Report on the Migration of Birds in the Spring and Autumn of 1881. Third Report

by J. A. Harvie-Brown; Richard Manliffe Barrington; John Cordeaux; P. M. C. Kermode; Alexander Goodman More

EAST COAST OF ENGLAND.

Printed forms of enquiry and letters of instruction were sent to thirty-four lighthouses and light-vessels on the east coast of England, and two stations on the Channel Islands, thirty-six altogether against thirty-seven in 1880, and returns have been received from twenty-five.

Independent reports have also been sent in from Heligoland, Seaton Carew and Redcar, Flamborough, Spurn, North-east Lincolnshire, and Northrepps, making a total of thirty-two reporting stations against thirty-eight in 1880.

My best thanks are due to H. Gätke, T. H. Nelson, C. Donald Thompson, Matthew Bailey, William Eagle Clarke, H. Bendelack Hewetson, M.D., J. H. Gurney, jun., Colonel Russell, and G. P. Hope, for many interesting notes sent in, and for general kind co-operation and assistance in the enquiry.

Special thanks is also given to the various observers on the lighthouses and light-vessels whose names are given in the Report; and it is to be regretted that no less than eleven stations, from causes unknown to the writer, have failed to make returns, more especially as some of these were amongst the best returning stations in 1880. It is much to be hoped that this year the returns will be more numerous and complete.

The east coast stations are as follows, those making returns being marked with a star (*):—

† For nature of light, and position and description of station, see previous Reports.

Longstone L.H.†
*Inner Farne L.H.	Thomas H. Cutting.
*Coquet Island L.H.	William Evans.
*No. 5 Buoy, Teesmouth L.V.	Henry Harbord.
*Whitby, High, L.H.	John Odgers.
*Flamborough Head L.H.	Charles Hood.
*Spurn Point L.H.	James B. Smith.
Spurn (Newsand) L.V.
*Outer Dowsing L.V.	Samuel Sheet.
*Inner Dowsing L.V.	William King.
*Dudgeon L.V.	Thomas Dale.
*Lynn Well L.V.	George Rees.
*Hunstanton L.H.	William Westmoreland.
*Cromer L.H.	Richard Comben.
*Leman and Ower L.V.	Charles Perfrement.
*Hasbrough L.V.	John Nicholas.
Hasbrough L.H.
Newarp L.V.
Winterton L.H.
*Cockle L.V.	Samuel Pender.
Orfordness L.H.
*Corton L.V.	W. T. Cotton.
*Shipwash L.V.	Thomas Randule.
*Galloper L.V.	John Quested.
Kentish Knock L.V.
*Swin Middle L.V.	Thomas Barrett.
*Tongue L.V.	Robert Crancher.
*Nore L.V.	George Ladd.
North Foreland L.H.
Goodwin L.V.
*Gull L.V.	Francis Harvey and Anthony Collins.
*Southsand Head L.V.	J. C. Leggett and J. G. Fornman.
*Eastside L.V.	Thomas Rees.
South Foreland L.H.
Casquets (Alderney) L.H.
*Hanois (Guernsey) L.H.	Charles Williams.

SEPARATE REPORT ON EACH SPECIES.

Song Thrush, Turdus musicus, Linn.—Spring migration observed at one station only on the east coast. May 2nd, some seen at Inner Farne L.H., with Blackbirds and one King Ouzel, E.N.E., mist and rain. In the autumn occurred at the majority of stations from Inner Farne L.H. to Hanois L.H., off Guernsey: earliest date Nov. 2nd, at Flamborough L.H., several round lanterns during night with Larks and Starlings; latest, Nov. 30th, Heligoland, passing all day with Fieldfares. Greatest number occurred between Oct. 18th and 23rd at Inner Farne L.H., Flamborough Head L.H., and Dudgeon L.V., wind E.S.E., S. Migration extended over about two months, line of flight generally E. to W.

Redwing, Tardus iliacus, Linn.—First at Cromer L.H. on August 1st, 3 a.m., five killed; last at Inner Farne, Nov. 1st, all day with Thrushes. Great rush, Oct. 18th to 22nd. Migration extending over three months.

Fieldfare, Turdus pilaris, Linn.—First, Cromer L.H., Sept. 14th, 1 p.m., fog and rain, two killed; last, Heligoland, Nov. 30th, great many passing; also same date at Inner Farne L.H., two flocks to W.N.W. Oct. 19th, at Teesmouth, before daybreak, several were heard "chuckling" high overhead by fishermen going out to sea, flying S.W. to W., wind E., strong rain. The Fieldfare has been most exceptionally scarce on the English coast during the autumn and winter.

White's Thrush, Turdus varius, Pall.—One early in January, 1882, at Waplington Manor, near Pocklington, Yorkshire. (Zool., 1882, p. 74.)

Blackbird, Turdus merula, Linn.—Spring migration observed at Cromer on Jan. 29th (1881), 4 a.m., fog, two at lantern; and also, Feb. 5th, six at midnight, three killed. At Inner Farne L.H. they were seen in some numbers at 8 a.m., on May 22nd, with Thrushes. No Blackbirds crossed Heligoland in the autumn. On English east coast they were noted at several stations from Inner Farne L.H. on Oct. 2nd to the 28th at Hanois, several striking there at 10 p.m. A great rush at several stations from Oct. 21st to 25th inclusive, wind E.S.E., strong. During the first week in November large numbers were observed in North-east Lincolnshire, direction of flight E. to W. and S.W., and E.S.E. to N.W.

Ring Ouzel, Turdus torquatus, Linn.—Inner Farne L.H., one, May 2nd. In the autumn, at the same station, Oct. 3rd, one; and at several stations from Oct. 23rd to 25th, when there was a rush. None are recorded after this date, except one at Inner Farne on Nov. 30th. Migrate like the rest of the Turdinæ, both by day and night, and in the same direction.

Common Wheatear, Saxicola œnanthe (Linn.).—In spring of 1881, first at Hunstanton L.H., March 25th, several all day, and four days later at Inner Farne, 9 a.m., N.N.E. (four), snow, several; many, same station, first week in May. In the autumn, first at 5th Buoy, Tees L.V., on Aug. 18th, great many, and subsequently, up to end of first week in September, large numbers at several stations observed passing along east coast southward. At Spurn, on Sept. 14th, passed in thousands, and still far from scarce on 17th. From Heligoland Mr. Gätke reports, under date Sept. 3rd:—"Numbers of small birds at the lighthouse from 3 a.m., at which hour the weather moderated with a change from N.E. to E. by S.; all day multitudes of phœnicurus, trochilus, luctuosa, E. hortulana, A. arboreus and pratensis, S. œnanthe. Night, from 3rd to 4th, great numbers of above caught at lighthouse: among forty-nine œnanthe, but three old; amongst forty-seven phœnicurus, eleven old."—"Mem. Trochilus turned up after midnight; phœnicurus and œnanthe, multitudes of young males, early in the night (later also); but the few old birds appeared later after midnight."—Spring migration, 1882, March 19th, Spurn, several seen.

Whinchat, Pratincola rubetra (Linn.).—First week in September, many, with Wheatears in the North-east Lincolnshire marshes.

Stonechat, Pratincola rubicola (Linn.).—Great numbers at Whitby L.H. on April 3rd. In the autumn, first on Northumberland and Durham coast, Sept. 8th and 9th, and Spurn, Sept. 15th; last, at Inner Farne on Oct. 26th, E.S.E. (three), two seen.

