WEST COAST OF ENGLAND.

Forms of enquiry and letters of instruction were sent to thirty-nine lighthouses and light-vessels on the west coast of England; from twenty-nine returns have been received; from five, letters mentioning the scarcity of birds.

The following are the stations from which co-operation was asked, commencing with the most northerly. Returns have been received from those marked with an *, and from those marked with a † letters without returns:—

110.†St. Bees: on the Head, L.H. Fixed; visible 25 miles. Robert Pizey.
111.*Morecambe Bay, L.V.; revolving red light, flash every 30 seconds. Fog signal, one blast every 2 minutes. Henry Clavell.
112.*Air, L.H.; on the Point. Fixed, visible 9 miles, white, except over West Hoyle Bank, between the bearings of S.E. 1/4 S. and W. 3/4 S., where it shows red. C. H. Aveston.
113.Menai, L.H.; on Trwyn du Point. Fixed, red; visible 9 miles. Bell in fog; three times in quick succession every 15 seconds.
114.*Skerries, L.H.; Highest Island. Fixed, visible 16 miles. Fog signal, one blast every 3 minutes. J. Garrett.
115.*Holyhead Breakwater, L.H.; 66-1/2 feet above high water. Red; flashes every 7-1/2 seconds; visible 13 miles. Appears as a fixed red light at a distance of 3 or 4 miles. Bell in fog (three times in quick succession) every 15 seconds. Fog horn nearly continuous when mail packets passing into harbour. Richard Prichard.
116.*North Stack, Fog Horn Station, L.H. Bell sounded during fog; small white light revolving in 1-1/2 min., occasionally shown 40 feet above sea and 30 yards N. of S. Stack L.H. Gun fired every 10 minutes during fog when mail packets approaching. John Harvey, gunner.
117.*South Stack, L.H.; on S. Stack rock off N.W. point of Holyhead Island; revolving every minute; visible 20 miles. W. R. Burgess.
118.*St. Judwall, L.H., 151 feet above high water, occulting, light of 8 seconds duration, followed by eclipse of 2 seconds, white and red; also a fixed red light (not occulting) from a window 16 feet below the high light. William Davies.
119.*Caernarvon Bay, L.V.; revolving with white and red flashes at intervals of 20 seconds, in order of two white and one red; visible 10 miles. Fog signal, one blast every 2 minutes. W. Bowen.
120.*Bardsey, L.H. Fixed; visible 17 miles. Fog syren one blast every 5 minutes. Thomas Bowen.
121.Cardigan Bay, L.V. Red; revolving every 30 seconds; visible 10 miles going in.
122.Bull Point, L.H. White triple flashes. Fog signal, three blasts quickly every 2 minutes. George Knott.
123.*South Bishop, L.H.; revolving every 20 seconds; visible 18 miles. Gong in fog. John White.
124.*Smalls, L.H. Fixed, white; visible 17 miles. Bell sounded during foggy weather, and a rocket every half hour. W. Boulton.
125.*Great Castle Head, L.H. (2). Fixed, white, 112 and 76 feet above high water.
126.*Milford (Low), L.H. Fixed, red. G. Baker.
127.Milford (High), L.H. Fixed, red, 48 feet above sea.
128.*Caldy, L.H., S. of Island. Fixed; visible 20 miles; bright to seaward, red in direction of Old Castle Head and Woolhouse Shoal. W. Ebben, P. K.
129.*Helwick, L.V.; revolving every minute; visible 10 miles. Fog horn, blasts of 5 seconds duration at regular intervals of 2 minutes. Thomas Cornell, mate.
130.*Scarweather, L.V.; revolving red, three times a minute, 38 feet above level of sea; visible 10 miles. Fog syren, two blasts quickly every 2 minutes. Henry Jenkins.
131.*Nash (Lower W.), L.H. Fixed; visible 17 miles. John Richards.
132.*Nash (E. or high), L.H. Fixed; visible 19 miles; red. Hy. Nicholas.
133.Breaksea, L.V. Flashing every 15 seconds; 38 feet above sea; fixed red light at a lower elevation. Gong in fog.
134.*Flatholm, L.H., S. point of Island. Fixed; visible 18 miles. W. Dale, P. K.
135.*Usk, L.H., W. side of entrance to river. Fixed; visible 11 miles; white and red. Amos Russell.
136.†Avon, L.H.. E. of entrance. Fixed; visible 13 miles; white seaward. William Taylor.
137.*Burnham, L.H. (2). Upper intermittent; visible 15 miles. Lower, fixed; visible 9 miles. William Lewis.
138.*Bideford, L.H. (2). Low light visible from half-flood to half-ebb, 14 and 11 miles. Leading lights for crossing the Bar. Edward Roberts.
139.Lundy Fog Gun Station. During fog and thick weather, rocket every 10 minutes; explodes at height of 600 feet. John Morgan.
140.*Lundy, L.H., 1/2 mile from S. end of Island (2), in one tower. Upper visible 30 miles, revolving every 2 minutes. Low light fixed, only visible between bearings of S. by E. and N.E. James Parsons.
141.†Hartland Point, L.H., 120 feet above high water; revolving, 30 seconds, two white and one red. Fog signal, blasts of 5 seconds duration every 2 minutes. John Griffiths.
142.†Trevose Head, L.H., on N.W. extremity (2). Fixed; visible 20 and 17 miles. W. Bowen.
143.*Godrevy, L.H. Flashing every 10 seconds; visible 15 miles. A fixed red light in same tower, 27 feet below flashing light; visible from S. by E. to S.E. Richard Trahair.
144.*Bishop Rock, L.H., on S. W. Rock. Scilly. Fixed; visible 16 miles. Bell in fog every 10 seconds.
145.*Scilly, L.H., St. Agnes, on summit of Island; revolving every half-minute; visible 17 miles. E. L. Davis.
146.*Sevenstones, L.V. White, revolving. Syren fog signal, three blasts quickly every 2 minutes. Daniel Norton.
147.*Longships, L.H., on highest rock off Land's End. Fixed; visible 16 miles. Bell in foggy weather. William Jones.
148.†Wolfrock, L.H., 8 miles S.S.W of Land's End, 110 feet above high-water mark; revolving alternate flashes of red and white; visible 16 miles. In fog a bell. W. D. Crask.

To the Elder Brethren at Trinity House our thanks are due for their kind permission to make use of the light stations for taking observations; and to the Trinity Superintendents, Mr. Davison (Holyhead), Mr. Evans (Weyland), and Mr. Tregarthen (Penzance), we are obliged for willing assistance.

The observers at the various stations are deserving of thanks for the pains they have taken to keep an accurate record of the facts coming under their notice. The reports are all interesting, those which show a paucity of birds equally with those that record the passing of many. Excluding the Anatidæ, notes have been taken of about fifty-two different species.

SEPARATE REPORT ON EACH SPECIES.

Of the Raptores we have heard but little. A male Falcon (Peregrine ?) was seen at Sevenstones Oct. 13th, at noon, flying S.W., before a moderate breeze from N.E.; at Smalls, Oct. 7th, a Kestrel was observed flying round the tower; in Morecambe Bay Oct. 4th, 7.30 a.m., a Sparrowhawk flying from N.N.E., a gentle E.N.E. breeze, rested on board the light-vessel. At St. Bees a hawk or two, we are told, may be seen occasionally; "they build on the cliffs thereabouts."

Owl, Otus brachyotos.—At North Stack, Oct. 13th, an Owl, probably the Short-eared, was seen, at 8.55 a.m., flying S.W., before a mod. N.E. breeze. At Smalls, Oct 15th, a little Horned Owl was observed resting on the rock; Nov. 6th, at 4 p.m., another on the S.E. rock.

Fieldfare, Turdus pilaris.—Distinguished on one or two occasions; possibly some of the notes on "Thrush" may refer to this. From Bishop Rock, Oct. 13th, Fieldfares were seen at 10 a.m. passing W. before a mod. E. breeze. At Smalls, Oct. 15th, from 1 a.m. to daylight. Grey Thrushes were noticed, with Redwings, Starlings, and Blackbirds; breeze gentle to moderate, E.S.E. to S.E. At Air (River Dee), Nov. 7th, "large quantities passed at sunrise."

