Page:The Zoologist, 4th series, vol 4 (1900).djvu/551

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Marten in Cleveland.—On the 9th of February last an example of the Marten (Mustela martes) was trapped at Swainby-in-Cleveland, on the estate of my friend Mr. E.B. Emerson. Mr. Emerson's keeper informs me that it was caught in a Weasel-trap set in the hollow space of a double wall, on the edge of the moor, at the top of the valley known as Scugdale. It was alive when found, and was held by one leg that was badly bruised. The animal was placed in a Ferret-box, and feigned death while the keeper was present, but when no one was near it became alert, and looked around as if to find a way for escape; on the reappearance of the keeper it again "played 'possum." The next day it died from the effects of the injuries it received while in the trap, and Mr. Emerson has had it preserved by Mussell, of Middlesborough, who tells me it is an old male. It is difficult to account for the occurrence of this rare animal in Cleveland, a district so far removed from its last stronghold, although one well suited to its habits. (The Cliffe, Redcar).

Albino Stoat in Lincolnshire.—A pure albino Stoat (Mustela erminea) was caught in Lincolnshire in September. Even the tag at end of the tail was pure white; eyes pink. I consider this a most rare variety, and am glad to have been able to add it to my variety collection.— (Rainworth, Notts).

Black Rat in Forfarshire.—While fishing last month on the North Esk, I picked up a specimen of the old English Black Rat (Mus rattus), deposited apparently on the bank by a recent flood. A keeper who was with me at the time informed me that, although they used to be more common, this was the first he had seen for about fourteen years. I may add that it was on the Forfarshire bank, near North Water Bridge.— (The Grange, Alresford, Hants).

The Lesser Rorqual in the Essex Blackwater.—On the afternoon of Sept. 23rd young Mr. George Cardnell was out in his small punt, when he