REPORT
ON THE
MIGRATION OF BIRDS.
EIGHTH REPORT, 1886.
EDINBURGH:
PRINTED BY M'FARLANE & ERSKINE,
14 and 19 ST JAMES SQUARE.
1887.
Price Two Shillings.
REPORT
ON THE
MIGRATION OF BIRDS
IN THE
SPRING AND AUTUMN OF 1886.
BY
Mr J. A. HARVIE-BROWN, Mr J. CORDEAUX,
Mr R. M. BARRINGTON, Mr A. G. MORE,
AND
Mr W. EAGLE CLARKE.
EIGHTH REPORT.
(Vol. II, No. 3.)
EDINBURGH:
PRINTED BY M'FARLANE & ERSKINE,
14 and 19 ST JAMES SQUARE.
1887.
PREFACE.
The following Report contains a summary of the investigations of a
Committee reappointed by the British Association for the Advancement
of Science, at Birmingham, in 1886, to consist of Professor Newton,
Mr J. A. Harvie-Brown, Mr John Cordeaux, Mr W. Eagle Clarke, Mr R.
M. Barrington, and Mr A. G. More, for the purpose of obtaining (with
the consent of the Master and Elder Brethren of the Trinity House,
the Commissioners of Northern Lights, and the Commissioners of Irish
Lights) observations on the Migrations of Birds at Lighthouses and
Lightships, and of reporting on the same at Manchester in 1887. Mr
Cordeaux to be the Secretary.
The returns relating to Scotland have been arranged by Mr J. A.
Harvie-Brown; for the East Coast of England, by Mr Cordeaux; for the
West Coast of England, by Mr W. Eagle Clarke; and those for the Coasts
of Ireland, by Mr R. M. Barrington and Mr A. G. More.
CONTENTS.
PAGE
East Coast of Scotland, 1
East Coast of England, 27
West Coast of Scotland, 54
West Coast of England and Wales, and the Isle of Man, 79
Irish Coasts, 119
[Illustration]
LIST OF STATIONS.
1. Iceland. =England--East Coast.=
2. Do.
3. Faroe. 30. Longstone L.H.
3_b_. Fair Isle. 31. Inner Farn L.H.
32. Coquet Island L.H.
=Scotland--East Coast.= 33. 5 Buoy Tees L.V.
34. Whitby High L.H.
4. N. Unst. 35. Flamborough Head L.H.
5. Whalsey Skerries. 36. Spurn Point L.H.
6. Bressay Sound. 37. Spurn L.V.
7. Sumburgh Head. 38. Inner Dowsing L.V.
8. N Ronaldshay. 39. Dudgeon L.V.
9. Start Point. 40. Outer Dowsing L.V.
10. Auskerry. 41. Llyn Wells L.V.
{ 11. Hoy Sound (Low). 42. Hasbro' L.V.
{ 12. Hoy Sound (High), 43. Leman and Ower L.V.
13. Cantick Head. 44. Hunstanton L.H.
14. Pentland Skerries. 45. Cromer L.H.
15. Dunnet Head. 46. Hasbro' L.H.
16. Holborn Head. 47. Winterton L.H.
17. Noss Head. 48. Newarp L.V.
18. Tarbet Ness. 49. Cookie L.V.
19. Cromarty. 50. Corton L.V.
20. Chanonry Point. 51. Orfordness L.H.
21. Covesea Skerries. 52. Languard Point L.H.
22. Kinnaird Head. 53. Shipwash L.V.
23. Buchan Ness. 54. Swin Middle L.V.
24. Girdleness. 55. Nore L.V.
25. Montroseness. 56. Tongue L.V.
26. Bell Rock. 57. Kentish Knock L.V.
27. Isle of May. 58. Galloper L.V.
28. Inchkeith. 59. North Foreland L.H.
28_b_. Fidra (1885). 60. North Sand Head L.V.
29. St Abbs Head. 61. Gull L.V.
62. Eastside L.V.
63. South Foreland L.H.
64. South Sand Head L.V.
65. Varne L.V.
=Scotland--West Coast.= =England--West Coast.
81. Cape Wrath. 119. Bahama Bank L.V.
82. Rhu Stoir. 120. St Bees L.H.
83. Butt of Lewis. 121. Selker L.V.
84. Stornoway. 122. Morecambe Bay L.V.
85. Island Ghlais. 123. Dee L.V.
86. Monach Isles. 124. Air L.H.
87. Ushenish. 125. Menai L.H.
88. Barra Head. 126. Skerries L.H.
89. Rona. 127. Holyhead Breakwater L.H.
90. Kyleakin. 128. South Stack L.H.
91. Isle Ornsay. 129. Carnarvon Bay L.V.
92. Ardnamurchan. 130. St Tudwalls L.H.
93. Skerryvore and Hynish 131. Bardsey Island L.H.
Signal Tower, Tiree, 132. Cardigan Bay L.V.
94. Dhuheartach. 133. South Bishop L.H.
95. Sound of Mull. 134. Smalls L.H.
96. Corran Ferry. 135. Great Castlehead L.H.
97. Lismore. 136. Milford L.H.
98. Fladda, Easdale. 137. Caldy L.H.
99. Rhuvaal. 138. Helwick L.V.
100. M'Arthur's Head. 139. Scarweather L.V.
101. Skervuile. 140. Nash L.H.
102. Rhinns of May. 141. Breaksea L.V.
103. Lochindaul. 142. Flatholm L.H.
104. Mull of Kintyre. 143. English and Welsh
105. Sanda. Grounds L.V.
106. Devaar. 144. Usk L.H.
107. Pladda, Arran. 145. Avon L.H.
108. Lamlash. 146. Burnham L.H.
109. Turnberry. 147. Bull Point L.H.
109_b_. Ailsa Craig 148. Bideford L.H.
(building, 1885). 149. Lundy L.H.
110. Corsewall. 150. Hartland Point L.H.
111. Loch Ryan. 151. Trevose Head L.H.
112. Portpatrick. 152. Godrevy L.H.
113. Mull of Galloway. 153. Longships L.H.
114. Little Ross. 154. Sevenstones L.V.
155. Wolf-Rock L.H.
=Isle of Man.= 156. Scilly L.H.
