Transcriber Note
Text emphasis denoted as _Italics_ and =Bold=.
REPORT
ON THE
=MIGRATION OF BIRDS=
IN THE
SPRING AND AUTUMN OF 1883.
BY
Mr. J. A. HARVIE BROWN, Mr. J. CORDEAUX,
Mr. R. M. BARRINGTON, and Mr. A. G. MORE.
=FIFTH REPORT.=
"A good practical naturalist must be a good observer; and how many
qualities are required to make up a good observer! Attention,
patience, quickness to seize separate facts, discrimination to keep
them unconfused, readiness to combine them, and rapidity and yet
slowness of induction; above all, perfect fidelity, which can be
seduced neither by the enticements of a favourite theory nor by
the temptation to see a little more than actually happens in some
passing drama."--_Essays, Bishop Wilberforce, Vol. I._
LONDON:
PRINTED BY WEST, NEWMAN & CO., 54, HATTON GARDEN.
1884.
PREFACE.
The following Report contains a summary of investigations of the
Committee re-appointed by the British Association for the Advancement
of Science, at Southport, in 1883, 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 Migration of Birds at Lighthouses and
Lightships, and of reporting on the same at Montreal, Canada, in 1884.
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; and those for
the Coasts of Ireland, by Mr. R. M. Barrington and Mr. A. G. More.
No return has been received by the Committee from the West Coast of
England and the Isle of Man.
CONTENTS.
PAGE
East Coast of Scotland 1
East Coast of England 33
West Coast of Scotland 63
Coasts of Ireland 82
FIFTH REPORT
ON
THE MIGRATION OF BIRDS
IN THE
SPRING AND AUTUMN OF 1883.
"We had a succession of black nights going up the river, and it was
observable that whenever we landed and suddenly inundated the trees
with the intense sun-burst of the Electric Light, a certain curious
effect was always produced: hundreds of birds flocked instantly out
from the masses of shining green foliage, and went careering hither
and thither through the white rays, and often a song bird turned
up and fell to singing. We judged that they mistook this superb
artificial day for the genuine article."--Mark Twain, in '_Life on
the Mississippi_,' p. 452.
"Yea, even the fowl--
That through the polar summer months could see
A beauty in Spitzbergen's naked isles,
Or on the drifted icebergs seek a home--
Even they had fled, on southern wing, in search
Of less inclement shores."--_The Fowler._
EAST COAST OF SCOTLAND, &c.
From Skykkesholm, in Iceland, comes our first return from that country
since the commencement of our work. M. Thorlacius, to whom we are
indebted for this return, writes as follows:--"As this list cannot
nearly comprise all the Icelandic birds of passage, of which especially
the sea-birds are wanting, I shall complete this by next mail, and send
you the continuation along with a complete list of the appearances of
birds of passage in the present year (1883). The dates quoted opposite
each species is the day on which they were first observed here. The
approximate date of departure will be given later."
The following notes are copied direct from M. Thorlacius' schedule, and
are most useful to the Committee, serving as they do as finger-posts
on the route of migration, indicating the important dates of arrival
at their breeding-quarters of Icelandic summer migrants. When M.
Thorlacius sends his autumn departures of migrants and the other good
things he so kindly promises us, we will have useful standpoints,
the spaces between which can be more easily filled in when these are
fixed:--
Skykkesholm, Iceland, 1882, lat. 65° 4′ N.; long. 22° 43′ W.
April 7th, _Turdus iliacus_, S., very fresh; rain.
May 8th, _Saxicola œnanthe_, S.E., light air; clear.
April 24th, _Motacilla alba_, N.E., stormy; clear.
May 24th, _Anthus pratensis_, N.E., storm; light showers.
April 25th, _Scolopax gallinago_, N.E., storm; light showers.
April 19th, _Totanus calidris,_ E., very fresh; dry.
May 11th, _Numenius phæopus_, N.E., very fresh; light showers.
April 17th, _Charadrius pluvialis_, N.E., very fresh; clear.
April 19th, _Tringa alpina_, N.E., very fresh; clear.
May 3rd, _T. cinerea_, E., blowing hard; clear.
April 29th, _Strepsilas collaris_, N.E., storm; snow showers.
April 26th, _Tringa hiaticula_, N.E., storm; dry.
May 23rd, _Phalaropus cinerea_, N.E., blowing hard; clear.
May 24th, _P. platyrhincha_, N.E., storm; snow showers.
April 9th, _Falco cæsius_, N.E., very fresh; rain.
April 9th, _Limosa melanura_, N.E., very fresh; rain.
April 9th, _Hæmatopus ostralegus_, N.E., very fresh; rain.
March 30th, _H. ostralegus._
April 30th, _Fringilla linaria_, N.E. storm, cloudy; rain.
April 30th, _Loxia serinus_, N.E. storm, cloudy; rain.
March 15th, _Uria grylle_, N.E.; clear.
March 15th, _U. brunnichii_, N.E.; clear.
March 15th, _U. troile_, N.E.; clear.
March 15th, _U. alle_, N.E.; clear.
March 15th, _Alca torda_, N.E.; clear, hard.
April 25th, _Mormon fratercula_, N.E., very fresh.
April 30th, _Carbo cormoranus_, N.E., light air.
April 30th, _C. graculus_, N.E., light air.
April 30th, _Puffinus arcticus_, N.E., light air.
Faroe.--From Faroe, thanks again to our friend Herr H. C. Müller, we
have the following report, some twelve entries or so between Jan. 1st
and Sept. 10th, 1883:--
On Jan. 1st three Wild Swans, _C. musicus_, seen flying S. at noon. On
April 28th one _Gallinula chloropus_, Waterhen, taken alive in Vaay
in Bordó. Between May 3rd and 11th several White Wagtails seen during
N.N.E., stormy, with snow at different localities in the islands. On
May 27th two Red-necked Phalaropes were seen on the sea near Thorshavn
during S.W. wind, moderate, with showers of rain.
