CHARADRIID.*:. 



595 





THE KNOT. 



Tringa canutus, Linnaeus. 



Camden (1607) connected with King Canute the trivial name of 

 this species, and Drayton (1622) gave further currency to the fond 

 idea ; but the origin is probably to be sought in the call, knut, kniit. 

 The Knot has long been known as a regular visitor to the British 

 coasts, and down to the end of the 17th century it was captured in 

 nets and systematically fattened for the table. Flocks, mainly of 

 young, make their appearance in mid-August, but the bulk of the 

 adults arrive somewhat later, and large numbers remain with us 

 until the following May ; they are then joined by migrants which 

 have developed in a higher degree the rich red tints of the nuptial- 

 dress under the influence of a warmer climate, and eventually 

 all, except the non-breeding birds, depart for the far north-west. 

 Nowhere in Great Britain is the Knot more abundant than on the 

 extensive sand-banks and mud-flats of the estuaries on the east, 

 especially on the Humber ; but in the Hebrides and down the west 

 side of Scotland it is comparatively rare until the Solway is reached, 

 whence it becomes plentiful in suitable situations down to Cornwall. 

 Large numbers are found in Ireland during the colder months, and 

 sometimes until late in spring. 



