FOURTH REPORT

OF The Bird Watching and Preservation Society. 1934.

Edited by B. H. RYVES and G. H. HARVEY.

The Annual Meeting was held at on 12th February. Lady Vyvyan, in the unavoidable absence of the President, Lady Vivian, being voted to the chair. Lady Vivian had intimated that she desired to relinguish the Presidency and Lady Vyvyan was elected in her place. The Honorary Treasurer and the Joint Honorary Secretaries were re-elected en bloc. Pursuant to Rule 6, Lady Vyvyan and Major Williams retired from the Executive Committee, Lady Vivian and Mr. Polwhele being elected to fill the vacancies. Miss Waltpn Evans was elected an additional member of the Committee and the name of Mr. J. Melrose Macmillan was further proposed and, as he was not present, it was agreed that he be asked if he would be willing to serve. This he subsequently agreed to do. The Chairman, in moving the adoption of the Annual Report for 1933 and the Treasurer's Account, expressed pleasure at the satisfactory progress of the Society during the year. Members were reminded that the Secretaries had acquired a stock of an admirable Summary of the Wild Birds Protection Acts, compiled by the Royal Society for the Protection of Birds. These are available to any member at the cost price of sixpence a copy. Several Members present volunteered to take part in the Spring Migration Scheme under the auspices of the Western Morning News, referred to on page 3 of the Annual 2

Report of 1933. Later, more Members offered to take part in it. The Western Morning News has kindly presented to the Society reprints of the four articles written in the journal by Mr. E. W. Hendy. These articles record the results of the interesting observations made and the knowledge secured. A copy of these reprints is available gratis to any Member on application to the Secretaries. The following alteration in the latter part of Rule 5 was agreed to:—" Any Member who both signs the declaration form and pays the first subscription after September 30 in any year shall not be liable to pay a further subscription until the close of the following year." Mr. A. C. Polwhele again kindly consented to act as Honorary Auditor of the Accounts for 1933. The Meeting terminated with an interesting discussion, in which a number of the Members present joined, on various bird observations they had made.

The Second General Meeting was held at Truro on 23rd October, the President in the chair. Lt.-Col. Ryves recounted certain happenings in the spring in connection with the raiding of Ravens' nests on the North coast of the County by a gang of egg-collectors from up- country who regrettably received local assistance. Full details of the raid are recorded in the Minutes of the Executive Committee meeting held in May. The Society had taken rapid action in the hope of lessening the risk of further raids on later nesting birds by issuing posters, covering the coast from St. Agnes to Morwenstow, offering a reward of £10 for information leading to the conviction of any offenders. It was further reported to this meeting that the Society had made a presentation of gifts to two farmers' wives in appreciation of their prompt action in giving information which resulted in the saving of a Chough's nest from robbery. Happily, the up-country raiders did not make a second appearance during the nesting season. The reward was not claimed. A lengthy discussion ensued in regard to the Society's attitude towards the proposed Bill for the total abolition of the Steel Trap, which is promoted by the University 3 of London Animal Welfare Society and strongly supported by the Royal Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals. The Society, being a Bird Protection Society, was logically bound to back the Bill, quite apart from the fact that the Steel Trap was a blot on civilisation. This trap was responsible for the distruction annually of a large number of birds, and had undoubtedly been a factor in the deplorable status to-day of the Chough in Cornwall. It was unanimously decided that the Society should support the Bill and inform its promoters of its support. A hope was expressed that Mr. J. L. Palmer, on receipt of a complimentary copy of this Report, might see his way to assist towards the passing of the Bill by drawing attention to it in the Western Morning News. Besides the discussions to back the Bill, the meeting urged all members and their friends to try to persuade trappers to cover their " gins " during the day. The President announced that the Society had forwarded a cheque of £2 2s. Od. to the Devon Bird Watching and Preservation Society as a donation towards the purchase of the Wembury Reefs bird Sanctuary. This was received with acclamation. Dr. R. H. Blair again entertained the meeting with his delightful " cine-snaps." Major Gill very kindly lent his apparatus and worked the lantern. Those present owe a debt of gratitude both to Dr. Blair and Major Gill, not forgetting the ready assistance given by Mr. G. Penrose, the Curator of the Museum.

The Executive Committee held three meetings during the year, namely, on 12th February, 16th May and 15th September. ****** MEMBERSHIP. We regret to announce the death, during the year, of Brig.-General L. J. Hext, C.M.G., at Trewornan. We have to record the following resignations with effect from the close of the year:— Miss Evans, Boulder Cottage, , . Mrs. E. Dwight, Boslowick, Falmouth. Mr. Lewis, Mawgan Porth. Miss C. Lewis, Mawgan Porth. Mr. T. K. Bullmore, , Falmouth, Miss M. Pratt, , 4

LIST OF MEMBERS.

Adams, S. H. A., Trenance, Mawgan Porth. Agnew, P. G., Comdr., M.P., Trevanion, Camborne. Anderson, B. W., Thatched Cottage, Whyteleafe, Farleigh, Surrey. Anderson, Mrs. I. M., Thatched Cottage, Whyteleafe, Farleigh, Surrey. Banfield, R., The Hillyers, . Barker, Miss W. M., Tregye Cottage, Devoran, Truro. Benaton, Rev. H. A., St. Gwinear Vicarage, . Bennett, Miss Lorna, Byways, Trenio, Padstow. Benson, Mrs. S. R., Bishop's Hill, Polzeath, . Benson, Miss M. M., Bishop's Hill, Polzeath, Wadebridge. Benson, Miss G. V., Bishop's Hill, Polzeath, /Wadebridge. Bewes, Mrs. N., Trelill, Marlborough Road, Falmouth. Bickford-Smith, Mrs. G., Trevarno, Near . Bickford-Smith, J. C, Trevarno, Near Helston. Bickford-Smith, W. N., Trevarno, Near Helston. Blair, Dr. R. H., Roslyn, Basset Road, Camborne. Bolitho, Mrs. F., Trewidden, Buryas Bridge. Bolitho, Lt.-Col. E. H. W., Trengwainton, . Bridger, J. A. D., J.P., 7, Alverton Terrace, . Bury, Miss V. M., Colletts, Westerham, Kent. Butler, Miss F. S., Loe Vean, Feock, Truro. Campbell, Mrs. H. M. E., Rock, Wadebridge. Cattley, W. E., Pencarrow, Washaway. Chilcott, H. T., Penlee, Truro. Clarke, A. C, Ponsanooth, Perranwell Station. Clowes, Miss, Byways, Trenio, Padstow. Coldrey, A. A., Trenowan, Camborne. Cooper, Miss B. B., Heyle, Helford Passage, Falmouth. Cox, A. H. Machell, Knightstone, Yelverton, Devon. Croggan, Miss, Trenance, Mawgan Porth. Grossman, A. L., Lezerea, Ruan Minor, Grade. Crossman, Mrs. S., Lezerea, Ruan Minor, Grade. Cunningham, Miss D. W., St. Anthony, Praa Sands, . Dorrien-Smith, Major A. A., D.S.O., J.P., Tresco Abbey, Isles of Scilly. Evans, Miss B. Walton, John's Corner, Goldsithney, Marazion. Fenn, H. L., Copperhouse, Hayle. Foot, Isaac, M.P., Pencrebar, . Foreman, Miss M., County School, Truro. 5

Foster, Mrs., Lawn Cliff, Flushing, Falmouth. Foster, Miss M. P., Penmilder, . Fox, H. E., Croker, Tregenver, Falmouth. Fox, Leonard, Innesfree, Carbis Bay. Fox, Miss M. V., Glendurgan, Falmouth. Gill, Mrs. M. E., Riverside, Lelant. Green, Dr. A. B., Acton Castle, , Marazion. Gunning, Mrs. S. L., The Rectory, Mawgan, St. Columb Minor. Hartley, P. H. Trahair, Bosavern, Christchurch Park, Sutton, Surrey. Harvey, Miss E. L., Rose Hill, Padstow. Harvey, G. H., Peatswood, Lidden Estate, Penzance (Joint Hon. Secretary). Harvey, Mrs. D. C, Peatswood, Lidden Estate, Penzance. Hawkey, W. J. M., 32, Cliff Road, . Hawkey, Mrs., 32, Cliff Road, Newquay. Haworth, Rev. J. J., St. Clement Vicarage, Truro. Henderson-Bull, Mrs. M. B., Marlborough, Falmouth. Hendy, E. W., Holt Anstiss, Porlock, Somerset. Hepburn, Mrs. B., Rock, Wadebridge. Hepburn, Ian, Laxton House, Oundle, Northamptonshire. Hicks, Mrs. F. R., Lanhainsworth, St. Columb. Hicks, J., Lieut. R.N., Lanhainsworth, St. Columb. Hony, Miss M., Rock, Wadebridge. Hoppett, Miss V. B., Trethannas, Praze. Horsnaill, Miss F., Fairlight Cottage, Praa Sands. Hosking, J. F., Villa-Ana, . Hurrell, H. G., Peverell Park Villa, Plymouth. Ivens-Knowles, Mrs. F., C.B.E., M.S., F.C.O.G., Killagorden, Truro. Jackson, Mrs. E., Penquite, Lelant. Jarvis, W. H., 1, Marcus Hill, Newquay. Jenkin, L., 11, Headland Road, Newquay. Johnstone, G., 26, Warham Road, South Croydon, Surrey. Lawson, H. B., The Links, Worplesdon Hill, Woking, Surrey. Lethbridge, Miss D. M. B., Tregeare, Near Launceston. Light, Miss K. E., Diocesan Training College, Truro. Luard, Major W., 14, Woodlane Terrace, Falmouth. Macmillan, J. Melrose, J.P., Trehane Cottage, Polzeath, Wadebridge. Macmillan, Mrs., Trehane Cottage, Polzeath, Wadebridge. Magor, E. J. P., J.P., Lamellen, St. Tudy. 6

