68 



The Natutalist. 



MERULID.^. 

 Dipper (Cluchis aqtmticus) — 



One was shot near the Suspension Bridge, at Thornes, in March, 



1 854 ; I saw it in the hands of Mr. Wright, previous to its 



being skinned. 

 Missel Thrush {Tardus viscivorus) — 



Breeds commonly in the orchards and woods around Wakefield. 



I have found its nest, containing eggs, as early as the first week 



in March. During a mild winter, its wild, harsh song may be 



heard from the beginning of January. 



Fieldfare {Tiirdus pilaris) — 



Is exceedingly abundant in the winter months. During the 

 winter 1872-3, I frequently saw near my house, a beautiful light 

 buff variety of this bird. My earliest date of this bird's arrival 

 is the 30th of September ; and the latest of its departure the 

 29th of April. 



Song Thrush {Turdm inusicus) — 



Breeds very plentifully in this district. I have seen its nest 

 with eggs in as early as the 9th of March, and as late as the 

 27th of July. 



Redwing {Tardus iliacus) — 



Large flocks of this bird stay with us throughout the winter. 

 The earliest date at which I have noted its arrival is the 2nd of 

 October ; and the latest of its departure the 27th of April. 



Some years ago there was a great controversy as to whether 

 this bird sung during its stay in England. Bearing on this 

 point, I may mention that Mr. Parkin and I have conclusively 

 settled the question in our own minds, as we have shot it whilst 

 in the act of singing. It is sui-prising to see the large numbers 

 of these birds congregating together, previous to leaving us for 

 their breeding quarters in Norway. 



Blackbird {Turdus meruld) — 



Is very abundant in this neighbourhood, and may be found 

 nesting in gardens in the town. Its song, to unpractised ears, 

 is not unfrequently confounded with that of the missel thrush, 

 but it may be easily recognised by its milder tone, and more 

 flute-like notes. It is one of the very few birds which occasion- 

 ally sing as they fly. Mr. Parkin has several beautiful pied 

 varieties, shot in this locality. 



{To be continued.^ 