In August White Wagtails again appeared, when several were seen on the
21st at Thorshavn at noon, fresh W. breeze and clear. Between Aug. 28th
and Sept. 10th, Whimbrels (see under Whimbrel, Curlew) were preparing
for departure, and disappeared on the last-named date. During this time
the winds were from N.W. on Aug. 28th by N. to N.E. on Aug. 30th to
Sept. 3rd, and W. on the 10th, the day of departure.
_Note._--Herr H. C. Müller informs me that a lighthouse will be
shortly erected at Nossoe, in Faroe, eighty feet above the sea. Herr
Müller considers that this will prove a good station for observing
birds during migration. Suderöe would also be a good observatory.
He also told me of the occurrence, for the first time, of _Sciurus
noveboracensis_ at Nordtalik, Greenland, about May, 1882; and of the
occurrence also of a young Sabine's Gull at the same place. I have a
young Sabine's Gull, brought home last year (1883) by the whalers to
Dundee.
Of the progress of the scheme of accumulation of migrational data in
other parts of the world, we may notice here that Dr. Arthur proposes
to take up the subject at the lighthouses in New Zealand, and will send
the Committee his schedules for arrangement.
Our American friends have made a promising start with similar
intentions, but of a much wider scope, as is shown by the circular,
which we here reprint, as it will show to our reporters other
collateral subjects which offer plenty of opportunity for observation,
and which can easily be made as applicable here as in North America, as
regards our commoner species. Schedules somewhat more elaborate than
ours have been issued also to lighthouses in America:--
"At the first congress of the American Ornithologists' Union, held in
New York City, Sept. 26th-28th, 1883, a Committee on the Migration of
Birds was appointed. It is the purpose of this Committee to investigate
in all its bearings, and to the fullest extent possible, the subject
of the migration of birds in the United States and British North
America. The work will not be limited to the accumulation of records
of the times of arrival and departure of the different species, but
will embrace the collection of all data that may aid in determining
the causes which influence the progress of migration from season to
season. For example, severe storms, gales of wind, protracted periods
of unusually high or low temperature (for the locality and time of
year) are among the atmospheric conditions that are known to exert
marked effects upon the movements of birds. The opening of the leaves
and the flowering of certain plants, with the correlative appearance
of a multitude of insects, are also among the factors that have to do
with the abundance of many species. Hence the careful registration
of certain meteorological phenomena, and of the state of advancing
vegetation from day to day, will constitute prominent items in the
record books of the observer.
"For convenience in collecting and arranging the enormous mass of
material which will be accumulated by the joint labours of this army
of field workers, it has been deemed advisable to divide the vast
expanse of territory embraced in the United States and British North
America into thirteen districts, each of which will be placed under the
immediate direction of a competent superintendent."
Some time ago we received application from China for schedules
and letters of instructions, but as yet we have had no further
communication from that quarter. We would be glad to hear of the scheme
being started there also. Most of the lighthouse-keepers there are
Scotch and English.
The ordinary papers were sent to thirty stations on the East Coast of
Scotland, Faroe, and Iceland, as in former years. Twelve stations on
this coast have sent in forty-two schedules out of the twenty-six E.C.
stations of Scotland. All returns are much lighter than in 1882, and
this is more readily noticed when we compare the numbers of schedules
returned from our principal stations. Thus, from Sumburgh Head we have
three; from Pentland Skerries twelve (three more than in 1882); from
Bell Rock two; and from Isle of May only ten, as against nineteen in
1882.
East Coast of Scotland.
'79 '80 '81 '82 '83
* * * 4. N. Unst, Shetland 230 ft. J. Edgar.
* * * 5. Whalsey Skerries, Shet. 143 "
* 6. Bressay, Shetland 105 "
* * * * * 7. Sumburgh Head, Shet. 300 " D. M. Scott.
Land Notes.--7B. Fair Isle.
Orkney.
* * * * 8. North Ronaldshay 140 "
9. Start Point 80 "
* * * * * 10. Auskerry 110 " J. McDonald.
11. Hoy Sound (Low) 55 "
12. Hoy Sound (High) 115 "
13. Cantick Head 115 "
* * * * * 14. Pentland Skerries 170 " {D. McDonald.†
{J. Gilmour.
Mainland.
* * * * 15. Dunnet Head, Caithness 346 " D. Laidlaw.
16. Holborn Head, Caithness 75 " D. Laidlaw.
* 17. Noss Head, Caithness 175 " A. Greig.
* 18. Tarbat Ness, East Ross 175 " W. Davidson.‡
* * * 19. Cromarty, E. Cromarty 60 " R. S. Ritson.
* * 20. Chanonry, Point Elgin 40 " J. McGill.§
* 21. Covesea Skerries 160 "
22. Kinnaird Head, Aberdeen 120 "‖
23. Buchan Ness, Aberdeen 130 "
* 24. Girdleness, Aberdeen 185 "
25. Montroseness, Aberdeen 124 "¶
* * * * * 26. Bell Rock, Fife Coast 93 " J. Jack.
* * * * * 27. I. of May, Firth of Forth 240 " J. Agnew.
* * * * 28. Inchkeith, F. of Forth 220 " R. Grierson.
29. St. Abb's Head, Berwicks 224 "
† Mr. D. McDonald removed from Pentland Skerries to Skervuile (W.
C.) about July 26th, up to which time he sent returns from Pentland
Skerries. Thereafter Mr. J. Gilmour took in hand the returns at the
latter station.
‡ I have to thank Mr. W. Davidson for the first schedule received
from Tarbat Ness. Between Aug. 15th and Oct. 30th there are only
eleven entries,' all light, of ten different dates only. This schedule
is valuable for its negative evidence, just as other more favoured
localities for migrants give valuable positive evidence. Can I not
induce others to return even empty schedules at the end of the year,
with the simple remark "No Birds" or "Few Birds" attached, if such is
the case? Then our Committee would have certainty to go by, not merely
hypothesis. Mr. Davidson gives me the further information regarding
this station, that he observed no further migration since Oct. 30th,
the weather being so mild. It is usually before any changes in the
weather that we see any birds passing here besides the birds which
frequent the locality. The situation of Tarbat Ness is a very high
tower, 175 feet, and is joined to farmhouses. It is not much sheltered,
the tower being on the bare point. At some seasons great quantities of
birds are seen (_in lit._, Jan. 20th, 1884).
