Nei valid nce wit Ai } Ww ay te dle pathy YW Aatey at Ne bit| a "1 ba telveaalhiat Lai tit itiictalt at PP DCE 0 ony ee tg | OO NE . *. z¢ ‘ = oe e oe “he Rt) - % Sh ir De ~ <>, FOR THE. PEOREE FOR EDVCATION FOR SCIENCE LIBRARY OF THE AMERICAN MUSEUM OF NATURAL HISTORY a BIRD-NOTES. THE JOURNAL OF THE FOREIGN BRD CLUB, FOR THE STUDY OF ALI. SPECIES OF BIRDS IN FREEDOM ANI) CATT VITY oe Bleed ~*~ VOLUME VI.—-NEW SERIES. “By mutual confidence and mutual aid, Great deeds are done and great discoveries made." EDITED BY WESLEY 1.5; RAGE. PZ) eee: S:, AUTHOR or “‘AvraRIES AND Aviary Luirz,’’ Etc. Bankiva Jungle-Fowl. ASHBOURNE : J. H. Henstocx, Tue ‘ Ayian Press,” 1915. } MEO Wadht ; 1 YAO TEUR WANGPAY | S RLS fies £03 > | i . ~ Tid oe, f= ‘wy * al » ~_ 4 . af Pr » i ; ; ) x 5 | P, 4 : : i 7 =< : ; — , ‘* - - f ¢ | S ® E ‘ + 1 4 7 : \ : © : } 4 * . ‘ 4 . 5 i > i ‘ k ss 4 a 4 ¥ @ = ‘ ay A r y + py 7 py ry Cie : E , ad Contents. Contents. PRED OR y AGI INS cc. ccccchath ee: ss tie od cneten ene - CONTENTS Be fn cuidate nacht setae, | Dees SECRETARY Si" REPORD ercsccteccstapecseamy EVs fh ALPHABETICAL List oF CONTRIBUTORS v. ETS TON VE ARRGE st. areeter eras sore ene lo ee es List or TLLUSTRATIONS IN TEXT ... Xi. MAGAZINE Sap tesa! as «/seajawsiancescines/-av ives (natonel -E INDICES Seeeeathe lacccen weainatenceee Sane SAO INDEX INSET ............:.. Precedes Inset UNSHTE Ss stessaress.'scoSnwarcyoanassstst LU ODEs i Secretaries’ Report Secretary’s Report. — @ ——_—_ An ordinary report is not possible because of the extra- ordinary times, and, in view thereof a most pleasing duty falls to my lot in being able to report that a useful year’s work has been accomplished and our numbers remain about normal. With the December issre of “BrRD NOTES” another volume of our Journal has been completed, The high standard which the Magazine had attained in 1914 has been (1 think all will agree) fully maintained, Our best thanks are due to our Hon. Editor for his splendid work throughout the year, Few know the amount of work required in normal times to produce a Journal like ours, but this year, owing to the war, the office of Editor has been doubly difficult, and Mr. Page is therefore to be heartily congratulated on the result he has achieved. When our Roll of Members appears in January, IT am pleased to say it will contain many new names, but alas! others will be missing. Some of our members have given their lives for their country on the battlefields of France and elsewhere, and when the war is over we hope to make out a Roll of Honour to our dead. Among these are some whose articles proved very interesting to our members : may I ask others to do their best to help our Editor by sending either photos or manuscript, or both ? By doing so you will not only greatly assist him, but also help to keep “ BrirD- NOTES ” in the front rank of avicultural literature. SIDNEY WILLIAMS. December, 1915, Alphabetical List of Contributors. Index to Contributors. The asterisk (*) is affixed to those contributions which appear in Correspondence. AmsLtEK Dr Maurice, M.B., F.ZS. Breeding of the Orchard Finch, 173-6. } Breeding of the Occipital Blue-Pie, 316-9. *The Season, 1915, 319-20. Breeding of the Lesser Safiron Finch, 329-32. ARNCLE R. *Isieeding Results, 1915, 232. Jatcy, W SHORE. Breeding Results, 1914, 42-5. A Journey Across the Sierras, 49, 55, 99- Good and Bad Points in My Aviaries, 119, 150, 192. Breeding of the Black Seed-Finch, 219-22. Breeding of the Red-co‘lared Whydah, 239-43. My Pond and Its Occupants, 278-82. Breeding of Taha Weavers. 295-7. Breeding of Brown-eared Conures, 306-8. Breeding of Chinese Greenfinches, 334-36. BAINBRIDGE, SeconpD-LizuT., W. A. Breeding of Jricolour Mannikin Hybrids, 15-7. Brown-backed Robin, The, 141. *Siray Notes, 231. BEearnert. Mre.. Eten L Robin and Cuckoo, 325-9. Brniiry. E. E. My Aviaries and Birds, 332. Birc.i, Gro Egret Farming in Sindh, 96-9. BousrigLp, Miss M. My Tanegers 13-4. Bricut H *Pin-tailed Parrot-Finch, 48 *Opening, of the Season, 1915. 165-7. Biceding of the Masked Dove, 222-3. > = vi Alphabetical List of Contributors *Seasonal Netes 230. The Scason’s Results, 312-5 Jap e.cyeneel ee lips TPA ASS. *Abnormal Plumaged Yellow-fronted Amazon, 133. Caxtwricnt. Mrs. E. *Tame Biack-cheeked Lovebirds, 263. CHawner. Miss E. C. Nesting of Jardine’, -Pigmy Owl, 257-8. Corton. R: *Obiaining Australian Birds, 79. “Notes om Australiai Birds 107. *115 Not Out, 130. Crore. *Nest of Quaker Parrakeets, 132. Curriz, J *Resuits 1914. 20. Daw:cn-Smitu, FRANK. British Corvidae, 38, 67; 81. Toucans and Toucanetles, 159-62. The Buzzard, 187-92. The Bitterr and Spoonbill, 249-53. Davirscn. Mrs. C. M. *Foreigr. Finck Canary Crosses, 291. DELL, Cnas *Talking Bullfinch, 292. Epicrias The Prospect, a7. Coloured Plates, 47. Wintering Birds Out of Doors, 47. Making the Cjub Known, 48. The Magazine (pink inset), 27. Nesting Records, 126. L.M.1.C.H. and C. Aviaries, 126, 164; 262. Errata, 108, 136, 164, 265. Biceding Records, 162, 341. Nesting Notes, 163, 260. An African Consignment, 236. A Good Record for 1915. 236. Alphabetical List of Contributors Consignment of Indian and B. E. African Birds,, 237. Indian White-eye, 260. Blue Tanagers, 260. Yellow-winged Sugarbird, 260. Crested Black Buntings, 260. Rufous-bellied Niltavas, 261. Chinese Greenfinches, 261. Hybrid Indigo % Nonpareil Buntings, 261. - Stanley and Many-colour Parrakeets, 261. White-winged Whydah, 261. Linnet & Cutthroat Hybrid, 261. Firefinches. etc., 262. Guineafowl & Fowl, 262. Malabar Mynahs, 262. A Unique Consignment of Humming Birds, 263. Nesting of Black-tailed Hawfinches, 264. Red-collared Lorikeets, 264-5. Melba Finch, 265. Birds of Paradise, 265. Brown-eared Conures, 265. A Marvellous Collection of Tanagers—(pink inset 51), 294. Nesting of Black-tailed Hawfinch, 294. Nesting of Pekin Robins, 294. Occipital Blue-Pies, 294. A Retrospect, 339. Ezra, A., F.Z.S. The Red-tailed Minla, 53-4. Fitumerr, H. R. “ Avicultural Magazine "’ and ‘‘ Bird Notes," 266. FREELAND, (Gro. Scorr. An Enthusiast’s Aviaries, 25-7. Gorrince, Rey. R..E. P. *Late Nesting, 48. Gray, H., M.R.C.V.S. Post Mortem Reports, 52, 108, 136, 168. Post Mortem Reports (n pink inset), 18, 27, 28, 31, 39, $0, 69. Hacoiz, G. E., B. A. *Late Nesting of Firefinches, 342. Hess, T. *Nesting of Quail Finches, 319. Henstocx, J. H. British Bird Calendar, 135. VIL Alphabetical List of Contributors Hcrkinsen, Emitus, D.S.0.. M.A., M.B. *Nesting Record—Sulphury Seed-eater, 107. Lovett-Keays, Dr. L., F.Z:S. The Brown-backed Robin, 139. Nesting Results (1914-5) at Park Lodge Aviaries, 142, 176, 208. Breeding of the African White-eye, 197-201. Breeding of the Bearded Tit, 206-15. SON Geass Notes on the Cape White-eye, 205-6. Some Notes on Jackson’s Whydahs, 228-30. Notes on the Pekin Robin, 267-9. PxAcr Niesmey “Da. EeZtS.. mach Toreign Birds at Horticultural Hall L.C.B.A., 1914 Show, 1-13. The Red-tailed Minla, 53-5. The Black Tanager, 59-64. Visits to Members’ Aviaries, 70, 90, 254. Somc Gorgeous Pheasants, 109-16. “ Avicultural Magazine’ and ‘ Bird Notes,” 265-6. Breeding of Pckin Robins, 269-73. A Retrospect, 339. Breeding Records, 341. Nort, MARGARET. Indian Birds, 289-90. Prppiz-WappELL, Miss E. G. R. Breeding, of Red-Collared Lorikeets, 290. PERREAU Major G.'A., F-Z.S. Birds In and About the Station {Bakloh, Punjak) 84-8, 336-39. A Hundred Yards’ Bird Stroll, 308-11. Pirkincron, Lapy KaTHLEEN. M, Tanagers, Past and Present, 35-8. My Yucatan Jay, 123-5. Yorr, Mrs. J: G. *The- Season, 1914, 1311. Putirar, LAuRENCE,, F.Z.S. My Aviaries and Birds, 311-2. Raynor, Rev. G.H., M.A. British Bird Calendar, 135, 136. Rreve. Carr. J. S).,) FyZ.s% British Bird Calendar, 136. Alphabetical List of Contributors REVIEWER, THE. A System of Veterinary Medicine (Hoare), 78. Birds of the Indian Hills (Dewar), 79, 105. Scott, Lizrur. B. Hamriton, R.F.A. *Birds in the Firing Line. SepaGc-Montrc1oreE, Mrs. *Fecundity of Californian Quail, 263. Stris, ARTHUR. *Collecting Ants’ Cocoons, 292. SILVER, A., F.Z.S. Japanese Hawfnch, 14-5. SmitH, J. Stanley and Many-coloured Parrakeets, 284-7. Smytr Miss AxrreDa B. Nesting, of the Black-tailed Hawfinch, 342-3. Speaker, Mrs. A. *Nesting of Blue Tanagers, 167. Sprawson, Capt. E., R.A.M.C. *Birds Near the Tiring-Line, 132. Sprosticn, Mrs., M.A. *Late Nesting of Red-headed Finch’s, 48. STEWART, B. T. Gold-fronted Green [Truitsucker, 33. / My Indian Nightingales, 117. SuccitT, R. Nesting of the Lesser Grey-headed Guan, 28-33. Nesting of the Grey Finch, 65-7. Hybrid Grey & White-throated Finch, 95-6. Breeding of the Sharp-tailed Finch, 282-4. Tavisiock, THE Marquis or My Little Owls, 154, 183, 224, 243. *Idiosnycrasies of a Yellow-mantl d Parrakeet, 165. Cranes, Etc., In Captivity, 169, 216. Experiences of Foreign Finches and Softbills at Liberty, 273. Some Notes on the Brown-quilled Rock-Dove, 304-6. x Alphabetical List of Contributors THOMASSETT, B. C. Hybrid Buntings, 287-9. *The Season’s Results, 343. Wuisirer. Hucu, I.P., M.B.O.U. *Seasonal Changes of Plumage of the Purple Sunbird, 19. Birds of Jhelum District and an Ornithological Diary from the Punjab 20, 45, 74, 103, 133, 202, 233, 259, 293, 320, 344. Brown-backed Indian Robin, 137-9. *Rufous-bellied Niltava, 202. Wittrorp, H. breeding of the Melba Finch, 323-5. LG List of Plates. Index to Plates. * Denotes Coloured Plate. ve Opposite page Malabar Parrakeet and White-eye-browed Blue Flycatcher ... Frontispiece An Interesting Group of Foreign Hybrids Japanese, and Black-tailed Hawfinches Mr Scott Freeland'’s Aviaries—From the Rock Garden Mr. Scot> Freeland’s Aviaries—From the Terrace *Red-taiied Minla Black Tanager (Q9} on Nest Nest and Eggs of Black Tanager Common Jay Common Jay Cieeping Through the Branches to Nest KEpsioges of Egret larming The Common Monaul Pheasant Nest of Quaker Parrakeet *Biown-backed Robin arene Manchurian. Stanley, White-necked, Japanese and Hybrid Cranes Nest of Cordon Bleu Nests ot Africai: White-eyes Cape White-eyes Young Bearded Reedlings Jackson’s Whydah and Glossy Starling Red-cellared Whydah Nes: and Eggs of Napoleon Weaver Nes- and Eggs of Red-collared Whydah Ground Plan, Mrs. Lee’s Aviaries Victoria. Crowned Pigeon Cock Pekiri Rebin on Nest Pekin Robins—Happily Mated The Pond and Some of its Occupants Young Red-crested Pochards Nese and Eggs of Taha Weavers Biown-eared Conures—A Family Party Hen Melba Finch Leaving Nest Siberian Greenfinch (inset) Nest and Eggs ri List of Illustrations in Text Illustrations in Text. Scaly-c1owned Finch a racbiait edheiaie's sinje'k Shawiseve ets /a eioeieia ape OResCN Nore TORO ne Re eraee 6 King Bird of Paradise aa beaatisdeiowerede Aa sloos beelasactie heb Melelete at te ene ee Oe Ground Plan—Mr. Scott Freeland’s -Aviaries ...............sscasscsseoessrees 20 Lesser. Grey-head ‘Guan and Chicks’ s.c.Jo.ceecvecessc see tenuate -to-tieet ncetelser aia anne? The Raven abe icine Seale bate aeie aC aeyalec sate silos este Seat aa, Spee EO eee Younp’ Martinican x Pea’ Doves) asac.cccssz vcs scoiara ence petioles een ae Interior of Aviary with Weavers’ Nests) sc. c.0 ccs .