GRUID.i;. 



521 



THE CRANE. 

 Grus communis, Bechstein. 



There is evidence that until the year 1590 the Crane used to breed 

 in the fens and swamps of East AngHa, and its visits in winter 

 continued with regularity to a later period, though they gradually 

 diminished in frequency. In the present century it can only be con- 

 sidered as of irregular occurrence in England, while it is very rare 

 on the mainland of Scotland, and only an occasional visitor to the 

 Orkneys and Shetlands. In Ireland a few have been obtained, the 

 latest in September 1896. "When estimating the value of early 

 records respecting its supposed abundance, it must be remembered 

 that the Heron was — and still is — -frequently known as the ' Crane.' 



