IRISH COAST.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Alexander G. More.
Richard M. Barrington.

List of Light-stations.

Sp.Au.Miles
from
shore.		Names of Observers.
1.Fastnet, Co. Corkox8James Walsh.
2.Galley Head, Corkxx—John Whelan and John Kelly.
3.Old Head, Kinsale, Corkxx—Martin Kennedy.
4.Mine Head, Waterfordo*—
5.Dungarvan, Waterfordox—Wm. Higginbotham.
5.*Coningbeg Lt.-ship, Wexfordxx10Patrick Cullen.
6.Barrels Rock Lt.-ship, do.xx4Michael Doyle.
7.Tuskar Rock Lt.-ship, do.xx7Richard Hamilton.
8.Arklow Sth. Lt.-ship, Wicklowxx7Patrick Clancy.
8.*Arklow North Lt.-ship, do.xx8William Daly.
10.Kish Bank Lt.-ship, Dublinxx7Michael Cunniam and John Pinston.
11.Howth Baily, Dublinoo—
12.Rockabill, Dublinxx5Joseph Hammond.
13.Copeland Island, Downxx3John Walsh.
14.Maidens, Antrimxx5Patrick Keenan and Michael Barry.
15.Rathlin, Antrimxx6John A. Murray.
16.Innishtrahull, Donegalxx6W. H. James.
17.Dunree Head, Donegalox—John Stapleton.
18.Lough Swilly, Donegalx*—Henry Redmond.
19.Tory Island, Donegalox9Thomas Sweeny.
20.Arranmore, Donegalxx5Henry Williams.
21.Rathlin O'Birne, Donegalxx2Joseph Hill and John Scallan.
22.Killybegs, Donegalxx—Daniel Hawkins.
23.Oyster Island, N. Sligoxx1John Young and Joseph Hill.
24.Broadhaven, Mayoox—Patrick Keenan.
25.Eagle Island, E., Mayox*2Henry Stocker.
26.Eagle Island, W., Mayoox2Matthew Healy.
27.Blackrock, Mayoox9John Redmond and John Young.
28.Blacksod Point, Mayoox—Robt. W. Redmond.
29.Clare Island, Mayoxx4G. H. Brownell.
30.Slyne Head, N., Galwayxx3Robert Tyrrell.
31.Slyne Head, S., Galwayo*3
32.Arran Island, N., Galwayox9Thomas Fortune.
33.Straw Island, Galwayxx9Charles Boyle.
34.Arran Island, S., Galwayxx6John O'Donnell.
36.Samphire Island, Kerryo*½
37.Tearaght, Kerryxx9Edward McCarron.
38.Valentia, Kerryox—Joseph Williams.
39.Skelligs, Kerryox9Thomas Kerley.
40.Dursey Island, Corkxx½James Keenan.

Abbreviations:

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

General Remarks of Light-Keepers.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Broadhaven.—"Autumn: No birds strike this light."—Patrick Keenan.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Eagle.

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

Greenland Falcon.

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

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

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

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

Hawks.

Fastnet.—Sept. 14th, one flying east.

Dungarvan.—Dec. 17th, two Falcons passing S.W.

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

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

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

Rockabill.—Aug. 31st, one caught on balcony.

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

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

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

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

Killybegs.—Aug. 14th, one hovering about.

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

Clare Island.—Two Kestrel Hawks build their nest, as usual, in the vicinity of the Lighthouse.

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

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

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

Owl.

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

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

Thrushes.

Fastnet.—Oct. 22nd, ten Thrushes; Nov. 2nd, twenty-two killed striking.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Copeland Island.—Oct. 10th, four killed striking, others injured; wind N., light, drizzling rain.

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

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

Tory Island.—Oct. 17th, four struck lantern, 10 p.m.; wind W., gale.

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

Oyster Island, North.—Jan. 10th, 1884, two "Missel Thrushes" in garden; flew S.

Blackrock Mayo.—Dec. 23rd, four Thrushes flying N., high; wind S., fresh.

Slyne Head, North.—Nov. 9th, eight; wind S.E. 30th, six; wind N.E.

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

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

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

Dursey Island.—Oct. 10th, ten going east, 8 a.m.; wind W.

Fieldfare.

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

Dungarvan.—Oct. 14th, small flocks in fields; 18th and 26th, several.

Rathlin Island.—Nov. 29th, one, going S.; wind S.W.

Blackbird.

Fastnet.—Oct. 22nd, thirteen. Nov. 2nd, eleven killed striking.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

South Maidens.—Oct. 16th, four struck, 2 a.m., not killed; weather hazy.

Rathlin Island.—Oct. 31st, one killed striking.

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

Tory Island.—Oct. 18th, two struck, one killed, 9 p.m.; wind W.N.W., gale.

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

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

Slyne Head, North.—Nov. 9th, six; wind S.E.

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

Tearaght.—Nov. 20th, one Blackbird at 3 p.m.; wind W., fresh.

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

Ring Ouzel.

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

Robin.

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

Rathlin Island.—Nov. 1st, two about all day. Nov. 13th, one seen.

Straw Island.—April 11th, two "Redbreasts," 9 a.m., calm. Passed island for shore.

Arran Island, South.—July 1st, eighteen Robin Redbreasts, 9 p.m.; wind S.S.E., four killed.

"Blackcap."

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

"Sallypickers" (Willow Wren or Chiffchaff).

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

"Stonechat" (Wheatear).

Galley Head.—April 4th, saw "Stonechicks," the first this year.

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

Tuskar Rock.—Aug. 9th, three killed striking. Oct. 5th, "Stonechatters."

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

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

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

Arranmore.—April 3rd, four "Stonechatters arrived to build."

Rathlin O'Birne.—March 31st, April 1st and 6th, one to six Stonechats.

Killybegs.—I noticed during April and May some "Stonechatters."

Clare Island.—March 1st, some "Stonechatters" flying S., 11.30 a.m.

Slyne Head, North.—April 1st, Stonechats arrive and increase in number from this date. Aug. 2nd, Stonechats disappear; have not seen in what direction they come or go.

Straw Island.—April 5th, two Stonechats; wind N.W., very light, clear. Remained on island.

Arran Island, South.—May 18th, twenty Stonechatters. They remain here.

Tearaght.—May 26th, about half a dozen Stonechats arrived about this date. Sept. 20th, Stonechats left about this date.

Redstart.

Dungarvan.—Nov. 13th, one about garden, being the only one seen in vicinity for seven years.

Tearaght.—Oct. 27th, two Redstarts, male and female. May have been on island some time previous. Remained about a month.

Skelligs.—Oct. 13th, four birds of a slatish colour, red on back near tail, about the size of a Titlark; wind S.W., fresh. Fog and drizzle. Stayed all the month.

Goldencrested Wren.

Old Head, Kinsale.—Nov. 12th, five Goldencrested Wrens, one killed striking; wind strong, N.

Coningbeg Light-ship.—April 27th, one alighted on ship, 8 a.m.; 29th, another ditto.

Dungarvan.—Oct. 1st, two struck lantern; and on 2nd, 9th, and 10th one or two, but none killed.

Tuskar Rock.—Oct. 9th, one; 25th, one; 26th, two; 29th, two killed. Nov. 2nd, two seen.

Copeland Island.—April 7th, six killed striking; weather clear, wind S.E.

Arran Island, South.—June 20th, sixty "Goldencrested Wrens," 7 a.m.; calm, blue sky.

Wren.

Fastnet.—Oct. 9th, Wrens.

Old Head, Kinsale.—Jan. 20th, five "Common Wrens," going S.W.

Coningbeg Light-ship.—May 10th, two Wrens killed, 10 p.m.; wind moderate, N.N.E., clear.

Barrels Rock Light-ship.—April 26th, one alighted on ship. May 8th, one ditto. Oct. 8th, one alighted on ship.

Tuskar Rock.—April 4th, "Wrens of all sorts," constantly striking all night; several killed. June 24th, Wrens, 8 a.m. to 10 a.m. Aug. 3rd, six "Common Wrens," flying about rock, fog. Sept. 15th, three, one killed, fog. Oct. 22nd and 26th, one seen. Oct. 29th, "a small grey bird not much larger than a Wren with a black head," killed.

Rockabill.—Feb. 8th, Wrens during night, some struck; weather misty, wind S.E. Oct. 26th and 27th, Wrens about lantern in night; weather misty. Nov. 15th, some killed striking; wind S., rain. Dec. 31st, four killed.

Rathlin Island.—April 28th, flocks of Wrens, picked up twelve; wind fresh S.E., misty, rain. Aug. 14th, one killed striking, 11 p.m.; wind light S.E., misty.

Innishtrahull.—Nov. 22nd, two Wrens at lantern, gloomy; wind N.W., gale.

Killybegs.—Nov. 15th, three Wrens, with other small birds.

Blackrock Mayo.—Nov. 3rd, four Wrens, 11 a.m.; wind W.N.W., light, one killed.

Tearaght.—The Wren is resident.

Valentia.—Dec. 12th, four "Common Wrens"; wind light W.

Skelligs.—Sept. 20th, several "Common Wrens" seen occasionally during winter. They breed here.

Tits.

Tuskar Rock.—March 29th, 9 p.m. to 4 a.m., Tits striking, twelve killed; wind strong south, rain, and fog. May 8th, "Titmice" constantly striking, eight killed, from 11 p.m. to 4 a.m.; wind N.W., and fog. 13th, constantly striking during night, twelve killed, fog, and mist. 15th, five killed, fog and mist. 19th, one seen. Sept. 16th, two killed.

