REPORT
ON THE
MIGRATION OF BIRDS.
EIGHTH REPORT, 1886.
EDINBURGH:
PRINTED BY M'FARLANE & ERSKINE,
14 and 19 ST JAMES SQUARE.
1887.
Price Two Shillings.

REPORT
ON THE
MIGRATION OF BIRDS
IN THE
SPRING AND AUTUMN OF 1886.

BY

Mr J. A. HARVIE-BROWN, Mr J. CORDEAUX,
Mr R. M. BARRINGTON, Mr A. G. MORE,
AND
Mr W. EAGLE CLARKE.

EIGHTH REPORT.

(Vol. II, No. 3.)

EDINBURGH:

PRINTED BY M'FARLANE & ERSKINE,
14 and 19 ST JAMES SQUARE.

1887.

PREFACE.

The following Report contains a summary of the investigations of a Committee reappointed by the British Association for the Advancement of Science, at Birmingham, in 1886, to consist of Professor Newton, Mr J. A. Harvie-Brown, Mr John Cordeaux, Mr W. Eagle Clarke, Mr R. M. Barrington, and Mr A. G. More, for the purpose of obtaining (with the consent of the Master and Elder Brethren of the Trinity House, the Commissioners of Northern Lights, and the Commissioners of Irish Lights) observations on the Migrations of Birds at Lighthouses and Lightships, and of reporting on the same at Manchester in 1887. Mr Cordeaux to be the Secretary.

The returns relating to Scotland have been arranged by Mr J. A. Harvie-Brown; for the East Coast of England, by Mr Cordeaux; for the West Coast of England, by Mr W. Eagle Clarke; and those for the Coasts of Ireland, by Mr R. M. Barrington and Mr A. G. More.

CONTENTS.

LIST OF STATIONS.

EIGHT REPORT
ON
THE MIGRATION OF BIRDS
IN THE
SPRING AND AUTUMN OF 1886.

EAST COAST OF SCOTLAND.

The usual schedules were sent to all the stations, except Tay Light-ship and Carr Rock. Twelve stations on the East Coast of Scotland have returned thirty-six schedules. Pentland Skerries gives the heaviest returns with nine schedules. Isle of May follows with eight schedules; and N. Unst is next in importance. Then Bell Rock with two, and Fidra with three, run it very close. We would like returns from Carr Rock and Tay Light-ship next season, and will forward schedules, &c.

We follow the same plan as in previous reports. The present year's returns are indicated by asterisks.

The migration values of the various stations of the Scottish Coasts are explained in the Report for 1884, p. 10, and need not be repeated here.

EAST OF SCOTLAND.

The names of the Reporters are given under "Diary from the Stations."

Diary from the Stations.

N. Unst.—John Nichol (principal) sends in seven well-filled schedules. Mr Nichol has the following notes: "March, 25th.—I am told the Black Crows were not seen in former years. Although a severe winter time, birds are much earlier seen, also of various kinds. August.—Stormy Petrels do not breed on this rock, but do so among the rocks on shore. Puffins, Razorbills, Tysties, Kittiwakes, and a few Gulls, also one pair of Seapies breed on the rock. Puffins are fewer in number this year than in former times. September.—Much greater movements in September 1886 than has been in former years. I am told that on an island four miles to the west of us Pictarnies breed in great numbers. None ever come near us." Mr J. N. sends one schedule devoted entirely to Solan Geese, and adds the note: "We do not see greater numbers together than twenty at a time, and down to one. General occupation is fishing; but flocks on 11th, 13th, and 14th October were supposed to be migrating right away." Mr J. N. then adds: "Since filling up this schedule (to date of 25th October), have been told that on 29th October three large Swans rested on the Loch of Cliff on their way south. November 5th.—One Eagle shot near Holderswick measured across the wings seven feet. A Woodpecker seen at Baltasound. When fish seem plentiful about the rock, Common Gulls are in abundance; occasionally Herring Gulls and Iceland Gulls, Black-backed Gulls, Common Skua Gull, of which a few breed at Unst. On shore at the Loch of Cliff, throughout the autumn, a Herring Bird, some Plovers, Curlews, Snipes, and Wild Ducks. A few of the latter breed at the Loch of Cliff. At Lerwick, on 10th October, two large flocks of Swans passed over the town, flying in a southerly direction; and one flew very low while near the town. Up to the date of 30th October 1886, no Wren has been seen; should I get one, shall not fail to send it on. One seen on 2 2d November; could not be caught." At date of December 20th, Mr J. N. writes: "All birds have now deserted us. None seen since the 1st December, except in favourable weather, such as are mentioned in the schedule for December 1885, viz.:—Starlings, Sparrow Hawks, Crows, and Gulls. We had no great rushes of birds in the night time this year like last year; but a greater number seen in the day time. On November 18th sixty Bottle-nosed Whales, the largest about twenty-two feet long, were captured at Cullivoe, Unst. Five boats (manned) put off and gave chase. Boats having got to seaward, they were turned for the shore, and were getting well in, when they suddenly turned about and put to sea again. Boats, after a hard struggle, again got the off-side of them, and slowly commenced to shorten the distance between them and the shore. Not until 6 P.M., after six hours' chase, were the boats successful in reaching the 'school.' After the monsters were stranded the scene was very animated, as they lashed the water to foam with their tails in their frantic efforts to get away again. It was not till late at night that killing operations were accomplished. On 24th November sixty whales were exposed for sale, and realised a sum of £119. The number of buyers was limited, but the competition was keen." On January 11, 1887, Mr J. N., in a letter, records the occurrence of one Snowy Owl seen on the summit of Hermann's Hill; and an Eagle, flying high over, came down and gave the shepherd's dogs chase, but sheered off when it saw the shepherd.

Sumburgh Head.—Sends one schedule, but adds: "Birds are very scarce here." Sent me a specimen of a rare bird, which I knew at once to be a specimen of Phylloscopus superciliosus, and which has already been recorded [Proceedings Royal Physical Society, Edinburgh, vol. for 1885-86, p. 298], and was exhibited at a meeting of that Society. Writing in reply to inquiries of mine, under 16th October, to Mr Youngclause, he writes: "I was after a small bird to-day about the dykes, very similar, but it got away."

North Ronaldshay.—John Tulloch. One well-filled schedule, ranging from March 18 to September 15.

Pentland Skerries.—John Gilmour (principal) sends nine heavily-filled schedules. In a letter of 1st October, Mr Gilmour speaks of great numbers of Twites on the island. "Of course they breed here; but I think their numbers have been increased of late, as there is a great flock of them." Later he adds: "I may mention that the Rock Pipit is resident here; and also the Lark, Starling, and Rock Dove are scarcely ever absent from the station." A little earlier—viz., 29th September—Mr G. writes: "The autumn migration is not yet quite commenced, although there have been a few birds seen; but should the wind work round to the east we will likely have a rush. I send you the names of all the birds that bred here this season (1886), viz.:—Stormy Petrel, Puffin, Tern [two species,—J. A. H.-B.], Black Guillemot, Oyster-Catcher, Eider Duck, Ringed Plover, Dunlin, Lapwing, Corncrake, Rock Dove, Starling, Lark, Twite, Wheatear, and Rock Pipit. The above are the only species which breed regularly here. The Herring Gull and Grey Crow build some seasons, but not this year. I have heard it said the Snipe breeds also, but I have never seen the nest during the last five years—the time I have been at this station.

"I take little notice of Solans in the schedules, as I may say they have been going past all season in all weathers, and I still see some going east yet (29th September)." (See also under Mull of Galloway, West Coast, visited by Mr G. on his holiday, 16th August to 6th September.) A day-to-day return of Gannets or Solan Geese desired, and a separate schedule devoted to the species.

Writing again on 21st October, Mr G. says: "I again beg to send you two schedules. Since the 4th we have had a great rush of migrants. The prevailing wind being from the east, as soon as it shifted round to the west birds began to leave; but were back again as soon as the wind shifted to east. I send you wings and feet for identification, and will be much obliged by an early reply if I have named the species correctly."[1] Later he has the note: "Solans ceased going east about the end of September; only a straggler seen now and again during this month (October)." Besides the above, Mr Gilmour has many interesting notes, which, however, come to be more easily worked from the schedules into the text under species.

[1] Correctly named:—Blackcap and Great Spotted Woodpecker [Recorded Proc. Roy. Phys. Soc. Edinb., vol. for 1885-86, pp. 298, 299.—J. A. H.-B.]. Also immature Pied Flycatcher, 7th October.

Dunnet Head.—David Laidlaw (principal) sends one schedule, in which are the following notes: "On the 23d May a swallow entered Dunnet Established Church during the forenoon service (one of the doors being open), and after flying through the church for about half an hour, made its exit by the same door that it entered by. S.E., fresh breeze, clear." Under date of January 15, 1887, he writes: "For the last month I see a good many Song Thrushes about the fields daily. Starlings and Linnets are to be seen here in large flocks all the year round.[2] No birds struck or lighted on the lantern during the year except the Wren mentioned in schedule. As to sea-birds, the Gulls[3] came to breed about the 1st of March, and left about the latter end of September. The other birds arrived about six weeks later, and took their departure about a month earlier than the Gulls. During the latter end of July, and the months of August and September, almost every minute of the day, Solan Geese pass and re-pass in flocks of two or three up to twenty or thereby." [A day-to-day return of numbers in a schedule devoted to the species might prove valuable to our Committee.—J. A. H.-B.]

[2] These are probably true Rose-Linnets, which abound in the north of Caithness. The Twite is comparatively rare, at least in summer.—J. A. H.-B.

[3] Herring Gulls breed in astonishing numbers all round the coast from Dwarwick Head.—J. A. H.-B. Lesser B. B. Gull is rare.

Noss Head.—James Ferrier sends a schedule, with the note: "Sorry I cannot give you as full a return (but I have given you all that we have taken note of) as I could have done from the Little Ross, having been transferred from there in February last. Several species of birds lay in the rocks about this headland, such as the Common Gull [? Herring Gull.—J. A. H.-B.], Cormorant, Tystie, Guillemot, Razorbill. The Gulls are very tame here, often sitting on the tops of the houses throughout the town (Wick), drawn there by the great quantity of fish caught, and hanging about the houses." We are very glad to get our first return from Noss Head, however light, and we hope Mr Ferrier will continue to assist us.—(See last Report, 1885, p. 15.)

Cromarty Lighthouse.—Robt. S. Ritson sends one schedule, January 1886 to December 27, mostly referring to local migrations of Ducks, Geese, Gulls, which have always special interest also attaching to them.

Girdleness.—C. C. Irvine sends one schedule, the first received from this station. He adds: "Very few birds come this way; but Rooks, Sparrows, and Gulls are to be seen almost every day; but as they are not migratory, I presume they are not worthy of notice, and our time being much occupied during the day, many may pass without our observing them."

Bell Rock.—James Jack sends two carefully written schedules as usual, strictly adhering to the headings, which always makes the work of posting the items into the ledger easier for the Committee. Mr Jack, after an illness on shore between 23d October and 11th November, writes, on resuming duty: "As yet, Redwings have been the most prolific in numbers visiting this station this season; in fact, night after night, nothing else. All our usual winter feathered companions are now again thickly around us. Dunters are very abundant this season."

This remarkable immigration of Redwings is scarcely noted at any other stations; at least, with regard to its exclusiveness.

Isle of May.—Joseph Agnew sends eight schedules filled with his usual care, and dating February 3 to November 6, 1886, and kept up till his removal by the authorities to the Monach Isles, off the Outer Hebrides, the electric lighting of the Isle of May being completed, and an electric engineer placed in charge. Under date of April 6, 1886, Mr Agnew writes: "I send you the Turtle Dove. It had been very severely shot before it came here by some one. I did not send it to Small, but made the best of it myself, covering the wounds as well as I could." Under date of October 12, 1886, Mr Agnew writes: "The old carboy is still doing duty yet, and has been emptied two or three times. On one occasion it contained a cosmic mouse, but whether it came from Jupiter or Mars, or some other far off world, I do not know." As this carboy was put in situ by ourselves in October 1884, in behalf of the Marine Station at Granton, we would be interested to know whether it has yielded any scientific results. Perhaps Mr John Murray will enlighten us. Regarding the electric light, Mr Agnew writes: "It will be ready in a few weeks, perhaps three weeks. I do not know what effect it will have on the birds. The light will be very intense, and the most powerful light in existence. The room in which the trials are now being conducted has the appearance of a place brilliantly lighted up at night, though it is in the day time. The daylight is made to disappear. If the light were a fixed one, same as the old one, I think it might have a good[4] effect, but I am afraid its quick revolving character will be against it. The light has been revolving for the last two months with the oil lamp, and though some birds have come to the lantern, I don't think, considering the numbers of birds, so many have struck as heretofore. But as I am leaving this, I very much fear the reports will be very meagre in future, if there be any at all. The man who succeeds me has been here for a month or more, and he seems to have no notion of the matter, and has never interested himself in it; and besides, he will be very little in the light-room; his principal business will be in the engine-house, though he is to be head-keeper. You may perhaps be able to get him interested in it. The two men, however, whose special duty will be in the light-room, may take up the subject, and do something; but I would say—be very thankful for what you have already got from Isle of May." In a later letter (26th October), Mr Agnew says: "I am now almost convinced that few birds will come near the lantern, the revolutions are so quick, viz., eight flashes in the minute. We can see the birds going round with the rays, and though they make a dash at the lantern, before they reach it the light leaves them, and they turn round after it again, and repeat the same. During all last week there was one Redstart, one Starling, and one Robin at the lantern; not a Woodcock has struck this year; the Goldcrests which used to flock about the lantern never come near it; though they are very numerous on the island,[5] I have only seen two at the lantern. A fixed white light is no doubt best for attracting birds; the alternate light and darkness baffles them altogether, and the quicker the revolutions are, the worse baffled they become. There has been almost total absence during the past two years of Redpoles and Siskins." On the 19th November Mr Agnew writes: "James" (his son) "shot a Great Spotted Woodpecker on the 12th of this month. It is the first of its kind I have seen here. It came after the great N.-E. gale reported in my last schedule. The wind continued to blow strong from the N.-E. for days after the gale took off. I have sent it to Small to get stuffed and set up. I want to give it in a present to the young lady to whom my son, Joseph, is going to be married at Dunbar." Mr Agnew then continues: "There has not been much worth reporting since I sent you my last schedule (Nov. 6, 1886); the only birds (not resident) were some Wagtails and Common Wrens. I suspect very much you have got the last schedule from Isle of May. I am sorry for that, as you see from the Woodpecker that strange things are always turning up. I am very sorry at leaving the collection here, and I doubt if it will be so well taken care of when I am away."

[4] i.e., effectual in alluring the birds to it.