Magson, Dr. E. H., Truro School, Truro. McCorkindale, Miss E., , Wadebridge. Meares, R. H., 2, Western Terrace, Falmouth. Meares, Mrs. M. J., 2, Western Terrace, Falmouth. Mercy, Miss (Address unknown). Moor, Miss M. R., St. Clement, Truro. Moyse, Mrs. O. R., Condurrow, St. Clement, Truro. Nalder, G. F., 7, Pydar Street, Truro. Nicholson, C, Nansgwithick, Tresillian, Truro. (Hon. Treasurer). Nicholson, Mrs., Nansgwithick, Tresillian, Truro. Olver, Miss V., 1, West Park, . Oxley, Mrs. C. A., Midland Bank House, Newquay. Pagan, Miss E. L., 1, Alexandra Terrace, Penzance. Pagan, Miss V., 1, Alexandra Terrace, Penzance. Paull, Miss L., Trehaverne House, Truro. Paynter, Lt.-Col. C. H., J.P., Boskenna, St. Buryan. Pearce, Mrs. M. J., Faralong, Rock, Wadebridge. Pedder, Miss M. W., Diocesan Training College, Truro. Penrose, G., County Museum, Truro. Polwhele, A. C, O.B.E., J.P., Polwhele, St. Clement, Truro. Polwhele, Mrs., Polwhele, St. Clement, Truro. Pyemont, Rev. E. C. H., Vicarage, Launceston. Quick, Miss H. M., Clarence Cottage, Penzance. Rice, C, 1, Trelawney Road, Camborne. Rice, H., 4, Farley Terrace, Truro. Rice, Mrs., 4, Farley Terrace, Truro. Roberts, Miss V., Crossfield, Mawnan, Falmouth. Rogers, Mrs. Powys, Tregye, Devoran, Truro. Rogers, Michael, Bospolvans, St. Columb. Rogers, Mrs. M., Bospolvans, St. Columb. Rougier, Mrs. F., Trerose Vean, Mawnan, Falmouth. Ryves, Lt.-Col. B. H., Mawgan, St. Columb Minor. (Joint Hon. Secetary). Ryves, Mrs., Mawgan, St. Columb Minor. Ryves, Miss S. C, Scarteen, Seaford, Sussex. Seaton, Major, Lord, Manaccan, St. Martin. Seaton, Lady, Manaccan, St. Martin. Simms, G. W., Little Trefewha, Praze, Camborne. Sitwell, Mrs., Elm Cottage, Truro. Skilbeck, Miss A. T., St. Petroc House, St. Issey. Skinner, Miss K. M., Little Polberro, St. Agnes. Smith, Miss L. E., Lynn Allen, The Avenue, Truro. 7

Snell, Sir John, G.B.E., M.B.O.U., Daglands, . Stephens, Dr. W. J., Hayne, Newquay. Stephens, Miss R., Hayne, Newquay. St. Levan, Brig.-Gen., Lord, C.B., C.V.O., J.P., St. Michael's Mount. Stokes, Miss M., Tregurrian, St. Columb Minor. Stokes, Miss S. Tregurrian, St. Columb Minor. Story, P. J., 8, Alvanley Gardens, London, N.W.6. Tatham, Miss E., Catchfrench, Trerule Foot, Saltash. Taylor, W. R., 5, Pembroke Vale, Clifton, Bristol 8. Thompson, Stuart, 38, Morrab Road, Penzance. Titford, W. G., Cross, St. Germans. Trahair, Miss M. Loveday, 3, West Park, Saltash. Trusted, Miss A. M., Chyangwel, Perranwell, Perran-ar-worthal. Tucker, S., Culham, Probus. Twigg, Miss Alice C, Rock, Wadebridge. Tyacke, Miss E. E., Brill, Flushing, Falmouth. Valentine, Miss D., Penrose, Lelant. Venning, Mrs. K. E., Boscovean, Heamoor. Vivian, Col., Lord, D.S.O., J.P., Glynn, Bodmin. Vivian, Lady, M.B.E., Glynn, Bodmin. Vyvyan, Sir Courtenay, Bart., C.B., Trelowarren, Mawgan, Helston. Vyvyan, Lady, Trelowarren, Mawgan, Helston. (President). Vyvyan, Rev. H., Sea View, Ruan Minor. Ward, J. H., 24, Sudbrooke Road, London, S.W.12. Warren, Miss U. St. L., Trebetherick, Wadebridge. Westrup, Miss E., Lamorna Gate, St. Buryan. Wilkinson, H. E. T., Windmill, St. Minver. Wilkinson, Mrs., Windmill, St. Minver. Willcocks, T. J., Tregorden, Wadebridge. Williams, Major John, Scorrier House, Scorrier. Williams, Mrs., Scorrier House, Scorrier. Williams, Capt. S., Scorrier House, Scorrier. Williams, Mrs. M. F., Greenway, Churston Ferrers, Devon. Williams, P. D., Lanarth, St. Keverne. Williams, R., 1, Carclew Place, Truro. Wilson, A. M., Middlemoor, Presteigne, Radnorshire. Woodward, Rev. A. A., Cardynham Rectory, Bodmin. Woodward, Mrs., Cardynham Rectory, Bodmin. Young, Miss J. R., Church Path, Haven. (Total 156 Members). 8

LIST OF ASSOCIATES. Cooke, A. S., Trelowarren, Mawgan, Helston. Smith, T. F., St. Clement, Truro. ****** THE COMMITTEE FOR 1935. President: Lady Vyvyan, Trelowarren, Mawgan, Helston. Honorary Treasurer: Mr. Charles Nicholson, Nansgwithick, Tresillian, Truro. Joint Honorary Secretaries: Lt.-Col. B. H. Ryves, Mawgan, St. Columb Minor. Mr. G. H. Harvey, Peatswood, Lidden Estate, Penzance. Members: Lady Vivian, Miss Lethbridge, Miss Walton Evans, Mr. Penrose, Mr. Polwhele, Mr. Melrose Macmillan, Doctor Blair and Mr. Croker Fox.

THE COMMITTEE'S REPORT FOR 1934. At the close of the Society's fourth year of life, Member­ ship has still further increased and now stands at a total of 156. We regret the omission from the 1933 Report of the names of Messrs. A. S. Cooke and T. F. Smith, Associates of the Society; this has now been remedied. They joined us in 1931. On the requisition of some Members and of others interested in bird protection, more of the Society's Warning Bird Protection posters were issued at various times of the year (see page 8 of the Report for 1933), and that placed within a container-board at Trewornan bridge (at the head of the Camel Estuary) has been replaced. These posters are of undoubted value in drawing the attention of the public to the protection of birds in Cornwall under the Acts and the County Bird Order. It is hoped that Members will make full use of these posters and indent on the Secretaries freely for them, for their respective districts. We would here remind Members that ' close time' in the County begins on 1st February and ends on 1st September (except for certain specified birds). 9

Once again the Society is indebted for the courtesy of the Royal Institution of Cornwall and of Mr. G. Penrose in placing a room in the Truro Museum at the Society's disposal for all its meetings in 1934. The Western Morning News has continued to show the great interest it always takes in the bird life of the West- country and in the work of the Society. We can only repeat our appreciation and gratitude to Mr. J. L. Palmer, the Editor- in-chief. The Committee ventures to remind Members that their annual subscriptions fall due on the 1st January every year. It would greatly facilitate the Treasurer's work if the sub­ scriptions were paid more promptly than has been the case in 1934. Deferred payments lessen the income that is to be derived from Bank interest. Bankers' Orders may be had from the Treasurer by those who prefer this method of paying. There is still a stock of the Society's three Annual Reports for 1931, 1932 and 1933 respectively. These are available to any Member, on application to the Secretaries, at the cost price of 2/- per copy. The outstanding events of the year to chronicle are the coming into law of the Protection of Birds Act, 1933, in May (in connection with the caging of Wild Birds), the completion of the deed of gift in relation to the presentation of Trethias Island to the Society by the Proprietors of the Western Morning News Company, the Society's action against egg- collectors in circulating posters offering a reward of £10 for a conviction of these law breakers, and Press agitation against the depredations of egg-collectors. To these events might be added the strong forces at work during the year to bring about a law to prohibit the use of the steel trap; it is to be hoped that a Bill to this effect will be presented to Parliament during 1935. The Society cannot too earnestly hope that the pro­ posed Bill may ultimately become established law, thus removing a blot on civilisation and terminating the annual destruction of innocent birds and also of the natural foes of Rabbits. For items of the year's expenditure from the Protection Fund, Members are referred to the Financial Statement else­ where in the Report. 10

