Transcriber Note
Text emphasis indicated as _Italics_ and =Bold=.
REPORT
ON THE
MIGRATION OF BIRDS
IN THE
SPRING AND AUTUMN OF 1885,
BY
Mr J. A. HARVIE-BROWN, Mr J. CORDEAUX,
Mr R. M. BARRINGTON, Mr A. G. MORE,
AND
Mr W. EAGLE CLARKE.
SEVENTH REPORT.
(Vol. II., No. 2.)
EDINBURGH:
PRINTED BY M'FARLANE & ERSKINE,
14 AND 19 ST JAMES SQUARE.
1886.
PREFACE.
The following Report contains a summary of investigations of a
Committee reappointed by the British Association for the Advancement
of Science, at Aberdeen, in 1885, 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 Birmingham in 1886. 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 E. M. Barrington and Mr A. G. More.
CONTENTS.
PAGE
General Remarks, 5
East Coast of Scotland, 12
East Coast of England, 37
Heligoland, 60
West Coast of Scotland, 92
West Coast of England and Wales, and the Isle
of Man, 108
Irish Coast, 132
[Illustration:
MAP
OF THE
British Islands
SHOWING POSITION of THE
LIGHTHOUSE & LIGHT VESSEL STATIONS
TO WHICH SCHEDULES ARE SENT BY
THE COMMITTEE.
]
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. Tarbat Ness. 49. Cockle 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 Abb's 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 Tudwal's 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 Islay. 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.
SEVENTH REPORT
ON
THE MIGRATION OF BIRDS
IN THE
SPRING AND AUTUMN OF 1885.
_This year, in order to decrease the bulk of the Report, the Committee
decided that Ocean Notes be not printed in the Report, but separately.
Messrs Gray and Swinburne having again kindly kept notes for us, these
will be retained for future publication._
GENERAL REMARKS.
Our thanks are again due to the numerous Reporters, whose names are
given under the "Diaries" of the two coasts.
Additions to our List of Stations are Fidra in the Firth of Forth, and
also very shortly after this will be added a light-vessel off the Carr
Rock, coast of Fife, holding an intermediate position between Bell Rock
and Isle of May; and on the west coast the light upon Ailsa Craig.
It is intended to introduce the electric light at Isle of May, and
machinery and works are at present in course of erection.
We regret to learn that an order has been issued that lighthouse
keepers shall no longer be allowed to read or write in the
lantern-rooms; and we are glad that some little notice has been taken
of the fact in the House of Commons on the 12th April 1886.
The 1885 schedules show distinctly the compressed nature of the
migration, which, while very considerable in numerical importance,
was, at the same time, short, sharp, and decisive. The principal spring
rush was similar, occupying only a few days at the comparatively late
date of the beginning of May, particulars of which can be gleaned
directly from the Diaries of the stations, and especially under
_Turdidæ_, Fieldfares being unusually plentiful. This appears to
have been the heaviest movement, taking all species together, but
_Saxicolinæ_ travelled all April and May, and _Silviinæ_ about the
middle of April.
Shortly, we may describe the migration of 1885 thus:--
In spring of 1885 the rush was pronounced, somewhat late, compressed,
and in many respects very similar, but not so extensive as 1884. The
prevailing winds were easterly and southeasterly in April and May, and
had been very continuous. The effect was the compression spoken of--a
closed fan. The largest migration ever witnessed at the Isle of May was
on 3d May 1885.
In autumn the rushes partook of a similar nature,--short, sharp, and
decisive, but very considerable in numerical importance. Previous to
middle of October, migration was very slight at any stations, but great
rushes took place between then and about the middle of November. An
interesting note of the cross-migration of Woodcocks, and other birds,
is given at the Isle of May. Woodcocks travelling towards the N.W., and
striking the S.E. side of the glass, whilst other species were flying
S.E., and striking on exactly the opposite side of the lantern, both
flights being equally favourable, or nearly so, by the light E. wind.
Another N.W. to S.E. rush took place during the day-time, of what must
have been a very extensive migration, upon the 10th November; wind
light south, and birds flying high. An unprecedentedly high gale as
coming from the S.E. is recorded at Isle of May on the 23d.
We would like to ask our readers, and the British Association, of
which we are a Committee, to recognise that the more we know about
migration, apparently the less reason is there for scientists to use
the term "Accidental." At present "Abnormal" is better. "_Of accidental
occurrence_" is a term or phrase which ought to be _expunged_, root and
branch, from scientific records of migration. Every year's statistics
prove this more and more fully. "Probably an escape" is, no doubt, a
safeguard against undue admission to the British List; but we think it
possible to carry this phrase too commonly into use, ignoring the fact
that migration may account _much more simply_ for such occurrences,
under certain conditions, than escapes. A list of localities where
foreign fowls, like _Porphyrio melanotus_, are kept throughout
the United Kingdom, would greatly facilitate positive records of
"occurrences;" and all such species as Canada Geese and ornamental
Waterfowl, which are kept in confinement or partial domestication,
might be returned to the Committee, or to the Association, by the
proprietors, if they were asked to do so by circular.
