In the spring of 1884 schedules were forwarded to thirty-six light-stations. Twenty-seven replied by returning the schedules either partially, or wholly, filled with observations.

In the autumn a similar number of schedules were sent out, and twenty-six stations replied.

Several stations filled two, and some light-keepers, who took a special interest in Ornithology, returned as many as three and four schedules, both in spring and autumn. Observers placed on isolated rock stations at a distance from the coast, or on light-vessels, have, as a rule, taken the most interest in the subject of migration. This is fortunate, as such stations are least influenced by the local movements of birds on the mainland.

Observations have now been taken on the Irish coast for three years and a half, during which period a large body of statistics has been collected. Their value cannot be questioned; but as the records accumulate the importance of correctly identifying every species becomes more apparent. To attain this object the light-keepers were asked to forward the leg and wing of all birds about which they felt any doubt. Several wings, &c., have been sent, and a list of them is subsequently given. In future, it is hoped that the light-keepers will not think it too much trouble to preserve and label the wings and legs of at least one specimen of each kind of bird which is killed at their station. This is very desirable, since it cannot be expected that with so short experience as they have had the light-keepers would be able to identify all species beyond a doubt.

With the view of still further attaining accuracy of identification, a request was made to the Commissioners of Irish Lights to supply to the Lighthouses some copies of the eight-volume edition of Morris's 'British Birds.' The Commissioners very kindly consented to purchase and distribute six copies, and we are greatly indebted to them for thus placing in the hands of the light-keepers this useful book, which will at once assist their observations and relieve the monotony of some lonely stations. The stations which have received copies of Morris are the Tuskar, Tearaght, Rathlin, Innishtrahull, Rockabill, and Coningbeg Light-ship.

Since the volumes have been distributed in the summer of 1884, some records have appeared in the schedules which are highly improbable. They appear due to the fact that the bird seen had some slight resemblance to a rare species figured in Morris. On the other hand, the coloured figures have been the means of correcting many errors.

The schedules for 1884 exhibit or emphasize the following points:—

In 1884 the number of birds has been equal to, and in a few instances above, the average.

The bulk of the migrants arrive on the southern half of the east coast of Ireland, and on the easternmost of our southern counties,—in other words, along the shore extending from Dublin to Waterford, and having its limits at Rockabill Lighthouse and Dungarvan Lighthouse.

A marked migratory movement might be expected in our northeastern counties between Scotland and Ireland, where the Channel is narrowest; but we have no evidence that such is the case.

The usual course taken by birds seems to be either N.W. or S.E. The number of birds which only occur singly and do not seem to migrate in flocks is large. In such instances it is difficult to trace the line of migration.

The occurrences now noted of the Greenland Falcon, properly belong to the same flight that has already been noticed in last year's Report.

As might be expected, the Snow Bunting is of more frequent occurrence on our western and northern coasts. A few remained as late as the first week in May, and it was again seen early in September, dates which have not hitherto been recorded in Ireland. Geese were also more numerous on the northern and western coasts than elsewhere.

A remarkable migration of the Rook was observed at the Tearaght and Skelligs, both stations being several miles off the coast of Kerry. It lasted for three weeks, from Nov. 2nd to 20th, the direction of flight being from west to east. The light-keepers were puzzled to know where the birds came from, the nearest land to the west being America. [See general remarks of light-keepers, and also under Rook].

The greatest immigration of Thrushes occurred between the 14th and 20th of October; Starlings, 18th to 20th October, and the first fortnight in November; Blackbirds, October 24th; Swallows, about the 12th May. Whimbrel were more plentiful than usual at our southern stations when going north in the spring.

The migration of the Starling is perhaps more evident than that of any other bird; they strike in the greatest numbers. Woodcocks, on the other hand, usually strike singly; it is a rare occurrence to have more than one killed on the same night. Very few birds of any kind strike the lights on the west coast of Ireland.

Sea-birds scarcely ever strike the lanterns. The instances are so few of birds striking on clear nights, that they do not number half a dozen per annum.

Some evidence has been given that the Wren is resident on the Tearaght, Skelligs, and Eagle Islands, all three very bare and isolated rocks on the west coast; but the specimens received differ in no respect from the Common Wren of the mainland. The Hedgesparrow was also received from the Tearaght, and several are stated to have remained there during last winter.

An interesting observation was made by Mr. McCarron, of the Tearaght, who watched an old Razorbill dive beneath its young one and rise exactly underneath it. The young one was thus raised on the back of the old bird, which carried it in this position over the waves in a rough sea. This occurrence was witnessed several times.

The transfer of the light-keepers from one station to another is unavoidable, and changes are made by the Commissioners every year. There are instances in which one might imagine that the birds had followed the migration of a particular light-keeper, if he has been a more careful observer than his predecessor at that station.

We trust the efforts made to enable the birds to be identified will succeed in time; the various kinds of Gulls are much confused, and the Puffin, Razorbill, and Guillemot are constantly doing duty for each other. Redwings, Thrushes, and Fieldfares are not always distinguished; while Larks, Linnets, and Finches are perhaps too closely associated in the minds of some light-keepers. By the production of specimens in future, we trust that some of these difficulties will be removed.

The insertion in the schedules of the column for the direction of flight has, we think, been of advantage.

Single Hawks appear occasionally with rushes of small birds, perhaps to capture the disabled ones.

There is one record of Bats being seen at Rockabill, around the light, the first instance of such an occurrence on the Irish coast.

