PREFACE. 



Thaxks to our numerous contributors, the contents of 

 this seventh volume of British Birds is as varied, 

 and, we beheve, as interesting and valuable as that of 

 any which have preceded it. 



Perhaps the most noteworthy " events " recorded in 

 the volume have been the discovery of a breeding- 

 colony of Roseate Terns in Ireland, the nesting of 

 Kites in England, the appearance of a bird new to 

 Britain — the Dusky Warbler — and the incursion of 

 Wax wings. 



There have been many valuable articles and notes 

 on breeding, courting, and other habits ; and in this 

 connexion we may here give special thanks to those 

 who have enlivened our pages with photographs. 

 Detailed information has been afforded regarding the 

 plumages of several species, and points hitherto obscure 

 have been explained. 



Geographical distribution has been by no means 

 neglected. Not only have our contributors provided, 

 valuable articles collecting and bringing up-to-date the 

 information concerning certain areas, but also numerous 

 notes — all helping towards a more exact knowledge of 

 distribution and some effecting a considerable change- 

 in the previously-known status of the birds concerned. 