--.c com cease scielesh lsh ieee elem ey Nest ‘and Eggs’ of Black Manager Sateccins sence co -tninnc onesies sete eee eae) Hooded Crow Saw ecUicols gS baw ude ate clean d tench ONE AGS ROE eee Young Jackdaws PE oe TRIOS reaoS Somes bono, OS Nest of Red-billed Weaver ou MSGR se cues Gall enibtelwlts o ae ine Ones tee a swinhoc’s Pheasant im Gourting: “Attitude 250 vcncnstee-scseaveseelssniee) tin ae ee mnve Nutcracker ada siaflcs sat bacetamialek’s to Season e8 so Rape Fecal oa ee My Present Aviary ee oo singct ogee deters detec se doe eee eee My Presen: ‘Aviary—Ground “Planic s.cesepcncen eens tegsente- sate sacar heel eee aera Egrets and Nests Sarvs Heleecia hapa sioeeeoet etal saaleea oe elec ele eis ei ee te ane ate ae Talisch Pheasants wag Dine guedia wetersice aecalacaa visini Gln Rte/ olen e stone OS Ieee a a A Tame Shama RP EAE EERE PERE OPE ee Aa PrN RIOnE FOR OnO Robo ofacce DEO Banjo Nest Box ‘ Bottom End of Aviary—Mr. Marsden’s Exterior End of Aviany—Mx, SMarsdenm's) 22s .:c ace snctctesaaaecttens ep eeet tate eee eO! Top End of Aviary—Mr. Marsden’s Pe a ero ito ces LSE Flamingo aia: Sita sind, Serpe a Soca wet bai p-essalelsaa-ciesa'oievemag areal s/s (elcaieiattels Sess Rae eam. Nest of Zebra Finch Pa PG oe ee Cee aor: aS Nes: and Eggs of Cinnainon Tree Sparrow - baidjectbei vente oe ears sn Nest and Eggs of Cape Sparrow sme nticisee: sis stots Woreiee’ colt tuelado halal eee eam SAL Nest and Eggs of White-cheeked Crested Quail sdaledcobs oSeidac ona nhs WEeieete See EOL Spot-biiled Toucanette EOE ID SSO OSCODOUMBOODEEIACICUNaHCIoas so. AD Green-billed Toucan ao s(aeis a's a osidoarcea aeiltenesterslseniebr stools a's twos ide Race eee OM Stanley Crane bas aassciosva'ecraae(ealesee/e elugss'ae a selcims »ieveieic .0/clc, aleistaelene eee mena LF IL Manchurian Crane List of Illustrations in Nest of Coiden Bleu “ Buzzy ” Younz Buzzard Adult Buzzard Bo a aes ncd wuts hit make formatter Buzzara Carrying Nesting Material Buzzard at Nest in Aviary Severe Macaws Yellow Sparrow and Nest Young Sulphury Seed-Eater Yellow-winged Sugarbird iss Sanea ren Nest and Eggs of Bearded Reva Flamingos at the London Zoo Nest and Eggs of Black Seed-Finch Young Biack Seed-Finch Jackson's Whydah and Glossy Sein Jackson’s Whydahs Hen Red-collared Whydah with Mealworm Young Red-collared Whydah Hiding on Nest Bittern About to Thrust Spoonbill Spoonbills Great Crowned Pigeons Nes' of Pekin Robir Nest and Eggs of Red-crested Pochard Little Grebe and Young Section of Sced-tray Young Taha Weavers in Nest Virginian Cardinal’s Nest and Eggs Young Virginian Cardinal—Just Out of Nest Mr. E. E Bentley’s Aviary Text 7) 1e “pawn hee | "af eames BIRD NOTES, Upper Figure—Malabar Parrakeet (Palaernis peristerodes). AVIAN PRESS PROCFSS. Lower Figure—White eye-browed Blue and White Flycatcher (Muscicapula super- ciliaris, Jerd.) rom lite by H. Goodchild. All Rights Reserved. January, 1915. BIRD NOTES: —— THE —— JOURNAL OF THE FOREIGN BIRD CLUB Foreign Birds at the Horticultural Hall (L.C.B.A.) Show. By Wastumy TL. Pacn F.Z:S., nrc: The national crisis through which we are passing, while it left its impress in the absence of the birds of some well known exhibitors, and undoubtedly, combined with the weather, seriously affected the gate, did not prevent the staging of a notable series of birds, including many of, great rarity, beauty and interest. Certainly a finer lot of Foreign birds have never previously been staged at any show, and it must stand nut as notable in the coming years. In our Club Journal we have referred to Mr. A. Ezra’s success with small and fragile softbills many times, but he and a French aviculturist have fully demonstrated that it is possible to keep Humming-Birds in captivity, and to keep them in a conditior of health and plumage, little, if anything, below that of wild nature itself. Of course they need untiring and watchful care, but, given this, the greatest difficulty is to get the birds. Mr. Ezra feeds his Hummers on the same liquid food that he gives his Sunbirds, but the Hummers mostly take it hovering; I have seen the Garnet-throated Humming-Bird sipping the syrup, while perching on the food vessel. Their cage must be maintained at a minimum of 70 deg. F. For the benefit of those members unable to get to the show, I will briefly describe the cage. It was of the box- type, about 18 inches long, 24 inches to 30 inches high, by about 12 inches deep. It was fitted with a detachable wire front, behind which was a square of glass, which could be raised or removed altogether through a slot in top of cage. The base of cage was fitted with a metal heating-chamber, the heat being supplied by night lights, from one to four being used according to requirements. As regards furnishings, a spray of fine twigs occupied one corner of the cage. In the midst D) Foreign Birds at the L.C.B.A. Show. of this was fixed a bunch of orchids and feathery fern leaves, before which the bird frequently hovered; on the opposite side of the cage was fixed the syrup cup, in front of which the bird hovered, sipping as if from a flower. The cage-bottom was covered with moss, the whole effect a fitting setting for such wee sprites and forming an entrancing picture of captive, yet happy bird-life. The thermometers at back of cage mostly registered 75 degrees during the period of show. One would fain linger, but space forbids, and the report will, I fear, be all too long as it is, but seeing that at least 80 per cent. of the exhibits were sent by members of F.B.C.. a fairly full account thereof is called for in our pages. The following, I believe, to be species which have not hitherto been exhibited at an English show, but time at my disposal has not permitted of any searching of records. Hahn’s Macaw (Ara hahni), Miss A. B. Smyth. Brown-fronted Conure (Conurus ocularis), A. Silver. Aztec Conure (C. aztec), J. Frostick. Euops (Speckled) Conure (C. cuops), C. T. Maxwell. Crimson-ringed Whydah (Penthetria laticauda), R. BE. Simpson. Red-headed Bullfinches (Pyrrhula erythrocephala), A. Ezra. Garnet-throated Humming-Bird (Hulampis jugularis), A. Ezra. Ricordi’s Humming-Bird (Sporadinus ricordi), A. Wzra. (?) Australian Zosterops (Zosterops cacrulescens), Miss I. Clare. 3ullock’s Hangnest (Icterus bullocki), A. Silver. Wedge-tailed Hangnest (Heleropsar acuticauda), A. Silver. Chinese Rosy Starlings (Poliopsar leucocephalus), several (?) Black-gorgeted Laughing-Thrushes (Garrulax pectoralis), Dr. Lovell-Keays. White-eyebrowed Blue Flycatcher (Muscicapula superciliaris), A. Ezra. And probably others. The total entries in this section were 319. The Hall was kept at a comiortable temperature, but the lighting was not so good as usual, owing to the top light being screened in consequence of war-time. The management left nothing to be desired, though the birds might, with advantage, be placed on higher staging—one had to be con- tinually on the stoop to see the majority of this section. The Hon. Mrs. Bourke, and Mr. V. Wynn, looked after the Insectivorous and Frugivorous species; Mrs. Thyme, Mr. J. Dewhurst, etc., who cared for the seed-eaters; and to their voluntary labour exhibitors are indebted for the ex- cellent condition of the birds at the close of the show. Foreign Birds at the L.C.B.A. Show. 3 Mr. D. Seth-Smith judged the Parrot Classes (155 to 163); Mr. H. D. Astley, Classes, 166, 176 to 185; and Mr. R. J. Watts the remainder, viz.: 164-5, 167 to 175, and 186 to 188. ; Crass 155. Atty Specres Cockatroos, Erc. (8). The rarest bird here was a Hahn’s Macaw (Ara hahni), one of the smaller Macaws, having a total length of 13 inches, of which the tail measures nearly 6. The general body colour is green lightly washed with yellowish beneath; forehead and band above the eyes blue; bend of wing and under wing-coverts scarlet; bare skin round eyes whitish; beak black. Its range is Guiana, Trinidad, and Rio Branco. An elegantly formed bird, which will greatly improve after the next moult. The other seven exhibits are all well known species. 1, Miss A. B. Smyth, Hahn’s Macaw; 2, 4, Mrs. Taylor, Bare- eyed. and L. Sulphur-crested Cockatoos. both good; 3, D. Mason. Sulphur- erested Cockatoo, very smart; 5, M. HW. Newmarsh, Red and Yellow Macaw (wrongly described in catalogue as Military Macaw, which is nearly all green); 6, 7, T. Dawson, Sulphur-crested Cockatoos. A very good and tame Roseate Cockatoo was also staged. Cuass 156. Grey anp Amazon Parrots (17). The most uncommon here were the Green-cheeked, Salvin’s and Double-fronted Amazons. No less than six each of Grey Parrots, and Blue-fronted Amazons were staged, the former not being so fine a lot as the writer has seen in the past, though including some good birds; while the latter demon- strated to some extent the variability of colour arrangement common to this species. 1, Miss J. Smyth, Green-cheeked Amazon, excellent colour, tight and silky; 2, J. Frostick, excellent Double-fronted Amazon; 3, 4, A. Silver, Salvin’s and Mealy Amazon, a beautiful couple; 5 J. Dewhurst, a good Grey. 6, Mrs. Johnstone, 7, J. Ditchfield, two good Blue-fronts. Cuass 157. Lovepirps. Etc. (15). An interesting class, but the placing caused much dissatisfaction and comment. An excellent pair of Red-faced Lovebirds of Miss A. B. Smyth’s were very unfortunate in being unplaced. No less than five species of Lovebirds (if we include Blue-wings) and two Brotogerys were staged; all were good, several exceptionally so. Dr. Lovell-Keays exhibited two of the best and tightest Red-headed Lovebirds the writer has ever seen, but they were two cocks, and so had to be passed. A most interesting lot. 1, 6, Miss A. B. Smyth, Peach-faced Lovebirds and Tui Parrakeets, the latter might have been higher; 2, Dr. Lovell-Keays, charming pair of Orange-flanked Parrakeets, like silk, finger tame; 3, 7, C. T. Maxwell, 4 Foreign Birds at the L.C.B.A. Show. Black-cheeked and Peach-faced Lovebirds, the former very rich colour and in perfect condition; 4, 5, A. Silver, Blue-winged (Passerine Parrakeets) Lovebirds, and Madagascar Lovebirds, the latter very fine, but sertainly a trifle lucky. Cuass 158. A.O.S. Parrots, Inctupine Eciecti (14). Here were staged the most interesting of the Parrots. The rarest being the Short-tailed Parrot (Pachynus brachyurius\, which, I think, is new to the show-bench; its habitat is the Upper Amazons and Ecuador. Two pairs of Meyer’s Parrots were staged: one pair (1st) had the yellow areas on head and wing large and clearly defined, the other pair (3rd) having no yellow on the head, and were either a distinct local race, of which there are quite a number, or immature birds, the green of the upper abdomen being much mottled. 1, Rev. G. H. Raynor, pair Meyer’s Parrots, rich colour and perfect: 2, C. T. Maxwell, very fine Black-headed Caique (Caica melanoce- phala). also known as the White-breasted Parrot, beautiful and uneommon; 3, Miss A. B. Smyth, pair Meyer’s Parrots, good condition. but evidently in immature plumage; 4, Mrs. Frost. richly coloured Senegal Parrot; 5, Mrs. Moore, Short-tailed Parrot, rare but not in show condition; 6, J. Frostick, -good Helectus; 7, Miss D. Thynne, Red-vented Parrot. Crass 159. Grrrn BupGericars (12). This freely imported but really beautiful species perhaps merits the title of everybody’s bird more than any other species. While all were good, well feathered and mostly large birds, there was a great difference in depth of colour and regularity and defini. tion of markings, the Ist being a grand pair of birds, with 2nd and 3rd pretty close up. 1, J. Frostick; 2, A. J. Shipton; 3, Mrs. Hay; 4, Mrs. Bayley Ransom; 5, C. R. Tyson; 6, 7, A. Silver. Cuass 160. Crrtatn NAMED PARRAKEETS (16). Here were staged three species—Euops, Aztec, and Brown-fronted Conures, all first appearances—the former (Conurus euops) was figured in colour and fully described in last vol. “ B.N.,” the Aztec (C. aztec), rare but not an attractive species, while the third (C. ocularis) differs but little from the fairly well known Brown-throated Conure. Comment must be made upon the splendour of Dr. Lovell-Keays’ exquisite Malabar Parrakeet— spick and span,” “immaculate masher,” but feebly describe its condition; the colouration was rich and pure, beautifully blended, the delicate tracery of the wings too lovely for words, perfect bloom, and every feather lying tight as if waxed. A most interesting array. 1, Dr. Lovell-Keays, Malabar Parrakeet, easy first; 2 Miss UL, “ec ’ Foreign Birds at the L.C.B.A. Show. 5 Clare, exquisite Red-rump; 3, Mrs. Frost, Plum-head, perfect; 4, C. 'T. Maxwell, HNuops (Speckled) Conure, rare, not tight; 5, A. Silver, Rosella, very rich colour; 6, 7, J. Frostick, Aztec Conure, rare, not in show con- dition, and very fine Ring-necked Parrakeet. Some good Cockateels and an Alexandrin Parrakeet also competed. Cuass 161. A.S. Lorixrs, pvc. (7). The rarest bird here was Mr. Maxwell’s beautiful Red-fronted Lory (Chalcopsittacus scintillans); though rare this species has appeared on _ the show-bench on several previous occasions, While all were good, the depth of colour in some of the Red-collared Lorikeets was very fine. A rare display of fiery tropical hues. 1, 4, C. T. Maxwell, Red-fronted Lory, in perfect form, yood first, and a richly-coloured pair of Red-collared Lorikeets ; 2, Mrs. Moore charming Red-capped or Ceylonese Hanging Parrakeet; 3, W. 38. Smith, very fine pair of Yellow-backed Lories; 5, Mrs. Longden, Red- collared Lorikeet, exquisite colour; 6, C. Roehl, pair R. C. Lorikeets, tight; but not so rich in colour as those above; 7, J. Frostick, Crimson Lory, perfect form, dazzling colour. Cuass 162. ‘A.S. Broapraits Erc.. (4). A _ small entry, all good birds, but well known species. 1, Ilon. Mrs. MacLaren Morrison, pair Mealy Rosellas, in perfect trim; 2, J. Frostick, King Parrakeet, a blaze of colour; 3, Mrs. Frost, Barnard’s Parrakeet, slightly rough; 4, A. J. Shipton, Yellow-naped Parra- keet, good colour, but not as tight as might be. Cuass 163. Grass Parrakzets, Erc. (2). Only two entrants, but both exquisite, Miss L. Clare taking premier position with her well known pair of Queen Alexandra Parra- keets, and Miss A. B. Smyth following with the most perfect Bourke’s Parrakeet the writer has ever seen. Cuass 164. CrrTain CoLtour VARIETIES (9). Not calling for special comment, but the writer would suggest that breeders of Yellow Budgerigars should aim at getting the colour pure and eliminating the wing lacing as far as possible, or go for the two varieties, viz., a self-yellow as near as it can be got, and a good yellow body with distinct dusky scaling on wings. 