REPORT
ON THE
MIGRATION OF BIRDS
IN THE
SPRING AND AUTUMN OF 1885.

BY

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

SEVENTH REPORT.

(Vol. II., No. 2.)

EDINBURGH:
PRINTED BY M'FARLANE & ERSKINE,
14 AND 19 ST JAMES SQUARE.
1886.

PREFACE.

The following Report contains a summary of investigations of a Committee reappointed by the British Association for the Advancement of Science, at Aberdeen, in 1885, 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 Birmingham in 1886. 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 E. M. Barrington and Mr A. G. More.

CONTENTS.

LIST OF STATIONS.

SEVENTH REPORT
ON
THE MIGRATION OF BIRDS
IN THE
SPRING AND AUTUMN OF 1885.

This year, in order to decrease the bulk of the Report, the Committee decided that Ocean Notes be not printed in the Report, but separately. Messrs Gray and Swinburne having again kindly kept notes for us, these will be retained for future publication.

GENERAL REMARKS.

Our thanks are again due to the numerous Reporters, whose names are given under the "Diaries" of the two coasts.

Additions to our List of Stations are Fidra in the Firth of Forth, and also very shortly after this will be added a light-vessel off the Carr Rock, coast of Fife, holding an intermediate position between Bell Rock and Isle of May; and on the west coast the light upon Ailsa Craig. It is intended to introduce the electric light at Isle of May, and machinery and works are at present in course of erection.

We regret to learn that an order has been issued that lighthouse keepers shall no longer be allowed to read or write in the lantern-rooms; and we are glad that some little notice has been taken of the fact in the House of Commons on the 12th April 1886.

The 1885 schedules show distinctly the compressed nature of the migration, which, while very considerable in numerical importance, was, at the same time, short, sharp, and decisive. The principal spring rush was similar, occupying only a few days at the comparatively late date of the beginning of May, particulars of which can be gleaned directly from the Diaries of the stations, and especially under Turdidæ, Fieldfares being unusually plentiful. This appears to have been the heaviest movement, taking all species together, but Saxicolinæ travelled all April and May, and Silviinæ about the middle of April.

Shortly, we may describe the migration of 1885 thus:—

In spring of 1885 the rush was pronounced, somewhat late, compressed, and in many respects very similar, but not so extensive as 1884. The prevailing winds were easterly and southeasterly in April and May, and had been very continuous. The effect was the compression spoken of—a closed fan. The largest migration ever witnessed at the Isle of May was on 3d May 1885.

In autumn the rushes partook of a similar nature,—short, sharp, and decisive, but very considerable in numerical importance. Previous to middle of October, migration was very slight at any stations, but great rushes took place between then and about the middle of November. An interesting note of the cross-migration of Woodcocks, and other birds, is given at the Isle of May. Woodcocks travelling towards the N.W., and striking the S.E. side of the glass, whilst other species were flying S.E., and striking on exactly the opposite side of the lantern, both flights being equally favourable, or nearly so, by the light E. wind. Another N.W. to S.E. rush took place during the day-time, of what must have been a very extensive migration, upon the 10th November; wind light south, and birds flying high. An unprecedentedly high gale as coming from the S.E. is recorded at Isle of May on the 23d.

We would like to ask our readers, and the British Association, of which we are a Committee, to recognise that the more we know about migration, apparently the less reason is there for scientists to use the term "Accidental." At present "Abnormal" is better. "Of accidental occurrence" is a term or phrase which ought to be expunged, root and branch, from scientific records of migration. Every year's statistics prove this more and more fully. "Probably an escape" is, no doubt, a safeguard against undue admission to the British List; but we think it possible to carry this phrase too commonly into use, ignoring the fact that migration may account much more simply for such occurrences, under certain conditions, than escapes. A list of localities where foreign fowls, like Porphyrio melanotus, are kept throughout the United Kingdom, would greatly facilitate positive records of "occurrences;" and all such species as Canada Geese and ornamental Waterfowl, which are kept in confinement or partial domestication, might be returned to the Committee, or to the Association, by the proprietors, if they were asked to do so by circular.

From every succeeding year's statistics, we have come almost to similar conclusions regarding the lines of flight. Three salient routes on to our East Coast of Scotland are invariably shown, viz.: (1st) viâ the entrance of the Firth of Forth, and as far north as Bell Rock, both coming in autumn and leaving in spring; (2d) viâ the Pentland Firth and Pentland Skerries, both in spring and autumn; and (3d) viâ the insular groups of Orkney and Shetland, which perhaps may be looked upon as part of No. 2; and a fourth with almost certainty passes into the Moray Firth, but avoids the high cliffs of the east coast of Aberdeenshire.

On the other hand, three great areas of coast-line, including both favourably placed and favourably lighted stations, almost invariably, save in occasionally protracted easterly winds, and even then but rarely, send in no returns or schedules of the very scantiest description. These areas are Berwickshire, the whole E. coast south of the Moray Firth, and Caithness and E. Sutherland. Each and all of these areas possess high and precipitous coast-lines, if we except the minor estuaries of the rivers of Tay and Dee, and a small portion of lower coast-line in Sutherland, which face towards the east. Nevertheless these areas partake to a very large extent of the numbers of migrants which visit Scotland. Nowhere in Scotland, perhaps, is summer bird-life more abundant than in, at least, the two more southern of these areas—Berwickshire, and the interior of Aberdeen and Banff, and the valley of Spey and its tributaries. The question appears a natural one: by what route do these summer visitants reach us? or, by what route do birds reach us in autumn? Not, I believe, over the high cliff edge in the latter case, otherwise some migration would certainly be visible from the rock-bound stations. As shown in one case, positive assurance is given by the reporter at Noss Head, that for eleven years scarcely a bird "had been observed on migration day or night," and we have scarcely any statistics to show a contrary view, as regards the said area all through our seven reports.

How, it is known with considerable certainty that Caithness owes its periodical passing visits of such species as Blackcap and Pied Flycatcher, both in spring and autumn, to its immediate proximity to one of the chief highways of migration—the Pentland Firth; and the configuration of the N.E. peninsula of that county clearly points to the route by which spring passing migrants reach the E. coast of the county, as we have already explained in previous remarks. They cross over a low-lying depression in the land from Dunnet Bay, and cut off the peninsula of Canisbay. Coming again in autumn, the same birds, to some slight extent, may return across this peninsula, but the undoubted fact remains that the compressed and strongest flights cross over the Pentland Skerries and through the Firth.

In the same way, it appears that while scarcely a bird is ever recorded at the stations along the E. cliff-edge of Aberdeen, yet, in autumn, a well-marked stream of migration enters the N.E. counties at a point westward of Troup Head, which forms the northern abutment of the dividing ridge, or watershed, between what are known as the Faunal areas of "Moray and Dee;" and that thence up the wide open valley of the Spey, and over the low-lying portions of the south coast of the Moray Firth, this stream is clearly traceable at many points. It is also known that an equally decided spring "return" descends the same great valley, and enters it across the dividing range between the head waters of Spey and Spean or Pattack. We have studied this subject locally—at many points personally—especially in spring, and notes we have taken, dating back for many years, all tend to strengthen the statement.

In the same way it appears almost equally certain, that while few birds fly across over the cliff-edges of Berwickshire, but pour in vast streams up the open and wide Firth of Forth, still Berwickshire, and the interior of the south of Scotland, are well supplied with migrants; and the "return" is equally apparent. A study of our previous remarks by our readers cannot, we think, fail to give them the idea of the process of the population of these interior portions of the country in Scotland.

England is differently circumstanced to a great extent, owing principally to its low-lying sea-board. There is no occasion there to have the great migration waves compressed into grooves and firths and depressions.

The further question naturally may be asked, "But why should they not fly in over the cliff tops?" We think there are already many reasons stated in our previous remarks why such is less likely to happen, during normal migration, whether by day or by night, and that they should avoid obstacles, and choose an easier if not a shorter route.

The population of these interior parts, which are bounded by precipitous coast-lines, appears to us almost certainly to arrive by the innumerable veins—if I may so call them—which run into and join the main arteries,—and thus a circular migration is evinced.

Birds in normal migration against a beam wind fly low, and on reaching low-lying sea-board pass on inland without resting. But on approaching high land, say 200 or 300 feet in height, while at night the greatest darkness is ahead of them, and the greatest light to the north or south of their course; during the day-time, if the wind is off-shore—a beam wind,—on approaching the lee shore, they enter upon a calm belt of sheltered air and water, and choose the easier path along shore. According to whether the off-shore wind is strong or light, will they approach nearer or keep further out; and, skirting the coast-line, so enter upon one of the great open highways of normal migration. This, which appears almost undoubted, will in great measure account for the invariably slender returns sent in by nearly all the rock-bound stations of the more precipitous portions of the Scottish Coast.

Regarding the migration of Woodcock generally, the following notes may prove of some interest. These I culled from the note-books and game register of a naval friend stationed at Corfu and the Albanian coast in 1879.

The first flight of Woodcock occurs about the first ten days of November, and it remains a very short time before passing on, unless abnormal "south winds keep them in cover." The second and heavy flight occurs about the middle of December, and may remain a mouth, and odd birds are shot even in February in the lower covers. Thomas Wood, Esq., British Consul at Patras,—an authority for the locality,—says that Woodcock come in November with a N.W. wind most freely, but in December with a N.E. wind.

By a study of the area over which the Woodcock breeds, of the time they take in flight, and of a comparison of the dates of arrivals at Heligoland and East British Coasts with the above,—it seems pretty clear, I think, that the early flight, which extends along the whole Albanian coast is composed entirely of birds bred amongst the higher levels of their southern range, coming probably from the Carpathians and as far south as the Balkans, as well as from high localities even nearer to the Albanian coast and coverts. It seems to us also equally clear that the December flight, preferring the beam wind from the N.E., comes from the western parts of North Europe, having originally started from the breeding areas of the extreme north. On starting, we will say, from the N. of Scandinavia, or Scandinavia, and other parts of the breeding range, they arrive on our coasts about October {our first flight). This corresponds with the first flight on the Albanian coast a month later. Birds reaching us congregate upon our islands under the genial influence of the Gulf Stream, but may finally be drawn off by December, and constitute a portion at least of the great flight at Corfu, where one ship's sportsmen have been known to kill something like 300 cock in a day or two (I have not the figures, but they are accessible, if necessary).

Regarding the subject of the arrival of young' birds in advance of the adults in autumn, the Committee, we think, should look at the movements exhibited by, and distinctly observable in, certain species. Those, perhaps, most easily observed are the larger Natatores, such as Geese and Swans and Gannets, whose distinct movements can be watched year after year, and recorded with almost absolute certainty. We do not intend to dilate upon the importance of this method at present, but in the connection will merely quote a significant passage from Mr Robert Gray's "Birds of the West of Scotland,"[1] and to supplement it by saying that there can be no doubt as to the accuracy of the observations made, as they are well known to the inhabitants. Mr Gray says: "Previous to leaving, the Barnacle Geese assemble in immense flocks on the open sands, at low tide, in the Sounds of Benbecula and S. Uist; and as soon as one detachment is on the wing, it is seen to be guided by a leader, who points the way with strong flight northwards, maintaining a noisy bearing until he gets the flock into the right course. After an hour's interval, he is seen returning with noisy gabble alone, southwards to the main body, and taking off another detachment as before, until the whole are gone. A notice of this singular habit was first communicated to me by Mr Alex. Carmichael, and has since been corroborated by Mr Norman M'Donald, who informs me that the inhabitants of the Long Island have been long familiar with it."

[1] Op. cit., pp. 349, 350.

EAST COAST OF SCOTLAND.

The usual schedules were sent to twenty-seven stations. Thirteen stations on the East Coast of Scotland have returned forty-eight schedules. Isle of May gives heaviest returns with nineteen schedules. Pentland Skerries follows with eleven. Bell Rock again is next in importance.

In the List of Stations we follow the same plan as in that of 1884, but we add in several cases the names of the assistant light-keepers whose names have been returned as taking interest in the proceedings. The present year's returns will be indicated by asterisks.

We do not repeat the explanation of migration values of the the stations here for the Scotch Coast, that being done in our last Report (q.v. p. 10).

EAST OF SCOTLAND.

† New Stations, 1885-86.

Diary from the Stations.

N. Unst.—John Nichol (principal), J. J. Morrison, Robert Agnew, and John Down (assistants), send in three well-filled schedules. J. N. in a note says: "Wood's Natural History, second edition, would be very useful to us here." Amongst rarities, a [Wryneck], obtained on 9th September (see under species). "About 5th September all Puffins, Marrots, Kittiwakes, and Guillemots disappeared. Puffins and Mosscheepers (probably Rock Pipits, J. A. H. B.) breed on the rock, and a Gull or two. Falcon Hawk on the island ashore, and visits the rock in search of small birds. No Swans seen as in former years in November and December. I was told a great flock was seen at Lerwick going north early in November. Since my arrival at this station in July last from Dhuheartach, not a single Eider Duck was seen. Only birds we see now are from the shore (December 26, 1885), viz., Starlings, Sparrow Hawks, Crows; a few Gulls flying about; Solan Geese all away."—Signed J. N.

Sumburgh Head.—James Youngclause (principal), Robert Gifford (assistant). During the summer a great number of Gulls breed in the cliffs. Also large numbers of Guillemots, Razorbills, which arrive first and second week of August. Also lots of Starlings and Grey Linnets, but these and the Gulls remain the whole year. Under date of 16th January 1886, Mr Y. writes: "Birds have been very scarce; not one stranger since the 27th November." Two schedules.

North Ronaldshay.—John Tulloch (principal). Two schedules. Gannets began flying north about the 18th April.

Auskerry.—John M'Donald (principal). Three well-filled schedules.

Pentland Skerries.—Signed by John Gilmour (assistant). Eleven very full schedules. Mr Gibson (principal), Mr Frazer, and Mr M'Gee are all much interested in the subject. They have been supplied with a copy of C. A. Johns' "British Birds in their Haunts," published by the Society for Promoting Christian Knowledge. Harvie-Brown visited Pentland Skerries in July 1885. "Skerries" is a misnomer for the larger island. It is a lovely island, richly grassed, feeds twenty sheep on 114 acres; very level, fine turf, rich in daisies and buttercups, producing lovely milk, and admirably situated to intercept migration. Elsewhere an account of the birds seen there in summer will be incorporated.[2] Pentland Skerries, along with Isle of May, as usual, shared the heaviest rushes and returns, and Bell Rock very fully participated. The rush seemed to be about the middle of October, continuing, but not so heavily, through that month, and increasing again up to the middle of November. On the 11th November our reporters say: "Never saw so many Fieldfares flying round the light" as to-night.

[2] Vertebrate Fauna of Shetland, Caithness, and West Cromarty, by T. E. Buckley and J. A. Harvie-Brown, in press. There can scarcely be a doubt that this station would quickly rival the "Isle of May" in rarities, if the men had equal facilities of obtaining specimens. If they had guns, also, they might add largely to their stock of wholesome fresh food.