Song Thrush, Turdus musicus.—Recorded from five stations. At Caernarvon Bay, Oct. 1st, two were killed; hazy. At South Bishop, Oct. 5th, 10 p.m. to 2 a.m., a mod. N.N.E. breeze, rain and mist. Thrushes and Blackbirds were passing, and, of the former, seven killed. At Morecambe Bay, Oct. 8th, 10.20 a.m., one Song Thrush passed S.S.W., very tired; a strong N.E. breeze. At Nash (E. or high), Oct. 13th, one was killed; afresh N.N.E. breeze, with mist. At Bull Point, Oct. 14th, 3 a.m., overcast and misty, light air S.S.W., one female is reported as striking. At Caernarvon Bay, Nov. 2nd, a young Thrush and Lark were killed at 9.10 p.m.; gentle E.S.E. breeze, hazy. At Bull Point, Nov. 3rd, two struck at 2 a.m.; fresh E. breeze, clear. At the same time there appears to have been a rush farther south. At South Bishop, Nov. 2nd, from midnight to morning, a fresh S.E. breeze, very misty, a very great quantity of Thrushes, with Blackbirds, Starlings, and Larks, of which many were killed; and, with breeze still S.E., but moderate, continuous flocks of same all day flying towards N.E.; Nov. 3rd, from 9 p.m. to midnight, a gentle E. breeze, rather misty, large quantities, with Larks, Blackbirds, and Starlings (many killed). At Nash (E. or high), Dec. 1st, one was killed; fresh W. breeze, but clear. At Godrevy, Jan. 14th, 12 to 4 p.m., Thrushes were seen, with Lapwings and Starlings: this is the only instance recorded in afternoon, the others being at night, the weather in most cases misty or hazy, and the wind ranging from N.N.E. to S.E.

Redwing, Turdus iliacus.—Separately noticed at one station only—Smalls. Oct. 8th, 7.30 p.m., some were seen among Starlings and Larks, N.E. to E., misty; twenty of the birds killed. Oct. 9th, from midnight to 5 a.m., several, with Larks and Starlings; eleven struck; breeze mod. to strong E. to E.N.E., clear. Oct. 15th, from 1 a.m. to daylight, large numbers, with Starlings, Blackbirds, and Greenfinches. Oct. 29th, one was caught. Nov. 2nd, several, with Sky Larks, Starlings, and Blackbirds; sixteen struck and were caught. Nov. 3rd, three males and five females were distinguished among Blackbirds, Starlings, and Larks. Nov. 5th, one male; mod. N. breeze. Except the first, the instances occurred from midnight to sunrise, with moderate N.E., E., and S.E. breezes, and generally with clouds, mist, or drizzle.

Blackbird, Turdus merula.—Reported from ten stations. The earliest date is Aug. 12th, when one was seen at Scarweather at 1 p.m., mod. S.S.E. breeze; the latest at Skerries, Dec. 4th, when Blackbirds and Snipe appeared, and a few were killed. The one occurrence only is noted in August, and we do not again hear of its appearance till at Skerries, Sept. 27th, 29th, and 30th, when Blackbirds were seen (the two later dates in company with Starlings). At Caernarvon Bay, Oct. 1st, Blackbirds and Thrushes were seen, and two killed; light westerly breeze, hazy. At S. Bishop, Oct 5th, from 10 p.m. to 2 a.m., N.N.E., rain and mist. Blackbirds and Thrushes struck, and seventeen Blackbirds were killed. At Helwick, Oct. 8th, one was killed. At Caldy, Oct. 10th, one male was discerned flying about the lantern; a mod. E. by S. gale, squally and cloudy. At Bull Point, Oct. 12th, two females struck, but were not killed; a mod. E. breeze, clear; and, on Oct. 14th, one female. At S. Bishop, Oct. 13th, nine were killed, with five Larks. At Helwick, Oct. 14th, one and a Linnet. At. Smalls, Oct. 15th, numbers struck, with Starlings, Thrushes, and Finches; and, at Godrevy, two, with two Starlings and one Thrush, not killed. At Helwick, Nov. 2nd, several killed, with Larks and Starlings; and, from midnight to morning at S. Bishop, a fresh S.E. breeze and very misty, a very great quantity of Blackbirds, Larks, etc. (see Song Thrush). At Godrevy, Nov. 3rd, one struck, not killed. At Smalls, Nov. 2nd, two were seen at midnight; 3rd and 5th six (two males and four females), and one female. At Nash (E. or high), Dec. 1st, one was killed. At Skerries, Dec. 4th, a few. The time of the occurrences noticed, except of the three in report, which were at sunrise, was from midnight to morning, and they took place almost always in cloudy or misty weather, with generally a mod. breeze more or less easterly, viz., N.N.E., through E. to S.S.E. The greatest number of instances noticed is in October, when we have returns from seven stations, but the birds are only seen by ones or twos; they seem to have appeared in numbers from Nov. 1st to 3rd; in December we have only two instances.

Then the Turdidæ have been noticed from Morecambe Bay (from St. Bees we have the general remarks that an occasional Blackbird or Thrush is to be seen) to Godrevy. The movement appears to have been pretty evenly distributed, perhaps to have spread gradually from N. to S., and to have lasted from Aug. 12th to Jan. 14th, being most active from Sept. 27th to Nov. 27th, with a decided rush on Nov. 2nd and 3rd. The direction of flight is seldom given, the notices almost all referring to birds killed or striking. The greatest slaughter occurred at S. Bishop on Nov. 1st, when, of Blackbirds, Thrushes, Larks, and Starlings, 162 were immolated, and on Nov. 3rd 172. The time when the occurrences were observed lies between twilight and sunrise, but is chiefly about midnight, the weather being generally hazy, misty, or overcast, with mod. breezes from E.N.E. through E. to S.E. In the majority of instances the birds were accompanied by others of their own family, or by Starlings or Larks.

Stonechat, Saxicola rubicola.—At Morecambe Bay, Aug. 29th, 4 p.m., moderate breeze E. by S., one came on board. The note is added that it is "very seldom Seen here." This is the only occurrence noted.

Wheatear, Saxicola ænanthe.—At Bishop Rock, Aug. 17th, 1.30 a.m., three struck the glass, light E. breeze, cloudy; Aug. 22nd, midnight, mod. E.S.E. breeze, cloudy and misty, Wheatears strike; none killed on either occasion.

Chiffchaff and Goldcrest, Sylvia hippolais and Regulus auricapillus,—At Scarweather, July 30th, 1 p.m., a Goldcrest was seen. At Flatholm, Oct. 14th, a large quantity of Goldcrests and Chiffchaffs were seen at 9.40 a.m., gentle E. breeze, blue sky, but clouds and mist. Mr. Dale reports that, at this station, "These little birds generally make their appearance about the beginning of October, and remain till about the middle of November. In spring again, from about March 20th to May. Numbers are killed by striking the lantern on dark nights."

Titmouse, Parus cæruleus.—At Burnham, Aug. 16th, 3 p.m., mod. N.N.E. breeze, "a large flock of Blue Tits perched on the trees, &c." At Caldy, midnight, a Titmouse (species not identified) was seen flying about the glass.

Wagtail, Motacilla (sp. ?)—Returns only from Morecambe Bay. Aug. 26th, 6.15 a.m., one alighted on deck; 27th, 7 a.m., one passed E., and at 8.30 a.m. one E.N.E.; 30th three, and 31st six passed; Sept. 1st two were seen, and on 4th six; 12th, one passed W., a gentle breeze W.S.W.; 16th, five, S.E., a strong breeze from N.; 27th, flocks, with Linnets, were observed during the forenoon, a light breeze S. by W., and several small birds killed. These occurrences all happened between 5 and 8.30 a.m. In almost every case the weather was cloudy, misty, or foggy, with gentle breezes, varying, but mostly E.S.E. or easterly. The direction of flight S.E. and E.S.E.

