used for the lining, in which I have also seen a few catkins of either the birch or alder together with
a quantity of the seeds. To the best of my recollection, neither wool, hair, thistle-down, nor the flowers
of the cotton-grass were employed in any nest I examined. The Siskin is reported to be an early breeder
in the east of lloss-shire: I have seen fresh eggs so late as June 26th; it is, however, quite possible that
this may have been a second laying.

It is usually in the neighbourhood of water that these birds may be observed in winter, the alders
growing in damp and swampy localities appearing to possess special attractions. A flock of some twenty
or thirty, in company with as many Goldfinches, were watched for some time working their way through
one of the plantations adjoining the Heigham Sounds in the east of Norfolk in the winter of 1881.
Though the two species seldom intermixed, the Siskins busily searching the alder bushes, while the
Goldfinches almost entirely confined their attention to the stunted and moss-grown oaks, each party
closely followed the direction taken by the other while moving across the open spaces in the wood, and
also on starting for a more lengthened flight to the next plantation. A few scattered birds are commonly
to be seen in this part of Norfolk in autumn, winter, and early spring ; but large flocks are seldom noticed.
In Sussex also I remarked their predilection for the neighbourhood of the small streams that run through
the wooded portion of the country.

In the spring of 1885, I was much amused at the eccentric behaviour of a cock Siskin confined in
a ca^e with a female of the same species, both being exceedingly tame. Soon after the commencement
of the breeding-season the male exhibited an intense dislike to the figure of a bird that he detected in
a piece of looking-glass let into the side of his cage. Each time he arrived in front of the mirror, he

attacked the supposed stranger with the greatest fury, though utterly unable to drive the intruder from

his position. After trying all manner of schemes and working with the utmost activity, he was at
last enabled, by inserting his beak below the edge, to dislodge the glass, which then fell from the cage
to a table on which it stood. His attitude of defiance on each occasion, craning his neck to ascertain
where bis adversary had gone, was ridiculous in the extreme. If the glass was returned to its position,
be would repeat the performauce immediately, dislodging his enemy once or twice in a minute at least;
indeed he was never at rest till it had disappeared and the intruder was removed from his sight.

As a warning to those who keep these interesting little birds in confinement, I may state that the
horsehair made up in bundles and sold by bird-fanciers as suitable to supply their wants when building
is an exceedingly dangerous material to place in their way. A few weeks back on visiting a pair kept
in a breeding-cage in one of the conservatories, we discovered the female in a deplorable condition, bound
hard and fast by several horsehairs twined round the body, depriving her of the use of both legs and

wings. The poor bird was lying utterly helpless on the floor of the cage, and had evidently been in

this predicament for several hours, as when released she was almost incapable of moving, being only

able to shuffle to the water placed in front of her, of which she seemed greatly in need. The male in his

attempts to assist his mate had caught up and entangled three or four strands round his legs, hut was
still able to make his way from one part of the cage to another, though somewhat cramped in his

movements. The female did not entirely recover the use of her legs for some days, but, though completely

exhausted at the time, she suffered from no irreparable injuries.

LINNET.

LIN OTA CANNAlilNA

of ScoUaml T , ° ne ! ' Uth ° r aS ° foommon «»“"»» » ‘he Western Islands

Scotland , I have no wish to dispute this assertion, though compelled to state that but few, if any

came under my observation in those inhospitable regions. In Bast Lothian these birds were far from

uncommon ; I have failed, however, lately to meet with any of the immense breeding-colonies formerly so
frequently seen in the southern counties of England.

The Ked-breasted Linnet appears at the present time far less abundant than in my bird-nesting day,
some thirty years ago Improvements in agriculture, such as the breaking up of waste lands and the
wild furze-covered stretches of sloping hill-sides, together with the persecution they annually suffer from
the nets of the bird-catchers, have kept on gradually reducing their numbers, till in some parts of the

country they have become almost rare birds. Large flocks of Linnets are, however, still seen in the

early part of the winter on the downs and along the coast-line near Brighton ; I find that the average
take for one pair of nets of a morning during the flight-time is between thirty and fifty dozen The
hens are killed at once by their captors ; the males, perhaps less fortunate, being sent to London to
supply the strange demand for cage-birds so common in some parts of the slums.

It is usually in October that the large flights of Linnets appear on the south coast ; I find in my
notes for 1882, under date of October 13th (weather fine with a breeze from the north-east), that immense
numbers of these birds were passing along in an easterly direction. Larks and Swallows also following
the same course. The next season the largest flights were seen on the 9th of the month, when the
greater number appeared to be making their way towards the west. During winter, Linnets often join
in large flocks with Twites and frequent the saltings along the river Adur between Skoreham and
Bramber in Sussex. I have also seen the two species associated about the pools of brackish water
near the shore at Lancing; the numberless seed-bearing plants that flourish among the patches of rank
moist grass and also on the slopes of the shingle-banks probably prove the attraction to the spot. At
times this barren stretch is alive with small birds. Chaffinches, Greenfinches, Pipits, Linnets, and Twites
rising singly or in scattered parties at almost every step one takes along the sea-wall.