Copeland Island.—April 25th, one "Titmouse," killed striking. Oct. 10th, eight killed striking; wind N., light, drizzling rain.

Wagtail.

Dungarvan.—Jan. 14th, one "Golden Wagtail," on rocks.

Barrels Rock Light-ship.—Sept. 18th, one rested on ship, and flew N.

Rathlin Island.—One "Water Wagtail," seen on Aug. 12th, Oct. 10th, and Dec. 27th.

Innishtrahull.—May 5th, one Wagtail seen. Nov. 3rd, two.

Arranmore.—May 3rd, one Grey Wagtail.

Tearaght.—March 3rd, one Wagtail, 9 a.m.; wind light S.E.; remained only a few minutes. May 24th, another. None observed previous to this year.

Skelligs.—One seen in July; very rare.

Larks.

Fastnet.—Oct. 9th, sixteen, flying west; 22nd, seven; 31st, eight. Nov. 1st, seven. Nov. 2nd, five killed striking.

Old Head, Kinsale.—March 10th, large numbers from sunrise to sunset, with Linnets and other small birds.

Coningbeg Light-ship.—April 26th, two Larks killed, 9 p.m.; wind light, rain. Oct. 9th, three caught on deck, 5 a.m.; 10th, two caught on deck, 2 a.m.; 28th, flocks from 9 p.m. to midnight, about the ship. Light S. wind, gloomy; 29th, numbers about the light, 8 p.m. until midnight, many struck and fell overboard. Nov. 2nd, three struck lantern, killed.

Dungarvan.—Oct. 22nd, small straggling flocks all day.

Barrels Rock Light-ship.—Sept. 16th, flock of three or four dozen rested on ship, flying N. Oct. 19th, one seen.

Tuskar Rock.—Feb. 27th and 28th, and March 1st and 2nd, many Larks, some caught; weather foggy and overcast, with mist. Sept. 9th, a flock at 8 a.m.; 25th, another flock. Oct. 8th, three killed striking; 9th and 10th, constantly striking all night, many killed, mist and fog. At 8 a.m. on 10th, a large flock went west; 13th, a flock; 26th, thirty-five Larks killed striking, fog. Oct. 30th to Nov. 3rd, constantly striking at night, some killed; in day time about rock, and flying to N.W., weather misty.

Arklow South Light-ship.—March 2nd, six flying round ship. Flocks noted on Oct. 7th, 10th, 11th, 15th, and Nov. 7th and 8th; and on Oct. 20th, 21st, 27th; and 29th, a few passed. Seven killed on Oct. 10th and 11th, weather foggy. Oct. 29th four killed.

Arklow North Light-ship.—Nov. 26th, a large flock going N.W.; wind light N.W., clear.

Kish Bank Light-ship.—Oct. 26th, five passing N.W. Nov. 13th, several about lantern from 6 p.m. until midnight. Dec. 23rd, three flying west; 27th, one killed striking lantern, weather clear; 31st, two killed striking, weather gloomy.

Rockabill.—Oct. 26th and 27th, Larks about lantern in night; weather misty.

Copeland Island.—Oct. 10th, twenty killed striking, others injured; wind north, light; drizzling rain.

South Maidens.—Oct. 16th, eight "common Larks" killed striking; wind W.N.W., strong, weather thick.

Rathlin Island.—Oct. 29th, two killed striking; 30th, five killed, overcast, misty.

Innishtrahull.—March 13th, eight struck, not killed, at 4 a.m.; wind S.W., fresh, fog and mist. May 5th, one seen. Nov. 1st, two, 10.30 p.m., at lantern, gloomy, misty. Nov. 3rd, one; 5th, one at lantern at midnight. Dec. 8th, three Skylarks at 8 a.m.; wind S.W., fresh.

Rathlin O'Birne.—Skylarks noted on Feb. 2nd, which is earlier than on previous years. On March 30th and 31st, April 1st, 3rd, and 6th, from four to eight.

Killybegs.—April 22nd, several Skylarks observed about this time.

Oyster Island, North.—Dec. 26th, four Skylarks in a field; flew south.

Clare Island.—March 31st, about a dozen Larks. Oct. 31st, a flock of Larks flying about station; wind S.S.W., light. During November, small flocks at intervals.

Slyne Head, North.—Nov. 11th, eight Larks; wind E.S.E.

Straw Island.—March 22nd, eight "Field Larks" at noon; wind S., strong. Remained on island.

Titlark.

Fastnet.—Nov. 1st, fifteen.

Tuskar Rock.—Aug. 13th, Titlarks flying on rock. Oct. 21st, five, remained some time.

Arklow South Light-ship.—April 5th, one going east. Sept. 18th, two flying round ship; 21st, two flying east; 25th, five flying N.W. Nov. 3rd, a flock flying N.W.

Arklow North Light-ship.—April 21st, two on deck, 6 a.m. Sept. 20th, some Titlarks killed striking, hazy, with rain.

Kish Bank Light-ship.—May 11th, three. June 20th, two. Oct. 8th, four alighted on deck, 10 a.m.

Copeland Island.—April 12th, two Titlarks killed striking. They nest on island.

South Maidens.—Oct. 17th, six Titlarks, 10 p.m.; weather foggy.

Rathlin Island.—Aug. 23rd, three, at 8 a.m.

Innishtrahull.—Nov. 3rd, five Titlarks; 5th, one; 22nd, three.

Lough Swilly.—May 2nd, two, 4 p.m.; wind N., strong.

Arran Island, South.—Nov. 2nd, one Titlark striking at 4 a.m.; caught by keeper.

Tearaght.—The Titlark is resident.

Skelligs.—Titlarks common all the year; they breed.

Yellowhammer.

Rathlin O'Birne.—Nov. 16th, Yellow Buntings around walls of station; 22nd, large flocks of Buntings all day.

Snow Bunting.

Rathlin Island.—May 16th, "shot a bird very like a Snow Bunting." Oct. 14th, thirty; wind N.W., squally. Some seen also on 15th, 17th, 18th; Nov. 7th, and one on 29th.

Innishtrahull.—Jan. 24th, continuous flocks of Snow Buntings for the rest of the month. Dec. 4th, flock at 11 a.m., apparently just come to island, and are on it ever since; wind N., gale. Seen on 7th, 8th, 9th, and on 25th, Snow Buntings all day; wind S.W., fresh.

Arranmore.—Jan. 23rd, Snow Buntings all day. Feb. 18th, eight. They leave in spring. April 27th, one shot. Aug. 18th, one Snow Bunting at 4 p.m.; wind S., fresh. Sept. 1st, eight. Dec. 8th and 11th, a few.

Killybegs.—An occasional Snow Bunting visits us, but I have seen none this winter nor during the winter of 1882-3.

Blackrock Mayo.—Oct. 30th, about thirty alighted on rock; wind S.S.E., fresh, misty. Nov. 30th, about forty, 9.30 a.m.; wind N., light. Dec. 4th, twenty. Jan. 10th, 1884, forty on rock; wind strong S.W., misty.

Arran Island, South.—Nov. 5th, six arrived on island at 2 p.m.; wind S., misty.

Tearaght.—Feb. 10th, Snow Buntings mentioned in last report, still on island; left about March 1st. Sept. 30th, about six, but may have been on the island some time previously. Remained about a fortnight.

N.B. Arranmore.—"Two Lapland Buntings shot, one on May 1st, the other on 4th, very rare, and the oldest person has never seen the same species before." [These were perhaps some stage of plumage of the Snow Bunting.—A. G. M. and R. M. B.]

Chaffinch.

Fastnet.—Oct. 29th, ten. Nov. 1st, nine. Jan. 5th, 1884, seven about the rock.

Old Head, Kinsale.—Dec. 16th, some hundreds; wind N., frosty.

Coningbeg Light-ship.—Oct. 27th, six about ship, one caught on deck; 28th, one alighted on ship; 29th, a great number about light, many killed, and fell overboard; gloomy. Nov. 13th, one rested on ship.

Tuskar Rock.—Oct 5th, Chaffinches; 13th, 19th, and 26th a few. Oct. 30th to Nov. 3rd, several during the night. Nov. 13th, four died on rock.

Arklow South Light-ship.—Sept. 21st, two. Oct. 29th, a flock; 31st, two.

Arklow North Light-ship.—Sept. 13th, six hovering about ship. Nov. 12th, five.

Kish Bank Light-ship.—July 14th, three at 4.30 p.m., stayed on ship until sunset, and then left. Oct. 8th, three alighted on deck, 10 a.m. Oct. 26th, one alighted. Nov. 7th, four alighted.

Slyne Head, North.—Nov. 11th, three "Finches," wind E.S.E.

Tearaght.—Oct. 26th, about a dozen "Finches, several kinds," but cannot give the names. Remained about a fortnight.

Sparrow.

Tuskar Rock.—March 1st, one Sparrow caught.

Rathlin Island.—June 5th, 13th, and 28th, a few Sparrows noted (perhaps breeding).

Killybegs.—May 10th, observed about thirty Sparrows. They build in old ruins in the neighbourhood. Aug. 11th, about sixty perched on stays of signal mast. Sept. 18th, 19th, and 20th, Sparrows flying towards S.W.; wind E. to E.S.E.

Straw Island.—March 30th, two house Sparrows, 10 a.m.; calm, wind S.

Arran Island, South.—July 26th, forty Sparrows, 8 a.m.; wind W.N.W., clear.

