Chapter II: Part 2

In the autumn, at Sumburgh Head, Pentland Skerries, Bell Rock, and Isle of May. All July records, three in number, at Pentland Skerries, of "Sparrowhawk," "Large Brown Hawk," and "Large Hawk." In August five records, three at Isle of May of Sparrowhawk and "Hawks"; one at Pentland Skerries of "Falcon Hawk"; and one at Sumburgh Head of one Large Brown Hawk. The "Falcon Hawk" is described as "hovering," so is more likely a _Kestrel Hawk_. In September ten records; two at Pentland Skerries, two "Hawks" and one "Game Hawk," and at Isle of May one Sparrowhawk caught at gratings, and a "Hawk." Hawks are usually found attending the rush of small migrants. In October only one record, a Game Hawk at Pentland Skerries; four in November, all at Pentland Skerries. None in December, and five in January, 1884. One bird Mr. Agnew "feels almost sure was a Goshawk, and not a Sparrowhawk." The rush, if any, would appear to be in September, but its faintness precludes us from any feeling of certainty. A late schedule from Sumburgh Head contains record of an Eagle ["Silver-crested Eagle"; probably the Sea Eagle] wounded at Fitful Head by Mr. Birnie. At 11.15 a.m. on January 29th, 1884, this bird landed on the high rocks, half a mile north of the Read. Mr. Birnie says it cannot live long, as it was severely wounded. Mr. Birnie is employed by the landed proprietors to kill all the birds of prey in Shetland. He has killed a large number of Black-backed Gulls, Hooded Crows, Ravens, &c.

Water Birds.

Pelecanidæ.--In entering records of Gannets or Solan Geese I believe the best way is to arrange the data in tabular form. Spring records are only returned from Pentland Skerries; but, considering the central position on the tract through the Pentland Firth, I think all records from there are of use and value, if we desire to arrive at conclusions regarding the movements of this species.

_Spring,_

March 26th, Pentland Skerries, three Gannets flying E.; strong
N.E., and clear.

April 6th, Pentland Skerries, one Gannet, 4.45 p.m., flying E.;
light W., clear.

May 7th, Pentland Skerries, continuous flocks of Gannets all day,
flying E.; strong N., haze.

May 16th, Pentland Skerries, continuous flocks of Gannets all day,
flying E.; light N.E., clear.

May 28th, Pentland Skerries, several Gannets all day flying round;
strong S., showers.

April 12th, Noss Head, four Gannets flying N.; light N.W., haze.

June 28th, Noss Head, six Gannets flying S.E.; light S., fog.

_Autumn._

July 1st to 15th, Auskerry, at 2 o'clock, flying from N. to S.;
light W. breeze.

July 5th, Pentland Skerries, 8.20 p.m., flying E.; mod. E., fog and
rain.

July 6th, Pentland Skerries, all day, several flocks flying E.;
light S., haze.

July 6th, Pentland Skerries, a few fishing all day round L.; light
S., haze.

July 7th, Pentland Skerries, several flocks fishing all day; mod.
S.E., haze.

July 8th, Pentland Skerries, continuous flocks all day flying E.;
mod. W., clear.

July 15th, Pentland Skerries, continuous flocks all day flying E.;
mod. W., clear.

July 16th to 20th to 26th, Pentland Skerries, continuous flocks all
day flying E.;[4] light N.W. to mod. N.

July 27th, on to Aug., Pentland Skerries, continuous flocks all day
flying E.; N. to S.W.; and all this month, all going E., except
several flocks on 22nd flying W.

[Footnote 4: On 16th a few young observed. All flying E., except six seen on the 20th, flying W.]

Sept. 3rd to 15th, Pentland Skerries, fewer, all flying S.W. on
15th; light S.E., wind.

Sept. 5th to 30th, Noss Head, daily, flocks of six to fifty flying
N. all day.

Oct. 19th, Noss Head, nineteen at 3 p.m.; strong W., haze and rain.

Nov. 10th, Sumburgh Head, eight flying S., 12 noon; fresh N.
breeze, hail.

The annual regularity with which the Solan Geese pass and repass through the Pentland Firth and various other points of observation cannot, we think, fail to develop, by the statistics accumulated, some curious facts in migration. We are thus careful to record these with some minuteness of detail. A late schedule from Sumburgh Head has--"Two on 16th, Sumburgh Head. Eighteen Gannets flying S.W., 12 noon; strong W., showers."

Ardeidæ.--We do not think it will be so easy, in regard to Herons, to arrive at laws regulating their flights; but, in case of development, will on this occasion tabulate their records, though we have not done so before.

_Spring._

March 29th, Pentland Skerries, one flying N., 3 p.m.: S. gale, rain.

June 13th, Isle of May, one flying S., 5 p.m., in company with
Gulls, which is rare.

June 24th, Isle of May, one flying S., 5 p.m.; light W., clear.

_Autumn._

Aug. 26th, Isle of May, one flying W.; light W., clear.

Sept. 12th, Pentland Skerries, four flying about island (rare);
light S., clear.

Oct. 15th, Pentland Skerries, one rose off rocks, 4.15 p.m.

Oct. 23rd, Isle of May, one; fair W., clear.

Nov. 1st, Pentland Skerries, one flying S., 7.50 a.m.; light N.W.,
cloudy.

Jan. 29th, Sumburgh Head, six (one shot); fair W., clear.

There was a very large movement of Herons in 1882, principally in October and November (see Report, 1882, p. 18).

Anatidæ.--Very few records either in spring or autumn. Spring: none. Autumn: Swans on Aug. 15th, at Tarbat Ness, two from the N., flying S.E. at 1 p.m.; N. strong, and clear. The only other records are in October, a large flock flying E. past Pentland Skerries at 12.20 p.m., with light W. and showers, "very rarely seen here." On 19th, Ducks (sp.?), three flying W. over same station at 10.30 a.m.; strong N.W. wind. On 13th, Eiders at Isle of May in large flocks, both males and females, all day; strong due S.; left at night. At Chanonry, local movements of Grey Geese and Grey Ducks to and fro in stormy weather, or from feeding to nesting ground. At Sumburgh Head, twenty-eight wild Geese flying S.; strong S.W., and snow on 25th; and on 28th sixteen wild Geese, also flying S.; gale from N.W. _Land Notes._--At Kirkwall, twenty-five wild Swans frequented the Loch of Banks, and are described as being "very tame" ('Scotsman,' 27, iii., 83). A very large flock of Pink-footed or Bean Geese, probably the former, seen flying very high towards S.E. and crying, at Kippen on March 23rd. Fully 150 Wild Geese remained on Flanders Moss all spring after this date, and were seen last on April 23rd.

Columbidæ.--In spring, few records at Pentland Skerries and Bell Rock. On Feb. 19th, at former station, three Rock Doves flying E., 7 a.m.; S.W., fresh, clear. On March 4th, two Rock Doves at same station, seen at 3 p.m.; light variable, and haze. On April 20th, one Wood Pigeon at same station flying S.E.; fair S.S.E., fog. On May 12th, one Woodpecker flying S.W. past Bell Rock, 1.12 p.m.; strong S.W.; and on 28th, a few Rock Doves at Pentland Skerries; strong S., and fog.

