LAKE, SWAMP, AND REED BED. 109 



may remark in passing that the Starling frequents 

 the extensive reed-beds at Slapton Ley for roost- 

 ing purposes. Here the flocks are sometimes of 

 enormous proportions, largely composed, we are 

 inclined to think, of migrants from the north-east. 

 The aerial evolutions of these dense flocks as 

 they prepare to descend into the reeds, and their 

 noisy clamour when finally settled, or the rush of 

 their wings as they rise into the air again if 

 disturbed, combine to make a scene of exceptional 

 interest. These marshy osier beds have also a 

 population of more or less resident birds. One little 

 species very partial to them in this part of Devon- 

 shire, at all events, is the Stonechat. He lives in 

 pairs throughout the year, and makes himself a 

 very conspicuous object as he poises himself upon 

 some swaying willow wand or tall weed. His mate 

 is far more retiring, less showy, but usually keeps 

 her mate close company. These birds are parti- 

 cularly active and noisy when their nest is 

 threatened or they are disturbed with their 

 young. Then we have the harsh-voiced Corn 

 Crake during spring and summer lurking in 

 these places too; but he is a bird of very 

 capricious appearance, and some seasons scarcely^ 