When heavy falls of snow and cold blasts of wind from north-north- west have brought the clouds
of Larks and, other small birds to seek shelter in the southern and western counties, I have frequently
remarked numbers of Linnets making their way along the downs towards the west. On such occasions,
should the frost be severe, this species appears much affected by the weather, seldom flying far, but settling
from time to time and pecking about for food under the shelter of banks or furze bushes; after a
continuation of excessive cold for any length of time, when the snow lies deep and seeds are covered
they soon exhibit signs of distress and not unfrequently perish in large numbers.

I am aware that scientific naturalists assert that this species visits our shores in considerable numbers

2 LINNET.

from across the North Sea; on no occasion, however, did Linnets come under my observation while on the
passage during autumn or early winter. From the light-ships I could gain little information concerning
their movements, the only wings received being fifteen taken on board the ‘ Newarp ’ early in March
1873. As to which way the poor little travellers were shaping their course when dashed against the
lamps, there was no chance of ascertaining.

Furze-clad downs appear the favourite summer-quarters of this species in the vicinity of the south
coast; in the more inland portions of the southern counties there are in the wooded districts here and
there large fields of furze or gorse to which Linnets resort in numbers during the breeding-season. On
one such wild and rugged stretch of ground situated between Catsfield and Ashburnham, known to the
natives of the locality as the “ horthy field,” I well remember Linnets so plentiful about thirty years
ago that over three hundred eggs were counted in a single morning’s ramble. Three Cuckoo’s eggs also
came under our observation on that occasion — one in the nest of a Hedge-Sparrow, another in that of a
Meadow-Pipit, and the third in the nest of a Linnet containing two pure white eggs. On a certain part
of the furze there were for several successive seasons three or four nests in which the whole of the eggs
were perfectly white ; in shape and size they exactly corresponded with the usual form, and the birds
being watched repeatedly there could have been no possibility of a mistake as to their identity. In
shrubberies and gardens near Brighton I have occasionally met with the nests of this species in dense
bushes of Cupressus ; when resorting to such quarters the birds become remarkably fearless, paying little
or no attention to the presence of those they are accustomed to see round their haunts. Some years ago,
when living in East Lothian, I discovered a nest of this bird (which is there termed the Lintie) placed
amongst the ends of the straws protruding from the side of a wheat-stack at about the height of fourteen
feet from the ground, the young being just on the point of flying. It was somewhat singular that on the
thatch of the adjoining stack a Partridge was sitting on fourteen eggs.

The summer plumage of the male Linnet is exceedingly bright and attractive, the feathers on the
crown of the head and breast exhibiting a deep carmine tint ; in winter these colours change to a dull claret,
which renders the bird far less conspicuous. In captivity Linnets, after moulting, never regain the brilliant
hues assumed during summer when in a wild state, eventually losing all signs of their former colouring.
In the ‘Catalogue of the Birds of Northumberland and Durham,’ by J. Hancock, it is stated:— “The fact
is that the males, from shedding the nest-featliers get a red breast, which they retain only during the first
season ; they then assume the garb of the female, which is retained for the rest of their lives, as in the
case of the Crossbill. This does not seem to be generally understood by ornithologists, though the bird-
fancier is quite familiar with the fact that the males never regain the red on the breast after moulting.
It is stated by Yarrell that the male assumes the red breast in the breeding-season. This is not quite
correct, for just as many are found breeding without the red breast as with it.” These remarks do

not agree with my own experience; though it is well known that cage-birds never regain their rosy
breasts, I have not met with a single instance where a wild male was paired and breeding unless the
usual bright tints on the head and breast were fully developed.

LESSER REDPOLL

LINOTA 11 XJFESCENS.

Large flights of this diminutive species make their way south, as autumn advances, from the northern
portions of our islands (if not from across the sea) and remain as winter visitors scattered over the
country, iho flocks to he seen in the southern and eastern counties from the beginninj* of October
till the end of March are usually far in excess of the numbers passing the summer in this part of
Great Britain. The most reliable authorities assert that the Lesser Itcdpoll is not a native of Scandinavia ;
it is also stated that the British Islands are not visited by any migrants from the north of Europe. This
information, I conclude, must be accepted as indisputable. Considering, however, the fact that, during
some seasons at least, their summer-haunts in the Highlands are by no means entirely deserted, the
immense numbers spread over England in autumn and winter appear far greater than the entire

Redpoll population of the northern parts of Great Britain. With the exception of this large addition

to the birds in the south, I have failed to make any observations tending to prove we are visited by
strangers from the north of Europe. During the years passed on the north-cast coast of Scotlaud, I
did not recognize any large flights in the vicinity of the shore at the time other small migrants were

landing by thousands. Though a few wings of the Bed-breasted Linnet and one of the Siskin were

received during the years I was in communication with the light-ships off the east coast, I could gain
no tidings of this species.

At various times in the course of my wanderings I have met with the compactly built and

elegant nest of this lively species in almost every county in the north of Scotland. That Redpolls

breed in many parts of England has been repeatedly recorded, and in 18G9 some two or three pairs

nested and reared their young in the immediate vicinity of Brighton. I closely examined the parent

birds through the glasses, and all exhibited the worn and faded appearance of those kept in cages.
The carmine colouring on the head and breast of the males was also wanting, its place being taken by
feathers of a rusty yellow tint. It is probable that the whole of the birds had either been liberated
or escaped from confinement, immense numbers being kept in captivity in this locality. On no other
occasion have I met with the nest of this species further south than Norfolk. In the neighbourhood
of the broads several pairs may occasionally be seen during summer, though the numbers that remain
in the district are exceedingly uncertain. In 1873 and 1878 Redpolls were especially plentiful; in
1881 I did not notice a single bird in the locality after the departure of the winter flocks.