[5] Distinctly illustrative of the effect of the quickly revolving light.—J. A. H.-B.

We have given Mr Agnew's correspondence very fully, as it is the last we shall get from him at the Isle of May, and it would be very ungracious if we did not take this opportunity of once again expressing our warmest thanks for his able assistance and always interesting correspondence. Comparisons are said to be invidious, but we are quite sure none of his fellow-keepers will grudge him the fullest praise which our Migration Committee can accord. Mr Cordeaux says (16th Oct. 1886): "I am much concerned that Agnew is leaving the Isle of May." We do not undervalue the observations of any of our reporters, many of whom have not the opportunities of observation which others have; but we can point to a good many more of the lighthouse keepers, both at the best stations and at the least frequented, who, according to their opportunities, are not far behind Mr Agnew, if at all; and there is ever increasing interest and ability displayed year by year.

Fidra.—Mr Win. Ross has taken up the subject earnestly, and sends us three excellent schedules, carefully adhering to the columnar arrangement, which is so important to the Members of Committee, who have to transcribe into the ledger, and then write its Report. Attention to this is of infinite service and saving of time in getting the Reports printed. We are much obliged to Mr Ross for the care taken in this respect.

Under date of 4th September, Mr W. Ross writes: "I have to acknowledge receipt of your printed circular, concerning envelopes to contain wings of unknown birds, to be forwarded to you for identification, and labels for marking the same." .... "After Sunday, my last schedule, I continued making jottings, and the 24th of March, from 9 P.M. to daylight, was really interesting. The flocks of birds about the lantern were immense, and so numerous, that in striking the glass they broke the outside glass protector of our thermometer. There has not been anything unusual since that date." [Fidra promises well to be an important observatory, under certain conditions of wind and weather.—J. A. H.-B.]

Later, under date of 18th September 1886, Mr W. Ross says: "Had I known Moths would have been of any use to you, I believe I could have given you a varied, rare, and enormous parcel. Last month it was Moths everywhere, after darkness set in. I had to sweep them down with a towel, some very large and beautiful. Mr Anderson (of Messrs A. & F., Edinr., Advocates?) seems a keen entomologist, and I was describing some of these to him (on the occasion of a visit he paid to Fidra on the 6th September). One beautiful specimen—not a moth, I think—of a size between a daddy-long-legs and dragon-fly, and much the same shape; enormous bronze wings, beautiful vermilion body, black head, with a red (or yellow?) streak (or spot?), and antennas more like a young lobster than anything else.

"Eider Ducks, I understand, used to breed on all the islands about here. But this year a man got a dozen small boats, and hired them out at N. Berwick; the consequence is that the Ducks have entirely left the Craig and Lamb Islands owing to their nests having been plundered. We on Fidra consequently have had a greater number of birds breeding, and found many nests with 6 to 8 eggs; also Terns, and many smaller birds. As we are strictly prohibited from using a gun on this precious island, I can't send you many specimens; but if anything does turn up, I will not fail to send it you."

Later, under date of 1st October, in reply to inquiries, Mr W. Ross writes: "It was the latter half of August that these Moths were so numerous; and though in September there were a few, it was nothing in comparison with the multitudes that occurred the previous month. Some guide such as you suggest" [referring to Johns' "Book of Birds">[, "to enable observers to recognise species, would be of immense advantage. I am woefully deficient in this respect, and I am persuaded others are equally so. I hope your Committee will succeed in supplying some reliable book to render assistance in this respect."

Separate Report under Genera and Species.

Turdidæ.—Thrushes.—In February the only returns are from Bell Rock and Isle of May, between the 3d and 20th; earliest at Isle of May on 3d, one Missel Thrush; N.E., light clear. Other species mentioned are Blackbirds, Redwings (along with Larks and Starlings), at Bell Rock, with S.W. fresh breeze. Great many struck and killed. Two female blackbirds at Isle of May on 15th, and possibly remaining to breed. Mavises on 20th at Isle of May, and some Fieldfares; showers of snow.

In March no great movement, and a few records from Pentland Skerries of single or small numbers of Blackbirds, and one Thrush on 10th and 23d. Solitary Redwing on 23d at Isle of May; and numbers of Thrushes at Fidra (XXVIII. B.), flying about all night.

Spring.—In April scattered birds only up to end of the month at Isle of May of Fieldfares, one Redwing (23d), one Ring Ouzel (21st); but on 19th, at Pentland Skerries, is entered the record (which seems one of some importance): "Ring Ouzels and Song Thrushes a great rush; strong S.E. and haze." And on 26th: "A flock of Fieldfares (mod. S.E., haze), birds which are seldom seen here in spring." Also on the 19th at North Ronaldshay, a station not usually sending large spring returns: "A great number of Thrushes were on the island. Stopped two days;" wind S.E., haze. In May, at Isle of May, one record only of a Fieldfare at the light on the 5th. No more till autumn.

In Autumn.—Earliest record of Blackbird at Pentland Skerries on 9th August. Single records at Isle of May of Common Mavis "migrating" on 19th, and of a Missel Thrush on 30th; W.S.W., clear. Latest record, Fieldfares on 20th to 28th November, "a good many;" at Dunnet Head, "seen all day;" and scattered records through November at Pentland Skerries of Thrush and Blackbird. In September also, quite scattered records of single or very small lots of Blackbirds, Ring Ouzels, Fieldfares, and Mavises, from Pentland Skerries, Isle of May, and Fidra. But in October masses and rushes innumerable from the following stations:—Pentland Skerries (Redwings, 4th to 16th). Isle of May (Blackbirds, mostly females, 7th; Fieldfares, "numbers" on 18th, N.E. gale; Blackbirds, all males, on 21st, wind from E. to S.W.; Redwings, rush on 28th, S.E., fresh; also of Fieldfares and Ring Ouzels and Blackbirds). Again, at Pentland Skerries, great numbers of Turdidæ on 29th, of all kinds. Greatest rush at Pentland Skerries of Redwings and Song Thrushes (along with Goldcrests and Chaffinches, Robins, a few Ring Ouzels, and Woodcock); strong S.E. gale and rain. At Bell Rock, Redwings (without other species in any numbers), 22d to 26th October every night in numbers; wind from light W. to E. and N.E. All through October indications, more or less pronounced, at the following stations:—N. Unst, Sumburgh Head, Pentland Skerries, Noss Head, Bell Rock, Isle of May, Fidra.

From the above notes the migration of Turdidæ appears to have been unusually compressed and sudden.

Saxicolinæ.—Chats.—In Spring.—In March earliest two Redstarts ("the first seen here") at N. Unst; S.E. and fog. Wheatears at Isle of May on 24th and 26th, but only straggling birds. In April, solitary record on 1st at Pentland Skerries. Two on 27th at Bell Rock, and same date at Isle of May; and Redstarts ("mostly males") intermittent all April. In May, at Isle of May, Redstarts ("mostly females") on 3d, and intermittent up to 19th; also Wheatears, Whinchats (numbers on the 8th, and rush or great numbers on the 18th all day); W.S.W., strong. In June a single solitary record of a Stonechat (? Wheatear) from N. Unst.

In Autumn.—Few records in August; but on 31st numbers of Wheatears at 10 P.M. at the lantern. Latest records of Saxicolinæ, 24th October at Pentland Skerries; and next last there also on the 22d, of Redstarts, both females; and on 26th of a Stonechat at N. Unst (? Wheatear). At Isle of May on 5th, and at Fidra, "numbers all day" on the island, of "Stonechats" (vera at Isle of May? Wheatears? at Fidra). A not very great or decided rush in September, principally noticeable at Isle of May and Fidra, of "Stonechats."

Silviinæ.—Robins, Whitethroats.—In Spring.—A great rush of Robins, with fresh S.E. haze, at Pentland Skerries, on 19th April. "Good numbers" at Isle of May, on 23d; also Whitethroats remained all night at Isle of May, on 28th April. A rush took place of the latter at same station on May 3d; "swarming" and culminating on 18th (one Willow Wren—Phylloscopus—appearing with others on 19th). No Robins are; noted in May anywhere.

In Autumn.—A solitary Robin on 24th August at Cromarty (very likely a local resident). A few odd birds in September. One Whitethroat and three Robins, all on different dates, at Isle of May and Fidra; the Whitethroat on the 1st at Isle of May. Rushes all in October, and returns sent from the following stations, all of Robins:—N. Unst (1 Robin); Sumburgh Head, 1; Pentland Skerries, Isle of May, and Fidra. Rushes mostly at Isle of May and Fidra about 24th to 29th, and winds prevailing easterly and south-easterly. No records in November. A solitary record in December of two Robins at N. Unst, and one on 7th January 1887 at Dunnet Head. Migration of Robins scarcely discernible in spring; and short, sharp, and decisive in October. Of Whitethroats large. Local, viz.—at Isle of May; indicated at N. Unst in spring; and only one record in September at Isle of May.

Phylloscopinæ.—Goldcrest (or Gold-crested Wren), Chiffchaff, Willow Wren, Wood Warbler.—In Spring.—At Fidra numbers of Goldcrests flying about on 24th March; wind S.W., light breeze. The only other spring record of this species is on the 27th March at Pentland Skerries—a single bird; mod. W., clear. This appears to have been a sudden departure, probably general, but not coming much under notice. Of the same species we have not another spring record.

Of Chiffchaff.—[The difficulty of determining Chiffchaffs and Willow Wrens at any time, but more especially in autumn, even to an expert, must in great measure militate against almost any records of "Chiffchaff" at Isle of May. Yet there can be no doubt that it has occurred there, certainly in October 1884; and on one or two more occasions certain. There are many records of "Chiffchaff" at Isle of May; but it is impossible to say which are correct identifications, and which are really immature Willow Warblers. That the Chiffchaff does occur is undoubted, but to what extent is yet uncertain. Henceforth, until certainty can be arrived at, we will only mention Chiffchaffs in inverted commas.—J. A. H.-B.]

"Chiffchaff"—a single record at Isle of May on 12th April, and Willow Wren very numerous on 19th May. One "Chiffchaff" also noted on 5th May.

In Autumn.—Goldcrests numerous on October 24th at Isle of May; and numbers at Pentland Skerries, from 17th to 27th, all day long. Seems to have been pretty general, as it is spoken of at Noss Head, also on 24th; at Inchkeith, in small numbers, 7th, 8th, and 9th (light E. breezes). Numbers all day on Fidra on 8th October, and also at Sumburgh Head on 7th and on 20th, and at Girdleness on the 21st. Numerous at Isle of May up to 30th.

"Chiffchaff"—a solitary record of one at Isle of May on 27th August. A great number (rush) of Willow Warblers at Isle of May on 1st September—light W., fog—along with Sedge Warblers. "Chiffchaff" is also recorded from North Unst by Mr Charles Youngclause—light N.E., haze—a single bird. Numbers again of "Chiffchaffs" at Isle of May on 19th. Those who have their doubts about the occurrence in any number of the Chiffchaff (vera) can read the above together with the entries of Willow Warbler.

The migration of Phylloscopinæ is thus compressed into October, with one rush in September of Willow Warblers, which appears to have been preceded by one example of "Chiffchaff" four days before. In preceding spring very pronounced on 18th and 19th May at same station, Isle of May, of Willow Warblers.

Accentorinæ.—Hedge Sparrows.—Spring.—Only two records on 12th April at Isle of May (resident all winter); and at Pentland Skerries on 19th, two—S.E., haze; and on 18th May, at Isle of May, a brood of young "now flying." In Autumn—only record at Pentland Skerries, one seen all day—light S.W.; "seldom seen here."

Acrocephalinæ.—Sedge Warbler.—No spring notice. In Autumn—only two in August at Isle of May. Sedge Warbler, one, on 20th—calm, clear; and on 23d, two—light S.E. wind; but large numbers (in company with Willow Warbler rush) at Isle of May on 2d September. The Willow Warbler rush came on the 1st, the Sedge Warblers on the 2d; the former at 2 A.M. of that day—light W., fog; the latter at 11 A.M. of the next day—light W., and clear.

Troglodytidæ.—Wren.—Nests on Fidra. No spring records.

In Autumn.—At Dunnet Head two—strong W. breeze—"young birds," on 31st August. And at Inchkeith, Firth of Forth, one caught on lantern, wind light south. [The above are the only records in August,—what connection appears again between N. of Caithness and Firth of Forth?—J. A. H.-B.] No more movements on record till October. "Great numbers" at Isle of May on 21st and 24th. No other records, except at Pentland Skerries—a single bird on the 28th. Latest record, one bird at N. Unst on 22d November.

The above notes tend to accentuate, along with many other parallelisms, what we already consider the chief routes across Scotland (see last Report, p. 23).

Motacillidæ.—Wagtails.—In Spring.—Earliest record is on 24th March of Wagtails at Isle of May, two seen—light to fresh S.E., and haze. A few scattered records in April, on 13th and 19th, at Pentland Skerries. One record at N. Ronaldshay on 6th May, and one on 20th at Pentland Skerries. Nests found on Fidra, 15th June. Whereas in 1885 Report Wagtails were recorded in every month except July, this season we find all the following blank of records:—February, March, April, July, November, and December (see Autumn).

In Autumn.—Records bulk largest in September, both in number of records (6) and bulk of numbers (rush of old and young on 3d and again on 15th at Isle of May, and a few from 8th to 11th at Pentland Skerries, and a few from 8th to 9th resting all day at N. Unst). Again in October, a few (5) records of smaller numbers, 3d to 24th, at N. Ronaldshay, Pentland Skerries, and Isle of May.

Motacillidæ.—Anthinæ.—Pipits, OR "Mosscheepers," "Titlarks."—In Spring.—Earliest record at N. Unst, 7th March, of "Mosscheepers," N.W., fresh, and again one on 21st. On 20th and 23d March, Meadow Pipits, a few at Isle of May, calm, clear, and S.E., fresh haze. A few again at N. Unst on 23d, "Mosscheepers." No records in May or June. In July—young "Mosscheepers" seen for first time on 6th. In August, on the 27th, accessions to the numbers breeding on Isle of May, probably the young hatched off and on wing. In September, accessions of both Rock Pipits and Meadow Pipits by 15th, at Bell Rock, and Rock Pipits numerous on Isle of May on 20th. Numerous to 29th October. No other records.

Muscicapidæ.—Flycatchers.—In Spring.—On 21st and 22d March Spotted Flycatchers, single records at N. Unst. In April, the only record is on 19th at Pentland Skerries, when "a rush" is recorded. Fresh S.E., haze (Pied Flycatchers), and on 21st May one ditto all day there.

In Autumn.—Only one record in all of a single Spotted Flycatcher on Fidra, on 7th. Light S.E., fog.