Redstart, Ruticilla phœnicurus (Linn.).—The migration of the Redstart seems so inseparably connected with that of the Wheatear that it is difficult to disconnect the two. On May 1st one killed at Hunstanton L.H., 11 p.m., S.W., o.m. In the autumn, in August, September and October, at many stations, the main body passing south in early part of September with the Wheatears. On the 4th they were observed in great numbers along the line of sandhills, near the entrance of the Humber, generally young of the year, only four old males being seen. At Heligoland, in August and first half of September, a great many passed, and on 17th immense numbers; on 10th with M. luctuosa. At Teesmouth (Redcar) a considerable flight came in on Sept. 22nd, during night or early morning, wind E., gales and very stormy; all were young birds, males and females; last observed at Inner Farne on Oct. 23rd, E.S.E. (seven). The latest immigrations were associated with Redbreasts.

White-spotted Blue-throat, Cyanecula leucocyana (Brehm.)—On Sept. 3rd an immature bird was shot by Mr. Power at Cley, Norfolk. Another, also immature, is recorded by Mr. J. A. Harvie Brown, in the Report from the east coast of Scotland, captured at the Isle of May lighthouse on the night of Sept. 22nd.

Redbreast, Erithacus rubecula (Linn.).—March 5th, daybreak, at Whitby L.H., many Redbreasts. The first occurrence in the autumn, September 5th, at the 5th Buoy, Tees L.V., when one came on board. At the Leman and Ower L.V. large numbers passed to W. with Wrens on Sept. 22nd. Same date, and to the 25th, many at the Inner Farne L.H. Whitby on 20th. Also occurring at several stations through October in considerable numbers, as far south as the Inner Dowsing L.V. Very large numbers at Spurn, from October 2nd to 8th; on the 3rd so worn out with a N.E. gale they might be caught by hand. Some crossed Heligoland on Oct. 24th. Migration extending over two months.

Whitethroat, Sylvia rufa (Bodd.); Lesser Whitethroat, S. curruca (Linn.); Blackcap, S. atricapilla (Linn.); Garden Warbler, S. salicaria (Linn.).—One common Whitethroat killed, Cromer L.H., Feb. 21st, 1881, N.E. (4), o.m. Spurn, Sept. 3rd, Warblers of all kinds abounded. Greater and Lesser Whitethroats, Blackcaps, and Garden Warblers:—At Teesmouth (Redcar), Sept. 22nd, several, E. gale and rain. Spurn, one male Blackcap on Oct. 8th. Some Whitethroats passed Heligoland on Oct. 24th. On the English coast the migration of the Sylvianæ is carried on during August and September; the main body passing south with great regularity in the first week in the latter month.

Goldcrested Wren, Regulus cristatus, Koch.—Spring migration on March 19th. Cromer L.H., two killed against lanterns, 3 a.m., W. (four), b.c.m.; and at Hunstanton, April 14th, 2 a.m., one, with a Flycatcher, killed. In the autumn Goldcrests first observed at Hanois L.H., Sept. 1st, midnight, o.m., along with Whitethroats; several killed. Subsequently throughout October, both by day and night, at stations from the Inner Farne L.H. to the Tongue L.V., off the Thames. A great many Goldcrests crossed Heligoland from Oct. 18th to 24th, E., clear, fine, but fresh. The arrival of Goldcrests at Spurn as early as Sept. 5th, associated as usual with Woodcocks and Short-eared Owls (three widely separated species, which are, however, inseparably connected in their migrations), is remarkable, as being one month in advance of their average time. On the Suffolk coast, in great numbers from Oct. 12th to 17th.

Willow Wren, Phylloscopus trochilus (Linn.).—At Spurn, last week in August, immense numbers of Willow Wrens passed on migration along sandhills.

Long-tailed Titmouse, Acredula caudata (Linn.).—Heligoland, Oct. 22nd, S.E. gale, some; Parus ater, Linn., a few; Parus borealis, De Selys, Nov. 10th, one seen, but not obtained.

Great Titmouse, Parus major, Linn.—Oct. 7th to 17th, many in N.E. Lincolnshire.

Blue Titmouse, Parus cæruleus, Linn.—Inner Farne L.H., Oct. 20th, E.S.E. (five), many.

Common Creeper, Certhia familiaris, Linn.—Inner Farne, Oct. 5th, squally, one shot; was running rapidly up a stone wall near lighthouse at time.

Common Wren, Troglodytes parvulus, Koch.—At Cromer, night, April 9th, one killed against lantern. First at Flamborough in the autumn; July 17th, several round lantern all night, o.m.; the next notice is Aug. 12th. Shipwash L.V., from noon to 2 p.m., large numbers with Redbreasts to W.N.W. Aug, 21st, again at Flamborough, many round lantern all night. Spurn L.H., 10 p.m., three killed, in company with other small birds. Flamborough, Sept. 7th, again during the night, many with Wheatears around lantern. At the Leman and Ower L.V., Sept. 22nd, large numbers during day, with Redbreasts, to W. Last occurrence was Inner Farne L.H., Oct. 4th, many. Migration extending over eighty days.

Wagtails, Motacillidæ.—March 8th, at Whitby, many Pied Wagtails, 9 a.m. Oct. 20th, Hanois L.H., 9 p.m., E.S.E. (six), o.m., many, with Thrushes, striking glass.

Meadow Pipit, Anthus pratensis (Linn.).—April 15th, at the Dudgeon L.V., one, with a common Sparrow, came on board, leaving again for W. In September large flocks continued to arrive at intervals in North-east Lincolnshire, and pass on; and again on the 13th, at Spurn, there was an extraordinary migration going on all day from N. to S.

Tawny Pipit, Anthus campestris (Linn.).—Considerable numbers at Heligoland in September, much more than have been seen for years.

Richard's Pipit, Anthus richardi, Vieill.—Up to Oct. 18th, at Heligoland, several seen, and about half a score of young birds shot; Oct. 24th, two; 26th, one. E., fresh, cold.

Great Grey Shrike, Lanius excubitor, Linn.—Several, Spurn, in October; one seen by me there, Oct. 24th, and another with a Redbreast in its beak. One occurrence, first week in same month, on the Lincolnshire coast. Six together were noticed by Miss M. M. Smith, near the lighthouse, at Spurn, on Feb. 17th, probably on the spring migration to the Continent.

Waxwing, Ampelis garrulus, Linn.—Small flock on Westwood Common, near Beverley, on Nov. 3rd. Several at Heligoland, from Dec. 12th to end of month.

Flycatcher, Muscicapa ?—Dudgeon L.V., April 12th, twenty-five Flycatchers to W., wind S. Hunstanton, April 29th, seven or eight about lanterns during night; and same station. May 6th, several at night, wind S., stormy. At the Swin Middle L.V., Aug. 20th to 21st, 9 a.m. to noon, several to W. At Spurn, on Sept. 4th, two or three females, or young of M. atricapilla, Linn., Pied Flycatcher, and others up to 10th. Through August and to Sept. 17th immense numbers of M. atricapilla and Redstarts crossed Heligoland.