1, A. J. Shipton, good pair Yellow Budgerigars, good body colour, but scaling on wings rather distinct; 2, 4, 5, 6, A. Silver, Fawn and White Bengalese, pair Yellow Budgerigars (not so pure a colour as above), Chocolate and White Bengalese, and White Java Sparrows, the latter pure, large, immaculate; 3, Madame Feist Madewell, White Java Sparrow, pure but not so large as above, 7, Miss J. E. Smyth, Choc. and White Bengalese. Cuass 165. Common MaAnnikins (7). The condition of these birds must for ever refute the charge that birds can- not be happily kept in cages. Birds that were unhappy and continually craving for their ‘‘ native heath” could never show 6 Foreign Birds at the L.C.B.A. Show. the immaculate condition of these exhibits, and this applies more or less generally all through this section. 1, F. Howe, White-headed Mannikins, beyond praise; 2, Miss M. Bousfield, Grey Java Sparrows, “spick and span”; 3, 4, 5, A. Silver, Magpie, ‘Tri-coloured, and Bronze Mannikins, all good; 6, R. E. Simpson, good pair Spice Finches, cock typical, hen of separate local race; 7, L. M. Wade, nice pair Magpie Mannikins. Cuass 166. A.S. Weavers, Wuypaus, Ec. (11). A most interesting class: Good specimens of Jackson’s, and Crimson-ringed Whydahs (1 think a first appearance), Brown- backed Weaver, and an interesting Melanistic Orange Weaver, entirely brownish-black, with the orange areas only faintly indicated at the bases of the feathers of back of neck and lower back. 1, C. T. Maxwell, Jack- son’s Whydah, rare, steady, per- fect, grand tail; 2, Mrs. D. Longdin, Queen Whydah, lovely bird, but rather lucky, as one of its long tail-plumes was mis- sing—otherwise perfect; 3, W. J. C. Frost, lovely pair Scaly- erowned Finches, perfect, but lucky in such company; 4, R. E. Simpson, Crimson-ringed Why- dah, needs another moult to bring out full colour, but nevertheless hardly treated; 5, Dr. Lovell- Keays, Brown-backed Weaver, un- common, pure colour, tight and silky, but rather wild, otherwise might have been higher; 6, J. Goodall, good Paradise Whydahs, Orange and Crimson - crowned Weavers were also staged. Cuass 167. Rippon AND ZEBRA FINCHES, ETC. (19). A goodly array of the “Freely Imported Species,” with every entry in good form, but the pair of Combasous taking premier honours were beyond praise, both o& and 9 being immaculate and very steady. 1, 4, F. Howe; exquisite pair Combasous, beyond praise and equally gooc pair of Ribbon Finches; 2, W. Buckingham, perfect pair Af. Silver-bills; 3, Mrs. Thynne, nice pair Zebra Finches; 5, 6, A. Silver, Saffron Finches (wild), and Combasous; 7, Hathaway, pair Zebra Finches. Cuass 168. Gounpian Fincuus (11). As usual these well known favourites excited much admiration. All were good but the bird taking premier honours was certainly all that a Red-headed Gouldian should be. A very interesting exhibit was the cock of a pair of Black-heads; in this specimen the Foreign Birds at the L.C.B.A. Show. 7 colouration was dark generally, but the head and neck were entirely black, with the blue collar very obscurely indicated; it was a very beautiful bird. 1, 2, Miss M. Bousfield, Red-headed Gouldian, beyond praise and pair Black-heads, very tight and silky; 3, C. H. Row, exquisite pair Red- heads, hen exceptionally good colour; 4, 7, J. Frostick, pairs of Black- heads, very little below those above; 5, P. Muscott, good Red-head (('); 6. Mrs. D. Longden, nice pair Black-heads. Cuass 169. Rarer GRASSFINCHES AND BuNTINGS (8). Not a large entry, but all of interest and quality, the Pintail Farrot Finches being exceptional. The rarest was Mr. C. H. Row’s exquisite pair of Fire-tailed Finches. 1, C. H. Row, pair Fire-tailed Finches, perfect; 2, 6, Dr. Lovell- Keays, pair Parrot Finches and Rainbow Bunting; both in first order, but the latter rather small; 8, 5, C. T. Maxwell, good Rainbow Bunting and pair Parrot Finches, the latter slightly rough; 4 Miss M. Bousfield, exqui- site Pintail Parrot Finch; 7, Mrs. D. Longden, another Pintail, also in excellent form. A perfect Crimson Finch also competed, and experienced rather bara luck in being unnoted. Cuass 170. A.O.S. GrassrincHss, Etc. (13). A most interesting lot, all in perfect form, but not calling for special comment, save perhaps than to remark that a better pair of Masked Grassfinches has never been staged than WeSe taking premier honours. 1, Miss M. Bousfield, Masked Grassfinches, good first; 2, J. Good- child, nice pair Diamond Tinches; 3, 7, J. Frostick, L.T. Grassfinches and Chestnut Finches, both pairs in fine form; 4, W. J. C. Frost, good Diamond Finches; 5, C. H. Row, nice pair Bicheno’s Finches; 6, A. Silver, pair Red-headed Finches. Cxuass 171. Common FirerincHes, Etc. (22). The largest entry in the Foreign section, and though all are cheaply to be obtained species, yet there was a galaxy of beauty which certainly rivalled that ot many of the rarer groups. Their owners too merit congratulations for the general excellence in which their exhibits were staged. 1, W .Buckingham, Gold-breasted Waxbills, very rich colour and tight; 2, 7, H. Brumbridge, good pairs of Firefinches and Cordon Bleus; 3, F. Howe, pair Cordon Bleus, cock wee bit rough; 4, A. Silver, pair. Lavender Finches, cock rough; 5, J. Goodchild, nice Green Avadavat: 6, C. T. Maxwell, good pair Firefinches. Cuass 172. Common Avapavats, Etc. (12). Another group of Common (so called) species, which caused many to pause and admire. 1, 5, F. Howe, St. Helena Waxbills, leader perfect, finer never staged; 2, Miss M. Bousfield, flawless pair Grey Waxbills; 3, Dr. Lovell- Keays, pair Orange-cheek Waxbills, very rich colour, tight and silky; 4, Mrs. Thynne, good pair St. Helena Waxbills; 6, 7, A. Silver, good pairs of Orange-check and Grey Waxbills, 8 Foreign Birds at the L.C.B.A. Show. Cuass 173. A.O.S. Waxpitis (10). No comment needed, but every exhibit a marvel of beauty, the rarest being Peter’s Spotted Firefinch. 1, Miss M. Bousfield, Violet-eared Waxbills, exquisite condition; 2, Mrs. Thynne, charming pair Sydney Waxbills, faultless; 3, I’. Howe, perfect Melba Finch; 4, Mrs. D. Longden, nice Violet-eared Waxbill; 5, W. J. C. I’rost, good pair Blue-breasted Waxbills; 6, A. Silver, nice pair Bar- breasted Firefinches, rare but not in show condition; 7, Dr. Wovell-Keays, lovely Violet-eared Waxbill, trifle small, but rich colour, very tight and silky, hardly treated. A good specimen of Peter’s Spotted Virefinch also staged, but was passed owing to a badly carried wing, the result of 2 past fracture; otherwise perfect. Cuass 174. A.S. Carpinaus (6). While all were well- known, it was pleasing to see and compare four species. All were in good form. i, W. J. ©. Prost,” pair ~ Virginians); 25 35 95, AL silver shone. Green and Virginian; 4, G. Oliver, Red-crested; 6, C. Roehl, Red-crested. Cuass 175. A.O. TrRuu Fincnus, Etc. (8). Here was another first appearance, viz.: Red-headed Bullfinch, but though in good condition the cock lacked the lovely orange- red head of the wild bird. A Sepoy Finch was also shown, but being cage-moulted was deep yellow instead of the rich crimson of the species when at liberty. Another rarity was an interesting Himalayan Goldfinch. It was also of interest to see the Japanese and Black-tailed Hawfinches together, but these are noted and figured elsewhere in this issue. 1, A. Ezra, Red-headed Bullfinches, a first appearance; 2, Wi. Hathaway, good cock Sepoy Finch, yellow instead of crimson, lucky; 3, Dr. Lovyell-Keays, exquisite pair Ilooded Siskins, both birds perfect, very rich colour, tight as wax, better never seen, should have been 2nd; 4, Miss A. B. Smyth, Black-tailed Hawtinches, splendid pair of birds, fault- less; 5, A. Silver,Japanese Hawfinch, perfect in every way; 6, W. Larking, nice Himalayan Goldfinch, rare, but not so brightly coloured as our in- digenous species; it is lighter coloured, blaze not so rich a hue, no black on head or white above the eye; the wings of the two species are similar, but in the Himalayan species the yellow band is slightly narrower, the primaries are entirely black and the three inner secondaries have white outer webs; the beak is very sharply pointed and not so deep at the base as the English species. 7, Mrs. Chope, Alario Finch, rather rough. Crass’ 1765 Dovus, (Quatisy =e. 07) ecthismclass might have been handled differently, rarity was apparently unnoticed, and birds in loose plumage placed above them. 1, W. J. C. Frost, Emerald Spotted Doves, steady and tight; 2, O. J. Stone, Californian Quails, exquisite conditiori but very lucky; 3, Madame Madewell, pair Masked Doves, plumage loose; 4, J. TFrostick, Montezuma Quail, rare, a first appearance I think, should have been higher; 5, C. Harris, Triangular-spotted Pigeons, perfect pair, another probable first appearance, might have been second; 6, A. Wallington, Cape Doves, plumage not tight; 7, W. J. C. Frost, Button Quail, very steady. Ciass 177. Hummine Birps, SunBirps Erc. (8). Foreign Birds at the L.C.B.A. Show. I) Here the judge had indeed a hard task, yet there will be very few who would disagree with his placings. Where one is sur- rounded with an array of exhibits all meriting first prizes, one can only separate them by commencing with the unique, grading down through the rare, uncommon, etc., and even then the task is no sinecure. We have referred to the Humming Birds elsewhere so I will only add here that I do not think fitter birds could be found upon their native heath! Mr. Maxwell’s Red Yellow-backed Sunbird was a marvel of beauty, cage-moulted, yet in full natural colour! Messrs. Ezra and Maxwell were the sole entrants in this class and they are to be congratulated upon the possession of such rare and beautiful species. To Mr. Ezra belongs the credit of demonstrating in this country that the keeping of Hum- ming Birds in captivity is not an impossible task. 1 equal (2), A. JHzra, Garnet-throated and Ricordi’s Humming Birds, a dream of beauty beyond description; 2, 3, 5, A. Ezra, Greater Double-collared, Southern Malachite, and Lesser Double-collared Sunbirds, all African species, a gorgeous trio, immaculate; 4, 6, 7, C. T. Maxwell, Red Yellow-rumped, Lesser Double-collared (pair) and Malachite Sunbirds, also a gorgeous trio, the former beyond praise. I fain would linger but space forbids. Cuass 178. A.S. Sugarpirps, Erc., (8). The rarest here was Miss Clare’s beautiful pair of Australian Zosterops. If not a first appearance it has been many years since they were staged. Others all well known species. 1, Miss L. Clare, pair Australian Zosterops, perfect; 2, Hon. Mrs G. Bourke, pair Purple Sugarbirds, exquisite colour, faultless; 3 Lady K. Pilkington, Black-headed Sugarbird, like silk, uncommon; 6, Bengalese. 3. Red-vented * Red-eared Bulbal. 4 and 6. Magpie Mannikin X Bergalese 5. Greenfinch X Himalayan Siskin. Cuass 184. A.S. Fuycatcumrs, Erc. (7). Not a large class but every one a gem, the rarest being Mr. A. Ezra’s White-eyebrowed Blue Flycatcher, a first appearance, a diminutive exquisite in plumbeous-blue and white (see frontis- piece). The other species have all been referred to previously in “ Bird Notes,’ and to avoid juggling with adjectives will simply state that all were faultless and beyond criticism. 1, 2,4, 5, A. Ezra, White-eyebrowed Blue Flycatcher, Small Minivet, Red-tailed Minla (a coloured plate will appear in a near issue), and Rufous-bellied Niltava; 3, 6, Lady K. Pilkington, pair Black-chinned Yvhinas and Loo Choo Robin; 7, D. Mason, Japanese Red-breast. A class in which very little, either in rarity or merit separated the first, inter- mediates, and last placed birds. Nevertheless, [ think few would differ with the placings. Crass 185. Birps or PARADISE, ETC. (4). Only three of the four entries were present, and all were interesting and rare, and the King Bird of Paradise truly regal, without a flaw, the writer opines that the wild bird, fresh from its native haunts, could not out rival this perfect specimen--to attempt further praise would be to belittle it. 1, A. Ezra, King Bird of Paradise, faultless; 2, Dr. Tovell-Keays, Black-gorgeted Laughing-Thrushes (Garrulax pectoralis), very handsome birds with pleasing and contrasty plumage, all but succeeded in reproducing their kind last season; 3, B. T. Stewart, rare Tamaulipas, Tawny ‘Thrush, a first appearance, I think, the plumage mostly a chaste arrangement of soft browns. Cuass 186. Oprn SEeLuine (3). 1, J .Reed, R. H. Gouldian Finch; 2, 3, C. T. Maxwell, Malachite Sunbird and Violet Tanager. CLASS 187. MEMBERS L.C.B.A. ONLY — SEED-EATERS (6) 1, L. M. Wade, Crimson-wing Parrakeet; 2, Miss M. Bousfield, pair Melba Finches; 3, 5, 6, A. Silver, Pectoral and Diamond Finches, and Blue-breasted Waxbill; 4, Mrs. Thynne, Ruficauda Finch. Cuass 188. Mrmsers L.C.B.A.