species by its larger size, browner colour, and white breast and abdomen. When the two are not together the best test is the voice. In the Alpine Swift the note is a loud double twitter; in the common species it is a single screech.
Alcedo ispida, Linn. Kingfisher.—Only one was noticed, viz. at Lugano; but probably inhabits many other suitable localities in Switzerland. Resident and generally distributed in small numbers throughout Ireland.
General distribution.—Resident throughout Central and Southern Europe, also North Africa, where it also occurs as a winter visitor. The Western and South-western Asiatic types vary somewhat from the European birds.
Gecinus viridis, Linn. Green Woodpecker.—Rather common in different parts of Switzerland. To Ireland it is a very rare and accidental visitor. For its occurrences see the following:—(a) Thompson, vol. iii. Appendix, p. 441; (b) Watters, p. 97; 'Zoologist,' 1889, p. 145; (c) 'List of Irish Birds,' by the late A.G. More, p. 18; (d) Saunders's 'Manual of British Birds,' 1899, p. 273.
General distribution.—Distributed throughout Central and Southern Europe, as well as Western Asia.
Iÿnx torquilla, Linn. Wryneck.—Once observed at Geneva. Very rare in Ireland. For occurrences see (a) 'List of Irish Birds,' by the late A.G. More, p. 19; (b) 'Migration Report for 1886,' p. 155; (c) Saunders's 'Manual of British Birds,' 1899, p. 271.
General distribution.—In summer it is found over the greater parts of Europe and Asia, reaching as high as lat. N. 64°. In winter it visits Southern Asia and Central Africa.
Order Columbæ.
Columba palumbus, Linn. Wood-Pigeon; "Ring-Dove."—Common in many parts of Switzerland. Resident and common in Ireland.
General distribution.—Over the European continent, North Africa, and West Asia, The birds from Northern Europe move southwards in winter.
Turtur communis, Selby. Turtle-Dove.—A few were seen about Central Switzerland (Lucerne and Grindelwald). Rare
