i>YRON Island. ^. /y'7^.^<^./^ A NATURALIST IN 1 1 1 K MAGDALEN ISLANDS; GIVIN(-, A DHSCRirriOX OF Till: ISLANDS A\I) LIST ( 'F TIIL IlIRLS TAKEN TIIERi:, WITH oTiIEK ORXITIK >LUGICAL NOTES. BY CHARLES B. CORY. rLLCSTRATED FROM SKETCJIKS />']' 71 IE AUTHOR. 13 o s r o N < ' — \::3 c CO r ^■ K Ki H T. * CHARLES 1!. CORY. A. V. 1S78. boston: alfred mi;u(,e and son. i'kinteks. rRKFACE. •Ix the following pages I have endeavored to describe the incidents of a trip to those comparatively little-known islands, the Magdalexs, with a view to the study of their Ornithology. I have often thought that if collectors would 2five a summary of the results of their expeditions, naturalists would soon be able to estimate the geographical range of many species which at present we know^ very little about. In Part Second I have given a list of the species, with notes, that were taken or observed. Several of the specimens differed in a marked manner from their usual coloration; but while giving the points of difference in the notes reo^ardinei: them, I have felt that it would be too great a risk to describe them as varieties, as of late "ears more than half of the " new birds " have hardly received their names before they have sunk into synonymes, thus greatly impeding science. IV PREFACE. In conclusion, I wish to say that as every one is liable to mistakes, I hope that my readers will look lenientlv upon them, should they find any. I can only hope that they may prove to be "exceeding few." I would add that I have followed the classification given by Dr. Elliott Coues in his " Key." c. B. c. cux T K X rs. I'A Rr 1. THE MAflDAI.KX ISLANDS . KVkOX ISLAM) . lilKI) ROCKS A DAYS SrORT OX ORIXDSTOXE ISLAND HOW TO c;i:t tiikre PACE 7 12 23 28 PART II, birds OF THE MAGDALEN ISLANDS APPENDIX . INDEX ^I O 79 85 A NATURALIST 1\ IHK MAGDALEN ISLANDS CHAPTER I. THK ma(.;dale\' islands. On the 17th of July, 1878, as the first streaks of light became visible in the east, I climbed to the deck of the schooner '^' Stewart " and saw for the first time that terra incognita, the Magdalen Islands, rising from the sea about ten miles to the west, and stretching northward until they faded away in a faint, misty line. What ornithologist does not feel a keen sense of pleasure upon visiting a new field of study? and as I gazed upon the gradually nearing land I experienced the feelings of a miner journeying to some supposed El Dorado, awaiting with a keen anxiety for the moment to arrive when I could begin the exploration of its treasures. 8 A NAIUKAIJST IN THE MAGDALEN ISLANDS. Many birds were in sight, mostly Gannets, Terns, and Gulls, while several little Petrels were dancing over the water in the wake of the vessel. As we approached the shore Black Guillemots became numerous, rising from the water as we neared them and skimming awa}-, the white patch of their wings showing clearly in contrast with their black bodies. As we sailed slowly past, within a few hundred yards of Entry Island, I was struck with the barren aspect of the shore. Cliffs from forty to fifty feet in height, composed of red sandstone, rose almost perpendicularly from the water's edge, contrasting strangely with the verdure growing upon their summits. To our left, situated in a little valley, we could plainly see Amherst, the largest village on the islands, its white houses looking very picturesque as they stood out in relief against the background of green hills. Amherst is quite a thriving little place; the inhabitants devote themselves to fishing during the summer months, and do a very fair business. Of late years some Americans have built a factory here, which they devote to canning lobsters. It is in a flourishing condition, I believe, as lobsters are very plenty and large. TffE MAC DA LEX ISLAXDS. Havre aux Maison, or House Harbor, is tlic second in size on the islands. Here we were kindly received by I\Ir. J. Nelson Arsenault, who did all in his power to make us com- fortable. " Vous etes chez vous, monsieur," he repeatedly observed, after we had got quietly settled in his pretty little house. Here and at Amherst are the only places where any one can be comfortable. On all the rest of the islands it is almost impossible to sleep for the myriads of lleas and other insects which infest them ; but here, where the heat rarelv exceeds seventy degrees, when winter clothes are often a necessity even in July, and fresh milk and good food to be had for the asking, this quaint little village of House Harbor offers a splendid field to the naturalist or sportsman after a winter's confinement in the city. The Magdalens are composed of ten so-called islands, although they are all, with the exception of Entry Island, Deadman's Island, Byron Island, and the Bird Rocks, con- nected by a narrow sand-beach, thirtv-four miles in leniith and extending from East Point to Amherst. This belt of sand is covered in manv places with urass, lO A NATURALIST IN THE MAGD ALEX ISLANDS. that affords exccllLMit feeding for tlie cattle. The inhabitants take advantage of tliis, and during the suininer months turn their animals loose to shift for themselves. We often came upon large dro^'es of sheej), accompanied by numbers of diminutive horses, a peculiar breed, which seem to be indi- genous to these islands. They are strong, hardy little fellows, generally weighing from seven to eight hundred pounds. A fair one may be purchased for twenty dollars, and the price ranges from that to seventy-five. The inhabitants are nearly all of French descent, and still speak that language, although a Parisian would probably faint away if he listened to their conversation. I was very much amused to hear such expressions as " Faire shake hand'' or " La boat est venu " ; but although they have adopted many English words, and have a number of peculiar idioms, still, any one conversant with the French language would readily understand them. The scenery in many parts of the island is very pretty. The cliffs of soft red sandstone have been worn awav in manv places by the action of the sea, forming a sort of catacomb of caves, some of them extending to the depth of seventy THE MAG DA LEX ISI.AXDS. \ { feet. At Wolf Island, large })illars have been left standing, seemingly guarding the entranees to the numerous caves and inlets. On a calm day, a visit to Wolf Island would well repay the tourist or naturalist, as besides the beauty of the spot, the Black Guillemot {Uria grylU) breeds here in large numbers. 12 A NATUK.-UJST IX T//E MAGDALEN ISI. A XDS. CHAPTER II. r,YROX ISLAND. One pleasant afternoon we left House Harbor and set sail for Grand Entry Harbor, where we arrived the same evening, and spent a not very comfortable night on account of the myriads of fleas, which are much more numerous here than anywhere else on the islands. Here, after some little trouble, w^e procured a boat and set sail for Byron Island. It was a beautiful day, and our little craft sailed finely. As we passed out of the harbor I observed several American fishing schooners, their white sails forming a striking contrast to the deep red ones of the island boats. Numbers of Gannets and Black Guillemots dotted the water in every direction, while occasionally a seal came to the surface and gazed stupidly at us as we passed. We made the run of twentv-four miles In about five hours, and cast anchor in a little bay, protected by cliffs that rise in some places over two hundred feet in height. In this isolated in KOA' isLAxn. 