Copeland (Mew) Island.—March 14th, ten struck lantern, four killed; 24th, three struck. April 14th, thirty struck 3 A.M., six killed; clear, wind light. October 9th, fourteen struck, six killed, 9 P.M.; very dark, wind N.W., fresh. November 4th, four struck, two killed; rain.
South Maidens.—July 16th, about eighty going N.E. August 1st, a flock going S.W.
Rathlin Island.—December 1st, hundreds all day. Numerous this season. 16th, hundreds.
Innishtrahull.—March 16th and 19th, Starlings about lantern, three killed striking.
Rathlin O'Birne.—August 26th, twelve, one killed. They often strike.
Killybegs.—November 4th, three struck 8 P.M.; caught alive. A continuous flight passed from 7.30 A.M. to 10 P.M., appeared to come from E. or S.E., and go W. or N.W. Four killed striking; gloomy, misty, wind strong N.W. 14th, about thirty, at 10 A.M.
Eagle Island, E.—November 19th, small flock came from land, and flew back. I only saw the one flock in the autumn; whilst in the autumn of 1884 they came in thousands.
Blackrock, Mayo.—November 2d, six about lantern during night, fog; 6th and 7th, Starling all day about rock.
Blacksod.—January 16th and 22d, Starlings in flocks.
Arran Island, N.—October 10th, a flock on island. November 7th, two killed striking; 11th, four killed striking; overcast. December 7th, large flock going S.
Tearaght.—March 5th, one caught at lantern glass; 17th, one. April 17th, one. November 28th, several flocks on rock.
Skelligs.—March 17th, two on rock; gale from N.W., with misty rain. October 17th, a flock on rock; wind S.E., fresh. 31st, Starlings on rock. A few during November.
Chough.
Mine Head.—October 29th, Choughs and Daws observed almost daily to January.
Rathlin Island.—May 7th, five remain.
Broadhaven.—August 11th, two Choughs, rarely seen.
Tearaght.—April 1st, Choughs all gone, except those which remained to breed.
Skelligs.—May 1st, a pair building on rock.
Ravens.
Mine Head.—October 29th, two daily to date January 15th, 1886.
Rockabill.—June 13th, Ravens seen.
Rathlin Island.—March 12th, Ravens breed here. May 9th, two.
Arranmore.—September 26th, two Ravens. January 4th, 1886, two; they remain here.
Broadhaven.—August 4th, one seen.
Blackrock, Mayo.—September 17th, three "small-sized Ravens."
Straw Island.—October 13th, three.
Skelligs.—A pair frequently visit, but do not breed here.
Hooded Crow.
Dungarvan.—November 20th, two seen; rare here.
Rathlin O'Birne.—September 12th, Grey Crows, always. They build here in clefts of rocks.
Broadhaven.—June 22d, twenty-two "Grey-Backed Crows."
Arran Island, N.—May 10th, two seen on island. June 10th, four. October 26th, four.
Straw Island.—March 29th, two Grey-Backed Crows.
Tearaght.—The Grey Crows and Choughs leave the island with their young for about three weeks or a month, and a few return afterwards.
Valentia.—A few noted in April, May, June, and December (Hooded and "Black-Hooded" Crows).
Skelligs.—A pair breed here.
Rook.
Fastnet.—March 21st, two "Crows," 1 P.M.: wind N.E. N.W. May 6th, two at noon about rock.
Mine Head.—Rooks constantly about.
Coningbeg Light-ship.—April 15th, two "Crows" going N.E.
Barrels Rock Light-ship.—December 21st, one "Crow" going N.W.
Tuskar Rock.—March 16th, one "Crow" going W. April 19th, five going N.W.
Arklow South Light-ship.—April 15th, one "Crow" going S.E.
Arklow North Light-ship.—March 27th and April 6th, two to four passed N. May 6th, three. November 7th, one alighted on deck.
Rockabill.—April 21st, "Crows." September 21st, "Crows."
Copeland (Mew) Island.—March 10th, two.
South Maidens.—March 11th, three "Crows" going E.; 28th, twelve ditto. August 1st, three.
Innishtrahull.—September 4th, "Black Crows" came from shore and flew back.
Broadhaven.—May 29th, one hundred.
Eagle Island, E.—October 10th, five seen; 23d, two. November 18th, fifty to sixty came from shore, and returned. December 23d, two. "I think these must be Crows from their harsh croak, very different from the caw of the rook."
Arran Island, N.—July 14th, four on island.