Goldfinch.

Arran Island, South.—April 3rd, six Goldfinches, 3 p.m.; wind W.S.W. They remain. July 28th, Goldfinches at 10 a.m. Nov. 12th, ten, at 9 a.m.; wind W.S.W., hovering about.

Valentia.—Oct. 4th, 10th, and Dec. 15th, two or three Goldfinches. They breed on the island.

Skelligs.—Seen in October. Breed on mainland near.

Linnets.

Fastnet.—Oct. 9th, Linnets flying west. Nov. 2nd, eight killed striking. Jan. 5th, 1884, five, all day.

Old Head, Kinsale.—March 10th, large numbers, sunrise to sunset. Dec. 5th, two hundred to three hundred.

Coningbeg Light-ship.—Oct. 9th, four killed on deck at 5 a.m.; 14th, two going N.E.; 22nd, one alighted on ship.

Dungarvan.—Oct. 1st, flocks of Grey Linnets coming from S.E. Nov. 29th, flocks of Grey Linnets all day about station.

Barrels Rock Light-ship.—March 21st, six flying north, and a few at end of March. May 8th, one. Sept. 27th, six. Oct. 8th, one; 19th, seven; 22nd, large flocks. Nov. 12th, five. Dec. 6th, one alighted on ship. Jan. 14th, 1884, one.

Tuskar Rock.—May 13th, Grey Linnets, 10 p.m. to 2 a.m., striking; mist and fog.

Arklow South Light-ship.—Oct, 26th, one Green Linnet flying about.

Arklow North Light-ship.—Sept. 17th, some Grey Linnets at 8 a.m., hovering about; weather hazy. Sept. 20th, some Linnets killed striking; hazy, with rain. Nov. 13th, Linnets about ship; wind S.E., light, clear.

Rockabill.—Feb. 8th, Linnets during night, some struck; misty, wind S.E.

Copeland Island.—Oct. 10th, twelve killed striking, others injured; wind N., light, drizzling rain.

Rathlin Island.—May 9th, twenty Linnets seen; 16th, four flocks. June 4th, twenty Grey Linnets; 14th, thirty; 23rd, seven. Entries occur Oct. 20th, 22nd, 23rd, 24th, 29th; Nov. 3rd, 18th, 20th, 24th, 27th, and frequently during December. Numbers vary up to 150, and direction of flight when entered was south or west, and seemed independent of direction of wind.

Innishtrahull.—Jan. 24th, continuous flocks of Green Linnets for the rest of month. Nov. 7th, fifty at one p.m., wind S.W., light; 22nd, four at lantern, wind N.W., gale, gloomy.

Dunree Head.—Nov. 16th, great flocks of Grey Linnets flying about all day.

Arranmore.—Feb. 23rd, six Grey Linnets. They come daily. Dec. 19th, a flock of Grey Linnets.

Rathlin O'Birne.—Sept. 21st, ten Grey Linnets alighted, and flew to N.E.

Killybegs.—I noticed during April and May nine or ten Grey Linnets. Aug. 11th, Linnets perched on stays of signal mast, 6 a.m. Sept. 18th, 19th, and 20th, continuous flocks flying S.W. all day, arriving and departing after resting; wind E. to E.S.E.

Oyster Island, North.—Nov. 13th, fifty passing N.; wind S.

Clare Island.—April 15th, Linnets during the day.

Slyne Head, North.—July 9th, twenty Linnets appeared 10 a.m., flying high. Nov. 11th, nine Linnets; wind E.S.E.

Straw Island.—Aug. 23rd, a large number of Grey Linnets going south; flying low, calm.

Arran Island, South.—April 1st, fifty Linnets; wind E., drizzling rain. Oct. 6th, forty Linnets hovering about, 4 p.m.

Tearaght.—Jan. 30th, twelve Grey Linnets, mentioned in last report, left about this date. Sept. 22nd, about twelve Grey Linnets, 8 a.m.; wind light E. Oct. 29th, five Grey Linnets, one killed striking, four taken alive; foggy.

"Small Birds."

Fastnet.—Sept. 21st, twenty; 28th, ditto. Oct. 3rd, a flock passing high to N.E. Oct. 7th, "mixed birds" striking glass; fog and mist.

Kish Bank Light-ship.—June 29th, two small birds flying W.; rain and fog. July 7th, flock of "small land birds" going S.E. to N.W.; weather hazy. Nov. 26th, flock of small birds, name unknown, flying low to N.W., at 11 a.m.

Rockabill.—Feb. 8th, several small birds during night.

Killybegs.—Sept. 18th, 19th, and 20th, small birds. Sparrows, Linnets, and others unknown to me, flying in a S.W. direction all day; wind E. to E.S.E., cloudy, and misty. Constantly arriving, and departing after resting. Nov. 15th, about thirty small birds remained nearly all day, left at dusk.

Clare Island.—April 15th, Linnets and "other small yellow birds" during the day.

Valentia.—Sept. 24th, four Grey Linnets.

Bullfinch.

Fastnet.—Oct. 31st, nine.

Killybegs.—"I noticed during April and May several piping Bullfinches."

Slyne Head, North.—Dec. 7th, three "Bullfinches," wind E.S.E.

Starling.

Fastnet.—Oct. 27th, eleven; 29th, five striking. Nov. 1st, five. Nov. 2nd, seventeen killed striking.

Old Head, Kinsale.—Feb. 3rd, large flock coming from N. Oct. 30th, some hundreds of Starlings all going inland.

Coningbeg Light-ship.—May 9th, flocks of Starlings, 6 a.m., flying N.E. Oct. 28th and 29th, flocks about ship, nights gloomy, seven killed, but many struck and fell overboard; 30th, seven rested on ship, 8 a.m. Nov. 2nd, two killed, 9 p.m.

Dungarvan.—Oct. 5th, small flocks; 17th and 22nd, ditto; 29th, one struck lantern. They are late this year.

Barrels Rock Light-ship.—Oct. 28th, one rested on ship; 29th, another. Nov. 1st, a few.

Tuskar Rock.—Feb. 24th, 25th, 27th, 28th, and March 3rd, Starlings, a considerable number struck lantern, several killed; weather foggy and overcast, with mist. Oct. 9th, five killed, misty; 10th, passing all night. Oct. 28th to Nov. 2nd, Starlings passed, with Blackbirds, Thrushes, Larks, and Chaffinches, some killed; weather foggy with mist. Nov. 13th, one.

Arklow South Light-ship.—Oct. 16th, a flock of "Stares;" 26th, a flock; 29th, four killed striking; 31st, one seen.

Arklow North Light-ship.—April 30th, Starlings around lantern, 11 p.m. to 11.50 p.m., did not strike; weather hazy. Sept. 19th, "Stares" striking at midnight; wind light S.E., hazy. Oct. 30th, "Stares" striking, overcast, calm. Nov. 13th, "Stares" about ship, 3 p.m. Nov. 30th, some Starlings striking, one killed; hazy, rain. Dec. 5th, a large flock going W., 7.45 a.m.; wind N.

Kish Bank Light-ship.—May 14th, five, at 10.15 p.m., about lantern; weather foggy. Oct. 7th, seven struck, killed, and a great number fell overboard; weather foggy, wind light N.W. Oct. 27th, numbers of Starlings, four killed striking, 9 p.m. Some fell overboard; clear, wind fresh N.N.W. Nov. 7th, four, at 11 a.m., left ship 2 p.m.

Rockabill.—Oct. 31st, four killed striking; weather gloomy, wind light S.E.

Copeland Island.—Starlings appear the first week in April to breed here. Oct. 10th, eighteen killed striking, others injured; wind light N., drizzling rain.

Rathlin Island.—April 3rd, seventy, going N., 3 p.m.; 14th, four, breeding here. Entries of two to one hundred and fifty occur from Oct. 24th to Dec. 25th; most seen on Oct. 26th and Dec. 1st. Directions of flight when entered generally S. or W.

Innishtrahull.—March 14th, four, at 11 a.m.; a gale from S.W. Oct. 30th, three struck, not killed; wind S.E., light, cloudy. Dec. 20th, four; wind N.W., strong.

Rathlin O'Birne.—Nov. 12th, about two hundred came from mainland, and returned again after some time.

Killybegs.—The Starling, which was commonly seen here in winter, is now very rare. I have seen none at all this winter.

Oyster Island, North.—Nov. 13th, fifty passing W.; wind S.

Blackrock, Mayo.—Oct. 3rd, about twenty alighted on rock, 9 a.m.; wind N., fresh, clear. Oct. 4th, one killed striking, at 1 a.m.

Clare Island.—During November a few occasionally in vicinity of lighthouse.

Slyne Head, North.—Nov. 28th, eight Starlings, four killed, 10 p.m.; wind N.E., rain. Dec. 10th, nine;-wind N.

Straw Island.—Aug. 31st, four Starlings, 1 p.m., going S.W., low; wind fresh W. Also on Sept. 15th, and Oct. 13th, sixteen to twenty, going south, low.

Arran Island, South.—April 2nd, thirty Starlings, going N., twenty struck, none killed; wind S. Oct. 30th, thirty "Stares," 11 a.m.; wind S., blue sky, five struck, two killed. "Stares" remained here. Dec. 13th, six "Stares," 10 p.m., four killed striking; wind W.S.W., drizzling rain.

Tearaght.—Jun. 30th, twelve, and again on Feb. 18th. Did not leave until about March 1st.

Valentia.—Dec. 4th, fifteen; wind light N.