13 spot a few families have made their homes. The men fish durino- the summer, while the women do all the work about the house. It was a rather amusing sight to see a girl of fourteen hard at work chopping wood, swinging an axe with the precision of a veteran wood-cutter. Byron Island has an area of about four square miles, and is mostly covered by a thick growth of diminutive pines. While rambling around I observed several species of birds which I did not expect to find on such a deserted spot. Among them were Tachyciiieta bicolor, Coiyle riparia^ Loxia leiicoptera^ Loxia cicrvlrostra var. americana, Sitta canadensis^ and a few scattered Puffins {Fraicrcnla arclica). Gulls and Terns were abundant, and a solitary Blue Heron {Ardca Jicrodias) stalked with solemn strides through a small marsh wdiich had been formed in a depression of the ground by the recent rains. On the eastern shore of Byron Island a point of sand runs out into the ocean for several hundred yards, from which graiid sport may be had in September; but it cannot com- pare with East Point, the most northern point of the con- nected chain of islands. 14 A NATURALIST IX THE MAGDALEX ISI.AXDS. Wc left too early for really good shooting. Any one wish- ing to visit the islands for sport should be there during the month of September, when the Ducks, Geese, Teal, etc., are very })lentiful. The following is a list of some of the birds we shot during the week endino- Au^^ust 20, which have more interest to the sports Godwits Yellowlcgs Teal Snipe Sandpipers Gurlew . Plover . Turnstones Duck nan than to the naturalist : — 6 64 6 9 57 7 74 21 4 Small birds may be kept, by those who have not the leisure to prepare them in the usual way, by an injection of carbolic acid, the " crude " I think the best. Take a syringe and inject a small quantity into the throat and vent, introduce a small piece of cotton into the cavities to prevent the acid from staining the feathers, and the bird is ready to be placed nvh'ox /sr.A.vD. awav in its box. Onlv small birds should be treated in this wav. They mav be skinned afterwards, if desirable, but can never be made to look well. It is necessary to be verv care- ful in using the acid, as a drop of it on the flesh hardens it and sometimes produces an ulcer; and remember that a single drop of the acid in the eye will totally destroy the sight. MAMMALS. There are no lari/e animals to be found on the islands. Foxes arc common, and occasionally a Silver Fox is taken, but the latter is rare. Rabbits arc numerous on some of the islands. Seals are very plenty in spring, and are hunted with eagerness by the inhabitants, as the sale of their hides and oil forms one of their most important incomes. A man told me that he had killed one hundred and eleven in one day. They kill them on the floating ice, and their hunting is often- times attended with serious accidents. About seventy-five years ago the Walrus was common also. I was fortunate cnoucrh to obtain a verv fine skull from Uvron Island, and several tusks. Their bones are still found in numbers near Grand Entrv and on the beach west of Andierst. 1 6 ^i x.r/VA/t/./.sr /.v '///a magdalux islaxds. FISH. There are a number of brooks on tlie islands wliich are filled with trout, but none of them very large. I believe the largest that I heard of being taken weighed about a pound and a half. There are also several small lakes, whieh the inhabitants claim contain large fish. IXSIXTS. Nearly all of the islands are infested with ficas and other small insects, which renders it very uncomfortable to camp in the open air. Mosquitoes do not appear to be very plenty, as we were troubled but little by them, and what few there were seemed to have a great respect for tobacco smoke; so by a judicious use of that narcotic we were enabled to enjoy many pleasant moonlight evenings in comparative comfort. Bird Rock. liiKD ROCKS. CHATTER HI. IJIRI) ROCKS. >^i ^t^G^S^Si^-^-^^'^ .-r^-»%r^i:-l^ fv- ^Q.«iC» "" I HAD heard such fabulous stones rec^ardinG: tlie numbers of birds that frequent the Bird Rocks that I determined on visiting them ; so one mornir.g, having a fair wind, \vc started, taking with us our man of all work, " Metrick," and the owner and captain of the little craft by courtesy called a boat. The "Rocks" are situated about twelve miles to the north- east of Byron Island, and can only be visited during very calm weather, as otherwise it would be impossible to land. 3 I 8 ^ NA7Uf:ALIST IN THE MAGDALEN I^LAXDS. Even when perfeetly calm, it is no easy matter to pilot a boat safely among the partly submerged rocks in front of the beach. As we approached " Little Bird," which is sit- uated about a quarter of a mile from its larger companion, it presented the appearance of being covered with snow. "Des moineaux," remarked the captain, and so it was. The rock was covered with birds, — literally packed, — hardly a spot was left uncovered. Thousands of Gannets and Puffins were perched upon every conceivable projection. As we passed close to them, many of the Gannets, which were constantly passing and repassing from one reck to the other, sailed within a few yards of us, their black-tipped wungs and pure white plumage giving them a very pretty appearance. Every few moments some one of them would suddenly close its wings and descend with the speed of an arrow, disappearing completely beneath the water, and they generally reappeared holding some unlucky fish in their beaks wdiich had allowed itself to approach too near the surface. Bird Rock rises in a nearly perpendicular cliff to the height of one hundred and two feet, and has about four BIRD /COCA'S. 19 square acres of ground upon its summit. Here for the last few years a lighthouse has bjen established, and the men stationed here, ^vhen they found that we wished to land, lowered a small platform by the aid of a crane and windlass for our accommodation. By the aid of a little careful packing, we were enabled to place everything, including ourselves, upon this substitute for an elevator. The box or tray in which we were seated was about four feet square, with six-inch sides. When we were all snugly packed away, it is unnecessary to state that we were somewhat crowded; but just then a faint voice came to us with a questioning "All right?" and I had hardly waved mv hand in answer, when we becran to ascend. As we moved slowly up within a few feet of the cliff, we were enabled to form some idea of the immense quantities of birds which breed here. Gannets, PufHns, Razor-billed Auks, and Guillemots, together with an occasional Kittawake Gull, were sitting upon the ledges in long rows, some upon eggs, but most of them were mixed up with young ones of all shades and sizes, from those nearly able to ily to the downy little fellows apparently just from the shell. Around, above, below. 20 ^^ AA7U/^AL/Sr l.V 71/F. MAGDALEN JSf.ANDS. everywhere in fact, the air was full of birds. Those on the lecbes ciid not offer to flv, but sat still and stared at us stupidly. The air was tainted with the odor arising from hundreds of fish in all stages of decomposition. Such a horrible clamor was kept up, too. One can never realize the sight until it has been seen. About half-way up, the captain and our man began to tremble and turn pale. The way they hung on to the chains was a beautiful sight to see. I{ver3' few feet the chain would run over itself as it was wound up by the windlass, and in slipping back to its place it gave us a slight jerk, that caused the captain to mutter his prayers faster than ever. The ascent took twenty-seven minutes, and it really is not a pleasant sensation being swung about over a hundred feet in the air, supported only by a rusty chain. As we neared the top, the captain kept crying out, " For God's sake, hurry!" and when we were swung over the cliff above solid ground, he gave a deep sigh and swore that if he got down alive he would never a^rain make the ascent. We were kindly received by j\ir. Peter Whalen, the light- keeper, and after a dinner on Guillemots' eggs we made BIKD ROCKS. 