In autumn only two records; one at Pentland Skerries, twelve Rock Pigeons, on July 23rd, on island; light N., haze and rain; and on Sept. 16th, one Wood Pigeon at 2 p.m., at Bell Rock, flying S.W.; light S.W. breeze.

_Land Notes._--A male _Columba œnas_ (Stock Dove) was shot at Garden, in this county (Stirlingshire), on March 15th, 1883. This species has been rapidly extending its range of late years in Scotland. See my paper on the Stock Dove (Ryl. Phyl. Soc. Edinb., 1883, p. 241, Feb. 21st). In 1884 at least four pairs are breeding in the Vale of Menteith.

Rallidæ.--Spring records meagre. One heard at Isle of May April 28th, marked "rare here." One heard at Pentland Skerries on May 6th, 5.50 p.m.; mod. S.S.E., clear. One heard first time at Cromarty station on May 20th; strong E., clear.

No autumn records this season.

Charadriadæ.--Spring records meagre. April 18th, at Pentland Skerries, three Golden Plovers at 5 p.m.; S.S.W. May 15th, at Auskerry, large flocks of Plovers all day; light E., and showers. May 17th, at Isle of May, one Oystercatcher; W., very fine.

Autumn records almost equally meagre. July 13th, at Pentland Skerries, one Golden Plover; fair N., light showers. Aug. 8th, at Pentland Skerries, one Golden Plover; strong S.E. Aug. 14th, at Pentland Skerries, one Golden Plover; light S.E., showers. Sept. 6th, at Isle of May, six Golden Plovers; strong W., clear. Oct. 26th, at Pentland Skerries, one "Silver Plover" (? Knot) killed at lantern; strong W., showers.

Of Lapwings, records are almost equally scanty. In spring, on Feb. 17th, a flock all day at Pentland Skerries; light S. breeze (see Thrush). In March, along with the rush of other migrants on 2nd at Isle of May; strong W., clear; and a number on 3rd. Lots of sixteen and twenty on the 10th and 20th of same month; light E. and S.E., fog, rain, and haze.

In autumn five Ringed Plovers stayed for some days on Isle of May on and after Aug. 28th; came with light W., and clear--the only record given of any Charadriadæ in autumn. At Chanonry, numerous records of Lapwings lighting on the point, or passing in stormy weather or in strong breezes, in Sept. to January, 1884. A late schedule from Sumburgh Head has a record of Lapwings on Jan. 24th, with the remark, "I believe they have never been seen here at this season of the year before."

_Land Notes._--Lapwings seen in pairs on March 4th at breeding stations in Stirlingshire.

Scolopacidæ.--Spring. Curlews first heard at Pentland Skerries on March 2nd, when heard at 2.15 p.m.; mod. N.W., fog. Last on June 29th (but probably belongs to autumn) at same place, when a flock flying S.; light S., clear. A rush between April 7th and 15th, a few flying south between these dates at Isle of May,--scarcely an appreciable rush,--and one record in May.

In autumn, not a great many records of Curlews. Earliest July 4th, at Pentland Skerries, and on 15th and 29th at same station; also in August, and at same station a few records, most probably local movements. An apparent slight indication of a rush of Curlews in September at three stations,--Sumburgh Head, Pentland Skerries, and Isle of May,--young and old; and up to 23rd, at Isle of May, numbers daily. Fewer in October, and occasional records up to January, 1884.

Of Snipe, a few scattered records in spring, in March and April. March 2nd to 9th, at Pentland Skerries and Isle of May; and April 12th and 26th, at same stations, winds mostly westerly; but on March 8th E.N.E., gale and snow.

In autumn, not abundant either, and scarcely require details. Occurred in July, August, October (a large flock at Sumburgh Head on 18th; gale and sleet showers), and December. In July, at Pentland Skerries only; in August, ditto; in September, not at all. In October, at Sumburgh Head and Pentland Skerries (and a Jack Snipe at Isle of May). December, at Sumburgh Head (a large number all day on 3rd); strong breezes, snow-showers; and a Jack Snipe at Pentland Skerries on 24th.

Woodcock.--In spring, one record on April 7th, at Bell Rock, flying about the rock.

In autumn, Oct. 13th and 14th, two single birds at Isle of May and Pentland Skerries; and on Nov. 1st and 13th, at Isle of May, N. Unst, and Shetland. The one on 1st accompanied the rush of other migrants. On Oct. 13th six were shot on Isle of May; wind due S., an unusual wind for migrants to arrive at Isle of May. At Chanonry, many local records of "Whaups" (Curlews)--probably the same flock of forty or fifty--appearing in stormy weather.

_Land Notes._--On the night of March 26th, at Dunipace, whilst standing at the front door (night bright and starry, and frost), a large flock of birds crossed overhead, flying south. The cries were difficult to make out, but belonged either to Whimbrels or other species of wader. The subject of the sounds of bird-cries at night would form good matter for explanation by those who have constant opportunities of hearing them. Wind N.E. up to March 27th, when a S.W. gale, shifting to S., with heavy rain. About fifty Curlews were seen at Caldarvon, west of this county, on March 11th, and three pairs on 17th (auct. Jas. Lumsden).

Scolopacidæ (Waders).--Earliest spring migrants were Sandpipers and Redshanks at Pentland Skerries on Feb. 9th (time of migration of Thrushes, _q.v._); and on 17th, ditto. On April 27th a Purple Sandpiper at Isle of May (No. 57 in spirits).

Autumn. Earliest July 20th, at Pentland Skerries, Redshanks; and a few records of these and Sandpipers to 31st. In August a few records of the same, and one Turnstone (identified) (No. 60 in spirits). In September great flocks of Sandpipers flew in rays of light at 9 p.m.; light E.N.E., and fog. In end of October and beginning of November Sandpipers and Red-shanks participated in the rush of migrants at that time at Pentland Skerries especially; light S.W. Large numbers on 5th; strong N.W., and showers; and numbers up to 21st, all day; strong N.W. In December, rushes on 12th; N.W. gale, snow; and up to 21st, very likely local movements.

Sterninæ.--Records of either migration very scanty. First seen in spring was at Pentland Skerries on May 13th, at 3.30 p.m.; light S.W., haze; and again at same place two seen flying north on June 20th. On June 3rd, at Sumburgh Head, two; fresh W., cloudy. Lesser Terns arrived at Cromarty on May 23rd.

In autumn, first record Aug. 7th, at Pentland Skerries, when those breeding there all left, except one or two, with fresh N.W., clear. At Bell Rock, on Sept. 19th, a flock kept flying round the rays of light all night (_i.e._, 19th-20th); light E.N.E.; and on Sept. 27th one immature bird appeared after a heavy gale from W. the previous night. The above, I think, is the first occurrence I have of Terns flying round and round within the rays of light of a lantern. Lesser Terns disappeared from Cromarty on Aug. 26th; S.W., strong, clear.