157. Bishop's Rock L.H.
115. Point of Ayre. 158. Lizard L.H.
116. Douglas Head. 159. Falmouth Harbour L.H.
117. Langness (1880). 160. Eddystone L.H.
118. Chickens Rock. 161. Plymouth Breakwater L.H.
162. Start L.H.
=Ireland.=
1. Fastnet. 20. Arranmore.
2. Galley Head. 21. Rathlin O'Birne.
3. Old Head, Kinsale. 22. Killybegs.
4. Mine Head. 23. Oyster Island.
5. Dungarvan. 24. Broadhaven.
5*.Coningbeg. Lt.-ship. 25. Eagle Island, E.
6. Barrels Rock Lt.-ship. 26. Eagle Island, W.
7. Tuskar. 27. Blackrock, Mayo.
8. Arklow S. Lt.-ship. 28. Blacksod Point.
8*.Arklow N. Lt.-ship. 29. Clare Island.
10. Kish Bank Lt.-ship. 30. Slyne Head, N.
11. Howth Baily. 31. Slyne Head, S.
12. Rockabill. 32. Arran Island, N.
13. Copeland Island. 33. Straw Island.
14. Maidens. 34. Arran Island, S.
15. Rathlin. 36. Samphire Island.
16. Innishtrahull. 37. Tearaght.
17. Dunree Head. 38. Valentia.
18. Lough Swilly. 39. Skelligs.
19. Tory Island. 40. Dursey Island.
=Outlying Stations.=
Heligoland,
Stevns Fyr, Zealand.
Malmo, Sweden.
Casquets L.H., Alderney.
Hanois L.H., Guernsey.
EIGHTH REPORT
ON
THE MIGRATION OF BIRDS
IN THE
SPRING AND AUTUMN OF 1886.
==============
EAST COAST OF SCOTLAND.
The usual schedules were sent to all the stations, except Tay
Light-ship and Carr Rock. Twelve stations on the East Coast of Scotland
have returned thirty-six schedules. Pentland Skerries gives the
heaviest returns with nine schedules. Isle of May follows with eight
schedules; and N. Unst is next in importance. Then Bell Rock with two,
and Fidra with three, run it very close. We would like returns from
Carr Rock and Tay Light-ship next season, and will forward schedules,
&c.
We follow the same plan as in previous reports. The present year's
returns are indicated by asterisks.
The migration values of the various stations of the Scottish Coasts are
explained in the Report for 1884, p. 10, and need not be repeated here.
EAST OF SCOTLAND.
The names of the Reporters are given under "Diary from the Stations."
Returns
in 8 years 1886.
including Actual
1886. returns. Values. Feet.
Shetland.
6 * 4. N. Unst, IV. 230
5. Whalsey Skerries, II. 143
6. Bressay, III. 105
6 * 7. Sumburgh Head, I.
Orkney.
7 * 8. N. Ronaldshay, IV.
9. Start Point. V.
6 10. Auskerry, I.
11. Hoy Sound (Low), V.
12. Hoy Sound (High), V.
13. Cantick Head, III.
8 14. Pentland Skerries, I.
8 * 15. Dunnet Head, Caithness, V.
16. Holborn Head, Caithness, V.
1st * 17. Noss Head, Caithness, V.
18. Tarbat Ness, East Ross, V.
6 * 19. Cromarty, East Cromarty, V.
4 20. Chanonry Point, Elgin, V.
21. Covesea Skerries, Elgin, V.
22. Kinnaird Head, Aberdeen, V.
23. Buchan Ness, Aberdeen, V.
1st * 24. Girdleness, Aberdeen, V.
25. Montroseness, Forfar, V.
8 * 26. Bell Rock, Fife Coast, I.
26B. Carr Rock Light-ship,
Fife Coast, ? ?
5 * 27. Isle of May, Firth of Forth, I.
7 * 28. Inchkeith, Firth of Forth, IV.
2 * 28B. Fidra, Firth of
Forth, instituted 1886, ? ?
29. St Abb's Head, Berwickshire, V. 224
_Diary from the Stations._
_N. Unst._--John Nichol (principal) sends in seven well-filled
schedules. Mr Nichol has the following notes: "March, 25th.--I am
told the Black Crows were not seen in former years. Although a severe
winter time, birds are much earlier seen, also of various kinds.
August.--Stormy Petrels do not breed on this rock, but do so among
the rocks on shore. Puffins, Razorbills, Tysties, Kittiwakes, and a
few Gulls, also one pair of Seapies breed on the rock. Puffins are
fewer in number this year than in former times. September.--Much
greater movements in September 1886 than has been in former years.
I am told that on an island four miles to the west of us Pictarnies
breed in great numbers. None ever come near us." Mr J. N. sends one
schedule devoted entirely to Solan Geese, and adds the note: "We do
not see greater numbers together than twenty at a time, and down to
one. General occupation is fishing; but flocks on 11th, 13th, and 14th
October were supposed to be migrating right away." Mr J. N. then adds:
"Since filling up this schedule (to date of 25th October), have been
told that on 29th October three large Swans rested on the Loch of Cliff
on their way south. November 5th.--One Eagle shot near Holderswick
measured across the wings seven feet. A Woodpecker seen at Baltasound.
When fish seem plentiful about the rock, Common Gulls are in abundance;
occasionally Herring Gulls and Iceland Gulls, Black-backed Gulls,
Common Skua Gull, of which a few breed at Unst. On shore at the Loch of
Cliff, throughout the autumn, a Herring Bird, some Plovers, Curlews,
Snipes, and Wild Ducks. A few of the latter breed at the Loch of Cliff.
At Lerwick, on 10th October, two large flocks of Swans passed over the
town, flying in a southerly direction; and one flew very low while
near the town. Up to the date of 30th October 1886, no Wren has been
seen; should I get one, shall not fail to send it on. One seen on 2
2d November; could not be caught." At date of December 20th, Mr J.