The services of the Godrevy watcher were again utilized, and he rendered signal service to the birds under his care. Another Watcher, who has worked for us in past years, again gave us his help and the small gratuity paid to him was not in vain. The third Watcher's services were dispensed with, the necessity for them being absent. The Committee would express the hope that all Members who can possibly do so will again co-operate in the Western Morning News Migration Scheme for 1935. Obviously, the more observers there are, the more valuable will be the results of the work. No reports have been received of further illegal shooting of Lapwings (see p. 9 of the last Report). Some Members may not be aware that the Royal Meteorogical Society (49 Cromwell Road, London) annually publish a Phenological Report, a big production of some 250 pages. Besides much else, it deals with Plant, Insect and Bird Phenology, arrival of migrant birds and the dates on which the song of various birds is first heard. For the first time, we are sending them a copy of " Arrivals and Departures " published further on in this Report. Members who have the time and desire to record dates of bird-song are invited to submit their records to the Secretaries for transmission to the Royal Society. We venture to believe that the " Observation" side of the Society's work has maintained the standard of previous years. But we would like to see it raised to even a higher level in the future. We want more observers and we want more Members, notably in parts of the County still unrepre­ sented. The latter can come only by the individual efforts of Members to interest their friends or acquaintances in the work of the Society. The Committee ventures to believe that the Society is justifying its existence and is not unworthy of support. Once again we offer a hearty welcome to our " foreign " Members. ****** EGG-COLLECTORS AND PRESS AGITATION. (By the Editors). We feel it necessary to place on record here the great agitation against egg-collectors that has been voiced in the 11

Press during the year. It seems almost akin to an historical landmark in rousing the public conscience. For upwards of six months, Mr. Eric Parker, Editor-in- chief of the " Field," has conducted, in the columns of his great paper, a correspondence and articles attacking this grave menace to many of our birds, particularly the rare and rarer ones. Any Member reading the " Field " would undoubtedly be not only greatly surprised but also much alarmed by its exposures of the ruthless persecution of Birds carried on by wholesale egg-robbers, the bulk of whose activities constitute deliberate offences against the law. Probably not since the inception of Bird Protection by legislation has there been such a storm of protest against this small section of the community who trample on the feelings of the general public and selfishly treat birds as their own prerogative instead of—as in truth they are—the property of the Nation for all who will to enjoy. Even in " British Birds," a leading scientific journal devoted to ornithology alone, there appeared, as part of a long article, an earnest appeal by the contributors to bring an end to egg collecting. The appeal is based solely on scientific grounds and urges that egg collecting to-day is a direct hindrance to the advance of ornithological knowledge, since it cuts short observation of the life history of birds robbed of their eggs. To this might be added knowledge lost altogether to ornithology through field observers withholding the results of their work from publication for fear of the birds being raided by collectors. How well we know that Editorial foot note to a record of a rare bird, " the locality is omitted for obvious reasons." Surely things have come to a sorry pass when a bird lover is forced to keep to himself his interesting and fascinating observations of rare birds instead of passing them on for the delectation of others. We can only hope that public opinion will be so roused that something tangible will be done to end the illegal and devastating activities of the egg-grabbers. We might mention that four Members of the Society took a hand in the " Field " correspondence. It is understood that Mr. Eric Parker hopes to publish a book dealing with the ravages of egg-collectors and how to stop them. CORNWALL BIRD WATCHING AND PRESERVATION SOCIETY.

FINANCIAL STATEMENT, 1934.

DR. GENERAL FUND. CR.

£ 5. d. By Printing Report 1933 12 2 6 To Balance from 1933 41 15 4 Notices of Meetings, etc. 9 6 „ Subscriptions—Members 1933 5 0 Receipt Book 10 6

II M »• 1934 35 0 0 Stationery (Treasurer) 6 0

»» »» »» 1935 3 0 0 „ Carriage on parcels and other sundries 6 9

»• »» *» 1936 5 0 „ Postages (Secretaries) ... 1 12 6

». »» »' 1937 5 0 (Treasurer) ~. 15 0 „ „ Associate 1934 6 „ Gratuity to Caretaker at Royal Institution 5 0 „ Percentage of Subs, to Protection Fund ... 7 16 0 38 15 6 „ Sale of Reports 6 0 Total Expenses 24 3 9 „ Bank Interest 19 9 „ Balance at Bank £47 7 0 Total Receipts 40 1 3 „ Cash in hand 10 5 10 57 12 10

£81 16 7 £81 16 7 PROTECTION FUND.

£ s. d. r. s. d. To Balance from 1933 21 14 5 By Printing Reward Advertisements 1 14 0 „ Donations. 1934 £4 0 0 „ Printing Posters Advertisements 18 0 „ Percentage of Subs, from General „ Payment to R.S.P.B. for " Acts and Orders 12 6 Account: „ Watcher A 1 10 0 1933 1 0 B 1 0 0 1934 7 1 0 „ Tea sets presented to Watchers C & D 2 0 11 1935 12 0 „ Donation to Devon B.W. & P.S. Sanctuary 1936 ... 1 0 (Wembury) 2 2 0 1937 1 0 Total Expenses 9 17 5 11 16 0 „ Balance at Bank £15 15 8 „ Cash in hand 7 17 4 23 13 0

£33 10 5 £33 10 5

Audited and found correct, A. C. POLWHELE, Hon. Auditor. CHARLES NICHOLSON, Hon. Treasurer. J3th February. 1935. 5th February, 1935. 14

THE WEATHER OF 1934. The year was chiefly characterised by a general shortage of rain until December, which was a very wet and wild month, causing much flooding in susceptible areas.

January was mild. Southerly gales were experienced between the 14th and 17th. February was much colder with many sharp frosts and cold winds. A fair amount of rain fell in March.

April was mainly cold and dry, but, after 10th May up to the end of July, it was generally dry and warm, July being really hot. August on the whole was cold and rain fell on a few days. During the earlier part of September there were some welcome showers. The 12th was a really hot day and the remainder of the month was dry and warm, except for good rains on 22nd and 26th.

October failed to produce much rain and November was, on the whole, mild and very rainless. As above noted, December was an exceptionally wet and wild month, and southerly gales constantly prevailed.

The effect of this weather on birds in the Mawgan-in- Pydar district, as far as recorded, was as follows:— The somewhat cold weather of April did not appear to affect normal breeding of resident birds, and failures were not above the average.

Owing to the hot summer, both the hay and corn harvests were exceptionally early as well as good. The early harvest appeared to have a marked effect on Corn-Buntings, causing cessation of nesting operations noticeably earlier than in average years. The reason of this seems to be that these birds were deprived of their feeding grounds by the cutting and garnering of the corn. No late nestings of Goldfinches were recorded, as is normal in this district; in fact this species closed down unusually early. Whether or not this was due to something in the weather conditions it is impossible to say. As a contrast to these finches, Long-tailed Tits, judging by the large numbers of birds noted throughout the district in the autumn and early winter, evidently enjoyed a very successful breeding season. As regards other species there is nothing that appears to call for remark. 15

December was memorable for the great output of bird song, particularly from Song-Thrushes which sang at dawn and twilight almost as in April. Dippers were also very vociferous, long and sustained song being frequently heard. Chaffinches, on many days, poured out their music, which, however, always lacked the final flourish. Other birds heard on various days of the month include Cirl Buntings, Hedge- sparrows, Mistle-Thrushes, Wrens, Goldcrests, Starlings, Goldfinches and of course Robins. However, no record of a Blackbird's song was obtained. B.H.R.

Bird Records for 1934. LIST OF CONTRIBUTORS. S.H.A.A. —i S. H. A. Adams, Mawgan Porth. R.H.B. — Dr. R. H. Blair, Camborne. S.C. — Seymour Cooke, Trelowarren. A.H.M.C. — A. H. Machell Cox, Yelverton. D.W.M.C. — Miss D. W. M. Cunningham, Praa Sands. H.E.C.F. — H. E. Croker Fox, Falmouth. P.H.T.H. — P. H. Trahair Hartley, Surrey. G.H.H. — G. H. Harvey, Penzance. G.J. — G. Johnstone, Surrey. D.M.B.L. — Miss Lethbridge, Launceston. J.M.M. — J. M. Macmillan, Polzeath. R.H.M. — R. H. Meares, Falmouth. M.J.M. — Mrs. Meares, Falmouth. M.R.M. — Miss Moor, St. Clement. C.N. — Charles Nicholson, Tresillian. V.O. — Miss Olver, Saltash. M.P. — Mrs. Pearce, Rock. M.R. — Michael Rogers, St. Columb. B.H.R. — Lt.-Col. Ryves, Mawgan-in-Pydar. K.M.S. — Miss Skinner, St. Agnes. D.V. —, Miss Valentine, Lelant. E.W. — Miss Westrup, Lamorna. T.J.W. — T. J. Willcocks, Wadebridge. Square brackets, unless otherwise stated, indicate records as to which identification is not certain or where the observ­ ation is not first hand. Records by P.H.T.H. refer to the St. Just-in- district, unless otherwise stated. 16

Records by B.H.R. refer to the Mawgan-in-Pydar district unless otherwise stated and this district may be taken to be Mawgan and the Country within a radius of about twelve miles, bounded by the Camel and the coast between the Gannel and Padstow. ******

