WEST COAST OF SCOTLAND.

Printed forms, letters, and remarks were forwarded to thirty-eight stations on the west coast of Scotland and the Isles, being two more than in 1879, viz., Bahama Lightship and Langness Lighthouse, both in Isle of Man.[11]

[11] Mr. Philip Kermode received the Isle of Man returns, and forwarded them to me afterwards for incorporation with the Scottish ones.

We have received in all returned, filled-in schedules from twenty-six stations, being two more than last year.

Only four stations have not sent in returns, which sent them in last year,[12] but, to make up for this, we have gained six from stations which sent us none last year,[13] besides adding one from one of the new stations.[14]

[12] Devaar; Pladda; Lamlash; Little Ross.

[13] Stornoway; Ushenish; Kyleakin; Lismore; Turnberry; Douglas Head.

[14] Bahama Bank (L.V.).

A marked improvement is apparent in these returns, and it is evident that very general interest is being taken in the work. Altogether, our west coast returns are quite satisfactory, and it gives us much pleasure to think that the first year's reports have really interested our obliging correspondents. We hope that the present general report will succeed in enlisting the whole body in the service. We can as yet only repeat, that we believe that interesting and curious results will in time be arrived at; but we deprecate any attempt at present to arrive at these, desiring first a firm basis of facts to build upon, which can only be obtained by continued attention and careful record, for a few years longer, of a large mass of statistics.

The stations from which co-operation was asked are the following, commencing with the most northerly—Cape Wrath. Those from which returns have been received are marked with a *; those which sent returns both last year and this have two **; those which sent none last year but have done so this year have a † prefixed; those which sent returns last year but none this year are printed in italics. Stations added this year have the date, 1880, preceding them.

West Coast of Scotland.
Mainland.
Height of centre of
light above water.
81.**Cape Wrath.400ft.John M'Gill.
82.**Rhu Stoir.195William Wither.
Outer Hebrides.
83.**Butt of Lewis.140George Edgar.
84.†Stornoway.56John Grierson.
85.*Island Glass.130William Innes.
86.**Monach Island.{ Upper 150 }
{ Lower 62 }		James Youngclause.
87.†Ushenish.176Peter Carrie.
88.Barra Head.683
Mainland, Skye, and Inner Hebrides.
89.Rona, Skye.222
90.†Kyleakin, Rosspire.53David M'Culloch.
91.**Isle Ornsay, Skye.58James Loughten.
92.**Ardnamurchan Point, Argyleshire.180David Laidlaw.
93.{Hynish Signal Tower, Tiree. }150William Crow.
94.**{Skerryvore, off Tiree. }
95.**Dhuheartach, S.W. of Ross of Mull.145James Ewing.
96.**Sound of Mull, Mull.55William M'Lellan.
97.Corran Ferry, Loch Eil.38
98.†Lismore Island, Oban.103Alexander Murray.
99.*Fladda, Easdale.42
100.**Rhuvaal, Islay.147David Spink.
101.*M'Arthur's Head, Islay.128
102.**Skervuile, Jura.73John Ewing.
103.**Rhinns of Islay.150Andrew Lyall.
104.**Lochindaul, Islay.50William Maill.
105.Mull of Kintyre.297
106.Sanda, Kintyre Sound.165
107.Devaar, Kintyre.120
108.Pladda, Arran.130
109.Lamlash, Arran.46
110.†Turnberry, Ayrshire.96Andrew Nisbet.
111.**Corsewall, Wigtown.112Robert Laidlaw.
112.**Loch Ryan, Wigtown.46Ralph Ewing.
113.**Portpatrick, Wigtown.37James Beggs.
114.**Mull of Galloway, Wigtown.325N. Morrison.
115.Little Ross, Kirkcudbright.175
116.**Point of Ayre, Isle of Man.106James Blythe.
117.†Douglas Head, Isle of Man.104Alexander M'Donald.
118.Chickens Rock, Isle of Man.122
119.*1880.—Bahama Bank, Isle of Man (L.V.)‡ — Johns.
120.1880.—Langness Lighthouse, do.

‡ Light-vessels being only a few feet above the sea, I have not indicated the exact elevation, which, however, is usually about 30 feet.

SPRING MIGRATION, 1880.[15]

[15] In writing out the data of the spring migration, I take the most southerly stations first, reversing the sequence of the autumn records.

SEPARATE REPORT ON EACH SPECIES.

Strigidæ.—At Skerryvore, one Brown Owl appeared on 10th May, at 2.30 p.m., in showery weather.

Falconidæ.—At Douglas Head,[16] one "Black Hawk" (Sparrowhawk?) was noted at 8 a.m., in clear weather, with light E.N.E. breeze.

[16] It is noted on the schedule from this station that the lighthouse, "being inland, little or any observations on the migration of birds can be noted accurately."

Hirundinidæ.—The earliest date on which Swallows are recorded from any west coast stations is April 7th, and this at one of our most northerly stations, viz., Butt of Lewis. This is followed by April 17th at Douglas Head, one of our most southern stations in the Isle of Man; seen at 12 noon; wind light S.E. breeze, clear or showers; these were not again observed. Again, on April 24th, their arrival is recorded at Rhinns of Islay. Thereafter none are noted until 6th May, at Loch Ryan, in Wigtownshire, when a flight of fifty was observed, followed by twenty and fifteen on the 8th and 11th: winds from N.W. through N. to E. and fresh, clear to haze. At Skerryvore, one was seen on 10th May, in calm, hazy and rainy weather. On 11th, 12th and 13th, eight flew about the Point of Ayre. On 24th, four were seen flying south past Ardnamurchan station. On 22nd, one at Monach Island; winds from S.W. to N.W., fresh. The remaining records are in June. On June 14th, at Ardnamurchan, two again seen flying southwards; and on 22nd, at Skerryvore; calm, hazy weather. Possibly these June records of birds flying south may belong to the autumn migration. It thus appears that a spring rush took place in the earlier part of May—from the 6th to the 14th. About the same time, viz., May 20th, a flock of "Martin Swallows," Hirundo urbica, appeared at the Butt of Lewis during light W. wind, with haze; they stopped about three hours and then flew off, going S.W.

Note.—Swallows and Martins were first observed at Ballina, Co. Wicklow, Ireland, by Mr. E. Warren, on April 19th.

Swift, Cypselus.—First noted at Ballina by Mr. Warren, on May 12th.

Wheatear, Saxicola œnanthe.—Records from three stations only in spring, viz., Skervuile, Monach, and Butt of Lewis. Earliest date at Skervuile (most southern of the three). May 1st, where one was seen at lantern at midnight; wind light S. Next date is May 4th, at Monach, when about twenty, mixed with Larks and Wagtails, were seen and two killed between 8.30 p.m. and 3 a.m.; wind light from N. to W. The latest and only other record dates May 20th, at Butt of Lewis, where five were seen; wind light W., clear.

Wagtail, Motacilla Yarrellii.—Two stations, viz., at Kyleakin and Butt of Lewis. At Kyleakin, April 1st, twenty-six rested at 4 p.m., wind E.S.E., haze; 2nd, twenty-four rested at 8 a.m., wind S.E., haze. At Butt of Lewis, April 13th, a flock at 7 a.m., stopped a few days and left flying south, light E. wind, clear; and a few days later, "one lighter than the rest" left, going south. At Kyleakin, April 17th, twelve were seen flying S.E. at 7 a.m., light breeze, with fog; and on 18th, at 1 p.m., twelve more rested and then flew off south, wind light S.W., and fog.

