Page:The Zoologist, 4th series, vol 3 (1899).djvu/226

200 famous trim for the table, as it had been feeding on the cranberries and bilberries which grow in profusion on the Stiperstones range, and it was covered with fat. It had evidently preferred the sweeter bilberry to the cranberry, as I made a note of on picking it up.

I also found a nest of this species in the spring of 1894 on the rocky heights above Aberhirnant. Sir E. Buckley's picturesque residence in Merionethshire; it contained a single much-incubated egg. Ring-Ousels are undoubtedly partial to rocky situations, and it is perhaps worthy of remark that just about the time when Fieldfares and Redwings are quitting our shores for northern climes the Ring-Ousels make their reappearance. The nest bears a striking resemblance to that of the Blackbird, as do some of the eggs to those of that species; but a combination of care and patience should always prevent any blundering in the matter of a correct identification of the same.

According to my observations, one of the earliest of the spring migrants to put in an appearance in this county (Leicestershire) is the Wheatear. I find on reference to notes extending over several years that the little Chiffchaff hunts it very closely, but in the matter of actual precedence, in the large majority of cases, the Wheatear is easily first.

I have observed its sprightly form even before the middle of March in some seasons, and have been frequently struck with wonder at its comparative tameness on arrival in this country, allowing a very imminent approach as it does, and apparently courting close inspection. Invariably by itself when I have so observed it—for, like other migratory species, the males precede the females—it regards the intrusion of a visitor on its temporary halting ground with consummate indifference. I should here remark, however, that the grass pastures and tillage lands of High Leicestershire are little calculated to permanently attract such species as resort for breeding purposes to the downs and warrens and the wild, mountainous, and uncultivated districts of more southern counties.

A favourite resting ground in the spring of the year with an odd Wheatear or so is a large rabbit-warren on the borders of my