—Sortpiuts (7). 1, 2, 5, A. Silver, Wagler’s and violaceous Hangnests, both, T think, first appearances; and Y Blue Sugarbird; 3, 7, J. Dewhurst, Metallic Starling and pair Coleys; 4, 6, W. A. Shepherd, two Mynahs, 12 Foreign Birds at the L.C.B.A. Show. NE The King Bird of Paradise (Cicinnurus regius). SPECIALS. F.B.C. Strver Mepats for Best Birds in : Parrot Classes: Miss L. Clare, Queen Alexandra Parrakeets. Seedeater Classes: Mr. C. H. Row, Fire-tailed Finches. Insectivorous Classes: Mr. A. Ezra, Ricordi’s Humming Bird. F.B.C. Bronzz Merpaus for Most Points in: Parrot Classes: Miss A. B. Smyth. Seedeater Classes: Mr. A. Silver. Insectivorous Classes: Lady Kathleen Pilkington. Tuu Lonpon Sitver Cure was won for the third time Mr. A. Ezra and now becomes his property. F.B.E.L. Dretomas for First Appearances : Miss A. B. Smyth (@); Mrs. B: J. Moore, A. Silver (6); J: Frostick (2), C. T. Maxwell (2), R. E. Simpson, A. Ezra (5), C. Harris, W. J. C. Frost (2), Mrs. Thynne, W. Shore Baily (2), L. M. Wade. cA + Five Saiuuines for Best Pairs (Donor: Mr. W. Frost): A. Silver, Purple-headed Glossy Starlings; Black-chinned Yuhinas; Dr. Lovell-Keays, Thrushes. For Rare Hyprips—6s. 6d. (Donor: Mr. R. Lady K. Pilkington, Black-gorgeted Laughing Manner- ing) : Miss A, B. Smyth, Red-vented X Red-eared Bulbul, My Tanagers. ites F.B.E.L. For Most Porn'rs : A. Silver (8); Miss’ A. B. Smyth (3), J. Frostick (3), C. T. Maxwell (4), Dr. Lovell-Keays (2). Miss L. Clare (2), A. J. Shipton (J), I. Howe (3), C. H. Row (1). W. Frost (1), W. Shepherd (1), Miss M. Bousfield (2), Lady K. Pilkington (2). For Most Pornrs given by the following: Misses Alderson, lL. Clare, and A. B. Smyth, and Messrs. (. T. Maxwell and R. J. Watts : A. Silver, A. Ezra, W. Frost, Miss M. Bousfield, TF. owe (2), J Frostick. We regret space forbids fuller details.— Ed. eo -—— My Tanagers. By Miss M. Bousr1EeLp. Tanagers are most delightful birds to keep; their plu- mage is so gorgeous and lustrous, and in most cases they also become very tame. During the summer they all go into my small outdoor aviaries, three or four pairs in each. During the winter months they occupy roomy cages (5ft. x 2ft. x 2ft.) in an outdoor shed, in the centre of which stands a small stove, but this is only lighted in very cold weather. Each cage can be divided into two compartments by a central slide of wood or wire. They are fitted with zinc trays, and small branches are placed at each end, so fhat the birds have a good flight and get plenty of exercise in flying from one to the other. I use sawdust in the trays and keep bowls of sand and grit standing thereon. The food vessels, china bowls, are inside the cage, and the menu consists of : a good insectivorous mixture and plenty of ripe fruit, such as banana, orange, pear, grapes, or anything in season; they also get a few mealworms. Last year they had no milk-sop and seem to keep tighter in feather without it. I lost my favourite, the White-capped Tanager, last year and have been unable to replace it. At the present time I only possess the following species: Necklace (Chlorophonia viridis). Festive (Calliste festiva). 14 Japanese Hawfinch. Superb (C. fastuosa). Searlet (Rhamphocoelus brasilius). Maroon (R. jacapa). Violet (Huphonia violacea). I have only kept one other species, viz., the Pectoral Euphonia, and my only losses have been a hen Scarlet, two cock Festives, and a hen Necklace, besides the aforementioned White-cap. I find the Scarlet, Maroon and Superb very difficult to tame, the others soon make themselves at home. They are all very fond of their bath and get one every day except in very cold weather. ——— Japanese Hawfinch. (Hophona personata). By A. Sinver, F.Z.S. In this genus (KHophona) there are but two species, the Black-tailed Hawfinch (EH. melanura) and the species under consideration. The term “ Black-tailed” is hardly a fitting one for EH. melanura because in both species the tail is bluish-black. Although H. melanura has been frequently called a Japanese Hawfinch, its habitat is southern and central China, and, during the warmer months, its range extends to E. Siberia and Northern China, but only possibly to Japan. Whereas the true Japanese Hawfinch (H£. personata) although found in Eastern Siberia, Northern and Western China, defi- nitely oceurs in Japan. The chief differences between the males in the two species are: that whilst the so-called “Black- tailed’ species has the whole of the head black, is inclined to chocolate colouring above, and has the primaries pure white some way up from the tips, the Japanese is much larger, has a larger clear yellow bill, much more pointed in curve, is pale drab to ash-grey above, has only the top of the head, base of cheeks, lores, and chin black, and the primaries are bluish-black at the tips. The hen of the Japanese species, I understand, has no black on the head, in which it agrees with its relative. . ne) [| [i The ‘ Black-tailed” species was kept by Mr. H. R. Fillmer, of Brighton, as far back as 1893, and, I believe, nested, 31RD NOTES. 1. Japanese Hawfinch (Hophona personata) 3 2. Black-tailed Hawfinch (2. melanura) 3 and 3 From life by H, Goodchild, 4 - oe Japanese Hawfinch. is) Mr. Peir, of Melbourne; Mr. Frostick, of Balham; Miss A. B. Smyth, of Catford, and others, have exhibited the species on the show bench singly and in pairs; I cannot, however, trace, except upon a single suppositive case, an instance of the other species occurring on the show bench until 1914. Rus» had the Japanese species, and both Hagenbeck and Jamrach imported an occasional example; Weiner al-o kept it. Messrs. DeVon, of London, had five examples early in 1914, one of which I bought, and caged. After a while it was not quite in good order, so I weaned it from sunflower and afterwards fed it almost entirely on canary seed. From that time it speedily tightened up, and except for a little millet, linseed, and hemp, it has been fed on nothing elso except such few grains of sunficwer as I might occasionally give it. Now and again it would eat mealworms and greenstuff, but was exceptionally partial to the berries of privet, elder, and mountain ash or rowan. Although kept in a roomy cage it went through a good moult, coming out perfect, and its plumage exhibited a good sheen. Except for a few squeaks it has uttered no note since I have had it, and when not washing (which it likes to do daily) or feeding, it sits bolt upright like a sentry. As a cage bird it is about as interesting as an European Hawfinch, but owing to its much longer tail hardly appears so clumsy. It is to be hoped that at some later date both sexes will be imported, for I feel confident that, under suitable conditions, it would not be difficult to breed. A description of the sexes of both species can be seen in the Museum Cafalogue, and except for the colouring of the bill in the male of EH. nersonata agrees pretty well. It is therefore quite unnecessary to inflict upon my readers these particulars here, as I have no doubt that Mr. Goodchild will adequately describe with his brush the male of EH. personata. o—_—— Breeding of Tri-coloured Mannikin x Bengalese Hybrids. By W. A. BAINBRIDGE. The season 1913-1914 was started with 3 Bengalese and 1 pair of Tri-colour Mannikins, and I hoped that one or other would breed, and the Bengalese certainly raised my 16 Breeding Tri-coloured Mannikin x Bengalee. hopes, as very soon a nest was built, eggs laid, and all three began to incubate; it was not to be, however, as this clutch and the next two were clear. About this time one Bengalese died, another decided that she had sat long enough, but the third might have been glued to the nest, as she would searcely leave unless touched. Having an odd Diamond Sparrow’s egg I put it under her and she hatched i! out, but just as the young bird was ready to leave the nest, the Bengalese evidently tired of its work, died, and with it the young Diamond Sparrow. In the meanwhile, one Tri-coloured Mannikin had died, and the other decided to console himself by falling in love with the Bengalese and very soon a nest was built, in which the Bengalese could generally be found; a few more nests followed, the last of which contained four eves, on which both birds sat, either together or in turn. After a period of anxious waiting I investigated, only to find that the eggs were clear, and a second clutch were the same. I.then gave up, and once more decided to try and breed from them as separate species, so procured mates for them, and also another pair of Tri-coloured Mannikins. Fate now sent me a rat, which killed off one Tri-colour, but as luck would have it, it was not the one which had at- tempted to nest. Soon the Tri-coloured and Bengalese built again, but although I looked many times, I found no eggs, and then ceased to trouble about them. However, on Wednesday, November 19th, 1913, my man fold me that both birds had taken food into the nest, which I examined, and found two naked bodies, obviously just hatched, and horrid looking little things they were. Mealworms were now supplied more liberally, both parents eating them freely. The young were very slow in feathering, but by December 1st they had begun to feather, on the 10th they Icoked ready to leave the nest, but did not do so until the 14th, twenty-five days after they were hatched, and on January 2nd, 1914, or 19 days after leaving the nest, they fed themselves for the first time. The season 1914 saw several more nests, eggs, and young, and now (September) there are about 10 young Editorial. 17 flying about; in each case they have been slow to feather and a long time in the nest. The young were exactly like young Bronze-wings, only much larger, and did not assume adult plumage till the be- ginning of the summer. This year’s young, however, started to assume adult plumage within a month of leaving the nest. In appearance they are distinctly pleasing to the eye, although not bright in colour, and look rather like Spice Finches (of which I have none). ‘The illustration of Hybrid Spice-finch x Bengalese in Mr. Page’s book is the nearest thing to them imaginable*. They have very dark to almost black heads, light- coloured breasts deeply mottled like the Spice bird, with the beak of the Tri-coloured Mannikin. The young were fed on the usual seed, Indian, white and spray millet, canary seed and mealworms, the first and last being the favourites. *This comparison may be true of a black and white illustration but it is not true of them as to colour, for the brown areas in Mr. Bainbridge’s hybrids are strongly suffused with cinnamon in parts and are darker about the head than the Spice X Bengalese hybrids, though we agree with Mr. Bainbridge, that as to form, distribution of dark and light areas, and the scaling of the underparts, the two hybrids are similar, but there the similarity ends, the hues of the browns being quite different, having seen both hybrids we are able to make the dis- tinction .