I am not aware whether this species rears more than one brood in a season. Young birds were,
however, seen on wing in the east of Norfolk in 1878 as early as June 9, and in 1873 a pair commenced
building a fortnight later.

With the exception of the Lesser Redpolls near Brighton, whose nests were placed in elder and
willow, I have only noticed this species breeding in alder and stunted thorn-bushes. The nests coming

2

LESSER REDPOLL.

under my observation were occasionally placed as low as three or four feet from the ground, and none

at a greater elevation than ten or twelve feet have come under my notice. In the eastern counties

of England, and also in the Highlands, I repeatedly watched these confiding birds engaged in collecting
the materials for building. Under date of June 21, while in the east of Norfolk, the following appears
in my notes for 1873 : — “ A nest of the Lesser Redpoll, about half completed, was observed in a small
alder tree overhanging a water-dyke. Roth birds proved exceedingly unsuspicious of danger, and paid
not the slightest attention while their actions were closely inspected at the distance of only a few
paces. The male, a brightly tinted bird, did little or nothing to assist in the work; he, however, on

almost every occasion accompanied the female on her short flights of some ten or twenty yards to the

adjoining marshy ground where she collected the lining for the nest. Here he usually settled on some
low stump or bush, and remained singing and chattering while she gathered the (luff of the cotton-
grass. I remarked that the whole of the fluff was picked from the thorn-bushes on to which it had
been blown since the grass commenced to seed and shed the flower. This nest was composed externally
of dried bent-grass, together with fine strands of roots, lined with the fluff of the cotton-grass and a
few small white feathers.”

Though no notes were taken on the subject, I am under the impression that many nests have been
met with in the Highlands in which a small quantity of green moss had been employed in the formation
of the exterior. While lunching during the early part of the fishing-season in the summer of 18CG
in a small plantation on the banks of the Lvon, in Perthshire, my attention was attracted by a low
twittering note evidently close at hand. On turning round, a nest containing a brood of Redpolls was
discovered within a foot of my head on a small twisted alder-stump against which I was leaning. The

young birds were but little disconcerted, though the old ones declined to approach within three or four

yards. Our quarters being moved a short distance, they flew down without the slightest signs of fear,
and fed the nestlings repeatedly during the hour we remained near the spot. I Avell remember that the
colouring of the exterior of the nest corresponded with the green and moss-grown stump on which it

was placed; consequently it is probable that living moss was interwoven with the strands of grass and

roots that bound together the exterior.

No species responds more readily to the note of the call-bird, immense quantities at times being
taken by the clap-nets. Even in the very centre of large towns Redpolls may be captured in small
trap-cages placed on the housetops during the season the birds are on flight. I have known many
secured in this manner in Brighton and Hastings.

The large flocks that occasionally show themselves in winter resort for the most part to waste lands
where the various seed-producing weeds grow rank and strong; plantations and hedgerows of alder also
prove attractive, their haunts being almost similar to those of the Siskin, with which species they not
unfrequently consort.

A ben Lesser Redpoll which had been kept for some years in a cage in company with a cock Siskin
that died in the latter end of March 1885, was much cut up at the death of her companion, for whom
she had always evinced a great regard. For several days she called loudly, showing her grief in a most
unmistakable manner; and the introduction of another cock Siskin proved of little avail. For the first few
davs she pitched into the stranger and drove him about in the cage; he then asserted his authority,
when she speedily submitted, and after continuing to mope without signs of amendment for a week or
two, she pined away and eventually grew weaker and died.

MEALY REDPOLL.

LIN OTA LIN ART A.

Though several stragglers of the Mealy Redpoll have been observed in the east of Norfolk late in spring,
I can learn of no well-authenticated instance of this species remaining to breed in Great Britain. The
end of the first week in October is the earliest date at which I met with this Redpoll; and, according to
my own experience, the majority have taken their departure early in March. Though a close look-out
for the species was invariably kept in the Northern Highlands (where I was under the impression, from
information received, that it might possibly be discovered breeding), I have obtained a chance of studying
its habits only in Norfolk and Sussex.

The numbers that reach our shores during autumn vary considerably, flights of hundreds being noticed
one season, while scarcely a bird will make its appearance the following year. Large flocks were scattered
over the greater portion of the east of Norfolk towards the latter end of 1873, and again in 1881 I
noticed a succession of small parties among the alder bushes round Ilickling Broad; here they were to
be seen almost daily from early in November till the end of January 1882. A few specimens exhibiting
rosy breasts were obtained on November 19th and again on January 6th ; their tints, however, were far from
bright. I remarked that but few males showing the slightest signs of colouring on the breast could be
detected in the large bodies that arrived in 1873. On this occasion, in order to ascertain their numbers,
I made use of three or four call-birds placed in cages among the large alders on the banks of the lleigham
River, near Norwich, and during the morning of December 2nd many hundreds of this species as well as
of the Lesser must have been attracted to the spot.