ARRIVALS AND DEPARTURES OF MIGRANTS—1934. (1) Chiff chaff. (7) Swallow. Mar. 25 arrived B.H.R. Apr. 7 arrived J.M.M. „ 30 „ J.M.M. 7 „ B.H.R. Apr. 1 „ D.W.M.C. 9 „ M.R.M. 1 M.R.M. Oct. 1 last seen J.M.M. Oct. 2 last seen B.H.R. ,, 13 ,, B.H.R. November records:—One on (2) Willow-Warbler. Nov. 1, two on Nov. 14 and Apr. 2 arrived D.W.M.C. one on Nov. 26 and 27, all ,, 21 ,, B.H.R. on or around Alexandra Terrace, Penzance. G.H.H. (3) Sedges Warbler. (8) House-Martin. May 7 arrived D.W.M.C. „ 7 „ B.H.R. Apr. 7 arrived V.O. and M.L.T. (4) Blackcap. (St. Just-in-Penwith) Apr. 16 arrived M.R.M. Apr. 9 arrived M.R.M. ,, 23 ,, B.H.R. „ 21 „ B.H.R. Oct. 8 last seen B.H.R. (5) Whitethroat. (9) Sand-Martin. Apr. 27 arrived J.M.M. Apr. 1 arrived B.H.R. „ 29 „ D.W.M.C. May 2 „ B.H.R. (10) Swift. May 10 arrived B.H.R. (6) Wheatear. Sept. 10 last seen B.H.R. Mar. 19 arrived J.M.M. „ 18 „ V.O. and ,, 31 ,, B.H.R. M.L.T. Apr. 1 „ D.W.M.C. (St. Just-in-Penwith). *Oct. 2 last seen V.O. and M.L.T. (11) Nightjar. Oct. 9 „ J.M.M. May 13 arrived C.N. » 9 ,, B.H.R. Oct. 6, 7 and 8 seen at three * St. Just in Penwjth. different places. M.R. 17

(12) Cuckoo. (14) Whimbrel, Apr. 25 arrived V.O. and July 29 arrived P.H.T.H. M.L.T. Oct. 24 last seen (a single (St. Just-in-Penwith). bird) B.H.R.

Apr. 26 arrived J.M.M. (15) Woodcock. 27 B H R

0ct 22 arrived M R " 2g " T J.W. - - „ 29 „ D.W.M.C. (15) Land-Rail.

29 ». » K.M.S. May 4 firgt heard (Saltash Oct. 29 one seen D.M.B.L. District) V.O. and M.L.T. (13) Common Sandpiper. May 4 arrived J.M.M. Apr. 28 arrived M.R.M. Oct. 8 last seen M.R. The word " arrived " is used to indicate the date when the bird is first observed and is not confined to species that stay to nest. Note on Migration of Swifts. On August 3, close to St. Minver about two miles inland, I noticed a single Swift flying steadily South-westward, followed almost at once by a flock of about fifteen, not in close order but separated from each other by several feet. In about half a minute a pair flew over and, a little later, a group of three. All flew steadily, following the same course to the South-west in a line approximately Port Isaac to Padstow. An hour later another pair, following a similar line, flew over the end of Polzeath Bay. The following birds were later seen:—One at Polzeath on August 14, three there on September 6 and one near St. Wenn on September 9. J.M.M.

GENERAL NOTES FOR 1934. Raven. Used same nest at Godrevy. R.H.B. In spite of the evil intentions of egg-collectors the Raven has fared well in my district this year. The particular pair belonging to this neighbourhood chose for a site a cliff quite half a mile distant from last year's nest. It is a high cliff and the nest was only about fifteen feet from the top. A brood of four was safely reared, being fully fledged about May 14. Two other nests, on the cliffs further east, came directly under my observation. One I saw on May 3 and the other on May 8; each held three well-grown chicks which 18

were sitting on the rim of the nest. One nest was fairly accessible but the other would, I believe, defy the boldest climber. J.M.M. Between Newquay and Padstow five pairs nested with the following results:— No. 1, hatched the eggs but on March 27 the nest was deserted. Presumably one of the parents had come to an untimely end. On April 3 the nest had vanished. No. 2, reared a brood of two, which left the nest on May 9. No. 3, on a cliff sanctuary, was robbed by egg-collectors on March 11, two or three days before the eggs were due to hatch. The pair built a new nest nearly half a mile away and reared a brood of three, which were strong on the wing on June 7. No. 4, reared a brood, the number of which was not ascertained. At this site, in 1933, a pair were robbed and did not re-nest. No. 5, was robbed by an egg-collector. The birds re- nested a mile away and eggs were laid but on March 31 the nest was found to be deserted—possibly robbed again or one of the birds had been shot. Nos. 3 and 5, afforded me my first records for the district of Ravens' relaying after failure of the first nest. I have some six records of their failing to nest a second time after disaster. As regards the two inland pairs (Cf. First, Second and Third Annual Reports, pp. 26, 15 and 21 respectively), one reared a brood and the other pair were so molested that they deserted and did not lay again (per report of T.J.W.). I omitted to record, in 1933, an interesting event connected with the pair described on p. 21 of the Third Annual Report, being the owners of Nest No. 3 referred to before. On February 13, 1933, a nest, ready to be lined, was spotted on an ancestral nest-ledge of a pair of Shags, some thirty-five feet above the sea on a three hundred to three hundred and fifty foot cliff. On February 18, the nest had disappeared and the usual owners were in possession of the ledge. The Ravens built another nest on one of the usual sites, high up on the cliff, and from this, as described in the Third Annual Report, one young bird was reared. 19

On August 24, I counted sixteen Ravens, flying high and croaking, passing over my garden in the direction of Bedruthan. On November 5, thirteen birds were similarly observed. These constitute records of the largest numbers I have ever seen together in this district and I can surmise only that they were birds met together, some possibly from a great distance. On September 12, a very hot and calm day, I watched a pair soar, like Buzzards, to a great height. Far above them again, I could just discern, through glasses, two " Hawks " soaring; if I had to guess their species I would put them down as Harriers. With these latter was a third bird, much smaller and invisible save for a flash of white as, frequently, it stooped at one of the " hawks." B.H.R. Rook. The remarks in the Third Report, at p. 22, apply also to 1934. B.H.R. Jay. As in 1933. A search for a nest was not made. B.H.R. Chough. The pair that I had under observation chose as their nesting-site a fissure in the face of a rather low cliff. The actual entrance-hole in the fissure is some twenty to twenty-five feet above sea-level at high tide. What space there is inside the hole I cannot say; the configuration of the cliff is such that one can watch the birds' behaviour in the immediate neighbourhood of the hole only from the opposite cliff and across a stretch of water about one hundred and seventy yards wide. Moreover, the rock is very dark, almost black, making the observer's task more difficult. The same pair have used this fissure in previous years. This year, March 29, was the first day on which I saw any signs of nest- building or repairing; I watched the pair visit the hole and stay inside for about three-quarters of a minute. On the following day building material was carried more than once to the hole and during the first week of April the pair were very busy building. By April 19, there were negative signs that the nest was finished. On that day I watched the site morning and afternoon and saw and heard the pair several times but no bird entered the hole. By April 25, it was plain that incubation had begun. At 10.45 that morning the male flew over, gave one call and settled on the cliff nearby and began to feed. After a few minutes he went to the entrance of the nesting-hole and, after a minute, flew off again and was followed by his mate, who had emerged from 20

the nest. For a moment they took a flight together but then landed and fed in close company for a quarter of an hour. Then they came back and the female went to the nest while the male flew right away. Throughout the incubation period this procedure, with very slight variations, was the rule. On May 12, just about when the eggs were due to hatch, a grave calamity through human interference, was, by good fortune, averted and, by May 13, it was clear that there were chicks being fed. I had no opportunity of watching between May 14 and June 13; on the latter date the chicks were still being fed in nest and this continued at least until June 26. They left the nest between that date and June 29, when I saw two, apparently the entire brood, being fed on some rocks within twenty yards of the hole. Until July 11, the young were fed regularly by the parents and on no occasion did I see the chicks more than four hundred yards from the nest. It was not until July 17 that I saw all four, flying strongly together, quite a mile away. On July 26, I had an excellent close view of the four birds feeding together on a cliff-face. The young were decidedly still smaller than the parents and easily to be distinguished, at close range, by the dull yellow shade of legs and beaks; the old birds were calling clearly and vigorously and the youngsters replying with rather a feeble and petulant call.