—Ed. Sa Editorial. THe Prosprcr: This we can say but little about in such critical times; we can but hint hopes and desires. It will be apparent to all that the year will be an onerous one for the club’s officials, yet the outlook is faced in the full assurance that they will have the utmost support one and all can give; if so, even though our scope and extent may be re- stricted, we shall be able to write success as the result. We propose to go forward much on past lines, but invite suggestions as to new features and methods that may hest realise our aims, viz.: mutual help and the gathering together of reliable data concerning the species kept in captivity. In such times, with so many serving the colours, we 18 Editorial. cannot expect as a society to escape without loss. Already we regret to note that the Hon. Vere D. Boscawen has been killed in action; the husband of Lady Edith Douglas Pennant has been wounded and is a prisoner; Sir R. J. Corbett, Bart., has alse been wounded, and many are serving with the colours. We should be glad if members would help us to compile a complete list and of casualties, so as to enable “ Bird Notes” to have its “ Roll of Honour.” Even in times like these, for the need is the greater, we urge upon all to make our Society and its Magazine known to those interested in bird-life, and to use every effort to in- crease our membership. The following are a few methods which suggest them- selves to us, whereby you may help the Club and increase its usefulness at a distressful time: By the prompt payment of your subscriptions, which became due on the 1st inst., and thus save your Secretary the trouble and expense of postal applications. By personal effort to secure new Members. By liberally supporting the Illustration and Deficit Funds. By contributing Articles, Notes (illustrated if possible), con- cerning Aviaries, with Details as to how the birds are fed and treated generally. By bearing, whenever possible, the cost of the blocks for illustrating the articles. By the careful collection of Data relating to the birds you keep, and the systematic publication of same in “ Bird Notes.” By supporting with your presence any public functions ‘the Club may hold. These are a few ways in which all may assist in the Club’s propaganda, and have a personal share in the progress of aviculture. The present issue must not be taken as a precedent of those to follow, because the Show Report and a process of levelling up have compelled the issue of a bulkier number than the times warrant. The extent to which any ecurtail- ment may be necessary, must depend entirely on the help given by members as indicated above. Correspondence. "19 Correspondence. SEASONAL CHANGES OF PLUMAGE OF THE PURPLE SUN- BIRD, Arachnechthra asiatica (Lath). Sine Ine Vole 1, p. 344 of “The Fauna of British India,— Birds,” we find the following statement: “It has frequently been asserted that “the males of many species of Indian Sunbirds have a distinct summer “and winter plumage. After examining the very large series of Sunbirds “in the British Museum, I am convinced that this is never the case. “Full plumaged males of all the common species, and itis of these that “the assertion has been made, shot in every month of the year, or at “such frequent intervals as to practically amount to the same thing, are “in the national collection, and prove that the adult males never change “their colours. Young males are to be found throughout their first “year in immature plumage, and these have probably given rise to the “belief that a seasonal change takes place in the adult.” In spite of tne above statement I cannot help suspecting that some males at any rate do have a winter partial eclipse. Now that several of our members have been so successful in keeping the Sunbirds, perhaps they would kindly give us their experience in this matter. Hissar, Dec. 1913. HUGH WHISTLER. [Since receiving the above we have written to several members, who have kept or keep Sunbirds (including Mr. A. Ezra, who kindly sent a full annotated list of his species) and the following list is the result : in every case, except the Nepalese, we have had access to records from several sources.—Hd.}. SPECIES IN WHICH THE MALES HAVE A DISTINCTIVN SUMMER AND WINTER PLUMAGE : Purple (Arachnechthra asiatica) —India. ; : Greater Double-collared (Cinnyris afer).—S. Africa. Lesser Double-collared (C. chalybeus).—S. Africa. Southern Malachite (Nectarinia famosa).—S. Africa. SPECIES IN WHICH THE MALES RETAIN THEIR FULL CoLour- ATION ALL THE YEAR RouND, or have it modified to no greater extent than that of the English Chaffinch : Amethyst-rumped (Arachnechthra zeylonica).—India. Black-breasted Yellow-backed (Ae. saturata)—Himalayas. Nepal Yellow-backed (Aethopyga nipalensis).—Nepal. *Red Yellow-backed (Ae. scheriae).—Himalayas. iGreater Amethyst (Cinnyris amethystinus).—S. Africa. {This species, Mr. Ezra remarks, does not go “out of colour,’ but when in moult the velvet black becomes dull, which soon regains its lustre as the bird goes through the moult. *This species does not go into eclipse plumage, but Mr. Ezra and others have found the blood-red hue fugitive in captivity, becoming dull orange ; even to this there are exceptions, as he knows of twa specimens which have moulted back into a lovely red, 90) Birds of the Jhelum District. *Mr. C. T. Maxwell exhibited a fine, cage-moulted male of this species, which was practically full natural colour. RESULTS, 1914. Sir,—Results in my aviary this year have been very small, viz. : 2 Zebra Finches and 2 Gouldian Finches reared. The latter were hatched very late—the end of September—-in a box im the shelter, and, as far as I could see were fed entirely on seed. 1f any of our local members would care to see the young Goulds in their immature green plumage I should be very happy to arrange for them on hearing to that effect. Edinburgh, J. CURRIE: 24/12/14. —_o——_ Birds of the Jnelum District and an Ornithol- ogical Diary from the Punjab. Jope Jol, \Woandspmun IIe, Wl J8 (0) 1). September 1.—When driving round the grass farm I saw a large Eagle, apparently Aquila vindhiana make a_ short but fine stoop on to a thorn bush, where she remained bal- ancing with outstretched wings and tail while she pulled at something. I went up to see what it was, and she rose with empty talons to settle on a neighbouring bush. ‘The only quarry that I could find in the bush, was a nest contain- ing a half-feathered young Babbler. Apparently the Eagle had been eating its brothers and sisters ! Another interesting episode was the finding of a nest of the White-throated Munia (Uroloncha malabarica) or “Silverbill”— a large ball of flowering grasses, shaped roughly like a Rugby football with the entrance at one end. On the few budded heads of some herb which served as lining were lying 22 eggs—the produce of several hens, doubtless. These little birds apparently often adopt such social-like principles, and it is a common event to find six or seven roosting or sitting in an old nest. Visited Rajpura jheel where numbers of Nightjars were found in a patch of dry grass jungle near the water. They were all moulting birds probably on migration, as I have seen none there before. I have not yet succeeded in iden- tifying the exact species of the three birds which I shot and skinned, but they appear to be Franklin’s Nightjar (Caprimulgus monticola). Some pairs of the Pheasant-tailed Jacana and an immature Cormorant (Phalacrocorax carbo) are still at the jheel. Two eggs in a nest of the Ring Dove (Turtur risorius), and young in a nest of Franklinia byu- September September September, September September September Birds of the Jhelum District. 91 chanani. A Dusky Crag Martin (Plyanoprogne concolor) seen to visit a saucer shaped mud nest on the outside of a house, but the numbers of this species which wece fre- quenting the Cattle Farm Bungalow in May and June have disappeared. Two Grey Hornbills (Lophoceros Dirostris) seen—the first in Hissar. 2.—In the early morning while I was exercising a tame (as distinct to trained) Lugger Falcon (Falco jugger) to the Jure, an old wild Tiercel came and joined in the sport, followed later by two younger birds, both apparently Falcons. The same thing happened yesterday but then only the old Tiercel came. These were the same birds that were noticed about at the end of last month. In the evening I saw a wild Falcon make a terrific stoop at a Green Parroquet which just managed to dodge it. This may have been one of the above Luggers, but from the momentary glimpse afforded me it appeared a little redder in colour. A White Ibis (bis melanoleucus) seen ; also a Night- jar near my house. One Green Sandpiper noted. 3.—A Magpie-Robin (Copysychus saularis) noted— a distinctly scarce species in Hissar. Four or five Green Sandpipers noticed in different places. 4.—A small flight of Striated Swallows were noted by the bun- galow in the morning—forerunners of the numbers which were about by the end of the month. I also noted two Indian Whitethroats (Sylvia a/fints), a species that be- came common during the month. Two eggs in a nest of the Common Babbler (Argya caudata)—a structure of grass and bents placed in a thorny Wild Caper bush some three feet from the ground. 6.—Young found in a nest of the Large Grey Babbler (Argya malcomi) placed 20 feet from the ground over a road, on a side bough of a Kikur tree. A male and female Lesser Floriken (Sypheotis auritus) reported to me as seen on the yrass farm. 7.—A pair of Small Minivets (Pericrocotus peregrinus) were feeding in a tree in front of my bungalow. 8.—Five eggs taken from a nest of the Rufous-fronted Wren- Warbler (Franklinia buchanani) which was found half built on the 3lst August. The nest was of the usual type, built of fine flowering grasses mixed with a few shreds of a cotton- like substance, some pieces of the last being placed below the eggs. The structure was placed about six inches from the ground in a thorn bush. As I was walking along the main road a small dark Crake, perhaps Porzana pusilla, flew across in front of me and disappeared into a ditch. A King Vulture (Ologyps calvus) scen, 39 Birds of the Jhelum District. September 10.—A Brahminy Kite (Haliastur indus) seen hawking over some flood-water near the City. A freshly shot adult female Red-headed Merlin sent in to me. One or two Crag Martins (Ptyanoprogne concolor) noted flying in company with some Striated Swallows. The LBlue-cheeked Bee-eaters (Merops persicus) are still about. A Rufous-backed Shrike seen. September 11.—Four eggs found in a nest of the Common Babbler (Argya caudata). The nest was a slight but deep cup of bents and grass, lined with fine roots and placed some three feet from the ground in the fork of a Kikur bush, it was but little concealed. A Black-winged Kite (Hlanus caeruleus) noted. The first European Red-breasted Flycatcher (Siphia parva) of the autumn migration noted. A young Wandering Tree-Pie (Dendrocitta rufa) came into the verandah and foolishly allowed itself to be caught, although it could fly well enough; it kept on flying about the roof of the verandah along the cornices and apparently lacked the intelligence to fly out into the open ; hence I caught it. As it was rather too old to tame satisfactorily I al- allowed it to go again. September 13.—Starting in the early morning { drove some eight or nine miles over the cattle farm. ‘he part traversed was a wide plain, covered with a fine crop of standing hay studded with bushes and occasional patches of thicker herbage mark- ing depressions in the ground where rain water stands. Needless to say this ground is a paradise for birds, as well as for Antelope, of which many herds were seen. Many migrants were noticed, including several Harriers in both brown and grey plumage, various kinds of Pipits, Larks, Wagtails, Chats, Wheatears, and Warblers. A notice- able feature was the number of immature Rollers (Coracias indica) seen either mounting in the air or perched on bushes. In the evening I visited the jheel, where the Crane's nest was found on the 16th August. The nest was empty, with a few pieces of broken shell lying near by, and as one of the Cranes rose out of the heavy vegetation it is probable that the young were somewhere near. Several Franklin’s Nightjar (Caprimulgus monttcola) were still haunting the ground where I found them on September 1st. Various pairs of Avadavats (Sporaeginthus amandava) appear to be nesting in the tufts of grass in the water, but I could find no nests. Several Waterhens (Gallinula chloropus) noted, as weil as a small Rail which September September September September September September September Birds of the Jhelum District. 93 appeared to be Eastern Baillon’s Crake (Porzana pusilla). The most noticeable feature of the jheel was the number of Blue-cheeked Bee-eaters (Merops persicus) collected to roost in the bushes. 14.—Four eggs in a nest of the Large Grey Pabbler (Arqya malcolmi) built some 25ft. from the ground at the top of a kikur tree by the road-side. In spite of the eggs being fresh the bird sat very ciose. The nest was of the usual type, a broad platform of sticks with the cup lined with horse hairs and a few bits of withered grass. A tiercel Red-headed Merlin (Aesalon chicquera) seen, also a Crested Honey Buzzard (Pernis cristatus). 15.—Saw the first Indian Redstart (Ruticilla rufiventris) of the autumn migration. 16.—A male Koel (Hudynamis honorata) seen ; an occasional one was heard on various days in the month, but the majority have probably left; some remained however, into October. Two small Waders seen appeared to be Stints (Tringa sp. ?); a Red-headed Merlin in my compound. 17.—Four White Ibis (/bis melanocephala) passed over my house in the early morning. 18.—Saw a fine Wryneck (lynx torquilla)--the first actually seen on the autumn migration though I heard one calling I believe, a week ago. 19.—The Red-headed Buntings (Hmberiza liteola) have sud- denly become very numerous again, and I saw great numbers of them. Small Warblers of several genera e.g. the Indian White- throat (Sylvia affinis), Blyth’s Reed Warbler (Acrocepha- lus dumetorum), Hypolais rama, and a few Willow Wrens (Phylloscopus) are now. abundant on migration, and their chipping notes may be heard on all sides. A few Harriers noted but I failed to identify the exact species. A Black-winged Kite (Hlanus cacrulus) was noted hovering at a great height in the manner for which the Kestrel is noted; both in the actual performance and in the length of the periods for which it hovered, and in a fine stoop which it made, I could see no difference from a Kestrel’s performance. Several Avadavats (Sporaeginthus amandava) noted ; also a King Vulture (Otogyps calvus). 