CHARADRIIDA. 595 
THE KNOT. 
TRINGA CANUtus, Linnzus. 
Camden (1607) connected with King Canute the trivial name of 
this species, and Drayton (1622) gave further currency to the fond 
idea ; but the origin is probably to be sought in the call, Anut, hnut. 
The Knot has long been known as a regular visitor to the British 
coasts, and down to the end of the 17th century it was captured in 
nets and systematically fattened for the table. Flocks, mainly of 
young, make their appearance in mid-August, but the bulk of the 
adults arrive somewhat later, and large numbers remain with us 
until the following May; they are then joined by migrants which 
have developed in a higher degree the rich red tints of the nuptial- 
dress under the influence of a warmer climate, and eventually 
all, except the non-breeding birds, depart for the far north-west. 
Nowhere in Great Britain is the Knot more abundant than on the 
extensive sand-banks and mud-flats of the estuaries on the east, 
especially on the Humber ; but in the Hebrides and down the west 
side of Scotland it is comparatively rare until the Solway is reached, 
whence it becomes plentiful in suitable situations down to Cornwall. 
Large numbers are found in Ireland during the colder months, and 
sometimes until late in spring. 
