Baillon’s Crake

Rallidae

Nov 16

Written By Keith Naylor

Zapornia pusilla (Pallas, 1776) (64, 0)

Baillon's_crake.jpg — Photo © By Jason Girvan - Own work, CC BY-SA 3.0, https://commons.wikimedia.org/w/index.php?curid=1465923

STATUS

Old World. Polytypic.

OVERVIEW

Migrates mainly March to May and September to November, but occasionally some in winter.

Breeding has been proved in Cambridgeshire during June 1858 and again in the August of that year. Probably in Norfolk in June and July 1866 and definitely during May 1889.

RECORDS

1). Pre 1819 Suffolk River Waveney, near Beccles, adult, undated.

(R. Sheppard & W. Whitear, Transactions of the Linnean Society 15: 48; Paget & Paget, 1834; Yarrell, 1845; Anon., Transactions of the Norfolk & Norwich Naturalists' Society 3: 252; Babington, 1884-86; Ticehurst, 1932; BOURC (2018), Ibis 160: 190-240).

History R. Sheppard & W. Whitear (1826) in the Transactions of the Linnean Society, Vol. XV. p. 48, say: 'We have met with a specimen of this bird in the collection of Mr. Crickmore, of Beccles, which was shot near that town. The throat, neck and belly are ash colour; the sides and under tail-coverts barred and spotted with black and white. The back is like that of the Spotted Gallinule; but this bird is considerably smaller than that species.' Yarrell (1845) copies the same story.

Anon. (1879-84) in the Transactions of the Norfolk & Norwich Naturalists' Society, Vol. III. p. 252, quoting from the diaries of William Whitear, says: '1819. On my way to Yarmouth I saw a collection of stuffed birds at Mr. Crickmore's of Beccles....Also a Gallinule, which I have some suspicion may be the Gallinula pusilla of Temm., though it does not quite agree with his description. The throat, neck and belly are ash colour; the sides and under tail-coverts barred and spotted with black and white. The back is like that of the Spotted Gallinule; but this bird is considerably smaller than that species. This bird was killed in the river near Beccles.'

Babington (1884-86: 168) under 'Little Crake', says: 'A bird in Mr. Crickmore's Collection, supposed by Mr. Whitear to be of this species, was killed in the river near Beccles (Whitear's Diary for 1819, 252, probably the same bird as that mentioned under Baillon's Crake).'

Admitted nationally by Howard Saunders (1882-84 (3): 154, 4th ed.) in Yarrell's British Birds and accepted locally (Ticehurst 1932: 458).

Admitted nationally in their 9th Checklist as the first for Britain (BOURC (2018), Ibis 160: 190-240).

Comment It would appear not to have been specifically identified, as the same record was recorded under Baillon's and Little Crake but the barring on the 'sides with grey neck and belly' is indicative of Baillon's Crake.

2). 1821 Derbyshire Near Spondon, adult, killed, 8th November.

(G. T. Fox, Zoological Journal 3: 493-494; Selby, 1833; Yarrell, 1845; Whitlock, 1893; Frost, 1978).

History G. T. Fox (1827-28) in the Zoological Journal, Vol. III. pp. 493-494, says: 'The Rev. Mr. Gisborne has also in his possession a bird which answers more nearly than any other the descriptions of the above two kinds, which I have for some time suspected to be the same, and am now, from a view of this specimen, tempted to bring together. It was shot in the meadows near Spondon, a village about three miles south-east of Derby, November 8, 1821.

Its length is 7½ inches; its make slender. Its colour from below the chin to the thighs is uniformly dark slate without spot, like the Water Rail, and this colour rises over the eyes by a well defined line. Above, the prevailing colour is russet or olivaceous brown, which on the crown is varied by small black stripes; and on the back and coverts of the wings are numerous white spots, rather large, of a mottled form, edged and intermixed with black. The thighs, abdomen, and under tail coverts are transversely barred with black and white; the bill is dark green, and the legs apparently the same. The wings reach to only half the length of the tail, and the tertial feathers are as long as the primaries.

I first suspected this to be the little Gallinule of Montagu, or Gall. pusilla of Temminck, but in that species the wings are stated by both authors to reach to the end of the tail, and the tertials, by Montagu, to be very short.

In the former circumstance it corresponds with Montagu's figure of the Olivaceous Gallinule, and Temminck's essential character of the Poule d'eau Baillon. It differs in some respects from Mr. Selby's figure of Dr. Thackeray's Gall. baillonii, but principally in the darker colour of its breast and belly, which may be owing to difference of sex. ln other marks it agrees closely with the figure. If I should be right in this appropriation, it will serve to bring together two uncertain synonyms, and confine our number of British Gallinules to those described by M. Temminck; in which case however Col. Montagu's name of Olivaceous Gallinule (Gall. foljambii), would be entitled, in point of priority, to a preference to that of the continental authors.'

[The bird described above is, I believe, an adult specimen of the Gall. baillonii of Temminck. I cannot however acquiesce in Mr. Fox's opinion respecting the identity of the two species quoted in the text. The Olivaceous Gallinule of Montagu is the Gall. pusilla of Bechstein and Temminck, and does not at any age exhibit the white spots on the wing coverts which are conspicuous in Gall. baillonii. The extent of the wings compared with the tail in mounted specimens, as referred to in this instance, must be taken with some limitation; the natural articulation being once divided, the position of the wing depends entirely on the observance and care of the artist who preserves the bird. - W. Yarrell.]

Selby (1833 (2): 186-187) under Little Crake, says: 'Since that time, few individuals have, I believe, been noted; one, however (an adult), now in the possession of the Rev. T. Gisborne, of Yoxall Lodge, Staffordshire, and Prebendary of Durham, was killed near Derby, and from which the figure in this work is taken....Plate 30. Fig. 4. Represents it of the natural size, from the above mentioned specimen in the possession of the Rev. Mr. Gisborne.

Bill five-eighths of an inch long, slender, and of a fine sap green colour. Irides crimson-red. Throat, sides of the head, and neck, breast, and abdomen, deep bluish-grey. Crown of the head, back part of the neck, and upper parts of the body, deep oil-green, tinged with brown. Down the mesial line of the back is a broad streak or patch, composed of feathers marbled with black and white. The scapulars have a longitudinal bar of white, encircled with black, near the margins of the feathers. Smaller coverts plain oil-green, the greater ones having white tips, surrounded by a line of black. Vent and under tail-coverts blackish-grey, transversely barred with white. Quills and tail hair-brown, tinged with oil-green. Legs and toes sap-green. Tarsus one inch in length. Middle toe, with its claw, one inch and a half long. Wing-spine small and short.'

Yarrell (1845 (3): 107, 2nd ed.) says: 'In the third volume of the same journal [Zoological Journal] p. 493, G. T. Fox, Esq., has recorded another specimen of this bird, which was killed within three miles of Derby, in November 1821.'

Accepted locally (Whitlock 1893; Frost 1978).

3). 1823 Cambridgeshire Melbourn, immature male, caught, January.

(Anon., Zoological Journal 2: 279; Selby, 1833; Yarrell, 1845; Lack, 1934; Bircham, 1989).

History Anon. (1825) in the Zoological Journal, Vol. II. p. 279, at the Zoological Club of the Linnean Society meeting, says: 'April 12. - The Secretary exhibited a specimen of the Gallinula baillonii, Temm., which had been lately taken near Melbourne [sic], in Cambridgeshire, and had been communicated to him by the Rev. Dr. Thackeray, F.L.S. Provost of King's College, Cambridge, for the information of the Club. This is the first instance of this species, which is not uncommon in the eastern and southern parts of Europe, being recorded as a British Bird.'

Selby (1833 (2): 184) says: 'Plate 30. Fig. 3. Represents this bird of the natural size, from a specimen caught near Melbourne [sic], in Cambridgeshire, and now in the possession of the Rev. Dr. Thackery [sic], Provost of King's College, Cambridge. Bill dark olive-green, thicker and shorter than that of Crex pusilla. Crown of the head, and back part of the neck, wood-brown. Throat and fore part of the neck, cheeks, breast, and belly, bluish-grey, with a few undulations of brown upon the breast, indicative of a young bird. Flanks, vent, and under tail-coverts greyish-black, barred with white. Upper parts yellowish brown, tinged with oil-green, and marbled with irregular spots of white, each being surrounded by a narrow border of black. Outer web of the first quill-feather margined with white. Legs and toes yellowish-brown, tinged with flesh-red. Irides reddish-brown.'

Yarrell (1845 (3): 106-107, 2nd ed.) says: 'One of the earliest notices of the occurrence of this bird with which I am acquainted, is published in the second volume of The Zoologist Journal, page 279, on the exhibition of a specimen at the Zoological Club of the Linnean Society, which belonged to Dr. Thackeray, the Provost of King's College, Cambridge, and which was caught upon some ice at Melbourn, about nine miles south of Cambridge, in January 1823. "To this spot, originally fenland, the poor bird had resorted, in an inclement season, to obtain a meal; but, having wandered far from its native and more congenial latitude, was so exhausted by want of food, or the low temperature of the season, or the combined effects of both, as to allow itself to be taken alive by the hand".'

Further, p. 109, Yarrell adds: 'The young male belonging to Dr. Thackeray, the use of which has been allowed me for this work, and which was killed in the month of January, is to all appearance a bird of the previous season, not having quite attained the mature plumage, the chin being greyish white, and the lead-grey colour of the front of the neck, breast, and belly being varied with patches of pale buffy brown and bars of greyish white.'

Admitted nationally by Howard Saunders (1882-84 (3): 154, 4th ed.) in Yarrell's British Birds and accepted locally (Lack 1934; Bircham 1989).

Comment George Thackeray (1777-1850) was the observer and owner of the two Alpine Accentors in late November 1822 at King's College, Cambridge that appeared to be an incredulous record due to a pair being found at an unusual time of the year. They have since been rejected. Again, this record is recorded anonymously with no mention of the finder and again at an unusual time of year. He also owned a Little Crake caught by an unamed person at Barnwell, Cambridgeshire in March 1826 that was also recorded anonymously. Very suspicious!

4). 1830 Norfolk Barton Fen, immature, killed, late autumn.

(Yarrell, 1845; Stevenson, 1870).

History Yarrell (1845 (3): 107, 2nd ed.) says: 'The Rev. Richard Lubbock wrote me from Norfolk as follows:- "...Three years previously [1830] he [the fenman] had killed another at Barton, the adjoining parish; it was late in autumn, and the bird was in immature plumage".'

5). 1833 Norfolk Dilham, shot, 2nd April.

(Yarrell, 1845; Lubbock, 1845; Stevenson, 1870).

History Yarrell (1845 (3): 107, 2nd ed.) says: 'The Rev. Richard Lubbock wrote me from Norfolk as follows:- "On the 2nd April 1833, a fenman of my acquaintance killed an adult male of this species, upon a marsh at Dilham in this county; it is now in my possession. Three years previously he had killed another at Barton, the adjoining parish; it was late in autumn, and the bird was in immature plumage".'

6). 1835 Dumfries & Galloway Near Lochmaben, Dumfriesshire, shot, summer.

(W. Jardine, Naturalists' Library 12: 336; Jardine, 1842; Gray, 1871; Gladstone, 1910; Baxter & Rintoul, 1953).

History W. Jardine (1842) in the Naturalists' Library, Vol. III. pp. 336-337, says: 'A specimen, which we shall immediately describe, is now before us, shot in summer, a few years since, in an extensive moss in this vicinity.

The upper parts and wings are yellowish-brown, tinted with oil-green; on the head the centres of the feathers darker; on the centre of the back the feathers are black, having the outer webs without the yellowish-brown, and finely freckled with white, the appearance given is like an irregular white patch, interspersed with black; on the secondaries and tertials the markings have the form of zig-zag lines, bordered with black; the under parts, as far as the line of the legs, is nearly bluish-grey; the colour of the upper parts running into it on the sides of the breast; the vent, flanks, and under tail-coverts, are dull black, crossed with broken bars of white; bill dark yellowish-green; feet and legs yellowish-green. Mr. Yarrell describes the under parts of the young birds to be pale buffy white, mixed with light brown".

Length of our Scotch specimen about four inches, (perhaps slightly stretched.).'

Gray (1871: 334) says: 'Sir William Jardine appears to be the only writer on British birds who has found this bird in Scotland. In his excellent manual, published in 1842, he describes a specimen that was shot on a moss near Lockerbie.'

Gladstone (1910: 353) says: 'Sir William Jardine writes that a specimen of Baillon's Crake "is now before us, shot in summer, a few years since, in an extensive moss in this vicinity (Naturalists' Library, 1842, Vol. XII. p. 336)".'

There is no mention of this specimen either in the Catalogue of the Birds contained in the collection of Sir William Jardine, nor in the actual sale-catalogue of June 17th, 1886; nor did it pass with his collection of British birds to the Edinburgh Museum in 1876. Mr. R. Service authoritatively gives the date and place of this occurrence as "1835, near Lochmaben (Trans. D. and G. Nat. Hist. Soc., April 20th, 1905)".'

Gray (1871: 334) gives the location as "a moss near Lockerbie" and Saunders (1899) 2nd edit., erroneously, gives the year as 1842, but Baxter and Rintoul (1953) say: '...one was shot in the summer of 1835 near Lochmaben [Dumfriesshire].'

7). 1837 Surrey Church Street, Godalming, caught alive, undated.

