Chapter XVIII: Conclusion (2)

A few of these birds inhabit the precipitous parts of
the coast, where they breed in company with the falcon,
kestrel, gull, guillemot, etc. The raven will tame
pretty well; it will talk hoarsely, and do mischievous
tricks.

CORVUS CORONE [_Carrion Crow_], and

CORVUS CORNIX [_Hooded Crow_].

Both occur in about equal numbers. (See p. 271.)

CORVUS FRUGILEGUS [_The Rook_].

Many large rookeries exist in the county. (See p. 126.)

CORVUS MONEDULA [_The Jackdaw_].

Very plentiful. (See p. 25.)

CORVUS PICA [_Magpie_].

One of the most bashful of birds. It is very sparingly
distributed, and in some places is scarcely known. Our
keepers both shoot and trap them wherever found.

PICUS MAJOR [_Greater Spotted Woodpecker_].

Several pairs of this showy bird have been procured
within our district. It is also found in the higher
parts of the county. A specimen was shot near Banff,
and when dissected, its stomach was found crammed with
two species of grub, of a creamy or grayish colour. It
contained also several beetles and a small spider.

PICUS MINOR [_Lesser Spotted Woodpecker_].

More rare than the last. One sent to me, fourteen years
since, from Mayen, where it was shot, and another seen
on the Lodge hills, are all that I am aware of. Very
probably others have occurred.

YUNX TORQUILLA [_Wryneck_].

The late Professor Macgillivray, of Marischal College,
Aberdeen, informed me that one was taken at or near
Portsoy, by a pupil of his. One, now in the Banff
Museum, was taken six years ago, about fourteen miles
from the town.

CERTHIA FAMILIARIS [_Creeper_].

Wherever there are suitable woods, these birds are
sure to be found. We sometimes read and hear as
extraordinary occurrences, that nests have been found
in the hearts of trees that have been sawn up. Now,
to those acquainted with the facts, these occurrences
are easily accounted for. I know a tree myself which
contains _two_ nests, both with eggs. About seventeen
years ago there was in the side of this tree a small
aperture, about six feet from the ground, which led
downwards to a cavity in the centre of the trunk. The
opening was so narrow outwardly that it only admitted
two of my fingers, but widened as it proceeded to the
bottom, a distance of about eighteen inches. In this
hole, at the time referred to, a pair of creepers built
their nest and laid eggs, after which they disappeared.
Next season a pair of blue titmice acted in a similar
manner; and they also disappeared, doubtless in
consequence of being tormented by boys, and of the
narrowness of the entrance. The growth of the tree
caused the hole to get less and less every year, and it
has been for several years so completely closed that
the point of the finest needle cannot be inserted.
The tree, a sturdy beech, has the two nests and eggs
in its very core. It is thus evident how easily these
“extraordinary occurrences” may be accounted for.

TROGLODYTES EUROPÆUS [_Wren_].

The dear little wren, the lion of small birds, with his
short, jerking little tail, I have known and admired
from childhood. Who that has trod the woods in spring
or summer has not heard a very loud, though by no
means inharmonious song, proceeding from some bush or
bank, and not admired it?—and who is there, if he did
not know the bird, that would not be surprised beyond
measure at so small a creature being able to make such
a loud noise? Of all the deserted nests I have ever
met with, those of the wren would, I am sure, count
twenty per cent over any other species. I am unable
to account for this, but perhaps it arises from their
building several before they get one to please them.
I once found one of their nests in an old tin kettle,
which had become fixed amongst the branches of a holly.
The wren, like other birds, does not sing so well in
confinement. When in their native haunts, there is a
pathos in their voice and a music in their melody,
which makes the heart thrill with pleasure.

UPUPA EPOPS [_Hoopoe_].

Three or four of these pretty birds have occurred here:
one was taken at Duff House, in 1832, by a Mr. Mackay,
in such a state of exhaustion as to allow itself to
be captured by hand; another was seen by myself, a
few years back, in the same place; and two others are
said to have been since obtained in other parts of the
county.

CUCULUS CANORUS [_Cuckoo_].

This is another sweet and darling gem. Well do I
remember, when only a little fellow, rummaging about
the Den of Rubislaw, near Aberdeen, how surprised I was
on hearing the sound of “Cuckoo, cuckoo,” from a small
plantation close by, and how overjoyed I was when I
obtained a sight of the bird; and now that I am old,
the sweet voice of the harbinger of sunny days still
cheers me. They are not very numerous with us along
the sea-coast, but are very frequent in the higher
districts. They generally appear about the end of
April. It is said that they can retain their eggs for
a number of days after they are ready for extrusion. I
will relate, without comment, a circumstance of this
sort which came under my own observation:—A female
specimen, shot in a garden here, was brought to me
to be preserved. On dissecting it, I was agreeably
surprised at finding in the oviduct an egg as perfect
as if it had been obtained from a nest.

CORACIAS GARRULA [_Roller_].

I am only aware of one specimen of this pretty and rare
bird being obtained in our county; it was a splendid
specimen killed on the hills of Boyndie.

MEROPS APIASTER [_Bee-Eater_].

I give this species a place here from having heard that
a greenish bird, somewhat less than a thrush, with a
longish bent bill, and with two feathers of the tail
longer than the rest, was killed in a garden between
Huntly and Dufftown, about seven years ago. It has
since been found at the hills of Boyndie, about two
miles from Banff.

ALCEDO ISPIDA [_Kingfisher_].

Several of these sparkling gems have been taken here at
different times. (See p. 52.)

HIRUNDO RUSTICA [_Swallow_], and

HIRUNDO RIPARIA [_Martin_].

These birds are in about equal numbers. The latter
generally nestles in the corners of windows, the former
in barns, etc.; they also breed along the sea-shore
wherever there is a cave or projecting rock suitable.
White and cream-coloured varieties are sometimes met
with.

HIRUNDO URBICA [_Sand Martin_].

Wherever there is a bank of any height and not too
hard, whether along the sea-shore or river-side, or a
quarry or sand-hole, a colony of these active little
creatures are almost sure to be met with during summer.
It is surprising to see how they perforate these
places, and the depth to which they will sometimes
go, especially when we consider the remarkably feeble
instruments with which they do it—namely, a very small
and slender bill, and feet equally small and tender.

CYPSELUS APUS [_Swift_].

