THE BIRDS OF FAIR ISLE 157 



14th August. It is most frequent in September and the 

 first half of October — the time when the small migratory 

 birds are abundant on their southern passage, and it 

 makes sad havoc in their ranks. On some days several 

 are to be seen, but as a rule one or two only come under 

 notice. 



Falco tinnunculus, Kestrel. — The Kestrel is regular 

 in its appearances as a bird of double passage. It has 

 only once been recorded in winter, and has not been 

 known to nest. 



The spring visits date from 26th February, and in 

 most seasons it is seldom seen after April. In May 19 10, 

 however, a number were observed between the 14th and 

 the 28th. Single birds have been noted as late as 15th 

 June. 



In some years a few have appeared late in July and 

 during August, which were probably visitors from the 

 Shetlands ; but it is much more in evidence later, 

 when I have seen several on the wing simultaneously. 

 The autumn movements commence with September, and 

 the passage extends over two months. As many as 

 six were seen on ist November 1906, and it has 

 occurred singly down to the 12 th of that month. The 

 only recorded instance of its appearance in winter was on 

 4th December 1907. 



Phalacrocorax ck^^q, Cormorant. — Is quite common 

 as a winter visitor. It arrives in considerable numbers at 

 the end of August, and remains until the early spring. 

 It has not been known to nest. 



Phalacrocorax graculus. Shag. — A very abundant 

 resident, finding extremely congenial haunts amid the 

 numerous caves and in the crannies afforded by the 

 extensive range of cliffs. 