Hirundinidæ.—Swallows, Martins, Sand Martins.—In Spring.—Many records of arrivals in May and June, as follows:—

In Autumn.—From 23d to 31st August a considerable movement (40 seen) at Isle of May on 30th; and on 2d September, "Swallows departed" at Pentland Skerries. 1 Swallow seen at N. Unst on 23d August, and 6 Martins flying about top of cliffs for six days previous to 30th August at Dunnet Head. A rush again at Isle of May on 27th, 28th, and 29th September, especially on latter two dates. Wind S.E. on 29th, shifted from W. Gale and clear day before. No later records.

Thus Autumn migration compressed into 30th August and 2d September, and again, 28th and 29th September.

Fringillidæ.—Finches, Linnets, Redpoles, Siskins, Sparrows, Chaffinches, "Grey Linnets," Tree Sparrows, Lesser Redpole.—In Spring.—1 Chaffinch at Pentland Skerries on 9th February. At Isle of May "considerable numbers of Redpoles." "Lots died." S.E. to W. In March a few single records of Chaffinch at Pentland Skerries and Isle of May, and "numbers flying about all night" at Fidra. In April, Siskins "first seen" at North Unst (a new species to the locality?) on 11th. At Isle of May, Chaffinches and Grey Linnets on 21st, and 2 to a dozen pairs of Sparrows on 30th. At Pentland Skerries, on May 22d and 23d, Grey Linnets and Redpoles (? Twites).

In Autumn.—Earliest, 26th August, Linnets, "young birds." Again, Siskin (one) at N. Unst on 10th September. Strong W. wind. Linnets at same place (Twites?), 18th, 20th, and 30th. A flock at Pentland Skerries (Linnets, vera?), and Linnets at Fidra, 20th, 25th, and 27th. Tree Sparrows on 15th at Isle of May. Greatest body of Fringillidæ in October, but on the whole, unusually light returns anywhere. Tree Sparrows at Isle of May on 29th October. A few records in November only at N. Unst and Pentland Skerries, of Linnets (?) and Chaffinches.

One of the lightest schedules of Fringillidæ we have had.

Emberizidæ.—Buntings, Snow Buntings, Common Buntings. Yellow Hammers.—In Spring.—Snow Buntings (2) at N. Unst; snow. In March one ditto, 25th, and as late as April 19th one bird. [These are no doubt late stragglers of last year's migration.—J. A. H.-B.] No more records till September.

In Autumn.—Large flock of Snow Buntings at Dunnet Head on 23d, and small numbers at N. Unst on 19th, 20th, and 23d. The first seen at Pentland Skerries this season was on the 1st October, fresh S. haze; and four again on the 12th. Not numerous anywhere all this month. Bulked largest in November and December; few at N. Unst; flocks at Pentland Skerries on four dates of 4th to 17th, and a good number at Isle of May on 6th. Flocks at Isle of May in December, and a few at Sumburgh Head and Pentland Skerries. Yellow Hammer only once mentioned at Isle of May on 10th February—a single bird. Common Bunting, single birds, on 8th, 15th, and 27th March, at Pentland Skerries; once in April at same station; once in July ditto; very few records in September, same station; and in October, same station. None later, nor at any other station.

Alaudidæ.—Larks.—Larks are entered under every month in the year except July and August. They are least abundant in April, May, and June—of these months in which they do occur in Spring,—and in November and December. Numbers and rushes in September and October in Autumn, and in January 1887. (Probably local movements.) Large numbers in Spring 1886, on 15th February.

In Spring.—They visited Isle of May, and stayed for some weeks in February. Other slight records occur at Pentland Skerries and Bell Rock same month. Considerable movements also all March at Isle of May and Fidra.

In Autumn.—Greatest numbers in September, on 25th to 29th, at Sumburgh Head; and on 27th and 29th at Isle of May. Strong W. and S.W. winds. A very heavy and very general rush is recorded during October from each and all of the following stations:—Pentland Skerries, 16th; Isle of May, 18th to 28th, culminating at latter date, preceded by "great numbers" and "large numbers" on preceding dates; at Inchkeith (9th, "flocks of") and at Fidra; 5th to 6th, and 14th to 17th, "numbers" and "flocks all day." ["Wood Larks" are also mentioned by name, but probably Pipits?—J. A. H.-B.] "Great flocks" again at Isle of May on 22d.

Sturninæ.—Starlings.—In Spring.—Absent from N. Unst between 1st and 18th February. Returned to the rock again on 26th. Visit Isle of May for some weeks in February, and remain in still larger numbers till late in March, but decreasing again in April. Preparing to breed at Fidra by 16th April. Breeds also at Isle of May, but cannot quite be looked upon as a resident there. Nests found on Fidra in June. Flocks of young every day at Isle of May in August. Rush did not take place till 5th at Fidra, 28th at Isle of May. Seemed to be collecting for some time previous to great rush on 28th. First autumn movement noticed at N. Unst was not till 10th to 12th November; then seen daily. Last record at Fidra on 25th November.

Corvidæ.—Rooks, Ravens, Crows, Hooded Crows, Jackdaws, Choughs (or "Red-legged Crows").—In Spring.—Hooded Crows and Ravens occasionally seen at N. Unst—resident? Also Raven occasionally seen there in March, April, September, October, and November, always one, two, three, or four, and therefore probably birds breeding, or reared on N. Unst main-island. In the same way Ravens occasionally seen at N. Ronaldshay, Pentland Skerries, etc., can only be looked upon as "on predatory quest intent."

"Black Crows" at N. Unst are probably Rooks, usually "flying south" (if they come from E. turning south no doubt at Unst). We would like to feel sure if these Black Crows are Carrion Crows or Rooks; but "Rooks" by name are never mentioned at N. Unst. Indeed, "Rooks" by name are only mentioned by reporters from Pentland Skerries and Fidra, but "Black Crows" and "Crows" seem to have general application even at Isle of May. We would like Rooks distinguished from Carrion Crows or Corbie Crows. The terms "Crows" and "Black Crows" might mean either the Carrion Crow or the Rook. [Those who have Johns' book will easily see the difference.—J. A. H.-B.] Considerable movements all through the year, extending from N. Unst southwards, of Hooded Crows and "Black Crows" and Rooks. Jackdaws visited Isle of May in a fog in April, and stayed all night of the 11th; and two had previously been seen on March 19th. Noticed also occasionally at Fidra. Heaviest appearances of Corvidæ in October when migration was almost continuously heavy; lightest, however, at N. Unst; heaviest at Pentland Skerries 5th to 11th October. Continuous but much lighter returns from N. Unst, N. Ronaldshay, Pentland Skerries, and Fidra, in September, and curiously, none from Isle of May. Light returns again from N. Unst and Fidra in November, and only two from Pentland Skerries in December.

The uniformity of time in rushes of almost all species is singular this season, October being the favoured month.

Cypselidæ.—Swifts.—["Swallow Swift" of Isle of May returns.]—In spring or summer three "Swallow Swifts" at Isle of May, light, W., clear. No other records, except one on 3d May at same station.

In Autumn.—Two Swifts at Pentland Skerries catching insects round the tower; light, S.W.

Cuculidæ.—Cuckoo.—Only one notice at Isle of May on 18th May.

Picidæ.—Woodpeckers.—The Great Spotted Woodpeckers appeared in considerable numbers this autumn along the eastern counties of Scotland, in one or two cases reaching to the west counties south of the Firth of Clyde. Almost all the specimens examined by us and by Mr Evans of Edinburgh proved to be either old birds or birds with very slight traces of immaturity. The only ones appearing at lighthouses known to us was one sent us from Pentland Skerries, and one obtained at Isle of May. It occurred also, as we are informed by Mr E. Service, in the Solway district. This flight occurred in October, and I find the Pentland Skerries bird bears date of 14th.[6]

[6] Another is reported from N. Unst (see Diary from the Stations). Besides these, we have records of the following, obligingly sent us by Mr Geo. Sim of Aberdeen; and we obtained other records from Fife; also one from Dumfries, from Mr Service of Maxwelltown, Dumfries. We had hoped also to have added all the records of specimens examined by Mr Evans; but up to date of going to press, these records have not come to hand. It would have been better to have them all recorded in one place.

One; Monyruy, Parish of Longside, Aberdeen, 29th August 1886.
One; Brucklay Castle, Parish of New Deer, Aberdeen, 30th October 1886.
One; Drumtochty Castle, Kincardineshire, 29th November 1886.
One; Drumtochty Castle, Kincardineshire, 27th February 1887.

Strigidæ.—Owls.—A very slight record, and entirely in October. One "Large Grey Owl" at Pentland Skerries. "The first seen for a long time; sat on the island." Three Short-Eared Owls on 8th, 9th. and 19th respectively, at Isle of May, and one Grey Owl again at Pentland Skerries on 29th. "Flew across island."

Falconidæ.—"Hawks," Falcons, Kestrels, Sparrow Hawk, Merlin, Peregrine, etc.—Records scattered more or less through the year as usual, but March, August, and December contain none. October again has largest number. Species noted are Peregrine ("or Falcon"), "Hawks," Kestrel (daily for a week at N. Unst), Sparrow Hawk, Large Hawks (Bell Rock, 19th October); "flying W.," etc.

Of Cormorants we have spring records in April at N. Unst, daily fishing. Daily records at same place in September between 1st and 9th, about four or five pairs. One pair breeds regularly, and rears young at N. Unst (noted 11th July 1886). Also at Fidra—six birds to twelve—from 6th to 29th (three records).

We have no notes on the Green Cormorant or Shag or Crested Cormorant from any stations.

To the Reporters.

Pelecanidæ.—Solan Goose or Gannet, Cormorant, Shag, Scart, etc.—This year we give a day-by-day return of Solan Geese seen at N. Unst during September and October. We would like to complete a year's observations of the movements of this bird at the following stations:—N. Unst, Bell Rock, Pentland Skerries, Cape Wrath, Butt of Lewis, Monach Isles, Barra Head, and Ailsa Craig, and Turnberry on the coast of Ayrshire. We would also like daily returns made at Skerryvore or Dhuheartach [all negative evidence being carefully entered, such as "none seen" on such and such a date or succession of dates], and also at Rona, north of Raasay. A separate schedule or more might be devoted to Gannet or Solan Goose alone for every day in the year, noting carefully the direction of flight of flocks or individuals, or how employed. If we had such a series complete, we believe much light might be thrown upon migrations of fish in combination with work going on at Lochbuie in Mull, at the Marine Institute there.

North Unst, Burrafiord, Lerwick,
Shetland, 21st February 1887.

Sir,—I beg to inform you that since answering your note regarding Solan Geese when on shore two Solan Geese were seen here on the 12th inst.; also one on the 19th flying about. A large flock of Kittiwakes on 12th passed; direction from S.W. going N.E. This is a rare occurrence, for I know not of any person having seen any of these two species so early in the year. Since writing on 27th twenty-four Solan Geese seen very busy fishing for about two hours. We have been thinking herring must be close by us, this causing Solan Geese coming so soon this year. Can't vouch for the truth of this, for we could not make out whether herrings or small fish.—J. N.

Of records of Solan Geese at other times and localities, as usual, movements commenced towards the close of March (we have one early record of three at Pentland Skerries on 5th, flying east).

We do not enter into detail, as we would prefer to give a full schedule from each station as indicated above. We add this note here however; Latest seen at Fidra was on 20th, when the note occurs "disappeared." On 14th October, "one young bird; not another to be seen;" and on 10th October, "Solans visibly scarcer," at Fidra.

Of Herons, a few scattered records; not of much service we suspect to our Migration Committee.

Anatidæ.—Ducks, Geese, Eider Ducks, Teal, Widgeon, Shieldrake, Wild Duck, Barnicle Geese, Swans, Brent Geese.—In Spring flocks, or large flocks, of Barnicle Geese are frequently noted at Cromarty, presumably the same flocks daily. (Barnicle is here undoubtedly applied wrongly to the Brent Geese, or "Brants," which are abundant in the Cromarty Firth.) Thus on 19th, 25th, and 26th February, and from 4th to 18th March, a "large flock" is almost daily noted; and thereafter none are again noted till November 24, when a flock again recorded, and two flocks on 25th and 27th December, all at the same place.

Eider Duck.—Odd birds noted off N. Unst in February 5th and 18th, and March 23d and 26th—winds different directions; and a flock of nine at Isle of May on 18th April. Odd records in May and June at N. Ronaldshay and at Fidra, probably merely local movements. In Autumn.—Recorded as "making their appearance by the 5th September at N. Ronaldshay; and large flocks by the 11th September at Pentland Skerries. Flocks all day on several dates in October at N. Unst, and Fidra, &c."

Teal are noted occasionally at Pentland Skerries in March on 1st and 2d. Widgeon rarely noted: once in March at Isle of May, and once in October at Fidra. Shieldrake once noted at Noss Head, and once on 15th November on Fidra.

Wild Swans are noted on 12th April, and four on 25th at N. Ronaldshay; and thirty on one occasion at Sumburgh Head.

Note.—A most remarkable assemblage of Eider Ducks took place off the west shore of Harris, as seen and reported to me by James Cowan, Esq., M.P. He writes, under date of 18th March 1887: "Last year, owing to the easterly winds, we had not less than 3000 Eiders within four miles of our cottage, on the west coast of Harris; and the year before there was not one."

Columbidæ.—Pigeons, Doves.—Rock Dove, Wood Pigeon, Turtle Dove.—A Turtle Dove was obtained at Isle of May on 31st May 1886; wind light S.E., and haze. An addition to the Isle of May list and collection; at present at Dunipace House.

A single record of a Wood Pigeon, "seldom seen here," at Pentland Skerries on 18th June; and another at same place on 7th October, "flying west; rare "—fresh, variable, and haze.

A single record of Rock Pigeons (a flock) on 20th at Pentland Skerries, and the remark, "seldom seen." There were twenty in the flock.

Rallidæ.—Corncrake, Water Rail, etc.—Heard first time at Pentland Skerries on 19th May, and at Cromarty on 25th. Above are the only records of any of the Rails.

Charadriadæ.—Plover, Golden Plover, Lapwing, Dotterel, Ringed Dotterel or Ringed Plover, Oyster-Catcher or Sea Pie, Grey Plover, Golden Plover.—In Spring.—Movements scarce; in February (one record on 25th at Pentland Skerries); in March (one record at same).

In Autumn.—No great movements recorded. First seen at N. Ronaldshay August 25; spoken of as "arrived." Very few records in September, October, or November. Slight increase in December at Pentland Skerries only. Of Oyster-Catchers or Sea Pies rather more frequent returns, but bulking only in September and October. In Spring.—Lapwings noted considerably in March at many stations from N. Unst, Pentland Skerries, Bell Rock, Isle of May, and Fidra.

In Autumn.—Slight movements only in September and October. Ringed Dotterel or Ringed Plover—one in September at Pentland Skerries, and one at same place all day on 3d December.

