Chapter II: Part 2

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

_In Autumn._--Slight movements only in September and October. Ringed Dotterel _or_ Ringed Plover--one in September at Pentland Skerries, and one at same place all day on 3d December.

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

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

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

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

1886. 1887.
July. Aug. Sept. Oct. Nov. Dec. Jan.

Curlew, Entries-- 3 5 7 3 0 5 0
Woodcock, 0 0 0 14 3 0 0
Snipe, 0 0 1 1 2 2 1
Jacksnipe, 0 0 1 1 0 0 0

The stations returning in the order of heaviest schedules are--

1886. 1887.
July. Aug. Sept. Oct. Nov. Dec. Jan. Totals.
Pentland Skerries 3 2 4 4 4 7 0 24
Isle of May, 0 0 0 8 0 0 0 8
N. Unst, 0 2 1 1 0 0 0 4
Girdleness, 0 0 1 2 0 0 0 3
N. Ronaldshay, 0 2 (curlew) 0 0 0 0 0 2
Dunnet Head, 0 0 0 0 0 0 1 1
Fidra, 0 0 1 (curlew) 0 0 0 0 1
--- ---------- ---------- --- --- --- --- ----
Per Month, 3 6 7 15 4 7 1 43

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

==============

EAST COAST OF ENGLAND.

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

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

The East Coast stations included in this report are:--

Longstone L.H. Thomas O. Hall.
Farn, Inner, L.H. Thomas H. Cutting.
Coquet Island L.H. William Evans.
Tees, 5 Buoy L.V. Henry Harbord.
Tees Breakwater L.H. _Nil._
Whitby High L.H. John Odgers.
Flamborough L.H. C. Hood.
Spurn L.H. James B. Smith.
Spurn L.V. The Principal (no signature).
Outer Dowsing L.V. W. Stock and A. Bearling.
Inner Dowsing L.V. William King.
Llyn Wells L.V. T. Ditcham.
Dudgeon L.V. J. F. Warder and J. W. Harrison.
Hasbro' L.V. John Nicholas and B. V. Darnell.
Hasbro' L.H. _Nil._
Hunstanton L.H. W. Westmoreland.
Cromer L.H. C. B. Comber.
Winterton L.H. John Watson.
Leman and Ower L.H. John Bowen.
Newarp L.V. _Nil._
Cockle L.V. C. Perfrement and E. Cole.
Orfordness L.H. _Nil._
Corton L.V. _Nil._
Languard Point L.H. Owen Boyle.
Shipwash L.V. William Barker and D. Dale.
Galloper L.V. Francis H. Page.
Kentish Knock L.V. W. Dorney and W. R. Carter.
Swin Middle L.V. S. Pender and Thomas Barrett.
Tongue L.V. _Nil._
Nore L.V. R. Littlewood.
Goodwin L.V. Thomas Rees.
Gull L.V. Francis Harvey and J. Jenkins.
South Sand Head L.V. F. G. Foreman.
East Side L.V. The Principal (no signature).
Varne L.V. J. Jacobs.
Hanois L.H., Guernsey Chas. Williams and Geo. Freeman.

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

Dungeness L.H. _Nil._
Royal Sovereign Shoals L.V. _Nil._
Beachy Head L.H. _Nil._
Owers L.V. _Nil._
St Katherine's L.H., Isle of Wight, _Nil._
Nab L.V. F. Conconi.

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

Notes also bearing on migration have been utilised from the _Zoologist_, _Naturalist_, and _Field_ newspapers.

Separate Notes on each Species.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Ducks, Sheldrake (_Tadorna cornuta_).--Farn L.H., June 13th, old bird and nine young. Tees L.V., February 27th to March 22d, 1886, twenty-five in flock. November 5th, fifty-five. Common Teal (_Querquedula crecca_), Tetney, August 12th, large arrival. Cley, Norfolk, September 15th, first; Tees L.V., 16th, same. Widgeon (_Mareca penelope_), Tees L.V., April 7th, 1886, last seen, large flock. Yarmouth, March 1st, 1886, continuous flocks along coast. Cley, Norfolk, September 15th, Widgeon, with Teal. Tees L.V., 16th, flock. Tetney, October 6th, four shot. Languard L.H., October 29th, flock of eleven. Pochard (_Fuligula ferina_), very common on the Humber during the winter; many shot, including several old males. Scaup (_F. marila_), Great Cotes, March 8th, 1886, flock, all males, off sluice; 26th, flock at same place, males and females, in pairs. February 8th, 1887, same locality, flock of thirty-eight adult males and females in equal proportions. Cockle L.V., January 23d, fifty, both males and females. Harlequin Duck (_Cosmonetta histrionica_), Farn L.H., December 2d, three, two shot (went to well-known collectors). Long-tailed Duck (_Harelda glacialis_), Redcar, October 21st, three shot, young birds. Farn L.H., November 8th, 11 A.M., eleven flying N. Coquet L.H., 17th, one shot. Eider Duck (_Somateria mollissima_), Farn L.H., June 20th, Eider and five young, first brood. Coquet, October 8th, many, both male and female, off island. Velvet Scoter (_Œdemia fusca_), Redcar, October 13th, three; 18th, seven, two shot young. Common Scoter (_Œ. nigra_), Whitby L.H., April 30th, midnight, one killed. Leman and Ower L.V., May 9th, great numbers of Black Ducks at midnight to E., some killed. Large number of Scoters reported from various parts of the coast, on the move to and from their feeding grounds. Goosander (_Mergus merganser_), more than usually numerous in the Humber during the winter; in one case five were killed, at a shot, from a flock of twelve near Tetney Haven. Red-breasted Merganser (_M. serrator_), Farn L.H., December 24th, one, a drake, off island.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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