Skelligs.—Oct. 20th, six Starlings, 11 a.m., wind N., fresh, fog; 21st, two. Did not see them after this date. Bare here.

Dursey Island.—Oct. 2nd, twenty going north; 22nd, large flock at 2 p.m., going N.W.; wind N.W.

Chough.

Tearaght.—Jan. 30th, three Choughs. In my last report I called these "daws." Choughs come and go occasionally all the year. They breed here.

Skelligs.—They breed here; May to August.

Raven.

Dungarvan.—Nov. 7th, two coming from N.E.; rarely seen here.

Copeland Island.—Aug. 20th, six alighted on island at 9 a.m.

Arranmore.—Feb. 7th, two, at 10 a.m. Remain all the year. May 8th, two. Sept. 11th, two. Oct. 18th, one.

Arran Island, South.—Dec. 26th, three Ravens. They remain about here.

Skelligs.—Sept. 20th, two Ravens about rock during month, also during October, November, and December.

Hooded Crow.

Old Head, Kinsale.—Oct. 26th, ten Grey Crows.

Dungarvan.—Oct. 10th, seven. Jan. 4th, two in fields.

Rathlin Island.—April 4th, twenty, to be seen every day. They remain all the year. Aug. 15th, one.

Lough Swilly.—April 10th, two Grey Crows.

Arranmore.—April 26th, one passing.

Killybegs.—Oct. 10th, four perched on cliffs.

Straw Island.—Feb. 22nd, forty Grey Crows at noon; calm. Oct. 21st, four going west; wind N., strong.

Tearaght.—Feb. 13th, one Grey Crow found dead, partly devoured. They come and go occasionally all the year.

Skelligs.—Sept. 20th, four during month; also during October, November, and December.

Dursey Island.—Flocks of two to fifteen Grey Crows on April 2nd, May 20th, and July 11th; flight E. or N.E. Sept. 8th, four going east.

Rook.

Old Head, Kinsale.—Feb. 27th, one hundred to one hundred and fifty; came from east.

Coningbeg Light-ship.—April 28th, two flying N.E.

Tuskar Rock.—March 18th, one "Crow" flying west; 25th, six seen. April 6th, a large flock of Rooks going west.

Arklow South Light-ship.—March 18th, two "Crows" going N.W.

Kish Bank Light-ship.—Dec. 1st, eight "Crows" flying low to N.W., 11.30 a.m.

Copeland Island.—April 25th, a large flock of some hundred "Crows" came from Scotch coast and left for mainland half an hour afterward. Aug. 13th, about a thousand, at 11 a.m., flying high to south.

Rathlin Island.—April 1st, forty at noon; 6th and 7th, a flock going north; 16th, three. May 8th, three; 24th, Black Crows going north. June 6th, flocks seen. Entries occur in August, October, November, and December, of flocks of Rooks at intervals of a week or fortnight; largest on November 11th and 12th. Direction of flight in nearly all cases south.

Innishtrahull.—April 1st, one "Black Crow" at 4 a.m.; foggy. May 26th, one.

Lough Swilly.—June 23rd, 25th, and 30th, flocks all day.

Rathlin O'Birne.—July 8th, fifteen Rooks.

Killybegs.—In April and May, "Crows" to the number of about one hundred visited daily. Probably belonged to rookery ten miles distant.

Oyster Island, North.—April 27th, thirty at 4 p.m., passing S.E.

Clare Island.—Feb. 20th, a few Crows flying N.W.; wind S.W., light, foggy. Oct. 25th, Black Crows flying north; low.

Arran Island, South.—April 6th, sixty common Crows. They remain. Oct. 3rd, twenty Rooks going south; wind W.N.W.

Valentia.—Sept. 2nd, four Black Crows. Nov. 12th, four.

Jackdaw.

Valentia.—Oct. 12th, two. Nov. 26th, five.

Magpie.

Arran Island, South.—Oct. 20th, five Magpies at noon. They remain about here.

Valentia.—Dec. 5th, two Magpies.

Swallow.

Fastnet.—Nov. 6th, two, all day about rock.

Coningbeg Light-ship.—May 13th, flock flying N.W.; 14th, continuous flocks flying N.W. Three killed at 10 p.m.; wind S.W., clear. Four alighted on ship. Sept. 22nd, 23rd, and 30th, a great number passed, going E. and N.E. Oct. 8th, 9th, and 10th, a few passed, four caught on deck, at 2 a.m., two alighted on ship.

Dungarvan.—Oct. 20th, flocks of House Swallows, going E.S.E.; wind N.W., light.

Barrels Rock Light-ship.—May 8th, one alighted on ship; 17th and 18th, occasional Swallows, flying north. June 3rd and 6th, two or three alighted on ship. Sept. 19th and 20th, odd Swallows, flying north, all day. Oct. 8th, 20th, and 26th, a few passed.

Tuskar Rock.—April 11th, first seen, then occasionally to 21st and 22nd, when they passed at intervals of fifteen minutes, all going west. On May 8th and 13th, one or two passed; 14th, constantly passing, going W. and N.W., two killed; 15th, 16th, and 17th, Swallows all day, remaining on rock some hours, then flying W. A few passing daily to end of month, especially on 22nd. During August and September one or two at intervals about rock. Aug. 24th, a great number. From Oct. 5th to 11th, many passed to east.

Arklow South Light-ship.—April 15th, several flocks; wind W.N.W., clear. May 13th, a flock; 14th, 15th, and 30th, Swallows. On Sept. 19th, 23rd, and 28th, one to six passed.

Arklow North Light-ship.—April 22nd, 28th, and May 18th, Swallows noted going N.W.

Kish Bank Light-ship.—June 25th, four passing north; wind light S.

Rockabill.—April 16th, one, the first arrival, wind W., fresh; 18th, several.

Copeland Island.—Sept. 12th, several large flocks at noon; wind W., moderate, clear. They waited a few hours and went S.

Rathlin Island.—April 30th, four at noon.

Lough Swilly.—May 15th, a few Swallows, first seen.

Arranmore.—April 21st, one at 7.30 a.m., passing over island. May 9th, one. June 16th, two.

Rathlin O'Birne.—April 20th, one, wind N.; 23rd and 29th, May 4th and 15th, one to three.

Killybegs.—May 10th, 11th, and 12th, two to six. They build in vicinity, and generally leave about the middle of June. Aug. 24th, about thirty hovering round.

Straw Island.—Sept. 12th, fifty going S.W., high; wind N., fresh.

Martin.

Oyster Island, North.—May 8th, one Martin, the first seen; 12th, several. They remain and build about station. Aug. 12th, Martins last seen.

Cuckoo.

Tuskar Rock.—Nov. 2nd, one Cuckoo killed striking.

Rathlin Island.—May 3rd, three or four; heard for first time.

Arranmore.—May 4th, one Cuckoo. May 12th, one.

Oyster Island, North.—May 15th, Cuckoo first heard; wind N., light.

Arran Island, South.—April 11th, "three Cuckoos," 4 p.m.; wind E.S.E., cloudy.

Pigeon.

Fastnet.—Oct. 31st, one.

Rockabill.—Sept. 15th, ten going N. Oct. 30th, ten hovering about. Dec. 3rd, two shot; 31st, Pigeons all day, one shot.

Rathlin Island.—Aug. 28th, forty Pigeons; they are always on the island. Nov. 16th, eighteen going N.; 25th, five, going S.

Innishtrahull.—Dec. 8th, four Pigeons; wind S.W., light.

Dunree Head.—Sept. 22nd, great flocks of Pigeons flying about all day.

Lough Swilly.—April 10th, flocks of Pigeons all day.

Killybegs.—April 22nd, four Wild Pigeons build on cliffs near Lighthouse. Aug. 26th, eight Wild Pigeons, 5 a.m.

Clare Island.—Feb. 10th, some Wild Pigeons, flying E., in forenoon. Oct. 15th, about four dozen flying generally over the island, also during November and December about the fields on the island.

Arran Island, South.—May 14th, fifty Wild Pigeons. Dec. 3rd, six; 10th, twenty; 28th, ten. They remain on island.

Tearaght.—Oct. 21st, one Rock Pigeon; 27th, about a dozen. Jan. 15th, 1884, eighteen. Nov. 18th, five Rock Pigeons; 24th, about a dozen, which still remain on island.

Dursey Island.—June 7th, eight Wild Pigeons going E.; 17th, two. Entries also on Aug. 24th, Sept. 10th, and Nov. 22nd.

Partridge.

Rockabill.—Oct. 28th, six seen on rock in the morning; wind light S.E., gloomy.

Tearaght.—May 18th, one Partridge, at 4 p.m.

Grouse.

Innishtrahull.—Nov. 1st, one Grouse, 4 p.m.; wind light S.W., moderate.

Clare Island.—Grouse are not plentiful this year.

Golden Plover.

Fastnet.—Oct. 9th, four "Grey" Plover, midnight; fog & mist.

Old Head, Kinsale.—Jan. 28th, large flocks; wind N.E. Feb. 15th, large flock of "Plover" coming from N.; wind N.E. Dec. 17th, large flocks all day; blue sky, frosty.

Arklow North Light-ship.—June 16th, five "Plover" going N.E. Sept. 17th, some Plovers about ship at 8 a.m.; hazy.

Copeland Island.—Oct. 10th, three "Grey" Plover killed striking; wind N., light, drizzling rain.

Innishtrahull.—Sept. 3rd, six; wind N., fresh. 18th, a pair shot.