N. writes: "All birds have now deserted us. None seen since the 1st
December, except in favourable weather, such as are mentioned in the
schedule for December 1885, _viz._:--Starlings, Sparrow Hawks, Crows,
and Gulls. We had no great rushes of birds in the night time this year
like last year; but a greater number seen in the day time. On November
18th sixty Bottle-nosed Whales, the largest about twenty-two feet long,
were captured at Cullivoe, Unst. Five boats (manned) put off and gave
chase. Boats having got to seaward, they were turned for the shore,
and were getting well in, when they suddenly turned about and put to
sea again. Boats, after a hard struggle, again got the off-side of
them, and slowly commenced to shorten the distance between them and
the shore. Not until 6 P.M., after six hours' chase, were the boats
successful in reaching the 'school.' After the monsters were stranded
the scene was very animated, as they lashed the water to foam with
their tails in their frantic efforts to get away again. It was not
till late at night that killing operations were accomplished. On 24th
November sixty whales were exposed for sale, and realised a sum of
£119. The number of buyers was limited, but the competition was keen."
On January 11, 1887, Mr J. N., in a letter, records the occurrence
of one Snowy Owl seen on the summit of Hermann's Hill; and an Eagle,
flying high over, came down and gave the shepherd's dogs chase, but
sheered off when it saw the shepherd.
_Sumburgh Head._--Sends one schedule, but adds: "Birds are very scarce
here." Sent me a specimen of a rare bird, which I knew at once to be
a specimen of _Phylloscopus superciliosus_, and which has already
been recorded [_Proceedings Royal Physical Society, Edinburgh_, vol.
for 1885-86, p. 298], and was exhibited at a meeting of that Society.
Writing in reply to inquiries of mine, under 16th October, to Mr
Youngclause, he writes: "I was after a small bird to-day about the
dykes, very similar, but it got away."
_North Ronaldshay._--John Tulloch. One well-filled schedule, ranging
from March 18 to September 15.
_Pentland Skerries._--John Gilmour (principal) sends nine
heavily-filled schedules. In a letter of 1st October, Mr Gilmour speaks
of great numbers of Twites on the island. "Of course they breed here;
but I think their numbers have been increased of late, as there is
a great flock of them." Later he adds: "I may mention that the Rock
Pipit is resident here; and also the Lark, Starling, and Rock Dove
are scarcely ever absent from the station." A little earlier--_viz._,
29th September--Mr G. writes: "The autumn migration is not yet quite
commenced, although there have been a few birds seen; but should
the wind work round to the east we will likely have a rush. I send
you the names of all the birds that bred here this season (1886),
_viz._:--Stormy Petrel, Puffin, Tern [two species,--J. A. H.-B.], Black
Guillemot, Oyster-Catcher, Eider Duck, Ringed Plover, Dunlin, Lapwing,
Corncrake, Rock Dove, Starling, Lark, Twite, Wheatear, and Rock Pipit.
The above are the only species which breed regularly here. The Herring
Gull and Grey Crow build some seasons, but not this year. I have heard
it said the Snipe breeds also, but I have never seen the nest during
the last five years--the time I have been at this station.
"I take little notice of Solans in the schedules, as I may say they
have been going past all season in all weathers, and I still see some
going east yet (29th September)." (See also under Mull of Galloway,
West Coast, visited by Mr G. on his holiday, 16th August to 6th
September.) A day-to-day return of Gannets or Solan Geese desired, and
a separate schedule devoted to the species.
Writing again on 21st October, Mr G. says: "I again beg to send you
two schedules. Since the 4th we have had a great rush of migrants.
The prevailing wind being from the east, as soon as it shifted round
to the west birds began to leave; but were back again as soon as the
wind shifted to east. I send you wings and feet for identification,
and will be much obliged by an early reply if I have named the species
correctly."[1] Later he has the note: "Solans ceased going east about
the end of September; only a straggler seen now and again during this
month (October)." Besides the above, Mr Gilmour has many interesting
notes, which, however, come to be more easily worked from the schedules
into the text under species.
[Footnote 1: Correctly named:--Blackcap and Great Spotted Woodpecker
[Recorded _Proc. Roy. Phys. Soc. Edinb._, vol. for 1885-86, pp. 298,
299.--J. A. H.-B.]. Also immature Pied Flycatcher, 7th October.]
_Dunnet Head._--David Laidlaw (principal) sends one schedule, in which
are the following notes: "On the 23d May a swallow entered Dunnet
Established Church during the forenoon service (one of the doors being
open), and after flying through the church for about half an hour,
made its exit by the same door that it entered by. S.E., fresh breeze,
clear." Under date of January 15, 1887, he writes: "For the last month
I see a good many Song Thrushes about the fields daily. Starlings and
Linnets are to be seen here in large flocks all the year round.[2] No
birds struck or lighted on the lantern during the year except the Wren
mentioned in schedule. As to sea-birds, the Gulls[3] came to breed
about the 1st of March, and left about the latter end of September. The
other birds arrived about six weeks later, and took their departure
about a month earlier than the Gulls. During the latter end of July,
and the months of August and September, almost every minute of the day,
Solan Geese pass and re-pass in flocks of two or three up to twenty or
thereby." [A day-to-day return of numbers in a schedule devoted to the
species might prove valuable to our Committee.--J. A. H.-B.]
[Footnote 2: These are probably true Rose-Linnets, which abound in
the north of Caithness. The Twite is comparatively rare, at least in
summer.--J. A. H.-B.]
[Footnote 3: Herring Gulls breed in astonishing numbers all round the
coast from Dwarwick Head.--J. A. H.-B. Lesser B. B. Gull is rare.]
_Noss Head._--James Ferrier sends a schedule, with the note: "Sorry I
cannot give you as full a return (but I have given you all that we
have taken note of) as I could have done from the Little Ross, having
been transferred from there in February last. Several species of birds
lay in the rocks about this headland, such as the Common Gull [?
Herring Gull.--J. A. H.-B.], Cormorant, Tystie, Guillemot, Razorbill.
The Gulls are very tame here, often sitting on the tops of the houses
throughout the town (Wick), drawn there by the great quantity of fish
caught, and hanging about the houses." We are very glad to get our
first return from Noss Head, however light, and we hope Mr Ferrier will
continue to assist us.--(See last Report, 1885, p. 15.)
_Cromarty Lighthouse._--Robt. S. Ritson sends one schedule, January
1886 to December 27, mostly referring to local migrations of Ducks,
Geese, Gulls, which have always special interest also attaching to them.