As our records increase and statistics accumulate, it becomes the more necessary that the investigation should be continued, so that results may be confirmed beyond question.

To all the light-keepers who have, again, so kindly given their time and attention to the subject of migration, we are much indebted. We feel sure that many are anxious to continue their observations, and that none who are able will refuse to further our enquiry.

To the Commissioners of Irish Lights, who have supplied six copies of Morris's 'British Birds' to the light-keepers, and subscribed for twenty-four copies of the Report, we are under the deepest obligations, and it is very encouraging to meet with such valuable assistance from a Public Board whose co-operation is so essential to the success of our undertaking.

To Mr. Armstrong, the courteous Secretary to the Commissioners, and to Captain Boxer, R.N., and to Captain Gallway, R.N., our thanks are especially due.

Alexander G. More.     
Richard M. Barrington.

19th May, 1885.

List of Light-stations.

Notes

Sp. = Spring. Au. = Autumn.
o = No reply. x = Schedule returned partly or wholly filled.

Spring, 36 schedules sent out; replies received, 27.
Autumn, 36 schedules sent out; replies received, 26.

List of Birds noticed.

Number of Lighthouses at which the following Birds are reported to have struck the Lantern-glass at Night.

The foregoing table does not show the relative numbers of birds striking; it only exhibits the number of stations at which each species is reported to have struck. For example, the Blackbird is reported to have struck the glass at nine stations, but hundreds did so, and were killed or disabled; the Woodcock struck at six stations, but only seven birds actually struck, all of which were killed outright.

Sea-birds rarely strike, and land-birds seem to strike lighthouses on islands more than on headlands.

The light-keepers having been requested to forward a leg and wing of every bird which they were not able to identify with certainty, the following were received:

* Obtained where the Peregrine feeds on rock.

General Remarks of Light-Keepers.

Fastnet.—"Spring: The Gannet does not breed on the rock, and never did; in fact no bird could build, as the rock is too small. There has been a great scarcity of birds this spring. No birds of any description seen in June or to 16th July."—James Walsh.

Old Head, Kinsale.—"Spring: I understand from those fishing off this head that sea-birds arrive on the fishing grounds from daylight to 10 a.m., always from the eastward. Sky Larks, Titlarks, two Falcon Hawks, thirty to forty Rock Pigeons, Grey Crows, Kittiwake Gulls, Green and Black Cormorants, and Sea-pies, are resident here. The Puffin arrives about 15th April, and leaves 15th Aug. Snipe are always to be found near a lake three miles away, and Curlew, Wild Duck, Coot, and Waterhen are there all the year. Autumn: Saw one Rook with white wings in a flock. Birds very scarce. Not one Golden Plover seen. No bird struck the lantern."—Martin Kennedy.

Mine Head.—No reply.

Coningbeg Light-ship.—"Spring: Great flocks of Puffins pass almost daily in the summer months from the Saltee Islands, where they breed, going off during the day and returning in the early morning [? R. M. B.] about sunrise. Several species of Gull fly off during the day and return in the evening to the rocks. No Gannets frequent the Saltees, but Cormorants in great numbers."—Patrick Cullen.

Tuskar Rock.—"Spring: No birds seen in January but sea-fowl. A remarkable absence of sea-birds this year. March 25th was the last day I saw Divers; they generally return in Oct. The young or Black Gannet have come since the 1st June in small numbers, accompanied by some white ones. Autumn: I have received the eight volumes of Morris' 'British Birds,' and am sorry to say that all birds heretofore entered as 'Titmice' were probably Willow or other warblers, and 'Titlarks' were Rock Pipits. Most of the small land-birds rest on the rock for about five minutes before flying to shore (seven miles distant). I enter no sea-birds, as they mostly come and go with fish."—Richard Hamilton and Patrick D'Arcy.

Howth Baily.—"Spring: No birds observed migrating. Gulls and Puffins in vicinity nearly always."—William Dunne.

Rockabill.—"July 14th. Bats about light all night. Wind light, S.W."—Joseph Hammond.

[This is the first entry of Bats since the observation commenced on Irish coast in 1881. Rockabill is five miles from shore on the Dublin coast.—R. M. B.]

South Maidens.—"From 1st to 25th March no birds seen except Seagulls. It is remarkable how few of the birds seen here strike the lantern glass. From the 30th March to the 23rd April no birds seen here but the Solan Goose and Seagulls, the former coming from the direction of Ailsa Craig. During December there were scarcely any land-birds. The birds commonly found dead after striking the lantern are Blackbirds, Curlew Larks, and Thrushes."—Michael Barry.

[There is no entry of either a Blackbird or Curlew having been killed at South Maidens in 1884.—R. M. B.]

Rathlin Island.—"Spring: Birds were not at all numerous this season."—John A. Murray.

Innishtrahull.—"Spring: The following birds breed on this island:—Titlarks, Sandlarks, Stonechickers (Wheatears), Grey Crows, and Pigeons. On the out rocks, Seapies and Gulls; and Cormorants on a rock six miles away."—W. H. James.

Dunree Head.—"Spring: No birds struck the light for the past six years. I have never been at a station so scarce of birds of every description."—John Stapleton.

Tory Island.—"Spring: Sea-birds first visit this island about 15th April for breeding, i.e., Guillemots, Gulls, Cormorant, Puffin, Razorbill, and Green Cormorant. Birds of all kinds scarce this year. No birds struck lantern."—T. H. Sweeny and R. C. Duffy.

Killybegs.—"A very poor station for birds."—Joseph Hill.