Dunnet Head.—David Laidlaw (principal) sent one schedule. Visited by H.-B. in 1885. It is easily understood why it is not a good station, notwithstanding the favourable description of light. The light is 346 feet above the sea, and does not face clear to eastward except upon the horizon, a great cliff top intercepting the downward rays at a distance of at least 100 yards from the tower.

Holborn Head.—No return. Visited by H.-B. in 1885. The position is decidedly bad, being quite too land-locked both to east and west. I had a long chat with Mr Charles Christian, the second light-keeper, but did not see Mr Charleston, the principal. Mr Christian told me that not a bird has appeared at the lights since he came last year in May. He was at Cantick Head, another station utterly unfrequented by birds.—(Extract from H.-B.'s Journal.)

Noss Head.—No return. Visited by H.-B. in 1885. Mr Greig (principal) has been here eleven years, and reported that scarcely a land-bird has ever been known to strike the dome or light, or "been observed on migration day or night" (sic). Noss Head Light lies open to the N.N.E., E.S.E., and S.S.E., and is only 175 feet above the sea (Pentland Skerries Light is 170 feet, and Isle of May 240 feet); and no land interruptions occur. Nevertheless, it utterly fails to attract birds, as, indeed, do most stations with an abrupt and precipitous coast, for reasons which we think are almost self-evident.—(See General Remarks.)

Cromarty.—Robt. S. Ritson (principal) sends one schedule. He says: "No birds struck lantern during the year. Rather more birds observed than in 1884. Pervading winds were again westerly from January to April, but between May and October easterly; but the change of wind brought no accessions of birds. Land-locked station.

Chanonry.—John M'Gill (principal) and Wm. Irvine (assistant) send one light schedule, and the remarks: "There is no difference from the remarks of other years. The migration this year seems to be for the purposes of feeding. No certain migration observable." Mr M'Gill, however, goes on to say; "The Sand Martins, when congregated on Major M'Kenzie's yacht-rigging from the bowsprit up to the mast, and down to the end of the jib-boom, made a curious sight, when lying at anchor." This was on the 24th August 1885.

Bell Rock.—James Jack (principal) sends as usual carefully and well-filled schedules, quite among the best received. Under date of 16th October, at the time of a rush, Mr Jack has the following general remarks: "Birds began to arrive at 7.30 P.M., striking lightly and flying off again; unable to tell of what species. Numbers went on increasing till midnight, when it seemed that a vast flock had arrived, as they now swarmed in the rays of light, and, striking hard, fell dead on balcony, or rebounded off and went over the rail, falling into the sea. At 3 A.M. another flock seemed to have arrived, as the numbers now increased in density; at the same time, all kinds crowded on to the lantern windows, trying to force their way to the light. The noise they made shrieking and battering the windows, etc., baffles description. The birds were now apparently in thousands. Nothing ever seen here like it by us keepers. Wherever there was a light visible in the building, they tried to force their way to it. The bedroom windows being open as usual for air all night, they got in there and put the bedroom light out. All birds went off at 6 A.M., going W.S.W. Redwings were most in numbers; Starlings came next. Blackbirds, Fieldfares, and Larks." The later rush in November seems to have taken place entirely at night also: "No birds were seen throughout the daylight of the 11th and 12th November, and the movement ceased at midnight of the 12th," when the wind became strong from S.W. All birds visiting here between October 18 till December 12 were composed of both old and young, also male and female; but young birds most in number. Many hundreds lost their lives.

Inchkeith.—Robt. Grierson sends a schedule with the following diary: "During the night of the 5th September a small flock of birds was observed hovering around the lantern at 11 P.M., wind W., light breeze and haze, and two young Stonechats were caught." At midnight, also, two more; and other small movements are given.

Fidra.—William Ross. Arrival of the Solan Geese noted on March 27; also Eider Ducks. Mr Ross sends two well-filled schedules, but is disappointed with the results. He need not we think, as Fidra lies somewhat land-locked and out of the stream. We are much obliged to him for the first Schedules from the new Firth of Forth Station. Mr Ross writes under date of July 24: "Solan Geese, Gulls, and all sea birds have deserted our island entirely. About a dozen sparrows are now our only feathered visitors;" and on Aug. 4th—"Having been on the mainland, I was quite surprised to see the numerous and varied flocks of many kinds of birds, not one of which came near our island."

Isle of May.—J. Agnew (principal), Messrs Young and Anderson (assistants), send twenty full schedules, indicating a very heavy migration, past this favoured isle. At present a staff of men are busy putting in electric light machinery here. It will be curious to watch the result next season.

New occurrences continually turn up at Isle of May, and this year we have to record amongst rarities and acquisitions the Common Dotterel (Endromias morinellus, L.), the Red Backed Shrike (Lanius collurio), and Ortolan Bunting (Emberiza hortulana)—two specimens obtained. Also Turtle Dove (Columba turtur, L.)—one shot; and the Dipper was obtained for the first time, though it had been seen before, as stated in previous reports. It proved to be the British form. Specimens of these are added to the collection at Isle of May. We gave earlier notice of the first three above enumerated, in the Proceedings of the Royal Physical Society, Edinburgh, as we belong to that class of naturalists who do not believe in withholding facts until they become rusty. To do so may be useful for selfish motives and personal kudos, but is not calculated to promote further study, and is, indeed, calculated to delay it.

Continuous E. winds at the beginning of May caused a vast rush on 2d to 4th May of many species. Mr Agnew writes: "The long tact of S.E. wind has brought an extraordinary 'rush' of birds to the island yesterday (on the 3d) and to-day; the night of the 2d, and all day of the 3d, was constant rain and fog. For a day or two previous to the 3d, we had a few birds, and some strangers; but they were only the heralds of the great army. I have seen something like it in the 'fall,' but never in the spring. These last two days we have 'birds; birds everywhere.' I think I have identified them all, except the three mentioned inside. If you had been here to-day, what a bag you would have made."—Signed J. A., 4th May 1885.

In the schedule Mr Agnew says:—

"3d May.—An extraordinary rush of migrants to-day; never seen anything like it in spring. To attempt to give numbers is simply useless. I will just give you the names in succession. I can't spare a line for each.—Fieldfares, Redwings, Ring Ouzels, Blackbirds, Lapwings, Dotterels, Rock Pigeons, Hawk, Meadow Pipits, Redstarts, Whinchats, Tree Sparrows, Yellow Wagtails, Ortolan Bunting (obtained), Robins, Chiff-Chaffs, Wood Warbler, Black Cap Warbler, Marsh Tit, Whitethroats, and Pied Flycatchers." And on 4th still increased in numbers, but wind shifted this morning to E. from S.E.

Mr Agnew mentions also "a bird" he has "often reported," a "grey bird with a white feather each side of the tail, and larger than a pipit, kind of slate colour, light streak through eye, black hood over its head." And another; "colour of Tree Sparrow, but smaller grey white belly, slate-coloured head; never seen the latter before."

In autumn Mr Agnew says: "Up to 14th October migration was very meagre,—something like last year, and from the same cause; gales of wind from the W. and N.E. That we have any at all shows how determined the birds are to keep their usual time of migration, even when under great difficulties."

Under date of Oct. 17th—"A great rush of migrants at Isle of May "—Mr Agnew has the remarks: "The Woodcock was killed on the S.E. side, and the other birds on the N.W. side. Thus the migrants have been exactly meeting one another; and this is just as I would have expected,—the Woodcocks coming to us, and the others leaving us. It would appear as if they were all waiting a favourable opportunity to go. Seventeen Woodcocks were shot during the day on the 17th Oct. on Isle of May."—J. A. The birds striking the N.W. side consisted of Redwings, Larks, Starlings, Blackbirds, Chaffinches, Whinchats, Chiff-Chaffs, Willow Warblers, Golden Crests, one Crow, and the rush continued over the 18th. These birds, striking the N.W. side, no doubt reached our shores further north, and were "coasting," or, as we have remarked in previous reports (as in the case of Woodpigeons and Larks), were crossing the Firth of Forth from north-westerly directions to southeasterly ones. The wind at the time of this migration was light E. The Woodcock would thus travel at fair advantage, and strike the S.E. side; and the other birds which struck the N.W. would have a still more favourable flight, with the wind beam on the left shoulders.

We consider these remarks by Mr Agnew most valuable, as bearing out previous experience in a remarkable manner.

Again, under date of 10th Nov., Mr Agnew writes: "Thousands of Fieldfares, etc., etc. The vast rush to-day were flying exactly in the same direction as the great rush of the 17th Oct., and had it been at night, the lantern would have been swarming, and they would have struck it exactly on the N.W. side as before; wind S., but very nearly calm. The birds were flying high in the air; a few lighted, but immediately went on again direct S.E. I never saw anything like it in daylight before. There were also blackbirds, male and female, on the island to-day, but the males predominating."

Again, on the 26th Nov., Mr Agnew writes: "10 A.M., S.E. gale. Two Woodcocks shot. This gale came on at 9 A.M. on the 23d, and is still increasing, and the glass falling. It is now 4 P.M., and the glass 29·05. There has been nothing like this from the S.E. for years. The barometer fell to 28·65 on the night of the 26th."

Separate Report under Genera and Species.

Turdidæ.—Spring.—In February indication of Fieldfares on 23d and 26th, and with S.W. gale at Isle of May on 22d, 23d, and 27th, an unusual experience here to appear so frequently as they have done. A few also appeared 2d, 3d, 4th, and a good many on 9th, with N.W. winds. Again a few March 15th, 18th, and 24th at Isle of May. In April, only one record. Isle of May; but in May, flocks and stragglers for first three weeks at Pentland Skerries; prevailing winds, N.E.; no very strongly defined "rush," only on one day, flocks at Isle of May. A few unimportant movements of other Turdidæ, viz., Song Thrush, Redwing at Stations VII., VIII., XIV., and XXVII. The Ring Ouzel is noted at Pentland Skerries, but marked as "very rare here" (20th April), and again May 2d and onwards for several days.

In Autumn.—An early movement of Song Thrushes, July 4th and 17th, at Pentland Skerries; wind variable on 4th, and light N.W. on 17th, and one bird at Isle of May on 27th. Unimportant again at Isle of May in Aug. 13th and 18th, and ditto in September at same station. First Fieldfares on 29th, with light W. wind; but in October real migration set in of Turdidæ, earliest as usual at Isle of May; on 8th a Fieldfare (wind shifting from N. to S.W.) followed by a single bird. First record of Redwing again at Pentland Skerries, with light N.N.E. airs, an apparent rush of which at same place between 26th and 31st. Flocks and intermittent movements all the month from 8th to end, of all three species. November, however, bulks largest from Stations IV,, VII., VIII., IX., X., XIV., XV., and XXVII., during the whole month. Fieldfares predominating far beyond the numbers of other Turdidæ. Whilst many "flocks" are recorded all through the schedules south of VIII. (N. Ronaldshay) to XIV. (Pentland Skerries), and even appearances at XV, (Dunnet Head), fewer records are given north of VIII., and none occur between XV. and XXVII. (Isle of May). A rush is only very decidedly shown at Isle of May on 10th, when thousands of Fieldfares and other Thrushes round station at 9.30 A.M., with a S. wind, and flew on southwards. On the 17th there is a "rush" recorded of Redwings at XXVII. at 1 A.M., light E. haze—six killed. Immense numbers of the several species of Turdidæ,—viz., Fieldfares, Song Thrushes, Redwings, but curiously we do not find a single entry of Blackbirds anywhere during the whole Autumn Migration, which extended all through December and January, though in smaller numbers as compared with November. Prevailing wind all October, northerly and easterly; south-easterly and easterly in November, but the rush came with due S. wind. When westerly winds occurred, as usual fewer records. In December, winds various, but more westerly than November, but in January again back to E.[3]

[3] Addition to List of Birds of the Isle of May.—Dipper (Cinclus aquaticus, L.), the British form—shot April 22d, 10 A.M., light west haze—now in Collection at Isle of May, under curatorship of Mr J. Agnew.

Saxicolinæ.—Spring, confined to April and May. Records from VIII. (North Ronaldshay), XIV. (Pentland Skerries), and XXVII. (Isle of May) of Wheatears, Whinchats, and Redstarts. The "Stonechats" of the N. Ronaldshay Schedule are probably Wheatears, a rush of which took place there on April 4th—the earliest record—at twelve noon; wind light south. Wheatears arrived pretty numerously at XXVI I. , to breed there, on 20th April. Earliest Redstart at XIV., with strong S.S.E. wind and fog, marked "rare," on 29th April; but earliest at XXVII. on the 18th, one [male], light west, and haze. Towards the end of May Redstarts appeared in very small numbers; again at XIV., and two Whinchats.

In Autumn.—Early departure of the old Wheatears from XXVII. (Isle of May), before 22d July. This is noted as earlier than usual by Mr Agnew. One bird noted at XIV. (Pentland Skerries) on 23d August, with N.N.E. and driving rain.

Earliest southward movement of Redstart at XIV. on 14th August—a single bird—wind N.W.; seen on island. At IV. (N. Unst) a "rush" of Redstarts and Wheatears at night, wind light S.W., on 9th September. At XXVII. a few old males on 18th September, followed by mixed old and young on following day. Redstarts at IV. on 3d October, and a rush of Whinchats at Isle of May at 1 A.M.—wind S.E., haze. Single record of Whinchat in November at XXVII., and "Stonechats" at XXVIII. B. The new station of Fidra, in the Firth of Forth, a single bird. On 22d July most of the old Wheatears had left Isle of May—"an early date for them to leave."—J. A.

Silviinæ.—In Spring, earliest Robin record on 13th and 17th February at XXVII. (Isle of May)—"the first for a long time." Latest spring record, also at XXVII., on 15th May. Most seen on 13th April, at XXVII., N.N.E.; and several all day on XIV. (Pentland Skerries), strong S.E., on 8th April. Cromarty sends one return of Robin on 2d May. Willow Warbler—earliest, 29th April, at Isle of May; and Wood Warbler at same place on 2d May, with strong S.E., fog and rain. Whitethroat at Isle of May, with light S. and S.E., between 13th and 24th—an indication of a rush lighting on S.E. side of lantern, with light N.W., and rain on 24th.

Autumn.—Species observed were Robin and Whitethroat; Robin most prevalent, Whitethroat next. Earliest Robin at N. Unst, 26th July; latest, 28th November, at I. of Fidra (but as this might only be local, take latest at Dunnet on 14th, or Isle of May on 12th). If any rush noticeable, about the 17th September.

Phylloscopinæ.—Gold Crests are recorded in April 12th and 13th, and 20th and 23d at XXVII.; few on the two first dates, rush on the last, with W.S.W., and fog and drizzling rain. No other records from any part of E. Coast in any spring month. Wood Warblers, 8th to 24th May; a "great rush" all night on the 9th, with snow and hail showers, and wind N.W. to N.E.; and again all night on 18th, with rain, hail, and snow from N.E. [We can remember, on the 10th May, snow lay on the banks of Spey two inches deep at Aberlour.—J. A. H. B.] Two Chiff-Chaffs are also noted on 20th. All the above at XXVII. (Isle of May), and no other spring records of Phylloscopinæ.