§ At Chanonry lighthouse the schedule, again kindly returned by Mr.
McGill, pretty clearly indicates and illustrates the action of local
migrations. Thus he tells us:--"There are plenty of Black Crows, which
fly between this and Nairn every day for feeding in the morning, and
fly back at night. A great many grey ducks come down on this Firth for
the purpose of feeding. It would seem they do not migrate. There are
several flocks of birds which seem to fly north the one day and in a
few days to fly back to the south; they seem to be the same flocks
that have been feeding." From Chanonry Mr. McGill writes:--"Only one
bird has struck the lantern since I came here in the summer of 1882,
and only two lighted on the lantern. None killed." The returns from
this station almost all relate to local movements, but are not on this
account less valuable, but rather more so, as giving good opportunity
of making comparisons and deductions. Most of the occurrences are
attended by highly developed pressures, squalls, strong breezes, &c.,
but the directions of these are not given.
‖ Mr. D. M. Scott, who left this station, removed to Sumburgh Head.
He sent the description of a bird from Kinnaird Head in 1882, but no
schedule. Scarcity is the true reason of lack of returns from this
station. Mr. Scott has sent well-filled schedules since from Sumburgh
Head.
¶ "No Birds" at Montroseness, reason given for absence of returns in
1882 (_q.v._).
From Kinnaird Head Lighthouse I have the following reply to my
inquiry:--"Birds at this lighthouse are every year getting more scarce,
as the town is now extended to the lighthouse, and cooperage works at
the very gate make much noise, and sparks of fire fly about whilst
making the barrels." At the same time Mr. D. M. Scott, now at Sumburgh
Head, tells me he has once caught, in one watch, forty-eight Starlings
at the lantern, and some Thrushes.
I have also to thank Mr. Alexander Greig for the first return from Noss
Head. The movements of Gannets, as related there, cannot fail to be of
use to the Committee. Mr. Greig says, "There has been great scarcity of
birds this last year, except those which are generally with us."
Through Mr. Thomas Southwell's kindness I have received a few items
of interest from the log of the whaler 'Eclipse,' Capt. D. Gray.
Also a note from Mr. T. H. Nelson, taken on board the 'Camoens,' 150
miles N.N.W. of Orkney; as also a note or two, through the kindness
of Mr. Robert Gray, taken on board the 'Marathon' in the Atlantic by
Mr. Thomas Anderson. These are now given; and the land notes will be
entered after the paragraphs on each species or group.
'Eclipse.'--March 28th, 1883, 70° 7′ north, 3° 40′ west, saw
but one Hooded Seal to-day, but plenty of Rotches, Looms, Snow
Birds, and Mallemauks. April 19th, 69° 53′ north, 5° 30′ west,
saw a few Bottlenose Whales, and at night a Merlin lighted on the
fore-topsail-yard, and there fell asleep, and was afterwards caught.
He seemed very tired and weak. I made a box for him, and fed him on
small pieces of meat. April 22nd, the Hawk seems to be thriving; he is
kept below during the day and on deck when it is fine. April 24th, 68°
29' north, 9° 12′ west, let the Hawk away at 10 a.m. He flew straight
to S.W. At 2 p.m. spoke the 'Catharine' brig. Whilst speaking the
'Catharine' I was astonished to see my old friend the Hawk sitting on
one leg in the lower quarter boat, looking very disconsolate, and,
when scared, immediately flew to the 'Catharine.' He had evidently
come across that vessel at sea, and had flown on board her. May 2nd,
68° 20′ north, 11° 30′ west, a great many birds about the ship, a few
hundreds of Mallemauks, and numerous Snow Birds, Burgomasters, Snow
Buntings, two Eider Ducks, and one Iceland Falcon. May 4th, the vessel
was followed by a good many Mallemauks, Burgomasters, Snow Birds, &c.
May 18th, 69° 37′ north, 9° 9′ east, in the morning a Loom alighted
on the main-topsail-yard, and Rotches have been numerous, besides the
usual number of Mallemauks, Kittiwakes, Snow Birds, and Burgomasters.
May 22nd, 69° 59′ 3° west, about 65 miles N.N.E. from Jan Mayen, "a
few Bottlenose Whales seen during the day, and several Black-headed
Gulls and Whimbrels." [This is an interesting note in the distribution
of the Whimbrel, which species Capt. Gray knows well, having brought
home skins before now, all the way from the coast of S. Greenland, and
others have arrived, brought by other whalers, at least two of which
are in our collection.--J. A. H. B.] June 10th (70° 32′ north, 1° 29′
west), a Swallow or Martin seen. May 16th (about 67° 41′ north, 14°
34′ west), two birds known at home as Wheatears and Water Wagtails
["Watee Wagtails" (_sic_) local in Forfar.--J. A. H. B.] came on board
and died. They were experiencing very heavy weather at the time.
'Marathon.'--October 12th, 1883 (46° 43′ north, 35° 39′ west), six or
seven Snow Buntings flew on board, winter plumage, wind fresh N.W., and
only two remained, the others leaving to go to another vessel passed by
the 'Marathon.' The other vessel had a deck-load of wood.--R. G.
'Camoens.'--Mr. T. H. Nelson writes:--"A friend of mine took a trip to
Iceland in the 'Camoens' last October. On Oct. 14th, 150 miles N.N.W.
of Orkney, a Starling flew on board. On the journey both there and
back, _viz._, between Oct. 18th and Dec. 3rd, a great many small birds
were seen _flying south_, but my friend was not well enough versed in
Ornithology to be able to identify them."
Notes are presented upon about seventeen species of water-fowl and
fifty-four species of land birds, and about thirteen species of waders
or littoral species, by our east coast reporters.
Spring migration having been more considerable this season, I keep
separate in this Report.
The movements recorded occupy the whole year, from date of February to
June, during spring, and from date of July to January, during autumn.
