Chapter III: Part 3

November 13th.--_Farn_ L.H., small flock Siskins on island. (N., 3.) _Tees_ L.V., one Shearwater; one Thrush, 10 A.M., came on board. (W.N.W., hazy.) _Winterton_ L.H., Curlews to W., 1.20 A.M. _Yarmouth_, three Shorelarks caught in nets; "nice lot of Bearded Tits are said to have come in from a great height, and from the E." _Galloper_ L.V., large flocks Curlews, Starlings, and Larks, all night, to W.

November 14th.--_Farn_ L.H., flock of Long-Tailed Ducks, 11 A.M., to N. _Tees_ L.V., two Woodcocks, one Kingfisher. (N.N.E., rain.) Shot at South Gar Light. _Cromer_ L.H., five Willow Wren, at daylight (Goldcrests?). _Yarmouth_, Swan, two, Breydon. _Swin Middle_ L.V., Stormy Petrel, on board. Thrush, 3.30 A.M. _Goodwin_ L.V., flocks Larks, at noon, to W. (E. by N, 6; C. V., rain.)

November 15th.--_Farn_ L.H., Blackbirds and Thrushes, flying about. (W.N.W., 3.) _Flambro'_, White Kittiwake, shot by Thomas Leng. _East Goodwin_ L.V., two flocks Black Crows, E. to W. _Hanois_ L.H., Blackbirds and Thrushes, 2 to 3.30 A.M., round lantern. (E., 4; O. M.)

November 16th.--_Redcar_, about 500 Geese seen at sea going S.E. Flock of about 500 Lapwings to S.W.; great many Red-Throated Divers to S.E. (N.W., moderate.) _Tetney_, Fieldfares, large flocks. (S., hard frost.) _Inner Dowsing_ L.V., twelve Larks and one Sparrow, 9 A.M., flying low, E. to W. (N.W. by W., 3.) _Hanois_ L.H., flight Chaffinches, mostly males, at 11 A.M. (E.S.E., 4.)

November 17th.--_Tetney_, Goosander, two shot. _Cromer_ L.H., Tufted Duck (wing sent), 5 A.M., killed on lantern. (S., 5.) _Swin Middle_ L.V., many Gulls and Ducks, over sand. _Hanois_ L.H., flight, 17th to 18th, Blackbirds and Thrushes, flying round lantern at 10 P.M., some striking; many Lapwings at 1 A.M., none striking. Large flock Golden Plover and Yellow Wagtails at 1.30 A.M., one Yellow Wagtail killed. (S.E., 3; O. M.)

November 18th.--_Farn_ L.H., Curlew Sandpiper shot. _Hasbro'_ L.V., Jacksnipe (wing sent), 3 A.M., killed. _Yarmouth_, Redshank (Breydon); four seen. _Swin Middle_ L.V., a few Larks, 2 to 6 A.M.; six killed. (W.N.W., 2; O. M.) _Goodwin_ L.V., a few larks at night, (N.W., 4.) _S. S. Head_ L.V., Larks and Linnets, 9 A.M. to 4 P.M., to N.W.

November 19th.--_Hasbro'_ L.V., Coot, 3 A.M., dead on deck. _Cromer_ L.H., Starlings, all night. (W., 4.) _Yarmouth_, Gadwall, seven (probably Norfolk bred). _Languard_ L.H., large flock Golden Plover at noon, high, to N.E. _S. S. Head_ L.V., twenty Rooks, 9 A.M., to N.W.

November 20th.--_Galloper_ L.V., Starlings and Larks, 6 P.M. to midnight. (Calm, O. M.) _S. S. Head_ L.V., flocks Larks, noon, to W.N.W. _Hanois_ L.H., Gannets, old and young; daily fishing.

November 21st.--_S. S. Head_ L.V., flocks of Larks and Mountain Sparrows, 9 A.M., to W.N.W. (N. by E., 2; fog.) _Varne_ L.V., ten Crows, 3.15 P.M., S.E. to N. (K, 2.)

November 22d.--_Farn_ L.H., twelve Fieldfares and one Blackbird, on island. (E., 4.)

November 24th.--_Redcar_, about a dozen Wood Pigeons to S.W. at 11 A.M., and two at noon. _Tetney_, Great Spotted Woodpecker.

November 25th.--_Cromer_ L.H., flocks Crows all day, mostly E. to W. _S. S. Head_ L.V., Rooks and Sparrows, 9 A.M., to N.W. (W.S.W., 4.) _Hanois_ L.H., Heron to E., 11 A.M.; [and on 27th, several to S.E., flying very high, at 10 A.M. (W.N.W., 4.)]

DECEMBER

December 1st.--_Tetney_, Grey Phalarope shot; Snipe, "many heard passing over to S. at dusk, when in a duck-punt off Tetney Haven."

December 2d.--_Redcar_, great many Snow Buntings to W.N.W.

December 3d.--_Tees_ L.V., large flock Larks to N.W. Four Sparrows came on board. _Swin Middle_ L.V., some Larks on 2d and 3d, to N.W.

December 4th.--_Cromer_ L.H., Buzzard, 11.30 A.M., N.E. to S.W.; six Blue Titmouse.

December 6th.--_Tetney_, Snow Bunting, one at low-water mark, many coming in at dusk. (S., strong, rain.)

December 7th.--_Coquet_ L.H., Fieldfares all day. (S.S.E., 5.) _Tees_ L.V., flock Snow Buntings, to S. _Redcar_, one Glaucous Gull seen, immature.

December 9th.--_Tees_ L.V., two Sparrow Hawks to N.W. Redcar, about one hundred Grey Geese, high to S. (W.N.W., light.) _Whitby_ L.H., large flock Geese, 8 P.M., round light. (N.W., 6.)

December 10th.--_Whitby_ L.H., small flocks Fieldfares and Thrushes, 8 A.M., went S.

December 12th.--_Farn_ L.H., great many Lapwings and Plover, Purple Sandpipers, some Redshanks, and Turnstones about island. _Outer Dowsing_ L.V., fifty Black Crows, 4.10 P.M., N.W. to S.E.

December 13th.--_Farn_ L.H., three Blackbirds, several Thrush, one Snipe, on island. (S.S.W., 4.) _Winterton_ L.H., Starlings, 6 A.M., at lantern. (S.S.W., 6.)

December 14th.--_Coquet_ L.H., Starlings and Larks all day. (W.S.W., 5.) _Redcar_, one Woodcock, picked up dead on shore.

December 17th.--_Farn_ L.H., flocks of Starlings all day to W. (W.N.W., 7.) _Tetney_, Goldfinch, one. (Have been very common in North-East Lincolnshire in December, also January 1888); a few Brambling.

December 21st.--_Languard_ L.H., two Kentish Plover, 8 A.M., went W. (N, 4.)

December 22d.--_Farn_ L.H., several Hedge Sparrows and one Wren on island.

December 23d.--_Whitby_ L.H., great many Grey Crows, Fieldfares, Linnets, Finches, and Sparrows, 10.30 A.M., seen near station. (N.N.E., 5.) _Cromer_ L.H., several flocks Gannet all day, S.E. to N.W. (N.W., 5.)

December 24th.--_Languard_ L.H., Stormy Petrel, 4.20 A.M., caught on lantern. (N.W., 4; O. M. P.)

December 25th.--_Whitby_ L.H., very large Hawk, several days about cliff.