Jackdaw.
Arklow South Light-ship.—October 18th, flock going N.W.
Eagle Island, E.—November 19th, one; remained all day.
Blackrock, Mayo.—April 13th, nine flying S.
Valentia.—A few noted in June, September, October, November, and December.
Magpie.
Dungarvan.—April 30th, two seen.
Copeland (Mew) Island.—April 12th, one Magpie. May 12th, one.
Arranmore.—September 18th, one seen.
Swallow.
Fastnet.—April 16th, one all day; wind N.E. May 28th, four, for some days; two died on rock; wind S.E. June 1st, two; foggy. November 12th, two.
Mine Head.—Swallows from 21st September to 20th October.
Dungarvan.—April 23d, straggling Swallows going N.W.; wind S.W.
Coningbeg Light-ship.—April 13th, one, and a few on 17th, 20th, 21st, 22d, 27th, May 7th and 10th. On May 27th, seven about ship. September, one to four seen. October 1st and 5th, flocks going S.; wind N.W., strong.
Barrels Rock Light-ship.—April 17th, Swallows (first seen) going N.; 22d, do. Also noted May 9th, 10th, 11th, 19th, 21st, 22d, and 25th, in every case going AV.; wind variable. October 12th, two going S.
Tuskar Rock.—April 15th, one seen; 17th, in great numbers, 10 to 12 A.M., going N.W.; wind light S.E. They continued passing almost daily until June 1st, and generally in the forenoon. Direction of flight nearly always N.W. On May 27th a great number of Swallows and Martins arrived about 6 P.M.; seemed tired, one died on rock; stormy, with fog. September 4th, 23d, and 28th, Swallows in small numbers going N.W.
Arklow South Light-ship.—April 13th, one seen, and almost daily afterwards until date of sending schedule on May 12th. Largest flights, 20th and 21st April. In every case direction of flight was N.W., and apparently independent of wind. One found dead on deck, April 20th, and another on May 11th. September 20th, several flying S. October 25th, two seen.
Arklow North Light-ship.—April 12th, two about ship, and passing at intervals until May 16th, especially on 20th and 24th April. Direction of flight in every case N.W. September 29th, five going N.W.; wind W.
Kish Light-ship.—April 19th, seven going N. June 26th, two going S.
Rockabill.—April 15th and 16th, Swallows noted. May 24th, a large number arrived; wind light S., gloomy. October 6th, great quantities collected, and all left at noon.
Copeland (Mew) Island.—May 3d, three; 12th, fifty.
South Maidens.—April 26th, four. May 13th and 14th, Swallows from this date to end of May continually on rock; then flying S.E. towards Mull of Galloway.
Rathlin Island.—April 18th, one about all day; 23d, two.
Dunree Head.—April 10th, Swallows arrived.
Arranmore.—July 3d and 4th, first seen about this station.
Killybegs.—April 10th and 14th, Swallows, six to ten flying about.
Broadhaven.—May 20th to 25th, Swallows going N.W.
Arran Island, N.—May 20th, two Swallows; 24th, one disabled. June 15th, two disabled; fog.
Tearaght.—May 12th, one; 17th, two; 22d, one found dead at N.E. of Island.
Skelligs.—April 17th, first seen to-day. May 13th, four; stayed three days. October 17th, a Swallow; "tail slightly, if at all, forked."
Martin.
Dungarvan.—May 23d, four.
Tuskar Rock.—May 27th, two Martins.
Swift.
Dungarvan.—June 29th, one seen.
Rathlin Island.—June 6th, three at station.
Cuckoo.
Dungarvan.—May 9th, one; first seen this season.
Copeland (Mew) Island.—April 22d, one seen.
Rathlin Island.—April 20th, one. May 2d, two seen.
Dunree Head.—May 2d, Cuckoo first heard.
Arranmore.—April 20th, one Cuckoo.
Blacksod.—May 15th, Cuckoo heard.
Straw Island.—May 8th, a Cuckoo heard, being ten days earlier than the inhabitants remember hearing it.
Pigeons.
Mine Head.—October 26th to November 16th, one to six Rock Pigeons at intervals. December 9th and 11th, twelve to forty. January 6th, 1886, eight.
Arklow South Light-ship.—January 20th, one caught.
Rockabill.—February 2d, Pigeon seen. May 7th and 9th, some remaining. July 5th, a Carrier Pigeon, branded on the wings; is alive. September 20th, two white ones caught. October 7th, one caught.
