BIRDS OF THE COLNE VALLEY IN 1925 AND 1926. 23
during the time ?) and passed on, but no increase in Great
Black-backs was noticed. During September there was no
evidence of further passage movements.
My observations on the birds of this estuary were carried out
bv means of mainly two-day visits, with that pleasantly quiet
little town, Brightlingsea, as headquarters. Owing to the
larger work contemplated on the Birds of Essex, a fortnight was
spent in the area during May and June, 1926, to obtain infor-
mation and photographs of the breeding birds.
The river was worked from Wivenhoe downwards, Mersea
Island, of which a complete circuit was made, being included in
the survey. West Mersea on the west and Lion Point on the east
formed the limits of the coast area worked. All the creeks were
explored, and many miles of sea-wall tramped. Visits were
made in all months of the year except March and July.
The total number of species identified was 104, and following
the plan of the other papers of this series I have quoted every
species ; the status of those not accompanied by data may be
taken as normal.
Hooded Crow (Corvus c. cornix L.). None 10/4/25. Several,
but numbers reduced, 4/4/26. None 21/9/25 and 19/9/26.
Although none was identified 17/10/26 the Hoodie was identified
in all months from October (18th) to April. It would appear
that it makes its appearance in the district about the middle of
October and departs early in April. During these months it
might always be described as common, close to the sea and large
creeks. Fourteen were counted on the St. Osyth Marsh 21/11/25,
and a party of eight at South Green, 11/12/26. From what has
been stated in previous papers of this series it will be seen that
the chief haunt of the Hoodie in Essex lies between the Colne and
the Stour. It is, no doubt, only a coincidence, but this constitutes
the shingly stretch of the Essex coast.
Carrion Crow (Corvus c. corone L.). Identified during all
months of visits except September, but at no time numerous.
Rook (Corvus f. frugilegus L.). Rookeries at West Mersea
(two with just over twenty nests each) and Wivenhoe (104 nests
counted), in grounds of Wivenhoe Hall. There appeared to be
a daily passage of Rooks with Jackdaws over Brightlingsea to
the saltings, as I could hear the calls as the birds passed over.
Although the characteristic flocks were much more in evidence