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lochs and pools among the hills. Mr Gray is inclined to regard 
the dunlin of the Outer Hebrides as belonging to a northern race, 
being darker in colour and much smaller in size than that found 
on the south-western mainland. 
THE PURPLE SANDPIPER (Tringa maritima). 
Occurs in irregular flocks on the rocky parts of the Ayrshire 
coast, and has also been found in Wigtownshire. Dr Anderson 
killed five of these birds at a shot, near Girvan, a few years ago. 
We have also seen specimens killed near Ardrossan. 
THE GREY PHALAROPE (Phalaropus lobatus). 
Of very rare occurrence in any part of our district. Single 
examples have been obtained on the northern shores of Ayrshire. 
It has also occurred in Renfrewshire. The Red-necked Phalarope 
(Phalaropus hyperboreus) has never, to our knowledge, been met 
with in Ayrshire or Wigtownshire. 
RALLIDA. 
THE LANDRAIL, OR CORN CRAKE (Crex pratensis). 
Abundant everywhere. With us it calls throughout the whole 
of the night, from the time of its arrival till the end of July. In 
warm seasons numbers of corn crakes frequent the Water of 
Girvan about mid day, and appear to delight in bathing in the 
little pools among the pebbles of the stream. During excessive 
heat, we have seen these birds anxiously traversing the dusty 
roads in quest of water. 
THE SPOTTED CRAKE (Crex porzana). 
In both counties this bird has several times been captured, and 
it has been taken in Renfrewshire. Mr M‘Omish, bird-stuffer, 
Stranraer, showed Mr Gray a specimen killed near that town in 
1867. From its quiet and unobtrusive habits, the spotted crake 
is but seldom observed anywhere. 
THE WATER Ratu (Rallus aquaticus). 
Occurs sparingly in suitable localities. It seems to prefer 
marshy spots of inconsiderable extent, where, if unmolested, it 
remains a long time, seeking occasional refuge in covered drains 
r 