Dunree Head.—June 12th, flocks of Pigeons about the cliffs.
Lough Swilly.—November 18th, large flock going W.
Rathlin O'Birne.—August 9th, two rested on eave of dwelling-house; one remained, and became quite tame.
Broadhaven.—April 29th, a large flock of Pigeons.
Blackrock, Mayo.—June 26th, ten "Sea Pigeons" about rock. November 8th, eight Rock Pigeons on rock.
Arran Island, N.—November 23d, seven Pigeons; first seen since I came to this station.
Straw Island.—May 23d, four Pigeons on island. July 29th, four. September 7th, do.
Tearaght.—February 20th, last of the Rock Pigeons left about this date.
Skelligs.—March 6th, one about rock.
Partridge.
Rockabill.—November 12th, a Partridge.
Corncrake.
Mine Head.—October 1st, one seen.
Tuskar Rock.—April 17th, two on rock after the night. May 13th, two on rock, killed [Received.—R. M. B.].
Rockabill.—November 19th, a Corncrake.
Copeland (Mew) Island.—May 14th, a Corncrake, going S.W.
Rathlin Island.—12th, one "Spotted Crake." June 30th, another seen.
Water Rail.
Rockabill.—November 21st, a Water Rail.
Waterhen.
Arran Island, N.—November 6th, one on island; must have come from the big island of Arran.
Golden Plover.
Fastnet.—November 9th, two Plover; wind S,, fresh.
Mine Head.—October 11th, December 11th, and January 7th, a few.
Rathlin Island.—December 7th, flocks remain here.
Tory Island.—"Grey Plover" noted March 22d and April 7th.
Arranmore.—October 22d, twenty-eight Golden Plover.
Rathlin O'Birne.—November 27th, four to twelve came from shore. Never seen here except in frosty weather.
Killybegs.—March 12th, forty seen.
Green Plover.
Fastnet.—March 15th, two on rock, and one drowned; wind E.N.E., fresh.
Mine Head.—November 16th, December 8th and 9th, seen. Always in frosty weather.
Dungarvan.—Flocks on October 23d, November 12th, 24th, and 30th.
Rockabill.—February 11th, Lapwing in flocks, going W. Some noted November 9th, 18th, and 26th.
Copeland (Mew) Island.—December 15th, seven flying N.
Arranmore.—October 16th, 28th, and December 29th, one or two Lapwing noted.
Rathlin O'Birne.—September 14th, Green Plover; seldom seen here.
Blackrock, Mayo.—April 17th, one Green Plover alighted.
Arran Island, N.—March 14th, forty Lapwing going N.
Seapie.
Dungarvan.—May 12th, large flock going N.W. June 2d, large flock on rocks.
Copeland (Mew) Island.—May 6th, two in vicinity. December 22d, fifty about island.
South Maidens.—May 3d, three on rock. 13th, two.
Rathlin Island.—Oyster Catchers are to be seen at all times.
Innishtrahull.—April 13th, six on island.
Broadhaven.—August 24th, large flock of Seapies. September 12th, a flock.
Eagle Island, S.—September 6th, two on rocks.
Arran Island, N.—April 14th, a flock of Seapie. July 16th, Seapies. August 10th, sixty. December 26th, thirty.
Tearaght.—March 7th, a pair observed; about island all summer.
Skelligs.—March 8th, one perched on rock. June 15th, a pair breed here. They laid three clutches, three eggs each, their first being taken.
Woodcock.
Copeland (Mew) Island.—December 15th, two killed striking.
South Maidens.—April 14th, one found dead after striking at midnight.
Arranmore.—November 8th, 15th, and December 21st, Woodcock noted. They are more numerous this year than for the past four years.
Rathlin O'Birne.—Noted December 1st and 9th. Seldom seen, as they have no cover on island.
Killybegs.—October 30th, 3 A.M., one killed striking; gale from S.E. November 18th, 2 A.M., another; wind strong, S.E.
Eagle Island, E.—November 9th, one killed striking, 11 P.M.
Tearaght.—December 8th, one on rock. 10th, one seen.
Valentia.—November 20th, one killed striking.
Skelligs.—October 10th, one on rock.
Snipe.
Fastnet.—November 8th, two Jacksnipe killed striking; overcast, wind S., light.
Mine Head.—November 18th, four seen, and observed frequently.
Copeland (Mew) Island.—April 14th, six about island. November 5th, six remain. December 31st, eight.