Scolopacidæ.—Woodcock, Snipe, Curlew, Jack Snipe.—Of Woodcock no spring movement observed. No records of Woodcock at all until October. First seen at Pentland Skerries; two all day on 5th October; then one killed at light on 7th, and a rush on 10th. Then also at N. Ronaldshay one bird seen on 6th; and at Girdleness, Aberdeen, and at Isle of May, from 6th on till 28th, varying numbers—eight shot on 18th, four or five on 20th; "numbers" seen on 24th—wind N.E., veering to S.E.; haze at night. Some (two shot) on 28th. Latest record, one Woodcock at Dunnet Head on 14th November, and two at Pentland Skerries on 1st and 12th November. In Stirlingshire thirty-five shot one day in Torwood, and twenty-eight in Touch Woods. Unusually abundant this autumn. The Woodcocks shot at Torwood on the 20th November came into the country almost certainly at the time of the October rush, and remained there and throughout Stirlingshire for several weeks, during which time many were killed. On the West Coast a friend and myself bagged 33½ couples in seven days' shooting. We had a blizzard of snow and wind on Monday, January 17th. We left on 21st; and we heard afterwards that not a Cock was to be seen on and after the 24th January 1887.

Snipe.—A few scattered spring records. No mention again till September, and then decidedly very few all over. Decidedly scarce this autumn. In the West of Scotland (Ardnamurchan), where Woodcock were so plentiful, Snipe were unusually scarce. Only four seen one day, where usually seven or eight couple can be shot in an hour or two.

Records of Curlews few and far between; and none of any special interest, being mostly local movements.

For comparison we here give a table similar to that in last report (p. 33).

The stations returning in the order of heaviest schedules are—

Thus it will be seen that the comparative strength of the waves are approximately given from each station, Pentland Skerries leading with twenty-four, and Isle of May following with eight, etc.; also, the totals under each month show the rush to have been distinctly in October with fifteen,[7] September and December each with seven. This same system, carried out for each species of bird, appears to us to suggest a pretty fair way of reducing our light reports to system; and further tabular comparison is also suggested as to duration of migration, and weather notes in last report, p. 34, which need not be repeated here at present.

[7] This is borne out almost with all species this season. A concentrated rush in October.

Of Redshanks, Sandpipers, Dunlins, there are very few returns; and only one Dunlin at Pentland Skerries, where they breed, on 27th April. Redshanks appeared at N. Ronaldshay on 12th August. Numbers towards end of September at Pentland Skerries; a few in October, with a number of Purple Sandpipers. A Common Sandpiper at N. Unst on 23d October. Redshanks on 3d December at Pentland Skerries, and number of Purple Sandpipers all day on 19th December.

Laridæ.—Gulls, Terns, Skuas, etc., Kittiwake, Lesser Tern, "Dirty Allen," Black Backed Gull.—The same remarks hold good under Gulls of sorts. The spring and summer records are not of special interest; but vast movements took place in September. "Immense flocks" of Gulls; "numerous flocks" of Kittiwakes and Gulls; Skuas and Terns "every day." Thirty-seven large Gulls passed Girdleness flying south on 15th September; but the "largest flock ever seen" at Fidra was on 14th. Curiously enough there are no records made of movements at Isle of May; but at Pentland Skerries, and again at Fidra, very full notice is taken. No records in November. Only one in December at Pentland Skerries.

Procellariidæ.—Petrels, Stormy Petrel.—The Stormy Petrels often appear at lanterns at night in midsummer, but this is in all probability merely a local movement. Being nocturnal in their habits, and abroad only at night, certain lighthouses lure them to their light more readily than others, owing to proximity to breeding stations or lines of flight to and from their feeding grounds. Their breeding season being very late in the year, the months of August and September bulk largest, but movements commence usually in June; July, however, is often less marked as a month for their movements, except in exceptionably hazy weather for that month.

This season records are not numerous; but, what we have not recorded before, a rush of Stormy Petrels took place at N. Unst, from the 23d to 28th August, "nightly"—winds variable and overcast; striking lantern "continuously." When, perhaps, we know all the exact minutiæ of the breeding distribution, and area of the wandering of birds generally, and of Petrels in the present case, then we may be able to account for such a rush as related above. Meanwhile we think it safest to believe—without theorising—that this unusual appearance was a local movement, caused by unity of circumstances, affecting a large local colony in the neighbourhood of the N. Unst lighthouse.

Alcidæ.—Auks, Razorbills, Guillemots, Puffins, "Marrots," "Tysties" (Black Guillemots).—In Spring.—On February 19th a flock of Black Guillemots ("Tysties") "first arrived, very early," at N. Unst; and at same place a year afterwards—viz., in January 31, 1887, we find, under "Marrot"—"flocks of, flying past," W. to E.; "rarely been seen so soon." (Note in this connection our extremely early and fine spring of 1877, until checked slightly, between March 10th and 17th, by the severe snowfall and keen frosts.)

Returning to 1886:—By March 12th to 22d, numbers of Guillemots and Razorbills rushing by thousands on the latter date at Isle of May, the only station sending returns for March. In April, abundance of Razorbills and Puffins on the rocks by 14th at N. Unst; but the note (1886) is given on date of 7th, "not so early as last year." Puffins arrived "after; N.W., light breezes. First arrival later than usual." By the 22d 160 Puffins (estimate) settled down to breed on the rocks as usual at N. Unst.

At Pentland Skerries, Puffins arrived on the 11th April; and Common Guillemots were seen passing east on the 23d—mod. S.E. wind. At Isle of May, a large number on 6th April and on 12th. By the 18th May, Puffins "are now laying" at Isle of May. By 11th June, young were first seen at N. Unst of Puffins and "Tysties." No records in August.

On September 2d, all Marrots, Razorbills, and Puffins left the rock at N. Unst; but on October 18th, Tysties re-appeared (three in number)—with N.N.E., strong breeze—and stayed six days. No other records.

Columbidæ.—Divers—Great Northern, Black-throated, and Red-necked Diver.—No account taken.

EAST COAST OF ENGLAND.

Schedules were issued to thirty-six stations, lighthouses, and light-vessels on the East Coast of England, and returns have been received from thirty. The total number of schedules sent in is seventy-seven from all sources, and the greatest number from any single station, ten from Mr Thomas H. Cutting, of the Farn Lighthouse.

Wings have been forwarded, of birds killed against the lanterns, from the Leman and Ower L.V., Shipwash L.V., Swin Middle L.V., Nore L.V., Spurn L.V., Spurn L.H., Llyn Wells L.V., Hasbro' L.V., South Sand Head L.V., and Coquet L.H. altogether thirty-five wings have been forwarded for identification. It is much to be regretted that more have not been sent.

The East Coast stations included in this report are:—

Schedules, letters of instruction, and linen-lined envelopes, with directions and labels, for bird wings, were sent to six stations on the South East Coast, and only one schedule has been received in return from the Nab L.V.

Independent assistance has been received from Messrs T. H. Nelson, Redcar; C. Donald Thompson, Seaton-Carew; and E. B. Garbutt; Matthew Bailey, Flamborough; W. Eagle Clarke, H. B. Hewetson, and Philip Lawton, Spurn; Thomas Winson, Spurn Head; G. Smith, Arthur Patterson, and Benjamin Dye, Yarmouth; J. H. Gurney, Jun., North-East Norfolk; O. V. Aplin, Norfolk and Lincolnshire Coast; also from G. H. Caton Haigh, Grainsby Hall; notes from Tetney and N.E. Lincolnshire; and J. B. Whitlock, Nottingham; and on the South Coast from the Rev. H. A. Macpherson.

Notes also bearing on migration have been utilised from the Zoologist, Naturalist, and Field newspapers.

Separate Notes on each Species.

Turdus Viscivorus, Mistletoe Thrush.—Autumn: Farn L.H., September 1st, two; Cockle L.V., October 29th, 8 A.M., one struck. Cromer L.H., November 2d, sunrise, one killed. Varne L.V., 9th, 11 A.M., sixty from S.E. to N.W. Languard L.H., 12th, some.

T. Musicus, Song Thrush.—Spring; Hanois L.H., Guernsey, March 1st, 9 P.M., several striking. Longstone L.H., April 20th, 2 P.M., E., one. Farn L.H., April 1st to 15th, several, also Blackbirds.

Autumn: First at Llyn Wells L.V., August 11th, three. Farn L.H., September 8th, and sparingly at several stations in September. On the 4th, 5th, and 6th of October, an immense rush more or less observed at Farn Islands, Coquet Island, Whitby, Spurn, Outer Dowsing, Llyn Wells, Cromer, Hasbro' L.V., Kentish Knock (October 2d to 8th), Swin Middle, and Nore,—that is, covering the whole coast of eastern England from the Farn Islands to the mouth of the Thames. Conditions of arrival—easterly winds, fogs, and hazy weather. There was a second but smaller arrival from the 19th to 30th October, also scattered notices from various stations to November 27th.

T. Iliacus, Redwing.—Spring: Longstone L.H., April 25th, S.E. light, some round lantern all the morning; at the same date Trent Lock, Notts, last flock seen flying N. (F. B. W.).

Autumn: Farn L.H., September 8th, three. The main body came with the great rush of Thrushes from the 2d to the 8th of October. Were first observed inland near Harrogate, Yorkshire, on the 10th, and at Trent Lock on the 16th of October. Large numbers of various Turdidæ, with Larks, Chaffinches, Linnets, and others, are recorded as observed at various stations, moving hurriedly up the coast on the approach of snow, March 2d and 3d, 1886; also between December 27th, 1886, and January 6th, 1887.

T. Pilaris, Fieldfare.—Spring: Tees L.V., March 13th to 19th, Fieldfares to S.E. Farn L.H., April 28th, E.N.E. (6), eleven. Longstone L.H., same dates, 12 to 1 A.M.; many round lantern; wind flew to N.E., and birds left.

Autumn: Have been generally much scarcer than in the winter of 1885-86. Outer Dowsing L.V., July 8th, one seen flying to N.W. Mr G. Hunt saw a single bird at Somerton, Norfolk, on September 2d. Llyn Wells L.V., September 27th, all night, and Farn L.H. on 30th, one. Coquet L.H., October 4th, rush with Blackbirds and others. They are recorded also at the same date in the Newcastle Weekly Chronicle of October 23d; seen in North-East Lancashire. Scattered notices throughout October. A slight rush is indicated at Spurn on November 1st, and Cromer on the 2d. Coquet Island, November 20th, Fieldfares and Blackbirds; and at Farn L.H. at intervals to January 9th, 1887.

T. Merula, Blackbird.—Spring: Farn L.H., April 1st to 15th, and onward to the 1st of May.

Autumn: Farn L.H., July 13th, three. 25th, several young hens. Llyn Wells, August 3d, one. Farn L.H., 22d, E.N.E., many; 27th, and September 1st, many. A heavy rush, October 4th to 8th, at the Farn Islands, Coquet Island, Spurn, to mouth of Thames. Nore L.V., October 6th, hen came to side of ship tired out, and, falling in the sea, was drowned. At intervals in October at several stations, chiefly from 18th to 20th. Farn L.H., November 15th, thirteen old cocks; a few Blackbirds also up to February 23d, 1887, at same station.

T. Torquatus, Ring-Ouzel.—Spring: Farn L.H., April 19th, two; 20th, five.

Autumn: Languard L.H., August 12th, 5.30 A.M., one. A few young males during the first week in October on Lincolnshire coast. Farn L.H., October 4th, two.

Saxicola Œnanthe, Wheatear.—Spring: Farn L.H., April 1st to 15th. 26th, rush. Longstone L.H., April 2d, 8.30 P.M., S., large numbers round light. 25th, round light all morning. 28th, many, with Redstarts and Fieldfares round lantern 12 to 1 A.M., wind shifted to N.E., and birds left; are also recorded, Flambro', April 2d; Tees L.V., Outer Dowsing L.V., and Trent Lock, Notts, April 3d; Yarmouth, April 6th; and Hunstanton L.H., and Hanois L.H., Guernsey, 3 A.M., April 20th.

Autumn: Return migration from July 25th. Rushes, August 27th to September 3d, and October, first week. Hanois L.H., September 3d, all night, several dozen killed. Last occurrences, Farn L.H., Trent Lock, and Tetney "fitties," Lincolnshire coast, all on October 16th.

Pratincola Rubetra, Whinchat.—Longstone L.H., April 25th, one; wing from Leman and Ower L.V., May 13th. P. rubicola, Stonechat, was plentiful in the Lincolnshire and Norfolk districts throughout November.

Ruticilla Phœnicurus, Redstart.—Farn L.H., April 24th, E.S.E., several. Hunstanton L.H., April 25th, one female. Longstone L.H., Farn Islands, April 27th, one. 28th, flight with Wheatears and Fieldfares round lantern from 12 to 1 A.M. Flambro', April 26th, and on May 13th, 14th, and 15th, great many, with a N.E. wind, along with Pied Flycatchers.

Autumn: Spurn, August 7th, Redstarts and Wheatears returning up coast. Cley, Norfolk, September 13th. Hasbro' L.V., September 19th (wing and tail sent). Cromer, October 5th, 2.45 A.M., one female. Hanois L.H., October 26th, 2 P.M., N.E., a few on rocks. This last entry not improbably has reference to the Black Redstart, R. titys.

Cyanecula? Bluethroat.—Spurn, September 14th, 11 A.M., N.E., strong, one young bird. This was seen by Mr Winson, who knows the bird well.

Erithacus Rubecula, Redbreast.—Spring: Longstone L.H., April 20th, 2 P.M., two.

Autumn: First at Whitby L.H., August 16th. Coquet L.H., September 16th, and Swin Middle L.V., 29th, 8 A.M., N.E., one on each occasion. A heavy rush is indicated between the 5th and 7th of October at the Farn Islands, Coquet Island, Teesmouth, Spurn, Outer and Inner Dowsing L.V.'s, and Hasbro' L.V., wind N.E. for days; again on the 16th at Farn L.H., Teesmouth, and Inner Dowsing L.V., 18th and 19th at Spurn, and 19th Inner Dowsing and Hasbro' L.V.'s (twenty on board); also at Farn L.H. on 25th, 26th, and 30th October, great many.

Sylvia Rufa and S. Curruca, Common Whitethroat and Lesser Whitethroat.—Spring: Hunstanton, April 11th, 3 A.M., three Lesser Whitethroats on lantern.

Autumn: Longstone L.H., September 1st, S.W., one killed. 25th, one found dead. Hunstanton L.H., 25th, one Common Whitethroat killed. S. atricapilla, Blackcap, Longstone L.H., April 25th, one. Languard, October 11th, 2 to 3 P.M., four to E. at sunset. Spurn, October 19th, one shot.