By far the finest males that have come under my observation were seen feeding on a thistle-head
blown on to our lawn, near Brighton, on October 19th, 1875. A strong gale from the south-west was in
full force at the time, and the tiny strangers were carried away with a terrific blast before I had time
to obtain a specimen. Even in the plates of the various coloured works on ornithology, I have never
seen anything approaching the rich carmine tint exhibited on the breast and head by these two birds.

The Mealy Redpoll appears to become speedily reconciled to confinement, and thrives well in captivity.
Two of the males procured in Norfolk in December 1873, to act as call-birds, proved after a few weeks
exceedingly tame. For a couple of years they lived contentedly together in a roomy cage, when early
in 1876 a female of the Lesser Redpoll, which flew in at the window, was added. Early in June, as
several eggs were found at the bottom of the cage, a small box with a nest and other materials was
placed inside. A fresh nest was soon constructed and shortly after five eggs were laid. After sitting
thirteen or fourteen days three young hatched out, all of which were successfully reared. One, however,
when a couple of months old, was accidentally killed, the others living to the age of about six years.
In size these birds were between the Lesser and Mealy Redpoll, the general colouring of the plumage
being somewhat paler than is usually seen in either ; their heads exhibited a well-defined patch of bright
yellow, and the same was suffused strongly over the breasts.

T W I T E .

LINOTA FLA VIROSTRIS.

Though of necessity somewhat local, owing to the nature of the country suitable to its requirements, the

Twite appears to be distributed over the British Islands from north to south. On the dreary flats of

moorland that stretch for many miles across the central portion of Caithness, I have met with numbers of
this species throughout the summer months ; whilst in Sussex, the saltings that border the river Adur, as
well as those lying inside the shingle-banks on the shores of the channel, arc annually resorted to by large
flocks on the approach of winter.

The Twite is a lively and active bird, always on the move, its actions, when in flocks, resembling
those of the Linnet, though the localities in which it is usually found during winter point to the
fact that this species prefers situations where its feeding-grounds are exposed to the influence of salt,
supplied either by the spray from the sea or the overflow of the tide.

This species is usually reported by writers as most abundant in the western districts of Scotland ;
some twenty years ago, however, I repeatedly met with small parties (numbering from a dozen up to

fifty) about the links and waste lands extending along the shores of the Firth of Forth to the cast of

Dunbar. To the coast of* Norfolk the Twite is also a winter visitor; its well-known call-notes attracted my
attention while crossing the rough stony banks in the vicinity of the shore near Salthouse, towards
the end of February 1872. The birds were eventually detected feeding among the weeds and rough grass
growing round the pools of water in the shingle ; when first noticed they were intermixed with Shore-
Larks, though on taking wing the two species immediately separated. In Sussex these birds occasionally
join in company, when on flight, with Linnets, though the immense flocks that resort to the saltings and
adjacent rough lands are usually seen alone. Along the sea-coast halfway between Shoreham and Lancing
there is a large sheet of brackish water, formed through the removal of soil for raising an embankment;
this pool is surrounded by banks of mud and shingle, overgrown by coarse grass, dock, sea-poppy, beet,
and numberless other plants. Here in autumn flocks of Twites are to be observed about the latter end
of October, remaining in the locality till the approach of spring. On the 6tli of November 1882, I
remarked these birds in more than ordinary numbers, their favourite haunts being about the patches of
rank herbage on the damp and marshy portions of the ground. Meadow-Pipits resorted at all seasons to
this waste, and the small parties of Greenfinches and Chaffinches that harboured about the shingle-banks
often settled on the drier spots; though occasionally intermixing with other species while feeding over the
ground, the Twites appeared to fraternize with the Linnets only.

If watched at its home on the open moors of the Highlands, flitting from one twig of heather to
another, it will readily be noticed that the colouring of the Twite is sober in the extreme, the rosy tinge on the
rump of the male being by no means conspicuous ; the yellow bill, however, at once attracts attention and
reveals the species. As far as my own experience goes, the name of Mountain-Linnet is scarcely applicable ;

TWITE.

in no single instance were the barren moorlands on which I met with this bird during the summer months at
any elevation on the hill-side.

Numbers of Twites were recognized on the mud-flats in Shoreham harbour among the thousands of small
feathered victims that perished in the terrible snow-squalls of the 18th of January, 1881 ; on the 26th (the
first day the water had reached the upper parts of the banks) I watched their dead bodies swept out by the
fide in hundreds from the weeds in which they had attempted to shelter from the storm, and where they were
eventually frozen to death.

BULLFINCH.

PYRRHULA VULGARIS.

Woodlands or country where thickets and dense hedgerows abound being generally looked upon as the
situations to which the Bullfinch resorts, I was naturally somewhat surprised, one wintry day in December
1807, to meet with a flock of these birds near the summit of one of the high mountains that form the
boundary between Eannoch and Glenlyon in the north-west of Perthshire. A position had just been
taken up to await the appearance of the white hares which beaters had been despatched to drive,
when my attention was attracted by a party of eight or ten small birds flitting along the ridge of the
hill. At the first glance through the mist I thought the wanderers must be Snow-Buntings ; a
moment later they alighted close at hand, when, in spite of the drifting fog, no doubt could be entertained
as to the species. After remaining for a few minutes perched on the large blocks of stone, or searching
busily among the heather-stalks and small creeping plants where free from snow, they moved further
west, settling on the bare limbs of a straggling patch of stunted and weather-beaten piues. The sexes
were equally represented in this small flock, the bright colours on the breasts of the males being shown
off to the fullest advantage against the dark rocks and dead stumps from which the snow had drifted.