Separate Report under Genera and Species.
Turdidæ.--In spring a considerable migration noticed at certain
stations, _viz._, Pentland Skerries, Bell Rock, and Isle of May.
Began Feb. 2nd, when a rush of Song Thrushes took place at Bell
Rock, and terminated May 10th, when, and upon the 9th, there were
indications of another rush of Fieldfares and Ring Ouzels. Whilst Song
Thrushes, Redwings, and Blackbirds seem usually to travel together,
the larger-winged Fieldfares and Ring Ouzels are usually associated
in our returns, though not invariably. Although this spring migration
was spread over such a very considerable time, none of the returns
are very heavy; but indications of rushes are sufficiently distinct.
At Bell Rock, as above stated, on Feb. 2nd, strong E.N.E., with haze.
Fieldfares and Ring Ouzels; at Isle of May, on March 2nd, light W.,
clear, Thrushes and Blackbirds--a decided but not large rush, which
stopped abruptly with wind changing to gales from S.E. to E.N.E. and
to N.W. (see Third Report, General Remarks, p. 67.--J. A. H. B.). In
April, light but fairly continuous entries at Pentland Skerries and
Isle of May, but little indication of a general movement, except on
April 27th, when a good many Fieldfares and Ring Ouzels were noted at
Isle of May, wind fresh S.E. Prevailing winds up to termination of
spring migration, easterly along whole coast. On May 2nd, and again on
9th and 10th, there were faint indications of rushes at Isle of May,
principally of Fieldfares.
In autumn the migration was pronounced, and confined principally to
October and November. Yet the earliest record we have yet received in
Scotland in our schedules occurred on Aug. 28th, at Isle of May, of
two Song Thrushes, followed by a single record on Sept. 21st; also
at Isle of May, "a few Redwings and Ring Ouzels." Again, passing at
present over October and November, only one record in December of a
solitary Fieldfare on the 5th; and in January, 1884, a flock on the
7th and three birds on the 22nd, during a wild W. gale. The month of
October has many entries, and I find the word "rush" opposite the
following dates and stations:--At Pentland Skerries and Isle of May,
but not at Bell Rock, on 13th-15th, hundreds of Redwings and Ring
Ouzels, also Blackbirds and Thrushes, besides many other birds whose
names I will give later. Also at N. Unst a few stragglers rested on
the 16th, and then flew south, with strong S.E. wind and haze. Again,
from about Oct. 28th to Nov. 5th, a great movement, developing into
vast rushes, between Oct. 30th and Nov. 3rd, on which latter day a
Dipper (_Cinclus_) was seen on the Isle of May; twice fired at for
the collection, but escaped. The stations, N. Unst, Sumburgh Head,
Pentland Skerries, Tarbat Ness, Bell Rock, and Isle of May participated
(maximum at Isle of May), but also large numbers at Pentland Skerries,
Bell Rock, and goodly appearance at Sumburgh Head on Nov. 1st. On
Oct. 13th-15th wind was S., but shifted to W. at Isle of May. On
Oct. 28th and 29th wind was S., light and clear; and on 30th to Nov.
1st still prevailing southerly and westerly. Mr. Agnew states that
the rush on 13th-15th was the largest ever witnessed by him at Isle
of May with a due S. wind, S.E. being usually the most productive.
Having detailed the movements and given dates and circumstances of
these rushes, I will now name the other species which participated
in them, and refer back to this paragraph afterwards throughout the
Report. During the October rush, 13th-15th, Redwings in hundreds; Ring
Ouzels, Bramblings, Larks, Woodcock, Short-eared Owl, Yellow Bunting,
Eider Ducks in large flocks; Chaffinches, Crows (Carrion and Hooded),
Jackdaws (the largest flock ever seen at Isle of May), Bramblings,
Tree Sparrows, Blackbirds, Thrushes, and one Missel Thrush; besides,
in smaller numbers. Wagtails, Redstarts, Hawks, &c. During the great
October to November rush the following participated: Sandpipers, Snow
Buntings, Skylarks, as far as N. Unst; and southwards. Lapwings, Grey
Crows, Robins (smaller numbers), Linnets, Chaffinches, Starlings. At
Sumburgh Head a large migration of Thrushes, with Starlings, Larks, and
Linnets; many killed. At Pentland Skerries rush began on 20th, and also
at Isle of May, principally _Turdidæ_ and _Emberizidæ_. At Bell Rock,
on Oct. 31st--Nov. 1st, rush began at 7 a.m. Mr. Jack writes:--"Immense
numbers killed. I have no doubt they were killed in hundreds. What we
think were Woodcocks struck with great force. Birds continued flying
within the influence of the rays of light till the first streak of day,
continually striking hard all night, and falling into the sea. Although
we cannot be sure, we think there was a great number of Woodcocks
struck and fell into the sea."[1] Species of _Turdidæ_ seven, including
_Cinclus_.
[Footnote 1: What a loss of useful food to the lighthouse-keepers,
which might perhaps be saved to them by a few long poles and an old
herring-net stretched round and outside the balcony. This fact is
surely worthy of the attention of the Commissioners and all Directors
of our Lighthouse Stations.]
Saxicolinæ.--In spring considerable arrival of at Pentland Skerries,
Bell Rock, and Isle of May. Earliest (a single Stonechat (_vera_)
_S. rubicola_) on March 20th, at Isle of May, with light E. wind and
haze. [N.B.--In our Third Report, p. 8, the first record was on 29th
of Wheatear, but this record in Mr. Agnew's schedule was entered as
"Stonechat." Owing to the confusion existing between the Wheatear and
"Stonechat" it is usually almost impossible to know to which the name
Stonechat is applied. The true Stonechat is very like a Whinchat,
and in no respect resembles the Wheatear, except in the sound of its
voice.] The next earliest was of three Redstarts (or Firetails), on
March 29th, also at Isle of May, S.E. fresh, haze. Indications of a
rush of Wheatears between April 5th and 13th, at Isle of May; and much
lighter indications of single birds at same dates at Pentland Skerries.