Regulus Cristatus, Golden-Crested Wren.—Is recorded at sixteen stations. Hanois L.H., Guernsey, September 22d, 11 P.M., some killed, others settling on windows. Between the 5th and 9th of October a general rush, covering the East Coast between the Farn and the Channel Islands, was observed, in greater or less numbers, at the two Farn Island lighthouses, Redcar, Coquet Island, Flamborough, Spurn, Outer Dowsing, and Hasbro' L.V.'s (on 6th, thirty in day from E.N.E. to W.S.W.), and Hanois L.H. Again a second arrival, Tees, October 16th; Redcar, 19th; Spurn, 16th, 18th, 19th; Cromer, 18th, 2.30, N.E., rain; and Hunstanton, 21st. A third flight between October 26th and 31st at the Farn Islands, Durham Coast, Whitby, Outer Dowsing, Great Cotes (26th, swarming), Hanois L.H., 31st, 12 P.M., Goldcrests, Blackbirds, and Starlings flying round all the evening, and striking top of lantern and glass; wind light, variable, with rain.

Phylloscopus Trochilus, Willow Wren.—Longstone, April 23d, S. to S.S.E., light, one.

Autumn: Great Cotes, July 24th, on the move. Longstone L.H., August 23d, S.E., two. September 3d, one found dead. Spurn, August 15th to September 6th, great numbers to S. October 19th, final rush; Cromer, November 25th, two seen near lighthouse.

Acrocephalus Schœnobænus, Sedge Warbler.—Leman and Ower L.V., May 24th, wing sent. Spurn L.H., August 5th, 2 A.M., S.W. (3), one killed. Coquet L.H., October 5th, killed, wing sent.

Accentor Modularis, Hedge Sparrow.—Dudgeon L.V., March 22d, 1886, some N.W. to S.E., with Larks, Chaffinches, and Starlings. October 6th, forty to N.N.W. Hasbro' L.V., 31st, 3 P.M., flock roosted on board all night.

Acredula ? Long-tailed Titmouse.—Languard L.H., October 17th, one. Parus ? Titmouse.—Inner Dowsing L.V., October 17th, 10.30 A.M., one "Tomtit," E. to W. Spurn, November 1st, P. major and cæruleus, very common. The former has been exceedingly plentiful in North-East Lincolnshire in the winter.

Troglodytes Parvulus, Common Wren.—Spring, 1886: Outer Dowsing L.V., March 24th, one caught on deck. May 19th, three to W. Flamborough L.H., May 17th, 10.30 P.M., S.W., seven killed.

Autumn: Languard L.H., August 22d, four on premises all day. Cromer L.H. and Cockle L.V., 23d, one each. Leman and Ower L.V., 24th, 3 to 4 A.M., fog, one killed. Spurn, October 8th, many; 19th, same. Farn L.H., 28th, Wrens and Robins.

Motacilla Lugubris, Pied Wagtail.—Spring, 1886: Hanois L.H., March 14th, 3 A.M., E., several. Great Cotes, 20th, many. Whitby L.H., 20th, four. Yarmouth, 21st, several pairs. Tees L.V., 30th, great many to N.W.

Autumn: Whitby L.H., September 2d, 3d, and 4th, many, with Titlarks and Stonechats to S. Hanois L.H., October 31st, 8 P.M., several. M. raii, Yellow Wagtail.—Yarmouth, April 7th.

Anthus Pratensis, Meadow Pipit.—Outer Dowsing L.V., March 24th, 1886, one Titlark caught. Whitby L.H., September 2d, 3d, and 4th, Titlarks to S. Cockle L.V., October 4th, one. Dudgeon L.V., January 7th, 1887, Titlarks all night; five caught. A. obscurus, Rock Pipit.—Hasbro' L.V., September 3d, 11 P.M. (wing sent). Farn L.H., October 31st, many about island; November 21st, great many, with Pipits, all day.

Lanius Excubitor, Great Grey Shrike.—Spurn, October 25th, two or three seen about this date. Farn L.H., October 26th, 3 P.M., one seen, with small bird in bill. Spurn, November 1st, one shot, another seen. 27th, a Great Grey Shrike was shot to-day on Butterwick Common, near Brigg, which at the time was eating a Snipe (probably a wounded bird). L. collurio, Red-Backed Shrike.—Languard L.H., August 15th, noon, one seen. Hasbro' L.V., August 27th, 11 P.M., one caught on deck (wing sent).

Muscicapa Atricapilla, Pied Flycatcher.—Flamborough, April 26th, Pied Flycatcher; May 13th, 14th, and 15th, N.E., great many, with Redstarts.

Autumn: Mr Gurney informs me that Colonel Fielden observed a migration of Pied Flycatchers at Wells, on the Norfolk coast, on September 3d. Donna Nook, Lincolnshire coast, October 12th, one seen (J. C.).

Hirundo Rustica, Swallow.—First observed, Whitby and Hunstanton L.H.'s, on April 13th; Yarmouth and Hanois L.H., Guernsey, on 14th; in no numbers anywhere till the end of the month. Hanois L.H., April 22d, all day in two's and three's, sometimes six or seven, low on water to N.E. and E. Leman and Ower L.V., 30th, 9 A.M. to noon, great many to S.W. Tees L.V., April 27th, six to N.W.; May 16th, 17th, 18th, and 21st, great numbers, two and three together to N.W. Farn L.H., 19th and 20th, rush. Hunstanton, May 4th, rush to S.W. all day. Swin Middle L.V., July 11th, 12th, 14th, 15th, and 16th, numbers from E. to W.; on 14th, five flocks of about twenty each between 3 and 4 A.M.

Autumn: Hanois L.H., September 15th, 16th, and 17th, rush to S. about mid-day, and on 20th at sunset; and 21st during morning, to S.W. and S., as many as twenty-five together. Swin Middle L.V., October 2d and 3d, 7.30 to noon, at intervals to S.E.; and at Hunstanton on October 1st, 3d, and 4th. Nab L.V. (Channel), October 1st, at intervals daylight till dusk, twenty together, to S., wind S. to S.E. (4). Languard L.H., October 3d.—Mr Owen Boyle writes: "Thousands of Swallows congregated here at 6.45 A.M., pitched on the lantern top and gallery rails; every available spot was covered with them. Thousands also were on the wing all round the lighthouse. The birds pitched were all quite silent. At 8.10 A.M. they all rose in a mass, and went to the S.W.; not one was to be seen at noon." Trent Lock, October 3d, hundreds congregating on telegraph wires. Kentish Knock L.V., October 1st, several to S. Hanois L.H., October 6th, great many; last seen, Spurn, November 1st, one. Lewes, Sussex, 8th, some to W. From September 30th to October 7th pressure system cyclonic; type first south-westerly and afterwards south-easterly.

Chelidon Urbica, Martin.—Cromer L.H., May 15th, first. Autumn: South Sand Head L.V., September 24th, twenty to thirty Martins; 29th, twenty Martins to N.W. Farn L.H., October 5th, one flying round tower. Great Cotes, November 15th, last seen, one. Cotile riparia, Sand Martin.—On the 8th of August I saw between six and seven hundred perched together on the telegraph wires by the turnpike side near Tamworth.

Ligurinus Chloris, Greenfinch.—Swin Middle L.V., October 18th, during day, with others at intervals to the W. Farn L.H., January 3d to 8th, seven. Carduelis elegans, Goldfinch.—Hanois L.H., September 24th, N.E., 9 A.M., large flock to S.E.

Passer Domesticus, Common Sparrow.—Is recorded at eleven stations, but at none north of Spurn. Leman and Ower L.V., August 30th, great many on board. There was a great rush between the 3d and 7th of October observed at Spurn L.V.; 6th and 7th, forty to fifty on deck—remained about one and a half hours. Inner Dowsing L.V., 6th, one hundred on board, ten killed; flew at 5 P.M. to N.W.; 8th, fifty, E.S.E. to W.N.W. Hasbro' L.V., 6th, forty; some died on board. Large numbers also between the same dates at the Goodwin, Gull, and South Sand Head L.V.'s. Many at the East Side and Varne L.V.'s on the 9th. A second large immigration was observed between the 16th and 23d at Spurn, Outer Dowsing L.V., Kentish Knock, the Goodwin L.V.'s, and Varne L.V.

Passer Montanus, Tree Sparrow.—Spring: Outer Dowsing L.V., April 2d and 3d, several from E.S.E. to W. and S.W. Autumn: A considerable immigration between the 3d and 8th of October, chiefly observed at the Outer Dowsing and South Sand Head L.V.'s; and again, between the 15th and 23d, at some of the southern light-ships off the East Coast. On November 13th I saw a flock, evidently recent arrivals, of about 2000 in Great Cotes Parish, within two miles of the East Coast. The observers on the light-vessels now readily distinguish and discriminate the two species.

Fringilla Cœlebs, Chaffinch.—Much the largest immigration of this species hitherto recorded; were observed at twenty-one stations covering the whole of the East Coast between the Farn and Channel Islands. The main body came in between the 3d and 6th of October at eleven stations in large numbers; and there was a second large arrival from October 15th to 23d at nine stations. The first was seen on the night of August 15th at Llyn Wells L.V., with Thrushes and Larks round the lantern. The last entry is from Hanois L.V., October 24th, Starlings and Chaffinches, 9 P.M. till morning. E. (4); and Kentish Knock L.V., 25th, seven or eight, at 9.30 A.M., to S.W. In the Spring of 1886, Chaffinches were observed at the Dudgeon L.V., with Larks, Hedge Sparrows, and Starlings on March 22d, going from S.E. to N.W.; Longstone L.H., April 20th, two to E.; and Outer Dowsing L.V., March 24th, several to W. and W.N.W.; May 29th, four to W.

Fringilla Montifringilla, Brambling.—Compared with the immense immigration of 1885-86, Bramblings have been very scarce. Longstone L.H., October 6th, five; Alnwick Northumberland, same date; Cockle L.V., October 4th and 6th; Hunstanton L.H., 14th, sunrise, several flocks to S.W. Tees L.V., 16th, one; Kentish Knock L.V., 27th, one; are also reported very scarce or absent at inland stations. On April 20th, 1886, a single Brambling flew on board the Tees L.V.

Linota Cannabina, Linnet.—Cockle L.V., April 15th, eight to W.; Dudgeon L.V., 28th, fifty, N.W. to S.E. L. rufescens?—Outer Dowsing L.V., April 2d, three Redpoles flying about vessel.

Pyrrhula Europœa, Common Bullfinch.—Tees L.V., October 15th, S.E., rain, one came on board.

Loxia Curvirostra, Common Crossbill.—Great Cotes, July 28th, 3 P.M., one, quite a young bird, in the striated plumage, clinging to sash of the dining-room window. Yarmouth, December 22d, one caught at sea and brought in alive.

Emberiza Miliaria, Common Bunting.—Languard L.H., November 19th, W.N.W., noon, large flock to N.E.

Plectrophanes Lapponicus, Lapland Bunting.—Dover, end of November, adult male taken alive [H. A. M.].

P. Nivalis, Snow Bunting.—Spring: Tees L.V., March 13th, one to N. Hunstanton L.H., April 2d, flock. Autumn: Spurn, September 20th, five. Longstone L.H., 25th, one at 3 P.M. and three at 5 P.M. October 3, 11.30 A.M., S.S.E., three; 6th, three. Farn L.H., 16th, small flock. Yarmouth, 30th, few. Tees L.V., November 8th and 13th, December 2d, 10th, and 27th, flocks to S. Cockle L.V., November 27th, 5.30 A.M., one killed. Altogether the smallest immigration recorded for many years.

Alauda Arvensis, Skylark.—Spring, 1886: Spurn, March 2d, great rush to S. with others (overcast, squally, snow). Outer Dowsing L.V., January 21st, 23d, and 24th, February 10th, 11th, and 13th, very large migration; on 11th and 13th February, E.S.E. to W.N.W.; March 18th and 19th, flight to S.W. and W., and some to end of April in same direction. Dudgeon L.V., March 20th and 23d, Larks N.W. to S.E. Leman and Ower L.V., February 12th and 13th, 3 A.M., and 12 P.M. to daylight, to W. (seventy-two Larks and fifteen Starlings killed). Cockle L.V., March 8th, 7 A.M., large flock to E.; 10 A.M., large flock to W., very swift. Kentish Knock L.V., January 22d and 23d, 6 P.M. to 4 A.M., thousands; February 30th, 4.30 A.M., thousands—like clouds. Cockle L.V., January 19th to 29th, 1887, continuous flocks to W.

Autumn: An enormous migration, commencing at Llyn Wells L.V., July 24th, 25th, and 26th, all night, and on August 15th. Cromer L.H., September 20th, all night. There was an immense rush in October, the bulk arriving in two almost continuous rushes during the first and third weeks, observed at twenty-eight stations, seventeen of which are light-vessels, and covering the whole East Coast of England. Again at seven stations, but in considerable less numbers, to November 11th. After this a few at intervals to the end of the year; general direction of flight from E. to W., and S.E. to N.W.

Otocorys Alpestris, Shore Lark.—Longstone, March 1886, first week, three caught alive near North Sunderland. Spurn, several in November and December. Redcar, December early, flight, many shot; all examined were young birds [T. H. N.]. Yarmouth, October 30th, several killed above high water line; November 2d, two shot. Cley, Norfolk coast, November 23d, twenty to thirty seen; 26th, fifty to sixty (O. V. A.).

Sturnus Vulgaris, Common Starling.—Spring: Outer Dowsing L.V., March 3d, 86, to April 20th, a few E.S.E. to W.N.W. Dudgeon L.V., March 20th, thirty at noon, N.W. to S.E.; 22d, a few in the same direction. Leman and Ower L.V., May 19th, some at 3 P.M. two killed.

Autumn: Spurn, June, young Starlings daily. Cromer L.V., September 24th to 30th, flocks of young both by day and night. The main immigration was in three great rushes in October, more or less observed at sixteen stations between the Farn and Channel Islands from the 1st to 8th, 15th to 23d, and 28th to 30th; a few to November 11th. Last at Hanois L.H., 26th November, E.N.E., 3 A.M. till daylight, with Blackbirds, Thrushes, and Lapwings.

Garrulus Glandarius, Common Jay.—Grainsby, north-east Lincolnshire, October 25th, wind E., strong. A considerable immigration of Jays [G. H. C. H.].

Corvus Monedula, Daw.—At several stations in October and November, usually associated with Rooks and Crows; rush first week in October. Dudgeon L.V., October 6th, seven Daws on board; left for N.N.W.

C. Corone, Carrion Crow.—Outer Dowsing L.V., October 6th, twenty from S.E. to N.W. Spurn, October 30th, S.S.W., and November 1st, many, with other Corvidæ to S. (J. B. H.).

