NATURAL HISTORY SOCIETY OF GLASGOW. 307 



lochs and pools among the hills. Mr Gray is inclined to regard 

 the dunlin of the Outer Hebrides as belonging to a northern race, 

 beinc; darker in colour and much smaller in size than that found 

 on the south-western mainland. 



The Purple Sandpiper (Tringa maritima). 

 Occurs in irregular flocks on the rocky parts of the Ayrshire 

 coast, and has also been found in Wigtownshire. Dr Anderson 

 killed five of these birds at a shot, near Girvan, a few years ago. 

 We have also seen specimens killed near Ardrossan. 



The Grey Phalarope (Phalaropus lohahis). 

 Of very rare occurrence in any part of our district. Single 

 examples have been obtained on the northern shores of Ayrshire. 

 It has also occurred in Renfrewshire. The Red-necked Phalarope 

 (Phalaropus hyperhoreus) has never, to our knowledge, been met 

 with in Ayrshire or Wigtownshire. 



BALLID^. 



The Landrail, or Corn Crake (Crex pratensis). 

 Abundant everywhere. With us it calls throughout the whole 

 of the night, from the time of its arrival till the end of July. In 

 warm seasons numl^ers of corn crakes frequent the Water of 

 Girvan about mid day, and appear to delight in bathing in the 

 little pools among the pebbles of the stream. During excessive 

 heat, we have seen these birds anxiously traversing the dusty 

 roads in quest of water. 



The Spotted Crake (Crexporzana). 

 In both counties this bird has several times been captured, and 

 it has been taken in Renfrewshire. Mr M'Omish, bird-stufFer, 

 Stranraer, showed Mr Gray a specimen killed near that town in 

 1867. From its quiet and unobtrusive habits, the spotted crake 

 is but seldom observed anywhere. 



The Water Rail {PmUus aquaiicus). 

 Occurs sparingly in suitable localities. It seems to prefer 

 marshy spots of inconsiderable extent, where, if unmolested, it 

 remains a long time, seeking occasional refuge in covered drains 