Rathlin Island.—November 10th, three Jacksnipe. December 20th, twenty Common Snipe.
Arranmore.—October 25th, November 14th, and December 1st, Snipe noted. They are more numerous this year than for past four years.
Rathlin O'Birne.—September 18th, 30th, October 24th, and December 11th, Snipe noted, with the remark that they resort the island all the winter.
Killybegs,—October 20th, 2 A.M., one killed striking; misty.
Broadhaven.—April 16th, "a flock of Snipe" going N.
Eagle Island, E.—October 19th, one seen, November 9th, one killed striking.
Arran Island, N.—November 9th, two killed striking at midnight; misty.
Tearaght.—March 8th, one "large Snipe," and on other occasions during month.
"Sea Larks," etc.
Rockabill.—March 18th, "Sand Larks" flying about.
Copeland (Mew) Island.—April 14th, fifteen "Sand Larks" struck, 4 A.M., seven killed, night very dark. October 10th, twenty "Sand Larks" struck, ten killed, very dark; wind N., strong. November 3d, three struck, one killed.
South Maidens.—Towards middle of April "Sand Larks" visited us daily, and then flew to a rock near. May 13th, seven.
Rathlin Island.—"Sandpipers" at all times.
Innishtrahull.—April 13th, "Sand Larks" on island.
Arranmore.—June 8th, three "Sand Larks." They must have nest about station.
Rathlin O'Birne.—August 24th, they are always about island.
Broadhaven.—April 21st, twelve "Sea Larks" seen. September 2d, several. They breed near.
Eagle Island, E.—September 18th, five "Sand Larks." November 8th, seven.
Arran Island, N.—April 24th, eighteen "Sand Larks."
Straw Island.—May 26th, thirty on island.
Redshank.
Arran Island, N.—April 20th, twelve Redshank, July 21st, two. December 26th, twenty on island.
Greenshank.
Dungarvan.—November 17th and 23d, flock going N.E.
Curlew.
Fastnet.—September 24th, one for several days on rock.
Mine Head.—July 29th, twelve Curlew going E. October 11th, four do.
Dungarvan.—March 3d and 17th, large flocks going S.E.
Coningbeg Light-ship.—March 16th, flock passed over ship to N. May 2d, three; 3d, several going N.E. September 10th and 11th, a few going N.E.
Tuskar Rock.—April 18th, Curlew going N.W.
Arklow South Light-ship.—July 24th, one Curlew on deck. August 6th, a flock.
Arklow North Light-ship.—March 4th and 5th, two to four about lantern at night.
Rockabill.—April 14th, 15th, and 16th, Curlew.
Copeland (Mew) Island.—October 11th, fifty about.
South Maidens.—April 14th, Curlews in night over lighthouse. These birds are extremely cautious, rarely striking lantern. June 21st, a large flock going S.E.; wind N.W. Some noted July 18th, 28th, and August 8th.
Rathlin Island.—April 14th, a flock of Curlew at midnight.
Innishtrahull.—April 13th, fourteen Curlew on island.
Lough Swilly.—September 15th, four; 28th, large flock going N.W.
Arranmore.—September 12th, three.
Rathlin O'Birne.—November 21st, about twenty on rocks. They are always on island.
Killybegs.—November 19th, about twenty seen.
Broadhaven.—September 22d, several flocks alighted, twelve to twenty in each.
Eagle Island, E.—September 4th, four seen.
Blackrock, Mayo.—June 20th, flock of Curlew.
Blacksod.—January 16th, large flocks. May 2d, flocks.
Arran Island, N.—April 10th, ten Curlew going S. May 20th, forty; 30th, twenty. June 12th, thirty. August 10th, twenty. December 20th, forty.
Tearaght.—March 20th, one, and for a few days after.
Whimbrel.
Dungarvan.—April 25th and 26th, large flocks flying high to N.W.; wind S.W. May 16th, small flocks going N.W.
Coningbeg Light-ship.—May 12th, flock of Whimbrel passed N.
Rockabill.—April 21st, May birds. June 26th, do.
South Maidens.—May 8th, "May fowl" going N.W.; 13th, large flock flying W.
Broadhaven.—May 16th, large flocks of "May birds" going N.W.
Straw Island.—May 17th, thirty "young Curlew" going N.E.
Terns.
Tuskar Rock.—May 24th, Common Terns alighted on rock; 27th, passing S.W, in small numbers since 24th.