Laridæ.--In spring, large numbers arrive about March 1st for breeding purposes at Pentland Skerries, and leave about the middle of August. On March 21st, at Isle of May, Kittiwakes arrived in large numbers at 9 a.m.--their first appearance; wind fresh E.S.E., cloudy and cold; and by April 3rd had steadily increased in numbers. At Auskerry, May 18th is given as first appearance of "Sea Maws"; strong N.W., and haze; and a Black-headed Gull was seen, with light N.E. and clear, at Pentland Skerries. At same station, record of two Black-backed Gulls on June 27th; fresh S.E., and haze completes spring records.

In autumn, at Pentland Skerries during July the daily movements of Gulls may be worth reproducing in detail. All the July records I have are from this station, and also all the August ones.

1883, July 12, Pentland Skerries, one "Chaser" flying N.W., 2.15
p.m.; light E., haze.

July 18th, Pentland Skerries, three Black-backed Gulls flying N.,
2.30 p.m.; mod. N.W.

July 23rd, Pentland Skerries, one "Chaser" flying W., 10.20 a.m.;
light N.

July 25th, Pentland Skerries, continuous and large flocks of
Herring Gulls flying round all day; N., clear.

July 28th, Pentland Skerries, three "Chasers" (one flying E. at 3
p.m., and one flying S. at 5 p.m.); mod. S.W., clear.

July 29th, Pentland Skerries, one "Dirty Allan" seen. Aug. 6th,
Pentland Skerries, large flock of young Gulls on rocks all day;
light S., clear.

Aug. 7th, Pentland Skerries, large flock of young Gulls on rocks,
3.30 p.m.; fresh N.W.

Aug. 20th, Pentland Skerries, one "Chaser" flying S.E., 12.50 p.m.;
strong S.E., haze.

On 15th, at Dunnet Head, Gulls leave breeding-places in cliffs. Our correspondent includes both "Chasers" and a "Dirty Allan," both of which names I held as applicable to the commonest species of Skua; but here they seem to be divided, as applying to two different species, probably Richardson's (common) Skua and the Pomatorhine Skua.

"Dirty Allans" are again recorded from Isle of May, along with a rush of small birds on Sept. 23rd; and in this case I doubt not Mr. Agnew applies the name to Richardson's Skua. This is the only September record. In October only two records at N. Unst; two pairs of Iceland Gulls stayed two days, coming on the 4th with fresh N. and clear; and two pairs more on 21st hovering round at 11 a.m.; fresh N., clear.

In November and December the greatest movements are noticed, which I give in detail:--Nov. 2nd, Pentland Skerries, several Kittiwakes flying S.E., noon; fresh S.W. Nov. 10th, Isle of May, thousands of Gulls (?); W. gale, clear; first seen at 4 a.m., wind shifting to north. Nov. 11th, Isle of May, all the above gone; light N.W., clear. These may have been Glaucous, from description, but this is not clear; and from subsequent records I have preferred to consider them Herring, though Mr. Agnew includes the latter later by name, I believe Mr. Agnew knows the Glaucous and Iceland Gulls well. _Land Note._--There has not been a large migration of Glaucous and Iceland Gulls at Kincardine on Forth for many years.

Nov. 17th, Isle of May, hundreds of Herring Gulls came from S.E.
all day; light N.W. "Grey Gulls" mixed with Blackbacks, the
latter one in twenty.

Nov. 18th, Isle of May, every Gull gone; light N.W.

Nov. 24th, Isle of May, hundreds of Herring Gulls came from S.E.
all day; fresh W.; also accompanied by smaller numbers of
Black-backs.

Dec. 13th, Pentland Skerries, two Black-backed Gulls on island,
12.30 p.m.; N.W. gale.

Dec. 3rd, Isle of May, thousands of "Gulls," 3 p.m.; W., clear.

1884, Jan. 22nd, Isle of May, large light-coloured Gulls with black
tips to wings; gale W. last night.

_Note._--There is evidently considerable confusion existing regarding the various species of Sea Gulls; and this is not to be wondered at when the innumerable phases of plumage in even the same species, according to maturity or immaturity, is considered. What is sadly wanted in such a quest as ours is a series of cheap yet fairly well executed plates of birds in all phases of plumage, with measurements to scale; but the almost impossibility of issuing such at a sufficiently low price for general distribution must, we fear, for ever debar our correspondents from obtaining such a means of assistance. M. De La Rue issues marvels of cheapness in Christmas Cards; could he not undertake something in this line? His pictures of birds are admirable, but he would have to keep up the standard, or even improve it, to be of scientific value to us.

Procellariidæ.--Records scarce in spring and autumn. At Auskerry, arrived for first time on July 30th, but as early as 6th eggs were laid at Pentland Skerries. Being a bird of nocturnal habits, the arrival cannot, we fancy, be easily fixed at all times. At Auskerry, on 8th, two pairs had two eggs each (some notes on the schedule margin here have been torn off and lost, J. A. H. B.) On Sept. 25th one struck at Dunnet Head; S.S.W., fog; and on 26th six struck and rested from 9 to 11 p.m.; S.E. fresh, and haze. It is seldom so many are recorded at the same time. Are these Pentland Skerries birds? At Noss Head, on Aug. 28th and on 30th, one Stormy Petrel each time struck, but not killed, with W.N.W. fresh on former date, and light S.E. and haze on latter.

Alcidæ.--Spring. First visit at Isle of May on March 21st, when "not very many" appeared, with fresh E.S.E. Guillemots and Razorbills. Next visit at Isle of May, large numbers on April 1st with light W., and in dear weather. Increased on 3rd, and on April 27th arrived again finally, after a few days' absence, with fresh S.E. and haze. These and other rock birds breeding here all left on Aug, 10th, except a few Kittiwakes and Eider Ducks, after a heavy W. gale on 9th (see August, below). Puffins were first observed at Isle of May; however, not before May 4th, when a few showed.

Following this comes what may be considered local flights, in search of food, to and from the fishing grounds:--

May 16th, Pentland Skerries, continuous flocks flying E.; light
breeze N.E.

May 21st, Pentland Skerries, continuous flocks flying E.; light W.,
haze.

June 4th, Pentland Skerries, continuous flocks flying S.E.; light
N.E., haze.

June 6th, Pentland Skerries, continuous flocks flying S.E.; light
E., haze.

June 17th to 20th, Pentland Skerries, continuous rush flying S.E.;
strong N. to light E. and W.

June 21st, Pentland Skerries, several flocks all day flying S.E.;
lights.

June 25th, Pentland Skerries, large flocks, 7.15 p.m., flying S.E.;
fresh S.E., fog and rain.

June 29th, Pentland Skerries, a few around; light S., clear.

We now come to the autumn movement, if we take the same dates as for many land birds; but this is apt to be mixed up with the later summer movements of old and young birds, and therefore we will keep July by itself. All the records here relate, as before, to Pentland Skerries. An equally exact record from each salient or conspicuous station round our coasts could not fail to give us exact knowledge as regards the movements of sea-fowl, or rather of rock birds. Food-supply is an important factor in the local as well as the other migrations. A knowledge of fishing-grounds would thereby be achieved; and a knowledge of the two subjects, migration of birds and geography of the distribution of fishes, would undoubtedly help each other. With these remarks we continue our records for July, believing that this simple tabular form is most useful in the present case, though cumbrous if carried on in every instance.

_July debatable ground,_

July 5th, Pentland Skerries, a flock 8.20 p.m.; mod. E., fog and
showers.