December 26th.--_Tees_ L.V., Cormorant came on board to-day, and has come to roost for several days, but disappeared suddenly. _Redcar_, six Swans, five white and one grey, at sea to W.; eight off Tees mouth.

December 27th.--_Farn_ L.H., one Woodcock (N., 1) shot; Blackbirds and Thrushes. _Cromer_ L.H., small flocks Fieldfares. (W., 4.)

December 29th.--_Spurn_, a few Short-Eared Owls. _Swin Middle_ L.V., 22d and 17th, flock "Splendid" Ducks (Sheldrake?). Large quantities of various Ducks, chiefly Scoters, seen near the vessel in December, also January 1888. On the 12th the vessel was surrounded with Black Ducks, as far as could be seen with a telescope.

December 31st.--_Farn_ L.H., small flocks of Long-Tailed Ducks to N.

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

Station. Date. Species.
1887.

Spurn L.H. Oct. 3, 4 A.M. Wren.
" Nov. 4, 3 A.M. Tree Sparrow.
Cromer L.H. " 18. Tufted Duck (male)
" Sept. 17, 3 A.M. Osprey.[4]
Happisburgh L.V. " 3. Arctic Tern.
" " 15. Whitethroat, two.
" Nov. 7. Great Tit, two.
" " 18. Jacksnipe.
Leman and Ower L.V. Aug. 5. Skylark.
" Sept. 26. Jacksnipe.
" Oct. 7. Linnet.
" " 8. Greenfinch.
" " 26. Greenfinch.[5]
" Nov. 11. Water-rail.
Nore L.V. Oct. 10. Thrush.
" " " Chaffinch.
" " " Tree Sparrow.
" " " Greenfinch.[6]
Kentish Knock L.V. " 9. Brambling, six.
Goodwin L.V. Sept. 20. Wryneck.
Hanois L.H., Guernsey Oct. 6. Pied Wagtail, two.

[Footnote 4: "Shot from flagstaff, as seen when ray of light came round and illuminated it."]

[Footnote 5: "Great numbers on board in afternoon, and died from exhaustion. The survivors took off along with some Crows, coming from E. and going N.W. (4, B. C.)"]

[Footnote 6: Mr Thomas Littlewood says--" These four species on deck at sunrise too weak to fly."]

Summary and General Remarks.

In January depressions of very considerable size passed by our north-western and northern shores after the 2d, with very sudden changes of temperature of an unusual character and great magnitude; showers of cold rain, sleet, and hail from day to day, and very severe frosts at night. There are very clear indications in the diary of Migration, that the atmospheric disturbances were concurrent with a great rush of birds going south along the coast. Those chiefly noted being Fieldfares, Blackbirds, Thrushes, Redwings, Larks, Chaffinches, Linnets, Starlings, and some Crows.

In the latter part of February and throughout March there are indications of the passage of Crows, Rooks, Daws, Starlings, Larks, and others to the Continent, also in the opposite direction to the S.E. Coast of England. Great numbers of Starlings, Thrashes, and Larks were also observed at the lanterns at night, the particular direction of their flight being not apparent.

A Blackcap (_Sylvia atricapilla_) is recorded at the Cockle L.V. on March 31st, after which the first actual indication of the Spring migration is the occurrence of. Swifts (_Cypselus apus_) at the Spurn on April 5th, arriving at 6 P.M., and resting on the window sills all night; on the same day at Great Cotes several male Wheatears were seen. The Spring migration of the Wheatear (_Saxicola ænanthe_) is last recorded at the Farn L.H. on the night of May 30th, several round the lantern; and at the Tees L.V. on June 5th, two to N.W.

Puffins (_Fratercula arctica_) arrived at their breeding quarters on the Farn Islands on March 30th, a very early date. Continuous flocks with Wild Ducks were seen at the Outer Dowsing L.V. on April 12th, going S.S.E.; at the same date a Woodcock was killed at the Swin L.V. The Swallow (_Hirundo rustica_) is first seen at the Galloper L.V. on April 11th, going N.W. Many at the Hanois L.H., Guernsey, on the same day, with Willow Wrens and Whitethroats. At the Shipwash L.V., Swallows were observed at intervals passing from S.E. to N.W. up to June 4th.

Snow Buntings (_Plectrophanes nivalis_) were last seen at the Spurn on April 20th. The Cuckoo is first recorded at the Isle of Thanet on April 24th, and the Yellow Wagtail (_Motacilla raii_) on the 25th.

There appears to have been a heavy rush of the smaller summer visitants on the S.E. coast, from the Isle of Thanet to Hunstanton, at early morning of the 29th of April. A very strongly pronounced movement was also observed at Hanois L.H., Guernsey, on May 2d. The weather, in the first instance, being rainy and unsettled in S.E., and very cold over England with N.E. winds. On the 30th, thunderstorm in S.W. of France, with very cold, unsettled, and rainy weather generally in the south.

Various shorebirds and waders were observed passing down the coast from S. to N., on May 12th and subsequently. A Moorhen (_Gallinula chloropus_) was killed at the Cockle L.V. on the night of May 21st; another at the Goodwin L.V. on the night of October 16th.

A Bearded Reedling (_Panurus biarmicus_) was seen at the Languard L.H. on February 16th at 7.40 A.M.; and from Yarmouth on November 13th is the note, "nice lot of Bearded Tits, are said to have come in at a great height, and from the E."

The autumn movement commenced early in July, but did not become very distinctly pronounced before the beginning of August. One of the most interesting features of the autumnal migration has been the simultaneous occurrences of the Pygmy Curlew (_Tringa subarquata_) and the Little Stint (_Tringa minuta_) on the East Coast, between the Tees and Yarmouth. The former species is first recorded from Redcar on August 16th and from the Spurn on August the 23d. The Little Stint in the same locality on the 25th. Both were present there in very large numbers on September 2d, with a S.W. gale. The Pygmy Curlew was seen last on the Norfolk coast on October 8th, and one, Farn Islands, on November 18th.

The Woodcock is first recorded at Seaton-Carew, Durham, on September 19th, and at Cromer L.H. on September 25th, from 12.30 to 2.30 A.M. (S.E., 4.) Our observer, Mr Comben, says, "never saw so many Woodcock at one time before, there seemed to be a constant stream flying round lantern, none struck." Woodcocks appear to have come in at irregular intervals between September 30th and November 3d. The greatest number perhaps on the 9th, 10th, and 11th of October. Throughout September there was a steady and almost daily increasing migration observed at East Coast stations, but from the 29th and throughout October to November 3d, there was an almost continuous night and day rush of immigrants, the chief of those recorded being Crows, Rooks, Daws, Starlings, Larks, Chaffinches, Linnets, and Sparrows. In fact, during this time much the greater proportion of the entries in the schedules consists of a weary reiteration of these readily distinguished species. The weather during the period of this great invasion was up to the 25th of October mainly anticyclonic, cold, quiet, and dry. The prevailing wind N. and N.-easterly. After the 25th, cyclonic with W. and S.-westerly winds, wet, rough, and milder. The average temperature of the month was much colder than the corresponding months in the two preceding years. It does not appear that the change of weather and of the wind after the 25th, had any influence on the migratory movements, birds continuing to pour in with undiminished numbers. Indeed, the direction and force of the wind appears to have little to do in controlling these great autumnal rushes, for when the time for crossing the North Sea has come, birds cross independent of weather. It must be admitted, however, that the prevailing wind at the time is an important factor in governing the direction in which migrants travel, and the angle at which the line of flight will intersect the line of coast. To changes of temperature either sudden or gradual, rather than the force and direction of winds, we must probably look for the impelling cause of these seasonal phenomena.

