Report on the Migration of Birds in the Spring and Autumn of 1886. Eighth Report: (Vol. II, No. 3.)

"Report on the Migration of Birds in the Spring and Autumn of 1886" by J. A. Harvie-Brown and colleagues is a scientific publication written in the late 19th century. This report documents comprehensive observations of bird migrations across various lighthouses and light vessels in Great Britain during the specified seasons. The book serves as a detailed account of the migratory patterns, species counts, and environmental conditions affecting bird movements. The opening of this report outlines the establishment of a committee by the British Association for the Advancement of Science to gather data on bird migrations. It highlights the coordination among several researchers who collected data from numerous observation stations, particularly in Scotland, England, and Ireland. The text summarizes the methodologies used for data collection, including schedules sent to various stations, and introduces the figures that will help illustrate the significant occurrences of bird migrations noted during the spring and autumn of 1886. Observations include the number of schedules returned and detailed accounts of species sightings, indicating both abundance and variations in migratory patterns.