From every succeeding year's statistics, we have come almost to similar
conclusions regarding the lines of flight. Three salient routes on to
our East Coast of Scotland are invariably shown, _viz._: (_1st_) _viâ_
the entrance of the Firth of Forth, and as far north as Bell Rock,
both coming in autumn and leaving in spring; (_2d_) _viâ_ the Pentland
Firth and Pentland Skerries, both in spring and autumn; and (_3d_)
_viâ_ the insular groups of Orkney and Shetland, which perhaps may be
looked upon as part of No. 2; and a fourth with almost certainty passes
into the Moray Firth, but avoids the high cliffs of the east coast of
Aberdeenshire.
On the other hand, three great areas of coast-line, including both
favourably placed and favourably lighted stations, almost invariably,
save in occasionally protracted easterly winds, and even then but
rarely, send in no returns or schedules of the very scantiest
description. These areas are Berwickshire, the whole E. coast south of
the Moray Firth, and Caithness and E. Sutherland. Each and all of these
areas possess high and precipitous coast-lines, if we except the minor
estuaries of the rivers of Tay and Dee, and a small portion of lower
coast-line in Sutherland, which face towards the east. Nevertheless
these areas partake to a very large extent of the numbers of migrants
which visit Scotland. Nowhere in Scotland, perhaps, is summer bird-life
more abundant than in, at least, the two more southern of these
areas--Berwickshire, and the interior of Aberdeen and Banff, and the
valley of Spey and its tributaries. The question appears a natural one:
by what route do these summer visitants reach us? or, by what route do
birds reach us in autumn? Not, I believe, _over the high cliff edge_ in
the latter case, otherwise _some_ migration would certainly be visible
from the rock-bound stations. As shown in one case, positive assurance
is given by the reporter at Noss Head, that for eleven years scarcely
a bird "_had been observed on migration day or night_," and we have
scarcely any statistics to show a contrary view, as regards the said
area all through our seven reports.
How, it is known with considerable certainty that Caithness owes
its periodical passing visits of such species as Blackcap and Pied
Flycatcher, both in spring and autumn, to its immediate proximity to
one of the chief highways of migration--the Pentland Firth; and the
configuration of the N.E. peninsula of that county clearly points to
the route by which spring passing migrants reach the E. coast of the
county, as we have already explained in previous remarks. They cross
over a low-lying depression in the land from Dunnet Bay, and cut off
the peninsula of Canisbay. Coming again in autumn, the same birds, to
some slight extent, may return across this peninsula, but the undoubted
fact remains that the compressed and strongest flights cross over the
Pentland Skerries and through the Firth.
In the same way, it appears that while scarcely a bird is ever recorded
at the stations along the E. cliff-edge of Aberdeen, yet, in autumn,
a well-marked stream of migration enters the N.E. counties at a point
westward of Troup Head, which forms the northern abutment of the
dividing ridge, or watershed, between what are known as the Faunal
areas of "Moray and Dee;" and that thence up the wide open valley of
the Spey, and over the low-lying portions of the south coast of the
Moray Firth, this stream is clearly traceable at many points. It is
also known that an equally decided spring "return" descends the same
great valley, and enters it across the dividing range between the head
waters of Spey and Spean or Pattack. We have studied this subject
locally--at many points personally--especially in spring, and notes
we have taken, dating back for many years, all tend to strengthen the
statement.
In the same way it appears almost equally certain, that while few birds
fly across over the cliff-edges of Berwickshire, but pour in vast
streams up the open and wide Firth of Forth, still Berwickshire, and
the interior of the south of Scotland, are well supplied with migrants;
and the "return" is equally apparent. A study of our previous remarks
by our readers cannot, we think, fail to give them the idea of the
process of the population of these interior portions of the country in
Scotland.
England is differently circumstanced to a great extent, owing
principally to its low-lying sea-board. There is no occasion there to
have the great migration waves compressed into grooves and firths and
depressions.
The further question naturally may be asked, "But why should they not
fly in over the cliff tops?" We think there are already many reasons
stated in our previous remarks why such is less likely to happen,
during normal migration, whether by day or by night, and that they
should avoid obstacles, and choose an easier if not a shorter route.
The population of these interior parts, which are bounded by
precipitous coast-lines, appears to us almost certainly to arrive by
the innumerable veins--if I may so call them--which run into and join
the main arteries,--and thus a circular migration is evinced.
Birds in normal migration against a beam wind fly low, and on reaching
low-lying sea-board pass on inland without resting. But on approaching
high land, say 200 or 300 feet in height, while at night the greatest
darkness is ahead of them, and the greatest light to the north or south
of their course; during the day-time, if the wind is off-shore--a
beam wind,--on approaching the lee shore, they enter upon a calm belt
of sheltered air and water, and choose the easier path along shore.
According to whether the off-shore wind is strong or light, will they
approach nearer or keep further out; and, skirting the coast-line, so
enter upon one of the great open highways of normal migration. This,
which appears almost undoubted, will in great measure account for
the invariably slender returns sent in by nearly all the rock-bound
stations of the more precipitous portions of the Scottish Coast.
Regarding the migration of Woodcock generally, the following notes may
prove of some interest. These I culled from the note-books and game
register of a naval friend stationed at Corfu and the Albanian coast in
1879.
The first flight of Woodcock occurs about the first ten days of
November, and it remains a very short time before passing on, unless
abnormal "south winds keep them in cover." The second and heavy flight
occurs about the middle of December, and may remain a mouth, and odd
birds are shot even in February in the lower covers. Thomas Wood, Esq.,
British Consul at Patras,--an authority for the locality,--says that
Woodcock come in November with a N.W. wind most freely, but in December
with a N.E. wind.