(Morris, 1863-67; Bucknill, 1900; H. F. Witherby & N. F. Ticehurst, British Birds 2: 146; Parr, 1972).

History Morris (1863-67 (6): 77, reissue) under 'Little Crake', says: 'It is said to have occurred at Godalming, in Surrey.'

Bucknill (1900: 273-274) under 'Baillon's Crake' says: 'The first is in the Charterhouse Collection, which is stated to have been caught alive at a spring in Church Street, Godalming (before the water was carried off by an underground drain) in 1837 on a cold foggy morning. A person named Rainbow, a leather-dresser, was its captor.'

Admitted by H. F. Witherby & N. F. Ticehurst (1908) in British Birds, Vol. II. p. 146, under 'On the More Important Additions to our Knowledge of British Birds since 1899'.

8). 1840 Avon Weston-super-Mare, Somerset, adult female, killed, September.

(Yarrell, 1845; Smith, 1869; D'Urban & Mathew, 1892; Blathwayt, 1906; H. E. Rose, Avon Bird Report 1995: 104).

History Yarrell (1845 (3): 107-108, 2nd ed.) says: 'In September 1840, Francis Edwards, Esq., of Brislington, near Bristol, sent me word that an adult female of this species had been killed a short time before, on some marshy ground near Weston-super-Mare, a small watering-place on the British Channel. This specimen Mr. Edwards was kind enough to send up for my use; and the description and measurements, to be hereafter given, were taken from that bird.'

D'Urban & Mathew (1892) say: 'At the time Mr. Cecil Smith wrote his book, he only knew of the Somersetshire specimen which had been recorded by Mr. Yarrell (British Birds, 1st ed. Vol. III. p. 21), an adult female which was shot in September, 1840, near Weston-super-Mare.'

Accepted locally by F. L. Blathwayt (1906 (1): 157) in the Victoria County History of Somerset.

9). c. 1840 Norfolk Ranworth Broad, shot, October, now at Sheringham Hall, National Trust.

(Yarrell, 1871-85; Taylor, Seago, Allard & Dorling, 1999).

History Howard Saunders (1882-84 (3): 155. 4th ed.) in Yarrell's British Birds, says: 'It might naturally be expected that this species would be most abundant in Norfolk, but Mr. Stevenson states that he finds the records of its occurrences far more rare than those of the Little Crake. He enumerates...two obtained in October, 1840.'

Taylor, Seago, Allard & Dorling (1999: 225) say: 'At the National Trust's Sheringham Hall, was a Baillon's Crake hitherto unrecorded. It was labelled "shot Ranworth by the Rev. Richard Lubbock about 1840" and in 1879 acquired by Henry Stevenson. Surprisingly, Lubbock did not record it in his Observations on the Fauna of Norfolk (1879) nor his earlier editions of 1845 and 1848, neither was it in Stevenson's collection which was auctioned in September, 1887.'

Comment Although Saunders mentions two individuals, only this one is acceptable.

10). 1842 Norfolk/Suffolk Burgh Castle, Suffolk, adult male, killed, 12th August.

(J. H. Gurney, Annals & Magazine of Natural History 10: 157; Stevenson, 1870; Ticehurst, 1932; Allard, 1990; Piotrowski, 2003).

History J. H. Gurney of Norwich (1842) in the Annals & Magazine of Natural History, Vol. X. p. 157, dated 23rd August 1842, says: 'About ten days since I received a specimen of that rare bird the Baillon's Crake, killed near Yarmouth; it is a fine adult male.'

Ticehurst (1932: 458) adds: 'Another, in the same collection [J. H. Gurney], an adult male, was killed at the Burgh end of Breydon on 12th August 1842.' Accepted locally as the second for Suffolk (Piotrowski 2003: 133).

Comment Locality since the 1974 county boundary changes is in Norfolk.

11). 1847 Isle of Man Dog Mills, near Ramsey, shot, undated.

(H. W. Hadfield, Zoologist 1856: 5280; H. Hadfield, Zoologist 1872: 3272-73; Cullen & Jennings, 1986).

History H. W. Hadfield of Ventnor, Isle of Wight (1856) in The Zoologist, 1st series, Vol. XIV. p. 5280, dated 8th September, 1856, under 'Little Crake in the Isle of Man', in an extract from a note book, says: 'Isle of Man, 1847. When looking for snipes at the Dog-mill Swamp, about two miles from Ramsey, a crake was shot by me, which, from its wavering flight, and somewhat similar size, I at first took for a Jack Snipe, but it proved to be a crake, the smallest I have ever seen, being considerably less than the Jack Snipe.'

Although I am aware that the Little Crake has occasionally been met with in the southern counties, I am not so sure it has been found so far north as the Isle of Man.'

Henry Hadfield of Ventnor (1872) in The Zoologist, 2nd series, Vol. VII. pp. 3272-73, dated 6th September 1872, says: 'The shooting of a small crake near Ramsay, Isle of Man, in the year 1847, will be found recorded in The Zoologist (Zool. 5280), which, on account of its diminutive size, was taken to be the Little Crake, and it is only of late that I have felt sure that it was not the Crex pusilla, but Baillon's Crake, which according to the undermentioned authors is smaller than the Little Crake, and somewhat differently coloured and marked, being distinctly and regularly barred on the sides, and towards the vent with black and white, as my bird was. MacGillivray says: that Baillon's Crake is 7 inches in length; Yarrell, 6¼ in.; Jardine, 4 in. at the most. This Scotch [sic] specimen, if not a young or dwarfish bird, must have been a rara avis, less in size than the common Wren.'

12). 1849 Norfolk Buckenham Fen, two, shot, October.

(Stevenson, 1870).

History Stevenson (1870 (2): 402) says: 'Again, in October 1849, as Mr. Dowell informs me, he and a friend, when snipe shooting at Shropsham and on Buckenham Fen, killed two of these crakes in the day. One, unfortunately, was too much spoilt by the dog for preservation, and the other he presented to the Rev. W. Poley, of Brandon, in whose possession it still remains.'

14). Pre 1850 Cornwall Penzance, adult, obtained, undated.

(E. H. Rodd, Transactions of the Penzance Natural History Society 1: 423; E. H. Rodd, Zoologist 1870: 2275; E. H. Rodd, Zoologist 1877: 497-498; Harting, 1880; Penhallurick, 1969).

History E. H. Rodd (1850) in the Transactions of the Penzance Natural History Society, 1st series, Vol. I. p. 423, says: 'One specimen obtained from the basin of Penzance Pier, is in a private museum at Penzance.'

E. H. Rodd (1870) in The Zoologist, 2nd series, Vol. V. p. 2275, under 'The Birds of Cornwall' mentions only two records: '...one from Penzance pier, and another from Zennor.'

E. H. Rodd of Penzance (1877) in The Zoologist, 3rd series, Vol. I. pp. 497-498, says: '...In the two first specimens [for Cornwall] the adult character of the birds is shown by the pervading tint of ash-blue on the chin, breast and belly....One of the first two specimens referred to was brought alive to Mr. Vingoe, and he had a good opportunity of observing the colour of the iris, which was a bright vermilion. This, I believe, is the colour in the adult bird.'

Harting, Editor (1880: 135) in Rodd's Birds of Cornwall, says: 'This diminutive Crake has been found on at least three occasions in Cornwall. One was obtained from the basin of Penzance pier, a second in the neighbourhood of Zennor, and a third near the Land's End.' Accepted locally adding that it was an adult (Penhallurick 1969: 99).

15). 1850 Kent Cottington, Deal, obtained, 19th September.

(C. A. Delmar, Zoologist 1850: 2923; Newman, 1866; Ticehurst, 1909; Harrison, 1953; Taylor, Davenport & Flegg, 1981).

History C. A. Delmar of Deal (1850) in The Zoologist, 1st series, Vol. VIII. p. 2923, dated 20th September, 1850, says: 'I also, on the 19th inst., obtained a beautiful specimen of Baillon's Crake.'

Ticehurst (1909: 397) says: 'The first two were shot by the late Mr. C. A. Delmar, near Deal, one on September 19th and the second in the latter part of October, 1850, and were recorded by himself and the late J. W. Hulke respectively. The latter, to whom I wrote about these birds in 1894, replied that in his youth he collected a great many birds near Deal with Mr. C. A. Delmar, but that subsequently, during his absences abroad, his collection got much spoilt by damp and moth. Those birds that remained he gave away, but could not remember what became of the Baillon's Crakes. He remembered, however, that both were shot in a small rushy marsh near Cottington, which was very attractive to rails, for in the same small marsh of a few acres he shot several Spotted Crakes.'

16). 1850 Kent Cottington, Deal, obtained, late October.

(J. W. Hulke, Zoologist 1851: 3035; Newman, 1866; Ticehurst, 1909; Harrison, 1953; Taylor, Davenport & Flegg, 1981).

History J. W. Hulke of Deal (1851) in The Zoologist, 1st series, Vol. IX. p. 3035, dated 15th January, 1851, says: 'In the latter part of October last, my friend Mr. C. A. Delmar, obtained a second specimen of Baillon's Crake, not far from the spot where he procured one in the September previous. It is now in my possession.'

17). c. 1857 Suffolk Thelnetham Fen, shot, early autumn.

(Babington, 1884-86; Ticehurst, 1932).

History Babington (1884-86: 168) says: 'Shot on Thelnetham Fen some years ago (Sawbridge in litt.).'

Ticehurst (1932: 458-459) says: 'The last specimen I have any note of was shot, probably in early autumn about 1857, in Thelnetham Fen "at the rising of the waters"* by the late Canon Sawbridge, who informed me that he sent the bird to the Rev. Charles Browne, Rector of Blo' Norton, who identified it and had it preserved, and it is still at the Hall.'

*Further, p. 458, in a footnote, he explains that it means the sources of the River Ouse and River Waveney.

18). 1858 Cornwall Zennor, adult male, caught, late June, now at Birmingham Museums and Art Gallery (Acc. No. 1924Z18.4148).

(E. H. Rodd, Zoologist 1858: 6210; E. H. Rodd, Zoologist 1870: 2275; E. H. Rodd, Zoologist 1877: 497-498; Couch, 1878; Harting, 1880; Penhallurick, 1969; Watson, 2010).

History E. H. Rodd of Penzance (1858) in The Zoologist, 1st series, Vol. XVI. p. 6210, dated 9th July, 1858, says: 'A mature specimen of this pretty little bird, in very perfect plumage, has, for the second time, turned up in this neighbourhood.

It proved to be a male bird, and was captured in a narrow ravine running down to the sea. The blue about the head is almost uninterrupted, the olivaceous-brown, commencing in a narrow line on the top of the head, and dilating as it goes back to the occiput. Mr. Vingoe has preserved the specimen, and he told me that the irides, instead of being reddish-brown, were bright scarlet. The beak of this bird is shorter than that of the Little Crake, and in fact, a far as I can observe, the bird is shorter altogether.'

E. H. Rodd (1870) in The Zoologist, 2nd series, Vol. V. p. 2275, under 'The Birds of Cornwall', mentions only two records: one from Penzance pier, and another from Zennor.

Watson (2010) in detailing the R. W. Chase collection in the Birmingham Museum lists this specimen was from Morvah and quoting from his Notebooks adds that it was Ex Vingoe's collection and was bought at his sale (Stevens) 13.05.1889, lot 65.17.

19). 1858 Cambridgeshire Fenland locality, male, shot, July; another Fenland locality, female, obtained, early August.

(A. F. Sealy, Zoologist 1859: 6329-30; Newman, 1866; Stevenson, 1870; Marr & Shipley, 1904; Lack, 1934; Bircham, 1989).

History A. F. Sealy of Cambridge (1859) in The Zoologist, 1st series, Vol. XVII. pp. 6329-30, says: 'Several instances of the occurrence of this bird, during the present year, have come under my notice. It will no doubt be interesting to the readers of The Zoologist to hear of authentic cases of its nesting in England. I have a fine male bird, which was shot in our fens in July: this appeared, from its internal state, to have been breeding, and led me to suspect that this species had nested in this district: this I found had been abundantly proved by the detection of a nest, on the 6th of June, containing six eggs, which were shown to me by Mr. Baker, naturalist, of this town.

Some birds were shot also near the same locality about the same time: these, however, were unfit for preservation, and the eggs were much, but not immediately, broken; one has been kindly given to me, and though a little fractured, I value it highly, as one of the first British examples yet taken.

A second nest was discovered in the first week of August, and, in this instance, the hen bird was taken on the nest: the eggs seven in number, had been sat upon for some time, and had lost the usual fresh bloom, yet are still very characteristic specimens: these were brought to me by Mr. W. Farren, of this town, in whose possession they now are: the female is a fine specimen, in good plumage. The Spotted Crake has also occurred in our fens in greater numbers than usual.'

A. H. Evans (1904: 82) under 'The Birds of Cambridgeshire' in Marr & Shipley's Handbook to the Natural History of Cambridgeshire, says: 'In The Zoologist for 1859 (p. 6329), and again in Gould's Birds of Great Britain, will be found an account of the discovery of two nests of this Crake in Cambridgeshire, in June and August 1858 respectively, some of the eggs being now in the Wolley collection at the University Museum of Zoology.'

Accepted locally (Lack 1934; Bircham 1989).

21). 1859 Somerset Taunton, obtained, undated.

(Ballance, 2006, errata).