Sky Lark and Meadow Pipit, Alauda arvensis and Anthus pratensis,—On two occasions the Meadow Pipit is distinguished; possibly some of the notes on "Larks" may refer to it. From Morecambe Bay, Sept. 8th, 6 a.m., four Titlarks are reported flying S.W., a gentle breeze E.N.E. From Smalls, Nov. 3rd, mod. E. breeze, one was seen in company with Blackbirds and Redwings. Of Larks, the earliest appearance noted is Aug. 27th, when, at Morecambe Bay, seven passed flying S. by E., light E.S.E. breeze; Sept. 1st, 5.30 p.m., about thirty passed Nash, flying S., a gentle W.N.W. breeze; and on 3rd, at noon, about twenty passed N., light E.S.E. breeze. These occurrences are noticed from both stations. At Caernarvon, Sept. 4th, one was killed. At Lundy, Sept. 9th, a number, with Chaffinches, were seen, fresh E.S.E. breeze, rain and squally; these were noticed from both stations. At Scarweather, same day, two were seen. At Morecambe Bay, a dozen passed flying S. At Skerries, Sept. 23rd, 9.30 to 11 p.m., many Larks and Linnets were striking, but none killed. At Scarweather, Sept. 24th, mod. W. breeze, a large number of Larks. From the two stations at Nash, Sept. 25th, a large flock of Sky Larks were observed passing N.E. At Skerries, Sept. 26th and 27th, Larks were seen. At Caernarvon, Sept. 29th, 9.15 a.m., a flock passed S.E. At Caldy, same day, 10 p.m., two male Sky Larks and a White Gull were flying about the lantern, light S.E. breeze, fog. At South Bishop, Sept. 30th, four larks were killed, fog. Through September they appear, as the month advanced, to have been noticed in greater numbers and farther south. The appearances are nearly all in the daytime; breezes light or gentle, varying from W. through S. to E. Direction of flight, when noticed, towards S. or S.E., except at Nash, where, on Sept. 3rd, some passed N., and on 25th some N.E. At Godrevy, Oct. 4th, 1 to 2 a.m., mod. E.N.E. breeze, a Lark, Petrel, and two foreign Wrens were seen, and three birds killed. At Nash, Oct. 5th, 9 a.m. to 3 p.m., continuous flocks passed S.E., with mod. E.N.E. breeze, and rain; the same direction followed, though wind veered round to W.S.W. At Helwick, Oct. 8th, 2 a.m., one was killed, strong E.S.E. breeze, rain and lightning. At Smalls, same date, 7.30 p.m. to midnight, continuous flocks of Sky Larks, Redwings and Starlings, and about twenty struck; 9th, midnight to 5 a.m., Sky Larks and Redwings, eleven struck, mod. to strong E. to E.N.E. breeze, clear. At Nash, Oct. 10th, a flock of Sky Larks was observed from both stations flying N.W., strong N.E.; breeze; 13th, with mod. E.N.E. breeze, a like flock going E. At South Bishop, Oct. 13th, 1 to 4 a.m., light S.E. air, clouds and mist, five Larks and nine Blackbirds met their fate. At Smalls, Oct. 12th, about thirty struck the roof (with Starlings) from 1 a.m. to daylight; and at Skerries, at intervals during same day, small flocks were seen passing towards the land. At Morecambe Bay, same day, about 10.20 a.m., a flock of Larks passed S.S.W. At Helwick, Oct. 15th, 4.30 a.m., several Larks and Starlings were seen. At Morecambe Bay, Oct. 16th, 2.30 p.m., a flock passed E.N.E. At Caernarvon Bay, Oct. 19th, 1 to 4 p.m., continuous flocks passed E.S.E., fresh E. by N. breeze. At Helwick, Oct. 21st, gentle N.E. breeze, a flock from S.W. to N.E. At Caernarvon, Oct. 22nd, 11 a.m. to 4 p.m., mod. E. gale, with haze, flocks of Larks and Starlings passed S.E.; 24th, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., similar flocks passed S.S.E., with a mod. N.N.W. breeze. At Helwick, Oct. 30th, 11 a.m., light N.N.E. breeze, "several hen Larks" passed from S.W. to N.E. At South Stack, same day, 7 a.m. to noon, fresh N.W. breeze, clear, continuous flocks (with Starlings, Linnets, and Chaffinches) passed to N.W. Throughout October the movement appears to have been active and pretty general along the coast; the time of occurrence in the greater number of cases between 9 a.m. and 4 p.m.; the direction of flight, when recorded, generally easterly; in most instances mist, rain and fog, with—generally—moderate E.N.E. to E. breezes. At Morecambe Bay, Nov. 1st, five passed S.E., mod. N.N.E. breeze; 2nd, three in same direction, mod. S.E. breeze. At South Bishop, from midnight to the morning of 2nd, fresh S.E. breeze, very misty, "a very great quantity of Larks, Thrushes," &c., and "continuous flocks" all day, flying towards N.W.; 3rd, 9 p.m. to midnight, enormous quantities, &c. (see "Song Thrush.") At Caernarvon, Nov. 2nd, 9.10 p.m., a young Lark was killed, gentle E.S.E. breeze, hazy; 3rd, 1 to 4 a.m., still hazy, two Larks killed. At Helwick, Nov. 2nd, 1 p.m., fresh S.E. breeze, "a flock of hen Larks" passed to N.E., and at 8 p.m., several more, of which some were slain; overcast and misty. At Nash (W. or low), Nov. 14th, noon, flights of Sky Larks and Starlings passed overhead, strong W.S.W. breeze, clouds and mist. These are all the instances reported in November; most of them occurred at night, and, being of birds striking, the direction of flight is not recorded; the winds generally moderate and from E. to S.E.; on every occasion with mist, haze, or fog. After Nov. 14th we have no record till Dec. 3rd, when flocks of Larks passed Skerries at midnight, gentle S. breeze, misty. At Scarweather, Dec. 8th, 11 p.m., two Larks, mod. W.N.W. breeze, gloomy and misty. At Lundy, same day, S.W. breeze, a great number of Sky Larks were seen, and Mr. Parsons adds, "these are seen daily," but for how long is not stated. At Caernarvon L.V., Dec. 13th, 2 to 5 a.m., four young Larks were killed, mod. N. by W. breeze, drizzling rain. At Milford, Jan. 11th, a quantity of Larks, Plovers, and Starlings arrived and remained all day. At South Stack, Jan. 12th, strong N.E. breeze and passing showers of snow, continuous flocks of Larks and Starlings passed all day; and on 13th, a large quantity was on the island all day. This is the latest instance recorded. In all, we have returns from fifteen stations, of which all but Milford and the two at Nash are off the coast. The direction of flight, judging from the instances given, seems to have been chiefly towards S.E. and S. (this would be towards the mainland). The chief movement seems to have been from Sept. 9th to Nov. 3rd, and increasing towards November. In the majority of cases, with the breeze moderate, from E. to S.E. and S.; in some from N. and N.E. to E.; generally with mist or gloom.

Yellowhammer, Emberiza citrinella.—At Morecambe Bay, Oct. 12, five passed about midnight, flying S.S.W., gentle breeze from N. to N.E. by E.

Chaffinch, Fringilla cœlebs.—At Lundy, Sept. 9th, 1 p.m., a great number, with Sky Larks, fresh E.S.E. breeze, rain. At Smalls, Oct. 25th, mod. W. breeze, till midnight, some struck and fell overboard; three and a Starling caught. At South Stack, Oct. 30th, fresh N.W. breeze, flocks, with Starlings, Larks and Linnets, passed flying N.W.

Mountain Sparrow, Passer montanus.—This species is distinguished only in the returns from North Stack. Sept. 24th, 8.40 a.m., a flock passed S.W.; 26th, 2.30 p.m., with mod. S.W. breeze, a flock passed N.W.; Oct. 12th, 8.40 a.m., two flocks flying N.E.; 15th, 7.30 a.m., six passed S.W., mod. S. breeze; Dec. 24th, 3.10 p.m., fresh N.W. breeze, thirty passed E.; Jan. 12th, 2.30 p.m., a flock passed S.W., before a strong N.E. breeze, with snow.