Starling, Sturnus vulgaris.—I have but few records of the spring migration, viz., from Lochindaul, Fladda, and Dhuheartach. The earliest at Fladda, April 4th, when twenty-four were seen at 10 a.m., breeze fresh, with showers, and clear. At Dhuheartach, April 13th, between midnight and 8 a.m., three birds rested; night foggy, and wind light N. At Lochindaul, May 18th, some were seen, wind moderate, and weather foggy.

Skylark, Alauda arvensis.—At Dhuheartach and Monach, April 13th, ten at night, wind light N., cloudy, seven killed; and May 1st, one at midnight, wind S., haze; and at these stations, on May 4th, flock, mixed with Wheatears and Wagtails, from 8.30 p.m. till 3 a.m., wind light W. to N., haze and rain.

Cuckoo, Cuculus canorus.—The following are the stations where it was noted as first seen or heard, commencing in the south:—At Point of Ayre, May 1st, light airs and haze. At Lochindaul, May 16th, E., clear; the reporter adds, "but is earlier in Islay." At Rhinns of Islay, April 21st, wind light W. At Skervuile, May 10th, first seen, wind N., clear. At Stornoway, May 4th. At Kyleakin, May 5th. At Rhu Stoir, June 15th, wind light N., haze.

Note.—First noted at Ballina, Ireland, by Mr. Warren, on May 12th.

Oystercatcher, Hæmatopus ostralegus.—At Lochindaul, Dhuheartach, and Island Ghlais. At Dhuheartach, April 14th and 17th, 8 and 10 a.m., ten and seventeen resting or feeding, wind light N.W., haze or fog. At Lochindaul, May 20th and 21st, 10 a.m., resting, light wind, fog. At Island Ghlais, June 30th, 6 p.m., two feeding, calm, and heavy showers.

Curlew, Numenius arquata.—So far as a spring migration can be separated by the data at command, the whole season has apparently being occupied by Curlews in moving about, the results are as follows:—Beginning on 16th, south, we find spring records at Lochindaul, Rhuvaal, Dhuheartach, Monach, and Skerryvore. The first note dates March 1st, at Rhuvaal; eight seen, S.W. gale and rain. The second at Dhuheartach, April 13th, 4 p.m., when three were seen, wind light, cloudy. Thereafter at Lochindaul, May 14th. At Skerryvore, May 23rd. At Monach, June 13th. At Lochindaul, June 14th. At Skerryvore, June 23rd. Winds variable E., N.W. to S.W.

Whimbrel.—"May fowl" arrived on Monach, on their way north, upon May 8th, when three were seen flying about, wind light N., clear. On May 25th, several parties of from three or four to six seen flying between Monach and Haskeir rocks, wind fresh S.W., clear. The note is added, "Arrive in May, leave in July."

Note.—Mr. R. Warren notes their first appearance at Ballina on May 1st.

Snipe.—At Dhuheartach, April 13th, three Snipe killed, strong N. breeze, cloudy.

Corn Crake, Crex pratensis.—The Corn Crake was heard at Kyleakin on June 11th, and at Stornoway on May 4th, clear and fine; and at Lochindaul on May 18th, at night.

Note.—At Ballina it was first noted by Mr. Warren on May 2nd.

Wild Goose.—At Rhu Stoir, May 12th, 10 a.m., twelve Wild Geese seen, three males and three females; light N. airs, clear.

Ducks, Anatidæ.—At Rhuvaal, Island Ghlais, and Rhu Stoir. At Rhuvaal, March 8th, great numbers daily seen, where, however, they became scarcer between April 20th and 30th. At Rhu Stoir, June 18th, 10 a.m., six Eiders, three males and three females, wind light N., clear; and July 28th, 8.30 a.m., thirty "Wild Ducks," wind N.E., haze and rain.

Terns.—Two evidently paired birds seen at Rhu Stoir on May 18th, light to fresh variable winds. On May 26th, about 2 p.m., some scores of Terns were seen at Monach during S.W. gale, and were the first that arrived to breed there; and on June 14th, lots of nests containing two to three eggs were seen. At Skervuile, May 10th, Terns were first observed this spring, wind light E., and haze; and by 31st great numbers had passed; some were again seen on June 18th, in similar weather. At Rhinns of Islay, May 12th, three seen at noon, fresh E. breeze; and all during June, large numbers of "Tick Terns" fishing in Lochindaul. At Stornoway, June 5th, they kept arriving at all hours, and were the first to come to the breeding grounds.

Note.—Mr. J. T. Garriock notes the spring arrival of Terns at Lerwick, in Shetland, from the north, on May 22nd, in 'The Zoologist' (q. v., 1880, p. 302); and, in a letter to me, he substantiates his observation. Mr. Robert Warren notes the first appearance of Sandwich Terns at Ballina, Ireland, on March 24th, and of Common Terns on May 14th.

AUTUMN MIGRATION, 1880.

SEPARATE REPORT ON EACH SPECIES.

Falconidæ.—Two Sparrowhawks appeared at Rhu Stoir, in attendance upon flocks of Finches and Larks, on Oct. 20th, during light variable breezes, with snow. Also at Skerryvore, a Hawk—probably of the same species, or a Merlin—lived on the small birds on Oct. 14th and 15th; whilst at Dhuheartach a Hawk makes a regular visit, to prey upon the birds which rest on the rock. (See our first Report for 1879, 'Zool.,' May, 1880, p. 190.)

Swift.—At Ushenish, North Uist,[17] June 13th, 1 p.m., five Swifts seen flying south, with S. wind, and haze.

[17] Though this dates early, I cannot but assign it here, and not to a spring movement.

Note.—Mr. R. Service notes the species as unusually abundant in 1880. He observed a large flock of Swifts on Aug. 4th, proceeding in a southerly direction. The most of the local birds, however, still remained on the 11th.

Swallows, Hirundinidæ.—Swallows were no longer seen after July 16th, at the Point of Ayre, Isle of Man, on which day twenty young were noticed, until again on Aug. 15th, when eight were seen flying about. At Turnberry, from thirty to forty were seen during the daytime on Aug. 26th, in light E. airs; and again fifty to sixty on Aug. 31st, and forty to fifty on Sept. 2nd. Numbers were also seen at Mull of Galloway and at Loch Ryan. Swallows collected on Oct. 4th and flew away S.W., whilst at Portpatrick great numbers were seen resting and then flying off S. on Oct. 15th. This S.W. corner of Scotland appears to be a point of departure of the species, and of several others; and I would invite special attention at stations all along the Wigton coast-line.[18] All the above observations on the autumn movements of Swallows were made during the daytime, and in light E. to N.E. winds. A rush appears to have taken place end of August and beginning of September, and a later one as late as the middle of October.

[18] See R. Gray and Thos. Anderson's 'Birds of Ayrshire and Wigtonshire,' p. 5.

Note.—In 1879 the most northerly station was Ardnamurchan, and the appearance of Swallows much more general. The earliest record in 1879 of autumn migration was on July 29th, and the latest Sept. 25th, as against this year, July 16th and Oct. 15th. Careful attention to the collecting of migrants at these Wigton headlands would surely result in some interesting data. Mr. Robert Service writes me that all the headlands, also along the Stewartry coast-line, are gathering-places for the land-birds before proceeding southward. At daybreak, in September or October, Mr. Service has often watched departing flights of birds going off southward or seaward, over the Solway Firth. Large congregations of Swallows were observed by me at Kinross on telegraph wires on Aug. 3rd, and I was told that they congregate in the same place every autumn before leaving. There must have been many hundreds.