Of all our migratory species this is generally the
last to arrive, and the first to depart. Next to the
skylark, the swift appears to ascend highest in his
aerial flights; and a very beautiful sight it is to
see it, on a clear, still evening, gambolling about
so far above the earth, and, it may be, screaming its
farewell requiem to the departing sun. The swift is the
first to depart, towards the end of August or beginning
of September, and it returns about the middle of May;
the sand martin next, or about the second or third
week in September, and it usually returns about the
third week in April; and the swallow and house martin
commonly about the first week or middle of October,
and it reappears about the 1st of May. Before I part
with this interesting tribe I must become a little
arithmetical. We are frequently told, and justly, of
the great benefit swallows and other insect-feeders do,
by the countless herds of noxious creatures which they
destroy. I will relate an instance of my own experience
in this respect. Picking up a swallow which had been
shot by a friend, I found that its mouth was crammed
with gnats and flies. Some of them were alive. They all
seemed attached to the mouth by a glutinous fluid. The
bird had apparently been catering for its young. Being
desirous of making a further examination, I wrapped
it in paper and put it in my pocket. On reaching home
I opened the paper, when a number of the gnats buzzed
out into my face, much to my regret; but I succeeded in
counting upwards of 70, and I am quite sure there were
more than 100 in all. Now it is a well-known fact that
both birds assist in rearing their young. Well, say
that they visit the nest every ten minutes (which is
under the mark), and that every time of doing so, each
bird conveys 70 insects; this in an hour amounts to
840; in a day of twelve hours, which is but a short day
for a swallow at that season of the year, to 10,080; in
a week of seven days, to 70,560; and in a fortnight,
to 141,120. But if we carry the calculation a little
further, by supposing that the birds rear two broods in
a season, although the number is often three, we have,
at the ratio at which we have been counting, a total
of 282,240 insects destroyed in one year by _two birds
alone_, while rearing their two broods!

CAPRIMULGUS EUROPÆUS [_Nightjar_].

Of late years this species would appear to have become
more numerous, but it is still very far from plentiful.

COLUMBA PALUMBUS [_Ring Dove_].

Or, as we have it, _Cushie Doo_. This bids fair to
become one of the greatest pests of the farmers. The
wild pigeons have increased amazingly within the last
few years, and the damage they do is incalculable. This
increase is caused by the almost total destruction of
the hawk tribe, which tended greatly to thin their
numbers.

COLUMBA LIVIA [_Rock Dove_].

A few pairs breed in the caverns along our coast. It
is a rare case, however, to get a pure specimen; as
domestic pigeons from the farms near, sometimes breed
with them. I have seen white specimens, as well as
those of a sand colour.

COLUMBA TURTUR [_Turtle Dove_].

Three or four specimens of this species are said to
have been seen, and some of them obtained, within the
county; but whether wild ones, or individuals that had
escaped, has not been ascertained.

PHASIANUS COLCHICUS [_Pheasant_].

Introduced, but seems to thrive very well; it is a
beautiful ornament to parks and woods. Partially pied
varieties sometimes occur, and another called the
“silver pheasant.”

TETRAO TETRIX [_Black Grouse_].

Exists chiefly in the higher districts.

TETRAO SCOTICUS [_Red Grouse_].

Exists on all our moors and hills, but not in great
numbers.

TETRAO LAGOPUS [_Ptarmigan_].

Less frequent than either of the two last. Ptarmigans
inhabit the summits of our highest mountains; they
are seldomer seen than those which frequent the lower
ground. Like all others of the grouse tribe, they are
yearly decreasing in number.

PERDIX CINEREA [_Partridge_].

Pretty common. A very cunning and faithful mother is
the female; for when she has eggs she never goes out,
if time permits, without hiding them so carefully that
it is almost impossible to detect their whereabouts;
and if you take her by surprise, away she hobbles
on one leg, and a wing trailing on the ground as if
wounded. (See p. 254.)

PERDIX RUFA [_The Red-legged Partridge_].

Commonly called the French Partridge; it has been
recently found in Banff.

PERDIX COTURNIX [_Quail_].

That this species is a regular visitor I am not
prepared to say; but that it is an occasional visitor
and breeds here is beyond all doubt. Nests and eggs of
this species are sometimes met with in cutting grass;
they are generally passed over as those of the landrail.

CHARADRIUS PLUVIALIS [_Golden Plover_].

Where moorfowl occur, the golden plover is generally
to be met with. When the hills, heaths, and fields
are covered with snow, the plover comes down from his
alpine abode, and stays at the sea-side, where great
numbers fall an easy prey to the gun of the sea-side
fowler.

CHARADRIUS MORINELLUS [_Dotterel_].

Occasionally met with. On once asking an old keeper
from the higher grounds as to where this species
breeds, he replied, “On the gray slopes of the highest
mountains, far above all the other birds, except the
ptarmigan.” I am doubtful whether it breeds with us at
all.

CHARADRIUS HIATICULA [_Ringed Plover_].

These breed with us, and remain all the year round.
I have found their eggs on the sand by the beach,
and forty miles inland. They likewise nestle on the
shingly banks and islands along our river-courses. They
are known here by the names of “sea lark” and “sanny
liverock.”

VANELLUS MELANOGASTER [_Gray Plover_].

Rather rare, and I believe only a winter visitor.

VANELLUS CRISTATUS [_Lapwing_].

Found on heaths and moors, and in fields, where they
breed. Many of them leave us towards winter. This
is another species which endeavours to mislead you
when searching for its eggs. Of all our field and
heath birds, the lapwing is one of the most useful
in destroying destructive insects, such as _Zabrus
gibbus_, etc.

STREPSILAS INTERPRES [_Turnstone_].

An occasional visitor, generally in winter. (See p.
242.)

CALIDRIS ARENARIA [_Sanderling_].

A regular visitor, generally arriving in August, a few
of them remaining through the winter. I have met with
them, too, in summer, when their predominant colour,
instead of being whitish, is a most beautiful reddish
fawn. On their first arrival here they are very tame,
allowing you to approach within a yard or two. (See p.
175.)

HÆMATOPUS OSTRALEGUS [_Oystercatcher_].

Why this bird is called oystercatcher, I cannot
understand. Had it been named “limpetcatcher” I could
have understood it. I have crawled amongst the rocks
in order to see them feed; when I have seen the limpet
driven from its hold, and scooped out of its shell
with as much apparent ease as I could have picked up a
_Gammaris locusta_; but I have never seen it attempt
to catch an oyster. On this part of the coast its food
generally consists of the limpet, and very rarely of
_Acmæa testitudinalis_. I have counted as many as
forty-one of the former in the stomach of a single
bird, whilst of the latter I have not met with more
than three or four examples. The oystercatcher is a
summer visitor with us, arriving here to breed. Now and
then it may be seen during winter. Large flocks visit
us some seasons, generally in September, and after
remaining for a day proceed farther south. “Sea piet”
is the name the bird is known by here.

