Only one of this British rarity has been procured here, so far as I know. It occurred at a place called Thornton, on the banks of the Isla.
Gallinula chloropus [Moorhen].
The “waterhen.” In consequence of our having but few lochs, and those very small, we have not many of this species. As skulkers, they almost rival the landrail.
Rallus aquaticus [Water Rail].
Far more scarce than the last; in fact it is almost a rarity. Perhaps their skulking habits prevent their being oftener seen.
Fulica atra [Coot].
An occasional visitor. On the loch of Strathbeg (Aberdeenshire), where they are pretty numerous, they breed, and remain all the year round. In very wet summers the water of this loch rises at times considerably above the usual level; on such occasions I have seen the coot sailing nobly along with her nest beneath her.
Phalaropus platyrhynchus [Gray Phalarope].
Three specimens were procured on the sands of Sandend.
Phalaropus hyperboreus [Rednecked Phalarope].