In Autumn.—Earliest Chiff-Chaff, 27th July, at XXVII., 11 A.M., E., light fog; and again between the 12th and 24th August. Numbers on 13th, and number of males on 24th. On 13th, N.W. wind, strong, clear. Also, on 15th, a Willow Warbler—light haze, struck S.E. side, light W. wind; and a Wood Warbler on the 24th—a fine male. In September, a single Willow Warbler from N. Unst, light N.W., on 15th; and a few Gold Crests at XXVII. on 1st, and again on 17th and 19th—the latter amongst the rocks on the E. side—light S.W. A rush of Chiff-Chaffs on 17th October at XXVII., light E., haze and rain—and Willow Warbler; and then, on 18th and 19th, Gold Crests all night. Latest date of autumn migration of Phylloscopinæ is of Chiff-Chaffs, on November 4th, at XXVII.

Accentorinæ.—The only records are in October 1885, at XXVII., on 7th and 19th. Two or three pairs are breeding there this summer, and of late years it has become resident, "a good few having been here all the winter."—J. A.

Acrocephalinæ.—In September, on the 5th, between 8 and 10 P.M., there was a rush of many species over the island of XXVII., amongst which were Reed and Sedge Warblers striking, also Whitethroats. [What were named with a query "Immature Blue-Throated Warblers" turned out to be immature Redstarts—J. A. H. B.] Of the Reed Warblers recorded, when asked, Mr Agnew, distinguishing from the Sedge Warbler, says: "I have your card about the Reed Warblers, and should they appear again, I will try and procure specimens; but there seems no doubt as to their presence here during the rush of Warblers reported in the last Schedule."

Troglodytidæ.—Autumn of 1884, a few still seen on Isle of May in beginning of January 1885. Spring of 1885, one at XXVII. (Isle of May) on 10th, and at XIV. (Pentland Skerries) reported as being about the rocks there all winter.[4] At VII. (Sumburgh Head), one all day going about dykes—no doubt, a resident of the adjoining mainland. (A "Yellow Wren," also at same place, may be either Willow Wren or Willow Warbler, or a Gold Crest?) This was on 31st March.

[4] It does not appear whether the Wren is resident in Pentland Skerries every winter, but it was certainly so in 1884-5. (See above.)

In Autumn.—Earliest record at Pentland Skerries, September 20th, seen in garden. In October, records from N. Unst, 27th—S.W., light breeze (!!), clear—flying round rocks. [N.B.—This record seems to us to make it very desirable that specimens of the Common Wrens, or their feet and wings, but better the whole birds, be sent us for examination from this Station. We would like to see specimens, shot or otherwise, obtained in summer, and also specimens obtained in October or during the Autumn Migration. It might settle a very interesting question. A little carbolic acid would preserve them quite well, if dried after in the sun, or in the oven, or gradually in the kitchen.] A good few records run through October, but no large numbers—at Unst (XIV.) and XXVII.; and the same remark applies in November. The last noted is in January 1886 at XXVII.—"a few"—and the one before, at XIV., on 27th December, "seen on island." It is always remarkable to observe the near proximities of dates between occurrences at Isle of May and Pentland Skerries.

Motacillidæ.—The only month in the year, from January to December, in which no return is made by Wagtails, is July 1885. All the entries are under "Wagtail." [N.B.—We would like to receive a good many Wagtails from all Stations in every month if possible. A little carbolic acid would preserve them.]

The first spring Wagtail is recorded at XXVII. (Isle of May) on 24th February, S.W. The last at same place on May 23d, but the species breeds there. April is the busiest month in Wagtails. A "rush" at N. Ronaldshay on April 4th. Next last date is at Fidra (XXVIII. B.), flying about feeding. A record from Dunnet Head says; "1st May.—Wagtails seen daily till end of July; breed about the cliffs," etc. The Yellow Wagtail is recorded from XXVII. on 8th May. If it had a black breast and very long tail, its right name is "Grey Wagtail," though yellow. If short tail, and very bright yellow, it is the true Yellow Wagtail, or Rays', a much rarer bird in Scotland. Was it the same as one Mr G. E. P. and H.-B. shot on Isle of May in October 1884?

In Autumn.—"Wagtails" begin to be observed on 17th July at XIV., and in about equal numbers in August (three dates in each month). Increase a little in September, and show indication of movement at XXVII. on 26th and 29th (old and young on 26th, and mostly old on 29th), only four dates at XIV. and XXVII., two at each. Two dates in October at XXVIII.; 1st and 8th unimportant; and three in December at same place—24th, 20th, and 26th. Noted, "These are extraordinary occurrences;" and the one on 25th, "had very little white upon it."—J. Agnew.

Motacillidæ 2.—Pipits.—First Spring Meadow Pipits at XXVII.—a single bird; light N.E., clear on 10th March, and "a number" on 18th; gale from W. for two days. Wind changed to N.E. at 5 A.M. In April, at XXVI. (Bell Rock), on 17th and 18th; wind S.E., fog. Rock Pipits.—At XXVII. (Isle of May), an increase over residents observed on 4th April, and more arrived to breed on 20th. Further increase on 2d May.

In Autumn.—Meadow Pipit ("Mosscheeper") at N. Unst, 7 P.M.; fresh N.W[1]. breeze and showers; and at XXVII. "mostly left" by 14th. A rush on 9th September of "Mosscheepers" at IV. (N. Unst) at night; wind S.W., light haze. Also at X. Ronaldshay "a number" of Rock Pipits arrived on 4th September, "and remain all winter." At XXVII., old and young mixed on 19th September. Last record of Meadow Pipits at IV., 1st November, and of Rock Pipits at XXVI. (Bell Rock), on 22d November.

Laniadæ.—One Red-Backed Shrike at XXVII. on 5th May, 1·9 A.M.; light N.E., clear, obtained;—in mus., Isle of May.

Muscicapidæ.—Spring.—Earliest at XXVII. On May 1st and 2d, three Pied Flycatchers arrived at 4 P.M. on 1st, stayed 2d, and others seen till 6th or 7th—a good number; wind S.E., haze and rain. Also on 2d, several all day resting on XIV. (Pentland Skerries). Numbers again on 20th and 21st at same place, and numbers, also including one old male, on 23d, and up to 24th. No other records in spring.

In Autumn.—One female Pied Flycatcher, at XIV.; light E., and thick haze. On 3d, numbers all day. At XXVII., some on 24th October; strong E., clear. Spotted Flycatcher at XXVII. One seen 11 A.M.; strong S.W., clear.

Addition to Isle of May, as above.—Red-Backed Shrike (L. collurio, L.), May 5th, 9 A.M.; light N.E., clear. Shot;—in mus., Isle of May, Curator, J. Agnew.

Hirundinidæ.—Spring.—Very heavy returns of Swallows, commencing lightly on 10th April; a few seen at N. Ronaldshay; E.N.E., light clear; and on the 19th, at XXVII., one with the remark, "this is early." First seen at XXVIII. B. (Fidra) on 24th. At X. (Auskerry) "flocks remain till 14th June;" came with S.E.S. and N.E. winds. Records numerous from X., XIV., XV., XIX., XXVII., and XXVIII. B. First seen at XIV. on 14th May. No great appearance of a "rush." Seen more or less all June at Pentland Skerries and Isle of May, but no June records from other stations.

In Autumn.—5th July at XIV., and of Martins 6th to 12th and 16th. One Swallow at Isle of May on 14th. All August Martins and Swallows, and a "rush" of latter at XXVII. on 24th; light W., clear. Latest.—One Swallow and one Martin at XXVII. on 7th October.

Fringillidæ.—Every month in the year, more or less of different species, as follows, in order of greatest numbers: Grey and Green Linnets in February, March, April, and again in June; and House and Tree Sparrows in May, and odd ones of the former during the other spring months. Chaffinches scarce, and single records in February, March, April, May; one each month, all at XXVII. (Isle of May). Twenty Tree Sparrows in a flock, at XXVII., on 29th May; and daily large flock of Sparrows at Fidra on 16th and 23d. Sparrow "rare" on XIV., seen April 23d.

In Autumn.—Large flock of Heather Linties (Twites) at Start Point all the month of July. Grey Linnets (or perhaps these are Twites?) at XIV. (Pentland Skerries), 27th July. In August, Sparrows at N. Unst; N.N.W., fog. Grey Linnets (or Twites?) at XIV,, end of August; N.E. Only one record in September at XIV.; none elsewhere, but October bulks larger. Only stations sending any returns are XIV. and XXVII. in October. Movement slack in first week, bulking largest 16th and 17th. Rush of Chaffinches, Linnets, a few Redpoles on 14th, and a few Siskins on 30th October.

In November, up to 23d.—Chaffinches at N. Unst on 3d—light N.W., rain—and on 4th at XXVII. Green Linnets at N. Unst on 19th November, and at VII. (Sumburgh Head) on 12th. Numbers on 5th at XIV. all day, fresh W., clear; and also on XXVII., same day, a few; light W., clear. Latest record of Green Linnets, December 18th; but Grey Linnets on 18th January 1886, and Redpoles (three) on 23d, at XXVII.

We have overlooked also a few stray records of "Bramblings" on 6th and 7th April, at XXVII.; strong E. winds.

Emberizidæ.—In Spring, Snow Buntings. One seen on February 7th at XXVII., and five on 27th; a number on 20th March at N. Ronaldshay on the island. Gale: sleet—twenty-three struck and seven killed. In April two flying about the rocks at Sumburgh Head on 6th—the latest record of the species in spring.

One Reed Bunting at Pentland Skerries on February 27th; S. gale and haze on island. Few records of Yellow Bunting in February and March, and at XXVII. equally scarce. Only occasional also in April anywhere, and same to June. Common Bunting, first single bird at XIV. on 18th; odd records till June on six dates till that time. Winds prevailing from N.E. through E. to S.E. (very likely local movements).

In Autumn.—Snow Buntings returned only from XIV. and XXVII. in October, but in November at IV., VII., VIII., X., XIV., XV., XXVII. all through the month, but not heavily as compared with other years. Rush at VIII. (N. Ronaldshay), with S.E. gale; "flocks" frequent at XIV., XV., not abundant at XXVII. during November. In September, a few odd records only at VII. (Sumburgh Head) and XXVII. (Isle of May). No records later than November 28th. One record of Common Bunting at XIV. on 13th November. No records in autumn of any other species.

Addition to Isle of May List.—Ortolan Buntings: Two specimens—one shot 12.30 P.M.; light S.E., clear, thick fog and heavy rain all night. Named by Mr Agnew correctly.—J. A. H. B. Mr Agnew adds under 29th May: "There are two Ortolan Buntings, three Tree Sparrows, and one female Redstart on the island since the 23d April."

Alaudidæ.—Spring Migration.—In February records from XIV. and XXVII. only; one single bird from the former on 14th, but a rush at the latter on 17th, at 1 A.M. Light E., rain and haze; three killed. Continuing in numbers on 18th, four killed and many wounded. Curiously no records from Bell Rock on these dates or in this month. Likely the wind too much due E. Fewer on 26th, but an increase again on 27th. At Bell Rock, however, one bird on 15th, and three on 19th only. Stragglers only from the direct wave. We are more than ever convinced of the influence of the wave from Heligoland not extending much beyond Isle of May and Bell Rock. A new light will soon be on the light vessel of the Carr Rock, off the East Neuk of Fife; and we are in hopes that a good observer will be stationed there, who has had personal experience and knowledge of birds before. On 13th March only one record at Bell Rock; on 11th only two at XXVII. and one at Pentland Skerries.

In April "Crested Larks" are entered, and a previous entry of the same is given on March 11th, both from XXVII. (Isle of May. [We would like to have examined these, and added the real Crested Lark to the Isle of May Museum.] Not many records in April.

In Autumn.—A few flying round the light on 24th August at N. Unst. Desultory movements at N. Unst in September.

In October about the 15th, 16th, 18th, an appearance of a "rush," or an actual "rush" on 18th at VIII. (N. Ronaldshay), and on 14th at XXVII. (Isle of May). At former 40 struck. E.S.E. wind. At latter "large numbers," with a S.W. gale, sleet. These no doubt are blown off the land. Latest date 18th. But reports in newspapers of immense gatherings of Larks near Dundee, St Andrews, and Midlothian and elsewhere, in January and again in March, being only, no doubt, local congregations caused by frost and snow in Scotland.

Sturninæ.—All returns for spring light. Earliest, February 9th at XXVII., and 11th at XIV. From 16th to 20th light returns, flock on 18th. By the 11th March breeding birds had arrived and taken up their haunts on XXVII., and about the same time an odd bird or two were seen resting on rocks of XXVI. (Bell Rock). Wind light westerly. As no records occur at Bell Rock at any other time in spring this year, even these odd birds occurring just at the time of arrivals elsewhere are significant perhaps of the general movement, these birds no doubt having overshot the land. Odd records in April at Fidra; a pair breeding there in May.

In Autumn.—Earliest movement noticed at XXVII. "Large flocks of young birds, strangers." No records anywhere in September. In October movements noted at IV, (N. Unst) between 11th and 25th. On 11th flocks flying east, with light S.E. wind and haze. Only one record at XXVI. (Bell Rock) on 8th October. Rush decided at XXVII. on 17th, with strong E., rain and haze; two killed. Small movements at IV, VII, (Sumburgh Head), and XXVII. in November, and a few up to end of January 1886.

Corvidæ.—Earliest spring record of Rooks at XIV. (Pentland Skerries). Strong N.W. wind on 28th February. Rooks are recorded from the following stations:—VIII. (N. Ronaldshay), XIV, XXVII. (Isle of May); but all returns are very light indeed. In the first week in March a slight rush apparent at Sumburgh Head of Black and Hooded Crows—on 1st 50, on 6th 18, light N. to N.E.; and a few almost every day at XXVII. at same time. Records of Carrion and Hooded Crows are from VII. (Sumburgh Head), VIII., XIV., and XXVII. Earliest 1st March; latest 29th April. From three or four to eight or ten daily; long straggling migration.

Jackdaws at XIV. on 25th, and 26th two, light W.N.W,, clear; and at same place seven on 8th June and one on 13th, no doubt visitors from either the Caithness coast or from Orkney.