Copeland (Mew) Island.—May 26th, thirty "Pirrs or Sea Mews." Remain here until middle of September. September 17th, the "Sea Mews" left to-day.
Slyne Head, North.—May 8th, Terns arrived to build.
Arran Island, N.—May 19th and 20th, twenty to forty. September 10th, a flock.
Gulls.
Mine Head.—September 21st, Herring Gulls, young and old, and Kittiwake in vicinity to date 15th January 1886.
Dungarvan.—June 5th, one Skua Gull chasing birds in bay. November 4th, immense flocks in bay. December 3d, great numbers of Black-Headed Gulls in fields.
Coningbeg Light-ship.—May, Gulls of various kinds passed. March 14th, first Skua Gull this year.
Kish Light-ship.—June 10th, many flocks of Grey Gulls.
Rathlin Island.—March 4th and 6th, a few Black-Backed Gulls and flocks of Kittiwakes and Herring Gulls noted. June 12th, thousands of Herring Gulls. November 7th, thousands of Herring Gulls.
Arranmore.—February 6th, one Skua Gull remained two days.
Rathlin O'Birne.—August 9th, Royal Gulls breed on island.
Killybegs.—May 26th, a number of Gulls flying about.
Eagle Island, E.—September 27th, several Grey Gulls all day.
Blackrock, Mayo.—March 31st, "small Gulls visited rock to look at place to build." January 3d, 1886, some small Gulls after fry near rock.
Arran Island, N.—July 14th, large flocks all day.
Straw Island.—Numbers of Grey-Backed Gulls remain throughout the winter. September 19th and 21st, flock of young gulls going S.W.
Tearaght.—The Kittiwake remains long after the Puffin, Razorbill, and Guillemot are gone, but leaves before the Stormy Petrel. Only a few Herring Gulls breed on the island. They prey on the eggs of other birds, and carry them off in their bill without breaking them—Guillemots' eggs, some of which weigh eight ounces. They also carry off the young birds and devour them on a rock close by. On May 17th I saw one seize an old Razorbill, which was on a ledge with others, and carry it about 100 yards, when it fell into the sea. The "Mottled Gull," which I suppose is the young Herring Gull, was not seen since the 1st of May. They were seen again on August 5th, and will remain during winter.
Valentia.—September 29th, Skua Gulls seen. October 5th, twenty Skua Gulls.
Skelligs.—March 15th, adult Kittiwakes first appeared; 16th, first alighted on the rock, and took possession of old nests and building places. 23d, flock on water; came on rock again to-day. June 1st, one lesser Black-Backed Gull. "The only one seen for past two years." (? R. M. B.) 6th, Kittiwakes commenced laying. Great Black-Backed Gulls breed on Lesser Skelligs.
Manx Shearwater.
Mine Head.—December 27th, a few fishing.
Dungarvan.—March 23d, fishing in bay.
Coningbeg Light-ship.—March 14th, four about ship; first this year. April 16th and May 6th, several seen.
Barrels Rock Light-ship.—March 21st, first seen this year; going W.
Arklow North Light-ship.—April 26th, "Mackerel-cocks" about ship.
Rathlin Island.—March 17th, Shearwater seen.
Blackrock, Mayo.—September 22d and October 3d, thousands of "Manx Shearwater" going in one continuous stream to N.W. and N.; wind H.
Straw Island.—July 12th, eight "Mackerel-cock."
Tearaght.—March 7th, Shearwater first heard. May 11th, three on water, and were heard occasionally on dark nights up to September 1st. The Manx Shearwater breeds on Innishvicillane, an island three miles distant.
Skelligs.—March 2d, one struck 9.30 P.M., fell, but not killed; first appearance this year. May 1st, great numbers came on rock about 10 P.M.; weather thick. 8th, first egg seen to-day. August 27th, one young one caught after striking at 10 P.M. Shearwater often strike, but I never saw one killed; the same remark applies to Stormy Petrel. They generally strike during drizzling rain, seldom in a fog. 29th, heard at night for last time this year.
Stormy Petrel.
Fastnet.—October 20th, three about light; hazy, wind light, N.E.
Coningbeg Light-ship.—April 26th, one about ship, and at intervals to May 1st. May 9th, one; also on May 20th and 24th. September 15th, ten about ship; wind strong, W.S.W.
Barrels Rock Light-ship.—May 27th, one hovering about; wind S., stormy. September 12th, three going S.W.; wind strong. November 16th, one at noon about ship; wind strong, S.E.
South Maidens.—July 16th, one found alive on balcony.