Eagle Island, East.—"The grass on this island is short and stunted, and not sufficiently long to afford cover or shelter for birds. I have not seen or heard any birds strike the lantern. No night migration was observable on this island. There is not a bush or hedgerow within forty miles."—Daniel Hawkins.

Blacksod.—"Very few birds to be seen here. No birds strike the lantern glass."—Robert W. Redmond.

Clare Island.—"The birds came to breed in the cliffs a couple of weeks earlier than usual. From April 20th to end of month, large numbers of sea-birds continually arrived to breed. The sea-birds that hatched this summer were very numerous. They will all be taking their departure by the end of August. During October few birds inhabit the island, except Grouse, Curlew, Wild Pigeon, Snipe, and a few Woodcocks and Cormorants; and round the rocks a few Great Northern Divers. The Eagles did great destruction, killing geese and hens. There are a great number of Seals in the caves. A boat and crew killed six large ones in one day in the caves, armed with nothing but heavy sticks. There are a number of Otters about the cliffs. In stormy weather they come near the lighthouse. One night in Dec. I heard one barking, and saw him go down to the sea afterwards."—George H. Brownell.

Slyne Head, North.—"Very few land birds seen this winter. The sea-fowl are about the island at all times. The number of birds striking lantern is less than preceding year."—Robert Tyrrell.

Arran Island, North.—"During August a great number of Sandlarks, Sea-pie, Curlew, and Titlarks, remained on island. Puffins, Gannets, Gulls, and Cormorants flying past occasionally. Redshanks, Sea-pie, Sandlarks, and Curlew during fine weather remain on island; when rough they go to the big island of Arran."—Thomas Fortune.

Straw Island.—"Spring: The following species were never so scarce:—Gulls, Gannets, Puffins, and Sea-pies. I have never seen so few birds early in spring, but as the spring advanced the numbers of Linnets, Fieldlarks, Stonechats, and Yellowhammers increased so much that I have not seen such numbers for many years past. The different species of Gull and Cormorant remain throughout the year; they breed on the cliffs on the large island of Arran. No birds ever strike this lantern, the light being red, and not showing in the direction of the general flight of birds. Autumn: I have noticed fewer birds than usual. The Cormorant, White-backed Gull, and Royal Gull are the only species remaining during the winter. A number of small birds, such as Thrushes, Blackbirds, Starling, Linnets, &c., frequently fly from the mainland, especially in severe weather. All through the autumn to the present (Dec. 30th) I have remarked flights of wild Duck and Barnacle going N.E."—Charles Boyle.

Tearaght.—"I heard the Manx Shearwater for the first time this year on the night of April 10th, but as usual the note ceased after the moon rose. I have not seen any of the 'Mackerel Cock' since March 29th. [A specimen of 'Mackerel Cock' sent Jan., 1885, was a young Razorbill in winter plumage.—R. M. B.] Birds remaining on the island on July 31st:—Sea-parrots, Razorbills, Guillemots (only a few), Kittiwakes, Royal Gulls, and the large White Gulls, Stormy Petrels, Sea-pies, Choughs, and Hooded Crows. Birds remaining Jan. 15th, 1885:—Razorbills (young), Kittiwakes (old), Royal Gulls, Herring Gulls (young and old), Chough, Hooded Crow, Wrens, Titlarks, Rock Pipit, Peregrine Falcon, Sparrow-Hawk, Mountain Linnet (Twite), Gannets, Chaffinch, Greenfinch, Rock Pigeon, and Cormorants. Those in italics are always here. The Herring Gull was called previously 'large white Gull.' I wish to draw special attention to the great number of 'Crows' which passed over this island from the 5th to the 25th Nov. They were flying at a height of seven or eight hundred feet. When passing this island their flight would become irregular. Some rested for a little while, and a few were to be seen some days afterwards having a tired appearance." [I expressed a doubt about the identification of the species to Mr. McCarron.—R. M. B.] He then wrote:—"I was standing within ten paces of one several minutes, and it had not the excrescence round the base of bill, and I think I am correct in saying it was not the Rook." [Neither Mr. More nor myself have ever seen a freshly killed Irish specimen of the Carrion Crow. In the 3rd 'Report on Migration,' p. 86, large flights of Rooks coming from the sea in a S.W. direction are mentioned as occurring at Blackrock Lighthouse, nine miles off Mayo.—R. M. B.]

Eagle.

Clare Island.—April 4th, a young speckled Eagle perched at noon on a pinnacle of cliff about two hundred yards from lighthouse, then went to its eyrie in the highest cliffs. The two Eagles are here still in their usual abode in the highest cliffs. Nov. 20th, large Eagle close to station.

Tearaght.—Jan. 16th, 1885, one passed from E. in front of dwellings, and round west of island, when it rose to a great height and moved steadily N.E. towards mainland, accompanied for some distance by three Choughs and a Peregrine Falcon, which appeared mere specks beside it. Frost and snow on Kerry mountains.

Greenland Falcon.

Blackrock, Mayo.—March 10th, one Greenland Falcon about all day; wind S.W., strong, snow showers. The Falcon was shot, and was much smaller than the other one, only in better condition. [The "other one" probably refers to the specimen entered in the schedule for 1883; see 5th Report, p. 90.—R. M. B.]