21 the circuit of the island, accompanied by our genial host. Only in very calm weather can boats come ashore here, as they have to run under the cliffs and land upon a small, rocky beach, the only place where it is safe for a boat to approach the island. Mr. Whalen told me that the supply- boat, w uch comes here twice a year, oftentimes has to wait davs before she can land the stores. 1 was very much pleased to observe specimens of Sitta canadensis and Cotyle riparia, the former being very tame, and making itself quite at home about the lighthouse, and to obtain a fine immature specimen of the Arcadian Owl [Nyctalc arcadia). Mr. Whalen showed me specimens of the Hlack and Yellow Warbler {Dcjidrocca macniosa), Yellow- rumpled Warbler {Dendrocca coronata), and Richardson's Owl (^Nyctalc tcngmalmi var. Richardsonii), which he stated he obtained here in June, and that many species of small birds come to the " Rock," of which, unfortunately, he did not know the names, and had not preserved the skins. Five species of birds breed here every year, in such num- bers that the fishermen used to gather their eggs by the barrel until the government put a stop to it. These five 2 2 // NATURALIST IN THE MAGDALEN ISLANDS. species, tlie Gannet {Srila bassana). Common Guillemot [Lorn' via troilc), Razor-billed Auk {Ulamania torda), Kittawake Gull {Larus Iridactyhis), and the Pufiin (Fratcrciila arctica), with the exception of the latter, which generally breeds in a hole, rear their young side by side, and appear to live as amicably as possible. A DAY'S SFOh'T O.V GKIXOSTOXE ISI.AXD. 23 CHAPTER IV. A DAY'S SPORT ON (iKINDSTONE ISLAND. Let me try to sketch a clay's sport to be had on these charming little islands. To do this, I do not know that I can do better than to give an extract from my journal. Tuesday, Aug. 20, 1878. — As I arose and opened my vvlndow the soft notes of the Blackbreast Plover were borne faintly to me by the morning breeze. The air was crisp and cold ; and although the sun was shining brightly, a strong wind still continued, making it impracticable to try and reach the shooting-ground by boat ; so after a hearty breakfast we harnessed up our little horse and started around by road, a distance of about four miles. As we passed in and out of the clumps of woods, numbers of birds w^ere constantly to be seen, filling the air with their cheerful little songs. Robins, Snowbirds, and Blackpoll Warblers appeared to be the most common species. Numbers of Sparrows were incessantly 24 A NATURALIST IX TIIK MAGDALEN ISLANDS. darting in and out of the undergrowth, while an occasional Crow saikd slowly across the road, until perceiving us he would hurry away, uttering a parting "caw" of joy at his supposed lucky escape. Curlew were very abundant, but shy, as they always are. At times, large flocks w^ould rise from the fields and fly silently for a few hundred yards before ac^ain alio^htinG^ in some field more secure from obser- vation ; and sometimes, although none could be seen, their soft, trilling whistle would be heard, as though some watch ful sentinel was giving notice to his companions of our whereabouts. As we crossed the beach to our "stands" large flocks of Plover and Yellowlegs started up in front of us, but they did not fly far, the wind being too strong for them to remain long exposed to it. Hardly had I got fairly settled in my box before a flock of about a dozen Blackbreast Plover settled among my decoys, from which I bagged four with the first barrel, and another with the second. I had just picked them up, and was returning to the "stand," when a Mudsonian Godwit lit among the decoys without paying the slightest attention to A /\4y'S S/'ORT ON GRIND^TOXE ISf.AXD. 2^ me. He apparently came to the conclusion that they were not of his own kind, for after looking around for a moment he started away, passing almost directly over my box, into which he nearly fell when I shot him. Vellowlegs (Toia)ius iiiclauolcucus) w^ere very abundant, and I was amused to see my friend kill five young birds of that species, one after another, which allowed him to walk within shot of them. The marsh in which I had placed my "box" extended in an unbroken line for nearly twelve miles, and is sheltered on either side by sand-hills that rise from twenty to fifty feet in height. Here the birds love to feed, especially on a stormy day, as they are protected from the wind by the sand-hills, and find plenty of food among the rich grass, and in the large, shallow pocls of brackish water. Sandpipers in large fiocks were constantly passing and repassing; in fact, I found the shooting here to have all the pleasure of deep-sea fishing, in the uncertainty of what would next be taken. I had just shot a fine specimen of the great Blue Heron (Ardej herodias), when a fiock of Teal passed on one side of me, while a fiock of about twenty Plover were passing on 26 A NATUKAl.lsr /.V TflE MAG DA I. EX /SLA.\'DS. the other. In trviivj: to do too nuicli, 1 did nothini^; for I ox\\y oljtained one Teal. Later in the fall, tliis is a grand place for Geese, which come in here to drink and wash them- selves in the numerous pools of partly fresh water. On this day we made quite a varied bag, which I give in detail : — Hudsonian Curlew Hudsonian God wits Blackbreast Plover Golden Plover Semipal mated Plover . Turnstones . Greater Yellowleg^. Yellowlegs Least Sandpipers . White-rumpled Sandpipers Pectoral Sandpiper American Dunlin . Semii)al mated Sandpipers Wilson's Snipe Red-breasted Snipe Teal .... Blue Heron . I 2 20 2 9 5 12 9 1 I 5 2 4 I I 95 A DAY'S SrORT ON GR/XDSTONE ISLAND. 2 J Ravens were very common. I must have seen over a dozen of them. Gulls were also numerous, mostly in large flocks, as if preparing to go south. On the way back I observed a Short-eared Owl {^Bracliy- otiis paliistris) flying low over a field, but was unable to obtain a shot at it. We were very hungry, and were glad enough to find that our hostess had been on the watch for us, and had dinner all ready upon our arrival. Any one who knows how hungry a man can get after a hard day s shooting will appreciate, as we did, the dinner which we sat down to, beginning with Plover and Curlew, cooked to a turn, boiled potatoes, corn bread, white bread and jelly, and ending with an old-fash- ioned plum pudding, with hot coffee and cold spring water to wash them down. After dinner it was our custom, in fine weather, to roll into the hammocks in front of the house and enjoy our cigars in the moonlight, while the only sounds that broke the peaceful silence of the scene were the occasional " good- night " notes of the Golden-crowned Thrush and the indis- tinct sound of the waves breaking upon the beach. 28 A A' A TURA LIST IN THE MA G DA L EN ISL A NDS. CHAPTER V. HOW TO GET THERE. There is an old saying that " Knowledge can do no harm," and therefore I do not think that a few remarks on the ways and means of getting to the islands will be out of place here. From St. John, N. B., to Pictou, N. S., is a ride of about sixteen hours, and tiresome enough it is, too ; leaving St. John at half past eight in the morning, and arriving at Pictou at about ten o'clock the same evening. The best hotel in Pictou is the St. Lawrence House. From Pictou the steamer "Albert" runs twice a month to the Magdalen Islands, in fine w^eather touching at George- town and Souris, P. E. I. Another way of getting there, for those who have plenty of time at their disposal, is to go to Souris, P. E. I., and charter a schooner, or stop there and wait for the "Albert." Souris offers some fair I/O IV 70 GET Til EKE. 29 shootiiiix In the season, and also some verv crood trout fishing. Good accommodations can be obtained at the Bay \'ie\v House, owned by James McDonald, Esq. No delicacies can be obtained there. Such thin^rs as i^ood coffee, etc., should be purchased in St. John. On the Magdalens, at Amherst Harbor, will be found plenty of quaint little places to stop at. Those kept by Mrs. Burns and Mrs. Shea are to be recommended. At House Harbor, Mr. J. Nelson Arsenault will do all in his power to make any one comfortable. Mr. Boudrou will also take a few boarders. On all the other islands the traveller must depend upon the hospitality of the inhabitants. PART II. CATALOGUE OF BIRDS TAKEN OR OBSERVED IN THE MAGDALEN ISLANDS, WITH NOTES REGARDING THOSE FOUND BREEDING, Etc , Ere. CATALOGUE. I. r URDUS MIGRATOR /us, L. (Romx) This is one of the most abundant birds on the islands. Many of the specimens taken varied greatly in coloration and size. It is just possible that some few birds may remain all winter, as I was told by the inhabitants that they often ob- served them as late as December. Breeds. 