Swallow, Hirundo rustica, Linn.—In the spring, first at No. 5 Buoy, Tees L.V., on April 23rd, going S.E. to N.W.; and after this at several stations up to May 27th, the most southerly the Leman and Ower L.V., forty-eight miles N.E., Cromer; general line of flight E. to W., or S.E. to N.W. In the autumn Swallows were observed goings south, first, at Inner Farne L.H., on July 15th; the main body passed south, as noticed at Teesmouth L.V. and Whitby, in immense numbers between Aug. 28th and Sept. 8th. Stragglers seen at Spurn up to Oct. 29th. Were seen almost daily near Brighton during the first fortnight in November moving eastward towards Newhaven, from near which place, at Seaford Head, they cross to the Continent. At the Gull L.V. (Godwin Sands), on July 29th, 5 to 7 a.m., continuous flocks were observed to N.W., and subsequently up to Sept. 26th at intervals, all passing westward.

Martin, Chelidon urbica (Linn.)—First, Whitby, May 10th, passing N. On August 18th, Tees L.V., vast numbers to S. At Hampton Court Palace Gardens stragglers noticed as late as Nov. 27th.

Goldfinch, Carduelis elegans, Steph.—On Oct. 19th, Hanois L.H., 10 a.m., some flocks; blue sky and cloudy. A few at Spurn, Oct. 27th. Mouth of Deben (Suffolk), Oct. 10th, very great numbers.

Siskin, Chrysomitris spinus (Linn.).—First at Spurn, Oct. 3rd, subsequently during the month very numerous; flocks up to twenty; more generally two or three together clinging to tops of ragwort and Aster Tripolium; a few old males, the bulk females and young of the year. They crossed Heligoland in considerable numbers: first on Oct. 18th; last, Nov. 30th.

Greenfinch, Ligurinus chloris (Linn.).—On Sept. 12th, 10 a.m., N.N.W. (7), o.m., at Hunstanton L.H., large flocks came in. At Spurn, Oct. 25, 26th and 27th, small flocks, female and immature. Heligoland, Oct. 18th, some. Immense numbers congregated in the marsh district of North-east Lincolnshire, late in October and early in November; females and young of the year, old males about one in a thousand. The aggregated flocks, numbering many thousands, frequenting the stubble fields for some weeks, where they, found an inexhaustible supply of food in the corn threshed out by the great gale in harvest time, on Aug. 22nd.

Sparrow, Passer domesticus (Linn.).—At the Outer Dowsing L.V., fifty-three miles S.S.E. of Spurn, on April 15th, ten common Sparrows on board, travelling from S.E. to W. In the autumn occurred at several stations from the East Godwin L.V., on Sept. 9th and 10th, to Corton L.V., Dec. 19th, none occurring at stations north of the Outer Dowsing; line of flight E. to W., or S.E. to N.W. Sometimes remaining all day on board the light-vessels, or spending the night there.

Tree Sparrow, Passer montanus (Linn.).—None north of Spurn, but south of this at several stations, as far as the Godwin L.V.'s, in October and early in November. In North-east Lincolnshire large flocks of both species came in with the Greenfinches, feeding with them in the same localities.

Chaffinch, Fringilla cœlebs, Linn.—First at Spurn, Oct. 9th, females and young; last at Gull L.V., Nov. 13th, 8 a.m. to noon; continuous to W. with Linnets. None recorded north of Spurn. Large numbers crossed Heligoland, Oct. 3 8th or 24th, with Bramblings.

Brambling, Fringilla montifringilla, Linn.—Spurn, Oct. 3rd, single old males; 26th, one or two; 27th, flock of about two hundred males: examples obtained had their stomachs filled with the husked seed of the common charlock. Bramblings passed Heligoland on the 24th with F. cœlebs and L. cannabina. E., very strong; and again some Nov. 30th.

Linnet, Linota cannabina (Linn.).—Gull L.V., Nov. 13th, 8 a.m. to noon, with Chaffinches, continuous to W.

Mealy Redpole, Linota linaria (Linn.).—Spurn, considerable flight night of Oct. 24th; subsequently observed in small flocks, twenty to thirty, more generally three or four together, on stalks of ragwort or Aster Tripolium; a few old males, very light coloured and mealy looking, having the breast and rump washed with crimson-rose, which colour some kept in captivity retained throughout the winter. Out of twenty-four obtained during the last week in October twenty-two were males, either old or young. Examples shot, from the same flock showed great disparity both in the length and depth of the bill, indicating probably an immigration from widely separated districts in Scandinavia. These Redpoles were feeding on seeds of Scirpus maritimus and Daucus Carota, rejecting the husks. Very large numbers crossed Heligoland in October, and again on Nov. 30th, and almost daily in December to 20th. At the Inner Farne L.H., on Oct. 6th, many were noticed.

Lesser Redpole, Linota rufescens (Vieill.)—Oct. 26th, three at Inner Farne L.H.; and under date of Oct. 24th, Redcar, Mr. T. H. Nelson writes, five came and alighted in front of my window, evidently very tired; they came from seaward, 10 a.m.; two or three were in the garden, and I saw several on the South Gore; E.S.E., snow and rain. Oct. 25th a large flock in an adjoining field. As the range of L. rufescens is confined to the British Isles these occurrences are probably referable to a closely-allied species, the Linota exilipes of Coues, the Common European Redpole, which, so far, has not been recognised as occurring in Great Britain.

Twite, Linota flavirostris (Linn.)—Spurn, Oct. 25th to 27th, numerous; examples obtained had the rump rosy pink.

Common Bunting, Emberiza miliaria, Linn.—Spurn, Oct. 25th to 27th, large arrival.

Yellow Bunting, Emberiza citrinella, Linn.—Whitby L.H., March 8th, many, 9 a.m. Same station, Oct. 17th, great numbers at same hour. At Teesmouth (Redcar) some on South Gare on morning of Oct. 25th, with other immigrants.

Rustic Bunting, E. rustica, Pall.—Spurn, Sept. 17th, one, presumed to be a female, shot on the beach near Easington by Mr. Townend, schoolmaster. On the same date a fine young bird was obtained on Heligoland. Light variable easterly winds over North Sea at time.

Little Bunting, E. pusilla, Pall.—Sept. 17th, Heligoland, seen but not obtained. Oct. 19th, one.

Reed Bunting, E. schœniclus, Linn.—Teesmouth (Redcar), Sept. 22nd, a flock in conjunction with Chiffchaffs and Lesser Whitethroats.

Lapland Bunting, Plectrophanes lapponicus (Linn.).—One shot at Tetney, near Great Grimsby, Dec. 27th, by Mr. G. E. Power.

Snow Bunting, P. nivalis (Linn.).—First at Spurn, Sept. 10th, an old bird on beach; then, at Inner Farne, on Oct. 6th, four; wind E.N.E. (3). At Heligoland, on Oct. 26th, 28th, 29th, 30th, 31st, easterly winds to N.W. and S.W.; 26th, 9 p.m. to midnight, great many passing overhead; 28th and 29th, rain and hail, both days very great numbers; 30th, great many; 31st, flights of thousands high overhead—one old to about one hundred young. Enormous and unusual flocks occurred from the Farne Islands to N.E. Lincolnshire, from Nov. 14th to end of the year. In the latter district, also near Redcar, many thousands together remaining for weeks on stubble-land feeding on shaken corn. At the South Tees L.V. the great rush was on the 23rd, 24th, and 25th Nov., and again 6th and 10th of Dec, flying S.W. At Inner Farne L.H., Dec. 4th, 11 a.m. to 3 p.m., immense numbers to W. and W.N.W.; very few old birds observed. On Nov. 8th and 9th, at Heligoland, thousands upon thousands passed night and day along with Shore Larks, Otocorys alpestris. In spring of 1882, March 28th, Spurn, a few; 29th, one on beach.