Tearaght.—March 23rd, one Greenland Falcon shot 10 a.m.; wind S., light, clear; length from tips of wings, 48½ inches; from beak to tail, 22 inches; weight, 3 lbs. 6. oz. March 24th, one seen to-day devouring a sea-parrot. April 2nd, one shot, smaller and whiter than the bird killed on March 23rd. April 7th, two to-day, each time pursued by Crows. April 21st, a very large one pounced upon a sea-parrot and carried it off to an adjoining island. [The specimens killed on March 23rd and April 2nd were recorded in Report for 1883.—R. M. B.]

Hawks.

Fastnet.—Sept. 15th, one seen. Oct. 15th, one Black Hawk 10 a.m., going E.; wind N.W., light, misty. Nov. 14th, one Hawk seen.

Old Head, Kinsale.—May 7th, two Falcons and one "Goshawk" all day; wind N.E., strong. The Falcons never leave here. The "Goshawk" always goes inland. June 8th, two Falcon Hawks, resident; 24th, one "Goshawk" shot. Nov. 4th, two Falcons going N.W.; stormy from S.W.

Dungarvan.—April 11th, one Falcon Hawk. May 9th, one. Coningbeg Light-ship.—September 22nd, one Sparrow Hawk. Oct. 10th, one, with a Stormy Petrel in its talons. Nov. 21st, one.

Barrels Rock Light-ship.—Oct. 24th, one Hawk. Nov. 18th, one.

Tuskar Rock.—May 11th, one Hawk on rock, fog; 27th, one on rock. Aug. 23rd, one 8 a.m. Oct. 5th, one 9 a.m.

Arklow North Light-ship.—Sept. 8th, two Sparrow Hawks about ship 6.30 a.m.; wind N.W., light, haze; 14th, a large Hawk at 8 a.m. Oct. 2nd, one Hawk. Dec. 22nd, two Hawks about ship.

Rockabill.—July 1st, one Hawk caught alive. Sept. 1st, one Hawk seen. Oct. 6th, do.; 23rd, one Hawk, with Golden Wrens, Thrushes, Blackbirds, Stares, and Larks; "several killed but not the Hawk." Nov. 9th, 10th, and 11th, Hawk, with Blackbirds, Thrushes, Stares, and Fieldfares; several of latter killed striking; 16th and 17th, one Hawk.

South Maidens.—Oct. 24th, two Hawks over rock.

Rathlin Island.—Oct. 24th, one Sparrow Hawk on island; wind N., light.

Innishtrahull.—April 1st, one small bluish Hawk; wind strong S. May 7th, one small bluish Hawk and two brown Hawks; 9th, three Sparrow Hawks (young); 25th, a Sparrow Hawk. July 18th, four Sparrow Hawks, remained about a week.

Tory Island.—A pair of "Game Hawks" breed in the cliffs.

Arranmore.—March 22nd, two Peregrines and two Sparrow Hawks arrived to breed; wind N., fresh.

Rathlin O'Birne.—March 9th, two Hawks; I have seen them kill small birds.

Eagle Island, East.—Oct. 13th, one Sparrow Hawk, at noon, hovering.

Blackrock, Mayo.—July 16th, one Falcon at 3 p.m. going E.; wind strong S.W.; seen carrying off a Puffin. Sept. 3rd, two Falcons at 7 a.m. going S.W.; wind N.W., fresh; 9th, one seen alighting on rock to eat a bird it caught; 29th, one Falcon. Oct. 14th, two Sparrow Hawks going N.E.; 29th, two Falcons hovering high over rock. Dec. 3rd, two.

Clare Island.—June 1st, six Kestrel Hawks building in the cliffs. The "large Kestrel Hawk" remained until end of Dec.

Arran Island, North.—Oct. 1st, one "Brown Hawk" all day.

Straw Island.—March 30th, one Sparrow Hawk going N. Nov. 23rd, two going E.

Tearaght.—Feb. 5th, two "Sparrow Hawks" and two Peregrine Falcons breed here; may be seen from time to time about the island. Aug. 13th and 14th, two "Brown Hawks" on island. Sept. 5th, "small Gray Hawk" rested on island; Sept. 11th to 16th, one "Brown Hawk." Oct. 8th, one struck glass on S. side at 6 p.m.; strong gale from N.W., with showers.

Valencia.—April 7th, two large Hawks; 20th, four Sparrow Hawks; 26th, six large Hawks; 30th, five Sparrow Hawks. June 4th and 6th, two and three. Sept. 5th, one. Oct. 5th, one.

Owl.

Old Head, Kinsale.—Nov. 10th, one "Brown Owl" 10 a.m., going W.; wind S.S.E.; shot.

Dungarvan.—Sept. 3rd, a "large Owl" started from gorse.

Tuskar Rock.—Nov. 12th, a "short-eared Owl" came from E. and alighted on rock at 2 p.m.; wind strong S.E.

Broadhaven.—Nov. 19th, one "Brown Owl" going E. 9 a.m.; wind fresh N.W. Dec. 19th, one "Screech Owl" rose out of a swamp; an unusual visitor.

Thrushes.

Fastnet.—April 3rd, three "Mountain Thrushes" going N.E. at 5 a.m., wind E.S.E., clear; rested on rock several hours. Oct. 14th, five at midnight; wind light N.W., fog. Nov. 14th, seven "Mountain Thrushes" all night around lantern; wind N.E., misty.

Old Head, Kinsale.—Nov. 12th, a large number of Thrushes about station all day; wind N., fresh.