Tearaght.—March 5th, one flew against glass. April 4th, one against glass. Observed as early as March 1st, but not plentiful until July, "If I said there were six or seven thousand here, it would be giving an idea of how plentiful they are." The eggs are laid about 15th June, and the first I observed hatched was on 10th August. They vomit a half-digested white matter as well as the oil; perhaps it is this they feed the young with.
Valentia.—May 8th, one caught at night. October 2d, one captured in yard. September 20th, one seen.
Skelligs.—April 21st, first appearance on rock in holes. May 13th, numbers about lantern at 10 P.M. June 15th, first egg seen to-day. A fortnight later than last year.
Razorbill.
Mine Head.—October 4th, young Razorbill diving, and on December 12th, 23d, and 27th, flocks flying towards S.W.; on latter date fishing in great numbers. January 15th, 1886, the young Razorbill is as plentiful here now as I ever saw them at the Tearaght.
Dungarvan.—May 13th, great number all day.
Arranmore.—Feb. 10th, Razorbills seen 5 wind strong, S.W.
Blackrock, Mayo.—May 2d, flock around rock. 11th, alighted on rock.
Tearaght.—March 12th, first came on cliffs, young birds leaving about July 13th, old and young all gone August 20th. They were about as plentiful as on other years. They were observed taking the young on their backs in the same way as last year by Mrs M'Carron. The young birds leave in the evenings and at night. When they get to the water, the object of the old bird seems to be to get the young ones out to sea.
Skelligs.—March 13th, a few perched on rock for first time this year. March 16th, two "Blackbilled Auks" fishing around rock. First seen since 2d inst., when I thought they had all left. (These are young Razorbills.—R. M. B.) 23d, great numbers alighted on rock at 6 A.M.; wind S., strong. May 9th, first Razorbill's egg seen. July 20th, some leaving rock, young being fully grown. August 10th, all gone but a few.
Guillemot.
Mine Head.—December 27th, one seen.
Barrels Rock Light-ship.—March 31st, large flock of "Murs" going E. December 31st, flocks of "Murs." January 9th, 1886, small flocks of "Murs" going E.
Rathlin Island.—March 28th, Guillemots and Razorbills.
Arranmore.—February 12th, Guillemots first observed.
Tearaght.—January 28th, about twenty observed at their breeding places. February 18th, a good many on the cliffs. Old and young gone on 17th August. About as numerous as previous year. The young leave in the night time.
Skelligs.—February 10th, first appearance 7 A.M.—They continued to increase up to end of month, alighting at daybreak, and leaving about 10 P.M. or noon, when they leave again, and reappear next morning. May 9th, first Guillemots eggs seen. July 20th, some leaving rock, young ones being fully grown. August 10th, all gone but a few.
Puffin.
Coningbeg Light-ship.—April and May, great flocks passed during these months.
Barrels Rock Light-ship.—March 26th, two "Sea Parrots." First seen this year. April 2d, "Sea Parrots" drifting with tide.
Rockabill.—October 4th, "Puffins."
Rathlin Island.—March 30th, Puffins.
Eagle Island, E.—September 28th, one "Sea Parrot" (young bird) swimming. "Did not notice any of these birds up to the present." October 1st, fifty to sixty; also seen on 8th, and from November 28th to December 1st, "continuous flights" are noted as going W. all day, skimming the surface of the water.
Blackrock, Mayo.—Flocks of "Puffins" noted March 4th, 7th, and April 6th. On 29th, "Sea Parrots alighted to look at building ground." On June 9th, "Puffins of all kinds on rock hatching." July 20th, "Sea Parrots leaving rock."
Clare Island.—April 11th, Guillemots and Puffins arrived to build.
Arran Island, N.—January 7th, flocks of "Puffins." Also on May 20th, all day; and on July 16th.
Straw Island.—April 7th, twenty-two "Puffins." "Sea Parrots" noted April 11th and May 1st, going E. July 10th, thirty "Sea Parrots." September 4th, ten "Puffins," looked very young.
Tearaght.—March 23d, Puffin in great numbers on water. 31st, observed on water at south side of island at 7 A.M., rose on island at 9 A.M. Again they disappeared until April 3d, and on the 4th they became permanent. The young birds were leaving on July 16th. This they never do in the day-time. They left August 15th. A white-headed Puffin was captured on June 2d. [Head received, greyish white.—R. M. B.]
Valentia.—October 1st, one taken in yard.