Redstarts scarce; two on April 27th, one on 26th at Isle of May, and
a few at same place. These in every instance with light or fresh S.E.
winds in April, and light N.E. in May.
In autumn a considerable migration, commencing on August 20th; first
record at Isle of May--"Stonechat" [one earlier record occurs at same
place on July 14th, but it is perhaps difficult to say to what this
belongs, as Wheatears breed annually on Isle of May]; one killed at
lantern. Fresh N.W. wind, and terminating as far as schedules indicate,
by Nov. 11th. In this statement are included Wheatears, "Stonechats,"
[true Stonechats identified], Redstarts; but there are no records at
any stations of Wheatears or Stonechats between Sept. 12th and Nov.
1st. October is, curiously enough, entirely blank of any returns of
_Saxicolinæ_, and there are only two records in November. The rushes
took place end of August, culminating on the night of Sept. 2nd-3rd,
when a great rush of Wheatears, Redstarts, and also Chiffchaffs, Robins
and Sedge Warblers, Wood Warblers, and Golden and Grey Plovers took
place. The absence of any record of Thrushes or _Turdidæ_ at this date
at any of the stations is noteworthy. Mr. Agnew writes:--"The night
of Sept. 2nd was very stormy, wind S.E., shifting to N.E., with heavy
rain. The birds were all in large numbers throughout the night, except
a Blue-throated Warbler, adult, which was solitary." On the 12th,
nearly all Wheatears left the Isle of May. On the 4th, at Pentland
Skerries, a rush all day with strong N. wind and rain. Indications at
Bell Rock very faint throughout. In the vast rush of _Turdidæ_ and
other species (see _Turdidæ_ under date) of Nov. 1st, one solitary
Wheatear is first recorded, the first notice since Sept. 12th. In all
three species of _Saxicolinæ_ with certainty.
_Note._--The true Wheatear, "white on the rump," is intended in the
return from Pentland Skerries.
Silviinæ.--In spring, earliest record (Robin) is March 18th, at
Pentland Skerries, and with an E.S.E. gale and sleet; and the latest
(also Robin) on May 11th, at Sumburgh Head, fresh, S.S.E. A rush of
Robins at Isle of May on April 26th, when "large numbers" appeared;
fresh, S.E. and haze. Robins disappeared from Cromarty station on March
30th.
In autumn, earliest record at Isle of May on Aug.
16th,--Whitethroat,--when almost a rush might be recorded. On the
23rd again, at same place, large numbers of Whitethroats and Titmice.
At Cromarty station Robins reappeared, about a dozen being seen on
Sept. 15th, the first since spring. On Sept. 15th, a rush of Robins
at Isle of May, and on 22nd. Winds on all these dates easterly, with
fog, and on 15th "flying banks of fog." Records also of Blackcap on
10th, and more Blackcaps on 23rd; that on 10th with light W. wind, the
others light E. No records in October except at Chanonry, two on 15th,
strong squalls and S.W. Small numbers beginning of November, amongst
Thrushes, &c., _q.v._ stations; Pentland Skerries, light; Dunnet Head,
one record; the latest on Dec. 28th; and Jan. 30th, at Chanonry; light
squalls and sleet. Bell Rock and Isle of May (maximum). Blue-throated
Warbler on night of Sept. 2nd-3rd. In all three species.
Phylloscopinæ.--In spring a distinct movement of Goldcrests, but
nothing to compare with the autumn rush of 1882, though comparing
favourably with the spring rush of the same year. Earliest record,
April 1st, Isle of May; then singly or in small numbers till 13th, when
rather more, along with other species. Latest date of Goldcrests or
other Leaf-warblers, April 16th, at Pentland Skerries; one Goldcrest;
light N.E., clear. The first Chiffchaff on April 26th; also at Isle of
May; wind S.E. and haze; and some again on May 2nd; and Willow Warblers
and Chiffchaffs on May 15th.
In autumn a rush at Isle of May and no previous records; on Sept.
3rd (see _Saxicolinæ_); on the 2nd a S.E. gale, changing light W.,
very dark. Scattered records running through 10th, 11th, to 15th,
when another rush of Willow Warblers and Chiffchaffs, and a solitary
Goldcrest on 22nd, with a rush of Robins. Goldcrests did not put in an
appearance much before Oct. 10th, when a rush took place that night,
with light E. wind and cloudy, again at Isle of May. Mr. D. M. Scott
speaks of the "smallest wrens he ever saw," which were seen at Sumburgh
Head, on Oct. 28th, which were probably of this species. Stations
recording are Sumburgh Head (one record); Tarbat Ness one record on
Oct. 30th [some years Caithness gets a large share of Goldcrests]; and
Isle of May. Three species.
Paridæ.--A few scattered notices in April and May at Pentland Skerries
on April 25th, 27th and 29th, with S. easterly and N.E. wind; rain,
haze or clear; and at same place on May 13th. _Note._--Mr. MacDonald
distinguishes between "Titmice" and "Tomtits." Titmice are probably
Cole Tits, and "Tomtits" Blue Tits, _Parus cæruleus_.
In autumn, in September, a few at Isle of May, on 4th, 5th, 18th, 19th;
on the 4th and 19th, travelling with "Stonechats"; also at Isle of May;
winds westerly and northerly. In October, one record at Inchkeith; wind
light S.W., which seems the usually chosen wind at this locality for
birds migrating. In November, on the 18th, one bird, which is either a
Cole Tit or a Great Tit, at Isle of May.
Acrocephalinæ--Accentorinæ.--A Solitary record of one Sedge Warbler, at
Isle of May, on May 17th, constitutes the whole spring returns.
In autumn, only two records in all; one at Isle of May on Sept. 12th,
of one Sedge Warbler, with light S.E., haze and rain; and the other
on Oct. 11th, at same place, of a Hedge Sparrow ("Blue Janet" of
Schedule). One species of Marsh Warblers, and one probably _Saxicolinæ_.
Troglodytinæ, Common Wren.--On April 9th, one struck and killed (No.
66, in spirits); light W., clear!