The following really belongs to the East Coast Report, and comes in under Mr. Hardy's notes from Berwickshire and the Borders:—Mr. Hardy has abundant evidence of the departure of Swallows in the border counties. He writes to me as follows:—"Old Cambus, Oct. 28th.—On Sept. 25th and 26th Swallows were here, and a pair of Martins were then on the coast, seven having been seen on the 26th. The main party assembled on the coast on the 21st and 22nd, and were not again visible, excepting this small party. I went down to the cave where the nests were, and evidently they were feeding young birds there. On the 30th they had not left a steading about a mile above Gilsland. They were present on Oct. 2nd and 3rd near Rosely Castle, eight miles south of Carlisle. On the 4th they were assembling on the roof of the Mansion House of Marchmont, Berwickshire, in great numbers, during snow and sleet. The 'Kelso Chronicle' of Oct. 15th says, 'Swallows were absent three weeks from Kelso, but again, in Kelso and the country round, their presence that week had been conspicuous. They had assembled in flocks.' The same paper of Oct. 22nd states that, 'On Oct. 17th a good many Swallows were flying about Jedburgh.' At Brampton, Cumberland, they were seen on Oct. 16th, 'circling round the church for several days previous.' On Sept. 22nd, Swallows still at Horsley, in the valley of the Eye, and a Martin still had young in a nest in the corner of a window."

Besides the above, it is worth while to take notice of an account of migration that appeared in an early volume of the 'Proceedings of the Zoological Society,' relating to the South-west district of Scotland:—"An extract of a letter from Capt. Fayrer, C.M.Z.S., was read. It was dated on board H. M.'s Packet 'Arrow,' Port Patrick, Oct. 23rd, 1831, and referred to the migration of certain birds from that neighbourhood. That of the Larks commenced about Oct. 12th. 'Their numbers,' says Capt. Fayrer, 'are beyond anything I would venture to state, but millions They start at daylight, steer directly across to the Capelona Islands, off Belfast Loch, and seem to prefer the wind directly against them. Very large flocks of Starlings have arrived within the last few days; they start before sunrise, but steer to the southward. The Lapwings have also arrived, but these birds do not take their flight till day has set well in; they appear to go directly across. I see all these birds at each end of their passage (twenty-one miles), and few, I think, perish." (P.Z.S., 1831, p. 145.)

Wren.—Returns from Skerryvore, Dhuheartach, Skervuile, and Turnberry. The earliest date available was at Dhuheartach, Aug. 18th, when one was seen flying S. at noon, during light S.W. wind and haze. None are again reported until Oct. 1st, when "Wrens" were seen mixed with Larks and Thrushes; winds variable, light, and haze. Then at Skerryvore, Oct. 9th, one flying about at 11 a.m., light N.E. breeze, clear; and at Turnberry, Oct. 12th, one struck the lantern at midnight, wind light N.E. airs. In the autumn migration of 1879 (q. v., loc. cit.) records came from Monach Island and Dhuheartach. Earliest Aug. 17th, latest Dec. 9th.

Goldcrest.—At Turnberry, Sept. 24th, 3 a.m., one struck, but was not killed, wind light S., and haze; and at Corsewall, Sept. 27th till 30th, there appears to have been a migration. On 27th, two were seen to strike the lantern at 2 a.m., in fresh south breeze and haze; on 28th, two also struck in clear weather, light S. breeze; and on 30th, eight remained around the lights from 8 p.m. till daylight, wind light S.E., and haze. From the Mull of Galloway, the negative note is given, "None seen this year." In 1879, numbers were reported (see Report, 1879) at Mull of Galloway on July 18th—only date.

Note.—Mr. E. Warren, in lit., notes the unusual scarcity of Golden-crested Wrens at Ballina at the end of July, 1880.

Robin, Erithaca rubecula.—The most northern station where it is noted is Cape Wrath, where one bird arrived upon Oct. 20th, and remained until Jan. 11th (when the schedule was returned), or later. It came at 11.30 a.m., with an E. wind and snow. My correspondent adds, "It is much thought of." I have ten records from eight stations, viz., Cape Wrath, Stornoway, Kyleakin (2), Isle Ornsay, Dhuheartach, Rhuvaal, Lismore, and Turnberry. These date from Aug. 18th (Dhuheartach) and Sept. 4th (Kyleakin) to Dec. 31st (Stornoway), where one was observed for several days previous to that date. Other dates are, Sept. 8th, (Isle Ornsay), 24th (Turnberry), Oct. 20th (Cape Wrath, as above), Nov. 7th (Kyleakin and Lismore), Dec. 15th (Lismore), Dec. 27th (Rhuvaal). All the observations were made during the daytime, except at Lismore and Turnberry. In August the wind at Dhuheartach was light S.W. on 18th, with haze; the one Robin seen flew off S. after resting. At Kyleakin, Sept. 4th, four birds seen were flying S.W., wind light W., clear. At Turnberry, Sept. 24th, one struck at 3 a.m., in light S. breeze, and haze. At Isle Ornsay, one seen. At Cape Wrath, in October. At Kyleakin, Nov. 7th, three, wind S.E., clear; and numbers seen at Lismore mingling with Starlings and Larks all night, wind strong S.W., haze and rain. At Rhuvaal, Dec. 27th, after stormy weather, two flew about and stayed for a few days; and at Stornoway, Dec. 31st and a few days previously, one was seen. On 15th, numbers were round the lights at Lismore, along with Thrushes, Blackbirds, Grey and Green Linnets, in large flocks, wind strong N.E., and snow. In 1879, Robins were not reported from stations further north than Kyleakin.

Wheatear, Saxicola ænanthe.—I have eight or nine records from three stations on the west coast in autumn, viz., Butt of Lewis and Dhuheartach. The earliest date is Aug. 13th, when one was seen at Dhuheartach between 7 and 8 p.m., arriving with light N. wind, and remaining; and about one hundred, mostly young birds, left the neighbourhood of the Butt of Lewis, where—about a mile from the lighthouse—they had been collecting for some days before. Up to Aug. 17th and 18th, a few—seven on 17th and six on 18th—were seen at Dhuheartach about 8 a.m., wind light and haze, where they rested and flew off south. On Aug. 19th, one was killed on the lantern of Douglas Head lighthouse at 11 p.m., wind E.N.E., and haze. At Dhuheartach, Sept. 10th, thirty rested, light S. wind, and haze; and between Sept. 16th and Oct. 1st, large numbers were seen at the lantern of the Butt of Lewis lighthouse, and many were caught and released. Skerryvore was the most northerly station in 1879. Aug. 15th was the earliest record in 1879, and the latest on Sept. 28th.

Note.—Late occurrences of the Wheatear are noted by Mr. Hardy in Berwickshire. On Sept. 17th they were seen at the shore and not again afterwards, but a few were present at Berwick, behind the pier, on Oct. 12th. This is the latest date I have on the east coast of Scotland. I place the note here—under the west coast report—for special comparison with the following:—Wheatear.—An unusually late stay of this species is recorded by Mr. Service in Wigtonshire (vide 'Zoologist,' Feb. 1881, pp. 54, 55). Since the note appeared in 'The Zoologist,' I have had some more correspondence regarding these late Wheatears—7th December. Mr. Bruce is strongly of my opinion, that these birds were really migrating when they flew away northwards, as they were seen still carrying on when fully a mile away. Before this they had remained for two or three days with Bullfinches. About six weeks afterwards "these same Bullfinches" took a similar route and disappeared; they were seen departing. I am inclined to agree with my friend and fellow-worker, Mr. Cordeaux, that these Wheatears probably belonged to the larger race, which have more arboreal habits than our own. If this is so, the observation made by Mr. Bruce still further bears out the probability of their foreign origin. As regards the more arboreal habits of the larger race, I have explained elsewhere ('Ibis,' 1876, p. 310) that arboreal habits of such species as Gulls, Curlews, Snipe, Snow Buntings, &c., in North-east Russia, are probably brought about by the flooded conditions of the country there, at the time of the arrival in spring of these migrants. The habit no doubt grows and even becomes hereditary, and is carried into other countries and other climes in autumn. Larger races usually indicate more northern extension, and, in my opinion, abnormal arboreal habits of certain species indicate that they are natives of a land subject to constantly recurring floods. For these reasons I am still inclined to adhere to my opinion that these Wigtonshire Wheatears, at the late date of Dec. 9th, 1880, were resting during their regular migration, and departed again upon an extension of that same migration. They were, in my belief, strangers, and not bred in the country.

