Chapter IV: Part 4

Corvidæ.--Jackdaws, Crows, Black Grows, Grey Crows, Ravens, and one of Magpie, the latter at Kyleakin, marked "very rare," on Jan. 7th, flying S.E. Stations are Skerryvore, Dhuheartach in spring; and Rhu Stoir, where Crows (are these Rooks or Carrion Crows?) feed every day till 31st (I suspect these are local Rooks from Cama Loch, but would like to know for certain). Only some ten records in all--February, March, April, May, June; and August, September, October (Ravens at Kyleakin), November (Jackdaws at Sound of Mull, about 200 flying N. very high, mod. breeze, sleet, showers). December 27th, two Ravens, flying W.; light E., clear. Six species.

Cypselidæ.--Three May records, all at Dhuheartach. Single birds on 22nd and 23rd, flying E., with light S.E., clear; and on 24th, one flying E., with W.N.W., and one found dead on rocks. One species.

Cuculidæ.--Cuckoo records in spring, from--

Stornoway, first heard on May 2nd; N.E. breeze.

Skerryvore, first heard at Land Station, Tyree, on June 1st.

M'Arthur's Head, first on May 17th; light wind, clear.

Rhinns of Islay, May 24th; fresh W., haze.

Corsewall, May 6th, and Loch Ryan on May 2nd; light N.E., clear,
and rain.

_Note._--During the first week in May there appears to have been an indication of a migration of other species.

The only autumn record is of one found dead at Rhinns of Islay on Sept. 1st. One species.

Strigidæ.--Only one record on April 27th at Dhuheartach, where one rested on rock at ten a.m.; light N.W. wind, and haze. One species.

Falconidæ.--A Falcon flying N., at Kyleakin, in February; a Hawk at Dhuheartach, flying round on 19th April, where in autumn they make daily visits, and even in some seasons all the year round. In September one Hawk remained a week here, resting on the balcony at night, and feeding on small birds in the day. A Falcon seen at Butt of Lewis on Sept. 1st, and a Sparrow Hawk at Skerryvore on Sept. 1st, flying E. Two records in October and one in December--a Falcon flying W.; light N.W. airs. About three species.

Pelecanidæ.--In uniformity with East coast, records of Gannets, chronologically under each station, beginning in the north, so far as records permit. The stations recording in 1883 are Butt of Lewis (82), Rhu Stoir (83), Stornoway (84), Barra Head (88), Kyleakin (90), Dhuheartach (95), Lismore (98), M'Arthur's Head (101), Skervuile (102), and Lamlash (109). (N.B. The Committee would be obliged for chronological returns, giving always directions of flight, from any other stations, of Gannets and Rock birds):--

82. July 25th, began flying north in some numbers to Aug, 10th;
fresh N.

83. March 15th, seen daily in great numbers, noted at 83, up to
March 31st, but no directions of flight given, which we would
like to have always.

84. In August, reported as unusually scarce this season, but no
definite records given nor directions of flight, or if fishing
or not.

88. Under date of September 1st, the remark "a few fishing every
day."

90. On June 20th flocks all day, flying east. Was this the only day
on which Gannets were seen here?

95. Dec. 7th, two seen; only record given; no direction of flight;
wind light N.W., clear.

98. May 14th, "Solan Geese"; fresh, S. breeze, showery. June 22nd,
"Solan Geese" flying south; var. light, clear. Aug. 16th, two,
flying south; fresh N.W., clear.

101. April, a few daily seeking food.

102. March 21st, "Gannets seen;" E.S.E., light breeze. May 9th,
"Solan Geese" seen; fresh E. July 16th, "Solans;" fresh N.W.,
clear. July 24th, "Solans;" N.N.W., clear. July 25th, "Solans;"
N.N.W., clear.

109. Feb. 5th, the first seen for some months. One species.

Ardeidæ.--Only one record of Herons at Monach Island, where five were seen on the outlying rocks on Nov. 25th, strong E. wind; and the remark "seen daily all the year round at Kyleakin." One species.

Anatidæ; Anserinæ (Geese).--I think we should endeavour to tabulate also the movements of different species of Wild Geese; but as the records are a little confusing, I find we must do so under one, or at mast two headings, the occurrences of which are most frequently recorded under these designations.

Some four species (namely Bean, Pink-footed, Greylag--rarest migrant--and White-fronted) may be included in the following, reported as "Wild Grey Geese," "Geese," "Grey Geese," "Wild Geese," by the various reporters.

The stations returning these are:--Rhu Stoir (82), Butt of Lewis (83), Monach (86), Kyleakin (90), Lismore (98), Lamlash (109), and Corsewall (111).

82. "Wild Geese," April 14th, three; light S., haze and rain.

83. "Wild Geese," Sept. 19th, large flock, flying W., past the
lighthouse, and then turning S.W.; westerly gale and showers.

86. "Wild Grey Geese," Nov. 10th, twenty, flying round; light S.E.

90. "Geese," Sept. 19th, four, flying S.W.; light E.

98. "Grey Geese," Nov. 1st, five, flying S.; light S., haze.

109. "Grey Geese," April 27th, forty, flying N., light S., haze.
April 28th, fifty, flying N. Oct. 7th, three, flying S., N.W.,
fine. Nov. 1st, twenty, flying E., light E., haze.

111. "Wild Geese," Nov. 13th, twenty, flying E., light E., haze.
Nov. 14th, thirty, flying E.

Barnacle Goose seen at following stations:--Barra Head (88), Kyleakin (90).

88. April 25th, 100, "flying over;" light N.E., clear. May 1st,
150, fresh N.E., clear. Sept. 22nd, about thirty arrived, light
S.W., haze and rain. Nov. 10th, about fifty seen flying S., var.
W., showers.

90. Nov. 30th, seven flying S.W. ("first I have seen here"), light
N.W., clear. Five species of Geese.

Eider Ducks, _ut sup._ 82, 95, 103.

82. May 26th, six, passing N., light S.W., clear. June 30th,
sixteen, passing N., light E., var.

95. Oct. 12th, one, first seen this season. Oct. 15th, six, fishing
round rock. November, forty (twenty males and twenty females),
fishing round rock, light N.W., clear.

Wild Duck, only at 83, 88, 90.

83. March 21st, two males and two females, killed at lantern;
slight S.E., haze.

88. Sept. 21st, twenty, flying W., light E., haze.

90. Sept. 19th, four, flying S.W., light E.

Eider Ducks at Rhu Stoir, Dhuheartach, and Rhinns of Islay. Three at first named locality on April 14th; light S., haze and rain. Six on May 26th; strong S.W., passing north. Sixteen on June 30th, passing north, with light var., and clear. Then at Dhuheartach, the first seen this season was on Oct. 12th, in autumn migration, and at Rhinns of Islay, three seen during a S.W. gale. At Dhuheartach again, twenty males and twenty females, seen fishing round the rock, during strong W.N.W. wind, and clear on Dec. 7th. Two species.