_Girdleness._--C. C. Irvine sends one schedule, the first received
from this station. He adds: "Very few birds come this way; but Rooks,
Sparrows, and Gulls are to be seen almost every day; but as they are
not migratory, I presume they are not worthy of notice, and our time
being much occupied during the day, many may pass without our observing
them."
_Bell Rock._--James Jack sends two carefully written schedules as
usual, strictly adhering to the headings, which always makes the work
of posting the items into the ledger easier for the Committee. Mr
Jack, after an illness on shore between 23d October and 11th November,
writes, on resuming duty: "As yet, Redwings have been the most prolific
in numbers visiting this station this season; in fact, night after
night, nothing else. All our usual winter feathered companions are now
again thickly around us. Dunters are very abundant this season."
This remarkable immigration of Redwings is scarcely noted at any other
stations; at least, with regard to its exclusiveness.
_Isle of May._--Joseph Agnew sends eight schedules filled with his
usual care, and dating February 3 to November 6, 1886, and kept up
till his removal by the authorities to the Monach Isles, off the Outer
Hebrides, the electric lighting of the Isle of May being completed, and
an electric engineer placed in charge. Under date of April 6, 1886, Mr
Agnew writes: "I send you the Turtle Dove. It had been very severely
shot before it came here by some one. I did not send it to Small, but
made the best of it myself, covering the wounds as well as I could."
Under date of October 12, 1886, Mr Agnew writes: "The old carboy is
still doing duty yet, and has been emptied two or three times. On
one occasion it contained a _cosmic mouse_, but whether it came from
Jupiter or Mars, or some other far off world, I do not know." As this
carboy was put _in situ_ by ourselves in October 1884, in behalf of
the Marine Station at Granton, we would be interested to know whether
it has yielded any scientific results. Perhaps Mr John Murray will
enlighten us. Regarding the electric light, Mr Agnew writes: "It will
be ready in a few weeks, perhaps three weeks. I do not know what effect
it will have on the birds. The light will be very intense, and the
most powerful light in existence. The room in which the trials are
now being conducted has the appearance of a place brilliantly lighted
up at night, though it is in the day time. The daylight is made to
disappear. If the light were a fixed one, same as the old one, I think
it might have a _good_[4] effect, but I am afraid its quick revolving
character will be against it. The light has been revolving for the
last two months with the oil lamp, and though some birds have come to
the lantern, I don't think, considering the numbers of birds, so many
have struck as heretofore. But as I am leaving this, I very much fear
the reports will be very meagre in future, if there be any at all. The
man who succeeds me has been here for a month or more, and he seems to
have no notion of the matter, and has never interested himself in it;
and besides, he will be very little in the light-room; his principal
business will be in the engine-house, though he is to be head-keeper.
You may perhaps be able to get him interested in it. The two men,
however, whose special duty will be in the light-room, may take up
the subject, and do something; but I would say--be very thankful for
what you have already got from Isle of May." In a later letter (26th
October), Mr Agnew says: "I am now almost convinced that few birds will
come near the lantern, the revolutions are so quick, _viz._, eight
flashes in the minute. We can see the birds going round with the rays,
and though they make a dash at the lantern, before they reach it the
light leaves them, and they turn round after it again, and repeat the
same. During all last week there was one Redstart, one Starling, and
one Robin at the lantern; not a Woodcock has struck this year; the
Goldcrests which used to flock about the lantern never come near it;
_though they are very numerous on the island_,[5] I have only seen two
at the lantern. A fixed white light is no doubt best for attracting
birds; the alternate light and darkness baffles them altogether, and
the quicker the revolutions are, the worse baffled they become. There
has been almost total absence during the past two years of Redpoles
and Siskins." On the 19th November Mr Agnew writes: "James" (his son)
"shot a Great Spotted Woodpecker on the 12th of this month. It is the
first of its kind I have seen here. It came after the great N.-E. gale
reported in my last schedule. The wind continued to blow strong from
the N.-E. for days after the gale took off. I have sent it to Small to
get stuffed and set up. I want to give it in a present to the young
lady to whom my son, Joseph, is going to be married at Dunbar." Mr
Agnew then continues: "There has not been much worth reporting since I
sent you my last schedule (Nov. 6, 1886); the only birds (not resident)
were some Wagtails and Common Wrens. I suspect very much you have got
the last schedule from Isle of May. I am sorry for that, as you see
from the Woodpecker that strange things are always turning up. I am
very sorry at leaving the collection here, and I doubt if it will be so
well taken care of when I am away."
[Footnote 4: _i.e._, effectual in alluring the birds to it.]
[Footnote 5: Distinctly illustrative of the effect of the quickly
revolving light.--J. A. H.-B.]
We have given Mr Agnew's correspondence very fully, as it is the
last we shall get from him at the Isle of May, and it would be very
ungracious if we did not take this opportunity of once again expressing
our warmest thanks for his able assistance and always interesting
correspondence. Comparisons are said to be invidious, but we are quite
sure none of his fellow-keepers will grudge him the fullest praise
which our Migration Committee can accord. Mr Cordeaux says (16th Oct.
1886): "I am much concerned that Agnew is leaving the Isle of May." We
do not undervalue the observations of any of our reporters, many of
whom have not the opportunities of observation which others have; but
we can point to a good many more of the lighthouse keepers, both at
the best stations and at the least frequented, who, according to their
opportunities, are not far behind Mr Agnew, if at all; and there is
ever increasing interest and ability displayed year by year.
_Fidra._--Mr Win. Ross has taken up the subject earnestly, and sends
us three excellent schedules, carefully adhering to the columnar
arrangement, which is so important to the Members of Committee,
who have to transcribe into the ledger, and then write its Report.
Attention to this is of infinite service and saving of time in getting
the Reports printed. We are much obliged to Mr Ross for the care taken
in this respect.
Under date of 4th September, Mr W. Ross writes: "I have to acknowledge
receipt of your printed circular, concerning envelopes to contain
wings of unknown birds, to be forwarded to you for identification, and
labels for marking the same." .... "After Sunday, my last schedule,
I continued making jottings, and the 24th of March, from 9 P.M. to
daylight, was really interesting. The flocks of birds about the
lantern were immense, and so numerous, that in striking the glass
they broke the outside glass protector of our thermometer. There has
not been anything unusual since that date." [Fidra promises well to
be an important observatory, under certain conditions of wind and
weather.--J. A. H.-B.]