After the 3d and to the 19th of November, birds continued to arrive, but in greatly reduced numbers, the throbs and pulsations of the great inrush becoming daily more feeble and less sustained. After this date to the end of the year, migration was more or less spasmodic, the entries in the schedules being chiefly confined to the occurrences of various birds seen in the vicinity of the stations.

Swans and Grey Geese have been remarkably scarce. Brent Geese (_Bernicla brenta_) fairly numerous. All accounts agree that it has been an extraordinary Duck year, large numbers of various species frequenting all favourable localities along the East Coast. The Common Scoter (_Œdemia nigra_) has occurred in enormous flocks, also a few _Œ. fusca_. Considerable numbers of the Long-Tailed Duck (_Harelda glacialis_) have visited the coast from the Farn Islands to Yarmouth.

Amongst the rarer and more interesting species we may notice the occurrences of _Tringa temmincki_ (three) at the Spurn, also _Podiceps nigricollis_ at the same place. _Anthus richardi_ at Tetney. _Cypselus melba_, _Recurvirostra avocetta_, and _Tringa maculata_ at Yarmouth, also _Pandion haliaëtus_ at the Cromer lighthouse.

It is unfortunate that we do not know more about those smaller night wanderers which are usually entered in our schedules under the general name "Flycatchers" or "various small birds." The wings occasionally forwarded are always very interesting, and, what is most important, give definite and reliable results. As a rule all these small insect-eating species get lumped together as "Flycatchers," a result not to be wondered at considering the circumstances under which they are seen, helplessly fluttering against the lanterns, or dancing like gnats in the yellow glare. Those "hundreds of Flycatchers," from midnight to 4 P.M., seen at the Swin L.V. on the night of April 29th, no doubt represented many species of our small summer visitors, and the Spotted Flycatcher (_Muscicapa grisola_) was not seen in the Isle of Thanet before May 4th.

WEST COAST OF SCOTLAND.

In the same way as we treated of the East Coast returns, we treat the West Coast. The contents of one or two schedules written across the columns have been omitted for reasons before stated, more especially as none of these are of great importance.

LIST OF STATIONS.

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

In 1887, Returns
Schedules in 9 years, In List of Stations.
filled in. including 1887.
1887. Values. Feet.

Sutherland.

0 4 81. Cape Wrath, III. 400
0 4 82. Rhu Stoir, II. 195

Outer Hebrides.

3 8 * 83. Butt of Lewis, I. 170
0 3 84. Stornoway (2 Lights), { II. } 56
{ I. }
0 3 85. Island Ghlais, I. 130
8 8 * 86. Monach Islands, { I. 150
0 2 87. Ushenish, N. Uist, VI. 176
2 5 88. Barra Head, II. 683
1 4 * 89. Rona, Skye, IV. 222
3 8 * 90. Kyleakin, W. Ross, IV. 53
0 2 91. Isle Ornsay, I. 58
0 2 92. Ardnamurchan, I.
4 9 * 93. Skerryvore and Hynish
Signal Tower, Tiree, II. 150
4 9 * 94. Dhuheartach, I. 146
0 6 95. Sound of Mull, V. 55
0 0 96. Corran Ferry, IV. 38
0 4 97. Lismore, Oban, I. 103
0 2 98. Fladda, Easdale, VI. 42
0 4 99. Rhuvaal, IV. 147
0 7 100. M'Arthur's Head, IV. 128
3 9 * 101. Skervuile, II. 73
9 9 * 102. Rhinns of Islay, IV. 159
8 4 * 103. Lochindaul, IV. 50
0 0 104. Mull of Cantyre, VI. 297
0 0 105. Sanda,
0 0 106. Devaar, II. 120
0 0 107. Pladda, Arran, II. 130
1 6 * 108. Lamlash, Arran, IV. 46
0 4 * 109. Turnberry, Ayrshire, IV. 96
3 1 109B. Ailsa Craig, 1885
1 8 * 110. Corsewall, IV. 112
0 0 111. Loch Ryan, I. 46
0 7 * 112. Portpatrick, I. 37
1 8 * 113. Mull of Galloway, II. 325
4 5 * 114. Little Ross, IV. 176

_Diary from the Stations._

_Butt of Lewis._--Mr Robert Agnew, son of Mr Joseph Agnew (now at Monach Isles), sends three well-filled schedules, one being devoted, as requested, to Solan Geese after the date of September 4th.

_Monach Isles._--Mr Joseph Agnew (late of Isle of May) sends eight schedules, one for Solan Geese. Mr Agnew says, "The Merganser is by far the most abundant of the ducks.... All Curlews come from the N. East, not one coming from the south (August). After coming so far, they turn inland; and, I have no doubt, the old are leading the young to previously well-known feeding grounds." "Geese seen flying S.E., as if from St Kilda" (August 17th). Statement that "one pair, at least, of Turnstones bred at Monach this year requires confirmation" (20th August). "Terns flying S.W., remarked as unusual" (30th). "I feel the place lonely to-day without the Terns. They must have _seen_ their friends passing yesterday, and have gone off in pursuit" (31st August). "Sandpipers of sorts numerous by 1st September." "From 50 to 100 Cormorants on a rock remain fishing." October 22d: "I have never seen such a rush of Redwings alone without any admixture. They commenced to come about 7 P.M. _last night_, and continued to 'strike' till 4 A.M.; but many remained at the lantern till daylight. They were mostly all fine old birds. Most of those killed were on the N.E. side, so they must have been flying dead against the wind, which was blowing strong from the S.W." ... "It appears a S.W. wind here is best for migration." "Greenfinches and Bramblings noted on 27th, with a gale from the S.W. Very heavy migration."

Mr Agnew's letter of the 7th November 1887 is well worthy of careful perusal, but is too long for insertion here;[7] but the following short extracts, or digest, may be acceptable:--"The surprises I have met with during the last month beat all previous ones (as shown in the schedule to date). One of the few Goldcrests taken in the Long Island was found dead amongst other species."

[Footnote 7: The materials have been utilised for a forthcoming work on the "Vertebrate Fauna of the Outer Hebrides."]

On November 4th Mr Agnew reports the rushes of migrants as "very extraordinary." "That of yesterday larger than that of 1st," and in moonlight and clear. The advanced guard were Starlings from N.E., flying down the coast line, with wind "on the port bow." [_Note._--Mr Agnew's notes are so voluminous and so interesting, that I hope some way may be found to utilise them more fully. Many letters deserve a better fate than oblivion. A great variety of species participated in this rush, including Woodcock.--J. A. H.-B.]

_Barra Head._--Mr Chas. M'Fadzen sends two carefully filled schedules, in which the Geese referred to are mostly Barnacle.

_Rona._--Messrs D. Dunnet and J. A. M'Gaw send one filled schedule, from February 15th to November 12th, with the further note: "Migration of birds here fewer in numbers than former years. Solan Geese all summer as usual."

_Kyleakin._--Messrs D. MacCulloch and John Clyne send three well-filled schedules. Rush noticeable early in November, but greater rush 10th December of Larks and Linnets, yet not one seen near the lanterns.

