Mr A. Craifj, Jim., on the Birch of Glenurquhart. 109 



with great industry tlie branch of a larch, from which lie 

 was suspended back downwards. So intent was he on his 

 work, that he either did not notice or did not care for my 

 presence, but still continued at his task. On examining the 

 branch after he flew off, I failed to discover what was his 

 object for so much exertion ; perhaps his superior eye saw 

 what mine could not detect — some hidden insect treasure in 

 the bark. 



This species bears an unenviable reputation among the 

 natives of Glenurquhart, as it is said to destroy great 

 numbers of hive bees. 



Cole Tit {Par us titer). 



By far the most numerous, and found in great numbers in 

 all the fir and pine plantations. On Craig-na, already men- 

 tioned, great flocks of them may be seen, associated at times 

 with goldcrests and tree creepers ; and in the other w^oods of 

 the strath they often accompany siskins and redpoles, who 

 in turn follow in the wake of the crossbills. 



Marsh Tit {Parus palustris). 



I have been informed by George Muirhead, Esq., Paxton, 

 that he observed this bird among the spruce trees near 

 Balmacaan in 1866 and 1867. 



Obs. — I have as yet been unable to satisfy myself on the 

 point of the existence of the crested tit, although curiously 

 enough it is a constant resident on another of Lord Seafield's 

 estates in Strathspey. 



Long-Tailed Tit (Acredula caudata). 



Barely so common as the three former, but still to be met 

 with in every suitable wood. 



ISTot very far from Balmacaan House there is a curious 

 lonely little burying-ground hidden in a birch-wood, and 

 close beside it is a stagnant pool called by a Gaelic name, 

 signifying tlie " Pool of Blood," around which hovers the 

 traditions of a great battle fought between rival clans. This 

 spot, hallowed as it is by the near presence of the dead, and 

 interesting, besides, on account of its historic memories, is all 