Later, under date of 18th September 1886, Mr W. Ross says: "Had I
known Moths would have been of any use to you, I believe I could have
given you a varied, rare, and enormous parcel. Last month it was Moths
everywhere, after darkness set in. I had to sweep them down with a
towel, some very large and beautiful. Mr Anderson (of Messrs A. & F.,
Edinr., Advocates?) seems a keen entomologist, and I was describing
some of these to him (on the occasion of a visit he paid to Fidra on
the 6th September). One beautiful specimen--not a moth, I think--of a
size between a daddy-long-legs and dragon-fly, and much the same shape;
enormous bronze wings, beautiful vermilion body, black head, with a red
(or yellow?) streak (or spot?), and antennas more like a young lobster
than anything else.
"Eider Ducks, I understand, used to breed on all the islands about
here. But this year a man got a dozen small boats, and hired them out
at N. Berwick; the consequence is that the Ducks have entirely left the
Craig and Lamb Islands owing to their nests having been plundered. We
on Fidra consequently have had a greater number of birds breeding, and
found many nests with 6 to 8 eggs; also Terns, and many smaller birds.
As we are strictly prohibited from using a gun on this precious island,
I can't send you many specimens; but if anything does turn up, I will
not fail to send it you."
Later, under date of 1st October, in reply to inquiries, Mr W. Ross
writes: "It was the latter half of August that these Moths were so
numerous; and though in September there were a few, it was nothing in
comparison with the multitudes that occurred the previous month. Some
guide such as you suggest" [referring to Johns' "Book of Birds"], "to
enable observers to recognise species, would be of immense advantage.
I am woefully deficient in this respect, and I am persuaded others
are equally so. I hope your Committee will succeed in supplying some
reliable book to render assistance in this respect."
Separate Report under Genera and Species.
Turdidæ.--Thrushes.--In February the only returns are from Bell Rock
and Isle of May, between the 3d and 20th; earliest at Isle of May on
3d, one Missel Thrush; N.E., light clear. Other species mentioned are
Blackbirds, Redwings (along with Larks and Starlings), at Bell Rock,
with S.W. fresh breeze. Great many struck and killed. Two female
blackbirds at Isle of May on 15th, and possibly remaining to breed.
Mavises on 20th at Isle of May, and some Fieldfares; showers of snow.
In March no great movement, and a few records from Pentland Skerries
of single or small numbers of Blackbirds, and one Thrush on 10th and
23d. Solitary Redwing on 23d at Isle of May; and numbers of Thrushes at
Fidra (XXVIII. B.), flying about all night.
_Spring._--In April scattered birds only up to end of the month at Isle
of May of Fieldfares, one Redwing (23d), one Ring Ouzel (21st); but on
19th, at Pentland Skerries, is entered the record (which seems one of
some importance): "Ring Ouzels and Song Thrushes a great rush; strong
S.E. and haze." And on 26th: "A flock of Fieldfares (mod. S.E., haze),
birds which are seldom seen here in spring." Also on the 19th at North
Ronaldshay, a station not usually sending large spring returns: "A
great number of Thrushes were on the island. Stopped two days;" wind
S.E., haze. In May, at Isle of May, one record only of a Fieldfare at
the light on the 5th. No more till autumn.
_In Autumn._--Earliest record of Blackbird at Pentland Skerries on 9th
August. Single records at Isle of May of Common Mavis "migrating" on
19th, and of a Missel Thrush on 30th; W.S.W., clear. _Latest_ record,
Fieldfares on 20th to 28th November, "a good many;" at Dunnet Head,
"seen all day;" and scattered records through November at Pentland
Skerries of Thrush and Blackbird. In September also, quite scattered
records of single or very small lots of Blackbirds, Ring Ouzels,
Fieldfares, and Mavises, from Pentland Skerries, Isle of May, and
Fidra. But in October masses and rushes innumerable from the following
stations:--Pentland Skerries (Redwings, 4th to 16th). Isle of May
(Blackbirds, mostly females, 7th; Fieldfares, "numbers" on 18th, N.E.
gale; Blackbirds, all males, on 21st, wind from E. to S.W.; Redwings,
rush on 28th, S.E., fresh; also of Fieldfares and Ring Ouzels and
Blackbirds). Again, at Pentland Skerries, great numbers of _Turdidæ_
on 29th, of all kinds. Greatest rush at Pentland Skerries of Redwings
and Song Thrushes (along with Goldcrests and Chaffinches, Robins, a
few Ring Ouzels, and Woodcock); strong S.E. gale and rain. At Bell
Rock, Redwings (without other species in any numbers), 22d to 26th
October every night in numbers; wind from light W. to E. and N.E. All
through October indications, more or less pronounced, at the following
stations:--N. Unst, Sumburgh Head, Pentland Skerries, Noss Head, Bell
Rock, Isle of May, Fidra.
From the above notes the migration of _Turdidæ_ appears to have been
unusually compressed and sudden.
Saxicolinæ.--Chats.--_In Spring._--In March earliest two Redstarts
("the first seen here") at N. Unst; S.E. and fog. Wheatears at Isle of
May on 24th and 26th, but only straggling birds. In April, solitary
record on 1st at Pentland Skerries. Two on 27th at Bell Rock, and same
date at Isle of May; and Redstarts ("mostly males") intermittent all
April. In May, at Isle of May, Redstarts ("mostly females") on 3d, and
intermittent up to 19th; also Wheatears, Whinchats (numbers on the 8th,
and rush or great numbers on the 18th all day); W.S.W., strong. In June
a single solitary record of a Stonechat (? Wheatear) from N. Unst.
_In Autumn._--Few records in August; but on 31st numbers of Wheatears
at 10 P.M. at the lantern. Latest records of _Saxicolinæ_, 24th
October at Pentland Skerries; and next last there also on the 22d,
of Redstarts, both females; and on 26th of a Stonechat at N. Unst (?