By a study of the area over which the Woodcock breeds, of the time
they take in flight, and of a comparison of the dates of arrivals at
Heligoland and East British Coasts with the above,--it seems pretty
clear, I think, that the early flight, which extends along the whole
Albanian coast is composed entirely of birds bred amongst the higher
levels of their southern range, coming probably from the Carpathians
and as far south as the Balkans, as well as from high localities even
nearer to the Albanian coast and coverts. It seems to us also equally
clear that the December flight, preferring the beam wind from the N.E.,
comes from the western parts of North Europe, having originally started
from the breeding areas of the extreme north. On starting, we will
say, from the N. of Scandinavia, or Scandinavia, and other parts of
the breeding range, they arrive on our coasts about October {our first
flight). This corresponds with the first flight on the Albanian coast
a month later. Birds reaching us congregate upon our islands under
the genial influence of the Gulf Stream, but may finally be drawn off
by December, and constitute a portion at least of the great flight at
Corfu, where one ship's sportsmen have been known to kill something
like 300 cock in a day or two (I have not the figures, but they are
accessible, if necessary).
Regarding the subject of the arrival of young' birds in advance of
the adults in autumn, the Committee, we think, should look at the
movements exhibited by, and distinctly observable in, certain species.
Those, perhaps, most easily observed are the larger Natatores, such as
Geese and Swans and Gannets, whose distinct movements can be watched
year after year, and recorded with almost absolute certainty. We do
not intend to dilate upon the importance of this method at present,
but in the connection will merely quote a significant passage from Mr
Robert Gray's "Birds of the West of Scotland,"[1] and to supplement
it by saying that there can be no doubt as to the accuracy of the
observations made, as they are well known to the inhabitants. Mr Gray
says: "Previous to leaving, the Barnacle Geese assemble in immense
flocks on the open sands, at low tide, in the Sounds of Benbecula and
S. Uist; and as soon as one detachment is on the wing, it is seen to be
guided by a leader, who points the way with strong flight northwards,
maintaining a noisy bearing until he gets the flock into the right
course. After an hour's interval, he is seen returning with noisy
gabble alone, southwards to the main body, and taking off another
detachment as before, until the whole are gone. A notice of this
singular habit was first communicated to me by Mr Alex. Carmichael, and
has since been corroborated by Mr Norman M'Donald, who informs me that
the inhabitants of the Long Island have been long familiar with it."
[Footnote 1: _Op. cit._, pp. 349, 350.]
EAST COAST OF SCOTLAND.
The usual schedules were sent to twenty-seven stations. Thirteen
stations on the East Coast of Scotland have returned forty-eight
schedules. Isle of May gives heaviest returns with nineteen schedules.
Pentland Skerries follows with eleven. Bell Rock again is next in
importance.
In the List of Stations we follow the same plan as in that of 1884, but
we add in several cases the names of the assistant light-keepers whose
names have been returned as taking interest in the proceedings. The
present year's returns will be indicated by asterisks.
We do not repeat the explanation of migration values of the the
stations here for the Scotch Coast, that being done in our last Report
(_q.v._ p. 10).
EAST OF SCOTLAND.
Returns
in 6 In
years. 1885. Values. Feet.
Shetland.
4 * 4. N. Unst, IV. 230
3 5. Whalsey Skerries, II. 143
1 6. Bressay, III. 105
4 * 7. Sumburgh Head, I. 303
Orkney.
5 * 8. N. Ronaldshay, IV. 180
* 9. Start Point, V. 80
6 * 10. Auskerry, I. 110
11. Hoy Sound (Low), V. 65
12. Hoy Sound (High), V. 115
13. Cantick Head, III. 115
6 * 14. Pentland Skerries, I. 170
Mainland.
6 15. Dunnet Head, Caithness, V. 346
16. Holborn Head, Caithness, V. 75
17. Noss Head, Caithness, V. 175
18. Tarbat Head, East Ross, V. 175
4 * 19. Cromarty, East Cromarty, V. 60
3 * 20. Chanonry Point, Elgin, V. 40
21. Covesea Skerries, Elgin, V. 160
22. Kinnaird Head, Aberdeen, V. 120
23. Buchan Ness, Aberdeen, V. 130
24. Girdleness, Aberdeen, V. 185
25. Montroseness, Forfar, V. 124
6 * 26. Bell Rock, Fife Coast, I. 93
26B. _Carr Rock Light-ship_, Fife Coast,† ?
6 * 27. Isle of May, Firth of Forth, I. 240
1st 27B. Fidra, Firth of Forth,†
5 * 28. Inchkeith, Firth of Forth, IV. 220
29. St Abb's Head, Berwick, V. 224
† New Stations, 1885-86.
Diary from the Stations.
_N. Unst._--John Nichol (principal), J. J. Morrison, Robert Agnew,
and John Down (assistants), send in three well-filled schedules. J.