History Ballance (2006) under 'Errata' (page issued separately) states that one in the Woodforde Collection was obtained at Taunton in 1859.

22). 1863 Dorset Ogber or Burton Meadows, Christchurch, Hampshire, adult female, obtained, September, now at Horniman Museum, London (NH.83.3/239).

(A. P. Morres, Wiltshire Archaeological and Natural History Magazine 21: 242; Kelsall & Munn, 1905; H. F. Witherby & N. F. Ticehurst, British Birds 2: 146; Hart MS.; Clark, 2022).

History A. P. Morres (1884) in the Wiltshire Archaeological and Natural History Magazine, Vol. XXI. p. 242, under 'Baillon's Crake', says: 'Several of these rare little Crakes Hart has in his collection, one of which he bought recently from the collection of the late well-known Grantley Berkley. It was killed in the meadows bordering the Avon between Christchurch and Winkton, which is about one and a-half mile across the meadows, in the year 1863. The entire length of this little bird is only 6.5in., so that, even if pressed, it is rarely seen or procured, as the thick sedges and rank herbage of the places it frequents afford it so secure a shelter. It is said not to be uncommon in France, and to have a large and extended range, specimens having also been procured both from Asia and Africa.'

Kelsall & Munn (1905: 271) say: 'In the Hart collection at Christchurch are specimens procured in the district in September 1863.'

Admitted by H. F. Witherby & N. F. Ticehurst (1908) in British Birds, Vol. II. p. 146, under 'On the More Important Additions to our Knowledge of British Birds since 1899'.

Edward Hart writing in May 1927 states that this adult female (cased with five others) was obtained by me in Ogber or Burton Meadows in September 1863 and mounted by me.

23). 1866 Dorset Ogber or Burton Meadows, Christchurch, Hampshire, adult male, obtained, June, now at Horniman Museum, London (NH.83.3/239).

(Kelsall & Munn, 1905; H. F. Witherby & N. F. Ticehurst, British Birds 2: 146; Hart MS.; Clark, 2022).

History Kelsall & Munn (1905: 271) say: 'In the Hart collection at Christchurch are specimens procured in the district in October 1866.'

Admitted by H. F. Witherby & N. F. Ticehurst (1908) in British Birds, Vol. II. p. 146, under 'On the More Important Additions to our Knowledge of British Birds since 1899'.

Edward Hart writing in May 1927 states that this adult male (cased with five others) was obtained by me in Ogber or Burton Meadows in June 1866 and mounted by me.

Comment I believe Kelsall & Munn have made a typographical error in stating the year as 1866 when it probably should read 1886.

24). 1867 Sussex Near St. Leonards-on-Sea, caught by a cat, 12th April.

(J. Bissenden, Hardwicke's Science Gossip 1867: 143).

History John Bissenden (1867) in Hardwicke's Science Gossip, Vol. III. p. 143, in the June issue, says: 'I have in my possession a very beautiful specimen of Baillon's Crake, a female bird, weighing only three-quarters of an ounce, which was caught by a cat near St. Leonards-on-Sea on the 12th of April. It does not appear to have been seen in this neighbourhood before.'

Comment Overlooked by Walpole-Bond (1938) and other authors of the Birds of Sussex.

25). 1870 Somerset Priory Fields, Taunton, immature, shot, early October.

(C. Smith, Zoologist 1870: 2386; C. Smith, Proceedings of the Somerset Archaeological & Natural History Society 16: 51; C. Smith, Zoologist 1875: 4334; Yarrell, 1871-85; M. A. Mathew, Proceedings of the Somerset Archaeological & Natural History Society 39: 125; Somerset Ornithological Society, 1988; Ballance, 2006).

History Cecil Smith (1870) in The Zoologist, 2nd series, Vol. V. p. 2386, dated 13th October, 1870, says: 'Little Crake in Somersetshire. One of these birds was shot last week on the river near Taunton, by the son of one of the hotel-keepers of that town, who was out about the river shooting Moorhens, and amongst other things brought home a specimen of the Little Crake, which, on account of its small size, he despised and threw away for the cat; but the father luckily saw it, and thinking it was a bird I might like, rescued it for me.

The bird thus rescued is now in my collection, and a very fair specimen it makes. As Yarrell does not mention the measurements of the legs and toes, perhaps it may be worth while to add some of the measurements of those parts: the tarsus is one inch two lines; the middle toe, including the claw, 1 inch six lines; the hind toe nearly seven lines.'

C. Smith (1870) in the Proceedings of the Somerset Archaeological & Natural History Society, Vol. XVI. p. 51, says: 'Priory Fields, Taunton, October, 1870.'

Cecil Smith of Bishop's Lydeard, near Taunton (1875) in The Zoologist, 2nd series, Vol. X. p. 4334, undated, but in the February issue, says: 'I take this opportunity of correcting an error of mine: in The Zoologist for 1870 (s.s. 2386) I recorded a Little Crake as having been killed near Taunton, instead of a Baillon's Crake.'

Howard Saunders (1882-84 (3): 149, 4th ed.) in Yarrell's British Birds, in a footnote, says: 'This subsequently proved to be Baillon's Crake.' Further, p. 155, Saunders adds: '...and two more have occurred in Somersetshire since 1869.'

M. A. Mathew (1893) in the Proceedings of the Somerset Archaeological & Natural History Society, Vol. XXXIX. p. 125, says: 'Mr. Cecil Smith obtained two young birds that were shot by the side of the Tone, close to Taunton, one in the first week of October, 1870, the other on 29th September, 1875. We had the opportunity of examining both in the flesh. Another was shot near Stogursey, in 1887.'

Comment Saunders meant this record and the one in 1874.

26). 1870 Kent Near Hythe, caught, October.

(C. Gordon, Zoologist 1871: 2443; Ticehurst, 1909; Harrison, 1953; Taylor, Davenport & Flegg, 1981).

History Charles Gordon of the Dover Museum (1871) in The Zoologist, 2nd series, Vol. VI. p. 2443, dated 24th November 1870, says: 'Last month Baillon's Crake was taken in the Hythe Canal by Mr. F. Young.'

Accepted locally (Ticehurst 1909: 397).

27). 1874 Yorkshire Horn's Dam, Kirkheaton, Huddersfield, killed, 29th May.

(J. E. Palmer, Zoologist 1874: 4159; J. Varley, Naturalist 1: 25; Clarke & Roebuck, 1881; Nelson, 1907; Mather, 1986).

History J. E. Palmer (1874) in The Zoologist, 2nd series, Vol. IX. p. 4159, undated, says: 'On the 29th of May a specimen of Baillon's Crake was shot near Horn's Dam, Kirkheaton, near Huddersfield.'

James Varley of Almondbury Bank (1875-76) in the new series of The Naturalist, Vol. I. p. 25, says: 'One shot on Horne's Dam, Kirkheaton, May 29th, 1874, by Mr. George Challand.'

Accepted locally (Clarke & Roebuck 1881; Mather 1986) and Nelson (1907 (2): 539) who adds: 'This specimen passed into the collection of Mr. S. L. Mosley of Huddersfield.'

28). 1874 Greater London/Surrey Between Mitcham and Carshalton, adult female, caught alive, late May.

(C. Czarnikow, Field 30th May 1874: 525; Bucknill, 1900; H. F. Witherby & N. F. Ticehurst, British Birds 2: 146; Parr, 1972).

History C. Czarnikow of Elms Court, Mitcham (1874) in The Field of 30th May, Vol. XLIII. p. 525, says: 'One of these beautiful little birds was caught by a labouring man in a meadow between Mitcham and Carshalton, and brought to me alive and in a perfect state of health.

I carefully examined it, and found it to be a female (adult). I consider this a very rare occurrence. Not to be mistaken as to the species, I minutely compared it with a stuffed specimen in my collection, as well as with a specimen of the Little Crake (Crex pusilla). I put the little creature under a wire run on my lawn, where it seemed to be very happy, intending to send it to the Zoological Gardens, when, unfortunately, yesterday morning, by some accident, it got out, and, though I hunted the garden all through, I have not been able to secure it again.

Since writing the above one of my men has again caught the bird in the strawberry beds after a good chase. I have it now on the lawn, wired in, where it feeds well on worms, and on some finely minced meat mixed with bread.'

[We feel sure that if Mr. Czarnikow carries out his intention, by sending the bird to Mr. Bartlett, Superintendent, Zoological Society's Gardens, Regent's Park, his gift will be appreciated by many Fellows of the Society. It would make a very acceptable addition to the group of birds now in the Fish House. - Ed.]

Bucknill (1900: 274) says: 'The second [for Surrey] was also caught alive by a labouring man in a meadow between Mitcham and Carshalton about the end of May, 1874. It was examined and carefully identified by Mr. C. Czarnikow, of Elm Court, Mitcham, to whom it was brought and who kept it in captivity for some time. It was an adult female, and fed freely on worms and finely minced meat and bread (Field, May 30, 1874, p. 525).'

Admitted by H. F. Witherby & N. F. Ticehurst (1908) in British Birds, Vol. II. p. 146, under 'On the More Important Additions to our Knowledge of British Birds since 1899', who say: 'An adult female was also caught alive between Mitcham and Carshalton about the end of May, 1847 (J. A. Bucknill, B. of Surrey, p. 274).'

Comment Witherby & Ticehurst erroneously record the date as 1847.

29). 1874 Norfolk Near Hunstanton, adult female, picked up below wires, 2nd June, now at Castle Museum, Norwich.

(H. Stevenson, Zoologist 1874: 4292; H. Stevenson, Transactions of the Norfolk & Norwich Naturalists' Society 2: 65; Eds., Field 24th Sep., 1887: 486; Seago, 1977).

History Henry Stevenson, of Norwich (1874) in The Zoologist, 2nd series, Vol. IX. p. 4292, dated 17th December, 1874, says: 'June. Baillon's Crake. A beautiful specimen - now in my collection, which proved to be a female in full summer plumage - was picked up dead, under the telegraph wires on the Lynn and Hunstanton line, on the 2nd of June.'

Henry Stevenson (1874-79) in the Transactions of the Norfolk & Norwich Naturalists' Society, Vol. II. p. 65, says: 'A very perfect specimen in my own collection, a female in full plumage, was picked up dead under the telegraph wires on the Lynn and Hunstanton line, on the 2nd of June, and would have probably nested in that neighbourhood.'

In an Editorial (1887) in The Field of 24th Sep., Vol. LXX. p. 486, they say: 'On the 12th inst. Messrs. Spelman sold by auction, at Norwich, the collection of Norfolk birds formed by Mr. H. Stephenson [Stevenson], the well-known ornithologist. Among the buyers were Mr. T. Southwell, representing the Norfolk and Norwich Museum, and Mr. Tuke, representing the Saffron Walden Museum. Among the principal lots sold during the day the following may be mentioned: Baillon's Crake, taken near Lynn in 1874, £4.15s. (Mr. Southwell).'

30). 1874 Co. Durham River Derwent, near Swalwell, shot, 12th July, now at Great North Museum: Hancock, Newcastle-upon-Tyne.

(Hancock, 1874; J. T. T. Reed, Naturalist 12: 76; Bolam, 1912; H. F. Witherby, British Birds 6: 132; Temperley, 1951).

History Hancock (1874) under 'Appendix' says: 'I have obtained through the kindness of my friend Mr. Thomas Thompson, a specimen of Baillon's Crake, which was shot by the side of the Derwent near Swalwell, on or about the 12th of July, 1874.

From the state of its plumage and the time of year when it was shot, in all probability it was breeding in the neighbourhood and must consequently rank as a spring and autumn migrant. I believe this to be the first notice of the occurrence of this rare species in our district, but from its skulking habits it may hitherto have been unobserved.'

J. T. T. Reed (1887) in The Naturalist, Vol. XII. p. 76, under 'Local Specimens of Rare Birds in the Museum at Newcastle-on-Tyne', says: 'Baillon's Crake. On the Derwent, near Swalwell; shot, 12th July, 1874. Obtained from Mr. Scott, of Blaydon.'

Howse (1899: 88) says: 'Case 71. No. 1 (left). Shot on the Derwent near Swalwell, July 12th, 1874. Remark. - Obtained the same year from Mr. Scott, of Blaydon. J.H.'

H. F. Witherby (1912) in British Birds, Vol. VI. p. 132, in a review of the Birds of Northumberland and the Eastern Borders, by George Bolam, 1912, erroneously says: 'Attention must be drawn to an overlooked record of Baillon's Crake near Swalwell in Durham, on or about July 12th, 1874.'

Temperley (1951) adds: 'This specimen is in the Hancock Museum [Newcastle-upon-Tyne].'

31). 1874 Sussex Near Eastbourne, adult female, caught, 6th August.

(A. J. Clark-Kennedy, Zoologist 1874: 4159; Borrer, 1891; Walpole-Bond, 1938; Shrubb, 1979).

History Arthur J. Clark-Kennedy of Eastbourne (1874) in The Zoologist, 2nd series, Vol. IX. p. 4159, dated 15th August, 1874, says: 'An adult female was captured in this neighbourhood, on the 6th of August, in a very exhausted and emaciated condition. It contained in its ovary eggs about the size of pins' heads. This, I believe, is the only specimen ever found in Sussex.'

Borrer (1891: 192) says: 'The only example of this rare Crake which has occurred in Sussex is thus recorded in The Zoologist (s.s. p. 4159)....'

Accepted locally (Walpole-Bond 1938 (3): 335).