Hedgesparrow.—See under Linnet.

Wagtail.—At Dhuheartach, a rush of Wagtails was observed upon Aug. 17th, 18th, 24th, and 26th, wind light and from S.W. on 17th and 18th, when twelve were seen each day flying in a south-easterly direction—to E.S.E. and S.E. on 24th—when two or three rested upon the rock. We had no records of this in 1879.

Thrushes, Blackbirds, and Ring Ouzels.—Numerous returns from eleven stations, viz., Rhu Stoir, Butt of Lewis, Stornoway, Monach, Kyleakin, Rhuvaal, Lochindaul, Corsewall, Point of Ayre, Douglas Head, and Bahama L.V. Earliest date July 19th, at Point of Ayre, when about 160 young Thrushes (Turdus musicus) were seen to go off at 9 a.m., flying S. Latest dates Jan. 8th, 9th and 10th, 1881, when large flocks of Blackbirds, Thrushes and Snow Buntings flew about all day; and all left on the 10th when the haze and fog cleared away; fresh E. breeze during this time. Between these dates, a migration appears to have taken place on Sept. 21st to 30th, shown, however, by records from only one station, viz., Stornoway. There, a good many Blackbirds and Thrushes arrived on Sept. 21st and left on 30th. These were accompanied also by Stormcocks (Turdus pilaris, or Fieldfare); weather and wind not noted; but see notes from Mid-Atlantic, infra. On 29th also, a number of Thrushes seen hovering round the lights at Douglas Head, along with Starlings and Blackbirds, in fog and haze. A desultory migration appears to have been carried on throughout October; I have the following records:—At Rhu Stoir, Oct. 1st, forty, besides Linnets, stayed four days (this comes also under the rush at end of September), wind variable, light breezes. At Bahama L.V., Oct. 8th, three were killed at 10.20 p.m., wind light E.N.E. breeze, and cloudy. At Butt of Lewis, in the north, Oct. 15th, a good many arrived and stayed till Jan. 15th, 1881, or later. At Kyleakin, Oct. 20th, two were seen flying south, with strong S.E. wind; and a few at Lochindaul. At Corsewall, one seen on 7th and one on 8th, one killed; strong N.E. wind and haze. In November, the earliest dates occur at the most southern stations; thus at Point of Ayre, Nov. 2nd and 3rd, about three hundred Blackbirds and Thrushes, mixed with Starlings, kept about the locality till 4 a.m. on the 3rd; wind S. to S.E., very foggy. The direction of flight on departure was not noted, but they were seen to pass off about 7.30 a.m. Also at the Bahama L.V., on the 3rd, five were killed and others fell overboard. At Corsewall, on the same dates, one and two were seen, wind fresh E., and haze. At Kyleakin, Nov. 4th, seven Blackbirds seen flying south at 9 a.m., wind S.E., and sleet; again on 11th, two seen flying S., wind E., haze. At Monach, Nov. 16th, one in the garden, wind S. to N.N.E., strong, with sleet and snow. In December, at Monach, a few Blackbirds were seen. Thus on Dec. 3rd, one male seen resting on the lantern at 10 p.m., wind strong W., haze. Another female on Dec. 4th, 2 p.m., flying about the garden, wind fresh S.S.W., haze and rain; and two Blackbirds, accompanied by Starlings, at 1 p.m., wind fresh S., clear in the garden and on the shore. As already noted, a still later flight was noted in January, 1881, at Point of Ayre, Isle of Man.

Note.—Thrushes, amongst other birds (vide Robins, Linnets, Snipe, Wagtails, &c.), were recognised by Capt. Roy in Mid-Atlantic, 400 miles on this side of Newfoundland. To Mr. Robt. Gray I am indebted for some interesting and useful notes regarding the occurrences of birds in Mid-Atlantic:—"The ship 'Rutland,' of Greenock, Capt. Roy. When about 400 miles on this side of Newfoundland, during continued heavy gales from the east, Capt. Roy observed numbers of birds taking refuge on the 20th September. He had had head-winds all the way home to England, and birds more or less numerous round the ship till the 25th October. When he was 400-500 miles from Ireland, a violent storm arose and blew prodigious flocks of birds before it. The deck and rigging were covered. Many died, and many were killed and used as food. The survivors, after staying a few days, were carried off by the force of the wind. Capt. Roy observed one Robin, lots of Linnets, Snipe, Thrushes, Wagtails, &c. Heavy rains accompanied the storm." Mr. Gray continues, "My brother-in-law, on his way to Boston in one of the Cunard steamers, saw a Jackdaw and a Starling come on board on Oct. 23rd, during a gale from the east, when 550 miles from the Irish coast, easterly winds having prevailed for several days. On Oct. 24th, 850 miles from land, one Starling perched for a few minutes. A small bird like a Linnet hovered about the rigging, but did not perch. One Water Rail was captured and detained ten days, 1200 miles from land, and two Sandpipers. Writing again on Dec. 21st, he tells me that on the outward passage, lat. 42° N., long. 54° W., he had in view at one time from five to six hundred Gulls, various species—an extraordinary number to be so far from land. When about 1080 miles from Ireland, going out, two Crossbills flew on board. Both were captured."

Thomas Anderson (son of Thomas Anderson, joint author with Mr. Robert Gray of 'The Birds of Ayrshire and Wigtownshire') and Mr. Gray inform me, a good observer, and who has for many years kept a bird-log, at Mr. Robert Gray's request. Being chief-engineer on board a Cunard liner, he has crossed the Atlantic some four hundred times, during most or all of which time he has kept careful notes. It is hoped that he or Mr. Gray will give us the benefit of these notes before long, as they cannot fail to be of great interest and use to students of migration.

Mr. T. E. Bruce, of Slogarrie, observed some Missel Thrushes flying south on March 4th, 1881, and on the same day Snow Buntings. Great storm of snow on March 4th and 5th, from N.E.; this no doubt a local and temporary migration caused by the severe weather. The Missel Thrushes having previously arrived on spring migration, compelled to return again.

Corvidæ.—The returns are from Monach, Sound of Mull, Rhinns of Islay, Portpatrick, and Bahama (L.V.) Earliest at Portpatrick, Aug. 16th, flocks flying round between 11 a.m. and 4 p.m., wind light E., and clear (probably only a local movement). Latest at Monach, Dec. 29th, when about a dozen were seen at noon flying south over the island. At Sound of Mull, in October, about two hundred "Daws" are reported flying N.E. on the 9th, wind light E. and clear; and at Rhinns of Islay, on the 10th, flocks of Black Crows (Rooks ?) seen flying W., wind light, clear. At Bahama L.V., on 24th, one flying E. at 7.25 a.m., wind N.W., and showery. But in November there appears to have been a rush; also on Nov. 5th, ten "Crows" seen at Bahama L.V. flying W.N.W. at 8 a.m., wind moderate N.W. by N. (the strength registered is 4); and at the same station, on the 25th, about two hundred and fifty "Crows" were seen flying from E. to W., with a W.S.W. wind, strength 6, and weather gloomy. In my return from Monach I find that six "small black Crows," which may have been either Books or Jackdaws, were seen passing over the island, flying north-west or north, in the direction of the Lews, driven along by a strong S.S.E. gale upon Nov. 20th.