Tory Island.—Jan. 6th, 1884, seven resting on island.

Arranmore.—Sept. 3rd, seventeen "Grey Plovers"; 18th, twenty.

Killybegs.—April 16th, fifteen Golden Plovers, which only remained a few days. A large flock of "Grey Plovers," which remained till the end of April. Oct. 4th, about eighty Golden Plovers; remained up to this date. Dec. 2nd, Golden and Grey Plover begin to come about the middle of September, and are reinforced by flocks up to the end of November; they usually leave about end of December.

Arran Island South.—October 10th, twenty "Grey" Plover; wind W., going S.

Dursey Island.—Nov. 12th, eight going W., 11 a.m.

Green Plover.

Coningbeg Light-ship.—March 2nd, two Lapwings around ship; 22nd, thirty, flying N.W. May 7th, one killed, 9.30 p.m.; wind E.N.E., rain.

Dungarvan.—Oct. 9th, large flocks all day about shore; and on Oct. 21st and Jan. 11th, large flocks.

Barrels Rock Light-ship.—March 21st, eight, flying N.W.

Rockabill.—March 5th, one Green Plover struck, killed, 4 a.m., cloudy; wind fresh N.; 27th, Green Plover going N.; wind N., snow showers; 28th, large flocks of Plover going N.; wind S.E., snow showers.

Copeland Island.—April 4th, thirty, at 10 a.m.; 7th, a large flock from mainland, going towards Scotch coast; 25th, continuous flocks flying towards Scotch coast, all day; wind E., clear. Sept. 29th, twenty alighted and remained on island; 30th, large flocks, some hundreds in each, going N.E. and very high; wind strong, N., gloomy.

Rathlin Island.—April 6th, six Green Plover, 4 p.m.; Oct. 30th, two seen; Nov. 24th, one.

Innishtrahull.—April 2nd, four at 5 p.m.; wind E.S.E., fresh, misty. Sept. 20th, about twenty "Lapwing Plover"; wind E.S.E., strong; stayed two days and then left, going S.

Tory Island.—Sept. 15th, seven at noon, rested on island.

Rathlin O'Birne.—Sept. 21st, twelve alighted, then flew to N.E.

Killybegs.—April 7th and 8th, four to eight; they hatch in vicinity.

Slyne Head, North.—Dec. 14th, four Lapwings; wind N.E.

Tearaght.—March 24th, one Lapwing, 8 a.m.; wind N.E., light; seemed tired, and remained a few hours.

Turnstone.

Tory Island.—Jan. 10th, 1884, flock of Turnstone, going S., 1 p.m.; wind N.W., gale.

"Sand Larks."

Old Head, Kinsale.—Dec. 14th, five Sand Larks; these were strange birds. I have not seen them before on the coast.

Coningbeg Light-ship.—Dec. 9th, one, the first seen for two years.

Barrels Rock Light-ship.—Jan. 19th, 19th, seven Sand

Larks.

Arklow South Light-ship.—April 15th, two flocks of Sand-birds.

Rockabill.—Sand Larks noted in August and December. It is remarked they remain "all the year."

Innishtrahull.—Feb. 2nd, flock of "small sea-birds," 11 a.m. Sept. 11th, 12th, and 13th, "Sand Larks and some other small sea birds, name unknown."

Arran Island, North.—A few Sand Larks remain during the winter.

Arran Island, South.—July 27th, eighty Sand Larks. Nov. 18th, a flock on strand.

Tearaght.—Dec. 13th, one Sand Lark; 15th, three; wind W., very stormy. All a greyish colour, beaks about one inch long, and a little red on the top towards feathers. Remained about a week.

Sea Pie.

South Maidens.—May 10th, six Sea Pies; misty, rain.

Rathlin Island.—Aug. 27th, three at noon.

Arranmore.—May 18th, one Oystercatcher.

Killybegs.—"Sepoys" to the number of thirty or forty from August to end of September.

Oyster Island, North.—Jan. 6th, 1884, six Oystercatchers on shore.

Slyne Head, North.—The Sea Pie remains all the year.

Arran Island, North.—A few "Sepoys" remain during the winter.

Arran Island, South.—April 5th, thirty "Seapoys"; wind E., going S.

Tearaght.—Two Sea Pies remained round island until about September.

Skelligs.—Sept. 4th, four Sea Pies until 15th.

Redshank.

Tuskar Rock.—May 16th, one seen.

Skelligs.—One seen after a storm in November, very rare.

Greenshank.

Dungarvan.—Oct. 29th, about one dozen. Jan. 6th, a large flock from sea into bay.

Heron.

Dungarvan.—Nov. 22nd, four flying high, and apparently fighting.

Rathlin Island.—Oct. 6th, one at noon; wind light N.E.

Innishtrahull.—Dec. 8th, one "Crane"; wind S.S.W., light.

Tory Island.—Jan. 2nd, 1884, one Heron, at noon, at lake.

Arranmore.—Aug. 16th, one "Crane" at 9 a.m.

Killybegs.—Dec. 19th, two "Cranes" to be seen daily, in a swamp.

Arran Island, South.—Oct. 25th, four "Cranes," 2 p.m.; wind W.N.W., going W.

Tearaght.—Aug. 23rd, one Heron passing E.; wind N.W., light.

Skelligs.—Sept. 2nd, two "Cranes," 9 a.m.; wind N., gale; stayed about the rock for a fortnight.

Bittern.

Old Head, Kinsale.—Feb. 15th, one Bittern, 11 a.m.; wind N. This bird I shot; it was the second ever seen here.

Whimbrel and Curlew.

Galley Head.—May 15th, thirteen "May-birds or young Curlew" rested a little while on headland and passed northwards. May 30th, fourteen Curlew, going S.E.

Coningbeg Light-ship.—May 7th, one caught on ship; wind E.N.E., 9.30 p.m.; 8th, flock of Curlew, 11 p.m., around ship; wind strong N., overcast. Oct. 28th, flock flying N.E., 10 p.m.

Tuskar Rock.—March 23rd, one Curlew shot.

Arklow North Light-ship.—May 18th, a flock of Curlew going N.E.

Kish Bank Light-ship.—May 17th, one Curlew heard, 9.30 p.m. July 30th, several Curlew around ship, 6.30 a.m.; weather foggy.

Copeland Island.—May 10th, large flocks of Curlew appeared, and have remained in vicinity to date of sending schedule in July.

Rathlin Island.—April 5th, four Curlew going S., 7 a.m.; wind N.W. May 10th, thirty Curlew, 3 p.m.; wind N. June 10th, flocks of Curlew, 6 a.m.; 20th, five seen; 24th, three. One or two dozen entered at intervals during the winter months. They are here all the year.

Innishtrahull.—Curlew in flocks of twenty to thirty during June and July.

Lough Swilly.—March 30th, thirteen Curlew; wind W., gale. May 15th, a flock of "Whimbrel Curlew," 8 a.m.; wind W., light. 26th, twenty "Whimbrel Curlew," 9 a.m.; wind N.W., gale.

Tory Island.—"Curlews remain here during the year."

Rathlin O'Birne.—March 31st and April 1st, one; July 6th, fifteen.

Killybegs.—April 1st, twenty-one Curlew, "May-birds"; 12th, a flock of "May-birds"; 21st, a flock. These birds are unusually numerous, and some shot were in very good condition. Aug. 31st, about one hundred Curlew. Curlew (old birds) arrive about the beginning of August, and remain up to the middle of December. Young Curlew, called "May-birds" (Whimbrel), begin to arrive about the end of April in small flocks, until they form one large flock, when they generally leave about the beginning of June.

Oyster Island, North.—May 3rd, several May-birds or young Curlew arrived, and remained most part of the month.

Blacksod.—Curlew are very numerous all the year round.

Clare Island.—Feb. 1st, about two dozen Curlew flying S. at noon. May 5th, flocks of "young Curlew" flying E.; wind E. to N. Oct. 10th, a large flock flying low, and alighting. Curlew during November and December, generally flying low through the fields.

Arran Island, North.—Nov. 4th, twenty Curlew; wind N.E., moderate, clear.

Straw Island.—April 19th, sixty "young Curlew," 1 p.m.; wind N.W., fresh; remained a short time, and went towards shore.

Arran Island, South.—April 4th, twenty Curlew, 6 a.m. May 13th, thirty Curlew, 8 p.m.; wind W.S.W., hazy; three killed. July 29th, fifty. Oct. 16th, thirty at "3 p.m.," three striking, one killed; wind S.W., drizzling rain. Nov. 15th, four at 3 a.m.; wind S., two killed striking, overcast and rainy.

Tearaght.—Feb. 11th, one Curlew; wind S., strong; remained a few days. Dec. 18th, one; wind N.E., clear. On several occasions afterwards. Remained about a month.

Valentia.—Oct. 30th, fifty; Nov. 6th, twenty.

Dursey Island.—Two to ten Curlew at intervals from April 30th to May 23rd. Flight in various directions. Aug. 8th, large flock flying N., and a few at intervals to end of month.

Woodcock.

Fastnet.—Oct. 29th, one. Nov. 1st, one; 2nd, four killed striking.

Old Head, Kinsale.—Dec. 17th, three.

Coningbeg Light-ship.—Oct. 30th, one caught on deck, 2.30 a.m., the first seen at this station. Nov. 2nd, one killed striking at 2 a.m.

Rockabill.—Nov. 28th, one killed striking; wind S., fresh, cloudy and overcast. 29th, another killed.