On September 8, I was close to the nesting-site, when a Chough flew over, entered the hole and stayed there for about two minutes, after which it came out and joined another bird on the cliff. In a short while they flew away but returned together in about half an hour and both entered the hole, one staying for a matter of seconds and the other for a few minutes. They behaved exactly as if feeding chicks. They behaved similarly on September 9, 10, 12, 14, 16, 17, 20, 23 and 24. On September 25, I visited the site with Lt.-Col. and Mrs. Ryves; during the hour and a half in the morning that we watched, the pair's behaviour was indistinguishable from that of parents feeding young, even to the cleaning of the beak after leaving the hole. However, in the afternoon, though we watched for two hours and a half, we neither saw nor heard a Chough. Such a lapse of time without a visit clearly ruled out the possibility of a late brood, so that this strange behaviour remains unexplained. On September 28 and 29, I again saw the birds enter the hole but on October 3 21 and 10, although I watched for over an hour, no Chough appeared. (May not the explanation of the strange behaviour be some " vein " of food struck within the hole, perhaps in connection with the nest ? The cleaning of the beak on emerging supports this theory. Eds.). On April 27, I visited the nesting-site referred to at p. 22 of the Third Annual Report, which first appeared to have fallen vacant in 1933. I saw only one bird. On June 27 I spent seven hours at this spot and, once only, saw a solitary Chough. J.M.M. The status of the species seems only a little less gloomy than in 1933. The pair whose nesting was described in Appendix 1, of the Second Annual Report again reared a brood of four. As regards the pair whose site was reported to have fallen vacant in 1932, these birds reared a brood of two (See Report of J.M.M.) at a fissure some distance from the ancestral site. It now seems possible that they nested in this new position both in 1932 and 1933 but it is certain that, if they did, no young were reared—this is established by the reports of certain members. The next site northwards was again definitely vacant (See Report of J.M.M.); this site fell vacant in 1933. Mr. Machell Cox, owing to unfortunate sickness, was unable to visit the coast north of , as he had done hitherto, but nothing has come to hand to justify hope of change for the better there. Because of a report that reached me from two different sources that a pair were nesting in an entirely unsuspected area, I spent, with a friend, many hours on June 14 and 16, on the cliffs in question. Either one of the pair had been killed or the single bird seen was a non-breeding individual. Of the two possibilities, I incline to the latter but hope to investigate again next year. As regards the pair that again reared four young, I paid a visit to their cavern on April 18. After I had been there about half an hour, the pair arrived, alighting together close to the nest used in 1932—the nest used in 1933 appeared to be in perfect condition. With but little delay the hen entered the 1932 nest. The male stayed on his perch close by, stretched out his wings to their fullest length and, uttering a series of indescribable notes, gently quivered the wings. This beautiful display lasted a full minute, then the male flew to the opposite side of the cavern and, for a short time, continued the calling and wing-quivering. After this, he 22 preened and, about fifteen minutes later, quietly left the cave. The hen stayed in the nest for a little under an hour and, all the time, I could see her red bill moving from side to side. When she quitted, she called loudly and flew in the direction the male had taken. I can infer only that she had just laid the first egg. On April 21, she began incubation of, I presume, her then completed clutch. On the 28th, after the male had called off the hen to feed, I saw a third bird join the pair in flight but it soon separated from them. It is, in my opinion, a rare thing for a breeding pair to be seen in company with a third bird. On May 1, Mr. Macmillan and I visited the cavern and saw the male arrive and settle on a ledge; the hen at once left the nest and flew to him, when he fed her—by regurgitation—while she flapped her wings and clamoured like a young bird. This I believe to be a rare procedure (the feeding of the hen within the cavern). On this point, see 2nd Report, p. 39. They then left together and, on this occasion, the hen was off the eggs for eighteen minutes. On May 8, chicks, very recently hatched, were being fed and again a third bird was seen to join the pair. On June 13, the young were still in nest and were thirty-six days old. On the 19th, all four were on the wing, with their parents, at cliffs near the cavern and were then forty-two days old (Cf. Second Annual Report, p. 40). On several days in July and early August, the whole family frequented a fallow field of rough grass, one to two hundred yards from the edge of the nesting-cliff. On October 26, Mr. Machell Cox and I watched the family, still intact, feeding on a sea island about five miles west of the cavern. We left them there and journeyed to the cliffs above the cavern, from where, at sunset, we watched the pair shoot in to roost. It was clear that the four young had remained behind somewhere for the night. On November 17, after watching the pair enter the cave for the night, I chanced upon a party of Choughs preparing to roost on a much overhung cliff, some five hundred yards north of the cavern. I came too late to count but there were not less than four and there may have been more. On the 19th, only one bird came to this roost. It was lame and sat disconsolately on a ridge for half an hour and then, apparently seeing that no companions had arrived to spend the night there, flew off northward. It thus becomes evident that communal roosting is not always in the same place as, previously, I had supposed. B.H.R. 23

Greenfinch. A very marked paucity in the district, throughout the year. No brood has been reared in my garden; for many years past, seven to ten broods have been reared there annually. B.H.R. Goldfinch. Bred well and maintained their status, which may be classed as fairly plentiful. B.H.R. Siskin. Five seen on November 24, feeding on cones of the same alder trees on which they have been seen before. (Cf. First and Third Annual Reports, pp. 27 and 24, respectively). B.H.R. Snow-Bunting. One at , near , on November 18. G.H.H. Wood-lark. Heard again this year at St. Clement. M.R.M. In the earlier part of the breeding season birds were at the sites alluded to at p. 25, of the Third Annual Report but I secured no evidence of any broods being safely reared. Birds in small parties were noted in the autumn and early winter. On June 14, I saw and heard a male in song near Holywell. The largest flock seen for the year was one of thirteen, on January 29. B.H.R. Tree-Pipit. One heard in the St. Columb Major district on June 17. T.J.W. Grey Wagtail. No nesting pair located. B.H.R. Long-tailed Titmouse. From March 23 onwards a pair were intensively watched building in a patch of brambles on a hillside. Although I took up position looking down on the nest at a distance of about three feet, the birds were totally indifferent to my presence. The dome was formed by the birds building up the wall higher at the point opposite where the entrance hole was to be. When the wall became too high for the birds, when standing inside the nest, to press the felting inwards with their chins, the required result was attained by their butting it upward and inward with the crowns of their heads from within the nest. On March 28, they were found to be roosting in a nearby ivy-clad thorn-bush. On April 7, when the owners had begun to line with feathers, both roosted within the nest. On April 21, when the nest surely held eggs, I saw the birds enter the nest for the night. The next day they had gone and I never saw them again. 24

I have never before seen this Tit in such numbers as in October and November; they were everywhere, in parties up to thirty in strength. The breeding-season must have been exceptionally successful. B.H.R.

Spotted Flycatcher. The paucity noted in 1932 and 1933 was not apparent this year. On my return from Scotland, on June 5, I found a nest holding five eggs in a nesting-log. At 8.30 a.m. on June 16, two eggs had just hatched; at my next visit, at 8. 0 p.m., the nest held five chicks. At 11 a.m. on June 29, the whole brood was still in the nest; at 8. 0 p.m., two had flown and could not be traced, but the remaining three were perched in line, touching each other, on a twig two feet from the nest. At 9. 0 p.m., these three had moved a few yards away and were huddled together on the lowest branch of a young larch and thus they settled down for the night. On the following morning, the brood was still in the leafy cover—the parents disclosed the fact—but in the evening both young birds and parents had vanished. On July 24, I discovered that several birds were roosting in heavily-leafed Prunus trees, surrounding the recent nest. This they continued to do until August 7, though they never visited the garden during the day. I could never count the birds but I fancy there were six or more. B.H.R.

Chiffchaff. Well distributed throughout the district in suitable places but very few Willow-Wablers seen or heard. B.H.R. Blackcap. Frequently heard—probably always the same bird—at Lamorna. E.W. White throat. On July 29, I saw two fledglings, with half- grown tails, being fed by an adult. B.H.R.

Fieldfare. On January 12, a flock of thirty was seen; the largest flock I have seen in this district. B.H.R.

Mistle-Thrush. On April 28, Miss Croggan showed me a nest holding four nearly-fledged young on the small lawn of her bungalow at Trenance, which adjoins the bungalow at which, in 1933, a nest was built in a rain-gutter (See Third Annual Report, p. 28). This year's nest rested on a support for a small newly-planted macrocarpa, two and a half feet above the ground and only a few yards from the dwelling- 25

house. Miss Croggan witnessed the departure of the young from the nest—they flew over her boundary wall and made their way at once to the valley below, where the nearest bush cover was available. A pair reared five young in my garden. This is my first record for the district of a clutch exceeding four eggs. No disappearance of these birds was noted as with Song- Thrushes. (Cf. notes on the latter species by B.H.R. below). B.H.R.

