The Chairman then introduced. Mr.  Thos. Bunker of Goole (President of the Vertebrate section of the Yorkshire Naturalists’ Union,) who read a paper on “The Migration of Birds,” of which the following is an abstract.

The lecturer, referring to the labours of the committee appointed by the British Association for the purpose of obtaining observations on the migration of birds, showed that migration was not confined to birds inasmuch as fishes, seals, whales, etc. migrate. Herrings, Salmon, seals and other animals migrate to places suitable for the perpetuation of the respective species – rapacious animals in pursuit of pray, and many from a strong hereditary feeling.

Birds migrate to colder climates where food for their young is abundant and the days are long, so that they are continually being fed. The routes followed by them on their return from the north were traced on the map and a few general laws regulating them stated.

Reasons were also given why large numbers of them landed at certain places while other spots were not visited. The chief routes frequented by our southern visitors were also shown and the reasons stated why some of those were chosen. The lecturer then referred to the manner in which great “rushes” of migrants are observed and showed how a watch was kept on the flocks till they gradually dispersed in Ireland.

Statements were quoted showing how hundreds in foggy weather are killed by striking the lanterns of lightships and lighthouses. The effects of improved drainage of lowlands and moors and the increasing impurity of our streams upon our feathered visitors were named.

Species were enumerated that are no longer found in our districts and others that are seldom seen. He condemned severely the conduct of so-called sportsmen who shoot gulled and other birds when they are unfit for food, and also the absurd fashion of decorating ladies’ dresses with plumage of beautiful birds.