Sky Lark, Alauda arvensis, Linn.—On the night of July 25th, 1881, large numbers occurred at the Dudgeon and the Leman and Ower L.V.'s, round the lanterns, in the former case associated with Starlings and Snipes; fifty fell on deck, and sixty at Leman and Ower. Again, at these same light-vessels, on March 6th and 7th, great numbers occurred during night. In the autumn Sky Larks occurred at all stations from the Inner Farne to Hanois. Earliest, Sept. 12th, Lynn Well L.V.; latest, Galloper L.V., July 8th, 1882. Great rush Sept. 20th, and again Oct. 17th, 18th, 19th, being then continuous all day at many stations between Flamborough and Nore L.V., less each day to 25th; frequently associated with Starlings. At the most northerly stations the direction of flight was south, from Spurn to the English Channel E. to W. or S.E. to N.W. Many occurred round the lantern of the Galloper L.V. on night of July 4th and 8th (seventy caught alive on latter night); line of flight to S.W.

Shore Lark, Otocorys alpestris (Linn.).—Oct. 17th to 26th, great many almost daily, and Nov. 8th and 9th (see [Snow Bunting]). The only occurrence on the English coast is Oct. 26th, Yarmouth, two on North Denes.

Starling, Sturnus vulgaris, Linn.—Spring migration in 1881 observed at Dudgeon L.V. and Cromer L.H. from Feb. 25th to April 14th. In the autumn at nearly all our mid and south-east stations from August 30th to Dec. 11th. Heligoland, great rush Oct. 18th and 19th. On the English coast, during last fortnight in month, both night and day; often associated with other migrants. Line of migration to W., S.W., N.W., W.N.W. At Teesmouth (Redcar), on Nov. 4th, an immense flock, estimated to contain a million, "making a noise like thunder and darkening the air," came from E. at 7 a.m.; S.W. light, rainy to fair. Mr. John Odgers (Whitby L.H.) writes:—"We have had immense numbers of Starlings nesting in the cliffs up to this year; none, however, nested in 1881."

Daw, Corvus monedula, Linn.—Oct. 25th to Nov. 14th, occasionally with rooks at east-central stations.

Hooded Crow, Corvus cornix, Linn.—In the spring of 1881, at the Outer Dowsing on March 28th, 11 a.m., about one hundred from W.N.W. to S.E.; and at the Dudgeon L.V., on April 8th, 7 a.m., about sixty to east. Twenty were seen at Spurn on June 26th, at 3 p.m., S.S.E., clear. In the autumn are recorded at nearly all our stations from the Inner Farne to the Godwin's. First at Teesmouth, Sept. 23rd, fourteen; Sept. 30th, Suffolk coast, and for some days after. Last at South Sand Head L.V. (Godwin), Dec. 12th. The great flight crossed Heligoland on the 17th and 18th of October, E. clear, fine but fresh. Mr. Gätke remarks this migration "differed very markedly from usual habits in passing overhead, E. to W., at least twice as high as usual; further, by continuing passing on late in the afternoon, which accounts for your arrivals 'during night or early morn,' which, however, I do not think has been later than soon after nightfall. As a general rule C. cornix, coming here later than 2 p.m., do not proceed on their migration, but remain on cliffs and island all night." There was a great arrival also on the English coast on the nights or early morning of Oct. 18th and 19th, at north, middle and south-east stations. There was again a considerable flight across Heligoland on Nov. 8th and 9th, and again Dec. 10th and 11th. Thirteen Carrion Crows were observed at the Inner Farne L.H. on Oct. 26th, and a large Raven at Whitby L.H., 10 a.m. on Aug. 26th.

Rook, Corvus frugilegus, Linn.—In spring of 1881, at Dudgeon L.V., March 7th, 10 a.m., flocks to E.S.E. At the Leman and Ower L.V., on April 12th, 13th, 14th, and 15th, continuous to S.E. In the autumn, at some mid and south-east stations, first at East Godwin L.V., Sept. 9th, all day W. to E.; last on Dec. 23rd, Lynn Wells, all day S.E. to N.W. Great rush Oct. 17th and 18th; also 25th to 27th same month.

Common Swift, Cypselus apus (Linn.).—May 1st, Hunstanton L.H., one; many on 7th. Were migrating south in large flocks last week in August and first in September. Seen last Sept. 22nd, Spurn, 7 p.m., o.m. flocks round lantern.

Nightjar, Caprimulgus europæus, Linn.—Spurn, May 25th, one; are scarce in vernal migration at this station, common in the autumn. This last year from Sept. 3rd to Oct. 3rd. The few that turned up in Heligoland, Mr. Gätke says, during all this bad weather (Sept.), "were minus the conspicuous white patches on primaries and remiges."

Green Woodpecker, Gecinus viridis (Linn.).—Cromer L.H., Sept. 25th, a bird, answering in every respect to this species, was seen for some hours near the lighthouse.

Hoopoe, Upupa epops, Linn.—Near Durham, Lincolnshire coast, and Spurn on Sept. 24th, 26th, and 29th. One, Nov. 10th, seen perched on telegraph wire near Whittlesea Station, Great Northern Railway.

Cuckoo, Cuculus canorus, Linn.—Cromer L.H., April 29th, noon, several seen. Many (young birds) passed Spurn last fortnight in September.

Barn Owl, Strix flammea, Linn.—Oct. 16th, one captured at sea on board one of the Grimsby fishing-smacks and brought in. See Zool. 1882, p. 86.

Long-eared Owl, Asio otus (Linn.).—Spurn, two, last week in August. Redcar, one, Oct. 2nd, E.

Short-eared Owl, Asio accipitrinus (Pall).—April 12th and 15th, one each day, past Dudgeon L.V. to W.S.W. One, Spurn, May 25th. In the autumn, at several stations from Teesmouth (Redcar) to Hasborough L.V., from Sept. 5th to Nov. 9th, line of flight from E. to W. or S.E. to N.W. At Redcar numerous occurrences between Sept. 15th and Oct. 26th, with E. and N.E. winds.

Snowy Owl, Nyctea scandiaca (Linn.).—Mr. T. H. Nelson writes:—"A great White Owl flew up the sands in front of Redcar, 10.30 a.m., Oct. 25th, past a group of fishermen and over the town, going S.W., wind E.N.E. strong."

Tengmalm's Owl, Nyctala tengmalmi, (Gmel.).—Cromer L.H., Oct. 30th, 2 a.m., one caught against lantern; Nov. 18th, one near Dartford, Kent. ('Field,' Nov. 26th).

Common Buzzard, Buteo vulgaris, Leach.—Heligoland, Sept. 22nd, an immense flight, thousands passing on, and as many resting on the cliffs, E. storm (No. 9); 23rd and 24th, still great many. Numerous from Sept. 24th to Oct. 18th between the Farne Islands and coast of Norfolk, the bulk coming in during the last week in September. On Sept. 27th, coast of Suffolk, and passing at a great height to the south.

Sparrowhawk, Accipiter nisus (Linn.).—Heligoland, Sept. 22nd, Sparrowhawks and Kites. At the Coquet L.H., Outer Dowsing, Corton and Cockle L.V.'s, the same day. A very considerable arrival was also noted at Northrepps, near Cromer, between the 13th and 23rd of August.