ARDEA CINEREA [_Heron_].

We have some small spots where these birds breed,
but which hardly deserve the name of heronries. At
one time, however, they were in greater numbers.
I remember taking from the stomach of one a large
water-rat, three middle-sized trout, and fifteen
minnows. Some time ago, a person belonging to this
town, whilst passing through one of the streets, was
startled at being hit on the head by something which
had fallen from above, and which proved to be a small
fish, the five-bearded rockling, apparently quite
fresh. On looking up he saw nothing but a “craigie”
passing over the houses, pursued by a number of crows.
Of course the fish had dropped from the heron; but the
man could not be persuaded that it had not dropped from
the clouds.

ARDEA PURPUREA [_Purple Heron_].

One of these birds is said to have been shot about
thirteen miles from hence. My late friend, the Rev. Mr.
Smith, saw fragments of the bird some time afterwards,
and believed it to be of this species.

ARDEA EGRETTA [_Great White Heron_].

Two of these birds were observed to frequent various
parts of our coast about twenty-six years ago; but a
specimen has not since been procured.

ARDEA STELLARIS [_Bittern_].

Three or four of these birds are known to have paid us
a visit. One in the Banff Museum, a very pretty one,
was killed near Banff about twenty-four years since;
another in the Moss of Park, and one or two at Balveny.

PLATALEA LEUCORODIA [_Spoonbill_].

One of these rarities was found in a ditch in a wood
near here, by a young naturalist; he says it could
easily have been shot, for he approached quite close to
it, and it did not appear at all shy. It has since been
found in this neighbourhood.

IBIS FALCINELLUS [_Glossy Ibis_].

On one occasion I perceived three of these birds
hovering about the coast for a whole day, but I could
not get a shot at them; it was in winter and during a
very severe storm.

NUMENIUS ARQUATA [_Curlew_].

Plentiful in certain localities along the shore in
winter; they retire in spring to the alpine and
sub-alpine districts Their note in winter is simply
“Whaup,” with sometimes a loud scream when come
upon suddenly. In summer, however, and whilst among
the moors and hills, it is more varied, being then
“Poo-l-ie, poo-l-ie,” then “Coor-lie, coor-lie,” with a
long “Wha-a-up” at the end. They are not then so shy as
when seen by the sea-shore.

NUMENIUS PHÆOPUS [_Whimbrel_].

Seldom a summer passes but a whimbrel or two may be
met with along the shore, and sometimes in some of our
mosses. I think they breed with us. They are generally
very shy, and not easily approached. Their call-note
at once distinguishes them from the curlew.

TOTANUS CALDRIS [_Redshank_].

We have this red and long-legged gentleman rather
sparingly with us, but we have him all the year. There
are certain spots coastwise not much frequented, where,
for seven or eight months in the year, you will seldom
if ever fail to meet with a few; and when disturbed
their wild scream accords well with the solitary
places which they frequent, especially where there is
a low hollow murmuring from the ocean. This is another
species, which, lapwing-like, will flap about you when
in the way of their nest, and for noise they exceed
them completely. They generally breed in marshy and
boggy places and about the grassy margins of lochs,
but I have also found them amongst bents and dry sandy
places by the sea-shore.

TOTANUS HYPOLEUCOS [_Common Sandpiper_].

The common sandpiper (or, as we have it,
“Kittie-needie,” from its cry) is one of our summer
birds; there is scarcely one of our streams but has its
“kittie-needies” in the season. They breed on the banks.

TOTANUS GLOTTIS [_Greenshank_].

This is a rarity with us. I have one in my possession,
out of two which were shot in the moss of Banff.

RECURVIROSTRA AVOCETTA [_Avocet_]. More rare than the preceding.

LIMOSA MELANURA [_Blacktailed Godwit_].

Only two specimens have been taken here.

LIMOSA RUFA [_Bartailed Godwit_].

A few of these may generally be observed every autumn,
either by the sea-side or in our mosses. They do not
stop long with us; a few days at most sufficing.
Perhaps we have not suitable localities for them.

MACHETES PUGNAX [_Ruff_].

Rare. Three, I think, have been obtained, all birds of
the year, and all in autumn.

SCOLOPAX RUSTICOLA [_Woodcock_].

Though a pair or two have been known to breed, the
woodcock can hardly rank with us but as a winter
visitor. In some seasons they are more numerous than
in others. Does the snow affect the colouring of this
species? My reason for asking this question is because,
in very severe and snowy weather, I have seen many
of them of a remarkably light colour; but in milder
seasons, and when there were little or no storms or
frost, I have never seen any of them with the same
gray-like coating.

SCOLOPAX GALLINAGO [_Common Snipe_].

Though many of these breed and remain with us all the
year, still we receive great additions annually from
elsewhere, and generally towards the end of autumn; but
neither during summer nor winter are they so plentiful
as they were. Drainage is said to be the cause of their
comparative scarcity.

SCOLOPAX GRISEA [_The Brown Snipe_].

Some specimens of this bird have been met with near
Banff, but it is rarely seen.

SCOLOPAX GALLINULA [_Jack Snipe_].

A winter visitor only, so far as I am aware,—and by
no means so numerous as the preceding. The jack snipe
would appear to be a solitary animal; at least I have
never seen more than two of them together (of course in
winter), but more commonly only one; in fact, they are
nearly always seen single. Unlike the others, however,
I have seen them return to the same spot three times,
after being as often fired at.

TRINGA SUBARQUATA [_Curlew Sandpiper_].

I have only met with one specimen of which I can speak
with certainty.

TRINGA CANUTUS [_Knot_].

A few generally visit us every autumn on their
southward passage. They are remarkably easy of approach.

TRINGA MINUTA [_Little Stint_].

A very fine little fellow. I once had a desperate hunt
after one. (See p. 140.)

TRINGA TEMMINCKII [_Temminck’s Stint_].

Mr. Taylor, gamekeeper to the Earl of Fife, once shot a
specimen on the Deveron bank.

TRINGA VARIABILIS [_Dunlin_].

This bird breeds in a few of our marshy places, and
may now and then be met with along the coast. Towards
autumn large flocks appear, but they do not remain
long. Specimens may be picked up occasionally, during
winter, almost pure white, except the bill, legs, and
feet, which retain their usual colour. This species
appears to differ considerably in size, the legs and
bills included,—the larger birds often having the
shortest bills.