South Maidens.—Oct. 15th, one killed, 11 p.m., drizzling rain; wind light W.S.W.

Arranmore.—Dec. 3rd, one Woodcock.

Killybegs.—Sept. 21st, one Woodcock killed striking, 11.30 p.m.; wind E.S.E., cloudy and misty. 22nd, another killed, 8 p.m.; wind E.

Clare Island.—During November, a few Woodcock in mountainous parts of island.

Skelligs.—Nov. 4th, Woodcock seen.

Dursey Island.—Nov. 4th, one Woodcock going N.; wind N.E.

Snipe.

Old Head, Kinsale.—Nov. 8th, twenty Snipe, six shot. Dec. 17th, five Snipe.

Tuskar Rock.—Oct. 29th, one Snipe killed striking; light mist.

Copeland Island.—Snipe breed here. Oct. 10th, two killed striking; wind N., light drizzling rain.

South Maidens.—Oct. 19th, one Snipe killed striking; wind fresh S.S.W., clear.

Rathlin Island.—Aug. 9th, one Jack Snipe killed striking; wind light S.E., cloudy.

Arranmore.—Nov. 20th, one Snipe; 30th, one.

Rathlin O'Birne.—Oct. 18th, two Snipe on the shore.

Blackrock Mayo.—Oct. 14th, one Jack Snipe, 1 p.m.; wind W., light.

Clare Island.—Feb. 28th, a few Snipe flying W.; wind S.W. Oct. 20th, Snipe on marshy land, flying in different directions.

Tearaght.—Feb. 18th, one Snipe, 10 a.m.; wind light S.W., fine; previously stormy. Nov. 20th, one; 23rd, three; left about a fortnight afterwards.

Skelligs.—Jan. 12th, 1884, Snipe seen.

Corn Crake.

Tuskar Rock.—April 27th, came on rock in night. May 8th, another; 16th, one much exhausted; 29th, one.

Kish Bank Light-ship.—May 16th, one struck lantern, 11.10 p.m., killed; wind light, clear.

Rockabill.—July 30th, one caught on rock.

Rathlin Island.—May 13th, heard for first time.

Oyster Island, North.—May 17th, Landrail first heard.

Skelligs.—May 5th, one seen, very rare

Waterhen.

Old Head, Kinsale.—Nov. 8th, five Waterhen.

Coningbeg Light-ship.—Oct. 8th, one alighted on ship, 6 a.m.; calm, thick fog.

Coot.

Old Head, Kinsale.—Nov. 8th, twenty Coot (a marsh near).

Geese.

Old Head, Kinsale.—Feb. 10th, three Wild Geese, came from S. Oct. 15th, three going N.

Dungarvan.—Nov. 20th, eleven flying N. and very high.

Rockabill.—Oct. 28th, six going E. in the morning; weather gloomy.

Copeland Island.—April 12th, eight going from mainland towards Scotch coast. Dec. 10th, eight Wild Geese rested on island, came from N.; wind S.W., fresh, rain.

South Maidens.—June 12th, twelve Wild Geese.

Rathlin Island.—Oct. 23rd, two Wild Geese, 7 a.m.; wind strong N.W.

Innishtrahull.—Jan. 24th, flock of thirty Barnacle; wind S.W., strong. March 12th, fifteen going N.; wind S.W., strong. 14th, twenty-four Wild Geese; wind S.W., gale. 15th, six Barnacle; wind strong W., squally. Oct. 13th, one Wild Goose; wind S., fresh. 23rd, nine Barnacle; 24th to 28th, nine to twenty Barnacle. Dec. 14th, three Wild Geese; 17th, seventeen Barnacle.

Dunree Head.—Aug. 1st, one hundred Barnacle flying very high to the N. Sept. 12th, about two hundred Wild Geese flying low to the N. Oct. 14th, several flocks of Barnacle going S.; wind N.W., strong. 24th, twenty Wild Geese going S.

Tory Island.—Oct. 7th, 8th, and 12th, flocks of Wild Geese, 4 to 6 a.m.; wind W. and S.W., going W. and S.

Arranmore.—January, thirty-six Barnacle; these birds have remained all the winter; have not done so for years before. Feb. 4th, twenty-two. March 2nd, two flocks passing. Sept. 30th, one Barnacle; wind N., fresh. Oct. 20th, one; 31st, a flock, and flying all night for many nights, in great quantities, in the direction of Sligo. Far the last two winters numerous flocks of Barnacle have remained on island. On Nov. 7th, 24th, 29th, and Dec. 25th, flocks are entered.

Rathlin O'Birne.—Oct. 24th, thirty-six. Nov. 4th, twenty came from N., and passed over island to S.E.: 12th, six; 16th, small flocks coming from N., and passing S. all day. Dec. 7th, eleven on island grazing. 11th, six ditto; two were shot.

Killybegs.—Aug. 17th, two Wild Geese, rested and flew N. Sept. 2nd, about forty at a great height, flying N.; 27th, thirteen seen. Oct. 30th, eight Wild Geese generally take a S. to S.W. course, beginning about the end of September and continuing up to the end of December, and usually travel high; but they sometimes stop to feed and rest.

Oyster Island, North.—"During the winter months a considerable number of Barnacle arrive, some of which remain, and others pass further south, the time of their arrival and departure apparently depending on the severity of the season or otherwise." Entries of small flocks occur from Sept. 9th to Oct. 5th. Larger and more frequent flocks on Oct. 8th, 13th, 15th, Nov. 22nd, 29th, 30th, and on Dec. 5th; in almost every case the direction of flight is S. or S.E. On. Dec. 6th, 15th, and 17th, large flocks passed in the opposite direction. On Dec. 22nd continuous flocks again passed S.E., and on Jan. 5th, 1884, a small flock. The direction of flight was apparently independent of the direction of the wind or state of the weather.

Broadhaven.—Dec. 20th and 26th. Barnacle and Wild Geese. They frequent the place in winter.

Blackrock Mayo.—Nov. 21st, twenty Barnacle flying S.E.

Clare Island.—Oct. 6th, about two dozen Wild Geese flying high to S.W.; wind W., light.

Slyne Head, North.—Nov. 12th, five to twelve Barnacle at intervals; wind N.W., one shot. Are very common; arrive Nov. 1st and remain to March 1st.

Straw Island.—March 16th, twenty Wild Geese, passing N.; wind light S.W. Oct. 29th, twenty-two, 5 p.m., going N., high, calm.

Swans.

Rathlin Island.—Nov. 23rd, "A Black Swan shot by the rector on one of the lakes on the island."

Wild Duck.

Fastnet.—Nov. 3rd, flock flying to E. Jan. 3rd, flock flying E.

Old Head, Kinsale.—Nov. 8th, ten Wild Duck; two shot.

Dungarvan.—Oct. 28th, large flock. Nov. 3rd, fifty. Dec. 23rd, four "Shelldrakes."

Barrels Rock Light-ship.—Sept. 10th, 12th, and 15th, a few Wild Duck flying high to S. Nov. 16th, a large flock flying N.E. Dec. 7th, 14th, and 19th, two to seven at intervals.

Tuskar Rock.—Nov. 14th, seven Wild Duck came from N.W. and flew round rock.

Arklow North Light-ship.—Dec. 1st, a large flock going N. Feb. 6th, 1884, flock going N.E.

Kish Bank Light-ship.—May 13th, a flock passing E. to W., 7.30 a.m. Oct. 6th, twelve at 10.45 p.m., flying high to N.W.; weather hazy. Nov. 29th, thirteen flying N.W.

Copeland Island.—April 12th, thirty left Mew Island after remaining all the winter; wind light E., clear. Oct. 16th, several flocks of Teal and Duck on Mew Island; wind S.W., strong.

South Maidens.—April 14th, twenty-four Ducks; hazy, with rain. Oct. 20th, twelve, 10 a.m., went towards Scotland; wind W.S.W., strong.

Rathlin Island.—Nov. 6th, five at 8 a.m.; wind S. Dec. 6th, two going E.; wind N.E.

Innishtrahull.—Nov. 6th, one "Shelldrake," 2 p.m.; wind N., fresh.

Dunree Head.—Nov. 7th, about one hundred Wild Duck flying high to S. Dec. 22nd, about fifty swimming opposite lighthouse all day.

Tory Island.—Nov. 23rd, Dec. 1st, 2nd, and Jan. 1st, one to three going S. or W.

Arranmore.—April 5th, two arrived to breed. June 18th, three seen. On Nov. 3rd, 10th, 28th, and Dec. 13th, Wild Duck seen. One "Shelldrake" on Nov. 18th and 26th.

Killybegs.—"I saw, in December, 1882, some Teal, but none since."

Oyster Island, North.—"During the winter months a considerable number of Widgeon arrive; some remain, and others pass further south." Dec. 24th, continuous flocks going S.E.

Clare Island.—December. A few Wild Duck on a lake during this month.

Straw Island.—Feb. 13th, thirty, 10 a.m., remained on rock a short time, and went S. Oct. 28th, thirty going S.E.; wind light S.

Arran Island, South.—Dec. 6th, twenty Wild Duck went S.; wind E. 30th, twenty went S., wind E.

Merganser.

Dungarvan.—Dec. 5th, four coming from S.E.

Great Northern Diver.

Old Head, Kinsale.—Jan. 20th, six passing S.W.

Dungarvan.—Jan. 9th, two feeding near station.

Tory Island.—Sept. 22nd, two "Speckled Diver," 8 a.m., going S.E.