During summer and autumn I repeatedly observed Bullfinches in the wooded glens throughout this
locality, for the most part resorting to the plantations of birch or hazel in which their young were
reared, and where the families remained till late in autumn. The more sheltered portions of this wild
tract of country were seldom deserted even in the depth of winter. While passing through the birch-
woods in pursuit of Black Game after Christmas, I occasionally detected their note ; and in answer to
the call, the whole number, unless alarmed by a shot, would follow along the hill-side, flitting from tree to
tree till the end of the cover was reached *.

The Bullfinch appears to be distributed over the British Islands from north to south ; owing to the
nature of the country, it is more plentiful in the southern counties of England than on the barren moorlands
of the north. Throughout the east of Sussex I remarked that this species has of late decreased considerably.
In the neighbourhood of Dattle there were, some thirty years ago, several extensive plantations of larch
which proved a great attraction to these birds, flocks of from six or eight up to a dozen or more being
not unfrcquently observed clinging to the waving boughs. Even in this densely wooded district it is at
the present time unusual to meet with parties exceeding four or five in number.

There is no denying the fact that, during spring, Bullfinches are occasionally guilty of destroying
the buds of fruit-trees ; it is, however, questionable whether their visits to the gardens cause any great
amount of damage. This subject has been so fully discussed by various writers that any remarks I
could make concerning the depredations committed, or the benefits conferred, by this species would be
superfluous.

* Tho plaintive note of the Bullfinch is familiar to all ; no bird responds more readily to an imitation of its call.

2

BULLFINCH.

'Flic Bullfinch has been known in several instances to breed in confinement. A pair that were
kept by a naturalist at Brighton in a small aviary made their way through a ventilator into the shop
and built a nest in an old-fashioned cut-glass chandelier. This was not detected till an egg dropped
through the bottom and fell on the counter, the poor birds having been unable to collect sufficient
material to complete the lining of their ci’adle.

o

s.

MAI, E ADULT Sc MALE IMMATURE

CROSSBILL.

LOXIA CURFIROSTRA.

Although this species occasionally makes its way to the south of England (where I remember several to have
been shot by my father’s gamekeeper during the winters of 1848 and 1849), I never met with the Crossbill
except in the pine-Avoods of the Highlands. I observed a feAv small parties on two or three occasions in
Perthshire, while in Inverness, Ross-shire, and Sutherland I haA'e had repeated opportunities of studying the
habits of these singular birds. In many parts of Inverness and Ross-shire I have seen the nests during the
last feAv years, though, according to what I can learn from keepers and foresters in those districts, the birds
have entirely deserted several localities in Avhich they were formerly common during the breeding-season.

In some instances squirrels are considered responsible for the absence of the birds, these animals bein<-
declared by my informants to have destroyed the eggs. Whether there is any foundation for this charge, I
have had no chance for forming an opinion based on my own observations. If there is any truth in the
reports I heard, Crossbills were some years back most plentiful in certain woods, where now only a wandering
party at times makes its appearance. There is no denying the fact that squirrels are at the present date positively
swarming in some of these localities ; and it is affirmed that the Crossbills began to fall off in numbers shortly
after the increase of the squirrels. That these quadrupeds are frequently taken in traps when the eggs of small
birds are employed as bait, I have had good evidence. This is a plain statement of the case against the
squirrels; and I leave those who read to form their own judgment.

It has invariably been in March when I have met with the nests of this species ; the young, I remarked,
were generally hatched towards the end of the month or early in April. On March 25, 1878, there was a
heavy fall of snoAv over the north of Scotland ; and while passing through a fir-wood near Inverness, I noticed
that the snow appeared to be piled to the height of at least four or five inches on the top of some nests I had
seen a feAv days previously. I did not make a close examination, merely turning the glasses to the nests,
which Avere at about the height of tAventy-five to thirty feet from the ground. It is a curious fact that in every
instance the birds must have been sitting at the time, as a feAv days later I watched them feeding their newly
hatched young at each nest.

The Scotch fir appears to be most commonly selected by this species for breeding-purposes. The nest is,
according to my own experience, placed near the upper portion of the tree. I have noticed them in some cases
as Ioav as fifteen feet ; but the most common elevation seems to be about double that height.

The brood, after leaving the nest, keep together Avith the old birds for some weeks. I have repeatedly
observed small parties during May and June frequenting pine-Avoods, in which I was aware the young had
been brought out. As summer advances, the birds from adjoining glens draw together and form large
flocks. As far as I was able to judge, they seldom stray to any great distance from their accustomed haunts,
being usually found within a radius of ten or twenty miles. The largest assemblage I ever met Avith Avas on
the 7th of July 18G8. The birds composing this gathering must have numbered several hundreds, being

2

CROSSBILL.

scattered thickly over at least half an acre of Scotch firs in a plantation a few miles north of Lairg in
Sutherland. I was driving past, when my attention was attracted by the bright hues of the males ; and
I then pulled up and watched their movements for at least half an hour. The whole flock were busily
engaged searching the upper branches of the pines, and gradually drew out of sight over the brow of the hill.
I remarked that the majority appeared to be birds in red plumage (I was able to distinguish two different shades
of colour) ; and I did not recognize a single specimen showing signs of immaturity.