Song-Thrush. Our front garden pair's brood left the nest on April 20, and the back garden birds' on April 28. The latter's second brood hatched on May 18, and the nest was empty on May 27. C.N. As is general here, this species disappeared from all the usual haunts early in September. A few returned in early November and by the middle of the month they were numerous. Their return seems to coincide with the arrival of Redwings and what I take to be Continental Thrushes. During November, they and the Redwings largely frequented and fed on berry-laden bushes. (Cf. Third Annual Report, p. 28). On November 15, I watched a Song-Thrush perched in a blackthorn bush, where it tore off and swallowed voraciously the flesh of a sloe. B.H.R. Blackbird. Though this species never disappeared, yet the majority left the district with the Song-Thrushes and were seen again only in early November. Breeding ceased early and no third broods were recorded. B.H.R. Ring-Ouzel. A party of five or six seen at Zennor in early September. D.V. Stonechat. The latest nest recorded was one from which young flew on August 8. B.H.R. Black Redstart. One near Godrevy on March 11, and one at Rinsey Head on September 29. R.H.B. One at the Lidden Estate, Penzance, in October or November, feeding in freshly-turned ground. G.H.H. No signs of birds wintering on the Polzeath cliffs, during the 1933—34 winter, save for a male seen on November 16, 26 and 27—each time at the same spot—and a female seen on March 19. J.M.M. 26

One at St. Clement on March 19. M.R.M. None observed on Spring or Autumn migration and none stayed to winter. B.H.R. One at Halzaphron on January 24. K.M.S. " Nightingale" On June 16, I was called to a neigh­ bouring cottage to hear a Nightingale. It proved to be a Sedge-Warbler singing in a clump of bamboo. C.N. Dipper. The site on the outskirts of Truro, described at p. 22 of the Second Annual Report, was again occupied. C.N. Refer to Third Annual Report, p. 29. No. 1 pair laid the first of a clutch of three eggs on March 14, in last year's nest and reared the young. No. 2, repaired last year's nest but did not use it. The occupied nest was not found but certainly they bred somewhere for they were seen frequently in their territory. No. 3, reared a brood of five in the nest occupied since and including 1931. No. 4, built a new nest, a few feet from those of previous years and laid four eggs that hatched on March 25. On April 7, the nest was empty; most of it had gone. On April 23, the nest had been rebuilt and held four eggs. I did not visit it again and neither of the other pairs' nests were followed up after the broods had left. B.H.R. Swallow. The last pair to nest in my barn did not start to build until July 31. The four young left the nest on September 15, but returned each evening until September 20, when they disappeared. H.E.C.F. Martin. Young in a nest at Baripper, Camborne, left on October 1. R.H.B. Young were being fed on July 23, in the only nest on a wall. They were fledged on July 24, and on July 28, the first egg of the next clutch was laid. P.H.T.H. [Hoopoe. Two birds, probably this species, seen near Fowey on April 27. Per Mr. K. S. Rooke]. Green Woodpecker. On January 8, I put up a bird from the edge of the cliffs near Bedruthan and on November 3, I saw two together on Denzil Downs, and, a mile distant, a single bird. I frequently meet this species far from any woodland country. (Cf. 1st Report, p. 30, the word " ubiquitous ")—B.H.R. 27

Great Spotted Woodpecker. Once seen near Launceston in July. Only occasional in this district. D.M.B.L. Cuckoo. On June 22, I found a Corn-Bunting's nest in which three eggs and one of a Cuckoo, were being incubated. This was in the identical territory in which, in 1932, a young Cuckoo was reared, (See Second Annual Report, p. 24). On the 27th. the egg of the Cuckoo and two Bunting's eggs hatched; the remaining Bunting's egg was addled. On the 29th. the nest held the Cuckoo and one chick. The other chick and the egg had been ejected but I replaced both, the chick being still alive. Two hours later the Cuckoo had not re-ejected the contents of the nest and the outraged chick seemed quite to have recovered. Unfortunately the nest was found empty on June 30. B.H.R. Little Owl. Once seen and once heard at Nanswhyden. The only record I have of this bird for the past five years. It must be exceedingly rare now in the St. Columb district. G.J. This summer a pair were frequently to be seen perched on one of the stone hedges a field or two inland from the cliffs, being first noted on June 29. I have not seen any before at Polzeath. J.M.M. On November 16, I heard two birds " yapping." This is the only record for the year in my district. Mr. Willcocks states that the species is now not uncommon in the Wade- bridge district and, on October 17, Mr. Harvey and I saw two at Trewornan. B.H.R. (Cf. First, Second and Third Annual Reports, pp. 30, 24 and 32, respectively). Long-Eared Owl. One heard twice in one night in the woods of the Nanswhyden valley. The long-drawn " oo-oo- oo-oo," coming, as it did, amidst the hooting of several Tawny Owls, was so distinctive as to catch the ear of a non-ornitho­ logical friend who was present. G.J. Tawny Owl. On October 22, a recently dead adult bird was discovered blocking one of our chimneys. B.H.R. Barn Owl. No apparent change in status. B.H.R. Peregrine. I knew three occupied eyries this year. On May 8, some miles north of Polzeath, I saw a falcon in the air, calling loudly; in about a minute she was joined by the Tiercel. They flew to and fro calling until I withdrew, when, 28 from a distance, I saw the Tiercel land, walk along a ledge and settle down, presumably on eggs. I did not have an opportunity of paying another visit to this eyrie. Eyrie No. 2, a few miles west of No. 1, I found on June 28. It was at the back of an overhung ledge, about ten feet from the top of a high sheer cliff. I could not see the chicks but from the old birds' behaviour it was clear there was a family.

The third eyrie belonged to a pair that have bred in the same neighbourhood for some years. On April 14, I watched them flying and calling by a cliff that has been used for nesting and where I concluded they would do so this year. During the next few weeks, though frequently looking, I failed to find the pair at this spot. A pair of Ravens, for the first time, were using this cliff and had their nest close to the old eyrie. I had seen skirmishes between the species before April 14 and, perhaps on account of this, the Peregrines eventually raised a brood of three on a cliff about a mile away. I first saw the chicks on the ledge on June 24. On July 19, they were walking about the cliff-face and were strong on the wing on July 21. J.M.M. Four eyries, including one entirely new in 1933 (per Report of Mr. H. G. Hurrell), were occupied. At one a brood of four and at the new eyrie a brood of three were safely reared. At another ancestral eyrie, where two young were reared last year, the pair were in occupation up to April 21. I have reason to believe that, soon after, the Tiercel was shot—cf. Second Annual Report, p. 26—for the solitary Falcon remained in possession for the rest of the season. This eyrie is about a mile from the new one. A fourth eyrie appeared to be vacant but, from past years' records, it seems never to be regularly occupied. The fifth eyrie was robbed of eggs by a collector; the eggs were laid in a deep hollow of an old Raven's nest. A second clutch was laid a mile away, from which one young bird was reared. On February 22, I observed four Ravens flying together at great speed above the clifftop. Suddenly, from above, a Peregrine stooped viciously at them three times, causing them to separate. 29

On April 1, I noticed a single Jackdaw flying at a considerable height; before I had even seen a Peregrine one had gathered the Jackdaw in its talons. A few details of the pair that reared four young may be of interest. The Falcon, as in previous years, was very tame and would return to her four eggs quite unconcernedly, even when one stood in full view of the eyrie, only twenty- five feet below. The Tiercel, however, was timid and, when flushed from the eggs, would scream and soar high. This usually brought the Falcon on the scene who, seeing her mate's perturbation and his fruitless efforts to reach the eyrie, quietly alighted there and covered her eggs, although the time of her sitting shift was not due. On April 21, full incubation was in progress and on May 17, the day I left for Scotland, there were still eggs. The eyrie was one I had not known this pair to occupy; four others have been used alternately. When watching the eyrie on May 16, I saw the Tiercel in the air with a plucked bird in his talons. The Falcon at once left her eggs, seized the kill in the air and then ate it on a ledge, after which she returned to the eyrie. The Tiercel settled on a crag, where he remained motionless until after I had to leave. Two Herring-Gulls were incubating nearby, one barely two feet from the Peregrine's eggs and the other about four feet above. It was only when one of the Peregrines arrived at or left the eyrie that the Gulls showed alarm; then they would scramble away and take wing, returning only when one of the Peregrines had settled on its eggs. My next visit was on June 6, when I found four chicks in down, showing patches of feathering. Two were lying down while the others were walking but seemed rather " groggy and top heavy." On June 9, I saw an aerial pass of a plucked kill to the Falcon; this she took to the eyrie. The young were now able to feed themselves from portions of kills left near them. On June 15, one young bird seemed nearly fledged but the others showed much down, bits of which were blown from them by the wind. On the 24th, all could fly but three returned to the eyrie itself, which was carpeted with feathers. On July 14, while near the eyrie, I saw one of the parents high above me with a Jackdaw in its talons. Instantly it was mobbed by two of the young birds. After much aerial manoeuvring, apparently so as to have the youngsters in such position that only the rightful one should 30 have the kill, the parent dropped the dead bird. The young Peregrine nearest dived headlong like a meteor and grasped it when it still had a hundred feet to fall. A grand spectacle. Young Peregrines were still near the above eyrie, and near the new eyrie from which three had been reared on August 8. B.H.R. Merlin. One was shot near Ladock in September. H.E.C.F. One seen pursuing a Pipit near Watergate on January 18. One seen on Denzil Downs on October 11. At Constantine Bay, on November 21, a female alighted, barely thirty yards from me, on a tall rock on the tide-washed reefs. There were numerous waders feeding on the reefs and they instantly rose, packed and flew off at great speed. The Merlin remained on her perch for three minutes and then rose and flew quietly across the sea towards Trevose. B.H.R. One seen on February 4, by the Hayle River, where it flows through the marshes above the estuary. It was sitting by the river-bank and being mobbed by Gulls. I finally put it up and it flew away in the direction of Zennor. D.V. Common Buzzard. Two seen at Trelowarren on September 10, were fighting with a Carrion-Crow and a Magpie over a dead Rabbit. S.C. One seen at Cape Cornwall on April 3, and the same bird —one primary missing—was at Porthnanven on April 4. P.H.T.H. (Cf. First and Third Annual Reports, pp. 46 and 34 respectively). Fifteen birds seen on the wing at once at Watergate on August 25. When first seen there were only six but the numbers increased by ones and twos until the full fifteen were assembled. The usual soaring flights were interspersed with spells of perching on the electric pylon wires and resting on the ground. The greatest number on the wires at any one time was six but once as many as nine birds were together in a stubble-field with two others on the hedge. Gradually they drifted inland and all were gone in about ten to fifteen minutes after I first saw them. On August 30, Lt.-Col. Ryves and I saw six birds soaring over the Amble Marshes at Trewornan, while, on September 2, I saw eight over Nanswhyden. It would be interesting to know what significance these gatherings have. G.J, 31

I have reason to believe that a brood was reared from each of seven nests that were under observation. There were five cliff nests and two in trees. One of the tree nests was only about twenty feet from the ground—a bulky structure in the fork of a stunted beech. The other was near the top of a fir-tree in a small wood. The bird flew from the beech- tree nest when I visited it on May 5, and from the conduct of the parents on my next visit, on July 12, it was clear that the nest was in occupation. On visiting the fir-tree nest on July 7, the parents' circling round suggested there was a family.