Columbidæ.--A large flock of Rock Doves is resident at Butt of Lewis, and is seen daily flying inland to feed. At Kyleakin a Woodpigeon was seen flying S.E. at noon on Dec. 15th, with light W. wind, and clear; at same station, on 23rd, four Rock Doves flying south, wind light W.S.W.; and at same place two more flying south, with E.S.E. and haze, on Jan. 2nd. One species.

Rallinæ.--Corn Crake.--At Stornoway, first heard on May 2nd. At Barra Head, one seen on July 1st, var., S.E., and fog. At Kyleakin, first heard on May 16th, S., clear. At Rhinns of Islay, one found dead on May 23rd, light W., haze. One species.

Charadriadæ.--Spring. Oystercatchers are resident all the year at Cape Wrath. At Barra Head, three pairs arrived on April 10th. At M'Arthur's Head they were present all April.

In autumn oyster catchers appeared in flocks, along with the rush of land migrants, about Aug. 23rd, at Stornoway, at which place they are generally seen all September.

Golden Plover records quite absent for 1883.

Lapwing.--Spring record at Rhu Stoir, two seen on April 4th. In autumn, at Kyleakin, ninety were counted flying S.E., and crying loudly, with N.W. wind and haze, on Aug. 15th. Eight more on 23rd, flying east, wind S.E., and haze; and at Lamlash, a single bird rested on the Island on Aug. 13th. At Barra Head, seventeen were seen at two p.m., light east wind, and haze (direction of flight not given), on Sept. 21st; one record there also in October. At Loch Ryan, a flock flying S.E., on Nov. 15th, S.E. wind; and at Dhuheartach, where migration appeared to cease on Dec. 29th, the last migrant seen was a Lapwing, resting on the Lantern on that date. At Kyleakin seven were seen flying S.W. on Jan. 4th, 1884. Two species.

Scolopacidæ.--Woodcock, Snipe, Curlew, Whimbrel. No records of Woodcock till October. Then a few at Monach Island, Dhuheartach, Lismore, and Loch Ryan; and in November, at Kyleakin and Lismore. Single entries on 16th at Kyleakin, and 5th at Lismore. Two killed at Monach on Oct. 29th, one killed at Dhuheartach on 31st, and three on 29th, at Lismore; and one on 31st, at Loch Ryan, showing a general movement at these dates.

Snipe were even scarcer; earliest Oct. 22nd, at Monach, and occurring on the same dates as Woodcock, or nearly.

Curlew.--Numerous records at most of the stations, dating from Feb. 5th, at Rhuvaal, on to November. An appearance of a rush northwards on May between 14th and 16th, when flocks seen flying north at Rhinns of Islay; also on 16th, at Lismore, during the day. Records also at Loch Ryan, Skerryvore, &c.

In autumn, at Stornoway, Monach, Barra Head, and most stations indeed; earliest, July 25th, at Skerryvore, when five Curlews seen flying N.E., on to Nov. 16th, at Sound of Mull. Between Sept. 16th and 30th, at Stornoway, seen every day on the shore, and large numbers on the 30th.

There is only one record of Whimbrel under the name "The Small Curlew," when two were seen at Skerryvore flying about the rocks. I wish we could more exactly trace the lines of migration of the Whimbrel, or "May fowl" of the Hebrides, in both spring and autumn (see remarks of Mr. D. Gray in the Atlantic, _antea_). No records of Redshanks or Sandpipers. Four species.

Laridæ; Sterninæ.--Arrivals in spring recorded as follows:--At Rhu Stoir, three Terns on May 10th; light N. breeze. At Stornoway, Terns "arrived as usual about this time," and left in August. At Skervuile, arrived on 14th, and more seen on 16th. The first came with a fresh S. breeze and rain. At Corsewall first observed was on May 11th.

In autumn. Terns, as already stated, left Stornoway in August, but "about ten days later than usual." The last seen at Skervuile was on Sept. 6th. At Sound of Mull, on Sept. 30th, a flock rested for two hours, and then flew away S.E., composed of old and young together. Moderate wind.

An utter absence of records of any Gulls, Skuas, "Boatswains," or any other Laridæ. One or two species?

Procellariidæ.--One record of Storm Petrel at Lismore, where it is accounted very rare, on Oct. 3rd, when one was killed; strong N.W. wind, and haze. One species.

Alcidæ.--At various stations taken notice of as follows:--At Barra Head, a few seen on Feb. 4th; fresh S.W., banks of fog. No records in April. "Marrots" and "Razorbills." At Barra Head, numbers seen of same, and Puffins, on April 27th; light S.E. wind. A few Puffins seen on May 1st; and fresh N.E. A great many more on May 2nd; fresh N.E. At Butt of Lewis, first Razorbills seen on April 25th.

In autumn, Marrots leave Barra Head Aug. 12th, along with the bulk of Razorbills, but Puffins not till Aug. 25th. Marrots and Razorbills left with fresh E. wind. Puffins left in fresh S. wind.

Cormorants arrived about same time as Razorbills and Aleidæ, but remain about six weeks later at Butt of Lewis; and at Kyleakin there is record of a flock of twenty-eight flying W. on 13th, with S.W. breeze. Four species.

Colymbidæ.--On June 10th one great N. Diver seen swimming near Lighthouse, at Kyleakin, moving N. (but this movement may be due to set of the tide only, hour not given, J. A. H. B.). In autumn, at Sound of Mull, a G. N. D., passing S., var., light breezes. At Lismore, one flying south; stormy W., rain, on Oct. 17th. At Sound of Mull, two passing south, at noon; light airs. If the movement is only local and due to tides, this should be mentioned in schedules, and the words "drifting with tide," or "swimming with tide," used instead of "passing." They are not likely to swim against the tide, but if this phenomenon is observed it should be recorded. One species.

Weather Notes for General Remarks on Spring Migration, 1883.

Fearful snow-storm over the north of Shetland on March 17th, and N.E. gales and snow prevailed from March 5th to 24th; E. and N.E. and N. winds prevailed all over Scotland with gales, notably on March 6th and 17th; from 6th to 24th slight changes to S.E., but of short duration; on 25th (Sunday) wind S.W. strong to gale and rain, the first rain since February, but only lasted half a day; wind backed again to N.E. In Orkney the sea rose suddenly very high on the E. coast on March 21st; very cold and fine on 22nd, wind light S.W. "Large quantities of Cormorants, Razorbills, and Shags, &c., are coming ashore along the E. coast of Orkney." Deaths supposed to be from scarcity of food, _viz._, coal-fish; and great damage done to rabbits by Hawks, in some cases nearly exterminating them (daily papers of March 23rd, 1883). At Dunipace 12° of frost on night of March 27th. Fearful gale at 9 a.m. on March 30th, bar. at 28′ 9″; gale all night from S.W., bar. rising all day; again till 9 p.m. to 29′ 6″, wind S.W. at 10 p.m.; again at 30′ 2″. S. gale at Isle of May on March 29th and 30th.