Tuskar Rock.—March 1st, striking in small numbers 11.30 p.m.; wind moderate S.E., misty, overcast; 2nd, five killed striking; fog; 4th, thirty killed striking in night; wind high S.E., rainy, overcast, and passing all day to W. Oct. 15th, one on rock after night; 16th, Thrushes passing N.W. 9 p.m. to 10.30 p.m.; wind light W., misty; one killed striking; 23rd, flocks passing at night to 3 a.m., one killed striking; overcast; 24th, flocks passing at night to 3 a.m., five killed striking; cloudy. Nov. 2nd, one all day on rock; wind N.W., fresh. Dec. 21st, one killed striking at 1 a.m.; clear, wind N., strong.

Arklow South Light-ship.—Sept. 30th, flock about ship, 6 a.m.; clear, wind light S.W. Oct. 16th, one struck lantern, 9.30 p.m., killed; overcast; 20th, four killed striking from 8 p.m. to midnight; wind light S.W., gloomy, with rain; 24th, four killed striking up to midnight; wind light N.E., gloomy; 25th, flock going N.W. Nov. 17th and 18th, Thrushes about lantern all night, cloudy, none killed; wind fresh N.E.

Arklow North Light-ship.—March 4th, some Thrushes killed striking; wind N.E., overcast; 19th, some about lantern all night; wind light S.W., clear. Oct. 21st, flocks going N.W.; wind light S.W.; some killed striking; hazy. Dec. 27th, eight killed striking from midnight to 5 a.m.; wind light S., hazy, with rain.

Howth Baily.—Sept. 8th, three against glass at night; wind light S.W., overcast, gloomy; Sept. 9th to 13th, Thrushes about station fly against glass all night; two killed.

Rockabill.—March 1st, Thrushes all night about the light; wind S.E., misty; two dozen killed striking. Oct. 5th, Thrushes all night; misty, wind N.E., light; 18th, 19th, and 20th, Thrushes all day; wind light N.W.; 21st, Thrushes all day; 23rd, all day and night, some killed; wind S.E., gloomy; 24th, Thrushes all night, some killed; wind S.E., misty. Nov. 9th, 10th, and 11th, Thrushes all night, numbers killed striking; wind S.E., misty; 14th and 15th, Thrushes around light, some killed; wind E. to N.E., light, gloomy. Dec. 1st, Thrushes.

South Maidens.—February 25th, five "Scotch Thrushes" (Redwings?) killed striking, and a few disabled at 4 p.m. [? a.m.—R. M. B.] Wind N., light, gloomy. Oct. 20th, one killed striking 11 p.m.; 23rd, nine Thrushes, killed striking, fell into the sea.

Rathlin Island.—Oct. 8th, one struck at midnight, caught; wind light S.E.; 15th, 11 p.m., one caught; wind N.W., light, fog.

Arranmore.—Nov. 30th, four Thrushes killed striking 9 p.m.; wind W., strong, fog. Dec. 28th, seven seen.

Rathlin O'Birne.—March 12th, four going N.; wind S.

Killybegs.—Oct. 13th, one killed striking 1 a.m.; wind N.W., gloomy, misty.

Eagle Island, East.—Dec. 15th, two seen.

Slyne Head, North.—Nov. (4th?), five killed striking lantern.

Tearaght.—March 5th, one; not observed afterwards.

Valencia.—April 9th, two; 12th, five. May 18th, eight. June 15th, one.

Skelligs.—Oct. 24th, two Thrushes on rock. Nov. 4th, Thrushes observed on rock this day. Dec. 22nd, a few on rock during month.

Redwing.

Tuskar Rock.—Oct. 12th, one killed striking 11.30 p.m.; wind N., strong, squally; the first this season. Oct. 21st, 22nd, 23rd, and 24th, flocks passing N.W. at night to 3.30 a.m.; wind S. to S.W. (N. on 24th), light, overcast, and misty; four killed striking. Nov. 18th, one struck; 19th, do., neither killed; 30th, three killed striking 3 to 5 a.m.; misty.

Tearaght.—Nov. 19th, several Redwings, and one or two might be observed from time to time afterwards.

Skelligs.—Nov. 4th, Redwing seen on rock.

Fieldfare.

Tuskar Rock.—Nov. 18th, one killed striking; wind N.E., cloudy. Dec. 25th, one killed striking; wind N.E., fresh, clear.

Howth Baily.—Sept. 9th to 13th, some "Fieldfares" about lantern at night.

Rockabill.—Nov. 9th, 10th, and 11th, Fieldfares, with Blackbirds, Stares, and Thrushes all night; some killed; wind S.E., misty.

Arranmore.—Nov. 12th, six arrived on island; wind S.W., strong.

Tearaght.—Nov. 14th, one struck lantern 3 a.m.; calm, gloomy. Two or three observed on several occasions afterwards.

Blackbird.

Fastnet.—Sept. 19th, one all day; foggy; 20th, one seen.

Dungarvan.—Oct. 24th, two females struck; not killed; wind N., light, cloudy.

Coningbeg Light-ship.—Oct. 22nd, twenty about light 9 to 12 p.m.: wind light S., clear. Nov. 18th, one going N.E.

Barrels Rock Light-ship.—Oct. 23rd, one killed against rigging 4 a.m.; wind S.W., moderate, gloomy.