Common Sparrow, Passer domesticus.—At Nash, Sept. 27th, 6 a.m., a flight passed N.N.W. (observed from both stations), light N.E. breeze. At North Stack, Dec. 3rd, 11 a.m., a flock of Sparrows was seen flying N.E., against a mod. S.W. breeze.

Greenfinch, Coccothraustes chloris.—At Smalls, Oct. 15th, 1 a.m. to daylight, many struck the roof, along with Starlings, Blackbirds, &c., mod. E.S.E. to S.E. breeze, misty; Nov. 5th, before sunrise, mod. W. breeze, cloudy but clear horizon, two males and one female were caught alive, together with Thrush, Blackbird and Starling.

Linnet, Linota cannabina.—From the two stations at Lundy we learn that, from 8th Sept., a great many Linnets "mixed" have been seen daily, and on Oct. 30th have left the island. The earliest recorded is Sept. 1st, when at Skerries, 9 p.m. to 3 a.m., fresh S.W. breeze, clear, small flocks appeared with Finches, many strike, and a few are killed; 23rd, 9.30 to 11 p.m., mod. S.W. breeze, clear after fog, small flocks with Larks, many strike, but none are killed. At Morecambe Bay, Sept. 17th, 7 a.m., four Grey Linnets pass S.E., mod. N.W. by W. breeze; 21st, noon, nine going N., light S. by W. breeze, misty; and on 27th, during the forenoon, fog, flocks of Linnets and Wagtails pass, and several small birds are killed. At Caldy, Sept. 24th, some Linnets were seen. At Smalls, Oct. 29th, one was caught with a Redwing, fresh N.E. breeze, cloudy but clear horizon. At South Stack, Oct. 30th, 7 a.m. to noon, fresh N.W. breeze, Linnets, Larks, Starlings, and Chaffinches passed in flocks to N.W. From Godrevy, we hear from Mr. Trahair that "several flocks of Green and Red Linnets come on the island from September to latter part of December."

Starling, Sturnus vulgaris.—We have more notices of this bird than of any other. Its occurrence seems to have been general and frequent. Twenty-two stations have reported on it, besides St. Bees, whence Mr. Pizey writes, "An occasional Starling or Lark may be sometimes seen on the lantern-window"; and Trevose Head, where, Mr. Bowen states, "Starlings and Crows can be observed all the year; they build their nests about the cliffs." The earliest date given is July 24th, where, at Scarweather, 11 a.m., a flock was observed, clear, with breeze from E.N.E. This, however, is the only occurrence noticed till Aug. 29th, when, at Sevenstones, a large flock passed S.W. at 5.20 a.m., fog, light N.N.E. air. The next date is Sept. 10th, when, at Nash, a large flock passed overhead at 6 p.m., fresh S.W. breeze. From this date several instances occur in the Bristol Channel, but it is Sept. 28th before we hear from a station as far north as Skerries. The occurrences then become frequent and general along the coast, increasing to Nov. 3rd, after which they gradually decrease in numbers and frequency till Jan. 14th, when, at Godrevy, a great number, in company with. Lapwings, Thrushes, &c., were seen from noon to 4 p.m., fresh E.S.E. breeze, and clear horizon. The greatest number of individuals are recorded from Oct. 16th to 21st, and again Oct. 29th to Nov. 3rd; we have the greatest number of occurrences noted in November, and especially from 1st to 3rd. In September we have returns from six stations, Flatholm to Skerries. The flight when noticed being (except in one instance) in daylight—mostly from sunrise to about 11 a.m. Direction of flight scarcely ever noticed. Wind various, generally light, and never exceeding a fresh breeze; weather in some cases clear, but more generally overcast to misty. The next date, after 10th, is Sept. 17th, when, at Flatholm, fresh W.N.W. breeze, a small flight appeared and remained on the island till 19th; 22nd, from both stations at Nash, a flock of young Starlings is reported as flying N.E., fresh W. breeze, misty; 23rd, a flock of Starlings, mixed, was seen at North Stack, light N.W. breeze, drizzly rain; 24th, continuous flocks were seen from Flatholm; after this no further occurrence is noted in Bristol Channel till Nov. 1st. At Skerries, Sept. 28th, 29th, and 30th, Starlings were seen at sunrise, light W.S.W., S.E. and N.E. breezes. Throughout October we have constant notices. At Morecambe Bay, Oct. 1st, two flocks of young, mixed, passed S.W., light W.N.W. breeze. At Nash, Oct. 3rd, continuous flocks all day passed N., against a light N. to N.E. breeze; and at Flatholm, 3.30 p.m., mod. N. breeze, blue sky but cloudy, there was a small flight, and four old birds were killed. At Caldy, Oct. 4th, 8 a.m., strong E. by S. breeze, about twenty were seen (first appearance). At Lundy, Oct. 6th, strong E. breeze, rain, a great number appeared and were seen daily till 29th, after which only one or two seen. At Smalls, Oct. 8th, 7.30 to midnight, fresh N.E. to E. breeze, misty. Starlings, Redwings, and Sky Larks passed in continuous flocks (about twenty struck). At Morecambe Bay, Oct. 10th, one seen; 11th, one passing S.E. very tired, fresh E. by N. breeze. On 11th, we first hear of them so far south as Scilly, where Starlings and Woodcocks passed at 8.30 a.m., fresh E.S.E. breeze; and on 12th, at Bishop Rock, Starlings at 10 a.m. These, however, are the only instances recorded from these two stations. At Smalls, Helwick, and Caldy respectively, during the nights of Oct. 14th, 15th, and 16th, several struck and many were killed. At Caernarvon, Oct. 16th, "continuous flocks of Starlings and Spinxes" (?) passed during the day, gentle S.S.W. breeze, and hazy. At South Stack, Oct. 17th, 6.30 a.m., light E. breeze, a very large flock passed. At Morecambe Bay, Oct. 21st, 5.20 p.m., gentle E.N.E. breeze, clouds but clear horizon, two to three hundred passed W.N.W. At Caernarvon Bay, Oct. 22nd, mod. E. gale, hazy, a flock with Larks passed S.E.; and on 24th, during the day, similar flocks S.S.E.; wind now mod. and from N.N.W. At Flatholm, same day, 8 a.m., gentle E.N.E. breeze, small flights appeared and remained till Oct. 26th, at 7.30 a.m., when they departed S.W., fresh W.S.W. breeze, cloudy. At South Stack, Oct. 29th, 7 a.m., fresh N.N.E. gale, clear, very large flocks passed; 30th and 31st, fresh N.W. breeze, continuous flocks passed to N.W. At Sevenstones, Oct. 30th, 3.30 p.m., light E. air, clear, several flocks were seen flying to W. and N.E. At Nash, Nov. 1st, 9 a.m., gentle N.N.E. breeze, clear, a flock of Crows and Starlings passed overland. At Smalls, same day, from sunset to midnight, three were seen about the lantern. At Morecambe Bay, Nov. 2nd, 4 p.m., from two to three dozen passed, flying S.; and at the same hour, at Helwick, a flock of male Starlings passed, flying from S.W. to N.E., and at 8 p.m. several were killed. At Longships, 7 p.m., a few fluttered against the glass; at Caldy, 10.30 p.m., one was noticed flying about the lantern; at Godrevy, 11 p.m., four struck, several others hovering around; and at Smalls, before midnight, mod. E. breeze, misty and drizzling, eight were seen with other birds. At South Bishop, from midnight (of 1st), when they first arrived, till morning, a very great quantity, with Thrushes, &c.; and all day after, continuous flocks of same flying towards N.W. Again, on the 3rd, enormous quantities of Starlings came at midnight (of 2nd) and continued till morning, and at 6 a.m. the Starlings began to fly E. At Caernarvon also, Nov. 3rd, nine young Starlings were killed, gentle E.S.E. breeze, hazy; and at Smalls, before sunrise, twenty-three female and four male Starlings, among Blackbirds and Thrushes, were counted; several struck and went overboard. At Nash, 9 a.m., large flights passed overland, with Crows; and at Godrevy, 2 a.m., two, with Thrushes and Blackbirds, struck. Thus there appears to have been a decided "rush" lasting from Oct. 29th, 7 a.m., to Nov. 3rd, 9 a.m. From Nov. 1st to 3rd alone, we hear from no less than eleven stations. It was on the 2nd and 3rd that the slaughter, already mentioned (see "Song Thrush"), took place at South Bishop, and Starlings were numbered among the slain. On Nov. 6th, eight were killed at Lundy, many others striking; and after this we have almost daily returns from the two stations at Nash, of flights, the direction, when noticed, being overland. At Helwick, Nov. 15th, a flock passed N.E. At Bull Point, Nov. 18th, a flock was seen flying E. At Godrevy, Nov. 29th, mod. S.W. breeze, clear, a flock flying S. Throughout December we have almost daily returns from Nash, of flights passing overland (on 10th and 25th they are noticed as passing S.) At Godrevy, Dec. 2nd, 5 to 8.30 p.m., light S.S.W. breeze, misty, seventeen male and female, mixed, struck. At Caernarvon Bay, Dec. 16th, 1 to 4 a.m., strong W.N.W. breeze, three killed; 27th, 9 to 11 p.m., gentle E. by N. breeze, two young Starlings were killed; 28th, 9 a.m. to 11 p.m., gentle N.N.E. breeze, misty, flocks passed, flying N.W.; and on 31st, between 10 and 11 p.m., strong N.W. by N. breeze, misty, three were killed and fell overboard. At Lundy, Dec. 25th, fresh N.N.W. breeze, clear, a great many Starlings came on the island during the night. At Nash, Jan. 7th, 2 a.m., fresh E. breeze, misty, several struck; 11th, 10 a.m., misty, some seen with flocks of Plovers and Peewits. At Milford (Low), same day, a quantity with Plovers and Larks arrived, and remained all day. At South Stack, Jan. 12th, fresh N.E. breeze, with passing showers of snow, a large quantity of Starlings and Larks, old and young, passing all day; 13th, on the islands all day. At Godrevy, Jan. 14th, noon to 4 p.m., fresh E.S.E. breeze, clear, a great number with Thrushes and Lapwings were seen.

