Ornithological Notes from the Wilsden District (Yorkshire).—
Pratincola rubicola. Stonechat.—A male bird was seen near Keighley last Easter. It is somewhat curious that this species should so seldom make its appearance in this district, which seems so very suitable in every respect, and scarcely at any other season except early spring, and exceptionally rare as a nesting species.
Sylvia curruca. Lesser Whitethroat.—Although regarded as being generally distributed in Yorkshire, it is a very rare and local visitant to this neighbourhood, only two instances having come to our knowledge—one found by two of my sons in Beckfoot Lane, near Bingley, some years ago; and, curiously enough, I found a nestling last year (1899) within a few yards of the same place.
Phylloscopus rufus. Chiffchaff.—Exactly the same remarks apply to this species as the Stonechat. A few years ago a clutch of eggs were brought to me, which had been taken in Bingley Woods, which bore a striking resemblance to this species, and might have been so; if so, it is the only instance known to me of its breeding here.
P. trochilus. Willow-Wren.—A gamekeeper was describing a nest to me the other day which he had found built against the trunk of an oak at least two yards from the ground, and in all probability was referable to this species. I have found the nest in two instances built at some distance from the ground.
Locustella nævia. Grasshopper-Warbler.—One of my sons heard this bird last May in the Aire Valley, near Bingley. It may breed here more commonly than is supposed, but I have never been so fortunate as to find its nest.
Lanius excubitor. Great Grey Shrike.—One was shot in the Goit Stock Valley last autumn, and another killed in the same valley some twenty years ago; these, with one seen near Shipley by my brother and myself, are the only records.
Muscicapa atricapilla. Pied Flycatcher.—One (male) observed last May (1900) by one of my sons near Bingley. Occasionally seen on migration, but very rarely breeds. It is, however, local but abundant in the next valley ( Wharfedale).
Coccothraustes vulgaris. Hawfinch.—Saw two individuals last year (1899) in Bingley Wood. One of my sons and myself, a few weeks ago, found two nests within a short distance of each other in Wharfedale. There is no doubt about its extending its range northwards, as it is much more common than even a few years ago.
Carduelis elegans. Goldfinch.—Seen by one of my sons near Bingley last winter. Rather an irregular winter visitant with us. It is said to have nested here formerly, but does not now.