Though the young are without doubt fed principally on insects, the adults derive a large portion of their
food from the seeds they extract from the cones of the fir. When passing through a wood, it is easy to learn
if these birds are common in the district, as on examining the fallen cones, those on which they have been
feeding can be readily distinguished. In several of the fir-woods in Inverness and Ross-shire, I noticed the
ground in certain spots was thickly covered with the remains of broken cones which had been torn to pieces by
these birds.

The note is a sharp whistle repeated two or three times. When once heard it is easily recognized : I have
frequently identified small parties flying overhead, which I should never have noticed unless my attention had
been attracted by the note.

The Crossbill is soon reconciled to confinement, and becomes a most amusing cage-bird. I had many
opportunities of watching a fine male in the possession of a keeper near Inverness. This bird, which was
captured in a somewhat singular manner (having been knocked down from a tree by a fir-cone which was
flung at him), was in the red plumage when taken, hut eventually moulted to a dull green.

Two different stages of plumage exhibited by the male Crossbill are shown in the Plate. The principal
figure is taken from an adult in the full breeding-plumage obtained in the spring. The bird with a tinge of
orange on the feathers is probably immature. This specimen was shot on July 6, 1876.

STA R LING.

1ST URN US VULGARIS.

In densely populated and smoky cities this familiar species may constantly be seen; it is a native also of
some of the wildest and most desolate portions of our islands. According to my own observations, there
are few parts of Great Britain in which the Starling is not to be met with at one season or another.

In all agricultural districts this lively and active bird is of the greatest service to the farmer, as he
destroys immense quantities of grubs and other injurious insects during the course of the year. Vegetation
would suffer severely in many parts of the country were it not for the assistance rendered by the Starling.

Large flocks may frequently be observed on grass or ploughed land, feeding in company with Rooks and
Jackdaws: in pursuit of slugs and worms they also resort at times to the marshes; here they may be
seen running over the moist ground with Peewits and other Waders; on taking wing, however, the
association speedily terminates, each species striking out a course for themselves. The presence of a lar<u;
number of these birds with Plovers is by no means welcomed by the fowler; the frequency with which thev
shift their position, sweeping over and putting the unconscious Waders on the alert, often ruins the chance
of a heavy shot from the punt gun. On one occasion while watching the actions of a large body which
had been flying for several minutes in a confused manner over the Holmes Marshes, in the east of
Norfolk, a Peregrine dashed through the flock, and leaving the victims he had struck fluttering bclplcsslv
towards the earth, continued his flight without a halt. For some seconds before the sweep of the Falcon,
the movements of the Starlings had been most remarkable — one moment they were gathered into a dense
mass, and the next were wheeling round and round in a revolving column, resembling in its rapid changes a
cloud of black smoke.

The slieepfold is a favourite resort for the Starling at all seasons of the year, the flies and insects
collecting about the flock probably proving the attraction to the spot. Large numbers often appear on the
short grass of a well-kept lawn, searching closely and vigorously attacking the larvae of the crane-fly (commonly
known as the daddy-long-legs), a grub whose ravages are by no means conducive to the well-being of the
turf. As early as the 28th of May I have noticed young birds of the year feeding in this manner in the
south of England.

During close and sultry weather in summer and autumn Starlings may be observed on wing at a
considerable height in the air, capturing flies and other insects with the greatest rapidity. On such occasions
their flight is erratic and uncertain, resembling to a certain degree the movements of a Snipe while drumming,
though the drop is by no means so prolonged. By the help of glasses I was able to ascertain
that a pair nesting annually in the mouth of the stone lion on the Norfolk Bridge at Shoreham
repeatedly carried up to their brood a supply of the large water-lice that infest the stonework of the
arches just above the water-mark.

While in the Hebrides, early in May 1877, I remarked a small flock of about twenty individuals

2

STARLING.

harbouring round the outbuildings of a shooting-lodge on the shores of a salt-water loch. These birds spent
the greater part of their time picking about on the seaweed on the loch-side, retiring invariably when
alarmed to the shelter of the buildings. I was unable to ascertain the nature of the food procured,
hut, from their actions, it appeared to consist of small marine insects. Though constantly observed till
the second week in May, the members of the flock had not evinced any signs of separating.

About many of the collections of miserable and dilapidated shealings termed villages in this remote district,
Starlings were to he seen in considerable numbers searching over the adjacent ground and paying but slight
regard to the natives or the few passers by.

There is a general outcry against this species by the owners of cherry-orchards ; and from repeated
observations in various parts of the country, I have no doubt their complaints are well founded. To credit the
quantity of fruit that one of these gluttons can put away it is necessary to watch the operation.