Autumn.—Similar movements of Black Crows at IV, on 30th July, and at XIV. on 20th, 26th, two or three each time, Carrion Crows and Hooded Crows reported in autumn from IV., VIII., XIV., XXVII., XXVIII. B. (Fidra) in a pretty continuous and steady, though never heavy, stream, massing largest at IV. and at XIV., two, three, four, to once twelve (on 11th September at IV.) being the daily number observed. Dating from 1st record, 26th July, at XIV., to latest record, January 26th, 1886, one bird at XXVII., with easterly and northerly gale. Rooks—Infinitesimal movement; only two records, one in June and one in December, both at IV. Ravens—Small number. Two at IV. on 22d August, eight at IV. on 5th September, strong E., haze, feeding on rock; and two on 20th October at same place. Four Jackdaws stopped a few days at N. Ronaldshay from the 6th November.

Cypselidæ.—At N. (Auskerry) flocks of Swifts seen on 1st May, with the note "rarely seen till the middle of June, wind N. and N.E., showers." Again seen at XXVII. on June 5th and 17th. We ourselves witnessed a party of Swifts migrating close along the cliff-edge of Holborn Head, on the N. coast of Caithness—"seven seen flying E., swiftly careering above the cliff-edge of Holborn, and crossing in a direct line the Bay of Thurso" (extract from Journal, 28th June 1885). We witnessed also eight evidently still bent on migration, "flying in a bee-line down Strathspey, high in air, at 11 A.M., near Black Boats station. Clouds, heavy rains, showers, and N.W. wind" (loc. cit., May 16th, 1885). There is undoubtedly a great highway of migration up and down the valley of the Spey, We have abundant evidence of it.

In Autumn.—One record at IV. Two seen on 11th September, light S., clear.

Jynginæ.—Mr Agnew very ably describes the Wryneck as follows, and it was afterwards identified and added to collection, and the tail, which had been shot away, was recovered afterwards by chance by Mr Wm. Evans, and restored to the specimen. Mr Agnew writes, and we give it as showing how accurately to describe a bird for purposes of identification:

"One bird, total stranger; very like a Partridge in markings; size of a Lark; 4 toes on feet, 2 before and 2 behind; fore toes largest; one of the hind toes not so large as the other; bill about the size of a Pipit's; tongue protruding more than an inch, thickly covered with fine hairs; ¼-inch of the tip horn, sharp as a needle. Don't know what it is unless Ant-eater. Very sorry tail shot away. Sent to Small for the Collection."—J. Agnew.

Cuculidæ.—April 26th, an early date of arrival, flew low from Dirleton woods towards XXVIII. B. (Fidra); light S. breeze. In May, on 10th, at Cromarty, fresh N.E., showers; on 16th at XXVII., fresh W.N.W.; and on 28th at same station, moderate S.W., clear. No autumn records.

Strigidæ.—No spring returns. In Autumn.—Short-Eared Owls recorded from XXVII. (Isle of May), one of 9th October, 6 P.M., N.W.; one 14th, N.E. gale; and one shot on 31st. The only other record is at IX. (Start Point), when "an Owl made its first appearance on the 6th November."

Falconidæ.—Hawks, Sparrow Hawks, large Hawks, and Kestrel bulk pretty regularly, mostly, however, single birds at XIV. and XXVII. in spring. Many daily records no doubt refer to the same bird seen over and over again, especially when such relate to Sparrow Hawks and Kestrels. Such visits are no doubt only of local origin. "Large Hawks" at XXVII. are not Peregrine Falcons, as such are well known to Mr Agnew, but probably Buzzards or Harriers. One shot on 11th April unfortunately fell into the sea and was not recovered. A "Dark-Brown Hawk" also noted on 11th March at Isle of May.

In Autumn.—In August many local visits paid to flights of small birds at most insular stations sending returns, especially at IV., X., XIV., and XXVII. Falcons, Hawks, "large and small," few in September, none in October recorded, and a few in November. In former years three Eagles used to be seen regularly; are now believed to have been killed out at IV., and we know that orders and rewards have been given to the gamekeeper there for their destruction, as well as all "vermin."

Pelecanidæ.—Solan Geese.—Commencing in spring on 26th March, three seen flying east at XIV, strong N. wind. We may state here that winds seem to affect their passage very little at all times. Began to appear flying N. past VIII. (N. Ronaldshay) on April 18th, and flying east past XIV, 14th, 15th, and 20th—winds S.W. to S.S.E., and back to S.W., on the three dates respectively. An April "flock," and "flocks all day," by the 26th. Before that, usually in afternoons, and not in forenoons. In June "the number of Gannets flying, usually N. past VIII., increasing;" 10th, 19th, 20th, 25th, "flock," "flocks," "several flocks," "three." July to September, constant in "flights" of two to twelve. On September 4th, in haze and fog, flying N. past XIV., and always N. past VIII. Going E. still in October, few in November, and two records in December "seen fishing."

Ardeidæ.—At XIX. (Cromarty) seen on shore, 8 P.M., calm, haze. Two records in April at Cromarty and Fidra (XXVIII. B.); one in May at XXVII. (Isle of May); two in July—12th and 22d—flying N.E. at XIV.; three to six records in September at XIX. (Cromarty) and XIV.; one in October at XXVII.; and two records at XIV. and XXVII.

Anatidæ.—In Spring.—Between 2d and 19th February, a flock of "Barnacle Geese" seen almost daily flying E. at different hours of forenoon and afternoon; and on 6th and 25th two flocks. Wind usually N. and E., except on 8th, 9th, and 10th, when it was westerly. The above at XIX. (Cromarty). I heard from other sources of the unusual quantities of Brent Geese in the Cromarty Firth and elsewhere on the East Coast this season—i.e., 1884-85—and also in 1885-86. The Geese at XIX. continued to be observed on April 10th and 14th, 1885, but not later.

Of Swans, only one record at VIII. (N. Ronaldshay), when six seen.

Of Eider Ducks, two flocks at XXVII.—light S.E., clear—on 2d March; and by 16th April most of the Eiders left. On 4th April flock of fifty males and females, about equal in number, at XXVII. This lot left on 6th; numerous again on 20th; but breeding birds and a few about XXVIII. B. (Fidra) on 26th April. In May, on 7th, 10th, and 16th, three males and three females all day about island, and continued till 21st—breeding, no doubt. Long-Tailed Duck, 3, 2 [male] and 1 [female], at XXVII. on 26th February 1885 (only record). A few Wild Ducks at XXVIII. B. on 28th April. "Stock Ducks."—Two at XIV. on 2d May, where they breed. Three "King Ducks" are noted at Isle of May, and the note "different from Eider" added on 31st May 1885, and "had a white spot on the black wings." (?)

In Autumn.—We have records of Swans, Teal Duck, Stock Ducks, Ducks, Eider Ducks (or Dunters), Wild-drake, Barnacle Geese, and Widgeon. Stations returning are—VIII. (North Ronaldshay), returning "number of Ducks of different kinds, as Widgeons, Teal," and Eider Ducks "made appearance in great numbers" on 10th and 15th September respectively. At XIV., by far the largest returns of Ducks of sorts greatest in September. XIX.—"Barnacle" (?) Geese on 18th October.

At XXVII., record of Eiders, "all young birds except one old male," on 2d December; and latest record at XIV. of a flock near the rocks on 27th.

Columbidæ.—At XXVII. (Isle of May), a Turtle Dove shot on the 29th May—wind W., light, clear. "This bird had been severely wounded before."—J. A. A vast rush of Wood Pigeons is noted at XXVII. on November 29th, flying S.W. in countless thousands, making a rushing noise like a railway train. The wind after the great S.E. gale.[5]

[5] Shifted to W., and on the 29th inclined to N.W., but shifted back at night to N.E.

Rallidæ.—Spring records are:—

Heard at 4 A.M. at XIX. (Cromarty) on 19th May—light E., clear.

Heard by Keeper at XIV. (Pentland Skerries) when over in South Ronaldshay on 15th May. Heard on XIV. (Pentland Skerries), one pair, on 21st—wind S.E. They breed there.

One at XXVII. (Isle of May) on 14th, and again on 20th May.

No autumn records.

Charadriadæ.—A flock in February; probably belonged to last year's migration, and can hardly be admitted as spring movement at XIV. Oyster-Catcher—two entries in March and April; the former at XIV., where two arrived; and the latter at XXVII., where three were seen on the 13th April.

In Autumn.—Golden Plover arrived 5th August, and usually remain all winter. Odd birds at XIV., also in August. On 6th September, single record of a Golden Plover; single ditto in October at XIV. Straggling records of little real use in tracing facts in November, when, however, they do bulk largest. Odd notices in December and January 1886.

Other species noted are Green Plover (very few records), Ring Plover (November, only one entry), Oyster-Catchers (only taken notice of at XIV.—a flock in September), and "a number all day" at 28th November at XIV.

Addition to Isle of May List and Collection.—Dotterel—One obtained, 3d May 1885 (See remarks under Diary of Stations), in mus., Isle of May.—Curator, Jos. Agnew.

Scolopacidæ.—In Spring.—Snipe, Curlew, Woodcock, Jack-snipe are the species noted. Stations are XIV. and XXVII. only. Earliest Snipe record at XIV. on 16th February (may belong to last season's movements); "a number," and on 19th "a large number all day on island;" variable, clear. No March records, and only one of Snipe in April at XXVII.; S.E., light, clear on 18th. Jacksnipe—one at XXVII. on 5th April, and one at same place on 1st May; S.E., light clear on former date. Curlew on XIV., rose off rocks; snow on ground on 19th February. Several records flying over island at XIV., in April, with various winds, and ditto in May, and "passing XXVII. at night on 22d May." Woodcock-Two records, one at XXVII. on 5th April—E.N.E., haze—rose off island; and one at XIV. on 11th—E.N.E., haze—rose off island.

Autumn.—There are many entries in each month, as follows:—

These are composed principally of the following species, in order of their abundance:—

2.		Curlew—
		July. 10 entries.	Aug. 7	Sept. 9	Oct. 3	Nov. 3	Dec. 1	Jan. 1886. 0	In all. 33
3.		Woodcock—
		July. ...	Aug. ...	Sept. ...	Oct. 4	Nov. 6	Dec. 5	Jan. 1886. 1	In all. 16
4.		Snipe—
		July. ...	Aug. 1	Sept. 1	Oct. ...	Nov. 2	Dec. 1	Jan. 1886. 1	In all. 6
5.		Jacksnipe—
		July. ...	Aug. ...	Sept. ...	Oct. 1O	Nov. 2	Dec. 2	Jan. 1886. ...	In all. 5

The stations returning in order of heaviest schedules and number of entries, as follows:—

6.			July.	Aug.	Sept.	Oct.	Nov.	Dec.	Jan.
		XIV.	6	6	8	6	9	2	...	37
		XXVII.	3	...	2	6	5	6	2	24
		VIII.	...	...	...	1	2	...	...	3
		X.	...	...	...	5†	...	...	...	5
		XV.	...	...	...	...	...	1	...	1
		XXVI.	...	...	...	...	2	1	...	3

† Some woodcock.

The records of VIII., X., and XV. refer entirely to Woodcock. The above tables we use in this place, as possibly affording a guide for future work in reducing our past seven reports to system. Under Table I. gives the time of year and comparative abundance of birds in each month. Table II. to V., comparative numbers of each species in each month. Table VI. gives relative faunal value of each station in each month. When decided "rushes" are noted, the word can be written in under the number of entries. Earliest and latest records may be given in footnotes to Table VI., or thus:—

The winds in autumn prevailed as follows:—

Added to the List of Isle of May.—A Ruff (Machetes pugnax) sent for identification and for the collection, 5th May; light N.E. wind, clear. Most of this huge migratory flight of all sorts left by the afternoon of the 5th.

Sandpipers, Redshanks.—Spring, only two records of "Sandpipers," six on 7th Feb. 1885, at XXVII.; light S.W., clear; and one "Yellow Shanked Sandpiper" found dead on 1st May at XXVII. [We would be glad of wings and feet, or skin, of as many different Sandpipers as Mr Agnew can send us. Parcels once a month, or with each schedule. The true "Yellow Shanked Sandpiper" is a N. American species, but numbers of other species have yellow feet or legs.]

In Autumn.—All records are crowded into September and November. Species are Redshanks, "Grey Sandpiper," Common Sandpiper, Purple Sandpiper. The "Common Sandpiper" is recorded from N. Unst, but the species is uncertain. [Please send wings or skin.]

Turnstones are recorded, 18th Sept., at XXVII.; W.S.W., light, clear.

Laridæ.—Every month in the year contains returns. Species noted are Herring Gulls, "Dirty Allens" (or Skuas), "Gulls," "Black-Backed Gulls," "Kittiwakes," "Grey Megs" (or Common Gull), Black-Headed Gulls, "Skua Gulls," Richardson's Skuas.

Spring and Autumn.—Every day plentiful in February, at XXVII. and XXVIII. B. Gulls arrived at XV. (Dunnet Head)—and left in August last—on 13th March 1885. Kittiwakes appeared first on 12th March, at XXVII., "earlier than usual," and very numerous by 13th; "came from S.;" N.W., light, clear. At XIV. seen all day flying around on 11th April; E.N.E., haze'; two Black B. Gulls sitting on rocks on 30th; S.S.E., haze. By April 20th, Kittiwakes had settled down in summer quarters on XXVII., and were in "multitudes" by 27th May. At XIV. a pair of Herring Gulls bred in 1884, and again in the present year, on same place; not before. In May, hundreds Black H. Gulls on the lochs near VIII. to breed.

Records unimportant in June and July, except that "Dirty Allens" are recorded at IV. on 2d July, and "Skua Gulls" at XIV. on 7th. In August, movement of Kittiwakes and other Gulls, and records continue numerously through the remaining months.

G. Terns,—a number arrived to hatch, "as usual," at VIII. on 14th May, and Lesser Terns at XIX. on 24th May. The latter disappeared again on 26th Aug.

Procellariidæ.—Autumn, July 3d, flying about the rocks at X. (Auskerry). In August, occasionally striking lantern at IV., VII., IX. (Start Point), and XV. (Dunnet Head). They breed at IX. among ruins of house, and under stones on shore.

September,—odd birds striking at IV. and at XIV. on five dates; three on 2d Sept, at IV., and two at same place on 6th. One record at IV. in October, and one at same place in November, usually in foggy or rainy weather.

Alcidæ.—More or less records every month. Arrivals. First spring visit of Guillemots and Razorbills at XXVII. on 8th March; remained in thousands to 15th; fewer up to 24th; disappeared and returned in multitudes to breed by 13th April; Puffins, Razorbills, and Guillemots. Also at VIII. "Rock Birds seen flying N. daily till 8th May." N.B.—Black Guillemots recorded at XXVII. on 5th May.

In Autumn.—Puffins last seen at XIV. on 7th Aug., and all other Rock Birds left except Kittiwakes, on the same day at XXVII.

Flock of Guillemots hung about XIV. for a time, and a few more seen on 24th. Large numbers of Guillemots and Razorbills, from 16th to 18th, at XXVII., when all left, and after a W. gale large numbers on 2d Dec. and again on 31st Dec. and seen occasionally till end of January. N.B.—Black Guillemots, one seen at XXVII. on 27th Jan. 1886. We think it quite possible Black Guillemots still breed on Isle of May, perhaps one pair.

