SPECIFIC OBSERVATIONS ON THE WADING BIRDS. 247 



I have witnessed the passage of both species (from Africa) in 

 mid-May, iu full breeding plumage. 



Ruff and Greenshank : only obtained in August and 

 September. 



Sanderling, abundant at same season, but a few occur 

 throughout the winter, though sparsely. Adults in breeding 

 plumage are occasionally obtained on northern passage in 

 spring. 



Oyster-catcher. — On January 20, 1882, observed one of 

 these birds swimming about in deep water. Expecting it was a 

 " pensioner," or wounded goose (which always separate them- 

 selves from the packs, and are found singly thus), we punted 

 out to it. To our surprise, the bird proved to be an Oyster- 

 catcher, and after rising close to us, flew round, and again 

 settled iu deep water. Except on this occasion, I never saw 

 a wader swim of its own accord, though, wlioi iringed, the 

 Oyster-catcher can both swim and dive fairly well. 