In autumn, on Aug. 18th, at Sumburgh Head, a few remained two days;
light W. and haze. Wrens not in large numbers accompanied rush of other
migrants on Sept. 22nd and 23rd; fresh E. and very dark, at Isle of
May. In October, one record at N. Unst, resting at 10 a.m.; S.W., light
and haze ("a rare visitor.") It would be interesting to know if this
was one of the large-footed form found in Faroe (_T. Faröensis_), or
our common species.[2] In November, a few on 7th at Isle of May; and
at Tarbat Ness, one on Oct. 27th; in November, three seen at Sumburgh
Head, with strong breeze and hailstones.
[Footnote 2: This I hope to be able to decide next year, should any
turn up at this station.]
Motacillidæ.--In Spring, at Pentland Skerries and Isle of May.
Earliest, March 2nd, at Isle of May; light W., clear; with a rush of
other migrants. Five seen on March 30th--"the most ever seen together
in spring," at Isle of May, "by Mr. Agnew;" a gale from the S. the
previous night, but wind westerly when seen; these birds flying north.
Other records are with E. or S.E. winds, on 19th, 20th and 23rd. In
April, two records at Pentland Skerries and Isle of May, on 3rd and
25th.
In autumn, records from Pentland Skerries, Bell Rock and Isle of May.
Earliest, July 13th, at the first-named station, and again on 28th,
with fresh N. wind and haze or rain. Scattered records in August,
mostly at Pentland Skerries, with northerly winds; but two records,
one with light S. and clear, and the other, Aug. 18th, with fresh W.
and cloudy, when thirteen were counted. In September, a flock at Bell
Rock on 1st; a few on 2nd, at Pentland Skerries; a number on 11th,
with Robins, at Isle of May. In October, one record at Isle of May, on
10th, light E., haze; and the latest record at Isle of May, one bird on
7th. The Wagtails on Oct. 10th are described as very light-coloured,
but from the good description it is easily seen that they are immature
birds of probably the Pied Wagtail. But it is desirable to watch for
_very light_ or _light-backed birds_ at Isle of May and elsewhere, and
especially at Bell Rock, _during the spring_ migration, as such may
prove to be the continental White Wagtail.
Anthidæ.--In spring, the Rock Pipits resident at the Isle of May
received considerable additions to their numbers on March 19th, and
Meadow Pipits arrived in small numbers on 21st, which is an early date.
On April 3rd, both had much increased in numbers. "Moss-cheepers,"
_i.e._, Meadow Pipits, are also noted at Bell Rock, on April 27th.
In autumn the movement was never great. Noted at Bell Rock, and,
curiously enough, _not_ at Isle of May, nor at any other stations.
Duration: Aug. 9th--light S. breeze, fog, one resting--to Nov. 1st,
when one was noted along with the vast rush of other migrants (see
_Saxicolinæ_). Indication of the rush very faint about Sept. 1st,
when a flock rested on the Rock; a few more seen on 16th, 19th and
22nd; winds light S.W. on 1st, light N.W. on 22nd, and E.N.E. on 19th;
calm on 16th. On Oct. 9th also a flock flying with "Bullfinches."
[These latter may, Mr. Jack thinks, be named wrong, and may be either
Crossbills or Hawfinches.]
_Land Notes._--A Waxwing, _Ampelis garrula_,--a male in full
plumage,--was found at North Unst, of which Mr. Garrick writes me
that it had been kept too long and could not unfortunately be
preserved. Two very fine old Waxwings were shot at Kinneil Woods,
near Borrowstonness (or Bo'ness), by Mr. D. Nichol, gamekeeper to Mr.
Russell, Dundas Castle, on Jan. 18th, 1883.
Laniadæ.--A male killed at Helensburgh (Dumbartonshire), shot by Major
Allan Colquhoun, Feb. 3rd, 1883.
Hirundinidæ.--In spring, _i.e._, till end of June, records reach me
from Sumburgh Head, Auskerry, Pentland Skerries and Isle of May. (It is
often difficult to draw the line in the case of _Hirundinidæ_, between
spring migration, local flights, and autumn migration. This year,
however, they are tolerably distinct, as I have no records during the
whole of July). Earliest spring record is at Sumburgh Head, on April
21st, a single bird, and the next is at Isle of May on April 26th;
winds in both cases S.E., and two more on 28th. No more till May 14th,
with S.W. wind at Isle of May. Occasional light returns all through
May, at Pentland Skerries and Isle of May; winds easterly at former,
and westerly at latter. _Note._--None breed at Isle of May. No rush
distinguishable. In June the dates are 5th (at Sumburgh Head and at
Pentland Skerries), Sand Martin; 10th, four seen at Sumburgh Head,
and 13th, 14th, 17th and 26th, at different stations; winds from all
directions between S.W. at Sumburgh Head by N. to E. Swallows arrived
at Cromarty on May 13th; first seen.
In autumn, the movement, as far as I can judge, extended through August
and September, and lingered into October, the latest record coming
from Sumburgh Head on Oct. 6th. A rush is indicated by the returns on
Sept. 8th and 15th at Isle of May, when "considerable numbers," "large
numbers," and on the 19th, "some," are the data. Wind light W. on 8th,
and easterly the other days. The directions of flight of Swallows
recorded in August vary considerably. Thus, at Pentland Skerries, one
Martin flying E.; strong S.E. and rain, on Aug. 8th; one Swallow,
"flying around," on 9th; fresh E., showers, and "flying W."; on 20th
light S.E. and haze. At Isle of May, five Swallows flying S., light
S.E., haze on 22nd, and flock "flying S." on 30th; light S.E., haze.
Swallows left Cromarty on Sept. 8th; last seen.
_Land Notes._--Swallows seen by me in some numbers at Kirkmichael
House, Dumfries, on evening of April 13th, flying over the artificial
ponds. Also seen at Morningside by A. B. Herbert, on 15th. I have
the following notes from Dr. John Grieve, at Bridge of Allan, which
locality is famed in spring for the shelter afforded from east winds.