Skelligs.—March 26th, first appearance of Puffins flying; 31st, alighted on rock first time to-day; wind strong, S.W. April 24th, first Puffin's eggs seen. August 10th, Puffins left to-day en masse, except a few whose young are not matured.
Great Northern Diver.
Dungarvan.—April 8th, two swimming about. November 25th, two. December 1st, four.
Rathlin Island.—June 16th, two seen.
Straw Island.—April 23d, two Great Northern Divers. November 7th, two.
Cormorant.
Mine, Head.—January 15th, 1886, plentiful along the cliffs.
Dungarvan.—November 5th, numbers feeding.
Coningbeg Light-ship.—A few at end of April.
Rockabill.—October 4th, Cormorants.
Rathlin Island.—March 6th, Green Cormorants.
Dunree Head.—Cormorants never leave all the year round.
Arranmore.—February 5th and March 27th, Cormorants noted.
Rathlin O'Birne.—August 4th, twelve Cormorants. These birds are always in vicinity. The "Black Diver" came here in spring, and continued while fish were plenty.
Broadhaven.—June 30th, large numbers remain here this time of year. November 14th, they are here all the year.
Eagle Island, E.—September 26th, October 15th and 22d, seen.
Blackrock, Mayo.—May 25th and 29th, Cormorants alighted on rock near us. "When they flap their wings, it is a sure sign of storm."
Straw Island.—May 19th, four seen. July 31st, three.
Valentia.—A few Cormorants noted in April, June, October, November, and December.
Tearaght.—March 22d, two Green Cormorants, and several times after. On March 20th, "I observed a very strange specimen of the Cormorant. The crown of the head seemed flat, the whole length of the bill being in a line with it. The under part of the bill, at a short distance from the head, terminated abruptly; white in front of eyes, large black curved streak round eyes behind, grey round back of neck, crown of head a little tufted behind."
Gannet.
Dungarvan.—Entries on March 8th, May 20th, and June 20th. Direction of flight variable.
Coningbeg Light-ship.—March 13th, ten; 31st, five going E. During September Gannets at intervals passing ship, generally E.
Barrels Rock Light-ship.—March. 24th, small flocks going S.W. September 22d, flocks going east. December 27th, 28th, 31st, and January 9th, 1886, Gannets noticed going in various directions.
Arklow South Light-ship.—Gannets noted February 14th, 19th, 20th, March 2d, 4th, 23d, and May 12th, in every case flying low to the N.E. August 16th and September 23d, flocks of Gannet.
Arklow North Light-ship.—February 24th, flocks going N. and S. March 23d, four passed N, During the month of April flocks of Gannets constantly passed, going N. May 19th, several flocks passed, going N.E. and S.W. October 27th, six going N.
Kish Light-ship.—A few Gannets going N. April 16th, 17th, and May 4th, and going S. on 29th May and June 17th.
Rockabill.—March 18th, April 21st, May 9th, Gannets seen. September 21st, October 8th, 12th, 22d, noted.
Copeland (Mew) Island.—March 25th, two—the first seen since last September. May 8th, eight seen.
South Maidens.—April, Gannets fishing.
Rathlin Island.—March 2d, 14th, April 3d and 6th, flocks going W. May 5th, small flock going W. all day; also on June 3d and 21st, going W. September 14th, a flock going W., and more or less every day this month.
Arranmore.—February 7th, Gannets going S.W. March 20th and May 23d, going E. and N.E.
Rathlin O'Birne.—Saw plenty in September.
Killybegs.—March 22d to 28th, a few going N. Noted in June fishing.
Eagle Island, E.—September 26th, and on frequent dates up to October 17th, Gannets in twos and threes and flocks, all going W.
Blackrock, Mayo.—Flocks noted March 22d, 25th, and May 19th. On July 2d, a few fishing. October 18th, 19th, and 20th, great numbers of Gannets going N. January 17th and 19th, 1886, two or three, the first seen since October 20th.
Slyne Head, North.—May 17th and 20th, large flocks of Gannets.
Arran Island, N.—January 8th, Gannets observed. July 14th, numbers of Gannets about.
Straw Island.—March 7th and April 3d, a few noticed.
Skelligs.—February 28th, Gannets first perched on Lesser Skelligs, their breeding station. June 15th, an unusual number this year. They must have come from the Bull Rock, owing to the erection of a lighthouse on it, which is now building.
Herons.
Dungarvan.—March 27th, two flying inland; wind N.W. October 26th, two.