EAST COAST OF ENGLAND.

Schedules were sent to forty-five stations, lighthouses, and light-vessels, and returns have been received from forty-two. The total number of schedules sent in is eighty-four, and the greatest number from any single station, nine from Mr Thomas H. Cutting, of the Farn Lighthouse; and six from Mr Thomas O. Hall, of the Longstone Lighthouse.

The East Coast stations included in this report are:—

Reports and notes have also been received from:—

Notes also bearing on the migration of birds on the east coast of England have been utilised from the Zoologist, Naturalist, and. Field newspapers; also from MS. notes made at Cley, Norfolk, in the autumn of 1885 by Messrs G. E. and F. D. Power.

Separate Notes on each Species.

TURDINÆ.—Missel-Thrush, Turdus viscivorus.—Spring migration, March 25th, 1885: Farn L.H., two. Autumn: Roker, Sunderland, August 9th, 7 P.M., "for about an hour a continual stream kept flying over the lawn at Silksworth; they were about one hundred yards high, going from N.E. to S.W., in parties of two or three, then twenty or thirty at once." Teesmouth, October 11th, great rush, "thousands in one particular field." North-East Lincolnshire, October 20th, great many. Common Thrush, T. musicus.—Spring, 1885: Longstone L.H., March 13th, night, N. hazy, several round lantern. Northrepps, middle of March, many moving north.[6] Autumn; An enormous immigration, first indicated at Farn L.H., July 3d to 11th, a few none in August, sparingly in September, and an enormous rush from October 12th to 18th, covering the east coast, and, more or less, continuous night and day on 15th and 16th, wind E.N.E. A second rush November 8th to 12th, and less at intervals to end of month; a few Farn L.H. throughout January to February 10th, 1886. Redwing, T. iliacus.—Spring, 1885: Thanet, April 19, last seen. Autumn; Farn L.H., September 15th, first. An enormous immigration in October, much the largest recorded. The bulk arriving in two great rashes, covering the east coast, from October 15th to 17th, night and day; and again November 9th to 17th, but in less numbers. Hasbro' L.V. on 22d and 23d, all day; a few at Farn L.H. to December 3d, when the migration of this species ceased. Fieldfare, T. pilaris.—Spring, 1885: North-East Lincolnshire, March 26th, large flocks in coast marshes. Thanet, April 19th, last seen. Farn L.H., May 4th, fifteen. Autumn: Dudgeon L.V., July 7th, one young bird caught on board; October 15th to 26th, first arrivals on east coast—a great rush on 15th and 16th at various stations, and a second very large immigration, old birds, November 8th to 12th. Longstone L.H., November 8th, S. to S.W., one on gallery at midnight; 9th, 10th, and 11th, great rush night and day, and up to 10.30 P.M. on 12th, and in less numbers at intervals on east coast to end of first week in January 1886. Shipwash L.V., January 23d, many till midnight, one killed. In North-East Lincolnshire, large numbers of old birds arrived at intervals from the last week in November to middle of January 1886, either direct from the Continent, or from more northern localities in Great Britain. Blackbird, T. merula.—Spring, 1885: Migration observed at Longstone L.H. April 4th and 12th to W. Farn L.H. March 13th to May 4th. Whitby, March 13th and 14th, E. to W. during night. Autumn: October 15th to 18th, very large arrivals both by night and day, and again from November 8th to 12th, in both cases covering the east coast. Corton L.V., November 21st, noon, twenty to W.N.W.; and Dudgeon L.V., November 24th, last recorded. Ring-Ousel, T. torquatus.—Spring, 1885: Spurn L.H., April 9th, male and female. Farn L.H., April 12th to May 4th, Longstone L.H., 23d, S., one. Thanet, 22d, two old males; 23d and 25th, younger males; 30th, females. Autumn: Spurn, August 25th; Flamborough, October 6th, many, Cromer L.H., 16th, all night, seven killed. Thanet, 16th, N.E. gale, several; 22d, E,, old males and old females.

[6] Malmo, Sweden, May 6th, flock of thrushes to N.E.

CINCLINÆ.—Black-Bellied Dipper, Cinclus melanogaster.—October 23d, E. and N.E. gale, one shot on morning of 24th. Humber Bank, in Stallinborough parish, great flight of Woodcock at the same date.

SAXICOLINÆ.—Common Wheatear, Saxicola ænanthe.—Spring, 1885: Yarmouth, February 24, one shot on denes. Hunstanton L.H., March 15th, one. Farn L.H., April 5th, S.S.E., two; 7th, E. all day, and the same on 10th and 11th, E.N.E. and E. Great Cotes, 11th, first. Hanois L.H., Guernsey, 10th, many at night at north light. Tees L.V., 22d, six, and many to May 28th, and eight on June 7th, general direction of flight S.E. to N.W.; rushes on May 10th and 20th. Longstone L.H., April 23d, N.E., 4 A.M., several. Flamborough, May 3d to 6th, E. (4), many with Redstarts and Pied Flycatchers.[7] Autumn: Migration first indicated at Tees L.V. August 3d, and Farn L.H. on 7th and 9th. On the 15th a flock of twenty alighted on board the s.s. "Aycliffe" in the English Channel, remaining for two hours, and then left; were observed in considerable numbers at several stations throughout September to middle of October. Is last recorded at the Hasborough L.V. October 1 6th, one. Desert-Chat, S. deserti.—Spurn, October 17th, one, a female, shot; has been previously obtained once in Scotland, and twice in Heligoland. Whinchat and Stonechat, Pratincola rubetra and rubicola.—Spring: Farn L.H., May 4th E.N.E., many of both all day. Whitby L.H., April 22d, one Stonechat. Autumn; Whitby L.H., September 19th, one struck. Hasbro' L.V., November 10th, 2.30 A.M., two killed. The Whinchat does not appear to be observed or distinguished on migration by our recorders. Redstart, Ruticilla phœnicurus.—Thanet, April 16th, males; 23d, females. Longstone L.H., May 1st, E, rain, one adult male. Flamborough, 3d, N.E., large number of males, with Pied Flycatchers. Farn L.H., 4th, E.N.E. all day. Malmo, Sweden, April 26th, two. Autumn: Are first recorded at Thanet July 19th, females and young. At several stations from August 17th to end of September; last at Spurn October 4th, W.S.W., with Wheatears. Black Redstart, R. titys.—Yarmouth, March 15th, adult male; November 3d, adult female. Longstone L.H., October 17th, one female Redstart. This entry probably refers to this species, which, as a rule, is observed on the east coast about a fortnight after the migration of the common Redstart has ceased.[8]

[7] In the spring of 1886 I received by post one adult male Wheatear, in summer plumage, caught in a rabbit trap on March 26th in North Northumberland. In a late schedule from the Farn L.H. two are recorded on February 22d, at 5 P.M., on the island, and again two on March 25th. The earliest record for East Lincolnshire this spring is a pair on the Humber Embankment on March 29th.

[8] The occurrences, so far recorded by the committee, of the Black Redstart on the east coast of Great Britain in the autumn, range between October 23d and November 3d.

SYLVIINÆ.—Red-Spotted Bluethroat, Cyanecula suecica.—Spurn, October 7th, two. Redbreast, Erithacus rubecula.—Spring, 1885: Longstone L.H., April 7th, S.E., one. Farn L.H., 10th, 11th, and 12th, E.N.E., several. Hasbro' L.V., May 22d, one to W.S.W. Autumn: Considerable immigration between the Farn Islands and Guernsey, from September 8th to November 12th; rush on October 16th, observed at Spurn, Lincolnshire coast (very large numbers), Hasbro' L.V., Tongue L.V., and Thanet; and again from November 10th to 12th at Inner Dowsing L.V., Kentish Knock L.V., South Sand Head L.V. The greatest number seen at any one time, Hasbro' L.V., October 2d, one hundred to one hundred and fifty, at 6 P.M., from S.E. to N.W., and Kentish Knock L.V. on November 10th, fifty to sixty, with tits from 2 A.M. to daybreak, and then going north. Whitethroat, Sylvia rufa.—Hanois L.H., April 10. Malmo, Sweden, May 4th. Hunstanton L.H., 20th, S. (5), 1 A.M., nine killed. Autumn: July 19th, Thanet, the first, and are last recorded Hanois L.H. September 17th, N.E. (4), midnight, along with Blackcaps. Lesser Whitethroat, S. curruca.—Spring: Great Cotes, April 23d. Autumn: The first at Thanet August 24th to 27th, and last at Longstone L.H. September 30th. Blackcap, S. atricapilla.—Spring: Thanet, May 5th, males; 6th, females. Return September 17th, 19th, and 25th at Hanois L.H., Thanet, and Languard L.H. Garden Warbler, S. salicaria.—Return August 22d at Spurn, and September 20th at Thanet.

PHYLLOSCOPINÆ.—Golden-Crested Wren, Regulus cristatus.—Spring: At Great Cotes and Thanet on March 8th; Longstone L.H. May 1st, 2 P.M.,one. Autumn: A very considerable immigration first observed at Languard L.H. August 21st, 5.15 A.M., one. The next at Hanois L.H. September 17th, E., O.R. about lantern at midnight; are last recorded on November 11th. Rushes indicated at Flamborough on October 6th, and at Farn L.H., Hasbro' L.V. (twenty), Lincolnshire coast. Cockle L.V., and Thanet on October 16th and 17th; Teesmouth October 23d and 24th; Inner Dowsing L.V., Leman and Ower L.V., Kentish Knock L.V.,and South Sand Head L.V. on November 10th and 11th. Chiff-Chaff, Phylloscopus collybita.—Spring: First in North Wales and Norfolk April 2d; return Thanet August 21st to September 24th. Willow-Wren, P. trochilus.—Return Thanet July 19th and August 5th. Spurn, August 18th to S. Cley, Norfolk coast, September 7th, E., great numbers in scrub, and increasing; 17th, second rush. Wood-Wren, P. sibilatrix.—Spurn, August 14th; Thanet, 22d and 27th.

ACROCEPHALINÆ.—Sedge Warbler, A. schœnobænus.—Spurn L.H., September 8th, one killed.

ACCENTORIDÆ.—Hedge Sparrow, Accentor modularis.—Cley, Norfolk coast, September 18th, many. Newarp L.V., October 17th, rush with others. Goodwin, east side L.V., 23d, a few on board. Bearded Reedling, Panurus biarmicus.—Yarmouth, February, last week, bearded tits, several flocks, numbers shot.

PARIDÆ.—Spring: Hanois L.H., April 10. Blue-Titmouse.—Autumn: Great Cotes, October 11th. Blue and Coal Titmouse, several. Whitby L.H., 15th, several Titmice about lighthouse garden. Kentish Knock L.V., November 10th, fifty to sixty Robins and Tits from midnight to daybreak, and then to N. Inner Dowsing L.V., 10th, one. South Sand Head L.V., 11th, Robin and Tits. Common Creeper, Certhia familiaris.—Spurn, August 14th. Common Wren, Troglodytes parvulus.—Winterton L.H., September 6th, one at 2 A.M. on lantern; 8th, one at 4 A.M., and November 3d, one. Orfordness L.H.; September 13th, 7 A.M., three with Robin. Farn L.H., October 23d, two. South Sand Head L.V., November 12th and 13th, Wrens on deck; and Kentish Knock L.V., 13th, two at 4 P.M., went to roost on board.

MOTACILLIDÆ.—Pied Wagtail, M. lugubris.—Spring, 1885: Tees L.V., February 4th, N.W., four to N.W.; 27th, with Titlarks to N.W. Hanois L.H., February 12th, a few. Great Cotes, 25th, many, with Titlarks. Whitby L.H., March 8th, one. Thanet, 11th to 19th. Farn L.H., 11th, two; and Longstone L.H., May 9th, two to W. Autumn: Return Thanet August 2d, young; 26th, old. Hanois L.H., November 20th, twelve to S.E. Blue-Headed Wagtail, M. flava.—Thanet, April 22d, male; May 4th, old female and young bird in second plumage. Yellow Wagtail, M. raii.—Spring, 1885: Great Cotes, April 18th; and Thanet, 26th, first. Autumn: Spurn, August 14th, a few immature Yellow Wagtails; 23d, thousands, "the whole district ablaze with them;" 24th, less numbers. Thanet, 20th and 21st. Cley, September 18th, in parties; 23d, three or four. Grey Wagtail, M. melanope.—Autumn: Great Cotes, September, first and second weeks, young birds swarming in bean-fields; October 15th, first, old. Cley, September 9th, first. Thanet, 28th and 30th, two each day. In the spring of 1885 were first seen at Malmo, Sweden, on April 7th, two, "a sure sign to begin to plough." Meadow Pipit, Anthus pratensis.—Spring: Great Cotes, February 25th, many, with Pied Wagtails; Tees L.V., 27th, some with Wagtails to N.W. Autumn: Cley, September 16th, great many. Roker (Sunderland), October 3d and 7th. Farn L.H., 23d, E.S.E. (4), great many. Rock Pipit, A. obscurus.—Cley, September 22d, three or four; 23d, several. Golden Oriole, Oriolus galbula.—Thanet, June 9th and 23d (see remarks under ["General Notes"]).

LANIIDÆ.—Red-Backed Shrike, Lanius collurio.—Spring: Thanet, May 23d, female. Autumn: Thanet, August 5th, female. Spurn, 24th and September 1st, young, one each day; 3d and 4th, one each day. Woodchat Shrike, L. auriculatus.—Yarmouth, May, second week, a female, and several others reported further north on east coast (Zoologist, 1886, pp. 27, 28).

MUSCICAPIDÆ.—Spotted Flycatcher, Muscicapa grisola.—Thanet, May 1st, first; October 14th, last (very late). Pied Flycatcher, M. atricapilla.—Spring: Flamborough, May 3d, N.E., great rush with Redstarts, and forward to 6th, "the largest arrival ever known." Spurn, same date, great many, "more numerous than ever known before." Malmo (Sweden), April 29th, two. Autumn: Spurn, August 24th, young; 29th, same. Thanet, 30th, N.E., five or six; again on 31st, and from September 1st to 29th. Cley, September 8th.

HIRUNDINIDÆ.—Swallow, Hirundo rustica.—Spring: Hanois L.H., March 30th, a flight, and from April 15th to May 10th, daily. Flamborough, April 8th, N.N.E. (8), 11.30 A.M., first; Great Cotes 14th, Thanet 20th, Orfordness 20th, Yarmouth 17th, Hunstanton 16th, Spurn 17th, Whitby 19th, Tees L.V. 19th, one from E.S.E. to N.W.; 21st, 8 A.M. to 2 P.M., great many to N.W. from E.S.E., and some Martins, and many at intervals to May 29th in same direction. Languard L.H., May 30th to June 5th. Malmo, Sweden, April 22d. Autumn; Tees L.V., September 15th and 16th, great many to S.W. Spurn, September 2d and 5th, all day in small numbers to S. Hunstanton, 15th and 16th, hundreds all day to S., and throughout September at several stations; were last observed at Languard L.H. October 18th. Flamborough, 18th, several. Great Cotes, 19th. Leman and Ower L.V., 24th. In November, three at Flamborough on 1st. Hunstanton, 14th, one to S.W. Thanet, 15th, one. Martin, Chelidon urbica.—Spring: Tees L.V., April 21st, first; some, with Swallows N.W. to E.S.E.; July 7th, 8th, 11th, great many to N.W., and at several stations in April, May, and June. Autumn: Last at Thanet, November 1st. Sand-Martin, Cotile riparia.—Great Cotes, April 22d. Last at Thanet, November 1st.