July 6th, Pentland Skerries, several flocks all day; light S., haze.

July 7th, Pentland Skerries, several flocks all day flying E.; mod.
S.E., haze.

July 18th, Pentland Skerries, a few flocks all day; mod. N.W.,
clear.

July 25th, Pentland Skerries, continuous flocks all day; mod. N.E.,
clear.

July 26th, Pentland Skerries, continuous flocks all day flying E.
and S.E.; fresh N., haze.

The last two entries appear to me to indicate decision in commencing the autumn migration.

Aug. 15th, Dunnet Head, rock birds leave about this time.

Aug. 10th, Isle of May, all rock birds left, except a few
Kittiwakes; heavy westerly gale on 9th.

Oct. 23rd, Pentland Skerries, flocks flying E.; strong W., showers.

Nov. 2nd, Pentland Skerries, large flocks, noon, flying S.E. from
S.W. (?).

Nov. 27th, Isle of May, abundant in sea along with Gulls;
"Garvies," _i.e._, _Culpea sprattus_, abundant (J. A. H. B.).

Dec. 20th, Isle of May, large numbers; fresh W., haze.

Dec. 27th, Isle of May, large numbers; S.W., haze.

This completes our data of Guillemots and Razorbills, to which the whole of the above records refer for 1883; and I think it shows pretty plainly the life-history of these birds, at least in some important particulars. A wider appreciation can be arrived at if similar tabular returns come in from other salient points of observation, such as Isle of May, Bell Rock, and one or two stations on the east coast; and Cape Wrath, Butt of Lewis, Monach Isles, and Barra Head on the west coast; and also for summer migrations, especially such stations as Island Ghlais, Skerryvore, and Dhuheartach, and others on the inner line of stations of the west coast.

These data are minutely detailed here this year, because I have felt more at liberty to do so, owing to the light returns of most of our land birds, thus having more space than usual at command.

Further remarks, should such occur to us, will appear in the "General Observations," which I withhold till the close of the West Coast Report.

EAST COAST OF ENGLAND.

Printed schedules and letters of instruction were forwarded to thirty-seven lighthouses and light-vessels on the East Coast of England, and two stations in the Channel Islands, and returns have been received from twenty-five, against thirty in 1882.

Independent reports have also been received from Heligoland, and certain land stations along the East Coast, namely, Seaton-Carew, Redcar, Flamborough, Spurn, North-East Lincolnshire, Wells (on the Norfolk coast), Northrepps, Great Yarmouth, and the coast of Essex. Making altogether a total of thirty-five reporting stations, against thirty-seven in 1882.

Our best thanks are due to H. Gätke, T. H. Nelson, C. Donald-Thompson, Matthew Bailey, William Eagle Clarke, J. H. Gurney, jun., M. Vaughan, of Haileybury College, Arthur Patterson, and Colonel Russell, for their hearty co-operation and assistance, as well as to the numerous kind and painstaking observers at the lighthouses and light-vessels, whose names are given in the list of stations. Special thanks are due to Mr. Gurney for having inaugurated along the Norfolk coast a parallel system of enquiry, which for a first trial has worked well. In all doubtful cases of identity, where birds are killed against the lanterns, a wing is cut off, and with a label of the date attached these have been forwarded in batches to Mr. Gurney for identification, and with satisfactory results. We cannot too strongly urge upon our observers the advantages of this system, and advise them to adopt it; nothing is easier than to cut off a wing from each victim on any given night, wrap them in paper, or tie them together, with the dates attached, or numbered on the cover, and send them in one parcel by post either to myself or to Mr. Gurney, for identification. It is intended that instructions for doing this will be given in the next issue of schedules in the spring of this year.

The East Coast stations included in this report are as follows, those making returns being marked with a star (*):--

*Longstone L.H. + Thomas O. Hall.
*Inner Farn L.H. Thomas H. Cutting.
*Tees L.V. Henry Harbord.
Coquet Island L.H.
*Whitby High L.H. John Odgers.
*Flamborough Head L.H. Charles Hood.
*Spurn L.H. James B. Smith.
Spurn (Newsand) L.V.
*Outer Dowsing L.V. William Stock & J. N. Utting.
*Inner Dowsing L.V. William King.
Dudgeon L.V.
*Llyn Wells L.V. George Rees.
*Hunstanton L.H. William Westmoreland.
*Cromer L.H. Richard Comben.
*Leman and Ower L.V. John Artis.
*Hasbro' L.H. By Mr. Gurney from G. H. Dunsford.
*Hasbro' L.V. J. Nicholas & B. Darnell.
*Newarp L.V. C. Campbell & W. Rees.
*Winterton L.H. John Watson.
*Cockle L.V. Samuel Pender & C. Prefrement.
Orfordness L.H.
Corton L.V.
*Shipwash L.V. The Principal.
*Languard Point L.H. Owen Boyle.
*Galloper L.V. The Principal: two batches of wings
from Mr. Gurney.
Kentish Knock L.V.
Swin Middle L.V.
*Tongue L.V. John Webber.
Nore L.V.
North Foreland L.H.
Goodwin L.V.
*Gull L.V. Francis Harvey & Joseph Jenkins.
*South Sand Head L.V. Joseph Ditcham.
*Eastside L.V. Edward le Gallais.
South Foreland L.H.
Casquets L.H., Alderney
*Hanois L.H., Guernsey Charles Williams.

† For nature of light, position, and distances from the nearest land,
see Report for 1880.

SEPARATE REPORT ON EACH SPECIES.[5]

[Footnote 5: The sequence and nomenclature are adopted from the 'List of British Birds,' compiled by a Committee of the British Ornithologists' Union. London: John Van Voorst. 1883.]

_Turdus viscivorus_, Missel Thrush.--Great Yarmouth, Oct. 20th, hundreds arriving; 23rd, one shot from flock coming in from sea. Longstone L.H., 30th, several, and at intervals to Nov. 15th, many being killed between these periods against lantern; on Nov. 4th, great rush, coming all night. Great Cotes, N.E. Lincolnshire, Nov. 13th, very numerous, fresh arrivals.

_T. musicus_, Song Thrush.--Spring, 1883, Farn L.H., Jan. 20th to Feb. 1st, Thrushes with Blackbirds and Fieldfares on island, also through March and at intervals to May 10th, at which date several of each and one Ring Ouzel were seen. Whitby L.H., March 9th, E.N.E., snow squalls, many with Fieldfares and other birds apparently moving south. Flamborough, April 27th, first Thrush struck, and on May 7th four. In the autumn at Farn, Flamborough and Spurn, Sept. 21st, great flight; and at the majority of the east coast stations from Farn Islands to Hanois L.H., Guernsey, up to Nov. 8th; great rushes, with other _Turdidæ_, Oct. 13th, and all through first week of November. Longstone L.H., Jan. 2nd, 1884, during the snow-storm before daylight, many, with Blackbirds and Redwings, round lantern--perhaps a local migration from north to south.[6] Heligoland, from Sept. 21st, S.S.E., to Nov. 12th; greatest rushes on Sept. 24th, Oct. 13th, 29th, and first week in November.

