Month: November 1921

“G. B. Mc Keown” (Draperstown).–Mineral analysis; with comments, as follows:–One sample, which contained a small vein of mineral substance about quarter of an inch thick has been found to contain–Copper sulphide, 11.2 per cent.; Iron Sulphide, 7.7 per cent., insoluble matter, 80.2 per cent. This, of course refers only to the sample submitted, and the percentage of copper is high, but this must be taken only as an indication of the occurrence of copper. A vein of such thickness would not be worth working, but may point to a larger body on further prospecting. The marked samples give the following quantative results:–1. Very faint traces of copper. 2. Isolated crystals found to contain copper. 3. Green colouration due to copper. 4. Green streaks containing copper. 5. Pyrites containing no copper. Three other samples were also examined, amongst which was one of galena. The other two contained traces of copper.

“G. B. Mc Keown” (Draperstown).–The plants are unrecognisable, having  completely shrivelled up. I have again written for the mineral analysis, and will publish same as soon as it comes to hand. Please do not hesitate to forward specimens at any time.

Within the vast expanse of atmosphere that circulates above the beautiful valley of the Moyola River, there lies a considerable stretch of the serial route favoured by wild geese during their migration from the breeding grounds of higher latitudes. To the warmer winter quarters in Ireland I have observed them come in flocks arranged in V formation, each bird keeping an absolutely correct position in the ranks like a well-trained soldier. They appear to be quite certain of their route and destination, as they seldom divert from the straight path but proceed rapidly without any apparent hesitation. The journey must be an exciting one for the younger birds as they gaze upon new scenery, and are perhaps coached in ‘goose language’ by their elders as to the many pitfalls awaiting the unwary. After flying up the Moyola valley for several miles west of Draperstown, they usually cross the Tullybrick Hills in the direction of Davagh River (County Tyrone), and sometimes stop to rest on its banks. I noticed a considerable number of flocks passing up the valley on October 21st, and counted as many as 38 birds in one flock. Their appearance often heralds the approach of a north-east storm, which we had on October 21st and 22nd, accompanied by rain on the former date and snow the next day.– G. B. McKeown (Draperstown)