FORTY-SIXTH ANNUAL REPORT, FOR I907. 
21 
The Yorkshire Coast Erosion Committee. — The 
Secretary, Mr. E. R. Matthews, reports that nothing- has occurred 
during' the past twelve months of special interest, and that the 
work of the Committee is not being- overlooked. 
The following were elected for 1908 : — 
Chairman — F. F. Walton, Hull. 
Convener — E. R. Matthews, Bridlington. 
Representative on Executive — F. F. Walton. 
Representative on Committee of Suggestions — E. R. Matthews. 
Other Members — P. W. Loten, Easington ; J. T. Sewell, 
Whitby; J. W. Stather, Hull; W. Y. Veitch, 
Middlesborough ; J. J. Burton, Nunthorpe ; and 
Rev. E. M. Cole, Wetwang. 
Wild Birds' and Egg^s' Protection Committee.— 
For the first time in the history of the Union, practical steps have 
been taken to preserve some of the more uncommon birds in the 
county. 
A few members of the Union have subscribed various sums 
to enable watchers to be employed where necessary, and to 
give rewards for the preservation of rare species. A good start 
has been made in this direction ; but it is hoped that a much 
larger subscription list will be obtained for- 1908, in order that 
our efforts may be extended, and a reserve fund instituted for 
the purpose of being applied to any urgent case. 
A watcher was employed during the nesting season at Spurn 
Point, with the result that the birds have done extremely well, 
and have been enabled to carry out their nesting operations 
without molestation. A gratifying increase in Lesser Terns and 
Ringed Plovers has resulted, and several pairs of Sheld Ducks and 
Oyster Catchers have brought off young safely. 
Several pairs of Arctic Terns frequented the point early in 
the season, but we regret to say did not stay to nest. 
The Peregrines at Bempton have again had our attention, 
and have brought off their young in safety. 
During the year we have had letters complaining about the 
destruction of Kingfishers, Bitterns, Common Buzzards, Dotterels, 
etc., in various parts. When, however, definite information, 
requesting names of culprits and witnesses, has been asked, in 
every case our informant has drawn back, with the excuse, 
generally, that they are friends of theirs, and they do not wish to 
be drawn into any bother. 
If members are prepared to give us the information, we will 
deal with the matter in an effective way, but we cannot do so if 
the information is withheld. 
The expenditure has been £12 los. loid., and receipts 
£ig 17s. 6d., leaving therefore a balance of ^7 6s. yh in hand 
towards the 1908 fund. 
