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 Corncrake Crex crex L 26. Breeds in moist thick grass, clover and damp meadowland. Has decreased markedly over most of range. In Britain and Ireland familiar bird in 19th century, before mechanised farming, now restricted mainly to Ireland and west Scotland (but still decreasing). Suffers from grass mown early. Arrives from middle of April. Size similar to a small, slender Grey Partridge. Brownish plumage and prominent rusty-red on the wings, especially conspicuous in flight. Very difficult to catch sight of; runs away, concealed in the vegetation, even when driven. Can be called up by imitating its voice and may then show itself briefly. If flushed, after all, the wings glisten rust-red. Flight excursions short, low and clumsy. Gives away its presence by its loud, creaky and rasping, two-syllable 'rerrrp-rerrrp' (like grating a comb on a matchbox), repeated almost once a second for hours during early summer nights (more sporadically in the daytime). SP
 An
excellent pocket reference book for recognising birds
is the Hamlyn Guide to Birds of Britain and Europe,
which is a comprehensive reference guide to Britain
and mainland Europe's plethora of ornithological life.
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