Chough, Hooded Crow and Rook, Fregilus graculus, Corvus cornix and Corvus frugilegus.—From Caldy Mr. Ebben reports, "The Chough breeds upon the island, and never goes away." We do not hear of it from any other station. The Hooded Crow is only once distinguished, but may perhaps be referred to under the general style of "Crow," the Rook being sometimes distinguished by that of "Black Crow." At S. Stack, Oct. 22nd, 11.30 a.m., fresh E. breeze, clear, a flock passing to N.W. Of the Rook or, indeed, of Crows generally, the first appearance noted is Sept. 9th, when "Black Crows" were seen at Caldy, 9 a.m., a strong breeze E. by S., misty. At N. Stack, Sept. 12th, 6 p.m., three Black Crows flying N.E., before a mod. S.W. breeze; 19th, 5.20 p.m., four passed S.E., a fresh N.W. breeze; 24th, 9 a.m., ninety were seen flying E., before a strong W. breeze. From this station we have no further record till Dec. 20th. At Nash, Sept. 10th, 3 p.m., about 100 Rooks passed N.; 13th, from the low station, hundreds were seen flying overland; 22nd, 9 a.m., a flight of young Rooks, Starlings and Jackdaws flying N.E., fresh W. breeze; 24th, at noon, a flock passing S.E.; 30th, 3 p.m., from both stations we hear of a flight passing N.E.; Oct. 2nd, 2 p.m., fresh N. breeze, misty, large flock of Crows pass S.W.; the only instance reported from Nash for October. At Morecambe Bay, Oct. 3rd, 5.30 p.m., fifteen common Books passed, flying E.N.E., fresh N.E. breeze; 5th, same hour, mod. gale E. by N., overcast, misty and rainy, twelve going E.S.E.; 10th, 11 a.m., fresh E.N.E. breeze, two passed S. by E. At Bull Point, Oct. 12th, 7 a.m., fresh E. breeze, two dozen Black Crows, old and young, seen flying W., before fresh E. breeze; only record of a W. direction of flight. The next occurrence dates Nov. 1st and 3rd, 9 a.m., when, at Nash, large flights, with Starlings, passed overland. We next hear, on 13th, of similar flights flying overland at noon; a fresh W. gale, mist and showers. From the low station (only) we have like returns on 20th, 24th, 25th, and 28th, 29th, 30th, between 9 a.m. and noon, winds various, clouds or mist. There are no returns from any other station. At the same station, Dec. 1st to 10th, 9 a.m., mod. breezes, more or less W., overcast and misty, like flights overland. At Holyhead, Dec. 16th, 9 a.m., flights of Black Crows passed E. across the bay, against a strong E. breeze. On Dec. 18th, from both stations at Nash, and on 20th, 23rd and 25th, from the low stations (9 a.m.), flights of Crows and Starlings are reported; winds various, generally mist. On Dec. 25th, the high station reports such a flock passing S. at the same hour, fresh E. breeze, clear; and on 28th, 30th and 31st, same hour, with breezes from W.S.W., E. and N., overcast, showery or misty, flights of Crows and Starlings were seen from both stations. At N. Stack, Dec. 20th, 9.5 a.m., a flock passed, flying E., fresh N.W. breeze; 30th, 2.15 p.m., a flock flying S.E., fresh N.W. breeze. This is the latest return. Besides Caldy and Nash, in the Bristol Channel, the returns are from four stations off the coast, viz.:—Bull Point, N. Stack, Holyhead, and Morecambe Bay. The direction of flight is from E.N.E. through E. to S.E. At Nash the direction seems to vary greatly, but is mostly reported as being "overland."

Common Wren, Troglodytes vulgaris.—At Scarweather, Aug. 10th, one was found in the morning lying dead on deck, W.N.W. breeze. At Nash (W. or low), Sept. 8th, in the early morning, one struck; mod. N.E. breeze, clouds and mist. At Smalls, Sept. 14th, 1 a.m. to daylight, gentle E. breeze, overcast, but clear horizon, a Wren, Starling and Larks struck; and on 15th, about same time, gentle breeze, E.S.E. to S.E., Blackbirds, Starlings, Thrushes, Greenfinches, and Wrens, a large number striking the glass, but very few the roof.

Swallow, Hirundo rustica.—Earliest notice, Aug. 31st, from Caldy, as also the latest, Nov. 11th, "when Swallows disappeared." At Caldy, Aug. 31st, Swallows seen from 7 a.m. to 9 a.m., N.N.E. to N. wind, blue sky, but clouds; Sept. 5th, mod. W.S.W. breeze, about twenty; and on 17th, at noon, W. wind, a few noticed. At Nash (E. or high), Sept. 15th, large flocks passed E., a strong N. breeze and rain; and, the note added, "not seen after this date"; 21st, 26th and 30th, Swallows are reported from Caldy, with various winds, not strong, and generally with clouds and mist. At Morecambe Bay, Sept. 24th, mod. W. breeze, cloudy, but clear, two dozen were seen flying S.E. At Caernarvon Bay, Sept. 25th, mod. S.W. breeze, clear, a flock flying S.W. At S. Bishop, Sept. 28th, light N.E. air, twenty were seen. In October we have only two dates. At Godrevy, Oct. 12th, 1 p.m., a small flock hovering about the island, fresh N.E. breeze, clear; and at Helwick, 4.30 p.m., fresh E.N.E. breeze, misty, a flock passed, flying from S.W. to N.E. At Caldy, Oct. 18th, Swallows seen. The eight stations reporting give each but a solitary instance, except Caldy. Five of the stations are off the coast; the remaining three in the Bristol Channel. The direction of flight is not once reported from Caldy. When from the other stations reported it is S.E. or S.W., except at Helwick, N.E.; Oct. 12th, at 4.30 p.m. This would be the course to the nearest land.

Swift, Cypselus murarius.—At Flatholm, Sept. 15th, 10 a.m., mod. W.N.W. breeze, clouds, but clear horizon, a large flight appeared; on 16th, they disappeared.

