MUSSEL BEDS OF SCOTLAND 31 



scalps have been considerably poached, and are 

 subject to deposition of shifting sand, and to 

 heavy gales. 



The Skibo Beds (Meikle Ferry) are on the 

 north side of the firth, opposite Torlogie. They 

 are about 13 acres in extent, and are always 

 covered by water. The yield has ever been 

 variable, the ground being very subject to shifting 

 sand and to the inroads of star-fish. No cultivation 

 is considered possible ; poaching is common ; and 

 the dredges which are in use appear to increase the 

 destruction by aggravating the shifting of loose 

 sand. The beds are leased from the Skibo estates. 



Loch Fleet Beds (Little Ferry). — These 

 beds are the property of the Duke of Sutherland, 

 and are cultivated at considerable expense. They 

 are mostly uncovered at low tide. The ground 

 consists of sand and shingle, and the mussels are 

 gathered chiefly by raking. The demand is 

 greater than the supply. The beds are said to 

 be growing too high, but, so far as I know, no 

 scouring is practised. 



Orkney and Shetland. — The line-fishing 

 amongst these islands is confined very largely to 

 the local boats, the herring fishing being the 

 particular section of the industry which is most 