_Skerryvore._--Mr Thomas Dawson sends four good schedules--two on Solan Geese. Under date of 1st October, he says, whilst having little of importance to relate, that he witnessed a remarkable tussle between three Gannets and a large fish, two coming to help the first, which had remained a long time under water after striking, whilst no doubt struggling with its prey.

_Dhuheartach._--Messrs Wm. Davidson and J. W. M'Guffie send four good schedules. The Siskin occurred on the 10th November, and was sent for identification, having been caught on the lantern. "Heavy rush" all night of 11th.

_Skervuile._--Mr John Ewing sends three filled schedules down to November 21st, after which no more migration was observed. Harvie-Brown visited Skervuile and landed on the whales-back-looking rock on which the lighthouse is founded, and which is awash with the sea.

_Rhinns of Islay._--Messrs Peter Anderson and James Ducat send nine carefully filled sheets, and write nearly each time at length. At the same time we are now, thanks to these reporters, obliged for a much more minute, and day-to-day return for each month of the year, most carefully prepared under species and in tabular form, which cannot fail to prove interesting and useful to work from. These date December 1886 to February 1888. The Rhinns of Islay must be looked upon as quite one of the most important West Coast stations for migration.

A Manx Shearwater is reported as caught on the lantern on the 20th April, and another was seen next morning. They are the first of the kind the keepers ever remember seeing. The occurrence thus makes it appear that Manx Shearwaters probably pair early, if they do not pair for life.

On August 2d, clouds of Midges round the lantern; and on 13th, from twenty to thirty Daddy-longlegs were captured. This season the very worst for Caterpillars (or "Kail-worm"). Glass rarely below 60° on the N. side at midnight, and again as warm on 10th September. [_Note._--The warm weather about this time was universal.--J. A. H.-B.]

"The only rush we have had has been of Larks, and they have been in greater numbers than any year since I came here. One solitary Redwing is all I have seen this year. We have had such a long time of N. and N.W. winds. Best winds are S. to S.E. to bring the most birds. On October 9th, 1000's of Puffins appeared "flying North;" Iceland Gull on 10th; six Choughs seen on island on 16th, no doubt local birds. Heavy returns from October 19th onwards to 25th, of Larks and Starlings. Local visitation of Rooks owing to shooting going on through the island, and their leaving the rookeries at Bridgend, etc.; also Jackdaws. No great migration recorded in November of small land birds. (Compare with Monach Isles returns.) Iceland Gull seen at head of Lochindaul on the 9th of February 1888 (_in lit._ 15th February 1888.)

_Lochindaul: Islay._--Mr James Edgar sends eight carefully filled and interesting schedules. Reports a Shearwater at the lantern on 21st April; it rested all night. [No doubt the same bird seen the day before at Rhinns of Islay along with the one which was killed. This is interesting, as showing a line of flight and the certainty bright lights have of luring birds to them.--J. A. H.-B.]

_Lamlash._--Unsigned: one small return of five entries, between March 10th and September 17th, of Curlews, Thrush. Cuckoo heard. 25th April, Snipe and Geese.

_Ailsa Craig._--Our first returns sent from the "Old Rock" are very full in interest, and date January 9th, 1887, to December 20th, occupying three schedules, by Mr William J. Dawson. "An Eagle seen on the hill on 19th October and previously; 'very large,' and probably a Sea-Eagle. Remained for more than three weeks. On 20th December a Carrier Pigeon was chased into the yard by two Peregrine Falcons (a pair build on the cliffs every season). They captured it next day. On the 20th January 1888, another Carrier was seen with a paper attached to it, and the Falcons were in pursuit of it. Most likely it shared the same fate as the other." [If any one can throw further light on this rather interesting note, we would be obliged. It serves, at least, to show one danger which Carriers may be subjected to.--J. A. H.-B.]

"Very few birds come near this light, the lantern revolving so rapidly. When I was at Pladda there were great rushes of birds at different times both in spring and autumn, and large numbers were found dead." [Our Committee has never received _a single return from Pladda_. This chance note may yet be valuable.--J. A. H.-B.]

_Corsewall._--Mr Robert Laidlaw sends one well-filled schedule, and notices the rushes of Blackbirds and _Turdidæ_ in October, and of the same and _Fringillidæ_ (Linnets, etc.) in November.

_Mull of Galloway._--Messrs Alexander Murray and John M'Quarrie send one schedule, also well filled, to date of September 17th.

_Little Ross._--Messrs Neil M'Donald and Robert Macintosh send four good schedules. Petrel found dead at foot of tower, 23d January. Spring migration considerable, but decidedly scarce on the autumn migration, as compared with some other West Coast stations.

Remarks.

Pelecanidæ.--Of Gannets, by request, we have had a number of schedules entirely devoted to them at some of the more prominent stations of both East and West Coasts; but as these, with other accounts already published, constitute material for a very thorough treatment of the movements of the species, and their relations to the migrations of the Herring, we do not think it advisable in this place to occupy space with them.

Separate Report under Genera and Species.

Turdidæ.--Appears to have been the most numerous migrants in 1887.

_January._--A rush marked at Ailsa (1886 Report, _q.v._), and a few singles.

_February._--Skervuile, 15th to 21st, "Blackbirds and Thrushes." Turnberry, "many do. on 25th." At Little Ross, fewer, on 16th and 17th.

_March._--Stations are: Skerryvore (one), and Dhuheartach (one). Rhinns of Islay, a few records of Blackbirds, Thrushes, and Redwings. "Rush" at Ailsa Craig on 11th; strong N.E. breeze, snow. Little Ross, scattered records between 1st and 26th of Thrushes and Blackbirds.

_April._--Only record is of two Fieldfares at Little Ross on 20th. Nothing in May to _September_--intermittent of Thrushes, only four dates at four places, _viz._, Barra Head, Kyleakin, Dhuheartach, and Corsewall.

_October._--Numbers travelling, yet not so very densely. Rush of Thrushes on 16th at Corsewall. Great numbers of Redwing at Butt of Lewis, 21st and 22d; and one Fieldfare on 30th there. Other stations: Dhuheartach, Rhinns of Islay (Redwings), Lochindaul, Corsewall, and Little Ross.

_November._--At Monach Isles surprising numbers of Fieldfares and Redwings, rushing between 1st and 12th; great numbers of Redwings (see Diary); also on 1st, 10th, 11th (many Fieldfares). Large numbers Mavis on 11th; also Blackbirds, scarcer. Rush felt most elsewhere at Skerryvore and Dhuheartach, also on 11th; strong N.E. breeze!! all night. Many killed at both these places. Lighter at Skervuile (Missel Thrushes also), Fieldfares and Redwings; and at Lochindaul, 4th to 9th to 20th, and Corsewall (generally full and large), but concentrated most at Monach, Skerryvore, and Dhuheartach. Continued lightly into December at same stations.

Saxicolinæ.--_February._--8th, one "Stonechat" at Little Ross.

_March._--1st, one Whinchat at Dhuheartach. 4th, one "Stonechat" at Rhinns of Islay. [These "Stonechats," "Whinchats," and "Wheatears" must, we fear, be hopelessly mixed always, as the correspondence now, to fix it, would entail enormous labour.--J. A. H.-B.]

_April._--12th, Wheatear at Butt of Lewis; and 6th, ditto at Corran Ferry; and 13th and 20th, a few ditto at same place. Whinchat at Dhuheartach on 15th, and Wheatear on 17th. Other records at Rhinns of Islay, Ailsa Craig (27th), and Little Ross (11th and 12th).