TRINGA MARITIMA [_Purple Sandpiper_].

A rock-loving species whilst with us, never leaving the
rocks unless from necessity. They are gregarious, and
huddle so closely together that I have known as many
as twenty-three killed at one shot. I have killed them
occasionally during summer, their colour being then
of a rufous or rusty character, or more like that of
the dunlin, the purple gloss and dark gray plumage of
winter having all but disappeared.

GALLINULA CREX [_Landrail_].

“Corn craig” or “crake.” Very sparingly distributed
here. It arrives generally at the beginning of May,
and departs usually in September, but I have seen
it as late as December. These birds often feign
themselves dead, when hard pressed, rather than fly,—a
fact that may seem incredible to those who have paid
no attention to such things. Is it possible that
these birds remove their eggs on its coming to their
knowledge that their nests have been discovered? I
knew of a nest which contained seven eggs. I took one,
and, wishing to get all that the hen would lay, left
the remainder untouched; I also carefully obliterated
all my foot-marks, to prevent others from suspecting
anything if the nest was found. I went back three days
afterwards, when, although there were no signs of human
footprints, all the eggs were gone.

GALLINULA PUSILLA [_Little Crake_].

Only one of this British rarity has been procured
here, so far as I know. It occurred at a place called
Thornton, on the banks of the Isla.

GALLINULA CHLOROPUS [_Moorhen_].

The “waterhen.” In consequence of our having but few
lochs, and those very small, we have not many of this
species. As skulkers, they almost rival the landrail.

RALLUS AQUATICUS [_Water Rail_].

Far more scarce than the last; in fact it is almost a
rarity. Perhaps their skulking habits prevent their
being oftener seen.

FULICA ATRA [_Coot_].

An occasional visitor. On the loch of Strathbeg
(Aberdeenshire), where they are pretty numerous,
they breed, and remain all the year round. In very
wet summers the water of this loch rises at times
considerably above the usual level; on such occasions
I have seen the coot sailing nobly along with her nest
beneath her.

PHALAROPUS PLATYRHYNCHUS [_Gray Phalarope_].

Three specimens were procured on the sands of Sandend.

PHALAROPUS HYPERBOREUS [_Rednecked Phalarope_].

One specimen, a male, was shot on the beach here, in
the spring of 1855.

ANSER.

Of the genus Anser we are remarkably scanty. Several
kinds of geese have from time to time been procured,
and not an autumn or spring passes without many large
flocks being seen passing and repassing, but to what
species they belong it is difficult to say. That the
_Graylag_ (ANSER FERUS), the _Brent_ (A. BERNICLA), the
_Egyptian_ (A. ÆGYPTIACUS), and the _Spur-winged_ (A.
GAMBENSIS), have been met with, is beyond doubt; but
that these are all that have visited us, it is hard to
say. The _Brent_ is very numerous in certain seasons
along the coast.

CYGNUS.

The genus Cygnus is still more scantily represented.
Some of them visit us in passing to and from their
breeding grounds.

ANAS TADORNA [_Common Shieldrake_].

This pretty bird is only a winter visitor with us, and
then not in large numbers.

ANAS CLYPEATA [_Shoveller_].

This pretty bird is quite a rarity here. In the latter
part of the winter of 1837-8, which was of great
severity, a mutilated specimen of the shoveller was
found dead amongst the rocks at Blackpots.

ANAS STREPERA [_Gadwall_].

Another great rarity, so far as I am aware; one, a
female, procured in the Deveron by Dr. Leslie, about
the time the shoveller above alluded to was picked up,
is the only one I know of.

ANAS ACUTA [_Pintail Duck_].

I remember being roused rather early one morning, many
years ago, by a loud knocking at the street door, and
a person calling at the top of his voice, “Rise, man,
Tam! I’ve brought a rare bird t’ ye—a Duke.” Being
awake, I immediately jumped up. On seeing the bird, I
was delighted to observe a beautiful male pintail. It
had been shot that night on the Deveron.

ANAS BOSCHAS [_Wild Duck_].

Plentiful, especially in winter. Among the sandy bents
almost close to the ocean’s verge, and on the tops
of our heath-clad hills and moors, I have found this
species breeding; as well as on a tree about thirteen
feet from the ground, and on a rock in the craigs of
Alvah. This latter nest was placed on a ledge fully
thirty feet above the water, and had eight or nine
feet of perpendicular rock above it. There is a hill
near here, which I believe they used frequently to
nestle on, but which they have now quite deserted—viz.
Fern or Whin Hill, better known as Gallow Hill. It
was on this hill,—or rather piece of ground, for it
hardly deserves the name of hill,—that the celebrated
free-booter M’Pherson finished his earthly career. It
is a rough and stony place where he lies, covered with
heath and whin. The pheasant and wild duck used not
unfrequently to breed on his very grave. On a small
island on the Deveron stood a tall old poplar. About
five feet from the ground it divided into two arms,
one stretching upwards, whilst the other bent over the
river, and it is with this one that I am now concerned.
In 1839 the Deveron, like the other rivers in Scotland,
rose far above its usual height, so far indeed that it
reached the arm of the tree alluded to, on which it
deposited a good deal of rubbish. A female wild duck
built her nest, a few years afterwards, amongst the
_debris_ thus left, and succeeded in rearing a brood
of thirteen young ones. Neither nest nor bird, though
known of by some salmon-fishers who had a station close
by, was disturbed. One morning the female was observed
by these men to leave her nest and fly up and down the
water in an unusual manner. Presently she was joined
by the male, and both disappeared beneath a bank a
little above where the nest was. The fishermen, who
had watched them, observed the female reappear alone,
and, after flying up and down once or twice, again
settled down on the water, just below the tree which
contained the nest. After sailing about for a few
minutes, she was heard to give a “quack,” when down
went something into the water, and presently a young
one was seen by her side. Away she swam with it to
the bank referred to, consigning it to the charge of
the male; after which she returned, and, having again
sailed about for a short time, gave another “quack,”
when down came another youngster, which she also led
away to the bank. In this way she continued until all
were safely removed. The female never gave more than
one “quack,” and she never carried more than one young
one at a time; nor did she return after taking away the
thirteenth.

ANAS QUERQUEDULA [_Garganey_].

Two specimens of this species were shot in December
1840; and one is said to have been obtained at Cullen,
in the spring of 1841.

