4902 THE ZooLocist—May, 1876. 
Northern Diver.—February 15. Observed a northern diver flying 
high across the Sound to-day: this species, however, is but seldom 
seen on the wing in the winter, unless moving to a distant place. 
On the 28th one of these birds was chased and caught by some men 
in a boat: it had been wounded, and, strange to say, appeared to 
have lost, or rather moulted, all the primary quills from both wings, 
as many new spotted feathers were appearing on different parts of 
the body; but, owing to ils exceeding fierceness in springing and 
striking at everything and everybody within its reach, and being 
in a rather dark shed, I unfortunately could not manage to see 
whether the primaries were being replaced by new ones or not. 
However, I know my shins were terribly wounded in the attempt. 
The poor bird was continually uttering a most melancholy ery, and 
I tried all in my power to obtain its release, but without effect. 
Lesser Blackbacked Gulls—March 1. These birds have now 
just begun to make their appearance in full summer dress, but the 
greater blackbacks are taking their departure. 
Blackheaded Guill (Larus ridibundus)—March 9. Many old 
birds of this species have already assumed the complete dark head, 
and will soon leave for their breeding stations. J have never known 
even a young bird to remain with us during the summer. 
Black Redstart.—March 13. Observed a black redstart on the 
rocks near the Plymouth Citadel, and heard the spring note of the 
greenfinch in our gardens. On the 21st (wind east and very cold, 
with snow during the night) I saw two or three more black red- 
starts on the coast. 
Great Spotted Woodpecker.— March 17. Examined a great 
spotted woodpecker, which had been killed near Plymouth, and 
saw two more black redstarts. 
Wheatear.— March 19. Wind blowing very hard from the north, 
with occasional snow-showers, and bitterly cold; notwithstanding 
which several wheatears had made their appearance on the coast, 
all males and in fine spring plumage. 
Common Gull (Larus canus).—A great many common gulls, or 
“mews,” have visited our harbours lately. Generally adult birds, 
but they did not nest in this locality. 
Common Buzzard and Shorieared Ovwl.—March 21. A common - 
buzzard and some shorteared owls have been brought to our bird- 
stuffers within the last few days. The latter species has certainly 
been unusually pleutiful this season. 
