354 CHARADRIIDA# 
It is widely distributed over the shores of Scotland, 
though rare in the Orkneys. 
The Bar-tailed Godwit is common on many parts of the 
Irish coasts. Immature birds, at first quite tame, generally 
appear about the middle of August. They can often be 
approached so closely that the rich buff colour of their 
breasts is discernible. I have observed flocks of several 
hundreds in midwinter on the Dublin coast, and these, 
in spring, are reinforced by migrants journeying from 
southern latitudes. Many of the latter remain with us until 
the beginning of June.’ Like the Knot, this bird very 
seldom appears on the Irish coast in nuptial plumage. It 
would seem that a large proportion are immature, and many 
such remain throughout the breeding-season. 
This species delights to wander over ooze-flats and 
stretches of soft sand, into which it can probe its long 
beak in search of food: it often follows the bed of a salt- 
water drain or creek. 
I have seen large flocks resting on the bare sands at 
ebb-tide, some of the birds apparently asleep, with their 
beaks buried in the feathers of the shoulders, and supporting 
themselves each on one leg.” But at high water they 
appear to take most rest, when, scattered into pairs and 
small parties, they stand motionless on rocks, shingle, or 
marshy grass-tufts. 
This bird seldom attempts to swim except when 
wounded, but it will frequently stand still for a considerable 
time while its feet and legs are being washed by the ripplets 
of the inflowing tide. 
' On June 7th, 1899, I descried an unusually large flock consisting 
of several hundreds of Bar-tailed Godwits, on the Dublin coast; I 
scanned them carefully with my field-glass, but failed to recognise any 
nuptial-plumaged birds among them. 
2 IT made the following observations on a fine, adult Bar-tailed 
Godwit which was presented by Mr. Warren to the Royal Zoological 
Society of Ireland. The bird had a habit of standing for a considerable 
time on one leg, with its feathers puffed out. When walking or standing, 
the beak was generally carried horizontally. Though normally of a 
calm and contented nature, yet fits of excitement sometimes manifested 
themselves, especially in early autumn. At such times the captive 
would fly round and round its cage, battering itself against the bars, as 
though trying to escape. Indeed, it seemed almost suggestive that the 
bird was possessed of a strong migratory desire. When eating, it would 
bury its long beak in its food, which consisted of bread softened in milk, 
chopped meat, and vegetables. It repeatedly sounded the syllables 
cak-cak-cak, when resting and walking. Its expression of eye was soft, 
and with the other feathered inmates it was most friendly. 