20.—On a small pond we unexpectedly came on a party of 24 September September September September Birds of the Jhelum District. nine Teal (Nettiwm crecea) and managed to secure a couple —the first Ducks of the season. Many Hoopoes about the Bir, clearly an inerease of migrating birds. The Rollers (Coracias indica), also ap- pear to have had their numbers increased by immigration, probably of those birds which leave the Northern Punjab about this time. A few Masked Wagtails (Motacilla personata) noted, also several Green Sandpipers. 21.—A large number of Tree-Pipits (Anthus trivialis) noted about—these are of course on migration. A male Indian Stonechat (Pratincola maura) seen; also a Bluethroat—-the first of the autumn migration. Two eggs in a nest of the Red Turtle Dove (@nopopelia: tranqucbarica), and one in a nest of the Indian Ring Dove \Turtur risorius). A party of newly-fledged young Red- vented Bulbuls (Molpastes haemorrhous) observed. 22.—A large Raptorial bird seen near my house appeared to be a Crested Honey Buzzard (Pernis cristatus). 23.—Whilst flying my Lugger Falcon in the morning I saw it mobbed by an immature female Shikra (Astur badius) —a most unusually large specimen. Attracted by the unusual whiteness of the nape of an Bagle sitting on a tree, I shot it to find that it was merely an example of that extremely common and variable species the Tawny Eagle (Aqwila vindhiana). In its gizzard and crop were the remains of a large Goa Lizard. 24.—Noted a Paradise Flycatcher (Techitrea paradisi), a male which appeared to be assuming the third winter plum- age. This is the first of the species which I have noted in the district, although I thought I heard its call on two previous occasions. A Black-winged Stilt (Himantopus candidus) was feeding in a small pond where I was told it was first seen on the 17th. A Bluethroat noted; also several Dusky Crag Martins (Ptyanoprogne concolor) and a party of Wire-tailed Swal- lows (Hirundo smithii). (To be continued). et Se na seaa : “SULON Cul All Rights Reserved. Frprvary, 1915. BIRD NOTES: —— THE —— JOURNAL OF THE FOREIGN BIRD CLUB An Enthusiast’s Aviaries. By G. Scorr FREELAND. It is now some time since our respected Editor asked me and in a weak moment I promised to write a few particu- lars of my aviaries for the information of my fellow members of F.B.C. The ground plan speaks for itself as regards dimensions. The Shelter. The walls of this are built as follow, commencing from the inside: half-inch wire netting, 5—6 inches of straw, next a covering of felt, and outside weather- boarding. The roof is the same with the addition of a second layer of felt and finished with corrugated iron. The whole of the inside walls and roof have a thin coat of hair plaster and are well lime washed.. The walls are covered with na- tural perching in the form of pea boughs. The windows are double. The flooring is concrete. The doors are lined with straw and the whole of the wood—exposed and covered— is creosoted, the building outside being painted brick red. The Flight. This is 10 feet high in the centre and 6 feet at the sides. The frame is of 2-inch T iron, and the wire netting—also that in the shelter—is carried down into the ground 2 feet. This has made the erection absolutely rat proof, and moreover it is also quite mouse proof, as the smallest Field Mouse cannot get through the small mesh wire netting. This advantage, in my opinion, is well worth ‘the extra cost. Before I leave this point, to show that the en- closures are mouse- as well as rat-proof, I may add they have been in use nearly two years, and to-day there is no sign of vermin of any description. Last winter (1913-14) the birds in the Rock Aviary were shut up and during the week or two of very severe frost the temperature only once—and this when the ther- ROADWAY JPRIVET MEO Ee TSE (3 M® G, SCOTT-FREELAND S eae AVIARIES . HILLRISE . as | @ (eke TONBRIDGE, KENT. : . TAVIARY TERRACE AVIARY SOUTH LLEVATION SECTION A.B. a yp eS > Vy ; i ; 7 7 . : ae - ’ . . 7 “OORLEO T, oy UOT —SdLIVIA YP §,pueloody MOOS “UAT duis An Enthusiast’s Aviaries. 27 mometer in the flight registered 16 degrees of frost—fell to 30 degrees (2 degrees of frost). During this cold spell I did not lose a single bird, which certainly goes far to prove that provided the shelter is draught proof, many delicate species may be successfully kept in large Garden Aviaries where they can be merely driven into the shelter during the winter months. In the Road Aviary the birds use the flight and shelter at their option. When the cold weather sets in, the windows are closed up and the door only allowed to be open day and night, and through the coldest day all the birds appear to be in the pink of condition. During the two seasons I have now gone through, I at once confess the breeding results of the rarer species have not overwhelmed me with stock. Of the rarer specimens I have at the moment Violet-eared Waxbills incubating, the fourth attempt, and three times the young lived to be from three to eight days old. The Silver-eared Mesias and Indian White-eyes have carried out building operations all the sum- mer, but have never properly settled down to house-keeping. I find the Blue-cheeked Barbet roosts, or more properly reclines, in a coco-nut husk in the open; how he gets in and turns completely round—as he must do, because in his bed- room he has full view of any enemy that might approac’ him—I do not know; he certainly looks most comical and of course fills the husk out. 1 am so enchanted with the Sunbirds I have been for- tunate enough to see through the kindness of our well-known member and successful exhibitor, Mr. Ezra, that I have de- termined to introduce a few as opportunity offers and pocket affords—I fear the latter is the ruling factor. At the moment I have Malachite, Red Himalayan and Lesser Double-collared, and they are a glorious sight. Al- though November has arrived with all its disadvantages of dreary days and long nights, this class of bird—Sunbirds, Blue Sugar-birds, Yellow-winged Sugar-birds, White-eyes, Green- fronted Bulbuls, etc.—is in show condition. Up to the present they have full access to the flight and take full advantage of it although I find they roost in the shelter.—(Written No- vember ist, 1914.—Ed.). 28 The Nesting of the Lesser Grey-Headed Guan. The Nesting of the Lesser Grey-headed Guan. (Ortalis vetula). By R. Svuceirt. The Guans are very closely related to the Game Birds, and belong to the family Cracidae (Curassows) of that order. The family is confined to the warmer parts of America, only one of the numerous species ranging as far north as Southern Texas. They are tree-loving birds, and are seldom found far from the vicinity of woods. They feed both amongst the branches, and on the ground, their food consisting of fruit, leaves and insects. The Lesser Grey-headed Guan has the most northerly range of any of the seventeen species of Ortalis, being found from the United States of Colombia to Southern Texas, where it is known by the name of ‘‘ Chacalacca.” This species is about the size of a hen Pheasant and is of very sober plumage. The head and neck are dark grey; upper surface and chest, olive-brown; remainder of under surface buff; tail-feathers above dark green, each feather with a broac tip of buff. The throat is red and naked, divided down the centre by a thin band of feathers. The body is very thin and small; total length, about 20 inches; tail 9% inches. The sexes are alike in plumage, but the male may be distingu- ished from the female by his slightly redder throat, and his stouter beak. Their nests are usually found in cavities, formed by the jrnction of the limb of a tree with the trunk, where twigs and leaves have fallen. It is very probable that the birds do not ‘collect ‘their own material, but use these accumulations to furm their nests, in which three or four white, rough-shelled eggs are laid. It is said that a few of these birds are domesticated every year in Mexico and Texas, where they become very tame and inconveniently familiar, but Professor Newton, speak- ing of the Guans, says “ All attempts to domesticate them in “the full sense of the word have wholly failed, and the cases in ““which they have been induced to breed, and the young have “been reared in confinement are very few.” In captivity these birds require some warmth during “19UIO YS doy “YX 4B 4SeU Jo BYIg “(plo SA¥p F) SYOIYO pu urny poproy-Aory lesser] “ 30 The Nesting of the Lesser Grey-Headed Guan. the winter, as they are not hardy, and their feet are specially liable to injury through frost. They are rather objectionable in close confinement, as, owing to the nature of their food, they make a large amount of dirt, and soon become offensive if their quarters are not kept scrupulously clean. They should be fed on all kinds of ripe fruit, scalded grocer’s currants, figs, dates, etc., cut into small pieces; lettuce, tender leaves, and other green food. They will eat a little nsectile food, and, like most birds, are very fond of mealworms. A little seed is eaten, but this passes through them undigested, as also do gentles. A good supply of grit is essential to their health. I received my pair in September 1913, and I was rather fortunate to get them landed safely. They were pro- cured in Southern Mexico, and brought over by a vessel hound for Hamburg. From there they were re-shipped in a small box, over which canvas had been tightly nailed, so that they had neither light, food, nor water, during their journey, which would occupy at least 48 hours, and it speaks well for their powers of endurance that on arrival they appeared strong and healthy, and were simply ravenous for food. culixe most Game Birds, the sexes show great affection for each other, and spend a ‘great deal of their time in preening each other’s feathers and “spooning.” I think my birds have been hand-reared, as they are utterly fearless of human beings. They will leap on to the shoulders of anyone who enters their e..c.0.ure, and insist on remaining there, until they are EEO TE by force, against which they loudly protest. I turned them into the largest compartment of my aviary early in April. They at once quietly explored the enclosure and immediately made themselves at home. It was only about a fortnight afterwards that I saw the male sitting in a small wire flower-pot hanger, which had been fixed at the top of a tree, as an inducement for a pair of Waxwings to nest. This his body completely filled, and he looked most uncomfortable with his tail forced upwards at right angles to his body. He tried desperately to draw the surrounding twigs under him, but of course, without success. I replaced the hanger with a small round basket, half filled with hay, with which he appeared to be delighted; he called up the The Nesting of the Lesser Grey-Headed Guan. 31 hen to inspect it, and both birds chuckled with satisfaction. The cock spent most of his time during the next fortnight leisurely arranging the materials, but the hen did not appear to be very interested, and only inspected his work occasionally. I never saw any courting display except that both birds frequently raised their tails, spread fan-wise into a perpendicular position. They were not particularly aggressive at this time, but would not tolerate any other large bird in the vicinity of their nest, and were rather vindictive towards a pair of Cali- fornian Quail. On the afternoon of May 8rd I saw the hen deposit her first egg in the nest at 5 o’clock, the second one was laid on the 5th, and on the 7th she commenced to incubate after laying the third. She sat very patiently, only coming off the nest for food, and returning immediately. The cock never took a turn at incubation; he usually sat dozing on a branch near the nest. He never fed her while she was sitting, but he would often call her off the nest, to give her some tit-bit that he had discovered. I began to be impatient after the hen had incubated for 29 days, and fearing something was wrong, I tested the eggs, and found all three to be addled; probably owing to one or two rather sharp frosts, which occurred soon after incubation commenced. I tried to blow the eggs, but the shells were so extremely thick and hard, that the drill would not penetrate, without being given a hard tap. I broke two of them and was only fairly successful with the third. The white shells are very absorbent and quickly become stained. Nothing further happened until July 8th, when I saw them pair, and