As already mentioned in our General Remarks on 1882 Report (Fourth Report, 1882, p. 67) the effects of these gales and N.E. winds in spring of 1883 was almost to stop migration at Isle of May, which migration had "set in pretty briskly" on March 2nd, and almost ceased on the 5th. From the latter date only a few "stragglers of the strongest wings" up to the 19th; while a great concourse of Wagtails was observed inland in Edinburgh (see report as above quoted); few were seen at Isle of May till the 30th, when five came with S. gale (_op. cit._, p. 68).

The general migration was much weaker in numbers this season in spring, and this is doubtless owing to the prevalence of strong S.E. gales and winds at the time of migration, moderate S.E. or easterly winds being preferred. Still there were considerable rushes at the more favourable localities for observation especially of Thrushes and other _Turdidæ_.

The anomalous migration recorded by Mr. Cordeaux on to part of the English coast between Feb. 18th and May 18th,[29] with strong E. and S.E. winds, changing occasionally by N.E. to W. and N.W., is somewhat difficult of explanation, unless we could correlate data from the opposite coasts at the same dates in spring of 1883; but the fact stated by me that migration began briskly at Isle of May on March 2nd and almost ceased by the 5th may indicate that the migration thus retarded by adverse winds, or altered in direction thereby, passed N. by more inland routes, avoiding the Scottish coast-line, and hugging every sheltering hollow of land. Blown across the North Sea at the more southerly stations, they then crept northwards silently and more inland. Being all adult birds, and having crossed the North Sea not at the widest part if they came with a S.E. wind, less exhaustion would occur, and thus, passing inland, they would escape notice near the coast.

[Footnote 29: See p. 60 of this Report.]

Before we can speak with much certainty as to the progress of spring migrations into the further districts influenced by them, we require more full and continuous data from Faroe and Iceland. Still, the earliest appearance noted in Iceland of the Redwing, _Turdus iliacus_, on April 7th, 1882, should be noted as a possible means of comparison in that year with the returns from our own coasts. Data from our West Coast of Scotland help us little in 1883 in spring, and even less so in 1882, as regards _Turdidæ_. Wheatears again, in 1882, are noted not before April 24th, and on West Coast of Scotland the migration, though but scantily observed, began on March 9th and terminated as late as May 17th (see 1882 Report, p. 57).

The autumn migration of 1883 was pronounced, and confined principally to end of October and November, of _Turdidæ_, _Cinclidæ_ (one of which, seen at Isle of May, was afterwards described to me as having no brown between the black and white of the breast); also of Snow Buntings, Sky Larks, Robins (small numbers), Linnets, Chaffinches, Starlings, culminating in a grand rush past of the bulk between Oct. 28th or 30th and Nov. 3rd. The heaviest rush, observed at the time of a south wind, as compared with other years, at Isle of May, was on Oct. 13th and 14th, a S.E. wind, according to Mr. Agnew, being usually more favourable at that point. This October to November rush is undoubtedly the principal feature of our returns over the whole country. Of the expansion of the fan or wave our returns from both E. and W. coasts give a very fair indication. It seems likely that, although most land-stations have not returned very heavily-laden schedules,--not to compare, for instance, with 1882,--yet, as noticed by Mr. Cordeaux, quite as many, if not more, birds were observed at the light-ships; that the reason for this may be found in the normal and favourable direction of the winds prevailing in the North Sea at the time of autumn migration, resulting in greater numbers of birds passing inland without resting, and being thus less liable to come under observation, except at specially suitable stations. And, if we / compare the schedules of 1883 and those of 1882 on the West Coast of Scotland we find that, while larger numbers are recorded at the more northerly stations in 1883 than in 1882, there is a lighter return at more southerly stations in the autumn of 1883 than there was in the autumn of 1882. Thus to no inconsiderable degree the order of the statistics of two years is reversed. It would almost appear in this way that when a "spread fan" reaches our E. coast with S.E. winds--reaching, as it did in 1882, from Faroe S. to the English Channel--the birds, being tired and worn out, promptly seek shelter, and then, when rested, pursue their migration on more southerly lines, and do not reach so far west, except such as fail to catch up the land, and are driven forward helplessly. This would cause comparative desertion of the more northerly stations of the W. coast and Outer Hebrides, as in 1882. But on the other hand, when a "closed fan" reaches our E. coast with prevailing westerly and north-westerly winds, and, having much less expansion to the northward, as in 1883, as regards the E. coast, it seems that birds arriving, less exhausted with the winds best suited for their successful passage, pass on inland, the same lines of flight being persevered in, and thus reach further north upon the West Coast of Scotland.

Thus the Goldcrest, in 1883, reached as far north as Dhuheartach and Lismore in some numbers; but in 1882, when they came in such vast hordes to our east coast, we had no records north of Rhinns of Islay, and none others until we found them in "great numbers" at stations south of the Firth of Clyde.

Rushes took place on August 16th at Isle of May, and again on 22nd, with easterly wind and fog, principally of Wheatears, culminating on night of Sept. 2nd-3rd, and being accompanied by Redstarts, Chiffchaffs, Robins, Sedge Warblers, Wood Warblers, and Golden and Grey Plovers; Thrushes apparently totally absent. A single adult Blue-throated Warbler, with bright blue breast, was observed at Isle of May. The rush was on Sept. 4th, at Pentland Skerries, with strong N. wind. Another rush, about Sept. 15th, of Willow Warblers and Chiffchaffs; and, on 22nd, of Robins, accompanied by a single recorded Goldcrest. A rush of the latter took place on Oct. 10th at Isle of May. Common Wrens, not in large numbers, also migrated on Sept. 22nd and 23rd.

Another feature of the 1883 Report is the abundance of Finches, which usually travel with the Thrushes, but whose migration appears to be extended over a longer period of time than that of the Thrushes in 1883.

It will be gathered from the Report that the dates of rushes on our E. Scottish coasts were slightly later than those on the E. English coast, averaging from twenty-four to thirty hours by the schedules, and that the migration past the more northerly stations of Scotland were in proportion later than in the south. And also that the dates of the heaviest rushes on the E. coast agree fairly well with the dates of the W. coast.

While closing our 1883 Report it is perhaps desirable to call attention to the very great spring migration of Woodcocks, which appears to have crossed Scotland between Clyde and Forth on March 9th, 10th, 11th, and 12th, 1884. On the 10th our covers here (Dunipace) were full of Woodcock. Torwood also held large numbers on 9th, 10th, 11th, and 12th; at Glenbervie, close to this, also unusual numbers were observed. From the Ayrshire coast they are reported numerous, but not more so than usual at this season, indicating that the Ayrshire coast, or properties along the coast, are usually visited in the spring migration. At Fassaroe, Bray, Co. Wicklow, Mr. Barrington made enquiries, but no extraordinary numbers have been noted there. At Islay Mr. Ballingall reports unusual numbers about the time mentioned.