ANAS CRECCA [_Teal_]. Occasionally met with in winter.

ANAS PENELOPE [_Wigeon_].

One of our rarest duck visitors. A splendid male
specimen was killed at Boyndie in September 1853.

ANAS AMERICANA [_American Wigeon_].

A mutilated male specimen of this rare duck, shot on
the Burn of Boyndie, in January 1841, was for many
years in my possession.

ANAS MARILA [_Scaup Duck_]. Pretty frequent during winter.

ANAS FULIGULA [_Tufted Duck_]. Very rare.

ANAS CLANGULA [_Goldeneye_].

A regular winter visitor, generally coast-wise, but
they are also met with on mill-dams some miles inland.

ANAS GLACIALIS [_Long-tailed Duck_].

Abundant, but always keeping near the coast. I have
shot them when in their full breeding dress, which
gives them quite a different appearance. In spring
they are very clamorous, pursuing each other through
the water, and diving and skipping about like Merry
Andrews. The noise they make on such occasions is so
loud that I have heard it, on a still morning, nearly
three miles off. They are generally among the first
birds to arrive and the last to leave.

MERGUS CUCULLATUS [_Hooded Merganser_].

I was told by an old gunner and bird-stuffer that he
had shot a specimen of this species, but I cannot vouch
for his accuracy.

MERGUS SERRATOR [_Redbreasted Merganser_].

Not very plentiful. All along the coast, in suitable
localities, they are met with, singly, and two or three
together, rarely more.

MERGUS MERGANSER [_Goosander_].

A winter visitor. The male is a very showy gentleman.
As many as seven or eight specimens were procured at
one shot, on the Deveron. I have seen as many as live
or six together.

PODICEPS CRISTATUS [_Great Crested Grebe_]. An occasional visitor.

PODICEPS RUBRICOLLIS [_Rednecked Grebe_].

Of more frequent occurrence, but generally in immature
plumage.

PODICEPS AURITUS [_Eared Grebe_]. Less frequent than the last.

PODICEPS MINOR [_Little Grebe_].

A winter seldom passes without an opportunity occurring
to obtain this species. It is one of the most expert
divers we have.

COLYMBUS GLACIALIS [_Great Northern Diver_].

Some seasons pretty plentiful. Splendid specimens are
at times procured, but they are generally immature.

COLYMBUS ARCTICUS [_Blackthroated Diver_], and

COLYMBUS SEPTENTRIONALIS [_Redthroated Diver_].

Winter visitors, in about equal numbers. A few of
them gradually fall victims every spring to getting
entangled in the bag-nets set for salmon. They not
unfrequently visit our larger streams, where they make
great havoc among the smaller of the finny tribe.

URIA BRUNNICHII [_Brunnich’s Guillemot_] has been once met with.

URIA TROILE [_Common Guillemot_],

URIA LACHRYMANS [_Ringed Guillemot_],

URIA GRYLLE [_Black Guillemot_],

MORMON FRATERCULA [_Puffin_], and

ALCA TORDA [_Razorbill_].

All these species breed with us, but the black
guillemot only rarely. I have procured several ringed
guillemots both in winter and summer; I have also been
shown places in the cliffs where the fishermen say they
breed.

ALCA ALLE [_Little Auk_].

A winter visitor. In December 1846 a terrific sea-storm
raged here for the greater part of the month; at its
termination I counted between the Burn of Boyne and
Greenside of Gamrie, a distance of about nine miles,
nearly sixty of these little birds lying dead, besides
a number of guillemots and razorbills. Great numbers
were also found dead in the fields throughout the
county.

CARBO CORMORANUS [_Cormorant_].

Frequent, except for a short time during summer. A pair
or two may breed with us, but that is all. Like the
divers, they destroy great numbers of fish.

CARBO CRISTATUS [_Shag_].

Only, I believe, an occasional visitor.

SULA BASSANA [_Gannet_].

A spring and autumn visitor, and occasionally during
summer and winter. When overtaken, as they sometimes
are, by strong north winds, I have known them driven
to great distances inland, where they are frequently
seen lying dead. Immature specimens are now and then
procured during their autumnal passage. From their
different plumage they are looked upon as distinct from
the “solan goose,” as the gannet is here called.

STERNA CANTIACA [_Sandwich Tern_].

An occasional visitor, generally in summer.

STERNA DOUGALLII [_Roseate Tern_].

Two specimens have been obtained between Banff and
Cullen.

STERNA HIRUNDO [_Common Tern_].

STERNA ARCTICA [_Arctic Tern_].

Annual visitors, generally in autumn. During some
seasons they come in immense numbers. Although they
do not breed with us, they do so on part of the sandy
shores of the adjoining counties of Aberdeen and Moray.

STERNA MINUTA [_Lesser Tern_].

This pretty little lady-like bird does not breed with
us, but does so in the places mentioned for the two
preceding. It is only an occasional visitor.

STERNA NIGRA [_Black Tern_].

I know of only one instance of its having been found
here.

LARUS SABINI [_Sabine’s Gull_].

I had an exciting chase after a specimen, but failed in
capturing it; it was the only one I have seen or heard
of here.

LARUS MINUTUS [_Little Gull_].

I believe only two specimens have been met with.

LARUS CAPISTRATUS [_Masked Gull_].

I am informed that two of these birds were killed about
thirty years ago.

LARUS RIDIBUNDUS [_Black-headed Gull_].

Like the common and arctic terns, this species,
although it has no breeding-grounds with us, breeds on
either side in great numbers, and is a frequent visitor
here, chiefly in spring and autumn.

LARUS TRIDACTYLUS [_Kittiwake_].

Breeds with us, but not in such numbers as formerly.

LARUS EBURNEUS [_Ivory Gull_].

Several specimens have been shot near Gamrie. It is a
polar bird, almost pure white.

LARUS CANUS [_Common Gull_].

Abundant during winter and spring. The gull may be met
with all the year round, though I believe it does not
breed with us.

LARUS LEUCOPTERUS [_Iceland Gull_].

Sometimes, during winter, a specimen of this northern
bird may be obtained, but mostly in an immature state
of plumage.

LARUS FUSCUS [_Lesser Blackbacked Gull_].

Met with now and then, but not in great plenty. It does
not nestle here.

LARUS ARGENTATUS [_Herring Gull_].

Breeds at Gamrie Head and at Troup. Numbers are taken
when young by the fishermen and their children, and
brought up quite tame, walking about the villages like
poultry.

LARUS MARINUS [_Great Blackbacked Gull_].

