. British birds. Birds. OTES. INCREASE AND DECREASE IN SUMMER-RESIDENTS. An Inquiry Proposed. Every year there appear many notes in periodical literature recoiding a diminution or increase of certain summer-birds in various localities. A good many correspondents have written to us from time to time on the subject, but isolated observations in a case of this kind are of little importance, as they may be due simply to local and temporary fluctuations. To discover the real meaning of these fluctuations the co- operation of a number of observers over a wide area is absolutely essential. We think t
. British birds. Birds. OTES. INCREASE AND DECREASE IN SUMMER-RESIDENTS. An Inquiry Proposed. Every year there appear many notes in periodical literature recoiding a diminution or increase of certain summer-birds in various localities. A good many correspondents have written to us from time to time on the subject, but isolated observations in a case of this kind are of little importance, as they may be due simply to local and temporary fluctuations. To discover the real meaning of these fluctuations the co- operation of a number of observers over a wide area is absolutely essential. We think that the subject is one which ought to be inquired into, and as a preliminary step we seek the co-operation of every reader of British Birds, and would ask each to fill in the schedule which is sent out with this issue. In this schedule only brief answers are required, and the inquiry has been confined to those species which are most often spoken of as fluctuating in numbers. To make the inquiry satisfactory, the answers in the schedules should be founded on the most careful observation possible. The most valuable information of all is such as is given by the Messrs. Alexander in Vol. II., pp. 322-6, and by Mr. H. G. Alexander in Vol. V., pp. ; and it is to be hoped that some of our readers will be able to give the exact number of pairs in certain areas in 1911 and 1912, while others who cannot go so far as this, will give brief reasons for their conclusions. Every reader is particularly requested to fill in and return the schedule at once. The Editors. EARLY NESTS IN 1912. The following notes of early nesting in 1912 may be of interest in connection with the other records which have been published :— March 16th, Suffolk : Several Mistle-Thrush with eggs. April 27th, Kent: Bullfinch with five eggs, incubation commenced; Yellow Bunting with four eggs, incubation advanced. May 1st, Kent: Blackcap with five eggs, incu- bation commenced. May 4th, Kent: Whitethroat with five
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