N. in a note says: "Wood's Natural History, second edition, would
be very useful to us here." Amongst rarities, a Wryneck, obtained
on 9th September (see under species). "About 5th September all
Puffins, Marrots, Kittiwakes, and Guillemots disappeared. Puffins and
Mosscheepers (probably Rock Pipits, J. A. H. B.) breed on the rock, and
a Gull or two. Falcon Hawk on the island ashore, and visits the rock
in search of small birds. No Swans seen as in former years in November
and December. I was told a great flock was seen at Lerwick going north
early in November. Since my arrival at this station in July last from
Dhuheartach, not a single Eider Duck was seen. Only birds we see now
are from the shore (December 26, 1885), _viz._, Starlings, Sparrow
Hawks, Crows; a few Gulls flying about; Solan Geese all away."--Signed
J. N.
_Sumburgh Head._--James Youngclause (principal), Robert Gifford
(assistant). During the summer a great number of Gulls breed in the
cliffs. Also large numbers of Guillemots, Razorbills, which arrive
first and second week of August. Also lots of Starlings and Grey
Linnets, but these and the Gulls remain the whole year. Under date of
16th January 1886, Mr Y. writes: "Birds have been very scarce; not one
stranger since the 27th November." Two schedules.
_North Ronaldshay._--John Tulloch (principal). Two schedules. Gannets
began flying north about the 18th April.
_Auskerry._--John M'Donald (principal). Three well-filled schedules.
_Pentland Skerries._--Signed by John Gilmour (assistant). Eleven very
full schedules. Mr Gibson (principal), Mr Frazer, and Mr M'Gee are all
much interested in the subject. They have been supplied with a copy of
C. A. Johns' "British Birds in their Haunts," published by the Society
for Promoting Christian Knowledge. Harvie-Brown visited Pentland
Skerries in July 1885. "Skerries" is a misnomer for the larger island.
It is a lovely island, richly grassed, feeds twenty sheep on 114 acres;
very level, fine turf, rich in daisies and buttercups, producing
lovely milk, and admirably situated to intercept migration. Elsewhere
an account of the birds seen there in summer will be incorporated.[2]
Pentland Skerries, along with Isle of May, as usual, shared the
heaviest rushes and returns, and Bell Rock very fully participated. The
rush seemed to be about the middle of October, continuing, but not so
heavily, through that month, and increasing again up to the middle of
November. On the 11th November our reporters say: "Never saw so many
Fieldfares flying round the light" as to-night.
[Footnote 2: Vertebrate Fauna of Shetland, Caithness, and West
Cromarty, by T. E. Buckley and J. A. Harvie-Brown, in press. There can
scarcely be a doubt that this station would quickly rival the "Isle
of May" in rarities, if the men had equal facilities of obtaining
specimens. If they had guns, also, they might add largely to their
stock of wholesome fresh food.]
_Dunnet Head._--David Laidlaw (principal) sent one schedule. Visited by
H.-B. in 1885. It is easily understood why it is not a good station,
notwithstanding the favourable description of light. The light is 346
feet above the sea, and does not face clear to eastward except upon the
horizon, a great cliff top intercepting the downward rays at a distance
of at least 100 yards from the tower.
_Holborn Head._--No return. Visited by H.-B. in 1885. The position is
decidedly bad, being quite too land-locked both to east and west. I
had a long chat with Mr Charles Christian, the second light-keeper,
but did not see Mr Charleston, the principal. Mr Christian told me
that not a bird has appeared at the lights since he came last year in
May. He was at Cantick Head, another station utterly unfrequented by
birds.--(Extract from H.-B.'s Journal.)
_Noss Head._--No return. Visited by H.-B. in 1885. Mr Greig (principal)
has been here eleven years, and reported that scarcely a land-bird
has ever been known to strike the dome or light, or "been observed
on migration day or night" (_sic_). Noss Head Light lies open to
the N.N.E., E.S.E., and S.S.E., and is only 175 feet above the sea
(Pentland Skerries Light is 170 feet, and Isle of May 240 feet); and
no land interruptions occur. Nevertheless, it utterly fails to attract
birds, as, indeed, do most stations with an abrupt and precipitous
coast, for reasons which we think are almost self-evident.--(See
General Remarks.)
_Cromarty._--Robt. S. Ritson (principal) sends one schedule. He says:
"No birds struck lantern during the year. Rather more birds observed
than in 1884. Pervading winds were again westerly from January to
April, but between May and October easterly; but the change of wind
brought no accessions of birds. Land-locked station.
_Chanonry._--John M'Gill (principal) and Wm. Irvine (assistant) send
one light schedule, and the remarks: "There is no difference from the
remarks of other years. The migration this year seems to be for the
purposes of feeding. No certain migration observable." Mr M'Gill,
however, goes on to say; "The Sand Martins, when congregated on Major
M'Kenzie's yacht-rigging from the bowsprit up to the mast, and down to
the end of the jib-boom, made a curious sight, when lying at anchor."
This was on the 24th August 1885.