Like his lesser brethren, this gentleman is but a
visitor here, and generally goes before he gets his
black coat.

LARUS GLAUCUS [_Glaucous Gull_].

A female, in an immature state of plumage, was killed
in Gamrie.

LESTUS CATARRACTES [_Common Skua_], and

LESTUS RICHARDSONI [_Richardson’s Skua_].

Both are to be met with as visitors, the latter the
rarer of the two.

PROCELLARIA GLACIALIS [_Fulmar Petrel_].

An occasional winter visitor. I had a specimen sent me
from Gamrie, which approached a boat so closely that
one of the fishermen knocked it down with an oar; this
was several miles out at sea.

PUFFINUS MAJOR [_Great Shearwater_], and

PUFFINUS OBSCURUS [_Dusky Shearwater_]. Only winter visitors.

THALASSIDROMA PELAGICA [_Stormy Petrel_].

A visitor, like the rest of its kindred, but more
frequent, and may be met with at intervals all the year
round. The superstitious dread of this little bird by
sailors and fishermen is well known.

* * * * *

With the stormy petrel ends my List of the Birds of Banffshire. Many species given as “rare” may turn out to be of frequent occurrence, and many given as “occasional visitors” may prove to be natives. Species, too, not mentioned in this List may have to be included in the birds of the county; and no one will be more pleased to hear of such additions than myself.

FISHES.

LABRAX LUPUS [_The Basse or Sea Perch_].

This is a rare species with us, only three having come
under my notice. One of these, a beautiful specimen,
was found dead in our river, the Deveron, not far from
its mouth, in 1839.

ACERINA VULGARIS [_The Ruffe or Pope_].

One is said to have been obtained off Troup Head about
forty-two years ago.

TRACHINUS DRACO [_The Great Weever_].

Occasionally found. The fish is said to be possessed
of very poisonous qualities, insomuch that a prick or
even a mere scratch from either of the rays (which are
hard and spinous) of the first dorsal or back fin,
causes the severest pain imaginable. On the continent,
where they are more numerous than they are here, and
where they are used as an article of food, there is a
very stringent law which forbids them being brought to
market, or even exposed for sale in any shape whatever,
unless these spines are all cut off; and in order to
enforce obedience, parties found transgressing the law
are severely punished.

TRACHINUS VIPERA [_The Little Weever_].

Specimens of the little weever are not unfrequently met
with; which would seem to indicate that they are more
numerous in the Firth than the preceding.

MULLUS BARBATUS [_The Bed Surmullet_].

This and the striped red mullet (M. SURMULETUS) have
both been obtained, the latter being the most frequent.

TRIGLA CUCULUS [_The Red Gurnard_] is pretty frequent; as is also

TRIGLA HIRUNDO [_The Sapphirine Gurnard_].

Some splendid specimens of this latter fish are
annually brought on shore by our fishermen towards the
end of autumn.

TRIGLA GURNARDUS [_The Gray Gurnard_].

This is our commonest gurnard; and, judging from
the numbers taken, must be very numerous. They are
known here by the term of ‘Crunack.’ They are not
much esteemed as an article of food, even among the
peasants; and they are, in consequence, seldom brought
to market.

TRIGLA PŒCILOPTERA [_The Little Gurnard_].

Somewhat rare. I remember once taking one from the
stomach of a great northern diver, which was shot
between Findochtie and Speymouth, in the spring of
1840, and which was sent me for the purpose of being
preserved.

COTTUS SCORPIUS [_The Short-spined Cottus_].

Pretty frequent.

COTTUS BUBALIS [_The Long-spined Cottus_].

Rather plentiful. I find them in abundance, in pools
left by the tide, or beneath stones at low water. Many
of them exhibit some most beautiful markings.

COTTUS QUADRICORNIS [_The Four-horned Cottus_].

I have never found this species but in the stomachs
of other fish; which leads me to conclude that they
generally inhabit deep water; or, at least, that they
do not come so near the shore as the preceding species.

ASPIDOPHORUS EUROPÆUS [_The Armed Bullhead_].

This is another stomach species. But I have found
these, also, though very sparingly, amongst the rocks
at low tide.

GASTEROSTEUS TRACHURUS [_The Rough-tailed, Three-spined
Stickleback_] and

GASTEROSTEUS LEIURUS [_The Smooth-tailed Stickleback_]
are both plentiful. The former along the coast, and the
latter in our streams and rivulets.

SPINACHIA VULGARIS [_The Fifteen-spined Stickleback_].

Common amongst the pools along the shore. I have seen
this species with sixteen and seventeen spines. They
are known amongst our fishermen by the very peculiar
denomination of “Willie-wan-beard.”

CHRYSOPHRYS AURATA [_The Gilt-head_].

I have only seen two specimens of this fish which have
been procured with us. The one was taken off Buckie in
1841; and the other was brought on shore at Portsoy, in
1839. They appear to be scarce, from the fact that the
fishermen do not know them.

PAGELLUS CENTRODONTUS [_The Sea Bream_].

This is a more common species,—numbers appearing
annually. In some seasons they appear in greater
abundance than in others. They are sold here under the
name of “Perch.”

BRAMA RAII [_Ray’s Bream_]. Rare.

CANTHARUS GRISEUS [_The Black Bream_].

A few of these are generally procured every autumn, or
about the beginning of winter. They are known and sold
here under the term of “Old Wife.”

DENTEX VULGARIS [_The Four-toothed Sparus_].

Although this species, like many more, bears the name
“_vulgaris_,” or _common_, it is not so with us. I am
only aware of one specimen, which was taken off Troup
Head.

SCOMBER SCOMBER [_The Mackerel_].

This beautiful and highly prized fish generally appears
on our part of the coast about autumn,—in some seasons,
in great plenty,—in others, not so numerous.

SCOMBER COLIAS? (_The Spanish Mackerel?_)

As will be seen, I have placed this species here
as doubtful. A mackerel differing in many respects
from the one noted above, and which agrees very well
with _Scomber colias_, was taken off Portknockie,
but by the time I had the pleasure of seeing it, it
was a good deal disfigured. Still, as I have already
said, it exhibited many of the markings and other
characteristics of the Spanish Mackerel.

THYNNUS VULGARIS (_The Tunny_).

Several specimens of this fish have, from time to time,
been taken with us. A very large one was captured in a
salmon-net at Portsoy. It measured over nine feet in
length, and six feet in girth.

XIPHIAS GLADIUS [_The Sword Fish_].

