488 mr. a. Patterson’s natural history notes from Yarmouth. 
December 31st. To-day ends the quietest year for birds, and 
I think the least eventful year I ever remember in any branch of 
Natural History in Yarmouth and the neighbourhood. Scarcely 
any Ducks or Wild Fowl have visited Breydon. 
1899. 
On January 5th a Red Crossbill was killed by a boy who knocked 
it down with a stick, out of a bush at Burgh Castle. 
January 9th. Enormous gathering of Gulls (Black-headed) on 
a “ flat ” near the ship drain on Breydon. I estimated 3000. When 
they rose it was a pretty sight. 
January 11th. A 12-inch Doree or Dory washed up alive on 
the beach. 
On January 14th I saw an Iceland Gull on a flat near Yauxhall 
Station. It allowed of a very near approach. I watched it for 
some time through a powerful little telescope. Unfortunately for 
the bird others got on its track and confirmed my identification. 
On January 17th a Lemon Sole ( Solea lascaris ) was handed to 
me by a local fish dealer, which I sent to Mr. Southwell to confirm 
my finding. It is a rare fish with us. 
January 20th. A fawn-coloured Blackbird was shot at Bradwell. 
Two Brent Geese on Durrant’s stall early in first week in February ; 
one was much larger than the other. 
An albino Brill brought in in first week in March. 
March 21st. During a snow-storm I saw about 150 Widgeon on 
Breydon, and 12 Redshanks. 
