2 
SPOTTED REDSHANK. 
at that season. A pair of Spotted Redshanks, however, in the full adult blaek dress that is assumed durino- 
the breeding-season have come under my observation; these were seen about halfway up the flats on 
the east side of Rreydon just as day was breaking on the 13th of May, 1871, and a shot would doubtless 
liave been obtained had not the train from Norwich, due at Yarmouth at 3.20 a.m., put them on wing 
just as the punt was coming within range. After circling round for a time, uttering their singular and 
unmistakable cry, they sheered off towards the “lumps,” wliere they alighted for a few moments and 
eventually, disturbed by a shot on the upper part of the water, went off towards the sea-coast, lioldino- a 
due north-east course. 
M hen a large flock of M aders, in which both Redshanks are represented, is fairly within view through 
the glasses, it is easy to distinguish the two species at a glance ; in addition to the extra length of leg, 
the dull grey colouring of the breast and belly of T. fuscus differs greatly from the pure white plumage 
so conspicuous on the under parts of T. caUdris, and at once attracts attention. Though I failed to ascertain 
that these birds were known to the shore-gunners in either the cast or west of Sussex, the majority of the 
Rieydon puntmen were well aware of the difference in the size and colouring, and a few could imitate 
the note uith great accuracy. On several parts of the east coast I remarked that the gunners invariably 
termed this species the “ Shank,” while the Common Redshank was spoken of as the “ Redleg.” 
