COUNTRY LIFE
SOME years ago readers of The Spectator mos; generously provided a good part of the funds, desired for the bird obsertatory on Skokholm Island which has become famous among ornithologists the world over. For myself I put a day's watching on that wonderful island among the golden days. As a result of experiences in this region, both on the several islands and the Pembrokeshire coast, a notable extension of the research work is planned, partly under the advice of Dr. Julian Huxley. The local Bird Society is now renamed the West Wales Field Society. The island of Skomer, quite as remarkable as Skokholrn, has been rented and a Field Study Centre is to be set up there, both for the Warden and for students. The Society is to own a yacht for visiting the several islands, including the unique Grassholnae, and as a ferry. Botany and geology, and indeed most branches of natural history, are included in the subjects for study. The Society and the Observation House should earn a wide international reputation ; and specialists in eight different branches of research have agreed to assist. The scheme makes the mouth water. Though student-members will provide a part of the funds money will be needed, probably £1,000 for the first year. A Fellow pays 2IS. a year, a Member los. 6d., an Associate 2S. 6d., and a Life Fellow Lzo. All com-
munications should be addressed to the Hon. Secretary, West Wales Field Society, Bridge House, Tenby, Pem. Membership in some form should pay good dividends, that is, interest, to any naturalist in any branch. The biological richness of the whole of this charming district can scarcely be paralleled.
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