One of the cliff nests held three eggs on May 3, and I saw the parents and one young bird near the nest, which contained an addled egg, on July 13. Of the other four cliff nests, two, with two and three young respectively, were not more than six hundred yards apart. I saw them once only, on June 28, when the young- were well-grown. The other two cliff nest were even closer to each other, only about four hundred yards apart. I could not see into either of these nests but I saw a youngster flying near one on July 15 while the other still held a well-grown chick as late as July 20. J.M.M. Has held its numbers, but no new eyries have been established. The three pairs alluded to at p. 27 of the Second Annual Report, reared two, one and three young respectively. No. 1 Pair built and lined a really fine nest—for a cliff nest—on an often-occupied ledge about two hundred and fifty feet down a sheer cliff. However, they shifted to a new site and scarcely built a nest at all. This was probably because Ravens, whose nest had been robbed, built a second nest in their vicinity. No. 2 Pair's eyrie, in one of two alternative sites, held three eggs, the first of which was laid on or about April 29, this being late for this eyrie. Two of the eggs were infertile. The male of this pair was a bird I had never seen before— very noticeably smaller than the hen and a very handsome bird, with two very conspicuous pure white patches on the upper surface of his wings. He was seen to share in incubation on several occasions. The single chick seemed fully fledged on July 12, when I saw it perched near the nest, 32

No. 3 Pair had rebuilt and lined a very substantial nest by February 10, on the only ledge I have known used. The first of the usual three eggs was laid on or about April 10 and the young were on the wing early in July. B.H.R. One seen near Zennor on February 7. D.V.

Montagu's Harrier. In May a bird was sent to me by post for identification. It had been picked up dead near Probus. It proved to be an adult female of this species, was in good condition and weighed ten ounces. The bird was believed to have been poisoned but, in my opinion, had been shot. It is not safe to publish any further notes on this species because of the insatiable appetites of the law-breaking collectors. B.H.R.

Hen-Harrier. On March 6, about five hundred yards north of my house, a female flew over my head and, when she was crossing a valley and making for Denzil Downs, she was set upon by a Carrion Crow and, at first, evaded it by dodging. The Crow persisted in following her and worrying her; suddenly she shot above it and stooped at it several times. The Crow, receiving more than it had bargained for, turned at this and flew with all speed to the shelter of the nearest hedge-row trees. On November 14, on the Denzil Downs, a male was seen quartering a field of rough grass, in which several Snipe began to expostulate loudly. At the same moment a Buzzard appeared. This seemed too much for the Snipe; they rose and flew off. The large and pure-white rump-patch on this pale blue-grey Harrier was most conspicuous. Its progress seemed faster and stronger than the flight of the Montagu's Harrier and the uptilt of the black-tipped wings less pronounced. So pale grey and white was its general appearance that, at first sight, it might have been taken for a Herring-Gull, flying in a rather erratic manner. On November 25, the same bird, presumably, was seen about a mile from where it was seen before. B.H.R.

Sparrow-Hawk. On September 25, 27 and 28 and on October 3, I saw a single bird of this species in flight over the open cliff, more than half a mile from any tree or growing hedge. Probably the bird was attracted by the large .flocks of Linnets frequenting the cliffs at this time. J.M.M, 33

Heron. The pair described in the Second Annual Report, pp. 28 and 30, and in the Third Annual Report, p. 35, did not nest on the ledge this year. The Ravens were also absent but the Stock-Doves were in evidence. B.H.R. The Camel Heronry seemed about at its usual strength when visited on May 12. T.J.W. Brent-Goose. Two on the Lelant Estuary on January 14 but only one on the 21st.—there had been shooting on the Estuary all the week. By January 28, the remaining bird had gone. D.V. Sheld-Duck. Owing, no doubt, to the cold weather, this species frequented the Camel Estuary during January and February in much larger numbers than usual. A favourite spot, at low tide, was the St. Minver side of the Estuary, just below Padstow. On January 29, I counted ninety-five and on February 21, fifty-one while on February 24 I had an excellent close view of no less than one hundred and ninety- five, some on the beach and others swimming in the shallows J.M.M. Pintail. On March 1, in the Marazion Marsh, I watched one drake and two ducks, " uptilting." B.H.R. Eider. A flock of ten ducks and three drakes frequented the Camel Estuary in February and March. I first saw them on February 17, at low tide near the mouth of the Estuary below Padstow; then there were ten ducks and one drake. On February 19, about half a mile further up, I saw the three drakes and ten ducks together. At various dates up to and including March 7,—when the full thirteen were present—I saw all or some of the party at or near the same spot. On March 10, apparently, they had gone. J.M.M. The above birds were seen in January at or near the same spot. M.P. Shag. On January 30, many were visiting their nesting ledges and all wore their " top-knots." On February 10, one bird was squatting on a partly-built nest while, by the 28th, birds were present in full force and a good many half-built nests were noted. Eggs, apparently, were not laid until early April. On May 2, there were some pairs with incomplete nests but, on August 13, I could find no nests still occupied at the Bedruthan Colonies. B.H.R, 34

Gannet. A party of about nine mature birds seen near Drake's Island on December 22. P.H.T.H. [Shearwater. Reports were received from two separate sources that Shearwaters were suspected to be breeding at two places on the North Coast of the County. It is hoped that the matter will be carefully investigated in the near future. Eds.]. Great Northern Diver. An adult bird in full breeding plumage, together with one in greyish immature plumage, seen at St. Mawes in late July or early August. The former bird's behavour suggested that it was " oiled " (Per Mr. John S. Stephens, Birmingham University). Diver (? sp.). One seen at St. Clement on October 4,— when visibility was bad—was, I think, a young Black-throated. R.H.B. Turtle-Dove. One put up at the roadside near Stratton on June 15. A.H.M.C. One seen in April on the Constantine-Gweek road. R.H.M., M.J.M. Two seen at St. Clement on May 31. M.R.M. Oyster-Catcher. On August 30, on the Camel Estuary, I saw one seized in the air by a Peregrine and carried away; a small flock had just risen from the ooze. B.H.R. Grey Plover. On January 31, there were a party of eleven on the reefs at Constantine Bay (near the Society's property, Trethias Island). The first bird seen in Autumn was one noted on the Camel on October 17. B.H.R. Lapwing. On March 31, one bird with a clutch of four eggs was the only member of a nesting-colony then incubating. On the same day a flock of twenty-eight birds was noted flying high and steadily northwards. On April 14, five of the eight nesting pairs were sitting. On June 8, a bird was incubating two eggs. Birds had been seen on the nesting- ground as early as February 10. On October 24, a flock estimated at five hundred circled over the Camel for an hour. B.H.R. Dunlin. Missing this year at previous breeding- station. A.H.M.C. Purple Sandpiper. On February 20, twelve birds were present at Constantine Bay. The first birds noted in the 35