At Ross Priory, east side of Loch Lomond, a good many were observed, there being snow on the ground at the time; but at Arden, on the west side, and almost immediately opposite, no additions were observed. At Aberfoyle and neighbourhood very large numbers were observed. In East Kilbryde Parish, to the south of Forth and Clyde isthmus, two were seen at a locality where none were ever seen before. At Callander no unusual number was noticed, a good many appearing here at this season, which is usually called "The Return of the Woodcocks." Mr. Robert Ferguson, on the 11th, flushed eight within a mile-radius, "a most unusual circumstance here,"--at Whitehill, Rosewell, Midlothian,--and large numbers were observed near Innerleithen in Holylee Woods and vicinity. To the east of this county no numbers of any consequence were noted at Tulliallan or West Grange, in Fife.[30] All the birds seen by myself were small red Scandinavian birds, which I consider are quite unmistakable and distinct from home-bred birds. One with an injured muscle under the wing was brought into the house,--also a red bird,--which was found alive in a ditch close to.

[Footnote 30: Subsequently I received a note from Mr. Seton Thomson, of Kinnaird House, Stirlingshire, to the effect that the gamekeeper, on March 1st, on taking a bee-line to Airth, two and a half miles over moss-land (Airth is on the Stirlingshire side of the Firth of Forth, where about three hundred yards of water separate it from Tulliallan) put up half a dozen Woodcocks in a place where Woodcocks are very rarely seen. Many also were seen about the garden at Kinnaird House; these were observed not to be the usual Woodcocks, but a much redder-looking bird. There appears to have been a great flight of Woodcocks at Aberfoyle about March 15th. Mr. R. Ker's keeper flushed five in about two square yards, and kept putting them up all over. Two were seen also at Crutherland, by East Kilbryde, on the 12th, where a Woodcock was never seen before.]

I would like further to have ascertained the boundaries within which this migration was observed; how far to the north and how far to the south of the catchment Basin of Forth it extended. Here I can do little more than direct attention to the facts, so far as known to me. But it seems evident that, though so abundantly observed at Airth and Kinnaird, scarcely any increase was noticeable just across the Forth at Tulliallan or West Grange, or in Fife; and though numerous at Ross Priory and Loch Lomond on the east side, no increase was observed at Arden and the west side of the loch. When the birds "lifted" from Kinnaird and Airth, their next probable resting place would be Norway or the continental coast, possibly Heligoland, as no notice is taken of them in the 1884 spring returns from Isle of May or Bell Rock. Nor does there appear to have been any corresponding movement through the Pentland Firth.

I should like in this place to record the occurrence of the Black Redstart in the following form. It is previously recorded by me in the Proc. Royal Physical Society, Edinb. of April 23rd, 1884:--

+-----------------------------------+--------------------------------+
| Date. | 1884. Mar. 31. |
+-----------------------------------+--------------------------------+
| Locality. | Pentland Skerries. |
+-----------------------------------+--------------------------------+
| Species. | _Ruticilla titys_ (Scop.). |
+-----------------------------------+--------------------------------+
| Age--Adult or Young. | Ad. |
+-----------------------------------+--------------------------------+
| Sex. | ♂ |
+-----------------------------------+--------------------------------+
| Alone, or | -- |
+-----------------------------------+--------------------------------+
| with others, | X |
+-----------------------------------+--------------------------------+
| of its own, | -- |
+-----------------------------------+--------------------------------+
| or other Species.* | X |
+-----------------------------------+--------------------------------+
| Direction of Wind, | S.E. |
+-----------------------------------+--------------------------------+
| and Strength. | Strong. |
+-----------------------------------+--------------------------------+
| Prevailing Wind for past Few Days.| S. & S.E. |
+-----------------------------------+--------------------------------+
| Weather. | Clear on 28th. Fog on 31st. |
+-----------------------------------+--------------------------------+
| =Remarks.= |
| |
|* If with other species, name them here:--1 Robin, Sandpipers, |
| 1 Yellow Bunting, 1 Chaffinch, "Stonechats" (_i.e._, Wheatears),|
| 1 G. C. Wren, 1 Common Thrush. |
+--------------------------------------------------------------------+

IRISH COAST.

In the spring of 1883 schedules were forwarded to forty-two stations, Arklow North Light-ship having been added to those of the previous year. Twenty-five replied.

In the autumn only thirty-five schedules were sent out, seven having been omitted, _i.e._, Mine Head, Wicklow Head, Lough Swilly, Eagle Island East, Slyne Head South, Loop Head, and Samphire Island. Thirty-four were returned, one station sending no answer.

A decided improvement in filling the schedules occurred in the autumn, the observations of some light-keepers extending over three or even four schedules. The labour of arranging the materials for this report and placing the entries under the head of each species has consequently been much increased.

In addition to the schedules the light-keepers at Coningbeg light-ship, Tuskar Rock, Rathlin Island, Killybegs, Tearaght, and Skelligs have forwarded lists of all the birds they have observed, whether migrating or otherwise. There is an evident disposition on the part of all to help us as far as possible in this enquiry. The light stations are arranged geographically--beginning at the Fastnet, in Cork, and going' round by the east to the west coast.

The number of migrants passing in the autumn seems to have been greater than usual. A great rush of Thrushes (including probably Redwings), Blackbirds, and Starlings, took place at our south eastern and southern stations between Oct. 25th and Nov. 2nd--notably at the Tuskar, on the Wexford coast, which is the best Irish station. Smaller rushes of these and other birds are also recorded, but it is premature at present to analyse the movements of each species or the dates on which they occurred. After a few years conclusions will be far more satisfactory.

The great majority of birds are killed striking on foggy, misty, or dark nights, and it is perhaps not impossible for a great migration to take place, and pass almost unrecorded if the night be fine and bright. Whenever a bird has been killed striking, it is so stated, and not left to be understood.

The bulk of the migrants appear to arrive on our south eastern coast, except such birds as the Barnacle Goose and Snow Bunting, which are mainly recorded from the north western stations, being rarely entered in the schedules from the east or south coasts.

An interesting feature this year is the occurrence of several examples of the Greenland Falcon on the west coast.

The winter of 1883-4 was exceptionally mild, and the entries due to local migration from frost and hard weather are probably few.

Many entries no doubt refer to birds not migrating at all, but none have been omitted, as it is difficult to know where to draw the line. It is desirable, however, that the light-keepers should state whether the bird is believed to be migrating or merely moving about the district from local causes.

In the schedules for next year a special column for the direction of flight has been added. This we think quite as important as the direction of the wind. Birds seem rarely to fly directly with the wind. Attention is drawn to this point in order to have it confirmed or otherwise.

In order to diminish the errors in the identification of species the light-keepers have been instructed to forward, when possible, a leg and wing of every bird about which they are doubtful, and we trust they will do so.

Some entries seem very improbable, and others are isolated and apparently valueless. When records accumulate, both may prove useful.