_May._--Two entries only at Dhuheartach (11th and 17th); W., N.W.

_August._--Records all the month--no great numbers, except "numbers" at Little Ross on 7th--distributed as follows:--Butt of Lewis; Barra Head; Rona, Skye; Skerryvore (21st); Dhuheartach (21st); Skervuile (1st, 2d, 3d, 5th, 7th, 10th, 12th, 15th, a few; 16th, 25th, 28th, pair; 30th, 31st--all in small numbers); and Little Ross, 7th (a number), and 11th; winds variable, S.E. and S. to N., rarely W. or N.W.

_September._--Few, and all left Monach Isles by the 9th; but "many" again there. "Many" on the 22d ("continued on"). At Butt of Lewis also one seen on 21st. At Skerryvore, 3d, 4th, 21st ("Stonechats" in distinction to Wheatears); 26th, ditto; and 25th, Redstart; and at Dhuheartach, 26th, Wheatears; and at Lochindaul, fifteen ditto on 2d, and again one on 14th.

No later records.

_October._--Only one Stonechat recorded in all from Skerryvore on 2d; moderate W.; on rock.

Silviinæ.--Robin, Whitethroat.--_January._--15th, at Ailsa, two Robins.

_February._--28th, at Rhinns of Islay, one Robin.

_March._--2d, at Skervuile, one Robin; light S., rain. 4th, at Rhinns of Islay, one ditto; light S.W. 28th, at Rhinns of Islay, twenty, 9 P.M. to 12 P.M.; W., haze.

_May._--2d, at Ailsa, two Robins; light breeze, S.; catch flies.

_August._--23d, at Butt of Lewis, one Whitethroat. 28th, at Lochindaul, one Redbreast.

_September._--From 15th to 29th, at Rona, one Whitethroat on 21st. Scattered occurrences of Robins at Kyleakin (one on 15th); Skervuile (one); Rhinns of Islay (23d and 29th); Lochindaul (15th, 19th, 21st, and 28th); Corsewall (23d); Mull of Galloway to November, two entries at Lochindaul (2d and 9th).

Phylloscopinæ.--_March._--30th, one Gold crest at Lochindaul.

_May._--2d, Willow Warblers--one found dead at base of tower of Rhinns of Islay.

_June._--At Rhinns of Islay, one Willow Warbler found dead in morning.

_August._--24th, at Butt of Lewis, "Chiffchaff" (?); and at Rhinns of Islay, "Wood Wren" (?) on 22d. On 24th, at Little Ross, Willow Wren found dead at tower.

_September._--Goldcrests scattered and scarce at Skervuile, Lochindaul, and Little Ross.

_October._--One at Little Ross on 22d.

_November._--One at Rhinns of Islay on 5th.

_March._--Goldcrests scattered and scarce, at Rhinns of Islay, Turnberry, and Little Ross.

_July._--Two entries only at Corsewall and little Ross.

_September._--Three records at Mull of Galloway and Little Ross.

_October._--Eight Golden-Crested Wrens at Little Ross. [_Note._--Golden-Crested Wrens having been entered in ledger under _Troglodytidæ_ or "Wrens," have got a little out of place.] Very restricted migration. One obtained at Monach (rare).

Acrocephalinæ.--_September._--3d, one Sedge Warbler at Little Ross.

Troglodytidæ.--Wren.--One on April 5th at Ailsa; one at Skerryvore on 6th, on the rocks; and "great numbers different kinds of Wrens" on 11th at Corsewall, probably Goldcrests, Common Wrens, Warblers; light N.E. Scattered notices only of Common Wren, not of much significance.

Motacillidæ.--_March._--15th, at Monach, a Grey Wagtail [we suspect the Pied is meant, as the true _Grey_ is really yellow with black throat] Wagtails also at Lochindaul on 12th, and at Little Ross on 14th.

_April._--On 29th, at Monach, two, and on 9th; N.E., light. At Lochindaul, a pair; N.E., light (flying as Agnew describes).

_May._--Between 7th (at Butt of Lewis) and 26th, at Little Ross, a few records on five dates, inclusive, at these stations and intermediately at Monach, Kyleakin, and Dhuheartach.

_July._--Two records at Kyleakin on 22d, and on 15th at Lochindaul.

_August._--23d, at Butt of Lewis. Scattered records, few and far between, at Skerryvore, of "Grey Wagtails" (?); and of other Wagtails at Lochindaul; and one at Little Ross on the 1st.

_September._--No great rush, except "many all day at Little Ross of Grey Wagtails" (?) [probably winter Pied Wagtails.--J. A. H.-B.] on 18th. (See remarks in previous Reports on Wagtails, on General Post-Office, Edinburgh.) Scattered at Rhinns of Islay, Lochindaul, Mull of Galloway, and Little Ross, during the month.

_October._--Three records only on 5th, 7th, and 25th, at Rhinns of Islay and Lochindaul.

_December._--One record of three at Rhinns of Islay on 19th.

Anthidæ.--_March._--A number on 1st, at Monach, and very plentiful on 7th, Stray birds at Dhuheartach on 20th and 21st.

_April._--Titlark at Dhuheartach on 1st and 13th.

_August._--19th, at Rona, Titlarks; and Rock Pipits at Lochindaul on 25th.

_September._--Titlarks in small numbers from 12th to 13th--no rush--at Butt of Lewis, Dhuheartach, and Skerryvore.

_October._--Two records at Skerryvore and Dhuheartach.

_November._--One on 9th at Skerryvore.

Muscicapidæ.--_August._--Only on 27th, at Mull of Galloway, one; S.E., haze to fog. On 29th, two; fresh S. breeze; and "Flycatchers" flying about all night on 30th; S., fresh breeze.

Hirundinidæ.--_May._--6th, at Butt of Lewis, one, 9 A.M.; light W. breeze, clear. 6th, at Dhuheartach, one swallow; light S.E. breeze, flying E. 17th, at do., one swallow; strong S.W. breeze about rock. 6th, at Rhinns of Islay, eight swallows, 11.30 A.M.; strong E., haze, flying N. 7th, at do., five swallows; strong E., haze, flying about. 9th, at do., three swallows; N.N.W., fresh haze, flying about. 10th, at do., two swallows, 1 to 3 P.M.; flying about. 3d, at Lochindaul, one Martin (first seen). 4th, at do., one pair Martin; N.W., flying about. 17th, at Ailsa, four pair Martins; S.; clear. 12th, at Little Ross, two pair Martins; W., clear.

_June._--At Little Ross, four on 6th; a few on 9th; one on 23d; and one on 24th; W. and light N.E., clear.

_April._--30th, at Kyleakin, one swallow (first seen); N., clear. Other records at Skervuile (23d), Corsewall (17th), Mull of Galloway (26th).

_August._--Evidence of a considerable movement, but entries all light comparatively. At Butt of Lewis, one, on 5th; at Kyleakin, one, on 4th; a few at Rhinns of Islay, and singles at Lochindaul to 23d, when "flocks of;" and till 27th. Ailsa, one; and at Corsewall, Mull of Galloway, and Little Ross, Martins flying East, on 13th.

_October._--Flocks on 4th, at Mull of Galloway, all day. Scattered entries at Dhuheartach, Rhinns of Islay, Mull of Galloway, and Little Ross.

Fringillidæ.--_January._--Linnets (Twites?) on 22d, at Kyleakin; and at Little Ross, 20th and 27th.