FRINGILLIDÆ.—Goldfinch, Carduelis elegans.—Hanois L.H., November 1st, fifty to N.W. Siskin, Chrysomitris spinus.—Yarmouth, abundant in December. Serin Finch, Serinus hortulanus.—Yarmouth, June 14th (Zoologist, 1886, p. 28), probably a male. Greenfinch, Ligurinus chloris.—Curiously only one entry in the schedules. Shipwash L.V., January 24th, 1886, one died on board. Common Sparrow, Passer domesticus.—First at Shipwash L.V., September 22d, 2.30 P.M., great flight of Common Sparrows to N.N.W. Kentish Knock L.V., 27th, forty to W., and on 28th. Newarp L.V., October 8th, noon, thirty. Goodwin East L.V., October 20th, a few House Sparrows during day, and on November 10th to 13th. Corton L.V., October 1st, 11th, 12th, 15th, 19th, 21st, 22d, and November 11th, large numbers, several on vessel. Tree Sparrow, P. montanus.—Longstone L.H.. October 16th, one. Cockle and Kentish Knock L.V.'s, October 4th and 30th, at latter in large numbers. Goodwin and Gull L.V.'s, September 28th, 29th, and October 28th, 30th, great rush. South Sand Head, October 12th, 7 A.M., some to N.W., and on December 2d one. Very few, as a rule, came in north of the Humber. Chaffinch, Fringilla cœlebs.—First at Outer Dowsing L.V. September 18th, one. Arrived mainly in two great flights, October 12th to 16th, and November 10th to 13th, as observed at several stations. Brambling, F. montifringilla.—Spring: Thanet, April 19th, last seen. Autumn: October 14th to 17th, and a second flight November 11th to 12th, practically at the same periods as the former.[9] Linnet, Linota cannabina.—Comparatively few notices, and no Twites. Mealy and Lesser Redpoles, L. linaria and rufescens.—Cockle L.V., October 14th, one. Outer Dowsing L.V., 16th, two. Leman and Ower L.V., 18th, one caught (Mealy Redpoles), flying from E.N.E. to S.W. Spurn, about November 11th, one Mealy Redpole. Hasbro' L.V., November 23d, one Redpole caught. Yarmouth, in December, abundant. It is probable all the notices refer to L. linaria.

[9] Bramblings are reported as having been more plentiful in Lincolnshire and Norfolk than has been the case for very many years. In the Migration Report for 1883, the Hawfinch is recorded at the Inner Dowsing L.V. on November 2d, and at the same station in the previous year on October 20th. I have recently ascertained from Mr William King that he was mistaken in his identification, and that the birds were Bramblings.

EMBERIZINÆ.—Yellow Bunting, Emberiza citrinella.—Whitby, March 16th, great number during week commencing on the 16th. Snow Bunting, Plectrophanes nivalis.—Spring: Tees L.V., March 1st, flocks. Farn L.H., 4th, two. Yarmouth, 22d, four, 3 P.M., on north light. Farn L.H., April 11th, one. Autumn: Cley, September 26th, one, and at several stations in October and November; rushes October 16th and 24th, N.E., half-gale, and November 18th and 25th.

ALAUDIDÆ.—Sky-Lark, Alauda arvensis.—The occurrences are far too numerous to record separately; in some cases the entries fill a considerable portion of the schedules. They are noted at thirty stations on the east coast, sixteen of which are light-vessels. Spring, 1885: Longstone L.H., April 7th, and Cockle L.V., May 6th; some to W. at intervals during the day. Autumn: First at Cockle L.V. September 7th, and sparingly at other stations during the month to the 28th and 29th, when the numbers greatly increased. A very heavy immigration in October, and from the 12th to 20th an almost continuous rush night and day, covering the whole of the east coast; in less numbers in November to the 20th, when the migration appears to have almost ceased. The great bulk appear to have arrived in two enormous and almost continuous flights on October 15th, 16th, 17th, and November 10th and 11th—in the latter case in less numbers; very sparingly in December and up to January 25th, 1886. A strong return migration to the Continent is indicated at the Shipwash L.V. on February 14th and 15th N.E. at night, also during the day on the 15th from W. to E., and at the Newarp L.V. March 19th to 21st, likewise to E. At the same station, from January 25th, 1886, to February 14th, Larks passing to the W. Shore-Lark, Otocorys alpestris.—Yarmouth, November 26th, one found dead; several seen in February. Flamborough, January 4th, 1886, one shot.

STURNIDÆ.—Starling, Sturnus vulgaris.—At twenty-one stations. Dudgeon L.V., July 10th, three young alighted on vessel, and then to W.N.W. None are recorded in August and September till the 28th at Shipwash L.V., some flights; enormous numbers in October, especially from the 12th to 19th, frequently associated with Larks, and large numbers of both killed at the light-vessels; proportionately less in November, with heavy rushes from the 12th to 23d. A very considerable spring migration indicated at Shipwash L.V. both to the E. and W. from February 10th to March 21st, 1886.

CORVIDÆ.—Daw, Corvus monedula.—Longstone L.H., March 12th, N., several to W.; April 3d to W. at dawn. Autumn: At several stations, generally in company with Rooks. Carrion Crow, C. corone.—Tees L.V., October 19th, five; 24th, twelve. Dudgeon L.V., October 5th to November 11th, many with Rooks. Tongue L.V., December 11th, one on deck; great numbers of "Black Crows" are recorded at various stations, which may refer either to this or the Rook. Hooded Crow, C. cornix.—Spring, 1885: Outer Dowsing L.V., March 1st, large flights from W.N.W. to E.S.E. 10 A.M. Hunstanton, April 7th, many near lighthouse. Thanet, 19th, last. Autumn: First at Hasbro' L.V. October 2d, small flocks all day S.E. to N.W. Great numbers in October at various stations, chiefly between the Humber and Thames, and an almost continuous rush between 15th and 17th. A very considerable immigration in November, specially from 9th to 12th. Rook, C. frugilegus.—Longstone L.H., March 11th and 14th, 1885, many to E.; April 4th, 15th, 17th, and 20th, several to W. Cockle L.V., May 2d, continuous flocks during day to N.W., S.W., and N. Northrepps, March 22d and 23d, 1886, Rooks and Crows to E.S.E. Autumn: Immense numbers at various stations in October and November, with continuous rushes corresponding with those of the Grey Crow.[10] Raven, C. corax.—Outer Dowsing L.V., March 6th, 3 A.M., two ravens, one caught. Malmo, Sweden, February 7th, one passing overhead N.E. to S.W.—exactly the same line as observed for nine successive years.

[10] Mr J. H. Gurney, Sen., writes:—"Lord Lilford sends me word that on 20th of March 1886, Mr G. Hunt saw an extraordinary flight of Rooks at Somerton, which he observed from 10.30 A.M. till 6 P.M., when he left, but the flight was still going on. He wrote to Lord Lilford:—'I observed them flying just above the sandhills, going due south, and as far as the eye could see both before and behind there was nothing but Rooks. There would never for one moment of the day be less than a thousand in sight at one time; they kept in a thin wavering line. The coast line here runs due north and south.'" Mr J. H. Gurney, Jun., writes:—"I saw the same Rooks and Grey Crows on the same day in much smaller numbers as were seen at Somerton (Norfolk coast), which is fifteen miles further south. I again saw them on the 21st, 22d, 25th, 26th, 29th, but none after that date. Mr Hunt says they were all Rooks, but with me Grey Crows preponderated; direction to S.E." In connection with this read Mr Gätke's notes of migration as observed at Heligoland and Hanover between March 19th and 25th, 1886, on the last page of his journal.

CYPSELIDÆ.—Swift, Cypselus apus.—Spurn, April 20th, eight on window-sill of tower; 22d, several; June 29th, 11 A.M., fifty round lantern. At Yarmouth May 7th, and Thanet and Hunstanton on 8th, Malmo 10th. Autumn: Many to S. along coast first week in September. Wryneck, Jynx torquilla.—Thanet, April 19th, 25th; May 10th, 18th; June 14th, three distinct arrivals. Farn L.H., May 15th, one picked up dead. Common Roller, Coracias garrulus.—Felthorpe, near Norwich, October 24th, adult female. Cuckoo, Cuculus canorus.—Whitby, April 8th; Hanois L.H., Guernsey, 10th, two; Flambro' 17th, Spurn 18th, Farn L.H. 29th. Malmo May 13th, Tongue L.V. 19th, 10.30 P.M., one struck and killed. Autumn: Hunstanton L.H., July 16th, 2 A.M., N.W., one killed. Roker, August 6th, one young. Spurn, 7th, midnight O.M., one killed; 17th, two young on sandhills. Thanet, 8th, and September 3d and 4th. Farn L.H., August 9th, 6 P.M.

STRIGES.—Barn Owl, Strix flammea.—Tongue L.V., October 20th, 8 A.M., "White Owl" to W. Tees L.V., December 2d, W.S.W., "one Barn Owl." Long-Eared Owl, Asio otus.—Longstone L.H., October 10th, 2 P.M., N.N.E., fresh gale, one ("with wind N. of E., very few migrants are seen"). Farn L.H., October 10th, 6.30 P.M., "Owl" round lantern. Spurn, October 23d, E. and N.E. gale, some, one also shot at Spurn on August 25th. Short-Eared Owl, A. accipitrinus.—Spring: Farn L.H., April 22d, one on rocks. Autumn: In two rushes—October 20th to 23d, November 12th to 14th.

FALCONIDÆ.—Very few notices. Sea-Eagle, Haliaëtus albicilla.—Immature male and female shot in Kent early in November, and another seen. The Spotted Eagle, Aquila nævia, was shot at Cresswell on the Northumberland coast on October 31st. Kite, Milvus ictinus.—Thanet, April 9th, 3.30 P.M., N.W., one flying to W. During the last week in September and early in October (the usual period for the passage of the Falconidæ); a few Peregrines, Kestrels, Merlins, and Sparrow Hawks were observed on migration at various parts of the east coast. Northrepps, March 20th, 1886, two Buzzards, with Rooks to E.S.E.

PELECANIDÆ.—Cormorant, Phalacrocorax carbo.—Spring: Tees L.V., March 1st to 10th, many to north. Whitby L.H., 11th, to north; September 17th, old and young, to S. Leman and Ower L.V., October 4th, forty to fifty, fishing for herring. Gannet, Sula bassana.—Farn L.H., August 22d, 26th, 27th, hundreds fishing off island. Heron, Ardea cinerea.—Coquet L.H., more Herons seen in September to October 12th than had been seen for many years. Outer Dowsing L.V., October 2d, one from E. to W.N.W. Tees L.V., February 28th, two, E. to W. White Stork, Ciconia alba.—Malmo, April 19th, flight, eighteen or twenty, to N.E. Spoonbill, Platalea leucorodia.—Yarmouth, June 4th, one shot at Breydon Water.

ANATIDÆ.—Wild Geese.—Whitby L.H.,May 23d, nine dark-coloured Geese to S.; July 1st, twelve to N.; 12th, five to N. Autumn: Cley, September 7th, nineteen in flock. Llyn Wells L.V., 20th, twelve Geese, from E. by E. Languard L.H., October 6th, flock, low to S.W. South Sand Head and East Side L.V.'s (Goodwins), December 6th and 7th, great numbers, too many to number. Unusually large numbers of Geese seen in North-East Lincolnshire from the first week in October to the end of the year. Swans.—Remarkably scarce. Five were seen on September 27th flying from S. to N. above the Town's Moor at Newcastle, and at Corton L.V. November 29th, 11 A.M., two to W. Ducks, Common Sheldrake, Tadorna cornuta.—Tees L.V., January 1st, 1885, fifty-four and one Coot. Farn L.H., June 20th, two broods off. Garganey Teal, Querquedula circia.—April 3d, one, a male, shot at Breydon, Yarmouth. King Eider, Somateria spectabilis.—Longstone L.H., April 23d, several times seen, was shot on the 25th. Immense numbers of various Ducks are reported at sea during the autumn and winter, flying in various directions. The Pochard, Fuligula ferina, has been unusually plentiful both in Lincolnshire and Norfolk.

COLUMBIDÆ.—Ringdove, Columba palumbus.—Tetney, Lincolnshire coast, October 23d, first flight of Wood Pigeons. Outer Dowsing L.V., November 12th, "seven pigeons" W. to E. Roker, near Sunderland, December 12th, flocks arriving all day from the E. to the woods two miles inland. Mr H. F. Tomalin reports from Northampton, "a great rush of Wood Pigeons crossed this part of the country on October 16th; they were passing continuously, in companies of four to five hundred, in a south-westerly direction." The Stockdove, C. ænas, is reported as exceedingly abundant in Norfolk during the winter of 1885-1886. Turtle Dove, Turtur communis.—Thanet, May 13th, first.

RALLIDÆ.—Water-Rail, Rallus aquaticus.—Farn L.H., October 15th, one; 31st, E.S.E. (4), one. Leman and Ower L.V., 19th, 11 A.M., one killed. Spotted Crake, Porzana maruetta.—Spurn, October 23d, one. Stone Curlew, Œdicnemus scolopax.—Spurn, August 22d, one seen on mud flats.

CHARADRIIDÆ.—Golden Plover, Charadrius pluvialis.—Besides the usual autumn arrivals there was a distinct immigration in December. Tongue L.V., December 14th, 5 A.M., one struck rigging and killed. Thanet, 16th, 3.20 P.M., S.W., flocks of thirty to forty from E. Grey Plover, Squatarola helvetica.—Spurn, August 26th, small flock in summer plumage. Longstone L.H., September 5th, N.W., three killed. Cley, 22d, W.S.W., calm, flock. Kentish Plover, Ægialitis cantiana.—Yarmouth, May 3d, three at Breydon. Languard L.H., June 30th, 6.30 A.M., two. Dotterel, Eudromias morinellus.—Spring: Great Cotes, May 14th, seven; 16th, live. Lapwing, Vanellus vulgaris.—First at Whitby, September 12th, large flock, old and young, to S. Yarmouth, October 2d, S.W., strong, flocks coming in. Orfordness, 8th, rush, and on 11th the same during night. Whitby, 16th, very large flock. Llyn Wells L.V., 21st and 22d, rush all day to N., and on November 1st, 2d, 3d. Dudgeon L.V., November 10th and 11th, great rush. Hasbro' L.V., 11th to 12th, night, and 22d to 23d, night, great rush to W. and W.N.W. Leman and Ower L.V., 12th and 15th, flights to N.W. and W.