Tuskar Rock.—March 4th, fifty killed striking in night; wind high S.E., rainy, overcast; flocks in day passing to W. Sept. 21st, one struck lantern; not killed; wind light S.E., foggy; the first this autumn. Oct. 7th, one female on rock; 10th, one; 15th, one; 21st, flocks passing in night; some killed striking; misty; 22nd, flocks at night; fifteen killed striking (eleven were females); misty, wind light S.W.; 23rd, flocks passing at night; nineteen killed striking, mostly females; overcast, wind the same; 24th, still passing at night; ten killed; wind N.W. to N.E., light, cloudy. Redwings and Thrushes passed with the Blackbirds the last four nights, and all are entered as passing before 3.30 a.m. Nov. 11th, two killed striking; overcast; 17th, passing N.E. in threes and fours during day; 30th, five killed (three males, two females); misty. Dec. 2nd, one male killed striking; fog. Dec. 21st, two killed; sky clear.

Arklow South Light-ship.—Oct. 8th, Blackbirds about lantern 1 to 4 a.m.; hazy, wind light N.W.; 25th, large flock flying N.W.; wind light N.W. Nov. 17th and 18th, Blackbirds about lantern all night; cloudy, wind light N.E.

Arklow North Light-ship.—March 4th, Blackbirds killed striking; wind N.E., light, overcast. June 10th, some Blackbirds found dead. Oct. 21st, flocks passing N.W.; some killed striking; wind light S.W., hazy. Dec. 27th, five killed striking midnight to 5 a.m.; wind light S., hazy, with rain.

Howth Baily.—Sept. 8th, seven against lantern in night; one killed; wind light S.W., overcast, gloomy; 9th to 13th, Blackbirds about station fly against glass in night; one killed.

Rockabill.—Oct. 5th, Blackbirds all night; misty, wind light N.E.; 18th, 19th, and 20th, all day; wind light N.W.; 21st, all day and night; wind S.E., gloomy; some killed; 24th, all night; some killed; misty. Nov. 9th, 10th, and 11th, Blackbirds all night, with Thrushes, Stares, and Fieldfares; numbers killed; misty, wind S.E.; 14th, several killed; wind E., gloomy; 15th, do.; wind N.E., gloomy. Dec. 16th and 17th, Blackbirds and Stares all day.

Copeland Island.—March 20th, three killed striking; wind W., strong, squally.

South Maidens.—Oct. 8th, one on rock all day. Nov. 29th, one Blackbird at 4 a.m.; wind S.E., very strong.

Rathlin Island.—Dec. 27th, six remaining.

Arranmore.—Jan. 5th, 1885, eight Blackbirds; wind light S.E.

Rathlin O'Birne.—June 4th, three on island. Seen in summer. [Possibly Ring Ouzels.—R. M. B.]

Eagle Island, East.—Nov. 10th, one seen.

Blackrock, Mayo.—Jan. 5th, 1885, one struck lantern at 9 p.m. and was killed; wind fresh W., cloudy.

Slyne Head, North.—Dec. 11th, one seen on island at II a.m.

Straw Island.—Oct. 17th, thirty going N.E.; calm

Tearaght.—Feb. 22nd, one. March 4th, one. Nov. 10th, one, female, and several times afterwards.

Valencia.—Sept. 7th, Nov. 16th, Dec. 15th and 25th, one to four.

Skelligs.—Oct. 24th, two Blackbirds on rock. Dec, a few on rock during month.

Ring Ouzel.

Barrels Rock Light-ship.—March 29th, one "Blackbird" resting on ship was caught; it had a white stripe of feathers across its breast.

Tuskar Rock.—April 18th, one "white-breasted Blackbird" caught at lantern 10 p.m.; wind light N.E.

Skelligs.—April 12th, "six birds, not known; much the colour of a hen Blackbird, only with a white spot on the throat; at least half the birds were so marked, the others being a lighter shade of brown instead of white on the throat." [These last were probably females.—R. M. B.] Sept. 17th, one flying about rock. [Leg and wing of this bird received.—R. M. B.]

Hedge Sparrow.

Tearaght.—Oct. 3rd, two (Pipits?) "Several on island all the winter. It goes alone, and pops about under rocks and stones, and has a single little cheep." [The skin was forwarded, and belongs to the Hedge Sparrow. Can it be resident on this bare and isolated rock?—R. M. B.]

Robin.

Tuskar Rock.—Aug. 27th, one killed at lantern; wind light N.W., overcast.

Howth Baily.—Sept. 8th, four Robins at night against lantern; two killed; wind light S.W., overcast, gloomy; 9th to 13th, some Robins about lantern at night.

South Maidens.—Oct. 4th, two struck 10 p.m.; hazy, calm.

Rathlin Island.—Aug. 21st, one Robin killed striking. Sept. 10th, one Redbreast all day; remains. Nov. 23rd, two; remain.

Rathlin O'Birne.—July 6th, two Robins on island. These birds are scarce here.

Valencia.—Oct. 16th, Nov. 17th, and Dec. 6th, one seen.

Redstart (Black).

Straw Island.—Oct. 22nd, two at noon going S.E.

Tearaght.—Nov. 10th, one Black Redstart 8 a.m.; wind E., light; 12th, two, but none afterwards.

Skelligs.—Nov. 13th, two birds about the size of a Robin and similar movements; rusty red On back at tail, and tail of a reddish colour. [Wing of Black Redstart received.—R. M. B.]

"Stonechat" (Wheatear).

Fastnet.—Sept. 15th, two disabled striking at midnight; rainy and thick. Oct. 3rd, about twenty 11 a.m. going N.E.; wind N.W., light.

Old Head, Kinsale.—April 27th, six Wheatears 9 a.m.; wind N., light; remained to breed. Nov. 17th, Stonechats about station all day.