_March._--Grey Linnets.--Numerous at Monach (?Twites?) on 7th; and on 23d, 1000's crossing from mainland; two, on 30th. [It is nearly certain all these are Twites.--J. A. H.-B.]

_April._--Great flocks, 4th to 7th, at Little Ross; Linnets and Sparrows reported from Kyleakin, and the latter from Rhinns of Islay on 21st.

_June._--Linnets at Little Ross, 6th, 7th, and 30th.

_August._--Grey Linnets at Kyleakin on 22d, flying about.

_September._--All the month in small numbers. Sparrows "numerous" at Lochindaul about 9th and 10th, and Linnets also; also at Ailsa on 10th. A few all day, Mull of Galloway.

_October._--Greenfinches at Monach Isles, a few; and a _Brambling_ on 27th, and Green Linnets on 30th; also at Kyleakin and Rhinns of May; and at the latter, one Chaffinch on 23d.

_November._--Large numbers, in flocks and parties, of Greenfinches. 2d to 28th--a _great rush_ in comparison with other places.

_December._--Continuing in numbers all month.

Emberizidæ.--_March._--Snow Buntings at Butt of Lewis from N.E. At Monach, a few Grey and Common and Snow Buntings. One Yellow Hammer at Lochindaul.

_May._--Snow Buntings, five on 23d at Monach Isles; W., light; two days' gale previously from north.

_September._--20th, one Snow Bunting at Butt of Lewis; N.W., light breeze, clear.

_October._--At Monach one Snow Bunting; W.S.W., strong. Also at Butt of Lewis, twelve on 18th, W., fresh, haze; and at Rhinns of Islay on 27th, four Yellow Hammers; and on 22d, big flock on Ailsa; and twelve, three days after, on 25th.

_November._--Stations:--Butt of Lewis, Monach, Lochindaul, and Ailsa for Snow Buntings; "many" at the latter on 27th. Scarcely any migration seen after November.

Alaudidæ.--Trifling in January and March; September, large flocks at Monach on 23d; April (Monach). Numbers in February at several stations [I suspect these are mostly very local flights.--J. A. H.-B.]; a few in March, early leading up. A great rush daily by 28th, at Rhinns of Islay; 11th, at Ailsa (rush); 31st, at Lochindaul, daily. Few after.

_April._--Few.

_September._--Great movements reported from Butt of Lewis, Dhuheartach, Monach, and elsewhere. "Rush" about 21st. All October in varying numbers at the stations; and November, "marvellous lots" at Monach; continuing in hundreds in December at the best recording stations.

Corvidæ.--(_See Diary._) Nothing of fresh interest. Choughs in Islay.

Cypselidæ.--Swift at Butt of Lewis on 12th--S.S.W. breeze, rain; and one at same place on 27th August.

Strigidæ.--A few odd records of Owls--May (one), Jane (one), September (two), October (one Barn Owl at Rhinns of Islay), November (three Barn Owls at Rhinns of Islay at lantern).

Accipitinæ.--Numbers of records of Hawks on predatory quests (Merlin, Sparrow, Kestrel, Falcon) at almost all times when other birds are there, bulking, of course, at the height of the migratory season, especially of the Waders and Sandpipers.

Pelecanidæ.--Special schedules for Gannets, and the whole Gannet migration will be undertaken later.

Ardeidæ.--No new information to be gleaned.

Anatidæ.--Eiders.--100 at Monach on _March_ 7th, coming _from_ the north; and 50 on 8th, males and females. Small flocks--ten to twenty-five--on 5th, 6th, 10th, 12th, 13th at Rhinns of Islay, and on 11th and 24th _April_.

Again in _May_, Merganser Ducks at Monach--came on 28th, left on 30th. Eider continued to be seen during May in flocks here and there, and fewer in June.

Generally Ducks and Geese appeared abundant in September, October, and November. Consisted of the following species recorded:--"Wild Geese," Eiders, Wild Ducks, Mergansers (Monach), Barnacle Geese (Barra Head), Teal Duck? (Barra Head). At the following stations:--Butt of Lewis (Eiders and Wild Geese); Monach (Eiders, Wild Geese, Mergansers--very abundant, and a few Wild Duck); Rona (Eiders); Kyleakin (Wild Geese); Barra Head (Barnacle Geese, Teal Duck?); Skerryvore (Barnacle Geese, Eiders); Dhuheartach (do. do.); Rhinns of Islay (Wild Geese, Eiders abundantly, and Ducks of sorts); Lochindaul, etc., etc.

Charadriidæ.--Oyster-Catchers; nothing new. Golden Plovers, no great autumn movement. Few other records at all of Lapwings, Ring Dotterels. A sort of rush of Lapwings in August, 1st to 24th; at Lochindaul, greatest on 14th, but flocks for days before. A few seen at Ailsa Craig, and one only at Mull of Galloway.

_September._--Few records at all.

_October._--Lapwings entirely at Rhinns of Islay, and in November the same.

Scolopacidæ.--Curlews universal; nothing new. Other species mentioned all through the year. _Whimbrel_ at Rhinns of Islay (May), forty in a flock; rested. _Jack Snipe?_ at Butt of Lewis, 25th August. Snipe: Woodcock (in November), 12th only; at Rona, Skye, and at Dhuheartach same date. (Scarce this season, at least, as seen on migration.) Most of the records here apply, and bulk with Curlew. Sandpipers, Redshanks, Dunlins at several stations also.

Sturninæ and Laridæ.--Nothing of much fresh interest Besides commoner species, the following are noticed:--Boatswain Birds (15th August, at Skervuile); Skuas and "Dirty Aliens," "Small Gulls" (at Skervuile, 17th July); Iceland Gulls (Rhinns of Islay), etc.

Alcidæ, Colymbidæ.--Unusually abundant in Autumn at most stations, but do not warrant special remark here.

WEST COAST OF ENGLAND AND WALES, AND THE ISLE OF MAN.

Schedules and letters of instruction, with stamped envelopes for wings, were sent to the fifty-three under-mentioned lighthouses and light-vessels on the West and South-West Coasts of England, the Coasts of Wales, and the Isle of Man, and returns have been received from the thirty-four stations marked with an asterisk.

The following is an enumeration of the stations included in this section of the Report:--

No. on
Map.

Isle of Man.

115. L.H. Point of Ayre.
116. L.H. Douglas Head.
*117. L.H. Langness, Mr Robert Clyne.
*118. L.H. Chickens Rock, Messrs Black and Beggs.
*119. L.V. Bahama Bank, Mr John West.

N. W. England.

*120. L.H. St Bees, Mr Henry Nott.
*121. L.V. Selker, Messrs Daniel Kneale
and George Cumming.
*122. L.V. Morecambe Bay, Henry Clavell.
*123. L.V. River Dee, Mr S. Work.

North Wales.

124. L.H. Air.
*125. L.H. Menai, Mr Joseph Steer.
*126. L.H. Skerries Rock, Messrs Rees, Smith, Tomkinson,
and Williams.
*127. L.H. Holyhead Breakwater, Messrs Prichard, Roberts, and Hughes.
*128. L.H. South Stack, Mr. W. R. Burgess.
*129. L.V. Carnarvon Bay, Messrs Thomas and Hughes.
130. L.H. St Tudwal's. Messrs Davies and Parsons.
*131. L.H. Bardsey Island, Mr Thomas Bowen.
*132. L.V. Cardigan Bay, Messrs Rees and Comben.