_Bell Rock._--James Jack (principal) sends as usual carefully and
well-filled schedules, quite among the best received. Under date
of 16th October, at the time of a rush, Mr Jack has the following
general remarks: "Birds began to arrive at 7.30 P.M., striking lightly
and flying off again; unable to tell of what species. Numbers went
on increasing till midnight, when it seemed that a vast flock had
arrived, as they now swarmed in the rays of light, and, striking hard,
fell dead on balcony, or rebounded off and went over the rail, falling
into the sea. At 3 A.M. another flock seemed to have arrived, as the
numbers now increased in density; at the same time, all kinds crowded
on to the lantern windows, trying to force their way to the light. The
noise they made shrieking and battering the windows, etc., baffles
description. The birds were now apparently in thousands. Nothing ever
seen here like it by us keepers. Wherever there was a light visible in
the building, they tried to force their way to it. The bedroom windows
being open as usual for air all night, they got in there and put the
bedroom light out. All birds went off at 6 A.M., going W.S.W. Redwings
were most in numbers; Starlings came next. Blackbirds, Fieldfares, and
Larks." The later rush in November seems to have taken place entirely
at night also: "No birds were seen throughout the daylight of the 11th
and 12th November, and the movement ceased at midnight of the 12th,"
when the wind became strong from S.W. All birds visiting here between
October 18 till December 12 were composed of both old and young, also
male and female; but young birds most in number. Many hundreds lost
their lives.
_Inchkeith._--Robt. Grierson sends a schedule with the following diary:
"During the night of the 5th September a small flock of birds was
observed hovering around the lantern at 11 P.M., wind W., light breeze
and haze, and two young Stonechats were caught." At midnight, also, two
more; and other small movements are given.
_Fidra._--William Ross. Arrival of the Solan Geese noted on March 27;
also Eider Ducks. Mr Ross sends two well-filled schedules, but is
disappointed with the results. He need not we think, as Fidra lies
somewhat land-locked and out of the stream. We are much obliged to
him for the first Schedules from the new Firth of Forth Station. Mr
Ross writes under date of July 24: "Solan Geese, Gulls, and all sea
birds have deserted our island entirely. About a dozen sparrows are
now our only feathered visitors;" and on Aug. 4th--"Having been on the
mainland, I was quite surprised to see the numerous and varied flocks
of many kinds of birds, not one of which came near our island."
_Isle of May._--J. Agnew (principal), Messrs Young and Anderson
(assistants), send twenty full schedules, indicating a very heavy
migration, past this favoured isle. At present a staff of men are busy
putting in electric light machinery here. It will be curious to watch
the result next season.
New occurrences continually turn up at Isle of May, and this year
we have to record amongst rarities and acquisitions the Common
Dotterel (_Endromias morinellus_, L.), the Red Backed Shrike (_Lanius
collurio_), and Ortolan Bunting (_Emberiza hortulana_)--two specimens
obtained. Also Turtle Dove (_Columba turtur_, L.)--one shot; and
the Dipper was obtained for the first time, though it had been seen
before, as stated in previous reports. It proved to be the British
form. Specimens of these are added to the collection at Isle of May.
We gave earlier notice of the first three above enumerated, in the
_Proceedings of the Royal Physical Society_, Edinburgh, as we belong
to that class of naturalists who do not believe in withholding facts
until they become rusty. To do so may be useful for selfish motives and
personal _kudos_, but is not calculated to promote further study, and
is, indeed, calculated to delay it.
Continuous E. winds at the beginning of May caused a vast rush on 2d to
4th May of many species. Mr Agnew writes: "The long tact of S.E. wind
has brought an extraordinary 'rush' of birds to the island yesterday
(on the 3d) and to-day; the night of the 2d, and all day of the 3d, was
constant rain and fog. For a day or two previous to the 3d, we had a
few birds, and some strangers; but they were only the heralds of the
great army. I have seen something like it in the 'fall,' but never in
the spring. These last two days we have 'birds; birds everywhere.' I
think I have identified them all, except the three mentioned inside. If
you had been here to-day, what a bag you would have made."--Signed J.
A., 4th May 1885.
In the schedule Mr Agnew says:--
"3d May.--An extraordinary rush of migrants to-day; never seen anything
like it in spring. To attempt to give numbers is simply useless. I
will just give you the names in succession. I can't spare a line
for each.--Fieldfares, Redwings, Ring Ouzels, Blackbirds, Lapwings,
Dotterels, Rock Pigeons, Hawk, Meadow Pipits, Redstarts, Whinchats,
Tree Sparrows, Yellow Wagtails, Ortolan Bunting (obtained), Robins,
Chiff-Chaffs, Wood Warbler, Black Cap Warbler, Marsh Tit, Whitethroats,
and Pied Flycatchers." And on 4th still increased in numbers, but wind
shifted this morning to E. from S.E.
Mr Agnew mentions also "a bird" he has "often reported," a "grey bird
with a white feather each side of the tail, and larger than a pipit,
kind of slate colour, light streak through eye, black hood over its
head." And another; "colour of Tree Sparrow, but smaller grey white
belly, slate-coloured head; never seen the latter before."
In autumn Mr Agnew says: "Up to 14th October migration was very
meagre,--something like last year, and from the same cause; gales of
wind from the W. and N.E. That we have any at all shows how determined
the birds are to keep their usual time of migration, even when under
great difficulties."
Under date of Oct. 17th--"A great rush of migrants at Isle of May
"--Mr Agnew has the remarks: "The Woodcock was killed on the S.E.
side, and the other birds on the N.W. side. Thus the migrants have
been exactly meeting one another; and this is just as I would have
expected,--the Woodcocks _coming_ to us, and the others _leaving_ us.
