MIGRATION at the SPURN LIGHTHOUSE in 1897–98.
By John Cordeaux, F.R.G.S., M.B.O.U.
I am again (as in 1896) indebted to Mr. W.G. Cawnter, one of the light-keepers of the Spurn, for the following notes of birds observed by him at the Light in 1897 and part of 1898:—
February, 1897.
15th.—A few Starlings struck, and a Thrush killed.
March.
30th.—One Lapwing, one Grey Plover, one Little Grebe, two Larks, one Fieldfare, and several Chaffinches struck and were killed. Wind W.N.W., overcast, and drizzling rain.
April.
18th.—The Ringed Plovers are breeding; several nests have from one to two eggs.
19th.—A very large flock of Dunlins on the coast.
27th.—Lesser Tern seen for the first time.
28th.—Several Redstarts, Warblers, and Chiffchaffs struck. S.W. breeze, very gentle; night very dark.
May.
6th.—Several Chiffchaffs struck. Overcast, W., gentle breeze.
8th, 2 a.m.—Several Chiffchaffs and Redstarts striking. S.S.W., gentle, overcast.
26th.—Sedge Warblers, Whitethroats, and Redstarts flying around lantern. Light air from S.; night very dark.
June.
17th.— Swift killed at lantern; several flying around.
July.
1st.— Young Starling killed against lantern. N.E. (4), overcast and drizzle.
