45 



g)rnit^orogtcal* Section. 



President ... E. A. Menneer, Esq. 



HE sectional prize has been awarded to H. P. M. Egleston 

 for a note-book containing observations on the eggs of 

 and nests of no less than 50 species. It is to be 

 regretted that the actual number of note-books sent 

 in fell far short of those promised. Many members do good 

 work in the Easter holidays without following it up in term 

 time. Let us hope for more sustained efforts in 1903. 



The Courage collection has recently undergon a complete 

 rearrangement and classification by Mr. White, and its value is 

 largely increased for purposes of scientific study. It still suffers 

 from insufficient accommodation, and the want of a system of 

 lighting which would facilitate evening lectures. 



The expeditions in the Summer term were, as usual, much 

 appreciated. Among other discoveries we may record — a haw- 

 finch's nest on Leckhampton, two nightjars' near Andoversford, 

 and at Colesbourne a nest of thrush's eggs with pink spots on 

 the usual blue background. 



BLACKBIRDS AT CHRISTOWE. 

 By T. W. Darwin. 



A rather remarkable occurrence in the case of two black- 

 birds which built their nest in the overgrowth of the fence 

 dividing Christowe yard from the entrance to the junior play- 

 ground has taken place. 



The nests were first discovered during the first few days of 

 the Summer term, there being only a few fibres there then. In 

 about a week the nests being completed three eggs were laid in 

 each. Eventually they reared their brood in spite of the noise 

 in the yard. 



One brood has flown but the other is still under their 

 mother's keeping. (June ist, 1902.) 