2. TURDUS PALLAS/, Cab. (Hermit Tiikush ) The present species was not uncommon. I procured specimens of both young and old birds. Breeds. 34 ^ NATURALIST ly THE MAGDALEN ISLANDS. 3. TURDCS Sll'A/NSON/, Cab. (Olivh-kackei) Thrush.) I do not think it is at all uncommon, althouoh but one specimen was taken, an adult male. Probably breeds. 'G' 4. AflMi'S C.IROLINKXS/S, (L.) Gr. (Catt'.ikd) I include this species with hesitation, as we did not take a single specimen; but upon two occasions I heard what 1 believed to be its peculiar cry. 5. SAXICOLA (I'.XAXTflE. (L.) Uechsiein. (Stoxe Chat.) On August 2 2, while walking along a narrow roadway, a bird suddenly started up in front of me and lit on a fence a few yards away. It was very tame, and allowed me to approach within a few feet of it, while it sat cocking its head CATALOGUE. 3^ knowingly from side to side. Unfortunately, I had no gun ; but there was no mistaking a bird so well known to me as Saxicola Q:nanthc, having taken a series of over fifty speci- mens In Egypt, where it Is very abundant. It can only be considered as a straggler, although " Dr. H. R. Storer found them breeding in Labrador, in the sum- mer of 1848, and procured specimens of the young birds." (V^'ol. I, p. 60, Bd. Bwr. Ridgw. Bds. N. .\merica.) 6. REGULUS SATRAPA, Licht. (Golden-crested Kingle];.) Quite common. Several were taken at House Harbor, including one immature specimen. Breeds. 7. VARUS ATRICAPILLUS, L. (Black-capped Chickadee.) Abundant in the thickly wooded parts ot the islands. Probably breeds. ^6 ^t NA'J i'RALlST IX 'J'lIE MAGDALhN /SLA A VS. 8. J'ARUS Hl/DSO\IC(JS, Forsicr. (HuDsoxiAx Titmouse.) Not uncommon, but does not appear to be as plenty as the last species. We found it quite abundant at House Harbor. 9. SITTA CANADEXSIS, L. (Ked-bellied Nuthatch.) Appears to be common on some of the islands. At Ih'rd Rock it came into the li'^'hthousc without the least siirns of fear, and began hopping around, looking for its food, without paying the slightest attention to us. 1 also observed several on Byron Island. Breeds. 10. ANORTllURA I'ROGLODYTES, (Z.) O. var, HVii.MALis, {IVils^ Cs. (Winter Wren.) Rather common. Killed three, and observed several others. CAIWLOGUK. 37 I!. KREMOrillLA ALPESTKIS, {Forst.) Ihn'e. (SiiORi: Lakk.) I procured a single specimen from Mr. William Perham, which he had killed on Byron Island. It was a fully Hedged young bird, still retaining the spotted back. No otliers were observed during our stay on the islands. Breeds. 12. MIXOTILTA VAK/A, {L.) l\ (Black-and-white Crekper.) My first Creeper was taken on July 27, and I observed them afterwards occasionally. It cannot be considered an abundant species. Probablv breeds. 13. DEWKlECA .estiva, iOm.) Bd. (SLMMER WARr.LF.R.) Common during the month of July; hardly a day passed without our seeing one or more of them ; but after August 1 5 they became quite scarce. Breeds. 38 A NATURALIST IN THE MAGi'ALEN ISLANDS. 14. DEXDRCECA CORONATA, {L.) Gr. (Yi:llo\v-rumpled Waruler.) Abundant on all the islands, especially so at House Harbor. Breeds. 15. DEXDRQZCA STRIATA, {Forst.) Bd. (Black-poll WARr.LEu.) Very common until September. We procured a number of specimens of young birds. Breeds abundantly. 16, DENDRiECA MACULOSA, {Gm.) Bd. (Black-and-vellow Warbler.) While at Bird Rock I was shown a mummified specimen of the present species. It had been killed, and kept as being a " pretty bird " ; and having no means of preserving it, they had simply injected it v/ith salt and hung it up to dry. It was taken in June. CATALOGUE. 39 I/. Srii'liL'S ACROCAr/LLL/S, (/..) S\u. (GOLDHX-CKOWXED ThRUSH.) Unfortunately, I was unable to obtain a single specimen, but they appear to be quite common. Often, on pleasant evenings, I have sat and listened to their almost unmistak- able notes, and counted as many as four of them singing in one small natch of woods. Probably breeds. iS. SE/rRrS XOl'EnORACEXSlS, {Gm.) Xutt. (Water Thrush ) Procured the first specimen July 19, and another a few days later. Both were males. Probably breeds. 19. SETOPHAGA RUTICILLA. {I. ) S^u. (Redstart.) Very plentiful all over the islands wherever woods are to be found. They begin to leave for the South about August 18. Breeds. 40 // NATURAUST I.\ J III] MACDALEX ISLANDS. 20. TACinCIXETA lUCOI.OR, (/'.) Cs. (\Vnnr:-i;i:LLii:i) vSwALf-ow.) Observed it occasionally during the latter part of the month of July. The last specimen procured was shot August 6. Does not appear to be very abundant. 2r. COrVLK RIPARFA, (/..) Boic. (Bank Swallow ) Very abundant everywhere from Bird Rock to Amherst. P)reeds. 22. AMPKLIS CEDRORUM. {V.) Bd. (Cedar Bird.) Not at all common. Observed a small flock on July 26, and another Auirust 6. On Auu:ust 21 I killed a vouncr bird hardly able to fly. Breeds. CATAl.OCrE. 41 23. riXICOLA F.XL'CI.EATOR, {L.) V. (PlNF (SkoSIIEAK.) A rather scarce bird on the islands. Mr. Perham sliot one in July, and I observed two a few days later and took one August 9. Probably breeds. 24 CARPODACl'S PCRFCRKO'S, {(h;i.) tlr. (Puki'l:: Fin'ch.) Did not find it common. One sj^ecimen was taken August 3, and another on the 5th. 25. LOX/A I.FMCOPTKRA, {IVils) (WniTr>\vi\c;i-.i) Ckossiull.) A common species. I found it abundant in the thick pine woods of the southern islands. Several full-grown young and adults were taken in July. It probably breeds here early in the spring. It has a pleasing song. 6 42 A NATUl^AI.IST IN THK MAG DA f. EX ISLANDS. 26 LOXIA CIRVIROSI RA 7'ar. A J/Z-AVCA XA , {ir//s.) Cs. (Common Crossbill.) Abundant, and very tame in the woods near House Har- bor. I also procured a specimen on Byron Island. Breeds. 27. yEGEOTHUS LINARLU (/. ) Cab. (Rkd-i'OLl Llnnkt.) I include the present species with great hesitation. On August 3 a bird was brought to me, in a terribly mangled condition, which I believed to be ^EgcotJms linaria. No others observed or taken. 28. CHRYSOMITRIS PINL/S, {VVils) lip. (Pine Linnet.) A single specimen, taken July 30, which proved to be an adult male. CATALOGUE. 43 29. PASSE RCL/LUS SAVAXXA, (lJ\7s.) Up. (Savanna Sparrow.) An abundant species. It was very common at House Harbor, where I procured a fine series of specimens. Breeds. 30. POOECETES GRAM EXE US, {Gm.) P>d. (Bay-wingkd Bunting.) A rather common species, but not nearly as numerous as the last. Probably breeds. 31. MELOSPIZA P ALUS PIUS, (IVi/s.) Bd. (Swamp Sparrow ) I believe it to be common, although only four specimens were obtained ; but this would be accounted for bv their retiring habits. I have often nearly stepped upon them before they would take to flight. Breeds. 44 ^ NA7URALIST L\ THE MAGDALEN ISLANDS. 