Wheatear). At Isle of May on 5th, and at Fidra, "numbers all day" on
the island, of "Stonechats" (_vera_ at Isle of May? Wheatears? at
Fidra). A not very great or decided rush in September, principally
noticeable at Isle of May and Fidra, of "Stonechats."
Silviinæ.--Robins, Whitethroats.--_In Spring._--A great rush of Robins,
with fresh S.E. haze, at Pentland Skerries, on 19th April. "Good
numbers" at Isle of May, on 23d; also Whitethroats remained all night
at Isle of May, on 28th April. A rush took place of the latter at same
station on May 3d; "swarming" and culminating on 18th (one Willow
Wren--_Phylloscopus_--appearing with others on 19th). No Robins are;
noted in May anywhere.
_In Autumn._--A solitary Robin on 24th August at Cromarty (very likely
a local resident). A few odd birds in September. One Whitethroat and
three Robins, all on different dates, at Isle of May and Fidra; the
Whitethroat on the 1st at Isle of May. Rushes all in October, and
returns sent from the following stations, all of Robins:--N. Unst (1
Robin); Sumburgh Head, 1; Pentland Skerries, Isle of May, and Fidra.
Rushes mostly at Isle of May and Fidra about 24th to 29th, and winds
prevailing easterly and south-easterly. No records in November. A
solitary record in December of two Robins at N. Unst, and one on 7th
January 1887 at Dunnet Head. Migration of Robins scarcely discernible
in spring; and short, sharp, and decisive in October. Of Whitethroats
large. Local, _viz._--at Isle of May; indicated at N. Unst in spring;
and only one record in September at Isle of May.
Phylloscopinæ.--Goldcrest (or Gold-crested Wren), Chiffchaff, Willow
Wren, Wood Warbler.--_In Spring._--At Fidra numbers of Goldcrests
flying about on 24th March; wind S.W., light breeze. The only other
spring record of this species is on the 27th March at Pentland
Skerries--a single bird; mod. W., clear. This appears to have been a
sudden departure, probably general, but not coming much under notice.
Of the same species we have not another spring record.
Of Chiffchaff.--[The difficulty of determining Chiffchaffs and
Willow Wrens at any time, but more especially in autumn, even to an
expert, must in great measure militate against almost any records of
"Chiffchaff" at Isle of May. Yet there can be no doubt that it has
occurred there, certainly in October 1884; and on one or two more
occasions certain. There are many records of "Chiffchaff" at Isle of
May; but it is impossible to say which are correct identifications, and
which are really immature Willow Warblers. That the Chiffchaff does
occur is undoubted, but to what extent is yet uncertain. Henceforth,
until certainty can be arrived at, we will only mention Chiffchaffs in
inverted commas.--J. A. H.-B.]
"Chiffchaff"--a single record at Isle of May on 12th April, and Willow
Wren very numerous on 19th May. One "Chiffchaff" also noted on 5th May.
_In Autumn._--Goldcrests numerous on October 24th at Isle of May; and
numbers at Pentland Skerries, from 17th to 27th, all day long. Seems
to have been pretty general, as it is spoken of at Noss Head, also
on 24th; at Inchkeith, in small numbers, 7th, 8th, and 9th (light E.
breezes). Numbers all day on Fidra on 8th October, and also at Sumburgh
Head on 7th and on 20th, and at Girdleness on the 21st. Numerous at
Isle of May up to 30th.
"Chiffchaff"--a solitary record of one at Isle of May on 27th August.
A great number (rush) of Willow Warblers at Isle of May on 1st
September--light W., fog--along with Sedge Warblers. "Chiffchaff" is
also recorded from North Unst by Mr Charles Youngclause--light N.E.,
haze--a single bird. Numbers again of "Chiffchaffs" at Isle of May on
19th. Those who have their doubts about the occurrence in any number of
the Chiffchaff (_vera_) can read the above together with the entries of
_Willow Warbler_.
The migration of _Phylloscopinæ_ is thus compressed into October, with
one rush in September of Willow Warblers, which appears to have been
preceded by one example of "Chiffchaff" four days before. In preceding
spring very pronounced on 18th and 19th May at same station, Isle of
May, of Willow Warblers.
Accentorinæ.--Hedge Sparrows.--_Spring._--Only two records on 12th
April at Isle of May (resident all winter); and at Pentland Skerries
on 19th, two--S.E., haze; and on 18th May, at Isle of May, a brood of
young "now flying." _In Autumn_--only record at Pentland Skerries, one
seen all day--light S.W.; "seldom seen here."
Acrocephalinæ.--Sedge Warbler.--No spring notice. In Autumn--only two
in August at Isle of May. Sedge Warbler, one, on 20th--calm, clear; and
on 23d, two--light S.E. wind; but large numbers (in company with Willow
Warbler rush) at Isle of May on 2d September. The Willow Warbler rush
came on the 1st, the Sedge Warblers on the 2d; the former at 2 A.M. of
that day--light W., fog; the latter at 11 A.M. of the next day--light
W., and clear.
Troglodytidæ.--Wren.--Nests on Fidra. No spring records.
_In Autumn._--At Dunnet Head two--strong W. breeze--"young birds," on
31st August. And at Inchkeith, Firth of Forth, one caught on lantern,
wind light south. [The above are the only records in August,--what
connection appears again between N. of Caithness and Firth of
Forth?--J. A. H.-B.] No more movements on record till October. "Great
numbers" at Isle of May on 21st and 24th. No other records, except at
Pentland Skerries--a single bird on the 28th. Latest record, one bird
at N. Unst on 22d November.
The above notes tend to accentuate, along with many other parallelisms,
what we already consider the chief routes across Scotland (see last
Report, p. 23).
Motacillidæ.--Wagtails.--_In Spring._--Earliest record is on 24th March
of Wagtails at Isle of May, two seen--light to fresh S.E., and haze. A
few scattered records in April, on 13th and 19th, at Pentland Skerries.
One record at N. Ronaldshay on 6th May, and one on 20th at Pentland
Skerries. Nests found on Fidra, 15th June. Whereas in 1885 Report
Wagtails were recorded in every month except July, this season we find
all the following blank of records:--February, March, April, July,
November, and December (see Autumn).