Note.—In 52° 50′ north lat. and 22° 21′ west long., being 475 miles off the Irish coast, after six weeks' easterly gale and winds, wind E.S.E. for ten hours previous, two Books flew to the barque 'East.' One fell exhausted on deck, and the other into the sea. The former was shown to me by the Captain—Capt. Younoun—on board the 'East' at Granton. The above, as related to me, was upon Nov. 19th; and it may be interesting in connection with this to read the notes supplied by Mr. R. Gray, as given under Thrush. Of a later observation at Monach, on Dec. 29th, I have already spoken.

Starling, Sturnus vulgaris.—I have received many returns of this species, as is usually the case in autumn. Commencing at our most northerly stations, I have returns from Cape Wrath, Rhu Stoir, Stornoway, Island Ghlais (or Glas), Monach, Kyleakin, Fladda, Rhinns of Islay, Lochindaul, Corsewall, Point of Ayre, Douglas Head, and Bahama (L.V.) The earliest dates are August; arrive and remain all the season afterwards at Lochindaul; but at Rhinns of Islay, adjoining, arrive in September and remain; resident thereafter. At Corsewall, Aug. 4th, a flock flying south, fresh S. wind. At Kyleakin, Sept. 12th, three, moderate S. wind, and haze. At Cape Wrath, Sept. 14th, twenty young, flying from E. to W. (see remarks on occurrences in Mid-Atlantic, under Thrushes, antea, p. 80); on 17th, a large flock at 10 p.m., wind strong S., with haze and rain; stayed a few days and then left. At Corsewall, Sept. 28th, a flock flying S., strong breeze, clear. Sept. 29th and 30th, a number seen hovering round the lights of Douglas Head Lighthouse at midnight, with Thrushes and Blackbirds, and none seen after daylight came in. At Kyleakin, Nov. 3rd and 5th, forty adult and young rested, wind light N. to light S., clear, and sleet. Also on Nov. 2nd and 3rd, whilst numbers were striking all night till dawn at Corsewall, a large number were flying round Point of Ayre lights, mixed with Thrushes and Blackbirds, and thirty-six were killed; and on same date, one was killed at lantern of Douglas Head: and six killed and fell overboard at Bahama L.V., out of a large flock of mixed Thrushes and Starlings. At Monach, Nov. 6th, one adult rested, wind light N.W., drizzle. At Monach, Nov. 17th, twenty-four young, N.N.E. gale, sleet and snow; left on 18th. At Stornoway, Dec. 19th and 20th, large flocks, wind E., sleet and rain. At Monach, Dec. 27th, a flock of young birds, along with a large flock of Larks, flying about the garden and shores at 1 p.m., wind S., fresh and clear; and again on Jan. 14th, 1881, a great many flocks, mixed old and young, at 10 a.m., flying to and fro between the island and North Uist, apparently being local movements caused by heavy snow in Uist. In 1879, the most northerly record comes from Ardnamurchan, whereas this year, as is usually the case, they are much more general. The earliest date in 1879 was Aug. 14th, at Loch Ryan and M'Arthur's Head, whilst this year it was the 4th, at Corsewall. The latest in 1879 was Dec. 18th, at Skervuile. This year, in December, at Stornoway.

Finches, Fringillidæ.—At Rhu Stoir, Sept. 17th, large flocks at 10 p.m., strong S. wind, haze and rain; stayed a few days with Starlings and then left. Crossbills (vide Mr. Anderson's notes on Mid-Atlantic, antea, p. 80). Mr. Robt. Gray afterwards informed me that the two Crossbills captured are of the American species (Loxia leucoptera), judging from Mr. Anderson's description. The same species was captured by the late Dr. Dewar on board ship (Royal Phyl. Soc, and 'Birds of West of Scotland'); and at same locality Finches were seen on Oct. 20th, light variable winds, and snow. Only returns in 1879 were from Dhuheartach on Aug. 24th, and Oct. 4th and 8th.

Tree Sparrow.—On Lismore, Nov. 15th, a small flock observed, strong N. wind, clear.

Chaffinch.—Only one record on west coast is given, viz., at Bahama L.V., Oct. 11th, when one is recorded flying N.W. at 8 a.m., wind E.N.E., and haze.

Linnets.—Returns from Skerryvore, Lismore, and Point of Ayre. Earliest date Sept. 12th, when a rush appears to have taken place past Point of Ayre between that date and Sept. 29th; principally, however, on Sept. 12th and 20th, when young birds to the number of fifty or sixty—on the 20th mixed with Hedgesparrows—were seen flying W. on both days about 8 a.m., wind light W., clear. They appeared plentiful also on the 28th, but a few only seen on 29th. Again in same locality there appeared to be a rush on Oct. 18th and 24th, when twenty and one hundred Greenfinches were seen, in light and fresh W. wind; and at Skerryvore, Oct. 14th, twelve "Grey Linnets" flew about the rock, wind light E., with haze. On Nov. 13th, a small flock frequented Lismore during the day, wind strong S.W. to W., and rain; and at the same station, Dec. 15th, both Grey and Green Linnets, mixed with Robins, Larks, Thrushes, and Blackbirds, flew about; wind strong N.E., and snow. In 1879, Sept. 9th is the only date given at Rhuvaal and Lamlash.

Snow Bunting, Emberiza nivalis.—Records have been kept at Rhu Stoir in the north, and southward at Monach, Dhuheartach, Corsewall, and Point of Ayre. The earliest occurrence was at Dhuheartach on Sept. 19th, when one bird was seen; wind fresh W. From Oct. 1st to 8th, at Rhu Stoir, about forty arrived and stayed till the latter date; wind on day of arrival N.W. gale with sleet. On Oct. 1st, at Monach also, they were first seen, one at 10 a.m.; wind fresh S.S.W. and cloudy. At Point of Ayre from fifty to sixty were seen at 7.30 a.m., mixed with Thrushes and Blackbirds, fresh S.E. wind, clear, on Nov. 2nd and 3rd. On Nov. 6th, at Monach, one at 10 p.m., N.W. wind and drizzle of rain. On Nov. 16th a few seen at 2 p.m. during a S. to N.N.E. gale, and the latest record is at Corsewall, on Jan. 5th, 1881, when one was seen and struck the lantern at 3.30 a.m., light N.E. wind, haze. In 1879 most northerly station, Monach Island. Earliest date same as this year (1879, Monach; 1880, Dhuheartach). Latest date in 1879, Dec. 10th (Corsewall), against Jan. 5th, 1881 (Corsewall), in 1880.

Note.—The unusually large and sudden immigration of Snow Buntings into Great Britain attracted general attention. From the middle of November onward they were extremely abundant, and they ushered in the severe winter and low temperatures of January, 1881.