In addition to the little Skellig Rock--off the coast of Kerry--the Gannet also breeds on the Bull Rock fifteen miles further south, and a few are also reported as breeding in the Cow Rock quite close to it.

No matter what results are arrived at from this enquiry, it is satisfactory to be in correspondence with a number of observers on isolated points all around the coast.

The information supplied, if corroborated during several years by different light-keepers, cannot but be valuable, and we wish to impress on them the necessity of continuing to assist in this investigation.

To all the light-keepers who have given their time and attention to the subject we return our sincere thanks, especially as their assistance is voluntary and given solely for the advancement of knowledge.

Mr. Armstrong, Secretary to the Irish Lights Board, and Captain Boxer, R.N., Inspector of Irish Lights, have helped us in many ways by their advice and co-operation. The Commissioners of Irish Lights have given us every facility, and also material support by subscribing for forty copies of the report and distributing them among the light-keepers.

Alexander G. More.
Richard M. Barrington.

List of Light-stations.

Miles
from
Sp. Au. shore. Names of Observers.
1. Fastnet, Co. Cork o x 8 James Walsh.
2. Galley Head, Cork x x -- John Whelan and
John Kelly.
3. Old Head, Kinsale, Cork x x -- Martin Kennedy.
4. Mine Head, Waterford o * --
5. Dungarvan, Waterford o x -- Wm. Higginbotham.
5.*Coningbeg Lt.-ship, Wexford x x 10 Patrick Cullen.
6. Barrels Rock Lt.-ship, do. x x 4 Michael Doyle.
7. Tuskar Rock Lt.-ship, do. x x 7 Richard Hamilton.
8. Arklow Sth. Lt.-ship, Wicklow x x 7 Patrick Clancy.
8.*Arklow North Lt.-ship, do. x x 8 William Daly.
10. Kish Bank Lt.-ship, Dublin x x 7 Michael Cunniam and
John Pinston.
11. Howth Baily, Dublin o o --
12. Rockabill, Dublin x x 5 Joseph Hammond.
13. Copeland Island, Down x x 3 John Walsh.
14. Maidens, Antrim x x 5 Patrick Keenan and
Michael Barry.
15. Rathlin, Antrim x x 6 John A. Murray.
16. Innishtrahull, Donegal x x 6 W. H. James.
17. Dunree Head, Donegal o x -- John Stapleton.
18. Lough Swilly, Donegal x * -- Henry Redmond.
19. Tory Island, Donegal o x 9 Thomas Sweeny.
20. Arranmore, Donegal x x 5 Henry Williams.
21. Rathlin O'Birne, Donegal x x 2 Joseph Hill and
John Scallan.
22. Killybegs, Donegal x x -- Daniel Hawkins.
23. Oyster Island, N. Sligo x x 1 John Young and
Joseph Hill.
24. Broadhaven, Mayo o x -- Patrick Keenan.
25. Eagle Island, E., Mayo x * 2 Henry Stocker.
26. Eagle Island, W., Mayo o x 2 Matthew Healy.
27. Blackrock, Mayo o x 9 John Redmond and
John Young.
28. Blacksod Point, Mayo o x -- Robt. W. Redmond.
29. Clare Island, Mayo x x 4 G. H. Brownell.
30. Slyne Head, N., Galway x x 3 Robert Tyrrell.
31. Slyne Head, S., Galway o * 3
32. Arran Island, N., Galway o x 9 Thomas Fortune.
33. Straw Island, Galway x x 9 Charles Boyle.
34. Arran Island, S., Galway x x 6 John O'Donnell.
36. Samphire Island, Kerry o * ½
37. Tearaght, Kerry x x 9 Edward McCarron.
38. Valentia, Kerry o x -- Joseph Williams.
39. Skelligs, Kerry o x 9 Thomas Kerley.
40. Dursey Island, Cork x x ½ James Keenan.

_Abbreviations:_

Sp. = Spring. Au = Autumn.
o = No reply. x = Schedule returned partly or wholly filled.
* = No schedule sent to this station.

General Remarks of Light-Keepers.

_Fastnet._--"Autumn: On the night of Nov. 2nd, the weather being hazy, there was a quantity of all species of birds came from the N.E., and several of them were killed by striking the lantern; but what was most remarkable was the quantity of large Moths, which I could compare to nothing but a heavy fall of snow, they were so numerous. In bad weather a few Seals frequent the rock, and a quantity of Gulls and Sea Parrots--the latter I have frequently seen killed and eaten by the Royal Gull. The Gannet is here all the year. No birds breed. On Nov. 2nd, from one a.m. to seven a.m., there were killed by striking the lantern twenty-two Thrushes, eleven Blackbirds, four Woodcocks, seventeen Starlings, eight Linnets, five Larks, and seven Robins. Wind S.E., light, hazy."--James Walsh.

_Galley Head._--"Spring: The flight of the Gannet and Puffin is always to the west here. I have many times thought they must pass east by some other route. The Grey-backed Crow and Common Crow are seen all the year round. The Wagtail, Stonechat, and other small birds have almost disappeared this year. The Cuckoo I have not seen or heard this year. I have never been at a station with less birds about than this one. I am four years here, and there has not been one case of a bird striking the lantern."--John Whelan.

"Autumn: I arrived at this station Nov. 6th, and from that date to the present from ninety to one hundred Sea Gulls are to be seen daily flying about the cliffs near the Lighthouse. No birds of any other species have been seen passing."--John Kelly. Feb., 1884.

_Old Head, Kinsale._--"Autumn: I have only seen some small birds, such as Larks and Chaffinches, from Dec. 17th to Jan. 1st, 1884. There are Sea Gulls, Rooks, and Grey Crows seen here all the year round, also two Falcon Hawks. Starlings commenced to leave here the last week of November. Larks, Wrens, Titmice, and Twite Linnets are seen all the year round, and on the lake, three miles distant, large Duck, Widgeon, Coot, and Waterhens. On Dec. 15th I saw a large flight of birds going to the south at a great height, and suspect they were Golden Plover. The Curlew never leaves the marsh three miles from here. I never saw less birds than there is this winter."--Martin Kennedy.

_Coningbeg Light-ship._--"Autumn: A great quantity of birds passed this station last month. I have not seen so many birds killed since I came to this station three years ago."--Patrick Cullen. Nov., 1883.

_Barrels Rock Light-ship._--"Spring: I have observed very few land birds passing this year, and none about the ship in foggy weather, like other stations I have been at."

_Tuskar Rock._--"Spring: A great absence of sea fowl this year. I consider it owing to the scarcity of fish."

_Arklow North Light-ship._--"Autumn: As a rule all birds give the ship a wide berth when passing, and it is very hard to tell what they are. During thick foggy nights a large quantity of small land birds are killed striking our lantern."--William Daly.