[Footnote 6: At the Farn L.H., on Feb. 20th, 1884, and four following days, numbers of Fieldfares, Thrushes, and Blackbirds were seen on the island; wind S.S.W.]

_T. iliacus_, Redwing.--Seaton Carew, Sept. 21st, to Hasbro' L.V., Oct. 30th, great many round lantern, and at several stations between these dates; rushes Sept. 21st, Oct. 29th and 30th. Heligoland, Oct. 3rd to Nov. 6th; greatest flights on Oct. 13th and Nov. 6th.

_T. pilaris_, Fieldfare.--First at Yarmouth, Sept. 8th, flock of ten to fifteen, 6 a.m., travelling N.E. to S.W., very high,[7] to Hasbro' L.V., Nov. 8th, many round lantern, and Nov. 16th, at Farn L.H., four to S.W. At several stations in large numbers between these dates, but none south of Yarmouth; rushes occurred on Sept. 21st, Oct. 19th (Yarmouth, along coast to S.), 28th to 31st, and Nov. 6th to 8th. Inner Dowsing L.V., Oct. 31st, seven killed, 7 p.m., N.E., and at Longstone L.H., several on same night. Flamborough L.H., Nov. 9th, 1 a.m. to daylight, great many; direction of migration N.E. to S.W. and E. to W. or S.E. to N.W. Heligoland, from Sept. 24th to Nov. 7th; Oct. 28th, great flight overhead, travelling E. to W.; from night of Oct. 31st to Nov. 4th an immense migration day and night, on 6th also large numbers still passing.

[Footnote 7: In the autumn of 1880 Fieldfares were first seen in Norfolk on Sept. 9th, in 1881 on Sept. 14th, and in 1883 on Sept. 8th. The earliest occurrence in each case for England.]

_T. varius_, White's Thrush.--Heligoland, April 15th, one all day long (Sunday) in the churchyard, and was not obtained.

_T. merula_, Blackbird.--First at Redcar, Sept. 18th, a few, to Whitby L.H., Nov. 11th, several, and at Tees L.V., Nov. 15th, one overboard; between these dates at a majority of the stations, chiefly those north of the Humber;[8] the first flights young birds, young cocks being greatly in excess. On Oct. 19th, at Spurn, flight of old cock Blackbirds; rushes occurred on Sept. 21st, Oct. 28th to 31st, and Nov. 2nd to 8th. Heligoland, Oct. 11th, some.

[Footnote 8: At Great Cotes, on Nov. 13th, sharp frost on previous night; the hedgerows in the marsh swarmed with Blackbirds, Missel Thrushes, Redwings, and Fieldfares; the former were young cocks with a few old females. There was an average of one Blackbird to each lineal six feet of hedge.]

_T. torquatus_, Ring Ouzel.--Spring, Hunstanton L.H., April 31st, one male. Inner Farn L.H. May 10th, one. Flamborough L.H., May 7th, one very fine old bird struck. Autumn, at several stations between the Farn Islands and Yarmouth, from Oct. 13th at the former to Nov. 1st at the Spurn, flock at noon, wind N.N.E., light, and Nov. 2nd and 4th, Longstone L.H.; the latter dates all night. Cock Ring Ouzels were tolerably plentiful near the Spurn and Kilnsea during the fourth week in October; rushes on Oct. 13th and Nov. 1st to 4th. Heligoland, Sept. 30th to Oct. 22nd; on the 20th two old males.

Summary.

Rushes
/---------------------------\
Species. Limit of Migration. Days. Sept. Oct. Nov.

Fieldfare Sept. 8th to Nov. 13th 67 21st 28th to 31st 6th to 8th
Blackbird " 18th to Nov. 15th 59 21st 30th to 31st 2nd to 8th
Common Thrush " 21st to Nov. 8th 49 21st 13th 2nd to 6th
Redwing " 21st to Oct. 30th 40 21st 29th to 30th --
Ring Ouzel Oct. 13th to Nov. 4th 23 -- 13th 1st to 4th
Missel Thrush " 20th to Nov. 15th 27 -- 20th 4th

Heligoland.

Fieldfare Sept. 24th to Nov. 7th 45 24th 28th to 31st to 4th
Blackbird Oct. 11th -- -- -- -- --
Common Thrush Sept. 21st to Nov. 12th 53 24th 13th & 29th first week
Redwing Oct. 3rd to Nov. 6th 35 -- 13th 6th
Ring Ouzel Sept. 30th to Oct. 22nd 23 -- 12th, 13th, 15th --
Missel Thrush -- -- --

Lines of migration, E. to. W., S.E. to N.W., and exceptionally from N.E.
to S.W.

_Saxicola œnanthe_, Wheatear.--Spring, Farn L.H., April 2nd to 24th; many on 14th. Flamborough, 5th, 1.20 a.m., one struck. Tees L.V., May 10th, twenty going from S.E. to N.W. Autumn, Farn L.H., from July 20th, 2 p.m., N.E., several, to Nov. 7th; Llyn Wells L.V., one struck (wing sent to Mr. Gurney). In considerable numbers in September and October, covering the whole coast line; in the former month associated, as usual, with Redstarts. At the Farn and Longstone lighthouses, Sept. 2nd and 3rd, E., great numbers of both crossing, and on 24th with both Redstarts and Snow Buntings. Heligoland, Aug. 6th to 7th, a few, S.E. wind, and on to 20th numerous, all young; 21st to 24th, in astounding numbers; Sept. 10th, enormous rush, and 11th and 12th, less.

_Pratincola rubetra_, Whinchat.--Heligoland, Aug. 21st, 22nd, and 24th, great many young birds.

_P. rubicola_, Stonechat.--Spring, Whitby L.H., Feb. 23rd, one. Autumn, same station, Aug. 8th, many to S. Spurn, Oct. 23rd, many. Stonechats have frequented the sheep-folds on the turnip-fields in Lincolnshire throughout the whole of the late mild winter. Heligoland, Oct. 20th, one young bird; Oct. 11th, S.S.W., _P. rubicola_ (_indica_)? "with coloration just like a young autumn Whinchat, if not lighter, all the breast buff or isabell, the rump also."

_Ruticilla phœnicurus_, Redstart.--Spring, Hunstanton L.H., April 13th, 4 a.m., S., one male against lantern. Autumn, same station, Aug. 30th, one male, 1 a.m., against lantern. Numerous between Farn Islands and Yarmouth in September to the 24th, associated frequently with Wheatears. Heligoland, Sept. 9th to Oct. 1st; on Sept. 10th enormous numbers, 14th great many, and 17th to 21st also great many.

_Ruticilla titys_, Black Redstart.--Spurn, Oct. 23rd, one seen (in 1882 at the Spurn, Oct. 29th). Galloper L.V., Oct. 28th, one, young male or old female (wing to J. H. G.); I have no doubt it occurs regularly as an autumn immigrant on our east coast, and may be expected about four weeks later than the Redstart.[9] Heligoland, Oct. 27th, eight or ten.

[Footnote 9: Messrs. Clarke and Roebuck state, in their 'Handbook of Yorkshire Vertebrata,' p. 19, that "Mr. M. Bailey, of Flamborough, has frequently observed these birds in spring on their arrival on the headland, and has known them killed by flying against the light in thick, foggy weather, with the wind E.N.E. He has also seen them on their departure in September, and has noticed several in October and November."]