Autumn were two there on November 21. This species has been observed several times on the reefs below Huers House, Newquay. B.H.R. Green Sandpiper. The bird referred to at p. 45 of the Third Annual Report continued to winter at the same locality and was last seen on March 25. D.V. One seen on the Camel on June 18. T.J.W. Redshank. One in Porthnanven, on July 28. P.H.T.H. (Cf. Third Annual Report, p. 45). Began to return to the Estuary at St. Clement as from and including June 10. M.R.M. (Cf. First and Second Annual Reports, pp. 24 and 35 respectively). Seven seen on the Camel on June 18. T.J.W. Greenshank. On August 24, on the Camel Estuary, a single bird was observed and, on the 30th., two. B.H.R. The bird referred to at p. 45 of the Third Annual Report continued to winter on the Estuary and was last seen on March 24. D.V. Grey Phalarope. One was seen on the western side of the Battery rocks, Penzance, on January 26. It was swimming and feeding near breakers below the War Memorial—a part of the Sea that has since been included in the recently-con­ structed bathing-pool. K.M.S. Black-tailed Godwit. Two, partly in summer plumage, seen on the Camel on August 30. B.H.R. Curlew. A flock of fifty to sixty birds were resting on a rock near Crantock Beach on February 1. At the eastern end of Perranporth Beach, on June 16, a flock of about thirty birds was seen. B.H.R. Black Tern. Two birds of this species, in company with a few Common and/or Arctic Terns, about 25 Sandwich Terns and about 16 Little Terns were seen by Col. Ryves and myself at the mouth of the Hayle River on September 8. Close views were had of the birds both on the sands—the tide was low—and in flight. G.H.H. Sandwich Tern. On October 25, in company with my wife and Mr. Machell Cox, and while we were sheltering close to the reefs at Constantine Bay from a south-westerly gale, three Sandwich Terns passed us flying steadily and strongly 36 into the teeth of the wind. A few minutes after they were lost to sight on their southward journey, a pair of Choughs likewise passed us, flying easily and powerfully into the gale. B.H.R. Black-headed Gull. Began to return to the Estuary at St. Clement as from and including June 18. M.R.M. Herring-Gull. On January 30, at Mawgan Porth, I watched an immature bird persistently pestering two adults for food, using the " pump-handle " movements of the head. On April 28, I witnessed a Great Black-backed Gull, after being relieved by its mate from its eggs, deliberately walk to and put a Herring-Gull off its nest holding one egg. Some­ times the big bird would walk away but it turned and drove off the other as soon as the latter began to approach the egg again. This persecution continued for the three hours I watched. On the 30th the Herring-Gull had two eggs and both birds of the pair made fruitless efforts to reach them; always they were chased away by the " Black Back" that happened to be " off-duty" from its own eggs. The same drama was being enacted on May 1. On May 2, I saw one of the Herring-Gulls allowed to brood the two eggs, but only for a few minutes. At my next visit, on May 7, the Herring- Gulls' nest was empty and its owners gone. Although there were other Herring-Gulls' nests nearer to the " Black Backs' " nest, none of these were molested; the persecution was con­ fined to one nest. The tenacity with which Gulls occupy the same nesting- sites year after year is shown by the way they assert owner­ ship months before the breeding-season. For the last three years there has been a pair of Herring-Gulls nesting in a certain fissure on the cliff-face, where the nest is somewhat isolated from others. Almost any day, from November on­ wards, one bird or sometimes two birds may be seen perched by the fissure and any would-be intruders are attacked and driven away. B.H.R. Lesser Black-Backed Gull. A single bird first seen, on February 20, near Trevose, where a few pairs breed. On the 23rd I saw a dozen birds there. B.H.R. Glaucous Gull. The bird refered to at p. 48 of the Third Annual Report as having been seen at Harbour from December 10 to the end of 1933, was seen there several times in January and February, 1934. 37

On October 21, 1934, a bird in the same plumage had re-appeared at the same spot and was seen there several times up to the close of the year. G.H.H. Kittiwake. On January 15, below Huers House, Newquay, I saw a single bird, mixing with a host of Herring-Gulls and Black-headed Gulls, scavenging at a sewer outflow. B.H.R. Razorbill. The first pairs were in Porthnanven on April 1. On July 27, a bird was feeding a well-grown chick there P.H.T.H. On April 5, about a score were visiting their nesting- ledges near Trevone. B.H.R. Land-Rail. None heard in the district for the year. B.H.R. Moor-Hen. Several frequented the stream at the Trenance Estate, Mawgan Porth, during the 1933—34 winter. During a cold spell one came into the pump-house, presumably seeking warmth. S.H.A.A. On May 11, I found a nest with one newly-hatched chick and sixteen eggs. T.J.W. Coot. (Cf. Third Annual Report, p. 18). The flock at the back of the Albert Pier, Penzance, were there still in early February. G.H.H. M.R.M. On January 21, I saw these birds feeding on the rocks at low tide with Oyster-Catchers, Turnstone, Purple-Sandpipers, Redshank and Gulls. K.M.S. ****** SOME NOTES ON BIRD-SONG. (B.H.R.) January. The General mildness of the month evoked song from a good many birds. Song-Thrushes were notably vociferous from the 19th onwards, and, on the 27th, they were joined by Chaffinches and Hedge-Sparrows. On 19th and 27th, a flock of Goldfinches indulged in communal music. On the 31st, a Wood-Pigeon was heard to coo for the first time in the month. Mistle-Thrushes were occasionally heard on various days, but never Blackbirds. February. The song of the Dipper was particularly noticeable throughout the month. Other fairly regular songsters were Chaffinches, Wrens, Goldcrests, Goldfinches and Hedge-Sparrows. On the 11th and 17th a Blackbird and, on the 15th a Yellow Bunting were noted. On the 25th, I listened to a concert by about 20 Redwings perched on a tree; this is the only occasion I have heard the song of this bird. 38

August. Wood-Pigeons coo-ed throughout the month. More sparingly, the SOngS of Chiff-chaff, Goldcrest, Chaffinch, Cirl Bunting, Robin and Wren were to be heard.

September. Chiff-chaffs and Wood-Pigeons were frequent. On the 6th, a Song-Thrush burst into song. The Chaffinch and Hedge-Sparrow were occasionally heard. On the 15th, and again on the 30th, the Mistle-Thrush sang.

October. As might be expected, there was a general increase in Song. Chiff-chaffs ceased after the first week. Dippers were in splendid fettle all the month and Cirl Buntings were fairly regular. Woodlarks found their voices again and a Blackbird was heard on three occasions.

November. After the first week, the weather settled down into very mild, quiet and mainly dull days, with practically no rain. The atmosphere, however, was mainly humid. On many days, bird-song was almost spring-like. Dippers and Song-Thrushes were the most prolific, but among other musicians were Chaffinches, Hedge-Sparrows, Wrens and Cirl Buntings. On the 20th, a Mistle-Thrush was noted. A Black­ bird was once heard.

****** BIRDS SEEN AT THE EDDYSTONE. (P.H.T.H.) On September 14, one and a half miles east of the Eddy- stone, at about 2.30 p.m. (B.S.T.) a Swallow was seen flying south, at a height of about twelve feet above the sea. On September 19, on the S.S. Salpa, making a station north-east of the Eddystone, I saw the following birds:— Very many Herring-Gulls—more immature than adult. Many Great Black-Backed Gulls, almost all adult, and a few Lesser Black-Backed Gulls. About six Kittiwakes. One or two Shags. About twenty Gannets, in all stages from dark brown to adult plumage. One adult Great Skua, which was seen to attack immature Herring-Gulls and adult Great Black- Backed Gulls. TWO Storm-Petrels. About forty Great Shear­ waters, skimming past the drifter in twos and threes, occasionally settling on the water for a moment. Two Razor­ bills, together, in winter plumage.

I know the Manx Shearwater well and was able definitely to identify as Great Shearwaters the birds seen as above. 39

NOTES ON THE DISTRIBUTION OF BIRDS IN THE TAMAR ESTUARY DISTRICT—OCTOBER, 1933 TO OCTOBER, 1934.—V.O. AND M.L.T.

Raven. A pair seen occasionally, mostly in the winter months but also in summer in flight over the Lynher River. Rook. There is a rookery with about forty nests at St. Anthony and one with about twenty nests at Hatt. A third at Cowdray Farm, Saltash, is now deserted. Jay. Two heard regularly and located. Starling. The winter-roost seems to lie in a north­ westerly direction. Finches. The Goldfinch was common in winter while the Bullfinch was seen fairly often then. Grey Wagtail. Two birds—sometimes three—seen regularly at the Head of Forder Creek from October 15, 1933 to February 18, 1934. One re-appeared on April 25. Last seen there on May 19. Tree-Creeper. Seen three times in the winter months. Long-tailed Tit. Several small flocks seen during the winter months in alders fringing tidal creeks. Grasshopper-Warbler. Located once—on May 4. Fieldfare. Appeared during cold spell in December, 1933. Redwing. Seen twice only—during cold weather. Swallow. Seemed to be in less numbers than usual this summer. Kingfisher. Seen, during winter months, fairly frequently in certain spots. Barn-Owl. The roost of a bird of this species was found —an old yew-tree in tangled woodland by a creekside. Kestrel. Seen occasionally in winter. This summer we watched a pair feeding a young bird in a tree. Beneath the tree, the leaves of which were stained with droppings, were pellets and a dead mouse. Common Buzzard. Seen occasionally in the district. Heron. The heronry near St. Anthony was deserted this year. 40

Sheld-Duck. Observed regularly in flocks in winter. First seen in pairs on February 20; display noted on March 24. First brood seen on June 1. On June 5, a brood of small ducklings was swimming with the parents. Another pair of adult birds were flying round and round the family and quite suddenly the drake charged into the midst of the brood, scattering the young in all directions. The parents drove him off both on this occasion and when he repeated the performance. On July 21, a Great Black-Backed Gull was seen on the flats eating what proved to be a well-developed young Sheld- Duck. Cormorant. Common in winter. Shag. Not often seen. Great-Crested Grebe. Noted on the as follows:— Three on January 21 and 30. One on February 4, two, swimming neck to neck on February 18 and one on February 20. One on March 18. Little Grebe. Apparently not uncommon on the River Lynher in winter. Turtle-Dove. Not seen before June 7. One pair noted. Redshank. All had left the mud-flats by April 27. Common Sandpiper. In 1933 one seen as late as November 18. As to the spring migration, two birds were seen on May 7, and the species appeared in increasing numbers until, on May 28, two flocks of twenty were noted. Common Tern. Two seen on May 4 and two on October 9 (1934). Coot. A flock numbering between two hundred and three hundred spent the winter on tidal flats. Last seen on March 13. Land-Rail. Three birds located this summer. Water-Rail. Two birds seen in winter.