268 THE ZOOLOGIST. 



BIRDS ON THE RIGI. 

 By Rev. Charles W. Benson, LL.D. 



In July, 1899, I was Chaplain under the Colonial and Conti- 

 nental Society at Rigi Kaltbad, and had an opportunity of 

 observing the birds at different heights on the Rigi, not usually 

 enjoyed by those making a very short stay in this truly delightful 

 locality. 



Although I was unsparing in my endeavours to note any birds 

 from Rigi Kaltbad (4791 ft.) to Rigi Kulm (5900 ft.), I could 

 only make a list of about twenty-six species, as follows : — 



Kestrel Falcon. — Not common. 



Carrion-Crow. — Very numerous. 



Nutcracker. — Nesting near the path to Kiissnacht. 



Mistle-Thrush. — Fairly numerous. 



Song-Thrush and Blackbird. — To be heard singing below Rigi 

 Kaltbad. 



Ring-Ouzel. — Very numerous, and taking the place of the Blackbird 

 with us. Called " Berg Drossel " by the Swiss. 



Black Redstart. — Very numerous everywhere on the Rigi. 



Common Redstart. — To be found in more sheltered places. 



Wren. — Very numerous. 



Goldcrest. — Not so plentiful. 



Blackcap Warbler. — Near Rigi Staflfel at height of over 5000 ft. 



Chiffchaff. — Breeding near Rigi Kaltbad Hotel. These were the 

 only Warblers on the mountain. 



Robin. — In the woods ; not very common. 



Chaffinch. — Rather numerous. 



Bullfinch. — Fairly plentiful. 



Lesser Redpoll. — Tolerably numerous. 



Coal Tit (Parus ater). — Numerous. 



Siskin. — The bird of the Rigi. Very numerous everywhere, in small 

 flocks, flying and singing. Some cocks in beautiful plumage. 



Spotted Flycatcher. — Fairly common. 



Green Woodpecker. — To be heard every day. 



Tree Pipit.- — Fairly numerous. 