South Wales.

*133. L.H. South Bishop, Messrs Nicholas and Pell.
*134. L.H. Smalls, Mr George Baker.
*135. L.H. Great Castle Head, Mr W. L. Davis.
*136. L.H. Milford (St Ann's), Mr James F. Spicer.
*137. L.H. Caldy, Mr Wm. Ebben.
*138. L.V. Helwick, Messrs Webber and Howells.

Bristol Channel.

*139. L.V. Scarweather, Messrs Havells and Wyness.
*140. L.H. Nash (E. ), Mr Henry Nicholas.
*141. L.V. Breaksea, Messrs Walters and Johnson.
*142. L.H. Flatholm, Mr W. Dale.
143. L.V. English and Welsh Grounds.
*144. L.H. Usk.
145. L.H. Avon.
*146. L.H. Burnham, Mr William Lewis.

South-Western England.

*147. L.H. Bull Point, Mr George Knott.
*148. L.H. Bideford Bar, Mr Thomas Gilpin.
149. L.H. Lundy Island.
150. L.H. Hartland Point.
151. L.H. Trevose Head.
*152. L.H. Godrevy, Mr Richard Trahair.
*153. L.H. Longships, Mr Jno. W. Watson.
*154. L.V. Sevenstones, Mr Daniel Norton.
*155. L.H. Wolf Rock, Mr J. J. Chavner.
156. L.H. Scilly.
*157. L.H. Bishop's Rock, Mr Jno. W. Troth.
158. L.H. Lizard Point.
159. L.H. Falmouth Harbour.
*160. L.H. Eddystone, Messrs Ainger and Gaudion.
*161. L.H. Plymouth Breakwater, Mr Arthur Ebgar.
*162. L.H. Start Point, Mr William Jones.
*163. L.H. Portland Bill, Messrs Frost and Counter.
*164. L.V. Shambles, Mr William Clark.
165. L.H. Anvil Point.
*166. L.H. Hurst Castle, Mr G. G. Appleton.
167. L.H. The Needles.

Our best thanks are due to the observers above named for their invaluable co-operation, and for the faithful manner in which they have filled in their schedules. To Messrs Ainger and Gaudion (Eddystone), Bowen (Bardsey), Clark (Shambles), Knott (Bull Point), Nicholas (Nash), Norton (Sevenstones), Rees and Smith (Skerries), Steer (Menai), Thomas and Hughes (Carnarvon Bay), Walters and Johnson (Breaksea), and Webber and Howells (Helwick), additional and special thanks are due for sending the wings of the following species killed or captured at their respective stations:--

Date. Species. Station. Remarks.
1887.
Mar. 11, Lapwing, Sevenstones L.V., 1 caught.
" 18, Pied Wagtail, Nash L.H., 8 killed.
April 24, Willow Warbler, Eddystone L.H., ....
" 30, { Whinchat, ♂ }
{ Redstart, } Shambles L.V., 40 caught.
May 3, { Reed Warbler, }
{ White throat, }
{ Wood Warbler, }
{ Willow Warbler,}
{ Redstart, } Eddystone L.H., many killed
" " Sedge Warbler, Nash L.H., 5 killed.
" " Willow Warbler, " 4 "
" " Whitethroat, " 42 "
" " Blackcap, " 1 "
" 4, Pied Flycatcher, " 1 "
" 6, Redstart, Carnarvon Bay L.V., 1 "
" 15, Whitethroat, " 1 "
" " Sedge Warbler, Helwick L.V., 3 "
" " Ring Plover, " 1 "
Aug. 16, Willow Warbler, Skerries L.H., 1 "
" " Sedge Warbler, " 1 "
" 17, Willow Warbler, " 1 "
" 18, " " 1 "
" " Sedge Warbler, " 1 "
" " Willow Warbler, Nash L.H., 10 "
" " Sedge Warbler, " 35 "
" " Spotted Flycatcher, " 14 "
" 25, Willow Warbler, Skerries L.H., 12 "
" 29, Sedge Warbler, " several.
Sept. 17, Grey Wagtail, Eddystone L.H., ....
" 18, Turnstone, Skerries L.H., 1.
" 20, Sedge Warbler, Nash L.H., 27.
" 21, Whitethroat, Eddystone L.H., ....
" " Tree Pipit, " ....
" " Dunlin, " ....
" " Wheatear, " ....
" 21, Sedge Warbler, Eddystone L.H., ....
" 23, Blackcap, Menai L.H., 1.
" 30, Pied Wagtail, Eddystone L.H., ....
" " Meadow Pipit, " ....
" " Yellow Wagtail, " ....
Oct. 3, Albino Starling, Bardsey L.H., shot.
" 9, Common Thrush, Breaksea L.V., 1.
" 17, Chaffinch, Skerries L.H., ....
" 30, Wren, " ....
Nov. 3, Rock Pipit, " shot.
" 7, Chaffinch, Nash L.H., 1.
" " Redwing, " 6.
" " Common Thrush, " 11.
" " Short-eared Owl, Skerries L.H., shot.
" 8, Golden Eye, " ♂.
" " Jack Snipe, " shot.
" 9, Grey Plover, Nash L.H., 4 killed.
" 11, Chaffinch, Bull Point L.H., 1 " ♂.
" 13, Water Rail, Nash L.H., ....
" 14, Blackcap, " 15 killed.
" " Stonechat, " 4 "
" " { Woodcock, } { 3 "
{ Snipe, } { 6 "
{ Skylark, } " { 104 "
" 19, Knot, " ....
" 21, Coot, Breaksea L.V., 1 killed.

In addition to the observations furnished by the various Light-keepers, the following notes have been incorporated:--

Observations made in Cumberland, communicated by Messrs Macpherson and Duckworth.

Notes from the North-West Coast of Merioneth, by Mr G. H. Caton-Haigh.

To the above-named ornithologists, and to Mr W. Cecil Scott, of Leeds, the writer begs to tender his best thanks for their valued co-operation.

Summary of Observations.

_January._--On several occasions during the month a few Thrushes, Fieldfares, Blackbirds, Larks, Starlings, and Curlews were observed at the lanterns, but all the movements recorded appear to be purely local in their nature.

_February._--The same species are occasionally and locally noted as in January; but on the 17th, Wheatears were noted at the Chickens Rock lantern, and a Ring Ouzel was shot at St Tudwal's--these harbingers of spring making their appearance with the south-westerly winds and mild weather which then spread over our islands.

_March._--The month commenced with a spell of anticyclonic weather--cold, gloomy, and foggy over England during the daytime, but with sharp frosts at night. The effect of this weather led to a renewal of the local movements of the Turdidæ, Chaffinches, Larks, Starlings, Lapwings, etc. Shallow local disturbances followed, and on the 15th, which was a most miserable and unsettled day all over England, there was a very great rush of birds at the Nash, flying before very heavy snow, from 8.30 A.M. to 3 P.M. Mr Nicholas says, "two or three hundred birds could be seen at a time," and that he recognised Skylarks, Starlings, Snipe, Woodcocks, Lapwings, Golden Plovers, Mallard, Teal, and many other birds flying in the snow. Anticyclones followed, prevailing until the 20th, producing a good deal of fog and severe frosts. The frost caused some of the lanterns to be visited by the usual gipsy species, but, among others, a "Woodcock, eight Pied Wagtails, and a Kingfisher were killed. Unsettled weather followed. On the 29th an anticyclone advanced completely over the British Islands, and with it fair, dry, quiet weather prevailed until the end of the month. On the 29th, amongst other species, scores of Wheatears fluttered around the Eddystone light; on the 30th, Razorbills and Puffins put in an appearance at their summer haunts on the Calf of Man; and Puffins arrived at St Tudwal's on the 31st.