Dr. Grieve's notes refer however to autumn notes. In 1880 Swifts left
the Bridge of Allan on Aug. 10th. In 1879 Swifts left between 8th and
17th, and in 1882 on the 8th. "Previous to leaving they always chase
one another round the houses until two days before leaving; then they
appear to keep to higher air." In 1881 two were seen on May 3rd, being
the first arrivals. In 1880 about 200 "Martins and a few Swallows
collected on two houses in Bridge of Allan on Aug. 22nd, and similar
congregations took place in smaller numbers on 27th to 31st, and on
Sept. 8th. On Oct. 4th, frost; and in afternoon some twenty-five seen.
On Oct. 6th, five to one hundred seen hawking over the wood behind
Bridge of Allan. On 8th, six seen. On 8th, hard frost and fog; four
seen flying about _in silence_; next morning, hard frost. On 20th, 15°
frost; on 21st, 6°; 22nd, 10°; and 23rd, 2°. But on 23rd two Swallows
seen. These were the last that year." In 1882 great numbers of Swallows
and Martins were seen flying eastward, outside the cliffs of Beachy
Head on Oct. 4th, and a good many remained along the undercliff of the
Isle of Wight at Ventnor.
The above notes by Dr. Grieve are quite to the point, and if we could
continue to receive land notes such as these from all parts of the
country they would be sure to prove most useful, even if confined to
one or two species of regular migrants.
Fringillidæ.--Both in spring and autumn, one of the features of the
1883 migration is the number of records of Finches (also of Thrushes,
and to a less extent of Buntings), whilst Thrushes--of sorts--and
Finches, seem usually to travel together; there seems, if we may
so call it, more uniform action in the formers' movements in 1883.
The Thrushes' movements are more compressed: those of Finches more
extended in time; or, in other words, the spring and autumn migrations
of the _Turdidæ_ are more strongly defined than those of the Finches.
Thrushes (including Blackbirds and all species) are totally absent
during June and July (not including residents of course), and almost
absent during August and September, and again the same in December and
January (1884). But, though the migrations of the Finches are easily
defined, still they do spread out more over the whole year, and, with
the exception of July, occupy considerable space in the schedule. These
remarks are intended to apply only to 1883, not as a general statement.
In spring, records come from five of the stations giving returns,
_viz._, Sumburgh Head, Auskerry, Pentland Skerries, Bell Rock and Isle
of May. The earliest, two Green Linnets at Isle of May, on Feb. 17th
(the only record of that month). Again, at Isle of May, Tree Sparrows
and Chaffinches on March 2nd--single birds. Latest, June 22nd, at
Pentland Skerries--four "Linnets." These are probably Twites or else
Grey Linnets. During April, between 1st and 5th, there was a rush of
Grey Linnets with light W. wind, clear, along with other species; and
during the month there are lighter movements recorded of the following
species:--Chaffinch, Sumburgh Head; Common Sparrow, Pentland Skerries;
Green Linnets, Isle of May; Bramblings, Tree Sparrows and Bullfinches.
Wind at Sumburgh Head light S.E., but elsewhere generally light W. and
usually clear. In May a small flock of Sparrows at Auskerry, from the
14th to 31st; one Brambling, one Chaffinch, one Green Linnet, between
10th and 15th, with fresh N.N.E. wind.
In autumn, at North Unst, one flock, Oct. 17th; S.E., light, haze;
Sumburgh Head, considerable migration in October--November with other
species (see Thrush). Pentland Skerries, small indication as compared
with more southerly stations; Chanonry, light; Tarbat Ness, full
migration; Bell Rock, rush; and Isle of May, rushes. Earliest, Aug.
5th; numbers of small flocks; wind light W. at Isle of May. Latest,
Dec. 26th, at Isle of May. Rushes:--General rush of migrants, Sept.
22nd, at Isle of May, in which Bramblings participated; Oct. 13th,
at Tarbat Ness, Bramblings, wind due S.; also rush of same, 15th and
16th, same place; and rush also of Tree Sparrows, Chaffinches, "Green
Buntings" (? Green Linnets), and Linnets, at Chanonry; strong breeze
and showers; movements all through October of these same species; also
Linnets at Pentland Skerries; Siskins ("Sisting" of schedule), one
flock, old and young, on 7th, at Tarbat Ness, and again five on Oct.
29th. Light S., haze, on 30th at Pentland Skerries--date of principal
rush,--but westerly gales at Tarbat Ness on 29th. At the time of rush
between Oct. 13th and 16th, at Tarbat Ness, the wind began at due
S.; 14th, strong S., and to noon on 10th; then to W. and west gale at
night of 15th. West gales continued to end of month. By Nov. 1st to
3rd a vast rush at Bell Rock and Isle of May, and also at Sumburgh
Head. By the 5th, rush all over and almost all left. Pentland Skerries
did not appear to participate largely in this rush. The species are
chiefly Chaffinches and Bramblings, also Green Linnets, Gray Linnets
and Sparrows. Prevailing winds westerly. In December, fewer records
at Pentland Skerries and Isle of May. Winds prevailing N.W. and W.
At Dunnet Head "Linnets" are reported present all the year round. In
January, 1884, one or two light records of Brambling and Greenfinch
at Isle of May. Latest, Jan. 12th. _Note._--Mr. Gilmour, Pentland
Skerries, writes he was not sure of the Chaffinches at that station,
when he took up the keeping of the records, and that they may prove to
be Snow Buntings, which is very likely. Mr. D. M. Scott, at Sumburgh
Head, writes under date of Oct. 11th, "a number of small birds killed
on balcony: picked up four Green Linnets and two Chaffinches. I
discovered to-day what becomes of them after being killed. In a hole
of a stone dyke I found a large number of wings and legs of small
birds, taken there by Weasels" (_i.e._, _Mustela erminea_, which was
introduced to Shetland. The Common Weasel, _Mustela vulgaris_, is
not an inhabitant of Shetland). If Mr. Scott would in future collect
all the wings and send them to me by post, they would be useful in
identifying species; or, at any time, if a rare bird occurs, the name
of which is not known, the wings, might be sent (see addition to letter
of instructions, issued 1884). Mr. Agnew notes that he had never before
witnessed such a large migration at Isle of May, with a due S. wind, as
that of Oct. 13th, 14th, and 15th. Chaffinch was heard singing on Feb.
