Page:The Zoologist, 3rd series, vol 1 (1877).djvu/423

From Wikisource
Jump to navigation Jump to search
This page needs to be proofread.
THE BIRDS OF THE BERMUDAS.
397

with his assistance, to reject all doubtful specimens in compiling the catalogue. An old soldier, settling at the expiration of his service on the picturesque promontory of Stocks Point, where he still resides, Mr. Bartram has added the study of Natural Science to that of farming; and, in addition to producing the best arrowroot in the place, he has a turn at Geology, Conchology, Ornithology, and several other "ologies;" writes on scientific subjects to the local papers; and smokes his pipe in his museum, monarch of all he surveys—a commendable example to the British army.

These, however, are not the only assistants, past or present, that I met with. My friend Col. Bland, R.E., an excellent ornithologist, though he was too much engrossed with the cares of the R.E. office to accompany me in many of my excursions, helped me much in my identifications, which his knowledge of Canadian forms greatly aided; while Mr. J.M. Jones, besides placing his note-book at my disposal, was always ready with a suggestion or kind word of encouragement. Lieut. Denison, R.E., my companion in many a bird-hunt in days gone by, arrived in Bermuda in January, 1875—too late, unfortunately, to take much part in my labours. On him falls the task of checking and "auditing" my accounts, of remedying numerous deficiencies, and of supplying much additional information during his eighteen months' "durance vile" in Bermuda.

To save confusion I have adopted the nomenclature of Dr. Coues, in his 'Key to North American Birds;' for, though I do not conscientiously endorse the same throughout, I feel impelled, by the force of modern subversive currents, to adhere to it.

Turdus migratorius, Red-breasted Thrush; Robin.—By no means common, but occasionally arrives singly or in small flocks, both on northward and southward migrations, especially the former. Specimens were obtained in February and March, 1850, and in March, 1855. One was sent to Mr. J.M. Jones on November 24th, 1871, when several others were seen. I saw one near Hungry Bay on October 29th, 1874; and Mr. Bartram obtained one at Stocks Point about the same time. The three last-named occurrences established the autumnal appearance of the species, which had not been recorded in former years. Like many other migrants, the "Robin" would seem to modify its habits considerably on finding itself in a strange country, and to become shy and retiring in