Dungarvan.—March 20th, one Wheatear; wind N., strong. April 3rd, a number going N.W.; wind S.E., fresh. June 17th, a few on walls of station.

Tuskar Rock.—March 1st, one at lantern; wind S., fresh, misty. April 25th, one at lantern; clear. May 26th, Stonechatter alighted on rock. July 28th, Aug. 3rd and 17th, one to three Wheatears; 27th, one killed striking; overcast. One or two on rock occasionally to Sept. 25th.

Arklow North Light-ship.—April 24th, some Stonechatters at 6.30 a.m. about ship; wind S.E., light.

South Maidens.—Aug. 21st, two Stonechatters killed against lantern.

Rathlin Island.—April 10th, six seen; wind S.E.; 13th, ten; wind N. Aug. 23rd, three killed striking. Sept. 11th, two all day; 18th, one killed striking 11 p.m.; wind light S.E.

Innishtrahull.—March 21st, "Stonechickers" (Wheatear) 10 a.m.; wind high N.W.; first seen this season; 24th and 25th, five to eight about lantern all night; wind S.W. to S.E., gloomy and cloudy. April 12th to 15th, "Stonechickers;" these are about all day, and around lantern at night; wind S.E. to N., fresh. A number about during July.

Arranmore.—March 18th, fourteen arrived to breed; wind S., fresh.

Rathlin O'Birne.—April 9th, six Stonechats going S.; wind S.E. They breed on island.

Oyster Island, North.—March 25th, two alighted on wall; wind light S.

Eagle Island, East.—Sept. 17th, Stonechats at 8 a.m. going S., rested: wind S.W., light; 27th, about twenty rested and left at dusk, going S.W.; wind, strong W. to S.W. Oct. 7th, Stonechats going W., rested; left at noon; misty, wind strong N.W. Nov. 3rd, about seventy going S.W.; wind light S. (See this station under head of "Linnet.")

Clare Island.—March 31st, observed several Stonechats coming to breed; wind S.E., light.

Arran Island, North.—Sept. 28th, two; wind N.W., light, foggy.

Tearaght.—March 25th, two arrived, and others came afterwards. Sept. 19th, two seen to-day. None after this.

Skelligs.—March 8th, Stonechatters first seen on rock. Sept. 1st, twelve, and some seen up to 21st Sept.; none since.

"Blackcap." (Probably the Stonechat).

Old Head, Kinsale.—'May 12th, two Blackcaps. Nov. 17th, Blackcaps about station.

Oyster Island, North.—May 14th, one Blackcap on island; wind N.W., strong.

Willow Wren, Chiffchaff, & Warblers.

Coningbeg Light-ship.—May 25th, one "Sallypicker" (Willow Wren?) disabled.

Tuskar Rock.—Aug. 23rd, one "Grasshopper Warbler" about rock; the first this season. Sept. 15th, one "Grasshopper Warbler" all day; 16th, Willow Warblers all night striking; eight killed; blue sky, wind fresh S.E.; 17th, one Chiffchaff caught at lantern; "a female."

Arklow North Light-ship.—April 30th, three "Sallypickers" killed striking; cloudy to clear, wind northerly.

Golden-Crested Wren.

Fastnet.—Sept. 15th, four seen; wind E.N.E., fresh, misty; 18th, two; wind E.N.E.

Dungarvan.—Oct. 2nd, two struck at 10 p.m.; wind N.W., fresh, foggy, and rain; not killed; 21st, three struck at 10 p.m.; wind S.W., light, gloomy; not killed.

Tuskar Rock.—Sept. 17th, one caught, at lantern, 9.30 p.m. Oct. 7th, one killed striking; wind light N.E., overcast, gloomy; 21st, one Gold-crest; 22nd, a "Fire-crest;" 24th, two Goldcrests struck at 2 a.m.; one killed; overcast, wind N., fresh.

Arklow North Light-ship.—Sept. 14th, two Golden Wrens about ship 5 a.m.; wind fresh E.,-haze.

Howth Baily.—Sept. 9th, Golden Wrens about lantern at night; overcast, wind S.W., light.

Rockabill.—Oct. 21st, Golden Wrens all day and night; several killed; wind light S.E., gloomy.

South Maidens.—March 25th, two Golden-crested Wrens seen on rock 5 a.m.; weather clear, calm; they remained two days, then went S.W. Oct. 4th, twenty struck at 10 p.m.; foggy and calm.

Rathlin Island.—Oct. 4th, twenty Golden-crested Wrens struck at midnight; wind light S.E., overcast, gloomy, none killed; "caught the lot;" 14th, one struck at midnight; caught; wind fresh W., rain, squally.

Arranmore.—Nov. 20th, one at 8 p.m. killed striking; wind E., light, gloomy.

Wren.

Fastnet.—Oct. 6th, one Wren all day; wind E., fresh, clear. Flying into the kitchen at times.

Old Head, Kinsale.—April 27th, two Wrens going N. Nov. 17th, Wrens about station.

Dungarvan.—Oct. 19th, one struck, not killed; wind N.W., light, overcast, ugly.

Barrels Rock Light-ship.—April 25th, one flying N. Oct. 18th, one alighted on ship and flew N.

Tuskar Rock.—April 18th, one "common Wren" all day on rock, wind N.E., light; 22nd, one at lantern, 10.30 p.m., wind S.E., light. Oct. 4th, one "common Wren"; 8th, one; 13th, one; 15th, ten on rock after night; 18th, some passing N.W., 7 a.m. to 12.30 p.m.; wind light W.

