146 The Irish Naturalist. Oct. -Nov , 



Long-tailed Duck. 



I saw a pair apparently in full plumage on 14th March. 

 They were in what is, I believe, their usual place — just 

 outside the surf. T mention it because its Irish visits 

 seem to be irregular and seldom in the spring. 



White-fronted Goose. 



These birds • seem commonly grazing at Mullaghmore 

 and if risen from one spot fly to another. There were 

 three on the 14th May and the keeper says the 20th is his 

 latest observation. These correspond to the ver}^ latest 

 cases heard of by Mr. Ussher. 



Brent Goose. 



On 3rd May one of these birds grazing in the open let 

 me get within 44 yards. 



White Wagtail. 



On 3rd May I saw three birds at this place, very tame ; 

 two of which seemed paired. On the 14th I saw one male 

 near the same spot. With the usual perversity, the bird 

 disappeared at the only moment I took my glasses off it. 

 I therefore dare not suggest breeding. 



Dunlin and Turnstone flocking with Golden Plover. 



Ussher mentions " an instance " of Dunlin flying with 

 Golden Plover. At this place I have often seen the Dunlin 

 with them, as regular companions and disappearing with 

 them into the clouds. I saw Turnstone as similar 

 companions, and though not feeding when on the grass, 

 thev came and went with the Plover. The Dunlin is the 

 only bird I know which will place its nest on ground so 

 frequently flooded that the grass is quite short and much 

 discoloured. 



OUAIL. 



I find that last year in the south ol this county in a 

 district of much low-lying meadow land and cut-awa}^ bog 

 Quails came in great numbers and could be heard everywhere. 

 The rote was heard a couple of times this year and the 

 same about six years ago ; otherwise they have not been 

 known for thirty years when they were often shot. I 

 have no acquaintance with the bird. 