_In Autumn._--Records bulk largest in September, both in number of
records (6) and bulk of numbers (rush of old and young on 3d and
again on 15th at Isle of May, and a few from 8th to 11th at Pentland
Skerries, and a few from 8th to 9th resting all day at N. Unst). Again
in October, a few (5) records of smaller numbers, 3d to 24th, at N.
Ronaldshay, Pentland Skerries, and Isle of May.
Motacillidæ.--_Anthinæ._--Pipits, OR "Mosscheepers," "Titlarks."--_In
Spring._--Earliest record at N. Unst, 7th March, of "Mosscheepers,"
N.W., fresh, and again one on 21st. On 20th and 23d March, Meadow
Pipits, a few at Isle of May, calm, clear, and S.E., fresh haze. A few
again at N. Unst on 23d, "Mosscheepers." No records in May or June. _In
July_--young "Mosscheepers" seen for first time on 6th. In August, on
the 27th, accessions to the numbers breeding on Isle of May, probably
the young hatched off and on wing. In September, accessions of both
Rock Pipits and Meadow Pipits by 15th, at Bell Rock, and Rock Pipits
numerous on Isle of May on 20th. Numerous to 29th October. No other
records.
Muscicapidæ.--Flycatchers.--_In Spring._--On 21st and 22d March Spotted
Flycatchers, single records at N. Unst. In April, the only record is on
19th at Pentland Skerries, when "a rush" is recorded. Fresh S.E., haze
(Pied Flycatchers), and on 21st May one ditto all day there.
_In Autumn._--Only one record in all of a single Spotted Flycatcher on
Fidra, on 7th. Light S.E., fog.
Hirundinidæ.--Swallows, Martins, Sand Martins.--_In Spring._--Many
records of arrivals in May and June, as follows:--
May 2. N. Ronaldshay, Flying W., 2 Swallows, Light W.C.
" 3. Bell Rock, Resting on rock, 1 do., S.S.E., Light,
" 4. Isle of May, 1 Martin, S.W., Light.
" 7. Pentland Skerries, "First seen," Swallows, N.W., Haze.
" 8. Isle of May, "All day," 1 Martin, S.E.
" 19. Do. A few, 1 do., "
" 22. Dunnet Head, 3 Swallows, S.S.W.
" 26. Cromarty, "Arrived," 3 do., Light W.
June 5. Sumburgh Head, Flight W.
" 1. Isle of May, First, Swallow, S.E., Light.
" 12. Sumburgh Head, "All day," 3 do., S.S.E.
_In Autumn._--From 23d to 31st August a considerable movement (40
seen) at Isle of May on 30th; and on 2d September, "Swallows departed"
at Pentland Skerries. 1 Swallow seen at N. Unst on 23d August, and 6
Martins flying about top of cliffs for six days previous to 30th August
at Dunnet Head. A rush again at Isle of May on 27th, 28th, and 29th
September, especially on latter two dates. Wind S.E. on 29th, shifted
from W. Gale and clear day before. No later records.
Thus Autumn migration compressed into 30th August and 2d September, and
again, 28th and 29th September.
Fringillidæ.--Finches, Linnets, Redpoles, Siskins, Sparrows,
Chaffinches, "Grey Linnets," Tree Sparrows, Lesser Redpole.--_In
Spring._--1 Chaffinch at Pentland Skerries on 9th February. At Isle
of May "considerable numbers of Redpoles." "Lots died." S.E. to W.
In March a few single records of Chaffinch at Pentland Skerries and
Isle of May, and "numbers flying about all night" at Fidra. In April,
Siskins "first seen" at North Unst (a new species to the locality?) on
11th. At Isle of May, Chaffinches and Grey Linnets on 21st, and 2 to a
dozen pairs of Sparrows on 30th. At Pentland Skerries, on May 22d and
23d, Grey Linnets and Redpoles (? Twites).
_In Autumn._--Earliest, 26th August, Linnets, "young birds." Again,
Siskin (one) at N. Unst on 10th September. Strong W. wind. Linnets
at same place (Twites?), 18th, 20th, and 30th. A flock at Pentland
Skerries (Linnets, _vera_?), and Linnets at Fidra, 20th, 25th,
and 27th. Tree Sparrows on 15th at Isle of May. Greatest body of
_Fringillidæ_ in October, but on the whole, unusually light returns
anywhere. Tree Sparrows at Isle of May on 29th October. A few records
in November only at N. Unst and Pentland Skerries, of Linnets (?) and
Chaffinches.
One of the lightest schedules of _Fringillidæ_ we have had.
Emberizidæ.--Buntings, Snow Buntings, Common Buntings. Yellow
Hammers.--_In Spring._--Snow Buntings (2) at N. Unst; snow. In March
one ditto, 25th, and as late as April 19th one bird. [These are no
doubt late stragglers of last year's migration.--J. A. H.-B.] No more
records till September.
_In Autumn._--Large flock of Snow Buntings at Dunnet Head on 23d, and
small numbers at N. Unst on 19th, 20th, and 23d. The first seen at
Pentland Skerries this season was on the 1st October, fresh S. haze;
and four again on the 12th. Not numerous anywhere all this month.
Bulked largest in November and December; few at N. Unst; flocks at
Pentland Skerries on four dates of 4th to 17th, and a good number at
Isle of May on 6th. Flocks at Isle of May in December, and a few at
Sumburgh Head and Pentland Skerries. Yellow Hammer only once mentioned
at Isle of May on 10th February--a single bird. Common Bunting, single
birds, on 8th, 15th, and 27th March, at Pentland Skerries; once
in April at same station; once in July ditto; very few records in
September, same station; and in October, same station. None later, nor
at any other station.
Alaudidæ.--Larks.--Larks are entered under every month in the year
except July and August. They are least abundant in April, May, and
June--of these months in which they do occur in Spring,--and in
November and December. Numbers and rushes in September and October in
Autumn, and in January 1887. (Probably local movements.) Large numbers
in Spring 1886, on 15th February.
_In Spring._--They visited Isle of May, and stayed for some weeks in
February. Other slight records occur at Pentland Skerries and Bell Rock
same month. Considerable movements also all March at Isle of May and
Fidra.