Comment Borrer and Walpole-Bond appear to have overlooked the example recorded in 1867.

32). 1874 Somerset Knap Bridge, near Taunton, immature, shot, 29th September.

(C. Smith, Zoologist 1875: 4334; Yarrell, 1871-85; M. A. Mathew, Proceedings of the Somerset Archaeological & Natural History Society 39: 125; Somerset Ornithological Society, 1988; Ballance, 2006).

History Cecil Smith of Bishop's Lydeard, near Taunton (1875) in The Zoologist, 2nd series, Vol. X. p. 4334, undated, but in the February 1875 issue, says: 'Baillon's Crake. On the 29th of September one of the birdstuffers at Taunton (Mr. Petherick) shot a Baillon's Crake at Knap Bridge, not very far from Taunton....Mr. Petherick's is, therefore, the second specimen of this crake killed somewhere near the same place since 1870; and I have no doubt the bird is more common than it is usually supposed to be, not only near Taunton, but in various parts of the county suited to it; but, luckily for itself, its small size and the unpleasantly swampy nature of the ground it frequents, as well as its shy and retiring habits, keep it out of sight.'

Howard Saunders (1882-84 (3): 154, 4th ed.) in Yarrell's British Birds, says: '...and two more have occurred in Somersetshire since 1869.'

Comment Saunders refers to this record and the one in 1869.

33). 1874 Essex/Greater London Dagenham Gulf, immature, caught by a dog, 3rd October, now at the Passmore Edwards Museum, Essex (Acc. No. 11318).

(E. Curtis, jun., Field 10th Oct., 1874: 395; Christy, 1890; H. F. Witherby & N. F. Ticehurst, British Birds 2: 146; Glegg, 1929; Hudson & Pyman, 1968; Cox, 1984; Wood, 2007).

History E. Curtis, jun., of Forest Lane (1874) in The Field of 10th Oct., Vol. XLIV. p. 395, says: 'On Oct. 3, while looking for Snipe, my dog found a fine specimen of the above in a thick reedy ditch, and brought it to me alive. This may interest your readers of the 'Naturalist' column, as it is a rare visitor in this country.'

Christy (1890: 224) says: 'The only record of its occurrence in Essex is the following by Mr. E. Curtis jun., of Forest Lane, E., who records (Field, 10th Oct.) having obtained one in a thick reedy ditch in Essex on October 3rd, 1874. It was not flushed, but was found and caught by Mr. Curtis's dog, in a ditch adjoining "Dagenham Gulf", as I am informed by that gentleman himself, who still has the bird, which he has kindly lent for my inspection. It appears to be immature, but is in good plumage.'

Admitted by H. F. Witherby & N. F. Ticehurst (1908) in British Birds, Vol. II. p. 146, under 'On the More Important Additions to our Knowledge of British Birds since 1899'.

Locally, Glegg (1929: 275) adds: 'It was afterwards purchased for the Essex Museum, Stratford', while Wood (2007: 58) states that this specimen is in the Passmore Edwards Museum of the Essex Field Club, Essex (Acc. No. 11318).

Comment The Museum is in between moving to a new locality (2007).

34). 1875 Dorset Ogber or Burton Meadows, Christchurch, Hampshire, adult male, obtained, October, now at Horniman Museum, London (NH.83.3/239).

(Kelsall & Munn, 1905; H. F. Witherby & N. F. Ticehurst, British Birds 2: 146'; Hart MS.; Clark, 2022).

History Kelsall & Munn (1905: 271) say: 'In the Hart collection at Christchurch are specimens procured in the district in June 1875.'

Admitted by H. F. Witherby & N. F. Ticehurst (1908) in British Birds, Vol. II. p. 146, under 'On the More Important Additions to our Knowledge of British Birds since 1899'.

Edward Hart writing in May 1927 states that this adult male (cased with five others) was obtained by me in Ogber or Burton Meadows in October 1875 and mounted by me.

Comment I believe Kelsall & Munn have made a typographical error in stating the month as June when it probably should read October.

35). 1877 Cornwall Marazion Marsh, immature, shot, 12th October.

(E. H. Rodd, Zoologist 1877: 497-498; E. H. Rodd, Field 20th Oct., 1877: 441; Harting, 1880; Penhallurick, 1969).

History E. H. Rodd of Penzance (1877) in The Zoologist, 3rd series, Vol. L. pp. 497-498, says: 'On the 12th October Mr. Vingoe showed me a bird of the year of this species, which was shot on some marshy ground near the Marazion Station of the West Cornwall Railway, very near the spot where some years since the Yellowshank Sandpiper was shot.

This is the third example of this small Gallinule that has been obtained in the neighbourhood. I may add it was shot by the eldest son of the Rev. D. Harrison, the Rector of the parish adjoining. In the two first specimens the adult character of the birds is shown by the pervading tint of ash-blue on the chin, breast and belly. In the present specimen there is nothing of this colour, but a general tone of ashy brown with striated lines of brown. One of the first two specimens referred to was brought alive to Mr. Vingoe, and he had a good opportunity of observing the colour of the iris, which was a bright vermilion.

This, I believe, is the colour in the adult bird. In the specimen I examined yesterday the colour of the iris was bright yellow. The weight of this little bird was just over one ounce, and the length, with extended neck, to the end of the tail-feathers, exactly seven inches and a half.'

E. H. Rodd of Penzance (1877) in The Field of 20th October, Vol. L, p. 441, says: 'This is the third instance that has come to my knowledge of the occurrence of this our smallest Gallinule in the Land's End district; the two former birds, which were quite adult, were recorded in The Zoologist. These two are still in good preservation in Penzance. The last, which was shot on or about the 12th inst. by Mr. Harrison, jun., of Ludgvan, in the marsh between Penzance and Marazion, appears to be a bird of the year, from an entire absence of the under blue plumage. I weighed it in the flesh, and it just exceeded 1 oz.; irides bright yellow.'

Harting, Editor (1880: 276) in Rodd's Birds of Cornwall, under 'Annual Summaries' read to the Royal Institution of Cornwall, Rodd says: 'I have now to report a fourth [Baillon's Crake], which was shot by the eldest son of the Rev. D. Harrison, the rector of the parish of Ludgvan, on some marshy ground near the Marazion railway station, very near the spot where the Yellow-shanked Sandpiper was obtained some years since. This proved to be a bird of the year. The others were adult birds, as shown by the chin, breast, and under parts being of a bluish-slate colour. In the present specimen there is no trace of this, but a general tone of light fawn colour striated with pale wood brown.'

36). 1880 Yorkshire Holmpton in Holderness, shot, undated.

(W. E. Clarke & W. D. Roebuck, Naturalist 1883-84 (9): 171; W. E. Clarke & W. D. Roebuck, Zoologist 1884: 179; J. Cordeaux, Zoologist 1891: 366; Nelson, 1907; Mather, 1986).

History W. E. Clarke & W. D. Roebuck (1883-84) in The Naturalist, Vol. IX. p. 171, and in The Zoologist, 3rd series, Vol. VIII. p. 179, say: 'Baillon's Crake. Additional occurrence: Holmpton, in Holderness, one shot in 1880, now in the collection of the Rev. H. H. Slater (Slater, MS.).'

J. Cordeaux (1891) in The Zoologist, 3rd series, Vol. XV. p. 366, reiterates the same.

Accepted locally (Nelson 1907 (2): 539; Mather 1986).

37). 1882 Cleveland/Co. Durham Saltholme Pools, Durham, immature, shot, 16th September, now at Dorman Museum, Middlesborough.

(T. H. Nelson, Field 7th Oct., 1882: 523; Nelson, 1907; Temperley, 1951).

History T. H. Nelson of Redcar (1882) in The Field of 7th Oct., Vol. LX. p. 523, says: 'On Sept. 16, while Mr. R. Fox Chilton and I were shooting in Saltholme marsh, on the north side of Tees mouth, the spaniel flushed a Baillon's Crake, which Mr. Chilton shot. Immediately afterwards two Spotted Crakes rose, one of which fell to Mr. Chilton's gun and the other to mine. So far as I can ascertain this is the first record of the occurrence of Baillon's Crake in Durham, and I have much pleasure in making an addition to the avifauna of the county. It is apparently a young bird; the bill greenish horn colour, darker at the tip; the legs a little lighter, back and wings spotted with white.'

Nelson (1907 (2): 540) says: 'A specimen in my possession was obtained while I was shooting with the late Mr. R. F. Chilton at Teesmouth, though on the Durham side of the river, on September 16th, 1882. At the same time and place we also procured two Spotted Crakes.'

Temperley (1951: 280) says: 'A specimen in the Dorman Museum, Middlesbrough, is labelled "Saltholme Marsh, September, 1882". It was shot by T. H. Nelson on September 16th, 1882 (Birds of Yorkshire, p. 540.).'

38). 1882 Gloucestershire Over, near Gloucester, killed, undated.

(Mellersh, 1902; Witherby, 1940-52; Swaine, 1982).

History Mellersh (1902) says: 'One from Over 1882: H. W. Marsden.'

Only one was accepted by Witherby et al. (1940-52) for Gloucester. Swaine (1982) adds: 'The bird was presumably shot at one of the ponds still present near the bridge over the Severn.'

39). 1886 Cumbria Brick Kiln Lane, near Ulverston, caught by dog, May.

(Macpherson, 1892; Mitchell, 1892; Hutcheson, 1986).

History Macpherson (1892: 343) says: 'In May of that year [1886] Mr. Woodburn, who had frequently hunted the clay pits at Brick Kiln Lane, near Ulverston, since the capture of a Little Crake, had the extraordinary good fortune to come across an example of Baillon's Crake. It was flushed out of the cover by his retriever bitch, and at once rose upon the wing and flew away in the direction of Conishead Priory, but, returning to the clay-pits, dropped into a hawthorn bush, and thence into the water. The retriever followed it up and caught it alive, and retrieved the bird to her master. Woodburn took this bird to Mr. Kirkby, who preserved it less successfully than the Little Crake, and, with questionable taste, painted its legs green to match those of the Little Crake, which he had already mounted.'

Oakes (1953: 351) adds: 'A few years later it was purchased by C. F. Archibald, along with the Little Crake, and in 1896 he presented both to Carlisle [Tullie House] Museum.'

40). 1886 Dorset Ogber of Burton Meadows, Christchurch, Hampshire, adult female, obtained, July, now at Horniman Museum, London (NH.83.3/239).

(Kelsall & Munn, 1905; H. F. Witherby & N. F. Ticehurst, British Birds 2: 146; Hart MS.; Clark, 2022).

History Kelsall & Munn (1905: 271) say: 'In the Hart collection at Christchurch are specimens procured in the district in July 1886.'

Admitted by H. F. Witherby & N. F. Ticehurst (1908) in British Birds, Vol. II. p. 146, under 'On the More Important Additions to our Knowledge of British Birds since 1899'.

Edward Hart writing in May 1927 states that this adult female (cased with five others) was obtained by me in Ogber or Burton Meadows in July 1886 and mounted by me.

41). 1886 Dorset Ogber of Burton Meadows, Christchurch, Hampshire, adult male, obtained, October, now at Horniman Museum, London (NH.83.3/239).

(Hart MS.; Clark, 2022).

History Edward Hart writing in May 1927 states that this adult male (cased with five others) was obtained by me in Ogber or Burton Meadows in October 1886 and mounted by me.

42). 1887 Somerset Stogursey, shot, undated.

(H. St. B. Goldsmith, Zoologist 1892: 412; M. A. Mathew, Proceedings of the Somerset Archaeological & Natural History Society 39: 125; Somerset Ornithological Society, 1988; Ballance, 2006).

History H. St. B. Goldsmith of Bridgwater (1892) in The Zoologist, 3rd series, Vol. XVI. p. 412, says: 'I drove recently to Stogursey, a village near the sea, to see a small but interesting collection of local birds, belonging to a wheelwright who has stuffed birds for people in the neighbourhood. Unfortunately he had not kept any memoranda, and so could only give me approximate dates. Among other birds in the collection, I found Baillon's Crake, Porzana bailloni, which was brought to him wounded, having been shot about a mile from the village in 1887.'

43). 1891 Nottinghamshire Bolam, immature, shot, February.

(L. Buttress, Zoologist 1893: 73-74; L. Buttress, Naturalist 19: 89; Whitaker, 1907).

History Leonard Buttress of Grove, Retford (1893) in The Zoologist, 3rd series, Vol. XVII. pp. 73-74, says: 'On February 13th, 1891, the birdstuffer at Retford pointed out to me, on one of his top shelves, a small Spotted Crake, which had been obtained on the river at Bolam, near Retford, some little time previously. Subsequently my brother bought the bird, which has turned out to be a specimen of Baillon's Crake, in somewhat immature plumage. This appears to be the first occurrence recorded for Nottinghamshire.'

L. Buttress (1893) in the new series of The Naturalist, Vol. XIX. p. 89, says: 'On February 13th, 1891, the birdstuffer at Retford showed me a small crake, which has since turned out to be this species. It had been obtained at Bolam, near Retford, a few days before, and appears to be the first specimen recorded for the county.'

44). 1891 Essex/Greater London/Hertfordshire River Lea, Cheshunt, obtained, 24th October.

(R. H. Savory, Field 28th Nov., 1891: 824; W. H. M. Ayres, Zoologist 1892: 27; A. F. Crossman, Transactions of the Hertfordshire Natural History Society and Field Club 9: 75; Glegg, 1929; Sage, 1959; Gladwin & Sage, 1986; Wood, 2007; self, 2014).