later that day the cock was busily repairing the nest. The first egg was laid on the 12th, and the hen again commenced to incubate three eggs on the 16th. All three eggs hatched on the morning of August 11th, making the incubation period 26 days. I did not see the young ones descend from the nest, but judging from the great development of the flight feathers, their wings would be of great assistance to them in reaching the ground. The chicks are very large and active birds when first hatched, and appear to be much larger than the eggs, which fo) probably accounts for the extreme hardness and thickness of 32 The Nesting of the Lesser Grey-Headed Guan. the shells. They are thickly clothed with down, a mixture of black, chestnut, and grey; a band above the base of the beak, black; a broad irregular stripe of pale grey passes over each eye to the nape, and joins on forehead over black frontal band; crown, with two black stripes, joining in front and enclosing a chestnut patch in the centre; upper surface ruddy chestnut slightly mottled with black, and with two indistinct grey stripes on the back; sides of face, chin and throat, grey, mot- tled with black; upper part of chest and fore-neck chestnut; remainder of underparts pure white; wings brownish black, barred with chestnut; beak, flesh colour at base, remainder black with pure white tip; feet, pink. The throat is not naked as in the adult. For some reason the cock became greatly excited soon after the young ones hatched, and threw two of them into the air. I removed him to another compartment. I don’t suppose he really intended to injure them, as he was after- wards calling to them with food in his beak and looking quite miserable, but one of the young ones was found dead the next morning, and I attribute its death to his rough treatment. It fortunately happened about the time the young hatched, that the nights were exceptionally warm and fine, or through an oversight I might have lost them all. I had imagined that the hen would brood the chicks on ihe ground at night, but at dusk in the evening of the day they were hatched I heard her calling to them from some branches fixed high in the shelter. No doubt the chicks had tried to reach her, but as there were no lower branches to enable them to ascend so high, they had perched, and were asleep, each in a separate bush, in the open flight. I afterwards arranged convenient branches, as steps to the top of the shelter, and the next night the young ones slept close to the body of the hen. All the food was taken from the beak of the hen, and consisted of finely chopped fruit, boiled rice, lettuce, house- flies, mealworms, blow-fly pupae, and insectile food; the live- food was given to the young direct, but the fruit and green food was swallowed and afterwards regurgitated. From the first the young ones were very active among the branches, and spent a lot of their time climbing about in the low bushes. At the end of the first week they had not | The Gold-fronted Green (Bulbul) Pruitsucker. 3d made much progress, but their wings had grown considerably, and their tails were quite half an inch long. At a fortnight old, feathers had commenced to appear on the mantle, and pen feathers were visible on the sides of their breasts. They now commenced to pick up a little food for themselves, but were principally fed by the hen. On September Ist, at three weeks old, they could fly about freely, their backs and breasts were fully feathered and their tails were quite three inches long. At the end of the fourth week two narrow naked stripes began to appear on their throats, and their crowns had commenced to feather, but it was not until the end of the seventh week that all traces of the immature plumage had disappeared. They were still fed and brocded by the hen occasionally, but were practically inde- pendent of her. It was quite three months before the young birds at- tained the full size of their parents. They are now thriving splendidly, but are inclined to be rather wild, and will probably never be as tame as their parents. —+ The Gold-fronted Green (Bulbul) Fruitsucker. (Chloropsis aurifrons). By B. THro. STEWART. One bleak November day I received the following note: “TI am sending you a Green Flycatcher, but as the weather is so unfavourable I rely on your meeting it personally —shall put it in charge of Guard.” Now commands or wishes are abhorrent to my soul, to say nothing of the fact that I had other engagements, but what could an artistic bird-lover like myself do but obey? And in such wise did I become possessed of the bird that my soul still loveth. Out from his little travelling box he fluttered—from the nest of cotton wool that wrapped him round—straight on to my finger, straight into my heart. Just a ball of soft feathers he lay in my hand; warm, delicious to the touch. Hue of emerald; crown of gold, and when he spread his pretty wings I caught a glimpse of turquoise-blue—blue as a woman’s eyes should be! 34 The Gold-fronted Green (Bulbul) Fruitsucker. And I murmured as I gazed upon him: “ The Green— the Gold-headed—the Beautiful.” Back into his cage I put him, and he carried my hopes with him. Such a bird, I pondered, should be fed on the food that the gods love, and pearls dissolved in wine should be his drink Ah! well, I evolved a more prosaic diet for his daily needs, in which fruits not so rare as those of my imagination figured, and honey and milk to give him strength and sweetness. On the second day he sang—and every day after—and by and by he mingled with his song all the notes of the Shama; of the Blue Bird of happy memory. The dulcet tones of the nightingale; and the wailing of the Never-never bird— and the dear delightful strain was for my ear alone. He sang of love, of happiness, of the glories that had been, of the grey present shot with silver—of the future bright and glowing as the golden crown he bore—of hope that trailed its pinions in the dust, of majesty never humbled, of pride never cast down, and of ambitions that fretted their wings ere they soared to fulfilment. And being but a bird he fell from the sublime to the ridiculous and sang again of pippins and cheese to come! The Bulbul slept soundly—I envied him! Slept as only the lovely and innocent of heart can sleep. Every morning I roused him, and he never failed to greet me as lightly as only lovers can! Oh, he was a vision of delight, this bonny gem! Day by day he grew more beautiful and the golden crown upon his head waxed more and more brilliant, and yet I never heeded! Day by day he sang, louder, sweeter, and more tenderly! And yet I did not know! The shadow of death’s hand was hovering over him; one fatal morning it closed upon him. He was singing lustily. Just as I turned away he stopped on one high note—the rest was silence. He had passed from me without a flutter, without a pang. As I held the little body, still warm, in my hand, I noticed that he had drawn his wings forward as if to guard the heart that love had broken! Surely this little silent lovely act was his last offering on the Altar of Friendship. My Tanagers—Past and Present. 30 Alas for me— “ Earth has lost a portion of her glory: And like Baldr in the ancient story Never comes the beautiful again Still, in my dreams there flits the radiant ae of him I have called “The Green Gold-headed Beautiful,’ and oa my expectant ear there falls the dear familiar tune and I start to answe: it. — @- — My Tanagers—Past and Present. By Lapy KATHLEEN PILKINGTON. Our good friend and Editor having honoured me with a request for an account of the Tanagers I have owned, I comply with all the more readiness, in that my narrative has been preceded by one from so keen and enthusiastic a fancier as Miss Bousfield, whose excellent article I have just read with much interest and which has inspired me with a wish to do likewise. Perhaps the simplest way to begin is to give a list of all I have ever had, ending with those now in my possession. It is as follows :— Blue and Black Tanagers (Tanagrella cyanomelacna). Tricolour Tanagers (Calliste tricolor). Pretre’s Tanagers (Spindalis pretrci). Superb Tanagers (Calliste fastwosa). Black-backed Tanagers (C. melanonota). Archbishop Tanagers (T'anagra ornata). Black Tanagers (Tachyphonus melaleucus). Palm Tanagers (Tanagra palmarum). Violet Euphonia (Huphonia violacea). Pectoral Euphonia (H#. pectoralis). All Green Chloro-Tanager (Chlorophonia virid's). Festive Tanager (Calliste festiva). Scarlet Tanager (Rhamphococlus brasilius). Blue Tanager (Tanagra cpiscopus). Black-cheeked Tanager (Calliste cayana). Gold and Green Tanager (C. flava). Blue-headed Euphonia (Huphonia nigricollis). The last seven, I am glad to say, are all alive and flourish- ing. Of the first ten on my list pride of place undoubtedly goes to the Blue and Black, a lovely and most rare Tanager, in fact 36 My Tanagers—Past and Present. [ believe him to have been almost—if not the only one—which has ever figured on the show bench. He became mine at the L.C.B.A. Show, 1910, where he won first and attracted much attention as his colouring was wonderful (see plate ‘‘ B.N.” Vol. IIl., N.S., page 1), but he was not an interesting bird in himself, and though he lived till last year never became particularly tame or friendly. Of my present collection the Blue-headed Euphonia and the Black-cheeked certainly stand out both for rarity and beauty of plumage. They took first and second in the order named at the last L.C.B.A. Show. It is difficult to make up one’s mind whether one prefers the vivid colouring of the little Euphonia, with his jaunty Eton-blue cap and brown breast, or the delicately-shaded opal tints of the Black-cheeked, which, though far less brilliant, has a refinement of colouring, which is wonderfully attractive, and grows upon one the more one sees the bird in different lights. I have two Black-cheeked and cannot at present determine whether they are a cock and hen, or two cocks, one less mature than the other. They are marked exactly alike—only one is a paler understudy of the other. After living amicably together for over a year they have lately taken to quarelling so violently that I have had to separate them—and now incline to the belief that they are two cocks. They arrived in London last July in a large cage with a mass of other birds of all sorts and sizes, from Finches to Cowbirds, in a state of wretchedness, and semi-starvation impossible to describe, and literally at their last gasp. They were, in fact, little draggled bundles of broken feathers, too weak to resent being lifted out in my hand, and I gave them a very short time to live. But they revived marvellously on being given food and have never looked back since, and from this speedy recovery and the rapidity with which they got into good plum- age, I put them down as one of the hardiest of the many species of Tanagers, the more so as many of the other birds which arrived with them succumbed to the after effects of their terrible journey. The Blue-Headed Euphonia is a most merry little person, remarkably tame and friendly, and quite the most attractive in character as well as appearance of all the Tanagers I have owned. He is a victim to extreme greed— My Tanagers—Past and Present. 