Emberiza nivalis [The Snow Bunting].
Seen in large flocks during winter, and exhibiting a motley mixture of pure white, jet black, dull tawny, and deep chestnut,—a beautiful band across the wings being conspicuous only in flight. They arrive about the beginning of November, and depart about the first of April. They sing beautifully, in a sweet low lilt.
Emberiza miliaria [The Corn Bunting].
This bird is not very numerous with us.
Emberiza schœniclus [The Black-headed Bunting or Ring Fowl].
It frequents the mosses. I have found their nests in bushes, amongst reeds, or on the ground. It is called the “Moss Sparrow” by the country people. I once saw a black variety of this bird, and another almost yellow.
Emberiza citrinella [The Yellowhammer].
More numerous than either of the two last. The common name here is “Skite.” It is not particular as to the place where it builds its nest. I have seen one built in a rut on a cart-track, close by the wayside. On passing afterwards, I found the nest had been destroyed by a cart-wheel passing over it.
Emberiza Cirlus [The Cirl Bunting].
Very rarely found in this quarter.