ALL RIGHTS RESERVRD.'\ 
Nature Notes ; 
THE SELBORNE SOCIETT'S MAGAZINE. 
No. 206. FEBRUARY, 1907. Vol XVlIl. 
BIRD-LIFE IN THE VICINITY OF SOUTH-EAST 
LONDON. 
AVING lived in this part of London for the last ten 
years and more, during which time I have kept an 
accurate record of the various species of birds that 
I have come across, I venture to give a list of some, 
together with a few notes, which may be of interest to bird- 
lovers in our great city. 
Taking the district of Eltham and its close proximity, extend- 
ing towards Plumstead and the low-lying country round about, 
my observations for this article extend no further than Belvedere 
Park, not more than if miles from Bostal Heath, which latter 
place is well known to the public of this part of the Metropolis. 
During the course of a year one may observe many varieties 
of our larger birds passing over from time to time, such as 
Herons, Wild Geese, Curlews, &c., but the seventy-seven birds 
enumerated range from the “golden crowned Wren” to the 
Wood-pigeon ; so that I do not touch any of the larger varieties, 
but confine myself to the smaller species; and I feel quite certain 
that the majority of people have no idea of the great variety of 
summer migrants that breed regularly with us each year, at no 
great distance from our homes. 
The first summer visitor who makes himself known near 
London is the Chiff-chaff, and he is with us before March is gone ; 
yet a little later the Wryneck keeps him company, together 
with our charming little warbler, the Willow- Wren. Perhaps 
the Wood-W'ren may be near, but the pleasing little song of the 
Willow-Wren must appeal to many who enjoy the presence of 
spring, even though the Chiff-chaff may be plaintively chirpjng 
his name at the same time. 
You may perhaps be listening to a Skylark singing, and he 
may appear an ordinary bird to )Ou, yet he is a new arrival here ; 