37 the ill effects of which are only obviated, to my mind, by the frantic exercise he takes in ceaselessly singing a discordant little song, which he does with mad energy, and a great risk of cracking his small throat. I have always to be careful not to put his food tin near that of any bird alongside him, or he immediately starts a kind of frenzied ‘‘ eating-match” against his neighbour, which cannot be good for the digestion! My Scarlet Tanager I have had since 1909, but despite all these years ‘he still remains extremely wild—which bears out a remark of Miss Bousfield’s—and cannot be induced to take any friendly interest in us, nor has he ever condescended to take mealworms, of which he is extremely fond, from my hand. Undoubtedly the most difficult to keep in good condition and plumage, or indeed to keep at all, for any length of time, is the Festive. I have owned two—one a very fine specimen witl specially good colouring, which I managed to keep for two years, but he died suddenly in 1913, after taking 2nd at the L.C.B.A. Show in 1912. I purchased another in 1913, but cannot get him into show form, and he has not come at all satisfactorily through his last moult. The All-Green or Neck- lace, also seem delicate, but these are the only two varieties, out of the seventeen I have had, which have been at all really difficult to manage. Perhaps I ought to add the Pretre’s Tanager to this list, as I have been unlucky with two out of three of these. This I regret all the more as they are most tame and friendly birds, and ceaselessly sing a reedy little song, which never rises above a whisper, although like the vocal efforts of the Blue-Headed Euphonia, it is produced with much exertion! But space presses and I must not par- ticularize any more, but pass on to their general treatment. My Tanagers are all kept in cages, good sized cages, but by no means enormous ones—and they live in them all the year round—as I have no aviary of any kind. They are in a room which gets the morning sun, such as it is in this smcky manufacturing district of the West Riding, and is heated by a fire during the winter months. I try to keep it as near 60 degrees as possible, and it seldom varies more than a couple of degrees either day or night. The top of a high window, well above the birds, is opened, generally for half an hour a day during the winter, unless the bleak winds which 8 My Tanagers—Past and Present. sweep over the hill on which this house stands make it quite impossible, in which case the door of a large room opening out of the bird-room is left open for a couple of hours. In summer, of course, they have as much fresh air as possible. They are fed on a diet of three parts cake to one part Abraham's Food, and have unlimited banana and grapes, with, whenever possible, apple and orange, on alternate days, and they have about two mealworms per diem each. The Blue- Headed Euphonia and the Festive, being particularly fond of it, are allowed a little of the Sunbirds’ sop, and I also give some occasionally to the others if they seem a little off colour, but as a regular food I am not in favour of it for Tanagers and give them as little as possible. Of course they have baths ad. lib., and I generally administer a few drops of liquid magnesia in their water about once a fortnight, and when moulting a few drops of Parish’s Food does them well as a tonic. These, and some of Ditchfield’s Tonic Drops, in serious case:, are all my ~ stable-secrets.”! It may interest your readers to know that in the same room as the Tanagers, in different degrees of proximity to the fire or the windows—according to their hardiness or the re- verse—live one pair of Yellow-backed Red Sunbirds, one Lesser Double-collared Sunbird (c’), three Purple Sugarbirds, one Black-headed Sugarbird, one Loo-choo Robin, one pair Plack-chinned Yuhinas, one Rufous-bellied Bulbul, one Black- erested Bulbul, one Troupial, one Silky Cowbird, and, last, but far from least, one Yucatan Jay—the tamest and most amusing of his or any other kind—but that is another story. I can only in conclusion feel ashamed of the lengthy way I have rambled on, and most humbly apologize to you and your readers for having not only mounted my hobby, but ridden it so unmercifully into the bargain. Sa British Corvidae. By FranK DAwson-SMITH. Ravens: It may possibly interest readers of “ Bird Notes” to learn something concerning the Raven. I have had several years experience with the species, and rear them an- British Corvidae. 39 nually so that I think, I may claim to know something of the bird’s manners and customs. “While I wish to remark,— And my language is plain, That for ways that are dark, And for tricks that are vain,” The Raven is peculiar! But to start at the beginning I must say that the noblest representative of the Crow tribe to be found in the British Isles is undoubtedly the Raven (Corvus corax). ‘The bird is yearly becoming rarer, and, in its natural state, is to be found in comparatively few districts. It may still be found in the North of Scotland, where it creates havoc among the young ‘rouse. The growing scarcity of the Raven is owing to its destructive propensities, and there can be no doubt it is a great nuisance where it exists in numbers. It nests chiefly on the cliffs, but sometimes will choose a tree for the purpose. Ravens are models of conjugal fidelity. Once mated, they are companions for life—divorce is unknown! 40 British Corvidae. They occupy the same nest for years, patching it up annually with fresh sticks and rubbish, until the whole affair becomes a large and somewhat unwieldly looking structure. The Raven is omnivorous; nothing comes amiss, weak lambs, injured wild fowl, worms, eggs, and even fish are all articles of diet as occasion offers. He is large and powerful, and no small bird or animai stands much chance with him in an encounter. This description makes the Raven appear an inveterate bully, and it cannot be denied that he is to a certain extent. At the same time he is a noble and interesting bird, and well known by repute to people of all ages. It was sacred to Odin, the Danish War God, and is held in awe by superstitious peasants, partly, perhaps, owing to its curious “ croaking.” When tamed, the Raven makes a pet second to none in intelligence, friendliness, and amusing ways. The best, if not the only way to secure one as a pet, is to obtain him from. the nest when a few days old, bring him up entirely by hand, and educate him. This is no light task, as it means feeding him every two hours, starting at daybreak, and this precess continues until he is able and willing to feed himself. He is never in a hurry to do this, as he much prefers to be fed and waited upon—the rogue! He should be fed upon bread and milk, soaked dog biscuit, and a little meat. The young- sters arc queer looking little creatures until they are properly feathered. They soon learn to recognize their feeder, greeting him with loud ’ and ever-gaping throats, never ceasing their outcry until they are stuffed full. I give them a large wired-in run with a wooden shelter attached, and furn- ished with plenty of perches, odd pieces of wood, boxes, and bits of rag which they utilize for hiding places for food, etc., and a large shallow bath filled with fresh water daily in which they love to splash about, keeping themselves beautifully clean. “ec squeaks ’ They are most inquisitive birds, poking and probing everything to satisfy their curiosity. This is shown to a greater extent when they are permitted to run loose in the garden. Every Raven has his own peculiar bent of mind. I could tell innumerable tales of his deeds, tragic or comic, if space permitted, but it is only possible to speak generally in a short article. One of my Ravens had a ‘wicked habit of pull- ing up the plants in the garden, and then hurrying out of British Corvidae. 4L reach up a tree to avoid punishment. The rascal went to sucit lengths in this respect that the gardener with grim de- termination writ large upon his honest face, said “ Sir, either your bird goes or I does.” The man was invaluable, so alas! the Raven was sent to another home. Another Raven was never destructive. He would perch on a garden seat nearly all day, croaking cheerfully at intervals, only leaving his self-chosen perch in order to chase a cat or dog, or some Black-backed Gulls that were pinioned on the lawn. Yet an- other Raven I had was a splendid talker and mimic. He could bark like a dog absolutely naturally. Often we have run out hearing the barking and worrying, thinking a dog was among some of the birds, only to find “Joe” on his perch, his eyes brimful of laughter, and the big black scoundrel chuck- ling to think he had taken us in, and laughing in a comically human way. He could imitate fowls and cats, and could caw like a Rook. I have often seen Rooks wheeling high up over his abode, completely deceived by his “caw.” ‘“ Hullo, Joe! How are you?” was a favourite exclamation of his, but his proudest feat has the imitation of a ‘“‘ Woodpecker, tapping the hollow beech tree.’ One of these birds—a Green Woodpecker—- was often at work near his run, and “Joe” learned to copy the tapping exactly. He would stretch his neck out, ruffle his feathers, and shake the upper and lower mandibles together. When my Ravens get into the adult stage I give them a larger quantity of meat. In the early spring the farmers are always willing and glad to offer me any dead lambs, and the Ravens love picking and eating these. Rabbits, rats, and birds are also great luxuries, and bread, bits of cheese, pota- toes, and table scraps are equally welcome. The adult bird is a handsome fellow, with a glossy metallic sheen like blue steel, on his plumage, which, in a healthy bird, is always in beautiful condition. Each year adds to his beauty. Cold weather suits him best. He intensely dislikes a hot summer. In winter, when his bath is frozen hard, he industriously employs himself by breaking the ice with his powerful beak, and then hiding the broken pieces in different places. He is terribly puzzled when the ice melts and shows his surprise and annoyance by incessant chatter, which probably is intended for verbal casti- gation of the looter. 42 Breeding Results—Boyers House Aviaries, 1914. Ravens agree well together as a rule, but from my experience it is fatal to put young birds with old ones. There ensues an immediate attack if that is done, the older bird doing his level best to pull the youngster’s head off. In conclusion, if anybody desires to possess an intensely interesting intelligent and amusing pet, I do not think he can do better than obtain a Raven. They are very hardy and respond to care and kindness by showing great affection. One can overlook and forgive any little delinquencies they may perpetrate occasionally. The photograph illustrating this account shows the Raven in possession of a garden seat, which he allowed no other bird to approach. (To be Continued). Sd Breeding Results—Boyers House Aviaries, 1914. By WM. SHORE BAILy. The past season here, so far as breeding results are concerned, if not a very successful one, has at least been a very interesting one, and three if not four new records have been established. The net results are as follow : SPECIES: Rosella Parrakeets (5) Brush Bronze-wing Doves (3). Alexandrine Parrakeets (3). Bronze-wing Doves (3). Black-cheeked Lovebirds (2) Necklace Doves (3). Budgerigars (3). Diamond Doves (14). Yellow Sparrows (5). Bib Finches (3). Dwarf Weavers (4). Zebra Finches (2). Sulphury Seed-eaters (1). Cutthroats (1). Canaries (4). HYBRIDS: (4) Martinican X Pea Doves (Zenaida aurita X Z. amabilis). (1) Greenfinch X Himalayan Siskin (Ligurinus chloris * Chrysomutris spinoides). (2) Spice X Bib Finch (Munia punctulata * Spermestes nana). (1) Spice Finch X Bengalese (Munia punctulata < Uroloncha domestica). Other young left the nest but did not survive. The following species and crosses nested and incubated, but failed, either to hatch out or rear their young. Doves: Zebra, Half-collared, and Senegal. Wravers: Abyssinian and Golden. Breeding Results—Boyers House Aviaries, 1914. 43 Also, Black Seed-Finches (Melopyrrha nigra). Cross-MATED Patrs: Cape X House Sparrow ; Cinnamon Tree X House Sparrow ; and Mealy X Red Rosella Parrakeet. It may be of interest to remark re these cross-mated pairs, that IT was unable to obtain mates for the Cape and Cinnamon Tree Sparrows, so introduced common House Spar- rows, but they never paired and in consequence there was no result, save the incubation of infertile eggs. I quite expect to gel hybrids next season. As regards the Mealy x Red Rosella Parrakeets, the latter bird was quite young, being only ten months old; she laid six eggs, but proved very unsteady on the nest, and IT am hoping she may do better next year. The mating of the Martinican « Pea Doves proved moat successful which, considering how closely these two species must be related, was only to be expected. The principal difierence between the two species lies in the white wing-bar, Photo by W. Shore Baily. Young Martinican X Pea Doves. 44. Breeding Results—Boyers House Aviaries, 1914. whick is much wider in the Pea Dove. TI noticed a rather curious habit with this species (Z. amabilis), viz.: that when apprcached by a stranger, it would steal away from the nest, much after the manner of a Partridge, and when some dis- tance away would flutter along the ground as if its wings were broken. JI have not seen this occur with any other of the Columbidae. The young doves when they lIeft the nest were facsimiles of their parents, but the young cock, now (December 26) nearly four months old, has developed large patches of sooty-black on the wings, back and crown of head; which, gives it a very curious appearance. Of my other Doves, neither the Bleeding-hearts nor the Photo by W. Shore Baily. Interior of Aviary with Weavers’ Nests. Breeding Results—Boyers House Aviaries, 1914. 45 Masked have made any attempt to nest. The former spend most of their time on the ground, where they are fairly active; the latter spend all their time perching and are very lethargic. I hope they may do better next season. Of the Finch-Hybrids, I have already described the rearing of the Greenfinch & Himalayan Siskin in “ B.N. (Vol. aN ep) 2. 6). The Spice