C. Cornix, Hooded Crow, Grey Crow, "Crows" generally.—Cockle L.V., 1886, March 10th to 21st, large flocks of Crows daily at early morning to S.E. and E.; on the 18th, 19th, and 20th, with Larks and Daws continuous for four and five hours, from 5.30 to 10 and 11 A.M. on 21st, from 7.30 to noon, but in less numbers; easterly winds. March 25th and 26th, flocks of Crows throughout the day to W.; and April 1st to 6th, at intervals to S.W., south-westerly winds; February 24th, 1887, 7 A.M., two flocks Jackdaws and Crows to E. Outer Dowsing L.V., March 19th, many Crows during day to eastward. Longstone L.H., April 7th, Hooded Crows, two flocks, to W. at 9.30 A.M. Hunstanton L.H., 12th, Grey Crows last seen. Leman and Ower L.V., May 19th, sixty to seventy Grey Crows at noon to W.; one killed. Autumn: Leman and Ower L.V., October 4th, at dusk to N.W., rush; and Spurn, Outer Dowsing, and Cromer on 6th; Longstone L.H., 7th, 9.30 A.M., W., two flocks to W. From Whitby to the South Foreland at several stations throughout October, and in less numbers to November 16th.

C. Frugilegus, Rook.—Spring: Longstone, April 25th, S.E., light, several to E.; on April 13th, 7.30 A.M., small flock of nine to W. Dudgeon L.V., March 20th, at 6 and 9 A.M., two large flocks from N.W. to S.E. Hanois L.H., April 13th, three to N.W. Autumn: Spurn, October 6th, 7 to 10 P.M., moonlight, large flocks to S. Outer Dowsing L.V., 6th, rush of all sorts Corvidæ to W.; at several stations in October, and in large numbers between Spurn and the South Foreland; migration continued up to November 16th.

C. Corax, Raven.—Languard L.H., December 17th, 9 A.M., two passed to Essex shore, and remained about till noon. A pair were seen at the same station on June 22d, 1884, at 6.30 A.M.

Cypselus Apus, Common Swift.—Yarmouth, May 15th, first seen. Tees L.V., June 20th, N., fresh, rain, great many; July 6th and 22d, great many to S.W. and S. Longstone L.H., August 16th, W., fine, one caught on lantern. Ship wash L.V., 16th, three.

Picus Major, Great Spotted Woodpecker.—Has been very common in the coast and marsh districts of north-east Lincolnshire in the autumn and winter. One bird stuffer told me he had about fifteen or sixteen sent in. There must have been a large immigration.

Alcedo Ispida, Kingfisher.—Languard L.H., September 17th, 6.40 A.M., one.

Cuculus Canorus, Cuckoo.—Farn L.H., May 18th, W.S.W., 3 P.M., first heard. Spurn, on 20th. Cromer L.H., July 29th, one struck at midnight, not killed. Coquet L.H., August 3d, 11 A.M., one; Farn L.H., August 13th, 6 P.M., one on rocks. Whitby L.H., September 21st, N.E. (6), one young.

Striges.—Asio otus, Long-eared Owl.—Longstone L.H., April 15th, N.E., light, one. A. accipitrinus, Short-eared Owl.—Languard L.H., September 16th, noon, E., one. Tetney "fitties," October 6th, two. Farn L.H., 7th, 1 A.M., one; and another at 6 A.M. Coquet L.H., 9th, one. Redcar, 16th, one; Spurn, 19th and 22d, several. Coquet, 24th, two. Seaton Snook, Durham, 27th, one shot coming in from sea. Farn L.H., 29th, one. Tees L.V., November 6th, 9 A.M., E., one. Owls generally.—Llyn Wells L.V., September 24th, "Owl" on mast-head, came from E., going S.W. Cromer L.H., October 28th, "Common Owl," at 3 A.M., flying around lantern. Nyctea scandiaca, Snowy Owl.—Mr Owen Boyle, of the Languard L.H., under date of February 9th, wind E., reports this species as shot by a visitor near the lighthouse. Subsequently, Mr Boyle writes, in reply to my letter, that he is sure the bird was a Snowy Owl. [Further information from the person who shot it, or the present possessor, would be very desirable.]

Falconidæ.—Longstone L.H., August 23d, S.E., one Sparrow Hawk (Accipiter nisus). Redcar, September 10th, immature Peregrine shot at Saltburn; early in November a second. Llyn Wells L.V., 21st, "large Hawk" on mast, and then to S.W. Tees L.V., 28th, "large Hawk." Norfolk coast, Goshawk (Astur palumbarius), caught at sea, and brought in alive to Yarmouth; date uncertain. Swin Middle L.V., October 7th, two young Hawks caught on deck. Donna Nook, Lincolnshire coast, October 9th, 10th, and 11th, two Kites (Milvus ictinus) seen over and about the rabbit warrens and sea banks. Cromer L.H., October 25th, very many Hawks seen about during the day. Spurn, 30th, Rough-legged Buzzard (Archibuteo lagopus), to S.; also several Merlin (Falco æsalon).

Phalacrocorax Carbo, Cormorant.—Dudgeon L.V., April 28th, thirty, N.W. to S.E. Tees L.V., May 16th, one hundred Cormorants passed; largest number ever seen here.—[H. H.]

Sula Bassana, Gannet.—Longstone L.H., March 21st to 31st, S. and W. winds, many daily to N., and to April 20th in less numbers. 21st, ceased altogether. Migration occupied a month, and was very persistent and continuous. Outer Dowsing L.V., October 2d, large numbers about, fishing for several days.

Ardea Cinerea, Common Heron.—Coquet Island, August 6th, one, and several up to November 4th. Tetney, Lincolnshire, August 27th, seventeen together on coast. Hanois L.H., September 14th, three, and then twelve Herons to S.W.; 15th, one to S.W. October 6th, four to S. A Purple Heron (A. purpurea) was shot on October 20th at Oulton Broad, near Lowestoft. Spoonbill (Platalea leucorodia), June 6th, near Yarmouth.

Anser.—Anser cinereus, "Grey-lag" Geese.—Longstone L.H., October 6th, thirty seen. North-East Lincolnshire, fifteen Grey Geese over Grainsby Park on August 22d. "Wild Geese have been very abundant this year, except during the late frosts; flocks have gone over the Park almost every day."—[G. H. C. H.] Farn L.H., September 10th, Grey Goose to W. November 22d, sunrise, very large flock to S. 23d, several small flocks to N. Great Cotes, November 22d, 4 P.M., flock of Bean Geese N. to S. Brent Goose (Bernicla brenta), Tees L.V., February 27th; March 22d, 1886, large flocks off Tees; also Ducks and Widgeon. Coquet L.H., middle to end of August, many to north.

Cygnus, Swan.—Redcar, July 29th, 6 A.M., four seen at sea, going N.W. August 1st, eight (Mute Swans) all shot. Whitby L.H., August 1st, sixteen White Swans seen going north. Seaton Carew, Durham, July 25th, two to S. August 5th, three different flocks of Swans; shot at seven, wounded one, but lost it. 6th, four seen going inland.—[E. B. G.] I have no doubt the whole of these occurrences have reference to escapes from private waters and parks. I am told the Swans from the New Park at Grimsby were flying about in the Humber in August.

Ducks, Sheldrake (Tadorna cornuta).—Farn L.H., June 13th, old bird and nine young. Tees L.V., February 27th to March 22d, 1886, twenty-five in flock. November 5th, fifty-five. Common Teal (Querquedula crecca), Tetney, August 12th, large arrival. Cley, Norfolk, September 15th, first; Tees L.V., 16th, same. Widgeon (Mareca penelope), Tees L.V., April 7th, 1886, last seen, large flock. Yarmouth, March 1st, 1886, continuous flocks along coast. Cley, Norfolk, September 15th, Widgeon, with Teal. Tees L.V., 16th, flock. Tetney, October 6th, four shot. Languard L.H., October 29th, flock of eleven. Pochard (Fuligula ferina), very common on the Humber during the winter; many shot, including several old males. Scaup (F. marila), Great Cotes, March 8th, 1886, flock, all males, off sluice; 26th, flock at same place, males and females, in pairs. February 8th, 1887, same locality, flock of thirty-eight adult males and females in equal proportions. Cockle L.V., January 23d, fifty, both males and females. Harlequin Duck (Cosmonetta histrionica), Farn L.H., December 2d, three, two shot (went to well-known collectors). Long-tailed Duck (Harelda glacialis), Redcar, October 21st, three shot, young birds. Farn L.H., November 8th, 11 A.M., eleven flying N. Coquet L.H., 17th, one shot. Eider Duck (Somateria mollissima), Farn L.H., June 20th, Eider and five young, first brood. Coquet, October 8th, many, both male and female, off island. Velvet Scoter (Œdemia fusca), Redcar, October 13th, three; 18th, seven, two shot young. Common Scoter (Œ. nigra), Whitby L.H., April 30th, midnight, one killed. Leman and Ower L.V., May 9th, great numbers of Black Ducks at midnight to E., some killed. Large number of Scoters reported from various parts of the coast, on the move to and from their feeding grounds. Goosander (Mergus merganser), more than usually numerous in the Humber during the winter; in one case five were killed, at a shot, from a flock of twelve near Tetney Haven. Red-breasted Merganser (M. serrator), Farn L.H., December 24th, one, a drake, off island.

Columba Palumbus, Ringdove.—Outer Dowsing L.V., May 19th, one to W. Tetney, October 17th, flocks of migratory Wood Pigeons. Grainsby, November 17th and 19th, morning, large flocks to S.W. Spurn L.H., November 26th, from 7 to 10 P.M., [3] N.W., numbers of Wood Pigeons, several on gallery of lantern. January 18th, 4 P.M., flock to S. February 1st, 10 A.M., two to S. Cromer L.H., December 9th and 18th, great many. Languard L.H., February 5th, 3 to 4 P.M., large flock inland, towards Orwell Park. Longstone L.H., July 19th, Rock Pigeon (C. livia).

Turtur Communis, Turtle Dove.—Flamborough L.H., May 11th, one. Longstone L.H., 20th, 6.30 P.M., variable, N.E. to S.E. to S. by W., two seen; 28th, 9 A.M., S., rain, one. Cromer L.H., June 4th, 1.30 A.M., one killed. Redcar, September 7th, small flock of seven, one killed. Leman and Ower L.V., May 6th, 3 A.M., two "Doves" from S.E., and twenty to thirty small birds with them.[8]

[8] Mr G. H. Caton Haigh writes that the Turtle Dove has been very common during the summer in the neighbourhood of Grainsby, North-East Lincolnshire. About the middle of June one of the keepers saw a flock of twenty or thirty at Cadeby. The same man also saw eight in Grainsby Healing during the third week in August. Another keeper had seen a pair or two about Beasby Wood, and a pair in an orchard in the village of Grainsby all through the summer.

Coturnix Communis, Quail.—Shipwash L.V., October 22d, 1 A.M., one killed (wing sent).

Rallus Aquaticus, Water-Rail.—Spurn L.V., November 1st, 6 A.M., S.W., one caught on deck. Llyn Wells L.V., November 1st, 3 A.M., two killed striking the lantern. Coquet L.V., November 4th, one killed.

Crex Pratensis, Land-Rail.—Whitby L.V., May 7th, 2 A.M., first heard. Farn L.H., 17th, 4 A.M., W., Land-Rail. Common Coot (Fulica atra), Languard L.H., September 8th, 2.45 A.M., one struck and killed.

Charadriidæ.—Charadrius pluvialis, Golden Plover.—Farn L.H., September 12th, thirteen to W. Tetney, October 18th, E. to N.E., first flights. Languard L.H., October 31st, large flock to W. at 3 P.M. Squatarola helvetica, Grey Plover.—Yarmouth, May, first and second weeks, several in summer dress September 22d, first autumn arrivals. Great Cotes, May 18th, 1886, about 200 along the foreshore, the majority in full summer dress. March 10th, 1887, some young of the previous year seen on the muds to-day had not lost the golden-drop plumage of the autumn. Ægialitis cantiana, Kentish Plover.—Yarmouth. April 29th, two seen in a flock of Dunlin and Ringed Plover; June 10th, one seen. Languard L.H., November 27th, 7.50 A.M., two pitched on beach; left at noon. Ægialitis hiaticula, Ringed Plover.—Great Cotes, May 18th, 1886, great numbers on flats. Languard L.H., November 16th, thousands of Dotterel and Oxbirds together pitched on beach at high water. Swin Middle L.V., November 13th, 2.50 P.M., W., thousands of "Stone Runners" first seen to E., then to W. (see [p. 48]); 18th, the same, a very large flight in sight from 3.55 to 4.20 going S.E. to S.W.; also on December 28th and January 13th. Great Cotes, August 19th, early night, sultry and dull, several Kinged Plover passing over. Trent Lock, Notts, August 19th, same at 9 P.M. [F. B. W.]. Eudromias morinellus, Dotterel.—Great Cotes, May 4th and 5th, trip of eight. Robin Hood's Bay, Yorkshire, September, first week, six shot; Whitby, 6th, four; Seaton-Carew, 10th, one shot. Vanellus vulgaris, Lapwing.—Outer Dowsing L.V., October 6th, great rush with others; Leman and Ower L.V., 8th, many during night to W.; Inner Dowsing L.V., 17th, one. Languard L.H., November 8th, hundreds at 2 P.M.; 26th, 3 A.M. till daylight, with many others. Great Cotes, December 13th, about 12,000 in one field twenty-four hours before the frost commencing on the 14th; Whitby, 24th, all morning in small flocks, twenty to forty, coming in from sea. Redcar, January 21st, 1887, S.W., strong; and 22d, W.N.W, many with larks coming in from sea and going W. Strepsilas interpres, Turnstone.—Yarmouth, May 14th, some; Great Cotes, 18th, a dozen in various plumage. Yarmouth, September 8th, some. Hæmatopus ostralegus, Oystercatcher.—Redcar, August 5th to end of month and to September 7th, many. Leman and Ower L.V., June 18th, one killed.