Golden Plover, Charadrius pluvialis.—Earliest record Sept. 5th, when, at Caldy, two Plovers were seen; mod. W.S.W. breeze. The next occurrence noted is at Scilly, Oct. 4th, Plovers and Lapwings; mod. E.S.E. gale, rain. At Nash (E. or high), Oct. 14th, fifteen or twenty; 21st, a large flock passed W.; Nov. 20th, 10 p.m., six flew round the light several times. We have no further record till from both stations at Nash, Jan. 3rd, several were observed flying W.; 10th, from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m., gentle N.E. breeze and mist, flocks of Plovers and Peewits, overland, passed S.W. Also, at Scilly, 4 p.m., Plovers and Lapwings; and on 11th, calm and misty, flocks of Peewits and Starlings passed N.W. At Milford (Low) a quantity of Plovers, Larks and Starlings arrived, and remained all day. From Bardsey we hear that, on Feb. 11th, flocks of four or five Golden Plovers were seen flying about the Island; fresh N.E. gale. Except at Nash, Nov. 20th, and Scilly, Jan. 10th, these occurrences were all noticed from 8 a.m. to 11 a.m., and on every occasion with mist or rain, and with light or gentle E. breeze (except at Caldy, W.S.W.). The direction of flight, recorded only from Nash (E. or high), is W., except on Jan. 10th, S.W., and 11th, N.W.

Lapwing, Vanellus cristatus.—Earliest notice at Sevenstones, Aug. 26th, 10 a.m., fifty were seen flying to S.W., light N.W. breeze, haze. The next is dated at Scilly, Oct. 4th, Lapwings and Plovers were seen at noon, a mod. E.S.E. gale, rain. We next hear from Caldy, Nov. 3rd, when one was seen flying near the light; a strong E. breeze, mist. Another space of time, and at Nash, Nov. 21st (E. or high), 8 a.m., a large flock is seen overland, mod. E. breeze; and at Burnham, 8 a.m., large flocks of Peewits were noticed flying from N., light N. breeze, mist. We do not again hear till Dec. 20th, when, at Lundy, a number of Lapwings were seen at 9 a.m., mod. E.N.E. breeze; and the other Lundy station reports, "about thirty came on the island during the night." Again, on the 30th, Mr. Parsons notes a flock came on the island the night previous. At Skerries, Dec. 29th, light S.E. breeze, misty, rain, a few Lapwings about all night. This is the only record from a station further N. than Bristol Channel. At Nash (E. or high), Jan. 3rd, gentle E. breeze, mist, a large flock of Peewits passed W.; 6th, a similar flock, N.W.; 10th, during the day misty, light N.E. breeze, flocks of Peewits, with Plovers, passed overland S.W.; and on 11th, at 10 a.m., misty and calm, flocks, with Starlings, passed N.W. At Scilly, same day, 4 p.m., Lapwings and Plovers were seen. At Sevenstones, Jan. 11th, two large flocks passed W.; a light W.N.W. breeze, hazy. At Godrevy, Jan. 14th, we first hear of a great number seen during the day, with Starlings, Thrushes, &c.; fresh E.S.E. breeze, clear, frost, and a little snow on the ground. Of the nine stations reporting, Nash has the most instances; the greater numbers occur in January. The direction of flight when noticed, from N.W. through W. to S.W., the wind, except at Sevenstones, being from N.E. and E.S.E., but more generally E.; force, mostly two to five.

Sanderling, Calidris arenaria.—At Godrevy, Sept. 10th, 11.30 p.m., two were killed; light S.W. breeze, clear horizon.

Oystercatcher, Hæmatopus ostralegus.—At Air, Aug. 6th, a large quantity seen about 1 p.m., gentle E.S.E. breeze, mist; Oct. 4th, a large quantity flying E. throughout the day, light S.E. breeze, mist; Oct. '29th, 10.30 a.m., with mod. N. gale, clear, a similar flight E. From Bideford, Sept. 1st, we have the following record:—"Hundreds of Sea-pies, Common Gulls, Curlews, and a few Shags, visit the mussel-beds all the winter, being seen every day and night from half-ebb to half-flood, coming from N.W. in all weather."

Heron, Ardea cinerea.—From Helwick only have we any record, Sept. 26th, 6 a.m.: "A flock flying from S. to N.W."; cloudy, but clear horizon, with light W. breeze.

Bittern, Botaurus stellaris.—Of this now rare bird we have a solitary instance. At Godrevy, Jan. 14th, two were seen during the day (with numbers of Lapwings, Starlings, and Thrushes); may they live long and be happy!

Curlew and Stint, Numenius arquata and Tringa (sp. ?).—At Air, earliest date Aug. 9th, 10 p.m., clear and calm, a large quantity passed; and Godrevy, Jan. 11th, the latest. At Noon, Aug. 14th, three were seen at Bishop Rock. At Bideford, Sept. 1st, some seen, and thereafter daily, with hundreds of Sea-pies and Gulls, from N.W. At Usk, Sept. 8th, we hear of their appearance, when through the day they were seen in great numbers with Gulls, E. and N.E. breezes; 10th, mod. S. breeze, they were observed through the day with Gulls and "Pearls" (Tringa ? minuta) in great numbers; 17th, from 5 a.m. to 9 a.m., W.N.W. to N.W., two; they appeared in very large flocks; and from Sept. 24th, to Oct. 8th. At Morecambe Bay, Sept. 12th, 6.30 p.m., one was seen flying S. against a moderate breeze. At Nash, Sept. 15th, 9 a.m., two passed N.E., strong N. breeze and showers; 18th, 6 p.m., two passed N.W., before a mod. N.W. gale, showery (these are noticed from both stations). At Skerries, Sept. 26th, light S.W. breeze, Curlews were seen at sunrise. At Air, Oct. 4th, a large quantity going E. all day; misty Through November and December we hear from Usk of large flocks (with numbers of Stints). At Skerries, Dec. 4th, 1 a.m., light S. air, misty and rain. Curlews were seen with Blackbirds and Snipes; 20th, a few all day, mod. W.S.W. breeze, fine; 29th, light S.E. breeze, mist and rain, a few all night. At Nash, also on 29th, 4 p.m., four passed W., mod. N. breeze, drizzle. The only record subsequent to this is from Godrevy, Jan. 11th, 9 a.m., when four were seen on the island, light E.S.E. breeze and mist; and Mr. Trahair adds, "they frequent the shore after the breeding-season." Most of the instances were noticed in the daytime; the winds various; but in the Bristol Channel, where recorded (Nash and Usk), from N. to W.N.W., force, four to six; while off the coast (Morecambe, Air, and Skerries), E.S.E. through S. to W.S.W., and light.

Woodcock, Scolopax rusticola.—At Lundy, Nov. 19th, 10 a.m., from both stations, four Woodcocks and three Snipes were seen, mod. N.E. breeze, clear; and Mr. Parsons adds, "one has been seen once or twice since." At Scilly, Oct. 11th, 8.30 a.m., fresh E.S.E. breeze. Woodcocks and Starlings appeared. At Nash (E. or high), Jan. 14th, at noon, two passed W., with five Wild Geese, before a mod. E. breeze, mist. At Bardsey, Jan. 20th, gentle E. breeze, with snow; one struck.

Snipe, Scolopax gallinago.—At Nash (E. or high), Oct. 24th, 9 a.m., two were seen flying W.; gentle N.E. breeze, misty. From the two stations at Lundy, Nov. 19th, three Snipes and four Woodcocks were seen. At Skerries, Dec. 4th, 1 a.m., light S. air, misty and rain. Snipes and Blackbirds were seen, and a few killed.

Corn Crake, Crex pratensis.—At Burnham, Aug. 14th, at mid-night, a Land Rail was killed; light N. breeze, clear horizon.

Water Rail, Rallus aquaticus.—At Smalls, Oct. 15th, one was seen on the rock.

