Yorkshire Naturalists at Robin Hoods Bay. 251 
had been hoped that some definite evidence of the extent of the 
pre-Oolitic denudation would be obtained, but the worn condition 
of the fossils found made it clear that the time available during 
the excursion was insufficient for the purpose. 
VERTEBRATE SeEcTION.—Messrs. H. B. Booth and R. 
Fortune write:—The members of the Vertebrate Section 
had a very enjoyable time. 
Saturday and Sunday were devoted to working the coast- 
line. Herring Gulls were found to be nesting on the whole 
range of cliffs between Robin Hood’s Bay and Whitby, many 
of the nests being easily accessible from the top. Jackdaws 
and Starlings were also nesting freely on the cliffs. At Hawsker 
we found the Cormorants nesting, altogether about forty birds 
were seen, about half of which were intent on family matters ; 
apparently about one-third had not assumed adult breeding 
plumage. A small colony was also seen south of Robin Hood’s 
Bay at the Peak. The return journey from Hawsker was 
devoted to working the various ravines, ideal places for warblers. 
The result was extremely disappointing, as they appeared to be 
almost devoid of bird life; two nests of Carrion Crows were 
seen and one of a Magpie. The investigation of the large 
patches of gorse growing on the hill-sides was also disappoint- 
ing. Linnets, which we expected to find in great abundance, 
were not at all plentiful. Although ideal places for the Stone- 
chat, we did not see a single bird of this species, and the 
Winchat was comparatively scarce. The absence of the Corn 
Bunting and the Rock Pipit was also very noticeable. The 
Cuckoo was not seen until our return, when half-a-dozen were 
encountered together, apparently mating. 
Monday was devoted to the investigation of the Fyling 
Woods, Ramsdale, and the moors above. Wood Warblers, 
Chiff Chaffs, and Garden Warblers were found to be common 
and in full song. Green Woodpeckers and. Tawny Owls were 
comparatively abundant, and it was pleasing to hear the 
peculiar note of the Grasshopper Warbler. Both the Kestrel 
and Sparrow Hawk were seen, and Carrion Crows and Magpies 
appeared to have a firm footing in the district. The absence of 
Pheasants was remarkable, as was also the absence of the 
Spotted Flycatcher. The district is eminently suitable for both 
birds, and their apparent scarcity or non-existence was much 
commented upon. The Blackcap Warbler was both seen and 
heard, but, in common with most parts of Yorkshire, was not 
1907 July 1. 