SCOLOPACIDÆ.—Woodcock, Scolopax rusticula.—Spring: Farn L.H., April 11th, 10.30 P.M., one struck, not killed. Autumn: "First flight," October 16th, 17th, E. and N.E., cold, rain and stormy, covering the whole of the coast from Farn to Thanet, "Great flight" on night of 22d and 23d, and 23d and 24th October, E. and N.E. gale, large numbers striking the east coast at Longstone L.H.. Coquet L.H., Teesmouth, Whitby, Flamborough (swarmed). Spurn (seventy-nine shot by one party morning of 24th). Lincolnshire coast, great numbers. Yarmouth, less. This flight was composed of the small, dark, reddish Scandinavian bird, and the same applies also to the later flights on the east coast. Other arrivals were Farn L.H., October 31st, seven. Longstone L.H., November 4th, eleven. Farn L.H., same date, W.N.W. (4), seven. Leman and Ower L.V., November 13th, one killed. Thanet, November 11th and 12th. Yarmouth, November 20th, many, and a few at various stations to end of month, and also in December. A flight is recorded during the last week in January 1886, at Northrepps and Thanet. Double Snipe, Gallinago major.—Longstone L.H., September 15th, one. Common Snipe, G. cœlestis.—Spring: Longstone L.H., April 3d, S.W., two, to E. Autumn: Yarmouth, September 12th, W., strong, many. Farn L.H., October 31st. Dudgeon L.V., November 11th, rush; and North-East Lincolnshire, on 24th, very large numbers. Jack-Snipe, G. gallinula.—Lincolnshire coast, September 23d. Farn L.H., October 12th, N.N.E., and again on 31st. Longstone L.H., 17th, and November 11th; and East Lincolnshire, November 24th, great rush with Common Snipe. Dunlin, Tringa alpina.—Spring: Yarmouth, May 10th, large flocks in summer plumage. Autumn: Languard L.H., August 1st, very large flock, the first. Redcar, September 27th, in flocks all day to W. Little Stint, T. minuta.—Cley , September 7th to 10th, several. Yarmouth, 8th, a few. Temminck's Stint, T. temmincki.—Yarmouth, September 8th, one. Pygmy Curlew, T. subarquata.—Roker, August 6th, 3 P.M., W., two. Knot, T. canutus.—Longstone L.H., August 14th, shot in summer plumage. Spurn, 20th, a few in summer plumage. Yarmouth, September 6th, large flight. Redcar, 10th, W. half gale, flock; 12th, two flocks, young birds. Cley, 22d, large flock. Puff, Machetes pugnax.—Spring: Yarmouth, June 4th, four shot in summer plumage. Autumn: Redcar, August 31st, one young Puff. Cley, September 12th, several Peeves seen, one shot. Lincolnshire coast, October 3d, one Peeve shot. Sanderling, Calidris arenaria.—Spring: Yarmouth, April 6th, many in company with Ringed Plover. Return, Spurn August 12th. Common Sandpiper, Totanus hypoleucus.—Spurn, August 27th. Cley, September 10th, many. Green Sandpiper, T. ochropus.—Spurn, August 22d to 26th. Yarmouth, same date, many. Wood Sandpiper, T. glareola.—Yarmouth, August 22d. Common Redshank, T. calidris.—Tees L.V., August 2d, many. Spotted Redshank, T. fuccus.—Yarmouth, August 22d, one shot. Greenshank, T. canescens.—Spring: Yarmouth, April 26th, at Breydon. Autumn: Spurn, August 24th, young female. Bar-tailed Godwit, Limosa lapponica.—Spurn, August 20th, in summer plumage. Yarmouth, September 8th, several Godwits on coast. Cley, September 12th to 25th, a constant succession. Black-tailed Godwit, L. ægocephala.—Cley, September 15th, old bird shot. Whimbrel, Numenius phœopus.—Spring: Great Cotes, May 16th, many. Autumn: Tees L.V., August 2d and 15th. Redcar, 12th, last on September 11th. Yarmouth, August 19th, many. Roker, near Sunderland, August 31st and September 1st, very high. Longstone L.H., September 20th, two. Cley, September 23d, last. Curlew, N. arquata.—Spring: Whitby, April 9th, 11.30 P.M., great flock round light. Autumn: Tees L.V., August 15th. Whitby, September 12th, to south. Orfordness L.H., October 8th, night, large numbers, one killed. Dudgeon L.V., October 21st, 3 A.M., about lantern; and November 25th, ten, S.E. to N.W. Leman and Ower L.V., October 29th, to S.; November 12th, to S.W., rush; 13th, one killed. East Goodwin L.V., November 12th, one killed.

LARIDÆ.—Arctic Tern, Sterna macrura.—Longstone L.H. May 15th, first heard. August 9th, most left breeding haunts. September 2d, a few about. Little Tern, S. minuta.—Spring: Spurn, April 15th, first. May 5th, many. Yarmouth, April 25th and 26th, on Breydon. Languard L.H., May 9th, two. Sandwich Tern, S. cantiaca.—Farn L.H., April 12th, first heard. August 9th, "most have left breeding places." September 1st to 30th, great flocks all round islands. Terns.—Redcar, August 12th, all day passing; 13th, less. September 4th, great many common Terns at sea; 11th, the same. Yarmouth, September 14th, flocks of young Terns to S. 22d May, at sea, going S.

LARINÆ.—Gulls.—Whitby, February 10th, Herring Gulls first came to cliffs early morning; July 9th, first young on wing; August 29th, young and old left for sea. Farn L.H., April 12th, Lesser Black-Backed Gulls first returned to nesting quarters. Little Gull, Larus minutus.—Redcar, September 9th, one young shot. Flamborough, October 3d, three shot. Languard L.H., September 3d, two "Cream-Coloured Gulls," the first seen here.

STERCORARIINÆ.—Skuas.—Farn L.H., August 11th, several chasing Terns. September 10th, two Buffon's Skua. Redcar, August 13th, one Richardson's Skua; 31st, two or three; September 7th and 10th, very plentiful at sea. Longstone L.H., September 2d, many Skua along shore. Cley, 25th, some Skua seen. Llyn Wells L.V., October 10th, 7 A.M. to 9.30 P.M., flock of 130 "Boatswain Skua;" 13th, flocks of Gulls and Skua. February 8th, 1886, great numbers of Skua Gulls.

PROCELLARIIDÆ.—Storm Petrel, Procellaria pelagica.—Languard L.H., October 25th, 2.15 A.M., one caught. Farn L.H., October 31st, S.S.E., one struck, not killed; November 10th, S., one at daylight on gallery. Kentish Knock L.V., November 11th, night, several. South Sand Head L.V., 11th, two on board. Hasbro' L.V., 12th, twenty all night, four killed. Coquet L.H., November 14th, N.W. (six), one caught on lantern. Shearwater.—Longstone L.H., September 2d, one, all black, seen. Fulmar Petrel, Fulmarus glacialis.—Yarmouth, October 31st, caught at sea. Redcar, three shot early in November.

ALCIDÆ.—Common Guillemot, Lomvia troile.—Flambro', February 5th, 1885, great number off breeding quarters. Longstone L.H., March 7th, many on the rocks, "are seven days earlier than in 1884." Farn L.H., February 25th, "thousands flying near nesting haunts." April 12th, "have taken to rocks." November 28th several Black Guillemot off island. Little Auk, Mergulus alle.—Longstone, October 14th, two. Puffin, Fratercula arctica.—Farn L.H., April 12th, returned to nesting quarters. Longstone, 14th, first seen, "four days earlier than last year."

COLYMBIDÆ.—Farn L.H., September 18th, two Great Northern Divers to N. December 13th, several Red-Throated Divers and two Great Northern Divers off island. Podicipitidæ, Farn L.H., September 15th, Red-Necked Grebe seen off island.

General Notes.

With reference to the rush of birds on October 16th and 17th, Mr Thomas O. Hall of the Longstone L.H. writes:—"October 16th. Starlings and Redwings commenced to come at 1.30 A.M., and continued to daylight; after that they continued to come all day, but not in large numbers. One Tree Sparrow. Wind easterly. October 17th. An enormous rush of Redwing and Starling; not many of the other kinds, only a few Blackbirds and Larks. One Woodcock was injured against the lantern, one Jacksnipe killed, also one Brambling. One female Redstart seen. Several Woodcock were shot on the adjacent islands by a boat from shore, so that there was a large flight. The rush of birds was continuous from 1.45 A.M. to 5.30 A.M. The greater part of the Starlings caught were young birds. There were also some Knot flying round the lantern, but none struck. The wind was east, with drizzling rain." Again, with regard to the November rush which was continuous on the 10th and 11th:—"November 8th. A few Redwings and Larks heard after dark, and one Fieldfare on the gallery at midnight. Wind S. to S.W., moderate. 9th. A few Fieldfare heard through the morning, and two Skylarks seen at 10.30 A.M. Several Fieldfare and Knot flying round from 6 P.M. till midnight; one Skylark and one Fieldfare caught. Wind from S.W. to S.S.E., and at midnight S.S.E. 10th. Fieldfares flying more plentifully than in fore part of the night, but not striking. No other birds seen. The flight of Fieldfares continued all day, one flock of fifty and another of two hundred passed in afternoon, also five Blackbirds and one Corby Crow in the afternoon. The Fieldfare continued up to 10.38 P.M., when the weather became clearer. One of the large Snipe struck S.E. side of lantern at 9.45 P.M., and was almost smashed to pieces; one Dunlin also killed; wind S. by E. to S.E. by S. 11th. Fieldfares, Redwings, and Blackbirds coming all day and all through the night, also Skylarks. One Jacksnipe killed. Wind from S. round by E. to N.E., light, with passing showers of drizzle. 12th. The same birds as yesterday still coming all day, and continuing up to 11 P.M.; wind from S.W. to W. by N., moderate. At 1 P.M. one Snow Bunting and a Brambling."

Farn L.H.—Mr Thomas H. Cutting:—January 1st, 1886. "Very large flocks of Golden Plover to and from land, a good many Mallard and several Snipe on island; westerly gales, hail and snow, with severe frosts. I was shown a bird picked up on the main shore about three weeks previously, which I identified as a Fulmar Petrel. I remember one being captured about nine years ago."

Coquet Island L.H.—Mr William Evans:—"October 17th. Hundreds of Blackbirds, Thrushes, Starlings, Larks, three Woodcock, one Snipe flying round lantern; one Woodcock killed, and one hundred Blackbirds, Thrushes, Starlings, and Larks."

Dudgeon L.V.—Mr J. F. Warder:—"Seagulls and Puffins are very thin at the Dudgeon Station. Skua Gulls are seldom seen here summer or winter."

Leman and Ower L.V.—Mr John Bowen (Mate):—"November 13th. Large numbers of birds at midnight round the ship and lantern. West (3), O. M. One Curlew, one Woodcock, one Blackbird, three Starlings, four Thrushes, fourteen Redwings, twelve Larks, and one Finch killed; the rest went away at daylight to N.W.

Hasbro' L.V.—Mr B. V. Darnell and J. Nicholas:—"June 7th, 4 P.M., S.S.E. (2), O. M., one Deaths-head Moth caught alive; several small White Moths and Black Flies rested."

Languard Point L.H.—Mr Owen Boyle:—"July 4th, at 9.35 P.M., millions of very small brown-coloured Flies pitched on lantern glass, and to keep the glass clear they had to be washed off. They sting like a mosquito. Wind S. (1), B. C. M."

Hanois L.H., Guernsey.—Mr Charles Williams:—"April 10th, 1885, Cuckoo, two seen on the island, and several Swallows, Whitethroats, and Blue Titmouse, Yellow Wagtails, Yellow Buntings, and Wheatears. The west end of the island was all alive with birds of passage. The morning fine; wind N., light." "September 13th. S.E., cloudy. Silver-gamma Moth all the evening flying about lantern." "September 17th. N.E. (4), O. R. Golden-crested Wrens, Redstarts, Wheatears, Wagtails, Whitethroats, Blackcaps, and Swallows after midnight; a great many killed, and fell into the water." "22d. Winged Ants flying past lighthouses, some settled. S.E., B. C. V., 2 P.M."

In the great rush, October 15th, 16th, E.N.E. (4 to 5), O. M., the species actually shown by the schedules as on migration over the North Sea, were Redwing, Starling, Tree-sparrow, Blackbird, Lark, Thrush, Fieldfare, Water-rail, Hawk, Redbreast, Woodcock, Goldcrest, Snipe, Gray Crow, Snow-Bunting, Ring-Ousel, Chaffinch, Carrion Crow, Wheatear, Rook, Linnet, Hedge-Sparrow, Common Sparrow, Brambling, Short-eared Owl, Knot, Wild Geese, and Jacksnipe; and on November 10th, 11th, S. by E. to N.E., drizzly. Missel Thrush, Blackbird, Grey Crow, Thrush, Redwing, Snipe, Dunlin, Fieldfare, Stormy Petrel, Lark, Lapwing, Goldcrest, Starling, Curlew, Stonechat, Rook, Daw, Ducks, Sparrow, Redbreast, Titmice, Short-eared Owl, Tree Pipit, Snow-bunting, and Brambling, with doubtless many others not distinguished at the time.

From Malmo, Sweden.—Mr Frank E. Newton sends a cutting from a Gotland newspaper, of which the following is a translation:—"A curious circumstance happened at the F[)a]rö Lighthouse on the 20th October. About 8.30 in the evening a sharp report was heard by the man on watch. He immediately went up to the lantern to ascertain the cause, when he found two of the panes of glass broken into small pieces, as well as three "Alfoglar" (Long-Tailed Ducks, Harelda glacialis) lying dead inside. There were also three lamp glasses broken, and a third pane of glass cracked in many places. On the ground below lay nine more birds of the same sort. The Ducks had come from a northerly direction. The flight must have been at a remarkable speed, as the quarter-inch thick glass was smashed into many small pieces."

Schedules have been sent in since the writing of the report from Inner Farn L.H.—Mr Thomas H. Cutting—ranging from February 11th to March 30th, 1886, and recording a large migration of Skylarks during the forenoon on February 19th to the W.; also the movements of Blackbirds, Thrushes, Common Wrens, Lapwing, Snipe, Starlings, Golden Plover, Daws, and "Black Crows." A pair of Wheatears on February 22d, at 5 P.M., and again a pair on March 25th. A small flock of Snow-Bunting on March 13th, and three Fieldfare on the .30th.