Kite, Milvus ictinus, Savigny.—Yarmouth, one last week in September.

Honey Buzzard, Pernis apivorus (Linn.).—Norfolk, Oct. 6th, nineteen Honey Buzzards, Mr. Gurney writes, up to this date.

Peregrine Falcon, Falco peregrinus, Tunstall.—Heligoland, Sept. 22nd, Peregrines, Hobbies, and Kestrels many. Spurn, some of each in October.

Common Kestrel, Falco tinnunculus, Linn.—Many observed in coast districts of N.E. Lincolnshire in July, August, and September.

Osprey, Pandion haliaëtus (Linn.).—There were no less than ten occurrences of this noble bird between the Tyne and Thames from the last week in September through October, namely, Durham, one; Yorkshire, one; Lincolnshire, three; Norfolk, two; Suffolk, one; and near London, two; several others being recorded from inland places in various parts of the kingdom. Of the Lincolnshire examples, two were birds of the year; the other, shot Oct. 15th near some artificial trout ponds at Laceby, near Grimsby, was a magnificent adult female. One adult was obtained near Chester on Nov. 17th. It is very clearly shown in the returns that the great movement southward of the raptorial birds began on or about Sept. 21st, and was continued during the next fortnight.

Cormorant, Phalacrocorax carbo (Linn.).—Coquet L.H., Nov. 26th, 2 p.m., twelve to north.

Gannet, Sula bassana (Linn.).—May 2nd and 3rd, Inner Farne L.H., large flocks all day to N. During September large numbers passed Flamborough to the south. On Dec. 2nd, at the Gull L.V., twenty were seen going west into the Channel; and on the 4th ten to the south. A great many were observed by fishermen at sea during the latter half of September and early part of October, fishing and "striking" near the boats amongst the herring shoals.

Heron, Ardea cinerea, Linn.—August 31st, Inner Farne L.H., 6 p.m., N.N.E., two coming in from sea. At Teesmouth (Redcar) on August 3rd, nine at 11 a.m. to W., moderate west wind; others in September.

Little Bittern, Ardea minuta (Linn.).—One, a male, Sept. 23rd, was shot near Goole, Yorkshire.

Glossy Ibis, Plegadis falcinellus (Linn.).—Four occurrences in September, namely, one killed near Lynn, and another seen; one at Skegness, Lincolnshire, Sept. 9th, and another in Hampshire, Dogmerfield, Sept. 15th. One also was shot in Hertfordshire, Oct. 10th ('Field,' Nov. 26th), and another on 27th of the same month at Skegness.

Wild Goose, Anser ?—At Flamborough, on July 8th, 7.30 p.m., about one hundred Grey Geese to N. At the South Sand Head L.V., Aug. 23rd, 6 to 8 a.m., continuous flocks to S.W., and again on Sept. 23rd, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., continuous to S. Grey Geese were also noted in considerable numbers at several stations from the Tees to the South Foreland L.V., from the beginning of September to the 8th of December, flying in various directions.

Brent Goose, Bernicla brenta (Pall.).—In March, 1881, many were observed off the 5 Buoy Tees L.V. At Corton L.V., on June 14th, fifty from W. to N.E., "passed close to vessel; am quite certain they were black geese." At the South Sand Head, on Sept. 5th, 6 to 8 a.m., flocks continuous to W. At Coquet L.H., Oct. 15th, one Egyptian Goose, 3 p.m., to N.

Swan, Cygnus ?—At Heligoland, on Oct. 23rd, S.E. blowing hard and very cold, Swans with Geese and Ducks passing. On Lynn Wells L.V., on Dec. 19th, two at noon, E.N.E., to S.W.; and on 21st, at Inner Dowsing L.V., 3 p.m., fifteen flying low from E. to W.

Sheldrake, Tadorna cornuta (Gmel.).—At 5 Buoy Tees L.V., Nov. 20th, twenty off light; and on 29th, forty.

Mallard, Anas boschas, Linn.—5 Buoy Tees L.V., March 26th, 1881, Mallard with Wigeon and two Teal. In Sept. and Oct., large flocks at several stations. At the Teesmouth (Redcar), on Aug. 17th, "a rush" of Ducks occurred between 6 a.m. and noon; also on previous night, continuous to N.W., with Whimbrel and Curlew; the Ducks were in flocks of about 100 together. Again on Oct. 14th, the great storm from N.W., continuous flocks of Ducks passed from 7 a.m. to 9 p.m., going W. At the Swin Middle L.V., Aug. 22nd to 27th inclusive. Ducks all day to W.; and again both Ducks and Wild Geese from Sept. 1st to 12th, in large numbers each day, and all day to N.W.

Blue-winged Teal, Querquedula discors, Steph.—One, a young bird, shot on Sept. 3rd near Redcar by Mr. W. Chilton.

Wigeon, Mareca penelope (Linn.).—Large flocks off Teesmouth in November and December.

Scaup, Fuligula marila (Linn.).—5 Buoy Tees L.V., Jan. 23rd, 1881, "Bell Wigeon" [Scaup], great number to W.N.W.

Long-tailed Duck, Harelda glacialis, (Linn.).—Inner Farne L.H., Oct. 20th and 22nd, several off island.

Eider Duck, Somateria mollisima (Linn.).—On Sept. 24th, at Coquet Island L.V., twenty Eider Drakes and one female off island; and at Inner Farne L.V., in Oct., hundreds, both males and females, swimming under lee of islands. The King Eider, S. spectabilis (Linn.), was again seen during the latter part of April, and remained in neighbourhood for two months; last seen on June 19th.

Common Scoter, Œdemia nigra (Linn.).—At Coquet L.H., 3rd, 9th, and 17th, all day to N. Corton L.V., Dec. 7th, 12th, and 13th, great numbers E. to W. during greater part of day. Large numbers seen at several stations off the coast in November.

Goosander, Mergus merganser, Linn.—On Oct. 22nd, Teesmouth (Redcar), stormy E.S.E. gale, twelve were seen flying over East Scar, nine going W. and three E.

Red-breasted Merganser, Mergus serrator, Linn.—During November and December several seen off the Farne Islands and Teesmouth.

Ring Dove, Columba palumbus, Linn.—One at Spurn L.H., against lantern, on Sept. 15th, 10 p.m. Immense flocks came into N.E. Lincolnshire in November. At Lynn Wells L.V., on Oct. 22nd, large flocks, 10 a.m., S.E. to N.W.; and at Caistor Denes, Yarmouth, on Nov. 26th, very large flocks; they are reported, on 28th, from Beccles (Norfolk) in such numbers as "to make the sky quite dark."

Turtle Dove, Turtur communis, Selby.—One at Great Cotes, Sept. 15th, near rifle-butts on Humber Bank.

Water Rail, Rallus aquaticus, Linn.—On Oct. 3rd, Inner Farne L.H.; and another at Spurn, caught alive in yard of lighthouse on morning of Oct. 27th.

Landrail, Crex pratensis, Bechst.—At Great Cotes, near Grimsby, Sept. 1st, N., half-a-gale; and at Heligoland, on 9th, Mr. Gätke writes, "very reddest I have ever had." At Yarmouth, Oct. 5th.

Spotted Crake, Porzana maruetta (Leach).—Heligoland, Sept., one young bird.