A small specimen of this fish—rare on this part of the
coast—was caught in our harbour by a shrimper.

NAUCRATES DUCTOR [_The Pilot Fish_].

A very fine specimen of this rare and rather peculiar
fish was taken in our bay some years ago, and was
exhibited as a curiosity. It was unknown in the place,
and also to the person who took it; but an old tar
chancing to see it, who had seen some service abroad,
having hitched up his trousers, and rid his mouth of a
yard or two of tobacco juice, exclaimed, with something
of a knowing air—“Well, I’ll be blowed if that aint a
Pilot; and a pretty one it is, too. We used to see them
often, when sailing in the Mediterranean.”

CARANX TRACHURUS [_The Scad or Horse Mackerel_], or,
as it is termed here, the “Buck Mackerel,” is not very
numerous, and is very seldom used as an article of
food. Its appearance here, is usually about the time
of herring-fishing. I once found a rather strange
variety of this species. It was about the usual size;
but it was all over of a most beautiful golden yellow,
finely striped and variegated with numerous lines of
the brightest blue, except the fins, which were of the
finest carmine.

LAMPRIS GUTTATUS [_The Opah or King Fish_] has occurred
on several occasions; as off Troup Head, at Black Pots,
on the shore near Portsoy, and at Buckie.

MUGIL CAPITO [_The Gray Mullet_].

I am only aware of two specimens of this Mullet which
have been procured within our limits; the one at
Gardenstown, the other at Cullen.

BLENNIUS MONTAGUI [_Montagu’s Blenny_].

One specimen taken from the stomach of a haddock.

BLENNIUS GATTORUGINE [_The Gattoruginous Blenny_].

I have met with this species only on two occasions.

BLENNIUS YARRELLII [_Yarrell’s Blenny_].

Rarely met with. I have a splendid specimen in my
collection, which was found cast on shore between
Gardenstown and Crovie.

BLENNIUS PHOLIS [_The Shanny or Smooth Blenny_],

GUNNELLUS VULGARIS [_The Spotted Gunnel_], and

ZOARCES VIVIPARUS [_The Viviparous or Green Blenny_].

Are all to be met with amongst the low-lying rocks
along our line of shore.

ANARRICHAS LUPUS [_The Wolf Fish_].

Frequent, but seldom used as food. I find them pretty
often cast on shore dead, after a storm; which would
seem to indicate that their habitat is not always in
deep water.

GOBIUS NIGER [_The Black Goby_].

These inhabiting the rocky parts of the coast, become,
at times, the prey of the haddock, etc. Though they do
not seem to be numerous in this arm of the sea, I meet
with them occasionally in the stomachs of fishes.

GOBIUS MINUTUS [_The Freckled or Spotted Goby_].

This is another stomach species; as also the

GOBIUS RUTHENSHARRI [_The Double Spotted Goby_], which
appears to be the rarest of the three.

CALLIONYMUS LYRA [_The Gemmeous Dragonet_].

This splendidly coloured fish is frequently met with;
and the so-called

CALLIONYMUS DRACUNCULUS [_Sordid Dragonet_] is found
in about equal number; for it is a general maxim, that
where the husband is, there also should the wife be.
Ichthyologists cling to the idea that these fish are
distinct species. Out of about one hundred specimens
which I have dissected, I have never yet found anything
like _roe_ or _ova_ in those having the long rays on
the first dorsal, and which are known as the Gemmeous;
and in like manner I have never yet met with anything
at all pertaining to a _milt_ in those having the short
rays, and which are known as the Sordid Dragonet. My
conclusion is that they are only male and female of the
same species.

LOPHIUS PISCATORIUS [_The Angler or Fishing Frog_, or,
as it is called here, the _Sea Devil_] is frequently
met with, but is not used as an article of food.

LABRUS BERGYLTA [_The Ballan Wrasse_].

Pretty frequent during summer.

LABRUS MIXTUS [_The Blue Striped Wrasse_].

Rare. A very pretty specimen was taken off Macduff.

CRENILABRUS MELOPS [_The Gilthead_]. Rare.

CRENILABRUS RUPESTRIS [_Jago’s Goldsinny_].

I have only seen one of this species in the
neighbourhood. A beautiful specimen which I found one
winter’s day, was cast on shore at the links.

ACANTHOLABRUS EXOLETUS [_The Small-mouthed Wrasse_].

Like the last, only one specimen of this fish has, as
yet, come under my notice, and that one was captured
off Troup Head.

CYPRINUS AURATUS [_The Gold and Silver Carps_, as they
are termed], have been introduced, and have thriven
pretty well, as at Macduff, where they have propagated
to an amazing degree.

LEUCISCUS PHOXINUS [_The Minnow_].

This pretty active little fish is to be found in most
of our streams. It is curious to see it stated in works
on Ichthyology that this species is not to be met with
north of the Dee, Aberdeenshire.

BELONE VULGARIS [_The Gar Fish_, or, as it is called here, “The Greenbeen,”] is by no means scarce, at certain seasons.

SCOMBERESOX SAURUS [_The Saury Pike_].

Not so often met with as the last. In fact, it must be
termed rare.

SALMO SALAR [_The Salmon_].

This valuable and highly-prized fish is found both
along our coast and in our fresh waters. At one time,
they were very numerous in the Deveron. From a _pot_
or _hole_ which once existed a little below the bridge
which spans the river, at a little distance from the
sea, and not far from the town, as many as one hundred,
and sometimes more, have been taken at a haul. This was
before stake and bag nets were so thickly planted along
our sea-shore as they are now.

SALMO ERIOX [_The Bull or Gray Trout_].

Some large individuals of this species are often taken.

SALMO TRUTTA [_The Salmon Trout_].

These were at one time believed to be the young of the
Salmon; and the tacksman gave orders that they should
not be taken. Previously, they had been fished for with
small-meshed nets, and sold as Trout, under the name
of “Finnock.” Time passed and the river beheld another
tacksman, who, differing from his predecessor, gave
orders that they should be again taken. Accordingly,
they are now annually fished for, and are once more
sold as “Sea Trout,” “White Trout,” and “Finnock.”

SALMO FARIO [_The Common Trout_].

In all our streams. These also are taken, and sold with
the last mentioned.

OSMERUS EPERLANUS [_The Smelt_]. Rare with us.

CLUPEA HARENGUS [_The Herring_].

This species abounds along this coast, towards the
middle of summer, and the beginning of autumn. The fry
of this fish is met with nearly all the year round.