Wild Goose, Anser ? palustris.—At Scilly, Sept. 26th, 7 a.m., calm and cloudy, nineteen were seen. We hear no more till Nov. 3rd, when, at Helwick, 11 a.m., one was seen passing from S. to N., mod. E.N.E. breeze; and on Nov. 6th, about the same hour, a flock passed from S.W. to N.E., mod. N.W. breeze, drizzly rain and showers. At Morecambe Bay, Nov. 23rd, 9.30 a.m., two flying S.E., strong S. breeze. At Scarweather, Nov. 10th, 4 p.m., fresh N.W. by W. breeze, four were seen. There is no return for December. At Nash (E. or high), Jan. 2nd, 9.30 a.m., two passed W.; and on 14th, at noon, five and two Woodcocks passed W., mod. E. breeze. At Hartland Point, Jan. 5th, a few were seen flying E. At Sevenstones, Jan. 11th, 4.15 p.m., light N.N.W. breeze, haze, several flocks passed, flying to westward.

Sheldrake, Tadorna vulpanser.—At Air, March 21st, 1880, at sunrise, mod. S.E. breeze, clear, about forty-five pairs. Mr. Aveson adds, "they arrive annually for breeding."

Wild Duck, Anas boschas, Oidemia nigra.—Returns from eleven stations. In some few instances the "Black Duck," probably the Common Scoter, is separately distinguished, viz.:—At Morecambe Bay, Sept. 5th, 6.15 a.m., five flying W., mod. W.S.W. breeze, mist; Oct. 1st, 9 a.m., light W. air, gloomy, misty, six flying W.S.W. At Scarweather, Sept. 20th, 6 p.m., fresh N.W. by N. breeze, four were seen; Nov. 25th, 3 p.m., mod. W. gale, two passed up N.E.; 30th, 10 a.m., gentle S. breeze, four were seen. At Burnham, Dec. 21st, 9 a.m., light N.N.W. breeze, flocks of the Black Surf Duck were seen on the water. In the other cases the species are not distinguished. The earliest date given is Sept. 18th, when, at Morecambe Bay, 3 p.m., seven Wild Ducks passed E., strong W.N.W. breeze; 27th, 7 a.m., six passed N.; 29th, same hour, three passed W., calm and fog. At Caernarvon, Oct. 6th, strong E.N.E. breeze. Wild Ducks passed N.N.E. At Godrevy, Oct. 8th, fresh E. breeze, clear, two flocks of Ducks and Mallards passed W. during the day; 10th, 7.15 a.m., wind from same quarter, one flock, S.W. At Nash (E. or high), Oct. 26th, 7 a.m., fresh E. breeze, two passed W. Throughout November the notices are more frequent. At Caernarvon, Nov. 1st, 10.40 p.m., fresh N.W. breeze, hazy, one was killed. At Morecambe Bay, 2nd, 7 a.m., one passed S.E. against a mod. S.E. breeze; slight fog. At Helwick, 4th, 8 a.m., gentle N.E. breeze, two flocks passed from S.W. to N.E.; 8th, about same hour, one Wild Duck passed to S.W., mod. N.E. and N. breeze. At Morecambe Bay, 9th, same horn-, strong W. by S. breeze, nine passed going N.; 18th, same hour, fresh E. by N. breeze, four going S. From Lundy, we hear on 18th, 7 and 8 a.m., three Wild Ducks (one male and two females) seen with Teal. At Smalls, 19th, fresh E.N.E. breeze, two Grey Ducks from N.W. to S.E. At Helwick, 22nd, 2 p.m., fresh S.E. breeze, clouds and mist, a flock passed from S.E. to N., fresh S.E. breeze, clouds and mist; Dec. 4th, strong S.W. breeze, twenty passed S.E.; 17th, from Holyhead Breakwater, hundreds of Wild Ducks were seen in the bay during the day. At Godrevy, same day, two flocks of Ducks and Mallards passed S.W. and W. before a fresh E.N.E. gale, which moderated and veered round to N.N.E.; Jan. 6th, 10.30 a.m., strong E. breeze, mist, a flock passed W. At Nash, Jan. 2nd, large flocks passed S.W.; 13th, 4 p.m., and 14th, 8 a.m., gentle E.N.E. breeze, mist, a flock passed W. At Milford, 11th, five or six Ducks passed, going more inland. At Bardsey, 13th, scattered flocks of Wild Ducks, about seven in number, crossing from mainland, N.N.E. wind, four; March 18th, 1881, 1.30 a.m., S.S.W. wind, four, three Ducks and one Drake Widgeons are reported. Thus in September we hear only from Morecambe Bay, and one instance of Black Ducks from Scarweather. In October the occurrences are more frequent and general, and the numbers greater; the direction of flight, except at Caernarvon Bay on the 6th, being W. or S.W., and the wind E. In November the most instances are recorded, but the numbers of individuals appear smaller; the direction of flight is N.E., S.E., N., or S., the winds varying, but more generally N.E., E., or S.E. In December we have two dates: the 4th, when twenty passed at Scarweather; 17th, at Godrevy, two flocks were seen; and at Holyhead, hundreds in the bay. In January we hear from Godrevy, Nash, Milford and Bardsey of flocks passing. The direction of flight in December and January is generally S.W. or W., in calm, or E. or E.N.E. breezes. The occurrences (except the last) are all noticed from 7 a.m. to 4 p.m., and most about 8 a.m. In almost every instance it is misty, foggy, or gloomy.

Teal, Anas crecca.—At Godrevy, Sept. 27th, 10.15 a.m., light S.S.W. breeze, mist, a flock flying N.E.; Oct. 21st, 2 p.m., a flock flying E. against a mod. E. breeze. At Lundy, Nov. 18th, one male and two females are reported from both stations; mod. E. breeze, clear.

Guillemot and Razorbill, Uria troile and Alca torda,—We hear from Lundy that, on Nov. 21st, numbers of Guillemots and Razorbills came in during the night, and remained during the day; and on the 25th a great many came in during the night, and left in the morning. On Dec. 25th we have the same return as on Nov. 21st; and Dec. 28th, 10 a.m., strong W.S.W. breeze, a great many came during the night. At Godrevy they are reported to be generally seen about.

Cormorant, Phalacrocorax.—At Bull Point, Dec. 21st, light S.S.W. breeze, one (species not identified) flying W., and low to the water. Mr. Roberts reports that, at Bideford, "a few Shags visit to feed on the mussel-beds all the winter"; and, at Godrevy, Mr. Trahair says, "the Cormorant, or Shag and Large Gull(?), resort all the year round." At Trevose Head they are reported as residents of the cliffs all the year round.

Gannet, Sula bassana.—At Morecambe Bay, earliest notice Aug. 26th, one flying N.N.W. before a mod. E.S.E. breeze. At S. Stack, during August and September, a great many were seen passing from N.E. to S.W. At Caernarvon Bay, Sept. 9th, fresh S.E. breeze, two flying S.; and on 11th, mod. W. by S. breeze, two flying S.; 25th, one flying W.S.W., mod. S.W. breeze: these occurrences noted about 10 a.m. in clear weather. At Helwick, Sept. 19th, 6.30 a.m., one male flying W., fresh W.N.W. breeze. At Sevenstones, Sept. 28th, light E.S.E. breeze, gloomy, eight, mixed, flying to N.E. At Helwick, Oct. 4th, 6.40 a.m., fresh E.S.E. breeze, gloomy, two flying S. to N.E. No further occurrences are reported till Nov. 20th, when, at Scarweather, two passed up S.E., mod. N.E. breeze; and on 21st, with S.E. breeze, four passed S.E.; 27th, strong W. breeze, seven passed in different directions; Dec. 6th, two passed N.E., mod. W.N.W. breeze; 12th, four N.E., a fresh W.N.W. breeze. These instances all occurred in the daytime. Mr. Trahair reports that, at Godrevy, "from middle of December to middle of January several about, not flying in any particular direction"; and, again, "a great number of sprats about,—the Gannets appear to be after them,—more so than on the coast, through the influence of the weather."

Tern, Sterna (? sp.).—At Air, Oct. 12th, a large quantity of Sea Swallows seen, mod. N.E. breeze, gloomy, clear; the same on Oct. 12th, gentle E. breeze.