Golden Plover, Charadrius pluvialis, Linn.—First week in Sept., small flights in N.E. Lincolnshire. On the 6th, Mr. Wm. Eagle Clarke, writing from Spurn, says, "a long waved line extending at least three or four miles passed over, extending far over the Humber towards Lincolnshire coast, 5.15 p.m., wind changing from N. to S., direction of flight N." At the Farne Islands, during the month, hundreds of Golden Plovers and Lapwings coming off to the islands in morning, and leaving for the land at night. At the same station, Nov. 5th, great numbers to W.S.W.

Grey Plover, Squatarola helvetica (Linn.).—Humber foreshore, June 1st, one old male in summer plumage, and five less advanced; another, in the same flock, in winter plumage. At Spurn, on June 13th, 4 p.m., N.E., clear, Grey Plovers were seen passing S. to N. In the autumn, in the first week in August, three old birds in breeding plumage on Humber muds; also several old black-breasted birds seen at Spurn on 24th. The young of the year arrived in large numbers last of August and first week of September. Seven shot near Spurn, on Sept. 12th, were two males and four females, and one lost; all were in fine summer plumage; were very numerous on Humber flats during September and October; with the above exceptions, birds of the year or old having completed the autumn moult.

Kentish Plover, Ægialitis cantiana (Lath.).—One, an immature example, was shot on the shore at Friskney, near Boston, on Oct. 8th; subsequently came into the hands of Mr. A. S. Hutchinson, of Derby.

Ringed Plover, Ægialitis hiaticula (Linn.).—May 27th, a flock numbering about twenty of the small race, Ægialitis intermedius (Ménétriés), on Humber muds.

Dotterel, Eudromias morinellus (Linn.).—May 14th to 21st, some "trips" in N.E. Lincolnshire marshes, also at localities in Holderness; twenty seen in one flock, thirty in another.

Lapwing, Vanellus vulgaris, Bechst.—At the north-eastern stations, noticeably at Inner Farne L.H., Hunstanton L.H., Inner Dowsing L.V., and Lynn Wells L.V., where very large numbers passed from Oct. 6th to Nov. 12th, general direction S.E. to N.W. At Teesmouth (Redcar), Nov. 4th, an immense immigration between 8 a.m. and 3 p.m., passing westward, flocks numbering from 50 up to 500 birds, a flock coming in from seaward every ten minutes or thereabouts; S.W., light, fine, and mild.

Turnstone, Strepsilas interpres (Linn.).—May 25th, many both mature and immature on coasts of N.E. Lincolnshire and Holderness. Teesmouth, in the autumn, not so plentiful as usual; common in other localities.

Oystercatcher, Hæmatopus ostralegus, Linn.—At Teesmouth (Redcar), Aug. 18th, 6 a.m., three or four hundred, N.N.E., light, dull and showery. Hunstanton L.H., flocks S.W. at ebb, and E. at flood, throughout August.

Red-necked Phalarope, Phalaropus hyperboreus (Linn.).—One near Grimsby, Sept. 26th; one Spurn and one Withernsea, Oct. 9th; two on Suffolk coast, same month ('Field,' Oct. 29th, 1881).

Grey Phalarope, Phalaropus fulicarias, Linn.—Teesmouth (Redcar), Oct. 15th, two, in adult plumage, only a few grey feathers on back, N.N.W. gale; one seen near Redcar same day.

Woodcock, Scolopax rusticula, Linn.—May 24th, Outer Dowsing L.V., one, 10.30 a.m., E.S.E. (4), passing from W. by N. to E.S.E. At numerous stations in the autumn [principally in the north and mid-east], from Inner Farne L.H. to East Godwin L.V. First at Spurn, on Sept. 4th; last at Heligoland, Nov. 30th, "a few Woodcocks and Snipe" (first and only occurrence there in 1881). Greatest flight on English coast night of Oct. 28th, N.E., snow and sleet. Woodcocks have dropped in very irregularly throughout the autumn, by two's and three's during October, and not in those great rushes which usually characterise their immigration. Migrate generally during the night; frequent exceptions to this rule. Casualties against the lanterns of lighthouses and light-vessels from midnight till daybreak.

Double Snipe, Gallinago major (Gmel.).—One, Sept. 15th, was shot in a clover field about fifteen miles from Redcar. One, Sept. 4th, at Spurn, killed against the telegraph-wire; another, same locality, 16th; one, Seaton Carew, Durham, 27th same month.

Common Snipe, Gallinago cælestis (Frenzel).—Some few last week in July, main body last week of October to first week in November, rapidly passing on. Nov. 23rd, Gull L.V., 10.30 a.m., about 100 to. W. Spring migration, 1882, second week in March.

Jack Snipe, Gallinago gallinula (Linn.).—The only occurrences recorded at Inner Farne L.H., from Sept. 23rd to Nov. 4th. Mouth of Deben, Suffolk, both this and the former are recorded from Sept. 30th to Oct. 1st, at full moon, with E. wind, in large quantities, continuing to arrive for some time; remarkable by its entire absence from its ordinary winter quarters.

Dunlin, Tringa alpina, Linn.—Spurn, May 25th, very large flocks, composed of birds some in summer plumage, others having no appearance of changing from ordinary winter garb. Enormous flocks were seen at some north-eastern stations in October. Great number at Teesmouth (Redcar), from Sept. 15th to Oct. 12th, all going W.N.W., towards the Tees.

Little Stint, Tringa minuta, Leisl.—In small flocks on Humber foreshores, from Sept. 2nd to as late as Oct. 8th. Fresh arrivals easily recognisable by their extreme tameness. Comparatively plentiful on coasts of Holderness, Lincolnshire, and Norfolk during the same period.

Temminck's Stint, Tringa Temmincki, Leisl.—One early in September, near Yarmouth; a few regularly occur at this season on the east coast, although rarely obtained, and probably also frequently overlooked.

Pigmy Curlew, Tringa subarquata (Güld.).—First at Spurn, July 21st, two in summer plumage. Flocks of young, thirty to fifty, numerous through September and October in the same districts as the Little Stint.

Knot, Tringa canutus, Linn.—Spurn, June 7th, 6 p.m., "Plover-Knot" from N. to S. Some, birds of the previous year, and which do not acquire the summer dress, remain on the east coast during the summer. The first arrivals of young Knot occurred during the first week in August; great rush (young birds) first week in September, the old coming during the last week, in October. Mr. Winson, the captain of the Spurn life-boat, picked up a Knot on Nov. 7th, which was killed by flying against the telegraph-wire; this bird was in faded summer plumage, the upper parts nearly black, with edgings of buff on the margins of the feathers.

Ruff and Reeve, Machetes pugnax (Linn.).—On Sept. 3rd, two shot from a flock of nine on Cowpen Marsh, near Redcar, N.E., stormy. One Ruff and two Reeves were also obtained at Spurn early in September.

Sanderling, Calidris arenaria (Linn.).—May 25th, some at Spurn, young of previous year, and in immature plumage. Aug. 1st, flock of nine; and henceforward in large numbers during August and September, many remaining on the coast till end of the year, and into 1882. At Teesmouth (Redcar) they are reported scarcer this season than they have been for many years.

Common Sandpiper, Totanus hypoleucus (Linn.).—May 14th to 20th, North-east Lincolnshire, flocks passing along the coast northward, returning first week in September.

Green Sandpiper, Totanus ochropus (Linn.).—July 30th, returning.

Wood Sandpiper, Totanus glareola (Linn.).—Aug. 6th, one shot near Redcar; small flock seen.