CLUPEA LEACHII [_Leach’s Herring_].

A rather smaller-sized herring than the common species.
It is generally met with in small shoals in May and
June.

CLUPEA SPRATTUS [_The Sprat or Garnet Herring_].

This is also met with about the same time, but in
smaller numbers.

ALOSA FINTA [_The Twaite Shad_].

Rare. A very fine specimen was taken in our river last
summer, about a mile from the sea.

ALOSA COMMUNIS [_The Alice Shad_].

The same may be said of this species,—it is rare. They
are termed, “rock herring.”

MORRHUA VULGARIS [_The Cod_].

It is to the stomach of this species that I am most
indebted for many of the rarer of the testaceous and
crustaceous specimens which I possess. (For the cod’s
bill of fare see p. 284.) The cod is extensively fished
for along this part of the coast, and may be termed
_the poor man’s salmon_. Great numbers are salted and
dried, and in that state sent to the southern markets.
I have occasionally met with a cod of a red colour, in
all save the fins, which are generally of a yellowish
tinge, and never larger than a common sized haddock.
They are known here by the name of “rock codlings.”

MORRHUA ŒGLEFINUS [_The Haddock_].

Like the cod, it is extensively taken, and largely
cured and forwarded south. Our Buckie haddocks are well
known for their excellence, and are far famed for their
superior qualities. Like the cod, the stomach of this
species is also a rich mine for the Naturalist.

MORRHUA LUSCA [_The Bib or Whiting Pout_].

Frequent; but not often brought to market, although
they are most excellent eating. The fishermen generally
cut them up and use them as bait.

MORRHUA MINUTA [_The Power Cod_].

Not known as an inhabitant of the Firth until recently.
They are excellent eating. It is a great pity that they
are so small and scarce.

MERLANGUS VULGARIS [_The Whiting_].

Often taken, but not so much admired as the Haddock.

MERLANGUS POLLACHIUS [_The Pollack or Lythe_]. Frequent.

MERLANGUS CARBONARIUS [_The Coal-fish_].

Like the last; when young, great numbers of them are
occasionally taken in our harbours, in small-meshed
nets. They are termed “Gerrocks.”

MERLUCIUS VULGARIS [_The Hake_]. Found occasionally.

LOTA MOLVA [_The Ling_].

Fished for with the cod, and cured in the same manner.
When salted and dried they are called “Kealing.”

MOTELLA QUINQUECIRRATA [_The Five-bearded Rockling_].

Frequent among the pools left among the rocks by the
tide.

MOTELLA CIMBRIA [_The Four-bearded Rockling_].

Rare. I have not met with it often.

BROSMIUS VULGARIS [_The Torsk or Tusk_].

Taken with the cod and ling, and cured in the same
fashion.

PHYCIS FURCATUS [_The Great Forked Beard_].

This fish is of rare occurrence with us, and that only
at long intervals.

PLATESSA VULGARIS [_The Plaice_].

Plentiful, and highly prized by many for its very
delicate flesh and agreeable flavour.

PLATESSA FLESUS [_The Flounder_], or as it is called
here, the Common Fluke, and the

PLATESSA LIMANDA [_The Saltwater Fluke_] are also
pretty frequent. In the stomachs of these fish I
occasionally find, among other matters, _Tellina
fabula_, _T. tenuis_, _T. punicea_ (a most beautiful
little shell), _Natica Montagui_, _N. Alderi_, _Philine
scabra_, _Cylichna truncata_, _C. cylindracea_, etc.

PLATESSA MICROCEPHALA [_The Smooth Dab_] and

PLATESSA POLA [_The Pole Dab_] are not so often met with.

PLATESSA LIMANDOIDES [_The Yellow or Rough Dab_], and the

PLATESSA ELONGATA [_Long Flounder_] are of rare occurrence.

HIPPOGLOSSUS VULGARIS [_The Halibut_] and

RHOMBUS MAXIMUS [_The Turbot_] are both met with,
inhabiting deep water. They are seldom taken near the
shore. The former is the more plentiful. The latter is
known here as the Roan Fluke, and always commands a
ready sale and a high price. The other is called the
Turbot; and though it sells well, it is not so valuable
as the true turbot, nor yet so eagerly sought after by
the higher classes.

RHOMBUS VULGARIS [_The Brill or Pearl Turbot_].

This species is occasionally taken along with the two
preceding, but must rank as rare with us.

RHOMBUS HIRTUS [_Muller’s Topknot_] occurs at intervals
along our whole line of coast.

SOLEA VULGARIS [_The Sole_] is not so common with us as
its name would seem to indicate.

SOLEA PEGUSA [_The Lemon Sole_]. Rare.

MONOCHIRUS LINGUATULUS [_The Solenette_] is of more
frequent occurrence. I have found it in the stomach of
the cod and haddock.

LEPIDOGASTER CORNUBIENSIS [_The Cornish Sucker_].

I remember finding a small fish, on one occasion, where
our fishermen clean their lines, and which resembled
the above in almost every particular. It is the only
specimen that has come under my notice.

LEPIDOGASTER BIMACULATUS [_The Two-spotted Sucker_].

Brought on shore, now and then, amongst the refuse
entangled in the fishermen’s lines, and occasionally
in old shells, such as _Fusis antiquus_, _Buccinum
undatum_, and _Cyprina Islandica_, etc.

CYCLOPTERUS LUMPUS [_The Lump Sucker_].

Frequent. Known here by the name of “Paddle Cock.” Not
used as an article of food.

LIPARIS VULGARIS [_The Unctuous Sucker_]. Of partial occurrence.

LIPARIS MONTAGUI [_Montagu’s Sucker_].

I have only once met with this beautiful little fish
here, and that but lately. It was brought on shore in
an old shell. I should think it rare in the Firth.

ANGUILLA ACUTIROSTRIS [_The Sharp-nosed Eel_] and

ANGUILLA LATIROSTRIS [_The Broad-nosed Eel_] are both
found. The former is the most numerous, and brings the
highest price.

CONGER VULGARIS [_The Conger or Great Eel_].

This large species is often met with, but is not used
as food.

AMMODYTES TOBIANUS [_The Sand Eel_], and

AMMODYTES LANCEA [_The Sand Lance_].

The latter the most numerous. Both these are used by
our fishermen for bait.

SYNGNATHUS ACUS [_The Great Pipe Fish_] and

SYNGNATHUS TYPHLE [_The Lesser Pipe-fish_] are both met
with, and are accounted by the fishermen to be superior
to any other bait.