32. MIiLOSriZA MELODIA, iWils) Bd. (Song Sparrow ) It cannot be considered as common ; only two specimens were taken, but I have no doubt that it is a regular summer visitor, and breeds here. 33. yew CO HVEMAEIS, (A.) Sci. (Snowbird.) An abundant species. They were very tame, and came around the house fearlessly. On July 18 I discovered a nest containing young birds nearly able to fly. The old birds showed their anxiety as I approached by flitting from one branch to another, sometimes almost within reach of my hand, continually uttering a short, clear "chip" of alarm. In a series of specimens measured, I found quite an appreciable diflerence in size ; some adult birds were darker than others. CATALOGUE. 45 34. SriZELLA SOCIALIS, (ll'//s.) Dp. (Chii'1'IN(; Si'Arkow.) One specimen taken. It may hav^e been a strap^gler, but I am inclined to tiiink that a few pairs breed on the islands every year. 35. ZOXOTRICIIIA ALD/COUJS, {Cm.) lip. (White-throated Sparrow.) A common summer visitor. It was abundant on Grind- stone and Amherst Islands. Oftentimes, after a long tramp, I have rested myself under some tree, and there, in the concealment of its drooping branches, have listened with pleasure to two or three of these birds piping their pretty little whistles, one after the other, sometimes each in a different key. Whistle three notes of a chord, beginning with the lowest, and repeating the last three or four times; some idea of their notes m.av thus be obtained ; but only those who have had the pleasure of hear- 46 A NATURALIST IN THE MAGDALEN ISLANDS. ing tliis little chorister in its native freedom can appreciate the sad and })laintive softness of its simple little song. It breeds commonly. 36. ZONOTRICHIA LEUCOPHRVS, {Forst.) Sw. (WlIITE-CHOWNED SpARKOW.) The present species cannot be uncommon during its migrations to and from Labrabor. Z7. PASSERELLA ILIAC A, {Mcrrem) S10. (Fox Sparrow ) A common species. Unfortunately, I arrived too late to find it breeding, but I have no doubt that it does so. The first specimen was taken July 19, and I killed ten within the next two weeks. All of them, with one exception, had the wing -marking more or less distinct, but several of them varied perceptibly in coloration. The other specimen, which was taken August 12, ap- proached very nearly the description of the so-called Passer- C.I TAr.oGri-:. 47 ella obsatra, Verrill, but 1 believe it to be sinij)ly a stage of plumage of Passcrclla iliaca. Breeds. 3S. SCOLECOPHAGUS FERRLCIXEUS, (.'/w.) S-.j. (RrsTV Gkac KF.i: ) Abundant. On August is I observed lar^^e flocks of them, apparently preparing to leave for the South. Breeds. 39. COR res CORJX, L. (Raven.) An abundant species. They were shy, but hardly more so than the Crow is in Massachusetts. The first specimen was taken July 27, and another August 3. Hardly a day passed that I did not see two or three of them, either perched upon the cliffs or flying high uj) in the air, utter- ing their dismal croaks. A pair bred this spri ig in an almost inaccessible spot, high upon the cliffs of Cap au Meule, and another near Hospital Island. 48 -•/ i\'A lURAl.lST IN THE MAC DA l.EiV ISLANDS. 40. CORVUS AM ERIC ANUS, And. (Common Crow.) W'l'y abundant, and quite tame in comparison with their usual slivness. One afternoon, while making* mv way throucrh some thick brush, I heard a number of them within a short distance. Concealing myself under a treC; I commenced to call, and in a few minutes several came within shot, and circled above me until I had killed four. The hatred of a Crow for all species of Owls is a well- known fact, and is sometimes taken advantage of to entrap them. Mr. Perham related to mc a curious manner of wa- ging war on the " black robbers " which I have never seen attempted anywhere else. He places a live Owl in some isolated tree near where the Crows feed, and concealing him- self within easy shot, imitates the hoarse cry of a Crow, upon the discovery of his enemy, to perfection. Generally, the cry is taken up and the Crows come from all directions. " The more you kill the madder they get," said he, " but it is necessary to keep concealed." From forty to fifty Crows have been taken in this manner in one afternoon. Breeds commonly. CATAIOGUE. 49 41. EMPIDOMAX TRAILLIl,{Aiul) Bd. (Tk.MI.L'S FLVCATCIIKIt.) On August 15, while walking along the edge of a small swanip, a bird suddenly liew past me and lit on a branch a few yards away. So eager was I to obtain it, as I had recog- nized it to be a Flycatcher, that I fired instantly, and blew the poor little fellow almost to pieces. Upon examination, I decided it to be the present species ; still, Empidouax ti^ail- Hi and Enipidonax ininiDius so much resemble each other that a badly mangled specimen of either is difficult to identify. 42. EMPiDONAX MINIMUS, Bd, (Least Flycatciimr.) A common species, and not at all shy. While at House Harbor a ^\x\ brouo^ht me one which she had caught alive in the barn. It did not appear to be at all hurt, so after examining it I opened my hand and gave it freedom. I was leaning against a fence at the time, and upon being re- leased it simply hopped from my hand to the top rail of the 7 50 A XATURAIJST fX THE MAG D ALEX ISLAXDS. fence and sat there quietly, allowing me to stroke it gently with my finger, all the while looking at me knowingly. Per- haps some movement on my part startled xt, for it suddenly flew away and disappeared in the brush. Breeds. 43. EMPIDOXAX FLAVIVICXTRIS, Bd. (Yellow-bellied Flycatcher ) Procured two specimens, but it does not appear to be at all common. Probably breeds. 44. CERVLE ALCYOX, {L.) Boic. (Belted Klvgitshek.) The Belted Kingfisher appears to be as abundant on the islands as it is almost everywhere else. Hardly a pool of fresh water was seen that did not have one or more of this species either hovering above it or perched uuon some pro- jecting branch that commanded a view of its surface. Breeds. CA TALOGUE. 51 45. COCCYZUS ERYTIIROPHTIlALMi'S, {ir//s.) Ba\ (Black-rilled Cuckoo.) A single specimen taken at House Harbor, July 19, which proved to be an adult male. I saw no other while on the islands. Probably breeds. 46. Piers VILLOSUS, L. (Hairy Woodpecker.) The first specimen was taken August 5. I only observed it on four occasions ; obtained one bird of the year. Breeds. 47. PICCS PUB ESC ENS, E (Downy Woodpecker.) Not at all common. I observed one specimen August 3, and shot another August 20, at House Harbor. Breeds. 52 A NATURALIST IX I HE MAGDALEN ISLANDS. 48. COLAPTIIS AC JUT US, {L.) S^u. (Goldi:n-\vingi:j> Wuodi'KCKer.) Abundant all over the islands. It is called " Pivcrt " by the islanders. Breeds. 49. OTUS VULGARIS I'ar. IVI LSOXI ANUS, {Less) All. (LONG-EAUKD OWL.) A specimen of this bird was killed at House Harbor July 20, and another July 27. I observed it occasionally afterwards. Breeds. 50. BRACIIYOTUS PALUSTRIS, Aitct. (Short- FARED Owl.) Upon two occasions I saw what I believed to be this bird on Hospital Island, and Mr. Perham showed me a specimen which he had killed at House Harbor. He had also ob- served others. Breeds. CATALOGUE. 53 51. SYKM'IM iMlBLLOSLM, {ForsL) dr. (IJakkki) 0\\ r. ) Either this species or Syrnium lapponicum var. ciiicrcum is common late in the fall, perhaps both. The inhabitants state that immense grayish-looking Owls were abundant at times. I w^as unable to find either species. 52. NVCTEA \I17C.I, {J)aud) Gr. (Snowv Owi,.) A very common spring and autumn visittn*. I saw one on Byron Island, August i, and two or three afterwards. The inhabitants state that they are found on the beaches in laro^c numbers late in the fall. o 53. SLRXIA ULULA var. HUDSONICA, (6w.) AVV^y'. (Hawk Owl.) A common species. One specimen observed July 28, another taken August 5, and a fine adult male August 23. All were taken durin'j^ the daytime. Breeds. 54 A NATURALIST TV THE MAG D ALEX ISLANDS. 