_Cyanecula suecica_, Red-spotted Bluethroat.--One, coast of Northumberland late in September; one, Redcar, 21st, on Tees breakwater; one about same time at the Spurn, but not obtained; ten, coast of Norfolk, in same month; and about twenty others seen there by a competent authority, Mr. Power. All obtained were birds of the year.[10] The gizzard of one of these Norfolk birds which I examined was crammed with the broken remains of small beetles having a bright metallic lustre, but the remains were much broken and comminuted.

[Footnote 10: Mr. Gätke says "the other form, _S. leucocyanea_, Brehm, comes very rarely so far north as Heligoland, and when it turns up it always does so four to six weeks earlier than the suecica in the spring."]

_Erithacus rubecula_, Redbreast.--First at the Shipwash L.V., Aug. 13th, large numbers associated with Wrens, to Llyn Wells L.V., Nov. 3rd, one killed; the main migration Sept. 10th to Oct. 14th, covering the entire coast-line; rushes on Sept. 21st and 30th, Oct. 6th and 7th. Heligoland, Sept. 24th to Nov. 23rd; rushes on Sept. 24th, and Oct. 3rd to 7th.[11]

[Footnote 11: At the Spurn, in the autumn, I have seen Redbreasts come in directly from the sea, passing overhead inland; an a clear bright day the orange-red of the breast shows very conspicuously.]

_Sylvia cinerea_, Whitethroat.--Hanois L.H. (Guernsey), Nov. 2nd, E., about lantern all night with Blackcaps. Heligoland, Sept. 10th, enormous numbers; 11th and 12th, less; Oct. 1st, last.

_S. atricapilla_, Blackcap.--Hanois L.H., as above. Heligoland, Oct. 11th, one young bird shot in garden. _S. hortensis_, Garden Warbler.--Sept. 24th, some.

_Regulus cristatus_, Goldcrest.--Spring, Tees L.V., March 29th, one stayed all night, then to E. Farn L.H., April 2nd, several all day. Hunstanton L.H., 3rd and 4th, S., against lantern. Newarp L.V., 14th, three to E. Autumn, Shipwash L.V., Aug. 13th, large numbers; and at most stations between Sept. 2nd and Nov. 9th; rushes, Sept. 21st, Oct. 28th to 31st. At the Shipwash L.V., on Oct. 15th, flights passed westward from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m., and at 6 p.m. fourteen were killed at lantern; the immigration of Goldcrests has been small compared with the millions which crossed in the autumn of 1882, the period of migration eighty-six days, against ninety-two in the preceding year; line E. to W. Heligoland, Oct. 6th, not many yet; 7th, pretty numerous; 13th and 22nd, some. The Firecrest, _Regulus ignicapillus_.--Oct. 29th, many; Nov. 2nd, many; 8th, some.

_Phylloscopus superciliosus_, Yellow-barred Warbler. Heligoland, Sept. 17th, N.E., calm and clear, one.

_P. rufus_, Chiffchaff.--Heligoland, Sept. 24th and 30th, some; October, first seven days; 11th, early, great many and throughout day; 12th and 13th, less.

_P. trochilus_, Willow Warbler.--Aug. 14th, some; 18th, 19th, 20th, pretty numerous, all young; 21st, 22nd, and 24th, astonishing numbers; Sept. 9th, some; 10th, enormous numbers; 11th and 12th, less; 24th, less; Nov. 1st, final rush, marvellous numbers.

_Hypolais pallida._--Heligoland, Sept. 20th, "first specimen got here," shot by Ludwig Gätke.

_Accentor modularis_. Hedgesparrow.--Languard Point L.H., March 1st, 12.30 p.m., large flock to E. In the autumn of 1882 there was an enormous migration across Heligoland and on the East Coast of England; this last autumn only five or six are recorded from Heligoland, and none on our east coast.

_Acredula rosea_, British Long-tailed Titmouse.--Yarmouth, Oct. 25th, about this date several seen, flock of eleven on telegraph wire, and on the 22nd a furze-bush on the "denes" covered with them.

_Parus major_ and _cæridulus_, Great and Blue Titmouse.--Farn L.H., March 8th, two Tits. Flamborough, April 3rd, one struck. Farn L.H., Oct. 7th, two struck. Galloper L.V., 13th, one Great Tit (wing to J. H. G.). Cockle L.V., 14th, both species. Shipwash L.V., 15th, two Great Titmice (wings to J. H. G.). Spurn, 23rd, Blue Titmouse, a great many. Heligoland, Great Titmouse from Oct. 14th to end of November; Oct. 29th to 31st, a great many; Nov. 15th, same; Blue Titmouse from Oct. 14th to Nov. 2nd; rush, Oct. 29th and 31st. _Parus ater_, Continental Coal Titmouse.--Oct. 22nd, one.

_Troglodytes parvulus_, Wren.--Spring, Flamborough L.H., April 3rd, 9.20 p.m., one struck; May 7th, 11.45 p.m., one. Winterton L.H., May 14th, several, 12.30 a.m., S., three killed; 15th, two. Spurn L.H., 24th, "large flock to south." Autumn, Shipwash L.V., Aug. 13th, 2 to 6.30 p.m., in large numbers. Tees L.V., Sept. 5th, one on board three days. Whitby L.H., Oct. 10th, 8 a.m., Wrens to south. Cockle L.V., Nov. 1st, one. Outer Dowsing L.V., 2nd, great rush with others westward. Heligoland, Oct. 31st, for several weeks past daily in great numbers; Nov. 2nd, many; 7th and 8th, very many.

_Motacilla alba_, White Wagtail.--Heligoland, Oct. 12th and 13th, some.

_M. lugubris_, Pied Wagtail.--Spring, Whitby L.H., March 31st, two pairs. Farn L.H., April 2nd, one; 4th to 14th, many. Flamborough, April 11th, a pair. Autumn, Cromer L.H., Aug. 12th, one Pied Wagtail (wing to J. H. G.). Tees L.V., Sept. 17th, in flocks, twelve to fifteen. Whitby L.H., Oct. 10th, last seen. Hanois L.H. (Guernsey), Oct. 29th, and on Nov. 1st, all night.

_M. flava_, Blue-headed Yellow Wagtail.--Heligoland, Aug. 21st, 22nd, and 24th, astonishing numbers; Sept. 2nd, some; Oct. 13th, some. _M. citriola_, Sept. 16th, calm and fine, one.

_Anthus pratensis_, Meadow Pipit.--Heligoland, Sept. 24th, great many; Oct. 1st, astounding numbers. _A. cervinus_, Sept. 16th, calm and fine, one.

_A. trivialis_, Tree Pipit.--Heligoland, Aug. 21st, 22nd, and 24th, astounding numbers; Sept. 2nd, some; 9th and 12th, many; 24th, ceased; again, Oct. 12th and 13th, passing.

_A. richardi_, Richard's Pipit.--Heligoland, Sept. 16th and 17th; on 18th, two shot, 8½ in. long; 21st, some; 24th, some Oct. 11th, two.