It would appear as if they were all waiting a favourable opportunity
to go. Seventeen Woodcocks were shot during the day on the 17th Oct.
on Isle of May."--J. A. The birds striking the N.W. side consisted
of Redwings, Larks, Starlings, Blackbirds, Chaffinches, Whinchats,
Chiff-Chaffs, Willow Warblers, Golden Crests, one Crow, and the rush
continued over the 18th. These birds, striking the N.W. side, no doubt
reached our shores further north, and were "coasting," or, as we have
remarked in previous reports (as in the case of Woodpigeons and Larks),
were crossing the Firth of Forth from north-westerly directions to
southeasterly ones. The wind at the time of this migration was light E.
The Woodcock would thus travel at fair advantage, and strike the S.E.
side; and the other birds which struck the N.W. would have a still more
favourable flight, with the wind _beam on the left shoulders_.
We consider these remarks by Mr Agnew most valuable, as bearing out
previous experience in a remarkable manner.
Again, under date of 10th Nov., Mr Agnew writes: "Thousands of
Fieldfares, etc., etc. The vast rush to-day were flying exactly in the
same direction as the great rush of the 17th Oct., and had it been at
night, the lantern would have been swarming, and they would have struck
it exactly on the N.W. side as before; wind S., but very nearly calm.
The birds were flying high in the air; a few lighted, but immediately
went on again direct S.E. I never saw anything like it in daylight
before. There were also blackbirds, male and female, on the island
to-day, but the males predominating."
Again, on the 26th Nov., Mr Agnew writes: "10 A.M., S.E. gale. Two
Woodcocks shot. This gale came on at 9 A.M. on the 23d, and is still
increasing, and the glass falling. It is now 4 P.M., and the glass
29·05. There has been nothing like this from the S.E. for years. The
barometer fell to 28·65 on the night of the 26th."
Separate Report under Genera and Species.
Turdidæ.--_Spring._--In February indication of Fieldfares on 23d and
26th, and with S.W. gale at Isle of May on 22d, 23d, and 27th, an
unusual experience here to appear so frequently as they have done. A
few also appeared 2d, 3d, 4th, and a good many on 9th, with N.W. winds.
Again a few March 15th, 18th, and 24th at Isle of May. In April, only
one record. Isle of May; but in May, flocks and stragglers for first
three weeks at Pentland Skerries; prevailing winds, N.E.; no very
strongly defined "rush," only on one day, flocks at Isle of May. A few
unimportant movements of other _Turdidæ_, _viz._, Song Thrush, Redwing
at Stations VII., VIII., XIV., and XXVII. The Ring Ouzel is noted at
Pentland Skerries, but marked as "very rare here" (20th April), and
again May 2d and onwards for several days.
_In Autumn._--An early movement of Song Thrushes, July 4th and 17th,
at Pentland Skerries; wind variable on 4th, and light N.W. on 17th,
and one bird at Isle of May on 27th. Unimportant again at Isle of
May in Aug. 13th and 18th, and ditto in September at same station.
_First_ Fieldfares on 29th, with light W. wind; but in October real
migration set in of _Turdidæ_, earliest as usual at Isle of May; on
8th a Fieldfare (wind shifting from N. to S.W.) followed by a single
bird. First record of Redwing again at Pentland Skerries, with light
N.N.E. airs, an apparent rush of which at same place between 26th
and 31st. Flocks and intermittent movements all the month from 8th
to end, of all three species. November, however, bulks largest from
Stations IV,, VII., VIII., IX., X., XIV., XV., and XXVII., during the
whole month. Fieldfares predominating far beyond the numbers of other
_Turdidæ_. Whilst many "flocks" are recorded all through the schedules
south of VIII. (N. Ronaldshay) to XIV. (Pentland Skerries), and even
appearances at XV, (Dunnet Head), fewer records are given north of
VIII., and none occur between XV. and XXVII. (Isle of May). A rush is
only very decidedly shown at Isle of May on 10th, when thousands of
Fieldfares and other Thrushes round station at 9.30 A.M., with a S.
wind, and flew on southwards. On the 17th there is a "rush" recorded
of Redwings at XXVII. at 1 A.M., light E. haze--six killed. Immense
numbers of the several species of _Turdidæ_,--_viz._, Fieldfares, Song
Thrushes, Redwings, but curiously we do not find a single entry of
Blackbirds anywhere during the whole Autumn Migration, which extended
all through December and January, though in smaller numbers as compared
with November. Prevailing wind all October, northerly and easterly;
south-easterly and easterly in November, but the rush came with due
S. wind. When westerly winds occurred, as usual fewer records. In
December, winds various, but more westerly than November, but in
January again back to E.[3]
[Footnote 3: _Addition to List of Birds of the Isle of May._--Dipper
(_Cinclus aquaticus_, L.), the British form--shot April 22d, 10 A.M.,
light west haze--now in Collection at Isle of May, under curatorship of
Mr J. Agnew.]
Saxicolinæ.--_Spring_, confined to April and May. Records from VIII.
(North Ronaldshay), XIV. (Pentland Skerries), and XXVII. (Isle of May)
of Wheatears, Whinchats, and Redstarts. The "Stonechats" of the N.
Ronaldshay Schedule are probably Wheatears, a rush of which took place
there on April 4th--the earliest record--at twelve noon; wind light
south. Wheatears arrived pretty numerously at XXVI I. , to breed there,
on 20th April. Earliest Redstart at XIV., with strong S.S.E. wind and
fog, marked "rare," on 29th April; but earliest at XXVII. on the 18th,
one [male], light west, and haze. Towards the end of May Redstarts
appeared in very small numbers; again at XIV., and two Whinchats.