_Copeland Island._--"Autumn: A number of sea birds of different species resort to this locality in the autumn and winter months for feeding purposes, and are seen in greater or lesser numbers each day as the weather suits and feeding is plentiful. They are Gannets, Cormorants, Puffins, Grey and Royal Gulls, Sea-pies, 'Cranes,' Ducks, Teal, Curlew, and Sandpipers. None of these breed in the vicinity. On Oct. 10th a rush of Larks, Starlings, Linnets, Titmice, Thrushes, Blackbirds, 'Grey' Plover, and Snipe. Eighteen Starlings, six Blackbirds, twenty Larks, twelve Linnets, eight Titmice, four Thrushes, three Plover, and two Snipe killed striking lantern, and several injured but not killed."--John Walsh.

_South Maidens._--"Spring: No birds strike the lantern in April and May. They do not strike until October. Twelve Gannets, twenty-four Ducks, six Sea-pies, and twelve Wild Geese are all the birds I have seen for three months."--Patrick Keenan.--"Autumn: I arrived here Sept. 25th, 1883, and saw no birds up to Oct. 15th, save Puffins, Sea Gulls, and Cormorants, and Sand Larks occasionally. Thrushes, Blackbirds, and Larks are rarely seen. Wild Duck do not strike the lantern glass."--Michael Barry.

_Rathlin Island._--"April 12th: Blackbirds, Thrushes, Skylarks, Wild Ducks, Redshanks, Pigeons, and 'Sea Coot' seem to remain for the season. Autumn: I have never at any time during the migratory season for Ducks, Widgeon, Wild Geese, Barnacles, and Swan heard them passing at night as at other stations."--John A. Murray.

_Innishtrahull._--"April 30th. A small bird with an orange tail, name unknown, struck, not killed." Wind S.W.; a gale. "Very little birds visited this island in May, June, and July, except a flock of Curlew." Autumn: "There has been a great absence of birds this winter, and no Snipe or Woodcock visited this place. Snow Buntings remained here all the past winter."

_Dunree Head._--"Autumn: No birds resort to this station only Cormorants, which remain all the year and breed. I have been at several stations on the coast, but never was at a station so scarce of birds as this."--John Stapleton.

_Tory Island._--"Autumn: Very few birds past this station. I suppose owing to its being so far out to sea. I am informed that birds pass more frequently the east side of the island. On the islands between this and the mainland large flocks of Barnacle stop during the winter months. I have not seen a Snow Bunting, Snipe, or Starling this season. During heavy frost, snow-birds frequent the island from the mainland, but return as soon as the thaw commences."--Thomas H. Sweeny.

_Arranmore._--"Spring: Gulls and Puffins have laid great quantities of their eggs this year on the rock. A great many have been destroyed by the Grey Crow."--Henry Williams.

_Killybegs._--"Autumn: The birds which breed around here are the Wild Duck, Wild Pigeon, Lapwing, Lark, Linnet, Swallow, Snipe, Common Wren, Thrush, Robin, Blackbird, Sparrow, Stonechat, Sand Lark, and Grey Crow."--Daniel Hawkins.

_Broadhaven._--"Autumn: No birds strike this light."--Patrick Keenan.

_Eagle Island, East._--"Since I joined this station in Sept., 1882, up to present date, Sept., 1883, nothing worth noting."--H. Stocker.

_Eagle Island, West._--"There was absolutely nothing of interest to enter in schedule last autumn-. The sea has been crossing this island, I may say daily, for the last five months, and with the exception of a few Sea Gulls, which seem never to leave the locality, there were no birds visited." March, 1884.--Matthew Healy.

_Blacksod._--"I have carefully looked out for birds, and seen none worth entering. I have seen several seals."--Robert W. Redmond.

_Clare Island._--"In February very few birds are seen at this station. No birds strike this lantern. A great number of seals frequent this place in caves round the cliffs."--George H. Brownell.

_Slyne Head, North._--"Spring: I beg to remark that at all times sea birds are to be seen on this coast, their numbers being chiefly regulated by the feeding for them."--Robert Tyrrell.

_Arran Island, North._--"During the months of January and February no birds are seen except a few Sea-pies and Sand-larks. It must be in consequence of the very wild and stormy weather."--Thomas Fortune.

_Straw Island._--"Spring: The different species of sea fowl are very scarce this season. I believe from the want of small fry. None breed on this island, it being low and flat. Autumn: Birds scarcely ever strike the lantern in consequence of the light appearing in a different direction to the general flight of birds, being also a red light. It is 26 feet above high water, and ten miles from land. I have remarked a greater number of Blackbirds and Starlings this winter than since the great frost of 1880. On Oct. 28th a flock of Wild Duck alighted, apparently much exhausted, and remained a few hours, and went S.E., towards land."--Charles Boyle.

_Tearaght._--July 30th. "The following birds are still on the island, _viz._, Guillemots, Sea Parrots, Kittiwakes, Grey Crows, Sea-pies, Razorbills, Manx Shearwater, Stonechats, and, I think. Choughs and Falcons (Blue Hawks). All these breed on the island. Dec. 18th, birds remaining: Grey Linnets, Rock Pigeon, Thrushes, Mackerel Cock (on water). Blackbirds. Residents, Titlarks and Common Wren. The 'Mackerel Cock' is about the size of a Razorbill, but it is not the Razorbill. Thousands of them are round the rock now. Feb. 2nd, 1884." (See under Manx Shearwater).

_Dursey Island._--"The Gannet breed on the Bull Rock, several hundred. On the Cow Rock, distant three-quarters of a mile from the Bull, a few also breed. I believe the Gannet did not breed on the Bull until after the Skellig light was erected." [This was in 1826. R. M. B.]--Michael Shea. "Very few birds breed on this island, except the Wild Pigeon, Jackdaw, and a few Sea Gulls. On the Bull Rock, four miles N.W. of Dursey Head, the Gannet and Puffin breed in great numbers, coming about March 1st and leaving Oct. 1st."--James Keenan.

Eagle.

_Clare Island._--"The Eagles still inhabit the cliffs, and have been as usual destructive to young lambs and fowls belonging to the inhabitants. In December they make very bold, and not having sea birds to feed on, are often observed near the villages, principally when the wind is east."

Greenland Falcon.

_Blackrock Mayo._--Nov. 9th. "Two grey speckled Hawks at three p.m., wind strong W., showery. One shot; it measured four feet from tip to tip of wings, and had down under its feathers like a sea bird."

_Slyne Head, North._--Dec. 2nd, one White Hawk, at two p.m.; wind N., clear. First seen here, and very tame.

_Tearaght._--Dec. 12th, Mr. P. Sheehy, assistant-keeper, saw a White Hawk; wind N.W., strong breeze, and gloomy. March 23rd, 1884, one white spotted Falcon shot. April 2nd, another much smaller and whiter shot.

[This has been an extraordinary year for the occurrence of the Greenland Falcon, no less than eight having been obtained at various points along the west coast of Ireland from Donegal to Cork, and one Iceland Falcon at West Port.--R. M. B.]

