20 
1869, we took notice of an equal number together at once in the 
stony bed of the S tin char, near Daljerrock. 
Ray’s Wagtail (Motacilla Rayi). 
A common summer visitant, and found distributed in pairs 
throughout our district. We have seen it frequenting the pebbly 
bed of the Girvan at mid-day throughout the summer months. 
In the month of July, but more especially in autumn, we have 
repeatedly observed it on the sea-shore, generally at the mouth of 
a small rivulet. The plumage of the bird has then lost its lustre, 
and the bright yellow of the spring dress has entirely disappeared. 
ANTIIIDyE. 
The Tree Pipit (Anthus arboreus). 
Found breeding near Girvan. Several pairs may be seen 
throughout the summer frequenting the outskirts of Killoop 
Wood. It is also met with at Braehill, and other localities in the 
district. 
The Meadow Pipit (Anthus pmtensis). 
There appears to be a partial migration of this species southwards 
in autumn, many flocks at that season descending from the higher 
grounds to the fields skirting the shore. These congregations 
disappear, and come back in the following spring. The meadow 
pipit, like some of the buntings and warblers, looks much altered 
about the close of autumn when the plumage becomes faded. 
The Rock Pipit (Anthus petrosus). 
Strictly confined to the sea-shore, where it appears to be uni¬ 
formly distributed from Ayr to the Mull of Galloway. In some 
places where the shore is flat it constructs its nest among the 
rough stones beyond high water mark, and at the line where 
tufts of grass appear in summer time. In rocky situations it is 
placed in crevices, sometimes at a considerable height in the front 
of the precipice. We have taken it in exceedingly picturesque 
spots on the line of rocks near Carleton Fishery—the nest being 
often placed under a tuft of wild roses or other flowers, and com¬ 
pletely screened from observation. 
