416 [Proc. B.N.F.C, 



The elevation of a tree gives a certain security, as is illustrated 

 in the case of pigeons' nests, which are mere platforms, and not 

 lined with non-conducting material. Safety that results from 

 concealment is also obtained by the habit of building in trees 

 and bushes; but birds can be educated tO' neglect such pre- 

 cautions, and many acquire a practice of building in most ex- 

 posed sites. The goldfinch's and the thrush's nests illustrate 

 the cup-shaped variety ; the willow wren gives us an example 

 of the domed kind, and the coot sometimes shows an admirably- 

 constructed passage-way leading to its home. Gannets and 

 kittiwakes make their nests largely of sea weeds ; some birds 

 use only vegetable materials in the construction of their nests, 

 while others use, in addition, feathers, hairs, &c. 



The rooks in building in colonies illustrate a peculiarity 

 found in a number of birds ; while the moor-hen, which flits 

 with eggs or young when necessity arises, gives us an excellent 

 example of maternal care among birds. 



After the lecture, the Vice-President, Messrs. N. H. Foster, 

 W. H. Workman, and C. M. Cunningham made remarks on the 

 subject of the lecture, and commented on the beauty of the 

 slides. Dr. Wilson having replied, the proceedings closed. 



"A WEEK IN INNISMURRAY." 



The usual monthly meeting of this Club was held in the 

 Museum, College Square North, on Tuesday, December 19th, 

 at eight o'clock — the President (Mr. W. H. Phillips) in the 

 rhair. There was a large attendance of members and. friends. 

 The lecturer was Mr. Francis Joseph Bigger, M.R.I.A., the 

 subject being "A Week in Innismurray." 



Before proceeding with his lecture, Mr. Bigger made a few 

 remarks on Lough Neagh pebbles, specimens of which were 

 exhibited, pointing out the extreme beauty of these stones, 

 which might almost be considered precious, and the desirability 

 of their utilisation for ornamental decorative purposes. He 