Sky Lark, Alauda arvensis.—A good many returns from the following stations:—Rhu Stoir, Kyleakin, Dhuheartach, Skervuile, Rhinns of Islay, Turnberry, Corsewall, and Bahama L.V. The earliest, Sept. 30th, at Corsewall, at 9 p.m., when two were seen, which remained till dawn on the lantern along with Golden-crested Wrens. The latest at Turnberry on Jan. 4th, 1881, when one struck at 8 p.m., light N.E. wind with haze. In October, on the 1st, at Skervuile, some were seen mixed with Thrushes and Wrens; winds variable and light, with haze. On the 3rd, at Turnberry, two struck, and one killed between 10 and 11 p.m., wind light E. and clear. On 12th, at Bahama L.V. a flock seen flying W. at 9.20 a.m., wind light N.E., with haze. On 13th twenty seen at Dhuheartach at 1 a.m., wind light N., cloudy. On Dec. 27th a large flock was seen flying about the garden and shores at Monach along with young Starlings and two Blackbirds, at 1 p.m., wind S., fresh breeze, clear. In 1879 the most northerly station was Dhuheartach. Earliest date in 1879, Sept. 19th; latest Dec. 6th; but it must be remembered in this and all such comparisons that in 1879 our returns' were sent in sooner than in 1880.

Note.—Local migrations of large extent, brought on by heavy falls of snow and consequent scarcity of food, have been frequently noted this season. When crossing the Firth of Forth on the 15th December I saw many large flocks of Larks, both in the morning and afternoon, flying steadily from N.N.W. to S.S.E. or N.W. to S.E. Many Larks were afterwards seen feeding near Leith, and notice of the fact sent to the papers by another witness. The line of flight, as I have said, was from N. of West to S. of East. I note the fact as having significance, even in a local migration, at this locality.

Rock Pigeon.—July 10th, sixteen Rock Pigeons at Island Ghlais, flying S., 8 p.m., light N., haze and showers, refers probably to a local migration. At Skerryvore two "wild pigeons" (Rock Doves?) seen during calm hazy weather on June 24th.

Lapwing, Vanellus cristatus.—At Rhuvaal, Lochindaul, and Portpatrick. Aug. 4th, at Lochindaul, large flocks seen all through the month after this date: resident. Sept. 1st, two killed at Rhuvaal, 11 p.m., strong S., haze. Sept. 9th, flocks flying S. at 9 a.m. at Portpatrick; wind S.E., hazy. Sept. 15th, Lochindaul, flocks all day; strong N. wind, clear. One at Monach on Dec. 27th, wind S., flying S. More northerly in 1879, viz., Rhu Stoir and southwards. Earliest date Aug. 20th; latest Dec. 11th.

Note.—In Ireland Lapwings began to assemble on the shores by July 22nd, as observed by Mr. Warren.

Golden Plover, Charadrius pluvialis.—Only two records this year from Island Ghlais and Point of Ayre: Dec. 3rd, twenty to thirty at 9 a.m. flying S.W., light airs, showers, at the former; Jan. 12th, 1881, at the latter, a flock flying E., wind strong E., clear. Two or three flocks were seen upon Monach on Dec. 27th, at 1 p.m., flying along to shore, wind S., fresh breeze. A considerable movement appears to have been observed at Monach on this date. In 1879 three stations, most northerly being Skerryvore. Earliest date July 27th, at Portpatrick; latest on Oct. 18th, at Skerryvore.

Ringed Plover.—On Aug. 13th twelve "Dotterels" arrived upon Dhuheartach. These remain on the rock all winter, unless driven off by severe weather.

Heron.—Two Herons seen at 2 p.m. at Rhu Stoir, N.W. gale, snow showers. At Monach four Herons rested on the shore on Oct. 28th, about 2 o'clock, wind strong N.E., with snow showers; they had left by next day. Common and of daily occurrence at Kyleakin.

Curlew, Numenius arquatus.—Of this species we have many records, and it does not seem easy to distinguish between migration data and residence. However, I give the leading points for further comparison. They occurred, or are recorded, at Cape Wrath, and thence south at Island Ghlais, Monach, Kyleakin, Skerryvore, Dhuheartach, Rhuvaal, Skervuile, Lochindaul, Portpatrick. Point of Ayre, and Bahama L.V. They seemed to fly in all directions, indicating to a great extent only local migration. From April and May, on through June and July, and all the autumn months they occur rather distinctly as resident, or as passing flocks, and it seems almost impossible to separate the movements in the end of summer which should be assigned as part of the spring migration from those in the beginning of autumn which more rightly belong to the autumnal migration. As will be seen, however, I have attempted to do so, assigning all June records to the former and July records to the latter. The earliest record, then, in autumn stands as July 15th, when forty were seen flying W. at 4.20 p.m. at Island Ghlais, wind light N., clear. The latest recorded are on Dec. 25th, 26th and 27th at Rhu Stoir, flying south; winds N. or light and variable with showers. The general courses pursued were southerly or from N.W. to S.E., or from N.E. to S.W., some flying direct W., however, and others direct S.; but at Portpatrick, on Aug. 19th and 23rd, flocks were seen flying north and also south, indicating a local migration. On Aug. 19th the wind was light S., haze, and on 23rd light E., clear. Numbers passed Dhuheartach between Aug. 12th and 17th, all going in southerly directions, from S. to S.W. and S.E. On Monach they were unusually abundant this year all September, and more than a dozen were shot. "Bushes," so far as such data are of value, appear to have taken place in August, 12th to 17th, or even later,—say to 23rd,—and locally, at Lochindaul, on Aug. 4th and 5th, and in September, as 10th and 25th, at Dhuheartach, and "unusually abundant all September on Monach." In November, on the 3rd, at Bahama L.V., Curlews were flying round the vessel all night. On Aug. 15th four seen circling round Dhuheartach in calm, clear weather, and on the 18th two seen flying south in light W. wind and haze. On Nov. 2nd, at Douglas Head, one was killed on lantern at 10.30 p.m., wing strong S.E. and haze. On Nov. 6th one "Sandpiper" was killed at lantern at Island Ghlais in a fresh W. breeze. In 1879 most northerly station was Island Ghlais; this year much more general. Earliest date in 1879, Aug. 3rd; latest Nov. 20th.

Snipe.—I have returns only from three stations, Island Ghlais, Kyleakin and Douglas Head. The earliest at Kyleakin, Oct. 11th, when two appeared in light E. wind and rain; at the same station, Nov. 16th, one was killed on lantern at 2 a.m., in light S. wind and haze. At Douglas Head, Nov. 18th, one killed at midnight in snow, N.E. breeze. At Island Ghlais, Nov. 27th, one was killed during a W. gale and haze and rain.

Woodcock, Scolopax rusticola.—Commencing in the north we have records of occasional birds at Cape Wrath, Rhu Stoir, Island Ghlais, Kyleakin, Ardnamurchan, Lismore, and Point of Ayre. The earliest occurrence is noted at Island Ghlais, Sept. 23rd, seen half a mile from lighthouse. Then we have occurrence at Point of Ayre, where one was killed at the lantern on nights of Nov. 2nd and 3rd, at 7 o'clock, light S.E. wind, very foggy. At Lismore, Nov. 20th, one seen at 11 a.m., light N.W. wind, clear. The rush appeared most conspicuous from Dec. 10th, when one was killed at Ardnamurchan, at 5.30 a.m., in strong W. wind, with thick rain; at Kyleakin, Dec. 11th, when two were seen at 2.30 p.m., moderate N.E. wind, snow lying on the ground; and at Rhu Stoir, Dec. 25th, 26th and 27th; on 25th, three, flying south, light N. wind, snow; 26th, one, variable, and light showers of snow; 27th, two, light, variable and clear; lastly, at Rhu Stoir, Jan. 12th, two, light S.E. wind, clear.