Tuskar Rock.—March 14th, two going H.
Copeland (Mew) Island.—September 21st, two "Cranes."
Rathlin Island.—May 24th, two going W.
Eagle Island, E.—September 27th, one seen.
Blackrock, Mayo.—April 20th, two Cranes seen. July 12th, one.
Tearaght.—July 22d, "four Herons (?) flying about island, and for a few days. Was quite close to them. Never saw anything like them before. Tips of wings were black, which continued along inner side, forming a black fringe. There was a white spot at the angle of the wings in front."
Skelligs.—March 22d, a Heron seen; wind H., strong. July 22d, two Herons perched on rock; flew E. 26th, two seen.
Geese.
Copeland (Mew) Island.—March 11th, twenty going E.
South Maidens.—March 19th, three Barnacle. August 25th, a flock of Barnacle going S.
Innishtrahull.—January, small flocks of Barnacle passing S.; also on February 10th, 15th, and 18th, one shot on 20th.
Lough Swilly.—October 8th, eighteen; 12th, large flocks passing N.
Tory Island.—March 23d and 28th, Barnacle passed.
Arranmore.—February 13th, Barnacle remain on island all winter. April 1st, some going N.W. October 3d, twenty-four going S.; wind W., strong. Barnacle also passed on 6th, 8th, 10th, and 18th to 22d.
Rathlin O'Birne.—October 4th, twenty-two alighted on island; shot two. November 7th, 16th, and 20th, Barnacle noted, "one being a gander, the first seen for last two years."
Broadhaven.—April 1st, a large flock of Wild Geese going S.W. December 22d, Wild Geese remain here until March.
Eagle Island, E.—October 19th, seven Barnacle going S.W. November 8th, about one hundred going S.W.
Blacksod.—January 17th, February 10th, and April 30th, noted.
Arran Island, N.—February 14th, twelve Wild Geese. May 18th, flock of Barnacle going N. July 19th, four "Wild Geese" going S.; 23d, five going N. October 10th, large flock of Barnacle going S.
Straw Island.—November 9th, eight Wild Geese going N. Tearaght. May 2d, thirty going N.; 17th, twenty ditto.
Ducks.
Mine Head.—December 13th, one found dead near lighthouse.
Dungarvan.—April 14th, large flock of Teal going to sea. June 27th, thirteen Wild Duck on a rock near station. October 25th, flock of Teal. November 1st, large flock of Duck; 11th, a flock; 13th, large flock of Widgeon; 29th, numbers of Duck and Teal on water.
Tuskar Rock.—January 22d, one alighted on rock.
Arklow North Light-ship.—March 16th, 23d, and 24th, flocks of Ducks going N.
Copeland (Mew) Island.—April 12th, three; 16th, eight. May 6th, two Shelldrake. November 4th, four Wild Ducks. December 26th, twelve about island.
Rathlin Island.—December 9th, one Shelldrake. November 8th, one Pochard shot.
Dunree Head.—February 6th, 20th, 20th, and 27th, flocks passing station.
Lough Swilly.—October 30th, four seen.
Tory Island.—Ducks noted February 14th and March 17th.
Arranmore.—Ducks on island all winter.
Killybegs.—April 20th, two. About six pair nest in a bog near.
Broadhaven.—March 4th, flock of Shelldrake going N.W. 29th, five Wild Duck.
Straw Island.—March 5th, eight Wild Duck; 13th, six. October 17th, fifteen Wild Duck; 18th, two Shelldrake. November 5th, thirty Wild Duck.
Merganser.
Dungarvan.—April 5th, eleven going S.
Birds not Identified.
Barrels Rock Light-ship.—May 21st, "observed a curious bird hovering around the ship. It was larger than a Thrush, and of a brown mottled colour, with a streak of white across each wing. It flew N."
South Maidens.—May 13th, "a strange bird seen on rock, not as large as a Thrush, with a portion of the back yellow, white near the tail, which was dotted with yellow spots. I have not seen a bird resembling this one since I came to station."
Tearaght.—On 12th April, a bird Like the Great Shrike was observed.
Skelligs.—October 16th, "a small bird about the size of a Wren with a white spot on its forehead, flitting about amongst the lichen on the face of the rocks. It uttered a note like tzit, tzit, tzit, or tzee, a little sibilant in tone."
Skelligs.—October 23d, a Starling? feeding on rock. A gale from N.E., with mist. "This bird was spotted with white spots, the same as Morris's Nutcracker."