54 
ANATIDiE. 
Eastwood, Hector — “ Besides tlie advantages already described from 
its local situation, this country has the peculiar benefit of possessing a 
certain grass or sea-weed which maintains myriads of wild-fowl, and 
gives them a taste and flavour superior to those of any other place or 
country. The most abundant crop of this grass is found inside the 
harbour, from the island of Woodtown to within two miles of the town 
[of Wexford], and to the extremity of the bay eastward. There are 
two loughs at some distance, where it also grows, though not so pro- 
fusely, and to these outposts the birds take their flight when the tide 
rises in the bay above the weed, and make a pass through the air as 
regular as if it were meted out, from which they never deviate. Under 
these lines fowlers take their stand, often with great success, particu- 
larly in dark and blowing weather. The number brought to market is 
not easily ascertained ; it is, however, reasonable to state it at 200 
couple a week for six months every year. The average prices may be 
thus — barnacle, 6s. ; whinnard, 3s. ; wigeon, 2s. 6d. ; teal, Is. 8d. ; 
and duck (least liked), 2s. a pair. Besides these, there is a great 
supply of sea-fowl of an inferior quality, which are bought up and con- 
sidered very good ; this sale produces 1680 a month, or above J61,000 
a year [J6500 for “six months”]. They are purchased by carriers, 
who convey them through the country and into the adjacent counties, 
and make a good livelihood by retail. Some are despatched in the 
mail and day coaches to Dublin, where they are esteemed, and, as it is 
said, many baskets are sent across the channel.” 
All tlie statements respecting the habits of the brent goose 
contained in these extracts is not correct ; but as it is pleasant to 
see that the subject has long since engaged attention, I shall 
not be so ungenerous as formally to criticize them. I shall, 
instead, describe in full detail, as at present known, the 
Habits of the Brent Goose in Belfast Bay . 
The old accounts of the time of arrival and departure are cor- 
rect. The earliest period I have noted is the 20th August;*' and 
* Their appearance in this month is of common occurrence. The three latest 
notes I made on the subject are — August 27, 1845. Brent geese have arrived in 
Belfast Bay ; — August 24, 1847. A flock observed on wing above Larne Lough; — 
August 25, 1848. Four killed in Belfast Bay ; the earliest this season, and no more 
yet seen. 