28th at Dunipace.
Corvidæ.--I have records every month in the year but June. In January,
1884, one Hooded Crow flying north, W.S.W. gale, clear. In February,
1883, records of Grey Crows, Jackdaws (at Isle of May, "very rare" on
13th and 14th, light S. and S.W., shifting to N). Rooks (at Isle of
May, on. 19th, a single bird). In March, Rooks (at Pentland Skerries
a flock all day, fresh S.E., cloudy), and one Hooded Crow (on 19th at
Isle of May, light, S.E.). In April, at Sumburgh Head, Bell Rock, and
Isle of May, Rooks and Carrion Crows and one Hooded Crow; prevailing
winds S.E., clear. One Black Crow flying north at Noss Head, with light
N.W. and clear. In May two records only at Sumburgh Head on 3rd, and at
Pentland Skerries, on 11th, of Rooks (two flying W., fresh W. breeze
and clear).
In autumn, in July, all the records are of Rooks, all at one station,
_viz._, Pentland Skerries, and in each case birds remaining on island
all day; winds moderate N., cloudy or clear, but strong S. on 27th. In
August, Rooks again at Pentland Skerries, on island; single birds. The
above are probably merely local predatory excursions from the mainland
of Scotland. In Sept. eighteen Ravens seen at Sumburgh Head, flying S.,
light N.E. and clear. In October many more records. At Sumburgh Head
twelve to twenty Hooded Crows continually fighting with, four large
Hawks, one of which was so exhausted as nearly to allow Mr. D. M. Scott
to catch it on the ground. Many single or other light records. The
most seen, thirty Jackdaws (the largest flock Mr. Agnew has ever seen
on Isle of May), on Oct. 15th, S. to W. winds; also twenty-six Carrion
Crows and a few "Hoodies" on 31st at Isle of May. Of these sixteen
came from the north at 3 p.m., light S. and haze. In November Carrion
and Hooded Crows attended the rush of migrants on 1st, coming from the
north. On the 3rd the Isle of May was literally swarming with birds,
and on the 9th Jackdaws, two in number, reappeared; light W., clear. In
December, at Sumburgh Head, two "large Black Crows" (Carrion Crows?),
or, as the natives call them, "Scotch Crows"; strong breeze and hail
showers. A very regular local migration of Crows or Rooks takes place
day after day past Chanonry from and to Nairn, feeding in the morning
and back at night. At Sumburgh Head Grey Crows are seen almost daily.
_Land Notes._--Mr. R. Gray writes me that great numbers of Hooded
Crows are at present frequenting Tyne Woods on the estate of the Earl
of Haddington in East Lothian. They came some time ago in a body,
and have been seen feeding on the mud and sands of the estuary, and
betaking themselves to the woods at night to roost. These are evidently
migratory flocks, which have crossed Heligoland and landed on our east
coast without being actually observed in transit.
Sturninæ.--In spring, from Feb. 8th at Pentland Skerries to April 23rd
at same place. Only four records in that time.
In autumn, great continuous migration at Auskerry, July 30th, of old
and young; light W. One flock on August 7th at Pentland Skerries all
day; one flock stayed from March 15th to 24th at Sumburgh Head, and
many large flocks also seen to the north of that place at the same
time. In October two small Starlings, "one with a crest like a Crested
Lark, raised and lowered it at will" [Rose-coloured Pastor?--J. A.
H. B.] seen on 6th, light N. wind. Rushes took place on Nov. 1st,
especially at Sumburgh Head and Isle of May (see also under Thrush).
Latest, Dec. 31st, at Isle of May; but the Starling is resident all the
year round at many of our stations.
Alaudidæ.--In spring at Sumburgh Head, Pentland Skerries, Bell Rock,
and Isle of May. Earliest, Feb. 8th, a single bird at Bell Rock, and
several on 9th at Pentland Skerries (see under Thrush at this date).
Latest, April 6th, at Sumburgh Head, when they were found increasing,
but not observed on arrival. A rush took place at Isle of May on Feb.
11th, 1 a.m. till daylight, light E. and fog, flying south (at least
all struck the north side of lantern).[1] Other movements took place,
but none of any magnitude; winds S. and W. in Feb., except the 11th,
_ut sup._; N.W., S.W. to E. on 20th, in March.
[Footnote 3 1: Do the birds strike in light winds and fog upon the side
facing the wind, or on the sheltered side? In heavy gales they strike
_hard with the wind_, but touch and strike also on the Shetland side,]
In autumn, a few records at N. Unst, Isle of May, and Inchkeith.
Earliest, Sept. 21st, at Isle of May, a small flock, fresh E., clear.
Latest, Nov. 26th, a single bird at N. Unst rested all night. Rushes,
11th to 20th, W., shifting to N. on 11th; W. gale on 19th and 20th.
Also rush on 31st and Nov. 1st, along with other species, principally,
at Bell Rock and Isle of May. Again a few in January, 1884, up to 17th,
light W. winds and haze; and at Chanonry on 24th a flock, with strong
squalls and sleet. [3] Emberizidæ.--In spring Snow Buntings began to
appear on Feb. 9th,--but this may not belong to spring records,--when
a large flock flew about all day on Pentland Skerries. They occurred
also at Auskerry, Sumburgh Head, Pentland Skerries, and Isle of May.
Earliest, as above. Latest, April 12th, at Sumburgh Head, when two were
killed. No great rushes evident, but largest numbers passed in March,
mostly with northerly or westerly winds. If any rush occurred it was
between March 9th and 25th, indicated principally at Pentland Skerries
and Isle of May. On 23rd, at Isle of May, a flock flying north. Common
Bunting seen at Isle of May on Feb. 12th, and again on April 6th.
Yellow Buntings at same place on March 5th and April 7th, in both cases
females.