54. XYCTALE TENGMALMI 7'a>: RICHARDS JXII, {Bp ) Rid^e. (RicHAunsoN's Owl.) Mr. Whalcn showed me a specimen which he liad killed in June, and stated that he had seen three more this year. I found it quite common at House Harbor, where I shot one specimen and heard several others. Mr. William Pcrham showed me an egg of this species which he had taken on June 14 at House Harbor. The nest was a hole in a dead birch, and contained an addled e^s:, and four young birds nearly able to fly. The young were much darker than the old birds, both of which were procured. The egg, which is now in my collection, measures 1.6 inches in length by 1.25 in breadth. It is of a creamy white color. 55. NYCTALE AC A Die A, (6";//.) Bp. (Arcadian Owl.) On July 30 I shot a single specimen of this little Owl on Bird Rock. It was a voun'>' bird, and had the brown mark- ings and white fcice which once was supposed to represent CATAI.OCUi:. 55 Nyctale albifrons. The taking" of this youni;' bird renders it probable that Nyctale acadica breeds on tlie islands ; but it is not abundant, as no others were taken. A few days later, on Byron Island, while taking an even- ing stroll, a small Owl circled silently around me for several minutes, which, from the momentary glimpses obtained of it in the uncertain light, I believed to be the present species. 56. CIRCi'S CYAXEUS var. IICDSONKUS, (L.) Cs. (Maksh Hawk.) A rather common species. I saw it several times at House Harbor, and once on Byron Island. Mr. Perham killed a specimen on Bird Rock. Probably breeds. 57. ACCI PITER FUSCUS, {Gm.^ />'/. (SHAUr-SHINNED HaWK.) Observed what I believed to be this Hawk at Hospital Island, but was unable to approach within shot of it. 56 A NATUKALIST IN THE MAGDALEX ISLAXDS. Oiis. FALCO COM MUX IS. I'd riant m. (Perkgrixe Falcon.) A fisherman told mc tliat last year he shot a Mawk which had "killed a small Duck," and which "had a black back and spotted breast." It was probably the present species, and there is no reason why it should not visit here. 1 have taken it on Prince Edward s Island. 58. FALCO COLUMBARIUS, L. (Pigeon Hawk.) One was seen at House Harbor and another at Amherst. On July 10 Mr. Perham found a nest of this species on Byron Island. It was built in a fir-tree, and contained two fresh eggs. He did not take the bird. The inhabitants stated that it breeds here every year, and that they some- times found nests containing eight or nine eggs. The lat- ter statement I do not think correct, as the number rarely exceeds five, accordins^ to all accounts. CATALOGUE. 57 59. A (JUL A CHRVSAETUS, L. (GoLDKN Eagle.) On Auo-ust 16 some fishermen killed a larfjc Eairle at Amherst. From the description of the bird, I believe it to have been Aqiiila chrysactiis, although it might have been a young Ilcliactiis Iciicoccphahis. m 60. LA GOP US A LB US, {Gm.) Ami (Willow Ptarmigan.) In 1876 a single specimen was taken at Amherst. The skin was preserved. It is, I believe, the only example of this species ever taken on the islands, and was probably a strag- Her from Newfoundland. I was unable to obtain the exact date of its capture. 61. S(2UATAR0LA HELVETICA, (Z.) Cur. (Black-bellif.d Plover.) The first specimens were seen August lo, but were very shy. I procured two on August 1 1, and after that date they were very common and quite tame. 8 58 ^1 xXATUKALJST IN T/JE MAGDALEN ISLANDS. 62. CHARADRIi'S FULVUS var. VIRGLXICUS, Borck. (r,oLni:.\ Plovkr ) Arrives about August 11, and is abundant after August 15. Tlie inhabitants state that it is common here until October. The American Golden Plover is known to be very closely allied to Charadrius fiihits, of Asia, so closely in fact that in some cases it is almost impossible to distinguish them. As regards Virginiciis, it has the gray axillaries, under wing coverts, and slightly feathered tibia, of Charadrius fitl- VHS, and the only difference that is perceptible is a slight variation in size. If this difference in size should be con- stant, then Charadrius virginicus would constitute a good variety if not a species. In a large series of Golden Plovers from Asia and Amer- ica, as well as from other parts of the world, which it has been my good fortune to examine, I do not find any greater difference in size than often exists in individuals of the same species of some of our common Sandpipers, which no one for a moment would think of separating as varieties or species on that account. CATAI.QCUE. :^9 Mr. Dresser states ('iJirds of luirope/' Part IX) that he has a specimen of Charadyius fitlvus in his collection "which was taken at sea in hit. 69^' 30', N. long. 173*^ 20' li., many miles northwest of Point Harrow," and " much nearer to the American than to the Asiatic coast." He also states that "Mr. Pickering, when at sea on the I3ih of November, be- tween the Sandwich Islands and California, procured speci- mens which were evidently migrating." The following list gives the comparative measurements of Golden Plovers taken in different parts of tiie world. Those which are not my own are taken from Mr. H. E. Dresser's "Birds of Europe": — CIIARADRIUS FULVUS. LENGTH. WING. TAIL. TARSUS. MID. TOE N. E. Africa : I )ie(lda, 8.3 6.2 2.4 1.6 1.05 Alexandria, 8.5 6.25 2.25 1-55 I.O Sn^KRiA : Lake Baikal, 8.3 6.25 2-5 1-55 •95 India: Indian Peninsula, 8.5 6.25 2.25 I 55 1.0 Cevlox : Oripo, 9.0 6.T 2.4 1-55 '•5 6o '-1 NATURALIST IN THE MAGDALEN ISLANDS. i.KN(;iii. W INC.. TAIL. TARSrS. MID. lOK. Malacca, 9.0 6.25 '^•Ol 1-55 I.O Java, 9.0 6.4 2.4 1-55 I.O liANKA, 8.0 6.1 2.3 1-5 1.0 ])()RNK(), 8.9 6.05 2.4 1.6 1.05 IjALCIUAX, 9-5 6.2 2.5 1.6 •95 ArSTRALIA (juecn: >lancl. 9.0 . 6.55 2.5 1.6 I.O China : Foochow, 9.0 6.4 2.4 1.6 I.O it. 8.5 6.25 2.25 1-55 I.O (4 7.5 5-9 1.9 1-5 0.9 CHARADRIUS VIRGINICUS. HuDSOx's Bay: Moose Factory, 8.8 6.6 2.5 1-7 0.9 Texas, 9.0 6.6 2.7 1-7 I.O Guatemala, 9.0 7.0 2.9 ^•7 0.9 Peru : Vambo \'alley, 9.0 6.7 2.6 1.6 0.9 I'lorida: rilot Town, 9.0 6.8 2.6 1.7 0.9 Massachusetts : Chatham 9.1 6.8 2.8 1-7 •95 t( 8.9 6.6 2.6 1.65 •9 Prince Edward's Island: Malpeque, 8.9 6.7 2-7 1-7 •9 M A( ; DALEN Islands, 9.0 6.7 2.8 1.7 •9 CATALOGCE. 6 1 Although there appcirs to be a constant clItTercncc in size,* yet it will be seen by the preceding list that specimens of the same species differ as much in size as the so-called var. Virginiciis differs from Charadrius fitlvus. 63. ^EG I A LITIS SEMIPALMATL'S, {Bp.) Cab. (RiNGNECK.) An abundant species during the migrations. Some prob- ably breed, as I found it common in July. 64. yEGIALITIS MELODUS var. CIRCUMCIXTA, Rhig. (Piping Plovfr.) An abundant species. I procured immature birds in July, and Mr. Perham found it breeding in June. This, I believe, is the most northern record of its capture, but future research, I think, will reveal that it has a much more northern range than naturalists generally suppose. Dur- * Not greater than would be caused by climatic influences and geographical dis- tribution. 62 A AATUKALIST IN THE MAGDALEN ISLANDS. ing the month of August I procured specimens wliich I think may have been miiiratin/i. (Grkatkr Blackhkad.) On July 24 I killed a fine specimen, an adult male. He was accompanied by another, possibly a female, which I also brought down, but which was only wounded and escaped. 90. HERALD A GLACIALIS, (Z.) Leach, (Long-tailed Duck ) Procured a single specimen August 14. Very abundant durincf the migrations. o o 91. HISTRIOXICUS T0R(2UATUS, (/..) Bp. (Harlequin Duck.) I was told by an old gunner that a Duck answering the description of Ilistrionicics torqiiatiis was occasionally killed here late in the fall. 92. SOMATERLl MOLLISSLMA, (Z.) Leach. (Eider Duck.) A skin was shown me at Bird Rock. Abundant durimx the migrations. 