Arklow North Light-ship.—May 5th, one small Wren about ship at noon; wind variable.

Howth Baily.—Sept. 9th, a few "common Wrens" about lantern at night; wind light S.W., overcast; one killed striking; 9th to 13th, some Wrens about lantern at night.

Rockabill.—Sept. 13th, Wren at 9 p.m.; wind E., light. Oct. 24th, Wrens, with Blackbirds and Thrushes, all night; several killed; wind S.E., misty.

South Maidens.—May 15th, two Wrens found dead on balcony at midnight; wind S., thick fog. Oct. 9th, one seen on rock; 21st, one.

Rathlin Island.—May 16th, one "grey Wren" struck the glass at midnight; wind light S.W., fog and mist. Nov. 29th, one Wren on island; wind N., fresh.

Arranmore.—June 18th, two; wind light W.

Eagle Island, East.—Oct. 1st, Wrens going S.W., rested and left at 4 p.m., wind light S.W.; 7th, Wrens going W., with Linnets, Stonechats, Sparrows, and Tomtits; wind light N.W. Nov. 3rd, Wrens going S.W., wind S., light; 14th, I enclose a Wren found in lantern last night. [Received.—R. M. B.]

Blackrock, Mayo.—Dec. 14th, six Wrens all day; wind strong S.W. Flying about rock.

Arran Island, North.—Oct. 12th, one on island; wind N.E., light. Dec. 4th, four; remained on island.

Skelligs.—Some Wrens on rock all winter. Aug. 27th, two; but do not seem so plentiful this month. Sept. 4th, one shot.

"Tits."

Tuskar Rock.—Dec. 15th and 16th, "Tits and Chaffinches" in small flocks, 8 to 11 a.m.; 22nd, do.; 23rd, 24th, and 25th Tits.

Copeland Island.—March 20th, four "Tits" killed striking; wind W., strong, squally.

Eagle Island, East.—Oct. 7th, Tomtits, 10 a.m., going W., with Wrens, Linnets, &c.; wind light N.W.

Wagtail.

Fastnet.—Oct. 2nd, one at 8 a.m.; wind S.S.W., clear.

Coningbeg Light-ship.—Sept. 13th and 15th, several Wagtails about ship; wind E., light. Nov. 22nd, one going N.E.

Tuskar Rock.—May 10th, one going W.; wind S.W., fresh, fog. June 22nd, one on rock; calm. Sept. 12th, one all day about rock; fog.

Arklow North Light-ship.—April 24th, some Wagtails about ship at 6.30 a.m.; wind light S.E. Sept. 5th, a flock of "Water Wagtails" going N.W., wind light N.W.; 9th, flocks going W. at 6.30 a.m., wind light S.W.

South Maidens.—Aug. 30th, one seen on rock, 2 a.m.; wind, S.W., clear.

Rathlin Island.—Oct. 1st, a "White Wagtail remains here; a splendid warbler"!

Innishtrahull.—April 26th, two at 10 a.m.; remained some days on island. May 10th, three.

Arranmore.—July 1st, two going S.; wind N.E., light.

Eagle Island, East.—Sept. 15th, two Wagtails all day flying about, wind E., light; 27th, two ditto.

Arran Island, North.—Aug. 22nd, one Wagtail going S.; wind light W.

Straw Island.—April 21st, one going E.; wind light N., fog.

Tearaght.—Sept. 6th, one Wagtail, "appeared to be the white species," remained some days. Oct. 11th, "one Pied Wagtail" on island, wind N.E., light; 19th, two. Nov. 14th and 18th, one; 22nd, two. Jan. 5th to 8th, 1885, one.

Valencia.—Oct. 24th, one. Nov. 24th, one.

Skelligs.—Sept. 17th, one flying about rock; 19th, one with a yellow body, not the same species as seen on 17th. Oct. 4th, one; remained about a week.

Titlark and Rock Pipits.

Fastnet.—Sept. 15th, seventeen, three disabled striking, rainy and thick; 18th, four seen.

Old Head, Kinsale.—Nov. 17th, Titlarks about station.

Tuskar Rock.—Sept. 20th, two "Rock Tits" alighted, 10 a.m. Oct. 18th, Rock Pipits. Nov. 20th, small flock of Titlarks going N.W.

Arklow South Light-ship.—May 10th, four going N.W.; fog.

Arklow North Light-ship.—March 7th, large flocks of Titlarks, 7.30 a.m., haze and fog, wind fresh S.W.; 14th, six about ship, haze and rain, wind S.E.; 16th, flocks at noon going N.W., wind light S.E.; 17th, a flock going N.W.; 19th, some about lantern all night, clear, wind light S.W.; 21st, some Titlarks going N.W. and N.E., wind N.W.; 27th, some Titlarks going N.W., wind S.E.

Kish Light-ship.—April 13th, flocks, supposed to be Titlarks, going S.W.; wind N.E., fresh.

South Maidens.—March 25th, two Titlarks on rock, 5 a.m.; remained two days, went S.W. Oct. 4th, six struck, 10 p.m., foggy, calm.

Rathlin Island.—March 25th, two about lantern, 1 a.m.; wind strong S.E. Breed on island.

Innishtrahull.—Titlarks about in July; they breed here.

Rathlin O'Birne.—July 6th, twelve Titlarks on island.

Arran Island, North.—Oct. 1st, two Titlarks killed striking at 3 a.m.