Immense flocks of Starlings collect and roost in the reed-beds on the broads in the eastern counties ;
here they cause at times great damage, their weight breaking down the stems and rendering the crop almost
useless*. As early as June small parties of young may he seen gathering towards the marshes. Prom many
parts of the surrounding country these birds, as evening draws near, make their way to the chalk-pits on the
Sussex Downs, and pass the night in any sheltered niches in the face of the cliff : in the neighbourhood of
Brighton large flocks may he seen crossing the hills in November shortly after three o’clock, holding a straight
course to their accustomed quarters.

Though Starlings occasionally fall victims to the Falcon, I have repeatedly watched them persisting for
some time in following a Kestrel. No attack was ever attempted, the birds simply wheeling round the Hawk,
who seemed utterly unmindful of their attentions, though forced occasionally for a moment to check his flight
as the flock dashed past. On the 3rd of October, 1882, while driving along the coast of West Sussex, I
remarked three or four different Kestrels mobbed in this manner.

The nest of the Starling is placed in a variety of situations, holes or apertures in the masonry or under
the roofs of buildings being perhaps most frequently chosen. Decayed trees and crevices in rocky cliffs
or chalk-pits arc also resorted to; and the borings of the Woodpecker and the Pigeon-cote arc at times invaded
and the rightful owners displaced. In a plantation on the banks of the Eden, in Cumberland, I found, in
June 187(5, the nest of a Pied Flycatcher in the cavity of a rotten branch ; this was subsequently destroyed,
and the spot, appropriated by a pair of Starlings.

In the south of England large numbers of this species are captured early in the autumn by professional
bird-catchers and sold for trap-shooting, for which purpose they fetch two shillings a dozen. As many as
seventeen dozen have been taken by one pull of the nets, the men asserting that at least ten dozen more
escaped before the whole of the struggling captives could he secured +. The slaughter of this useful bird is
much to he regretted, and the farmer who grants liberty to the poaching rascals to set their nets on his land
wiil doubtless find cause to regret his indiscretion.

It is well known that immense flocks of Starlings arrive on our eastern coast during the autumn from the
north of Europe. At what date the earliest flights make their appearance, I have had no means of ascertaining.
The following is from my notes for 1870, when shooting in the east of Norfolk : — “October 1G, strong wind
from the north, weather cold and stormy. Numbers of Grey Crows and Rooks landing, also flocks of Larks
and Starlings. The flight was continued till dark, and possibly still later.” These observations were made

* In the cast of Norfolk the reed is used instead of laths for plastered walls; it is also employed for fencing round small yards and a variety
of other purposes.

t It must not be supposed that such numbers are frequently obtained. The seventeen dozen referred to as secured at one haul proved the
largest day’s catch in the experience of a man who had carried his nets for over five and twenty years; on the following day ho took ten dozen,
which were shipped lo Australia.

STARLING.

3

ing

on the broads four miles inland. TV liile steaming in company with the herring-fleet in the North Sea, duri
the autumn of 1872, for the purpose of taking notes on Gulls and also watching the migration, large flocks of
Staihngs ucrc encountered, making straight for the Norfolk and Suffolk coast, on many occasions between
the /th of October and the 9th of November. The birds usually kept in compact bodies of from one to three
or four hundred, flying strongly, witli few, if any, stragglers. I cannot call to mind an instance of noticing
a single Starling that showed signs of fatigue. I can offer no opinion concerning the course followed by these
migrants after reaching our coasts. During protracted winter storms Starlings in thousands may occasionally
he observed making their way along the coast of Sussex from cast to west : at times numbers are passed
at sea heading towards the west; but I have no personal knowledge of their attempting to cross the channel.

Early in spring Starlings again return towards the cast coast. While on Hiekling Broad, on the 27tli
of March, 1873, I noticed that immense flocks of Starlings continued flying east during the whole of the
morning up till midday, the wind at the time being light and easterly. It is, however, evident that these
birds cross the North Sea earlier in the season, as several in company with Larks were taken on board the
‘ Ncwarp ’ and ‘Hasbro’’ light-ships during the last week in February, a couple also being secured on the
‘Lynn Well’ previous to the 8th of March*. Throughout March numbers fell disabled on the floating lights
off the east coast, the migration appearing to cease about the end of the month.

The young Starling in his first feathers is clad in a particularly unpretending suit of sober grey. The
more conspicuous plumage, which is assumed after the first moult, shows itself in somewhat irregular patches,
rendering the appearance of the bird for a time exceedingly strange.

But few varieties of this species have come under my observation ; the two I met with, however, were
especially striking. “While watching a large flock passing the steamboat about twenty miles off Yarmouth, on
the 7th of October, 1872, my attention was attracted by a bird entirely cream-coloured: the whole body
were so close that I could not have been mistaken. On the 20th of October, 1883, a most singularly marked
Starling was detected in a flock of some four or five hundred harbouring about the sheep at Buckingham,
near Brighton : the feathers of the tail from the rump downwards were of a pure and spotless white, the
rest of the plumage being of the ordinary type. I had ample opportunities for examining this specimen,
which, on wing, somewhat resembled the Green Sandpiper, as at times it alighted on the back of a sheep,
showing itself off to the fullest advantage.

* Being surprised that Starlings were crossing the Xorth Sea so early as the end of February, I made further inquiries, and learned that t he
birds were taken at the time stated. On this authority I have given the above information.

dipper.

CINCLUS AQUATICUS.