History Ronald H. Savory (1891) in The Field of 28th Nov., Vol. LXXVIII. p. 824, says: 'On Oct. 24, while shooting on some marshes between Waltham and Cheshunt. Mr. W. H. M. Ayres killed a nice specimen of Baillon's Crake (Porzana bailloni).

I cannot find any record of this rare species having previously been killed in Essex or Herts. I have placed it in the hands of Mr. Rowland Ward for preservation.'

[See Miller Christy's Birds of Essex, p. 224, where this species is reported to have been met with in that county, one having been caught by a retriever in a thick reedy ditch adjoining Dagenham Gulf in October, 1874. - Ed.]

W. H. M. Ayres of Crouch End (1892) in The Zoologist, 3rd series, Vol. XVI. p. 27, says: 'On Oct. 24th I shot a specimen of Baillon's Crake, Porzana bailloni, on the marshes near Cheshunt, which were flooded at the time. It was in good plumage, but rather thin. It is in the hands of Mr. Rowland Ward for preservation, by whom it was identified. Is not the occurrence of this bird so near London unusual?'

[We have no record of the occurrence of this species in Middlesex; but a specimen of the Little Crake, Porzana parva, Scopoli, was obtained many years ago on the banks of the Thames at Chelsea. - Ed.]

A. F. Crossman (1898) in the Transactions of the Hertfordshire Natural History Society and Field Club, Vol. IX. p. 75, says: 'Mr. W. H. M. Ayres, in a note to The Zoologist for 1892, recorded the occurrence of this bird in Hertfordshire. The specimen in question was shot on October 24th, 1891, in the marshes near Cheshunt, which were then in flood. The bird was in good plumage, but very thin. It was sent to Mr. Rowland Ward for preservation, and was identified by him. In the fourth edition of Yarrell's British Birds, mention is made that this bird appears to be somewhat irregularly distributed on the Continent, but this statement is probably owing to insufficient information. The bird seems to have nested on one or two occasions in England, but even the records of its occurrence are far from numerous.'

Glegg (1929: 275) says: 'Mr. R. H. Savory states that Mr. W. H. M. Ayres killed one, on 24th October 1891, on some marshes between Waltham and Cheshunt. This bird was preserved by Rowland Ward.'

Accepted locally as the second for Essex (Wood 2007) and for the Greater London area (Self 2014).

45). 1892 Yorkshire Between Pocklington and Wilberfoss, adult male, killed, hit wires, May, now at Yorkshire Museum, York.

(J. Backhouse, Naturalist 18: 308; Nelson, 1907; Mather, 1986).

History J. Backhouse of Harrogate (1892) in the new series of The Naturalist, Vol. XVIII. p. 308, dated 8th September, 1892, says: 'Year by year numbers of birds fall victims to the telegraph-wires, and if these 'patent guillotines' continues to multiply as they are doing at present, many more casualties will doubtless occur. The number of scarce birds already on the 'list of killed' by wires in our county is considerable, and the last which has come to my knowledge is among the scarcest. An adult male Baillon's Crake (Porzana bailloni) was picked up under a wire between Pocklington and Wilberfoss last Whitsuntide, and was sent to Mr. Allen, birdstuffer, of York, to preserve, who, notwithstanding a great wound in the breast, has made a respectable specimen, and very shortly it will appear (where all scarce Yorkshire birds should) in the new British bird collection in York Museum.

Previously some half-dozen specimens only of Baillon's Crake appear to have been recorded from Yorkshire.' It was accepted locally (Nelson 1907 (2): 539-540).

46). 1893 Clyde Lochwinnoch, Renfrewshire, hit wires, mid-May, now at the Chadwick Museum, Bolton (BOLMG 1925.55.7).

(Anon., Proceedings of the Natural History Society of Glasgow 5: 137; J. Paterson, Annals of Scottish Natural History 1897: 123-124; Paton & Pike, 1929; McWilliam, 1936; Baxter & Rintoul, 1953; Hogg, 1982; Forrester & Andrews et al., 2007).

History Anon. (1897) in the Proceedings of the Natural History Society of Glasgow, Vol. V. p. 137, read 24th Nov., 1896, says: 'Mr. Paterson also exhibited a Baillon's Crake (Porzana bailloni, Vieill), through the courtesy of the officials of the Chadwick Museum, Bolton, whose property it is. This, which was believed to be the fourth Scottish example of this species, was found in Lochwinnoch Parish, Renfrewshire, in the middle of May, 1893. It had been killed through coming in contact with telegraph wires.'

John Paterson of Glasgow (1897) in the Annals of Scottish Natural History, Vol. VI. pp. 123-124, says: 'In the middle of May 1893 an example of this Crake (Porzana baillonii), which had met its death through coming in contact with telegraph wires, was picked up in Lochwinnoch parish, [West] Renfrewshire, by Mr. Whitelaw. Not knowing what the bird was, its possessor submitted it to Messrs. Matthew Barr and John Craig, joint authors of the birds of the Ayrshire parish of Beith, adjoining Lochwinnoch, and it was identified by them as a Baillon's Crake. Mr. Whitelaw probably did not understand its value, and he exchanged it with Mr. F. W. Paple, Bolton, for some birds' eggs.

It was acquired by the Chadwick Museum, Bolton, from Mr. Paple, with other birds, in the same year (1893) and I am indebted to Mr. Thomas Midgley, the assistant curator there, for kindly sending it to me for examination.

It is usually stated that but two examples of this species have occurred in Scotland, and these are old records, but Mr. Macpherson in his 'Introduction to the Study of British Birds' (1891) says: he "can answer for a third, caught by a dog near Stranraer".'

Craig & Barr (1912: 112) included this record in their list of the birds known to have occurred within 3-4 miles of Beith, Ayrshire, and it is possibly for this reason that Richmond Paton & Pike (1929: 209), and as a result Hogg (1982) also, included this bird as an Ayrshire record.

47). 1893 Dorset Swanage, adult male, caught, 1st June, now at County Museum, Dorchester.

(J. Andrews, Field 10th June 1893: 872; J. Andrews, Field 17th June 1893: 876; J. Andrews, Zoologist 1893: 396-397; N. M. Richardson, Proceedings of the Dorset Natural History Society and Antiquarian Field Club 15: 195-196; F. L. Blathwayt, Proceedings of the Dorset Natural History Society and Antiquarian Field Club 39: 52; F. L. Blathwayt, Proceedings of the Dorset Natural History and Antiquarian Society 55: 208; W. R. Thompson, Proceedings of the Dorset Natural History and Antiquarian Society 62: 124; Boys, 1973; Prendergast & Boys, 1983).

History Jas. Andrews of Swanage (1893) in The Field of 10th June, Vol. LXXXI. p. 872, says: 'A specimen of this bird was caught on June 1 in the stable of Mr. Hardy's builders yard here, within hundred yards of the sea, and was given to me to have preserved.'

[We should be glad to know by what characters this bird was distinguished from the Little Crake, of which two examples only are reported to have been obtained in Dorset. Baillon's Crake is not included in Mr. Mansel Pleydell's Catalogue of Birds of this Country [sic]. - Ed.]

Jas. Andrews (1893) in The Field of 17th June, Vol. LXXXI. p. 876, says: 'In reply to your editorial note, as to the correct identification of the bird reported under this name, I have received a letter from Mr. Hart, of Christchurch, who has seen the bird, and he authorises me to say that it is undoubtedly Baillon's Crake.

The characters which distinguish it from the Little Crake are its smaller size (scarcely seven inches in length), its olive legs and feet, and the white outer web of the first primary.'

[The above information is just what was required to settle the question of identification, and we take this opportunity of remarking that it would be well if correspondents, who do not claim to be experts, when reporting the occurrence of a rare species, would state either their authority for the name, or give very briefly the distinguishing characters upon which they rely in their determination of the species. - Ed.]

Jas. Andrews of Swanage (1893) in The Zoologist, 3rd series, Vol. XVII. pp. 396-397, says: 'On June 1st a specimen of this rare bird was captured in the stable of Mr. Hardy's builders' yard at Swanage, within a hundred yards of the sea, and was given to me to have preserved. I have received a letter from Mr. Hart, of Christchurch, who has seen the bird, and he authorises me to say that it is undoubtedly Baillon's Crake. The characters which distinguish it from the Little Crake are its smaller size (scarcely seven inches in length), its olive legs and feet, and the white outer web of the first primary.'

Nelson M. Richardson, Editor (1894) in the Proceedings of the Dorset Natural History Society and Antiquarian Field Club, Vol. XV. pp. 195-196, says: 'Several rare birds have been observed in Dorset which it is convenient to notice here, though they hardly strictly within the limits of this Report. Baillon's Crake. Mr. Andrews sends me the following note: - "A rare bird Baillon's Crake - which Mr. Mansel Pleydell writing in the Dorset County Chronicle states is the first properly authenticated specimen found in this County - was captured in the stable of a builder's (Mr. Hardy's) yard at Swanage on June 1st, 1893.

The bird was identified by Mr. Hart, of Christchurch, as follows: - "Distinguished from the Little Crake by its smaller size (scarcely 7 in. in length), its olive legs and feet and the white outer web of the first primary". This bird is very nicely set up by Mr. Hart, and Mr. Andrews will be pleased to show it to anyone interested.'

Admitted by F. L. Blathwayt (1918) in the Proceedings of the Dorset Natural History Society and Antiquarian Field Club, Vol. XXXIX. p. 52, under 'New Species of Birds observed in Dorset'. Still admitted by F. L. Blathwayt (1934) in the Proceedings of the Dorset Natural History and Antiquarian Society, Vol. LV. p. 208, under 'A Revised List of the Birds of Dorset'.

W. R. Thompson (1941) in the Proceedings of the Dorset Natural History and Antiquarian Society, Vol. LXII. p. 124, under 'List of Species of Birds in the Dorset County Museum', says: 'Baillon's Crake - Male, summer plumage, Swanage, 1 June, 1893 (Mr. James Andrews).'

48). 1893 Nottinghamshire Gedling, adult, picked up dead under wires, 22nd June.

(J. Whitaker, Zoologist 1893: 459; Whitaker, 1907).

History Joseph Whitaker of Rainworth (1893) in The Zoologist, 3rd series, Vol. XVII. p. 459, undated, says: 'I saw one of these birds in Stanley's shop in Trent Street, Nottingham, and was informed that it had been picked up by a man near Gedling station. It was then dead and lying on the road under the telegraph-wires, against which it had evidently flown and killed itself. The date was June 22nd. This is only the second known occurrence of this species in Notts., and I was fortunately able to secure it for my collection of local birds.'

Whitaker (1907: 245) adds: '...it was an adult specimen and in beautiful feather.'

49). 1894 Sussex Near Ditchling Road, Brighton, female, caught, 2nd September, now at Booth Museum, Brighton (BoMNH 207826).

(A. F. Griffith, Zoologist 1894: 427; Booth, 1901; N. F. Ticehurst, British Birds 3: 294-295; Walpole-Bond, 1938; Shrubb, 1979; James, 1996).

History A. F. Griffith of Brighton (1894) in The Zoologist, 3rd series, Vol. XVIII. p. 427, says: 'On Sept. 2nd a good specimen of Baillon's Crake was caught by bird-catchers on the downs near the Ditchling Road, Brighton. It was brought to Messrs. Pratt & Son, where I saw it alive on the following day.

On dissection it proved to be a nearly mature female. The base of the bill in life was greenish blue, and the breast is pale grey, beautifully and regularly barred and mottled with darker grey, but the chin is uniformly pale-grey or almost white. The top of the head is a most beautiful fawn-colour, and the eyes very bright, the irides being fawn-coloured. In Saunders Manual of British Birds, the adult male is said to have the base of the bill and irides red. The white line on the outer web of the first primary is very distinct, but narrow.'

Booth (1901: 206, 3rd ed.) says: 'It was caught in a bird net on the Downs above Brighton, near the Ditchling Road, September 2nd, 1894, and was purchased and presented by Mr. Henry Willett.'

N. F. Ticehurst (1910) in British Birds, Vol. III. pp. 294-295, says: 'The authorities in charge of the Booth Museum at Brighton have recently issued, under the. editorship of Mr. A. F. Griffith, a supplement to the third edition of the Catalogue of the collection.

This consists of a description of a few of Booth's birds that were not included in that edition, together with a considerable list of additions made to the collection during the last fifteen years. Chief among these are the Borrer and Monk collections purchased in 1901 and 1905 respectively, and the collection of the late Bishop Wilberforce presented by his son in 1903.

These three collections are all rich in local Sussex birds, and contain many of the rare and unique specimens recorded in Borrer's Birds of Sussex. Several of these specimens had already been mentioned in the third edition of the Catalogue, but others do not appear to have been elsewhere recorded, and so were not included in the serial paper of "Additions" published in Vols. I. and II. of our Magazine.

The most important appear to be as follows: - Baillon's Crake (Porzana bailloni). One caught in a net on the Downs above Brighton on September 2nd, 1894.'

Accepted locally (Walpole-Bond 1938 (3): 336) and by James (1996) who adds: '...now at the Booth Museum, Brighton (BoMNH 207826).'

50). 1894 Dorset Ogber or Burton Meadows, Christchurch, Hampshire, adult female, obtained, September, now at Horniman Museum, London (NH.83.3/239).