Hawks.

_Fastnet._--Sept. 14th, one flying east.

_Dungarvan._--Dec. 17th, two Falcons passing S.W.

_Tuskar Rock._--Feb. 25th and 27th, March 3rd and 10th, one Hawk seen at daylight; 26th, 'two Sparrow Hawks; Oct. 13th and 15th, one seen.

_Arklow North Light-ship._--May 4th, one Sparrow Hawk, 7.20 a.m., on lantern; Feb. 22nd, 1884, one hovering about ship nine a.m.

_Kish Bank Light-ship._--Oct. 30th, three Hawks hovering about ship; flew to N.W.

_Rockabill._--Aug. 31st, one caught on balcony.

_Rathlin Island._--June 25th, one Sparrow Hawk at noon; Aug. 28th, one Sparrow Hawk and one Falcon Hawk; Dec. 8th and 20th, two Falcon Hawks at noon.

_Innishtrahull._--March 23rd, one Hawk, 11.50 a.m.; wind strong W. April 15th, one, two p.m.; wind N., fresh. May 15th, a Grey Hawk, at two a.m.; wind N.W., misty. During August several "Brown Hawks," which remained most of the month; Dec. 8th, one Brown Hawk.

_Lough Swilly._--April 3rd, one Hawk, four p.m.; May 14th, one Sparrow Hawk; June 22nd, two Hawks.

_Arranmore._--April 12th, Peregrine Hawks breed on island; 15th, one Sparrow Hawk; May 6th, four Hawks; June 28th, one; Sept. 4th, one.

_Killybegs._--Aug. 14th, one hovering about.

_Blackrock Mayo._--Dec. 10th, two Falcons flying N.E., high; wind S.W., gale. Dec. 19th, one Falcon, one p.m.; wind W., fresh, gloomy. Dec. 24th, two Sparrow Hawks, flying S.E.; wind S., gale.

_Clare Island._--Two Kestrel Hawks build their nest, as usual, in the vicinity of the Lighthouse.

_Arran Island, South._--April 8th, four "Holland Hawks," six a.m.; wind S.S.E. They remain here.

_Tearaght._--Jan. 30th, one Falcon? one p.m.; wind N.W., clear. March 2nd, two Sparrow Hawks, also on March 3rd. They come and go occasionally the year round. Oct. 29th, one Hawk, colour grey, portions white and black, beak white, and white spot on crown of head. A pair of Falcons and "Sparrow Hawks" breed on the island.

_Valentia._--Sept. 1st, two small Hawks; wind strong S.E. Also on Oct. 14th and Nov. 8th.

Owl.

_Innishtrahull._--Feb. 15th, one "Brown Owl," two p.m.; wind N.E., gale, squally. Nov. 8th, "I have been told another snowy Owl was seen on the island about the 14th of last month, but not so large" as the specimen shot on Nov. 19th, 1882. "It was not observed by me." (See last year's Report).

_Killybegs._--April 10th, one "Screech Owl," shot at six p.m. Rose out of a swamp in vicinity, an unusual visitor.

Thrushes.

_Fastnet._--Oct. 22nd, ten Thrushes; Nov. 2nd, twenty-two killed striking.

_Old Head, Kinsale._--Feb. 3rd, large numbers from sunrise to sunset, coming from the north. Dec. 16th, some hundreds; wind N., frosty.

_Coningbeg Light-ship._--Oct. 26th, one alighted on ship; 28th, flocks about the ship from 9 p.m. until midnight; fifteen killed striking; wind light, S., gloomy. 29th, a great number about ship during night, many killed and fell overboard; gloomy. They made for the land. 30th, three struck at 3 a.m., killed. 31st, two about light 10 p.m.

_Dungarvan._--Oct. 2nd, a great number of song Thrushes in vicinity all day. Oct. 26th, plentiful in fields about station. 28th, one "Redwing Thrush" struck 11.20 p.m.

_Tuskar Rock._--Feb. 24th and 25th, Thrushes during day and night, some struck; fog and mist. Oct. 9th and 10th, Thrushes all night; a great number killed and disabled. Oct. 27th to Nov. 2nd, great numbers of Thrushes passed, many killed; weather foggy, with mist. On Oct. 29th, at 7 a.m., I found two large mountain Thrushes, with grey breasts and dark wings (Fieldfares?). Most of the Thrushes that are killed are small mountain Thrushes, never seen here except in winter, mostly in frosty weather. They have no regular round spots on breast--a sort of striped head and a great deal of yellow under the wings (Redwings?). Only twenty of the native Thrushes killed.

_Arklow South Light-ship._--March 2nd, five on deck. April 22nd, three. Oct. 10th, one killed; weather hazy. Oct. 28th and 29th, six killed, striking; wind S., cloudy.

_Arklow North Light-ship._--Sept. 16th, a large flock hovering about ship during the day. 19th, Thrushes killed striking about midnight. Oct. 29th and 30th, large numbers striking lantern; calm, overcast, hazy.

_Kish Bank Light-ship._--Oct. 8th, one flighted at 10 a.m. 28th, one killed striking 10.30 p.m.; weather gloomy.

_Rockabill._--Jan. 13th, Thrushes in night, some struck; weather misty. Feb. 17th, some Thrushes from sunset to midnight. Oct. 26th and 27th, large quantity killed in night; weather hazy, with light rain. Nov. 15th, Thrushes during night, some struck. Nov. 29th, five killed, overcast and cloudy. Dec. 28th, several struck at 8 p.m., mist and fog. Dec. 31st, two killed.

_Copeland Island._--Oct. 10th, four killed striking, others injured; wind N., light, drizzling rain.

_South Maidens._--Oct. 15th, twenty-four at midnight, sixteen of them killed against lantern; weather hazy, wind W., fresh.

_Innishtrahull._--Nov. 1st, three at lantern; wind fresh, S. 2nd, three at lantern, 11.30 p.m., misty. Nov. 5th, three at lantern.

_Tory Island._--Oct. 17th, four struck lantern, 10 p.m.; wind W., gale.

_Killybegs._--April 1st, five Thrushes about all day. Oct. 24th, three killed striking; wind S.W., fresh, drizzling rain. Nov. 30th, two killed, drizzling rain. Dec. 19th, three killed, thick drizzle.

_Oyster Island, North._--Jan. 10th, 1884, two "Missel Thrushes" in garden; flew S.

_Blackrock Mayo._--Dec. 23rd, four Thrushes flying N., high; wind S., fresh.

_Slyne Head, North._--Nov. 9th, eight; wind S.E. 30th, six; wind N.E.

_Arran Island, North._--Nov. 4th, two Thrushes killed in morning. Dec. 10th, two Thrushes 10 a.m.; wind W.S.W., gale.

_Tearaght._--Oct. 27th, one Thrush killed striking, 11 p.m.; wind fresh, S.E., foggy. Nov. 22nd, two or three, 2 p.m.; wind N.W., strong, hail showers.