A difference of opinion formerly existed concerning these singular birds. Dippers were declared by
certain observers to be prejudicial to the spawn and fry of fish, while others asserted they were not only

perfectly harmless, but of the greatest service to the rivers, feeding constantly on various kinds of destructive

insects.

According to my own experience, water-beetles, as well as minute shell-fish, together with insects of
several species and possibly their larvae, form their chief diet ; whether the shells are swallowed to assist
digestion or as a means of nourishment I can offer no opinion. At times, during winter and early spring,
I have watched single birds by the pools of salt water on the shores of the Scotch firths, and, judging by
their actions, there was little doubt they were in quest of food*. A specimen I obtained on the river Lyon,
in Perthshire, in the autumn of 18G5, was stated by a taxidermist to contain the remains of several beetles as
well as a small quantity of other matter, though, owing to decomposition having set in, lie failed to identify many
minute particles. By those who were desirous of substantiating a charge, 1 have been assured that these birds
have been both seen and shot while in possession of small fish. This, of course, must be taken for what it
is worth ; there is, however, not the slightest doubt that their presence on the water is beneficial rather than
otherwise. As a proof of the ignorance existing within the last ten years regarding the habits of this species,
I ascertained, in more than one district, that both keepers and water-bailiffs had received orders to shoot
them down, as a means of affording protection to the spawn of the fish.

Though the Dipper is by no means scarce on many of our English streams and rivers in the midland
and northern counties, I have had by far the most opportunities of studying their habits along the rocky
burns of the Highlands. In this part of the country they are widely distributed, being found in almost
every suitable locality. During spring and summer each pair may usually he seen in the vicinity of their
accustomed haunts, seldom straying to any considerable distance. Severe frost, however (occasionally, though
by no means often), causes them to make a move and shift their quarters : at such times I have now and
then caught a glimpse of the dingy little bird while flitting from pool to pool along the shores of the salt-water
estuaries. When gunning on the coast of the Dornoch Eirth in the winters of 18G8 and 1SG9, a bird or
two were passed almost daily near Morangie; and a couple of pairs (though seldom if ever seen in company)
resorted to the mouths of the small burns between that spot and Bonar Bridge.

Along the sluggish rivers and deep muddy-water dykes of Norfolk the Dipper is occasionally to be met
with, two or three specimens having come under my observation in the eastern portion of the county in 1871
and 1872. The birds were noticed in every instance late in autumn; and as few spots could be found in
this quarter adapted to their nesting-requirements, it is probable they were simply visitors from across the

* In order to ascertain what prey had been secured, I frequently attempted to obtain a shot at one of these birds : the spots on which they
were usually observed, however, were too open to permit a near approach.

DIPPER.

2

North Sea. Whether these were the hlack-bellied form, Cinclus melanogaster (the variety most commonly
procured in the county), I had no means of ascertaining, as the birds invariably rose out of shot and were
not seen again.

Prom the Bridge of Balgie, which spans the Lyon a short distance east of Meggernie Castle, and looks
down on a noted grilse-pool, as well as from many other overhanging spots, I have often carefully watched
the actions of the Dipper. Though repeatedly unsuccessful in my attempts, I was determined, if possible, to
learn whether there was any foundation for the report that this species is endowed with the power of walking
on the bottom while in search of food. The view obtained of the birds while beneath the surface was usually
indistinct, owing to the ripple on the flowing water ; in every instance, however, where their movements
could be discerned they appeared to seize their prey while swimming, or rather hovering on wing among the
stones and rocks that formed the bed of the pool. Their mode of progression much resembled that of the
Common Guillemot when viewed diving in the tanks of an aquarium : frequent strokes were made with
the wings, enabling the birds to retain their position and seek out the insects on which they subsist. On
regaining the surface they would not unfrequently swim a short distance to some neighbouring rock or stone;
under such circumstances I remarked the wings were almost invariably used to assist in stemming the current.
Their actions while partially swimming and flapping forcibly reminded me of the endeavours of a crippled
fowl, when hotly pursued, to evade capture *. On numberless occasions I have seen Dippers disappear below
the surface ; but the ripple on the water prevented all chance of detecting the object of their search.

The note of Cinclus aquations is more shrill than melodious ; possibly its sweetness may be somewhat
drowned by the constant murmur of the water in the rapid streams, along which the song is most frequently
heard.

The nest is a warm and cosy structure of long and coarse grasses, coated externally with green moss
collected from the adjacent burn-sides and swamps. I detected a nest in the spring of 187G snugly concealed
among some roots and twining plants under a slab of rock, over which a hill-stream dashed down the
mountain-side from the Crossfell in Cumberland. The bird, on being disturbed, made its escape through the
sheet of falling water. Owing to the constant spray, the nest was exceedingly damp and of no little weight.
The eggs are five or six in number, white when fresh laid, but for the most part presenting a stained and
dirty appearance before hatching.

* I have carefully perused the account given by that accurate observer, Macgillivray, of the subaqueous manoeuvres of the Dipper. Though
thoroughly agreeing with all his remarks concerning the actions of the bird itself, I should scarcely be inclined to describe its movements below
the surface as similar to those of the Merganser or, more especially, the Cormorant. As far as I have been able to judge, the Dipper depends
almost entirely on the aid of its wings to capture its prey, and it is a question if these are the tactics of the species with which it is compared.