(Hart MS.).

History Edward Hart writing in May 1927 states that this adult female (cased with five others) was obtained by me in Ogber or Burton Meadows in September 1894 and mounted by me.

51). 1900 Sussex Near Lancing, obtained, 13th November.

(Walpole-Bond, 1938; Shrubb, 1979).

History Walpole-Bond (1938 (3): 336) says: 'On November 13th, 1900, a "Baillon's" was bagged near Lancing, as I was informed by Mr. H. Wells, through whose hands it passed for preservation.'

52). 1901 Somerset Axbridge, September.

(J. Turner, Somersetshire Archaeological & Natural History Society; Palmer & Ballance, 1968; Somerset Ornithological Society, 1988; Ballance, 2006).

History Palmer & Ballance (1968) say: 'Eight records, 1830-1912. Two Weston-super Mare, three Taunton, and one each Axbridge, Stogursey and Minehead. The six dated records are from September to November 13th.'

Ballance (2006) lists one as occurring at Axbridge in September 1901 (Turner 1913).

Comment Having read through the said journal from 1901-15 I can find no mention of this record. I believe the paper (MS.) by Turner was printed separately and handed out at one of the meetings of the Society, and therefore is very hard to find.

53). 1905 Cheshire & Wirral/Greater Manchester Near Stockport, Cheshire/Lancashire, adult male, caught alive, May.

(T. A. Coward, Zoologist 1906: 395; H. F. Witherby & N. F. Ticehurst, British Birds 2: 146; Coward, 1910; Hedley Bell, 1962).

History T. A. Coward of Bowden (1906) in The Zoologist, 4th series, Vol. X. p. 395, says: 'An adult male Baillon's Crake was captured alive in the neighbourhood of Stockport, Cheshire, in May, 1905. The bird subsequently came into the possession of Dr. Charles Cairnie, of Manchester, who showed it to Mr. Charles Oldham and me. The actual locality where it was obtained is uncertain; it was captured in a drain by a workman, and passed through two other hands before Dr. Cairnie obtained it. Stockport, though a Cheshire town, is on the Lancashire-Cheshire border, and it may have been caught in either county. The outer web of the first primary is white, and in all particulars its plumage agrees with the description of the species in Dresser's Birds of Europe, and with specimens in the Dresser Collection in the Victoria County Museum, Manchester. Dresser, however, says: (op. cit., Vol. VII. p. 276) that the legs are "dirty greyish flesh", though Seebohm and Sharpe describe them as olive.

Dr. Cairnie, who saw the bird in the flesh, is certain that they were green, and gave his taxidermist instructions to be careful in this particular. Probably some descriptions and plates, for Dresser is not the only one who describes them as other than greenish, are taken from dried skins in which the colour has faded.'

Admitted by H. F. Witherby & N. F. Ticehurst (1908) in British Birds, Vol. II. p. 146, under 'On the More Important Additions to our Knowledge of British Birds since 1899'.

54). 1905 Caernarfonshire Llangwstenin, near Llandudno Junction, male, caught by a dog, 6th November.

(H. E. Forrest, Zoologist 1905: 465; Forrest, 1907; H. F. Witherby & N. F. Ticehurst, British Birds 2: 146; Lovegrove, Williams & Williams, 1994).

History H. E. Forrest of Shrewsbury (1905) in The Zoologist, 4th series, Vol. IX. p. 465, says: 'An example of this rare species was caught by a dog in a ditch at Llangwstenin, near Colwyn Bay, on Nov. 6th. It is now in the hands of Hutchings, taxidermist, Aberystwyth, for preservation for the owner, Mr. Flower, Colwyn Bay. It is apparently a male, and measures over seven inches in length. The white outer primary distinctive of the species is well marked. The spot where it was taken is on the borders of Denbigh and Carnarvon, and is in the old bed of the River Conway, which in bygone times entered the sea to the east of the Little Orme's Head, instead of to the west of the Orme's Heads.

So far as I can ascertain, Baillon's Crake has not hitherto been recorded in any part of Wales.'

Forrest (1907) says: 'On 6th November, 1905, this example was caught by a dog in a ditch at Llangwstenin and was submitted in the flesh to Dr. W. B. Russell of Colwyn Bay, by its owner, Mr. Flower. The bird, apparently a male, measured over seven inches in length.'

Admitted by H. F. Witherby & N. F. Ticehurst (1908) in British Birds, Vol. II. p. 146, under 'On the More Important Additions to our Knowledge of British Birds since 1899'.

55). 1910 Caithness Near Halkirk, female, shot, 21st August.

(L. J. Rintoul & E. V. Baxter, Annals of Scottish Natural History 1911: 140; Eds., British Birds 5: 202; W. R. Ogilvie-Grant, Bulletin of the British Ornithologists' Club 30: 271; Baxter & Rintoul, 1953; Thom, 1986).

History Admitted by L. J. Rintoul & E. V. Baxter (1911) in the Annals of Scottish Natural History, Vol. XX. p. 140, under 'Report on Scottish Ornithology in 1910', who say: 'A female of Baillon's Crake was shot near Halkirk (Caithness) on 21st August.'

In an Editorial (1911) in British Birds, Vol. V. p. 202, they say: 'One near Halkirk (Caithness), August 21st (p. 140).'

W. R. Ogilvie-Grant, Editor (1912) in the Bulletin of the British Ornithologists' Club, Vol. XXX. p. 271, on the unexpected occurrences for 1910, says: 'One shot, Halkirk (Caithness), August 21st.'

56). 1912 Yorkshire East Harsley, near Northallerton, immature female, shot, 2nd October.

(J. M. Charlton, Field 9th Nov., 1912: 958; J. M. Charlton, Zoologist 1912: 427; Eds., British Birds 6: 258; W. R. Ogilvie-Grant, Bulletin of the British Ornithologists' Club 34: 280; Chislett, 1952; Mather, 1986).

History J. M. Charlton (1912) in The Field of 9th Nov., Vol. CXX. p. 958, says: 'Early in October, after a sharp frost, two other guns and myself set out for a few hours' sniping on the "bottoms", a stretch of marshy ground bordering a small river in the East Riding of Yorkshire. We walked it abreast about ten yards apart, and as we advanced several snipe rose rather wild and escaped unscathed. We had proceeded thus more than half way across when a small rail rose from the rushes before me and attempted to fly away, with legs dangling after the manner of a Corn Crake, when I shot it. At the report a snipe rose to my left, which I also secured. On picking up the bird, which was dead, I saw that it was one of the spotted crakes, and on reaching home we discussed the identity of the bird and finally determined it to be an immature Baillon's Crake (Porzana bailloni), the fourth recorded for Yorkshire. The following day I skinned it, and on dissection it proved to be a female.'

J. M. Charlton of Brampton, Cumberland (1912) in The Zoologist, 4th series, Vol. XVI. p. 427, says: 'While walking a marsh bordering the River Wiske at East Harsley, near Northallerton, a small crake rose from the rushes before me, and flew slowly and with apparent difficulty a few feet above the herbage. I shot it, and found it to be a Baillon's Spotted Crake (Porzana bailloni).

On dissection it proved to be a female, and is an immature bird. Measurements: Length, 7.9 in.; wing, 3.75 in.; tarsus, 1.12.; mid-toe, 1.52 in. It was very fat. This is the fourth example of this species to be obtained in Yorkshire, the last of the previous occurrences being an adult male, killed between Pocklington and Wilberfoss (Mr. T. H. Nelson, Birds of Yorkshire). Unfortunately, my specimen fell into the none too gentle "hands" of the fox-terrier at Harsley Hall, where I was then staying, but was luckily rescued while something yet remained. I have, however, managed to preserve all that was possible of it.'

In an Editorial (1913) in British Birds, Vol. VI. p. 258, they say: 'Mr. J. M. Charlton records (Field, 9.xi.12. p. 958) that he shot an immature female Porzana p. intermedia "early in October" 1912, in the east riding of Yorkshire. This appears to be the fourth record for the county.'

W. R. Ogilvie-Grant, Editor (1914) in the Bulletin of the British Ornithologists' Club, Vol. XXXIV. p. 280, on the unexpected occurrences for 1912, says: 'One shot, Northallerton (Yorkshire), October 3rd.'

Accepted locally (Chislett 1952; Mather 1986).

57). 1912 Somerset Minehead, male, obtained, 12th November.

(T. W. Proger & D. R. Paterson, Transactions of the Cardiff Naturalists' Society 1912: 101; J. Turner, Somersetshire Archaeological & Natural History Society 1913: 96; Somerset Ornithological Society, 1988; Ballance, 2006).

History T. W. Proger & D. R. Paterson (1912) in the Transactions of the Cardiff Naturalists' Society, Vol. XLV, p. 101, say: 'November 13th. Baillon's Crake. Although we have never known this species to occur in this locality the fact of this rare little bird, a male, having been taken at Minehead, not so far away on the opposite side of the Channel, makes it of sufficient interest to record in our notes. The bird was sent to Mr. Mountney of Cardiff for preservation where we saw it for the first time in the flesh.'

James Turner (1913) in the Somersetshire Archaeological & Natural History Society, Vol. LVIII. p. 95, 96, says: 'The Annual Meeting was held at Taunton Castle on June 20, 1912, when there was a fair attendance of local ornithologists....Some rare specimens have been kindly presented to the Museum [Taunton Castle], chiefly by the Rev. Father R. Chichester, including a Baillon's Crake, recently killed near Minehead.'

Further, p. 119, under 'Additions to the Museum' he adds: 'Baillon's Crake (Porzana Bailloni), killed at Minehead, 12 Nov., 1912. - Presented by the Rev. Father R. Chichester.'

58). 1921 Nottinghamshire Rainworth, seen, December; presumed same, seen, 5th March and 3rd May 1922.

(J. Whitaker, Field 17th Dec., 1921: 776; J. Whitaker, Field 13th May 1922: 658; Eds., British Birds 16: 256).

History J. Whitaker of Rainworth, Mansfield (1921) in The Field of 17th Dec., Vol. CXXXVIII. p. 776, says: 'On Dec. 2 I was standing near the end of a dyke which runs on one side of a small marsh here when a bird ran up the bank about 12 yards away. It at once rose and, swinging in my direction, gave me a good view of a Baillon's Crake. It was about half the size of a Water Rail, a bird I often see here. There could have been no mistake for I had a clear view of it within a few yards; after flying about twenty yards or so it pitched into the rush bed.'

J. Whitaker (1922) in The Field of 13th May, Vol. CXXXIX. p. 658, says: 'In December last I reported seeing one of these crakes here. I again saw it on March 5th, when it flew over a small pool in the marsh not far from where I saw it the first time. Today (May 3) I have again seen it, when it ran from some long grass within two yards of me, and after passing under some rushes it ran over a patch of short grass, where I had a clear view of it for three yards or more, and Baillon's Crake it was for a certainty. I now hope it may mate or rear a brood.'

In an Editorial (1923) in British Birds, Vol. XVI. p. 256, they say: 'Mr. Whitaker states (Field, 13/v/1922, p. 658) that he saw a Porzana p. intermedia at Rainworth in December, 1921 and again on March 5th, 1922, when he had a clear view of the bird.'

59). 1929 Fair Isle No locality, female, obtained, 11th May, now at National Museums of Scotland (NMSZ 1929.7).

(G. Stout, Scottish Naturalist 49: 91; Eds., British Birds 23: 231; Baxter & Rintoul, 1953; Thom, 1986; R. Y. McGowan & A. Kitchener, Scottish Birds 16: 289; Dymond, 1991).

History George Stout of Fair Isle (1929) in the Scottish Naturalist, Vol. XLIX. p. 91, says: 'A female example of this Crake (Porzana pusilla intermedia) was obtained here on 11th May this year. The ovary contained six well-developed eggs. The skin has been forwarded to the Royal Scottish Museum.'

[This is the seventh reported occurrence of this small crake in Scotland, and as far as our information goes, Fair Isle is the most northerly locality in which it has ever been found. Its nearest breeding grounds are in Holland. - Eds.]

In an Editorial (1930) in British Birds, Vol. XXIII. p. 231, they say: 'Mr. E. [G.] Stout records (Scot. Nat., 1929, p. 91) that a female Porzana p. intermedia was obtained on Fair Isle on May 11th, 1929. The ovary contained well-developed eggs. The bird has not previously been recorded from the Shetlands or Orkneys.'

60). 1939 Sussex Near Pevensey, obtained, 16th May.

(E. M. Cawkell, South-Eastern Bird Report 1939: 22; N. F. Ticehurst, Hastings and East Sussex Naturalist 6: 76; Shrubb, 1979).

History E. M. Cawkell (1939) in the South-Eastern Bird Report, p. 22, says: 'A male, received as a skin is stated to have been killed by a dog at Pevensey, May 16th (J.M.H.).

H.G.A. sends the following note: - Following the heavy snow at Christmas, 1938, a number of birds had been driven to the foreshore at Dungeness and had there perished and been eaten (I suppose) by Gulls. On Jan. 2nd I counted the remains of Passerines, etc. (chiefly wings, beaks and feet) as follows: - About 6 Redwings, ca. 6 Starlings, ca. 100 Skylarks, one Woodcock, two or three Snipe, one Lapwing, also Mallard, Goldeneye, Shelduck and various seabirds.'

61). 1941 Sussex Sedlescombe, seen, 27th December; presumed same, 5th and 9th January, 1942.