72 // jXATURAUST in TIfE ArACDALF.N ISl.AA/DS. 93. MIlRGL'S SERRATOR, L. (Ui:i)-r.Ki:ASTEn Mkkgansek.) A rather common summer resident. While walkinjx alonof the shore of a small inlet we suddenly came upon a female with a brood of young birds. Upon perceiving us she seemed greatly troubled, and swam away, closely followed by her offspring, with the exception of one weakly little fellow which was apparently unable to keep up. Observing this, the old bird swam back and seemed to give some directions to the little one, for he scrambled upon her back and nestled snugly down behind her neck. As soon as he had fairly settled himself comfortably, r.way she went, this time closely followed by her brood. We watched her until she disap- peared around a point, unharmed, and bearing the little one still upon her back, to a place of safety. Breeds. 94. SULA BASSANA, L. (Gannet.) Thousands of these birds breed upon Bird Rock each year. They are in such numbers that oftentimes it gives the CATALOGUE. 73 rock tlie appearance of being covered with snow. While on Bird Rock I had the pleasure of seeing them diving at a school of fish. It appealed to me as if some one was pour- ing beans from a pail, so tliickly did they dive. Thousands of them seemed to go down in one continuous stream. Each bird must consume a w^onderful amount of fish in a year. I have taken as many as six small mackerel out of the stomach of one Gannet. While flying, they sometimes emit a cry resembling a harsh laugh. 95. GRACULUS CARIh\ {L.) Gray. (Common Cormorant.) Common, and is said to breed on some of the islands. 96. LARUS ^^ARIXUS, L. (Great Black-backed Gull.) First observed July 21, and became common in August, collecting together in large flocks. 10 74 ^ NATURALIST IN THE MAGDALEN ISLANDS. 97. LARL'S ARuEXTATCS, Bniiui. (Herring Gill.) A fine specimen was taken July 27. Later, it became common, but was not as abundant as the last species. Both this species and Larus inarimis are eaten by the inhabitants and are considered a great delicacy. In fact, a young bird made into a stew is really quite a palatable dish, as I can testify by experience. 98. LARUS TRIDACTYLUS, L. (KiTxnvAKE Gull.) One of the five species found breeding upon Bird Rock. The eggs are generally very difficult to procure, as they are usually deposited upon almost inaccessible ledges. They rear their young oftentimes side by side with the Gannets, Auks, and Guillemots, apparently living as amicably as possible. CATALOGUE. 75 99. LARUS PHfLADELP/ILL (On/.) Cones, (Boxai'Arte's Gull.) First observed August 9, and afterwards became very abundant. About August 16 they began to assemble in large flocks. This bird is sometimes eaten by the inhabi- ants, although the iiesh is exceedingly fishy. 100. STERXA IIIRLWIK), L. (Common Tern.) A very abundant species everywhere. During my daily excursions along the shore this beautiful little bird was always to be met with, sometimes sailing over me uttering its harsh scream of anger, or again holding itself suspended in the air, with head bent down and expectant gaze, watch- ing for the reappearance of some small fish which it had caught sight of. This is the only representative of its family that breeds on the islands, at least the onlv one which was found, and was the only species taken during July and August. Breeds abundantly on some of the islands. 76 A NATURALIST IN THE MAGDALEN ISLANDS. 10 1. STERNA MACROURA, Naum. (Arctic Tern.) I did not observe this Tern. Audubon states, however, that when he visited the Magdalen Islands in June, 1833, ''some dozens of Arctic Terns were plunging into the waters, capturing a tiny fish or shrimp at every dash.'* Mr. C. J. Maynard writes me that he found Sterna ma- croiira on the islands, but it was not as numerous as the last species. 102. PROCELLARIA PELAGIC A, L. (Stormy Petrel.) Common, a short distance out at sea. On August 21, just after a heavy storm, I killed a fine specimen from the beach at House Harbor. 103. OCEANITES OCEANICA, (KuhL) Cones. (Wilson's Petrel.) Observed what I believed to be this species while making the passage to the islands. CATALOGUE. "JJ 104. COLYMDUS TORQUATUS, Bnam, (Great Northern Diver.) Is rather common. On August 2 I saw a number of them near Wolf Island, and killed two ; both were immature birds. Breeds. 105. UTAMAXIA TORDA, {L.) Leach. (Razor-billed Auk) Breeds in great numbers on Bird Rock, and is not uncom- mon on Byron Island. The very young birds are covered with a blackish down, having a white belly. 106. FRATERCULA ARCTIC A, (L.) Steph. (Common Pufein.) Breeds abundantly on Bird Rock and Byron Island. One morning I counted fifty-four of them sitting in a line on one of the ledges. They are quite tame, and I have often approached within a few feet of them before they offered to flv. 78 A NATURALIST IN THE MAGDALEN ISLANDS. 107. MERGULUS ALLE, (Z.) VicilL (Sea Dove.) Mr. Whalen showed me a specimen which he killed on Bird Rock. He stated that they were occasionally seen in winter. 108. UR/A GRVLLE, (L.) Bniuji. (Black Guillemot.) A very abundant species. I arrived too late to find its eggs, but it breeds commonly at Wolf Island and Cap au Meule. A few breed on Byron Island, but none have been found on Bird Rock. 109. LOJ/r/A TRO/LE, (Z.) Bra;u/^. (Common Guillemot) Very abundant on Bird R.ock. Some few were found on Byron Island, but I did not observe any on the other islands. The youns: have their unoer parts covered w^ith a blackish down, mixed with silver gray ; the under parts are white. APPENDIX. APPENDIX. A NUMBER of species which we did not procure undoubtedly visit the islands. A naturalist visiting them during the months of May and June would reap a rich harvest, and many interesting facts might be learned regarding the breeding of some of our rarer species. I include below a few which certainly would be found at some seasons of the year. Most of them are included from descriptions given me by the islanders. 1. PLECTROPHAXES NIVALIS. 2. A SPUR ATRICAPILLUS, {IV ih) Pp. 3. SPEC A NO PUS IVILSONIP {Sab) Cs. Procured a specimen at Malpeque, P. E. I , in 1875. 4- LOB /PES IIYPERBOREUS, {L.) Cuv. 5. I'lIALARurUS EULIL'ARIUS, (/. ) Pp. 11 82 A NATURALIST IN THE MAGDALEN ISLANDS. 6. TRIXGA MAKITIMA, Brunnich. Taken on P. E. I. in 1875. 7. BUCEPHALA CLAA'C'LA, (A) Gr. 8. BUCEPHALA ALBEOLA, (Z.) Bd. 9. SOMATERIA SPECTABILIS, (Z.) Leach. An old gunner, who was familiar with the Eider Duck, stated that he had sometimes killed them " with a yellow bunch on the bill." 10. (ED EMI A AMERICANA, Sw. 11. CEDEMIA FUSCA, (Z.) Sw. I was told that late in the fall a large gray Duck, with partly white wings, was common ; probably the female of this species. 12. CEDEMIA PERSPICILLATA, (Z.) Flemm 13. GRACULUS DILOPHUS, {Siv.) Gray. 14. LARUS GLAUCUS, Bninn. 15. LARUS EBURNEUS, Gm. ■S' ArPEiVDix. 83 The following species, none of which are included in the Cat- alogue, were taken at Malpeque, P. E. I , in 1875, during the months of August and September. It is possible that some of them may occasionally wander to the Magdalen Islands : — 1. CVAXrRUS ClUSTATUS. 2. PERI so RE us CAXADEXSIS. 3. STEGAXOPUS ir/LSOX/. 4. TRFXGA MARITIMA, 5. ARDEA VIRESCEXS. 6. XYCTIARDEA GRISEA var. NAEVIA, 7. PORZAXA XO VEBORA CEXSIS. 8. MERGUS MERGAXSER. 9. MERGUS CUCULLATUS. 10 STERXA EORSTERI. INDEX. INDEX. A. Acadian Owl, Accipitcr fuscus, ^ijiothrus linaria, ^gialitis melodus, ^gialitis semipalmatiis, Ampelis cedrorum, Anas obscura, Anortbura troglodytes, Aquila cbrysaetus, Arctic Tern, Ardea berodias, Astur atricapillus, Auk, Razor-billed, B. Bank Swallow, Barred Owl, Bay-winged Bunting, Bittern, Black Brant, Black Duck, Black Guillemot, Black-and-wbite Creeper, Black-and-yellow Warbler, Black-bellied Plover, Black-billed Cuckoo, PAGE NO. 54 55 55 SI 42 27 61 64 61 63 40 22 69 86 36 10 57 59 76 lOI 67 82 81 2 n 105 40 21 53 51 43 30 68 83 69 84 69 86 7H 108 37 12 33 16 57 61 51 45 Black-capped Cliickadee, Black-poll Warbler, Blue Heron, Blue- winged Teal, Bonaparte's Gull, Botarus minor, Brant Goose, Branta bernicia, Branta canadensis, Bunting, Bay-winged, C. Calidris arenaria, Canada Goose, Carpodacus purpureus, Catbird, Cedar Bird, Ceryle alcyon, Cbaradrius virginicus, Chickadee, Chipping Sparrow, Chrysomitris pinus, Chat, Circus cvaneus, Coccvzus erythropluhalmus, Colymbus torquatus. Common Cormorant, ^\c;K N(1. 