Note.—Northernmost Station, Island Ghlais, 1879. Earliest record, Oct. 11th (Rhinns of Islay), 1879; latest record, Dec. 12th, 1879. So long ago as the date of the "Lays of the Deer Forest," 1848, numbers of Woodcock are recorded as settling about the lamps of the northern lighthouses, and evidence is given from Cape Wrath (loc. cit., 'Notes,' vol. ii., p. 262).

Wild Goose.—At Portpatrick, Aug. 6th, one was seen flying S.E., in light E. breeze; at the same station, Jan. 13th, ten were observed flying S., with a strong N. breeze. At Point of Ayre, Jan. 11th, about twenty were seen flying S., with light N.E. breeze. At Monach, Nov. 30th, eight were seen at 8 p.m., flying westward, and settled on some rocks off the island, wind S.E., fresh, rain; and Jan. 9th, 1881, fifteen at 9 a.m. flying northwards, wind S., light, clear. At Douglas Head, Dec. 17th, eight Geese were seen flying from E. to W. at 12 a.m., calm, clear. At Butt of Lewis, Jan. 6th, six Wild Geese at 9 a.m., light S.W. wind, clear; came to the village about a mile off, stopped two days; left, going S. At Island Ghlais, Jan. 4th, fifty Wild Geese flying S., 1 p.m.; wind N., fresh, clear. At Rhuvaal, Dec. 12th, six dozen seen, after stormy weather, in light S.W. breeze.

Note.—On Jan. 29th, 1880, four dozen, old and young, resident on Islay, were by Feb. 15th, 1880, reduced to about two dozen. It is recorded in the Wernerian Societies Memoirs, in a report from the light-keeper at Lismore lighthouse (which report was not published in full), that most birds of a flock of Brent Geese were killed against the building, and that one bird passed through quarter-inch glass "like a shot" (Mem. Wern. Soc, read Jan. 24th, 1835).

Swan, Cygnus.—At Rhu Stoir, Dec. 25th, 2 p.m., flying S.E., light N. wind, snow storm. (At Loch Inver, Jan. 1st, 1881, two seen at a loch there.) At Butt of Lewis, Jan. 16th, two, stayed four days at a village four miles off and left on 20th or 21st, flying S.; wind N.E., sleet.

Ducks, Anatidæ.—At Monach, Skerryvore and Dhuheartach. At Dhuheartach, Oct. 12th, nineteen Eiders—sixteen males and three females, noon, fresh N. wind, clear; engaged in fishing. At Monach, Oct. 27th, two flocks of Eiders, male and female, 3 p.m., wind N., cloudy; "first arrival here from breeding-grounds." At Dhuheartach, Oct. 28th, forty fishing round, light N.E. wind; Oct. 29th, the same flock. These remain all the season, usually arriving about Oct. 12th, but they do not land here; later in arrival this year.

Great Northern Diver.—At Monach, May 25th, two—male and female—Great Northern Divers seen, wind S.W., fresh, clear. These birds are seen at intervals all through the year, three being the largest number Mr. Youngclause has seen at one time; he has shot three during the last five years.

Red-throated Diver.—At Monach, May 22nd, twelve were seen feeding in pairs along the shore; wind N.W., fresh, showers.

Rock Birds, Natatores.—Razorbills, Guillemots, Puffins. In speaking of these I believe the simplest way will be to take the spring and autumn migration together, and I here simply write down the results as they appear in the schedules. Cape Wrath, April 20th, about 1000 Razorbills, 2000 Puffins, and 2000 Guillemots arrived to breed; wind S., showers. Aug. 29th, about 2000 Razorbills, 4000 Puffins, and 4000 Guillemots left; wind S.E., clear. Or in other words, about twice as many left in autumn as came in spring. "These birds have building cliffs about three miles east of the Cape. The time of the day they come is not known, nor the directions in which they come and go. They come in one night, and go in one night." At Island Ghlais, July 10th, about ninety Puffins, 4 p.m., flying S., haze, doubtless a local migration for food; July 11th, about 200 Puffins, 1 p.m., wind N., flying S.W., clear; July 22nd, numbers feeding on herring-soil in shore; Aug. 9th, numbers feeding on herring-soil in shore. At Ushenish, May 30th, numbers passing; local migration, strong S. wind. At Kyleakin, May 10th, numbers of Guillemots passing E. all day; strong E.N.E. wind. At Skervuile, July 21st to 27th, Marrots seen. Those seen at Island Ghlais are almost undoubtedly bred at the Shiant Isles (see former Report, 1879).

Note.—I have no return this year from Dunnet Head, owing to the absence of Mr. Geo. Maclachlan, the new keeper not having sent me one, which I much regret.

Gulls.—At Cape Wrath, April 12th, 300 "Sea Gulls" arrived here for breeding on the cliffs below the lighthouse, between 7 a.m. and 8 a.m., wind E., clear; July 12th, from 300 to 800 Sea Gulls leave and passed to W., between 3 a.m. and 10 p.m., wind E., haze and rain; April 20th, 200 Kittiwakes arrived; Aug. 29th, 600 Kittiwakes left, wind S.E., clear. At Island Ghlais, July 22nd, 500 to 600 Gulls and Kittiwakes, Puffins, &c., feeding, 10 a.m. to 8 p.m.; wind S., light, clear; probably from Shiant Isles. (See Mr. Anderson's notes on Gulls in Mid-Atlantic, under Thrush, antea p. 80). At Sound of Mull, Aug. 13th, 200 Kittiwakes, 3 p.m. to 6 p.m., flying N.W. in flocks of twenty to thirty; light W. wind, clear. At Rhuvaal, March 1st, about four dozen, 10 a.m., S.W. wind to gale, rain and sleet; May 1st, about one dozen, 9 a.m., S.W. wind, clear; Oct. 13th, twelve, flying S., 7 a.m., variable, light, haze; Nov. 1st, Gulls (and Curlews), 9 a.m., W. wind, clear. At Skervuile, June 8th, one Black-headed Gull, 9 am., N.W. wind, light breeze, rain, "not often seen here;" July 17th, "Boatswain Bird," 10 p.m., first seen, also Kittiwakes; July 21st to 27th, "Boatswain Gulls" seen; Aug. 2nd, great numbers of ditto seen. At Corsewall, Nov. 1st, one Kittiwake seen, 9.45 p.m.; fresh E. breeze. At Stornoway, July 21st, a flock, apparently migrating, flying N., 9 p.m., light N.E. wind.

Terns.—At Monach, Aug. 15th to 20th, great flocks were congregating previous to departure; winds light, clear; and by 20th all were gone, except a few detained by late young ones (see spring migration, under Tern). They are also reported to have left the neighbourhood of Stornoway lighthouse by Aug. 15th. On Aug. 26th, sixteen "Sea Swallows" arrived at Bahama light-vessel, at 2.20 p.m., in hazy weather; wind light S.E. by E.