(N. W. Moore, British Birds 35: 230-231; Shrubb, 1979).

History Norman W. Moore (1942) in British Birds, Vol. XXXV. pp. 230-231, says: 'I saw a very small crake, almost certainly a Baillon's Crake at Sedlecombe, Sussex in the afternoon of December 27th, 1941, and again on January 5th and 9th, 1942. Each time the bird got up close to me, flew several yards, and then dropped into some rushes. On the first occasion I marked the spot where it dropped, ran quickly to it and got a sight of it as it ran within about a yard of my feet. I noticed its very small size, as compared with my recollection of that of a Spotted Crake Porzana porzana, which I have seen under similar circumstances, and its long loose looking legs. It was dark coloured all over, except for the white leading edge of the wing (this was seen only on January 5th by me, but was noticed independently on the same day by another observer, who has no special knowledge of birds). The dark colour was composed of brown-black on the primaries and reddish-brown on the wing-coverts, &c. I had no good view of the under-parts, but what I saw looked blackish. The white leading edge of the wing excludes the possibility of the bird having been a Little Crake Porzana parva, while its very small size and the red-brown wing-coverts as compared with the greenish-brown of the Spotted Crake (since confirmed by the comparison of skins) seem to indicate that it cannot have been of the latter species.'

62). 1942 Northumberland Beadnell, 20th to 21st June.

(Perry, 1946; Galloway & Meek, 1978-83).

History Perry (1946) under 'A Systematic List of the Birds of Holy Island in 1945' says: '[Baillon's Crake, 1: Beadnell, June 20-21, 1942. J.S.A.].' However, under the title he adds: 'Comprising 256 species and sub-species recorded on Holy Island, the Slakes and Goswick Sands; plus 12 probables, possibles and doubtful species; plus 9 species within a 5 mile radius of Holy Island; plus 14 species within a 10 mile radius of Holy Island - all in square brackets.'

Galloway & Meek (1978-83) state that in recent correspondence with Dr. Ash he confirms his belief in this record.

63). 1943 Isle of Wight Chale, near St Catherine's Point, caught and released, 4th January.

(Isle of Wight Natural History & Archaeological Society 1943; Cohen & Taverner, 1972).

History Cohen & Taverner (1972) say: 'In 1943 on the 4th January one was brought in at Chale, uninjured but in very poor condition, where it was carefully identified, and on release flew off normally.'

64). 1943 Kent Cottington Court, Deal, adult male, shot, 9th May.

(R. Whitlock, South-Eastern Bird Report 1943: 48; Eds., British Birds 38: 219; Harrison, 1953; Taylor, Davenport & Flegg, 1984).

History R. Whitlock (1943) in the South-Eastern Bird Report, p. 48, says: 'Two were seen on a Kentish marsh on May 9th. During the past few years evidence has been accumulated that indicates that this species may be resident on the marsh in question (T.C.G.).'

In an Editorial (1945) in British Birds, Vol. XXXVIII. p. 219, in a Review of the South-Eastern Bird Report, for 1943, they say: 'This report contains a considerable amount of useful material, but there are still some records in it which certainly do not conform to the canon that all published records of rarities should be accompanied by the evidence and not rest merely on the opinion of the observer, however competent, or of editors. Such records, as we have had occasion to observe before in these notices, may be perfectly correct, but if the necessary data for forming a judgment are not given they are rendered almost worthless.

A record of Baillon's Crake in Kent should also have been accompanied by evidence of identification, since Baillon's and Little Crake are so similar.'

Harrison (1953) says: 'It may well be that this bird breeds in the thick reed-beds of the marshes in east Kent; indeed I had the opportunity of mounting and examining a Baillon's Crake shot near Deal on 9th May 1943. This bird was a nice adult male and its gonads were fully developed; I feel certain it must have been one of a breeding pair.'

Accepted locally (Taylor, Davenport & Flegg 1984, 2nd ed.).

NOT PROVEN

0). 1823 or 1824 Hampshire Aldermoor, shot, undated.

(G. Jeans, Naturalist 1866: 73).

[Not in Kelsall & Munn, 1905].

History G. Jeans (1866) in The Naturalist, Vol. II. p. 73, says: 'I have now for some years known that I shot one of these and one of the preceding [Spotted Crake] in the same place on the same day in the Aldermoor, between Alverstoke and Rowner where Gomer Fort now stands. It was in 1823 or 1824. No one to whom it was shown knew what it was, and unhappily I did not think of sending it to Dr. Latham, who was still alive at Winchester, so they were eaten, and very good they were.' Not accepted locally (Kelsall & Munn 1905).

Comment Lacks a precise date for a scientific record. Not known to have been seen by a competent ornithologist. Not acceptable.

0). Pre 1842 Caithness No locality, obtained, undated.

(Wilson, 1842; Gray, 1871).

[Harvie-Brown & Buckley, 1887].

History Wilson (1842) says: '...After transacting our fishery and other business we accompanied Mr. Eric Sinclair, Surgeon, to examine his beautiful and extensive collection of birds, obtained by him exclusively in the county of Caithness. The local museums are extremely interesting, and of great value as illustrating the geographical distribution of species...As examples of the rares species, we may select the folowing...Baillon's Crake.'

Gray (1871: 334) says: 'Mr. James Wilson referred to one in his voyage round Scotland which was procured in Caithness by Mr. Sinclair of Wick, and preserved in that gentleman's collection.'

Harvie-Brown & Buckley (1887: 207) placing the record in square brackets, say: 'In Dr. Sinclair's collection, and seen by Mr. Wilson there. Also in Mr. R. Shearer's List. There is certainly one Baillon's Crake at present in Dr. Sinclair's collection at Thurso, and another at Brawl Castle. These were seen by Harvie-Brown in 1885, but no information was forthcoming.'

Comment Lacks a precise date for a scientific record. No supporting details. Not acceptable.

0). 1844 Highland Loch Cracail, Inveran, Sutherland, shot, undated.

(Harvie-Brown & Buckley, 1887; Saunders, 1899; Baxter & Rintoul, 1953; Vittery, 1997).

[I. J. Andrews & K. A. Naylor, Scottish Birds 23: 75-76].

History Harvie-Brown & Buckley (1887: 207) say: 'Dunbar has a note in MS.: "...shot near Loch Cracle Sutherland in 1844".'

Not accepted nationally (I. J. Andrews & K. A. Naylor, Scottish Birds 23: 75-76).

Comment Loch Cracle or Cragail is about four miles N.E. of Inveran. No supporting details. Not acceptable.

0). 1858 Cornwall Near Land's End, adult male, caught, July.

(Harting, 1880; Penhallurick, 1969).

[Couch, 1878].

History E. H. Rodd (1870) in The Zoologist, 2nd series, Vol. V. p. 2275, under 'The Birds of Cornwall' mentions only two records: one from Penzance pier, and another from Zennor.

Harting, Editor (1880: 135-136) in Rodd's Birds of Cornwall, says: 'This diminutive Crake has been found on at least three occasions in Cornwall. One was obtained from the basin of Penzance pier, a second in the neighbourhood of Zennor, and a third near the Land's End. The last-mentioned specimen, which I saw while in the hands of Mr. Vingoe for preservation, in July 1858 was a male bird, the bluish-lead colour of the head was almost unsullied, some olivaceous brown commencing in a narrow line on the top of the head, dilating as it extended back to the occiput. The irides were bright scarlet.'

J. Clark (1902) in the Journal of the Royal Institution of Cornwall, Vol. XV. p. 213, under 'The Birds of Cornwall', says: 'From Land's End in 1856.' It was accepted locally (Penhallurick 1969).

Comment Some discrepancy in the year. Why did Rodd not mention this record in The Zoologist for 1870? Near Land's End could refer to the Zennor record. Couch (1878) who would have had a good grasp of the situation states that there have been just three records for Cornwall: Penzance pier, Zennor and Marazion, 1877. This is in my belief a duplicate record for the Zennor record as it would appear that Harting, Editor to the deceased Rodd's Bird of Cornwall somehow made two records of one bird.

0). 1860 Hampshire Near Linwood, New Forest, female, shot, November.

(Wise, 1863).

[Not in Clark & Eyre, 1993].

History Wise (1863: 316, 1st ed.) says: 'A female was shot near Linwood, in the Forest, Nov., 1860.'

Not accepted locally (Clark & Eyre 1993).

Comment Not known to have been seen by a competent ornithologist. No supporting details. Not acceptable.

0). 1866 Norfolk Potter Heigham Sounds, presumably bred, four eggs taken 9th June and five eggs taken 7th July; probably same pair.

(J. Overend, Zoologist 1866: 389; H. Stevenson, Zoologist 1866: 442; T. E. Gunn, Naturalist 1866: 89-90; Stevenson, 1870; J. H. Gurney, jun., & T. Southwell, Transactions of the Norfolk & Norwich Naturalists' Society 4: 398; Allard, 1990).

[Riviere, 1930].

History J. Overend of Great Yarmouth (1866) in The Zoologist, 2nd series, Vol. I. p. 389, dated 9th July, 1866, says: 'On the 9th of June a friend of mine in this town was fortunate enough to obtain in the market four eggs of Baillon's Crake; and on Saturday last another of my friends was so lucky as to get five eggs of the same species. Now as the above were obtained from nearly the same spot, it is reasonable to infer that they were laid by one and the same bird. I have looked over your excellent little work, "Birdsnesting", for a description of the nest, but I can find no mention of either bird, nest or eggs. Now my object in writing to you is simply to ascertain whether the nest is of any value or otherwise.'

Henry Stevenson of Norwich (1866) in The Zoologist, 2nd series, Vol. I. p. 442, dated 20th August 1866, says: 'The greatest novelty of this season is decidedly the occurrence of a nest of this species, at Pottter Heigham, near Hickling, for the knowledge of which I am indebted to Professor Newton, to whom the particulars were communicated by Mr. W. M. Crowfoot, of Beccles. It appears that the eggs were found by a labouring man, who sold them to a lad at Yarmouth, who had been in the habit of collecting eggs for Mr. Crowfoot. He was of course ignorant as to what they were, but from their novel appearance believed them rare, and at last, after much bargaining, was induced to part with three of them. The old birds were observed, though not recognized, and the nest with four eggs was placed in a parcel of reeds, growing in water, about one foot in depth: it was very small and loosely made, composed of dry rushes. When subsequently searched for, it was found that the reeds had just been cut, and the nest therefore destroyed.'

J. H. Gurney, jun., & T. Southwell (1884-89) in the Transactions of the Norfolk & Norwich Naturalists' Society, Vol. IV. p. 398, say: 'Two nests believed to be of this species, and probably both constructed by the same pair of birds, were found at Potter Heigham on the 6th of June and 7th of July respectively in 1866, the first contained four eggs and the second five; the similarity however of the eggs of Baillon's Crake to those of the Little Crake renders their identification somewhat uncertain, as the birds do not appear to have been either seen or obtained.'

Comment Birds were never identified to this species. Not acceptable.

0). Pre 1868 Berkshire Near Newbury, shot, undated.

(Clark Kennedy, 1868).

[Swash, 1996].

History Clark Kennedy (1868) says: 'This bird, which was named after M. Baillon, who found it in the marshes of Picardy, is of rare occurrence in Britain. A single specimen was shot near the town of Newbury, in Berkshire, several years ago, but I have been unfortunately unable to gain any further information respecting it.' Not accepted locally (Swash 1996).

Comment Lacks a precise date and supporting details for a scientific record. Not acceptable.

0). 1869 Pembrokeshire Goodwick Moor, two, seen, one shot, autumn.

(Mathew, 1894).

[Lockley, 1949].

History Mathew (1894: 83) says: 'Sir Hugh Owen has informed us that he saw two of the "Lesser Spotted Crake" on Goodwick Moor, in the autumn of 1869, and shot one of them. The bird "looked like a field mouse when swimming". He has since recognised his specimen in Yarrell as Baillon's Crake.'

Lockley (1949: 37) says: 'Mathew included some doubtfully authentic species in his List. It has been considered advisable to omit altogether from our List those which Mathew himself doubted or was vague about and which we have not heard of since: Baillon's Crake.'

Comment No identification details for this sight record of a difficult species. Not acceptable.

0). 1870 Greater Manchester Middleton, found dead below wires, autumn.

(Mitchell, 1885; Saunder, 1892).

[Oakes, 1953].

History Howard Saunders (1892: 201, 2nd ed.) in the revised edition of Mitchell's Birds of Lancashire, says: 'Mr. James Holland, of Middleton states that a specimen was killed near that town by a telegraph wire in the autumn of 1870.'

Oakes (1953: 351) states that it has never been substantiated.

Comment Not known to have been seen by a competent authority. Not acceptable.

0). 1873 Essex Witham, obtained, 18th August, now at Birmingham Museums and Art Gallery (Acc. No. 1962Z10.568).

(Watson, 2010).

[Unknown Hastings rarity].

History Watson (2010) in detailing the J. L. Auden collection in the Birmingham Museum lists a specimen killed by Mr. Eiedle at Witham, Essex, on 18th August 1873, adding that it was bought from J. B. Nichols sale.

Comment Although not in the paper by E. M. Nicholson & I. J. Ferguson-Lees (British Birds 55: 299-384) and not being from the Hastings area, it was sold by one of the leading players of that affair and I find it unacceptable.

