Page:The Zoologist, 4th series, vol 5 (1901).djvu/273

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ORNITHOLOGICAL NOTES FROM SURREY.

By John A. Bucknill, M.A.

Since the publication, in the summer of 1900, of 'The Birds of Surrey,' I have, as I felt sure would be the case, had my attention drawn to a considerable quantity of interesting matter which had either escaped my notice or had not been previously communicated to me. Several fresh correspondents have also favoured me with their personal observations. These accumulated notes have assumed such proportions that I have decided to publish them in the form of a connected paper.

The Editor of this Journal has kindly informed me of a small book, published in 1856, entitled 'A New Flora of the Neighbourhood of Reigate, Surrey,' by James Alexander Brewer, F.L.S. This publication, although dealing almost entirely with botanical observations, contains as an appendix an interesting list of local birds compiled by two gentlemen, Messrs. William H. Tugwell and Charles Andrews. As, however, it condescends to no detail of any sort whatever, but is merely a bare catalogue of names, and as it does not include any species new to my already published list, I do not intend to set it out or remark upon it at any great length. It enumerates one hundred and fifteen species, amongst which are to be found the following names:—Merlin, Kite, Buzzard (Common), Hen-Harrier, Shorteared Owl, Great Grey Shrike, Grasshopper Warbler, Wood-Wren, White Wagtail, Grey Wagtail, Wood-Lark, Cirl Bunting, Brambling, Mealy Redpole, Crossbill, Chough, Raven, Hoopoe, Quail, Bittern, Bean Goose, Hooper, Pintail Duck, and Wigeon.

These are the chief names of interest; perhaps the most useful is that of the Kite, which in Surrey has scarcely any record.

The White Wagtail has attached to its name an asterisk, but no indication is given as to the meaning of it. Although the correct Latin name, M. alba, is given as well, it is curious to