_In Autumn._--Early departure of the old Wheatears from XXVII. (Isle of
May), before 22d July. This is noted as earlier than usual by Mr Agnew.
One bird noted at XIV. (Pentland Skerries) on 23d August, with N.N.E.
and driving rain.
Earliest southward movement of Redstart at XIV. on 14th August--a
single bird--wind N.W.; seen on island. At IV. (N. Unst) a "rush" of
Redstarts and Wheatears at night, wind light S.W., on 9th September.
At XXVII. a few old males on 18th September, followed by mixed old and
young on following day. Redstarts at IV. on 3d October, and a rush of
Whinchats at Isle of May at 1 A.M.--wind S.E., haze. Single record of
Whinchat in November at XXVII., and "Stonechats" at XXVIII. B. The new
station of Fidra, in the Firth of Forth, a single bird. On 22d July
most of the old Wheatears had left Isle of May--"an early date for them
to leave."--J. A.
Silviinæ.--_In Spring_, earliest Robin record on 13th and 17th
February at XXVII. (Isle of May)--"the first for a long time." Latest
spring record, also at XXVII., on 15th May. Most seen on 13th April,
at XXVII., N.N.E.; and several all day on XIV. (Pentland Skerries),
strong S.E., on 8th April. Cromarty sends one return of Robin on 2d
May. _Willow Warbler_--earliest, 29th April, at Isle of May; and Wood
Warbler at same place on 2d May, with strong S.E., fog and rain.
_Whitethroat_ at Isle of May, with light S. and S.E., between 13th and
24th--an indication of a rush lighting on S.E. side of lantern, with
light N.W., and rain on 24th.
_Autumn._--Species observed were Robin and Whitethroat; Robin most
prevalent, Whitethroat next. Earliest Robin at N. Unst, 26th July;
latest, 28th November, at I. of Fidra (but as this might only be local,
take latest at Dunnet on 14th, or Isle of May on 12th). If any rush
noticeable, about the 17th September.
Phylloscopinæ.--Gold Crests are recorded in April 12th and 13th, and
20th and 23d at XXVII.; few on the two first dates, rush on the last,
with W.S.W., and fog and drizzling rain. No other records from any
part of E. Coast in any spring month. Wood Warblers, 8th to 24th May;
a "great rush" all night on the 9th, with snow and hail showers, and
wind N.W. to N.E.; and again all night on 18th, with rain, hail, and
snow from N.E. [We can remember, on the 10th May, snow lay on the banks
of Spey two inches deep at Aberlour.--J. A. H. B.] Two Chiff-Chaffs are
also noted on 20th. All the above at XXVII. (Isle of May), and no other
spring records of Phylloscopinæ.
_In Autumn._--Earliest Chiff-Chaff, 27th July, at XXVII., 11 A.M.,
E., light fog; and again between the 12th and 24th August. Numbers on
13th, and number of males on 24th. On 13th, N.W. wind, strong, clear.
Also, on 15th, a _Willow Warbler_--light haze, struck S.E. side, light
W. wind; and a _Wood Warbler_ on the 24th--a fine male. In September,
a single Willow Warbler from N. Unst, light N.W., on 15th; and a few
_Gold Crests_ at XXVII. on 1st, and again on 17th and 19th--the latter
amongst the rocks on the E. side--light S.W. A rush of Chiff-Chaffs on
17th October at XXVII., light E., haze and rain--and Willow Warbler;
and then, on 18th and 19th, Gold Crests all night. Latest date of
autumn migration of Phylloscopinæ is of Chiff-Chaffs, on November 4th,
at XXVII.
Accentorinæ.--The only records are in October 1885, at XXVII., on 7th
and 19th. Two or three pairs are breeding there this summer, and of
late years it has become resident, "a good few having been here all the
winter."--J. A.
Acrocephalinæ.--In September, on the 5th, between 8 and 10 P.M., there
was a rush of many species over the island of XXVII., amongst which
were Reed and Sedge Warblers striking, also Whitethroats. [What were
named with a query "Immature Blue-Throated Warblers" turned out to
be immature Redstarts--J. A. H. B.] Of the Reed Warblers recorded,
when asked, Mr Agnew, distinguishing from the Sedge Warbler, says: "I
have your card about the Reed Warblers, and should they appear again,
I will try and procure specimens; but there seems no doubt as to
their presence here during the rush of Warblers reported in the last
Schedule."
Troglodytidæ.--Autumn of 1884, a few still seen on Isle of May in
beginning of January 1885. Spring of 1885, one at XXVII. (Isle of May)
on 10th, and at XIV. (Pentland Skerries) reported as being about the
rocks there all winter.[4] At VII. (Sumburgh Head), one all day going
about dykes--no doubt, a resident of the adjoining mainland. (A "Yellow
Wren," also at same place, may be either Willow _Wren_ or _Willow
Warbler_, or a Gold Crest?) This was on 31st March.
[Footnote 4: It does not appear whether the Wren is resident in
Pentland Skerries every winter, but it was certainly so in 1884-5. (See
above.)]