Gannet, Sula bassana.—In the same way I give the data as shown in the schedules. At Cape Wrath, April 14th, 800 to 900 flying E., for breeding at Souliskerry, from 7 a.m. to 8 p.m.; wind E., clear. At Douglas Head, April 18th, one, light N.E. wind, clear; July 14th to Aug. 28th, 60 to 900 daily, flying W., 7 a.m. to 9 p.m. Note.—I am informed by Mr. Gray that Mr. Anderson traced the Gannet as far south as the latitude of South Spain, where one day the ship passed through acres of them; they seemed dead beat, as if after a toilsome flight during a succession of autumn gales. At Rhu Stoir, July 1st to Aug. 31st, large flocks going N. daily along the coast, largest numbers about end of July; generally passing between 7 and 9 p.m.; none seen going south. At Butt of Lewis, April 13th, three Solan Geese seen, 9 a.m., the first seen; May 20th to Sept. 15th, increased daily till May 20th, and then on till middle of September, it would be impossible to count them from dawn till dusk: they passed in long strings of fifty to sixty in a flock at not more than a quarter of hour's interval between the flocks; they all flew west. A number (about one-fifth of the whole) fly east, and take no notice of the others in their flight; these are single birds: not one seen after Oct. 15th. At Island Ghlais, July 12th, 150 Solan Geese "flying S. and N.," 7 a.m. to 8 p.m., light airs, W., clear; July 13th, 200 "flying S. and N.," 7 a.m. to 7 p.m., fresh N. wind; July 15th to 31st, 1600 to 2000 flying both N. and S., variable; daily average about 100. (Note.—The expression "flying S. and N." probably means from S. to N.) At Skervuile, March 1st, at 8 a.m., S.W. gale, rain and sleet; Oct. 26th, last seen 10 a.m., fresh N.E. wind, clear. At Lochindaul, May 14th, one seen fishing, wind E., clear, dry.

Cormorants.—At Cape Wrath, April 16th, thirty "Scarts" arrived, 10 a.m., E. wind, showers. At Stornoway, Sept. 14th, seven flying S.W. at noon, light S.W. wind, clear; Sept. 21st, flock of ditto at 2 p.m., light W. wind, flying S.W., raining; Oct. 26th, flock of ditto flying W., 11 a.m., N. gale, snow; Dec. 24th, flock of ditto flying S.E., N. wind, fresh, snow. The above probably refer to local migrations.

Unidentified.—At Portpatrick, between Oct. 7th and 28th, a migration appears to have gone on at intervals of small birds: thus on the 7th "flocks of small birds," at 7 a.m., strong N.E. breeze, clear, flying S.W.; the same on the 14th, flying S.W., in light easterly wind, and clear; the same on the 15th, flying W., in light S. winds, clear; the same on the 28th, light N.E. wind, hazy, direction and flight not noted. Again, flocks of small birds on Dec. 25th, at the same station, flying E., were observed, in strong N. breeze; and flocks flew round all day on 26th, in light E. wind, and clear. In August, on the 25th, at 5.45 p.m., fifty-two (species unknown) seen flying S.S.W., at Bahama L.V., light E. by S. wind.

General Remarks.

In our general remarks, in 1879, we took notice of the scarcity of birds at many important stations, such as the Butt of Lewis, Monach Island, &c. This season shows a considerable increase upon last year's returns, and the horizontal lines of migration—or rays of the fan—seem to have spread out wider and reached farther north in 1880 than in 1879; and this increase of observations on the west coast, be it noted, is irrespective, apparently, of the scarcity upon our Scottish east coast. We also receive accounts of immense numbers of birds being seen this season in Mid-Atlantic, the dates of their appearance there agreeing very accurately with dates of observations at the land stations. In the 1879 migration the scarcity was accounted for by the prevalence of N.W. winds deflecting the lines, and passing down upon the right shoulders (so to speak) of the passing birds.[19]

[19] Even the strong-winged Wild Geese and Swans are observed when flying well up in the wind to drift to one side a little, having the appearance of flying left-shoulder first instead of head first.

This year the prevailing winds and gales were from east and north-east, and while these winds do not appear to have compressed the horizontal lines so much as the north-westerly did in 1879 the birds appear to have passed at greater elevations, and been borne away in the gales far out to sea. The migration does not appear to have come in such great throbs or rushes in 1880 as in 1879, but to have been more dispersed and more regular; this, no doubt, is a natural consequence of the waves being more spread out in 1880 than in 1879. The great easterly gales continuing for weeks together over the Atlantic and North of Europe, so disastrous to our shipping, undoubtedly carried many migrants far to the westward, and the mortality amongst them must have been very great indeed, if we judge from the few records that have reached us from sea-going vessels. These easterly gales also have, no doubt, affected the direction of the migration to a considerable extent, and indications of its agency may be found in the occurrence on our shores of certain wanderers from foreign lands, such as the Esquimaux Curlew, on September 21st, in Kincardineshire (vide Zool., 1880, p. 485); a Red-legged Hobby, on September 20th; a Turtle Dove in Kincardineshire; and Great Snipes, Great Grey Shrikes,[20] &c., about the same dates (loc. cit.). These gales may be said to have continued almost without cessation during the whole migrating season, all through September, October, November, and December. In November a new bird to our British list occurred,—the Desert Wheatear, Saxicola deserti, Ruppell,—as will be found duly recorded by Mr. John James Dalgleish.[21] It was obtained near Alloa on November 26th. Its native haunts are far to the southward and eastward, and in North Africa, Egypt, Persia and India.

[20] Unusually abundant in Heligoland.

[21] Proc. Ryl. Phyl. Soc. Edin., 1880-81, vol. vi., p. 64.

Mr. Cordeaux has already shown to us the apparently abnormal statistics on the south coast of England, birds crossing towards England and flying north-west all through the migratory season between August 16th and December. I am inclined to look upon these data as indications of the wide-spread waves of the general migration, extending both farther north and farther south. According to the amount of pressure at the starting-points [or possibly the increased area northward occupied in a particularly fine nesting season, as in 1880] will the wideness of the area be which is passed over by the migratory flocks. I think the rules known to apply in the dispersal and extension of range of species are, in some respects, applicable also to the greater and more extensive waves of migration.

I could say more regarding the peculiarity of nesting sites being occupied year after year by the same pairs of birds, or of well-known sites being vacated for a few seasons, and again occupied; or I might dilate upon some curious statistics of the continuous recurrence of foreign species at the same localities, or along the same line of country, but I fear to occupy space with theory only, until we have a larger accumulation of solid material.

As regards severity of weather apart from winds, unusually early winter was reported from Scandinavia, it having begun there in October (vide 'Field,' Oct. 16th, 1880, p. 590).

Attention should be drawn also to the admirable work being done on the subject of migration by Mr. J. J. Dalgleish (Bull. Nuttall. Orn. Club), and by Mr. Percy E. Freke (Sc. Proc. Ryl. Dub. Soc, vol. ii., n. s., p. 373, and vol. iii., n. s., separate?). These gentlemen also now propose to colour, or have already finished, maps showing the distribution of the occurrences of American birds in Europe recorded in their papers, which cannot fail to be of much service in our work. We would like to see not only American species mapped out in Europe, but rare European occurrences in Great Britain.

Finally, in endeavouring to arrive at conclusions regarding the causes of migrational phenomena in 1880, we have taken into consideration—1st. The value of the heights of lanterns above the sea, as against the colour and intensity of lights in 1879; and we have taken more account of the vertical area of birds' flight in 1880 than in 1879. 2ndly. We have compared the effects of prevailing north-west winds in 1879 pressing laterally upon the lines of migration to those of 1880, which being easterly and north-easterly have had the contrary effect of spreading out the migration again, or at least has not deflected it to the same extent; and also, the effect of causing birds to migrate at greater elevations, and, where the gales have been most severe, to bear them away above the range of vision and carry vast numbers out to sea, until, weary and exhausted, they have ceased to be able to guide themselves, and again, involuntarily, lowered, to be picked up senseless and stunned on board the ships, or to perish in thousands in the ocean. And lastly we have hinted at the wideness of the migratory waves depending upon the pressure at the starting-points, or upon the larger north and south area occupied in the breeding-season of 1880, besides some other minor details.