Scolopacidæ, Recurvirostra avocetta, Avocet.—Redcar, August 5th, 12.10 P.M., one (I am sure of species.—T. H. N.). Phalaropus fulicarius, Grey Phalarope.—October 14th, one picked up at Bassingham, near Lincoln. Scolopax rusticula, Woodcock.—Spring: Longstone L.H., April 3d, 1.30 P.M., S. by E., one Woodcock to E. Autumn: Farn L.H., October 4th, one; Flambro', 5th, some. "First flight" at Coquet Island, Whitby, Spurn, and Norfolk coast on 6th. At Whitby L.H., one struck at 1.30 A.M., probably marking the time of arrival of the flight on the East Coast; wind south-easterly, overcast, misty. The second or "great flight," from October 16th to 25th, from the Farn Islands to the Norfolk coast, birds dropping here and there in a desultory fashion, and nowhere plentiful, wind E. and E.S.E.; on October 15th to 16th a gale from E.S.E. A few on October 28th, 29th, and 30th, and scattered occurrences up to November 15th. The last recorded as coming in from the sea was at Tees L.V., December 18th, going W.; wind W.S.W. Gallinago cœlestis, Common Snipe.—Longstone L.H., August 8th, one; 23d, one. Tetney, August 12th, flight. Whitby L.H., October 4th, 4 A.M., one killed. Longstone L.H., October 4th, 1 A.M., one heard in flight. Yarmouth, October 30th, flight; Coquet, November 18th, 8 A.M., S.S.E., four. G. gallinula, Jacksnipe.—Longstone snipe.—Longstone L.H., April 25th, 10.30 A.M., one.[9] Autumn: At the Farn Island stations and Lincolnshire coast from October 2d to 6th, wind generally south-easterly. Tringa alpina, Dunlin.—Spring, 1886: Yarmouth, April 29th, enormous numbers on north beach, some Ringed Plover amongst them. Trent Lock, May 9th, 11 A.M., twenty to thirty Black-breasted Dunlin; Great Cotes, 18th, great numbers in summer plumage. T. subarquata, Pigmy Curlew.—Yarmouth, July 31st, one in full summer plumage. T. striata, Purple Sandpiper.—Tarn L.H., September 22d, some on rocks; October 31st, flock of twenty. Yarmouth, November 17th, two shot. T. canutus, Knot.—Spring, 1886: Yarmouth, April 13th, Knot and Dunlin on Breydon in semi-summer dress. Longstone L.H., July 16th, S.E., fine, one. Redcar, August 19th to end of month, a few seen at sea. Tetney, February 24th, 1887, out of six shot to-day, one had the lower parts mottled with faded brick red, the summer plumage of the previous year having not been altogether cast off. Calidris arenaria, Sanderling.—Yarmouth, May 14th, considerable arrival with others; some seen on the 9th. Totanus ochropus, Green Sandpiper.—Longstone L.H., July 29th, one seen (very rare here). Grainsby, Lincolnshire (Waithe-beck), July 27th, first; August 23d, large arrival; end of March, all have left. T. glareola, Wood Sandpiper.—Cley, Norfolk, August 13th. T. calidris, Redshank.—Longstone L.H., July 29th. Farn L.H., September 4th and 9th, many. Tees L.V., October 30th, twenty; always common on the Lincolnshire coast and at Spurn in the autumn. T. fuscus, Spotted Redshank.—Breydon, Norfolk, August 15th, one. T. canescens, Greenshank.—Yarmouth, April 28th, 1886, two; May 14th, some; and on return, November 27th. Limosa lapponica, Bar-tailed Godwit.—Yarmouth, April 12th, 1886, first; 14th, some; May 14th, great arrival. Autumn: September 22d, first. Redcar, July 19th, 12.30 P.M., seven or eight to E. L. ægocephala, Black-tailed Godwit.—September 12th, one at Breydon, Norfolk. Numenius phæopus, Whimbrel.—Spring: April 26th, Breydon, Yarmouth, in small number. May 14th, large arrival with others. Autumn: Redcar, June 19th, first heard passing over; last on September 7th. Great Cotes, July 26th, first heard. Tees L.V., August 30th, twenty; October 30th, very large flock of Curlew, Whimbrel, some Oyster-catchers and Redshanks; January 4th, 1887, large flocks both of Whimbrel and Curlew. N. arquata, Curlew.—Leman and Ower L.V., May 10th, 1886, 3 A.M., five, one killed. Great Cotes, August 19th, first young Curlew in marsh; 20th, hundreds of Curlew in the marsh for a few hours. I was told by one observer he had seen thousands. Redcar, September 6th, at sea flock to W. Yarmouth, September, early, very numerous; Redcar, 19th, flight, with others, overhead, 10 to 11 P.M., foggy and dark. Tees L.V., October 30th, very large flight; Hasbro' L.V., 30th, 7 P.M. to midnight, many round light, none struck. Winterton, October 27th, 8.30 P.M., flight to W. Tees L.V., January 4th, 1887, large flocks.

[9] Mr Thomas O. Hall, of the Longstone L.H., speaks of the great scarcity of birds this season, and thinks they must have crossed further south, the prevailing winds having been E.N.E. and N.E., crushing down the migration, and giving it a southerly direction.

The migration of waders was observed inland by their nocturnal cries. Great Cotes, August, night of 19th, Ringed Plover. Trent Lock, Notts, by Mr E. B. Whitlock, August 19th, Ringed Plover; 21st, Sandpipers and others; 24th, Curlew. At Grainsby, by Mr Haigh. August 29th, waders; and by Professor Newton, of Cambridge, July 21st to 22d and 26th to 27th, about midnight.

Sterninæ.—Sterna macrura, Arctic Tern.—Farn L.H., May 4th, 1886, 5 A.M., first appearance; September 2d, left breeding haunts. Yarmouth, May 14th, some along coast. S. fluviatilis, Common Tern.—Trent Lock, Notts, May 11th, one; 13th, three. Tees L.V., July 25th, August 10th and 14th, great numbers of Terns at sea. Redcar, August 19th to end, great many at sea. S. minuta, Little Tern.—Spurn, April 5th, first seen at breeding-place. Yarmouth, April 28th, two seen with Black Tern; May 12th, two. Rye, Sussex, May 4th and 5th, first Lesser Tern. S. cantiaca, Sandwich Tern.—Farn L.H., April 28th, 5 A.M., nine seen—left nesting quarters on September 2d. Hydrochelidon nigra, Black Tern.—Yarmouth, April 26th, 1886, flight from S.W. to N.E., wind E.; 27th and 28th, some to N.E.; May 14th, some. Another observer, April 28th, twenty in flock to N.E. Cley, Norfolk, September 1st, young Black Tern to S.

Larinæ.—Larus minutus, Lesser Gull.—Redcar, June 14th, W., squally, four seen off pier; November, one. L. argentatus, Herring Gull.—Whitby L.H., February 15th, many at daybreak to breeding haunts; July 6th, first young on wing; August 27th, all left cliffs for sea. Leman and Ower L.V., October 2d, great numbers in ship channel, to S. at night and back in morning. Swin L.V., December 23d and 25th, hundreds and thousands near vessel, fishing for sprats. L. glaucus, Glaucous Gull.—Farn L.H., December 28th, one to N. Rissa tridactyla, Kittiwake.—Farn L.H., November 13th and 24th, hundreds of Gulls and Kittiwakes fishing round island. Grimsby, January 7th, 1887, saw nine, young and old, brought in by fishing smack, shot at sea. Gulls generally.—Flambro' L.H., February 25th and March 4th, 1886, in great numbers off headland; June 1st, Gulls and Guillemots all day fishing off head in large numbers. Llyn Wells L.V., August 9th, several flocks came in from E.; wind W. Leman and Ower L.V., August 22d, immense numbers about ship, two came on board. Languard L.H., November 5th, December 26th, and January 23d, 1887, large flocks came in with a southerly gale. Yarmouth, October 15th, gale from S., great numbers to south. Cromer, October 17th, great many to N.; wind N.N.E. The Mediterranean Black-headed Gull, Larus melanocephalus, was shot on Breydon Water, Yarmouth, on December 26th, 1886.

Stercorariinæ.—S. catarrhactes, Common Skua.—Redcar, October 14th, shot at sea. S. pomatorhinus and crepidatus, Tees L.V., July 25th, two Skua. Longstone L.H., September 3d, several Richardson's and "Common" Skua seen. Redcar, October 8th, Richardson's Skua shot at sea, Pomatorhine seen at the same time; 14th, three Richardson's Skua (one adult, two immature) shot at sea, one Pomatorhine seen, and several others of both reported out at sea by fishermen; 15th, several of both going N.W., wind S.E., strong. Flamborough, Mr Bailey, writing under date of October 13th (Naturalist, 1886, p. 340), says: "Since October 2d, more sea birds have frequented our coast than I ever remember. Manx Shearwaters, Cinereous Shearwaters, and hundreds of Skuas and Gannets, also Guillemots and Razorbills in their winter plumage. Little Gulls, Terns, one Black Guillemot (immature), and thousands of Kittiwakes feeding in the early morning, several I saw having herrings' tails hanging out of their bills. The birds covered a large area north and south of the headland."

Procellariidæ.—Procellaria pelagica.—Coquet L.H., September 28th, 11 P.M., S.W. (6), one on lantern. Dudgeon L.V., October 28th, one killed; 30th, same. Hasbro' L.V., 30th, 7 P.M. to midnight, many; six killed on deck. Cockle L.V., 31st, five about vessel during night. Llyn Wells L.V., November 7th, 7 P.M. to midnight, about light. Puffinus?—Redcar, August 18th, 6 A.M., ten Shearwaters to N. Many, both Manx and Great Shearwater, off Flambro', early in October.

Alcidæ, Lomvia troile, Common Guillemot.—Longstone L.H. March 4th, first to breeding haunts, left again on 16th, returned for good first week in April. Flambro', February 25th, both Guillemot and Gulls in large numbers on cliffs. U. grylle, Black Guillemot.—Farn L.H., May 11th, one; also one, an immature bird, shot off Flambro' early in October. Spurn L.H., October 26th, E.N.E., a Common Guillemot was killed against the lantern. Fratercula arctica, Puffin.—Longstone L.H., March 15th, first, the bulk returning on April 11th and 12th.

Colymbidæ.—Very many Great Northern and Red-throated Divers reported from various parts of the East Coast between September 1st and the end of the year; only one Black-throated. Diver, recognised as such, Cromer, November 20th, seen off pier at early morning.

Podicipitidæ.—Cley, Norfolk, Red-necked Grebe (P. griseigena), on August 10th; Little Grebe (P. fluviatilis). Spurn L.H., October 7th, 2 A.M., S.S.E., struck and killed. Leman and Ower L.V., December 29th, N.E., one killed at midnight. A considerable immigration into North-East Lincolnshire about the middle of November.

Miscellaneous Notes.

Tees 5 Buoy L.V., April 30th, 1886.—Wind E., light. A great many bumble-bees and a few wasps during day, flying to N.W.; several remained on board. January 15th, 1887.—One seal.

Hartlepool, November.—A fine specimen of the Opah (Lampris luna) brought in.

Coquet Island L.H., September 12th, W. (5).—Hundreds of small Flies all night in lantern.

Outer Dowsing L.V., October 6th.—11 A.M. to 2 P.M., calm and fog. Mr W. Stock writes: "A very large quantity of birds flew over, and a great many flying about the vessel—Starlings, Redwings, Larks, Mountain Sparrows, Golden-Crested Wrens, six Robins, four Redpoles, Chaffinches, and Pewits, about 300 mixed Crows and Rooks—altogether about 600 or more. Birds leaving the vessel appear to go about W. and W.S.W. When the fog cleared and the sun broke through, the Crows were seen passing to W. in three nights from 11 till 11.45 A.M. At noon they came back to the vessel in a body, and remained till 1 P.M. Caught one Redwing Thrush that was struck by a Crow and fell on deck bleeding. Several small birds struck by Crows and fell in water. Two Red-winged Thrushes and one Chaffinch caught on board."

Cockle L.V., September 14th.—11 A.M., calm. Great quantities of small bluish-coloured Flies; left at 1 P.M.

Languard L.V., September.—"The Musquitoes," Mr Owen Boyle writes, "have been very numerous throughout the months of July, August, and September. They have been very troublesome; many people had swelled hands, puffed faces, and even black eyes, from their stings." October 4th.—Lady-birds in large numbers on the breakwater at noon, and up to sunset. At 3 P.M. they were to be seen in thousands.

Swin Middle L.V.—Mr S. Pender, with reference to the migration of the Ringed Plover, writes under date of October 30th: "Concerning the birds which, I think, must be the 'stone-runners,' and their manœuvres, it was very amusing to watch them. The birds were first seen in an eastward direction, and I should think thousands, for when in close contact they had the appearance of a small black cloud; at other times in a long line and half circle, and so on. After they had finished their exercise they separated into two parties, one passing to the westward at no great distance from the vessel, and the other disappeared in the direction where first seen. Sometimes they would rise so high in the air, that they could not be seen without a telescope, at other times apparently touching the water."

Hanois L.H., October 31st, 8 P.M.—A quantity of Silver Gamma Moths; also a few brown ones, but smaller than the Gamma.

Mr Philip W. Munn, writing from Nieder Kaufungen, near Cassel, Germany, under date of March 30th, 1886, says:

"The weather began to break up on Saturday week, and all the snow had disappeared by the following Monday morning. No sooner did the weather begin to break, and even before, than the birds began to rush northwards to their breeding quarters.

"On the 25th of February, quantities of Skylarks flew overhead in small parties in a northerly direction, the wind being S.E. This species stopped here on the 5th of March, and have now taken the place of the Crested Larks, most of which have left.

"On March 12th, I saw a Grey Wagtail; and a Hawfinch arrived and stayed here for a few days, and then departed.

"On the 16th, a large flock of Carrion Crows, Jackdaws, and Rooks (the Books have been very rare during the winter) flew over towards the N.E.; the passing over lasted ten minutes. On many other days later have I also seen small parties of 'Corvidæ' hurrying N.E.

"On March 18th, I saw a Black-Headed Bunting; on the 19th, White and Pied Wagtails arrived. Now the Pied have left, and quantities of the White remain and have begun to build.

"On the 23d, an extraordinary migration of Cranes began, and is going on at intervals now; they are usually flying in a N. or N.E. direction, but yesterday I saw three flying S.E., which has much confused me. On the 23d, a flock settled in the fields near here for a short time. Soon after this flock had gone, no less than nine flights, of from forty to one hundred birds in each flock, flew over at intervals.

"Curiously enough Robins and Thrushes are only summer migrants here; they arrived on the 24th.

"I heard the Chiffchaff on March 25th; and on the same day was another great migration of Cranes.

"On October 15th was the great rush of migratory birds, parties of various sorts continually passing the whole day to the S.W."

List of Wings sent in from Lighthouses and Light-vessels,
East Coast of England.

General Remarks.

As in 1885, the main body of immigrants crossed in two great rushes, corresponding with the first and third weeks in October. This was considerably earlier than the chief general movements of the preceding year. The meteorological conditions of the first period were easterly and south-easterly winds, pressure system cyclonic, accompanied by much fog and thick weather. During the second period the pressure system again mainly cyclonic, but with very variable winds.

