LITTLE CRAKE 173 
second was obtained near Rathangan, co. Kildare, on 
November 12th, 1903 (Williams, ‘ Zoologist,’ 1903, p. 460). 
As there has been a lapse of almost half a century between 
the two captures, and as the species has been taken so 
much oftener proportionately in England, it is probable that 
this diminutive Crake, skulking in its habits, has been to 
a certain extent overlooked. This is still more likely when 
we bear in mind that the numbers of workers at Irish 
ornithology are comparatively few. Even in England 
I have little doubt that the bird often escapes observation. 
In its general habits the Little Crake may be well 
ranked among our aquatic birds. It not only frequents 
marshes, but it constantly enters the water, swimming and 
diving in search of food. Its diminutive ‘form and heht 
weight! allow of its running along the surface of floating 
leaves such as those of the water- ‘lily, a habit with which 
we are familiar in the case of nestling Water-Hens and 
Coots. 
Flight.—This bird is rapid on the wing, but it generally 
steals into cover on foot to escape its enemies. 
Votice.—The note is a defiant kik, kik, kik (Saunders). 
Food.—This consists for the most part of aquatic insects 
and vegetables ; small worms and slugs are also eaten. 
Nest.—The nest is built among tufts of sedges raised 
above the level of the water. The lining materials used 
are short, broad bits of reed-blades (W. Eagle Clarke). 
The eggs, about seven to the clutch, are pale olive, with 
darker greenish-brown markings. 
There have been no records of the Little Crake breeding 
in our Isles, but it is quite conceivable that some of the 
spring-visitors may remain during the summer for this 
purpose, and be overlooked. 
Geographical distribution.—Abroad, this species breeds 
in many countries in Central, Southern, and Kastern 
EKurope, also in Asia and parts of North Africa. In winter 
it migratesto the Tropical regions of Asia and Africa. 
DESCRIPTIVE CHARACTERS. 
PLUMAGE. Adult male nuptial.—Head, except the centre 
of the crown, which is olive-brown, throat ‘and front of neck, 
breast and abdomen, slate-grey ; under tail- coverts, spotted 
' Which does not exceed 13 ozs. 