_A. obscurus_, Rock Pipit.--October, last fortnight, common on Yorkshire, Lincolnshire, and Norfolk coast. At Heligoland, on Oct. 1st, great many (_A. obscurus_, var. _rupestris_.[12])

[Footnote 12: This, the Scandinavian form of the Rock Pipit, is not infrequent on the Yorkshire and Lincolnshire coast in the autumn.]

_Oriolus galbula_, Golden Oriole.--Heligoland, May, a male; the first in thirty years.

_Lanius excubitor_ and _major_, Great Grey and Pallas's Great Grey Shrike.--Heligoland, Oct. 5th, six or eight, and in last week in month _major_, some; none on English coast.

_L. collurio_, Red-backed Shrike.--Languard L.H., March 16th, one. Farn L.H., Sept. 23rd, one shot on island.

_Muscicapa grisola_, Spotted Flycatcher.--Spring, Whitby L.H., April 7th, great many small Flycatchers against lantern every night in the week[13] (too soon by four or five weeks for _M. grisola_), Farn L.H., April 28th, several. Hunstanton L.H., May 17th, 2 a.m., S.W., seven killed. Tees L.V., Dec. 27th, one came on board. Heligoland, Sept. 10th, enormous numbers; 11th and 12th, some; 17th, many; 19th and 20th, less.

[Footnote 13: Probably this, as well as other entries in the schedules, may refer to various small insect-feeding birds, as the term "Flycatcher" amongst our observers is a very general one.]

_M. atricapilla_, Pied Flycatcher.--Yarmouth, Sept. 15th, one young bird (J. H. G.). Heligoland, Aug. 14th, some, and on to Sept. 20th; on Aug. 21st, 22nd, and 24th, and again on Sept. 10th, in enormous numbers. _M. parva_, Red-breasted Flycatcher.--Sept. 19th, "one with orange throat."

_Hirundo rustica_, Swallow.--Spring, Hunstanton L.H., April 5th, one to S.W.; 29th, many. Farn L.H., 20th, two. In May, at Whitby, Flamborough, Spurn, and Outer Dowsing L.V. At Tees L.V., on 10th, great many, S.E. to N.W.; and 11th, 12th, and 13th, all through day in same direction. Autumn, Cockle L.V., July 12th, six to S.; and from Sept. 25th to Oct. 13th, at several stations going south. Last observed at the Spurn by myself, Oct. 24th and 25th; three young birds hawking in the sun beneath Kilnsea cliff. Heligoland, Aug. 21st and 22nd, S.E., "astounding numbers" of Swallows, Martins, and Sand Martins; Sept. 3rd, S.S.W. (No. 9), great numbers; 4th, great flock of Swallows late in afternoon; Nov. 8th, small flights.

_Chelidon urbica_, Martin.--Tees L.V., June 27th, 28th, 29th, great many to S.W.; and at the Outer Dowsing L.V., on 23rd, two travelling S.S.E. to W.N.W. Last observed at Seaton Snook, Tees, Oct. 2nd.

_Carduelis elegans_, Goldfinch.--Tees L.V., Nov. 22nd, one on board. Heligoland, Nov. 8th, some.

_Chrysomitris spinus_, Siskin.--Yarmouth, Oct. 21st, small flights; several taken by the birdcatchers. Heligoland, Oct. 27th, a few.

_Ligurinus chloris_, Greenfinch.--Spurn, Oct. 23rd and 24th, large flocks near the coast associated with Linnets. Great Cotes, Nov. 16th, small flights.

_Coccothraustes vulgaris_, Hawfinch.--Inner Dowsing L.V., Nov. 2nd, 9 p.m., one struck lantern; two at same station in 1882. Heligoland, Oct. 31st, Nov. 1st, many.

_Passer domesticus_, House Sparrow.--Spring, Outer Dowsing L.V., April 1st, 8 a.m., flock going S.E. by S. to N.W.; May 15th, six, and 18th three to W.N.W.[14] Autumn, at several stations from Oct. 11th to Nov. 19th. Shipwash L.V., Nov. 8th and 17th, 8 a.m. to noon and 1 p.m., continuous flights to W.S.W.

[Footnote 14: All birds, including Crows, Sparrows, Tree Sparrows, Chaffinches, Wrens, Swallows, Martins, Yellowhammers, Larks, Titlarks, and some ducks, passing this station in March, April, May, and June, were steering in _westerly_ directions. The Outer Dowsing L.V. is moored on the edge of the shoal of that name 53 miles E.S.E. of the Spurn.]

_P. montanus_, Tree Sparrow.--Are recorded at Newarp L.V., Oct. 14th, Yarmouth, 14th, and Shipwash L.V., 15th; and at the Goodwin stations in October.[15]

[Footnote 15: As a rule more Common and Tree Sparrows pass the Goodwin stations than any other on the east coast. These light-vessels, as well as those off the mouth of the Thames, are very uniform in their returns, the birds scheduled being the most abundant and commonest of our immigrants, and it is seldom a rare visitor is chronicled.]

_Fringilla cœlebs_, Chaffinch.--Spring, Newarp L.V., April 13th, all day to E. Farn L.H., 29th, several. Autumn, between Sept. 21st, at Redcar, to Nov. 29th and 30th, at Longstone L.H., immense flights are recorded at the majority of stations along the east coast; great rushes occurred Sept. 21st, Oct. 6th to 14th, and Nov. 1st and 2nd; line of flight E. to W.[16] Heligoland, from Sept. 21st, E. by S., to Nov. 1st, in immense numbers; great rush on Sept. 21st and 22nd, on which latter day they passed in astounding numbers; Oct. 13th, all day passing on; Nov. 7th to 29th, great many.

[Footnote 16: Chaffinches are recorded as dying on board some of the light-vessels, on which they arrive in an exhausted state. Mr. Patterson, of Yarmouth, says, under date Oct. 13th, "Picked up some dead at high-water mark. I have found numbers occasionally dead, drowned thus, every year. They fare worse in this respect than most small immigrants."]

_Fringilla montifringilla_, Brambling.--Longstone L.H., Sept. 21st, E., several. Cockle L.V., Oct. 11th, and Hasbro' L.H., 13th, two killed (wings to J. H. G.). Heligoland, Oct. 7th, pretty numerous; 13th, all day with Chaffinches; and numerous first week in November.

_Linota cannabina_, Linnet. Spring, Newarp L.V., April 13th, all day to E. Autumn, Whitby L.H., Aug, 8th, great many to south.[17] Heligoland, Sept. 30th to Nov. 11th; rush on Oct. 13th.

[Footnote 17: Linnets, Twites, and Redpoles work their way south along the coast; those flocks also which cross the North Sea, after striking land, follow the same route to the south. They often collect in immense quantities in favourite localities, feeding on the seeds of salt-loving plants along the coast.]

_L. linaria_, Mealy Redpole.--Spurn, a few during the second week in February, 1884, and one on 15th near Yarmouth.

_L. rufescens_, Lesser Redpole.--Yarmouth, Oct. 15th, several about "denes."

_L. flavirostris_, Twite.--Numerous flocks on Lincolnshire coast in October. Heligoland, Oct. 22nd, hundreds together, and to Nov. 15th; rush, Oct. 26th to Nov. 7th. _L. exilipes_, Nov. 11th, one.