_April._--The month commenced with cold winds and showers of snow and sleet. After the 5th the disturbing conditions passed away, and on the 7th fine bright sunny weather was established, though the temperature remained low. On the 10th, Ring Ouzels and Wheatears were recorded, and the first Swallows appeared at four stations between Devon and the Isle of Man on the 11th. On the 17th the fine weather broke, and changeable, unsettled conditions prevailed over the country generally. During this period Ring Ouzels, Wheatears, and Willow and other Warblers were observed at the Eddystone, and a few Swallows at various stations. Towards the end of the month fine weather again prevailed, and on the 30th a Cuckoo was beard at St Bees, and numbers of Whinchats and Redstarts were captured at the lantern of the Shambles light-vessel.

_May._--On the 3d the depression which prevailed during the earliest days of the month passed away, and variable breezes, with fair weather in some places and local showers in others, prevailed until the 5th. On the 3d and 4th, extraordinary rushes of summer immigrants occurred at the Eddystone and Nash stations (and at Helwick on the 4th), when Wheatears, Whitethroats, Sedge Warblers, Willow Wrens, Wood Warblers, Blackcaps, Reed Warblers, Redstarts, Pied Flycatchers, and Swallows were killed--some in considerable numbers--at the lanterns. On the 16th and 18th, in varying weather, there were arrivals of summer and transient birds at the S.W. stations. Conditions afterwards were most unsettled until the 24th, the weather being wretchedly cold and rough. The only bird recorded during this period was the Swift--a species associated in some districts in England with such unsettled meteorological conditions. On the 25th a high-pressure system appeared, with northerly and easterly winds, though dull and cold for the time of the year. From this date to the end of the month there were continuous arrivals of summer birds, and many Sandpipers and Plovers passed the Eddystone on their way to the far north.

_June._--The returns for this month are quite unimportant.

_August._--The first movement from the breeding habitats was recorded for the 4th, when Curlews were noted at Menai, the Scarweather L.V., and at Bideford Bar. On the 11th, Whimbrel arrived, and, along with Willow Warblers, Sedge Warblers, and Whitethroats, struck against the Nash lantern. The weather entirely broke up on the 15th, and thunderstorms began to prevail. The 19th and 20th were very cold, and at night slight ground frosts occurred in several localities. During this spell of rough weather a number of summer birds were recorded as emigrating--Swifts, Swallows, Martins, Warblers, Flycatchers, and Land Rails. The weather then mended, and became fine and hot, and little migration appears to be recorded for the latter days of the month.

_September._--The month commenced with a period of very rough weather, south-westerly and westerly gales blowing with great force in the Channel and on our South-West Coasts. On the passing, away of this severe disturbance, a series of smaller ones followed, and continued with little interruption until the middle of the month. The returns up to the 17th show an almost complete dearth of bird-movements during this interval. On the 17th an anticyclonic spell commenced, which lasted, without intermission, till the 25th, and concomitant with it were general migratory movements, full particulars of which are furnished in the Diary section of this report. A cyclonic distribution succeeded, during which the weather was on the whole fair and dry--foggy at times, and cold for the time of the year--and but little migration was noted.

_October_ commenced with an anticyclonic stage--cold, dry, and fine, with westerly breezes in the north, easterly ones in the south. This lasted until the 9th, and during its prevalence not unimportant movements occurred from the 5th to the 9th, when Larks, Thrushes, Ring Ouzels, Finches, Warblers of several species, Swallows, and Gold crests appeared at the lanterns. After the 9th a period of very unsettled cyclonic weather ensued; the wind became northerly and increased in force, and showers of snow, sleet, or cold rain continued to fall over the United Kingdom; and cold and unsettled weather continued with us until nearly the middle of the month, with no migration. On the 15th the depression had disappeared, being replaced by an anticyclonic stage lasting until the 22d. During this favourable interval there were important and general immigrations and transient movements of winter birds. There followed a decided alteration in the stability of the meteorological conditions over the British Islands and their neighbourhood. Various systems appeared of a transitory nature, and the changes of wind and weather were consequently both sudden and frequent. The movements of birds recorded in our Diary for this changeable period which witnessed the close of the month were neither many nor important.

_November._--The month commenced with a spell of exceedingly changeable, unsettled weather, which lasted uninterruptedly until about the 8th. During this period the only movement worthy of mention was the not unimportant one recorded for the S.W. stations on the 7th. On the afternoon of the 11th an anticyclonic period commenced, and prevailed, with little break, until the 17th. There were important general movements on the 11th (on which date a great many--_Saxicola isabellina_--was obtained at Allonby in Cumberland), 13th, 14th, with interesting observations on the 17th and 18th, at S.W. stations.

There were no other movements of importance up to the close of the year.

Diary of the Migratory Movements as Observed at the various Stations.

The sequence of the stations is from north to south. The wind and weather, as observed at the stations, are given in parenthesis: for the weather, the symbols of the Beaufort scale have been adopted;[8] while the force of the wind ranges from 0 to 12.

[Footnote 8: Beaufort scale:--B. blue sky; C. detached clouds; D. drizzling rain; F. fog; G. dark, gloomy; H. hail; L. lightning; M. misty; O. overcast; P. passing showers; Q. squally; R. rain; S. snow; T. thunder; U. ugly, threatening; V. visibility, unusual transparency; W. dew.]

The diction of the observers has been closely adhered to. The identification of the species marked thus * has been verified by the wings sent.

JANUARY.

January 1st.--_Bahama Bank_ L.V., large number of Starlings and Thrushes at 9.40 A.M., flying W. (4, S.W.; B. C. M.)

January 5th.--_Bahama Bank_ L.V., number of Starlings, Thrushes, and Larks flying round lantern from 10 P.M. till 4 A.M. Four Starlings, six Thrushes, and two Larks killed. (S., 5; snow.)

January 8th.--_Chickens Rock_ L.H., Several Thrushes, Fieldfares, and Blackbirds flying round lantern throughout the night. (N.N.E. fresh breeze; haze.)

January 10th.--_Bahama Bank_ L.V., about forty Thrushes and Larks flying round lantern all night; two Thrushes and one Lark killed. (S.W., 1; B. C. M.)

January 15th.--_Chickens Rock_ L.H., number of Curlews flying round lantern all night. (S.E. strong breeze; haze.)

January 27th.--_Chickens Rock_ L.H., number of small birds flying round lantern all night. (S.S.W. gale.)

FEBRUARY.

February 7th.--Cumberland, a Grey Phalarope at Silloth.

February 10th.--_St Tudwal's_ L.H., two Thrushes struck lantern at 6 A.M. _Sevenstones_ L.V., a Bullfinch flew on board to rest at 1.30 P.M. (E., 4; clear.)

February 16th.--_Carnarvon Bay_ L.V., large flocks of Thrushes and Larks all night; left for land at "fogbreak." One Thrush and one Lark killed. (S.S.W., 4; G. M.) Merionethshire, a great many Snipe appeared, but only remained two or three days.