Galloper L.V.—Mr P. Frost:—From January 21st to April 12th, 1886, is specially interesting as recording the enormous migration of Larks and Starlings, and in less numbers of Chaffinches, Sparrows, Linnets, and Plover. On the nights of January 21st to 23d, two hundred and twenty-six were killed. Unfortunately Mr Frost fails to state the directions of flights, but, judging from the entries in the schedules sent in by other light-vessels on the south-east coast, they refer to birds on passage both to the Continent and our own shores.

Newarp L.V.—Messrs C. Campbell and W. Rees:—From October 21st to March 21st, 1886, up to February 14th. Crows, Starlings, Larks, Chaffinches, Blackbirds, Thrushes, Fieldfares, Bramblings, and Linnets in greater or less numbers to the W., ceasing on December 11th, and again recommencing on January 23d to February 14th, and then from March 5th to 21st, Starlings, Larks, and Crows passing to the E.

Swin Middle L.V.—Messrs Pender and J. Barrett:—From January 21st to April 3d, 1886; between January 21st to February 15th. Immense flights of Larks, generally during the night, and large numbers killed; also Starlings, Sparrows, and some Chaffinches. On January 24th, five flocks of small birds travelling from N.W. to S.E. On the night of February 14th to 15th, Larks still in great numbers, ninety on deck, and a great many falling into the water, "for two hours the Larks were like a shower of snow." March 28th and 29th, and April 1st, 2d, 3d, Chaffinches at intervals during the morning three or four together, all were male birds, only one female seen. "Ducks" (probably Scoters) "can be seen from this vessel eight or nine months in the year, but on February 10th, 11th, 12th, we had calms and fogs, and the Ducks sat on the water, covering about a mile, the water being black with them."

Lord Clifton writes:—"About twenty Swallows were picked up dead after the northerly gales and rain of October 13th and 14th. Seven were found huddled together alive in a duck's nesting-box in a stable, and one was found dead in a slipper in a bedroom, so desperate were the efforts of the poor birds to find warmth and shelter. House Martins were similarly overtaken." "Golden Oriole."—"On June 9th a bricklayer thought he saw one, and on the 23d a woodcutter said he both saw one and heard it whistle; our people about here are familiar with the general appearance of the bird from its having bred in this park in 1874 and 1875."

General Remarks.

A special point of interest in the report for the East Coast of England was the large arrival of Pied Flycatchers at Spurn and Flamborough in the first week in May 1885, with a north-east wind. This immigration extended northward as far as the Pentland Skerries (see Report from the [East Coast of Scotland]). At Flamborough the Flycatchers were accompanied by male Redstarts.

There was an enormous arrival of Redwings, commencing at the Farn Islands on September 15th, and continued throughout October and November to the first week in December, and covering the whole east coast of England. There was also an immense immigration of Fieldfares, which was specially observed at the Longstone L.H. from November 8th to 11 P.M. on the 12th.

Scarcely second to these in importance was the immense flight of Bramblings, the bulk of which arrived in two great rushes between October 14th and 17th and on November 11th and 12th; this species being reported as more plentiful in the eastern counties than ever previously recorded.

The main body of Woodcocks arrived in two great rushes, the "first flight" on the night of October 16th to 17th, covering the east coast from the Farn Islands to Thanet, and the "great flight" on October 22d to 23d and 23d to 24th between the same islands and Yarmouth. After this. Woodcocks kept dropping in at intervals up to the end of January 1886.

It has been remarked in previous reports that the migration of a species extends over many weeks, and in some cases is extended for months. Yet it is observable that, at least on the east coast of England, year by year, the bulk or main body of the birds which strike the coast come in two enormous and almost continuous rushes during the second and third weeks in October and the corresponding weeks in November. Continued observation also proves that the earlier arrivals, as a rule, refer to the young of the year, and the later to old birds, but with many exceptions.

Birds also continue persistently, year by year, to follow the same lines of flight both in the spring and autumn, and at least nine-tenths of the arrivals at the latter season come directly from the east or from points south of east, moving to the west and north-west. In the spring, when leaving the east coast, they travel in the reverse direction, but still following the old lines. The occurrences of migrants coming from points north of east is quite exceptional.

The fact of a double migration or passage of birds of the same species across the North Sea in the spring and autumn, both to the E. and S.E. and W. and N.W., is very clearly established (see General Remarks, 1884 Report, East Coast of England, pp. 69 and 70). This phenomenon is regularly recorded on the whole of the east coast, but specially observable at those light-vessels which are stationed in the south-east district included in this report; at the same time, it is invariably persistent and regular year by year.

An examination of the reports, seven in number, already issued by the Committee, will show the extreme regularity and precision in time during which the migration of each species is carried on. This applies both to the vernal and autumnal passage; in the vast majority of cases the commencement of the migration occurring on the same day, or within a few days, of a fixed period, so that it would not be difficult to tabulate in advance with almost certainty the normal movement or migration of each species.

The arrivals of rare and occasional visitants have been unusually few; perhaps those of chief interest are the occurrences of the Arctic Bluethroat and Desert Chat at Spurn, the Black-Bellied Dipper in Lincolnshire, the Woodchat Shrike, Serin Finch, and Spoonbill in Norfolk, and the Spotted Eagle in Northumberland.

In the spring the earliest occurrence of our summer visitants is as frequently recorded at the northern as at the southern stations; instance the arrival in 1885 of the Swallow at Spurn on April 8th; the Swift, several, on April 20th; and the Cuckoo at Whitby on April 8th; and in 1886 the arrival of Wheatears at the Farn Islands on February 2 2d. The line of migration of the latter, as yearly observed at the Tees L.V., is from S.E. to N.W.

Addenda to "General Notes," East Coast of England.

Leman and Ower L.V.—Mr T. Artis:—March 19th to 28th, 1886. On March 19th and 25th "Black Crows" N.W. to S.E.; and between March 19th to 28th, Skylarks, Starlings, Chaffinches, and others to W. March 28th, at 9 P.M., S.S.E., fog. One Fieldfare, three Starlings, three Chaffinches, one Woodcock, and three Bramblings killed. Mr Artis also remarks, under date of April 13th, 1886, 5 P.M. and 7 P.M.:—"I have to inform you that this afternoon, being a calm at the time, I saw close to my vessel, about three ship's length off, a very large creature which I believe was some sort of a whale. I never saw such a fish near the Leman and Ower banks (18 fathoms) before. It appeared to be larger than the ship, and came from the N.W., going S.E., and at 7 P.M. he was surrounded by spring herrings—some thousands—leaping out of the water from three to four feet. It was a beautiful sight."

There is a very interesting schedule, which is carried forward to the next report (1886), from the Longstone L.H., Mr Thomas O. Hall. A Woodcock was flushed on the 3d of April on the rock, which flew E. On April 7th, at 9.30 A.M., two flocks of Hooded Crows passed to mainland, wind W., strong; and on the 13th a small flock of Books passed to mainland at 7.30 A.M., wind S.E. and E. There was a great flight of Fieldfares, Redstarts, and Wheatears, and other kinds, round the lantern between 12 and 1 A.M. on the 28th April. As soon as the wind shifted to the N.E. all the birds left.

HELIGOLAND.

Ornithological Almanac for 1885.[11]

[11] Contributed by Mr Gätke.

January

1st and 2d.—

3d.—Fringilla chloris, very many. Alauda arvensis and Turdus pilaris, numerous.

4th to 8th.—Guillemots on hatching ridges in rocks by thousands.

9th and 10th.—

11th, evening, N.E.—Extensive migration during the night: Numenius, Char. auratus, Tringa.

12th, N.E., light wind, 1 deg. frost, a little snow.—Fring. chloris, very many; cannabina and montium, fewer; Turdus pilaris, iliacus, merula, and viscivorus, numerous, the latter individually. Anth. pratensis, pretty many; Num. arquata and Char. auratus, all numerous, migrating overhead.

13th, S.E., fine.—Fring. chloris, again very many, twenty at one shot; cannabina and montium, also very many; Turdus pilaris and Alauda arvensis, also very many; Sturnus, fifty to sixty.

14th, N.E., heavy, thick, overcast.—Nothing.

Up to 27th, frost 3-5 deg., fine weather.—During the whole time only stray birds: Sturnus merula, Al. arvensis, Emb. miliaria.

28th, 29th, 30th, S.W., overcast, mild.—Fr. chloris, very many. Merula, pilaris, Sturnus, Al. arvensis, many passing on.

February

1st and 2d.—Nothing.

3d.—Al. arvensis, extraordinary many. Fr. chloris and cannabina, also many. T. merula, musicus, iliacus, also pretty many. Char. auratus, Num. arquata, many passing on.

4th, southerly.—All the above, but considerably fewer. Corv. frugilegus, a swarm of at least one hundred.

Till 9th westerly wind, often fog.—Nothing. 9th, Guillemots in rocks.

10th, 11th, 12th, S.E. and S.—Nothing. Stray merula. Many Fr. chloris.

13th to 17th, S.W., fog.—Turd. viscivorus, ten or twelve on 17th. C. frugilegus, a great flight.

Up to 23d.—Nothing passing.

24th, S.S.W., still, fine weather.—Mot. lugubris, one [male]. Sax. rubicola, several [male]. Anth. rupestris and pratensis. Alauda arvensis, few. Arborea, a couple.

25th, S.W., clear, fine; in evening south.—Corvus monedula, a tolerably great flight. Turd. merula and iliacus, pretty many. Viscivorus, ten to fifteen. Sax. rubicola, [male]. Anth. pratensis and rupestris, pretty many. Al. arvensis, a great many. Arborea, a few. Fring. chloris and cannabina, numerous. Scol. rusticula, one.

26th, S.W., early fog; P.M. clear, fine.—Corv. frugilegus, ten thousands. Cornix, few. Sturnus, many. Merula, few. Alauda passing on overhead. S. rubicola, several Fr. chloris, cannabina, cœlebs, many, particularly the first. F. domesticus, a great flight passing high overhead eastward. Anth. pratensis and rupestris, many. Mot. lugubris, a fine [male]. Char. auratus, vanellus, and hiaticula. Fr. alpina and. Num. arquata all migrating in great numbers.

27th, S., S.S.E. forenoon, fog; P.M. clear, fine.—All the above, but less in number. Mot. lugubris, fine [male].

28th, S.W., still, dense fog.—Corv. frugilegus, flights overhead passing. Sax. rubicola, two in the garden. Mot. lugubris, fine old [male]. Emb. schœniclus, a few. Anser cinereus, seventeen passing low overhead.

March

1st, early, 8 to 9, fog, still; later, N., light, clear; P.M., N.W., fresh.—Merula, early a couple hundreds.

2d.—F. peregrinus, one old bird. Accentor, several in the garden.

3d, S.S.W. to S.E.—F. tinnunculus. Corv. frugilegus, many. Cornix, few. Alauda arvensis, Anth. pratensis and rupestris, few. Fr. cannabina, many. Chloris, fewer. Char. vanellus, ten to fifteen. Auratus, a couple.

4th.—Almost nothing: A few Al. arvensis and alpestris. Emb. schœniclus and nivalis.

5th, N.W., light, overcast.—F. æsalon, one old 6. Corv. frugilegus and Sturnus, not many. Merula, several. Al. arvensis, very many, numerous flights overload passing. Mot. lugubris, a few females and young male. Emb. schœniclus, several. Char. vanellus, thousands. Auratus, hundreds. Hiaticula, twenty to fifty. Num. arquata and Fring. alpina, many. Scol. rusticula, one.

6th, N.E., fresh, little wet snow.—Milvus, one. Sturnus, merula, and scolopax, several. Al. arvensis, several large flights. Ans. albifrons, one, one year old.

7th, N.W. to W., clear, cold 1 deg.—F. æsalon, one [male]. Sturnus and Alauda, stray birds. Anth. pratensis and rupestris, somewhat more.

8th, W., S.W.; in evening fog.—Nothing. A few Mot. lugubris. Few Sturnus. One Woodcock.

9th, N.N.W., windy, cold, now and then fine snow, and clear.—Corv. cornix, little flights. Mot. lugubris, a couple. Two Woodcocks.

10th, N.W., fresh, loose scattered clouds, cold.—Nothing.

11th, N.N.W., fresh; P.M., N.E., clear, cold.—Merula and Sturnus, a few.

12th, W.N.W., slight wind, thick, almost fog.—Merula, Anth. pratensis and rupestris, a few.

13th, N.W., fresh, misty.—Almost not a bird. A few miserable Pewits.

14th, N.N.W. to N., fresh, cold.—Nothing. A few Mot. alba.

15th, N.N.W., windy, cold, overcast; in evening fog till 1.30 A.M.—T. merula, tolerable, ten caught in bush, 8 old [male], 2 [female]. Sturnus, flights. Mot. alba, singly. Vanellus, early, some flights. Four to five Woodcocks. Several Snipes and Plover.

16th, W., violent, cold, overcast; in evening clear.—Corv. cornix, six to ten. Sturnus, till nine in morning; flights of hundreds and thousands. Merula, a few hundred. Iliacus, fewer. Mot. alba, few. Anth. rupestris, some. Pratensis, none. Al. arvensis, many. Fr. cœlebs and cannabina, few. Char. vanellus and auratus passing on overhead. Woodcocks, three shot. Tr. alpina, early, great flights.

From two o'clock till daylight at Lighthouse.—Sturnus vulgaris, extraordinary many, 300 to 400 being caught. Merula, very many, Alauda, Char. vanellus and auratus, also very many. Also ducks.

17th, W., fresh, overcast, cold; P.M. wind heavy.—Nothing.

18th, and 19th, W. and N.W., windy, very cold.—Nothing.

20th, W.S.W., very heavy, thick.—Nothing.

21st, N.W. to N., stormy, hail showers.—Nothing.

22d and 23d, N.E., hail, snow.—Nothing.

24th, E. by N., light, clear; in evening frost.—Nothing.

25th, E. by S., light, overcast.—Nothing.

26th, calm, overcast; in evening clear and cold, S.E., light.

F. peregrinus, one. Corv. cornix, very many. T. merula, less, nearly all old Scol. rusticula, thirty to forty shot. Ral. aquaticus, a couple. Sax. ænanthe, some [male]. Alauda alpestris, great flights. Fr. cœlebs, cannabina, and chloris, pretty many. Anth. pratensis and rupestris, do. Vanellus and Tr. alpina passing on overhead early.

27th, S.S.W. violent, overcast, cold; in evening ten o'clock fog.—F. æsalon [male]. Lanius major, one. Corv. cornix, early, a few great flights, very high, 1000 feet, passing on. Turdus, Fringilla, Anthus, stray birds. Sax. ænanthe, a couple old [male]. Fr. montana, some (the first). Col. palumbus, pretty many. Vanellus, early, pretty many. Scolopax, twenty to thirty been shot.

28th, N.N.W., slight; early overcast, later clear, fine.—Corv. cornix, single flights. Sturnus, some flights. Merula, pretty many, only half of them black. Musicus, some. Alauda, Fringilla, Anthus, few. Alauda alpestris, some flights. Woodcocks, 140 to 150 being shot. Sy. rufa, two in garden.