_In Autumn._--Greatest numbers in September, on 25th to 29th, at
Sumburgh Head; and on 27th and 29th at Isle of May. Strong W. and S.W.
winds. A very heavy and very general rush is recorded during October
from each and all of the following stations:--Pentland Skerries, 16th;
Isle of May, 18th to 28th, culminating at latter date, preceded by
"great numbers" and "large numbers" on preceding dates; at Inchkeith
(9th, "flocks of") and at Fidra; 5th to 6th, and 14th to 17th,
"numbers" and "flocks all day." ["Wood Larks" are also mentioned by
name, but probably Pipits?--J. A. H.-B.] "Great flocks" again at Isle
of May on 22d.
Sturninæ.--Starlings.--_In Spring._--Absent from N. Unst between 1st
and 18th February. Returned to the rock again on 26th. Visit Isle of
May for some weeks in February, and remain in still larger numbers till
late in March, but decreasing again in April. Preparing to breed at
Fidra by 16th April. Breeds also at Isle of May, but cannot quite be
looked upon as a resident there. Nests found on Fidra in June. Flocks
of young every day at Isle of May in August. Rush did not take place
till 5th at Fidra, 28th at Isle of May. Seemed to be collecting for
some time previous to great rush on 28th. First autumn movement noticed
at N. Unst was not till 10th to 12th November; then seen daily. Last
record at Fidra on 25th November.
Corvidæ.--Rooks, Ravens, Crows, Hooded Crows, Jackdaws, Choughs
(or "Red-legged Crows").--_In Spring._--Hooded Crows and Ravens
occasionally seen at N. Unst--resident? Also Raven occasionally seen
there in March, April, September, October, and November, always one,
two, three, or four, and therefore probably birds breeding, or reared
on N. Unst main-island. In the same way Ravens occasionally seen at N.
Ronaldshay, Pentland Skerries, etc., can only be looked upon as "on
predatory quest intent."
"Black Crows" at N. Unst are probably Rooks, usually "flying south"
(if they come from E. turning south no doubt at Unst). We would like
to feel sure if these Black Crows are Carrion Crows or Rooks; but
"Rooks" by name are never mentioned at N. Unst. Indeed, "Rooks" by
name are only mentioned by reporters from Pentland Skerries and Fidra,
but "Black Crows" and "Crows" seem to have general application even at
Isle of May. We would like Rooks distinguished from Carrion Crows _or_
Corbie Crows. The terms "Crows" and "Black Crows" might mean either the
Carrion Crow or the Rook. [Those who have Johns' book will easily see
the difference.--J. A. H.-B.] Considerable movements all through the
year, extending from N. Unst southwards, of Hooded Crows and "Black
Crows" and Rooks. Jackdaws visited Isle of May in a fog in April, and
stayed all night of the 11th; and two had previously been seen on
March 19th. Noticed also occasionally at Fidra. Heaviest appearances
of _Corvidæ_ in October when migration was almost continuously heavy;
lightest, however, at N. Unst; heaviest at Pentland Skerries 5th to
11th October. Continuous but much lighter returns from N. Unst, N.
Ronaldshay, Pentland Skerries, and Fidra, in September, and curiously,
none from Isle of May. Light returns again from N. Unst and Fidra in
November, and only two from Pentland Skerries in December.
The uniformity of time in rushes of almost all species is singular this
season, October being the favoured month.
Cypselidæ.--Swifts.--["Swallow Swift" of Isle of May returns.]--In
spring or summer three "Swallow Swifts" at Isle of May, light, W.,
clear. No other records, except one on 3d May at same station.
_In Autumn._--Two Swifts at Pentland Skerries catching insects round
the tower; light, S.W.
Cuculidæ.--Cuckoo.--Only one notice at Isle of May on 18th May.
Picidæ.--Woodpeckers.--The Great Spotted Woodpeckers appeared in
considerable numbers this autumn along the eastern counties of
Scotland, in one or two cases reaching to the west counties south of
the Firth of Clyde. Almost all the specimens examined by us and by Mr
Evans of Edinburgh proved to be either old birds or birds with very
slight traces of immaturity. The only ones appearing at lighthouses
known to us was one sent us from Pentland Skerries, and one obtained at
Isle of May. It occurred also, as we are informed by Mr E. Service, in
the Solway district. This flight occurred in October, and I find the
Pentland Skerries bird bears date of 14th.[6]
[Footnote 6: Another is reported from N. Unst (see Diary from the
Stations). Besides these, we have records of the following, obligingly
sent us by Mr Geo. Sim of Aberdeen; and we obtained other records from
Fife; also one from Dumfries, from Mr Service of Maxwelltown, Dumfries.
We had hoped also to have added all the records of specimens examined
by Mr Evans; but up to date of going to press, these records have not
come to hand. It would have been better to have them all recorded in
one place.
One; Monyruy, Parish of Longside, Aberdeen, 29th August 1886.
One; Brucklay Castle, Parish of New Deer, Aberdeen, 30th October 1886.
One; Drumtochty Castle, Kincardineshire, 29th November 1886.
One; Drumtochty Castle, Kincardineshire, 27th February 1887.
]
Strigidæ.--Owls.--A very slight record, and entirely in October. One
"Large Grey Owl" at Pentland Skerries. "The first seen for a long
time; sat on the island." Three Short-Eared Owls on 8th, 9th. and
19th respectively, at Isle of May, and one Grey Owl again at Pentland
Skerries on 29th. "Flew across island."
Falconidæ.--"Hawks," Falcons, Kestrels, Sparrow Hawk, Merlin,
Peregrine, etc.--Records scattered more or less through the year as
usual, but March, August, and December contain none. October again has
largest number. Species noted are Peregrine ("or Falcon"), "Hawks,"
Kestrel (daily for a week at N. Unst), Sparrow Hawk, Large Hawks (Bell
Rock, 19th October); "flying W.," etc.
Of Cormorants we have spring records in April at N. Unst, daily
fishing. Daily records at same place in September between 1st and
9th, about four or five pairs. One pair breeds regularly, and rears
young at N. Unst (noted 11th July 1886). Also at Fidra--six birds to
twelve--from 6th to 29th (three records).
We have no notes on the Green Cormorant or Shag or Crested Cormorant
from any stations.
[Sidenote: =To the Reporters.=]