432 ENGLISH BIRD LIFE 



often been observed in full breeding plumage even 

 in June and July, its eggs have never been dis- 

 covered in any part of the United Kingdom. 



Its usual breeding quarters are in the far 

 north, 'and the nest is placed upon some ledge 

 or recess amidst the rocks. The eggs are of a 

 greenish-grey ground colour, spotted with grey 

 and brown. 



In the Shetlands the Turnstone may often be 

 seen feeding in little groups about the sea-weed 

 on the partlv submerged reefs. 



L^nlike the Turnstone, the Ovster-catcher is not 

 only resident, but is a constant nesting species in 

 this country. Few birds, indeed, are more con- 

 spicuous on English coasts and estuaries than is the 

 beautiful Sea Pie. Its large size, clearly-defined 

 black and white plumage, and long sealing-wax-like 

 bill, taken in conjunction Avith its loud screaming 

 cry, constantly uttered when on the wing, renders 

 it a species impossible to overlook. 



The eggs of the Oyster-catcher, three in number, 

 and of a pale buff, spotted and streaked with grey 

 and brown, are usually laid in a mere depression 

 in the shingle; but instances are given of their 

 occurrence in the deserted nest of the Herring Gull, 

 and in meadows at some distance from the sea. 