Common Redshank, Totanus calidris (Linn.).—Scarce near Teesmouth in the autumn. At Spurn, July 31st, many.

Spotted Redshank, Totanus fuscus (Linn.).—Teesmouth, about Sept. 15th; one, a fully-matured bird, obtained.

Greenshank, Totanus canescens (Gmel.).—Comparatively numerous in Humber district in September and October, more than have been seen for many years.

Bar-tailed Godwit, Limosa lapponica (Linn.).—Passed the Tees in considerable numbers first week in September. Very common in Humber district in September and October. At Redcar (Teesmouth), between July 4th and 7th, about thirty passed each morning to W. On Sept. 22nd, a slight "rush"; several large flocks with Knots, both in morning and afternoon, going W.; E. gale, stormy, with heavy rain.

Whimbrel, Numenius phæopus (Linn.).—At Spurn, May 25th, three seen. Teesmouth (Redcar), July 4th to 7th, each day a few seen in morning, S.W., fine. Aug. 17th, continuous flocks with Curlews and Godwits from 6 to 9 a.m., and also the preceding night, W., calm; and at intervals to Sept. 23rd, all flying W. or N.W. Last occurrence Oct. 22nd. 5 Buoy Tees L.V., at 11 a.m., twenty to S.W.

Curlew, Numenius arquata (Linn.).—On May 1st and 18th, at Inner Farne and Flamborough, round lanterns during night. At various localities in the autumn, from July 17th to end of September. Great rush, with Whimbrels and Godwits, on Aug. 17th.

Terns, Sterninæ.—At the Farne Islands, in 1881, the Sandwich Terns returned on May 6th, the Arctic Terns on the 9th; they left again in a body, both old and young, on Aug. 21st. From Sept. 2nd to 5th, hundreds of both species revisited and settled upon their breeding grounds. After this, from Sept. 16th to the end of the month, two to three hundred Arctic Terns, both old and young, were observed daily fishing near island (Inner Farne L.H.), leaving again at night. Three Arctic Terns, two old and one young, were seen fishing off island on Oct. 27th, and on 29th a single young bird. A flock of about thirty Common Terns were to be seen in front of Redcar daily up to Oct. 14th, when the great storm evidently drove them south. Both at Redcar and Flamborough, throughout September, great numbers of Terns were noticed passing south. At Spurn, in May, 1881, small parties of Black Terns were passing north, a few returning southward by the same route in August. The Lesser Terns returned to their nesting quarters at Spurn in the third week in May. At Coquet Island L.H., on the night of Aug. 22nd, fog. Terns with Curlews were all night beating about the lantern. In 1882, March 29th, Spurn, two Terns [sp. ?] seen passing north.

Gulls, Larinæ.—The Herring Gulls returned to their breeding stations at Whitby on Feb. 14th; they left the cliffs with their young on Aug. 26th. Lesser Black-backed Gulls were observed congregating at their nesting quarters, on the Farne Islands, on April 13th. At Flamborough, on July 4th, great numbers of Kittiwakes were passing to the south all day. Unusual numbers of Herring Gulls and Little Gulls (L. minutus, Pall.) were seen off Flamborough in September. At Spurn, on Oct. 26th, two Little Gulls were seen; and about the 22nd two immature Sabine's Gull, Xema Sabinii, procured on the Norfolk coast, some Little Gulls being seen at the same time. At Teesmouth (Redcar), on Sept. 22nd, continuous flocks of Herring and Lesser Black-backed Gulls, young birds, passed from daylight to dusk, all going N.W., strong E. gale, rain. On Oct. 23rd, and for several days previous. Great Black-backed Gulls had been passing to N.W., forty to one hundred in the course of a day, E.S.E. winds, all mature birds. It is many years since so large a number of Great Black-backs had been seen passing. At the Cockle L.V., on Nov. 11th, continuous flocks of Gulls were passing westward all day; and on Dec. 29th, at Lynn Wells L.V., flocks all day from E. to W.

Skuas, Stercorariinæ.—On July 12th, a flock of one hundred (probably S. crepidatus) passed at 8.30 p.m. to N.W., high over Redcar, wind W. On Sept. 16th a great many Skuas were seen on the fishing grounds, five to six miles out, Richardson's, Pomatorhine, and Buffon's busily engaged chasing the Gulls and Terns; and again on Sept. 29th, a great many Richardson's, Pomatorhine, and a few Buffon's Skuas seen from four to twelve miles at sea by fishermen similarly employed. On Oct. 14th, during the gale from N.N.W., great numbers of Pomatorhine came down from north, passing Redcar and going off inland, mostly flying high. The same day a large mixed flock of Pomatorhine and Buffon's Skua was seen near the Breakwater, crouching on the ground to get shelter from the tempest of wind and rain. Great numbers of Skuas passed Flamborough in September; on Oct. 4th, four Richardson's Skuas were seen off Yarmouth; and on Nov. 23rd, at Southsand Head L.V., great numbers ("Bonxie's and chasers") with Gannets.

Petrels, Procellariidæ.—During the gale on Oct. 14th, several Storm Petrels seen coming past Redcar from the north; they also occurred from Aug. 10th to Nov. 20th at several stations, not unfrequently striking the lanterns of lighthouses and light-vessels on clear as well as on foggy nights. The Fork-tailed Petrel (P. leucorrhoa) occurred at various stations, both on the coast and inland, between Oct. 24th and Nov. 28th, one at Heligoland, in December, being only the second obtained during Mr. Gätke's long residence in the island. It is probable that this, being a west coast species, is driven in the autumn by heavy gales right across the island on to our east coast—that is, from N.W. to S.E.; its rarity at Heligoland in the autumn supports this view of the line taken by stragglers occurring inland, and on our east coast after heavy N. and S.W. gales. Puffinus anglorum and P. major passed Flamborough, in September, in considerable numbers.

Alcidæ.—At Flamborough, on April 28th, great numbers of Guillemots arrived during the day; and on the 29th the Puffins returned for the season. At the Farne Islands a white Guillemot was seen in June and July. The Guillemots and Puffins left their breeding stations between Aug. 20th and 28th. At Whitby, on Aug. 17th and 21st, very large flocks of Guillemots were seen passing north.

Colymbidæ.—From Aug. 13th to Nov. 8th, at intervals, many Great Northern and Red-throated Divers seen off Redcar. At the Inner Farne L.H., from Oct. 5th to 17th, both species common; two of the former, shot Dec. 8th and 10th, off the Inner Farne Island, weighed 12 and 12½ pounds.

Podicipitidæ.—At the Inner Farne L.H., in February, 1881, an unusual number of Grebes and small Divers were observed.

General Remarks.

The results of the observations taken along the East Coast of England in the spring and autumn of 1881 have been satisfactory; it is true that, as already mentioned, the returns sent in have been less than in the previous year, yet what has been lost in quantity has more than been made up in the quality of the work. The observers have become trained by experience, and have learnt not only how to observe, but what to observe.

As in previous years, the main line of migration has been a broad stream from E. to W. or from S.E. to N.W. this year, covering the whole of our east coast in comparatively equal proportions; the occurrences of migrants coming from northerly directions, or from points anything north of east, are few and far between, and in these cases are consequent on birds striking the coast in more northern latitudes and following it to the south. Thus, north of Flamborough, Larks pass up the coast from north to south; at Spurn and south of Spurn they come in directly from the sea. The closeness with which both migrants and immigrants follow the coast line has also been verified in a remarkable degree,—an observer taking up his position at a short distance from the coast would see or know nothing of migration, yet within half-a-mile or less there might be a constant stream of birds, hour by hour and day by day passing to the south.