As usual Rooks, Daws, Hooded Crows, Starlings, and Larks, occupy a considerable portion of the schedules. Chaffinches also have crossed in extraordinary numbers. They are always numerous, but this autumn their migration has been in considerable excess of previous years. With these exceptions, however, there has been a singular and very marked falling off in some species whose breeding range lies chiefly in the north of Europe. This is specially noticeable in the small arrivals recorded of Fieldfares, Redwings, Ring Ouzels, Bramblings, Snow Buntings, Short-eared Owls, and Woodcocks. Taken altogether, the migratory record for 1886 is a very poor one.

No wild Swans are recorded, the few entries in the schedules having undoubtedly reference to escapes from parks and private waters. Geese and Ducks have appeared quite as numerously as in previous years.

The arrivals of rare and occasional visitants have been few, those of chief interest being three Harlequin Ducks (Cosmonetta histrionica) at the Farn Islands; the Mediterranean Black-headed Gull (Larus melanocephalus), shot on Breydon Water, near Yarmouth; a Purple Heron (Ardea purpurea), shot on Oulton Broad, near Lowestoft; and the reputed occurrences of the Snowy Owl (Nyctea scandiaca) close to the Languard L.H., Suffolk. Of much interest also is the arrival of Shorelarks (Otocorys alpestris) on the coast between the Farn Islands and Yarmouth.

The continued yearly observations show that on the East Coast of England the principal points of arrival for migrants are the mouths of the chief rivers, also those parts of the coast which present either a flat and open shore, or cliffs of low altitude. Considerable stretches of coast, which, as a rule, have a high cliff line, make poor returns, or in some cases no schedules are sent in, indicating a great scarcity of birds.

It is well known that migrants under certain meteorological conditions travel at a great height, when it may fairly be presumed that the physical features of the earth's surface, the trend of mountain chains, or the course of great river systems, have little to do in determining their line, which is from point to point, and without deviation; yet in the vast majority of cases, where migration is visible, birds travel at a comparatively low altitude, so that when passing mountain chains, and even hills of no great altitude, they invariably choose the lines of the valleys, following depressions which, more or less, correspond to the general direction of their course. In the Cheviots I have observed, for two years in succession, that the streams of small migrants from Scotland follow those main valleys which run nearest north and south, sticking closely to the lowest levels, where the brushwood and bracken beds offer greater privacy and security than the bare fell sides. Birds also, when migrating, follow from choice low-lying tracks of land and river courses in preference to elevated plateau and the summit line of mountain ranges.

Bearing these facts in mind, we find that there is a very well-marked line, both of entry and return, at the Farn Islands, on the coast of Northumberland. Scarcely second to this is the mouth of the Tees, both in spring and autumn. The North Yorkshire coast, from south of Redcar to Flamborough, including the north side of the headland, is comparatively barren, few birds appearing to come in between these points. Bridlington Bay and Holderness to Spurn and Lincolnshire, as far as Gibraltar Point, give perhaps the best returns of any on the East Coast. The north of Norfolk is poor, but there are indications in the heavy returns annually sent from the Llyn Wells, Dudgeon, Leman and Ower, and Happisburgh light-vessels, that a closely focused stream pours along the coast from E. to W., to pass inland by the estuary of the Wash and the river systems of the Nene and Welland into the centre of England, and thence probably following the line of the Avon, the north coast of the Severn, and Bristol Channel, and eventually striking across the Irish Sea, to enter Ireland near the Tuskar Rock, off the Wexford coast. This route is undoubtedly the great and main thoroughfare for birds in transit across England to Ireland in the autumn. Large numbers of migrants also which pass inland from the coasts of Holderness and Lincolnshire may eventually join in with the great western highway by the line of the Trent, avoiding altogether the mountainous districts of Wales. These remarks will refer chiefly to the Passerine birds, the Accipitres, Limicolæ, and Gaviæ, also Geese and Ducks, when crossing land, travelling as a rule very high.

To return once more to the East Coast, the Norfolk seaboard between Cromer and Yarmouth and the corresponding light-vessels show a large annual immigration, but the returns are less pronounced between Yarmouth and Orfordness. The coast of Essex, with the northern side of the Thames estuary, is fairly good; but the opposite coast of Kent, from the North to the South Forelands, including the four Goodwin and the Varne light-vessels, is a barren and pre-eminently uninteresting district for arrivals, both as regards numbers and species, the chief migrants seen being such as are following the coast to the south.

Those migrants, which in the autumn follow the East Coast from north to south, pass directly from the Spurn to the Lincolnshire coast without entering the Humber; and there are no indications that they follow the shores of the Wash in and out, but shape their course from about Gibraltar Point to the Norfolk coast. To judge from the well-filled schedules sent in year by year from the Shipwash, Swin Middle, Kentish Knock, and Galloper light-vessels, a closely packed stream passes somewhere from the coast of Suffolk across the North Sea in the line of these stations, both in the spring and autumn, to and from the Continent. Autumn migrants approaching the Humber from the sea do not follow the course of that river into the interior—that is from S.E. to N.W.—the line they take invariably crosses the river diagonally, and is from E.S.E. to W.N.W. This course is so persistently followed, that I have observed year by year, on a migratory day, birds cross our fields at the same angle. Supposing this course to be continued they would strike the Trent at or near Gainsborough.

Except in one instance no returns have been obtained from any stations on the south-east coast between the South Foreland and St Catherine's Point, Isle of Wight. This is much to be regretted, as it is known that a strong migratory highway runs along the South Coast as well as on the French side of the Channel.

WEST COAST OF SCOTLAND.

Schedules, etc., were sent to thirty-five stations, not including the Isle of Man (five more), the schedules for which are under Mr Eagle Clarke's charge. Of the thirty-five we have received returns from fifteen stations. From these fifteen stations we have thirty-eight filled schedules. We have again received two schedules from Monach Islands; but, as in 1885, they are again written straight across the schedule, irrespective of columns. To enter all these notes in their right places and sequence in our Report would cause great additional labour and loss of time to the working members of the Committee, as already fully explained in last Report (p. 92), q.v.

We would be much obliged by our Reporters adhering to the columnar arrangement.

LIST OF STATIONS.

Note: The names of the Reporters are given under "Diary from the Stations."

Diary from the Stations.

Butt of Lewis.—Robert Agnew (replacing Mr Edgar, who is now at Lochindaul, q.v.). Mr R. Agnew is a son of Mr Joseph Agnew, late keeper at Isle of May (East Coast), now stationed at Monach Isles, q.v. Mr R. Agnew sends, in all, two excellently well-filled schedules from the Butt of Lewis. Under date of November 9th, 1886, he writes: "I send you a schedule. I hope you will find it of use. I would have sent it sooner, but wrote to my father for the loan of a book to help me, and waited till I heard from him." [Schedules sent date from August 23d to February 7, 1887.] Mr Agnew continues: "I am surprised to see that most of the strange birds that I have seen here are single. It must just be occasional stragglers that we get from the flocks that are passing. It is also strange that there are so few birds coming to the lantern, but the tower is very high—120 feet—and perhaps that is the reason." [Mr R. Agnew is right in believing that stragglers are all that can be expected to appear at Butt of Lewis, though possibly in exceptional seasons unusual numbers may appear. Birds "catch up" at Cape Wrath and W. C. of Scotland. Remnants "catch up" again at Butt of Lewis. But in easterly gales the "catch up" of the land is often lost, and hundreds or thousands are carried clear away to the Atlantic. See previous Reports.—J. A. H.-B.] Mr Agnew continues: "I have marked a Hen Harrier, and by the description in the book" [he having received the loan of the book from his father—Mudie's "Birds">[, "I think I am right. He remained here for some time, and the poor Rock Pigeons led a poor time of it. I also found a young Gull he had killed and eaten. I was surprised to see it, because I did not think that he would have attacked so large a bird. I measured the wings, and found them to be 4 feet 2 inches from tip to tip." [Mr R. A. sent me the wings, but they did not reach me, and must have miscarried, but no doubt it was one of the common species of Gulls; from the measurements, probably a Herring Gull; or possibly—i.e., if the measurements are correctly taken across the back and wings—an Iceland Gull. (See MacGillivray's "Manual," under the said species, vol. ii., p. 247.)—J. A. H.-B.] Mr R. A. says: "I only came here last summer, and did not begin to keep records till near the end of August, but another year I hope to be able to do better." [Meanwhile, we can only thank Mr R. A. for his excellent commencement of the work, which is well done.—J. A. H.-B.]

Later, in the second schedule, Mr R. A. writes: "There has been nothing to record since the 25th of November." [Last date of schedule.—J. A. H.-B.] "The Snow Buntings have remained with us all winter. All summer we had large flocks of Solan Geese, till the first of October; after that there were a few till the 1st of November; but since then (till February 7, 1887) I have not seen one." [These Solan Geese notes are always interesting. Perhaps Mr Agnew will devote a separate schedule to the day-to-day movements of Solan Geese another season.—J. A. H.-B.] He continues: "On the 24th October I observed very large flocks of sea-birds, fishing close to the lighthouse. There were all sorts of them; I could not say how many, but there must have been many hundreds. We saw them from 9 A.M. till 11 A.M. After that there was not one to be seen (where did they come from and where did they go?)." [We believe they simply followed a vast body of fish—young or adult—or entomostracæ, which "showed" on the surface, indicating one of the strange, or little understood, migrations of fish, or entomostracæ. One or two of the birds shot, and contents of their stomachs examined, might have explained a great deal. Possibly Mr Agnew may still be able to supply a note as to the nature of their food at the time.—J. A. H.-B.]

Monach Isles.—D. Georgeson sends two closely written schedules, but, as before stated, straight across the columns. We will give them here in extenso as the simplest way of writing them in.

Under date of December 1st, 1886, Mr Georgeson writes to us thus: "I send you my two last schedules, filled up to date of end of October. I received intimation of my removal from this station to Sound of Mull, Tobermory. I expect the 'Signal' daily to take me to my new home. I do not know what sort of a place it is as regards birds, but if you send me schedules I hope to be able to give you a report, however short."

[Note.—In January 1887 Mr Harvie-Brown had an opportunity of interviewing Mr Georgeson, and having a pleasant chat, at Sound of Mull Lighthouse. No schedules have come from it, but the site is not good, and is much hidden by high land to the westward. It gave us much pleasure, however, to make Mr G.'s acquaintance, and thank him for his hearty co-operation hitherto at Monach Isles.

We have pleasure here in fully quoting Mr Georgeson's last schedules from Isles of Monach, where he is succeeded by Mr Joseph Agnew, late of the Isle of May, who we are sure will find Mr Georgeson's notes of interest and value.—J. A. H.-B.]

Mr Georgeson writes as follows: "Since my last report to you ending December 1885, I have had little to add in the way of forwarding your useful work regarding migration, and of the numbers and varieties of sea birds passing or frequenting this station. I notice a visible decrease annually in the numbers of both land and sea birds, a decrease attributed to the island not being so quiet as it was some years ago, before the lighthouse was built, when the birds had the island all to themselves, and there was no one residing on it, but was only used by the natives for grazing purposes. Now the keepers and their families going round the island, the small birds are disturbed at the period of incubation.

"In January and February a few Terns, Snow Buntings, Twites, and Rock Pipits struck the lantern, the wind being south. Of sea birds during those months I observed a few Solan Geese, Scarts, Kittiwakes, Eider Ducks, Teal Ducks, etc.; but as the breeding season came on they left.

"In March a pair of Shielducks visited the island, and after remaining a few days, left, returning again in April (presumably the same pair), and after nesting and having two young ones, the four left in August. No Teal nor Eiders bred here this season.

"In June a large flock of Pictarnies, a few Stonechicks, Ringnecks (?), Sand Larks, and Twites came to the island (but not in such large numbers as in former seasons). Wind from south to west. They left with their young in August, the few I saw leaving flying in a north-easterly direction." [This is somewhat contrary to experiences, and no doubt is due to local peculiarities of the configuration of the Outer Hebrides and land communications with the mainland, but our data appear too scanty to explain this. In this case "the few Mr Georgeson saw flying in a N.E. direction," was with a wind from south to west. Possibly they do this to catch up the Skye coast, or sooner reach the shelter of the east coast of the Outer Hebrides.—J. A. H.-B.] "In June also a pair of Tysties," continues Mr Georgeson, "came to the island, and left with the young in August.

"On the 2d September, wind N.E., all the Pictarnies left the island, flying in a northerly direction." [This again almost seems to indicate a movement towards the north first, before returning south or in a south-easterly direction. Future careful reports on directions of flight here and of winds at the time can scarcely fail to prove of interest.—J. A. H.-B.] "On the 4th of September four Ravens—a male and female with their two young—I observed resting on the island, but, after remaining a short time, they flew in an easterly direction towards the mainland. On the 9th September we had a severe gale—wind variable—and the island is quite deserted by land birds, the only ones remaining being a few Twites. I caught several during the gale dying from exposure. The only sea birds I can see are a few Gannets fishing for food; but they too leave in the evening in the direction of Barra. A few pairs of Curlews and a few Herring Gulls returned with their young. On the 17th September I observed a solitary Heron feeding around the shore; and I witnessed a strange incident in connection with it. On the 22d of the same month, while walking round the island, I heard strange cries coming nearer and nearer from a southerly direction, when the Heron got up a few yards from me, and flew in the direction of the cries, it being hazy at the time, and after the lapse of a few minutes I noticed three coming out of the mist evidently overjoyed at seeing one another. They flew round and round, for some time, and then flew off in a north-easterly direction—the wind E.N.E., fresh.

"On the night of the 4th and 5th October a great number of birds struck the lantern, strange to say the greater number of them being Snipe; but there were also Mavises, Blackbirds, 'Marsh' (i.e., Meadow) Pipits and Rock Pipits, and a few Pictarnies, all seemingly young birds of the year; but I was surprised to see the Pictarnies, as they had all left, and none had been seen about the island for some time; and these have evidently been migrating. The island appears to be quite deserted by land birds in the day time. On the night mentioned the wind was variable—from S.E. to S.W., with drizzling rain. On the 7th October I observed a large flock of Shielducks coming from N.E., and after resting a short time, they got up and flew off south, the wind being at the time S.W." [Report ending 31st October 1886. Here ends Mr Georgeson's notes on Monach.]

[Now Mr Joseph Agnew takes up the tale, and we make no excuse for quoting his letters: "We had to leave the May a day after the time I expected when I last wrote you, and therefore had not time to visit you at Dunipace, when passing Larbert on our way to Oban." On arriving at Monach Mr Agnew expresses surprise at the universal and populous distribution of the Rock Pipit at all stations, S., E., N., and W., where he has been. He then describes the Tystie (or Toistie of Monach), i.e., the Black Guillemot, both in winter and summer plumage. Mr Agnew sends a schedule dating December 3d to 30th, contents of which will be found under species further on, and where Monach is mentioned, any remarks under species may be read as continuous with Mr Georgeson's Diary.—J. A. H.-B.]