35 45 38 15 67 82 70 88 75 99 68 83 69 84 69 84 69 85 43 30 65 69 41 34 40 50 58 35 45 42 34 55 51 77 73 74 85 24 4 22 40 62 7 34 28 5 56 45 104 95 88 A NATURALIST IN THE MAGDALEN ISLANDS. PAGE NO. Common Crossbill, Common Crow, Common Guillemot, Common Puffin, Common Tern, Cormorant, Corvus americanus, Corvus corax, Cotyle riparia, Crossbill, Common, Crossbill, White-winged, Crow, Cuckoo, Black-billed, Curlew, Esquimaux, Curlew, Hudsonian, Curlew, Long-billed, D. DendroEca ccstiva, Dendroeca coronata, Dendrceca maculosa, Dendroeca striata, Diver, Great Northern, Double-crested Cormorant, Downy Woodpecker, Dove, Sea, Duck Hawk, Duck, Black, Duck, Dusky, Duck, Eider, Duck, Harlequin, Duck, Long-tailed, I Uinl'n, Dusky Duck, 42 26 48 40 78 109 11 106 IS 100 13 95 48 40 47 39 40 21 42 26 41 25 48 40 51 45 67 81 67 80 66 79 37 13 38 14 38 16 38 15 11 104 82 12 51 47 78 107 56 69 85 69 85 71 92 71 91 71 90 64 12 69 85 VM.V. Eagle, Golden, 57 Eider Duck, 71 Empidonax flaviventris, 50 Empidonax minimus, 49 Empidonax traillii, 49 English Snipe, 62 Eremophila alpestris, 2>1 Ereunetes pusillus, 63 Esquimaux Curlew, 67 F. Falco communis, 56 Falco columbarius, 56 Falcon, Peregrine, 56 Finch, Purple, 41 Flycatcher, Least, 49 Flycatcher, Traill's, 49 Flycatcher, Yellow-bellied, 50 Fox Sparrow, 46 Fratercula arctica, 77 Fulegula marila, 71 G. Gallinago Wilsoni, 62 Gannet, 72 Glaucus Gull, 82 Godwit, Hudsonian, 65 Golden Eagle, 57 Golden Plover, 58 Golden-crowned Kinglet, 35 NO. 59 92 43 42 41 66 1 1 68 81 58 24 42 41 43 31 106 89 66 94 13 75 59 62 6 INDEX. 89 Golden-crowned Thrush, Golden-winged Woodpecker Goose, Bnint, Goose, Canada, Goshawk, Grackle, Rusty, Graculus carbo, Great Black-backed Gull, Great Blue Heron, Great Northern Diver, Greater Blackhead, Greater Yellowlegs, Green-winged Teal, Grosbeak, Pine, Gull, Bonaparte's, Gull, Great Blackback, Gull, Kittiwake, Gull, Glaucus, Gull, Herring, Guillemot, Common, Guillemot, Black, H. Hairy Woodpecker, Heralda glacialis. Harlequin Duck, Harrier, Marsh, Hawk Owl, Hawk, Marsh, Hawk, Sharp-shinned, Hawk, Pigeon, Hawk, Duck, Hermit Thrush, PAGE 39 " > 69 69 81 47 12, 73 67 77 71 65 70 41 75 73 7\ 82 74 78 78 NO. 7 48 84 85 I 38 95 96 82 104 89 76 87 ^3 99 96 98 13 97 109 108 51 46 71 90 71 55 91 56 53 55 53 5^' 55 56 56 17 58 33 2 Heron, Great Blue, Herring Gull, Histrionicus torcjuatus, Hudsonian Curlew, Hudsonian (]odwit, Hudsonian Titmouse, Indian Hen, Ivory Gull, Junco hvemalis, K. King Eider, Kingfisher, Belted, Kinglet, Golden-crowned, Kittiwake Gull, Knot, Lagopus albus, Lark, Shore, Larus argentatus, Larus marinus, Larus Philadelphia, Larus tridactylus, Least Plycatcher, Least Sandpiper, Limosa hudsonica, I'AGE NO. 67 82 74 97 71 91 67 80 65 75 36 8 68 82 83 14 44 Zl 82 8 50 44 35 6 74 98 64 n 37 II 74 97 71 96 75 99 74 98 49 42 63 69 6s 75 12 90 A NATURALIST IX T/IK .^fAGDAIEX ISIAXDS. PACiE NO. Linnet, Red-poll, 42 27 Linnet, Pine, 42 28 Little Auk, 78 107 Lomvia troile. 78 109 Lonij-billed Curlew, 66 79 Long-eared Owl, 52 49 Long-tailed Uuck, 71 90 Loon, 77 104 Loxia curvirostra, 42 26 Loxia ieucoptcra, 41 25 M. Macrorhampluis griseus. Marsh Hawk, Melospiza palustris, Melospiza nielodia, Merganser, Red-breasted, Mergus serrator, Mergulus alle, Mimus carolinensis, Minotilta varia, Murre. N. 62 67 55 56 43 31 44 32 72 93 72 93 78 107 34 4 Z7 12 78 109 Nuthatch, Red-bellied, 36 9 Numenius borealis, 67 Sr Numenius hudsonicus, 67 80 Numenius longirostris, 66 79 Nyctale acadica, 54 55 Nyctale tengmalmi, 54 54 Nyctia nivea, 53 52 o. Oceanites oceanica, CEdemia americana, Quiemia fusca, Olive-backed Thrush, Otus vulgaris, Oven Bird, Owl, Acadian, Owd, Barred, Owl, Hawk, Owl, Long- eared. Owl, Short-eared, Owl, Richardson's, Ow'l, Snowv, P. Parus atricapillus, Parus hudsonicus, Passerculus savanna, Passerella iliaca, Pectoral Sandpiper, Peregrine Palcon, Petrel, Stormy, Petrel, Wilson's, Phalarope, Wilson's, Phalarope, Northern, Picus pubescens, Picus villosus, Pigeon Hawk, Pine Grosbeak, Pine Linnet, Pinicola enucleator, Piping Plover, '\C,\i NO. 7Cy '03 82 10 82 II 34 3 S^ 49 39 17 54 55 S3 5' 53 S3 52 50 52 49 54 54 53 52 35 7 3^> 8 43 29 46 37 64 70 56 76 102 76 103 81 2 81 3 51 47 51 46 5^-^ 58 41 ^3 42 28 41 ^3 61 64 IXDEX. 91 PACK NO. Plover, Black-bellied, Plover, Golden, Plover, Piping, Plover, Ringneck, Pooecetes gramineus, Procellaria pclagica, Ptarmigan, Willow, Puffin, Purple Finch, Purple Sandpiper, Ouerquedula carolinensis, Ouerquedula discors, R. Raven, Razor-billed Auk, Red Crossbill, Red Phalarope, Red-bellied Nuthatch, Red-breasted Merganser, Red-breasted Sandpiper, Red-breasted Snipe, Red-poll Linnet, Redstart, Regulus satrapa, Richardson's Owl, Ringneck, Robin, Rusty Crackle, 57 bi 58 62 61 64 61 63 43 30 76 102 57 60 11 106 41 24 81 5 10 87 i 70 88 47 39 11 105 42 26 81 4 36 9 7^ 93 64 73 62 67 42 27 39 19 J»3 6 54 54 61 64 ^-h I Al 3^ s. Sanderling, Sandpiper, Least, Sandpiper, Pectoral, Sandpiper, Sanderling, Saiidi)iper, Seniipalmated, Sandjiipcr, Spotted, Sandpiper, Red-breasted, Sandpiper, White-rumpled, Savanna Sparrow, Saw-whet Owl, Saxicola ocnanthe, Scolecophagus ferruginous, Sea Dove, Seiurus aurocapillus, Seiurus noveboracensls, Sitta canadensis, Semipalmated Sandpiper, Semipalmated Plover, Setophaga ruticilla. Sharp-shinned Hawk, Shore Lark, Short-eared Owl, Snipe, Wilson's, Snipe, Red-breasted, Snowbird, Snow Bunting, Snowy Owl, Somateria molllssima. Sparrow, Chipping, Sparrow, Fox, Sparrow, Savanna, Sparrow, Song. Sparrow. Swamj), Sparrow, While-crowned, p\r.B NO. 65 74 63 69 64 70 65 74 63 68 66 73 64 11 64 71 43 29 54 55 34 5 47 38 78 107 39 17 39 18 36 9 63 68 61 63 39 19 55 57 yi II 52 50 62 66 62 67 44 ■hl^ 82 15 53 52 71 92 45 34 46 yi 43 29 44 V- 43 3' 4^> 3^> 92 A NATURALIST IN THE MAGDALEN ISLANDS. Spirrow, White-throated, Spizella socialis, Spotted Sandpiper, Squatarola helvetica, Sterna hirundo, Sterna macroura. Stone Chat, Stormy Petrel, Strepsilas interpres, Sula bassana, Summer Warbler, Surnia iilula. Swallow, Bank, Swallow, White-bellied, Swamp Sparrow, Syrnium nebulosum,* T. Tachyceneta bicolor. Teal, Blue-win 2 34 3 39 18 36 8 66 n ^b- 76 Traill's Flycatcher, Triuij^a alpina, Trin<;a Ijonapartei, Trini^a canutus, Triiiij^a macul ita, Trini^a minutilla, Tringa maritima, Trin<^oides macularius, Turdus miij^ratorius, Turdus pallasi, Turdus swainsoni, Turnstone, C. PACE Nf). 49 41 64 72 64 71 64 11 64 70 63 69 81 6 66 7-S y:> I 11 ^ Uria grylle, Utamania torda, W. Warbler, Black-poll, Warbler, Black-and-yellow, Warbler, Summer, Warbler, Yellow-rumpled, Water Thrush, Wheatear White-bellied Swallow, White-crowned Sparrow. White-rumpled Sandpiper, White-throated Sparrow, While- wiui^ed Crossbill, Willi (}oose, 34 62 78 11 38 loS 105 38 16 V 13 38 14 39 18 34 5 40 20 46 36 64 71 45 J)5 41 25 69 85 * For Syrnuim lubulosutu, lage 53, read Syrnium nebulosum. INDEX. 93 Willow Ptarmisxan, Wilson's Petrel. Wilson's Phalarope, Wilson's Snipe, Wilson's Tern, Winter Wren, Woocli)ecker, Downy, Woodpecker, Golden-winged, Woodpecker, Hairy, Wren, Winter, i'.\r.i: 57 76 81 62 36 51 52 51 36 NO 60 1^3 3 66 100 10 47 48 46 ID Y. Yellow Warbler, Yellow-bellied Flycatcher, Yello\v-runii)le(l Warbler, Yellow-shanks, Z. Zonotrichia all)icollis, Zonotrichia leuco])hrys, '.\(.H NO. V »3 50 43 3-^ 14 66 11 45 46 35 36 THE ENO.