Arranmore.—April 7th, a Great Northern Diver shot on rock.

Killybegs.—The Northern Diver visits us in the autumn and leaves early. I have never seen more than three together.

Clare Island.—During December a few of the Great Northern Diver.

Guillemot.

Rathlin O'Birne.—March 31st, ten, and April 1st, thirty alighted on rock at shore.

Clare Island.—A large number this year.

Tearaght.—Jan. 20th, Guillemot first observed round island on the water. Feb. 19th, about fifty came on rock for first time; left about Aug. 1st.

Skelligs.—Nov. 20th and Dec. 11th, a few Guillemots fishing in shelter of rock; wind N.W. to W., strong gale.

Barrels Rock Light-ship.—June 15th and 19th, "Murs" in flocks, flying in different directions. Dec. 10th, large flocks of "Murs"; also on 23rd and 26th; flocks also on 29th, 30th, Jan. 8th and 15th.

Puffin.

Galley Head.—Feb. 12th, twenty going W.; 16th, nine ditto. April 29th, continuous flocks, from seventy to one hundred in each, going W. From May 6th to 13th, 18th to 27th, and June 16th to 25th, continuous flocks, and occasional flocks to July 16th; all going W.

Old Head, Kinsale.—Jan. 23rd, continuous flocks, 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.; wind fresh S. Large numbers going S. on Feb. 7th, 20th, 22nd, and March 17th; continuous flocks on March 5th. From Oct. 7th to 10th, some hundreds going S.

Coningbeg Light-ship.—April 21st, continuous flocks flying S.W.; 26th, flocks. Nov. 16th, flocks, 9 to 11 a.m.; 21st, 23rd, Dec. 9th and 14th, flocks; passing continuously on Nov. 29th and Dec. 19th; wind W. to S.W.

Dungarvan.—Nov. 6th, a great number.

Tuskar Rock.—From June 13th to 18th, "Puffins and Sea-parrots" alighted in large flocks. Aug. 20th to 22nd, Puffins in hundreds on rock.

Rathlin Island.—April 12th, "Parrots, Bridle Nebs," &c., begin to arrive; 22nd, arrived in full force and took possession of the cliffs. The Sea-parrots hatching on the cliffs are not at all as numerous as last year.

Innishtrahull.—Dec. 8th, "three Sea-parrots and twenty Puffins." January, 1884, a few "Puffins and Sea-parrots through the month."

Lough Swilly.—April 19th, several flocks of Puffins. June 1st, Puffins passing and repassing.

Arranmore.—March 12th, Puffins passing.

Rathlin O'Birne.—May 14th, Puffins passing S. In June, about the island.

Killybegs.—April 22nd, Puffins arriving in large numbers about this date, coming early each morning and leaving in the evening, flying W. Aug. 14th, Puffins leaving, going W. They arrive about the month of July, and are to be seen in thousands until October.

Oyster Island, North.—April 19th, several during day. May 29th, small flocks.

Black Rock, Mayo.—Sept. 9th, Puffins on water round the rock; a few nearly every day during September and October.

Clare Island.—March 15th, about fifty; wind N.N.E. Generally arrive latter part of March, and leave towards the end of August. A large number this year.

Straw Island.—March 17th, forty Puffins remained two days; wind S., hazy fog. April 9th, twenty "Sea-parrots," wind S.W., strong. Aug. 20th, forty-four going S. They arrive early in spring and generally leave in September, and breed on the middle island of Arran.

Tearaght.—"April 1st, the Sea-parrots arrived; not so plentiful as in previous years. Aug. 20th, only about half a dozen Sea-parrots on the island; left about this date. When they arrive on April 1st they remain perhaps a week on the water before they come on the island; then they mostly rise in one body, and hover some time before they rest. They all go down to the water again when getting dark, except when breeding; those hatching remain. As a rule there is a rush to the island every day about 4 p.m. Sometimes there are two rushes in the day. Their fighting propensities are often put into practice, and when so engaged they can readily be captured; their fight only ends when they have reached the sea, after having tumbled sometimes all the way from the highest pinnacle of the island."

Skelligs.—Nov, 20th, a few Puffins fishing in shelter of rock; wind N.W., gale.

Razorbill.

Clare Island.—April 30th, two to four dozen Razorbills at 9 a.m.

Tearaght.—March 19th, great numbers of Razorbills first observed; 20th, first rested on rock. Left about Aug. 10th.

Skelligs.—Sept. 16th, large flocks flying S.S.W.; wind S.E. Nov. 20th, flocks fishing in shelter of rock, mostly young birds; wind N.W., strong gale. Dec. 11th, Razorbills fishing in shelter; wind W., strong gale.

Cormorant.

Tuskar Rock.—April 27th, the Cormorants have totally deserted the rock.

Rockabill.—Oct. 30th, Cormorants all day; they leave the rock in April, and are back this month.

Rathlin Island.—June 22nd, five seen. Aug. 17th, three. Dec. 4th, 5th, and 9th, one to six.

Tory Island.—Dec. 11th, six on rock at 9 a.m.

Killybegs.—May 2nd, Cormorants to the number of about forty observed. Aug. 26th, about seventeen. The greater number leave about the end of December, but some remain all the winter.

Blackrock, Mayo.—Sept. 30th, five flying S.E. A few nearly every day during September and October.

Clare Island.—Cormorants are seen all the year round.

Slyne Head, North.—The Cormorant leaves to breed elsewhere.

Straw Island.—Feb. 22nd, Cormorants at all hours. Remain during the year, generally fishing singly. Sept. 24th, ten.

Arran Island, South.—Nov. 11th, eleven Cormorants seen at intervals along the shore.

Valentia.—Sept. 20th, four. Nov. 16th, two; 22nd, five. Dec. 5th, eight; also on 21st and 24th.

Skelligs.—One or two entered on Sept. 20th, Oct. 12th, and during December.

Dursey Island.—A few noted on April 11th and July 13th, and one to four seen at intervals from Sept. 27th to Dec. 18th.

Gannet.

Galley Head.—Five to twelve going W. on Jan. 29th, Feb. 7th, April 11th, May 14th, 18th to 27th; continuous flocks of Gannets going W. on March 19th, 20th, 27th, 28th, June 16th to 25th; and in less numbers to date of sending schedule, July 16th. No entry of Gannets going E. at this station except on April 20th. One or two grey or young Gannets seen on May 14th and June 16th.

Old Head, Kinsale.—Jan. 20th to 23rd, continuous flocks passing S.W. Large flocks on Feb. 7th, 22nd, and March 17th. On Oct, 5th and 6th, some hundreds going S. Nov. 5th, forty-five going E.; 20th, Gannets.

Coningbeg Light-ship.—April 29th, four flying W. June 6th, two Gannets, and at intervals to end of month. Oct. 15th, four flying E.; and from 31st to Dec. 1st, one to five passing at intervals.

Barrels Rock Light-ship.—April 27th, May 18th, 20th, and 26th, occasional Gannets flying W. June 27th, Gannets in twos and threes. Oct. 23rd, occasional Gannets, and a few at intervals until January.

Arklow South Light-ship.—March 10th, a flock; 26th, seven. During April flocks at intervals, especially towards end of month. In May two to seven passing at intervals in various directions. During June, July, August and September a few Gannets seen frequently. In October less common.

Arklow North Light-ship.—Gannets noted at intervals during April, May, and June; May 1st and 12th, flocks continuous. Flight generally N.E. September, flocks at intervals.

Kish Bank Light-ship.—Three entries of Gannets in May, one in June, and one in July; direction of flight different in each case. Oct. 3rd, six flying S.W. Nov. 23rd, flocks from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. going to S.W.

Copeland Island.—Gannets remain about the island all the year. In August this year large numbers fishing in vicinity.

South Maidens.—Two entries of Gannets in April. Oct. 20th, two seen.

Rathlin Island.—Fourteen entries occur in schedule between March 28th and June 17th; in eleven the direction of flight was entered, and in all it was towards the west, and seemed independent of the weather. On April 13th, 19th, 21st, May 4th, 7th, 12th, 13th, 23rd, and June 2nd the flocks were passing all day. During August four entries occur, but direction of flight is not given. One entry in October.

Innishtrahull.—Jan. 8th, four Gannets; wind strong S.W.

Lough Swilly.—May 1st, 20th, and July 30th, a few noted.

Tory Island.—Nov. 13th, two going E.; noon.

Arranmore.—March 9th and 26th, four to six passing all day. Oct. 14th, twelve.

Rathlin O'Birne.—April 6th and 18th, a few. May 14th and 18th, continuous flock all day going S. In June Gannets around island at intervals. Sept. 9th, 19th, a few. Oct. 5th and 6th, hundreds; most left about Oct. 17th.

Killybegs.—April 9th, two; 12th, about thirty, usually in pairs. Aug. 14th, Gannets leaving. Gannets begin to arrive in June, sometimes earlier, and mostly leave in September; their movements are very uncertain.

Oyster Island, North.—Gannets noted at intervals from April 5th to 18th.

Blackrock, Mayo.—To be seen nearly every day during September and October.

Slyne Head, North.—Aug. 1st, numbers of young Gannets are to be seen. Gannets entered on Aug. 10th, 17th, very common, and flocks at intervals on Nov. 17th; and thirty on Nov. 25th.

Straw Island.—Feb. 10th, fifteen Gannets seen at 2 p.m., strong breeze, W., going S. Gannets entered on Aug. 8th, Sept. 3rd, and Oct. 11th, generally hovering about. It generally makes its appearance with various kinds of fish, mackerel, pilchards, &c.