0). Pre 1881 Yorkshire Goole, shot, undated.

(Clarke & Roebuck, 1881; Cordeaux, 1899).

[W. E. Clarke & W. D. Roebuck, Naturalist 1883-84: 171; W. E. Clarke & W. D. Roebuck, Zoologist 1884: 177].

History Clarke & Roebuck (1881: 64) say: 'Goole, one killed a few years since is in the possession of Mr. Gunnee, of Thorne (Bunker, MS.).'

W. E. Clarke & W. D. Roebuck (1883-84) in The Naturalist, Vol. IX. p. 171, and The Zoologist, 3rd series, Vol. VIII. p. 177, say: 'The Goole specimen proved on examination to be an immature example of the Spotted Crake (Clarke).' Erroneously admitted by Cordeaux (1899: 27).

Comment Misidentified. Not acceptable.

0). 1882 Dorset Ogber of Burton Meadows, Christchurch, Hampshire, a brood of six, three taken, 7th July.

(Hart MS.).

[KAN].

History Edward Hart writing in May 1927 states that three nestlings were taken from a brood of six in the Ogber or Burton Meadows on 7th July 1882 and mounted by me. But, according to the Horniman Musuem they are no longer in the case.

0). 1889 Fife Scotscraig, caught, 3rd January.

(J. Grierson, Scottish Birds 2: 143).

[J. Grierson, Scottish Birds 2: 143; Smout, 1986].

History J. Grierson (1959) in Scottish Birds, Vol. II. p. 143, recording the record in square brackets, says: 'On 3rd January 1889 a tiny crake was caught at Scotscraig by W. Berry and later released. A detailed description was shown to Dr. Eagle Clarke, who reported that the bird was a Baillon's Crake. As the record has never been published, and neither the description nor Dr. Eagle Clarke's comments can be traced, it is impossible to be absolutely certain that the bird could not have been a Little Crake Porzana parva.'

Comment Not specifically identified. No supporting details. Not acceptable.

0). 1889 Norfolk Near Sutton Broad, nest with one egg, May.

(Witherby, 1920-24; Seago, 1977; Taylor, Seago, Allard & Dorling, 1999).

[KAN].

History Witherby (1924 (2): 839) says: 'Vagrant, but two nests and eggs found Cambs., June and Aug., 1858, also two, believed to be of this species, near Hickling (Norfolk), June and July, 1866, and one Sutton Broad (Norfolk), May, 1889.'

Taylor, Seago, Allard & Dorling (1999: 225) say: 'The egg was confirmed by F. C. R. Jourdain in the 1920s.'

Comment Not specifically identified, using the words "believed to be of this species". Not acceptable.

0). Pre 1890 Northumberland Near Morpeth, killed, undated.

(Bolam, 1912).

[Bolam, 1912].

History Bolam (1912: 491) says: 'I have another record of a bird killed in the neighbourhood of Morpeth, in or shortly prior to 1890, which I had every reason to believe was correctly identified as a Baillon's Crake, but, though the specimen was preserved, I have not as yet been able to trace it, and its absolute identity also therefore remains a little uncertain.'

Comment Not known to have been seen by a competent ornithologist. Not specifically identified. Not acceptable.

0). 1891 Dumfries & Galloway Near Stranraer, Wigtownshire, caught by a dog, undated.

(J. Paterson, Annals of Scottish Natural History 1897: 123-124; Saunders, 1899; Baxter & Rintoul, 1953).

[I. J. Andrews & K. A. Naylor, Scottish Birds 23: 75-76].

History John Paterson of Glasgow (1897) in the Annals of Scottish Natural History, Vol. VI. p. 124, refers to Macpherson (1891) (Introduction to the Study of British Birds) who says: '...one was caught by a dog near Stranraer [Wigtownshire].'

Not accepted nationally for Scotland (I. J. Andrews & K. A. Naylor, Scottish Birds 23: 75-76).

Comment Not known to have been seen by a competent ornithologist. No supporting details. Not acceptable.

0). 1898 Caithness Westfield, near Thurso, female, shot, September.

(W. Arkwright, Field 8th Oct., 1898: 608; W. Arkwright, Annals of Scottish Natural History 1899: 50; H. F. Witherby & N. F. Ticehurst, British Birds 2: 146; Baxter & Rintoul, 1953).

[I. J. Andrews & K. A. Naylor, Scottish Birds 23: 75-76; Forrester & Andrews, 2007].

History William Arkwright of Westfield Lodge, Thurso (1898) in The Field of 8th Oct., Vol. XCII. p. 608, and (1899) in the Annals of Scottish Natural History, Vol. VIII. p. 50, says: 'When shooting here in September [1898] I obtained a female specimen of Baillon's Crake, which is now being set up by Mr. Dunbar of Thurso.'

Admitted by H. F. Witherby & N. F. Ticehurst (1908) in British Birds, Vol. II. p. 146, under 'On the More Important Additions to our Knowledge of British Birds since 1899'.

Not accepted nationally for Scotland (I. J. Andrews & K. A. Naylor, Scottish Birds 23: 75-76).

0). 1902 Sussex Winchelsea, female, obtained, 2nd October, now at National Museums of Scotland (NMS.Z.1913.205).

(J. M. Collinson & R. Y. McGowan, British Birds 104: 543).

[J. M. Collinson & R. Y. McGowan, British Birds 104: 543].

History J. M. Collinson & R. Y. McGowan (2011) in British Birds, Vol. CIV. p. 543, in a Letter, under 'Hastings Rarities in the Royal Museum of Scotland, Edinburgh', state that the following species were sold to the museum during 1913 and 1914 by George Bristow, the taxidermist of St Leonard's, who was at the heart of the fraud known as the 'Hastings Rarities', just before Witherby challenged him in 1916 over the amount of rarities recorded in the area. A female from Winchelsea on 2nd October 1902 (Acc. No. 1913.205).

0). 1906 Kent Near Lydd, female, shot, 24th November.

("R.E.C." Field 24th Nov., 1906: 1074; E. N. Bloomfield, Hastings & East Sussex Naturalist 1: 124-125; N. F. Ticehurst, British Birds 1: 359; H. F. Witherby & N. F. Ticehurst, British Birds 2: 146; Ticehurst, 1909; Harrison, 1953).

[E. M. Nicholson & I. J. Ferguson-Lees, British Birds 55: 299-384 HR].

History "R.E.C." of Cranbrook (1906) in The Field of 24th Nov., Vol. CVIII. p. 1074, says: 'On Nov. 24 a Baillon's Crake (Porzana bailloni) was shot by Capt. R. Alexander near Lydd, Kent. The bird, which as a female, was flushed from a rush-covered pool near the sea. It seems that it is the first instance of this rare crake being recorded in Kent.'

[Baillon's Crake is always regarded as a rare bird in this country, and its occurrence has been usually noticed in the eastern counties, but our correspondent is mistaken in supposing that it has not previously been met with in Kent.

In the third edition of Yarrell's Birds, two examples of this small crake are mentioned as having been obtained at Deal, and Mr. George Dowker in his Birds of East Kent, 1889, states (p. 36), 'we have occasionally met with the Spotted Crake and Baillon's Crake, both rare birds.'

Moreover, Baillon's Crake is reported to have nested in Kent seventy years ago. In the sale catalogue of the collection of eggs belonging to the Rev. R. Harvey, disposed of at Stevens's auction rooms, Dec. 9, 1869, a copy of which is now before us, Lot 211 consisted of one egg of the Little Crake from Holland and two eggs of Baillon's Crake taken by a coastguardsman at Folkestone rabbit warren in 1834.

The bird is not mentioned in The Fauna of Blackheath, 1859, nor in Prentis's Birds of Rainham, 1894. Kent is one of the few counties in England for which there is no comprehensive handbook of birds has yet been published. There is abundant material available for anyone disposed to undertake the task. - Ed.]

E. N. Bloomfield (1907) in the Hastings & East Sussex Naturalist, Vol. I. pp. 124-125, says: 'I am again indebted to Messrs. N. F. Ticehurst, W. Ruskin Butterfield and Walter Field for the following notices of rare birds which have occurred in our own and in neighbouring districts. In the neighbouring districts - Porzana bailloni, Vieillot, Baillon's Crake, a female near Lydd, November 24th, 1906.'

In an Editorial (1908) in British Birds, Vol. I. p. 359, he says: 'Among the "Annual Notes" for 1907, collected by the Rev. E. N. Bloomfield, in the Hastings and East Sussex Naturalist (Vol. I. pp. 124, 125) we note the following interesting records by Messrs. N. F. Ticehurst, W. R. Butterfield, and W. Field: - Baillon's Crake (Porzana bailloni) near Lydd, November 24th, 1906.'

Admitted by H. F. Witherby & N. F. Ticehurst (1908) in British Birds, Vol. II. p. 146, under 'On the More Important Additions to our Knowledge of British Birds since 1899'.

Ticehurst (1909: 397) says: '...It was a female and was preserved by Mr. Bristow, of St. Leonards, who kindly brought it to me to examine in the flesh.'

Comment Hastings rarity. Not acceptable.

0). 1907 Sussex Pett, hit wires, June.

(E. N. Bloomfield, Hastings & East Sussex Naturalist 1: 124-125; N. F. Ticehurst, British Birds 1: 359; H. F. Witherby & N. F. Ticehurst, British Birds 2: 146; Walpole-Bond, 1938).

[E. M. Nicholson & I. J. Ferguson-Lees, British Birds 55: 299-384 HR].

History E. N. Bloomfield (1907) in the Hastings & East Sussex Naturalist, Vol. I. pp. 124-125, says: 'I am again indebted to Messrs. N. F. Ticehurst, W. Ruskin Butterfield and Walter Field for the following notices of rare birds which have occurred in our own and in neighbouring districts. In the Hastings district - Porzana bailloni, Vieillot, Baillon's Crake, Pett, June, 1907; it flew against the telegraph wires.'

Admitted by H. F. Witherby & N. F. Ticehurst (1908) in British Birds, Vol. II. p. 146, under 'On the More Important Additions to our Knowledge of British Birds since 1899'.

Walpole-Bond (1938 (3): 336) says: 'Again, during June, 1907 - no conciser date comes to light - one of these birds "telegraphed" itself at Pett.'

Comment Hastings rarity. Not acceptable.

0). 1907/1908 Sussex St Leonards-on-Sea, several, undated.

(Walpole-Bond, 1938).

[E. M. Nicholson & I. J. Ferguson-Lees, British Birds 55: 299-384 HR].

History Walpole-Bond (1938 (3): 336) says: 'And much about the same time, i.e., during 1907 and 1908 (an absence of exact dates is greatly to be deplored), several of them were secured round and about St. Leonards-on-Sea - Michael Nicoll was my informant and he himself inspected one of the victims after it had been set up.'

Comment Hastings rarity. Not acceptable.

0). 1914 Dorset Christchurch, Hampshire, female, obtained, undated, now at Birmingham Museums and Art Gallery (Acc. No. 1962Z10.569).

(Watson, 2010).

[KAN].

History Watson (2010) in detailing the J. L. Auden collection in the Birmingham Museum lists a specimen obtained at Christchurch, Hampshire, during 1914, adding that it was bought at Sir V. H. Crewe's sale.

Comment Crewe's specimens have been questioned before over their provenance and this record came to light 96 years after the event leaving it open to doubt. Not acceptable.

0). 1953 Essex Abberton Reservoir, 13th June.

(G. A. Pyman, British Birds 46: 452; Hudson & Pyman, 1968; Cox, 1984).

[D. I. M. Wallace, C. Bradshaw & M. J. Rogers, British Birds 99: 463; Wood, 2007].

History G. A. Pyman (1953) in British Birds, Vol. XLVI. p. 452, says: 'On June 13th, 1953, at Abberton Reservoir, Essex, B. Winchester flushed a small crake from long grass within 10 yards of the water. At first sight it strongly resembled a miniature Water Rail (Rallus aquaticus). It flew some 10 yards and pitched into the wet grass. The observer gave chase and fell upon the bird but just failed to capture it. He was so close, however, that he could distinctly see the white markings on back and wing as described in The Handbook. The bill was very much shorter than the Water Rail's, but its colour could not be determined since it was caked with wet mud. Excellent views were, however, obtained of the legs, which were definitely flesh coloured and not green as in the Little Crake (Porzana parva), because the bird slipped and slithered all the way along a low parapet during the chase. The size was given as approximately that of a Skylark (Alauda arvensis). From this description there would seem to be no doubt that the bird was a Baillon's Crake (P. pusilla). It is interesting to note that a Spotted Crake (P. porzana) was seen by Mr. Winchester in a trap at the reservoir (and subsequently ringed by Major-General C. B. Wainwright) on September 1st and he observed then that the only similarity between that species and Baillon's Crake was the white on the wing; further that there was nothing else that would make one confuse the two species as the Spotted Crake looked almost as large as a Water Rail and was a stouter bird altogether. This would appear to be only the third record of this very rare species for the County, and the first for this century.'

Accepted locally (Hudson & Pyman 1968; Cox 1984).

However, D. I. M. Wallace, C. Bradshaw & M. J. Rogers (2006) in British Birds, Vol. XCIX. p. 463, in a review of certain rarities during the period 1950-57, found this record to be unacceptable.

AC Non-pass

Keith Naylor

Baillon’s Crake

Zapornia pusilla (Pallas, 1776) (64, 0)

Allen's Gallinule

Little Crake