_Pyrrhula europæa_, Bullfinch.--Newarp L.V., March 5th, one on board. Outer Dowsing L.V., May 9th, one came on board, and ten to W.S.W.

_Loxia curvirostra_, Crossbill.--Heligoland, during first week in July, repeated flights from twenty to thirty.

_Emberiza melanocephala_, Black-headed Bunting.--Heligoland, in May, male and female obtained.

_E. miliaria_, Corn Bunting.--Heligoland, Oct. 13th, many; Nov. 2nd, many; 7th, many; 23rd, some; "never seen here except in very small flights."

_E. citrinella_, Yellowhammer.--May 13th, Whitby L.H., great many for several days. Heligoland, Nov. 2nd, many; 23rd, some. _E. cirlus_, Cirl Bunting.--May, one, "completing with the male obtained many years ago, the only pair."

_E. hortulana_, Ortolan Bunting. Great Cotes, May 3rd, N.E., very sharp and cold, one seen, apparently an adult female [see Cordeaux, Zool., vol. 1883, p. 253.] Heligoland, Aug. 21st, 22nd, and 24th, "astounding numbers"; Sept. 9th and 12th, great many; 16th and 17th, first old birds. _E. rustica_, Rustic Bunting, Sept. 24th, one shot by Ludwig Gätke. _E. pusilla_, Little Bunting, Sept. 24th, one shot; 30th, one.

_E. schœniclus_, Reed Bunting.--Great Cotes, Nov. 16th, considerable flight. Heligoland, Sept. 20th, pretty large numbers; Oct. 11th, great many; 13th, some; and 31st, many.

_Calcarius lapponicus_, Lapland Bunting.--Heligoland, Sept. 30th, some.

_Plectrophanes nivalis_, Snow Bunting.--Spring, Farn L.H., March 7th, two. Cockle L.V., 14th, "Snow-birds" to W. Languard L.H., July 8th, a pair on beach, 6.30 p.m., seen by Mr. Owen Boyle; certainly the earliest record for England of this species. Autumn, first at Tees L.V., Sept. 18th and 19th, one flock each day to S.W., and to Jan. 9th, 1884. Redcar, several flights to W.; a few recorded at stations between the Farn Islands and Yarmouth in September, October, and November; and from Dec. 1st to 29th in great numbers. At Great Cotes, on Dec. 4th, thousands upon thousands, the stubbles near the Humber fairly covered with their enormous flocks; young with a sprinkling of old birds, one to forty. Heligoland, Nov. 6th, early, very numerous passage; 12th and 14th, great many.

_Sturnus vulgaris_, Common Starling.--With few exceptions are recorded at all our east coast stations, and often in immense numbers, the occurrences being far too numerous to chronicle. The bulk crossed in September, October, and November; less in December; the line of flight and rushes corresponding with those of the Lark, with which species they are very frequently associated. Heligoland, from Oct. 1st to Nov. 12th; on Oct. 6th in "astounding flights, thousands upon thousands"; 12th, "considerable numbers of astounding flights, both overhead and in distance"; 13th, "still passing, astounding numbers all day"; 26th, the same, very high; 27th, "night, from 11 p.m., myriads"; 28th, "immense," and still great many to Nov. 12th. These extracts from Mr. Gätke's notes show the enormous migration of this species across Heligoland in the autumn, and the corresponding rush on to our east coast.

_Pastor roseus_, Rose-coloured Pastor.--Heligoland, July 16th, old male shot.

_Pyrrhocorax graculus_, Chough.--Heligoland, April 15th, seen for a whole week, but not obtained.

_Corvus monedula_, Jackdaw.--Considerable numbers south of Humber throughout the autumn. Heligoland, Oct. 26th, many; 27th and 29th, great flight.

_Corvus corone_, Carrion Crow.--Spring, Farn L.H., March 8th, seven to W. Autumn, Yarmouth, Oct. 14th, continuous flocks of Carrion and Grey Crows coming in, and again on 27th. At the Inner Dowsing L.V., from Oct. 25th to Nov. 13th, great many; also at other stations in October and November.

_Corvus cornix_, Hooded Crow.--Migrates in company with his near cousin, the Carrion Crow, as well as in separate flocks.[18] Spring, Farn L.H., May 25th, one Grey Crow on island, where it ate three young Larks; on July 27th Mr. Owen Boyle saw five on the beach off Languard. Autumn, first at Great Cotes, Oct. 4th, to Whitby L.H., Dec. 8th, fifty. Enormous numbers crossed in October and November between the Farn Islands and Shipwash L.V., off the coast of Essex, the main body arriving on the flat coast of Lincolnshire and in Norfolk; great rushes occurred on Oct. 9th, night of 12th, 20th, 27th, and 28th, and on to Nov. 2nd, and also Nov. 7th to 15th; under date Nov. 8th, Hasbro' L.V. reports "continuous flocks of Black Crows and Grey Crows, and Crows with white backs and bellies"; it would be difficult to say what is intended by the latter. Heligoland, Oct. 1st, flights, thirty to forty, to Nov. 12th.[19]

[Footnote 18: Probably something like one-half of the entries in the schedules record the movements of Crows, Rooks, Daws, Starlings, Larks, and Chaffinches, any detailed notice of which is unnecessary, and could serve no practical purpose.]

[Footnote 19: Under date Oct. 6th, N.E., clear, fresh, Mr. Gätke remarks:--"Across the sea both sides of island (N. and S.), particularly on north side, countless numbers of _cornix_, _sturnus_, and all kinds of small birds, all from E. to W. This occurrence happens not rarely; during this ponderous migration there were on the island nearly no birds."]

_Corvus frugilegus_, Rook.--Spring, Newarp L.V., during March and April, many flocks of Rooks and Crows are recorded as going both to the west and east, as if a cross migration was going on to and from the Continent. At the Cockle L.V., March 20th, 24th, and 26th, continuous Rooks and Crows to _west_. Llyn Wells, April 30th, various flocks of Crows to _south-west_, and at the same station, on Aug. 3rd and 4th, large flocks to _north north-east_. Autumn, with scarcely an exception, at all stations between the Spurn and South Foreland, from the last week in September to the end of the third week in November; the rushes correspond with those of the preceding.

_Alauda arvensis_, Sky Lark.--As in previous years. Larks hare crossed in immense numbers to the east coast; it would be quite unnecessary to give each occurrence in detail, almost involving the necessity of writing a separate report. They are recorded at all stations from the Farn Islands to Gull L.V., off the South Foreland, from Sept. 1st to Jan. 3rd, 1884, and often continuously night and day; rushes took place on Sept. 3rd, 4th, and 21st, Oct. 6th and 8th, 10th to 14th, 27th to Nov. 2nd-14th; and Dec. 27th and 30th; and again Jan. 3rd, 1884. Flocks which come in at daybreak will continue to arrive till 12 or 1 p.m., when migration for the time ceases. Numbers are killed during the night migration against the lanterns of the lighthouses and light-vessels.[20] Heligoland, Oct. 5th to Nov. 8th; great rushes, Oct. 12th; 27th, night from 11 p.m., "milliards" with Starlings; 28th, "immense flight"; 30th and 31st, in all four nights almost continuous flights.