In the spring birds also return on the same lines they travelled in the autumn, from W. and N.W. to E. and S.E. A reference to the spring notes in the report on each separate species observed will show this. Our spring immigrants also arrive from the sea, and are first seen on or near the coast, gradually moving inland. Migration has been earlier than in 1880, in many cases birds arriving considerably in advance of recent years; this has been notably the case with some of the Limicolæ, such as have the widest ranges and where nesting grounds are circumpolar—that is, confined to lands surrounding the North Pole. Also in the case of the Anatidæ, which arrived fully a month before their average period.

It may be said the general features of migration, having reference to lines of flight, time, height of travelling, favourable winds or otherwise, circumstances of greatest casualties at lanterns of lighthouses and light-vessels, are the same as set forth in previous reports; yet in 1881 we find several important variations from the normal phenomenon, consequent on the directions of the wind and general character of the season. From the commencement of August to the end of October the prevailing winds have been from northerly and easterly directions, blowing more or less directly on to the coast, and therefore, as also shown in previous reports, unfavourable passage winds—for it may be laid down as an axiom that, with southerly or westerly winds, not amounting to gales, normal migration is the rule, but with winds in the opposite direction, the results are very opposite; such winds, more especially if strong, weary out the immigrants and compel them to drop on the first coast they make, often completely exhausted by the passage. The consequence has been that, on our east coast, with the prevailing winds, it has been a most favourable season for the observer; and generally the number of birds recorded is considerably in excess of any previous records.

The winter of 1881-82 has been remarkable for its high temperature, no such uniformly mild season having occurred for many years in England. The same has been the case over the whole of Northern Europe north of latitude 50° N. As might be expected, so exceptional a season has not been without its effect upon our immigrants. Fieldfares have crossed in very limited numbers, and have everywhere been remarkably scarce in localities along our east coast. Large numbers of birds which regularly arrive in the autumn, as the Greenfinch, Chaffinch, Tree Sparrow, Snow Bunting, and others, and which remain for a few days only and then pass on, have this winter continued for many weeks, and even months, resorting in immense flocks to the stubble-fields near the coast, where, with no severe weather to drive them away, they found an inexhaustible supply of food in the large quantity of grain dashed out in harvest-time by the great gale from S.W. to W. on August 26th. Snow Buntings have been considerably in excess of anything known for many years, the proportion of old birds not more than one in a hundred.

Another consequence of the mildness of the winter is the desultory fashion in which birds have migrated; there have been less of those great "rushes," when for days together one species after another rush helter-skelter on to our coast. Migration has also been greatly prolonged, and the latest returns received show Rooks, Starlings, and Larks still crossing the North Sea in February. The last week in August and first in September Wheatears and Redstarts passed as usual up the coast from N. to S., the line of migration being confined to the chain of sandhills. Also during the first week of September, and again about the 20th, there was an immense migration of the Sylviinæ in the same direction. Migration appears to have reached its climax on or about Sept. 22nd, an enormous number of various immigrants coming in from this time to the end of the month. Not the least remarkable was the influx of the larger raptorial birds crossing Heligoland on Sept. 22nd and two following days, and were about the same period seen along the entire range of our eastern coast. From this date to the end of October ten Ospreys were procured from localities contiguous to the east coast of England, between the Tyne and the Thames. Again, the third week of October there was another large immigration of birds of various species. On the night of Oct. 24th great numbers of Mealy Redpoles came in on the Holderness coast; the same flight was also traceable as far north as the Farne Islands; the Mealy Redpoles appear to have been accompanied or closely followed by a flight of Siskins. Hooded Crows came with their usual regularity, almost to a day; this autumn the great flight crossed Heligoland on the afternoon of Oct. 17th, and on the 18th. There was a corresponding arrival along the whole of our east coast on the night of 17th or early morning of 18th, and on the 19th.

Short-eared Owls, Golden Crested Wrens, and Woodcocks arrive with great punctuality during the first fortnight in October, and are invariably associated in their migration—that is, coming at the same time; it is a curious fact that, in the last autumn, all three arrived in conjunction five weeks in advance of their average period; this perhaps may have been a local and coast movement from North Britain, and not across the North Sea.

In August and early in September, Knots, Grey Plovers, Sanderlings, Curlew Sandpipers, and Little Stints—all circumpolar in their nesting—had returned in large number, being unusually abundant and early in their movements up the coast.

The Anatidæ have been remarkably scarce in shore and within our river estuaries, and it has been an almost blank season for the wildfowl-shooter; yet we find, in the returns from some light-vessels, they have occurred in extraordinary numbers out at sea, the weather having never been sufficiently severe to drive them inland or near the coast.

With a dry hot summer in Northern Europe migration is always earlier than in years of rain and low temperature, birds breeding sooner in the former, and the nestlings, like all other young things, with dry weather and sunshine, developing more rapidly.

Nothing is more remarkable in the phenomenon of migration than the punctuality with which certain species return in the autumn, one species regularly taking precedence of another; also in respect to the date of the arrival year after year. In the Limicolæ and Anatidæ the date of autumn migration varies—often considerably—from year to year. In some species, as the Wheatear, Redstart, Fieldfare, Redwing, Hooded Crow, Goldcrest and Woodcock, and others, we may almost predict to a day the time of their first appearance.

The period of the migratory flight in the autumn of any particular genus or species is most probably referable to two causes: the first one of temperature, affecting the time of nesting; the second is the period at which the young arrive at maturity, or rather that period when they throw off paternal control or are thrown off themselves. When able to act independently and procure food on their own account, they flock together and migrate in a body. We know that, with rare exceptions, the young of the year migrate some weeks in advance of the parent birds; thus we can readily conceive the whole of the large raptorial birds nesting about the same time over widely extending districts in Northern Europe; when the many young arrive at a self-dependent stage there would be a simultaneous movement, ending in a universal migratory rush. This period of self-dependence is arrived at much more quickly in some birds than in others, for species like the Knot, Grey Plover, Godwit, and Sanderling, nesting in very high latitudes, leave our shores the last in the spring of any of the migrants, and their young are amongst the first to return in autumn. The order of migration, more especially in connection with the shore birds, is the occurrence very early in autumn—July or August—of a few old birds in summer plumage, either barren or such perhaps as have been prevented nesting, then the young in large flocks, and some weeks subsequently old birds.

The season of 1881-82 will long be remembered by east coast ornithologists for the number of rare visitants which have appeared from time to time, driven to westward of their ordinary migration lines by the prevailing winds from N. and N.E. to E. and S.E., generally strong and frequently increasing to a severe gale. The fact of ten Ospreys having been seen or procured has already been mentioned; there were two occurrences of Tengmalm's Owl; the Rustic Bunting at Spurn; Lapp Bunting at Tetney, on Lincolnshire coast; White-spotted Blue-throat at Cley, in Norfolk; Glossy Ibis, five occurrences; Sabine's Gull, two on Norfolk coast; Kentish Plover, Lincolnshire; Blue-winged Teal, Teesmouth; and numerous other occurrences of scarcely secondary interest. These, as well as the rarer occurrences in Heligoland, have been separately treated in the notes on each species observed.