Arran Island, South.—Nov. 29th, two at noon; remained three days.

Skelligs.—Sept. 20th, several fishing. Nov. 20th, saw no Gannets since Oct. 29th.

Dursey Island.—Seven to thirty noted at intervals during April and on May 11th and 29th; flight generally W. or N.W. A few noted Aug. 11th; Sept. 6th, large flocks all day going S.; and a few on Sept. 28th.

Tern.

Copeland Island.—The Terns appear on Mew Island to breed on May 15th and 16th. They come in the night, at first in small numbers, increasing each night for ten or twelve nights, when many hundreds are to be seen. Sept. 19th, some hundreds of Terns left Mew Island on this date; wind S.E., light misty rain. Heard leaving during night.

Rathlin O'Birne.—Terns arrived at usual time; they breed on island outside lighthouse.

Oyster Island, North.—April 8th, five Terns passing S.; 12th, several during day.

Slyne Head, North.—May 20th, the Tern arrives for breeding, and continues until about Aug. 2nd.

Gulls.

Galley Head.—June 1st to 15th, large flocks of Gulls after fry.

Old Head, Kinsale.—Oct. 7th to 10th, some hundreds going S. Nov. 20th, Grey Gulls.

Coningbeg Light-skip.—April 22nd, flocks of Grey Gulls; 26th, ditto. June 13th, ditto. Nov. 21st, flocks of small Gulls.

Dungarvan.—Nov. 6th, a great number.

Barrels Rock Light-ship.—July 3rd and 9th, Sea Gulls in flocks, flying E. after fry. During November and part of December large flocks apparently after small fish, working east and west with the tides.

Tuskar Rock.—From June 13th to 18th, Gulls alighted in large flocks.

Arklow North Light-ship.—April 1st, continuous flocks of Grey Gulls going N.E.

Kish Bank Light-ship.—Flocks of Grey Gulls noted on May 8th, 25th, and June 15th. Oct. 16th, flock of Grey Gulls hovering about all day. Nov. 27th, a flock all day after fry.

Rockabill.—Gulls come in April and leave at the end of September.

Copeland Island.—Herring Gulls remain about the island all the year. In August a large number of Grey and Royal Gulls fishing in vicinity.

Rathlin Island.—Flocks of Gulls on March 29th, May 1st, 18th, 22nd, June 8th, 20th, and 27th; direction of flight not given. Flocks during August of twenty to thirty Royal Gulls at intervals. Two or three thousand Kittiwakes on 11th and 30th. Entries of Gulls occur twice in November, and large flocks going S. on Dec. 17th, 21st, and 30th.

Innishtrahull.—Dec. 25th, two Royal Gulls.

Lough Swilly.—April 1st, a few; 6th, several; 19th, in great numbers. May 1st, ditto. May 20th and June 1st, Gulls. July 27th, very numerous all day.

Tory Island.—Sept. 5th, a flock of "Common Gulls" flying W. Nov. 15th, three Black-backed Gulls at 8 a.m., going E.; 28th, a flock of Gulls.

Arranmore.—March 12th, Gulls passing.

Rathlin O'Birne.—Flocks of fifty to one hundred on April 10th, 12th, 28th, and May 8th. In June, Gulls about island. Flocks of Gulls from one hundred to thousands on Aug. 31st, Sept. 19th, 20th, 30th, Oct. 5th, and 6th. The greater number left on Oct. 17th. On Nov. 4th, 22nd, and Dec. 7th, eighty to one hundred all day.

Killybegs.—Gulls of the grey species to the number of about two hundred remained here during spring, coming in the morning and departing in the evening to the cliffs around Slieve League. Thousands of Kittiwakes arrived about beginning of May, and still (August) remain. Aug. 14th, several hundreds leaving. Kittiwakes and Grey Gulls usually arrive in large numbers about June or July, and leave towards the end of September; but a few, notably the large grey kind, remain all the month.

Oyster Island, North.—Gulls noted on April 12th, 18th, 22nd, May 24th, and 29th.

Broadhaven.—Oct. 10th, three dozen Kittiwakes; 24th, four dozen Black-headed Gulls.

Blackrock, Mayo.—Sept. 9th, flocks of small Gulls on water. Sept. 22nd and Jan. 5th, 1884, two Royal Gulls. Large and small Gulls nearly every day during September and October.

Clare Island.—March 15th, about a dozen small Sea Gulls during day. A large number of Gulls of different species in the cliffs near lighthouses this year. Kittiwakes are here all the year.

Slyne Head, North.—Gulls noted on Aug. 20th and Nov. 17th.

Arran Island, North.—Nov. 14th, ten; wind fresh W.S.W.

Straw Island.—Feb. 13th, the Grey and the Royal Gull continually in vicinity of lighthouse. The Grey Gulls remain during year. Gulls entered Aug. 13th, Sept. 1st, and Oct. 5th (Royal). Flight generally S.W.

Arran Island, South.—July 25th, fifty Sea Gulls. Nov. 27th, Sea Gulls about shore to be seen at all times.

Tearaght.—Feb. 6th, Kittiwakes first came on rock about this time; left about Sept. 1st. "They commence to build about May 1st. On May 24th only two eggs were found among hundreds of nests. The nest-building is carried on by some after hatching has commenced with others. A difficult business this nest-making seems to be, as the mud or clay which makes up the foundation has to be carried from some soft bank. Hundreds of them are employed about six weeks at this operation, some going with the very small portion of mud they are able to take in their beaks, others coming for more, the bank covered over with more in the act of digging out. The whole is a continuous busy scene."

Valentia.—Royal Gulls, one to four, Sept. 10th, 30th, Oct. 28th, and Nov. 10th.

Skelligs.—Sept. 16th, observed large flocks of Kittiwakes flying S.S.W.; wind S.E. Grey Gulls noticed from September to January, and two to four Black-backed Gulls occasionally. Kittiwakes fishing in shelter of rock, Nov. 20th and Dec. 11th; wind strong gale, N.W. and W.

Dursey Island.—Large flock of Gulls noted on April 7th, 25th, 27th, and May 5th. A few on May 27th, and at intervals to July. Large flocks on Aug. 25th and Sept. 18th, going W. Four Royal Gulls on Dec. 22nd.

Skua Gull.

Galley Head.—Jan. 20th, flocks of five to seven Skua Gulls going W.

Coningbeg Light-ship.—Oct. 28th, two Skuas chasing Gulls.

Tuskar Rock.—June 7th, flocks alighted on rock four mornings in succession at same hour. Aug. 20th to 22nd, Skua Gulls in hundreds.

Lough Swilly.—June 22nd, one "Boatswain Skua Gull."

Valentia.—Nov. 22nd, four Skua Gulls.

Manx Shearwater.

Barrels Rock Light-ship.—July 6th, "Mackerel Cocks" flying in different directions.

Rathlin Island.—April 12th, Shearwater began to arrive; 22nd, more arrived.

Tearaght.—Jan. 30th, "Mackerel Cock" in great numbers diving round rock; observed a fortnight previous to this date. Feb. 25th, "Mackerel Cock" (believed to be) left, always diving, and did not come on rock. April 5th, note of the Shearwater first heard. Nov. 21st, "Mackerel Cock" diving about the rock pretty plentifully. Not certain about this bird. The Manx Shearwater left about Aug. 1st. It was heard frequently during the summer, and always on very dark calm nights. The sounds, being frequent and distinct, were, very impressive. When the moon would rise, or it would clear, a single note was not to be heard.

Stormy Petrel.

Coningbeg Light-ship.—Oct. 9th, five Mother Carey's Chickens caught on deck, 5 a.m.; wind light, hazy. Oct. 15th, two Stormy Petrels about ship; 28th, two caught on deck, 10.30 p.m.

Arklow South Light-ship.—April '24th, one; wind light E.

Tearaght.—Stormy Petrel very plentiful this year. They are not much observed until July, from which time they continue breeding until September. They make a noise which is a continuous chain of articulations, and might be heard on a calm night a distance of 300 feet; this noise is kept up by those in the holes as well as those on the wing.

Skelligs.—Sept. 4th, two struck, 10.30 p.m., not killed; did not notice any after this date. They breed here.

Birds not Identified.

Rockabill.—"March 6th, large bird, name unknown, killed striking, at 3 a.m.; wind N., fresh, cloudy. Had long bill, and long black legs."

Killybegs.—April 8th, "three strange birds, name unknown. White fan-shaped tail, tipped with black; wings white, tipped with black; white ring round neck; size of Sparrow; came from seaward, and remained several days."

Tearaght.—May 20th, "one bird, not known, about the size of a Lapwing; colour of a Grey Plover, land-bred, fan-tail, tips of feathers of tail white, chased by Crows."

Tearaght.—Oct. 28th, "small bird, size of a Linnet; shoulders red or copper-colour; breast and belly grey, also round neck; head tufted. It remained about a week."

Tearaght.—Nov. 18th, "a bird about the size of a Linnet came on island; above eyes a white curved streak; eyes and round eyes black; under head, round breast, a white ring, thence down belly, wings, and back of a reddish or copper-colour; some white feathers in wing; top of head black, and tail appears narrow and black. Two of these, one readily distinguished from the other."

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

Transcriber Note

Minor typos were corrected. In previous editions, one locality was listed as "Farne". In this edition, there is one reference to Farne Islands ([p. 54]) all of the other locations are listed as "Farn" and left as is.