_Skelligs._--Oct. 20th, one at 1 p.m.; wind N., fresh, misty. Oct. 21st, three, remained during month. A couple about rock in December.

_Dursey Island._--Oct. 10th, ten going east, 8 a.m.; wind W.

Fieldfare.

_Fastnet._--Sept. 18th, four flying N.E.; gloomy. Oct. 22nd, five; 31st, six. Nov. 1st, four. Dec. 16th, three.

_Dungarvan._--Oct. 14th, small flocks in fields; 18th and 26th, several.

_Rathlin Island._--Nov. 29th, one, going S.; wind S.W.

Blackbird.

_Fastnet._--Oct. 22nd, thirteen. Nov. 2nd, eleven killed striking.

_Old Head, Kinsale._--Feb. 3rd, large numbers. Nov. 15th, from 100 to 150 seen this day. It is remarkable to see so many of these birds; wind S., strong.

_Coningbeg Light-ship._--May 7th, three alighted on ship, 9.30 p.m.; wind E.N.E., rain. Oct. 10th, one caught on deck at 2 a.m. 28th, flocks, 9 p.m., until midnight, about the ship in great numbers; gloomy, wind light S., twenty killed. 29th, a great number about light, 8 p.m., until midnight; many struck and fell overboard. 31st, four at 10 p.m., hovering about light. Nov. 1st, two struck at 9 p.m., killed.

_Barrels Rock Light-ship._--Oct. 29th, one male killed against lantern, 2.15 a.m.

_Tuskar Rock._--Feb. 24th, Blackbirds during day and night, fog and mist; some struck lantern. 25th, 27th, and 28th, ditto. March 2nd, four males and seven females. Oct. 9th and 10th, constantly striking all night; a great number killed. Oct. 27th to Nov. 2nd, great numbers passed at intervals during day and night; weather misty. Numbers killed, 100 on Oct. 28th and 80 on 29th, besides hundreds disabled. Most of the Blackbirds are female; they are of a dull brown colour. Nov. 7th, two killed; 10th, one seen.

_Arklow South Light-ship._--April 28th, one; wind light, S.E. Oct. 29th, twenty-six killed striking; wind S., light, cloudy.

_Arklow North Light-ship._--April 30th, Blackbird, 11 p.m. to 11.50 p.m., flying round lantern; did not strike; weather hazy. Sept. 16th, large flock about ship. 19th, Blackbirds striking at midnight; weather hazy, with rain. Oct. 29th and 30th, large numbers killed striking, calm, overcast, hazy. Nov. 30th, two killed at midnight; weather hazy, with rain.

_Kish Bank Light-ship._--Oct. 28th, two Blackbirds. Nov. 7th, two; 13th, several, from 6 p.m. until midnight, flying about lantern; clear.

_Rockabill._--Jan. 13th, Blackbirds during night, some struck, weather misty. Feb. 17th, Blackbirds, sunset to midnight; rain and mist, some struck. Oct. 26th and 27th, large quantity struck lantern in night; weather hazy, with light rain. Nov. 15th, a dozen killed; 28th, six killed. Dec. 28th, four; 31st three. In all cases weather overcast or misty.

_Copeland Island._--Blackbirds breed here, two pairs. Oct. 10th, six killed striking, others injured; wind light N., drizzling rain.

_South Maidens._--Oct. 16th, four struck, 2 a.m., not killed; weather hazy.

_Rathlin Island._--Oct. 31st, one killed striking.

_Innishtrahull._--Nov. 1st, two at lantern; wind fresh S., gloomy, misty. 2nd, one at lantern 11.30 p.m.; wind S. 5th, two at lantern, 8 p.m.; wind light N.E.

_Tory Island._--Oct. 18th, two struck, one killed, 9 p.m.; wind W.N.W., gale.

_Killybegs._--April 1st, three about all day. Nov. 30th, one killed striking, drizzling rain. Dec. 18th, one killed; 19th, another, weather thick.

_Black Rock, Mayo._--Oct. 22nd, four at 8 a.m.; wind S.W., fresh, misty, flying S., high.

_Slyne Head, North._--Nov. 9th, six; wind S.E.

_Arran Island, South._--May 15th, thirty "Blackbirds," 6 p.m.; wind N.W. They remain here. Dec. 13th, two struck, not killed, 11 p.m.; wind W.N.W.

_Tearaght._--Nov. 20th, one Blackbird at 3 p.m.; wind W., fresh.

_Skelligs._--Oct. 20th, two at 1 p.m.; wind N., fresh, misty. Remained during month. A couple about rock in December.

Ring Ouzel.

_Rathlin Island._--April 18th, "one Blackbird," at 4 p.m.; wind strong S.E. This bird had a white throat. It was shot.

Robin.

_Fastnet._--Oct. 27th, eight. Nov. 2nd, seven killed striking. Barrels Rock Light-ship,--Aug. 29th, one "Robin Redbreast," rested on ship.

_Rathlin Island._--Nov. 1st, two about all day. Nov. 13th, one seen.

_Straw Island._--April 11th, two "Redbreasts," 9 a.m., calm. Passed island for shore.

_Arran Island, South._--July 1st, eighteen Robin Redbreasts, 9 p.m.; wind S.S.E., four killed.

"Blackcap."

_Arklow South Light-ship._--April 4th, three "Blackcaps" dead on deck, 7 a.m.; wind fresh S.W., rain.

"Sallypickers" (Willow Wren or Chiffchaff).

_Arklow North Light-ship._--April 29th, eight "Sallypickers" flying round ship. May 1st, three ditto.

"Stonechat" (Wheatear).

_Galley Head._--April 4th, saw "Stonechicks," the first this year.

_Fastnet._--Sept. 14th, five young ones. Oct. 1st, twelve; 9th, twenty. Dec. 4th, seven; 16th, two.

_Tuskar Rock._--Aug. 9th, three killed striking. Oct. 5th, "Stonechatters."

_Arklow North Light-ship._--April 21st, one "Stonechatter" on deck 6 a.m.

_Rathlin Island._--April 28th, flocks of Stonechats, picked up five; wind fresh S.E., misty, rain. May 2nd, six at 7 a.m.; 20th, seven.; 21st, ten all day about the station. Foggy and gloomy. June 3rd and 19th, three to six seen.

_Innishtrahull._--April 28th and 29th, "Stonechickers," 2 a.m.; wind N. one day and S. the other. 30th, three, one struck lantern, killed; a gale from S.W. May 3rd, two; 5th, one. Sept. 20th, two struck lantern, not killed. Nov. 5th, two at lantern at midnight; gloomy, misty.

_Arranmore._--April 3rd, four "Stonechatters arrived to build."

_Rathlin O'Birne._--March 31st, April 1st and 6th, one to six Stonechats.

_Killybegs._--I noticed during April and May some "Stonechatters."

_Clare Island._--March 1st, some "Stonechatters" flying S., 11.30 a.m.