_In Autumn._--Earliest record at Pentland Skerries, September 20th,
seen in garden. In October, records from N. Unst, 27th--S.W., light
breeze (!!), clear--flying round rocks. [_N.B._--This record seems
to us to make it very desirable that specimens of the Common Wrens,
or their feet and wings, but better the whole birds, be sent us for
examination from this Station. We would like to see specimens, shot or
otherwise, obtained in summer, and also specimens obtained in October
or during the Autumn Migration. It might settle a very interesting
question. A little carbolic acid would preserve them quite well, if
dried after in the sun, or in the oven, or gradually in the kitchen.]
A good few records run through October, but no large numbers--at Unst
(XIV.) and XXVII.; and the same remark applies in November. The last
noted is in January 1886 at XXVII.--"a few"--and the one before, at
XIV., on 27th December, "seen on island." It is always remarkable to
observe the near proximities of dates between occurrences at Isle of
May and Pentland Skerries.
Motacillidæ.--The only month in the year, from January to December, in
which no return is made by Wagtails, is July 1885. All the entries are
under "Wagtail." [_N.B._--We would like to receive a good many Wagtails
from all Stations in every month if possible. A little carbolic acid
would preserve them.]
The _first_ spring Wagtail is recorded at XXVII. (Isle of May) on 24th
February, S.W. The last at same place on May 23d, but the species
breeds there. April is the busiest month in Wagtails. A "rush" at
N. Ronaldshay on April 4th. Next last date is at Fidra (XXVIII.
B.), flying about feeding. A record from Dunnet Head says; "1st
May.--Wagtails seen daily till end of July; breed about the cliffs,"
etc. The _Yellow Wagtail_ is recorded from XXVII. on 8th May. If it had
a black breast and very long tail, its right name is "Grey Wagtail,"
though yellow. If short tail, and very bright yellow, it is the true
_Yellow Wagtail, or Rays'_, a much rarer bird in Scotland. Was it the
same as one Mr G. E. P. and H.-B. shot on Isle of May in October 1884?
_In Autumn._--"Wagtails" begin to be observed on 17th July at XIV.,
and in about equal numbers in August (three dates in each month).
Increase a little in September, and show indication of movement at
XXVII. on 26th and 29th (old and young on 26th, and mostly old on
29th), only four dates at XIV. and XXVII., two at each. Two dates in
October at XXVIII.; 1st and 8th unimportant; and three in December
at same place--24th, 20th, and 26th. Noted, "These are extraordinary
occurrences;" and the one on 25th, "had very little white upon it."--J.
Agnew.
Motacillidæ 2.--Pipits.--First Spring Meadow Pipits at XXVII.--a single
bird; light N.E., clear on 10th March, and "a number" on 18th; gale
from W. for two days. Wind changed to N.E. at 5 A.M. In April, at XXVI.
(Bell Rock), on 17th and 18th; wind S.E., fog. _Rock Pipits._--At
XXVII. (Isle of May), an increase over residents observed on 4th April,
and more arrived to breed on 20th. Further increase on 2d May.
_In Autumn._--Meadow Pipit ("Mosscheeper") at N. Unst, 7 P.M.; fresh
N.W[1]. breeze and showers; and at XXVII. "mostly left" by 14th. A
rush on 9th September of "Mosscheepers" at IV. (N. Unst) at night;
wind S.W., light haze. Also at X. Ronaldshay "a number" of Rock Pipits
arrived on 4th September, "and remain all winter." At XXVII., old and
young mixed on 19th September. Last record of Meadow Pipits at IV., 1st
November, and of Rock Pipits at XXVI. (Bell Rock), on 22d November.
Laniadæ.--One Red-Backed Shrike at XXVII. on 5th May, 1·9 A.M.; light
N.E., clear, _obtained_;--_in mus._, Isle of May.
Muscicapidæ.--_Spring._--Earliest at XXVII. On May 1st and 2d, three
_Pied Flycatchers_ arrived at 4 P.M. on 1st, stayed 2d, and others seen
till 6th or 7th--a good number; wind S.E., haze and rain. Also on 2d,
several all day resting on XIV. (Pentland Skerries). Numbers again on
20th and 21st at same place, and numbers, also including one old male,
on 23d, and up to 24th. No other records in spring.
_In Autumn._--One female Pied Flycatcher, at XIV.; light E., and thick
haze. On 3d, numbers all day. At XXVII., some on 24th October; strong
E., clear. _Spotted Flycatcher_ at XXVII. One seen 11 A.M.; strong
S.W., clear.
_Addition to Isle of May, as above._--Red-Backed Shrike (_L. collurio_,
L.), May 5th, 9 A.M.; light N.E., clear. Shot;--_in mus._, Isle of May,
Curator, J. Agnew.
Hirundinidæ.--_Spring._--Very heavy returns of Swallows, commencing
lightly on 10th April; a few seen at N. Ronaldshay; E.N.E., light
clear; and on the 19th, at XXVII., one with the remark, "this is
early." First seen at XXVIII. B. (Fidra) on 24th. At X. (Auskerry)
"flocks remain till 14th June;" came with S.E.S. and N.E. winds.
Records numerous from X., XIV., XV., XIX., XXVII., and XXVIII. B. First
seen at XIV. on 14th May. No great appearance of a "rush." Seen more or
less all June at Pentland Skerries and Isle of May, but no June records
from other stations.