Gull, Larus argentatus, L. canus, L. tridactylus.—From S. Stack we hear that, on Aug. 10th, Gulls left after breeding. At Bideford, Sept. 1st, hundreds of common Gulls are reported as coming every day (presumably from this date) from N.W., with Sea-pies and Curlews, from half-ebb to half-flow. At Bishop Rock, Sept. 6th, in calm weather and clear, a "Mackerel Bird" (? young Kittiwake) struck (11 p.m.), but was not killed; and on 7th, 1.30 a.m., another struck. At Usk, from Sept. 7th to Oct. 8th, large numbers of Gulls (on one occasion three varieties) seen, with Curlews and Stints. At Caldy, Sept. 9th, Grey Gulls seen; 10th, about a hundred Gulls, with the note, "Bred on the island, and constantly passing." At N. Stack, Sept. 11th, fourteen (six males and eight females) flying S., mod. S.W. breeze. At Nash, Sept. 13th and 20th, 6 p.m., from both stations large flocks were seen passing W., with fresh W. and W.N.W. breeze. At N. Stack, Sept. 17th, twenty-five (thirteen males and twelve females) are reported as flying N.E., before a strong S.W. breeze; 25th, a flock flying S., mod. S.W. breeze. At Caldy, Sept. 29th, 10 p.m., one White Gull appeared; fog and light S.E. breeze. Except Usk, the only notices in October are from Nash, where at both stations, on five or six occasions, flights of Gulls and young Gulls were seen passing N. or N.W.; wind various, but more or less easterly. At Caernarvon Bay, Sept. 30th, 4.15 p.m., a flock passed E.S.E., with strong S.W. by W. breeze. We have no return in November. In December one occurrence alone is noted:—At Nash (E. or high), Dec. 16th, 10 a.m., four passed N., fresh E.N.E. breeze; Jan. 9th, a small flock of Gulls passed N. At Bull Point, Jan. 11th, 4 p.m., twenty-six Grey Gulls passed, flying S.W., rather high; mod. N.W. breeze, cloudy, squally, and snowy. At St. Bees, Mr. Pizey, speaking of the scarcity of birds, says, "Even the Common Gull only makes an appearance just before heavy weather, or in following the plough, and then in but small numbers." From Godrevy Mr. Trahair reports, "Very few Skua Gulls (Lestris) observed this season."

Petrel, Thalassidroma pelagica.—At Godrevy, Sept. 28th, 9 p.m., one struck, fog, light S. breeze; Oct. 4th, from 1 to 2 a.m., mod. E.N.E. breeze, one was seen with a Lark and Wrens. Mr. Trahair adds, "Breeds on the island, most plentiful in July; never seen in daytime, except among loose stones, where they breed."

*Dotterel, Charadrius morinellus.—Reported to be seen at Smalls, every day from October to January, with various Gulls.

Besides the above, we have a few instances of birds unknown, of which, perhaps, the most puzzling is reported from Longships, Sept. 8th, midnight, mod. S.S.E. gale, misty, with showers, "one strange bird, the shape and size of a Starling, pattern and hue of a Partridge, with its legs covered over with stiff feathers." At Godrevy, Oct. 4th, two foreign Wrens (? Goldcrests) killed, with Lark and Petrel. At Skerries, Oct. 13th, 16th and 17th, flocks of small birds passed during the day, flying E. At Smalls, Oct. 26th, before sunrise, birds unknown passed; Nov. 3rd, before sunrise, continuous flocks were flying round the light, three struck and fell overboard, mod. E. breeze, cloudy, but clear horizon. At N. Stack, Nov. 12th, 7.35 a.m., fresh W. breeze, cloudy, two flocks of birds, name unknown, flying N.E.; 26th, 3 p.m., mod. S.W. gale, drizzling rain, fifty grey birds passed, also flying N.E. On Jan. 16th, we hear from Longships, that at 8.15 a.m., gentle W. breeze, cloudy, but clear horizon, "flocks of small birds were noticed at sunrise passing westward, leaving the land, upon a change of weather from a sharp frost and snow, and a change of wind from E. to W."

The stations are not all equally favourably situated for observing, and a general scarcity of birds is reported from the following:—St. Bees, Mr. Pizey writes that, for over five years that he has been there, he has remarked "the extreme scarcity of birds of any sort As for flocks of birds I have never witnessed them here, an occasional Robin, Blackbird or Thrush being all the variety we see Common Sparrows few in number." Mr. G. Knott says, "very few birds are seen at Bull Point." From Flatholm and Usk we hear "very few land-birds are seen, and at the former only Gulls, and they in the three winter months alone." "The lighthouse at Avon is so close to the docks and village that no birds come to the light "; and that at Burnham, having "only four panes facing west, does not attract many birds." "The land-birds to be seen in the immediate neighbourhood of Trevose Head are very scarce." From Wolf Rock Mr. Crask writes, "Hardly ever any birds come nigh us but Gulls, which come by thousands after fish; the only others ever seen being Starlings, and these few and far between."

Some stations report a marked scarcity during the past, in comparison with other years. Thus, from Holyhead, Mr. Prichard writes, "Being a very mild winter have not seen anything of note; not a bird striking this winter." At Bardsey the inhabitants say they "never observed so few birds before;" and Mr. Bowen suggests that "the fog-horn sounding may prevent birds striking." With respect to this we hear from Skerries that "few birds have been seen since they had a fog-horn." At Morecambe, Caernarvon, and other stations where there are fog signals, however, we hear of birds striking or killed. At St. Judwalls the entire absence of Starlings for the whole winter was remarked. (Pigeons were seen here from second week in May to first week in August.) From Nash it is reported that "during November and December sea-birds were very scarce, and all birds singularly scarce at latter end of October, and extremely so during the nights both of September and October; and, again, all sea- and land-birds have been more scarce during the nights of the present winter than ever I recollect" (John Richards). Mr. Nicholas attributes it to the very mild winter. From Smalls we hear that during December no birds were seen about the lighthouse. From Hartland Point Mr. Griffiths writes, that "for twenty-five years he had always seen and caught birds, but not this year; nor have any struck, as in other years." At Burnham (Aug. 14th) and at Usk (September) a Land Rail only bird killed.

Concerning the circumstances under which birds strike, the returns bear out the conclusions expressed in last year's report, that dark or cloudy nights, with fog, haze or rain, are most hazardous. Three or four exceptional instances are recorded of striking in daylight. October and November appear to be the most dangerous months, and South Bishop the most deadly station. Mr. T. Bowen writes, from Bardsey, that "birds strike in general with the wind; without, very rare exception." Mr. Crask, from Wolf Rock, in reply to a question on which side they strike, writes, "when they strike the lantern it is generally N.W." Other stations have not noticed.

Of the species reported on, the Starling has received by far the most notice; and next come Larks, Crows, Wild Ducks, Gulls, Thrushes, &c. Possibly some of the notices may refer to local migrations, or movements from one feeding-ground to another.

The notices of the Anatidæ are all in the daytime. The direction of their flight (seldom recorded) is, sometimes, directly N. and S.; but, to judge merely from the few recorded instances, the prevailing direction at the following stations is N. or north-easterly—towards the land: Caernarvon, Helwick, and Scarweather. At Smalls it appears to be, towards the Bristol Channel, S.E. At Nash, Godrevy and Sevenstones it is W.; while at Morecambe Bay it varies very greatly. The lines followed by the Insessores are difficult—with data supplied by one year only—to make out, but seem to be towards the mainland or along the coast. The following are the chief instances where the direction is reported as being from the land:—South Stack, Oct. 29th, 30th, 31st, Starlings flying N.W.; Bull Point, Oct. 13th, Black Crows flying W.; South Bishop, Nov. 2nd, Blackbirds, Larks, Starlings and Thrushes flying N.W.; Scilly, Oct. 13th, Fieldfares flying W.; and at Wolf Rock, Jan. 16th, and Sevenstones, Jan. 11th, two large flocks of Lapwings flying W.

The returns seem to support the conclusion expressed in last year's report as to birds preferring to migrate with a "beam" wind, or even a point or two abaft of beam.

Erratum.—[Page 65], line 3, for N.E., read N.W.

[Transcriber Note: This correction has been applied.]

WEST, NEWMAN AND CO., PRINTERS, 54, HATTON GARDEN, LONDON, E.C.

Transcriber Note

Minor typos were corrected. Some station tables split by a page break were rejoined.